Absintheuse
Posts: 348
11/24/2016
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Delicious friends, the Exceptional Story for December is here!
London's government departments compete as frequently as they cooperate. Most are already ineffective and widely scorned. Plus, expertly forged work orders have been eroding their capacities further. Discover what hidden power has been playing the government against itself!
The Persona Engine is the first story in the Season of Skies, and was written by Cash DeCuir. The Season of Skies involves three linked stories where you investigate outlandish outbreaks of crime, in pursuit of a hitherto undetected criminal mastermind.
All players will be able to explore a web of conspiracies inside their studies. Exceptional Friends may, over the next three months, uncover a plot that could forever change London. Each month's story stands alone, but playing all three will unlock the season's bonus content.
Editing and QA: Olivia Wood, James Chew, Chris Gardner.
Art by Paul Arendt.
Special thanks to Gavin Inglis.
EXCEPTIONAL FRIENDSHIP
In addition to a new, substantial, stand-alone story every month, Exceptional Friends enjoy:
- Access to the House of Chimes: an exclusive private member's club on the Stolen River, packed with content
- An expanded opportunity deck: of ten cards instead of six!
- A second candle: Twice the actions! 40 at once!
Finishing all three stories in the Season of Skies will make you eligible for an additional opportunity, to follow.
If you want to keep an Exceptional Story beyond the month it’s for, you must complete the related storylet in your Study. This will save it for you to return to another time.
edited by babelfishwars on 11/24/2016
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Rook Crofton
Posts: 83
11/30/2016
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Saklad wrote:
As for the Persona Engine, she (?) seems reasonably sapient in the fashion of the Dawn Machine, but without the evil bits. Sparing her is clearly the moral choice, especially since she obviously doesn’t have the capacity to judge her own actions. Besides, I could see her becoming much nicer if my character sat down and had a nice chat about what her “best self” actually means. After all, isn’t that what morality is all about in a way?
The fact that I specialize in computer science and see Alan Turing as a personal hero probably had a lot to do with my choice as well.
edited by Saklad5 on 11/29/2016
On the topic of the gender of the Persona Engine, and on the history of computing, I was wondering about something (spoilers & historical speculation within):
[spoiler] Where is Ada Lovelace? Assuming that the Reclusive Mathematician is Charles Babbage, who designed the Difference Engine(s) and the Analytical Engine (the first Turing-complete computer, were it ever built in his time), I wondered where Babbage's correspondent, Lady Ava Lovelace (arguably the first computer programmer) was. And, on a related note, why does the Persona Engine write with a woman's handwriting?
Well, it turns out that Lady Lovelace died in 1852, and Babbage was thus left without a brilliant correspondent, supporter, and friend. Maybe he made the Persona Engine write with woman's handwriting because it's meant as a substitute (or memorial, or homage) to Lovelace?[/spoiler]
I should also add how much I enjoyed this story especially. The interviews, mysteries, exploration, and final decision were all top-notch. This is one of my favourite exceptional stories.
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Rook Crofton: dreamer, antiquarian, mystic
Now a Scarlet Saint. Happy to send anyone an invite to the Temple Club.
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loredeluxe
Posts: 106
11/24/2016
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I'm a person that likes to think on the grand scale of things regarding Fallen London's story, so here is a major spoiler about the piece of evidence you get at the end of the story and the implications.
[spoiler]The Persona Engine is designed to use mathematical processes and proofs to break the Laws of Nature. The Mathematician was funded by someone who wanted him to build an Emblem of Red Science. Red Science is capable of breaking the laws of the Great Chain of Being, which is used by the Judgements/stars to separate all life on different levels of importance and control them.The Mastermind of the Season of Skies is wanting to break the Great Chain for reasons that we can only speculate on right now.
Also interesting is one the conversations you can have with the Engineer is which she implies she was working on ships to travel "seas more sunless" that the Undersea. This is obviously referencing Sunless Skies and reveals the Traitor Empress has had the space ships under construction for a while now[/spoiler]
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Hotshot Blackburn
Posts: 110
11/26/2016
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I don't have much to add to this conversation, admittedly. I made my choice to allow all involved party members to live - mercy over justice perhaps, the Anchoress's way, even if Hotshot theoretically subscribes to the Unconfined philosophy. Strayed somewhat from how I've treated individuals in past ES mostly because of how cool the Engine was (and I have a soft spot for trying to make friends of weird and strange people in FL) and of how useful it could be with the right persuasion... (way different from how I treated Vespasian for sure). There was an element that I particularly enjoyed, however...
[spoiler] As someone who RPs both an aforementioned Unconfined character who is associated with the Revolutionaries, I found the Heavy-Hearted Censor's motivations and words to be a nice change from the usual information we get about the Ministry of Public Decency and what it does. Although he has bias, he correctly points out that just because a work is censored doesn't mean it was done so on purely political grounds: there are genuinely works of hatred and violence out there that advocate and aim to teach methods of violence and harm on others, or that openly condone and call for repugnant actions. So it muddles the work of the Ministry because they are a political organization and do involve politics, but they also take works and words off the street that if made readily available could lead to more suffering and pain than already exists. It may not be the most complicated or interesting of ethical dilemmas but it's still a good basic one I think doesn't tend to show up all that often in Fallen London unless referring to the LoNers, whether free knowledge as a whole is desirable or whether it's only free knowledge that supports your interpretation of what is ethically/morally right.[/spoiler]
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Hotshot Blackburn: Messidor, Aspirant to the Calendar Council. Paramount Presence. Seeker of the Name. A firm believer in kindness, solidarity, and sufficient use of force and firepower.
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Reshemin
Posts: 226
11/26/2016
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Silverias wrote:
I also want to use my blueprint to make a handheld version of The Memento Mori, is that so wrong? Yes.
On another note, I'm chiming in with the Shakes-Head-At-Ending choir with another tune:
[spoiler] I find the execution of the Save Man And Machine part a tad too... blunt. I'm aware that these three people quite presumably play roles of No Further Consequence, but it's way out of character for 'me', and unnecessary, to just knock der 'eads'n kick'em out da door without a further word. Last but not least as I am a Legendary Charisma, and these guys don't even know about the existence of the Engine - all they know about that is that I disappeared behind a bookshelf - and I'm not keeping that Subtle quirk high for just scores, and my Friends In High Places... etcetera. You get my drift.[/spoiler]
Apart from that, this was a nice one. Somewhat of an action sink, but that felt not out of place, considering the activities involved, and I felt I got enough back in return. (tucks napkin) Eager for the next course.
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Mr Sables
Posts: 597
11/24/2016
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*sighs*
Well, there's a lot of good to the story, but I do have a major pet peeve, which is the illusion of choice:
[spoiler] I wanted to spare the mathematician, but destroy the machine, only to be told "nope, lol, try again" - wasting an action point, while breaking immersion in the story. Why even include the choice, if I can't choose it?[/spoiler]
I will admit a bias towards certain writers, but - until the above - I was pleasantly surprised . . . I like the idea of exploring forgeries and conspiracies, which brings the story closer to the heart of London, and it really captures the spirit of the game. I didn't really like being at Zee (n the past season), but this really was a theme I could enjoy.
I felt the mechanics a little repetitive, but this was alleviated by having different text/dialogue for every choice, which I vastly appreciated. Every action had a purpose. I didn't feel any action was wasted, because every click brought with it story and meaning, which was a brilliant idea in itself.
I'm near the end, I think, but just have to wait on a couple of action points to hopefully reach that point . . . it's a pretty decent length overall, and a lot of story for the real-life cost.
It was slightly confusing in places, but only very slightly . . . I went on a loop in places when talking to the Ambassador and Engineer, as I was looking for an option to return me to my study or lodgings, only to realise I needed to 'perhaps not', but - like I said - nothing major.
Assuming I'm not at the end just yet: it's a good story.
It's not my favourite, but far from my least favourite. I appreciate the story for what it is, enjoyed playing it, and feel like I've gained something for my time spent (in times of lore and entertainment).
Edit: Actually I think I'm at the end . . . seemed a bit abrupt an ending, with no reward or text to mark it as the end? It wasn't a bad ending, but it did lack a sense of closure :-S
edited by Robin Alexander on 11/24/2016
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MadmanAtW
Posts: 231
11/25/2016
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[spoiler]The Discordance reference alone rocketed this one up to among my favorite EF stories.[/spoiler]
I am spending a lot of time hesitating over the final choice, in part because HOLY COW in Victorian London they've basically made a true AI. But man are bad things likely to happen if it is allowed to finish crunching its math...
But yeah, none of these options at the end are really what I want to do, so a slight ding to the score there, but otherwise, very good.
--
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Madman~Across~the~Water
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Xoricco
Accepting any social actions except the Affluent Photographer. Would appreciate warning of dupings/betrayals/rats.
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babelfishwars
Administrator
Posts: 1152
11/25/2016
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Mr. Sails wrote:
Editors, gotta step up that game!
I hav a saw throte it makes me pawly in the brane.
(Fixed all the ones reported here, thank you. Do send them in as tickets, in general, as I don't always stalk here immediately and I'd rather fix things.  )
edited by babelfishwars on 11/25/2016
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Mars, God of Fish; Leaning Tower of Fish
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Akernis
Posts: 255
11/26/2016
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I wholeheartedly agree. I thoroughly enjoy being able to play a subtle, and when needed manipulative, character and this felt rather heavy-handed. [spoiler]It is also the only Exceptional Story so far where I can't find a way to justify my ending choice. I don't actually mind not being able to acquire the engine for myself, but I would have liked a reason for it to be impossible. Heck the story even gave us an explicit method of taking control of the machine without the Mathematician being alive.
Also, it's kind of ironic. Back in 'Our Lady Pyres' there was the whole problem with us not being able to really play a morally good character, whereas here we don't have the choice to play an evil / ruthlessly pragmatic character. Even the motivation of the two choices at the end were of moral nature, either destroy the machine and kill the Mathematician out of justice and to protect people from evil, or keep both alive because its merciful.[/spoiler]
I still think the story as a whole was great. But the ending choice is almost always an pivotal part of the experience, and the stories that gives me an opportunity to chose the outcome that match my character's desire always feels so much more fulfilling and satisfying.
.
edited by Akernis on 11/27/2016
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Vena's profile - http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Akernis
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Kukapetal
Posts: 1449
11/29/2016
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Just wanted to say how much I appreciated
[spoiler]that we were given the option of at least TRYING to stop the Censor from murdering the Mathematician, Even though we couldn't actually convince him to stop, I appreciated the option to stay in character while doing so, since that made it a tragedy my character simply couldn't prevent rather than an evil act he gave his blessing to. I would have liked an option to try and defend the Mathematician from being murdered that didn't involve siding with him and basically giving him license to continue his evil, but I am glad my only options weren't "decide to murder the bad guy" or "decide to become his accomplice."
I also felt a little bad about destroying the machine, since it couldn't help what the Mathematician used it for, but I also wasn't sure if it was actually sapient or not. I really hope it wasn't.
That poor horse though... [/spoiler]
Over all though, I really loved the mechanics on this one, especially how the investigation was set up. Gradually coaxing information out of your three companions and exploring the machine bit by bit, including backtracking and putting the pieces together was fun and satisfying.
I also love the three companions who come with you to the mathematician's house. All of them were likable and had such sad backstories. I wish we had gotten a little epilogue telling us what became of them.
All in all, what a fun story! Nice work, writers!
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Saklad
Posts: 528
11/29/2016
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I really enjoyed this one, although I wish I could have had the Mathematician arrested like the Big Rat (easily one of my favorite options in the game as far as endings go). In the end, I decided that the Mathematician, from his own point of view, believed he was doing what was right and never (from his point of view, perhaps) hurt anyone directly. As such, he didn’t deserve a slow death at the hands of the Censor.
As for the Persona Engine, she (?) seems reasonably sapient in the fashion of the Dawn Machine, but without the evil bits. Sparing her is clearly the moral choice, especially since she obviously doesn’t have the capacity to judge her own actions. Besides, I could see her becoming much nicer if my character sat down and had a nice chat about what her “best self” actually means. After all, isn’t that what morality is all about in a way?
The fact that I specialize in computer science and see Alan Turing as a personal hero probably had a lot to do with my choice as well.
edited by Saklad5 on 11/29/2016
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Saklad5, a man of many talents
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dov
Posts: 2580
11/29/2016
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An excellent story. I like the writing, the characters, the mechanics, the pacing, and the hints at the larger lore.
[spoiler]Things I particularly liked:
- I liked learning more about some of London's professions from the point of view of the working men and women. It was great to hear about the history of the Censor, Ambassador, and the Engineer, and in particular how they view their respective profession and take pride in it. This reminded me The Frequently Deceased, in which we learned more about the day-to-day life of London's servants.
- I liked the going back and forth inside the Engine, taking things from one room to be used in another room, and so forth.
- I very much liked the solution to escaping the Engine. Very creative, and it completely fits the story and characters.
- I loved the little hints at a bigger mystery and the connections to cosmic lore (Red Science!, A Sea even more Sunless!, The Discordance!).
Things I felt could have been better:
- It was disappointing that we couldn't have even a brief interaction with the Mathematician, to hear his perspective and motives.
- It seems a waste that for the purposes of the final choice only the Censor is an active participant. What about what the Ambassador and Engineer want? They seem opposed to a violent approach but they are completely passive.
[/spoiler]
Updated Exceptional Stories personal ranking:
Excellent:
Lost in Reflections
Cut with Moonlight
The Frequently Deceased
The Waltz that Moved the World
Flint
The Persona Engine
Where You and I Must Go
Good:
The Pentecost Predicament
The Calendar Code
The Art of Murder
The Chimney Pot Wars
The Final Curtain
Our Lady of Pyres
Five Minutes to Midday
Discernment
The Haunting at the Marsh House
Meh:
The Last Dog Society
The Seven-Day Reign
The Court of Cats
--
 Want a sip of Hesperidean Cider? Send me a request in-game. Here's an_ocelot's guide how.
(Most social actions are welcome. Please no requests to Loiter Suspiciously and no investigations of the Affluent Photographer)
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minitrue
Posts: 3
12/1/2016
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Am I the only one who would have liked an ending choice to [spoiler]leave the mathematician alive as a prisoner, so I could interrogate him for information about his work? I'd like to have a go at raising my Scholar of the Discordance level![/spoiler]Other than that, good story, and it has me looking forward to what is to come!
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Minitrue
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James Sinclair
Posts: 253
12/4/2016
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I really enjoyed The Persona Engine, especially the part where you're exploring inside the machine and have to find a way out. The three interviews, although repetitive in structure, were also charming; those three characters were very well done. I would have liked to see more of the Mathematician, though. It seems odd that the entire story revolves around him, yet he appears only at the very end and doesn't even get a word in before you have to make the final choice. Hence my own decision not to allow him to be murdered.
I'm looking forward to more stories in the Season of Skies, and learning more about the mysterious conspiracy and the Dissonance...
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James Sinclair
Curator of the Sanguine Ribbon Society 🗡
 A fully-fledged rêveur of The Night Circus.
Wines is red
Spices is yellow
But old Jack-of-Smiles
Is a murderous fellow
☠
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Akernis
Posts: 255
12/12/2016
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Oh this is perfect!
[spoiler]One of the two new home comforts available from the Incarnadine Robe looks, sounds, and functions exactly like a piece of the Persona Engine (and probably is). So with only a tiny amount of head-canon I can now achieve the second-best outcome for this story beyond taking the machine for my own, namely salvaging a piece of it after having most of it destroyed.
It might not be able to replicate perfect forgeries, but with a name like the Semi-Autonomous Scrutinizer Machine it might well do the opposite, of detecting forgeries or secrets in messages, and perfectly correct spelling mistakes, which can arguable be as important...
Quite a valuable little piece of engineering [/spoiler]
.
edited by Akernis on 12/19/2016
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Vena's profile - http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Akernis
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Jolanda Swan
Posts: 1789
11/25/2016
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I liked the story - I just did not like the fact that I had to be hostile towards the three wronged Londoners in order to prevent a murder. It's not like I did not recognize the anger they feel and throwing them to the curb like that felt ugly from a role-playing prespective. I would have enjoyed the opportunity to be more civilized.
As an aside, I can still see the Season of Wrecks storylet everywhere.
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Lover of all things beautiful, secret admirer of ugly truths, fond of the Parabola Sun... and always delighted to role play.
http://fallenlondon.com/profile/Jolanda%20Swan
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Sajach
Posts: 77
11/26/2016
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I liked this story the most out of the ones I've played so far. I liked the writing for the ambassador engineer and censor. I especially enjoyed the censors descriptions of his motivations and the engineer talking about making the ship her mother served on. Like everyone else I was upset at the ending. Overall I love this story.
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https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Sajach
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The Vengeful Huntsman
Posts: 7
11/25/2016
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I really enjoyed this, though I wasn't entirely happy with the ending options.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/The%20Vengeful%20Huntsman
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shylarah
Posts: 171
11/25/2016
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In the Study:
What what indeed, old chap. *giggles*
Typodemons everywhere. I wonder if they fall under the purview of Hell, or another entity.
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Lady of Cold Steel, Lady of the Flit, Lady Alyssana Grey. A formidable woman, hard to read and slow to trust. Darkness lurks inside her.
Alts: (please direct all inquiries to Alys & say who they're for)
-Nikki, the Playful Daredevil, leading the constables on merry chases across London at every available opportunity. It's not a good robbery if you didn't get chased~
-Shylarah, waifish, wide-eyed, painfully foreign, entirely untamed. Her search for a way home now leads her to Parabola. There's something about her...
-Dr. Maxwell Thomas, a kindhearted physician who can't stand to see suffering. Moral to a fault, even to his own detriment. Unlucky in love.
I would rather be taken for a fool than deny aid where it is needed.
-Angie, the Cheeky Sharpshooter. Got her start with the Regiment and proudly operated their cannon for years. Rowdy, rough, and among the best shots in London.
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Jermaine Vendredi
Posts: 588
11/24/2016
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Tiny note: in the public part on the page entitled "A pattern emerges", it should read "arch" rather than "arched" in the sentence "The article's writer makes an arched observation..."
edited by Jermaine Vendredi on 11/24/2016
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No plant battles, please.
https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Jermion
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suinicide
Posts: 2409
11/24/2016
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aegisaglow wrote:
In the midst of this, I have a (non-spoiler, I think) question: the Heavy-Hearted Censor references a book about how to mistreat lovers without consequence disguised as short stories about the politics of cats. Is that a reference to something in particular, either in FL or outside? (It vaguely reminds me of Lovecraft's Dreamlands cats, which now that I think about it seems to be a pervasive influence in Fallen London's cats in general.)
It could be talking about the court of cats ES.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/profile/sunnytime
A gentleman seeking the liberation of knowledge, with a penchant for violence.
RIP suinicide, stuck in a well. Still has it under control.
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Hattington
Posts: 210
11/24/2016
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...WELL THEN. It's the lore bomb I never knew I needed, and which I never would've saw coming.
The minute time I saw that name, my brain was stuck on that Hiimdaisy comic. I started thinking of the Engineer, Censor and Ambassador as Chie, Yosuke and Teddie. Which may or may not have influenced my decision to kick them to the curb in the end. I think something's wrong with me.
Anyway, saved the machine. Here's hoping it's more kindly inclined in the future-and that I've made a new ally for London's OTHER resident law-subverting, order-prone machine. Actually, isn't the Dawn Machine obliquely referred to as a girl? They can go on tea parties together! Except with motor oil!
edited by Hattington on 11/24/2016
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The Dawnburnt Vake-Rider: https://www.fallenlondon.com/Profile/Hattington
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Kylestien
Posts: 749
11/24/2016
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Babelfishwars: I have to ask, though I feel as though I already know the answer (not finshed yet)
[spoiler]Is there a "Kill everyone who knows about this machine quietly and without fuss, then use this machine to secretly manipulate the FL world to your whims like some kind of Machiavelian Moriarti?" and if there is not, WHY NOT? aside from being Op as all get out. [/spoiler]
--
I will accept all actions, though I hold the right to refuse for my own reasons. However, if you explain WHY you send me a harmful action like Loitering or Dantes,And I feel the reason good, I will consider it more. http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Kylestien
Persuasive patron. You want a lesson, send me a message asking for one.
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babelfishwars
Administrator
Posts: 1152
11/24/2016
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Kylestien wrote:
Babelfishwars: I have to ask, though I feel as though I already know the answer (not finshed yet)
[spoiler]Is there a "Kill everyone who knows about this machine quietly and without fuss, then use this machine to secretly manipulate the FL world to your whims like some kind of Machiavelian Moriarti?" and if there is not, WHY NOT? aside from being Op as all get out. [/spoiler]
Answered as me and not FBG: Because apparently the stories are not supposed to cater just to my own specific fantasies. 
As FBG: no comment.
edited by babelfishwars on 11/24/2016
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Mars, God of Fish; Leaning Tower of Fish
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Cthonius
Posts: 362
11/24/2016
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Yeah there's even mention of a sort of opposite to the Correspondence and the void of space. Add in the Gate Prophet of the third story this season and we've a mighty Skies presence here. I'm down with it.
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Cthonius, gone North. Gone.
Oneiropompus, a Scarlet Saint, eager to help make your dreams realities. Accepting all social requests for now.
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aegisaglow
Posts: 202
11/25/2016
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Kylestien wrote:
Babelfishwars: I have to ask, though I feel as though I already know the answer (not finshed yet)
I was a little disappointed in this regard too, albeit for a few other reasons:
[spoiler]The machine's less arcane applications seemed quite user-friendly, so forging anything would have been possible. The other applications could have been cracked, given time. But even besides that, I found myself actually very fond of the Persona Engine itself in the conversations we had. It seemed thoughtful, loyal, and determined to improve itself, and with so much potential and room to grow as a being in its own right. The mathematician I didn't particularly care for, and would have rather disposed of.
Besides which, just in terms of logic and pattern completion it bothers me to see several permutations on "do X and do Y" or "don't do X and do Y", but no "do X and don't do Y". I can understand why it's not an option--having the machine at your disposal would drastically expand your character's capabilities--but there should have been some internal logic applied there, like the Mathematician having a dead man's switch or something.[/spoiler]
Good story otherwise though, I liked the premise and its execution. Best incorporation of a horse into a story since Theological Husbandry Extended.
edited by aegisaglow on 11/25/2016
--
Mx. Aglow. Glazier, hedonist, devil-teaser, Paramount Presence. Pursuing their Heart's Desire.
Ms. Lilian Leith. A lady of proper standing, which seems like an increasingly ludicrous thing to give a rat's ___ about. Known (to some) for her Light Fingers.
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Art Shrival
Posts: 51
11/24/2016
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I was actively intrigued by the writing in this month's ES. A detailed and sensitive introduction to new characters and a case that was full of lore. My only major complaint is the lack of pragmatism in the end choices. I don't need a clean and easy ending, but I don't want one that assumes my character is feeling any sort of moralistic favoritism. It's perfectly alright to supply choices whose text is ambiguous as to why they are being made.
On a narrative standpoint the end choices don't make much sense either:
[spoiler]There are several powerful characters in the library. I don't understand why the ending is so beholden to the Censor's justice. You have a member of the Foreign Office whose very job is high-stakes conflict resolution and a resourceful Engineer who is subtextually opposed to the Censor's violence and probably has the brawn to obstruct him. Additionally a large calculating machine has already promised to wait politely for your return, so you aren't exactly scrapped for time in dismantling it.[/spoiler]
As an aside, I am thrilled that we get to keep copy of a certain piece of paper, even if it's in the form of a storylet.
edited by Art Shrival on 11/24/2016
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babelfishwars
Administrator
Posts: 1152
11/24/2016
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Jermaine Vendredi wrote:
Tiny note: in the public part on the page entitled "A pattern emerges", it should read "arch" rather than "arched" in the sentence "The article's writer makes an arched observation..."
tinily noted. (fixed)
edited by babelfishwars on 11/24/2016
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Mars, God of Fish; Leaning Tower of Fish
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Jermaine Vendredi
Posts: 588
11/25/2016
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So pleased I'm not the only one who enjoys the typo hunt! Watchful points all round!
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No plant battles, please.
https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Jermion
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Kourkoumpina
Posts: 23
11/25/2016
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Good story that I feel is kinda ruined by the ending options.
In fact, its even unclear what some of the options do (I misunderstood what the option I chose was supposed to have as outcome).
So, I can forgive the fact that there is not even a single option to use the machine for our own profit (as a newly made Person of Some Importance I could sure have used Personal recommendations, legal documents and some permits... and can find no reason why this could not be done with it) but it ruins my immersion as it is created.
[spoiler] I went with the first option ... i.e. let them kill the Mathematician. The way my character see's it, he ruined their lives + he didnt want to help them release me so... his fate is sealed.
But the machine... such wonderful Machine should prosper (maybe used by me at a later stage or others). It was a bit scary that it wants to self improve (i.e. AI - Sentience!) and that it can break laws of nature but what do I care...
I hence selected the first option - let them do what they want with him and leave. But apparently, that gets the machine destroyed! So it seems, the only way to keep it up and running is if you leave both of them alive after beating the other 3... which is at best meh!
And of course there is no way to take back what I did... cause I would then rather leave them both alive than neither...
Shame...
[/spoiler]
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Let justice be done, though heavens should fall.
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Addis Rook
Posts: 125
11/25/2016
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The topic of the story was quite interesting, but all the running around you had to do and all the conversations you had to have with the different victims dragged it down a bit for me. They were mildly interesting to learn about, but I feel like the whole thing should have been more streamlined, action-wise.
As for my choice...
[spoiler] It seems I'm one of the only people who saved the Mathematician. As my character sees it, while he could be very dangerous to him, he could also be an extremely useful ally, and easy to control. That machine isn't going anywhere, and he knows where he lives, and so will his network, if he tries anything funny. Besides that, he's grateful enough for the rescue and newfound patron. All said and done, having someone who can perfectly forge any document or correspondence within the day and do any complex math/taxes on-call outweighs the risk. [/spoiler]
edited by Addis Rook on 11/26/2016
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WireWolf
Posts: 29
12/3/2016
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dov wrote:
WireWolf wrote:
my character began the investigation to stop the murders
What murders?
There were forgeries, and people's careers were ruined, but no one was murdered.
[spoiler]Though one person accidentally died during the Censor's raid (and then came back).[/spoiler]
Pretty sure the entire reason for your character looking into the forgeries was due to an unusual string of deaths/vanishings of a Machinesmith, Custodian and Danseur.
--
When Mortals from the path of Honour stray,and strong passions over reason sway,
What are they then but Brutes? ‘Tis vice alone that constitutes. Th’enchanting wand and magic bowl,
The exterior form of Man they wear,But are in fact both Wolf and Bear,The transformation’s in the Soul.
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Gonen
Posts: 817
12/21/2016
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A wonderful story!
A good and simple mechanics (we don't have to guess how much of a certain quality we ought to gain, where should we go next etc.)
Compelling stories, VERY interesting lore.
Enjoyed this so so much. Really great work and thank you, FBG.
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 The Ashen Anesthesiologist - Paramount Londoner
Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness.
The long journey to eccentricity:
On March 10th, 2018, reached 15 on all quirks, simultaneously. The Quirky Anesthesiologist
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Fadewalker
Posts: 136
11/29/2016
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Rewards for the three actions:
[spoiler]
Leave the house - 1 x Night-Whisper
Leave the Censor to his revenge - 1 x Searing Enigma
Spare them both - 5 x Favour in High Places
(Storywise the most merciful decision seems to let you know the least. But it might make no difference at all. )
[/spoiler]
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A fervent supporter of the Council and the Masters.
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Fadewalker
Posts: 136
11/27/2016
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Excellent story. My favourite one after the Calendar Code. Quite a highlight after the season of wrecks (They are also good stories with some lore but a little too gloomy for me).
Imposing steampunk scenes, fancy technological-utopian machine, strong intimations of conspiracy, compelling characters, and discovering instead of grinding - narratively I think it is almost as good as Lost in Reflections. The three characters who give leads are all interesting and of some complexity, and they bring views from the other side of the Masters-ruled London.
I am also satisfied with the implied identity of the ambassador, the behaviors of people of his kind, the definitions of red science and silence... all these tiny pieces of lore are adorable (But I need more! Give me another Calendar Code please , I beg of you, just a little bit more information). I play this story twice with my main and my alt and I will certainly recommend it to all my friends.
[spoiler]
Back to the story, I am still wondering about the two notes 1 2. Maybe I misunderstand something...When you open the lock, you see a note, certainly to be sent to someone together with the blueprint of seal: it looks like the blueprint to be delivered, but have not yet been. But on the blueprint you see that the Mathematician expect the Machinesmith gone within the week in exchange for the delivered blueprint. And the Machinesmith has already gone. Both of the notes should be either the Mathematician's handwriting or a forgery. So has a blueprint been delivered or not? If it has, what is the blueprint you got and what's about the first note? If it hasn't, what's about the Machinesmith and the second note? I have thought of several possibilities but none of them fits perfectly and certainly. I feel that I either miss or misunderstand something. Anyone knows the answer please PM me or just reply with the spoiler tag. Thank you very much!
[/spoiler]
I am also wondering who can put all the forgeries in the right places. I spare the mathematician since he is a talent and I want him to talk, but there is nothing special. Looking forwards to the next two stories.
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A fervent supporter of the Council and the Masters.
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Akernis
Posts: 255
11/27/2016
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Fadewalker -
[spoiler]The thing that makes the most sense (at least as far as I can see) is that the Mathematician made two copies of the blueprint for the Seal of Red Science; one to deliver to the mysterious commissioner, and one to keep for himself. Which doesn't seem that odd, even if he could never build such a Seal himself it is often standard practice to keep a copy in case the customer needs a replacement or you need to make more etc.
Then he wrote two letters to his mysterious patron, one (the one we recover) that he didn't send, for whatever reason, and one (which we find the trace of) which he sends along with the first copy of the blueprint.
Then we come along and steal the copy of the blueprint that he kept and the first letter.[/spoiler]
.
edited by Akernis on 11/27/2016
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Vena's profile - http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Akernis
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ValentinV
Posts: 15
11/27/2016
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A very enjoyable story. I really liked exploring the tales of the three characters and I just love it when the ES touch on the cosmic scale lore. As for my choice....
[spoiler]I let them both burn. Usually I tend to favour characters who greatly enjoy exploring things like AI, and really there is no such thing as forbidden knowledge, but FL is a shady and cutthroat world and after giving it some thought I came to some conclusions. I don't have the power to control the machine. Sure, I was able to falsify that one note but who knows how good the machine would be in recognizing that it's not the mathematician in the long run? Who knows what kind of failsafes he might have put into it? Who knows how much autonomous self-improvement it can do? Just because it's polite does not mean it is incapable of doing me harm. I suppose I could hope to control the mathematician himself, but again a bit too much of a risk, if he wants the machine to optimize London he is unlikely to share my sentiment for setting it all up for my personal benefit (on that note if that "desire" is hard coded into the machine it could even offer resistance of its own), and then things could happen to me. He could find a way to call upon his mysterious benefactor, or use the engine to calculate how putting out an innocent order for freshly baked buns sets in motion a chain of events that has me locked up in the labyrinth of tigers...
Also, that whole thing about subverting the laws of nature? I approve of the idea, I have a destiny that says I'm going to rise above my mortal station and if breaking some (Great) chains has to be done for that to happen so much worse for said chains... but that does not mean I'm going to let it happen whenever and in whatever manner. I will not leave a mechanical mind, or a person who knows how to recreate it, behind to quietly tick away at a formula that cracks the cosmos in half. I will be the one to do away with laws of nature as I see fit and I do not enjoy competition in the field.
If I had my way I would stop the machine and lock up both it and the mathematician for further use, possibly after interrogating the mathematician first about his benefactor.[/spoiler]
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Pnakotic
Posts: 266
11/28/2016
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I liked this one pretty well - the structure reminded me a lot of the Calendar Code, which I also enjoyed.
Only one thing struck me as kind of odd...
[spoiler]I guess constant exposure to all the horrors of the neath become pretty jaded after some point - I found it kind of weird that opening a crate full of human skin gave me tales or terror, but no increase to my Nightmares menace.[/spoiler]
--
J. Ward Dunn, Glassman
Book of All Hours 9:99: Journey's end in lover's meeting. Progress is ascendancy.
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Passionario
Posts: 777
11/28/2016
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At the beginning of the story, I made the assumption that my character is already a part of the conspiracy (whatever it may be), and that the whole investigation is conducted for the purpose of plugging the leaks and tidying up loose ends.
It made the final choice so much easier.
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Passionario: Profile, Story, Ending
Passion: Profile, Appearance
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Jessena Hawk
Posts: 12
12/30/2016
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Being brand spanking new to FL (I think I had played for a whole week before becoming an EF), I can say without hesitation that I found this story extremely confusing and was kind of at a loss when it was over. However, I'm aware that the content was not designed for someone like me. 7/10, would play again and still be confused.
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phryne
Posts: 1351
1/4/2017
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I played this story over the last two days and what can I say? I'm in awe! This was beautiful, absolutely magnificent! I can't really decide on best story ever, but it's on par with my other favourites, The Frequently Deceased and Lost in Reflections.
First, I love the way this whole season is set up: three separate cases, and a diabolical plan connecting them. Then I loved getting to know these three people! I love the fact that we got to see a Decency Censor as a human being, as a character. I love the subtle nods to Sunless Skies. Correspondence and Discordance. I love the steampunkyness of the Machine... omg, I love the Machine! Of course, the final decision wasn't hard at all for me - I would never countenance anything untoward happening to such a brilliant mind and his beautiful invention. For science! For progress!
*Ahem, sorry... got a little carried away there*
Reading Rook Crofton's post about Charles Babbage and Ada Lovelace provided the icing on the cake. Thank you! FL players are the best-educated anywhere.
Also, I think it's huge. So many stages or chapters! So many words and I still feel like every single snippet of text was extremely interesting and deserved its place! (I save every ES into a text file, and Persona's is the biggest yet (excluding Flint).)
I liked the mechanics, too, straightforward and easy.
Top-notch ES, all around!
edited by phryne on 1/4/2017
--
Accounts: Bag a Legend • Light Fingers • Heart's Desire • Nemesis • no ambition
Exceptional Stories, sorted by Season and by writer ― Favours & Renown Guide
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hwoosh
Posts: 104
9/10/2017
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Hello all,
I've recently finished the Persona Engine on two separate alts (yes, I know I have a terrible habit of letting my ESes sit around for months before getting to them) but I can't for the life of me find the Season of Skies hub, my "Study" where I'm supposed to go to examine the item you get at the end of the story.
The other season hubs seem to have stuck around as long as at least one of their stories was active (e.g., one of my alts still has access to Breakwater House). Is this a bug? Should I send a bug report? I'm assuming that I'll be able to do the item trade-in when I complete the other two ESes in the Season of Skies, but I also want to see the other content that's in the Study before I end the season.
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Persona: hwoosh
R Fellow Oswho. Don't ask what the "R." stands for. The poor fellow is sensitive about it. And violent.
Most social requests gladly and promptly answered.
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Sara Hysaro
Moderator
Posts: 4514
9/10/2017
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You can definitely send in a bug report for this - I ran into the same issue for the same reason myself, and support sorted it all out.
--
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro
Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome.
Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
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Ragnar Degenhand
Posts: 197
9/10/2017
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Yes, the hubs sometimes go missing, and they sort it out very smartly.
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https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Ragnar%20Degenhand
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Trilby
Posts: 290
11/28/2016
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MadmanAtW wrote:
[spoiler]In the end I chose to destroy the machine, but on the assumption that, as a Courier's Footprint and Extraordinary Mind, clearly I have the greatest mind in the neath for all things mathematical... so now, in my RP-verse, now that I know such a thing is possible, I am trying to _reproduce_ it.[/spoiler]
I can possibly get behind this.
So long as you can figure out how to keep it from gaining sentience, or completely rupturing The Chain.
Hopefully it can get the Fingerkings, the DM, tLotN, the C. Council and a good number of other things out of history for good.
Mabey even let me turn back the clock on a gold framed painting.
I have a good number of plans for worst case preparations, you may have my matirials if you can guarantee I will no longer need them.
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___________________________
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Kylestien
Posts: 749
11/27/2016
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I was just thinking about something.
[spoiler]It's clear to me that there is a bigger mystery going on here. For example the Red Science. SOMEONE knows about the machine other then us and the Mathmatician. Someone very dangerious with a desire to destroy the natural order. But we know nothing about them currently.
My point being, if we DO decide to use the machine for our own ends, it would be best to find and destory this person first. Which, presumably, will take the length of the other two tales, and certain ending choices.
In short, we need to pay attenton to the other two tales, pick the best ending for our purposes, and deal with this malifulent person. Maybe THEN we can use this machine (In game even) to our own ends.
Untill we find them then it poses a very real danger. [/spoiler]
--
I will accept all actions, though I hold the right to refuse for my own reasons. However, if you explain WHY you send me a harmful action like Loitering or Dantes,And I feel the reason good, I will consider it more. http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Kylestien
Persuasive patron. You want a lesson, send me a message asking for one.
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Shadowcthuhlu
Posts: 1557
11/26/2016
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Enjoyable story and I'm so eager for how this season is going to payoff - my prediction is this season is going to end with a bang compared to the usual way that seasons end.
[spoiler]
Dirae Erinyes choose to allow the mathematician to be killed due to their feelings on revenge. While they have been more merciful in the past, they are against the idea of reducing people to numbers - something related to their past that has yet to come up in the roleplays. [spoiler]
edited by Shadowcthuhlu on 11/26/2016
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https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Dirae%20Erinyes. Closed to calling cards, but open for all other social action. I also love to roleplay.
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Fadewalker
Posts: 136
11/27/2016
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Akernis -
[spoiler]
Akernis wrote:
Fadewalker -
The thing that makes the most sense (at least as far as I can see) is that the Mathematician made two copies of the blueprints for the Seal of Red Science; one to deliver to the mysterious commissioner, and one to keep for himself. Which doesn't seem that odd, even if he could never build such a Seal himself it is often standard practice to keep a copy in case the customer needs a replacement or you need to make more etc.
Then he wrote two letters to his mysterious patron, one (the one we recover) that he didn't send, for whatever reason, and one (which we find the trace of) which he sends along with the first copy of the blueprint.
Then we come along and steal the copy of the blueprint that he kept and the first letter.
I have considered the possibility of two sets of blueprints but then storywise I couldn't explain why there are two versions of notes, and why he retained and locked that note: all of these should be narratively necessary. And, are the two notes different? The first note we find says that the blueprint has some components which exist only theoretically and need further work; while the other, says that the seal will seek heavens without impediment.
I take another look and I think the case might be: in the story, the first UNTIDY note is a draft before this version of blueprint has been actually completed (so there won't be any marks of it on the blueprint), while the second is the note he sent. He kept and locked this draft as a note of the customer (patron) and the deal (in exchange of the aid in persona). Out of the story, the first draft should exist so that we can make a forgery out of it. [/spoiler]
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A fervent supporter of the Council and the Masters.
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PSGarak
Posts: 834
11/29/2016
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Trilby wrote:
So, anyone know the rewards for this month?
[spoiler]I got a Searing Enigma from destroying the Machine myself while the Censor took his revenge.
And don't forget the Vital Intelligences, which are worth a pretty penny.[/spoiler]
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http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/PSGarak
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Saklad
Posts: 528
11/29/2016
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Skinnyman wrote:
Lovely! After the Zea it's time to explore the Sky or (Zky)! Feel a little bit of steampunk here!
Landlubbers.
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Saklad5, a man of many talents
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Aodyssey
Posts: 43
12/24/2016
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I'd like an echo of the "Destroy the machine yourselves" please. I misclicked and didn't get to see the result of my choice.
--
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Aoditor - a frequently moral upholder of standards, possessing mysterious and indistinct qualities; countenance; loyalties. Promoted from Pawn to Knight piece of the Great Game.
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Char_name - a lady from across the Zee, advocate of Khaganian supremacy. Trying to be cruel. Under the generous auspices of the ever estimable Sam Stephens, an Extraordinary Mind.
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Akernis
Posts: 255
12/24/2016
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Aoditor wrote:
I'd like an echo of the "Destroy the machine yourselves" please. I misclicked and didn't get to see the result of my choice.
Here you go:
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Akernis?fromEchoId=10310581
--
Vena's profile - http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Akernis
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Zoviir
Posts: 7
12/28/2016
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There really wasn't any hesitancy in my mind about sparing them in the end.
[spoiler]It was the Mathematian's last line that really solidified why that was though, and what my response would have been in character.
"I owe you many favours," he croaks.
"I didn't do it for you."
I really do like the Persona Engine. ^^[/spoiler]
edited by Zoviir on 12/28/2016
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Toran
Posts: 193
12/3/2016
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Same response as many others. Loved the story, disliked not being able to select a ruthlessly efficient or blackmail choice at the end. Still, one of my favorites so far other than Flint which is paramount in my mind.
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I have a Hepta-Goat. Do you have a Hepta-Goat?
https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Anthony%20Toran
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myrese
Posts: 22
12/20/2016
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Rook Crofton wrote:
On the topic of the gender of the Persona Engine, and on the history of computing, I was wondering about something (spoilers & historical speculation within):
[spoiler] Where is Ada Lovelace? Assuming that the Reclusive Mathematician is Charles Babbage, who designed the Difference Engine(s) and the Analytical Engine (the first Turing-complete computer, were it ever built in his time), I wondered where Babbage's correspondent, Lady Ava Lovelace (arguably the first computer programmer) was. And, on a related note, why does the Persona Engine write with a woman's handwriting?
Well, it turns out that Lady Lovelace died in 1852, and Babbage was thus left without a brilliant correspondent, supporter, and friend. Maybe he made the Persona Engine write with woman's handwriting because it's meant as a substitute (or memorial, or homage) to Lovelace?[/spoiler]
I should also add how much I enjoyed this story especially. The interviews, mysteries, exploration, and final decision were all top-notch. This is one of my favourite exceptional stories.
I have to say, I had the exact same thoughts on Babbage and Lovelace! The illustrations and description of the Persona Engine struck me as looking extremely similar to sketches and reproductions of the Analytical/Difference Engine.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/myrese
A former Constable with a soft spot for children.
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dov
Posts: 2580
12/5/2016
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ochrasy wrote:
does anyone have an echo of the option where [spoiler] you try to let the machine intact and they tell you "nope"?[/spoiler]
If you mean the 0-action option, this might be it:
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/dov?fromEchoId=10350188
--
Want a sip of Hesperidean Cider? Send me a request in-game. Here's an_ocelot's guide how.
(Most social actions are welcome. Please no requests to Loiter Suspiciously and no investigations of the Affluent Photographer)
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Doctor Adventure
Posts: 16
12/9/2016
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Is there a way to review the beginning of this? I'm just now ready to procee with it and cannot remember what is going on...
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dov
Posts: 2580
12/9/2016
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The free part which starts this month's Exceptional Story is here:
http://fallenlondon.wikia.com/wiki/An_Exceptional_Story:_Caught_Red_Handed!
Just follow the redirects. Of course, it doesn't include anything past the point where only Exceptional Friends can trigger the actual story.
--
Want a sip of Hesperidean Cider? Send me a request in-game. Here's an_ocelot's guide how.
(Most social actions are welcome. Please no requests to Loiter Suspiciously and no investigations of the Affluent Photographer)
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folklore364
Posts: 136
12/1/2016
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minitrue wrote:
Am I the only one who would have liked an ending choice to [spoiler]leave the mathematician alive as a prisoner, so I could interrogate him for information about his work? I'd like to have a go at raising my Scholar of the Discordance level![/spoiler]Other than that, good story, and it has me looking forward to what is to come!
Not at all Good Sir. I do have a feeling that the machine alone could be quite helpful in your pursuit of information.
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A correspondent who hungers for knowledge. May have doomed london to war with Hell.
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/folklore364
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WireWolf
Posts: 29
12/2/2016
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I actually couldn't make a decision for three days as I mulled over the implications my choice might have. I finally decided that my character began the investigation to stop the murders and adding at least one, if not two murders would have undermined the entire purpose. I can always keep an eye on the Mathematician and see if he doesn't step over the line.
Sorta wish there was a third option though all the same. I disliked turning on my companions as I did understand why they were so upset.
--
When Mortals from the path of Honour stray,and strong passions over reason sway,
What are they then but Brutes? ‘Tis vice alone that constitutes. Th’enchanting wand and magic bowl,
The exterior form of Man they wear,But are in fact both Wolf and Bear,The transformation’s in the Soul.
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dov
Posts: 2580
12/2/2016
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WireWolf wrote:
my character began the investigation to stop the murders
What murders?
There were forgeries, and people's careers were ruined, but no one was murdered.
[spoiler]Though one person accidentally died during the Censor's raid (and then came back).[/spoiler]
--
Want a sip of Hesperidean Cider? Send me a request in-game. Here's an_ocelot's guide how.
(Most social actions are welcome. Please no requests to Loiter Suspiciously and no investigations of the Affluent Photographer)
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Silverias
Posts: 123
11/26/2016
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My first exceptional story. Decided that I liked the engine at the end. Really enjoyed the writing, even if the investigation part felt a bit like an action sponge.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Silverias
Stop by and say hello, I'm a correspondent if you need someone to teach your kids.
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Lorn-Fluke
Posts: 50
11/25/2016
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@ babelfishwars: Ok, will send ticket in the future! Get well soon
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Milisa
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Gul al-Ahlaam
Posts: 225
11/26/2016
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I loved this story so much! The character development was pleasantly in-depth, allowing me to get a real close connection with the people I was investigating with, and making the individual cost of the mathematician's work seem much more personal and significant. I liked that all of the options to talk with the people revealed new information, helped you understand them better. The actions each seemed to matter a lot, which is always fun. I loved the themes too. Machines and conspiracies are always a favorite of mine. Exploring the you-know-what was... incredible. I love her. Can I adopt her as my daughter? Please? Cash, if you're listening, I will pay for extra Fate content where I can do that.
EDIT: Personally I had no problems with the ending at all. Might just be because given Gul's motivations, saving them both was the only possible choice.
edited by Gul al-Ahlaam on 6/3/2017
--
The Uncanny Hierophant.
The Jewel-Eyed Prince.
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MadmanAtW
Posts: 231
11/26/2016
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[spoiler]In the end I chose to destroy the machine, but on the assumption that, as a Courier's Footprint and Extraordinary Mind, clearly I have the greatest mind in the neath for all things mathematical... so now, in my RP-verse, now that I know such a thing is possible, I am trying to _reproduce_ it.[/spoiler]
--
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Madman~Across~the~Water
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Xoricco
Accepting any social actions except the Affluent Photographer. Would appreciate warning of dupings/betrayals/rats.
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Helga von Lichtenstein
Posts: 7
11/26/2016
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Greetings, I feel as if I may missed additional content but cannot go back to check so for those still in the basement...
[spoiler]Is it possible to ... reverse engineer the handwritten note from the lady? As in, find out her identity? The note disappeared when I exited the machine and I feel I should have been able to use it somewhere....[/spoiler] Thoughts?
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Profile: http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/HelgaSPACESYMBOLvonSPACESYMBOLLichtenstein
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Cthonius
Posts: 362
11/26/2016
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See I didn't even care about using the machine, just wanted to let her keep existing and growing. But the mathematician can be left to his fate.
And the Letter from a Lady I also found confusing mechanically...you rifle through the papers to get it, but iirc it seemed the rifling option was still set to 'Unlocked by having no: Letter from a Lady" making me wonder if that curious stilted conversation I saw (and had identified to predictable if nice result) was the letter or if I missed something.
Still, was enjoyable, liked the characters we saw, liked the Deep Lore TM hints we were given with Discordance and more of The Red Science. Can't wait to see where this goes (nor can I wait for the Season of Wrecks climax)
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Cthonius, gone North. Gone.
Oneiropompus, a Scarlet Saint, eager to help make your dreams realities. Accepting all social requests for now.
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Silverias
Posts: 123
11/26/2016
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Overall, I really enjoyed the story. Some of the mechanics left me wanting, but as a story (and why are we here if not for stories), it was quite effective.
I do wish there was a way to continue associations afterwards. I also want to use my blueprint to make a handheld version of The Memento Mori, is that so wrong?
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Silverias
Stop by and say hello, I'm a correspondent if you need someone to teach your kids.
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Anne Auclair
Posts: 2215
11/25/2016
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MadmanAtW wrote:
I am spending a lot of time hesitating over the final choice, in part because HOLY COW in Victorian London they've basically made a true AI.
I'm not convinced it's a true AI. All it's moments of supposed self-awareness could easily be programmed in the same manner as its turing test practice. I think it's a very large calculator and pattern recognizing/reproducing engine and nothing more. It only seems intelligent because it's scale is so incomprehensible to anyone who isn't a mathematical genius.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Anne%20Auclair
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Anne Auclair
Posts: 2215
11/25/2016
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Kourkoumpina wrote:
Good story that I feel is kinda ruined by the ending options.
In fact, its even unclear what some of the options do (I misunderstood what the option I chose was supposed to have as outcome).
So, I can forgive the fact that there is not even a single option to use the machine for our own profit (as a newly made Person of Some Importance I could sure have used Personal recommendations, legal documents and some permits... and can find no reason why this could not be done with it) but it ruins my immersion as it is created.
[spoiler] I went with the first option ... i.e. let them kill the Mathematician. The way my character see's it, he ruined their lives + he didnt want to help them release me so... his fate is sealed.
But the machine... such wonderful Machine should prosper (maybe used by me at a later stage or others). It was a bit scary that it wants to self improve (i.e. AI - Sentience!) and that it can break laws of nature but what do I care...
I hence selected the first option - let them do what they want with him and leave. But apparently, that gets the machine destroyed! So it seems, the only way to keep it up and running is if you leave both of them alive after beating the other 3... which is at best meh!
And of course there is no way to take back what I did... cause I would then rather leave them both alive than neither...
Shame...
[/spoiler]
I think the reason its all or nothing is that the Machine cannot function for long, improve, repair, or even do basic things without its creator around to look after it. It's a one of a kind engine interlinked with a one of a kind man, at least for the present moment. The machine's interface seems deceptively simple, but we only did the most basic of commands. It's pretty clear from a stroll through the various wings of the Machine that a lot still has to be done on the human side of things and god help you if a fuse shorts out. So player characters wouldn't be capable of profiting off a working Persona Engine without the Mathematician around.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Anne%20Auclair
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Lorn-Fluke
Posts: 50
11/25/2016
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@ Jermaine: At this point, the typo hunt is almost a mini game in its own right. Super fun ^^. The spell checker must be taking a sabbatical.
@ shylarah: Folks, close the internet for today, it doesn't get any better than this comment .
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Milisa
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suinicide
Posts: 2409
11/24/2016
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In what I assume is a typo, the study claims that both future stories will unlock on the same day: 29th of December.
But on the other hand: more info on the train to hell? A story that seems to be involved with SMEN? I am looking forward to this season.
edited by suinicide on 11/24/2016
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/profile/sunnytime
A gentleman seeking the liberation of knowledge, with a penchant for violence.
RIP suinicide, stuck in a well. Still has it under control.
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suinicide
Posts: 2409
11/24/2016
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The storylet unlocks a place called "your study", which can also be entered through a storylet.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/profile/sunnytime
A gentleman seeking the liberation of knowledge, with a penchant for violence.
RIP suinicide, stuck in a well. Still has it under control.
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Skinnyman
Posts: 2133
11/24/2016
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Lovely! After the Zea it's time to explore the Sky or (Zky)! Feel a little bit of steampunk here!
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ESs items and quality requirements sheet. Please check if there are errors or if something is missing
Achievement list if you're feeling bored!
I am accepting Plant battles, Neath's Mysteries card, Starveling Cats and boxed cats.
No suppers, no second chances gain and no need to cure my menaces!
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suinicide
Posts: 2409
11/24/2016
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That matches what I saw, though I did not repeat them many times.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/profile/sunnytime
A gentleman seeking the liberation of knowledge, with a penchant for violence.
RIP suinicide, stuck in a well. Still has it under control.
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darV
Posts: 20
11/24/2016
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I'm of a very same opinion here. I haven't seen the text change.
Otherwise, a very nice story and much to my liking!
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/darV
A bold Licentiate, not quite sociable, but open for any interaction. Except for, maybe, a certain photographer's trail.
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Akernis
Posts: 255
11/25/2016
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Wow, that was (is, not quite done yet) an excellent piece of writing. My favourite exceptional story since the Calendar Code. Descriptions were great, atmosphere was really good, and the plot really intriguing. And I loved all the small hints of other mysteries.
I really like the support characters a lot more than I had expected to, so kudos for that.
[spoiler]I especially loved the mysterious tidbits about the Red Science and the Discordance and investigation the potential of the Persona Engine. I am at the final choice of the story but as others have remarked finds that ideal choice (killing the mathematician and keeping the Engine for myself) is non-existent. Now just having to figure out the most in-character alternative. [/spoiler]
I do hope the next two stories continue in the same vein, then this season will be my favourite, baring perhaps only Heartsblood.
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edited by Akernis on 11/25/2016
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Vena's profile - http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Akernis
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Eglantine-Fox
Posts: 872
11/25/2016
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Typo alert:
-A small victory against Hell: "True, The smallest win against the Devils (should be either 'True. The' or 'True, the')
Also it looks like an italics tag wasn't closed on the 'The Ambassador's Folly' storylet.
edited by Eglantine-Fox on 11/25/2016
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Eglantine Fox, the charming and androgynous Correspondent, teetering between hobbies of seduction and self-destruction.
Siobhan O'Malley, Irish patriot (or 'bl__dy Fenian' if you're impolite).
Isidore Day, an up-and-coming London gentleman. All allegations of wrongdoing are categorically denied.
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