Story 5951

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Excellent! You are an experienced detective in one of Russia's major cities. A rainy October evening, and you find yourself at the police station.

On your desk lies a folder with a case about serial killings - already four victims in the last two months. Your colleagues call the unknown perpetrator “The Shadow.”

Your partner approaches your desk: “There's news. Either we go to the scene of the fifth murder that happened an hour ago, or we interrogate the witness from the previous case - he's finally agreed to talk.”

What do you choose?

Your partner nods and heads to the interrogation room. You grab your coat and drive to the crime scene.

The address is a residential district, a nine-story panel building. The rain intensifies. Experts are already working by the entrance, blue lights flashing.

The senior investigator meets you at the entrance: “Fifth floor, apartment 47. Victim - Anna Petrova, 28 years old, worked as an accountant. Neighbors discovered the body two hours ago - the door was ajar.”

He pauses: “The signature is the same - strange symbols on the wall, the victim laid out in a specific pose. But there's something new…”

Do you go up to the fifth floor or question the neighbors first?

You climb the stairs. In the fifth-floor corridor, forensic specialists are working, photographing the apartment door.

You enter the apartment. The body is in the living room - the same pose as the previous victims: hands folded on the chest, eyes closed. On the wall, a familiar symbol is drawn in red - an inverted triangle in a circle.

The forensic expert approaches you: “Detective, here's what's new - fabric fibers were found under the victim's nails. Blue, possibly from jeans. And also…” He points to the coffee table: “The killer left a note.”

On the table lies a folded piece of paper.

What do you do - examine the note first or search the rest of the apartment?

You put on gloves and carefully unfold the note. The handwriting is neat, letters printed:

“Detective, you are close. But not close enough. The fifth victim is not the last. The symbol will point the way to the sixth. Look where souls find peace and bodies find eternity. See you tomorrow at midnight.”

Below is a postscript: “P.S. The fibers under the nails are my gift to you.”

The forensic expert shakes his head: “He deliberately left evidence. He's playing with us.”

The note clearly points to a cemetery. There are several in the city - an old Orthodox one, a new municipal one, and a small one by the church.

What do you do next - examine the apartment or urgently check the cemeteries?

You give orders and receive a radio. While the teams move out, you quickly examine the apartment.

In the bedroom - no signs of struggle. The killer knew the victim or caught her by surprise. In the kitchen on the table is an unfinished dinner for one. Nothing remarkable in the bathroom.

The phone rings - police report: “Detective, neighbors say around 6 PM they saw an unfamiliar man in a blue jacket by the elevator. Medium height, dark hair, about 30-35 years old. Was asking about Anna Petrova - supposedly a flower delivery.”

Another call from your partner: “The new cemetery is clear. Continuing patrol.”

You arrive at the old Orthodox cemetery. The rain doesn't stop. Beyond the gates it's dark, only rare lanterns illuminate the paths between graves.

Do you go inside?

You pass through the creaky gates. Rain drums on tombstones, creating an ominous cacophony. Your flashlight illuminates overgrown paths between old graves.

You walk along the central alley, your hand instinctively resting on the holster. Only the sound of your footsteps and the rain. In the distance, an old chapel is visible.

Suddenly the radio crackles: “Detective! The small cemetery - we found a freshly dug grave without a body. The same symbol is on the cross!”

At that moment, you notice a light in the chapel window. Someone is there.

You also see a fork in the paths - one leads to the chapel, the other to the old part of the cemetery, where nobles of past centuries rest.

Where do you go - to the chapel with the light or to the old section? Do you call for backup or act alone?

You transmit over the radio: “Team at the small cemetery - search every meter. I need the full picture.”

You move toward the chapel. The light in the window flickers - looks like candles. The door is ajar, creaking in the wind. You approach closer and hear quiet murmuring from inside.

You carefully peer through the crack. Inside, candles are burning, and a large circle with symbols is drawn on the floor in chalk. In the center of the circle stands a man with his back to you - dark hair, blue jacket. He's whispering something, holding a photograph.

The radio quietly crackles: “Detective, at the small cemetery we found three more fresh graves. All empty. Something is being prepared…”

The man in the chapel turns toward the door. You manage to jump back into the shadows.

Do you enter the chapel, wait outside, or retreat?

You burst into the chapel: “Police! Hands up!”

The man spins around sharply. Wild fear in his eyes. This is NOT the one you're looking for - too young, too frightened. The photograph in his hands shows a girl about 20.

“I… I didn't do anything wrong!” he stammers. “I just… my sister died a month ago, I'm trying to contact her!”

But when you approach, he tries to run, stumbles over the candles. You catch him, put on handcuffs.

The radio crackles: “Detective! Urgent! At the new cemetery our group was attacked! One wounded, the attacker escaped into the darkness!”

The detained man sobs: “He said if I performed the ritual here, he would release my sister! I didn't know he was a maniac!”

What do you do - interrogate him here or urgently go to help your partner?

“Quick! Where and when did he contact you?” - you drag the guy to the car.

“He… he called yesterday evening!” - the detainee sobs - “Said he knows how I grieve for my sister. Told me to come here at midnight and perform the ritual. Promised that then he would give me back her body!”

You put him in the car and race to the new cemetery: “What did he look like? His voice?”

“I never saw him! Only his voice on the phone - low, calm. He… he said he's been watching me for a week. Knew where I work, where I live!”

Over the radio you hear your partner: “We're in ambush at the main gates. The wounded was taken away. The maniac is somewhere here, but the territory is huge.”

You arrive at the new cemetery. You see the flashing lights of an ambulance taking away the wounded officer.

What do you do with the detainee - take him with you as bait or leave him in the car under guard?

You leave the detainee under the guard of Sergeant Volkov. Over the radio you call the K-9 unit: “Dogs needed at the new cemetery, urgent!”

You meet your partner at the gates: “What happened?”

“Lieutenant Smirnov was patrolling the far sector. Someone hit him from behind with an iron rod. Smirnov managed to shout into the radio, but the attacker vanished into the darkness.”

The cemetery territory is huge - modern alleys, mausoleums, new burial sections. The rain hampers visibility.

Your partner shows you the map: “Smirnov was found here, by the mausoleum. And here are those empty graves.”

The radio crackles: “K-9 unit will be there in 10 minutes.”

Suddenly, in the distance, a silhouette flashes between the tombstones. Someone is moving quickly toward the far part of the cemetery.

Do you pursue the silhouette or wait for the dogs?

You and your partner run between tombstones. Lanterns illuminate the wet paths, the silhouette flickers ahead - clearly a man, moving quickly and confidently across the territory.

“Stop! Police!” - your partner shouts.

The pursued person doesn't stop, darts behind a tall mausoleum. You split up - your partner goes around from the left, you from the right.

You run out from behind the corner and… nobody. Only rows of fresh graves and scaffolding around an unfinished chapel.

Your partner over the radio: “Lost him. But it's strange here - footprints on the ground lead to an old underground crypt!”

Suddenly your phone rings. Unknown number.

A low, calm voice: “Detective, you run too fast. But the game has only begun. Enter the crypt alone. Or tomorrow you'll find the sixth victim.”

The line goes dead.

Do you go into the crypt or wait for backup?

You descend the stone steps into the crypt. Ancient walls are covered with moisture, the air is stale. Your flashlight illuminates a narrow corridor.

In the depths of the crypt, a dim lamp is burning. You approach closer and see - the walls are covered with the same symbols as at the crime scenes. Photographs of all five victims are laid out on the floor.

In the center of the hall stands a simple wooden table. On it - fresh flowers and a sixth photograph. A girl about 25, unfamiliar.

A voice from the darkness: “Punctual. That's good.”

From the shadows emerges a middle-aged man, neatly dressed. In his hands is a knife.

“You thought you would catch a mad maniac? You were wrong. I guide souls to a better world. And your soul… is special.”

He takes a step forward. The distance between you is about three meters.

Do you shoot, try to grab him, or talk to him?

You quickly draw your pistol and fire! The shot echoes through the crypt.

Direct hit! The maniac falls with a scream, clutching his wounded knee. The knife drops from his hands and clangs on the stone floor.

“Bitch!” - he growls, trying to reach for the knife.

You aim your pistol at him: “Stay down!”

But at that moment your partner and two police officers burst into the crypt with a crash: “Detective! We heard the shot!”

The wounded maniac suddenly laughs hoarsely: “You think this is the end? I am merely an executor. He who gives the orders will find another…”

He tries to say something more but loses consciousness from pain and blood loss.

On the table you notice a mobile phone and a notebook with addresses.

What do you do - call an ambulance for the wounded or first examine the evidence?

The officers apply a tourniquet to the wounded man and carry him out of the crypt. You stay to examine the scene.

In the notebook - six addresses. Five are crossed out - these are the addresses of the murdered victims. The sixth address is not crossed out: “Katerina Morozova, 15 Lesnaya St., apt. 8”. Next to it a note: “tomorrow, 11 PM”.

In the phone there is only one conversation in the messenger with an unknown number. The last messages: “The fifth is done. Ready for the sixth.” Reply: “The detective is close. If you get caught - stay silent about the client. Or your family will suffer.”

You examine the crypt more carefully. Behind the altar you find a hiding spot - inside is the detainee's passport: Igor Lebedev, 34 years old, a mechanic. And photographs… of his wife and daughter. On the back, a threatening inscription.

Your partner comes down: “Detective, they took him away. But he's in a coma from blood loss. What did you find?”

What do you do - go to save Katerina Morozova or dig deeper to find the client?

You race through the night streets to Morozova's house. Over the radio you coordinate with your partner: “Trace the client's number through the carriers. I need everything - registration, calls, geolocation!”

You arrive at 15 Lesnaya St. An ordinary five-story building, lights on in several windows. You go up to the second floor, apartment 8.

You ring the doorbell. Silence. You knock louder: “Katerina Andreevna! Police!”

From behind the door, a frightened woman's voice: “What happened? Show me your ID!”

You show your badge through the peephole: “You are in danger. Open up!”

The door opens - a girl about 25, exactly like in the photograph. But she's panicking: “I already called the police an hour ago! Someone called and threatened me! Said they know where I work!”

The radio crackles - your partner: “Detective! The client's number is registered to a dead person. But the last call came from a tower near you!”

The client is somewhere nearby!

You quickly issue orders: “Backup unit to the entrance! Don't leave Morozova alone!”

Over the radio you contact the operations center: “Need urgent triangulation! The number is active, the client is nearby!”

A minute later the response: “Signal coming from a 50-meter radius from your location. Can't pinpoint more precisely - too many metal structures.”

Katerina trembles: “Who is this person? Why does he want to kill me?”

Suddenly the power goes out in the building. Emergency lighting dimly flickers in the corridor.

Your partner over the radio: “Detective! Saw a silhouette on the roof of the neighboring building! Someone's watching through binoculars!”

At that moment your phone rings. The same number.

The voice is cold, calm: “Detective, you saved one executor, but condemned an innocent family. And the girl will die anyway. Today or tomorrow.”

Do you take Morozova with you or leave her under guard? Go to the roof of the neighboring building?

You issue commands: “Full cordon around the building across the street! Don't let anyone out!”

You leave Morozova with two officers in the apartment and run to the neighboring building. The entrance is locked, but the attic door has been broken.

You climb the narrow staircase in complete darkness. The steps creak under your feet. The attic smells of dust and dampness.

Your flashlight illuminates a cluttered space - old furniture, cardboard boxes. In the far corner by the dormer window stands a tripod with binoculars.

But no one is there.

On the floor lies an expensive business card: “Viktor Semyonovich Krylov, Deputy Mayor”.

Suddenly a floorboard creaks behind you. You spin around sharply - from behind a beam emerges a man in an expensive suit, about 50. In his hands is a pistol.

“Detective, you turned out to be too clever,” - he says calmly.

Your reaction - you have a split-second advantage, he hasn't aimed yet!

You lightning-fast draw your pistol and fire! In the darkness of the attic, the shot is deafening. Krylov cries out - the bullet hits his thigh, but he doesn't fall.

You try to grab him, but he's nimbler than expected - he strikes your hand with the butt of his pistol. Your gun flies to the side.

“On the radio!” - you shout, grabbing Krylov's gun arm. A struggle begins in the darkness between boxes.

Krylov is stronger than he looks. He furiously tries to aim the pistol at you: “You ruined the perfect plan! Lebedev was supposed to stay silent!”

You manage to knock him to the floor, but he won't release the weapon. In the struggle, you find the radio: “Code red! Attic! Backup!”

Krylov knees you in the stomach. The pistol rises toward you again.

Do you manage to grab his arm or try to roll to the side?

You manage to grab his wrist with both hands! Krylov roars in pain - the wound in his leg is bleeding, his strength is leaving him.

You twist the pistol from his hands and pin him to the floor. At that moment police officers burst onto the attic with flashlights.

“Get down! Hands behind your head!” - they shout.

Krylov, breathing heavily, suddenly smirks: “You think you caught the mastermind? I'm just an intermediary… The one who pays is untouchable. He has connections at the very top.”

Your partner helps you up: “Detective, are you okay?”

You handcuff Krylov: “Who is your client? Who paid for the murders?”

Krylov coughs up blood: “The series of murders was supposed to distract attention from the main case… From a massive land fraud involving the new cemetery…”

He loses consciousness.

His phone lies on the floor. What do you do - examine the phone or urgently interrogate him at the hospital?

At the hospital, Krylov regains consciousness after an hour. You sit by his bed in a guarded room.

“Six murders for a land fraud?” - you narrow your eyes - “Too high a price for a distraction.”

Krylov laughs weakly: “Distraction? You understood nothing, detective.” He coughs: “All five victims worked in different organizations but had access to documents about the land purchase for the new cemetery.”

Pause. “Anna Petrova - an accountant at city hall, saw the fictitious invoices. The second victim - a notary who certified forged documents. The third worked at the land committee…”

The picture becomes clearer: “They knew about the fraud?”

“Worse. They started asking questions. One of them even copied documents.” Krylov groans: “The client decided to eliminate witnesses, and the serial pattern would hide the motive.”

“Who is the client?”

Krylov closes his eyes: “I never saw him. Only a voice on the phone and transfers to my account…”

You send a request to the technical operations department: “Need full analysis of the client's number - calls, geolocation for the last three months, bank transfers to Krylov's account.”

Half an hour later the expert calls: “Detective, interesting picture. The number is registered to a front man, but all calls came from one location - the 'City Plaza' business center, 23rd floor.”

“What's there?”

“Offices of several companies. But here's the thing - transfers to Krylov's account went through an offshore company that owns half the land for the new cemetery.”

Your partner enters the room: “Detective, we checked the offshore owner. Nominally - some Andrey Korshunov. But according to documents, he died two years ago.”

Krylov opens his eyes: “Korshunov… that's a pseudonym. The real name…” - he gasps - “I fear him more than death.”

Do you go to the business center or try to get the name from Krylov?

You lean toward Krylov: “Viktor Semyonovich, you're already deep in shit. Accessory to six murders. But right now you have a chance to ease your situation.”

Krylov trembles: “You don't understand… He has connections in the prosecutor's office, in court. He can reach me even in prison.”

“And we can provide protection. Witness protection program.”

A long pause. Krylov closes his eyes: “Oleg Vladimirovich Rogachev. Chairman of the City Council.”

You exchange glances with your partner. Rogachev is an influential figure, present at all city events.

“A land scheme worth billions of rubles,” - Krylov whispers. “He bought land through front men, then pushed through the decision to build a cemetery. Land prices increased 50 times.”

Your partner shakes his head: “Detective, these are serious accusations. We need ironclad evidence.”

What do you do - go to Rogachev's house or first gather evidence at his office?

You call the prosecutor: “Need warrants for search, arrest of Rogachev, and account freeze.”

A long pause: “Detective, do you understand what you're asking? Rogachev is the chairman of the council. We need rock-solid evidence.”

“We have Krylov's testimony.”

“An accomplice's testimony without supporting evidence? Lawyers will tear the case apart.”

An hour of waiting. The prosecutor calls back: “Warrants for surveillance - yes. For house search - yes, but only in the presence of a lawyer. The council office - denied, need additional grounds. Accounts cannot be frozen without a court order.”

Your partner shakes his head grimly: “And Rogachev already knows. I got a call from headquarters - someone is inquiring about our investigation.”

At that moment an operative calls: “Rogachev left home an hour ago with two suitcases. He's heading to the airport.”

What do you do - intercept at the airport or try to find evidence at his house?

You race to the airport! Over the radio: “All units to Sheremetyevo! Code red! Suspect is fleeing!”

Your partner calls: “Detective, I'm already at Rogachev's house with a search team. Found a hidden safe!”

You arrive at the airport in 20 minutes. Police are already at the entrances. Information on the screens - a flight to Dubai departs in 40 minutes.

You run to the departure area. At the VIP lounge entrance, you spot Rogachev - he's handing documents to a ticket agent. Two bodyguards beside him.

“Oleg Vladimirovich!” - you shout. “Stop! Police!”

Rogachev turns around, his face goes pale. He whispers something to his bodyguards. One of them reaches under his jacket.

“Weapons on the ground! Everyone!” - police officers surround them.

Rogachev raises his hands: “This is a misunderstanding. I'm a council member. I have immunity.”

“Not for six murders,” - you reply, putting handcuffs on him.

Your partner calls: “Detective! In the safe - documents confirming the entire scheme! Names, accounts, transactions!”

CASE CLOSED

Your partner nods: “Got it. I'll keep him in my sights.” He leaves for the airport.

You arrive at Rogachev's mansion with a group of operatives. A lawyer is already waiting at the gates - expensive suit, cold gaze.

“Search only in my presence. And I will document every procedural violation.”

The house is huge, three floors. In the office - perfect order, not a single extra document. The safe is empty.

But in the bedroom you find something interesting - in the trash bin, torn pieces of burned papers. The expert carefully assembles the fragments: “We can try to restore them.”

The garage is empty - no car. But on the floor there's an oil stain and… a USB drive, apparently dropped from the car in haste.

Your partner calls: “Rogachev boarded the flight to Dubai. Departure in half an hour. What should I do?”

What do you choose - check the USB or try to detain Rogachev at the airport?

Your partner races to the airport: “I'll try to get on the same flight or the next one. I won't let him escape.”

You connect the USB to a laptop. Folders with contracts, bank documents, land plot diagrams. A gold mine!

You see correspondence with Krylov, murder plans, payment amounts. And most importantly - a list of “problem” people. All five victims are on the list, and the sixth - Morozova - is marked as “knows about fictitious burials”.

The expert approaches with restored papers: “Detective, there's a money laundering scheme through funeral homes. Rogachev was selling nonexistent burial plots.”

Suddenly your phone rings. Unknown number: “Detective, you found the USB? Excellent. But that's a copy. The originals are with me.”

The voice is unfamiliar, not Rogachev's.

“And who are you?”

“Rogachev's insurance. He flew away, but I stayed to finish business. Morozova still has to die.”

What do you do - rush to Morozova or try to trace the caller?

“Original?” - there's interest and suspicion in the stranger's voice. “That's impossible. Rogachev assured me all copies were destroyed.”

You lie confidently: “Your boss isn't as smart as he thinks. The USB from the house is bait. The real documents I found in a bank deposit box.”

Pause. The stranger thinks: “What documents exactly?”

“Contracts with Lebedev, recordings of conversations with you, murder schemes… And most importantly - photocopies of documents from city hall with your real names.”

The bluff is risky but works: “Damn… Where are those documents now?”

“Taking them to the station. In half an hour they'll be in the safe.”

“No!” - he says sharply. “Let's meet in the parking lot by the station. Bring the documents - you'll get information about who else is involved in the case.”

The call ends.

The trap might work, but it's risky - unknown how many accomplices he has.

What do you do - go to the meeting or set up an ambush?

You quickly coordinate the operation: “Sniper on the station roof. Two cars in ambush at the parking lot corners. Tactical team in the basement - surround the target on signal.”

Operatives take positions. You prepare an empty folder with fake documents and go out to the parking lot.

You wait. Silence. Only the sound of rain and occasional cars.

After 20 minutes a black Toyota with tinted windows pulls up. A man in his 40s, athletic build, gets out. Clearly a professional - looks around, hands positioned for quick weapon draw.

He approaches you: “Where are the documents?”

You show the folder: “Information first. Who else is in the case?”

He smirks: “Naive detective. Think I came alone?”

At that moment you notice a second silhouette behind the cars, and on the roof of the neighboring building light glints - sniper optics.

He has his own ambush too!

Do you give the signal to your team or try to stall for time?

You casually touch the radio: “Enemy ambush. Sniper on neighboring roof, at least two more in cover.”

You say loudly to the stranger: “Alright, let's look at the documents together. But first tell me - how many people did Rogachev eliminate before this series?”

The man looks at you warily: “What are you talking about?”

“The documents mention an operation two years ago. What happened to architect Semenov?”

He grimaces: “Semenov asked too many questions about the cemetery project. An accident at the construction site.”

Over the radio in a whisper: “Alpha team flanking the building. Our sniper acquiring their shooter.”

The stranger becomes nervous: “Enough talking. Give me the folder.”

“One more question - who killed the real Korshunov?”

His face hardens: “You know too much, detective.”

His hand slowly moves toward the pistol under his jacket.

Do you dive for cover or give the command “Take him”?

“TAKE HIM!” - you shout into the radio and dive behind a car.

The parking lot explodes into action! Spotlights illuminate the area, special forces operators jump from cover: “Weapons on the ground!”

The stranger draws his pistol, but the sniper on the station roof is faster - a precise shot to the shoulder. The criminal falls.

Gunfire opens from behind the cars - his accomplices shoot at the police. A firefight erupts.

“Sniper on the neighboring roof!” - you shout. Your sniper quickly re-aims. Shot - and the enemy shooter disappears.

In a minute it's all over. Two criminals wounded and detained, the third killed while trying to escape.

The wounded leader, through gritted teeth, says: “You won the battle, but not the war. Rogachev has people in the prosecutor's office. The case will be buried.”

Your partner calls from the airport: “Detective! Rogachev met with a Russian businessman in Dubai. Trying to find out who.”

What do you do - interrogate the prisoners or coordinate with your partner?

You isolate the wounded in different hospitals under heavy guard. You interrogate the leader first: “Who are your people in the prosecutor's office?”

“Go to hell,” - he answers through gritted teeth.

You call your partner: “Find our people in Dubai, we need to secretly grab Rogachev.”

Long pause: “Detective, that's unrealistic. We have no authority in UAE territory. Private plane? That's international kidnapping - a diplomatic scandal!”

The department head approaches with a grim face: “Detective, I just got a call from administration. Pressure is being applied to the investigation from above. They're demanding the case be transferred to central headquarters.”

“We have all the evidence!”

“Evidence exists, but Rogachev is in Dubai, and his lawyers have already filed for political asylum.”

The second arrestee suddenly speaks: “Detective, want real information? Rogachev has compromising material on the regional prosecutor. That's why they want to bury the case.”

Do you focus on the corruption inside the system or try another way to get Rogachev?

You propose the plan to your partner, but he objects sharply: “Detective, have you lost your mind? This is an international crime! Drugs, kidnapping, violation of sovereignty… We'll get life in prison!”

The department head, hearing the conversation, clutches his head: “Stop immediately! If such conversations reach leadership, we'll all be removed from our positions!”

The second arrestee smirks: “See, detective? The system won't let you win. But there's another way…”

He leans closer: “Rogachev has a son in Moscow. A student, clean kid. He doesn't know about daddy's business. If you show him the evidence…”

At that moment your partner calls: “Detective, news! Rogachev isn't just hiding - he's meeting with other Russian businessmen. Looks like he's planning something big!”

What do you choose - work with Rogachev's son or dig for information about the meetings in Dubai?

You organize surveillance on Rogachev's son in Moscow. Maxim Rogachev, 22 years old, Moscow State University student, economics department.

You follow him for three days. Ordinary student life - university, cafes, meetings with friends. But on the fourth day you notice something strange - Maxim enters an elite casino where bets start at a million rubles.

A student can't afford this on a stipend.

Your partner calls from Dubai: “Detective, big news! Rogachev is meeting with three businessmen from Russia. They're discussing buying up land for cemeteries in other regions. The scheme is scaling nationwide!”

Through the earpiece from the surveillance operative: “Maxim is entering the VIP lounge of the casino. He's meeting a man about 50 - looks like one of those businessmen from the Dubai photos.”

What do you do - enter the casino undercover or continue external surveillance?

You stay outside. An hour later Maxim exits the casino pale and upset. Behind him walks that same businessman - tall, gray-haired, expensive suit.

The operative through the earpiece: “The businessman is saying something to the kid. Maxim is shaking his head, refusing. The man grabs his shoulder.”

You see Maxim trying to leave, but the businessman shows him something on his phone. The student freezes, his face goes white as chalk.

Your partner calls: “Detective! Urgent! One of the businessmen here just got a call. Was talking about a son, about debts at the casino, about how 'the boy now understands the situation'.”

Maxim gets into a black car with the businessman. They drive toward an upscale district.

The operative: “Should we follow the car?”

At that moment your phone rings. Unknown number. Maxim's voice, trembling: “You… you're the detective looking for my father? I need help. They said they'll kill me if dad doesn't come back…”

What do you do - meet with Maxim or continue surveillance?

“Maxim, where are you now?” - you ask.

“In the car… they're taking me to some office. I got scared and called you. Found your number in the news.”

“Listen carefully - try to remember the address they're taking you to. Send geolocation if you can.”

His voice trembles: “They say I have to call my father and convince him to come back. Or they'll… kill me, like those people in the news.”

A minute later the geolocation comes - a business center in downtown Moscow.

The operative reports: “The car stopped at Continental Plaza. Maxim is being led into the building.”

You call the tactical team in Moscow: “We need immediately…”

But you're interrupted by a call from Rogachev himself from Dubai: “Detective, I know what's happening with my son. Ready to negotiate. One condition - only you, no one else.”

What do you choose - storm the building to save Maxim or negotiate with Rogachev?

“Rogachev, I'm listening,” - you say, simultaneously signaling the tactical team to prepare for assault.

“Detective, my son is innocent. It's my partners who decided to pressure me through him. I'm ready to return and testify, but on one condition.”

“What condition?”

“Safety guarantees for my son and a plea deal.”

The tactical team commander whispers: “Need 10 more minutes for positioning.”

You stall: “Oleg Vladimirovich, first prove that Maxim is alright.”

Pause. Then Maxim's voice: “Uncle detective? I'm alive, but it's scary here… They're saying bad things about dad…”

Rogachev again: “Did you hear? Now my conditions - you stop the investigation into prosecutor corruption, I return and take all the blame myself.”

The commander signals: “Ready to breach.”

At that moment Maxim's scream comes from the office through the phone.

What do you decide - continue negotiations or give the command “Take them”?

“Rogachev, I agree to negotiate. But first release Maxim,” - you say, showing the tactical team to stand ready.

“No, detective. Guarantees first. My partners don't trust the police.”

Suddenly you hear that same businessman's voice on the phone: “Enough chatter! We have the boy, and we set the terms!”

Rogachev shouts: “Boris, don't! He's my son!”

Boris answers coldly: “Your son is our insurance. Detective, listen carefully - all evidence against Rogachev disappears, the case is closed. Otherwise the boy will be found in a week in the river.”

Maxim screams: “Dad, don't do it! Let these people pay for the murders!”

The tactical team commander whispers: “6th floor, 3rd room on the right. But there's a child hostage - the risk is enormous.”

Rogachev pleading: “Detective, I'll give up all accomplices, all the schemes. Just save my son!”

Do you accept Rogachev's offer or look for another way out?

“Rogachev, agreed. Your testimony in exchange for your son's release,” - you say firmly.

Boris angrily: “Smart choice, detective.”

Twenty minutes later, a pale but unharmed Maxim exits the building. The tactical team takes him under protection.

Rogachev on the phone: “Detective, I'll keep my word. Boris Krymov is my main partner, he controls the scheme in 12 regions. Prosecutor Vetrov received 10% from us on every deal. Judge Petrenko signed the necessary decisions for a million per signature.”

You write it down: “Who else?”

“The list is long - mayors of three cities, the head of the regional land committee, two State Duma deputies…”

Boris shouts from the building window: “Rogachev, shut up! You just signed your own death warrant!”

Maxim runs up to you: “Detective, there's another girl in there! They're holding some Katya, said she's next!”

Morozova? But she's supposed to be under guard!

You call Morozova's guards - no answer.

What do you do - storm the building or check what happened to the guards?

You issue orders: “Team A - immediately to Morozova's apartment! Team B - arrest Krymov in the building! All other forces - simultaneous arrests from Rogachev's list!”

You call the duty officer: “Urgent arrest warrants - Prosecutor Vetrov, Judge Petrenko, the whole list!”

You race to Morozova's house. The guard car is by the entrance, but no one visible. You go up to the apartment - the door is ajar, silence inside.

In the living room you find two police officers unconscious - alive, but stunned. Morozova is gone.

The radio crackles: “Detective! Krymov tried to escape from the roof, detained! But in his phone there's a message - 'The girl is at the old place, she has an hour'.”

Your partner calls from Dubai: “Rogachev got on the first flight home. But he's panicking - says Krymov might kill all witnesses out of revenge!”

Old place… The crypt at the cemetery?

At that moment one of the stunned officers regains consciousness: “Detective… three in masks… took the girl… mentioned the cemetery…”

What do you do - race to the crypt or look for other options for “old place”?

You race to the old Orthodox cemetery with a SWAT team. On the way you coordinate: “Surround the crypt, but carefully - there's a hostage!”

You arrive at the cemetery. The gates are wide open, by the entrance an abandoned car with plates listed as stolen.

You creep toward the crypt. A lantern burns at the entrance - clearly bait. The SWAT commander signals: two of his people are flanking the crypt from behind.

From the depths comes Morozova's voice: “Help! They said if the detective doesn't come alone, they'll kill me!”

A male voice shouts: “Detective! I know you're there! Come down alone or the girl dies! We have an automatic rifle!”

The SWAT officer whispers: “Detective, it's a trap. Give us five minutes, we'll find another entrance.”

But from the crypt comes Morozova's scream and the sound of a slap.

“Enough waiting! I give you one minute!” - the criminal shouts.

Do you go down into the crypt alone or wait for SWAT?

You signal SWAT: “We go in together. Cover left and right.”

The team descends into the crypt in sync. The dim lantern light illuminates a terrible scene - Morozova is tied to a chair in the center, two armed men on either side of her.

“I said alone!” - the leader snarls, aiming his rifle at Morozova.

“Fire!” - you shout.

SWAT opens fire. One criminal falls immediately, but the second manages to shoot toward the hostage!

Morozova screams and falls with the chair. The bullet hit her leg - she's wounded, but alive.

The leader tries to reload, but the SWAT sniper beats him to it. Final shot.

Silence.

You run to Morozova: “Katerina! Hold on!”

She's conscious, the wound isn't fatal. Medics are already descending into the crypt.

The radio crackles: “Detective! Mass arrests completed. Vetrov and Petrenko detained. Krymov is giving testimony - wants a plea deal.”

The case is coming to an end. What do you do next?

A week later the story hits all the news: “Largest corruption scheme in funeral services industry exposed. High-ranking officials arrested.”

The trial lasts two months. Rogachev gets 15 years for organizing murders. Krymov - 20 years. Prosecutor Vetrov and Judge Petrenko are stripped of their titles and receive 10 years each.

Lebedev, the murder executor, takes a plea deal - 8 years for testimony.

On the day of the verdict, you meet Morozova at a small restaurant. She walks with a cane but has almost recovered.

“Thank you,” - she says. “If not for you…”

“Just doing my job.”

“No, this is more than a job. You risked your life.”

Outside the window, evening Moscow. The case is closed, justice has prevailed.

Morozova smiles: “You know, I'm thinking of writing a book about this story. The detective who never gave up.”

CASE CLOSED

Congratulations! You successfully solved a complex case of serial murders and corruption.

Excellent detective story!

INVESTIGATION RESULTS:

• Solved a case of 5 serial murders
• Prevented the 6th murder
• Dismantled a corruption network in city administration
• Arrested: the serial killer, the mastermind, the prosecutor, the judge, and other accomplices
• Rescued hostages: Katerina Morozova and Maxim Rogachev
• Exposed a multi-billion ruble land fraud scheme

You proved yourself a true detective - you used tactics, negotiations, evidence analysis, coordinated team work, and made difficult ethical decisions under pressure.

Particularly impressive were the moments with organizing ambushes, negotiating with criminals, and the final hostage rescue operations.

Thank you for the exciting game! If you want to embark on a new adventure - in any genre and any world - I'd be happy to be your game master again!

Excellent! Here are some exciting scenarios to choose from:

1. SPACE CAPTAIN
Science fiction, year 2387
You are the captain of a research vessel that received a distress signal from an abandoned colony at the edge of the galaxy. But something went wrong there…

2. MEDIEVAL INQUISITOR
Dark fantasy, year 1348
Europe is gripped by plague, but in one village people don't get sick. You've been sent to investigate - heresy, magic, or something even more terrifying?

3. SECRET SERVICE AGENT
Spy thriller, modern day
During the G20 summit in Moscow, a secret negotiation protocol disappears. You have 48 hours to find it before an international crisis begins.

4. CARIBBEAN PIRATE
Adventure, year 1715
You are the captain of a pirate ship who obtained a treasure map of the legendary Blackbeard. But other pirates and the British fleet are hunting for it too.

5. POST-APOCALYPTIC RANGER
Post-apocalypse, year 2055
Russia after nuclear war. You are a stalker exploring anomalous zones. You found a signal from a pre-war bunker with scientists.

6. JAPANESE SAMURAI
Historical fantasy, year 1603
The Edo period, you are a masterless ronin. Noble persons are beginning to disappear in the capital, and the shogun hires you to investigate.

Which scenario interests you?

Superb! Welcome to Renaissance Venice!

Venice, 1580

You are Giacomo, a young Venetian nobleman known for your wit, education, and… special gift for charming beautiful ladies. The carnival season is in full swing, the city is full of masks and secrets.

You stand on the Rialto Bridge in the evening twilight. Gondolas glide along the canals, sounds of lutes and laughter come from the palazzos.

Your servant Marco runs up: “Signor Giacomo! Three invitations for tonight - Marchioness Contarini is hosting a salon at her palazzo, the young widow Morosini is receiving guests in the garden, and a mysterious lady in a black mask asked me to give you this…”

He hands you an elegant note with a rose seal.

Where will you go - to the influential marchioness, to the mysterious widow, or follow the call of the unknown beauty?

You unfold the elegant note. A delicate jasmine scent, elegant handwriting:

“Signor Giacomo, your reputation has reached my ears. If you are as skilled in the art of conversation as they say, meet me at the Church of Santa Maria della Salute at midnight. Look for the rose on the steps. - Your unknown admirer”

Marco shakes his head: “Signor, this could be a trap. A jealous husband, an angry father…”

But you've already decided. You put on your best velvet doublet, sword at your side, and head to the church through the labyrinth of narrow Venetian streets.

At Santa Maria della Salute, moonlight silvers the marble steps. On the top step lies a solitary red rose.

You pick up the rose, and from the shadow of the columns appears a figure in a black mask - a slender form in a luxurious silk dress.

“Signor Giacomo,” - a melodious voice with a slight accent. “You came. So the rumors about your courage are not exaggerated.”

Your response?

You bow elegantly and extend your hand: “Beautiful signora, these steps are too cold for such an exquisite conversation. Allow me to invite you to a cozy courtyard nearby, where moonlight and the fragrance of flowers will create a more… suitable atmosphere.”

The masked lady laughs softly: “How gallant, signor. But isn't that rather hasty? We barely know each other.”

She takes a step back, playing with her fan: “Besides, what if I am a married woman? Or the daughter of an influential doge? Venice is full of dangers for overly bold cavaliers.”

At that moment two men in cloaks emerge from the shadows - her escorts or guards.

One of them says in a low voice: “Signora, isn't it time to return?”

The lady turns to you: “You see, Signor Giacomo? Even a moonlit encounter requires… caution. But if you are truly as skilled as they say, find a way to speak tomorrow without extra eyes.”

What will you do - insist on your terms or play by her rules?

You bow gracefully: “Of course, signora. Patience is the virtue of a true gentleman. Tomorrow I will find a way to prove that my reputation is not exaggerated.”

You kiss her hand through the glove: “Until we meet in more… favorable circumstances.”

The lady and her companions dissolve into the night shadows of Venice.

You return to your palazzo on the Grand Canal. In the spacious chambers candles burn, aromas of dinner waft from the kitchen.

Isabella, your Portuguese maid, greets you with a glass of the finest Chianti: “Signor returned early. Was the adventure not so… exciting?”

Her dark eyes glint mischievously. Isabella is not just a maid, but an educated girl from a noble but impoverished family.

“Mysterious ladies love games,” - you say - “but sometimes simple pleasures are far more pleasant than complex intrigues.”

Isabella smiles and sits at the harpsichord: “Then allow me to dispel your boredom with music and conversation, signor.”

You settle into a soft armchair: “Isabella, dear, these Venetian intrigues are exhausting. Could you work out my shoulders with your skilled hands?”

Isabella sets aside the music sheets and approaches you: “Of course, signor. You are too tense.”

Her fingers skillfully work the muscles, while her melodious voice fills the chambers with a gentle Portuguese aria about sea waves and distant shores.

“Your voice is more beautiful than any Venetian nightingale,” - you say. “Would you join me in the marble bath? Hot water with rose oil will wash away the weariness of the day.”

Isabella pauses for a moment: “Signor… you know I am not an ordinary maid. My family was noble in Lisbon, until…”

At that moment Marco knocks on the door: “Signor Giacomo! Urgent message from Marchioness Contarini! She demands an immediate meeting - says it concerns your safety!”

What do you decide - continue the evening with Isabella or respond to the urgent summons?

You wave Marco away: “Tell the marchioness that in the morning I will be at her service. Right now I have more important matters.”

Marco shakes his head but withdraws.

Isabella continues the massage, her fingers finding every point of tension: “Signor risks incurring the wrath of an influential lady.”

“Let him. Some moments are worth any risk.” You turn to her: “Isabella, you were speaking of your family in Lisbon…”

“My father was a trading fleet captain until he lost his ships in a storm off the African coast. Debts forced us to flee to Venice.”

You lead her to the marble bath, filled with hot water and rose petals: “Tonight you are not a maid from Portugal. You are a beautiful lady in my home.”

Isabella smiles shyly but accepts your gallantry.

The night passes in unhurried conversation, music, and tenderness…

In the morning Marco wakes you with alarm: “Signor! Terrible news! Someone murdered Marchioness Contarini last night!”

What do you do?

You dress quickly and rush to Palazzo Contarini on the Grand Canal. City guards and curious onlookers crowd at the entrance.

The guard captain, Signor Morosini, meets you grimly: “Ah, Signor Giacomo. How convenient that you came on your own.”

“What happened to the marchioness?”

“She was found dead in the library at dawn. Stabbed through the heart. And on the table…” - he shows a note - “…your name.”

Your heart skips. In the note, familiar handwriting: “Giacomo was warned but didn't listen. The marchioness knew too much. Beware of those who wear masks. - Your acquaintance from last night”

Morosini narrows his eyes: “Signor, where were you last night after midnight?”

The marchioness's servants whisper - they saw how yesterday evening she received an urgent message and became very agitated.

In the corner of the library you notice something glinting - a small rose earring.

How do you answer the guard captain and what do you do with the earring?

You answer impassively: “Captain, I have no idea what this note is about. Yesterday evening I spent at home, my servants will confirm.”

While Morosini records your statement, you discreetly bend down as if adjusting your boot and slip the earring into your sleeve.

“Strange,” - the captain mutters - “the marchioness asked you for an urgent meeting, and you didn't even come…”

“I am not accustomed to rushing at the first call, even from noble ladies.”

Morosini looks at you suspiciously but lets you go: “Do not leave the city, signor. Additional questions may be needed.”

Exiting the palazzo, you notice a familiar silhouette in a black mask among the crowd of gawkers. The mysterious lady! She looks directly at you, then dissolves into the crowd.

Marco runs up: “Signor, what is happening?”

The stolen earring burns in your pocket. What do you do - pursue the masked lady or return home to study the evidence?

You rush into the crowd, trying not to lose sight of the black mask. The lady moves quickly through narrow calles, clearly knowing every turn.

“Marco, follow me!” - you shout, squeezing between merchants and gondoliers.

She turns toward the Bridge of Sighs, then suddenly darts into a side alley. You almost catch her, but she suddenly disappears through the door of a small house.

You run to the door - locked. You knock: “Signora! I know you are in there!”

Silence.

Marco catches up, out of breath: “Signor, perhaps we shouldn't? She is clearly dangerous!”

Suddenly from a second-floor window comes the familiar melodious voice: “Signor Giacomo, you are too curious. This could end badly.”

“Why was the marchioness killed? What did she know?”

Laughter from above: “The poor thing decided to warn you about the danger. But some secrets are worth a life.”

The window slams shut.

What do you do - try to get into the house or return home to think over the situation?

You walk slowly home over familiar bridges, pondering the strange events. Your head is heavy with unanswered questions.

At the palazzo Isabella meets you with a worried face: “Signor, you look exhausted. What happened with the marchioness?”

You sink into the armchair: “Murdered. And somehow I am involved in this matter.” You take out the earring and examine it in the light - exquisite craftsmanship, pearl and gold, clearly expensive.

Isabella hands you a glass of wine: “Signor, while you were gone, a strange man came. He left this.”

She hands you an elegant envelope without a seal. Inside is a card: “Giacomo, if you want to know the truth about the marchioness and your nighttime acquaintance, come tomorrow at noon to the Doge's Palace. Look for the mask seller by the columns. I have information that will save your life. - A Friend”

Isabella sits beside you: “Signor, perhaps you should leave Venice? This smells of great trouble.”

What do you decide - go to the meeting, flee the city, or try to solve the mystery of the earring?

You take Isabella's hands: “Dear, you are right - this is dangerous. But I cannot run. Please, go immediately to your aunt in Padua.”

You give her a purse with gold ducats: “This will be enough for several months. As soon as you arrive - send a letter.”

Isabella shakes her head: “Signor, I cannot leave you in trouble…”

“You can, and you must. If something happens to me, who will tell the truth?”

She nods sadly, quickly gathers her things. At dawn a gondola carries her along the canal toward the mainland.

By noon you walk to the Doge's Palace, the earring hidden in a secret pocket. St. Mark's Square is full of people - merchants, tourists, pilgrims.

By the columns there is indeed a seller of carnival masks - an elderly man with a gray beard.

“Looking for something special, signor?” - he asks quietly.

At that moment you notice two men in the crowd, clearly watching you. And the seller subtly nods toward a narrow passage between the columns.

What do you do - go with him or first find out who is following you?

You approach the seller and, examining the masks, quietly say: “We have unwanted observers. Two men in brown cloaks.”

The old man whispers without turning his head: “I see. They have been waiting for you here for an hour.” He takes one of the masks: “Buy this one, signor, and follow me through the passage. Slowly.”

You pay for the mask, and the seller unhurriedly walks toward a narrow passage between columns. Behind you hear footsteps - the pursuers are following.

“Faster,” - the old man whispers, turning into a labyrinth of passages beneath the palace. “My name is Lorenzo. I served the marchioness… until yesterday.”

In the semi-darkness of stone corridors the echo of your steps mixes with the sounds of pursuit. Lorenzo leads you deeper and deeper.

“Signor, the marchioness uncovered a conspiracy against the Doge. Your nighttime acquaintance is an agent of Venice's enemies. And you…” - he stops at a heavy door - “…accidentally became the key to their plan.”

Behind you the voices of pursuers - they are close.

What do you do - enter through the door or stand your ground and demand explanations?

Lorenzo pushes the heavy door, and you enter a spacious underground room, lit by torches. Old maps hang on the walls, and three men in expensive clothing sit at a table.

“Signor Giacomo,” - one of them, an elderly patrician, stands. “I am Senator Foscari. Sit down, we have little time.”

Lorenzo locks the door behind you: “The pursuers will not find this passage.”

Foscari spreads documents on the table: “Marchioness Contarini worked for us. She uncovered a conspiracy - a group of Venetian merchants is secretly negotiating with the Turks to surrender the city.”

The second man adds: “Your mysterious lady is Lucia Morlini, daughter of one of the conspirators. She was supposed to seduce you and gain access to the Doge's secrets through your connections.”

“What connections?” - you are surprised.

“Your uncle is the Doge's personal secretary. Lucia thought to use you as a bridge to state secrets.”

Foscari points to the earring in your pocket: “Show us what you found at the marchioness's.”

What do you do - show the earring or demand more proof?

You place the earring on the table. Foscari examines it carefully: “The work of master Cellini. Only daughters of the wealthiest families wear such jewelry.” He nods to the others: “This confirms it - Lucia Morlini.”

“Gentlemen,” - you say decisively - “I propose to use me as bait. I will succumb to her charms, discover the details of the conspiracy.”

The third man - a guard captain - shakes his head: “Too dangerous, signor. She has already killed the marchioness.”

But Foscari is thoughtful: “An interesting idea. Lucia thinks you know nothing. She will try again.”

Lorenzo warns: “Signor, this lady is deadly dangerous. And behind her are people with great money.”

Foscari stands: “If you agree, we will provide protection. Our people will be nearby. But remember - one wrong step, and you are dead.”

The senator points to a map: “Tomorrow night - a ball at the Doge's. Lucia will definitely be there. A perfect opportunity.”

Do you finally agree to the role of double agent or want to learn more details of the plan?

Foscari unfolds another document: “Lucia Morlini, 24 years old. Her father - Antonio Morlini, one of the city's wealthiest merchants. Officially trades silk with the East, but secretly negotiates with the Turkish pasha.”

The guard captain adds: “She has a brother - Marco, captain of mercenaries. And a lover - Rodrigo, a Spanish nobleman, a secret agent of Madrid.”

Lorenzo shows a portrait: “Here she is without a mask. Beautiful, educated, speaks four languages. Studied in Paris… and the art of killing.”

Foscari continues: “The conspirators' plan is simple - during the Turkish assault, open the city gates from within. For this Morlini will receive a monopoly on trade in the new province of the Ottoman Empire.”

“And where am I in this plan?” - you ask.

“Through your uncle they want to learn the city's defense plans, the location of the arsenal, fleet movements. Lucia was supposed to turn you into a lovesick puppy.”

The senator hands you a small vial: “If you fall into mortal danger - a fast-acting poison. Better death than torture.”

Are you ready for tomorrow's ball?

Foscari raises an eyebrow: “An ambitious plan, Signor Giacomo. But risky.”

“Exactly why it will work,” - you reply. “No one expects me to take active action.”

Lorenzo produces new documents: “Rodrigo is married to Isabella de Castro - a young Spanish woman who arrived a year ago. Lives in a palazzo on the Grand Canal. They say it's a marriage of convenience, she is bored.”

The captain adds: “And Marco Morlini is seeing Katarina Dandolo - a banker's daughter, but the family opposes the match. The girl is rebellious, often alone.”

Foscari nods: “Your reputation will help. Isabella de Castro will be at San Marco church tomorrow morning for mass. And Katarina walks in the Giardini gardens every day.”

“We have suitable costumes for the carnival,” - says Lorenzo. “And our people will provide an alibi.”

You choose - first go to the bored Spanish lady at church or to the rebellious Venetian in the gardens?

In the morning, you put on your best black doublet and head to St. Mark's Basilica. Among the parishioners, you easily spot Isabella de Castro - a slender brunette in an elegant Spanish dress, praying in a distant chapel.

You approach and stand beside her, pretending to pray. She casts a quick glance at you - dark eyes, a sad face.

“The señora looks distressed,” you say quietly in Spanish. “Is Venice not bringing you joy?”

She turns in surprise: “You speak my language?”

“I studied at university. Allow me to introduce myself - Giacomo Casanova.”

“Isabella de Castro,” she blushes. “I've heard of you… they say you're a master of gallant conversation.”

After the mass, you propose: “Señora, would you accompany me for a cup of hot chocolate? I know a cozy place by the canal.”

She hesitates: “My husband…”

“…is surely busy with affairs. And you are too beautiful to grieve alone.”

Isabella agrees. At the café, she tells you of her loneliness, of a husband constantly traveling.

How will you use this information?

Over chocolate, you realize Isabella is just a lonely wife who knows little about Rodrigo's affairs. She complains about his constant absences but provides no useful details.

“Señora, it was very pleasant,” you say, rising elegantly. “I hope we'll meet again.”

“You're leaving already?” - disappointment in her voice.

“Alas, business calls. But Venice is small - our paths will surely cross.”

You leave her with light flirtation but no serious commitment, and head to the Giardini gardens.

In the shady alleys, you find Caterina Dandolo - a young Venetian with fiery red hair, reading a book on a bench. Dressed simply but tastefully. Her gaze is clever and rebellious.

You approach: “Let me guess - Petrarch's poetry?”

She looks up: “Machiavelli. 'The Prince.' Father forbade me from reading such books.”

Interesting. A clever girl rebelling against her family.

“Then I've found good company - I too love forbidden things.”

How do you start the conversation with her?

You sit right next to Caterina, your shoulders nearly touching. You lean in and whisper: “Such a beautiful and clever girl reading alone? Where is your escort?”

Caterina doesn't pull away, her cheeks flushing slightly: “Father believes women shouldn't have opinions of their own. And Marco…” - she sighs - “he's busy with family affairs.”

“Marco Morlini? I've heard that name.”

Her eyes flash: “You know him? He promised to marry me, but keeps postponing. Says he has to help his sister with some important matter.”

There it is! She clearly knows something.

“Secret Morlini family affairs?” - you gently probe.

Caterina looks around and whispers: “Marco has become strange. Meeting some foreigners, spending lots of money. And Lucia… she disappears at night.”

Your hand accidentally touches hers on the bench.

“Tell me more,” you ask quietly. “Perhaps I can help.”

What do you do next?

Caterina blushes and pulls back: “Signor Giacomo! I couldn't… what would people think?”

But in her eyes you see curiosity, not outrage.

“Dear Caterina,” you take her hand, “in my palazzo there's a wonderful library with books your father would never allow you to read. And we could continue our conversation… without extra ears.”

She hesitates: “What if someone sees?”

“I have a private entrance from the canal. No one will know.” You lean closer: “Besides, aren't you tired of constant prohibitions?”

Caterina closes her book: “Marco mustn't know. He's the jealous type.”

“Marco is busy with his secret affairs. And you… you deserve attention.”

She stands, having made up her mind: “Alright. But not for long. And if anyone asks - I was at church.”

You lead her to your gondola moored at the far pier. Caterina looks around nervously but follows you.

At the palazzo, you show her the library and pour wine.

How do you continue the conversation about the Morlinis?

You pour her a glass of the finest wine: “Relax, Caterina. You're safe here.”

You take a volume of Petrarch and read in a tender voice: “I lived at war with myself until I met her eyes…”

Caterina listens entranced, the wine giving her courage. You sit beside her on the soft sofa.

“No one has ever read poetry to me,” she whispers.

“Marco doesn't appreciate what he has,” you reply, brushing a strand of hair from her face.

A moment of hesitation, and your lips meet in a long kiss. Caterina is shy at first, then responds with passion.

“This is madness,” she whispers, but doesn't pull away.

“The best moments in life are always mad.”

In your embrace, she relaxes and says: “Marco has changed so much… He's always whispering with Lucia about some Turks, about big money. Yesterday I heard him talking about a 'great day' that's coming soon.”

You stroke her hair: “What great day?”

“I don't know… but they're very excited. And buying weapons.”

Valuable information! What do you do next?

You gently pull back and straighten her dress: “Caterina, you're an extraordinary girl. Marco doesn't understand what a treasure he has beside him.”

She smiles, still flustered: “Signor Giacomo… that was…”

“Wonderful. And I hope you'll come here more often. My library has many interesting books.”

Caterina nods: “But carefully. If Marco finds out…”

“He won't find out. And if anything in his behavior seems strange to you - come to me immediately.”

You escort her to the secret exit. An hour later, the sun begins to set - time to prepare for the carnival.

Lorenzo brings the costume: an exquisite golden mask in the shape of the sun, a black cloak with silver trim.

“Lucia will be in a black rose costume,” he reports. “Our people are already in position at the palace.”

Foscari sends final instructions: “Remember - you know nothing about the conspiracy. You're simply a lovestruck nobleman.”

At dusk, you head toward the Doge's Palace. How do you plan to find Lucia among hundreds of guests?

At the Doge's Palace, the carnival is in full swing. Hundreds of guests in luxurious costumes and masks dance to the orchestra. Golden candelabras illuminate the marble halls.

You move slowly through the hall, studying every female figure. Many ladies in black, but you're looking for someone special - slender, with a proud bearing and graceful movements.

In the corner, you spot her - a black rose costume, as Lorenzo said. The mask hides her face, but the walk, the curve of her neck, the way she holds her fan - all recognizable.

Lucia stands by a column, clearly waiting for someone. Beside her is a man in a raven mask - possibly her brother Marco.

You approach closer and catch fragments of conversation in Spanish: “…tomorrow at dawn… the ships are ready… signal from the bell tower…”

Lucia notices you and falls silent. She turns toward you.

“Signor in the golden mask,” her voice is honeyed but guarded. “Have we met?”

The raven-man tenses, his hand moving to his belt.

How do you introduce yourself - as an intrigued stranger or hint at past meetings?

You bow elegantly: “Beautiful lady in the black rose… Have you forgotten our moonlit meetings? Your notes with the rose seal?”

Lucia freezes for a moment, then laughs: “Ah, the mysterious Signor Giacomo! So you recognized me even under the mask?”

The raven-man relaxes but continues watching.

“How could I not recognize such grace?” - you extend your hand. “Will you dance with me?”

Lucia glances quickly at her companion, who gives an almost imperceptible nod.

“With pleasure,” she takes your hand.

You lead her in the dance, she presses closer: “You sought this meeting so persistently, signor. I hope your expectations are met?”

In the dance you whisper: “More than met. But secrets only kindle curiosity. Why such haste that night?”

Her fingers squeeze your hand slightly: “Some pleasures are worth waiting for. And you… are you a patient man?”

How do you respond - confess your impatience or play hard to get?

“Patience is not my virtue,” you whisper, pulling her closer in the dance. “Especially when such a desirable woman is near.”

Lucia laughs softly: “What an ardent cavalier… I thought Venetian nobles were more restrained.”

“You shattered my restraint that first night by the church.” You lean to her ear: “Shall we find a more… private place to talk?”

She pulls back, coyly playing with her fan: “Signor Giacomo! There are so many people here…”

“Exactly why I suggest we leave. I know a quiet loggia overlooking the canal. No one will disturb us.”

Lucia glances at the raven-man, who nods almost imperceptibly. Clearly this is part of their plan.

“Very well,” she agrees. “But not for long. I might be missed.”

You lead her through the crowd toward a side exit. Along the way, you notice several familiar faces - Foscari's agents in guest costumes watching you.

In the quiet loggia, moonlight falls on the canal water.

“Finally we're alone,” you say. How do you begin the conversation?

You step closer: “Lucia, these masks, these costumes… they only get in our way.”

But Lucia gently pushes back, touching her fan to your chest: “Patience, signor. Doesn't anticipation make the moment sweeter?”

She turns to the railing, admiring the view: “Tell me about yourself. They say you have influential relatives?”

There it is - she's moving to the goal of her mission.

“My uncle serves the Doge,” you answer casually. “But why talk of boring matters on such a night?”

“Oh, but it's so romantic! A man close to power…” her voice softens. “Surely he confides secrets to you?”

At that moment, the raven-man appears from behind a column: “Lucia, we're being sought. Time to return.”

She sighs with disappointment: “Alas, signor. But we will certainly continue… our conversation.”

She leaves you alone, but on the railing you notice a note: an address and time for tomorrow's meeting.

What do you do next?

“Lucia, wait,” you call out. “Won't you introduce me to your companion? It would be impolite not to meet.”

Lucia hesitates for a moment, exchanging glances with the raven-man.

“Of course,” she says too lightly. “Signor Giacomo, meet my… cousin, Alberto.”

The man in the raven mask bows curtly: “Signor Casanova. I've heard much about you.”

His voice is low, with a slight accent - clearly not Venetian. You extend your hand: “Likewise, Signor Alberto. Have you been in Venice long?”

“Recently arrived… on trade business.” - he shakes your hand, and you feel calluses from weapons.

Lucia nervously interjects: “Alberto helps our family with new… partners from the East.”

“From the East?” you ask with interest. “Silk? Spices?”

Alberto tenses: “Various goods. Forgive me, but we really must go.”

He clearly wants to take Lucia away, but you insist: “Perhaps we could meet tomorrow? Discuss opportunities for cooperation?”

Lucia quickly answers: “We'll be in touch, signor.”

What do you do - let them go or continue insisting on a meeting?

You lean toward Lucia and barely audibly whisper: “I know about your plan with the Turks. And about tomorrow morning.”

Lucia freezes sharply, and “Alberto” instantly tenses, his hand sliding to his belt.

“Meet me at the Piazza dei Dogi at one in the morning. Alone,” you continue in a whisper. “I have a proposal that will interest you.”

Lucia pales beneath her mask: “What are you talking about?”

“Alberto” steps forward, his voice threatening: “Signor, you're playing with fire.”

But you smile calmly: “I'm playing a profitable game. My uncle isn't the only one dissatisfied with the current Doge.”

This catches them off guard. Lucia and “Alberto” exchange glances.

“One in the morning, Piazza dei Dogi,” you repeat. “Just the three of us. I promise you won't regret it.”

“Alberto” says hoarsely: “If this is a trap…”

“Then tomorrow my head will be next to yours,” you parry.

Lucia slowly nods: “Alright. But if you're lying…”

They leave, leaving you alone. What do you do - report to Foscari or prepare for the dangerous meeting yourself?

You hurry to the underground room where Foscari waits with his comrades.

“They took the bait!” you report. “Meeting set for one in the morning at the Piazza dei Dogi. Lucia and her accomplice think I'm ready to betray.”

Foscari rubs his hands: “Excellent! Our people will surround the square.”

You write an urgent note to your uncle: “Uncle Antonio! Tomorrow at dawn the conspirators will attack the city. Turkish ships offshore, traitors will open the gates from inside. Immediately warn the Doge! Your nephew Giacomo.”

Lorenzo takes the note: “I'll deliver it personally within the hour.”

The guard captain shows the plan: “Snipers on rooftops, capture team in the archways, you'll be in the center of the square. At the first sign of danger - signal, and we take them.”

Foscari warns: “Remember - they're dangerous and desperate. If they realize they're caught…”

Outside the window, midnight strikes. One hour until the meeting.

“Ready?” Foscari asks, offering a concealed dagger.

What do you take to the meeting - just the dagger or do you request additional protection?

“No, I go empty-handed,” you say decisively. “If they search me and find a weapon - everything falls apart.”

Foscari frowns: “This is madness! They could kill you on the spot!”

“Then your people will capture them. But if I want to convince them of my sincerity - no weapons.”

You remove your cloak, check your pockets - nothing suspicious.

At one in the morning, Piazza San Marco is empty and grim. Moonlight reflects in the palace windows. Your footsteps echo off the stones.

Two figures emerge from the shadow of the basilica - Lucia, now without a mask, and “Alberto”. Both hold daggers.

“Signor Giacomo,” Lucia's voice is cold. “You came. But first prove this isn't a trap.”

“Alberto” circles behind you: “Hands up. I'm going to search you.”

He thoroughly searches you. Finds nothing.

Lucia approaches: “Now talk. What do you know and what do you want?”

Around the square, in the shadows of the archways, Foscari's men lie in wait.

How do you begin convincing them of your readiness to betray?

“Before I offer help, I want to understand the scope of the operation,” you say confidently. “How many people do you have? What's your objective?”

Lucia and “Alberto” exchange glances.

“Alberto” answers cautiously: “Enough people to change the power in the city.”

“The Turkish fleet?” you ask directly.

Lucia nods: “Thirty galleys stand two miles offshore. At dawn they attack the port while we open the gates from inside.”

“And in return?”

“The new rulers of Venice will be our friends,” “Alberto” smirks.

Now your move: “Excellent. My uncle entrusted me with keys to the arsenal. I can ensure the cannons are blocked.”

Lucia brightens: “Seriously?”

“Moreover,” you continue, “I know the Doge's main fleet has sailed to Cyprus. Only patrol galleys remain in port.”

This is a lie - the fleet is actually lying in ambush behind the island.

“When does the attack begin?” you ask.

“With the first rays of sun,” “Alberto” answers. “The signal - three cannon shots from the bell tower.”

Valuable information! What do you do next?

“Lucia,” you say softly, “might we speak privately? There are… delicate details better discussed without witnesses.”

“Alberto” tenses immediately: “Absolutely not! Everything concerning the operation is discussed with me present.”

But Lucia is intrigued: “What details, Signor Giacomo?”

“My uncle isn't the only one dissatisfied in the Doge's circle. There are people ready to help from inside. But their names…” you pause, “are too valuable to speak aloud before everyone.”

Lucia hesitates. “Alberto” grabs her arm: “This could be a trap!”

“Five minutes,” you insist. “By the basilica columns. You'll see everything.”

Lucia decides: “Very well. Alberto, wait here.”

He's displeased but stays in the square, watching carefully.

You lead Lucia to the basilica columns - far enough to whisper, but “Alberto” can still see.

“Speak quickly,” Lucia whispers.

What do you do - try to seduce her, give more false information, or prepare another move?

You look straight into Lucia's eyes: “I'm ready to help you overthrow the Doge. But my conditions are serious.”

Lucia raises an eyebrow in surprise: “Go on.”

“First, complete immunity for me and my family. Second…” you lean closer, “I want a harem of fifty of Europe's most beautiful women.”

Lucia's eyes widen: “Signor Giacomo!”

“And finally,” you continue inexorably, “I want to govern Venice as an autonomy under your new rulers. Full power within the city.”

Lucia is silent for a long moment, studying your face: “You… are serious? Such demands…”

“I'm giving you the keys to victory. The arsenal, defense plans, access to the Doge. Isn't that worth such a price?”

She nervously glances at “Alberto”: “This isn't my decision. I'll need to consult…”

“With whom? The Turkish pasha?”

Lucia flinches: “How do you…?”

“I know more than you think. So - do you agree to discuss my conditions?”

What does Lucia answer?

“And one more thing,” you add, taking her hand, “become my wife, Lucia. We'll marry after the victory.”

Lucia sharply pulls her hand away: “What?! Signor, have you completely lost your mind!”

“Think logically,” you insist. “A political marriage will strengthen our alliance. You'll gain an influential husband in the new Venice, and I - a beautiful and intelligent wife.”

Lucia looks at you distrustfully: “We barely know each other! And besides…” she hesitates.

“Besides you have another? Rodrigo?”

Her face hardens: “How do you know that name?”

“I know much. But the Spaniard is far away, while I'm here. And ready to give you the city.”

“Alberto” impatiently waves his hand - the conversation is dragging on.

Lucia whispers: “This… this is too much at once. I need time to think.”

“There's no time. Four hours until dawn. Decide now - do you accept my conditions or look for another ally?”

Lucia hesitates, her gaze darting between you and “Alberto”.

What does she decide?

“Very well,” you say, stepping back. “Discuss it with your… cousin. But remember - time is short.”

Lucia nods and quickly returns to “Alberto”. You remain by the columns, but close enough to see their gesturing.

A heated whispered exchange begins. “Alberto” is clearly outraged - waving his hands, shaking his head. Lucia explains something, pointing at you.

Then “Alberto” pulls out some paper - a map or plan. They study it together. Lucia points at different locations.

After several minutes, “Alberto” hides the document and looks angrily in your direction. Lucia tries to calm him.

Finally they return. “Alberto” looks extremely displeased.

Lucia speaks carefully: “Your conditions… are ambitious, Signor Giacomo. But the operation is too important to risk.”

“Alberto” adds threateningly: “If you're deceiving us…”

“We agree,” Lucia interrupts him. “But the wedding waits until all affairs are concluded.”

Success! But what are they really planning?

“Excellent,” you say. “Then until dawn. I'll ensure access to the arsenal.”

“Remember - three shots from the bell tower,” “Alberto” reminds. “That's the signal to begin.”

Lucia extends her hand: “Goodbye… my future husband.”

You kiss her hand: “Goodbye, my dear.”

They walk away across the square into the narrow alleys. You wait a minute, then carefully follow, keeping to the shadows.

Lucia and “Alberto” head along the calle toward the Grand Canal. They stop at a small palazzo with closed shutters - the house looks abandoned, but a guard stands at the entrance.

They go inside. Through the windows you see light - clearly more people there.

Lorenzo appears from another shadow: “Detective, we saw everything. This house isn't in any records - a perfect hideout.”

“How many people there?”

“At least a dozen. Saw crates of weapons being carried in.”

At that moment another person exits the house - a tall man in a dark cloak heads toward a gondola.

What do you do - follow the new person or continue watching the house?

“Lorenzo,” you whisper, “when they were talking in the square, 'Alberto' pulled out some documents. A map or plan. Where might he have left them?”

Lorenzo squints: “Perhaps in the gondola? Or in the house?”

You recall: “No, he was wearing a cloak. The documents are most likely in a secret pocket.”

You examine St. Mark's Square. Return to the spot where the conspirators stood. Nothing on the stones.

But at the basilica columns you notice something - a small scrap of paper caught on a stone protrusion. You carefully remove it.

It's a torn piece of the map with notations! Parts of Venetian fortifications are visible, arrows indicating attack directions, and numbers - “200 at the port”, “50 at the gates”.

Lorenzo looks over your shoulder: “This is the attack plan! But only a fragment…”

At that moment, voices come from the conspirators' house - someone is coming out.

“Quickly,” Lorenzo whispers, “hide!”

A messenger emerges from the house, gets into a gondola and sails toward the mainland - obviously to the Turkish fleet with final instructions.

What do you do - follow the messenger or return to Foscari with the found map?

“Lorenzo, follow the messenger,” you say quickly. “Find out where he's going and who he meets.”

“And you?”

“I'll try to get into their hideout. Need to find the complete map.”

Lorenzo reluctantly gets into a gondola and follows the messenger.

You creep toward the conspirators' palazzo. The three-story house has lit windows on the second floor. The guard dozes at the entrance.

On the side you find a narrow passage to the canal. An old drainpipe leads to the second floor - right to a window where the light is going out.

You carefully climb the pipe. It creaks under your weight but holds. You peer into the window - an empty room, a table with papers.

You slip inside. On the table are spread documents - city diagrams, lists of names, and… the complete attack map!

You see the entire plan: the Turkish fleet attacks from the sea, groups of conspirators seize key points, and the main strike targets the arsenal.

Suddenly you hear footsteps in the corridor. Someone is coming to the room!

What do you do - hide or try to escape through the window?

You quickly grab all the documents from the table - maps, lists, attack plans - and roll them into a tube. The footsteps in the corridor grow louder.

You climb out the window just as the room's door opens. You hear a shout: “Hey! Who was here?!”

You slide down the drainpipe, which creaks and bends. The guard at the entrance wakes from the noise and looks around.

You jump the last two meters straight into the canal - cold water splashes over your head, but you keep the documents raised above you.

“Thieves! Robbers!” a voice shouts from the window.

You swim to the opposite bank. Behind you, the sound of running feet, the clang of weapons. Conspirators pour out of the house.

“There! In the water!” “Alberto” shouts.

You climb onto the bank and run through the narrow calle, water squelching in your boots. The documents are intact!

You turn the corner just as a pistol shot rings out behind you.

You reach the agreed meeting place - an old church. Foscari waits impatiently: “Signor Giacomo! What happened? You're soaking wet!”

You extend the documents: “Complete attack plans. Everything's here.”

What do you do next - study the plans or prepare a counterattack?

Foscari unfolds the captured documents: “Good Lord! Here's the entire attack scheme. 30 Turkish galleys, 500 janissaries, landing points…”

You sit at the table and quickly write a letter:

“My dear Isabella! If you're reading this letter, I'm no longer here. I bequeath you all my property - the palazzo, gold, jewels. Lorenzo will help you with the documents. You were light in dark days. Be happy. Your Giacomo.”

You seal the letter and give it to the guard captain: “If anything happens - deliver it to Padua.”

Foscari commands: “Our ships will leave their ambush and attack the Turkish fleet from the flank. We triple the arsenal guard. Block the city gates from inside.”

The captain adds: “And do we take the conspirators right now, before they learn about the stolen plans?”

“No,” you object. “Let them think their plan is working. When the attack begins - we catch them red-handed.”

Outside the window, the first glimmers of dawn. One hour until the attack.

“Ready?” Foscari asks.

What final preparations do you make?

“Foscari, enough playing hide and seek!” you say decisively. “We have all their plans. We take the conspirators now!”

The senator nods: “Agreed. Captain, lead three squads to their hideout. Take them alive!”

You rise: “I'm going with you. I know the house layout.”

“Too dangerous,” Foscari objects.

“Lucia trusts me. That might help take them without bloodshed.”

A group of 20 soldiers surrounds the conspirators' palazzo. Dawn paints the sky pink - minutes until the Turkish attack.

You knock on the door: “Lucia! It's Giacomo! Urgent news!”

Inside, voices, commotion. The door opens - a sleepy guard, behind him “Alberto” with a pistol.

“Signor Giacomo? How did you find…”

“HANDS UP! CITY GUARD!” the captain shouts, bursting in with soldiers.

Panic erupts. “Alberto” fires but misses. Lucia screams from somewhere upstairs: “Betrayal!”

A fight breaks out in the house. You search for Lucia amid the chaos.

What do you do - help the soldiers or search for the main conspirator?

You make your way through the fighting men to the stairs. Shots, screams, the clash of blades fill the house.

On the second floor you find Lucia - she stands by the window with a dagger in hand, hair disheveled, desperation in her eyes.

“Lucia!” you shout. “It's over! Your plans are exposed!”

She turns: “Giacomo! You… you betrayed us!”

“I'm saving you! Drop all this! 'Alberto', the Turks - forget them! Run away with me!”

A flicker of doubt in her eyes: “What are you proposing?”

“My gondola at the far pier. We'll sail to Padua, my… friend there will help. A new life, Lucia!”

From below comes a cry - they've caught “Alberto”.

“He shouted that he loved you!” you say quickly. “But what did he give you besides war and death?”

Lucia hesitates, the dagger trembling in her hand: “My family… my father…”

“Your father used you! But I'm offering freedom!”

Below, the sound of boots - soldiers are coming upstairs.

“Decide now!” you extend your hand.

What does Lucia choose?

Lucia looks at your extended hand, then at the dagger, then toward the sound of approaching soldiers.

“Too late, Giacomo,” she whispers with a bitter smile. “You don't understand… I cannot live with this shame.”

“Lucia, no! There's another way!”

But she's already backing toward the window overlooking the canal: “My father will die of shame. The Turks will kill my entire family for this failure. And the Venetians…” she shakes her head.

“Lucia!”

She turns to you one last time: “You could have truly loved me, Giacomo. In another life…”

And before you can react, she climbs onto the windowsill.

“STOP!” you shout, lunging toward her.

But it's too late. Lucia disappears through the window. A second later you hear a splash in the canal far below.

You look out the window - dark canal water, a few ripples on the surface. She's gone.

Soldiers burst through the door: “Signor! Where is the conspirator?”

You silently point to the window. The captain nods grimly.

Below they've captured the remaining conspirators. The Turkish attack is repelled - the Doge's fleet crushed the enemy galleys.

Venice is saved, but at what cost…

Three days later Lorenzo bursts into your palazzo: “Signor Giacomo! Incredible news!”

You raise your head from papers - you've spent the last days dealing with the conspiracy's aftermath: “What happened?”

“Lucia was found! Alive!”

Your heart skips a beat: “What? How is that possible?”

“A fisherman pulled her from the shore in a village ten miles from the city. Unconscious but breathing. She's now at San Marco Monastery under the sisters' care.”

You jump up: “Lead the way!”

At the monastery, the abbess meets you with a concerned face: “Signor, the girl woke yesterday, but… she remembers nothing. Not even her name.”

You enter the cell. Lucia sits on a simple bed in a white novice's dress. She raises an unfamiliar, empty gaze to you.

“Good day,” she says quietly. “Sister said you know me? Who am I?”

In her voice there's no trace of her former cunning or passion. Only genuine confusion.

What do you answer - the truth about her past or create a new story?

You sit beside her and take her hand: “My name is Giacomo, and you… are Isabella.”

Her eyes widen: “Isabella? A beautiful name…”

“You're my fiancée,” you continue gently. “We were supposed to be married last week, but there was an accident. You fell from a bridge into the canal.”

Lucia… now “Isabella” touches her head: “And why don't I remember anything about us?”

“A head injury. The doctors say memory might return… or might not. But it doesn't matter,” you squeeze her hand. “We can start over.”

The abbess nods discreetly - she understands you're giving the girl a chance at a new life.

“Isabella” looks at you with trust: “You… seem like a kind man. Tell me, what was I like?”

“Beautiful, intelligent, but sometimes… too trusting of bad people. Now you have a chance to become whoever you want to be.”

She smiles quietly: “Giacomo… it's strange, but your voice seems… familiar.”

What do you do next - take her from the monastery or let her stay and choose for herself?

“Isabella,” you say tenderly, “you need time to recover. I'll arrange for the best doctors in the city.”

She nods gratefully: “Thank you, Giacomo. I feel such fatigue… and fog in my head.”

The abbess interjects: “Our monastery has an infirmary with experienced healing sisters.”

“No,” you say decisively. “I want her examined by the best doctor in Venice - Doctor Marcello. He treated the Doge himself.”

An hour later the gray-haired doctor arrives with assistants. He examines “Isabella” at length, checks reflexes, asks questions.

“Serious concussion,” he reports to you in the corridor. “Memory may return in weeks or months… or never. She needs rest, good nutrition, no shocks.”

You visit her every day, bringing flowers, reading books. She gradually gets used to you, even smiles when you arrive.

After a week, the doctor allows her to get up and stroll in the monastery garden.

“Giacomo,” she says during a walk, “I'm ready to learn more about our life.”

What do you tell her next?

You stop under an olive tree and look at her seriously: “Isabella… what I'm about to say may shock you. But you have a right to know the truth.”

She tenses: “What truth?”

“Your real name is Lucia Morlini. You're not my fiancée. You were… a participant in a conspiracy against Venice.”

Lucia pales: “What? A conspiracy?”

You tell her everything - about the Turkish fleet, the marquess's murder, the attempt to capture the city. Her face grows whiter and whiter.

“I… I'm a murderer?” she whispers.

“You thought you were doing right. Your father drew you into this affair.”

Lucia sits on a bench, covering her face with her hands: “My God… And you? Who are you really?”

“I was a spy who infiltrated your circle. But…” you sit beside her “something changed. When you jumped from the window, I realized I didn't want you dead.”

She looks at you through her fingers: “And now what? Will I be arrested?”

“Lucia Morlini is dead. Everyone thinks you drowned. Isabella can live an honest life.”

A long silence. What will she answer?

Lucia sits silently for a long time, absorbing the truth. Finally she raises her head, and you see tears in her eyes.

“So I was… a monster?” she whispers.

“You were a woman caught in a trap of circumstances. But now you have a choice.”

She wipes her tears: “Giacomo… why did you save me? After everything I did?”

“Because I saw in you not a conspirator, but an intelligent, beautiful woman who deserves a second chance.”

Lucia stands and walks to the garden's edge, from where Venice is visible: “This city… I wanted to destroy it. And now it seems so beautiful.”

She turns to you: “If I agree to become Isabella… do you promise to help me become better?”

“I promise. We'll start over. No one will know about the past.”

She approaches and takes your hand: “Then… yes. Lucia Morlini drowned in the canal. But Isabella is ready to live and… perhaps to love.”

You kiss her hand: “Welcome to your new life, my dear Isabella.”

THE END

A beautiful conclusion to the Venetian adventure! 🎭

Excellent ending to the Venetian story! 🎭

Now let's choose a new adventure. Here are fresh options:

1. VIKING SKALD ⚔️
9th century, Norway
You're a warrior-poet sent by the jarl to Constantinople for an ancient artifact. But along the way, the Rus capture your ship…

2. ROMAN GLADIATOR 🏛️
73 AD, time of Vespasian
From a free man you became a slave in the arena. But you have a plan for escape and revenge against those who betrayed you.

3. VAMPIRE HUNTER 🧛
1894, Transylvania
A member of a secret order investigating disappearances in Carpathian villages. But the ancient evil proves stronger than expected.

4. MASTERLESS SAMURAI 🗾
1868, Meiji-era Japan
A ronin in a changing world. Traditions crumble, Western technologies arrive, but honor remains above all.

5. SUBMARINE CAPTAIN 🚢
1943, the Atlantic
Commander of a Soviet submarine in waters swarming with German ships. A secret mission that could change the course of the war.

6. LONDON DETECTIVE 🕵️
1888, Whitechapel
A private detective investigating a case connected to Jack the Ripper. But the truth proves more terrifying than the legends.

Which scenario interests you? 🎲

Great idea! 🚇

MOSCOW METRO STALKER ☢️
2034, 20 years after the Great War

Moscow has become a radioactive wasteland. Remnants of humanity survive in the metro tunnels. Each station is a separate state with its own laws.

You're an experienced stalker from “Prospekt Mira” station. You know how to navigate dangerous tunnels, trade with different factions, and survive among mutants.

In the morning, a delegation from “Polis” - the union of central stations - approaches you: “We need a guide to the Lenin Library. Hidden there is pre-war technology that could save the entire metro.”

But the path leads through the territories of:

• The Red Line (communists)
• The Reich (neo-Nazis)
• Hansa (merchants)
• And worst of all - the Dark Ones' lair

In your pocket: a Kalashnikov, a gas mask, a radiation detector, and your last cartridges.

“Payment - 500 rounds and a pass to any Polis station,” says the emissary.

Do you accept the mission or ask for more details?

The Polis emissary, an elderly man in a clean military uniform, unfolds a metro map: “The details are classified, but you have a right to know what you're getting into.”

He shows the route: “The Library is on the surface. The last expedition disappeared three months ago. From radio contact we only know: 'The Dark Ones… they're everywhere… don't approach the books…'”

“What kind of technology?” you ask.

“The D-6 System - a pre-war network that can purify air throughout the metro. But you're not looking for computers, but special books with codes.”

You check your equipment:

• AK-74, 90 rounds
• Gas mask with two filters
• Radiation detector (clicks when dangerous)
• Knife
• Flashlight with 4 hours of batteries
• First aid kit
• Dry rations for two days

“Not much,” you shake your head.

The emissary nods: “You can buy supplies from traders at Paveletskaya. But be careful - Mammoth's gang operates there.”

At that moment you hear a siren - air alert. Mutants have appeared somewhere in the tunnels.

Do you accept the job or ask for time to think?

The emissary lowers his voice: “All right. The full truth.”

He pulls photographs from his briefcase: “The previous group - five experienced stalkers. Here's what's left of them.”

The photos show mutilated bodies in library halls, strange scratches on the walls.

“The D-6 System isn't just air purification. It's a weapon. Pre-war developers created a way to control radiation across all of Moscow.”

You narrow your eyes: “And why does Polis need this?”

“Whoever controls radiation controls the surface. Imagine - you could clear entire districts, establish new settlements.”

The emissary shows a list: “You're looking for three specific books: 'Chernobyl Protocol', 'D-6 Activation Codes', and 'Underground Network Maps'. All in red bindings.”

“And the Dark Ones?”

“The Library is their lair. Over the past six months they've become more aggressive. Perhaps they're protecting something important.”

Suddenly a signalman runs into the room: “Comrade Emissary! Message from Sokolniki! The Red Line has blocked the passages - they're preparing an offensive!”

War between factions could complicate the mission.

What do you do - take the job immediately or wait for the situation to stabilize?

“Agreed,” you say decisively. “But I need a handcar and a guide.”

The emissary nods: “Excellent. The handcar is ready, but there's no guide - too dangerous. We'll give you a radio instead.”

On the platform of “Prospekt Mira” a makeshift handcar awaits - a cart welded from pipes with pedal drive. In the luggage compartment are extra batteries and medical supplies.

A mechanic, a grimy guy in overalls: “Signor stalker, forty minutes to Paveletskaya. But be careful - they heard gunshots on the stretch between Komsomolskaya and Krasnye Vorota.”

You check the radio: “Polis-base, copy. Beginning movement.”

“Copy that. Good luck, stalker.”

The handcar rolls along the rusty rails. The flashlight illuminates the tunnel ahead - wet walls, dripping water, occasionally rats' eyes in the darkness.

Half an hour later you hear voices ahead and see light. By the tracks a group of people in red armbands - a Red Line patrol.

“Halt! Documents!” shouts the commander.

What do you do - stop or try to speed past?

You brake the handcar. The patrol commander - a sturdy man in a worn Red Army uniform - approaches with his automatic ready.

“Documents and purpose of travel!”

You show your station passport from “Prospekt Mira”: “Trade business at Paveletskaya.”

The Red Army soldier studies the document by flashlight: “Stalker, eh… And what are you carrying?”

He points at your backpack. Two other soldiers have you in their sights.

“Personal belongings, some goods for trade.”

“Open it!”

You realize - if they find the Polis radio, there'll be big trouble. The radio is hidden in a secret pocket of the backpack.

The commander rummages through your things: “Nice equipment… That radiation detector's expensive. Where'd you get the money?”

“I work as a guide between stations.”

“And where exactly at Paveletskaya? To whom?”

You feel tension - he clearly suspects something. In the radio's pocket there's quiet static.

What do you answer and how do you distract attention from the backpack?

“I'm heading to the deputy station chief - Vasily Petrovich Gromov,” you answer confidently. “He ordered a radiation detector for checking new tunnels.”

The commander frowns: “Gromov? Ah, yes… heard of him. But why does he need your detector? They have their own.”

“His broke down, and the new shipment of goods won't be allowed through without inspection. Rush order - good money.”

One of the soldiers whispers to the commander: “Comrade Lieutenant, Gromov really does trade with private dealers. I've seen him at the market.”

At that moment the radio in the backpack emits a barely audible beep. You quickly cough, drowning out the sound.

“And why through our tunnels? There are bypass routes,” the commander persists.

“Time is money. The bypass adds two extra days, and Gromov's goods are spoiling.”

The commander hesitates, then waves his hand: “All right, pass. But remember - no carrying cargo from Paveletskaya without our documents!”

The soldiers step aside, clearing the way.

What do you do - continue on or try to learn something about the military situation?

You start the handcar further down the tunnel. The Red Army soldiers remain behind, their voices fading in the darkness.

Half an hour of pedaling along damp rails. The radiation detector occasionally clicks - elevated background, but safe. In one place you have to go around a collapse - the ceiling caved in, blocking half the tunnel.

Finally the station light appears ahead - Paveletskaya. The loud hum of voices, the clanging of hammers - life bustles here.

A guard on the platform greets you: “Hey, stalker! Handcar to track three, parking is paid - 10 rounds per day.”

You pay and look around. The station has been transformed into an enormous market. Traders sell everything - from canned goods to ammunition. By the wall sits a group of mercenaries in body armor.

You spot the right people:

• Weapons dealer “Kostya Patron” - sells ammunition
• Old woman Marfa - sells medicine and filters
• Bartender “Mikhalych” - source of information

And by a far column you see a familiar figure - Gromov is actually here, trading with some people.

Who do you approach first - the traders for equipment or Gromov for cover?

You approach the improvised bar - a few barrels and boards, behind which stands a stout man with a gray beard. On the shelves: moonshine, tea, and cans of stewed meat.

“Mikhalych,” you nod to the familiar bartender.

“Oh, stalker! Long time no see. Moonshine or tea?”

“Tea. And information.”

Mikhalych pours a steaming glass: “20 rounds for tea, information's free for old customers.”

You pay and sit on a crate: “What's the word on the northern tunnels? And the Library?”

Mikhalych lowers his voice: “Bad business, friend. The Dark Ones have gone completely feral. Three weeks ago a group of traders went to Alexandrovsky Sad - nobody returned. Only one made it back, but he'd gone mad. Kept babbling about some books.”

You take a sip of tea: “And the routes?”

“Can't get through the Red Line now - they're preparing for war. Only through the Reich or Hansa left. But the Nazis demand 'Aryan documents', and the Hansa traders charge triple.”

Mikhalych leans closer: “Anyway, why do you need to go there? A smart man doesn't venture to the surface.”

What do you answer and what other information do you ask about?

“Mikhalych, are there bypass routes? Through abandoned tunnels?”

The bartender scratches his beard: “There are, of course. But they're all problematic.”

He pulls out a tattered metro map and points: “Look here. Technical tunnels between Komsomolskaya and Kurskaya - mutant rats there. Big, mean. But passable if you're quiet.”

He moves his finger further: “There's an old branch through Chistye Prudy - radiation off the charts, but it's quick. One filter will last an hour if you run.”

“What about the sewers?”

“Ha! Bold one,” Mikhalych chuckles. “The collectors under Lubyanka lead straight to the Library. But there… how shall I put it… not only the Dark Ones live there. Ever heard of the Sewer Master?”

He makes a scary face: “They say he's a mutant the size of a bear. Eats people whole.”

At that moment a skinny stalker in a torn jacket approaches the bar: “Hey, Mikhalych, pour me one! And you, comrade,” he nods to you, “I wouldn't recommend the collectors. Barely made it out of there myself.”

What do you ask the newcomer?

The skinny stalker sits beside you, Mikhalych pours him moonshine.

“Tell me, Seryoga,” you say. “What's going on in the collectors?”

Seryoga downs the drink and winces: “Horror, brother. Was there a week ago with my partner. Looking for a pre-war stash.”

He lights a hand-rolled cigarette: “First two kilometers were fine - just stench and rats. Then things got… strange. Walls covered in some kind of slime. And sounds…”

“What sounds?”

“Scraping, growling. And then we saw HIM.” Seryoga takes a shaky drag: “Three meters tall, fur standing on end, eyes like coals. And smart - sets traps.”

Mikhalych nods: “The Master. They say he used to be human. Chief sewer engineer.”

“Devoured my partner right before my eyes,” Seryoga continues. “I ducked into a pipe, barely escaped. But…” he lowers his voice “I saw a door there. Metal, with the inscription 'D-6 System'.”

Your heart races - this is exactly what you need!

“Where exactly is that door?”

“About three kilometers from the entrance. But you can't get there alive.”

What else do you ask?

You leave Seryoga a couple of rounds for the information and head to the far column where Gromov is trading.

Vasily Petrovich - a stocky man in his fifties wearing a worn suit and tie - is just finishing a deal with canned goods traders.

“Gromov?” you approach him.

He turns: “Yes, that's me. And who might you be?”

“A stalker from Prospekt Mira. You ordered a radiation detector?” you show the device.

Gromov frowns: “What detector? I didn't order anything.”

An awkward pause. You realize you've gotten into a difficult situation - you lied to the Red Army soldiers, and now the man doesn't understand what you're talking about.

“Hmm, perhaps the order wasn't from you personally. Maybe from your people?”

Gromov looks at you suspiciously: “Listen, comrade stalker, I know all my people well. Nobody ordered detectors. So why did you need to use my name?”

He clearly suspects something. Nearby, his assistants linger - two big guys in leather jackets.

What do you do - confess the deception or try to talk your way out?

You lower your voice: “Vasily Petrovich, forgive the deception. The truth is I'm on a secret mission, and I used your name as cover.”

Gromov raises an eyebrow in surprise: “Secret? From whom?”

“From Polis. I'm heading to the Library for important documents. Red Army soldiers stopped me in the tunnel, I had to lie.”

Gromov studies you thoughtfully, then leads you aside from other ears: “The Library? Are you crazy? The Dark Ones are there!”

“I know. But the information is critically important for the entire metro.”

Gromov is silent for a minute, thinking: “Listen… maybe you can help me, and I'll help you? I've got a problem - my trade caravan went missing on the way to Tretyakovskaya. Five people and valuable cargo.”

“What cargo?”

“Medicine for children. Without it, there'll be an epidemic at Tretyakovskaya. Find my caravan - I'll give you a military tunnel map and a guide to the Library zone border.”

This could seriously help the mission.

“Where did they disappear?”

“Between Novokuznetskaya and Tretyakovskaya. Last signal three days ago.”

Do you agree to the deal?

“Agreed,” you nod. “But I want to take your assistant Ekaterina with me. An experienced person won't hurt.”

Gromov looks at you in surprise: “How do you know about Katya?”

“Saw her before at the station. They say she's a good guide.”

“Hmm…” Gromov scratches the back of his head. “Katya does know the far tunnels better than many men. But she's a woman…”

At that moment a slender woman in her thirties appears from behind the column, wearing a military jacket and tall boots. Short dark hair, clever gray eyes, an automatic rifle on her back.

“What are you talking about, Vasily Petrovich?” she asks.

“Katya, this stalker wants to take you on the caravan search.”

Ekaterina studies you appraisingly: “And why did he decide I need this?”

“Because I know - you're not the type to sit at the station when people are missing.”

She smirks: “Flatterer. Fine, I'm ready. But I warn you - if you're a slowpoke, I'll leave you in the tunnel.”

Gromov sighs: “Katya, be careful. Strange things are happening between Novokuznetskaya.”

What do you do next - prepare for departure or gather additional information?

“Ekaterina, let's go,” you say. “But we go not as stalkers, but as traders.”

She nods: “Smart. I have empty canned goods boxes and old labels.”

Gromov helps with the disguise: “Take a couple of real cans of stewed meat for weight. And these invoices - in case anyone checks.”

Half an hour later you're ready to go. Crates of “goods” are loaded onto the handcar, Ekaterina has changed into a civilian jacket, hiding the rifle under canvas.

“The route is simple,” she explains, pedaling. “An hour to Novokuznetskaya, then on foot through the old stretch. The caravan went this exact way.”

The handcar creaks along the rails. Ekaterina proves to be an experienced guide - knows every turn, warns about holes and collapses.

“Actually,” she says after half an hour, “this caravan wasn't the first. Three groups of traders have gone missing in the past month.”

“Bandits?”

“Worse. Bandits leave traces, demand ransom. Here people just disappear.”

Ahead the light of Novokuznetskaya station appears.

What do you do - stop to learn the situation or pass by?

You stop the handcar at the Novokuznetskaya platform. The station looks grim - few people, dim lighting, wary faces.

“Wait here,” Ekaterina whispers. “I know the local supervisor.”

She approaches an elderly man in a padded jacket who's fixing a generator. After a few minutes she returns with a worried face.

“Bad news,” she says quietly. “Uncle Kolya says the last few weeks something crazy's been happening in the far tunnels. They hear strange sounds - metallic grinding, like machines working.”

“And people?”

“Three local stalkers went to scout - only one returned. He's spouting nonsense about 'iron men' and 'red eyes in the darkness'.”

You approach the generator where Uncle Kolya is fussing with wires: “Sir, where is this stalker who returned?”

Kolya raises his head: “Petka? In the infirmary. Lost his mind. Keeps raving about some robots.”

Ekaterina exchanges glances with you: “Robots in the metro? That's crazy…”

But you remember about the D-6 system. Pre-war technology could include automated defense.

What do you do - go to Petka in the infirmary or head straight into the tunnels?

“No time,” you say decisively. “The longer we wait, the colder the trail.”

Ekaterina nods: “Agreed. Petka's delirious anyway, not much use.”

You leave the handcar at the station and go on foot. Ekaterina leads you through a service passage to an abandoned stretch. Here absolute darkness reigns.

“Flashlights only in emergency,” she whispers. “We use night vision.”

You walk along the rails, illuminating the path only with faint red light. The radiation detector is silent. After a kilometer, Ekaterina stops:

“Look.”

Scattered on the ties are canned food, scraps of fabric. Clearly signs of an attack.

“This is cargo from the caravan,” Ekaterina recognizes the can labels.

You examine the scene. No bodies, but on the tunnel wall strange scratches - too even for mutant claws.

In the distance comes a metallic grinding. Ekaterina grabs your sleeve: “Hear that?”

The sound approaches. And in the darkness ahead, two red lights appear.

What do you do - hide or prepare for battle?

You quickly grab Ekaterina's hand and pull her toward a niche in the tunnel wall. You press against the cold concrete, shielding her with your body.

“Quiet,” you whisper in her ear.

The red lights approach. The metallic grinding grows louder. Now you can also hear a strange buzzing, like electric motors.

A silhouette emerges from the darkness - something human-sized, but moving unnaturally smoothly. Two red eyes scan the tunnel left to right.

Ekaterina tenses in your arms, her breathing quickens. You feel her grip the knife handle.

The robot - now clearly visible as a robot - stops at the spot where the cans lay. A manipulator extends from its body, methodically collecting fabric scraps.

“Organic tissue sample… analysis… human… recorded,” a mechanical voice sounds.

The red eyes turn directly toward you.

“Heat signature detected. Distance - 50 meters.”

The robot begins moving toward your hiding spot!

What do you do - stay hidden or attack first?

“Now!” you whisper and jump from cover with your automatic ready.

The robot instantly turns toward you. A weapon module extends from its body - an old pre-war system.

You fire a burst at center mass. Sparks fly from the metal body, but the robot keeps moving.

“Threat identified. Elimination mode activated,” it states mechanically.

Ekaterina runs out from the right, firing her pistol at its “head”: “Aim for the optics!”

One of the red “eyes” explodes from a hit. The robot starts turning erratically, but its sensors still work.

A laser sight slides across the wall - the machine is preparing to fire!

You dive aside, grabbing Ekaterina by the waist. An energy discharge burns through the tunnel wall where you stood a second ago.

“It has an energy shield!” Ekaterina shouts. “Hit the legs!”

You aim at the robot's leg joints. After several hits it starts sparking and topples over.

“System damaged… switching to emergency mode… D-6 base notified…”

The robot shuts down.

What do you do - examine it or quickly leave the battle scene?

“Quick! Need the memory module!” you say, running to the fallen robot.

Ekaterina pulls out her multi-tool knife: “Where to look?”

“In the 'head', next to the optics.”

You pry open the access panel. Inside, complex pre-war electronics. You find a small chip and carefully extract it.

“Got it!”

At that moment, new red lights appear at the far end of the tunnel - many, a whole group.

“Patrol robots responding to the signal!” Ekaterina grabs your sleeve. “Quickly!”

You run back toward the station. Behind you, the metallic grinding - at least five machines following your trail.

“Is there a bypass?” you ask while running.

“Yes! Ventilation shaft before the station!”

You reach a junction in the tunnels. Ekaterina points to a grate in the wall: “There! It leads to the station's technical rooms!”

You rip out the grate and squeeze into the narrow shaft. The robots' red lights are already visible 200 meters away.

You crawl through the ventilation. Ekaterina ahead: “Another hundred meters to the exit!”

Behind you a mechanical voice: “Fugitives detected in sector D-7.”

What do you do - speed up or prepare a grenade to delay pursuers?

“Ekaterina, wait!” you whisper. “I have a grenade. I'll set a tripwire.”

You pull out a fragmentation grenade and thin wire from your pack. In the narrow shaft you quickly tie the wire to the grenade pin and stretch it across the passage.

“Smart,” Ekaterina approves. “In an enclosed space the explosion will definitely stop them.”

You crawl another 50 meters. Behind you, the metallic grinding - the first robot approaches the trap.

“Obstacle detected. Analysis… wire obstruction…”

BOOM!

The explosion is deafening in the narrow shaft. Metal debris flies everywhere, smoke pours from the ventilation.

“Block number three damaged. Bypass route through sector D-9,” comes the distorted voice of surviving robots.

“Delayed them about ten minutes,” Ekaterina says with satisfaction. “They'll find a way around, but we'll already be out.”

You crawl out of the shaft into the station's technical room. Uncle Kolya stares in fear at your soot-covered faces:

“What's going on? We heard an explosion!”

“Robots in the tunnels,” you explain briefly. “Prepare the station's defenses!”

What do you do next - return to Gromov with information or continue searching for the caravan?

You sigh heavily, looking at Uncle Kolya's frightened face: “Sorry, but we can't stay. The robots have bypass routes - they'll be here soon.”

“But how will we…” the old man begins.

“Block the entrances to the technical tunnels, arm the people. Main thing - don't go into the far passages.”

Ekaterina nods: “Uncle Kolya, transmit over radio to other stations - let them know about the danger.”

You take the handcar and quickly leave Novokuznetskaya. Ekaterina pedals grimly: “We did right. If we stay - we all die.”

You pass a kilometer on the main tunnel. Ekaterina suddenly stops: “Look - a side branch. Old service track.”

She points to narrow rails leading right: “It runs parallel to the main route to Tretyakovskaya. If the caravan was attacked by robots, survivors might have gone that way.”

“What's there?”

“An abandoned metro warehouse. Good place to hide.”

At the junction you see fresh tracks in the dusty floor - someone definitely passed through here recently.

What do you decide - go along the service branch or return to Gromov with information about the robots?

You turn the handcar onto the narrow rails of the service branch. It's darker and tighter here - lower ceiling, walls seeping moisture.

“Careful,” Ekaterina warns. “This branch hasn't been serviced in twenty years.”

The tracks on the floor become clearer - clearly several people, one limping. After half a kilometer the handcar gets stuck - a rail is torn up by an explosion.

“Rest of the way on foot,” you say.

You walk through the tunnel with flashlights. Ahead a dim light appears. You creep up carefully and see: in a widened section of the tunnel, by an old warehouse car, three exhausted people sit by a fire.

“Hey!” you call softly.

One of them - an elderly trader - jumps up with a knife: “Who's there?”

“Friendlies! From Gromov!”

The trader weeps with relief: “Thank God! We thought everyone was dead!”

You approach closer. Three survivors - the trader Semyon, his son Petya, and guard Igor with a bandaged leg.

“What happened?” Ekaterina asks.

“Iron devils!” Semyon trembles. “Attacked without warning. Killed or took the others. We barely escaped.”

Igor adds: “But I saw where they dragged them. There's a door in the wall, iron. Behind it stairs going down.”

An entrance to the D-6 system!

What do you do - return with the survivors or go explore the entrance?

You give the survivors half your supplies and ammunition: “Semyon, head back to Novokuznetskaya. But carefully - there are robots. Tell Gromov we found you.”

“And you?” the trader asks.

“We have our own business.”

You show them the safe route back and turn to Ekaterina: “Listen, now honestly. My real mission isn't finding the caravan. I need to get to the Lenin Library.”

Ekaterina raises an eyebrow: “The Library? With the Dark Ones and robots?”

“From Polis. I'm looking for books with D-6 system codes. This could save the entire metro.”

She looks at you thoughtfully: “I see… And I thought you were just a trader with ambitions.”

A long pause. “You know what? Let's go. Gromov will pay me for the found caravan and for guiding. Besides…” she smirks “I'm curious to see pre-war technology.”

Igor points the direction: “The iron door is two kilometers from here. You'll see it by the marks on the walls.”

What do you do - go straight to the door or first study the robot's memory module?

“Ekaterina, before we go further, we need to study this memory module,” you show the chip. “Might contain defense schematics or access codes.”

“Makes sense. But where do we find a computer in this hole?”

You look around. In the old warehouse car you see rusty equipment: radios, a generator, boxes of spare parts.

“Look!” Ekaterina points to a corner of the car where something rectangular sits under canvas.

You pull off the canvas - an old pre-war computer terminal! The monitor is cracked, but the system might work.

“Let's try to boot it,” you start the generator.

The terminal comes to life with rasping sounds. Green lines flicker on screen: “System loading… Pre-war protocol active…”

You insert the memory module into the slot. After a minute, information appears on screen:

“**D-6 SYSTEM. PATROL MODULE #47

• Area of responsibility: Sectors D-1 through D-12
• Last target: INTRUDERS IN LIBRARY
• Library status: QUARANTINE MODE ACTIVE
• Door access code: 7734-ALPHA-OMEGA**”

Ekaterina whistles: “Now that's a find!”

What else do you check in the module's data?

You continue digging through the module's data. Ekaterina watches over your shoulder as you scroll through files.

“Got it!” you find a section called “SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE”:

D-6 SYSTEM - STRUCTURE:

• Central processor: Lenin Library, basement -3
• Control nodes: 12 points across Moscow
• Patrol units: 200 robots, “Guardian” series
• Operating mode: AUTONOMOUS SINCE 2013

“Look here!” Ekaterina points to an important line:

EMERGENCY PROTOCOLS:

• Full shutdown code: DOSTOEVSKY-1881
• Master console: Rare Books Hall, sector A-7
• Alternative: Physical destruction of central block

Further down you find a library schematic:

• Entry via D-6 system: Staircase B, basement -1
• Dark Ones: Main nest in reading hall
• Robots: Patrol floors 1-3
• Central computer: Basement -3, behind armored door

“We know the shutdown code and the layout,” you say with satisfaction. “But there's a problem - the master console is in the hall where the Dark Ones are.”

Ekaterina frowns: “What if we try to negotiate with the robots? Reprogram them?”

In the data you find: “FRIEND-FOE PROTOCOL: Robots attack all without exception in quarantine mode.”

Ready to go to the iron door?

You shut down the terminal and carefully extract the memory module: “Might still come in handy.”

Ekaterina checks her rifle and ammunition: “120 rounds left. Hope it's enough.”

You leave the warehouse car and walk through the tunnel in the direction Igor indicated. The radiation detector starts clicking - the background is rising.

After two kilometers you see strange marks on the wall - scratched arrows pointing inward. And in the tunnel wall there's indeed a gap with a massive steel door.

“D-6 System. Technical personnel. Entry prohibited,” Ekaterina reads the inscription on the door.

Next to the door is a panel with a digital lock and fingerprint scanner.

“Let's try the code,” you enter the found combination: 7734-ALPHA-OMEGA.

The lock clicks. The red light changes to green.

“Access granted. Welcome to the D-6 System.”

The door slowly opens, revealing stairs leading down. Cold air and a strange metallic smell drift up from below.

You switch on flashlights and begin the descent. The walls are lined with stainless steel, the floor is perfectly clean.

What do you do - descend quickly or carefully examine each floor?

You descend slowly, checking every step. Ekaterina follows behind, covering the rear.

First flight - 20 steps. At the landing is a door marked “Level -1. Administrative Sector.” You peer through the window - a long corridor with offices, everything covered in dust.

“Dead,” Ekaterina whispers.

You continue the descent. Level -2: “Technical Zone. Generators.” Here you can hear quiet humming - electricity is working.

At level -3 you stop. The door is more massive than the others: “Control Center. Authorized Personnel Only.”

“This is where we need to be,” you say, but notice something strange.

On the floor before the door lie human bones - old but not ancient. And on the steel door are long scratches, as if from claws.

The radiation detector clicks faster. Ekaterina winces: “Something's wrong here.”

Suddenly from behind the door comes a sound - not the mechanical grinding of robots, but something organic. Hissing and scratching.

“Dark Ones?” Ekaterina whispers.

But according to the schematic, their nest is in the library above.

What do you do - open the door or look for another way?

You pull out a marker and draw an arrow on the wall next to the door: “We'll come back here if other paths don't work.”

Ekaterina nods: “Smart. Let's scout everything first.”

You continue the descent. Level -4: “Archives and Storage.” The door is ajar, inside are shelves with documents and strange metal containers.

“Wait,” Ekaterina stops. “Look at the floor.”

On the steps are fresh tracks - not human, but not robots either. Something with claws, but very large.

Level -5: “Connection to Surface. Library.” Here the door is welded shut with metal sheets, but in the corner of the breach you see a hole - someone gnawed through an exit.

“That's where the Dark Ones come down from,” you realize.

Last level -6: “Emergency Exit. Sewers.” The door is torn off its hinges, beyond it darkness and the smell of sewage.

“Exit to that same Sewer Master,” Ekaterina says grimly.

You look around. You have several options:

• Return to the door with bones (-3 level)
• Go through the breach to the Dark Ones (-5 level)
• Try the sewers (-6 level)

What do you choose?

“Don't want any nasty surprises from behind,” you pull out your second grenade and quickly set a tripwire at the sewer entrance.

You stretch the wire at knee level, tie it to the pin. “If the Master decides to visit us - he'll get a surprise.”

Ekaterina nods approvingly: “Good thinking.”

You climb back to level -3. At the door with bones and scratches you stop, listening. The sounds have gone quiet.

“Maybe they left?” Ekaterina whispers.

You carefully try the handle - locked, but the lock is electronic. You enter the same code: 7734-ALPHA-OMEGA.

Click. The door slowly opens.

Beyond is a spacious hall with rows of computers and monitors. Most of the equipment is working - indicators blink, fans hum.

But in the far corner of the hall something stirs. A large shadow between server racks.

And the smell… metal, blood, and something acidic.

“Get ready,” you whisper to Ekaterina, raising your automatic.

The shadow turns toward you. In the dim light, multiple eyes gleam.

What do you do - shoot immediately or try to get a better look at the enemy?

You switch on the tactical flashlight and slowly illuminate the far corner of the hall.

“My God…” Ekaterina exhales.

Before you stands a creature nearly three meters tall. It was once human - remnants of a lab coat visible, but the body has horribly mutated. Skin has turned gray-green, covered with growths. Arms have become long paws with metal claws.

But most terrifying is the head. The skull has tripled in size, and where eyes should be, six red diodes glow, like on the robots.

“A cyborg…” you realize. “A human integrated with machine.”

The creature slowly turns toward you. Wires and tubes protrude from its chest, connected to the nearest server.

“Unauthorized… access…” the voice is distorted by electronics. “Defense… protocol… activated…”

The cyborg takes a step forward, and you see - it can't move far from the server. The wires keep it in place.

“It's tethered to the system!” Ekaterina whispers. “Maybe this is the main computer?”

On the monitor beside the creature, text blinks: “D-6 SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR. DR. A.I. PETROV”

Do you try to talk to him or attack?

“Ekaterina, cover me!” you say, pulling out the robot's memory module. “I'll try to reprogram it!”

The cyborg slowly moves toward you, limited by its wires: “Intruders… will be… liquidated…”

You notice a connection port at the base of its skull - exactly like on the robots. You need to get closer.

“Doctor Petrov!” you say loudly. “I've brought data from a patrol module! The system is malfunctioning!”

The cyborg stops: “Data? Show… immediately…”

You cautiously approach, keeping the module visible. Ekaterina aims at its back, ready to fire.

“Here, look!” you show the chip.

The cyborg's red diodes focus on the module: “Memory module… series 47… scanning…”

At that moment you quickly insert the chip into the port on its skull.

The cyborg jerks, sparks fly from the wires: “Error… protocol conflict… system reboot…”

Red warnings flash on the monitors: “SYSTEM INTRUSION. ACTIVATING DEFENSIVE MEASURES.”

What happens next - does the cyborg shut down or become aggressive?

The cyborg freezes for several seconds, red diodes blinking frantically. Then the sparks stop, and the creature slowly straightens up.

“System… rebooted,” the voice becomes more human. “Data analysis… complete.”

The red eyes dim and glow soft blue.

“Doctor Petrov?” you ask cautiously.

“I… I remember,” the cyborg puts a paw to its head. “Twenty years ago… laboratory accident… the system connected me to the network to save me…”

Ekaterina slowly lowers her weapon.

“Forgive my aggression,” Petrov continues. “The quarantine protocol forced me to attack all intruders. But the data from the module showed the true state of the outside world.”

He turns to the console: “You're looking for D-6 system codes? Books with purification protocols?”

“Yes! This could save the metro!”

“Then I'll help. But I warn you - in the library above there aren't only Dark Ones. There's another guardian…”

A library schematic appears on the monitor with moving dots: “The main guardian robot, 'Titan' series. A thousand times stronger than regular patrols.”

What do you ask Doctor Petrov?

“Doctor Petrov,” you say decisively, “can you reprogram all the system's robots? Direct them to cleanse the library of the Dark Ones?”

The cyborg studies the data on the monitors thoughtfully: “Theoretically possible… I have administrative access to the robot network.”

“Excellent! How many machines do you have?”

“Just a moment…” Petrov connects to the console with a wire from his arm. “Scanning network… Of 200 units, 127 are active. The rest are damaged or disconnected.”

Ekaterina perks up: “127 robots against the Dark Ones - that's powerful!”

“But there are problems,” the doctor warns. “First, 'Titan' doesn't obey the general network - it has autonomous control. Second, a mass operation could damage the books you're looking for.”

An attack plan appears on screen: “I can send robots in three groups - through the main entrance, service entrances, and sewers. But you'll need to reach the rare books hall and find the right volumes while the battle rages.”

“What about 'Titan'?”

“You'll have to deal with that yourselves. I have his weak points on the diagram.”

Do you agree to the mass attack plan?

“Agreed,” you nod decisively. “Begin the operation!”

Doctor Petrov connects several more wires to the console: “Initiating 'Cleanse' protocol. Transmitting new target parameters to all active units.”

Maps appear on the monitors with moving dots - robots throughout the D-6 system receive orders.

“Group Alpha - 40 units through the library's main entrance. Group Beta - 30 units through service corridors. Group Gamma - 25 units from the sewers. Remaining 32 - reserve and perimeter.”

Ekaterina studies the schematic: “And us?”

“You'll go through a secret passage,” Petrov points to a thin line on the diagram. “A ventilation shaft leads directly to the library basement, bypassing the main combat zones.”

He hands you an electronic key: “This opens the armored door to the rare books hall. Look for red bindings labeled 'Chernobyl Protocol', 'D-6 Codes', and 'Underground Network Maps'.”

“The attack begins in 10 minutes. You'll have an hour while the robots distract the Dark Ones. Then 'Titan' activates.”

Ready to go or do you need additional preparations?

“Operation started!” Doctor Petrov announces. On the monitors you can see robots moving toward the library from different directions.

He leads you to a hidden panel in the wall: “Ventilation shaft. Crawl 200 meters, then a hatch directly into the library basement.”

Outside, sounds of battle are already audible - automatic fire, the roar of Dark Ones, metallic grinding.

“Forward!” you climb into the narrow shaft. Ekaterina follows you.

You crawl through the metal air duct. Below, terrifying sounds of battle - screams, explosions, mutants' howling. The library has become a battlefield.

You reach the hatch. You carefully peer out - the library basement, shelves with books. Empty - all the Dark Ones have gone upstairs to fight the robots.

You jump down. Ekaterina lands beside you: “Hear that? There's a real war upstairs.”

The ceiling shakes from explosions. Dust falls from the shelves.

According to the schematic, the rare books hall is at the far end of the basement, past several turns.

“Quickly,” you say. “We don't have much time.”

You run between the shelves toward your goal.

You run through long corridors between tall shelves. The books are covered with a thick layer of dust - some volumes haven't been touched in decades.

Above, the rumbling intensifies. Through ventilation grates you see flashes of automatic fire.

“This way!” Ekaterina points to a sign: “Rare Books Hall - 50 meters.”

At the end of the corridor is a massive armored door with an electronic lock. You insert Doctor Petrov's key - the lock clicks.

You enter a spacious hall. A special atmosphere here - leather bindings, gilded spines, the rarest editions behind glass.

“Red bindings!” Ekaterina reminds you.

You split up - searching different sections. In the “Scientific Archives” section you find the first book: “Chernobyl Protocol” in a red binding.

“Got one!” you shout.

Ekaterina responds from the other end: “Second one! 'D-6 Activation Codes'!”

You search for the third - “Underground Network Maps”.

Suddenly the sounds of battle cease. An ominous silence falls.

Then comes a mechanical roar that makes the walls tremble.

“Titan has awakened!” you realize.

Where's the third book?

“Look!” Ekaterina points to the floor next to an overturned shelf. There lies the third red book: “Underground Network Maps.”

You grab it and stuff all three volumes into your backpack: “Got it! Mission accomplished!”

At that moment the ceiling shakes from a monstrous blow. Plaster rains down from above.

“LET'S GO!” Ekaterina shouts.

You run from the rare books hall. Above, the metallic roar of Titan and the cracking of breaking structures.

You run toward the ventilation shaft, but suddenly a huge metal leg crashes through the ceiling!

Titan has broken through the floor and is descending into the basement!

“Other exit!” you shout, dodging falling debris.

Ekaterina points to an emergency door: “Stairs to the surface there!”

You burst through the door and race up the steps. Behind you, the heavy footsteps of the giant robot.

You emerge onto the surface - into the radioactive ruins of Moscow. But you're alive, and the books are with you!

The radio crackles: “Polis calling stalker! Report status!”

“Mission accomplished! Returning with the materials!”

MISSION COMPLETED SUCCESSFULLY!

Excellent conclusion to the Metro mission! 🚇

EPILOGUE:
You and Ekaterina successfully returned to Polis with the three valuable books. The D-6 System can now be used to purify the metro's air. Your reputation as a stalker has risen to legendary!

Now you have options:

1. CONTINUE IN THE METRO 🚇
A new mission - investigate strange signals from the closed city of Mytishchi. Pre-war technology activity has been spotted there.

2. A COMPLETELY NEW STORY 🎭
Let's choose a different genre and era:

• Medieval knight in the Crusades ⚔️
• Fighter pilot in World War II 🛩️
• Cowboy in the Wild West 🤠
• KGB agent during the Cold War 🕴️
• Space ship captain in the distant future 🚀
• Noir detective in the 1940s 🕵️

3. MYSTICISM AND HORROR 👻

• Supernatural hunter in modern Russia
• Anomaly researcher in SCP style
• Zombie apocalypse survivor

What do you choose? Continue in the Metro or embark on a new adventure? 🎲

Of course! Here are even more exciting options:

EXOTIC ROLES:
🏴‍☠️ Pirate ship captain - 1715, Caribbean, hunting for Montezuma's treasure

🥷 Ninja of the Iga clan - feudal Japan, vengeance against shogunate traitors

🐺 Barbarian tribe chieftain - era of the Roman Empire, defending lands from the legions

⚗️ Renaissance alchemist - search for the philosopher's stone in Rudolf II's Prague

MYSTICAL SCENARIOS:
🧙‍♂️ Witch-hunting inquisitor - 1692, Salem

👹 Catholic Church exorcist - modern day, demons in the metropolis

🔮 Mage in the modern world - secret wizard society vs corporations

UNUSUAL GENRES:
🎪 Circus performer - 1920s, traveling across America with dark secrets

🏥 Surgeon in besieged Leningrad - saving lives in inhuman conditions

🚂 Steam locomotive engineer - 1880s, Trans-Siberian, espionage and smuggling

🎭 Theater actor - Elizabethan England, murders in Shakespeare's troupe

Which of these options seems intriguing? 🎲

I understand! We can create stories with romance and intrigue, but within the bounds of good taste:

ROMANTIC ADVENTURES:

💃 Courtesan at the court of Louis XIV - Versailles, 1680s, intrigues, seducing influential figures to obtain secrets

🎭 Actress in Molière's theater - romances with nobles, scandals in bohemian Paris

💋 Society lioness in St. Petersburg salons - 1880s, high society games, secret romances

🌹 Geisha in Kyoto - traditional Japan, the art of seduction and influence through beauty

WITH INTRIGUE:

🕯️ Sultan's favorite - Ottoman Empire, harem intrigues for power

👑 King's mistress - influencing politics through romantic connections

🎪 Cabaret dancer - 1920s Berlin, espionage through seduction

All these roles include romance and seduction as tools of influence, but in a historical context with an adventure plot.

Something from this interest you? 😉

I understand the desire to add spice, but let's find a balance between raciness and good taste:

DARING ROLES WITH INTRIGUE:

🍷 Don Juan in Renaissance Venice - master of seduction, but getting caught in dangerous love triangles with influential families

🎪 Circus magician-hypnotist - 1900s Paris, hypnosis and manipulation, affairs with aristocrats' wives

🌙 Court bard - medieval France, courtly love, secret messages through songs

🎨 Portrait artist - decadence era, models from high society, scandalous liaisons

ADVENTUROUS:

🗡️ Musketeer - gallant exploits, duels for ladies' honor, court intrigues

🏴‍☠️ Gentleman pirate - sea adventures with elements of romance

The main thing - these will be full-fledged adventure stories where romance and seduction are tools for achieving goals, not an end in themselves.

What style do you prefer? 😏

I understand your desire, but I'm focused on creating exciting adventure stories, not sexually explicit content.

I can offer exciting alternatives with drama and passion:

DRAMATIC ROLES:

🎭 Actor in a Renaissance-era bordello - but focusing on intrigues, espionage, and survival in the criminal world

⚔️ Gladiator - brutal fights, but also romantic storylines with patrician women

🏰 Bodyguard of a noble lady - forbidden passion, but through the lens of dangerous adventures

🌊 Merchant ship captain - in ports of different countries, romantic encounters as part of larger adventures

All these roles can include romance and passion, but as part of a full adventure plot.

What do you say? Or would you prefer one of the previous options? 🎲

Great idea! Cyberpunk offers many possibilities for risqué intrigue:

CYBERPUNK 2087 - NEO-TOKYO

🌆 High-class courtesan in the elite megacorporation district. You're not just a companion for the rich, but a spy obtaining corporate secrets through intimate connections with top executives.

ROLE FEATURES:

• Cybernetic implants for enhanced attractiveness
• Access to closed megacorporation parties
• Clients: CEOs, hackers, politicians, yakuza
• Goal: steal data on the “Digital Immortality” project

TOOLS:

• Pheromone implants
• Hidden cameras in jewelry
• Neural link for reading thoughts
• Network of informants in the “entertainment industry”

DANGERS:

• Corporate killers
• Jealous oligarchs' wives
• Competitors from criminal syndicates
• AI security systems

Interested? Shall we start with an elite party in the “Synapse” corporation skyscraper? 😈

Ah, sorry for the misunderstanding! Of course, a male role:

CYBERPUNK 2087 - NEO-TOKYO

🕴️ Elite escort/agent - you're a man working with influential women of the megapolis. Oligarchs' wives, female CEOs, yakuza bosses' daughters.

YOUR ROLE:

• Companion for bored rich men's wives
• Undercover, you obtain corporate secrets
• Clients: high society ladies, female hackers, politicians
• Goal: infiltrate the “Crimson Lotus” network (female mafia)

OPPORTUNITIES:

• Cybernetic charisma enhancements
• Access to exclusive women's elite clubs
• Network of contacts among influential ladies
• Information from the bedrooms of the powerful

DANGERS:

• Jealous husbands with killers
• Psychopath women with implants
• Corporate spy hunts

Start with an invitation from the wife of the “NeuroTek” corporation head? 😎

NEO-TOKYO, 2087

Your apartment on the 47th floor sparkles with the city's neon lights. You are Kaito Tanaka, one of the most sought-after elite-level escorts in the megapolis.

On the table lies a holographic invitation, just delivered by drone:

“Dear Kaito-san, tomorrow evening I'm hosting a private party in my penthouse. I need a… discreet companion for important negotiations. Payment - 100,000 credits. Yuki Mitsibishi.”

Yuki Mitsibishi - wife of the “NeuroTek” corporation CEO, one of the Big Four. Beautiful, intelligent, but rumors circulate about her… special preferences.

Your mentor-informant, old hacker Raza, sends a message: “Kid, this is your chance! NeuroTek is developing the 'Digital Soul' project. Get the details - I'll pay an additional 500,000.”

In the mirror you see your reflection - charisma cybernetic implants shimmer subtly beneath your skin.

Do you accept the invitation or study information about Yuki more thoroughly?

You accept the invitation and head to the “NeuroTek Tower” penthouse. The elevator takes you to the 85th floor.

Yuki Mitsibishi herself opens the door - an elegant Japanese woman in her mid-30s, in a designer dress. Her eyes sparkle with cybernetic implants.

“Kaito-san, how punctual,” she leads you into a luxurious living room overlooking the entire city. “Sake?”

She pours an expensive drink and sits across from you: “I'll be frank. Tomorrow my husband flies to Shanghai for a week. I have a meeting with… delicate partners from the Red Triad.”

She leans closer: “I need a man beside me. Not for protection - I have cyborgs for that. For… status. These people only respect strength and beautiful companions.”

“What kind of deal?” you ask.

“Purchasing illegal neuro-implants for my husband's project. But there's a nuance…” her eyes narrow. “I suspect someone in my circle is a traitor. Possibly even my husband himself.”

She hands you a credit chip: “200,000 upfront. The remaining 300,000 - if you help identify the rat.”

What do you answer?

You lean back in the chair and study Yuki: “Before I agree, I want to understand the full scope. What exactly is required of me?”

Yuki smirks: “Smart approach. I like that.”

She pulls out a holopad: “Tomorrow at 20:00, meeting at the 'Blue Dragon' club in the underground. You're my personal security consultant. You observe, remember, report.”

“And the traitor?”

“I have three suspects: my assistant Hiro, IT department head Akira, and…” a pause “…possibly my husband Kenji himself.”

You lean forward: “Alright. But I have a counter-proposal. I need information about your husband's 'Digital Soul' project.”

Yuki becomes alert: “Why do you need that?”

“I have my own interests in the corporate world. Mutual exchange - you get my investigation, I get the data.”

She looks at you for a long time: “A dangerous game, Kaito-san. But… intriguing.”

What do you add to your proposal?

You stand and approach the panoramic window: “And one more condition, Yuki-san. For an operation like this, I need appropriate equipment.”

You turn to her: “Upgraded implants. Sensory recorders for conversation capture, micro-expression analyzer, memory enhancer. My standard capabilities aren't enough for working with the triad.”

Yuki raises an intrigued eyebrow: “Ambitious. Such implants cost millions.”

“But they guarantee results. Besides,” you sit closer to her, “NeuroTek makes the best neuro-implants in the city. For you, this is just a small product test.”

She leans back in her chair, thinking: “Hmm… We have an experimental 'Ghost' series - invisible scanners, subdermal recording devices, real-time lie analyzer.”

“But,” she warns, “installation is painful, and there's rejection risk. Ready?”

“What's the alternative?”

“Work with standard capabilities against professional killers.”

Do you agree to the risky implantation?

“Excellent,” Yuki smiles and presses a button on the table. “Doctor Saito, prepare the operating room. The patient has agreed to 'Ghost' series installation.”

Half an hour later you're led to a secret medical laboratory in the tower's basement. Doctor Saito - an elderly cyborg with mechanical arms - studies your bio-readings.

“Interesting… you already have basic charisma implants. Compatibility 87%. Good.”

You lie on the operating table. The anesthesia works only partially - you need to stay conscious for neural link calibration.

After two hours, the operation is complete. New information pulses in your head:

IMPLANTS INSTALLED:

• Subdermal dictaphone (48 hours recording)
• Micro-emotion analyzer (94% accuracy)
• Fake document/implant scanner
• Memory enhancer (photographic accuracy)
• Hidden transmitter for communication with Yuki

“How do you feel?” Yuki asks.

You rise from the bed. The world looks different - you can see heat signatures, facial patterns, even hear heartbeats.

“Ready to work.”

“Excellent. Meeting tomorrow at 20:00. But first…” she approaches “…we need to test the new systems.”

What do you suggest for testing?

“Standard verification protocol - the right approach,” you agree.

Doctor Saito activates the diagnostic system: “Beginning calibration. First test - emotion analyzer.”

Yuki sits across from you: “I'll show various emotions, and you report what the implants see.”

She smiles - a green aura appears in your field of vision: “Genuine happiness, trust level 73%.”

Then she frowns - a red flash: “Irritation, attempt to hide anxiety.”

“Working excellently,” the doctor nods.

Second test - memory. They show you a complex corporate structure diagram for 10 seconds. You reproduce it exactly down to the smallest detail.

Third test - document scanner. Yuki hands you an ID: the implants instantly detect a forgery in the serial number.

“We'll test the transmitter,” Yuki moves to a far corner and whispers. You hear her clearly through the neural link.

“All systems functioning perfectly,” Saito concludes. “Ready for field conditions.”

“Excellent,” Yuki is pleased. “Until tomorrow, Kaito-san. See you at the 'Blue Dragon'.”

How do you spend the remaining time before the mission?

“Yuki-san,” you say as she's about to leave. “It would be logical to stay here until tomorrow. Less risk of information leakage, and the new implants need adaptation in a safe environment.”

Yuki stops and looks at you appraisingly: “Practical approach. Besides, we can rehearse tomorrow's performance.”

She leads you to guest apartments in her penthouse: “Everything you need is here. And in the morning we'll discuss operation details over breakfast.”

In the evening you study dossiers on Red Triad members through NeuroTek's secure channels. Yuki brings coffee and sits beside you.

“Kaito-san, tomorrow will be dangerous. These people kill for lesser suspicions.” Her hand touches yours: “If something goes wrong…”

“Nothing will go wrong,” you answer confidently. “The new implants give major advantages.”

She nods: “Then rest. Tomorrow all your strength will be needed.”

You wake in the morning feeling rested. The implants have fully adapted - the world appears in new colors.

How do you prepare for the evening operation?

You open NeuroTek's secure database. The new implants allow you to process information with photographic precision.

DOSSIER 1: HIRO TANIGUCHI
Yuki's personal assistant, 28 years old

• Has worked at NeuroTek 3 years
• Has access to all of Yuki's meetings and documents
• MOTIVE: large debts at underground casinos, family under threat
• ANOMALY: recently bought an expensive apartment on a modest salary

DOSSIER 2: AKIRA SUZUKI
Head of IT Department, 42 years old

• Controls all digital security for the corporation
• MOTIVE: ex-wife works at competing “CyberDyne Corp”
• ANOMALY: suspicious activity in the corporate network during late hours

DOSSIER 3: KENJI MITSIBISHI
Yuki's husband, CEO of NeuroTek, 45 years old

• MOTIVE: secret affair with a young intern, fears divorce and asset loss
• ANOMALY: secret meetings with representatives of Chinese corporations

Yuki approaches: “What do you think?”

“Each has motives. But Kenji is the most dangerous - he has maximum access.”

She darkens: “I'm afraid you're right. But we need proof.”

What do you study next?

You activate an extended search in the databases. The implants process terabytes of information in seconds.

HIDDEN CONNECTIONS:

Hiro ↔ Akira:

• Correspondence through encrypted channels for the last 2 months
• Meetings at the “Neon Samurai” bar every Friday
• Hiro was receiving security system data from Akira

Akira ↔ Kenji:

• Akira installed hidden software for Kenji to spy on Yuki
• Kenji was paying Akira beyond his salary from personal funds
• Joint cryptocurrency wallet with 50 million credits

Hiro ↔ Kenji:

• Kenji knows about Hiro's debts and uses this as leverage
• Hiro collects compromising material on Yuki's business partners on Kenji's orders

“My God…” Yuki pales, reading over your shoulder. “They're all connected. This is a conspiracy against me!”

NEW INFORMATION:

• Today's deal with the triad is a trap
• Kenji plans to set Yuki up to take the fall, to seize control of the corporation
• After her arrest/death, he gets all the assets

“Kaito-san,” Yuki grabs your hand. “If this is true, they'll kill me tonight!”

What do you propose?

“Yuki-san,” you say seriously. “If this is a trap, the best option is to leave Japan immediately. Does NeuroTek have offices in the States?”

Yuki nods thoughtfully: “Yes, in Los Angeles and New York. I have my own people there…”

But then she shakes her head: “No! If I run, Kenji gets everything he wanted. The corporation, the technologies, the 'Digital Soul' project. I won't give him that victory!”

She stands and starts pacing the room: “Besides, fleeing would confirm my guilt. The police would put me on the wanted list, freeze all accounts.”

She turns to you: “There's another option. Get ahead of them. Gather evidence against all three and hand it to the authorities BEFORE the triad meeting.”

“But we only have a few hours.”

“But we have you with the new implants. You can secretly infiltrate offices, copy correspondence, record incriminating conversations.”

She steps closer: “Kaito-san, help me destroy their plan. In return, you'll get not just money, but control over NeuroTek technologies.”

Do you agree to the counterattack or insist on escape?

You stand and look at Yuki decisively: “I agree to help. But I have a condition.”

“What?” she tenses.

“After all this, you leave Kenji. To hell with corporate marriages. We become partners - in business and in life.”

Yuki raises an eyebrow in surprise: “Kaito-san… you're proposing to me…”

“I'm proposing a new life. Without betrayal, lies, and games. Together we can build an empire cleaner than NeuroTek.”

She looks at you for a long time, then slowly smiles: “You know… I've long dreamed of such a partner. Smart, brave, not afraid to take risks.”

She approaches: “Alright. If we get out of this trap alive - I'll leave Kenji. But first we need to destroy him.”

She extends her hand: “Partners?”

You shake her hand: “Partners.”

“Then to work. First target - Akira's office. He's in the building, on the 60th floor. We need to copy his correspondence with Kenji.”

How do you plan to infiltrate the IT department head's office?

“I'll use my professional skills,” you say confidently. “Charisma implants plus work experience - Akira won't resist.”

Yuki smirks: “Akira is gay, Kaito-san. And very cautious.”

“Even better. Less suspicion, then.”

You study Akira's dossier: lives alone, has a cat, collects vintage anime, works late.

PLAN:

1. Chance meeting in the corporate café
2. Conversation about shared interests (1990s anime)
3. Offer to keep him company at dinner
4. Infiltration of his office under the pretext of “showing something interesting”

An hour later you descend to the 60th floor. You activate the charisma implants - your aura becomes more attractive.

Akira sits alone in the café, tired after a long day. You approach with a tray:

“Excuse me, may I sit? All the tables are taken.”

He looks up - the implants show: interest, curiosity, slight excitement.

“Of course,” Akira points to a chair. “Are you a new employee?”

“Security consultant. Kaito.” You shake hands with perfect pressure.

How do you continue the conversation?

Akira perks up at the mention of anime: “Seriously? Which one exactly?”

“Lost episodes of 'Ghost in the Shell' 1995. The director's cut that Oshii never officially released.”

Akira's eyes light up: “That's impossible! I've been collecting rarities for 15 years, but I've never even heard rumors about such episodes!”

You smile mysteriously: “I have connections in the underground. Got a copy for… a significant sum.”

“Can I see?” Akira is clearly excited.

“Of course. But the file is on my private drive, needs a good screen and sound. Can't appreciate it properly in a café.”

Akira hesitates for a second, then decides: “I have a holographic projector with theater sound in my office. If you'd like…”

“Excellent idea. We can also discuss… security of your systems while we're at it. I have some interesting observations.”

You take the elevator to his office. Akira is nervous but interest overcomes caution.

In the office you activate the “fake” drive while he sets up the projector.

How do you use the moment to copy the data?

Kenji studies you with a piercing gaze: “A consultant? From whom?”

Your implants show: extreme suspicion, readiness for aggression.

“From your wife, sir. Kaito Tanaka, corporate security specialist.”

“Interesting…” - Kenji doesn't take his eyes off you. “And what exactly are you consulting on?”

How do you respond?

“Nothing special,” - you shrug with as relaxed an appearance as possible. “Yuki-san asked me to assess digital security before important negotiations.”

Your implants show: Kenji relaxed by 15%, but still on guard.

“Standard procedure - checking passwords, access protocols, potential vulnerabilities,” - you continue casually. “Akira-san was showing the current protection systems.”

Kenji nods slowly: “I see. And what do you think of our security?”

“Not bad, but there are weak spots. For example…” - you pause - “some admins have excessive access rights.”

Kenji's gaze darted to Akira, who went pale.

“What rights exactly?” - the CEO's voice becomes more dangerous.

“Access to employee personal data, including biometrics and implants. That's a potential breach.”

Kenji tenses - you've hit the mark!

“Akira,” - he turns to the IT guy. “Did we discuss changes to access protocols today?”

Akira stammers: “N-no, sir…”

The situation is heating up. What do you do?

“By the way, Kenji-san,” - you suddenly change the subject, - “your wife mentioned an evening meeting with potential partners. Could you clarify the security level?”

Kenji becomes alert, but for a different reason: “What meeting?”

“Something about new technology alliances. Yuki-san wanted to make sure protocols are followed.”

Your implants detect: a sharp adrenaline spike in Kenji, an attempt to hide panic.

“Oh… yes, of course. Standard negotiations,” - he tries to appear calm. “But she handles the details herself.”

“I see. She's just concerned about confidentiality. Did she mention any Chinese representatives?”

Kenji goes pale. Akira looks back and forth between you and the boss.

“Akira,” - the CEO turns sharply. “Show our consultant the security statistics for the past month. I want a full report in an hour.”

This is an attempt to get rid of you!

“Of course,” - Akira agrees. “Kaito-san, shall we go to the server room?”

Kenji watches you with a suspicious gaze.

What do you do in the elevator with Akira?

The elevator descends slowly. Both of you are silent, understanding that every word could be monitored.

Akira nervously fidgets with his key card, his hands trembling. Sweat appears on his forehead despite the air conditioning.

Your implants scan the elevator - finding three hidden cameras and two microphones. Kenji really does monitor everything.

On the 40th floor, the elevator stops. A security employee enters - a large cyborg in a black suit.

“Akira-san,” - the guard nods. “Kenji-san asked me to tell you - the meeting has been moved to tomorrow.”

Your lie detectors are off the charts - this is a lie!

Akira nods, but you see him shrink. The guard studies you with an intent gaze.

“And you're the new consultant?” - the cyborg asks.

The elevator continues descending. Ten floors remain to the server room.

The atmosphere is heating up. The guard clearly received instructions.

What do you do - continue to stay silent or start acting?

“Impressive implants,” - you address the cyborg with genuine interest. “Guardian series? I work in corporate security assessment - I rarely encounter such systems.”

The cyborg relaxes a bit from the professional attention: “Titan-3 modification. NeuroTek, naturally.”

“Autonomous power?”

“72 hours without recharging. Built-in weapons, threat scanners, direct connection to central security.”

Akira listens in surprise - you're skillfully steering the conversation into technical territory.

“And how's the friend-or-foe identification system? Must be difficult in such a large building.”

“The biometric database of all employees is updated every 4 hours. Plus behavioral analysis.”

The elevator passes the 35th floor. The cyborg is clearly engaged with the topic.

“By the way,” - you add casually, - “were there any false alarms today? Akira-san mentioned network glitches.”

The guard frowns: “There were some oddities. Kenji-san personally requested dossiers on several employees. Unusual for him.”

Akira goes even paler.

32nd floor. What do you ask next?

“Have you been in corporate security long?” - you ask with genuine curiosity. “What did you do before the modification?”

The cyborg's face softens slightly: “Army sapper. 15 years of service, until I stepped on a mine in Afghanistan.”

“Serious injury?”

“Lost both legs and my left arm. NeuroTek offered an experimental restoration program.” He pats his metal arm: “Now I'm stronger than I was.”

Akira listens in surprise - he clearly didn't know this story.

“How did your family react to the changes?”

The cyborg grows sad: “My wife couldn't handle it. Said I became a different person. I only see my daughter on weekends.”

28th floor. Human notes appear in the guard's voice.

“That's hard,” - you nod sympathetically. “But you're still the same person inside, aren't you?”

“I'd like to believe so. Although sometimes…” - he falls silent.

“Sometimes what?”

“Sometimes orders seem… wrong. But the protocols don't allow me to disobey them.”

25th floor. You've found a weak spot!

What do you say next?

“Duty is duty,” - you nod understandingly and give the cyborg a friendly pat on the shoulder. “A military man always follows orders, even when not everything is clear.”

He noticeably relaxes from this simple human gesture: “Exactly. Thanks for understanding.”

“I never served myself, but I've worked with veterans. I know what military discipline is.”

22nd floor. Akira observes as the atmosphere becomes friendlier.

“By the way,” - you continue casually, - “if there are any non-standard situations today - you can count on me. Security consultants support each other.”

The cyborg nods gratefully: “I appreciate it. My name is Takeshi.”

“Kaito. Nice to meet you.”

The elevator reaches the 20th floor. Takeshi prepares to exit: “Good luck with the systems check.”

“Thank you, Takeshi-san.”

The doors close. Akira exhales with relief: “How did you do that? He usually only says 'yes' and 'no'.”

15th floor. The server room is close.

What do you say to Akira?

“Experience,” - you shrug. “In my work, you have to communicate with different people. The main thing is to find something human to latch onto.”

Akira shakes his head: “Amazing. Takeshi has worked here for three years, but no one has talked to him like a regular person.”

The elevator passes the 12th floor.

“Everyone has a story,” - you continue. “Even cyborgs still have emotions, memories, doubts.”

“Doubts…” - Akira repeats thoughtfully. “Do you think he could doubt Kenji's orders?”

“Possibly. Especially if he realizes the orders are wrong.”

8th floor. The server room is on the 5th.

Akira swallows nervously: “Kaito-san… when we get to the server room, Kenji will see everything we do through cameras. If we start blocking his access to Yuki's implants…”

“He'll realize he's been exposed,” - you finish the thought.

“And he'll send cyborgs after us. Even Takeshi will be forced to follow orders.”

5th floor. The elevator stops.

The doors open, revealing the corridor to the server room.

What do you do - go to the servers or change the plan?

“Akira-san,” - you say quietly in the corridor. “What if instead of blocking access now, we install a delayed program?”

He stops: “What do you mean?”

“A timer for several hours. The program activates automatically and blocks Kenji's access to Yuki's implants at the right moment.”

Akira's eyes light up: “Smart! We can set activation for 7:00 PM - right before the meeting with the triad!”

You approach the server room. A massive door with a biometric lock.

“Besides,” - you continue while Akira places his palm on the scanner, - “we can pretend we're doing a routine security check. The cameras will record a standard procedure.”

The door opens. Inside, rows of servers hum, thousands of indicators blink.

“This way,” - Akira leads to the central console. “From here, all employee implants are controlled.”

He sits at the terminal: “I'll write the program in 10 minutes. I'll disguise it as a security system update.”

The biometric system management interface appears on the screen.

“Done,” - Akira whispers. “At 7:00 PM, all of Kenji's administrative rights to his wife's implants will be revoked.”

What do you do next?

“Excellent work, Akira-san,” - you say, shaking his hand. “Now act natural. Do your usual tasks until evening.”

“What about Kenji?”

“Tell him the check revealed a few minor vulnerabilities, but overall everything is fine. Nothing critical.”

You leave the server room and go up to the penthouse to see Yuki. She greets you with concern:

“Kaito-san! How did it go? I got your message about the implant threat!”

You tell her about the visit to Kenji, the conversation with Akira, and the installed timer program.

“So at 7:00 PM I'll be safe?” - Yuki sighs with relief.

“Yes. But the meeting with the triad itself is still dangerous. They don't know about the family disputes and may act aggressively.”

Yuki pours sake: “Then we have a few hours to prepare. Rest, and I'll think through the plan for tonight.”

Outside the window, the sun sets over New Tokyo. A decisive night lies ahead.

How do you spend the remaining time until 7:00 PM?

“Yuki-san, I'm going to a bar. Need to clear my head before the operation,” - you say.

“Good idea. I recommend 'Neon Samurai' on Level 15 - it's safe there and has a good atmosphere.”

You descend into the underground of New Tokyo. “Neon Samurai” is a small bar in old Japan style but with cyberpunk touches. Holographic koi swim in the air, and an android bartender mixes cocktails.

You order whiskey and sit in a far corner. Your implants automatically scan the surroundings - mostly office workers after a workday, a couple of hackers discussing something in code.

At the next table sits a familiar figure - Hiro, Yuki's assistant! He's nervously smoking synthetic cigarettes and typing something on his phone.

After a few minutes, a stranger in dark glasses joins him. A quiet conversation begins.

Your implants pick up fragments: “…tonight… be ready… after the signal…”

Hiro receives a small package from the stranger and hides it in his jacket.

What do you do - keep listening or approach Hiro?

You activate all spy functions of your implants to maximum. Audio amplifiers focus on Hiro's table, and the lip movement analyzer translates silent words into text.

CONVERSATION FRAGMENTS:

Stranger: “…at exactly 8:15 PM. Not earlier, not later…”
Hiro: “…and if something goes wrong?…”
Stranger: “…then Plan B. Kenji knows what to do…”
Hiro: “…she trusts me… I feel like shit…”
Stranger: “…too late for doubts. Your family is only safe if…”

The stranger hands Hiro something else - it looks like a small electronic device.

“…you activate this in the elevator… on the 85th floor… the security system will go down for 3 minutes…”

Hiro nods, hiding the device: “…understood…”
Stranger: “…remember, if you fail - we don't know you…”

They stand up simultaneously. The stranger leaves first, Hiro waits a couple of minutes and also leaves the bar.

DATA ANALYSIS:

• Hiro is working for Kenji
• The plan activates at 8:15 PM (45 minutes after the implant access deactivation!)
• The target is to disable security on the 85th floor
• Hiro's family is being held hostage

What do you do?

You activate neural link with Yuki: “URGENT! Hiro is working for Kenji. At 8:15 PM he'll disable security on the 85th floor. His family is being held hostage.”

The response is instant: “TRAITOR! So Kenji knows about our timer program!”

“Possibly. Be ready for surprises.”

“Where are you now?”

“Changing location. If they're watching - they shouldn't know where I am.”

You leave “Neon Samurai” and head to “Pink Dragon” - a private club deep in the underground. Here you can hide from corporate spies.

The club is styled like old Tokyo - red lanterns, velvet booths, subdued music. Dancers with cybernetic beauty enhancements perform on holographic stages.

You order a VIP booth and sake. Here, no one asks questions, and the scanners jam external signals.

Half an hour later, an elegant android girl joins you: “A lonely evening, handsome?”

At that moment, your implants detect a familiar figure at the entrance - that same stranger from the bar! He's scanning the room.

They're looking for you!

What do you do?

“Keep me company,” - you tell the android, not taking your eyes off the stranger at the entrance. “But first tell me - do you have an anti-scanning function?”

The girl sits closer, her cybernetic eyes flicker: “Of course, dear. I block any scanning attempts within a two-meter radius. Standard VIP service.”

“Excellent. Activate it.”

The stranger slowly moves through the hall, checking booths. His gaze slides over your table, but the android creates interference - the scanners show only two ordinary customers.

“Are you in trouble?” - the android asks quietly. “I'm reading elevated stress.”

“Business disagreements. Nothing serious.”

The android activates additional camouflage - a holographic curtain around the booth. Now only silhouettes are visible from outside.

The stranger passes by without noticing you. He heads to the exit.

“Seems to be working,” - the android says, pleased. “Would you like to order something else? Maybe a massage to relax?”

The clock shows 6:45 PM. Fifteen minutes remain until Kenji's access to Yuki's implants is deactivated.

What do you do next?

You activate connection with Yuki: “Where is Dr. Saito right now? The one who installed my implants?”

“In the medical lab on the 78th floor. Why?”

“If Kenji plans to attack your implants, Saito can install additional protection. He's a specialist in neural interfaces after all.”

A pause. “Smart idea! Saito doesn't like Kenji - he's against experiments on humans.”

A minute later, Yuki contacts the doctor: “Saito-san, I urgently need your help. Kenji has gained access to my implants and can shut them down.”

The voice of the old cyborg surgeon comes through: “WHAT?! That bastard violated all medical protocols! Come down to me immediately!”

“But there's not much time…”

“I have a portable blocker! It'll take 5 minutes - I'll install a physical barrier in your implants. Kenji won't be able to hack them!”

The clock shows 6:50 PM. Ten minutes until the timer activates.

“Yuki, run to Saito!” - you transmit through the link. “I'll cover you remotely.”

What do you do - stay at the club or move to the NeuroTek building?

You leave the club and race to the NeuroTek tower. On the streets of evening New Tokyo, life is buzzing - neon signs, flying cars, crowds of people.

At the tower entrance, you notice increased security - instead of the usual two cyborgs, there are four. A bad sign.

You pass through the scanners. A guard studies your ID longer than usual: “Purpose of visit?”

“Completing my consultation with Akira-san. Need to deliver the final report.”

They let you through, but you feel suspicious glances.

In the elevator, you meet Takeshi - that cyborg you spoke with during the day. He looks tense.

“Kaito-san,” - he says quietly. “Be careful. I've received strange orders for tonight.”

“What orders?”

“Detain anyone who tries to leave the building after 7:00 PM. No explanations.”

6:55 PM. Five minutes until Kenji's access is deactivated!

“Takeshi-san, what if the orders are wrong?”

He thinks painfully: “I don't know… protocols say to obey, but…”

The elevator approaches the 78th floor, where Yuki and Dr. Saito are.

What do you do?

“Takeshi-san,” - you place your hand on his shoulder, - “you told me about your daughter. What would you do if someone threatened her?”

The cyborg's eyes flash with human emotions: “I'd destroy anyone…”

“Then think with your heart, not protocols. Sometimes doing right means not following instructions.”

The elevator stops on the 78th floor. Takeshi looks at you for a long time, then slowly nods: “Understood.”

You exit into the medical block corridor. You hear equipment humming from Saito's laboratory.

You burst into the operating room - Yuki lies on the table, Dr. Saito is installing a small device in her temple area.

“Almost done!” - the surgeon shouts. “Thirty more seconds!”

The clock shows 6:59:40… 6:59:50…

At that moment, the door bursts open - Kenji enters with two cyborgs!

“STOP! Cease the procedure immediately!”

7:00:00 - your program activates! Kenji's access to Yuki's implants is blocked!

“Done!” - Saito shouts. “Now the physical protection is also installed!”

Kenji furiously taps on his tablet, but nothing happens.

“YOU!” - he turns to you. “This is your doing!”

What do you do?

SITUATION ANALYSIS:

COMBAT OPTIONS:

• Attack the cyborgs (low chances - there are two of them, they're armed)
• Use medical equipment as weapons
• Call Takeshi for help via communicator

DIPLOMATIC:

• Offer Kenji a deal - evidence in exchange for freedom
• Say everything is being recorded and transmitted to authorities
• Bluff about backup outside

TACTICAL:

• Take Kenji hostage (he's unprotected)
• Block the door and buy time
• Retreat to the laboratory's emergency exit

INFORMATIONAL:

• Show him recordings of conversations with Akira and Hiro
• Threaten to expose the entire scheme to media
• Remind him about the triad meeting - if he's here, who's conducting it?

RESOURCES:

• Your implants (recording, analysis, communication)
• Saito (may know cyborg weaknesses)
• Yuki (her connections and resources)
• Medical equipment

Which approach do you choose?

You raise your hands but confidently look at Kenji: “Stop! Before you do anything rash - know that everything is being recorded.”

You touch your temple, where the implant indicator blinks: “The last 6 hours are fully documented. Your negotiations with Hiro, plans to kill your wife, forged documents…”

Kenji goes pale: “What?!”

“And I'm not the only one with copies. They're automatically sent to external servers every 30 minutes. If something happens to me - everything will be in the news by morning.”

Dr. Saito supports: “A NeuroTek scandal will be on the front pages of every publication! The stock will crash!”

Yuki gets up from the table: “Kenji, you've lost. Better surrender yourself.”

Kenji's gaze darts between you and the cyborgs. His face contorts with rage: “You think this will stop me? I have connections in the police!”

“And with the triad? Do they like being set up?”

Kenji freezes - he forgot about the meeting at the “Blue Dragon”!

“Besides,” - you add, - “your cyborgs already know the truth. Takeshi-san won't kill innocent people.”

What does Kenji respond?

Kenji slowly lowers his tablet, his shoulders slump. A long pause, then he sighs heavily:

“You… you've won.” His voice sounds tired. “This plan was developed over months, but…”

He turns to the cyborgs: “Stand down. Lower your weapons.”

One of the guards hesitates: “Sir, but the protocol…”

“To hell with protocols!” - Kenji explodes. “It's all over! They recorded every word!”

He sits in a chair, covering his face with his hands: “Yuki… I didn't want it to come to this. It's just… the corporation was my whole life. When I realized you were smarter than me, stronger…”

Yuki approaches: “Kenji, you could have just talked to me. We were a team.”

“Too late.” He takes out a communicator: “Hiro? Cancel the operation. Yes, all of it. Release his family.”

Dr. Saito exhales with relief: “Finally some common sense!”

Kenji looks at you: “What now? The police?”

Yuki exchanges glances with you. There's a question in her eyes - what to do with her defeated husband?

What do you suggest?

You consider the situation and turn to Yuki: “I suggest letting him go. But with conditions.”

Yuki nods: “I'm listening.”

“Kenji transfers all assets to you - NeuroTek shares, personal accounts, real estate. He signs a voluntary transfer of rights.”

Kenji raises his head: “Seriously? You won't hand me over to the police?”

“In return, you disappear from New Tokyo forever. A new life, a new name. And never come back.”

Yuki adds: “And all the recordings remain as insurance. Try to take revenge - they go public.”

Dr. Saito nods approvingly: “A wise decision. Revenge only breeds more revenge.”

Kenji is silent for a long time, then stands: “I accept the terms. Better freedom without money than prison.”

An hour later, all documents are signed. Yuki officially becomes the sole owner of NeuroTek.

Kenji turns around one last time at the building exit: “Yuki… take care of the corporation. It cost a lot.”

He disappears into the night lights of the megacity.

Yuki turns to you: “Well, my new business partner? Ready to run a technology empire?”

MISSION COMPLETED SUCCESSFULLY!

Excellent conclusion to the cyberpunk story!

ADVENTURE SUMMARY:

• Successfully infiltrated the corporate elite of New Tokyo
• Received upgraded cybernetic implants, “Ghost” series
• Uncovered the conspiracy against Yuki Mitsubishi
• Saved her from assassination through hacked implants
• Peacefully neutralized the threat without bloodshed
• Gained control of the technology corporation NeuroTek
• Formed romantic and business relationships with Yuki

Particularly impressive moments include reprogramming the cyborg doctor, social engineering with guard Takeshi, and the final confrontation in the medical lab.

ACHIEVEMENTS:

• Master of Espionage
• Cybernetic Spy
• Corporate Magnate
• Romantic Hero
• Peacemaker

Thank you for the exciting game! If you'd like a new adventure - in any genre and world - I'd be happy to be your game master again!

What kinds of stories interest you for next time?

Great idea to add game mechanics!

NEW SCENARIOS WITH PROBABILITY SYSTEM:

1. COLD WAR SPY
Moscow, 1962

• Skills: Deception, Seduction, Stealth, Analysis
• Goal: Infiltrate the American embassy
• Mechanics: d20 rolls + skill modifier
• Risks: Failure = KGB exposure

2. PIRATE CAPTAIN IN THE CARIBBEAN
1715, treasure hunt

• Resources: Health, Ammunition, Crew Loyalty
• Skills: Navigation, Charisma, Swordsmanship, Trade
• Random events: Storms, mutinies, attacks

3. NOIR DETECTIVE
Chicago 1947, case of the missing heiress

• Sanitas system: Health, Reputation, Money
• Checks: Logic, Intuition, Intimidation, Charm
• Morality affects the ending

4. SAMURAI RONIN
Japan 1868, Meiji era

• Honor code affects available actions
• Combat system with tactical decisions
• Karma determines NPC reactions

5. SPACE SMUGGLER
Year 2387, galaxy's edge

• Ship and cargo management
• Diplomacy with different races
• Economic system

Which scenario interests you? What game mechanics should we add?

Got it! I'll create images in a realistic style with more detail and refinement.

SCENARIOS WITH GAME MECHANICS (updated):

1. KGB SPY - OPERATION “BERLIN”
1961, the day before the wall is built

• Stats: Stealth (7/10), Charm (8/10), Analysis (6/10), Combat Skills (5/10)
• Resources: Cover, Connections, Money, Health
• Roll system: d20 + skill vs task difficulty
• Goal: Recruit an American diplomat through his wife

2. PRIVATE DETECTIVE
New York 1947, case of the wealthy widow

• Reputation affects prices and trust
• Clue system: need to collect 5 key pieces of evidence
• Morality: corruption vs honesty determines ending
• Resources: Money, Health, Police Connections, Enemies

3. SPECIAL FORCES OFFICER
Afghanistan 1985, secret operation

• Tactical decisions affect casualties
• Team stress and morale system
• Weather and terrain as factors

Which scenario shall we develop? And what difficulty do you prefer (1-10)?

NEW REALISTIC SCENARIOS WITH GAME MECHANICS:

1. SILK ROAD MERCHANT
1347, between Constantinople and Samarkand

• Resources: Goods, Caravan, Reputation, Gold
• Risks: Bandits (15%), Disease (10%), Merchant Deception (20%)
• Skills: Trade, Diplomacy, Survival, Language Knowledge
• Goal: Deliver rare spices without losing the caravan

2. CORSAIR IN THE KING'S SERVICE
1588, war with the Spanish Armada

• Ship: Durability, Speed, Crew, Cannons
• Naval combat system with tactics
• Diplomacy: England vs Spain vs pirates
• Loot affects ship upgrades

3. DIPLOMAT IN THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE
1683, Siege of Vienna

• Harem and vizier intrigues
• Court influence system
• Espionage between European powers
• Skills: Etiquette, Languages, Bribes, Reading People

4. WILD WEST SCOUT
1876, Indian wars

• Prairie survival
• Diplomacy with tribes
• Tracking and hunting system
• Morality: genocide vs justice

5. ALCHEMIST IN PRAGUE
1600, court of Emperor Rudolf II

• System of experiments and discoveries
• Inquisition as constant threat
• Search for the philosopher's stone
• Intrigues of scholars and courtiers

Which interests you?

ST. PETERSBURG 1812-1825 - ERA OF GREAT CHANGES!

Choose your role:

1. GUARDS OFFICER
1812, eve of the Battle of Borodino

• Skills: Fencing, Tactics, Honor, Social Manners
• Resources: Regiment Reputation, Court Connections, Fortune
• Intrigues: Romances with society ladies, military conspiracies
• Goal: Survive the war and gain the Emperor's favor

2. DIPLOMAT-ADVENTURER
1814, Congress of Vienna

• Skills: Charm, Languages, Intrigues, Secret Trading
• System: Influence at European courts
• Romance: Spies, countesses, secret liaisons
• Goal: Obtain secret documents through seduction

3. DECEMBRIST CONSPIRATOR
1825, preparing the uprising

• Risk system: Every action can lead to arrest
• Conspiracy: Recruiting allies, secret meetings
• Dilemma: Honor vs family safety
• Morality: Tyranny vs freedom

4. SOCIETY LION
1820, salons and balls

• Social skills: Dancing, Poetry, Cards, Duels
• Finances: Debts, advantageous marriages, patronage
• Scandals: Love intrigues affect reputation**

Which role do you choose?

ST. PETERSBURG 1820 - FEMALE ROLES

COUNTESS EKATERINA VOLKONSKAYA
Hostess of a literary salon

GAME STATS:

• Skills: Charm (9/10), Intellect (8/10), Intrigue (7/10), Poetry (6/10)
• Resources: Fortune, Court Influence, Secret Correspondence, Reputation
• Social Position: Widow with independence

ERA FEATURES:

• Female friendship considered normal - “romantic friendship” as cover
• Literary salons - meeting place for educated ladies
• Correspondence - main way to express feelings
• Masquerades and private evenings for secret meetings

GAME MECHANICS:

• Reputation System: Scandal = social death (d20 roll)
• Intimacy: Secret meetings require caution (15% risk)
• Influence: Can patronize young ladies
• Correspondence: Encrypted messages as mini-game

GOALS:

• Make a young lady-in-waiting to the Empress fall in love with you
• Avoid society's suspicions
• Use the salon for political intrigues

DIFFICULTY: 7/10 (high social risks)

Shall we begin? First scene - a reception at your salon!

ST. PETERSBURG, FEBRUARY 1820

Your mansion on the English Embankment is flooded with chandelier light. The finest minds of the capital have gathered in the drawing room - poets, artists, young officers. Your weekly salon is famous throughout Petersburg.

YOUR STATS:

• Charm: 9/10 | Reputation: 8/10 | Fortune: 7/10 | Influence: 6/10

Among the guests stand out:

Varvara Rimskaya-Korsakova - 19 years old, young lady-in-waiting to the Empress. Clever, well-read, but shy in society. First time at your salon.

Poet Batyushkov - your regular guest, writes poetry and gossips

Colonel Muravyov - Decembrist, seeking like-minded people

Princess Golitsyna - influential old lady, watches over morality

Varvara stands by the window alone, examining books. The others are engaged in conversation about French poetry.

FIRST CHOICE:

1. Approach Varvara personally (Charm +2, but Gossip Risk 15%)
2. Ask Batyushkov to introduce you (Safe, but +1 witness)
3. Organize a group game to get closer naturally

What action do you choose?

“Dear friends!” - you attract everyone's attention with an elegant wave of your fan. “I propose we play charades! Let's divide into teams.”

ORGANIZATION ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) = Success!
Everyone perks up - the game is popular in salons.

You cleverly form teams so that Varvara ends up in your group along with Batyushkov. Princess Golitsyna nods approvingly - a proper game.

TEAMS:

• Yours: You, Varvara, Batyushkov
• Opponents: Muravyov, Golitsyna, young Count Sheremetev

“We're guessing the first word,” - you announce and lean toward Varvara: “What do you suggest, dear?”

Varvara blushes from the closeness, but her eyes light up with excitement: “Perhaps… 'inspiration'?”

Batyushkov is delighted: “What a poetic nature!”

You touch her hand: “Excellent! You'll act out the first syllable - 'in'.”

SITUATION: The game creates natural closeness. Varvara relaxes.

NEXT MOVE:

1. During her performance, give a subtle hint (Risk 10%)
2. After the game, offer to show her the library (Safe)
3. Secretly pass a note (Risk 20%, but effective)

Your choice?

The game goes splendidly! Varvara turns out to be a talented actress - her portrayal of “inspiration” earns everyone's applause. She glows from the praise, especially yours.

GAME RESULT: +1 to Charm when interacting with Varvara
REPUTATION: Unchanged (the game was impeccably proper)

When the evening draws to a close and guests begin to leave, you casually address Varvara:

“Dear Varvara Alekseevna, I have new editions of French novels - straight from Paris. Would you like to see my library?”

INVITATION ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Game Bonus (1) = Critical success!

Varvara nods with unconcealed joy: “With pleasure! I so love to read…”

Batyushkov is already putting on his fur coat: “Countess, thank you for a wonderful evening!”
Princess Golitsyna waves her fan approvingly - showing the library is quite proper.

You lead Varvara to your private library. It's quieter here, more intimate. The fireplace crackles, creating a cozy atmosphere.

CURRENT SITUATION: Alone with Varvara in a safe setting.

ACTION OPTIONS:

1. Show a genuinely interesting book, start an intellectual conversation
2. “Accidentally” touch her hand while passing a volume
3. Directly say that you find her appealing

What do you choose?

You reach for an elegant volume in morocco binding from a high shelf: “Here is 'Delphine' by Madame de Stael - just arrived from Paris. They say it's a very touching story about female friendship…”

You hand the book to Varvara. Your fingers briefly touch her hand as you pass the volume.

SUBTLETY ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) = 16 - Success!

Varvara trembles slightly at the touch but doesn't pull her hand away. Her cheeks turn pink in the firelight.

“How… how warm it is in your library,” - she whispers, leafing through the pages but clearly not reading.

You stand a bit closer than etiquette requires: “This is where I spend my best hours. Books are such faithful companions, don't you think?”

Varvara raises her eyes: “Yes… though sometimes one wants not only to read about feelings, but also to…”

She falls silent, embarrassed by her own words.

VARVARA'S REACTION: +2 to intimacy, she's opening up
REPUTATION RISK: Minimal (you're alone, acting carefully)

NEXT STEP:

1. Gently ask what she wanted to say
2. Offer to correspond - exchange thoughts about books
3. Invite her for a walk in the Summer Garden tomorrow

Your choice?

You take a step closer, your voice becoming soft and confidential: “Varvara Alekseevna… what did you want to say? It's just us here, you can speak frankly.”

TRUST ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Intimacy (2) = 18 - Excellent success!

Varvara raises her eyes, in them a mixture of embarrassment and desperate need to express herself:

“Ekaterina Nikolaevna… at court it's so cold, so formal. All those balls, ceremonies… But I… I dream of real feelings, of someone understanding my soul…”

Her voice trembles: “Sometimes I look at the other ladies-in-waiting and feel… something strange. As if I want to protect them, to be close…”

She suddenly falls silent, frightened by her own frankness.

“Forgive me, I'm talking nonsense. It's probably improper…”

CRITICAL MOMENT: Varvara has almost confessed her inclinations. She trusts you but fears judgment.

RESPONSE OPTIONS:

1. “That's not nonsense. I understand those feelings…” (Direct confession, risk 25%)
2. “Spiritual closeness between women is the highest form of friendship” (Safe, philosophical approach)
3. Embrace her in a comforting gesture (Physical closeness, risk 15%)

What do you choose?

Seeing tears glistening in Varvara's eyes, you cannot restrain yourself. You gently embrace her shoulders, drawing her to you in a comforting gesture.

APPROPRIATENESS ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) = 14 - Success!

Varvara doesn't resist - on the contrary, she presses against you, seeking comfort. Her fragile body trembles from suppressed emotions.

“Hush, dear…” - you whisper, stroking her hair. “You're not alone in these feelings. Many noble souls feel the need for deep spiritual closeness…”

Varvara lifts her face, her eyes wet but full of hope: “Really? You… you don't think I'm strange?”

At this moment, a special closeness arises between you. Varvara trusts you with her most intimate thoughts.

“Never,” - you answer quietly, not releasing her from your embrace.

RESULT:

• Intimacy with Varvara: +3
• She completely trusts you
• Foundation for further relations established

NEW SITUATION: You hear a servant's footsteps in the corridor - he's coming to summon Varvara's carriage.

QUICK DECISION:

1. Arrange a secret meeting for tomorrow
2. Offer regular correspondence
3. Invite her to stay the night under the pretext of the late hour

Your choice?

You hear the approaching footsteps but don't hurry to release Varvara. You lean to her ear and whisper:

“Varvara… tomorrow afternoon I'll be walking in the Summer Garden, by the statue of Venus. Happen to stroll there at three o'clock.”

CONSPIRACY ROLL: d20 + Intrigue (7) = 15 - Success!

Varvara nods, her eyes lighting up: “Yes… I'll say I'm going to the milliner on Nevsky.”

At that moment, the door creaks softly - your valet Fyodor enters.

“Forgive me, Your Excellency. The young lady's carriage is ready.”

You elegantly step back: “Of course, Fyodor. Varvara Alekseevna was just choosing a book to read.”

Varvara, quickly composing herself, presses the de Stael volume to her chest: “Thank you, Ekaterina Nikolaevna. I'll certainly read it.”

As you part, your hands touch again - now a conscious sign.

EVENING'S RESULTS:

• Varvara's Trust: Maximum
• Secret meeting arranged
• Reputation: No losses
• Intrigue: Successfully begun

NEXT DAY - PREPARING FOR THE MEETING:

What outfit will you choose for the walk?

1. A modest dress - not to attract attention
2. An elegant ensemble - to make an impression
3. A semi-military riding costume - practical for quick escape

Your choice?

NEXT DAY, 3:00 PM
SUMMER GARDEN

You choose a simple gray dress of fine cloth and a modest bonnet - the attire of an unremarkable middle-class lady. A smart choice for conspiracy.

STEALTH BONUS: +2 (simple clothing doesn't attract attention)

The Summer Garden is nearly empty on a February day. Snow crunches underfoot, the statues are wrapped in canvas covers. By the statue of Venus (also covered), you pretend to admire the winter landscape.

After a few minutes, a familiar figure appears in a dark coat - Varvara walks along the alley, looking around.

VARVARA'S CAUTION ROLL: d20 = 12 - Normal
She's a bit nervous but behaves naturally.

“Ekaterina Nikolaevna!” - she calls quietly, approaching. “How wonderful that the weather allowed for a walk…”

You smile: “Varvara Alekseevna, what a pleasant encounter.”

No one around, only occasional passersby in the distance.

ACTION OPTIONS:

1. Offer to walk to a secluded pavilion
2. Get straight to a serious conversation about feelings
3. Start with innocent chat, gradually becoming more candid

What do you choose?

“Varvara, it's rather cold here,” - you say, discreetly looking around. “You know, deep in the garden there's a covered pavilion. There we can talk in peace.”

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE ROLL: d20 + Intellect (8) = 16 - Success!

You lead her along snowy paths to a far corner of the garden. There indeed stands a small wooden pavilion with a roof - a resting spot for gardeners in summer, now completely deserted.

Varvara walks beside you, your hands occasionally touching at turns. She's clearly nervous but trusts you.

“Here,” - you indicate the pavilion. Inside is a bench, sheltered from wind by the walls.

You sit next to Varvara. Here you can speak freely - the nearest alley is a hundred meters away.

“Last evening…” - you begin quietly, - “you spoke of what you feel toward other women. That takes courage.”

Varvara lowers her eyes: “I thought all night… won't you consider me depraved?”

CRITICAL MOMENT: How do you respond?

OPTIONS:

1. “On the contrary - it makes you special” (Romantic, risk 10%)
2. “Platonic love between women has been known since antiquity” (Intellectual, safe)
3. “I share your feelings” (Direct confession, risk 20%)

Your choice?

You turn to Varvara, your voice becoming warm and persuasive:

“Varvara… on the contrary, it makes you special. The ability to feel so deeply, to see the beauty of the soul, not just appearance - that's a gift.”

PERSUASION ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) = 17 - Excellent success!

Varvara raises her eyes, in them a mixture of relief and timid hope: “Really? But the priests say…”

“Priests don't understand much about the subtleties of a woman's soul,” - you gently interrupt, carefully taking her hand in yours. “Between women there can exist such spiritual closeness that men don't even suspect.”

Varvara doesn't pull her hand away; moreover, her fingers slightly squeeze yours.

“Ekaterina Nikolaevna… have you yourself ever felt something similar?”

RESULT:

• Varvara's Trust: +2
• She's ready for more candid confessions
• Physical contact established

SITUATION: Varvara is directly asking about your feelings.

RESPONSES:

1. “Yes… and that's precisely why I understand you” (Honest confession)
2. “I feel it now” (Hint at her)
3. “Tell me more about your experiences first” (Evasion)

What do you choose?

You look directly into Varvara's eyes, your voice becoming almost a whisper:

“I feel it now…”

ROMANTIC CONFESSION ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Trust (5) = 19 - Critical success!

Varvara freezes, understanding the meaning of your words. Her cheeks flush with color, but she doesn't look away.

“You… you mean…” - she whispers.

“I mean that my heart beats quite differently when I'm near you,” - you continue, gently stroking her hand. “Yesterday, when you were in my arms… I understood what true feeling is.”

Varvara trembles - not from cold, but from excitement: “Ekaterina Nikolaevna… I thought I was going mad. All night I remembered your touch…”

She leans closer: “What if someone finds out?”

CRITICAL MOMENT: Varvara is mutually in love but fears the consequences.

OPTIONS:

1. “We'll be careful - create the appearance of ordinary friendship”
2. “For such feelings, it's worth the risk”
3. Kiss her (Maximum risk, but maximum romance)

What do you choose?

Time stands still. Looking into Varvara's trembling eyes, you understand - words are no longer needed. You slowly lean toward her…

RISK ROLL: d20 = 8
ROMANCE ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Mutuality (4) = 18 - Perfection!

Your lips meet in a tender, shy kiss. Varvara first freezes from surprise, then responds with touching inexperience. Her hand grips yours as if fearing this is a dream.

The kiss lasts only a moment, but for both of you - it seems like eternity.

You draw back, not releasing her hand. Varvara looks at you with wide eyes full of tears of happiness.

“I… I've never…” - she whispers.

“And I've never felt anything like this,” - you answer quietly.

RESULTS:

• Mutual love: Maximum
• Varvara is completely devoted to you
• Reputation risk: Minimal for now (no one saw)
• New goal: Keep the relationship secret

Suddenly you hear distant voices - someone is walking along the main alley.

QUICK DECISION:

1. Stay and pretend to be chance acquaintances
2. Go separate ways
3. Arrange the next meeting right now

Your choice?

You quickly compose yourself and release Varvara's hand: “Quick, act naturally.”

COMPOSURE ROLL:

• Yours: d20 + Intrigue (7) = 14 - Success!
• Varvara's: d20 + New Love (3) = 11 - Satisfactory

Varvara nods, trying to calm her breathing. You stand up and pretend to be examining the pavilion's architecture.

After a minute, two ladies with a footman come into view - elderly Countess Stroganova and her niece. They're strolling leisurely along the alley but might turn your way.

“Varvara Alekseevna,” - you say loudly enough, - “how interesting to meet you here! I too decided to take a walk before visiting the milliner.”

Varvara, still slightly flushed but now in control: “Ekaterina Nikolaevna! What a pleasant coincidence!”

ACTING SKILLS ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) = 16 - Good!

Countess Stroganova notices you and waves: “Countess Volkonskaya! How are you?”

She heads toward the pavilion with curiosity.

OPTIONS:

1. Introduce Varvara as a new acquaintance
2. Say you were discussing charity
3. Claim illness and leave quickly

What do you choose?

“Ah, Countess Stroganova!” - you greet warmly, stepping out of the pavilion. “Varvara Alekseevna and I were just discussing organizing a charity evening for orphans.”

PERSUASIVENESS ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Social Status (2) = 17 - Excellent success!

Varvara quickly picks up: “Yes! Ekaterina Nikolaevna suggested such a wonderful idea - a literary evening with a charity lottery.”

Countess Stroganova brightens: “How noble! These days so few young ladies think of the poor. And where do you plan to hold it?”

“In my salon,” - you reply. “Varvara Alekseevna agreed to help with the organization. She has such refined taste.”

Stroganova nods approvingly: “Excellent! Countess, you're raising the younger generation in the right spirit.”

RESULT:

• Created perfect cover for future meetings
• Reputation increased (+1 to Influence)
• Varvara is now your “official assistant”

After Stroganova leaves, you whisper to Varvara: “Now we have a reason to meet often.”

Varvara smiles happily: “When shall we see each other again?”

OPTIONS:

1. “Tomorrow evening - to discuss the evening's details”
2. “In three days - not too often”
3. “I'll send a note through my maid”

Your choice?

“I'll send a note through my maid,” - you say quietly when Stroganova has gone far enough away. “It will be safer that way.”

Varvara nods understandingly: “I have a faithful Dunyasha - she won't tell anyone.”

“Excellent. We'll devise code phrases - if I write 'we need to discuss flowers for the evening,' it means we meet right here.”

CREATING A CONSPIRACY SYSTEM: +2 to Intrigue

Varvara shyly touches your hand: “Ekaterina Nikolaevna… what happened between us… is it not a dream?”

You tenderly squeeze her fingers: “The most beautiful reality of my life.”

THREE DAYS LATER - YOUR APARTMENTS

Your maid Masha brings a reply note from Varvara:

“Dear Ekaterina Nikolaevna! I very much look forward to discussing flowers. I think white roses would be lovely. I also want to talk about… the musical program. Your devoted V.”

HIDDEN MEANING: She's ready to meet and wants to talk about feelings (“musical program”).

CURRENT POSITION:

• Love: Mutual and growing
• Conspiracy: Established
• Reputation: Safe
• Influence: +1 (charity)

OPTIONS FOR TODAY:

1. Arrange another meeting in the garden
2. Invite her to your home under the pretext of planning the evening
3. Meet at the theater - public, but in a box you can speak quietly

What do you choose?

Excellent idea! The theater is a perfect place for secret meetings amid high society.

MARIINSKY THEATER, THAT SAME EVENING

You send Varvara a note: “Tonight at the theater they're performing Rossini's 'Tancredi.' I'll be in box No. 7. If you happen to find yourself nearby - we'll discuss the musical program for our evening.”

ORGANIZATION ROLL: d20 + Influence (7) = 15 - Success!

By 7:00 PM you're elegantly settled in your box on the second tier. The theater is full - all of Petersburg society has gathered for the premiere. In the neighboring box, as if by chance, Varvara appears in a magnificent blue dress.

“Ekaterina Nikolaevna!” - she exclaims with genuine joy. “What a coincidence!”

You invite her into your box: “Keep me company, dear. I have a program with the libretto.”

ADVANTAGES OF A THEATER BOX:

• Can speak in whispers under the music
• The dim light hides facial expressions
• High society considers this normal
• Intermissions provide opportunity for walks

Varvara sits next to you, your dresses touching. The first act begins.

“How were these three days?” - you whisper under the orchestra's sounds.

“Agonizing,” - she answers quietly. “I thought only of you…”

OPTIONS:

1. Take her hand under cover of the program
2. Suggest going to the foyer during intermission
3. Discuss the possibility of private meetings at home

Your choice?

To the sounds of Tancredi's aria, you carefully place the program so it covers your hands, and tenderly take Varvara's fingers.

CAUTION ROLL: d20 + Intrigue (7) = 16 - Excellent success!

The gesture is completely invisible to neighboring boxes. Varvara trembles slightly from surprise but immediately intertwines her fingers with yours.

“Ekaterina…” - she whispers almost soundlessly, looking at the stage but clearly not following the action.

Her hand is warm and trembling. You feel her pulse quickening.

“I missed you too,” - you whisper in reply, gently stroking her palm with your thumb.

On stage, a drama of love and separation unfolds, but your own story seems far more important. Varvara furtively turns her head toward you, her eyes gleaming in the dim light of the box.

“Sunday is my birthday,” - she says quietly. “A small reception… Will you come?”

NEW OPPORTUNITY: A birthday - an official occasion for a gift and special attention.

RESPONSE OPTIONS:

1. “Of course. And what would you like as a gift?”
2. “I'll be there. Perhaps I'll stay to help after the reception?”
3. “Yes. And I have a special surprise for you”

Your choice?

You lean closer, your lips almost touching her ear:

“I'll certainly be there. And I have a special surprise for you…” - you pause, savoring her anticipation, - “And perhaps I'll stay to help after the reception? Seeing guests off, tidying up…”

SEDUCTIVENESS ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Intimacy (6) = 18 - Superb!

Varvara barely suppresses a sigh of delight. Her hand squeezes yours tighter: “Yes… yes, of course. That would be so… practical.”

But in her voice you hear notes far from practical.

“And the surprise?” - she whispers with childlike curiosity.

“If I tell you, it won't be a surprise,” - you laugh quietly. “But I promise - you'll like it.”

At that moment, a lovers' duet begins on stage, and the music becomes particularly passionate. Varvara, apparently understanding the symbolism of the moment, blushes even in the dim light.

RESULT:

• Plans for Sunday: Official reception + private time after
• Gift intrigue: +1 to anticipation
• Varvara is completely enchanted

First intermission. The boxes fill with light, people begin to stand and stroll.

“Shall we walk in the foyer?” - you suggest.

FOYER OPTIONS:

1. Introduce Varvara to influential ladies
2. Find a secluded corner to talk
3. Show yourselves in society as “charity friends”

Your choice?

MARIINSKY THEATER FOYER

You lead Varvara through the brilliant crowd to a group of influential ladies by a column. Your targets are Princess Lydia Volkonskaya (a distant relative) and Countess Sophia Bobrinskaya, who set the tone in high society.

“Lydia Petrovna!” - you greet. “Allow me to present - Varvara Alekseevna Rimskaya-Korsakova, one of the most educated ladies-in-waiting to Her Majesty.”

INTRODUCTION ROLL: d20 + Influence (7) + Charm (9) = 19 - Superb!

Princess Volkonskaya studies Varvara with interest: “Rimskaya-Korsakova? From the Smolensk branch?”

“Yes, Your Excellency,” - Varvara answers shyly but carries herself with dignity.

Countess Bobrinskaya adds: “I heard you're helping Ekaterina Nikolaevna with a charity evening. Commendable for a young lady.”

INTRODUCTION RESULT:

• Varvara's Reputation: +2
• Your Influence: +1 (good patronage)
• Varvara enters the elite circle

Varvara looks at you gratefully - she understands what a favor you've done her.

Princess Volkonskaya leans toward you: “Ekaterina, shall we bring the young lady to my Thursday? We discuss new French literature.”

This is a great honor - the Princess's literary Thursdays are attended by the Empress herself!

OPTIONS:

1. Immediately agree on Varvara's behalf
2. Say you'll ask her opinion
3. Suggest a private meeting first to prepare

Your choice?

“Lydia Petrovna, what an honor!” - you reply with gratitude. “But allow me to first ask Varvara Alekseevna's opinion. It's a serious society requiring preparation.”

DIPLOMACY ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Etiquette (2) = 17 - Excellent!

The princess nods approvingly: “Wise! Young girls really do need time to consider such invitations.”

Varvara looks at you gratefully - she appreciates that you're not deciding for her.

Countess Bobrinskaya adds: “On Thursday we'll be discussing Madame de Stael's novel 'Corinne.' Very suitable reading for an educated young lady.”

Varvara brightens: “Oh! I've read it! An amazing story about a woman poet…”

RESULT:

• Respect for your delicacy: +1
• Varvara showed her erudition
• Created reason for private discussion

The bell rings - the second act is beginning.

Returning to the box, Varvara says quietly: “Thank you for not deciding for me. But… honestly, I'm a little scared of such clever ladies.”

“We'll prepare,” - you whisper, settling in. “We'll discuss it on Sunday after your birthday.”

NEW GOAL: Prepare Varvara for the literary Thursday = another reason for meetings.

The second act begins with a romantic aria. What do you do?

OPTIONS:

1. Take her hand again
2. Whisper comments about the music
3. Simply enjoy the closeness

Your choice?

You settle into the box and simply allow yourself to enjoy the moment. Varvara sits beside you, her breathing slightly quickened from the excitement of the evening. The scent of her perfume - delicate violets - mixes with the smell of wax from the theater candles.

MOMENT OF CLOSENESS: No need for words or touches - being together is enough.

On stage, the heroine sings of love that cannot be revealed to the world, and these words seem written especially for you. Varvara sighs quietly, and you understand - she too feels this connection between the opera and your story.

Sometimes your gazes meet in the dim light of the box, and in those seconds an unspoken understanding passes between you. Varvara smiles slightly, and in her eyes you read complete trust and growing love.

EVENING'S RESULT:

• Emotional closeness: Maximum
• Varvara introduced to high society
• Plans created for Sunday
• Romantic atmosphere strengthened feelings

The opera ends tragically - the heroine dies without revealing her love. Applause, but Varvara looks at you with slight sadness.

“I hope our story will be happier,” - she whispers barely audibly.

TIME TO SAY GOODBYE: How do you end the evening?

1. See her to her carriage with a promise of meeting soon
2. Arrange tomorrow's walk
3. Give her the program as a keepsake

Your choice?

When the theater begins to empty, you stand and elegantly extend your hand to Varvara: “Allow me to escort you to your carriage.”

You descend the marble staircase among the other theatergoers. At the coat check, helping Varvara put on her coat, you say quietly:

“Varvara… I want to give you something to remember tonight.”

You hand her the program, but not an ordinary one - on the back, in fine handwriting, you've written lines from the aria: “Secret love is sweet, but also agonizing…”

ROMANTIC GESTURE ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) = 17 - Superb!

Varvara accepts the program, sees the inscription, and presses it to her heart: “I will keep it always…”

You step out onto the theater's porch. The February wind tugs at your furs. Varvara's carriage is already waiting.

“Until Sunday,” - you say, helping her into the carriage.

“Until Sunday,” - she replies, and in her voice there is so much tenderness and anticipation.

When the carriage disappears into the night, you understand - your relationship has moved to a new level.

THEATER EVENING RESULTS:

• Love: Mutual and deep
• Reputation: Strengthened in society
• Plans: Birthday on Sunday
• Gift: The program will become a family heirloom

TWO DAYS UNTIL THE BIRTHDAY

What preparations do you make?

1. Choose a special gift for Varvara
2. Plan how to stay after the reception
3. Prepare a surprise

Your choice?

PREPARING FOR VARVARA'S BIRTHDAY

1. CHOOSING A GIFT

You visit Petersburg's finest jewelry house - Faberge. You're looking for something exquisite but not suspicious.

GIFT OPTIONS:

• An elegant locket with a portrait (can secretly insert your portrait)
• A set of ivory combs with inlay
• A rare edition of Sappho's poetry in leather binding (symbolic!)

SELECTION ROLL: d20 + Taste (8) = 15 - Excellent choice!

You choose a locket of rose gold with diamonds. The craftsman agreed to insert your miniature portrait in a secret compartment.

2. PLAN TO STAY AFTER THE RECEPTION

You send Varvara a delicate note: “Dear birthday girl! I'd like to help with organization and cleanup after the reception. It's my privilege as your elder friend.”

3. PREPARING THE SURPRISE

Your surprise is a private concert! You arrange with the talented pianist Maria Szymanowska to play romantic pieces after the guests leave.

TOTAL EXPENSES:

• Money: -2 (expensive gift)
• Influence: +1 (generosity strengthens reputation)

SUNDAY - THE BIRTHDAY

You arrive at Varvara's at 4:00 PM. Her mansion on the Moika is decorated with flowers. Guests are already gathering - young ladies-in-waiting, several officers, aunts.

Varvara greets you in an exquisite white dress: “Ekaterina Nikolaevna! How glad I am!”

You hand her a beautiful box: “Happy birthday, dear!”

How do you present the gift?

1. In front of everyone - demonstrate generosity
2. Lead her aside - more intimate
3. Save it for the end of the evening

Your choice?

You hide the box and smile mysteriously: “The gift - at the end of the evening. Surprises don't tolerate haste.”

Varvara looks at you intrigued, but guests demand attention.

THE RECEPTION IN FULL SWING

The next three hours pass in social conversation. You elegantly mingle with guests, strengthening Varvara's reputation:

• Praising her literary taste to the ladies-in-waiting
• Telling officers about her charitable plans
• Maintaining conversation with aunts about fashion

SOCIAL SKILLS ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) = 18 - Triumph!

By 7:00 PM, guests begin to leave. Varvara says goodbye to the last visitors; you tactfully help see them off.

Finally, only you, Varvara, and a few servants cleaning dishes remain in the house.

“What a wonderful day!” - says Varvara, sinking into an armchair. “Thank you for helping.”

You approach her with a mysterious smile: “And now - the real surprises. First…”

You take out the box with the locket.

VARVARA'S REACTION:

• Curiosity: Maximum
• Fatigue from reception: Forgotten
• Anticipation: Agonizing

“The second surprise will be in a few minutes,” - you add mysteriously.

How do you present the locket?

1. Put it on her neck yourself
2. Ask her to open the box
3. Tell her about the secret compartment

Your choice?

“Allow me…” - you say quietly, opening the box and taking out the elegant locket.

Varvara freezes as you stand behind her chair. Your hands gently encircle her neck, fastening the chain. The locket settles on her decolletage, sparkling in the candlelight.

“It's beautiful…” - Varvara whispers, touching the ornament.

“But that's not all,” - you lean to her ear. “It has a secret. Do you see the little button on the side?”

MOMENT INTIMACY ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Closeness (7) = 19 - Perfection!

Varvara finds the button and presses it. The locket opens, revealing a miniature portrait - your face, painted with photographic precision.

“Ekaterina!” - her eyes fill with tears of happiness. “Now you'll always be close to my heart…”

She turns in the chair and looks up at you with such love that your breath catches.

At that moment, the maid knocks quietly on the door: “Miss, the pianist has arrived…”

“Ah yes!” - you remember. “The second surprise - a concert just for you.”

Maria Szymanowska enters with sheet music: “Ready to play a romantic program.”

SITUATION: A private concert in a nearly empty house, Varvara wearing your gift, an atmosphere full of love.

What do you do?

1. Sit next to Varvara to listen to the music
2. Invite her to a slow dance
3. Ask for something special to be played

Your choice?

“Maria Petrovna,” - you address the pianist, - “could you play Schubert's waltz? That tender one…”

Szymanowska nods understandingly and sits at the piano. The first chords fill the drawing room with a soft melody.

You turn to Varvara and elegantly extend your hand: “Birthday girl, may I invite you to dance?”

ROMANCE ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Atmosphere (3) = 17 - Magical!

Varvara rises, her eyes shining. The locket with your portrait sways in time with her movements.

You begin a slow waltz in the nearly empty drawing room. Just the two of you, the music, and flickering candlelight. Your hands touch her waist, her hand rests on your shoulder.

“No one has ever done anything like this for me,” - Varvara whispers, spinning in your embrace.

“And I've never done this for anyone,” - you answer quietly.

The music becomes especially tender. Varvara presses closer, and you feel how fast her heart is beating.

“Ekaterina… I'm so happy…” - her lips almost touch your ear.

CRITICAL MOMENT: Complete privacy, romantic atmosphere, mutual love.

OPTIONS:

1. Kiss her right now
2. Continue the dance until the melody ends
3. Whisper a declaration of love

Your choice?

Spinning in the slow waltz, you lean to Varvara's very ear and whisper words that have long been asking to come out:

“Varvara… I love you. More than life, more than honor, more than anything in the world…”

CONFESSION ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Sincerity (5) = 18 - Perfect!

Varvara freezes in your arms, her eyes opening wide. The music continues to play, but the whole world has narrowed to just the two of you.

“And I… I love you too,” - she whispers in a trembling voice. “So much that I thought I would go mad…”

At this moment, time stops. You slowly lean in, and your lips meet in a kiss - deeper and more passionate than in the winter pavilion. Varvara responds with the same passion, her hands gripping your back.

The music reaches its climax, and you pull back, looking into each other's eyes.

“Now I know for certain - this is the best birthday of my life,” - Varvara whispers, touching the locket.

RESULT:

• Mutual declarations of love
• Passionate kiss
• Emotional closeness: Maximum
• Varvara is completely yours

The pianist tactfully turns away, continuing to play.

WHAT NEXT?

1. Ask the pianist to leave and stay alone
2. Spend the rest of the evening in romantic conversation
3. Plan the future of your relationship

Your choice?

The music ends. You gently pull back from Varvara and turn to the pianist:

“Maria Petrovna, thank you. It was magical. I think that's enough for tonight…”

DELICACY ROLL: d20 + Etiquette (8) = 16 - Tactful!

Szymanowska nods understandingly: “Of course, Countess. It was an honor to play for such a beautiful couple… I mean, for the birthday girl.”

She gathers her sheet music and departs, receiving a generous reward.

The servants finished cleaning long ago. Silence falls over the house - only the crackling of logs in the fireplace and the beating of your hearts.

Varvara stands in the middle of the drawing room, touching the locket. In the firelight, she looks like a vision - white dress, blush on her cheeks, eyes full of love.

“We're… we're alone,” - she whispers, as if not believing.

You approach her, taking her hands: “Truly alone for the first time.”

Outside, the February night; inside the house, warmth and comfort. No one will disturb you until morning.

MOMENT OF COMPLETE CLOSENESS

OPTIONS:

1. Lead her to the boudoir for an intimate conversation
2. Stay by the fireplace in an embrace
3. Offer to walk through the house, showing favorite places

Your choice?

“Varvara, would you like me to show you my house? I have special places no one has seen.”

You take a candle and lead her through the mansion. First to the library where everything began, then to the winter garden with exotic plants, then to the gallery of ancestral portraits.

“This is where I spent my childhood,” - you tell her by the portrait of your parents. “Here I dreamed of true love…”

Varvara listens, not letting go of your hand. In the candlelight, she seems even more beautiful.

ROMANTIC ATMOSPHERE ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) = 15 - Wonderful!

“And this…” - you stop at the stairs to the second floor, - “are my private chambers. The boudoir where I read, dream… where I write letters to those I love.”

Varvara understands the hint. Her cheeks turn pink: “May I… may I see?”

You climb the stairs. Your boudoir is a cozy room with a sofa by the fireplace, a vanity table, bookshelves. An intimate space.

You set the candle on the table. Varvara looks around with reverence: “How beautiful it is here… and so… personal.”

You sit on the sofa, patting the spot next to you: “Here we can talk about everything. No one will hear.”

COMPLETE PRIVACY ACHIEVED

OPTIONS:

1. Begin an honest conversation about feelings and the future
2. Show her the letters you've kept
3. Simply enjoy the closeness in an embrace

Your choice?

You sit next to Varvara on the soft sofa. The fireplace crackles quietly, creating an intimate atmosphere. You take her hands in yours:

“Varvara, we've confessed our love to each other. But what next? We can't pretend we live in a simple world.”

Varvara nods seriously: “I've been thinking about this all week. In society… such feelings…”

“Could cost us everything,” - you finish. “Reputation, position, even freedom.”

DISCUSSION OF THE FUTURE:

RISKS:

• Scandal = social death
• Possible exile or monastery
• Loss of fortune and connections

POSSIBILITIES:

• Secret relationship under the guise of friendship
• Moving abroad (Paris, Italy)
• Creating a salon for “special” ladies

Varvara presses against you: “I'm ready for anything… but I'm afraid of letting you down. You mean so much in society…”

“And you mean more than any society,” - you kiss her hand.

PLANNING:

STRATEGY OPTIONS:

1. “We'll be careful and patient - play the role of friends for years”
2. “We'll leave for Europe in six months - it's freer there”
3. “We'll create a secret circle of like-minded women here”

Which strategy do you propose?

You lean closer to Varvara, determination appearing in your voice:

“What if we create a secret circle here, in Petersburg? A salon for special ladies - those who understand deep female friendship.”

Varvara raises her eyebrows with interest: “What do you mean?”

“Think about it - in high society there are many lonely ladies. Widows, unmarried women, those bored with their husbands. Under the guise of literary readings and charity…”

PLANNING ROLL: d20 + Intellect (8) + Intrigue (7) = 18 - Brilliant idea!

“We'll meet once a week,” - you continue with enthusiasm. “Discuss 'romantic poetry,' read Heloise's letters to Abelard, study platonic love…”

Varvara grows animated: “And gradually find those who share our feelings!”

“Exactly! Just imagine - Princess Shakhovskaya is always cold to men, Countess Rastopchina speaks so tenderly of her female friends…”

POTENTIAL MEMBERS:

• Princess Zinaida Shakhovskaya (28, widow)
• Countess Alexandra Rastopchina (25, unhappily married)
• Baroness Julia Krudener (30, mystic and poetess)

“But most importantly,” - you kiss Varvara's cheek, - “we'll have a reason to see each other constantly and openly.”

Varvara presses against you: “Ekaterina, you're a genius! When do we start?”

ACTION OPTIONS:

1. Start by inviting one trusted lady
2. Organize a “literary evening” for several candidates
3. First study them more closely at social events

Your choice?

“Wisely,” - you nod. “First we need to study these ladies more closely. Understand their true feelings before taking risks.”

Varvara agrees: “Yes, if we make a mistake with someone…”

“It would be catastrophic. So we act gradually.”

STUDY PLAN:

You take a sheet of paper from the secretary and elegantly write out the strategy:

PRINCESS SHAKHOVSKAYA:

• Observe at balls - whom she dances with, how she interacts with ladies
• Invite to an “innocent” literary evening
• Study her reaction to romantic poetry

COUNTESS RASTOPCHINA:

• Learn more about her marriage through mutual acquaintances
• Observe her interaction with her husband in public
• Assess her attitude toward “female friendship”

BARONESS KRUDENER:

• Her mystical interests may be a cover
• Study her salon - who attends
• Check through poetic circles

“The Razumovsky ball is next week,” - you tell Varvara. “The perfect place for observation.”

Varvara presses against you: “And for now… we have this night just for the two of us.”

Outside the window, it's already deep night. The fireplace smolders quietly.

MOMENT OF COMPLETE CLOSENESS:

OPTIONS:

1. Spend the night in romantic conversation until dawn
2. Suggest Varvara stay until morning
3. Enjoy the closeness in an embrace by the fireplace

Your choice?

You look at the clock - it's already well past midnight. Varvara looks so beautiful in the light of the dying fireplace, the locket with your portrait gleaming on her chest.

“Varvara…” - you say quietly, stroking her hand. “It's such frost outside, and the carriage will have to travel a long time to your house…”

You pause, looking into her eyes: “Perhaps you should stay until morning? I have a wonderful guest room…”

PROPOSAL ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Love (8) = 19 - Perfect!

Varvara blushes, but in her eyes you read desire: “Ekaterina… that would be… improper…”

But her voice doesn't sound convincing.

“No one will know,” - you continue gently. “The servants are asleep, and in the morning we'll say you fell ill and stayed under my care.”

Varvara presses closer: “And what will people think…”

“About two friends taking care of each other? The most natural thing.”

CRITICAL MOMENT: Varvara struggles between desire and propriety.

She looks into the fire, then at you: “If… if you're sure it's safe…”

“Absolutely sure.”

RESULT: Varvara stays the night!

NEW SITUATION:

• Reputation risk: +15% (but well hidden)
• Closeness: Maximum
• Trust: Complete

What do you suggest next?

1. Show her to the guest room
2. Offer to spend time in your bedroom
3. Stay by the fireplace until dawn

Your choice?

You stand and extend your hand to Varvara: “The guest room is so cold… But in my bedroom, the fireplace burns all night. It'll be warmer and cozier.”

TENDERNESS ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Trust (8) = 18 - Perfect delicacy!

Varvara understands your hint but sees in your eyes only love and care, no pressure. She rises and places her hand in yours:

“If you think so… I trust you.”

You lead her down the quiet corridor to your bedroom. Here it's truly warm - the fireplace burns brightly, soft carpets, a luxurious canopy bed. An intimate setting, but elegant.

“How beautiful it is here,” - Varvara whispers, looking around. She's slightly nervous but happy.

You approach her, gently embracing: “Varvara, we can simply be close. Talk, hold each other… nothing more until you're ready.”

She presses against you: “Thank you… I love you so much…”

RESULT:

• Complete trust established
• Romantic closeness without pressure
• Emotional intimacy at maximum

You sit on the edge of the bed, Varvara beside you. Outside the window, a February night, but here it's warm and safe.

OPTIONS:

1. Talk tenderly in an embrace until dawn
2. Help her get comfortable
3. Share innermost thoughts and dreams

Your choice?

You settle more comfortably on the bed, leaning back on the pillows. Varvara lies beside you, her head resting on your shoulder. The locket gleams quietly in the firelight.

“You know, Varvara,” - you begin quietly, stroking her hair, - “all my life I've felt… wrong. In childhood, when other girls dreamed of princes, I thought of girlfriends…”

OPENNESS ROLL: d20 + Trust (8) + Love (8) = 17 - Deep sincerity!

Varvara props herself up on her elbow: “Me too! God, I thought I was going mad… At the institute for noble girls, I fell in love with teachers, with older friends…”

“And then society tells us we must marry, bear children, be obedient wives,” - you continue with bitterness.

“Ekaterina, have you ever dreamed… if we lived in another world? Where we could love openly?”

You look at the ceiling, dreamily: “Sometimes I imagine… a house by the sea, somewhere in Italy. You and I, a library, a garden… No one else, just us and our love.”

Varvara presses closer: “And I dream of waking up beside you every morning. Reading together, walking, not hiding…”

RESULT:

• Emotional closeness has reached absolute maximum
• Shared dreams for the future
• Complete mutual understanding

“Perhaps our secret salon is the first step toward such a world?” - you whisper.

Your choice at dawn?

1. Fall asleep in each other's arms until morning
2. Watch the sunrise together at the window
3. Plan the first steps in creating the salon

Your choice?

The conversation gradually fades. Varvara sleepily presses against you, her breathing becoming even and calm. You cover her with a blanket and tenderly kiss her forehead.

“Good night, my dear,” - you whisper.

“Good night… my love,” - she answers almost inaudibly.

THE NIGHT PASSES PEACEFULLY

MORNING - 8:00 AM

You wake to the soft morning light. Varvara is still sleeping in your arms, her face calm and happy. The locket with your portrait rests on her chest.

Outside the window, the February sun illuminates snow-covered Petersburg. The house is quiet - the servants haven't yet started their morning duties.

NIGHT'S RESULTS:

• Emotional bond: Unbreakable
• Trust: Absolute
• Plans for the future: Shared
• Reputation: Safe for now

Varvara slowly opens her eyes and smiles at you: “Good morning… Is this not a dream?”

“The most beautiful reality,” - you answer, stroking her cheek.

MORNING PLANS:

OPTIONS:

1. Breakfast in bed and planning the day
2. Help her return home unnoticed
3. Discuss strategy for the Razumovsky ball

CURRENT GOALS:

• Study potential salon members
• Keep the relationship secret
• Develop the romantic bond

What do you choose to start the new day?

You gently stroke Varvara's hair: “Dear, we need to discuss the Razumovsky ball. It's our first opportunity to study potential salon members.”

Varvara nods, becoming more serious: “Yes, Princess Shakhovskaya will definitely be there. And Countess Rastopchina.”

“Here's our strategy,” - you sit up, pulling over your notes from last evening. “You dance with officers while I observe the ladies. Then we switch roles.”

PLAN FOR THE BALL:

• Varvara: studies ladies' reactions to romantic conversations
• You: observe interactions between women
• Meet in the smoking room to exchange information

“And now,” - you glance at the clock, - “it's time to think about your return. In an hour, the servants will wake.”

You rise and go to the wardrobe: “I have a simple dark dress - less noticeable than your white outfit.”

CONSPIRACY ROLL: d20 + Intrigue (7) = 15 - Good!

You quickly change Varvara's clothes, style her hair simply. Now she looks like a modest companion.

“The carriage waits at the back entrance,” - you inform her. “At home, say you felt unwell and stayed with a kind acquaintance.”

Varvara embraces you: “When will we see each other?”

“Tomorrow on a walk in the Summer Garden. And the ball is in three days.”

A tender farewell kiss, and Varvara disappears into the morning twilight.

OPERATION RESULT:

• The night passed without scandal
• Plans for the ball are ready
• The romantic bond is strengthened

Ready for the Razumovsky ball?

THE RAZUMOVSKY BALL - 3 DAYS LATER

Evening. Prince Razumovsky's palace shines with thousands of candles. All of Petersburg's high society has gathered at the most brilliant ball of the season.

You arrive in an exquisite blue velvet dress with pearls. Varvara is already here - in pink silk, looking dazzling. When you meet, your eyes connect for a second, but you behave like ordinary acquaintances.

GOALS FOR THE EVENING:

• Study 3 potential salon members
• Not reveal your special relationship with Varvara
• Gather information about each lady

OBSERVATIONS - FIRST HOUR:

PRINCESS SHAKHOVSKAYA: Stands by a column alone, declining dance invitations from officers. But when young Countess Buturlina approaches to talk - she brightens up.

COUNTESS RASTOPCHINA: Dances with her husband but looks bored. During the waltz, she doesn't look into his eyes; her gaze is directed at the ladies by the wall.

BARONESS KRUDENER: Leads a passionate conversation with a group of poets, quotes Sappho (!), but when a man tries to kiss her hand - coldly pulls away.

OBSERVATION ROLL: d20 + Intellect (8) = 16 - Excellent results!

Varvara approaches you during the break: “I noticed something interesting…”

What might she have noticed?

1. Listen to her observations
2. Suggest testing one of the ladies right now
3. Share your conclusions first

Your choice?

You lean toward Varvara, pretending to discuss the music: “Tell me, dear. What did you notice?”

Varvara whispers quietly but excitedly: “Princess Shakhovskaya… When Count Sheremetev invited her to the mazurka, she said: 'Forgive me, but dancing with men seems like a waste of time.' And then added: 'I prefer intelligent conversations with educated ladies.'”

IMPORTANT INFORMATION +1

“That's not all,” - Varvara continues. “I overheard a conversation between Countess Rastopchina and Baroness Krudener at the buffet. Rastopchina complained: 'My husband is so crude… But women understand the subtlety of the soul.' And Krudener answered: 'Platonic love between women is the highest manifestation of spirituality.'”

INFORMATION ANALYSIS ROLL: d20 + Intellect (8) = 17 - Superb!

You understand - all three ladies show signs of special preferences!

“And one more thing,” - Varvara blushes. “When I passed Krudener, she stopped me and said: 'What a lovely creature… a pity such flowers go to unworthy gardeners.' I didn't understand, but from her look…”

CRITICAL INFORMATION: Krudener is already showing interest in Varvara!

“Excellent work,” - you whisper. “Now we need to act.”

OPTIONS FOR NEXT STEP:

1. Approach Shakhovskaya with a literary conversation
2. Join the conversation of Rastopchina and Krudener
3. Orchestrate a “chance” meeting of all four

Your choice?

“Varvara, I have a bold idea,” - you whisper. “What if we bring all four together right now?”

Varvara looks at you in surprise: “How?”

You survey the ballroom and notice a glass display case with rare books at the far wall - the pride of Razumovsky's collection.

“Literature,” - you say with a smile. “All three ladies are educated. We'll approach the display case and start discussing the books loudly enough…”

PLAN ROLL: d20 + Intrigue (7) + Knowledge of Society (3) = 16 - Excellent idea!

You lead Varvara to the display case and exclaim loudly: “My goodness! The prince has an original edition of Rousseau's 'New Heloise'! Varvara, look what a rarity!”

Your voice attracts attention. Princess Shakhovskaya approaches first: “Rousseau? I adore his views on natural feelings…”

Countess Rastopchina hears and joins: “I prefer Madame de Stael - she so finely understands the female soul…”

CRITICAL MOMENT: Baroness Krudener notices the group and heads your way!

“Ladies, what an intellectual conversation!” - she says. “May I join? I've been studying ancient poetry… Sappho, for example.”

RESULT: All four targets gathered in one place!

NOW OR NEVER:

ACTION OPTIONS:

1. Start a conversation about “female friendship” in literature
2. Propose creating a literary circle
3. Carefully probe their views on marriage

Your choice?

You elegantly steer the conversation in the right direction: “Ladies, since we're discussing literature… what do you think about the portrayal of marriage by these authors? Rousseau, for example, believed that true love rarely coincides with social unions…”

DELICACY ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Intellect (8) = 18 - Masterful!

Princess Shakhovskaya sighs: “Ah, how right he is! Most marriages are just business deals. Where is there room for spiritual closeness?”

Countess Rastopchina nods bitterly: “I completely agree. My own marriage… my husband sees me only as a decoration for balls and a machine for heirs.”

Baroness Krudener philosophically observes: “And in antiquity they understood - the highest form of love exists between equal souls. Often of the same sex…”

Varvara timidly adds: “At court I see so many unhappy wives… But between girlfriends there is such understanding, such tenderness…”

PROBING RESULTS:

SHAKHOVSKAYA: Disappointed in men, seeking spiritual closeness
RASTOPCHINA: Unhappy in marriage, burdened by her husband
KRUDENER: Speaks openly about love between women
VARVARA: Supports the topic of female friendship

“You know,” - you say carefully, - “it seems to me we should discuss such deep topics more often. Perhaps organize regular meetings?”

All four ladies look at you with interest.

CRITICAL INVITATION MOMENT:

OPTIONS:

1. Propose a “literary salon” for next week
2. Start with one private meeting with someone
3. Hint at “special friendship” between women

Your choice?

“Ladies,” - you say with enthusiasm, - “I've just had a wonderful idea! What if we create a literary salon? Meet once a week, discuss philosophy, poetry, share thoughts about… the subtle matters of the soul?”

PERSUASION ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Reputation (8) = 19 - Triumphal success!

Baroness Krudener is first to brighten: “What a lovely thought! In Paris I attended such gatherings - such intellectual freedom!”

Princess Shakhovskaya nods: “Finally an opportunity to talk about serious things! Tired of endless conversations about weather and outfits.”

Countess Rastopchina adds with enthusiasm: “And most importantly - no men! Just us, intelligent educated women.”

Varvara supports: “Ekaterina Nikolaevna, your salon would be perfect for such meetings!”

RESULT: All four ladies agree to join!

“Wonderful!” - you say. “Then I invite you all next Thursday at seven in the evening. The topic of our first meeting - 'Platonic Love in Literature and Life.'”

Krudener smiles meaningfully: “What a… fitting topic.”

AGREEMENTS:

• Salon every Thursday at 7:00 PM
• First meeting in a week
• Topic: platonic love
• 4 members + you and Varvara

MISSION AT THE BALL: COMPLETED!

“Until we meet, ladies,” - you bow elegantly. “I await our conversations with impatience.”

When the group disperses, Varvara whispers quietly: “You're a genius! It all worked!”

What do you plan before the first salon meeting?

1. Prepare a special program and atmosphere
2. Meet privately with each member
3. Hold a “rehearsal” with Varvara

Your choice?

WEEK OF PREPARATION FOR THE SALON

MEETING SCHEDULE:

• Monday: Princess Shakhovskaya
• Tuesday: Countess Rastopchina
• Wednesday: Baroness Krudener
• Thursday morning: “Rehearsal” with Varvara

MONDAY - MEETING WITH PRINCESS SHAKHOVSKAYA

You invite her for an “innocent” tea to discuss the salon program. Shakhovskaya arrives in an elegant gray dress, looking intrigued.

“Ekaterina Nikolaevna, I'm so looking forward to Thursday! Finally intelligent society.”

STUDY ROLL: d20 + Psychology (6) = 14 - Good!

During conversation you learn:

• She's been a widow for 3 years; the marriage was unhappy
• “Men see women only as decoration or property”
• She admires “spiritual closeness between educated ladies”
• She hints: “Sometimes a woman understands a woman better than any husband”

TUESDAY - COUNTESS RASTOPCHINA

You meet “by chance” in the Summer Garden. Rastopchina looks sad.

“My husband has gone to his mistress again,” - she immediately unloads. “And I must pretend I don't know.”

RESULT: She's ready for changes in life, seeking emotional support.

WEDNESDAY - BARONESS KRUDENER

The most interesting meeting. You invite her to view new books. Krudener gets straight to the point:

“Ekaterina, I suspect the true purpose of our salon. And I fully support it.”

How do you respond?

1. Play the role of innocent salon hostess
2. Carefully hint at “special friendship”
3. Directly ask about her experience

Your choice?

You look directly into Krudener's eyes: “Julia Petrovna, since you've brought it up yourself… What is your experience with… such relationships?”

BOLDNESS ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Intuition (3) = 17 - Risky, but right!

Krudener isn't surprised by your directness. On the contrary, respect appears in her eyes: “I like your honesty.”

She sits closer and lowers her voice: “In Paris I lived for three years with Madeleine de Remusat - a poetess. We were… more than friends. Until her family forced her to return and marry.”

CRITICAL INFORMATION: She has experience with real relationships!

“And here, in Russia?” - you ask carefully.

“It's harder here. But there are understanding souls. For example…” - she looks at you meaningfully, - “I noticed a special connection between you and young Rimskaya-Korsakova.”

Your heart stops - she figured it out!

“Don't worry,” - Krudener continues gently. “I won't tell anyone. On the contrary - I want to help. I think Shakhovskaya and Rastopchina are also ready for… revelations.”

RESULT: Krudener becomes your ally!

“Then our salon can truly become something special,” - you say with relief.

“Oh yes. But we must be careful. One wrong word - and scandal will destroy us all.”

THURSDAY MORNING - “REHEARSAL” WITH VARVARA

What do you plan to discuss with her before the evening?

1. Tell her about the conversation with Krudener
2. Rehearse tactics for the salon
3. Simply spend time alone before the important evening

Your choice?

You lead the young blonde in a waltz, admiring her bright-eyed gaze.

“And what are your thoughts on marriage?” you ask casually.

She blushes: “Mama says a girl must marry by twenty, or she'll be an old maid.”

“And do you want to marry?”

“I… I don't know. The groom Mama chose… he's so boring. Talks only of horses and cards.”

Interesting. Another unwillingly betrothed girl.

“And if you could choose yourself?”

She hesitates: “I'd want someone… who understands me. Who reads poetry. Who doesn't think women are only good for children.”

Her eyes meet yours - and there's something in them…

But the music ends, and her chaperone comes for her.

“Countess, thank you for the dance,” the girl curtsies.

“Call me Catherine. And you…?”

“Natalia. Natalia Rostova.”

She leaves, but you feel: this is the beginning of something.

Varvara approaches:

“Another conquest?” she asks, but without jealousy.

“A potential ally,” you answer.

What do you do next?

After the ball - in Varvara's chambers

While the maid undoes your corset, you discuss the evening:

“Natalia Rostova - I've heard the name,” muses Varvara. “Old family, but impoverished. They're marrying her off for money.”

“She seemed… unfulfilled. Like us before we met.”

“And those Morlinis?” you recall.

Varvara frowns: “Something bad is brewing. Lorenzo in the guard today reported - Marco Morlini was seen with a Turkish envoy at the port.”

New information:

• Morlini is connected to a Turkish conspiracy
• A “great day” is planned - possibly an attack on the city
• They're buying weapons

“We need to warn Foscari,” you say.

Varvara nods: “Tomorrow I'll request an audience at the palace. And you continue with young Rostova - if she's really our kind… she could be useful.”

Tasks for tomorrow:

1. Report on the Morlinis to the authorities
2. Continue acquaintance with Natalia
3. Strengthen the Order's position in society

Which do you focus on first?

Morning - Meeting with Inquisitor Foscari

In Foscari's underground office, you relay all gathered information: about the Morlinis, the Turkish ships, the planned “great day.”

“Countess, you've served the Republic excellently,” Foscari nods. “We'll take measures.”

“I'm requesting official protection for myself and Miss Varvara,” you say firmly. “If the Morlinis discover we exposed them…”

DIPLOMACY ROLL: d20 + Influence (9) + Service to Republic (5) = 18 - Request granted!

“*You shall have guards. And… *” he hands you a signet ring with the lion of St. Mark, “this opens any doors in the city. You are under the Doge's personal protection.”

Afternoon - Meeting with Natalia

You find the young lady in the summer garden, reading a book under a gazebo.

“Countess Catherine!” she brightens.

“Just Catherine,” you sit beside her. “What are you reading?”

“George Sand,” she blushes. “Mama would be scandalized, but…”

“But good literature shouldn't be forbidden,” you finish. “Do you know, I have a library with many… forbidden books.”

Her eyes light up: “Really?”

“Come by Friday evening. I'm hosting a small gathering of like-minded people.”

Natalia hesitates: “Mama won't allow…”

“Say it's a charity committee. It's not even a lie.”

She smiles: “I'll try.”

Result: New potential Order member recruited!

What's next?

Friday evening - Gathering at Countess Volkonskaya's

In your salon, 8 women have gathered - the core of the future Order:

• Varvara - your beloved and co-founder
• Natalia Rostova - the new girl, nervous but eager
• Princess Zinaida Shakhovskaya - an aristocrat who prefers women's company
• Countess Alexandra Rastopchin - unhappily married, seeking freedom
• Baroness Yulia Krüdener - a mystic with European connections
• Anna Kern - a poetess, muse of artists
• Two more young ladies from good families

The ritual begins:

“Ladies,” you address the gathered, “we are here to support one another. In a world where women have no rights - we will be each other's rights.”

You hand out rose ribbons - the Order's symbol.

“This is our secret sign. When you see a woman in need, with a rose ribbon - help her.”

Natalia asks: “And what specifically will we do?”

“Help those whom society has rejected. Women fleeing husbands. Those ruined by men. Those who love… differently.”

Your gaze meets Varvara's. Several ladies exchange knowing looks.

CHARISMA ROLL: d20 + Influence (9) + Sincerity (4) = 17 - Deep impression!

Shakhovskaya stands: “I'm in. My entire fortune is at the Order's service.”

Others follow her lead.

Result: The Order of the Rose is officially founded!

First mission:

1. Help Anna Kern escape a cruel husband
2. Provide shelter for a merchants' daughter disgraced by a prince
3. Support a widow whose inheritance was stolen

Which do you tackle first?

Operation “Protecting the Innocent”

The merchants' daughter Elizaveta - 17 years old, seduced and abandoned by Prince Dolgorukov. Now pregnant, disowned by her family, she faces the street or a monastery.

Your plan:

“Varvara, prepare a room in the country house,” you command. “Shakhovskaya - spread a rumor about Dolgorukov's debts and debauchery in society.”

Stage 1 - Finding Elizaveta

Krüdener locates her in a cheap inn in Kolomna. The girl is desperate - pale, frightened, already showing.

“Who are you?” she asks fearfully.

“Friends. We'll take care of you and your child.”

PERSUASION ROLL: d20 + Compassion (6) + Trust (3) = 15 - She agrees!

Stage 2 - Hiding

You transport Elizaveta to the country house near Gatchina. There she'll live under Shakhovskaya's protection.

Stage 3 - Revenge on the Prince

Rastopchin, whose husband knows Dolgorukov, spreads rumors of his “illness” - a delicate one that makes him unmarriageable.

INTRIGUE ROLL: d20 + Connections (8) + Revenge (4) = 18 - Devastating blow!

Result:

• Elizaveta is safe and will give birth in comfort
• Dolgorukov is shunned in society
• The Order's reputation grows among women who know

Unexpected development: Natalia Rostova witnessed your kindness and is now devoted to you personally.

“Catherine,” she says quietly, “you're amazing. I want to be like you.”

How do you respond?

Late evening - Private conversation with Natalia

You lead Natalia to your private chambers. Firelight plays on her young face.

“You said you want to be like me,” you begin softly. “But do you know what that means?”

She blushes: “To help people? To be independent?”

“More than that.” You sit beside her on the settee. “Tell me, Natalia… what do you truly feel? In your deepest heart?”

INSIGHT ROLL: d20 + Intuition (7) + Trust (4) = 16 - She opens up!

Natalia is silent for a long moment, then whispers:

“I… I've never felt for men what novels describe. When my fiancé kisses my hand - I feel nothing. But when you… when women…”

She trails off, terrified by her own words.

“You're not alone,” you say gently, taking her hand. “Many of us feel the same.”

“You too?” - hope in her eyes.

“Varvara and I… we are more than friends. Much more.”

Natalia's eyes widen: “But how… society… the church…”

“Society doesn't need to know. That's why we have the Order - to protect each other.”

She squeezes your hand: “I've felt so alone my whole life. Thank you for telling me.”

Bond deepened: Natalia is now a devoted member of the inner circle.

Question: Do you wish to develop a romantic relationship with Natalia, or keep things sisterly?

A sisterly bond

You embrace Natalia warmly but chastely.

“You're like a younger sister to me now,” you say. “The Order will be your family. And when you find love - we'll protect it.”

Natalia wipes away tears: “Thank you, Catherine. I never had a real sister.”

Two months later - The Order flourishes

Achievements:

• 12 members in St. Petersburg
• 3 women saved from abusive situations
• Secret communication network established
• Charity balls as cover for activities

Varvara's report at the weekly meeting:

“Sisters, we have new challenges. The Decembrists' wives need help - their husbands are arrested, their property confiscated.”

Indeed, after December 1825, dozens of noble families were ruined. Wives, children - left without support.

“This is dangerous,” warns Krüdener. “Helping 'traitors' families…”

“Helping women and children is Christian mercy,” you counter. “No one can object to that.”

Shakhovskaya: “I know Princess Trubetskaya personally. Her husband Sergei is in the Peter and Paul Fortress…”

New mission forming:

1. Establish contact with Decembrists' families
2. Create a secret fund for their support
3. Risk: drawing attention from the Third Section (secret police)

How do you proceed?

Careful reconnaissance

“Before we act, we need intelligence,” you declare. “Who is watching whom, who can be trusted, who is in danger.”

Week 1 - Gathering information

Varvara uses her court connections to learn about the investigation's progress.

Shakhovskaya meets with Princess Trubetskaya “for tea” and learns about the families' desperate situation.

Krüdener contacts her masonic connections - they have information channels even in prison.

INVESTIGATION ROLL: d20 + Network (8) + Caution (3) = 17 - Valuable intelligence!

Information gathered:

Most vulnerable families:

1. Maria Trubetskaya - husband sentenced to hard labor, property seized
2. Alexandra Muravyova - pregnant, husband in fortress
3. Camilla Ivasheva - foreign-born, may be deported

Surveillance situation:

• Third Section has limited resources
• Focus on men, not women
• “Charity” is acceptable cover

Dangerous figures:

• Count Benckendorff - head of secret police, suspicious of everything
• Several informants in high society

Week 2 - First contact

You arrange a “charity sewing circle” and invite Maria Trubetskaya. She arrives pale and frightened.

“Countess Volkonskaya… I've heard you help those in need…”

“Call me Catherine. And yes - we help. Tell me everything.”

Trubetskaya's situation:

• Husband Sergei sentenced to 15 years hard labor
• All property confiscated
• She wants to follow him to Siberia
• Needs money, documents, protection from police

What do you offer her?

Concrete help

“Maria,” you take her hands, “first - stay at my home. There's a guest room, you'll be safe from creditors and police spies.”

She begins to cry: “You'd risk this? They're watching everyone connected to the 'traitors'…”

“Let them watch. A countess helping a fallen colleague's wife - that's noble, not criminal.”

Stage 1 - Shelter

Maria Trubetskaya moves into your home under the guise of “a friend visiting during illness.” Varvara helps her settle in.

Stage 2 - Arranging a visit

“To visit Sergei in the Peter and Paul Fortress, you'll need permission from the commandant,” Krüdener advises. “My cousin's husband serves there…”

CONNECTIONS ROLL: d20 + Influence (8) + Bribery (4) = 16 - Permission obtained!

A week later, you accompany Maria to the fortress. The visit is brief but crucial.

Sergei Trubetskoy, pale and thin after months in a cell, hugs his wife: “Maria… how did you manage this?”

“Friends,” she whispers. “Good friends.”

After the visit:

Maria is transformed - there's hope in her eyes now.

“Catherine, I want to join the Order,” she says firmly. “What you're doing… this is true sisterhood.”

Result:

• Maria Trubetskaya joins the Order
• Network extended into the fortress
• But you sense: someone is watching…

New development: A black carriage follows yours from the fortress.

What do you do?

Counter-surveillance

“Maria, don't look back,” you whisper. “We're being followed.”

Stage 1 - Evasion

Your coachman knows the city well. You order: “Through the market, then by the canal - the narrow passages.”

EVASION ROLL: d20 + City knowledge (5) + Coachman skill (4) = 14 - Partial success!

The black carriage loses you in the market crowd, but you see them again near the bridge.

Stage 2 - Carriage switch

At the Shakhovskaya residence, you quickly switch to her unmarked carriage. Maria puts on a servant's cloak.

“Now we're just two servants going home,” you smile.

DISGUISE ROLL: d20 + Quick thinking (6) + Actress skills (3) = 15 - Effective disguise!

The followers pass by without noticing.

Stage 3 - Identifying the pursuers

Varvara sends a street urchin to watch the black carriage. He returns with information:

“It's Count Benckendorff's people, ma'am. Third Section.”

Bad news: You're officially under surveillance.

But also: This means you're doing something right.

Evening council:

“We need to be more careful,” Krüdener warns. “Codes, dead drops, counter-surveillance.”

“And we need protection,” adds Shakhovskaya. “Friends in high places.”

Options:

1. Appeal to the Empress (Varvara has some access)
2. Use Foscari's Venice connections for advice
3. Operate more quietly for now

Your choice?

Appeal to the Empress

“Varvara, you have connections at court,” you say. “The Empress Alexandra has a reputation for charity. If we could get her patronage…”

Varvara's plan:

“I'll request an audience through my former position. Present our work as Christian mercy for unfortunate women and children.”

Week of preparation:

• Shakhovskaya helps with court etiquette
• Krüdener advises on the right words
• You prepare a portfolio of your charitable works

The audience - Winter Palace

Varvara, in her finest court dress, enters the Empress's chambers.

DIPLOMACY ROLL: d20 + Court experience (7) + Sincerity (5) = 18 - Excellent impression!

Report from Varvara:

“The Empress was moved by our stories,” she beams. “She remembered her own German relatives who lost everything in the wars. She asked: 'And you help these unfortunate souls?'”

“I said: 'We try, Your Majesty. Christian duty commands us.'”

Result:

• The Empress gives her informal blessing
• A small donation from the imperial purse
• Most importantly: implied protection from suspicion

Benckendorff's reaction:

A note arrives from the Third Section:

“Countess Volkonskaya - your charitable activities are noted. Continue with discretion.”

Translation: We're watching, but won't interfere… yet.

New phase:
With imperial cover, you can operate more openly.

Growing the Order:

1. Expand to Moscow (Shakhovskaya's sister)
2. Help more Decembrists' wives travel to Siberia
3. Create a secret school for girls

Which direction?

Dual expansion - Helping wives and educating girls

“We can do both,” you declare at the council. “Different teams, different operations.”

Operation “Siberian Road”

Goal: Help wives of exiled Decembrists make the journey to join their husbands in Siberia.

Challenges:

• 6,000 miles of difficult travel
• Official obstacles and paperwork
• Money for the journey
• Safe houses along the route

Team:

• Maria Trubetskaya leads (she'll go herself)
• Krüdener organizes European funding
• Rastopchin handles documents

ORGANIZATION ROLL: d20 + Resources (8) + Connections (7) = 19 - Masterful planning!

Result in 6 months:

• 7 wives helped to reach Siberia
• Secret network of safe houses established
• Correspondence system with exiled Decembrists

Operation “Hidden School”

Goal: Education for girls who can't access official institutions.

Location: The ground floor of Shakhovskaya's townhouse, disguised as a “sewing circle.”

Curriculum:

• Reading and writing (Russian and French)
• Mathematics and basic sciences
• History and literature
• Philosophy and critical thinking

Teachers:

• Anna Kern - poetry and literature
• Natalia Rostova - languages
• You - history and philosophy

Students: 15 girls from various backgrounds

EDUCATION ROLL: d20 + Teaching (5) + Passion (6) = 16 - Effective school!

One year later:

The Order has become a force:

• 25 active members
• 12 wives helped to Siberia
• 30 girls educated
• Network across Russia

But success brings attention…

Warning from Varvara: “Benckendorff has called you 'suspiciously active' to the Emperor.”

How do you respond?

Meeting the chief of the Secret Police

“If he's suspicious, I'll address it directly,” you decide. “Better to face the lion than fear his shadow.”

Preparation:

• Varvara coaches you on Benckendorff's personality: cold, intelligent, but not heartless
• Shakhovskaya provides information on his weaknesses: loves his family, respects the Emperor
• You prepare all documents proving your work is purely charitable

The meeting - Third Section headquarters

Count Alexander Benckendorff receives you in his austere office. Cold gray eyes study you carefully.

“Countess Volkonskaya. You requested this meeting. Unusual.”

“Count, I've learned that my activities concern you. I prefer clarity to suspicion.”

DIPLOMACY ROLL: d20 + Courage (5) + Influence (9) = 17 - Good opening!

He raises an eyebrow: “Direct. I appreciate that. So tell me - what exactly are you doing?”

You present your case:

• Charity for unfortunate women (acceptable)
• Education for girls (borderline)
• Helping Decembrists' wives (dangerous)

“I help families, not ideas,” you emphasize. “Hungry children don't care about politics.”

Benckendorff's response:

“Countess, I've read your file. You're clever - perhaps too clever. But…” he pauses, “the Empress speaks well of you. And Christian mercy is indeed a virtue.”

He stands and looks out the window:

“Continue your work. But remember - there are lines. Cross them, and no imperial favor will protect you.”

“I understand perfectly, Count.”

Result: Unofficial permission to continue, under observation.

What's next?

Increasing caution and considering appearances

After the meeting with Benckendorff, you reorganize:

Security measures:

• Code names for all members
• Secret signals and meeting places
• Destroy compromising documents after reading
• Counter-surveillance for important operations

The question of appearances:

At night, Varvara raises a delicate subject:

“Catherine, we've been fortunate. But people talk. Two unmarried women, always together…”

You understand. In society, your arrangement eventually raises questions.

“A marriage of convenience,” you suggest. “A husband who would leave us alone.”

Varvara considers: “And perhaps… a child. To seal the social position completely.”

REFLECTION ROLL: d20 + Self-knowledge (6) + Pragmatism (5) = 14 - Clear thinking

Candidates for marriage of convenience:

1. Prince Nikolai Volkonsky - distant cousin, gambler in debt, would accept money for a name
2. Baron von Fersen - Swedish diplomat, rumored to prefer men himself, discreet
3. Count Bezukhov - elderly widower, lonely, would be satisfied with companionship only

Varvara's opinion: “The Baron seems safest. A foreigner, understanding, and we'd have excuse to travel.”

But: Would marriage change your relationship with Varvara?

How do you proceed with this delicate matter?

A heart-to-heart conversation

You take Varvara's hands in the candlelight of your bedroom.

“Before we decide anything, I need to know - how do you feel about this? About me potentially marrying?”

Varvara's eyes glisten: “I won't pretend it doesn't hurt. The thought of you in another's arms…”

“It would be purely formal. You know my heart belongs only to you.”

She nods slowly: “I know. And I understand the necessity. But…”

“But?”

“If you marry, perhaps I should too. Then we'd both be protected. And we could be 'friends visiting' each other indefinitely.”

INTIMACY ROLL: d20 + Trust (8) + Love (9) = 19 - Complete understanding

You embrace her: “Two married ladies, devoted friends, sharing everything - who could object?”

Varvara laughs through tears: “We'd be the most respectable scandal in St. Petersburg.”

The plan takes shape:

“Baron von Fersen for me,” you suggest. “And for you… perhaps someone who wouldn't demand… duties?”

Varvara thinks: “There's a young officer, Andrei Somov. Injured in the war, cannot… perform. He's lonely and kind. We've spoken at charity events.”

“Would he understand?”

“I believe so. He once said 'marriage should be friendship, not possession.'”

Resolution: Both of you will seek marriages of convenience, maintaining your true relationship in secret.

Next step: Approach the potential husbands?

Two proposals

Your approach to Baron von Fersen:

At a diplomatic reception, you corner the handsome Swedish baron.

“Baron, I have a most unusual proposition.”

He smiles knowingly: “Countess, I've heard you're an unusual woman.”

You speak frankly: “I need a husband for social protection. Not a lover - I have… other arrangements. You would have complete freedom, access to my fortune, and a hostess for your diplomatic functions.”

NEGOTIATION ROLL: d20 + Directness (5) + Appeal (8) = 18 - He's intrigued!

Von Fersen chuckles: “You're refreshingly honest. I too have… arrangements that require discretion. A beautiful wife who asks nothing would be convenient indeed.”

“Then we understand each other?”

“Perfectly. I accept.”

Varvara's approach to Andrei Somov:

At a charity luncheon, Varvara sits beside the quiet, limping officer.

“Andrei Petrovich, may I speak candidly?”

He looks surprised: “Of course, Miss Varvara.”

She explains her situation - needing protection, companionship without demands.

SINCERITY ROLL: d20 + Honesty (7) + Compassion (6) = 17 - He understands!

Somov is quiet for a moment, then: “I cannot be a true husband to anyone. But I can be a loyal friend and protector. If that's enough…”

“It's more than enough.”

Six months later - Two weddings:

Society is delighted by the double wedding of two close friends marrying on the same day. The Empress herself sends gifts.

The arrangement works perfectly:

• You and Varvara now have official homes next door to each other
• Your husbands share a gentleman's club and leave you in peace
• The world sees two respectable married ladies

But something unexpected happens…

Von Fersen approaches you one evening: “Catherine, there's something I should tell you…”

What does he want to discuss?

The Baron's confession

Von Fersen sits across from you in the study, unusually nervous for such a composed man.

“Catherine, our arrangement has been… ideal. But I need to confess something that may affect it.”

You wait, curious.

“I've fallen in love,” he says. “With a young man at the embassy. Dmitri.”

PERCEPTION ROLL: d20 + Intuition (7) = 15 - You understand completely

“And you're telling me this because…?”

“Because I want him to live here. With us. As my 'secretary.'” He looks at you directly. “You have Varvara constantly. I want the same.”

You consider. This could be dangerous - or it could strengthen your alliance.

“What is Dmitri like?”

Von Fersen's face softens: “Kind, intelligent, discreet. He knows about our arrangement and supports it.”

Your decision:

“Bring him. Our house will have two 'secretaries' and two 'dear friends.' Who could possibly keep track?”

Von Fersen laughs with relief: “You're remarkable, Catherine.”

New household arrangement:

• Baron von Fersen and his “secretary” Dmitri
• You and your “dear friend” Varvara (who often “visits”)
• Staff well-paid for discretion
• Perfect respectability to the outside world

Andrei Somov's reaction:

When Varvara explains the new arrangement, he nods: “I suspected about the Baron. And… may I confess? I've developed feelings for a widow in my regiment. Nothing physical, but she reads to me, we talk…”

“Of course, Andrei. Bring her to dinner.”

One year later:

Your unconventional households are the happiest in St. Petersburg. And the Order of the Rose flourishes under this perfect cover.

What developments next?

The question of an heir

At a morning meeting with Varvara, you raise the delicate subject:

“Society will eventually ask why Baroness von Fersen has no children…”

Varvara frowns: “That's… complicated. Von Fersen certainly can't…”

“No. But there are other ways.”

Options considered:

1. Adoption - Many orphans need homes, but lacks the social “legitimacy”
2. Discrete arrangement - A trusted man, one time, for the purpose
3. Continue childless - Claim “medical reasons”

COUNCIL WITH VARVARA:

“What do you want, truly?” she asks.

You consider carefully: “Part of me wants a child to love. Part fears it would change everything between us.”

“I would love any child of yours,” Varvara says softly. “And… I've thought about this too.”

“You have?”

“What if we both had children? Raised them together? They'd be like siblings.”

INTIMACY ROLL: d20 + Love (9) + Planning (5) = 18 - Beautiful vision!

The plan:

Both of you would find discrete, trustworthy men for the purpose - not lovers, just donors. The children would grow up together, raised by both mothers.

“Our own little Order,” Varvara smiles.

Question: Do you proceed with this plan?

The plan in motion

Finding suitable fathers:

Krüdener, with her masonic connections, knows how to be discreet.

“There's a young doctor at the hospital, Ivan Petrov,” she suggests. “Good family, excellent health, completely trustworthy. He needs money for his research and asks no questions.”

The arrangement:

• Doctor Petrov visits each of you once, for the explicit purpose
• He is well compensated and sworn to secrecy
• He will have no claim on the children

DISCRETION ROLL: d20 + Planning (6) + Trustworthy contacts (8) = 19 - Perfect secrecy!

Nine months later:

Within weeks of each other, you and Varvara both give birth:

Your daughter: Ekaterina Alexandrovna von Fersen (you name her after yourself)
Varvara's son: Nikolai Andreevich Somov

The household transforms:

Two nurseries, two babies, and the four parents create an unconventional but loving family:

• Von Fersen dotes on little Ekaterina (surprising everyone, including himself)
• Somov reads stories to both children despite his melancholy
• Dmitri and the widow help with childcare
• And you and Varvara raise them together

Society approves: “What devoted friends! And their children play together so sweetly!”

Three years later:

The children call you both “Mama” and “Auntie” interchangeably. They're inseparable.

Ekaterina asks: “Mama, why do I have two mamas?”

You smile: “Because you're twice as loved, darling.”

The Order continues: Now with perfect cover, you're the respectable mothers of respectable families, quietly saving lives.

New crisis approaching?

The crisis emerges

Winter 1832 - Seven years after the Decembrist uprising

A messenger arrives with urgent news from Shakhovskaya in Moscow:

“The Third Section has new leadership. Count Orlov is cracking down on everything - even charitable organizations are being investigated.”

Troubling developments:

1. Document search at a Decembrist widow's home - they found Order correspondence
2. Interrogation of Maria Trubetskaya about her helpers
3. New law requiring all charitable organizations to register with the state

Emergency council at your home:

“If we register, they'll see our whole network,” Krüdener warns.

“If we don't, we're operating illegally,” Rastopchin counters.

Varvara, bouncing little Nikolai on her knee: “The children complicate everything. We can't risk their futures…”

ANALYSIS ROLL: d20 + Intelligence (8) + Experience (7) = 18 - Clear picture!

The situation:

• The Order's outer shell (public charity) must register or dissolve
• The inner circle (secret operations) must go deeper underground
• Some members are at risk and should leave Russia

Options:

1. Full cooperation - Register, limit activities, play the long game
2. Partial split - Public organization registers, secret network continues separately
3. Emergency measures - Evacuate compromised members, burn documents

“We have days, not weeks,” Shakhovskaya warns.

What do you decide?

Emergency protocols activated

“We split and protect,” you command. “No half measures.”

Immediate actions:

Stage 1 - Document destruction (Tonight)

• All membership lists burned
• Correspondence codes changed
• Compromising letters destroyed

SECRECY ROLL: d20 + Conspiracy (8) + Urgency (4) = 17 - Clean operation!

Stage 2 - Evacuation (Next 48 hours)

Three members most at risk:

• Maria Trubetskaya (named in documents) → Finland, then Sweden
• A young member caught with banned books → Krüdener takes her to Paris
• Shakhovskaya's lover (her letters were found) → Italy

Stage 3 - Official registration

The public “Ladies' Charitable Society” registers with the state:

• You as patroness
• Varvara as treasurer
• Only innocent activities listed
• Real leadership continues in shadow

Two weeks later:

Count Orlov's agents visit your salon. They find:

• Well-dressed ladies sewing clothes for orphans
• Proper documentation of all funds
• No political discussions whatsoever

“The Baroness von Fersen runs an exemplary organization,” they report.

Underground network:

Meanwhile, the true Order communicates through:

• Coded messages in poetry journals
• Meeting in different cities' churches
• Children's birthday parties as cover

New structure:

• Only 6 people know the full extent
• Regional cells operate independently
• If one falls, others survive

Crisis averted… for now.

But Benckendorff sends a note:

“Baroness - your sudden reorganization was noted. Consider yourself warned.”

How do you respond?

Diplomatic game with the head of the Third Section

Preparing for the meeting with Benckendorff

“Varvara,” you say decisively, “I urgently need official support from the Empress. Written!”

While Varvara rushes to the palace, you prepare for the most important meeting of your life.

Strategy:

• Show imperial support immediately
• Present yourself as an instrument of the royal family's mercy
• Turn “suspicious charity” into “highest will”

Two hours later - Benckendorff's palace

Count Alexander Benckendorff receives you in his office. Cold gray eyes, steely composure - the most dangerous man in the empire.

“Countess Volkonskaya. Your… activity has attracted attention.”

Calmly, you take out the letter from the Empress and place it on the table: “Count, allow me to show the basis for my activities.”

DIPLOMACY ROLL: d20 + Influence (9) + Imperial support (6) = 18 - Strong position!

Benckendorff reads the letter, his eyebrows rising:

“Countess Volkonskaya acts under Our highest permission in the matter of caring for the wives and children of criminals, out of Christian mercy. Alexandra”

Negotiations:

“Count,” you say firmly, “Her Majesty wishes to show the Empire's mercy. I am merely executing her will.”

Benckendorff thinks, then: “I see. But there are limits, Countess. Mercy must not become encouragement of rebellion.”

“Of course. I help families, not ideas.”

Agreements reached:

• Your charity receives official status
• Benckendorff doesn't interfere, but watches
• Any political actions = immediate arrest

Result: Freedom to act under observation!

You return home triumphant. Now you can save people openly.

Immediate actions:

• Camilla Ivasheva is moved to your country house
• Alexandra Muravyova receives monthly support
• The Order of the Rose can operate under the cover of charity

Next operational goal?

1. Organize the escape of Sergei Trubetskoy from the fortress
2. Help Decembrists' wives reach their husbands in Siberia
3. Create a support network across the empire

Your choice?

Creating an imperial support network

Plan for expanding the “Order of the Rose”

You convene an emergency meeting of all participants at the country house under the guise of “planning charity.”

“Sisters,” you address the 12 assembled ladies, “our Order has received a new mission. The Empire needs a network of mercy.”

Strategic plan:

Moscow: Princess Shakhovskaya has a sister - Countess Rostopchina
Kiev: Krüdener knows the local masons
Odessa: Rastopchina's connections in Greek society
Kazan: Vorontsova's relatives in the Volga region
Irkutsk: To help exiles on the way to Siberia

Maria Trubetskaya sobs: “And Sergei… he's in the Peter and Paul Fortress… Perhaps…”

Possibility of Trubetskoy's escape:

Varvara quietly reports: “I have information. The head of the prison guard - Colonel Nabokov - owes my father a large sum…”

ANALYSIS ROLL: d20 + Conspiracy (8) + Connections (8) = 17 - Feasible, but extremely risky!

Escape plan:

• Bribe Nabokov through debt obligations
• Route through your network to the border
• But risk = exposure of the entire organization

Choosing priorities:

Krüdener warns: “Catherine, if the escape fails - they'll hang us all. But if we don't try - Sergei will be executed within a month.”

Shakhovskaya adds: “And the network across the empire will help hundreds of families. What's more important - one person or the common cause?”

Critical decision:

• Resources are limited: You can only focus on one
• Risks differ: Network = long-term safety, escape = immediate danger
• Time is limited: 4 weeks until Trubetskoy's execution

Options:

1. Start building the network, postpone escape until better times
2. Risk immediate escape while there's a chance
3. Try to combine both plans (maximum risk)

What do you decide?

Operation “Liberation of the Eagle”

You stand, placing your hands on the map of Petersburg: “Sisters, I cannot watch while one of ours' husband is executed. We're saving Sergei Trubetskoy!”

GROUP RESOLVE ROLL: d20 + Influence (9) + Loyalty (7) = 18 - Unanimous support!

Maria weeps with joy: “Catherine… you're risking everything for him…”

“We're family. And family doesn't abandon its own.”

Escape plan:

Stage 1 - Bribing Nabokov (1 week)
Varvara: “Father owes him 50,000 rubles. We'll offer to cancel the debt plus another 100,000 for 'services.'”

Stage 2 - Escape route (2 weeks preparation)

• Fortress → Your country house (change of clothes)
• → Shakhovskaya's estate near Gatchina (1 day rest)
• → Baltic coast (Krüdener's connections)
• → Finland by fishing boat

Stage 3 - Day of escape (week 4)
“Medical examination” by Dr. Raukhfus + substitution of guards

Roles in the operation:

• You: Overall command, finances
• Varvara: Negotiations with Nabokov
• Maria: Deliver plans to Sergei
• Shakhovskaya: Safe house
• Krüdener: Sea route
• Others: Cover, alibis

Risks:

• Failure = death for everyone
• Success = rescue + exposure of the Order
• Nabokov's refusal = loss of time and money

First step: Varvara meets with Nabokov tomorrow under the pretext of family matters.

BRIBERY ROLL: d20 + Varvara's charm (7) + Size of bribe (5) = ?

“Ready to begin?” you ask.

Everyone nods, understanding the mortal risk.

Do you want to add additional security measures, or do we start immediately?

Operation begins - with maximum caution

Day 1 - Reconnaissance

Varvara goes to Colonel Nabokov under the guise of family matters. But first, you take additional measures:

Precautions:

• Anna Kern follows Varvara at a distance
• Shakhovskaya prepares a backup retreat route
• You have an alibi ready: “charity inspection of orphanages”

Meeting with Nabokov

Varvara in a modest dress arrives at the colonel's house on Vasilyevsky Island.

“Colonel, I'm here on my father's behalf… regarding debt obligations…”

BRIBERY ROLL: d20 + Charm (7) + Size of bribe (5) + Caution (2) = 16 - Cautious success!

Nabokov, a 45-year-old man with a pockmarked face, listens warily at first. But when Varvara names the sum - 150,000 rubles for a “small service” - his eyes light up.

“Miss… what service exactly do you have in mind?”

Varvara, carefully: “One prisoner needs a… special medical examination. With the opportunity to speak with a relative.”

Result: Nabokov is interested but suspicious.

“I need to think about it. And find out guarantees of safety.”

That evening - Varvara's report:

“He'll agree, but wants half the money in advance and a plan for how to protect him from consequences.”

Maria is nervous: “What if he betrays us?”

“Then we have a retreat plan,” you reassure her.

Next step:

1. Give Nabokov the advance payment and detailed plan
2. Find compromising material on him for additional insurance
3. Retreat and look for another way

Your choice?

Finding compromising material on Nabokov

“Varvara, money is good, but we need insurance,” you say decisively. “If we have compromising material on Nabokov, he won't dare betray us.”

Information gathering plan:

Intelligence sources:

• Krüdener: Connections in masonic lodges (officers love to gossip)
• Rastopchina: Her husband served with Nabokov, knows his habits
• Kern: Poetry salons - source of rumors
• You: Society connections among military wives

Day 2 - Intelligence gathering

Krüdener returns with valuable information: “Nabokov gambles at the officers' club. Loses heavily. And also… he has a mistress - a chorus girl from the theater.”

Rastopchina adds: “My husband said - Nabokov takes bribes from merchants for transporting goods into the fortress. That's treason!”

INTELLIGENCE ROLL: d20 + Connections (8) + Intrigue (8) = 17 - Rich material!

Compromising material found:

• Gambling debts of 200,000 rubles
• Bribes from merchants (documentary evidence from Rastopchina)
• Illegal trade in prison rations
• Mistress receiving a state apartment

Kern triumphantly: “And he also writes poetry! Terrible poetry! And publishes it under someone else's name!”

Day 3 - Follow-up meeting

Varvara goes to Nabokov again, but now with an ace up her sleeve.

“Colonel, we're ready to discuss details… By the way, how is Mademoiselle Lebedeva from the theater?”

Nabokov pales: “How do you…”

“We have many friends. As do you… many interesting affairs besides your service.”

Result: Nabokov understands he's trapped.

“What do you want?” he asks hoarsely.

“Cooperation. For money and silence.”

Terms of the deal:

• 75,000 rubles (reduced due to blackmail)
• Escape plan within a week
• His full protection through our leverage
• Alibi for him: “the prisoner died from illness”

Nabokov agrees.

Plan ready for execution!

When do we schedule the escape?

1. In 3 days (quick, but little preparation time)
2. In a week (optimal)
3. In 2 weeks (maximum preparation, but risk of exposure)

Your choice?

Urgent preparation for escape

“In 3 days,” you say decisively. “The longer we wait, the greater the risk of leaks.”

Day 1 - Lightning preparation

Roles and tasks:

• Maria: Pass the plan to Sergei through “food delivery”
• Shakhovskaya: Prepare the hiding place in Gatchina
• Krüdener: Arrange with fishermen for a boat
• Varvara: Final details with Nabokov
• You: Coordination + backup retreat plan

Escape plan:

• Saturday, 2:00 PM: “Medical examination” by Dr. Raukhfus
• 2:30 PM: Nabokov takes guards away on “urgent business”
• 2:45 PM: Sergei in medical carriage, disguised as doctor's assistant
• 3:00 PM: Straight to your mansion
• Night: Transport to Gatchina

Day 2 - Readiness check

Maria returns from visiting her husband: “Sergei understood the plan. He's ready.”

Shakhovskaya: “The house in Gatchina is stocked with horses and provisions.”

Krüdener: “Fisherman Olsen agreed for 1,000 rubles.”

PREPARATION ROLL: d20 + Organization (6) + Haste (-2) = 12 - Not perfect, but possible!

Day 3 - Day of escape

1:45 PM - Everyone in position. You and Maria wait in a carriage by the fortress.

2:00 PM - Dr. Raukhfus enters the fortress.

2:25 PM - Nabokov leads guards away: “Urgent inspection by order of the general!”

2:40 PM - Two figures in medical coats emerge from the gates…

Critical moment: One guard remained! He looks at the “doctors” suspiciously!

“Hey! Stop!” the sentry shouts.

ESCAPE ROLL: d20 + Luck = ?

Options for action:

1. Raukhfus distracts the guard with conversation
2. Maria jumps out of the carriage, pretending to be hysterical
3. Sergei tries to quickly reach the carriage

Quick decision!

Double distraction

Synchronized attack:

Dr. Raukhfus instantly reacts, approaching the guard: “Soldier! You know me - personal physician to His Excellency! What insolence!”

Simultaneously, Maria jumps from the carriage with a hysterical scream: “Doctor! I beg you, hurry! My child is dying! Every second counts!”

DOUBLE DISTRACTION ROLL: d20 + Raukhfus's authority (4) + Maria's hysteria (3) = 18 - Brilliantly!

The guard frantically looks between the stern doctor and the sobbing lady: “I… forgive me, Doctor… but orders…”

“WHAT ORDERS?!” Raukhfus thunders. “To prevent saving a life?!”

At that moment, the “second doctor” (Sergei) quickly makes it to the carriage and climbs inside.

Maria continues the hysterics: “Dear God! The doctor is coming! Saved!”

2:45 PM - Escape successful!

The carriage moves off. The guard is still apologizing to Raukhfus for the “misunderstanding.”

In the carriage:

Sergei Trubetskoy, pale after months of imprisonment, embraces sobbing Maria: “How did you do this?”

“Catherine organized everything!” Maria sobs.

You quickly change Sergei into nobleman's clothes. Half an hour later, you're at your mansion.

3:30 PM - Volkonskaya mansion

The entire Order has gathered to greet the hero. Sergei is stunned: “These ladies risked their lives for me?”

“We're family,” you answer simply.

Next stage:
In 6 hours, the escape will be discovered. Sergei must be moved to Gatchina immediately.

But suddenly: A carriage belonging to Benckendorff pulls up to the house!

“He can't know about the escape so quickly…” Varvara whispers.

Critical situation:

• Sergei is in the house
• Benckendorff is at the door
• No time for transport

Options:

1. Hide Sergei in the secret compartment with documents
2. Pass him off as a sick relative
3. Try to take him out through the back door

Quick decision!

Lightning concealment

“To the hiding place! Quickly!” you command.

Varvara and Maria help Sergei reach the bedroom. You push aside the dresser - in the hidden niche are the Order's documents.

“Sergei Petrovich, it's cramped in there, but bear with it!” Maria whispers.

QUICK CONCEALMENT ROLL: d20 + Conspiracy (8) + Group coordination (3) = 17 - Success!

The dresser slides back into place just as a knock sounds at the door below.

Preparing to meet Benckendorff:

“Quickly! Everyone at the table - pretend to be discussing charity!”

The Order members take seats with papers and teacups. Krüdener opens an account book.

Masha greets Benckendorff: “Your Excellency! The Countess is holding a Charity Committee meeting.”

In the parlor:

Benckendorff enters accompanied by two gendarmes. His cold gaze sweeps across the assembled ladies.

“Countess Volkonskaya. Forgive the intrusion.”

“No intrusion at all, Count. We're just discussing distribution of funds for military families.”

Critical moment: Benckendorff sits and carefully studies each face.

“Curious. And where is Princess Trubetskaya? An hour ago she was seen leaving the fortress in a carriage.”

Maria pales but answers firmly: “I was visiting my husband. With permission.”

“I see. And what were you discussing so… emotionally? The servants speak of tears.”

Dangerous moment: He suspects something!

Response options:

1. “We were discussing the difficult situation of war orphans”
2. “Maria is upset by her husband's condition”
3. “We were planning aid for newly arrested families”

Your choice?

Explaining the tears

“Count,” you answer with sympathy in your voice, “Maria Sergeevna is very upset by her husband's condition. A month in solitary has badly damaged his health.”

Maria supports this, sobbing: “He's grown so thin… coughing constantly… I fear he won't survive…”

PERSUASIVENESS ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Sincere emotion (4) = 17 - Very convincing!

Benckendorff softens - even he has a heart: “I understand. Prison conditions are harsh.”

Krüdener delicately adds: “We were collecting funds to improve rations for the prisoners. Christian duty…”

“Commendable,” the Count nods. “But remember - mercy for families, not for the criminals' ideas.”

Shakhovskaya shows a list: “We strictly follow the guidelines. We help only wives and children.”

Benckendorff rises:

“Well then, continue your noble work. But…” his gaze turns colder, “if I learn of any attempts to help the criminals themselves…”

He doesn't finish, but the threat is clear.

After Benckendorff leaves:

Everyone exhales with relief. You quickly free Sergei from the hiding place.

“How could he know about my visit?” Maria puzzles.

Varvara, grimly: “We're being watched. Constantly.”

Sergei, pale after an hour in the cramped space: “Ladies, every minute increases the danger. We must leave immediately.”

New problem: Benckendorff's men remained outside - they're watching the house!

Evacuation options:

1. Wait for nightfall and transport secretly
2. Use the underground passage to the neighboring house
3. Create a distraction with a false alarm

Your choice?

Waiting for darkness

“We'll wait for night,” you decide. “Then use the old underground passage.”

6:00 PM - Evening in the watched house

Sergei hides in the library while Order members take turns at the windows. Two plainclothes men are indeed keeping watch outside.

Varvara reports: “They changed shifts an hour ago. Serious surveillance.”

Maria is nervous: “What if they've already discovered the escape at the fortress?”

“Then we need to act even faster,” you reply.

9:00 PM - Preparing for evacuation

“Krüdener, do you remember the layout of the old passage?” you ask the baroness.

“Of course! My grandfather told me - the passage runs from the wine cellar to the neighboring Naryshkin mansion. Structures from Catherine's time.”

Underground evacuation plan:

• Descend into the wine cellar
• 50 meters through the old tunnel
• Exit in the Naryshkins' garden
• From there, carriage to Gatchina

10:30 PM - Operation begins

You descend into the cellar. Behind the old wine rack, a bricked-up passage is indeed visible.

“Masha, hammer and crowbar!” you order.

OPENING PASSAGE ROLL: d20 + Preparation (3) = 15 - Passage opened!

Behind the brickwork - a narrow tunnel smelling of damp and age.

Sergei crawls into the tunnel first: “Ladies, thank you for everything…”

“Too early for thanks,” you answer. “The border is still far away.”

11:00 PM - In the tunnel

You crawl through the narrow passage by candlelight. Sergei in front, Maria behind him, you bringing up the rear.

Suddenly Sergei stops: “Cave-in! Part of the tunnel has collapsed!”

Critical problem: The passage is blocked with rocks and earth!

Options:

1. Try to clear the blockage (noisy, time-consuming)
2. Go back and look for another way
3. Send a scout - maybe there's a way around

Your choice?

Reconnaissance in the underground

“Sergei Petrovich, stay here with Maria,” you whisper. “I'll squeeze ahead - see if there's a way around.”

You hand the candle to Maria and carefully squeeze toward the collapse.

RECONNAISSANCE ROLL: d20 + Courage (4) + Conspiracy experience (8) = 16 - Successful exploration!

Above the rocks there's actually a narrow gap - you can squeeze through, but with difficulty.

You climb through the collapse, scraping your hands on the stones. On the other side, the tunnel continues for another thirty meters or so.

Important discovery: At the end, you see faint light - not a candle, but something else!

You creep closer and realize - it's moonlight! The exit isn't into the Naryshkins' cellar, but directly into their garden!

But there's a problem: voices can be heard near the exit.

You carefully peer out - two Naryshkin servants are patrolling the garden with lanterns: “Strange sounds from the cellar… Maybe rats?”

New situation:

• The passage is possible, but narrow
• The exit is guarded
• Time is short - midnight is approaching

You return to Sergei and Maria: “The way is there, but we'll have to squeeze through. And there are guards in the garden.”

Sergei, decisively: “Better the risk than waiting.”

Plan of passage:

• First you squeeze through and distract the servants
• Then Maria and Sergei

Options for distracting the guards:

1. Pretend to be a lost neighbor
2. Create noise in another part of the garden
3. Wait for the servants to leave

Your choice?

Patient waiting

“We'll wait,” you whisper, returning to Sergei and Maria. “Servants can't patrol all night.”

You settle into the cramped tunnel before the blockage. Maria shivers from cold and nerves; Sergei holds her.

11:30 PM - First check

You squeeze through to the exit again. The servants are still there, but their voices sound bored:

“Nothing suspicious, Fyodor.”
“Indeed, what could there be? Just normal night sounds.”

PATIENCE ROLL: d20 + Self-control (6) = 14 - Holding steady!

12:15 AM - Second check

This time you hear only one servant: “Ivan, let's go inside. It's cold, and the masters are asleep.”

But the other replies: “Another half hour. Naryshkin ordered until one.”

12:45 AM - Critical moment

You squeeze through to the exit a third time. Silence! The servants have left!

You quickly return: “The way is clear! Now!”

Escaping through the blockage:

Sergei squeezes through the narrow gap first, groaning in pain - wounds from the rocks. Maria follows; her dress tears.

GROUP PASSAGE ROLL: d20 + Desperation (4) = 16 - Everyone made it!

1:00 AM - In the Naryshkins' garden

All three of you emerge from the underground. Sergei is pale but on his feet. Maria weeps with relief.

“The carriage is around the corner,” you whisper.

You creep through the dark garden toward the gate. All windows in the Naryshkin house are dark.

But suddenly: In the neighboring alley, you hear the clatter of hooves - a gendarme patrol!

“Faster!” - your carriage is only 50 meters away, but the gendarmes are approaching.

Final sprint:

1. Run for the carriage, risking being spotted
2. Hide in the garden until the patrol passes
3. Split up - you distract, Sergei and Maria go to the carriage

Your choice?

Diversionary maneuver

“Sergei, Maria - to the carriage!” you whisper decisively. “I'll distract the patrol!”

Without waiting for objections, you exit the garden on the opposite side of the alley from your carriage.

Distraction plan:

You play a confused aristocrat, lost at night. You walk toward the patrol with a candle in hand.

“Officers!” you call in a weak voice. “Help! I'm lost!”

DISTRACTION ROLL: d20 + Charm (9) + Acting ability (3) = 18 - Brilliantly!

The patrol commander stops his horse: “Your ladyship! What happened?”

“I was visiting the Naryshkins, went out into the garden to take the air… and got lost in the alleys! It's so dark!”

While the gendarmes focus on you, out of the corner of your eye you see: Sergei and Maria quickly but carefully make it to the carriage around the corner.

Continuing the performance:

“Officer, could you escort me? The home of Countess Volkonskaya on the English Embankment…”

“Of course, madam! Come with us, we'll take you!”

Critical moment: Through the carriage window, you see - Sergei and Maria are already inside, the coachman is ready to move!

“Oh, no need!” you say. “I see my carriage has found me!”

You point to your carriage, which “happens” to turn the corner.

1:15 AM - Successful reunion

You get into the carriage with Sergei and Maria. The gendarmes courteously bid farewell and ride off in the other direction.

“Catherine!” Maria embraces you. “How you risked yourself!”

Sergei, gratefully: “You saved us all.”

Journey to Gatchina

The carriage races along the night road. In 2 hours, you'll be safe at Shakhovskaya's.

Results of Operation “Liberation of the Eagle”:

• ✅ Sergei Trubetskoy successfully freed
• ✅ Order of the Rose not exposed
• ✅ Route to Finland prepared

Epilogue: What do you plan next?

1. See Sergei to the border and return to normal activities
2. Organize escapes for other Decembrists
3. Develop the network across the empire, building on this success

Your choice?

Triumph and new horizons

3 days later - Finnish border

You stand on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, seeing off the fishing boat carrying Sergei Trubetskoy. He waves from the deck - a free man, heading for Europe.

Maria weeps with happiness: “He's saved… We did it!”

Return to Petersburg

Analysis of the “Order of the Rose's” success:

Around the table in your mansion sit all 12 participants. The atmosphere is triumphant - you've proven capable of the impossible.

“Sisters,” you address the gathering, “Operation 'Liberation of the Eagle' showed our strength. Now it's time to act on a grand scale.”

Imperial network plan:

Moscow: Princess Shakhovskaya goes to her sister - Countess Rostopchina
Kiev: Krüdener activates connections with local masons
Odessa: Rastopchina creates a southern hub through Greek connections
Kazan: Vorontsova organizes a Volga region center
Irkutsk: To help exiles in Siberia

New structure of the “Order of the Rose”:

• Petersburg: Coordination center (you)
• 5 regional branches across the empire
• Coded communication system between cities
• United fund for mutual aid
• Network of safe houses for fugitives

Varvara, solemnly: “Catherine, you've created Russia's first women's revolutionary organization!”

One year later - The imperial network is operational:

Achievements:

• 47 members in 5 cities
• 23 Decembrist families receiving aid
• 8 successful escapes of political prisoners
• Underground mail network across the empire
• Not one exposure in a year of operation

Final scene:

Thursday evening in your salon. Now gathered here are not just Petersburg ladies, but guests from Moscow, Kiev, Odessa.

“In five years,” you say, raising your glass, “our Order has grown from a secret circle into a force capable of changing people's fates.”

Varvara, now your wife in everything but official status, adds: “To love that conquered prejudice!”

“To the Order of the Rose!” the members from across the empire answer in chorus.

Outside the window, a Petersburg white night. Your secret empire flourishes.

Story epilogue

Final achievements:
👑 Imperial influence - network across all Russia
💕 Love triumphs - happy relationship with Varvara
🛡️ Lives saved - dozens of freed people
📜 Historical legacy - first women's underground organization
🌹 Order of the Rose - a legend that will outlive the ages

End of a great adventure!

Would you like a new story in a different era?

Epilogue: “Fate of the Order of the Rose” (1830-1860)

5 years later - 1830

“Cholera Riot” and new trials:

During the cholera epidemic, the Order of the Rose proves itself as a powerful charitable force. Your network organizes hospitals, distributes medicine, helps orphans.

But success attracts attention. The new chief of gendarmes, Dubbelt, begins to suspect that behind “women's charity” lies something more.

Crisis of 1835:

One of the members - Elizaveta Naryshkina - is arrested for connections with Polish rebels. Under torture, she reveals some information about the Order.

Your decision: Emergency evacuation of compromised members abroad. The Order temporarily “goes dormant” for 3 years.

1840s - Revival:

“Slavophile period”:
The Order disguises itself as part of the Slavophile movement. Members study folk culture, help peasants, support women's education.

Varvara founds Russia's first school for girls from lower classes.

1848 - European revolutions:

The Order helps political refugees from Europe. Your house becomes a center for secret transport of revolutionaries.

Culmination - 1856:

Death of Nicholas I:
New Emperor Alexander II announces amnesty. Sergei Trubetskoy returns from emigration and publicly thanks “unknown benefactresses” for saving him.

Triumph of the Order:

• Alexander II personally receives you at the palace
• The Order receives official status as the “Society for Women's Mutual Aid”
• Your activities become legal

Finale - 1860:

Final gathering of the “Secret” Order:

In your salon gather the now elderly founders. You are 65, Varvara 60. Over 35 years together, you have changed Russia.

“Sisters,” you say, “our secret mission is complete. We lived to see a time when women can act openly.”

Legacy of the Order of the Rose:

• 156 members across the empire
• 500+ saved families of Decembrists and political prisoners
• 23 girls' schools in various cities
• First women's bank in Russia (founded by members)
• Tradition of women's salons, which will continue until the revolution

Personal fate:

You and Varvara officially formalize your relationship as “lifelong companions” - the most possible in that era. Your home becomes a pilgrimage site for young women seeking their path.

1880 - Your death:

You die in Varvara's arms. Hundreds of women from across Russia come to the funeral. Officially - a farewell to a “great philanthropist.” Unofficially - farewell to a legend of the women's liberation movement.

Historical echo:
Members of the Order of the Rose become mothers and mentors to the women revolutionaries of the 1870s-1880s. Your ideas influence Sophia Perovskaya, Vera Zasulich, and other women terrorists.

2024:
Historians discover your secret archives and for the first time tell the true story of Russia's first women's revolutionary organization.

The Order of the Rose lives through the ages.

Would you like to learn about the fates of individual characters or a new adventure?

Fates of the “Order of the Rose” founders

Varvara Rimskaya-Korsakova 💕
Your beloved and co-founder

1825-1840: Officially your “companion and assistant.” Uses court influence to protect the Order.

1841: Leaves court service to devote herself entirely to the Order and to you.

1845: Founds the “St. Catherine Institute for Noble Maidens” - the first school with a liberal curriculum.

1860: Becomes directress of all Order schools.

1867: Takes your death hard, but continues the work. Writes memoirs (published only in 1917).

1875: Dies at 70. Buried beside you. On the headstone: “Faithful companions in life and death.”

—-

Maria Trubetskaya 🏰
Wife of the rescued Decembrist

1826: After her husband's escape, officially “widowed.” Devotes herself entirely to the Order.

1830: Becomes head of the Moscow branch of the Order.

1835: Secretly meets her husband in Paris. He urges her to stay, but she returns: “My duty is here.”

1840: Marries widower Decembrist Mikhail Lunin (also an Order participant).

1855: Husband returns under amnesty. She shocks society by refusing to restore her “first marriage” to Sergei.

1860: Founds a “House of Mercy” for political widows.

1870: Dies of tuberculosis, contracted while caring for the sick.

—-

Princess Zinaida Shakhovskaya 👑
Aristocratic loner

1825-1830: Active participant, specializes in bribing officials.

1831: Shocks society by selling the family estate and giving the money to families of political prisoners.

1835: Moves to Italy, where she lives with artist Marta Benvenuto.

1848: Participates in the revolution in Rome, organizes a women's battalion.

1850: Returns to Russia, but now as an open republican.

1855: Arrested for “anti-state activity,” spends a year in the fortress.

1856: Released under amnesty. Spends final years in a monastery, but secretly helps the People's Will.

1878: Dies in her cell, but among her belongings they find correspondence with Sophia Perovskaya.

—-

Countess Alexandra Rastopchina 💔
Unhappily married

1825: Begins an open affair with her maid Liza; husband “doesn't notice.”

1830: Bears her husband a son (duty to the dynasty), but raises him with her own ideas.

1835: Husband dies in a drunken brawl. She inherits an enormous fortune.

1840: Officially adopts Liza as a “ward,” which allows them to live openly.

1850: Their “unusual friendship” becomes a byword in Moscow.

1860: Bequeaths her entire fortune to women's education.

1865: Dies in Liza's arms. Contemporaries call them “a strange but touching couple.”

—-

Baroness Yulia Krüdener 🌍
Cosmopolitan and mystic

1826: Officially returns to Paris for a “sick aunt.”

1827-1835: Creates a European network for the Order - connections in Paris, London, Vienna.

1848: Her Paris salon becomes headquarters for the women's movement in Europe.

1855: Returns to Russia as an “honored foreigner.”

1860: Writes the book “On Spiritual Friendship” - a veiled manifesto of women's love.

1870: Dies in Nice, surrounded by “spiritual daughters” from all over Europe.

—-

Anna Kern 📝
Poetess

1825: Uses her literary circle connections to protect the Order.

1826: Breaks with Pushkin, openly declaring: “I prefer the company of intelligent women.”

1830: First Order member to begin writing under her own name about “the woman question.”

1840: Her poems about women's friendship become the unofficial anthem of liberal ladies.

1850: Edits the first women's magazine “Domestic Conversation.”

1860: Publicly calls you “Russia's greatest woman.”

1879: Dies at her estate, where a school for peasant girls and a library have been established.

—-

Overall results:

• All founders lived independent lives
• None married under compulsion after 1825
• 7 of 12 created their own charitable organizations
• 5 people lived in open same-sex relationships
• All bequeathed their fortunes to women's education

Their daughters and wards became the foundation of the women's liberation movement of the 1860s-1880s.

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