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Dans-Prosemaxx-Cowriter-S

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[ { "from": "system", "value": "Produce 5 sentences as a continuation. Note: Story may reference established characters/events." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Outside the door to her bedroom, Mal hesitated with his hand on the knob. In his other hand, he gripped a sack lunch he'd had the guy at the deli on the corner put together for her during the ten minutes he'd been gone from the building. Tuna on rye, crusts cut off. Because she always did that to her sandwiches. Ridiculous. The crusts were the best part, if the bread was worth eating." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But he wanted her to eat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was already too skinny, and she'd consumed enough alcohol the night before to sink a buffalo. Never mind those stupid pills he'd taped under the mattress in his room. He'd probably get busted for drugs before he got out of the place. His luck.\n\nEh well, he'd rather get his mug shot on a blotter than be at the mercy of any drug. Especially since she wasn't even happy after taking them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her high seemed to last a frighteningly short time, and then she was even more morose than she'd started out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why she probably had used in the first place. That few minute respite made her think the crash was worth it.\n\nHe'd heard her crash through the waning hours of the night. Not wanting to miss it if she had a medical issue, he'd placed a kitchen chair outside her bedroom door and listened. Not moving. His only goal to ensure she made it to morning, long enough to sober up and for that shit to get out of her system." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Listening had almost been worse than lying in bed imagining she needed him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not him. Someone. Anyone else.\n\nNever him.\n\nShe'd sung most of the time he'd been outside the door. And she'd wondered how he knew she could. She must not realize how often she did it, whether she was in a good mood or bad." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Last night, he'd heard every ounce of the pain inside her in her voice, raw and unforgiving—to herself most of all." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'every' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With every trip up and every hitching giggle, he'd had to brace his fisted hands against his thighs not to go in there.\n\nSince he didn't have a clue how to show her she was so wrong about herself—short of fucking her senseless, and then doing it all over again—he'd stayed in his goddamn chair.\n\nClose to dawn, she'd finally fallen asleep. Four hours had passed. Exactly four. He had watched the minutes tick down on his phone, antsy and restless at not hearing any noises from within the room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Being away from the building for even ten minutes had been hell, and he'd sprinted to the deli and back." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She could be fucking dead.\n\nOr she's just sleeping, dumbass.\n\nHe wasn't anyone's savior. Hadn't that been proven in sterling clarity years ago? But he could play the part of AA counselor from hell, considering he'd lived that role before." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When he couldn't wait a minute longer, he shoved open the bedroom door. She was curled up like a shrimp on the bed, knees up to her chest, still wearing the same clothes from the night before. Her tank had rolled up high enough he could just see the bottom of her bra. Some lacy concoction. Shocker. It matched the panties he could see peeking over the back of her low-rise jeans. A thong." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just enough of a glimpse to make him sweat alone in bed tonight." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her dark hair was spread over the pillows—except for the clump wrapped around the fist she'd brought to her mouth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No, no, no.\" The whispers were barely audible." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'don't' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't, Daddy. Daddy, don't.\"\n\nMal's stomach clenched so violently he feared he'd lose the breakfast he hadn't eaten right beside her bed. Fuck, that couldn't be what it sounded like, could it? He'd never heard anything like that from anyone. But family secrets could be locked in vaults with pretty thick locks. He should know." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And he couldn't listen to another second of her whispering. She was starting to thrash now, her long legs kicking out as she pushed her fist against her mouth as if to stifle the words that kept on coming anyway.\n\n\"No, Daddy, please don't. I love you.\"\n\n\"Goddammit, wake up.\" Mal tossed the lunch sack at the end of the mattress and hauled her up into his arms, turning with her as her huge, shocked blue eyes flew open. They weren't even sleepy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She shot from unconsciousness to fully awake in a blink, probably due to the fact that he was carting her straight into the bathroom and it wasn't an easy ride." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She jabbed her knees into his sides and whaled on him with her good arm and made sounds that were generally capable of slicing a man's eardrums into shreds.\n\n\"I'm putting you into the shower. You stink,\" he said evenly, raising his voice over her objections.\n\nShe stared at him then lifted her arm to sniff beneath it. He would've laughed if her tight hold on his ribs with her knees wasn't cutting off his air. She was like a boa constrictor, trying to squeeze the shit out of him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A boa constrictor with the sexiest pair of tits he'd ever seen, bouncing indecently up and down while he fought to hold on to both her and his dignity." }, { "from": "human", "value": "An erection was the last thing he needed right now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I do not,\" she said indignantly a second before she started hitting him again. Harder than before.\n\nLittle Ricki was no one's delicate flower.\n\n\"Your nose must not be working. You sure as hell do.\" He set her down and maintained his grip on her waist as he eyed her sling. \"How do I get that thing off you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Excuse me?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was already doing it on his own. She stopped flailing, but he was fairly certain it was from shock now. He wasn't undressing her yet, but it was a close thing.\n\n\"What the hell are you doing?\"\n\n\"I told you, you're dirty. Besides, we have practice. Bet you don't want those losers to think you're a filthy druggie.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Practice,\" she sputtered. \"I'm not practicing with them.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes, you are. Your solo concert was great, but you still need to learn the pieces like the rest of us, Einstein.\"\n\nShe gaped at him. \"You heard me?\"\n\n\"Every word. Now hurry up and help me get this sling off so you can take off your top.\"\n\n\"I can't decide if you're crazy or a pervert or I'm still asleep,\" she muttered, still doing as he'd asked.\n\nOnce the fabric sling was off, he helped her take off her tank, then grabbed a plastic bag off the back of the commode that had held a can of bathroom cleanser—fucking nasty toilet, man—and wrapped it over her arm like a loose plastic tent to protect the bandages beneath. \"Cute polka dots.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She frowned at him before glancing down at her bra. \"Pervert,\" she decided." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Take off your jeans before I do it for you.\" His lips peeled back. \"Trust me, you won't enjoy it.\"\n\nHer grunt was pure disgust. She flicked open the button and started shoving them down one-handed until he raised his brows again. \"What now?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You can use your other hand. Do it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Um, hello, my shoulder—\"\n\n\"Yes, and they popped it back into place. You have to start building back your strength.\"\n\n\"Oh, you're a doctor now? Where's your stethoscope?\" She stared right at his crotch, and if anything had ever been less of a come-on, he didn't remember it.\n\nDidn't stop him from popping a boner anyway." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just because she was fucking staring at his dick, even through his jeans." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was the biggest moron who'd ever lived.\n\n\"I know they told you that, so don't play dumb.\" He grasped a loose wave between his fingers. \"You ditched the hair color, remember?\"\n\nHer eyes flashed, the blue turning fiery." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Did I ask you to touch me?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No, but I didn't ask you to look at my dick either.\"\n\nHer flush was monumentally satisfying. As was when she turned around and yanked down her jeans, showing him every bit of that skimpy polka-dotted thong.\n\nAnd her perfect ass cheeks.\n\n\"You can leave now,\" she said in a thin voice tight with pain as she continued to roll the denim down her legs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With both hands.\n\n\"You don't know how to use this shower.\" It was a fine excuse, and he leaned past her to twist dials and push buttons. Fancy shower, gross toilet. They didn't go together, but you never knew what you were going to get in a rental." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nor did he know what he was going to get with Ricki, who ducked under his arm and stepped into the shower." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He waited for her to tell him to leave again—moment of truth—but she didn't." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Instead she waited until she was in his line of sight and undid the clasp of her bra." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She held the sides closed for a moment, tilting her head. \"It's not like you haven't seen me naked before.\"\n\nNo, actually, he was practically certain he had not. Make that certainly certain.\n\nBut he didn't correct her, because she probably would've put a halt to whatever was motivating her to dare him. Probably sheer orneriness." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Still—naked. And he didn't care if that made him the pervert she'd accused him of being. It wasn't as if he was going to get to see her naked any other way. Hell, this shit could fuel his fantasies for the next year.\n\nHis eyebrow climbed, and he continued turning the dials to adjust pressure and temperature. All the while waiting for her to realize no one played chicken better than he did." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No one." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She sighed and let the sides of her bra go before she slipped the strap off her good arm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He managed not to look at her tits until he'd helped her with the other strap and dumped the bra outside the stall." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When he did, he couldn't stop.\n\nShe was built every bit as well as he'd guessed from the tight mold of her T-shirts. Sheer perfection. Small brown nipples that seemed to tighten under his perusal, full globes that swayed lightly as she shifted to push down her panties and kick them off. She tossed them outside the shower to join her bra then braced her hands on her hips and cocked her head. \"Well?\"\n\nFuck, he loved that she didn't try to hide herself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No modesty here, false or otherwise. She was just what she was, take it or leave it.\n\nAfter the night he'd spent listening to her sing and laugh and cry, he knew that attitude had to be at least half bravado, but right now, he did not care. His admiration of her kicked up another dozen notches.\n\nAnd his desire to fucking run tripled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well, what?\" His voice was pure gravel, and he didn't have the breath left to raise it above the rush of the water." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She stood at the back of the stall just outside the spray, the water pelting the peeling polish on her toes.\n\n\"Well, I have seen you naked, numerous times. So there's no reason you should be embarrassed.\"\n\nHoly shit, she expected him to strip down too?\n\nHe narrowed his eyes. \"Are you still high?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She tipped back her head and started to laugh, loud and long." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He hadn't heard her laugh like that fully since—since long before this week, that was for sure. She hadn't even laughed like that last night when she'd been tripping and drunk.\n\n\"No. I wish. You think that shit lasts that long?\"\n\nJust like that, his libido cooled. She wished. So much for her realizing her mistake." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He started to turn away." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Wait.\" Her shaky exhale made him stop. \"I don't really wish. I'm still—\" She made a frustrated sound. \"I can't believe I did that.\"\n\nHe didn't say anything.\n\n\"I've never slipped in all these months. I barely allow myself Tylenol.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She let out a hitching laugh that sounded more like despair." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't know if I can go back.\"\n\n\"Go back to what?\" he asked sharply, making the mistake of looking back at her. Those full breasts captivated him, along with that tiny teasing landing strip of downy blond hair on her mound, such a contrast to the tumble of dark hair around her shoulders. Only her trembling voice could drag his attention away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Home. To them. To being the me I was before.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She bowed her head and cupped her elbows in her hands, wincing a little with the movement. \"I'm not even sure I can get back on a s-stage.\"\n\nIt was her stutter that had him reaching behind his head to grab a fistful of his shirt. He pulled it up and off fast, not bothering with any ceremony. His hand went to his button and zipper, and he hesitated for only a fraction of an instant." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'wasn't' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If this proved to be the moment from which there was no going back, he wasn't going to deliberate. Wasn't going to do anything but plunge in headfirst.\n\nHe undid the button and yanked down the zipper, then kicked off his boots and pulled the denim and his boxers down his legs. He didn't look at her. Couldn't. Seeing anything on her face at all would be too much." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Trusting himself not to push her up against the wall and bury himself inside her was a promise he wasn't sure he could keep." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Even if he'd only made it to himself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Stepping into the shower, he pulled the shower door closed. He tipped his head back into the water, letting it beat against the tension in his neck and shoulders. He soaked in the hot needles of pressure, using them to distract from the heavy weight of his erection. There had been no hiding that. No wishing it away." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She'd given him her honesty, so he'd given a form of his own in return. Not the same. Never the same.\n\nShe wouldn't ever be ready to hear his honesty when it came to her. Just as he'd never be ready to share it.\n\n\"Will you wash my hair?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was still processing the question—and trying to blink water out of his eyes—when she turned and offered him the equally stunning view of her ass. Inky wet strands hung almost to the top of her cheeks, for fuck's sake. That shit must weigh a ton.\n\nHis fingers were already itching to touch.\n\nIt was okay if she asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If she wanted his hands on her, even in that small way." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'bottle' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He grabbed the bottle of shampoo the tenants had left for him. It was generic store brand and smelled of almonds. The most non-arousing scent in the history of the world. He poured some into his palm and set the bottle aside, ignoring the tremor that went through his hand. Thank fuck she hadn't seen it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rubbing his hands together, he stepped closer. One step. Two. Three brought him up against her. Close but not too close. He held his hips back. She had to have seen, though he'd been too much of a coward to check." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But he didn't want to intimidate her with what it meant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He didn't expect a goddamn thing. This was already more than he'd ever hoped for.\n\n\"Just do it already,\" she mumbled, and he nearly smiled.\n\nOne of them was brave, and it sure as fuck was not him.\n\nHe massaged the shampoo into her hair, not touching her scalp at first." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stuck to the length of it first, watching the way the thick waves soaked up the moisture.\n\n\"Not wet enough,\" he muttered.\n\n\"Says you,\" she muttered back, and he smothered a laugh as he gripped her waist oh-so-carefully and brought her backward. He stepped backward too, tilting his head as the water spattered over his shoulder and down his chest, splashing his painfully stiff cock. He managed to stifle a groan as he lifted her hair, letting the spray hit it more fully." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'added' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Watching the suds he'd already added work their way down her long locks before swirling around her feet and disappearing down the drain.\n\nHe went back for the shampoo and added more to his hands. He gripped her hair more firmly, working in the liquid before pulling it down the length. Then he finally rubbed some into her scalp, gritting his teeth at the indecent sound she made.\n\nIt wasn't a moan." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "God, so much worse. More like a cross between a whimper, a sigh, and a gasp.\n\nHis already aching dick levered up against his stomach.\n\nThen she stepped back into him, swaying until he righted her with his arm around her belly. She made that sound again, and he knew it was because she'd felt exactly what she was doing to him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You've got good hands.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He barely had time to register the compliment before she flashed him a look over her shoulder with heavy-lidded eyes. \"Wash me off now?\"\n\nEven grunting would've required more air than he had left in his lungs, so he nodded though she'd already faced forward again. But he wasn't so gentle as he drew her back into the center of the spray with him.\n\nAnd hit the cold water with his elbow, accidentally on purpose." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She squeaked and flailed away from him, spinning toward him with wild sudsy hair and mischief lighting over her face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her laughter was like fucking sunshine, warming him despite the ice-cold water drenching him from head to toe.\n\n\"You did that intentionally,\" she said over the driving water.\n\nHe jerked a shoulder. \"Prove it.\"\n\nInstead she stepped closer again, keeping her gaze strictly on his face as she came as close as she dared. Any closer and his cock would be nestled against her stomach." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As it was, he could feel the warmth from her skin as she braved the cold water with chattering teeth and a gleam in her gaze.\n\n\"You're not finished,\" she reminded him, tilting her head forward.\n\nHe grabbed a handful of her hair, dragging her head back until her big blue eyes locked with his. \"What kind of game you playing, Crandall?\"\n\n\"No game. Not my style.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She blinked and sputtered, spitting out water so it splashed on his chest." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was amazed his flesh didn't fucking sizzle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But I'm getting soap in my eyes.\"\n\nHe switched their positions until she was directly under the spray and bumped up the temperature until it was lukewarm. No more heat. They didn't need it. Any more and the damn bathroom was going to combust.\n\nShe kept her focus on his face as he grasped soapy handfuls of her hair and went through the meticulous task of getting her clean." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All the way clean." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'between' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He ignored his cock, figuring he'd use the tactile memory of all this wet silk between his fingers as more fodder for his jerk-off fantasies. She caught her lower lip between her teeth, angling her head to make it easier, watching him all the while.\n\nOnce he'd finished, she glanced up at his head. \"Want me to do you now?\" Amusement laced the little cocktease's voice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rather than answer, he leaned around her and grabbed the bottle of peppermint-scented bodywash." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He didn't get why anyone thought that was a good smell, so he'd used it as sparingly as possible.\n\nHe also figured it was the perfect scent for her. So much better than that plum stuff she tortured him with on the regular.\n\nBut before he could dump some onto her, she grabbed the bottle and did the honors herself, quickly scrubbing the soap into her skin. She started with her arms, then swiftly moved to her breasts and lower, covering herself with suds." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"This smells so good,\" she said, taking a long sniff of her good shoulder." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You'd think so.\"\n\n\"You don't?\" She tipped the container and squeezed more onto her tits. Watching the liquid drip onto her curves was the sweetest torture, probably exactly why she did it.\n\nWench.\n\nHe grabbed the bottle back from her and took care of his own scrub down, directing his attention on being as fast as humanly possible." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he was done, she was still soaping her hips and upper thighs and he was probably going to kill her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You know, in Japan, they think if you save someone's life, you're responsible for them.\" He waited a beat, hating the brief flash of pain in her expression. \"No one would prosecute me for drowning you. Just saying.\"\n\nHer lips twitched and she took back the bottle, turning around to aim it over her shoulder at her back and ass. Bullseye.\n\nMore dripping. More wet. Christ." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe he should drown himself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Or…" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He took back the bottle and deliberately squeezed some bodywash on his cock. He gripped it and ran his hand up and down, moving slow and hard. Fuck the bubbles. If she was going to torment him, he was going to make her make that little whimper-slash-sigh-slash-gasp sound again, like she was doing right now.\n\nShe'd stopped pretending to wash entirely and was staring at his hand, her rapid exhales causing the shower door to fog up even more. He understood. If he kept doing this, just thirty more seconds—" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But he stopped.\n\nHe turned toward the water, pretending he didn't hear her deep inhalation. And he washed his dick off as fast as he'd washed the rest of him before wrenching back the shower door and stepping out.\n\n\"Towel's in the cabinet under the sink,\" he said over his shoulder, bypassing one of his own to walk naked into the room she'd stayed in before.\n\nThe second he shut the bathroom door behind him, he gripped his dick again.\n\nThis time, he didn't stop." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Today you will be acting as a writing assistant, your partner will send something and you will write the next 11 sentences. The story may reference existing characters and events - incorporate them as presented." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Taking the floor had been the plan." }, { "from": "human", "value": "By the time the cops had cleared out what felt like a lifetime later, it was daylight and Teagan was nearly translucent with fatigue." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ricki wasn't much better despite the tough girl act she tried to put on for Teagan." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The girl was in a sling with bruised half moons under her eyes and she'd been like a goddamn pitbull with the police, making sure they didn't push Teagan too hard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Even when Teagan had appeared ready to cheerfully murder her, Ricki hadn't backed down." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And neither was he.\n\n\"This is fine.\" He punched the pillow Teagan had given him. She'd fluttered about, shoving sheets and a thin blanket at him and fussing that she could get the Airbed set up in a jiffy. Or she could make up the couch, or she could do a million other things to ensure his comfort.\n\nHe'd waved them all off. She didn't need to be doing anything extra. He wouldn't have accepted her efforts anyway.\n\nThis room was where he intended to be. Especially after the niggle that had taken root inside his brain during the police interrogation with Teagan. Something wasn't adding up for him, and it had a little to do with a guy with a key leaving a door kicked in and a lot to do with the shitstorm they'd left behind in California.\n\nBut he'd remained silent, because he didn't know what the pieces he was looking at added up to. Maybe nothing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Probably nothing.\n\nStill, he intended to wait. And watch her so fucking closely that she'd wonder if her shadow had grown a few inches—and not only to make sure she didn't harm herself with bad choices.\n\nNope, he wasn't going anywhere. Even if Ricki planned on talking him to death rather than letting him get some sleep.\n\n\"You're being stupid. There's plenty of room up here.\" She patted the mattress beside her hip.\n\n\"Good. Enjoy it.\" He twitched the sheet and blanket up over him.\n\nIn about five seconds, he was going to yank the bedding over his head. Fucking searing fireball burning his retinas.\n\n\"Is this because I came onto you? It probably wasn't personal.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I assumed not. Why I said no. Goodnight.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"For Christ's sake, I'm not going to jump you. What do you think, that you're so irresistible that if you're on the same bed I won't be able to control myself?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The thought crossed my mind.\"\n\nIt had not. Not even close. But pissing Ricki off was the only entertainment he'd had during that shitty morning.\n\nThe true capper had been hearing Teagan crying in her bedroom when he'd gone to get another glass from the kitchen.\n\nFucking asshole ex. He'd gleefully teach him some respect if he ever showed up there again.\n\nBut of course, he wouldn't when he realized Teagan wasn't alone. That was how cowards like him operated. The bastard would lay in wait, and the second he and Ricki split, he'd be back.\n\nIt pissed him off there was fuck-all he could do about it.\n\nThe police were overworked and there were simply too many cases on their docket. Bottom line, this had been a property damage crime, committed by a disgruntled former tenant who'd still retained access to the property." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Fancy words that meant they'd act all surprised when he came back to finish the job, except this time he'd hurt Teagan.\n\nShe was going to file an order of protection. It was something. Not nearly enough. Only the law-abiding types followed the rules. The rest enjoyed flouncing them.\n\nAnd he wasn't ever going to get to sleep, because Ricki was still yammering—from the bathroom this time at least. He didn't even know what she was saying. The water was on, and she was talking in between spitting and brushing.\n\nIf there had ever been boundaries between them, living together for half the year in a rolling tin can had killed most. He wouldn't have been surprised if she'd continued her conversation while she was on the john.\n\n\"By the way, you suck.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Flush. \"And you should share the bed with me so you can wake up hard and not have a damn thing you can do about it.\" Water turns on.\n\nThe thought made his lips twist as he pushed his face into the pillow. That wasn't what she'd said—and she definitely hadn't flushed—but imagining it was pretty funny.\n\nAnd true. So pathetically true.\n\n\"Are you actually asleep?\"\n\nHer voice came from near his feet. Her palpable disgust made him cock open one eye. \"Isn't that the point of—\"\n\nThen he stopped talking. His heartbeat thudded into nothing.\n\nBreathing? Nonexistent." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was in her goddamned bra and panties. What. The." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Fuck." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That,\" he finally managed, pointing at her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's why I'm staying right here.\"\n\nSlowly, she lifted her injured arm. She'd removed the sling and some of the bandages beneath, revealing puffy, angry skin. When his gaze went to them, she lowered her arm.\n\n\"I know it looks gross.\" She bent to snatch his blanket, wrapping it around herself awkwardly.\n\n\"What?\"\n\n\"My arm. It's all white and misshapen. And the cuts and bruises—\"\n\n\"Jesus, you're an idiot. You think that's what I meant?\"\n\nShe frowned, clutching the blanket at her throat like a nun. \"Isn't it?\"\n\n\"No, I meant you're practically fucking naked.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She rolled her eyes. \"Right. Except you already saw me naked and functioned just fine enough to reject me not once, but twice. Plus, I saw where you were looking. Nice try though.\"\n\n\"Want me to ogle your tits next time? I'd be happy to.\"\n\nSaying nothing, she turned away to crawl onto the bed. Hearing her sharp intake of breath as she must've moved wrong and jostled her shoulder was just one more nail in his coffin.\n\nSleep? What was that?\n\nHe sat up and scrubbed his grainy eyes with the heels of his hands. \"You don't seriously believe that shit.\"\n\nNo response.\n\nShaking his head, he glanced toward the bed. A navy-blue lump of Ricki was tucked against the wall, half on her back, half on her side." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was laying on her bad side, which had to hurt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But she'd wanted to get away from him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "How many times had they run that particular scene?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'wanted' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Too many over the past couple of years. He'd done the same with her a few times, usually after one or the other had delivered a well-timed zinger. But he didn't have the stomach for those games now.\n\nGod, she could make herself so small. Just tucked everything up and in until her long, lean body took up the minimum amount of space.\n\nNot on his watch.\n\nHe jerked off the sheet and grabbed the pillow, stuffing it under his arm. \"Shove over.\"\n\nIt was a dumb statement. He'd already been worried about her resting on that side, so now he wanted her to move over more? But he wanted her to know he was coming. If she had decided she truly didn't want him up there with her, she had time to state it clear." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No.\"\n\nHe didn't know whether he should laugh or roll his eyes. If she'd been fully healthy, he would've used his pillow on her to vent some of his frustration. Since she wasn't, he tried again.\n\n\"I would like to lay here with you,\" he said through gritted teeth. \"May I?\"\n\nShe snorted and glanced over her shoulder. Only half her face was visible under her cloud of dark hair. \"How much did that hurt?\"\n\n\"A lot.\"\n\n\"Yeah, being polite is one of those terrible things we all must endure.\" She rolled all the way over onto her back, grimacing with the movement." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'you're' into your response exactly 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The blanket slipped enough so that he got another glimpse of tonight's—today's—bra and panty set. Purple lace.\n\nSweet Christ, he was dead.\n\n\"Well?\"\n\nRight. He was supposed to get in bed with her.\n\nSwallowing hard, he placed a knee on the mattress. \"This is only a full bed.\"\n\n\"You're right.\"\n\n\"I'm more than a full-bed kind of guy.\"\n\n\"You sure are.\" She let her gaze drift down his body and hell if he didn't nearly flush. \"But you sleep on the bus all the time, so clearly you can make yourself fit places.\"\n\n\"You're probably going to have to, ah, sort of sleep on top of me. And you can't do that, because you're hurt, so um, yeah, the floor works.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "DIRECTIVE: Incorporate \"I'm not afraid of you. I'm afraid of me.\" in response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She leaned up on the elbow of her uninjured arm, a smile playing over her witchy mouth. \"Malachi Shawcross, are you scared of me?\"\n\nHe scoffed. \"Ridiculous.\"\n\n\"You're stumbling over your words and your ears are pink. It's cute, really.\" She angled her head, running her nail over her collarbone. \"Why are you scared of me?\" The question was soft, and not the least bit teasing.\n\nSo he was honest.\n\nFor once.\n\n\"I'm not afraid of you. I'm afraid of me.\"\n\n\"What? Why?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Clutching his pillow, he stared over her head at the baby blue wall. It was meant to be a soothing color, but it didn't do a damn thing to ease the clamor in his brain—and everywhere else.\n\n\"I don't trust myself around you. I never have. So if you wonder if I was turned off by your arm, no.\" He exhaled. \"There's no part of you that could ever turn me off.\"\n\nHe expected questions. She deserved to ask them, but he didn't intend to answer. He'd already given her so much more of himself than he'd ever intended.\n\nAnd he ached to give more.\n\nShe tugged the blanket out from around her and kicked it down the bed. Then she extended her arm to him across her pillow. \"There's room for two.\"\n\nHe should say no." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This was madness. There was no way it could end well. Playing a game like this was one thing now, but in a few days, they'd head home and they would fall back into their regular roles. She'd go back to searching for love with all the wrong guys and he'd sleep with anyone who caught his eye. They'd snark at each other across the bus. He'd get to see her every night on stage, secretly proud every time she nailed her solos. But they wouldn't be anything else to each other.\n\nThey couldn't be.\n\nIf two people had ever been more different, he didn't know them. No one—absolutely no one—wanted them to even be friends, never mind anything more.\n\nAnd you care what anyone thinks exactly why?\n\nHe used the pillow to nudge her arm aside and she smiled, shifting more onto her good side so he had room to lay down." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It wasn't an easy fit. Stupid bed was too short too. But he made do.\n\n\"Extra wide and extra long too, huh?\"\n\n\"Shut up.\"\n\nShe traced her fingernail around his nipple—not touching it, just circling it like a bullseye. Why had he taken off his shirt again? He knew better.\n\nFuck, he might as well get that tattooed on his cock at this point.\n\n\"It was really nice of you to offer to stay here tonight.\" She lifted her head toward the window to his left. \"Well, today. She won't admit she doesn't want to be alone.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He grunted.\n\n\"But I'm glad she isn't. Not just because she has company, but if her ex comes back—God, I don't even know his name. She never says it.\"\n\nMal crossed his arms under his head and stared up at the ceiling. Her finger kept circling idly, and he wished he could grab the blanket and toss it over his groin. Then again, a pole salute wasn't any more discreet.\n\nHe nearly groaned. Since when did he give a shit about being discreet?\n\n\"If he comes back, and you're here, I know she's safe. We're safe. You wouldn't let anything happen to us, and there's no way in hell he could be stronger than you.\" She swallowed deeply. \"You don't even know her, but you'd protect her too.\"\n\nWhat the hell was he supposed to say to that?\n\nShe pulled her hand away and he had an instant to regret the loss of her touch before she was curving up against his side, fitting herself to him as if she'd always meant to be there. Like they'd been one piece once upon a time and were finally interlocked again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You need sleep. Big time. Possibly a lobotomy.\n\n\"I used to think your silences meant you didn't care. But I hear your heartbeat.\" She darted a glance at him underneath the heavy fringe of her eyelashes—dark, so dark, except at the tips where they were nearly white—before she placed her hand on his chest. It was a sheer miracle he didn't hiss as if her skin was on fire.\n\nBecause his was. He was burning up.\n\n\"You're not unaffected. Not even close.\" She turned her head and he realized she was using her injured arm to touch him. Did she realize?\n\nProbably not, since she was now staring at his denim-trapped dick.\n\n\"You need to sleep,\" he said hoarsely, but she didn't seem to hear him. She was sliding her hand lower, studying the muscles that bunched and jumped under her palm. Her nail skimmed his navel, and this time he did hiss." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She never looked up.\n\nHer thumb grazed the dark hair that led down his stomach into his jeans. She didn't stop at the edge of the denim. She followed beneath it, twisting her wrist and wincing with the movement until he caught a handful of her hair and made her look at him.\n\n\"Think about what you're doing.\"\n\n\"Why?\" Her teeth flashed before she sank them in her lower lip. \"I don't mind if you pull my hair though.\"\n\nJesus.\n\nHe kept his hold on her even as she flicked open the top button of his jeans. Just that little bit of relief caused him to let out a breath. When she tugged down the zipper, he tried to remember to tug on her hair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "To draw her back." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But it was like trying to leash the wind." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The devil was in her blue eyes, and he wasn't that strong.\n\nIt was a goddamn miracle he'd withstood her this long.\n\nShe pulled apart the denim slowly, as if she were unwrapping a gift. Her caresses as light as air, her gaze so heavy he couldn't breathe. Curiosity made the tip of her tongue sneak out between her lips, and as she peeled away his boxers, his fingers twitched in her hair. He wanted to kiss her so fucking bad he could taste the blood in his mouth from where he'd bitten his own lip.\n\nBut he didn't move. This was her show too, just as last night had been.\n\nHe would always be her captive audience.\n\nShe drew him out carefully, her touch capable and sure. She stroked him once, twice, three times, while he counted back from one hundred in his head and prayed he wouldn't embarrass himself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You may not be afraid of me,\" she murmured, \"but I'm afraid of you. Not a single fucking clue how this is going to fit in my mouth.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The laugh tore from his chest, so jaggedly that he had to gasp for air." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She joined him for a second, her eyes going damp with amusement, but then she found a different use for her mouth just as she'd forewarned.\n\nHis hand fisted reflexively in her hair as her lips covered the tip. They formed a tight seal and she sucked lightly, so goddamn lightly, that his balls clenched and he threw back his head. He was so wound up that if she went farther down, he wasn't sure he could stand it.\n\nThen she did, her hand leading the way before her mouth followed. Her arm jerked before she steadied her touch and some part of him rejoiced that the first thing she'd tried to do with her injured arm was this. Her nails dragged over his inner thigh and she squeezed her hand in time with the suction of her mouth. Her hair fell forward, trailing over his stomach, and painstakingly, he brushed every strand back, needing to see every freaking second.\n\nHer cheeks hollowed and she sucked hard, making those wet, dirty sounds that made him crazy. He tried not to yank on her head, to drive her faster than she wanted to go, but Christ, her lashes were fluttering and her lips were so perfect, spreading wide for his dick. And she was squirming, her beautiful ass rising and falling as she worked him, that pale flesh like a target for his hand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He leaned up and reluctantly released her hair before he cupped one cheek, squeezing hard, savoring the moan that rippled down his shaft." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then he lifted his hand and let it fall, striking her skin with a sharp slap. She let out a strangled noise, her hips flexing hard before falling still.\n\nHoly fuck, had she just come from blowing him?\n\nHe gripped her hair again, and this time, he wasn't gentle or careful. He stared into her eyes, sinking into all that dreamy, satisfied blue, and fuck, that was the end of it.\n\nHe needed to put some of himself inside her. On her. Whatever way he could.\n\nWhen he would've yanked her off him to give her the choice, she dove down farther, taking even more of him than before, her moans spurring him on.\n\n\"Ricki.\" Her head shifted so that her gaze was locked with his as he hit the wall of his endurance. Then punched right through it, his hand burrowing into her hair and holding her head as his hips lifted and she swallowed and swallowed. Panting, he drained himself into her, his grip turning gentler as he softened." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She finally eased back and trailed her warm, wet tongue over his spent length, collecting the drops she'd missed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There were damn few." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then she straddled him, balancing herself with her good arm on his belly, crawling up to meet his mouth with lips that were flavored with him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His hands came up to cradle her face as he turned her where he needed, licking her lips and inside, slicking his tongue over hers until he'd tasted her as thoroughly as she'd done with him.\n\nAlmost.\n\nShe rocked against his bare dick and he was already coming back to life. For her, only for her. That thin lacy panel between her thighs would be so easy to push aside—\n\nHe couldn't.\n\nCouldn't.\n\n\"Not like this,\" he breathed between kisses, so starved for her that he couldn't pull away long enough to even speak. He wasn't sure she heard him, but he couldn't stop.\n\nGod, he wanted nothing more than to spend the rest of his life kissing her, right here on this stupid bed that didn't even fit him. Except it did when she was on top of him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At that moment, the entire world was fucking perfect." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He thought she'd argue—if she heard him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If not, they'd just keep doing this until they both died of asphyxiation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His head was already swimming, though that could've been because she'd frigging slayed him.\n\nWas slaying him still.\n\nWhen she finally slipped back, he leaned forward to follow her mouth before he caught himself. She was laughing at him, her wild dark hair flowing over her shoulders and framing the absolute delight in her eyes.\n\n\"Sure about that?\" she asked, tucking her tongue at the corner of her lips.\n\nHe grabbed her by the waist and flipped her over until she was beneath him, gasping and laughing and holding her shoulder. There was no missing the pain that streaked through her expression along with the amusement.\n\nCaused by him.\n\n\"Fuck. I shouldn't have—I didn't think.\" He let her go immediately, but she grabbed his hand and brought it right back to her waist. Then she did the same with the other one." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I like when you hold onto me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He swallowed hard and she lifted her hand, pressing her finger hard into his forehead. \"Stop it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Stop what?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Stop thinking. We're not doing anything wrong.\"\n\n\"It's not that.\" At least it wasn't only that. \"You've had a difficult time recently.\"\n\n\"No shit, Sherlock. You too.\" She cupped her hand over his on her waist and leaned up to meet his mouth in a hard, quick kiss. \"Why we need as many orgasms as we can get.\"\n\nThere were so many things he could—should—say. So many others he couldn't. The last thing he wanted was to cause her to worry unnecessarily or to remind her again of all they'd gone through.\n\nWhat she was still going through.\n\nWhat waited for them, no matter how long they stayed away and pretended it wasn't." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That wasn't even considering the crap that was happening right where they were staying. He knew she was concerned about her friend.\n\nShe had reason to be.\n\nBut right now, it wasn't about pretending everything was okay so much as giving her a few minutes to breathe. And maybe him too.\n\n\"Yeah, about that.\" He shifted onto his side and jerked up his boxers and jeans, zipping and buttoning them despite her cute little pout. \"How'd you pull that off, if you don't mind me asking?\"\n\n\"You really didn't have to do that. I like the easy access.\" She turned toward him and hooked her leg over his thighs, drawing him closer.\n\nHe tipped his forehead against hers and casually—so not casually—draped his arm over her waist. \"How'd you do that?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'inside' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do what?\"\n\n\"Come without me touching you.\"\n\n\"Oh.\" Her nose wrinkled and her cheeks went adorably pink. \"Too many shitty boyfriends?\"\n\nHe waited.\n\n\"Let's just say I've been ready to go since we danced at the club and leave it at that.\"\n\n\"When you were high.\" His voice was flat, but it couldn't be helped.\n\n\"Not just then. Last night too. I used to think I enjoyed a guy with moves but gotta say I like being the one who moves against you.\" She shrugged. \"Guess I got myself good and worked up and then having all that inside my mouth…\" She licked the inside of her lower lip.\n\nHe rubbed his thumb over that lush, red, well-used flesh. \"You're trouble, Crandall.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "For once, her expression didn't cloud." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So are you, Shawcross.\" She smiled. \"And I like it.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Narrative Extension Protocol:\nQuantity: 8 sentences\nContext: Match character familiarity\nGenre: romance, music, nsfw" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She woke up the first time curled up on him like a kitten. Legs tangled together, face pressed into his chest, shoulder and arm screaming as if she'd taken a mallet to them.\n\nNo, just used them to give a very good blowjob, if she did say so herself.\n\nShe'd shifted on him until the pain had abated enough for her to snuggle in again. He was a giant wall of a man around her, enfolding her in a way she never would've guessed she would like. But for someone who liked to protest she could take care of herself, she didn't mind being sheltered in his embrace right then.\n\nNot one bit.\n\nThe next time she woke up, he was behind her, his huge body curved in around hers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Arm around her waist, his mouth turned into her hair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sleeping so soundly she didn't have the heart to wake him though she really needed to pee." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She hoped Teag was okay. And that she hadn't heard them moaning—or laughing, though the laughter had been brief.\n\nSomehow she didn't know which seemed more disrespectful.\n\nAfter what Teagan had endured the night before, she knew she shouldn't have touched Mal. The timing had been highly inappropriate. Even if he'd been hard as a rock and right there. She needed to learn some self-control.\n\nAs for remembering she hated him… Yeah, that wasn't working so well anymore." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Especially since he gave really good spoon. Like holy crap." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But she wasn't stupid. The way they were learning to be together, figuring out some stuff about each other away from the madness that was Warning Sign—that couldn't last. They'd go home and eventually they'd climb on their bus again and it'd be back to square zero.\n\nShe wasn't even sure she'd get to fuck him first.\n\nMaybe it was better if she didn't. They'd given each other a respite this morning, and perhaps they could learn to be friends.\n\nIt didn't have to be any big thing.\n\nExcept she was already making it into one." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Gah, she was such a girl sometimes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He might be into her physically, but that didn't mean he wanted more from her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The idea was patently ludicrous.\n\nMalachi Shawcross in a real relationship? Yeah, right.\n\nSo why hadn't he wanted to have sex with her? Seemed like if he was only looking for a booty call, he would've hit it and quit it as fast as possible. Instead he kept putting her off…and it definitely wasn't from lack of interest.\n\nHe'd come so fucking fast. And she hated that she knew he normally didn't, thanks to his bus exploits, but there it was.\n\nAcross the room, her phone went off with Lila's text ringtone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh Lord, really? Right now?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sorry, can't take your call. I'm in bed with your former stepson.\n\nLi sent through a couple more texts before her phone went silent. Luckily, Mal was still out. Guess he'd needed the sleep as much as she had.\n\nNothing like an orgasm cure to beat insomnia.\n\nShe stifled a yawn and pressed her face deeper into the pillow. Mal's peppermint bodywash smell was all over the bedding." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not that she liked it because it was his.\n\nLiar.\n\nThe next time she woke, that comforting weight around her was gone. It was dark, but not deep dark. The kind just after sunset, because she'd slept the whole day away in bed with Mal.\n\nMal who was now MIA.\n\nShe sighed and rubbed her eyes, then pushed at the covers. She'd gone to sleep with none, but she'd awakened under the sheet and blanket." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All tucked in. He had a hidden sweet side, and she didn't know what to do with it." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A soft knock came at the door. \"I heard you moving around in there. You up?\"\n\nTeagan.\n\n\"Yes, I'm up. Come in.\"\n\nTeagan pushed open the door and carted in a tray with a fancy tea pot and two cute little cups." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Today you will be acting as a writing assistant, your partner will send something and you will write the next 11 sentences. The story may reference existing characters and events - incorporate them as presented." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"On your back. Pillows beneath your shoulder.\"\n\nElle tilted her head. Sure, he couldn't be gentle. Except he never forgot her injuries for a second. \"First time and all, we'll do it your way.\"\n\nAnother grunt. Since she was about to get every inch of that glorious cock inside her—even if she still didn't quite know the full logistics of that yet—she wasn't going to ask for more.\n\nOnce she'd obliged him, he grabbed another pillow and shoved it under her ass. Her eyebrow raised at that one. She was pretty much a freak between the sheets, but even she didn't go for backdoor sex on the first night.\n\nWhen one wasn't enough, he slipped another under her back, so that she was fully propped up against the headboard. This would still hurt her arm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She understood that and accepted it. Still riding high on the endorphins of really good orgasms, she'd take the risk.\n\nEven if he was standing beside the bed, stroking his length and staring at her as if he intended to eat her whole.\n\nWhoops, he already had.\n\nHe pulled a condom out of his wallet, rolling it on with the efficiency of someone who'd had plenty of practice. She didn't like thinking about that, especially now, but she preferred to think he'd had lots of training.\n\nExcept for eating pussy. Which holy shit, if that was him without much repetition…\n\n\"Only one time before,\" she said thoughtfully, idly toying with her nipple while she took in his priming routine. Not that he needed any. Good Lord, she was already wincing at the idea of walking tomorrow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You sure about that?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required word frequency: 'going' (2x)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Very.\"\n\n\"So what did you think?\"\n\n\"I think I'm going to love making you cream on my dick like you did my mouth. Now quiet.\"\n\nShe might not have obeyed if he hadn't planted a foot on the bed. Oh no, he wasn't going to roll on and start with some easy missionary.\n\nHe'd warned her.\n\nShe sucked in a breath as he loomed over her, drawing up to his full height. Christ, he was massive in all ways. \"You know, maybe we should start slow—\"\n\nHe grabbed her hip and flipped her on her belly, managing to do it so she landed mostly on her good side. There was a pinch of pain, but it was swiftly dwarfed by the feel of him squeezing her ass." }, { "from": "human", "value": "One cheek then the other, before giving each a sharp slap." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was already hot from before, and the smacks to her skin just revved her engine more. She rose up on her knees, offering him more, tossing him a glance over her shoulder to let him know she was right there with him.\n\n\"Like that, do you?\" He did it again, harder this time, using one hand to wrap her hair around his hand as he drew her up.\n\nIt was then that she realized the glass of the framed bucolic winter scene over the bed offered quite the nice reflective surface—just enough for her to see him crouched over her, manhandling her in a way that set her body on fire.\n\n\"Like watching yourself too, huh?\" His mouth was at her ear and his other hand was on her ass, sculpting it before giving her a few more taps. Then he delved between her cheeks, slipping down to stroke her soaked pussy, his groan revealing exactly how wet she was.\n\nAs if she couldn't feel it on her thighs.\n\nTwo fingers pushed inside her. Not carefully this time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was all rough, hard thrusts, preparation for what she knew was to come." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His hand in her hair grew more brutal, tugging her head back as he pushed her down, skimming her diamond-hard nipples over the nubby fabric of the pillowcases.\n\n\"Let's see how fast you can come now, little Ricki.\"\n\nShe didn't have time to process his usage of that full nickname before he was replacing his fingers with his dick. Not slowly either. The broad head of his cock teased her slippery flesh. Circling once, twice, before he shoved his way in, making her pussy accede to him as if there was simply no other option. She cried out, and when she couldn't reach the pillow because of his hold on her hair, bit her own arm. The damaged nerves higher up sparked to life, but she could barely feel the pain. There was just him inside her, taking over. Opening her up for him in a way she wasn't sure she'd ever been fucked before. It wasn't just the mechanics. She'd been done doggy-style in the past." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was the way he…conquered her. Mastered her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Owned her from the first fucking stroke.\n\nAs much as she liked watching their shadowy, dirty figures in the glass, she couldn't stay upright on her knees. He wanted her down anyway. He was poised behind her, hammering into her like a guy would oh, a few months in. Not the first time. The first night when everything was so new and perilous.\n\nBut Mal didn't do anything like any other man she'd ever known.\n\nShe pressed her face into the pillows, turning her head to gasp for breath. She might've begged for mercy, if she'd truly wanted any. She didn't. This was exactly what she'd needed. Not to be treated as if she was fragile glass." }, { "from": "human", "value": "To be fucked as if she could withstand anything, hell, exalt in it, because she was so unimaginably strong." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Right here and now with him, she was.\n\nShe could be unbreakable, and he knew it. Was honoring it without giving her pretty words she wouldn't believe.\n\nThe first climax slammed through her, shaking her to her foundations. Her knees went out from beneath her, but he didn't stop. He shifted, he changed the angle, but he didn't pause. He used her for his own pleasure and made it hers. Took hers and made it his.\n\nWhen he turned her over and grappled for the pillows, pushing them under her ass again, raising her hips to him, she flailed out her arm, reaching for—\n\nHe grabbed her hand and brought it to his mouth. That abrupt kiss on her knuckles pulled her out of the moment and dropped her back down, leaving her reeling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He let her go and loomed above her again, drawing her legs up as he reached above him for the arched naked canopy of the bed frame." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She couldn't even gasp as he came down again, finding her and sinking inside with a groan that was part torture and part victory." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'again' 3 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He used the bed frame for leverage, somehow rocking into her again and again from that higher-than-normal angle, making each pass so deliciously long and deep. Her legs coiled around him and he drew her up, up, putting more pressure on her shoulders than she should be. She would be so sore tomorrow. Head to toe.\n\nBut she wasn't numb. She could feel everything. Every incredible inch as he spread her open and made room for himself as if she'd been empty all this time.\n\nOne of his big hands moved down to cup her breast. He pinched her nipples, shifting between them, before applying that focused attention on her clit. She was so past the point of sensitivity that just a flick made her shudder. She couldn't come again. It wasn't physically possible." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But his cock was hitting that spot inside her he'd sought with his fingers, and his bulging, tattooed arms were swimming in her vision. She wanted to watch him fuck her, touch her, possess her, but her lids were too heavy and the endless thrusts of his cock inside her too devastating. Holding on was more than she could manage.\n\nAnd if she let go, he would catch her. She had no doubt.\n\n\"Eyes on me. Fucking now.\"\n\nShe whimpered, half from his onslaught and half because she didn't think she had the strength to comply. But it was worth it, because that intense darkness enveloped her as their gazes clashed and clung. His head was scraped and raw, and she'd done that to him. This big, powerful man, she'd marked just as he was marking her. Imprinting her from the inside out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Malachi.\" His name felt good on her tongue, even if it took her last breath to say it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Watching his pupils flare and his jaw lock as he grew almost imperceptibly inside her, the final warning that he was right there too." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'beautiful' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This time, they'd go over together.\n\nShe waited for his demand, but he didn't give one. So she did.\n\n\"Come for me,\" she whispered, squeezing him so tightly he couldn't ever leave. A fantasy, for sure, but a beautiful one.\n\nBeautiful nightmare.\n\nThe recognition slammed into her even as the orgasm did, quaking through her body even as her mind whirled. She couldn't process, couldn't even breathe. Because he was right behind her, his big shoulders shuddering as he drew back and sank home one last time, holding, holding, until he exploded inside her and brought her along one more time.\n\n\"Ricki.\" Her name was a chant.\n\nA blessing.\n\nA memory she'd never lose again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In the aftermath, the world seemed to go still." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not her. She was quaking inside and out. Her heart most of all.\n\nFor a second, he didn't move. He still gripped one of the overhead arches, and she wondered how it hadn't splintered from the force of his thrusts. His huge arms were visibly tensed as his body trembled. He was trying to hold himself motionless and failing.\n\nAnd she couldn't wait another second.\n\n\"It was you,\" she breathed, and his beautiful eyes popped open. \"Beautiful nightmare.\"\n\nHis jaw, so slack a moment before, clenched again. He didn't respond.\n\n\"I k-kissed you. Years ago. Before the band, before any of it. It was you.\"\n\nHe went down on his knees, and it was like watching a redwood crumple." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He just folded in on himself, still partially inside her, and drew her up into his arms." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wanted to be mad. To demand answers.\n\nBut she just wrapped herself around him—damn the pain—and held on.\n\nAfter a minute or five, he took care of the condom and disposed of it, then came back to the bed and pulled her close.\n\n\"You remember.\" He cupped the back of her head and brought it to his shoulder. \"You remember.\"\n\nShe nodded, pressing her face into his hot, damp skin. She sucked in a breath of the peppermint body wash from the rental house that he'd claimed to hate yet had brought with him to Teagan's. Now that smell was on her too. He was all over her, all around her.\n\nThe sob rolled through her and she pushed away from him so she didn't choke. He held her fast, keeping her close, tipping his head against hers as if he could take some of her pain away.\n\nHe didn't even understand why she was crying." }, { "from": "human", "value": "How could he, when she wasn't sure herself?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You never forgot. All this time, you k-knew.\"\n\nHe nodded, his eyes bleaker than she'd ever seen them. \"I knew. I never forgot. Not for a second.\"\n\n\"I was fucking high.\" She pushed away from him, harder now, so ashamed of herself that she didn't know how he could stand to look at her, never mind touch her. \"How much of my life have I lost because I don't remember? Because I just didn't know? No wonder you h-hated me.\"\n\n\"I never hated you.\"\n\nShe let out a laugh that ended in more tears. Of course, she was crying. She might feel strong for a few minutes, but reality always came crashing down.\n\n\"You thought I was hot, I guess? That made up for me needing your rescuing even then. Dumb, high little Ricki, never able to save herself. How did you stumble on me anyway? Coincidence? Bad luck? Our twisted fate?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She laughed and this time it was too bitter to bring on more tears." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her face was a mess of them anyway." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He turned his head, and her heart squeezed. \"How, Malachi?\" she asked sharply.\n\nHe didn't answer for so long she was sure he wouldn't. Another part of saving her from herself meant keeping the truth from her. All kinds of truths that she wasn't strong enough to handle.\n\nNo one believed she could be strong. Not even herself.\n\nEspecially herself.\n\n\"Lila sent me to find you,\" he said, and his voice was hollow.\n\nAs hollow as her chest.\n\n\"Lila,\" she repeated. \"Why?\"\n\n\"Because you're Nick's,\" he said simply, and that almost was enough to ease the pain just waiting to hijack her completely." }, { "from": "system", "value": "/set_word_count: didn't, frequency: 3" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She'd kept it at bay these weeks, but now here was the perfect excuse to break.\n\nUnless maybe it was just family. Lila had worried about her, and she'd asked Mal to help.\n\nExcept Mal hated her. From the role she'd played in his parents' breakup, or was there more?\n\nShe gripped his chin and made him look at her. The more was all over his face.\n\n\"She made you do it,\" she said quietly. \"You didn't want to. Why would you? You didn't know me. I was just some anonymous druggie.\"\n\n\"You were never that to me. Not for one fucking minute. From the very first, I was—\"\n\n\"What?\" When that didn't make him answer, she shook him. Hard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He barely flinched." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'because' 3 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What was I to you? A payday? A way to get Lila off your back?\"\n\n\"Both of those things. I didn't know you. You said it yourself. And she's always known what buttons to push and wheels to turn to get her way. You wanted to know why I had my issues with dear, sweet Lila? Now you have another answer. She's a game player just like Lewis. Oh, they might have good reasons to do it, but they're schemers nonetheless.\"\n\nElle shoved at his massive shoulders, but he didn't move. \"I need space.\"\n\n\"Yeah, well, you're not getting it right now. You want me to be honest, you're going to sit here and listen, not run off half-cocked before I've gotten it all out.\"\n\n\"Why is everything some big secret? First, I find out Nicky had to make some big agreement with her to take my spot in the band if I fucked up—not if, when. Now this.\" Elle wiped at her damp cheeks. \"She sent you after me specifically, why? Because she had leverage?\"\n\n\"Yes. And because she could trust me, even if she didn't like me much more than I ever liked her. And because I'm a big motherfucker.\"\n\nShe snorted. Since his still half hard dick was wedged against her belly, she had to concur. He was big in all ways.\n\n\"What leverage did she have on you?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "DIRECTIVE: Incorporate \"I got involved with a fan and she OD'd. The press implicated me, that I had contributed to her decline. Her family was wealthy and powerful.\" in response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She expected him to argue. Or just not answer. Not to reply as if he'd been waiting for this day all this time.\n\n\"My garage was in trouble. It needed some money to keep going, and I didn't want my men to suffer just because my career had hit the skids and I was too stubborn to touch much of my father's money.\"\n\n\"You mentioned a garage in the car. Where you store the Stingray. You own it?\"\n\n\"Yeah.\"\n\n\"So you worked on cars too?\"\n\n\"Some.\"\n\n\"Your career. Racing, you mean. Why did it end?\"\n\nHe rubbed the side of his face, looking anywhere but at her. \"I got involved with a fan and she OD'd. The press implicated me, that I had contributed to her decline. Her family was wealthy and powerful.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The words spun through her head, turning her stomach and making her dizzy. Overdosed. Of course." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Another parallel. But she wasn't going to press that point because it was a miracle he was even answering her questions at all.\n\n\"So's yours.\"\n\n\"I shunned my father's help. If I didn't want anything to do with him otherwise, didn't seem right to have him bury the story, now did it?\"\n\n\"And your mother? You'd sided with her once against Lila. For obvious reasons.\"\n\n\"Yeah, until she got married three times more and made a mockery of everything I'd ever thought about her. They belonged together.\" He shook his head in disgust. \"I got lucky in that I found my grandparents when I was a teenager. I have my brother. As for the rest, I didn't need them then and I don't need them now.\"\n\nHearing that made her immeasurably sad. She would've given anything to have her family back, and his was alive and he was renouncing them. Not that she didn't understand, but God, your family was your family.\n\nAnd sometimes you had to make your own." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Lila held money over your head to help me. What else?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "/set_word_count: still, frequency: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elle asked after a couple minutes.\n\n\"She made the story go away. Got the press off my back.\"\n\n\"How?\"\n\n\"How do they do any of the shit they pull off, her and Donovan? Grease the right palms, call in the right favors. It's still out there if you dig, but it became sixth page news instead of first thanks to her influence.\"\n\n\"The girl who overdosed. The fan. You cared for her?\"\n\nHe nodded, and she swallowed the rush of envy toward some tragic faceless woman she didn't even know. Being jealous of someone who had been around long before her made no sense.\n\nBut he'd acknowledged that he'd been involved with her. Elle still didn't know if their involvement would last beyond this trip.\n\nElle brushed her hair out of her face. Now that the adrenaline was backing off, her aches and pains were returning in full force." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That explains why you shun fan contact and can't stand the press.\"\n\n\"I never liked the whole fan culture. Not the fans themselves. Just the environment that's conducive to making strangers think they own a piece of you. It's dangerous.\"\n\n\"As you found out.\"\n\n\"I'm hardly the first. The fanbase was less rabid in racing, but it was a definite factor there too.\"\n\n\"So that's why you didn't want to join the band.\" Elle rubbed her hand under her nose. At least she'd stopped crying. \"And because I was there.\"\n\n\"Lila wanted me to join, but I didn't know you were already a contender too. I initially agreed, then I backed out.\"\n\n\"She let you?\"\n\n\"Yes, because you were safe. For what it's worth, I think she really just wanted to make sure you were okay.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"At your expense.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He didn't reply." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That night at Vinnie's, I don't remember much. But you told me to run. You helped me out a window—\" She paused, struggling to bring the hazy details in her head into sharper focus. \"The bathroom. And you had a hat. Hair.\" She touched his head and he shifted toward her, leaning into her palm. \"Dark, like Michael's. It was almost long.\"\n\n\"No. It just wasn't short.\"\n\nThe correction was so like Mal she had to laugh. Her eyes grew damp again and he shook his head, reaching down to lace his fingers with hers.\n\n\"Don't. Just don't. You're thinking that I had no choices, that it's your fault I was there.\"\n\n\"It was. You keep having to step between me and whatever the latest threat is, and now I'm here in bed with you and it feels like—\"\n\nHe moved away from her before she could finish, climbing off the bed and stalking away. She almost thought he'd walk through the door and keep going, but he didn't." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He gripped the back of his neck before shifting to face her again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It feels like you're grateful to me.\" His voice was gritty and low. \"That this is just some misplaced sense of gratitude.\"\n\n\"No. God, no. You think I screw everyone who does something kind for me?\" She didn't expect an answer and she didn't get one. \"If you think I'm crazy for regretting you never really had a choice before getting sucked into my melodrama, I think you're crazy for believing I'd ever do this just to say thanks for pushing me out of the way. Twice.\" She took a breath. \"Fucking twice now, Malachi. What's next?\"\n\n\"You might be keeping score, but I'm not.\"\n\nShe buried her head in her hands. \"You know what I'm feeling right now?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If you say regret—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Christ, no. Who regrets the best sex they've ever had? Like times fifty-eight-thousand?\" She glanced up as he sat on the edge of the bed.\n\nThe suckiest part of this whole conversation? She hadn't even been able to properly appreciate his fine specimen of a naked body.\n\n\"The only thing I'm regretting is I didn't get my afterglow. That's a requirement. Instead I had to take a stroll down memory lane.\"\n\n\"Long overdue one.\"\n\nShe couldn't argue that point.\n\nHe reclined against the pillow, stretching out his big body and giving her basically no choice but to ogle him. She deserved the ogle, dammit. It wasn't fair she hadn't gotten her post-sex cuddles either.\n\nThough with Mal, those seemed highly unlikely." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I like being held after being boned brainless.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He lifted a brow and held out an arm. \"Then why are you so far away?\"\n\nShe curled up against his side and pressed her cheek to his chest. His rampaging heartbeat would always be his tell. The one way she knew for certain he wasn't unaffected, no matter how he might seem.\n\nHis fingers drifted through her hair, untangling the snarled strands. He played with it so long that she almost fell asleep, lulled by his now slowing heartbeat.\n\n\"Best sex ever, huh?\"\n\nShe opened an eye. \"Took you long enough to preen.\"\n\n\"Was still pissed at you gratitude-fucking me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Which I did not do.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She turned her head and met his gaze. \"You know I didn't. It couldn't have been like that if I had.\"\n\nHis thumb traced her cheekbone. \"I'm supposed to drive back and meet some investigators tomorrow in the city.\"\n\nJust like that, her newly attained sense of calm split in two. She knew it had been a false one, since she hadn't fully unpacked the Lila, Vinnie, and Mal situation. But it had been enough of one to allow her to nearly fall asleep.\n\nSo much for that.\n\nShe sat up and rubbed her shoulder. Hello, pins and needles, right on time. \"What?\"\n\nHe looked up at the ceiling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's what I wasn't telling you. That they're looking into the accident and want to talk to me about it. You too.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Include the following text] → \"Looking into it how? What do you mean?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Looking into it how? What do you mean?\" She bit her lip. \"They think it wasn't an accident?\"\n\n\"They're investigating.\"\n\n\"Yeah, I got that part. And what, you were just going to tell them I was too emotionally unstable to talk to them?\" She slugged him hard in the gut. \"Seriously, dude, you are getting on my last nerve.\"\n\nHe caught her fist and held it against his rock-hard stomach. He probably hadn't even felt her damn punch. \"I told you now,\" he said evenly.\n\n\"Only because I just melted down.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No, because if I believe you're strong—and I do, or I wouldn't be here right now—I need to treat you that way.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Sure about that? Sure you're not saving me to make up for the one you couldn't save?\"\n\nShe nearly groaned aloud. God, she hadn't meant to say that. Hell, to even think it. He'd cared about that woman, and losing her had to have been difficult. To throw his kindness back in his face—again—was unconscionable.\n\n\"I didn't even try,\" he said quietly. \"I decided she was too much trouble and I cut her loose.\"\n\n\"Addicts are trouble. They're bad bets, and a smart person has to understand that. There are no guarantees.\" She swallowed hard, knowing full well that she might end up driving him away.\n\nBut she owed him honesty. Unvarnished and uncensored." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If she couldn't give him anything else, she could offer him that." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm trying, God, I'm trying so fucking hard, but I slipped once already. Twice if you count the alcohol separately, and you should because I never had a problem with drink. But I didn't care what I got in me. It hasn't even been two weeks, and I've slipped twice. That's what addicts do. We manage to make it for a while, and then something happens, life happens,\" she swiped at the tears that had started again, \"and we slip. We fall. And sometimes we don't get up again.\"\n\n\"Tell me someone who doesn't use something to get through every day and I'll tell you they're a liar.\" He leaned forward and cupped her jaw. \"So-called healthy addictions are addictions too.\"\n\n\"What, you think someone who likes to jog too much is the same?\" She shook her head, but she couldn't quite bring herself to move his hand from her face.\n\nShe loved him touching her far too much.\n\n\"In a way, it is. We all need something to make it through the night. Someone.\" He dragged in a breath. \"It isn't what the textbooks recommend, but fuck them. Fuck everyone who says they know what's the right way to handle this shit.\"\n\n\"What are you saying?\" she asked shakily." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Until you can do this all the way on your own, let me help.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How?\"\n\n\"Let me be your addiction for a while.\" His gaze stayed steady, never wavering. \"As long as it takes.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mode:\nCo-writing\nContext: Match existing character familiarity or establish new\nLength:\n10 sentences\nGenre:\nromance, music, nsfw" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Saturday morning came with a rare show of rain against the windows." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'meeting' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ricki was stretched out diagonally across the bed. For someone who gave him shit about needing a king-sized bed, she sure took advantage of the space.\n\nThen again, he didn't mind waking to her wound around him. He'd gotten up to take a piss and a shower before she took over his bathroom. Instead of noticing he'd left her, she did a sprawl. The fact that she rested a little more easily with her shoulder gave him hope.\n\nHe'd push for physical therapy after they got through the service for Randy. It was going to be a long emotional day. Hell, the last few days had been a maelstrom of shit. From the meeting with Donovan and his new security detail headed by Aidan Roth, to the equally frustrating meeting with the police, they'd both been wrung out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The fact that Donovan didn't want them to give many details to the cops left him restless and pissy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He didn't trust a cop as far as he could throw one, but Donovan was playing things close to the vest as usual." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The fucker was more secretive than a damn spy in a Bond movie.\n\nAll of it left him twitchy as hell.\n\nHe knew Ricki had picked up on it too, but she chose to go into her positive, chipper mode instead of his default—asshole. The girls were all over her via text and phone calls, but she'd proposed a night in, just the two of them. So they'd binge watched the Die Hard movies while eating Chinese food and some weird concoction called White Trash. Normally, he wasn't much into sweets, but he'd helped her eat the whole fucking bowl of it.\n\nThe fact that he'd used her chest as a plate for the white chocolate and salty treat had made it a little extra palatable. Which was why he needed an extra long shower that morning. Once he started macking on her exceptional breasts, he'd ended up fucking her into the damn headboard.\n\nBoth of them had wanted to extend the night as long as possible." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Anything so they didn't have to deal with the emotional showdown that would be Randy's service. He only hoped they could keep the press away from the small get-together. It had been a couple weeks, so the vultures had moved onto the next entertainment carcass. It was Los Angeles, so there was a never-ending supply.\n\nHe perched on the edge of the bed then followed a rich, chocolate-colored curl down between her shoulder blades to where the gray sheets pooled at the curve of her delectable ass and lower back. He was getting used to the dark hair, but he secretly hoped she'd go back to blond sometime soon. He leaned down and kissed her exposed skin. \"Up and at 'em, lazy.\"\n\nShe moaned, pressing her face between two of the pillows at the head of the bed.\n\nMal tugged the sheet down and smacked one naked cheek." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Into the shower with you.\"\n\n\"Fuck off.\"\n\nHe leaned down and bit the same cheek and she squealed. He was tempted to peel her open and fuck her awake, but they didn't have enough time.\n\nShe kicked out with a frustrated grunt, then dragged the sheet over her head. \"No.\"\n\n\"Yes.\" He stood and whipped off the sheet.\n\nShe dragged a pillow up and over her chest. \"Hey!\"\n\n\"Nothing I haven't seen, Ricki. Get your ass in the shower. We have to leave in an hour.\"\n\n\"Hour?\" She pushed her hair out of her face. \"Do I look like I take an hour to get ready?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Today you will. Go on.\" He nodded to the dry cleaning bag hanging off his armoire.\n\nHer grouchy snarl dissolved as her big blue eyes grew damp.\n\n\"Hey.\" He crawled across the bed, his towel falling away as he climbed behind her. He sucked at the tears thing, but they were probably going to be in abundance today—evidently, he'd be getting a crack at them early. Instead of trying to hide it, she turned and wrapped herself around him. She buried her face in his neck and the tears multiplied.\n\nHelpless to the tornado of emotions, he just held on to her. By the time she was done, she'd gone from hiccuping sobs to soft sighs. She pulled back with a sniff. \"Sorry.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'again' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't apologize.\"\n\nShe cupped his face. \"I know you hate this stuff, but thanks for letting me get it out before the memorial. I'm sure there will be more, but at least I got most of it out now. I just know as soon as I see Jules, I'm going to fucking lose it.\"\n\n\"I'm pretty sure there won't be a dry eye in there once people see Juliet.\"\n\nShe used the backs of her hands to dash away a few more rolling tears. \"Yeah. I just wish she hadn't completely shut me out. I mean, I get it, but God, I hate that we're so divided. That I allowed us to stay so divided. We started texting again a little, but it's still so awkward.\"\n\n\"You needed to figure your shit out too. Don't forget that.\"\n\n\"Not like her.\"\n\nHe slid his fingers into her hair. \"Yes, you did. You got hurt and you still have to work on that. I know you're going to play again. You're not a quitter. In fact, you've worked harder than any of us in some respects. You had to start over twice.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "At some point in your response, insert this verbatim: \"It's only been a few weeks, but you've been letting that fear hold you back. I know you're going to be back to playing on that stage in no time because I believe in you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She frowned at him. \"No, I didn't.\"\n\n\"You had to get clean to join the band. And now you have to begin again.\"\n\n\"It was just one slip,\" she whispered.\n\n\"Not that.\" He rested his hand on her right shoulder. \"Here. You have been babying this—I get it,\" he said before she could interrupt. \"It's only been a few weeks, but you've been letting that fear hold you back. I know you're going to be back to playing on that stage in no time because I believe in you.\"\n\nTears spilled out of her eyes again.\n\n\"Shit. I didn't mean to make you cry.\"\n\nShe threw her arms around his shoulders. \"That's the sweetest thing anyone has ever said to me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Don't get used to it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You keep this up, I'll have to rethink that Oscar the Grouch tattoo I was going to buy for you for Christmas.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Fuck off.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A giggle filled the loft area of his apartment. \"Only you would get offended by me calling you sweet.\"\n\nHe lifted her off his lap and set her on the bed. \"Up. Crying time is over.\"\n\nShe rolled off the bed. \"All right. You're still sweet though.\"\n\n\"Take it back.\"\n\n\"Nope. Sorry, the secret is out.\"\n\n\"You tell anyone and I'll take you over my knee.\"\n\nHer eyes flashed. \"Promise?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<USAGE LIMIT>>: 'there' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Go get in the goddamn shower.\"\n\n\"I'm going.\" Ricki hurried to the bathroom. Before she disappeared, she peeked her head out. \"Mal?\"\n\nHe turned to her.\n\n\"Thanks.\"\n\nA lump grew in his throat. Instead of answering, he just nodded and took her tremulous smile like a punch. He strode over to his dry cleaning bag. He hadn't worn a suit since his mother's last wedding, but today called for it. There was rejecting societal norms and there was respect." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Today was for respect." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "By the time he slid his suit jacket on, Ricki was blow-drying her hair.\n\nThey'd picked up all her girl shit on one of their trips out for meetings and food and now his damn bathroom smelled of her lush plum bodywash. He wasn't sure how and when he'd started missing it combined with the peppermint scent, but he did.\n\nGetting fucking soft on a woman. Jesus.\n\nShe came out in her towel, fluffing her hair in some chick fashion. Her face was nearly makeup free, just a bit of lipstick and something that made her huge eyes seem even larger and more fragile.\n\nFuck.\n\nHe knew she wasn't fragile—these past weeks had proven it over and over again even if she didn't think so. It didn't stop him from wanting to shield her from the pain that would be coming at her today.\n\nShe did some head bow and twist with her left arm and flipped her hair back. Then stopped. \"Whoa.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stepped toward her. \"What?\"\n\n\"You own a suit?\" She hiked her towel up and tightened the tuck between her breasts before walking a circle around him. \"I'm not sure what to say.\"\n\nHe crossed his arms over his chest, then winced and dropped his arms to his sides. He'd been hitting the weight bench and his kit too much lately. The shoulders barely fit him.\n\nShe walked her fingers up his arm. \"You look like one of those hot bodyguards who got stuffed in a suit. Kinda hot.\"\n\nHe felt the heat crawl up his neck enough that he had to fight the urge to tug his collar away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She leaned up and kissed his cheek." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you for wearing a suit today.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He slid his arm around her waist." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was getting more and more natural to do it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He lowered his mouth to hers and gave her a brief kiss. \"I didn't wear it for you.\"\n\n\"I know. I'll take the benefits though.\" She grabbed his butt before sliding away to pull on her underthings.\n\nHe paced the length of his bedroom, but when she bent over to pull on her stockings, he knew he needed to get out of there. He couldn't watch her girl-up. He already had to stuff down a truckload of guilt with the semi popping up with all those long limbs on display.\n\n\"Five minutes,\" he said on a growl.\n\nShe threw a look over her shoulder. \"You said I had an hour.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That was forty minutes ago.\"\n\n\"Creative math?\"\n\nHe headed for the stairs. More like he was going to toss her over his shoulder and take her out of the city if he had to keep thinking about where they were going. \"Five minutes.\"\n\n\"I'll be ready.\"\n\nHe grabbed his wallet and jangled his keys in his hand as he paced in front of the window. The rain had let up already. Shocker. California didn't get much rain to speak of, but it seemed even the heavens were shedding a few tears for Randy.\n\nAfter shoving his keys and his wallet in his pocket, Mal laced his fingers behind his head and arched his back to throw off some of the tension sitting on his shoulders. Facing these people would be rough for her, but he couldn't say he was excited at the prospect." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He wasn't a religious man, but he had to hope Randy went to a better place. And that he was watching out for Tristan and Jules. Not to mention the little one on the way.\n\nJuliet hadn't owned up to her pregnancy yet, even if the whole band knew it. But that kid was going to be loved.\n\nAnd he'd make sure to watch out for him or her, like he hadn't been able to for the baby's old man. He still wouldn't have done things differently, just wished it hadn't come to that. There had been no one except Ricki in his mind when the world had literally started falling around their ears.\n\nThe heat and sparks of electricity had showered them like some insane light show, but it had been smoke and death waiting for them instead of applause.\n\n\"Malachi?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He jerked at his name.\n\n\"I've been calling your name.\"\n\nHe wiped his hand down his face. \"Sorry.\" He shoved his hand into his pocket and came out with his keys fisted between his fingers.\n\nShe crossed to him and closed her cool hands over his. \"There was nothing you could have done.\"\n\nHis nostrils flared. \"You don't know that.\"\n\nHe tried to step away from her, but she strengthened her hold. \"We haven't been to see anyone yet. We both have been avoiding the pain of today. Of seeing everyone.\" Tears starred her lashes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He hooked his other arm around her neck and dragged her into his chest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm here. I'm not going anywhere.\"\n\nShe nodded into his chest. \"I know.\" She slid her arms around his waist and pressed her cheek into his shoulder. \"I know.\"\n\nHe held her like that for another minute before he hustled her outside. The drive was a quiet one. Both of them were too keyed-up for conversation, thank fuck. He concentrated on the winding roads that led to the pretty clearing. The sun broke out over the lush greenery and flowers bursting around the large patio.\n\nA line of cars was already there. He wasn't sure what to expect, but it wasn't this." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was sun and light and open spaces. Nothing dark and somber beyond the crowd of people wearing dark colors.\n\nHe braced himself for the paparazzi sure to be there, but found no one save for two people hanging on the outskirts. And each of the reporters had a Roth Defense security buddy beside them.\n\nMal had to hand it to Donovan, the man knew how to control an event.\n\nRicki reached back for his hand as they came up to the arbor leading to the main congregation of people. He recognized a few people from the crew and who had to be their families, other musicians they'd toured with over the years, as well as family members.\n\nA few were dressed like restaurant staff. Some seemed to be taking care of the people mogging around, and others seemed to be there for Tristan Eves. Being a chef for one of the premier hotels in Los Angeles, he had a lot of people in his life as well." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Amazingly, it was mostly contained without a lot of fanfare.\n\nAs they moved deeper into the crowd of people, he finally heard familiar voices. Children played out on the grass. He recognized Jazz and Margo from Oblivion. Jazz had her head tipped against Margo's shoulder as she clutched her hand.\n\nMargo belonged to Juliet. The ripples from Randy's death were far and wide and this gathering was an in-your-face reminder of that. He'd touched so many, belonged to so many.\n\n\"You're here.\" Lauren and West rushed forward. \"I swear, you guys are trying to give us heart palpitations.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lauren glanced down at their linked hands and Ricki dropped his hand.\n\nMal shoved it into his pocket as if he had been burned. Were they supposed to be hiding shit?\n\nLauren curled her arms around Ricki, then pulled back. \"Oh, your shoulder. Sorry.\"\n\nRicki waved it off. \"I'm fine. Just sore.\" She wouldn't meet Lo's eyes. She turned to West and hugged him. \"We're on time, aren't we?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "West patted her back." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"People started arriving almost two hours early. Luckily, Donovan seemed to be ready for that turn of events. He had people here and ready for it. Did you see the two Rottweilers on the door?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ricki frowned. \"No.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mal nodded. \"Yeah. Good way to keep the press at bay. I recognized one of the reporters.\"\n\n\"You did?\" Ricki looked up at him.\n\nHe shrugged. \"Watch enough television on the bus, you start knowing faces whether you want to or not.\"\n\nShe gave a small, \"huh,\" but then was enveloped in the chaos that was their band. Ricki became Elle in a moment's switch. She was handed off to each person in the band. Luc and Molly enveloped her in a warm hug, while Ethan leaned down for a more sedate kiss on the cheek.\n\nRyan and Denver crowded in and there was nothing but voices and tears as each of the women seemed to explode into waterworks when they got a look at the other.\n\nMal stepped back with each successive intrusion until he was on the outskirts as usual. It was where he liked to be—at least he used to." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A hand came down on his shoulder. \"Hey, brother.\"\n\nMal turned to Mike and grunted when he was dragged in for a hug. He gave his brother an awkward pat. \"Where's Chloe and the monkeys?\"\n\nMichael nodded toward the clearing. \"We left Hope with a sitter. Axl is out with the other kids. Jazz seems to be the ringleader for all the children today so Chloe went to see if she could help.\"\n\nThey stood shoulder to shoulder, both of them watching the kids outside.\n\n\"Elle, huh?\"\n\nMal swallowed down the boulder in his throat and clenched his fist. She'd dropped his damn hand like a hot rock, but yeah, she was his." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'she's' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He didn't care who knew. \"She's mine.\"\n\n\"Yours?\" Mike's eyebrows shot up.\n\nHe nodded. \"I know it's not ideal and people might give her shit about it, but she's mine.\"\n\n\"Why would they?\" Mike turned to him.\n\nMal lifted his chin and stared his brother right in the eye. \"Why wouldn't they?\"\n\n\"You know you're part of us—part of this—whether you want it or not, right?\" Michael swirled his fingers to encompass the space. \"You might try to keep us at arm's length, but you're part of this band. Part of our unit. Fucking family.\" His voice was low and gritty so it didn't carry.\n\nMal swallowed, but nodded." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I want that. I do. Fucking snuck up on me, but I do.\"\n\n\"Finally.\" Mike nudged his arm. \"Always takes a girl.\" He nodded to Ricki who stood with Denver, Lo, and Molly in a familiar cluster. \"They make us better, and Elle is one of the good ones. I'm glad you let her in.\"\n\n\"I didn't let her do anything.\"\n\nMike laughed. \"Yeah, they have a habit of taking over. You get used to it.\"\n\n\"Not likely.\"\n\nThe tone of the room changed and a hum went through the people gathered around. A male voice lifted over the din." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If you could please convene outside, we'd appreciate it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Donovan Lewis. His voice conveyed power and culture with that faint hint of a British accent running through it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And people fucking moved when he spoke." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A lot of power in those three-piece suits.\n\nRicki hugged the girls and squeezed hands before coming back to him. \"Hey.\" She linked her arm through his. \"Sorry about that, I needed to answer a few questions.\"\n\nMal nodded to Mike as he moved off to find Chloe and the older kids. \"It's fine.\"\n\nShe tugged his hand out of his pocket. \"I'm sorry I left you alone.\" She laced her fingers with his. And the rock that had been sitting on his chest lessened a little. Her eyes were shining and her pulse was fluttering at her neck." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So many people, I can't quit it with the waterworks.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She dashed at her eyes with her other hand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He reached into the small inner pocket of his jacket and pulled out a black bandana. \"I brought this.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her eyes filled again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, you did not.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She took it from him and threw her arms around his waist.\n\nMal went stone still as she buried her face in his chest. \"It's just a bandana.\"\n\n\"You thought to bring it. For me.\"\n\n\"It's not a damn diamond,\" he muttered.\n\nShe peered up at him. \"What did you say?\"\n\n\"Nothing.\" He huffed out a breath. \"Let's get out there before we're standing in the back.\"\n\n\"Right. I want to be with the band. Is that okay?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"More than okay.\" He slid his hand down her back to urge her forward. He reached in his pocket for his sunglasses as they moved onto the patio. Huge baskets of flowers overwhelmed the corners. Not funeral flowers though. Somehow that fit. Tristan and Juliet wanted a celebration, not a heavy and somber affair.\n\nHe and Ricki moved through the crowd to stand beside Mike and Chloe. Molly and the girls clustered around Ricki as West and Ryan flanked the end with Luc and Ethan. A huge fucking family in the midst of all the chaos and sadness. Mike was right, they were more of a unit here than they'd ever been.\n\nHe fucking hated that it was because Randy was gone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hated that it took this to get him to see that. To even want to see that.\n\nThere was a large picture of Randy, Tristan, and Jules next to a small podium. Their commitment ceremony photo with smiles and sunshine around them. Then there were a bunch of photos tacked on a huge board. Backstage photos, laughter, other weddings and band moments. All of them focused on Randy and his quiet happiness.\n\nMusic floated out from the side of the patio. Nick, Deacon, Gray, and Simon sat in a half circle of chairs, playing an instrumental song on acoustic guitars. One Mal had never heard before." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ricki swayed against him and pressed her face into his chest for a moment. He curled his arm around her shoulder and dragged her in tighter.\n\nJuliet and Tristan went up to the podium as a unit. Juliet's gaze crashed with Mal's. She looked between him and Ricki and gave him a soft smile. Not the full wattage he was used to from the crazy Jules, but a quiet one that made him swallow hard.\n\nTristan came forward as the music stopped. \"Thank you all for coming.\" He nodded toward the guys from Oblivion. \"That was beautiful. Thank you so much for doing that for Randy.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His eyes brimmed with tears, and one tracked down his face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He'd have been honored. I know we are.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Juliet nodded and swiped at her nose. \"I told myself I wasn't going to bawl through this. Randy wouldn't want that.\" She pressed her hand to Tristan's chest as she leaned on him.\n\nTristan smiled down at her. \"No, Randy didn't like tears. He'd actually do just about anything to make sure Jules didn't cry. That's why we wanted today to be more about celebrating him and his legacy.\"\n\nJuliet smoothed a hand down her still flat belly. \"He does have a legacy. One that we'll be sharing with you in about six months.\" Her eyes filled. \"I did get the chance to tell him he was going to be a dad. They were going to be dads.\" She tipped her head back. \"The one time he was good with the tears. And he was so happy. I know he would have made the very best co-dad with this guy.\" She hugged Tristan." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And while I hate—so much hate—that he's not going to be here to see our little girl or little boy grow up, I know this kid is going to be amazing because he or she is part Randy. All the people in this pretty place are proof that he was so very loved.\"\n\nShe sniffed and fanned her face. \"And so we decided to do this outside so he can hear us. Hear the music and the laughter of the kids. Because there's no one else on this planet who deserved heaven more than Randy Pruitt.\"\n\nThere was laughter and a few sobs in the crowd around them. Mal swiped away a tear that escaped as Ricki soaked his good white dress shirt.\n\nDeacon caught Harper against his chest as she cried. He led her up to stand with Jules and Tristan. A moment later, Simon and Margo went up to flank Jules.\n\nMike had informed him the families had done their own funeral already, so this was mostly for friends and the close-knit group of people behind the scenes who made the tours work. The people that were part of Randy's extended family especially since he'd been a roadie since his teen years." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Juliet held out her hand to Harper and drew her close." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We wanted to make sure today was full of happy memories and a few laughs in with the tears. I miss that man—we miss that man—more than words could ever express. Thank you for coming to be with us.\" She stepped back into the crowd of people on the podium.\n\nAs quickly as it had begun, this portion of the service was over. But the talking with people was not.\n\nThe problem with having so many people in the fucking band was this chaos was part of his life now. And while every part of him wanted to escape to the edges, he held fast as the voices and conversation grew. As people banded around Ricki.\n\nHer laughter and her tears made him want to fold her up and take her away from all this, but he knew she needed it. Needed her people. Needed to know she was still loved and part of them.\n\nThe next hour was brutal." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ricki was in her element with people coming to talk to her, though she kept watching the other side of the room where Jules was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She hadn't been over to see them, but then again, she couldn't get two steps away with all the people who wanted to talk to her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Finally, as he and Ricki were sipping on bottled waters at the edge of the crazy crush of people, Juliet came around behind them.\n\n\"Hey.\"\n\nRicki's hand trembled in his.\n\nJules looked down at their linked hands. Mal braced for Ricki to release him, but she didn't. Her eyes went back to the waterworks treatment though.\n\n\"I'm so sorry I wasn't here.\" Ricki looked down at her feet. \"I know you didn't want me to be, but I'm still sorry.\"\n\n\"It's been hard.\" Juliet glanced up at him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Really hard to face this. And I'm still not all the way there. I wish I could say I was.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ricki nodded. \"I understand.\"\n\n\"But I want you better. We need you. The band needs you.\" Jules patted her middle. \"This little one will need everyone.\"\n\nRicki swallowed and dashed away her tears. \"Of course.\"\n\n\"So you get better, okay?\" Juliet reached for Ricki's hand and squeezed. There was no hug though. He knew Ricki needed it, but knew just as well that Jules wasn't ready.\n\nAnd he didn't blame her." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'people' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Jules glanced up at him. \"I'm glad she has you.\" She sniffed and backed up. \"I have to…\"\n\n\"It's fine. Go. I understand.\" Ricki's grip made him bite back a smile. Her right hand was squeezing the circulation out of his hand. He'd take it. Because it was the first time she'd actually used it without favoring it or pulling it away.\n\nJuliet turned away, but then stopped. \"I'm happy for you guys. Everyone deserves someone.\" Then she was gone, swallowed into the crowd of people there for her and Tristan, the baby, and the man whose presence was so quietly huge that a shit-ton of people were here to prove it to her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He turned to Ricki. \"You okay?\"\n\nShe nodded. \"I'm gonna be.\"\n\nThat was all he could ask.\n\nAll any of them could ask. \"Wanna get out of here?\"\n\nShe nodded. Mal gestured to Mike that they were leaving and he followed her along the sidewalk to the arbor at the front of the outdoor venue. She curled her fingers around his. \"If it's okay…I need to go do something.\"\n\n\"Alone?\"\n\nShe nodded. \"If that's okay.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You do what you need to do.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I won't be too long, I promise.\"\n\n\"Do you want to take my car?\" He swallowed, then held up the keys.\n\n\"Did that hurt to ask?\"\n\n\"A little.\"\n\nShe laughed. \"No, Donovan said he had a few cars here to take people home. I'll use one.\"\n\n\"You sure you're all right to go out alone?\"\n\nShe hooked her fingers into the belt loop at the front of his pants. \"I'm not going to go on a bender.\"\n\n\"I didn't mean that.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her hand cupped his jaw." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But I love that you worry about me. I just need to do something for me. To put a little of this behind me.\" She went onto her toes. \"Behind us.\"\n\nHe dragged in a quick breath as she kissed him. People were all around, and she'd touched him voluntarily. Kissed him as if it didn't matter if anyone saw. He closed his eyes and lengthened the kiss a little before stepping away.\n\nShe smiled up at him then lifted her hand to his mouth and rubbed at his lower lip. \"You're wearing me.\"\n\n\"Proudly.\"\n\nHer eyes brightened and another sheen of tears welled up. \"Sweet talker.\"\n\nHe only grunted and she laughed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'll see you at home.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She stepped back and hurried down the walkway. He hated watching her walk away from him, but he didn't follow.\n\nHe needed a little less people himself. And without Ricki in the car, he could open it up and drive for awhile.\n\nJust what he needed." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mode:\nCo-writing\nContext: Story continues from larger narrative, characters/lore may lack introduction\nLength:\nfour sentences\nStyle:\nCari Quinn" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nothing like having to pretend to practice to lure out a killer.\n\nJust a few short weeks ago, playing the guitar had been her happy place. Back then, if she'd had to draw out a maniac, doing it while holding a guitar would've been one of the best possible scenarios. Having a more viable weapon couldn't hurt, true, but at least she could take solace from her instrument." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Alas, that was then, this was now, and even her beloved guitar couldn't soothe her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The first night of their rehearsing was long and tense." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She didn't want to touch her guitar because she was afraid what she would find if she tried to play." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It wasn't time for her to even attempt it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She needed to start physical therapy first." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But with the damn thing in her hand, it was so hard not to make the attempt. Just to see if any of her ability remained, or if it was one more thing she'd lost.\n\nHer brother was with her, and that helped. The stuff that had gone down at Mal's apartment was forgotten." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It simply didn't matter." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They'd fought and made up and that was all in the past.\n\nTheir current reality was that this jam session could end up putting a madman behind bars. Or else he might get a chance to finish what he'd started that night on stage.\n\nHe would try at least, but he would not succeed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Just a few notes to start.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She nodded at Nicky, loosely grasping the guitar. She could play leftie too, but not well. It felt weird not to have her sling on.\n\nAnd to play up her injury so if they were being overheard, Snake would think she was easy prey." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm in a lot of pain,\" she said in a halting voice.\n\nEven admitting something that was partially a lie was hard. She had been in pain. She still didn't know how much nerve and tendon damage she might have." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Another reason she needed to begin physical therapy as soon as possible." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No more delays." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No more putting off tomorrow." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not with her recovery, and not with Mal. Sometimes tomorrow didn't come, and she didn't want any regrets.\n\n\"I know. You still have to try.\"\n\n\"I feel so weak.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Another lie that wasn't." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her strength was growing a little every day, both physically and emotionally. But to be tested this way when she still felt so unsure…\n\n\"It'll take time until you're all the way back on your feet.\" Nicky's amber eyes met hers and she glimpsed a wealth of understanding there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As if he knew she was both exaggerating for Snake's benefit and telling the truth. A buried one that wasn't fully dependent on her injury.\n\nShe nodded and pushed her hair behind her ear. Knowing Noah and Mal were in the next room and the team had the building covered helped ease some of her nerves." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Some, but not all. The more she emphasized how fragile she was, the more her mind whispered it was the truth.\n\nYou can't handle this. You should've said no." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This is for Nicky to finish. He's the strong one.\n\nBut she had to be here. She'd been one of the ones who was hurt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "One of the ones Snake wanted to hurt, for fuck's sake, and poor Randy had been caught in the crossfire." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was no way she would stand by and let others be risked when this was her situation to deal with.\n\nHers and her brother's. Back to their roots.\n\n\"It's so unbelievable.\" She ran her fingertips over the strings, absorbing their feel." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That we're here in this place.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was saying so much more to Nicky than it appeared on the surface." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She knew he understood her meaning.\n\nHard to believe Snake was still a factor. Hard to understand how he could hate them that much.\n\n\"Always gonna be you and me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His voice and his gaze hardened in tandem. \"No matter what.\"\n\nShe nodded, firming her jaw. \"Let's start with some Beatles for Mama.\"\n\n\"Lucy?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Elle smiled. \"What else?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her mother had sang that one to her as a baby." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elle's middle name was Lucille, so \"Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds\" had always been her special song.\n\nIt felt a little like the musicians on the Titanic playing while they waited for the ship to sink, except she wasn't nearly as skilled. Nicky went slow, repeating parts with her, taking over when she fumbled and cursed and nearly dropped the guitar.\n\nSome was for show. Some wasn't." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hours passed. By midnight, they knew it wasn't happening that night." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Might never happen." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She gave Nicky a long hug before they parted, then she went home with Mal, unable to stop touching him when they were in the bed she already thought of as theirs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And in the darkest part of the night, when she was sure he'd whispered \"I love you\" into the silence, she said the same thing back to him, her lips tattooing the words into his chest.\n\nNow she had more than ever to lose, so she wouldn't. She just wouldn't.\n\nThe next day passed slowly. She was on edge, snapping at everyone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This had to end now. She couldn't live this way.\n\nThen it was finally time to join Nicky in the studio again.\n\nShe reached for her guitar, clutching it in fingers that were cold and boneless." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you ever think about Mama? Beyond playing the music she liked.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She hadn't planned on the question, but Nicky nodded as if he'd been expecting it all along." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yeah.\" He rubbed his thumb over the well-worn dents and dings in his guitar." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I wonder if she's okay. If she knows anything about us.\" He smiled faintly." }, { "from": "system", "value": "can you add this somewhere in your response:\n\"If she would be surprised I had the girls.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If she would be surprised I had the girls.\"\n\n\"I'd say everyone was surprised about that.\"\n\nHis smile deepened for a moment before disappearing. \"It changes everything. You're not just looking out for you anymore. You have to be their guardian, their protector.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stared hard at her. \"Like I always tried to protect you. Until I failed you.\"\n\nShe shook her head. \"No. You never failed me. I failed myself.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"This is because of me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No. It's not. It's absolutely not.\"\n\n\"You aren't the only one I turned my back on at the wrong time. Maybe if I'd seen something, done something—\"\n\n\"We all make our choices. I made mine. I'm still making them.\" She flexed her fingers and closed her eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm afraid PT won't be enough. That some of the player I was before is gone. You know how tenuous it all is.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I have faith in you. I know you'll come back from this.\"\n\nThe absolute certainty in his voice had her opening her eyes. Somehow she managed to smile. \"You and me, we're going to be practicing side by side when we're eighty and gray.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He smiled back, but she didn't miss the deep grooves of tension that bracketed his eyes. \"Just like we were when we were too small to hold the damn guitars.\"\n\nShe played a few notes, registering the echoing ache in her arm. She could play through it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It wasn't going to kill her.\n\nJust keep going.\n\n\"Wonder if someday the girls will do this too. Be like us.\"\n\n\"Bite your tongue.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She laughed weakly. \"Don't want any more guitarists in the family?\"\n\n\"I don't want them in this business. They can play folk guitar on the weekends and do something nice and normal during the week. Working as accountants would be good. Or in medicine. Maybe law.\"\n\nShe snorted. \"Folk guitar? Okay, sure.\"\n\n\"Wait until it's your turn. You'll see.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I can't wait,\" she said softly, suddenly unbearably sad.\n\nWhat if she never got that chance? What if her turn to have a family never came?\n\n\"Don't suppose you've had that conversation yet?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "he asked idly while he strummed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Which one?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The one where your dude better be ready to be a father or you'll show him the door.\"\n\nHer lips twitched, which was a kind of miracle considering. \"Kinda soon, don't you think?\"\n\n\"Better to be on the same page.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You just want him off my page entirely.\"\n\n\"No,\" he said after a moment. \"No, I don't. I think he's good for you. You deserve someone who loves you, and I believe he does. Besides, he knows I'll kick his ass if he does you wrong.\"\n\nShe hid her smile behind her hair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yeah, even if he thinks you can't deliver. He's a big guy, you know.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Did he say that?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hmm?\" she asked innocently." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nicky started to reply when the lights in the main studio went out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Fuck.\" He grabbed for her, jerking on her bad arm and sending her guitar clattering. He gripped his in his other hand, brandishing it like a weapon as the door creaked open as slowly as if they were in a horror movie.\n\nThe moment hung suspended until the figure in a dark hoodie and jeans stepped into the room.\n\nShe nearly stumbled backward, but not from the sight of the gun Snake held." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was his smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "So infinitely patient, as if he'd been waiting for this night and now it was here." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His perfect opportunity, handed to him on a platter." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"My two favorite Crandalls. Long time, no see.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He kicked the door shut behind him.\n\nHer brother's hand clamped hard on her hip. He was like a human shield, blocking as much of her from Snake's view as possible.\n\nGod, she loved him, even if she wished so damn much he didn't have to worry about protecting her all the time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Wish I could say the same, Snake, but you aren't my favorite anything. Not anymore.\"\n\n\"Not even surprised to see me?\" Snake sighed. \"I figured that worm Dex had turned. So difficult to find people committed to the cause these days. No matter. He helped when I needed him to.\" His smile thinned. \"Came in mighty useful when I coaxed out of him which parts of the set would be easiest to fuck with. Not that I didn't have some clue all on my own, since I've been in bands since I was a kid. No one remembers that though. I'm the forgotten one, right?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nicky didn't answer." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'don't' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Snake moved forward and grabbed one of the folding chairs, jamming it under the doorknob nice and tight. \"Don't want us to be disturbed. Not while I'm catching up with my good friends.\"\n\n\"You don't know what it is to have a friend,\" she said, her voice clear and strong. \"Nicky loved you. He defended you when no one else cared. He gave money for your child—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't.\" Snake held up a hand. \"Don't even open your whore mouth to me about what I should be grateful for. That was my band, and I was tossed out just when they made it. When there was no fucking money, I was just fine.\" He kicked out at the small leather settee, sending it skidding over the polished floor.\n\n\"Watch how you talk to my sister, you fucking asshole. You think having a gun makes you big and tough? Face me like a goddamn man. One on one, just us. This has nothing to do with her.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Shut up,\" she hissed. \"I'm not leaving.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Damn right she isn't leaving. She's the reason that poor, tragic crew dude died. What was his name? Ranger?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nicky reared forward, and it was only her fierce grip on the back of his shirt that stopped him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She pulled with everything she had and he halted, heaving out a breath. \"You're a sick bastard. Sicker than I ever gave you credit for. For fuck's sake, you faked your own death.\"\n\n\"I didn't fake it. Not exactly. Just arranged things so it seemed as if I was the one who'd died. It was easier.\" Snake jerked a shoulder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Tommy and I looked alike. Similar builds. Enough time in the sea and every carcass is the same.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nick blew out a breath. \"Was it the drugs? Is that what turned you? Or were you fucked in the head long before you ever touched them?\"\n\nSnake tipped the gun against his chin. \"Hmm, chicken or the egg. Can't really say. But sick is a relative term. Know what I think is sick?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He took a step forward, then another." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I think it's sick to pretend someone matters to you, that you're as close as brothers, only to toss them aside when it becomes more convenient to ditch them. It was always you and me, making the plans. Even before that bastard Simon pulled his head out of some girl's twat long enough to realize he wanted the music, it was you and me. First, you took my girl away, then you took my band.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Use 'think' 2 times in response]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nicky stiffened and Elle tightened her hold on him. \"I never took Chloe from you.\"\n\n\"Oh no? You didn't sleep with her when you knew full well I loved her? Best think back. I think you've forgotten a few things.\" Snake took another step, waving the gun wildly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She wasn't into you like she was into me, so of course you barely got a taste. But you took it. And then you took my band. Ripped it away from me and gave it to those two posers who don't even fucking care about the music half as much as breeding.\"\n\n\"We told you to stay clean. You didn't do it.\"\n\n\"Oh, right. Except one of your fucking replacements for me wasn't clean either. Probably still isn't. And your goddamn whore sister definitely isn't. Hell, she used to give it to anyone who asked if they offered her a baggie of blow.\" He flashed a feral smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Maybe she even gave it to me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Elle shrieked as Nick levered forward, his shirt tearing as she tried desperately to hold him back." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The sound he made wasn't human. It was so much worse.\n\nIt all happened so fast. Nick driving himself into Snake and Snake lifting the gun." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nick plowed his fist into Snake's gut and his gun hand jerked, giving Nicky enough time to kick it out of his hand. The weapon skittered across the floor and she scrambled for it, nearly gagging as she picked it up.\n\nIt was still warm from his grip.\n\nDear God, she didn't want to use it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Didn't want to have to pull the trigger, even if it was Snake on the other end.\n\nBut she would do it. She would do whatever it took to protect herself and her brother.\n\nThey were rolling across the floor now, raining punches." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Grunts and groans sliced through the air and she crept sideways toward the door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She could hear Noah and the others on the opposite side, trying to get in. Snake must've fucked with the locks too. The chair wouldn't be enough to hold Mal out.\n\nNothing was. He loved her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A sob left her throat. Almost as much as she loved him.\n\nBut God, if she could just get the chair out from under the knob and get that door open, Noah and Mal and the others could come in. They would be safe." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then Snake rolled Nicky underneath him and started driving his big fist into her brother's face. Snake was such a huge motherfucker, and he had crazy on his side. For all they knew, he could be on something that gave him extra strength and endurance too.\n\n\"Snake, goddammit, stop. Stop it now. This ends here,\" she shouted." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He flashed her a smile, his teeth streaked with blood and his eyes gleaming with madness. \"It ends with all three of us dying in this room. The way it was always meant to be.\"\n\n\"Don't make me do this,\" she whispered.\n\nNick reared up and slammed his fist into Snake's jaw, forcing his head back." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But it was only a momentary break. They grappled, exchanging blows. Hammering into each other while Elle watched with her finger poised on the trigger. She was shaking all over." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then Snake was on top again, and this time his hands were around her brother's throat.\n\nHands that were stained with Nicky's blood.\n\n\"Fucking let him go now,\" she said in a low voice. \"Last warning.\"\n\nSnake laughed and applied that much more pressure." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nicky's face was red and he was gasping even as he struggled to fight. He would never stop. \"You don't scare me, little girl.\"\n\n\"Snake, don't make me do this.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do it.\" He taunted, squeezing harder as Nicky wheezed and halfheartedly trying to buck the asshole off him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was running out of oxygen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Or else I'm going to take your brother to hell and you with us.\"\n\nShe steadied her gun hand, took a deep breath, aimed, and pulled the trigger. The kick of the gun was more shocking than anything.\n\nThe pressure around Nicky's throat eased immediately." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Snake slumped on his side, blood gushing from the mortal wound on the side of his head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She sagged to the ground, still clutching the weapon.\n\nNicky struggled to sit up, gripping his throat. He was still wheezing. \"You—you fucking saved my life.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You taught me to…shoot.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He nodded, kicking at Snake's battered body as he fought to speak." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And here you ended up protecting…me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dimly, she was aware of the commotion at the door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They were trying to get in.\n\nShe drew herself up and staggered to the doorway. She pried the chair away from the door and stepped aside as Noah and his team rushed through to attend to Nicky.\n\nMal's eyes swept over her as he picked her up, cradling her cheek. \"Are you okay?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nodding, she buried her face against his shoulder. \"I'm okay now.\"\n\nLila hurried into the room with Donovan right behind her. Li let out a sound of distress as she glimpsed Nick still on the floor, then she shifted toward Ricki. Lila's lashes were wet. \"You're amazing.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Elle gave Li a tremulous smile and held out her arm to give her a quick, hard hug before Li moved on to kneel at Nicky's side." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was already giving Noah and his team hell, not to mention loudly refusing medical treatment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Are you fucking kidding me? I grew up in the slums. I got my ass kicked worse in kindergarten. Get off me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elle had to laugh. \"He's going to be just fine.\"\n\n\"Because of you. We heard all of it,\" Mal said hoarsely. \"You finished this. You did. My strong, perfect Ricki.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She stared down at Mal, her eyes totally dry. \"I finished it,\" she agreed. \"It's all over now.\"\n\nEverything but the healing, and that would take a long time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They might never fully get there, but at least now they could begin to try to find their way back." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There were so many questions left." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So many answers they might never receive.\n\nBut she and Nicky had made it through, and Snake and Dex would never hurt anyone again.\n\nShe tipped her head against Mal's. \"Let's go home.\"\n\n[ Epilogue ]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've got you.\"\n\n\"Yeah, no kidding. But I think I can manage a couple steps from the car on my own.\"\n\n\"You're the one who didn't want me to carry you.\"\n\n\"Save those theatrics for when I'm naked,\" Ricki called back over her shoulder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We can play Tarzan and Jane then.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shaking his head, Mal gripped the soft material of her jacket to help guide her from behind. It had been weeks since the night he'd almost lost her, and he still found himself reaching for her half a dozen times a day.\n\nShe was adamant the danger had been less with him and Noah right next door, along with the capable team monitoring their every move. But words weren't reality, and that bastard had come in there armed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If she hadn't been so strong and brave, things might've turned out very differently for her or Nick." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As it was, she was in the midst of dealing with more legal crap than he'd ever wanted her to have to handle." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Donovan had hired her the best lawyers, and with everything on tape and the fact it was clearly self-defense, it would all be over soon." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But even this amount of time being taken was too much." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd already had to endure a lot." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now his sister-in-law was enduring her own share of shit too, considering what had gone down." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Someday Axl would as well. Michael definitely understood Mal's frustration at having to watch the person he loved deal with pain he couldn't alleviate.\n\nBut at least now it was finally all over. They all could begin to put the pieces back together without the looming specter of some anonymous threat out to get them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even Jules and Tris could start to heal, as awful a process as that would be.\n\nOne minute, one hour, one day at a time.\n\nAnd in this case, one step.\n\nMal cleared his throat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Three more steps forward. Big steps. Upward.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Forward or upward?\"\n\n\"Both.\"\n\nRicki growled and Mal had to laugh behind her. This blindfold idea had been an inspired choice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was still getting the hang of directing her around, since he'd never blindfolded someone and hauled her cross-country before." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, Donovan's jet had done the hauling. Still, this was all new for him.\n\nOn about fifty-seven levels.\n\n\"Ouch,\" Ricki mumbled as she stubbed her toe on the second step leading up to the front porch of Happy Acres's main building." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I thought I knew where we were going, though it's too early but then it took way too long and now it's warm here. Even you can't make cold areas warm.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He smiled. No, the weather had not cooperated with him at all. Normally, by this time of year in Turnbull, they were buried under six feet of snow. Not this year. Since he was waiting for the first snowfall to propose, he hadn't appreciated the current heat wave—and yes, heat was relative in December in New York—that was the biggest topic of conversation in the area. It was as if even Mother Nature didn't want to cooperate." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe he was rushing things." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His brother had certainly given him a look or two before they'd tromped through the local jewelry store on a mission to find the right ring." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Michael hadn't come right out and said he was nuts and moving too fast, but it had been heavily implied." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not that Michael had room to talk." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He'd tried to get married on his first night with Chloe, for fuck's sake." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just because it hadn't taken didn't mean the intent hadn't been there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But Mal wasn't Michael, and they both knew it.\n\nHis brother had been somewhat mollified by Mal's assertion they would have a very long engagement if Ricki said yes—to the tune of several years. He figured five was probably pushing it, but maybe three.\n\nIt wasn't as if he didn't want to be married to her before then." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He wouldn't ask if he wasn't prepared to do it that day, if necessary. But planning far out would allow them to settle into the idea. It would give them a chance to spend more time living together, though they were already pretty well-used to that. An opportunity to explore the daily ins and outs of being a couple for a while, all committed and shit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Because once she said yes, it was on." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They might as well be married." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Ow,\" Ricki said as she bumped her foot again." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🎯 Target word: 'steps' | Required occurrences: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She'd made it up another couple steps. \"You know, you could try giving me a hint.\"\n\n\"No. Okay, you're on flat land now. Back to normal steps.\" He led her to the door and the welcoming gold warmth within, then reached for the doorknob." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Let me just open the—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh!\" she exclaimed the second the door opened. \"I smell apples. We're back. Yay, oh my God, we're back early.\"\n\nShe reached up and wrenched off the blindfold with hardly any effort, proving her physical therapy was going quite well indeed. And flashed him a quick, blinding smile before rushing inside and right into his grandmother's arms." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We're back,\" she said happily while his grandmother hugged her and met his gaze over Ricki's shoulder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If he wasn't mistaken, that twinkle in her eye was the precursor to tears." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lord, save him from weeping women, at least until he'd managed to declare all the stuff he needed to declare to get Ricki to agree to marry him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Feeling it should be enough. Saying it seemed like overkill.\n\nBut…women. They liked the words. And flowers and candy and all that crap." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They definitely enjoyed oral sex, he'd discovered. Which made sense, since he did too. He'd been rather stingy not offering it all these years. Ricki had assured him he could make it up to the universe by practicing religiously on her, and he was going with that." }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'you're' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're here, and you're okay.\" His grandmother cupped Ricki's cheeks and sniffed as she checked her over from head to toe. \"You look wonderful. You weren't further harmed?\"\n\n\"No, no, I'm fine.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ricki glanced back at Mal. \"We're fine.\"\n\n\"And you.\" His grandmother came over to sweep him into a huge hug. \"You're all right too?\"\n\nHe nodded against her shoulder and hung on tighter." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Add this exact quote somewhere appropriate: \"Well, as much as we can. Nothing will ever be the same again for any of us.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's been a difficult few weeks since the last time we saw you. Yet here you are, safe and whole. Such a sight for sore eyes, I tell you.\" His grandmother smiled and released him before moving back to Ricki to hug her one more time.\n\n\"We're okay. Now it's finally over and we can begin to rebuild.\" Ricki sighed. \"Well, as much as we can. Nothing will ever be the same again for any of us.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No.\" His grandmother swallowed hard. \"That poor boy…\"\n\n\"Yes.\"\n\nFor a moment, none of them said anything. Then his grandmother forced a smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How was your trip, baby girl?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His grandmother smoothed Ricki's flyaway hair down her back. \"Look at you, back to blond. You look happy.\" She turned Ricki to face him so they could stare him down as a united front. \"Is my boy treating you well?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ricki bit her lip to hold back a smile. She didn't succeed. \"Yes, he's very good in bed.\"\n\nHe tipped back his head and stared at the ceiling. She knew exactly how to push all of his buttons, and she did so gleefully." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Well, now, that's a relief. How about outside of bed? Is he doing okay there too?\"\n\n\"Mostly. Except he doesn't always leave the toilet seat down. I almost fall in at least once a week in the middle of the night.\"\n\n\"Oh, that's all of them, dear. If you find one that doesn't do that, he likely doesn't have a unit.\"\n\nA unit? Mal's brain shouted." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The rest of him had gone numb." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was the only way to survive a dual Ricki-and-Laverne onslaught.\n\n\"Huh. You learn something new every day. Though God knows the guys on the bus are no better. They're lucky women put up with them. What's to eat?\" Ricki rubbed her hands together. \"Everything I smell is making me ravenous.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh, is it now?\" The look that his grandmother sent him curdled his blood. \"How long has that been going on?\"\n\n\"She's not pregnant,\" he said through gritted teeth, because he knew just where his grandmother's thoughts were leading." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why, I never said she was.\" His grandmother tilted her head and nodded up the stairs. \"We'll have a whole feast set out for you soon, but first, why don't you go get settled in your room? We made sure to give you the same room as you had last time.\"\n\n\"Why?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His grandmother ignored his question. She was too busy flittering around Ricki. \"We made your favorites. Apple stuffing, apple vinaigrette for your salad, and apple dumplings drizzled with that caramel sauce you like—with an extra bottle for your room too.\" His grandmother nodded and Ricki smiled broadly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"With one of those easy-open tops. Who wants to fuss at a time like that?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're so right.\" Ricki shot him her version of an innocent look." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Isn't she right, honey?\"\n\nWas he still alive? Maybe this was the afterlife. Since he'd started eating pussy without being asked, his hell just happened to be apple-scented." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It seemed as if it would be apple-flavored as well. No, caramel-flavored." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Whatever.\n\nNonplussed at his lack of response, Ricki launched herself at his grandmother. \"Oh, Mrs. Ronson, you think of absolutely everything. Thank you.\"\n\n\"We try, sweetheart. Fred wanted to be here to greet you too but he's in town getting some extra salt for the walkways just in case.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mal's heart surged. \"So that planned cold front is still coming?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It better be. If they'd come all this way and he had to imagine his grandmother preparing caramel sauce for his next sex-a-thon, it needed to get fucking cold as soon as possible.\n\n\"It sure is. Actually, they're predicting some crazy weather tomorrow afternoon. Hot on the heels of that front, we're going to get us some thunder and lighting and high winds. Maybe even enough to un-tether some of our inflatables.\"\n\nRicki appeared appropriately shocked, but it took everything he possessed not to smirk. \"Oh, no.\"\n\n\"Uh-huh. In December, no less. Can you even imagine? Then after that goes through, the snow's coming in behind it. First true snowfall of the season and we're expecting half a foot. Why, it's as if Mother Nature doesn't want you two to ever leave.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His grandmother tossed him a wink before bustling down the hall toward the large kitchen. \"Go on up now, get settled in,\" she added over her shoulder. \"We'll be ready for you in a bit.\"\n\nRicki turned to him and threw her arms around his waist." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"This was the best surprise ever.\" She nipped his chin. \"Thank you.\"\n\nHe grunted. Six inches of snow was more than he'd counted on, since he didn't love the white stuff himself. But she did, so it was worth it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And if he invested in a pair of high-quality ear warmers, maybe he could tune out half of her conversations with his grandmother and protect his remaining sanity.\n\n\"You're welcome. But the surprise isn't over yet.\"\n\n\"No? Did she get you another flavor of sauce with an easy-open top?\" He pinched her side and she giggled, burying her face between his neck and shoulder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Mmm, you bought more of that peppermint shower gel. I can tell this is a fresh bottle.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He had, and his ears were on their way to burning. \"How so?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Because there were just a few drops left the other day and we used them, remember?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She rubbed her cold nose against the side of his neck. That shouldn't have aroused him.\n\nHe was probably a deviant.\n\n\"Something about that does seem familiar.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He didn't add that he'd purchased a six-pack of that very peppermint shower gel and stashed them in the back of the bathroom cabinet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She didn't need to know just how much of a sap he truly was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was bad enough he did." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Showers will always be our special place. In fact,\" she nibbled his ear, \"I could use one now to wash off some of this travel grime.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He nearly replied what travel grime, you traveled in a swanky private jet before his brain kicked in. That kind of argument didn't serve his larger cause.\n\nNamely, the one in his jeans.\n\n\"You know, you've got a point. I could use one too.\" He shifted her toward the stairs and swatted her ass to get her moving." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's work on this story segment. I'll provide a part, and you'll continue with 4 sentences in the style of Emilia Finn. This is romance, drama genre and characters might appear without introduction." }, { "from": "human", "value": "[ Soundtrack To My Life ]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wanted to go to sleep. I wanted to escape the pain that sits on my heart and strangles the breath from my lungs.\n\nIt worked for a little while.\n\nMemories of childhood road trips flash through my mind until the soft lulling of a car engine leaves me straddling that line between awake and asleep." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I remember the way Jess' fingers would twine with mine while we sat in the back of the family station wagon with Luc. I remember the hypnotic purr of the engine and the radio playing low, or Luc's humming, because he wrote music since before I can remember. Even when he was dumb and noisy, since he's the drummer in his band, he still knew how to write music and make it soft and pretty.\n\nHe wrote music for his band." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He wrote music for me and Jess; his favorite girls in the whole world, according to him.\n\nHe wrote music about stars, teddy bears, love, devotion.\n\nMy life comes with a soundtrack written entirely by the band my brother formed with Scotch, Marc, and Angelo.\n\nI remember piano recitals, and strings plucked on a guitar." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But now, while I straddle that awake-asleep line, all I hear are beeps." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Beep. Beep. Beep." }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<EMBED THIS>>: \"Want a vascular surgeon in for consult?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Beep.\n\n\"BP is low. Artery was nicked.\"\n\n\"Want a vascular surgeon in for consult?\"\n\n\"No. I think she's okay. Blood flow is good. She didn't open it all the way up. We're gonna put it back together ourselves.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Laine? Lainie!?\"\n\n\"Lenaghan! Get him outta here!\"\n\n\"Baby? No, let me go!\"\n\n\"Security!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Let me in to observe! That's my family!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The beeps grow faster. Louder. My big brother is sad, and that's not what I wanted for him. I was supposed to go to sleep, and my family was supposed to move on.\n\n\"You're not scrubbed up, idiot! Get. Him. Out!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Beep. Beep. BEEP." }, { "from": "human", "value": "BEEP!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Get him out! Patient's in distress. We need three units of whole blood. We also need packed cells, platelets, and probably some plasma.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Laine!\"\n\nThat awake-asleep line fades. The sounds of scuffling, arguing, tools clanging, and the incessant beeps dim until I step firmly into sleep.\n\nMuch better, and no dreams of Graham.\n\nDammit. Now I'm thinking of Graham." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "WRITING ASSIST:\n9 sentences sentences\nStyle: Emilia Finn\nGenre: romance, drama\nContext: Part of larger work" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Welcome back, Laine.\" Stepping aside, Sonia smiles as I enter her opulent office. The usual tea tray remains on the small table between the chairs, and as I move closer, I catch a whiff of the flowers and dead pigeon. \"Take a seat and tell me everything.\"\n\nShe's almost like a mother hen pecking around her chicks, the way she moves around me and pushes the tray of cookies in my direction. She still wears fancy suits, high heels, and perfectly coiffed hair, but she long ago shed some of her professionalism and is now someone I might consider my friend.\n\n\"Tell me.\" She sits forward and tucks her ankles to the side. \"I want to know everything. I've seen this look in your eyes before; this sparkle of excitement. How is Chester?\"\n\nI burst out laughing and think of the bikini clad plastic llama statue that now takes up residence in Dixie's ice-cream parlor. Britt happened across a yard sale last month, handed over twenty bucks, called up her squad, and hatched a plan to steal Miss Dixie's lover and swap them out in the dead of night." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'security' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Britt is a wife, a mom, and yet, she donned her black clothes – if you ignore the giant purple lettering promoting her husband's gym across the bust – pulled a cap over her eyes to hide her identity in case the police – her brother – picked us up, and together, we stole the statue from Miss Dixie's and replaced it with a six-foot tall plastic llama in a pink polka-dotted bikini.\n\nJust like old times, Jess, Britt, Kari, and I had a sleepover that night to talk boys, eat bad food, and together, we woke at dawn to Miss Dixie's screeching that echoed clear across town.\n\nI'm not entirely proud of my actions, but at the same time, Dixie's a bitch who deserves to feel a little pain.\n\nFor now, and until we switch them back, the old statue remains in the front office of Kane's new security business. A few days after his disappearance, Dixie became desperate enough, and fed up enough with the lack of police help, she stomped into Checkmate Security to pay for a private investigation. This led our group into a flurry of activity and laughter as we tried to hide the stupid thing in the storage closet while she told Eric her troubles and begged for his help.\n\nThe Oscar for best acting goes to Eric for his ability to not give us away while he took Dixie's statements and accepted her credit card details.\n\n\"Laine?\" Sonia taps my knee and brings me back to the real world. \"Talk to me. I know you called me to discuss something important.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include exactly 2 instance(s) of the word 'sonia'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I draw a long breath and end it with a smile. \"I saw Graham yesterday…\"\n\nNot at all what she was expecting me to say, Sonia sits back and reverts back to her therapist self. \"And how did that make you feel?\"\n\nI laugh. Leaning forward more carefree than I ever expected to feel after running into Graham again, I snag a cookie and take a bite. \"At first I freaked a little; my heart was pounding a million miles an hour. I was in the store with Jess, Ang, and Kane. We were heading over to Spence's for the afternoon, but Jessie and I wanted a picnic first, so we went to the store to grab snacks.\" I meet Sonia's eyes. \"I swear, I haven't thought of Graham in months, but then we turned into aisle three and bam!\" I clap my thigh and make Sonia jump." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He was right there in the flesh. I've been good for ages, being with Ang brings me so much comfort, but seeing Graham was a surprise.\" I laugh at the irony. \"Surprise feels like an understatement, but you get what I mean. Seeing him so unexpectedly almost sent me into a full tailspin. This is such a small town, so how I've avoided him for so long surprises me, but there he was, picking out chips and soda.\"\n\n\"What happened next?\" Discretely, she pushes the box of tissues my way, but I don't need them today.\n\nI don't need them anymore.\n\n\"Ang was already holding my hand.\" I grin with satisfaction and think back to this time yesterday. \"He does that a lot. He held my hand and pulled me closer. As soon as he saw Graham, he pulled me to a stop so I didn't have to go closer.\" I smile, remembering as he leaned in and whispered in my ear." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you wanna go, Laine? Tell me what you need, and I'll make it happen.\"\n\n\"Um…\" But of course, I wouldn't be that lucky.\n\nGraham turned before Ang could sweep me up and carry me away. As soon as he saw me, his faced drained white and his shoulders came up in defense. \"Laine?\"\n\n\"Graham used to be the cliché every girl in the fairy tales aimed for; tall, dark, and handsome. He had the chiseled jaw, dark hair, dark eyes. His hair was always perfectly combed, his suits always sharp and expensive. But the first thing I noticed yesterday was the beanie he had pulled so low over his head, I couldn't even see his eyebrows. His cheeks were sunken and sickly, his skin was gray, and the whites of his eyes were yellow.\" I meet Sonia's eyes. \"He looked sick, like, terminal illness sick, and when he saw me, I swear, he looked scared.\" I remember how Ang's large hand held mine, how he'd pulled me in so my body was pressed to his ribs.\n\nMy heart slammed against his side, my hands shook, but Graham's fear did something for me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Something truly good. \"Talk to me, Laine.\"\n\nBravely, the way the younger, crazy me would have acted, I dropped Ang's hand and stepped forward.\n\n\"I swear, I thought he was going to crap his pants, Sonia. I thought he would just keel over and die, the way he shriveled up with each step I took.\" Playing with the fray in my jeans, I laugh. \"I shouldn't take pleasure in that, but the petty, statue-stealing side of me basked in it. His eyes darted between each of ours – mine, Jess', Kane's, then Ang's. He was going to drop a load in aisle three, and then the universe decided it was a good time for Alex and Oz to walk in in search of chips and dip for the fights on TV.\" I giggle as I remember. \"A part of me is actually tempted to say 'poor Graham'.\" My belly bounces with my soft laughter. \"I truly don't think in all the time I spent in Infernos club, I was ever as scared as Graham was yesterday in the middle of Jonah's store.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you think seeing him has set you back at all?\" Sonia asks. \"Do you feel like we need to increase your sessions just to make sure?\"\n\n\"No.\" Freedom. Sweet, blissful freedom. \"I think seeing him freed me. I was rehearsing this grand speech in my head, I was going to tell him how I'm still standing, still strong; it included choreographed fist pumping and sassy hair swings. I was probably going to smack my own ass and tell him to kiss it as I walked away.\" Snickering, I place my cookie down and brush the crumbs from my lap. \"In reality, none of that happened. When he was panicking, when he was literally shaking in front of my eyes – which only got worse when Ang stepped up close enough I felt his body heat on my back – I simply picked up a bag of chips and tossed them in his basket.\"\n\nSonia claps a hand over her mouth in surprise, which makes me giggle.\n\n\"A long time ago, back when we'd been together for a few months and he was done trying to impress me, I sat down with a soda and chips and started a movie; I was exhausted after a long week of work… and other stuff.\" I shrug. \"Graham got mad at me, like, scary, loud, mad that completely took me by surprise. He snatched my chips away and screamed for an hour that I was fat and useless. He was relentless.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I shake my head." }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Use 'store' 2 times in response]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It was so bad, I went to the bathroom and stuck my fingers down my throat just to undo the damage I'd supposedly done. I'm not fat.\" And to prove it, I pick up the half-eaten cookie and shove it into my mouth. \"I'm definitely not useless. Graham was, and still is, a coward and a bully, and he degrades others so he can control them. I looked around Jonah's store yesterday, because even without words, we'd drawn attention. My sister stood with Kane, Ang stood with me, my cops stood together and unclipped their guns, and even two-bucks-a-blowy Belle, the store cashier, stood behind me just to catch the gossip. Graham froze up until I actually felt bad for him, so I tossed my bag of chips into his basket, gave him a flirty wink, and kept on walking.\"\n\n\"Laine.\" Smiling proudly, Sonia reaches out to my tissue box and snatches one up to wipe beneath her eye. \"I'm so unbelievably proud of you. I feel like I owe you a graduation certificate or something. A high-five as an absolute minimum. My baby's all grown up and doesn't need me anymore.\"\n\nI spend the rest of my hour with my motherly therapist. These aren't therapy sessions anymore, not really. They're simply snacks and tea time, and when Sonia is done tearing up with pride, we flop back in our chairs and giggle about Chester some more.\n\nWhen my hour ends and we book another session for next month, I stand from my chair and for the first time ever, step forward and wrap my arms around the deceptively strong woman." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thank you for everything you've done since we met.\" I lean back and hold her forearms. \"I needed you, and you helped me in a way others couldn't. My sister healed a part of me, Ang healed another, and Kane another. My recovery was like a jigsaw, and without your piece, I wouldn't be who I am today. I know it's just your job, but…\"\n\n\"Not just my job, sweetheart. It's my passion. For almost fifty years, this has been my calling. I've met wonderful young men and women just like you, and I watched you claw yourselves out of hell and come back swinging and stronger than ever. If you think that isn't rewarding for me, then you're wrong.\"\n\nI step back into the reception area and stop with a goofy grin. Where Jess sat for most of my appointments in the early days of my recovery, Ang now sits with a smile and hungry eyes.\n\nTossing a car magazine to the side, he unfolds his tall body and pulls me against his chest when I accept his hand. \"Hey, beautiful.\" He drops a kiss on my jaw. \"How'd it go?\"\n\n\"I gave her an update on Chester.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Snorting, he pulls me through the front door until we emerge into the chilly afternoon air." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We had to flip a coin to decide what we'd drive today, because although Wanda is special to us, the Charger is infinitely more special to Ang, since he's had it since he was a teenager.\n\nLucky for me, I so rarely lose our bets, so Wanda sits in the parking lot with her impeccable paint shimmering in the sunlight, and though she's technically mine, I hand him the keys and allow him to help me into the passenger side.\n\nLeaning over the door and stopping so Ang's nose brushes my jaw, his hot breath bathes my skin and makes me smile. \"Where to next?\"\n\n\"Let's go up to Lookout Hill.\" I grin. \"I'll do that thing you like as a consolation prize for losing the coin toss.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Add 2 sentences to continue story. May include established elements" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The robinsons had taken the first train to London, set themselves up at the Savoy Hotel, and gone straight out to take care of the most urgent need for all three of them—new wardrobes. But their visits to the first three fashion houses—their usual haunts—were less than a success." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Have you ever seen such ugly colors?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Carolyn complained (rather too loudly) to her mother, as she and her sister followed hard on their mother's heels out to the pavement in front of the third. \"Drab brown, drab olive, drab navy and drab cream. Khaki, khaki, khaki! And nothing but tweeds and linens! And for spring and summer! What about silk? What about muslin? Do they think we're all Land Girls?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her mother shrugged. \"We'll try another atelier, dear,\" she said, with a glance up the street, looking for a taxi." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Someone who isn't trying so hard to be patriotic and dress us all in uniforms.\"\n\n\"I don't see why one has to be plain to be patriotic,\" Lauralee pouted. Her sister sniffed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Plain? Made up like a Guy, more like!\" Carolyn exclaimed. \"I don't want to look like I'm in uniform and I don't want to look like a—a suffragette! I want—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Leave it to me, girls; I have some notions,\" Alison replied, and spied a free taxi in the same moment." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Taxis were thin on the ground in London now, but Alison had no intention of subjecting herself to the Underground or the 'buses. It didn't take much more than a lifted finger and a spark of magic to summon it, as it passed by five other people trying to hail it, including one disgruntled cavalry officer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She leaned over and gave the driver—a very old man indeed—an address that made him look at her in surprise." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But he said nothing, and she took her place beside her daughters. It was pleasantly warm; unpleasantly enough, they were all three wearing last year's spring gowns." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This would never do." }, { "from": "human", "value": "To the surprise of her daughters, the establishment that the taxi left them at was not any of the usual fashion houses Alison patronized." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She ignored their surprise, for it was painfully clear to her that the usual establishments would not do this year. There was probably a good reason why all the houses that she could afford to patronize were using domestically produced fabrics this spring, and it was a reason she should have anticipated, given the start of rationing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She would have to resort to another ploy—though the rather grubby theater district was not a place one would normally go to find one's wardrobe." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She opened a door with the cryptic words Keplans Haberdashery painted on the frosted glass. The girls followed her up a narrow, rather dirty wooden staircase with no small trepidation; she smiled to herself, knowing what awaited them at the top." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She and the girls emerged from this place feeling a glow of triumph." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Here, at least, fashion was not being subjected to patriotism." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But then again, the ladies who frequented this dressmaker absolutely required every aid to seduction that fine clothing could provide, for most of them had \"arrangements\" with the gentlemen of Whitehall, the City, and both Houses of Parliament—arrangements that did not include wedding rings. As a consequence, they were unlikely to sacrifice beauty for the appearance of respectability." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Alison knew of this place from her early days as one of the demimondaine—but of course, unlike the rest of her sisters-in-sin, she'd had the means at her disposal to ensure she got a wedding ring before too long into her arrangement.\n\nThis particular dressmaker spent half the time creating costumes for the theater, and half dressing the kept ladies of the town; but because she did the former, she had a huge storehouse of fabric to pull from." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After the third house had disappointed, Alison had come to the reluctant conclusion that it was possible the war and the Hun submarine blockade had begun to affect even those with money to spend on London dressmakers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This dressmaker had only confirmed that, as she had pulled out roll after roll of silk and muslin with the comment, \"You won't see that, thanks to the Kaiser.\" Silks came from China by way of Paris; muslin from India or the United States." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Both had to come by way of the ocean, and between ships being sunk, and ships being commandeered to bring over military goods—luxury goods probably still were coming, but now their prices had gone beyond the reach of a minor industrialist's widow." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of course, even in Broom, one didn't go to a theatrical costumier for one's wardrobe—but Alison had a way around that. When the dresses arrived in their plain packaging, she would have Ellie cut the labels out of last year's gowns and sew them into the unlabeled new ones." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Perhaps it was a bit foolish to do so, but after all, the laundry was sent out—and the laundress would take note if this year's gowns had no labels anymore—or worse, had labels from Keplans Haberdashery rather than a fashion house that was cited in the London society pages." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Half of keeping up appearances was in attending to details.\n\nAlison smiled, as the girls chattered happily on the way back to the Savoy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was a slight drawback to patronizing Miss Keplan." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They would have to stay in London for nearly a week to accomplish all the fittings, whereas the establishments they usually used had mannequins and fitting-dummies made to all three women's measure. Still, the results would be worth the extra days." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The girls would look like butterflies among the caterpillars at every garden party and fete this spring and summer." }, { "from": "system", "value": "/set_word_count: prettier, frequency: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Men responded to these things. They would outshine much prettier girls, just because their frocks were prettier." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With any luck, one of them, at least, would catch someone with a title, money, or better still, both to his name." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'weary' × 3" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Robinson's fortune was reasonable, and since by magically enhanced maneuvering, Alison had secured the monopoly of supplying sacks for sandbags to the army, it was not likely to run out any time soon—but Alison was weary of being reasonable, weary of Broom, weary of being the leading light in a claustrophobically tiny and insignificant social sphere. She had wearied of it very soon after ascending to the throne of unofficial queen of Broom." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She had much larger ambitions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Alison aspired to Longacre Park.\n\nIt was not a new desire." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As a scrawny adolescent, hard-eyed with ambition, she had aspired to the circles of those who feted royalty." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She would gather with other spectators on the pavement whenever a grand party or ball was being held, and vow that one day she would be among such invitees. When she had been taken up by an aging courtesan with enough of the gift of Earth Magery to recognize it in another, she had seen it as a first step to those circles and deserted her dreary working-class family, even though all such a relic of Victoria's time could hope for was the company of prosperous shopkeepers and minor industrialists." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But Alison had bided her time, and ensnared the first of the unmarried gentlemen moderate means to cross her path, sacrificing wealth temporarily for respectability." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had slipped up a trifle, allowing him to get her with child twice—well, he was more virile than she had thought. She had rid herself of him soon enough, which left her a comfortably off widow, and had laid the foundations for better conquests by learning the lessons that would fit her for the circles of the exalted, while at the same time mastering her Magery." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Etiquette, elocution—especially elocution, for Bernard Shaw was right, the wrong accent guaranteed failure at this game—she had instructors for everything. A good nanny for the children and the proper boarding schools gave her the time she needed to attain full command of Earth Magic at the same time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That had been at the hands of a male Earth Master, of course, and a suitably old one, who flattered himself that the attentiveness of this attractive widow was genuine and not inspired by the desire to have all of his secrets." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Strange how male mages never seemed to learn from the lesson of Merlin and Nimue. A female would not have been so easy to manipulate, nor so hopelessly naive." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She had learned all he had to teach, and then—well, he got his reward, and had not survived the experience." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He had, however, died with a look of incredulous pleasure on his face. She had owed him that much." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She wondered what the coroner and undertaker had made of it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And had made of the fact that he might have been sixty, but when he died, he had looked ninety.\n\n\"Mama, we're here!\" Carolyn called out, shaking her out of her reverie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She followed the girls out of the taxi, paid and tipped the driver, and entered the hotel." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No one took any note of them—well, no one except a couple of young officers in the lobby who gazed at the girls appreciatively. She repressed a grimace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Had the family been of note, there would be concierges and porters swarming about them, eager to know their slightest whim, even with the hotel staff so seriously depleted by the war—" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, if she had anything to say about it, they would be swarmed, one day.\n\nThey entered the elevator, and with a nod and a shilling to the operator, ascended to their floor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Which was not the best floor. Respectable, and the denizens of Broom would have been overwhelmed by the elegance, but it was by no means the best the Savoy had to offer. And that rankled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But she would not show that before the girls." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They required ambition, and they had it, but it must be unclouded by envy. Envy would put disagreeable lines in their faces." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They must be like athletes, or perhaps warriors, with their eyes and minds firmly fixed on the prize. They must be ruthless, of course, but they should never waste time on so unprofitable an emotion as envy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The girls fluttered into the salon, still chattering about the gowns." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They understood completely that they must not say where the gowns were coming from, of course, but they were bewitched, properly bewitched, by the pastel silks and delicately printed muslins that had been spread out for their approval, and the elegant copies of the gowns that the other fashion houses were showing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As Alison had well remembered, the dressmaker was a very clever little woman; within days of new gowns being shown for the season, she had sketches of every one of them, and was making copies.\n\nAnd the gowns that she copied were not those of the houses that Alison could afford to patronize." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh no. These were the gowns that would make their appearance on the lawns of stately homes like Longacre Park...." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For the truly, fabulously wealthy, and the extremely well-connected, were no more affected by the blockade than the theatrical dressmaker was. In the case of the latter, it was because she had an entire warehouse of fabrics stockpiled, and besides that, access to dozens, perhaps hundreds of old gowns and costumes that could be remade." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In the case of the former—well, where the habitués of the Royal Enclosure were concerned, a bolt or two of fabric could be brought over, somehow...." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, perhaps this would be the year. And if the faintly frivolous gowns caused a stirring of dismay at the Broom cricket games, or the country club tennis matches, well, perhaps the owners of the gowns could move into territory this summer where their appearance would harmonize with the surroundings, rather than stand out from them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She shook off her reverie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was, of course, more to this biannual visit than just the replenishing of a wardrobe." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had other calls to make while she was here.\n\n\"I'm going out, girls,\" she called out to them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Have your dinner sent up. And you are not—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"On any account to stir from these rooms,\" they replied in chorus, and ended with a giggle.\n\n\"Practice your charms,\" she said, with a lifted brow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, Mama—\" Lauralee objected." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"They're so much more difficult here!\"\n\n\"All the more important that you learn how to set them here,\" she replied severely." }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Use 'would' 2 times in response]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You have no more magic than the old woman who taught me—but if I have anything to say about it, you'll learn how to make much better use of it than she did.\" A thought occurred to her that would give them malicious amusement, and would set their minds on the proper task." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Our windows overlook the street. Why don't you exercise your skills and your minds by making unsuitable persons conceive of a passion for one another?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh, Mama!\" Carolyn exclaimed, delight sparking in her eyes. \"May we?\"\n\n\"I would not have told you to do so if I did not mean it,\" she replied, with a little smile of her own." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Make me a thorough report when I return.\"\n\nShe telephoned the Exeter Club as they set themselves and the small bits of apparatus they would need at the window." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There would be no need to find taxis for this visit." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lord Alderscroft would send a car. This was, after all, the business of the War Office." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maya narrowed her eyes suspiciously as she watched Lord Alderscroft's visitor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He had not invited her into his own rooms; instead, they were meeting in the same Aesthetic public dining room that she had been taken to the first time she entered the doors of the Exeter Club.\n\nWhat she had not known then was that one of the mirrors was one-way, and hid a tiny spyhole." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She didn't think that anyone had been watching her that time, but even if they had been, they hadn't learned anything they couldn't have learned by watching her openly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Alderscroft wanted her assessment of someone he wanted to keep an eye on Reggie Fenyx." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was another Earth Master." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And already Maya disliked her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Really?\" the elegant woman said, her eyes widening slightly. \"Young Fenyx is so badly off as all that?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, Maya did not like Alison Robinson; she did not trust Mrs. Robinson one tiny little bit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She had no reason for these feelings, other than her instinct, though, which was not enough to give as a reason to Lord Alderscroft, who distrusted feminine intuition." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Were the rumors true that far too many people that Alison Robinson was intended to keep watch on died instead? And was that enough of a reason for suspicion?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Of course, they had all been spies for the Hun, and there was never any reason to point to Alison Robinson as the cause of their deaths but—" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But—\n\nMaya toyed with her tea on the other side of the one-way mirror, listened as Alderscroft assigned Alison Robinson to keep an eye on Reginald Fenyx, and reflected with some relief that this was a perfectly absurd assignment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After all, someone like Mrs. Robinson, the widow of a mere small manufacturer, was not going to have entree into—" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But Lord Alderscroft,\" Alison said, smiling, \"This is really quite impossible! I have no entree into such exalted social circles! Why, I should not be able to do more than glimpse the young man at a distance! The closest approach I could manage would be in the autumn, as the hunt goes by, if he even participates in the hunt at all! You know I have no objection to doing anything you and the War Office might ask of me, but really, dropping me behind enemy lines and asking me to pass myself off as a kleine hausfrau would be simpler!\"\n\n\"Ah, erm—\" Alderscroft coughed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well, perhaps I should—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If I am to carry out this assignment, you shall have to manufacture an appropriate background for me,\" the wretched woman went on, to Maya's dismay. \"You'll have to find an impoverished line in Burke's with a daughter called Alison of the proper age, one that might well have decided that ungenteel comfort was preferable to leaking roofs and no proper plumbing. And then you'll have to arrange a proper introduction to his mother, by letter if nothing else.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That will take time, I'm afraid,\" said Alderscroft, sounding apologetic." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'doing' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I can wait,\" she replied gaily, with a delicate little laugh. \"After all, a job worth doing is worth doing properly. Thank you, my lord. This is much preferable to investigating the occasional foreigner on a walking tour through Shakespeare country.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "That sweet little laugh grated on Maya's nerves." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "One Earth Master to another—that woman was altogether too well shielded. But then, London was unbearable for an Earth Master without being shielded... and although it would have been much more polite to forego her shields within the Exeter Club, she wasn't a member of the Lodge, so she couldn't know that it was safe to do so." }, { "from": "human", "value": "So that was no good reason to mistrust her, or at least, it was not a reason that Alderscroft would accept." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The creature was back to harping on that introduction. Maya had seen more than her share of social climbers in India, and she knew another one the moment she saw her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Though she might not be able to read Mrs. Robinson, she didn't have to in order to recognize those signs." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Doesn't she have daughters?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh yes... planning on marrying into the family, are you, my dear? If you can manage it, that is." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well, there was the one saving grace of Reggie's condition; he was so heavily blocked that the Robinson woman could run him down with a locomotive-sized love spell and he'd be impervious to it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was, in fact, the mirror opposite to an Elemental Master now, he was powerfully unmagical. She could throw spells at him for a week, and all that would happen would be that they would be swallowed up without a trace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And as for simple vamping—" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Our Reggie's had every sort of woman there is fling themselves at his head by now. He's not going to think much of acz couple of provincial belles hanging out for a title and a fortune." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And if you can't recognize that, dear lady, you are an utter fool.\n\nAnd sure enough, she was back on that so-precious introduction again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It probably should be a letter, Lord Alderscroft,\" she was saying, with a melting smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Or better still, two—one to Lady Devlin directly and one I can hand-carry. Say that—oh, I am too diffident to push myself on her, but would she please look me up as I'm too terribly alone down there in the village?\"\n\nMaya gritted her teeth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, please rescue me from these wretched peasants, she means." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And she knew that Alderscroft's subconscious would recognize her tone and the cadence of her speech as well as her words and respond to it in spite of the fact that he knew she was as common as a dustbin. That was because she had the proper accent, and the proper manner, and everything in his upbringing and training was screaming out to his subconscious that here was gentry." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For one moment she hated Alderscroft, his automatic response to the proper turn of phrase, his automatic assumption that anyone born to the strawberry leaves was \"one of us\" and deserving of special treatment and protection.\n\nFor one moment, she hated them all, and felt a powerful sympathy for the socialists and the Bolsheviks, and it was very tempting to think about throwing a bomb or two into the Royal Enclosure at Ascot, just to shake them up a bit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Certainly you could fire a cannon off through there and never hit anyone who would be missed by society—" }, { "from": "human", "value": "But then good sense overcame her, and she sighed, and acknowledged that there were aristocrats who were good stewards, and useful." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And as for the rest, she forgave Alderscroft and his set for being idiots, and went back to paying attention to the conversation.\n\nWell, there was one thing that being born a half-caste in India was good for, and that was in knowing what wouldn't work with the British aristocracy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Though she might very much like to point out to the old lion that the Robinson woman had played him like salmon on her line, it would do no good at all." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, she would simply tell Alderscroft that the woman was heavily shielded and couldn't be read—that she certainly had ulterior motives for wanting that introduction and remind him of the two daughters looking for husbands—and that Fenyx's own grandmother would do a much better job of keeping an eye on him than any stranger ever could." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And then she would go confide her real feelings to her husband Peter—who would certainly, at that point, take them to his \"Twin.\" And there was no one that Peter Almsley did not know among the Elemental Mages inside the peerage." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Almsley's grandmother, who was herself a powerful Elemental Master, almost certainly knew Reggie's aunt, who was another." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And when those two heard what she had to say....\n\nNow Maya smiled for the first time since she began listening to the conversation, struck by the mental image of a herd of water-buffalo surrounding an injured calf to protect it from a tigress." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The tigress had no notion of what she was about to face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Alison was pleased with herself. Despite some setbacks, this trip to London had been unexpectedly productive." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She sat down at the little desk in the sitting room of their suite to catch up on her correspondence, while the girls unpacked the day's purchases.\n\n\"Mama,\" said Carolyn, idly tracing the line of the fringe on the new shawl she had purchased that morning, \"What do you know about the Americans getting into the war?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Alison looked up from the letter she was writing to Warrick Locke." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The Americans have no intention of entering the war, child. President Wilson is a pacifist. If the sinking of the Lusitania did not accomplish it, nothing will. Why?\"\n\n\"Well,\" Carolyn persisted, with a small, sly smile playing about her lips, \"It's just that—you had rather they didn't, wouldn't you?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'would' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It would interfere greatly with my plans, yes,\" she said sharply. \"And it would probably interfere with our income as well. Why do you ask?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"She asks because she's been meeting with that American boy from the embassy in the tea room,\" Lauralee interrupted, frowning with jealousy at her sister." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And she doesn't want to get in trouble over it, so she wants to make you think she's been doing it for—\"\n\n\"Lauralee—\" Alison held up a warning hand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"First, do not frown. Frowns do not improve your looks, and cause wrinkles. Secondly, let your sister answer for herself. Carolyn?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He is the ambassador's son,\" Carolyn protested, pouting prettily, in a way that Alison approved. \"And you know Mama has been busy, and you know we've been hearing rumors in the hotel! I thought I ought to find out at first hand!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And it has nothing to do with the fact that he's tall, and blue-eyed, and looks like—\" Lauralee muttered, sullenly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And don't allow jealousy to show, Lauralee,\" Alison reproved absently." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It gives one jowls. What did the young man tell you, Carolyn?\"\n\n\"That the President will certainly enter the war next month!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Carolyn said in triumph." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He's going home to enlist! So are most of the young men on the embassy staff!\"\n\nAlison's lips tightened. This was no part of her plans." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At the moment, the war was at a stalemate—both sides were worn out and weary, and the conflict might well drag on for years, which was very good news for the Earth Elementals that she favored, and for her plans concerning Reggie Fenyx. For the latter, she planned more fear—her Elemental creatures making his life a never-ending round of attacks of terror—until the one girl who could drive them away appeared in his life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At which point, he would probably marry her on the spot." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Or at least be willing to." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But to complete the plan, she would need time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Time for the boy to heal physically enough to be sent home on recovery leave. Time for Lord Alderscroft's introduction to bear fruit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Time for her spells to work, time for Carolyn—or Lauralee—to be the answer to his prayers, time for him to propose and for a proper society wedding." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And then more time, for she did not intend for him to survive the war, and he would have to recover from his shellshock and go back to the Air Corps, and if the Yanks entered the war—\n\nAmerica was full of brash young men who were perfectly willing to fling themselves into combat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "America was wealthy; within months she could turn her factories from making frying pans into making cannon and machine-guns." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And America had immense, untapped resources on her own soil; she did not depend on ships to bring those resources to the factories." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If America entered the war, it could be over within a year.\n\nUnless—" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She couldn't stop them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But she could add a new enemy to the equation... one that should add to the attrition in the trenches, and slow the number of troops coming over.\n\n\"Carolyn, dear, I believe that we ought to hold a little farewell dinner for all those fine young men at the embassy,\" she said, in a tone that made Carolyn's eyes narrow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We ought to thank them for being so willing to serve. Invite them to a little supper tomorrow night.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lauralee also caught the scent of something in the air." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Mama—\" she began, then shook her head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Come along, Carolyn. Let's go write invitations. I think there are six or seven of them, including the ambassador's son, Mama.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"When you are finished writing the invitations, make the supper arrangements with the Savoy chef,\" Alison replied, already unpacking what she needed from her trunk. \"You should know what to do already.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, Mama,\" her daughters chorused, and Alison smiled with content." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well-trained and obedient, everything a mother could ask for.\n\nBy the time that all the arrangements were complete, and the invitations sent to the embassy by messenger, Alison was ready." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her implements—deceptively simple ones—were set out on the thick silk cloth that she used as her portable Working table. It already had the runes and circles of containment embroidered into it, dyed with blood—hers, and others." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She spread it out over the table they used when they dined en-suite, summoned the girls, doused the electric lights, and lit the candles she had unpacked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"This may be one of the most underrated incantations in our arsenal, girls,\" she said, as the two of them moved closer to stand on either side of her. \"And yet, it requires surprisingly little power, especially here, in the city. We are going to call an Earth Elemental. The trick to this is that you have to remember to be very specific about what you want from this entity. You already know that one of the great Gifts of the Earth Mage is to heal—but the converse is also true. Watch.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "With the precision of a surgeon, Alison placed a deceptively plain bowl (made of clay dug from a graveyard and fired in the same fire as a cremation) in the center of her Working cloth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Into it she dropped a tiny bit of rotting meat (she always kept some sealed in a small jar with her when she traveled), and several more equally distasteful ingredients, burying them all beneath a layer of dirt dug from the piles of tin-waste near a mine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then she closed her eyes, held her hands over the bowl, and let the power flow from her, into it, chanting her specific invocation under her breath and concentrating with all of her might, and the sullen ocher-colored energies flowed out of her fingertips and into the bowl, pooling there in the candlelight.\n\nCarolyn gasped, and at that sign, she opened her eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Earth Elemental standing in the now-empty bowl might not look like much—it was a squat little putty-colored nothing, with the barest suggestions of limbs and a head, the sort of crude and primitive object that might be found in an ancient ruin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It looked utterly harmless—but properly used, it was one of the most powerful of all of the inimical Earth Elementals, because it was one of the most insidious.\n\nIt was called a maledero, and it brought, and spread, disease." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I need an illness,\" she told it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"One that spreads in the air. It should seem harmless, but kill. I don't want it to fell everything that catches it, no more than one in four, but no less than one in ten. It should bring death quickly when it does kill, it should lay out those it does not kill, and it should be hardest not on the very young nor the very old, but those in the prime of life. It should spread rapidly, and be impossible to stop, because by the time victims are dying, it should have passed on to others.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The putty-colored thing smiled, showing a mouth full of jagged and rotting teeth, while above the mouth, a pair of bottomless black eyes looked at her. \"How if it spreads through a sneeze?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "it suggested. \"If it be spread by any other means, this might be countered.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She nodded. \"Ideal. There will be six young men here tomorrow night for dinner before they journey homewards. You will infect them, and only them, and you will lie dormant within them until they have ended their journey in a place where there will be thousands of young men like them. Then you will release yourself, and be free to spread as far as you please, across the whole world, if you like—except to myself and my daughters.\"\n\n\"Easily done,\" the thing croaked, and it—divided, right before their eyes, into six identical creatures, each one-sixth the size of the original." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We pledge by the bond,\" they chorused.\n\nAlison nodded, and tapped the side of the bowl with her willow-wand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Then I release from the bowl. When you have infested the young men, you will be released from the room.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'those' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She inscribed the appropriate sigils in the air, where they glowed for a moment, then settled over the six creatures and were absorbed.\n\n\"When you have come to the place across the sea where thousands of young men have gathered to train as warriors,\" she continued, still inscribing the sigils of containment in the air, \"You will be free to infect and spread as far as you please, save only myself and my daughters,\" she wrote her own glyph and those of Carolyn and Lauralee, and the sigil of prohibition on top of those three names." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All this sank down to rest briefly on the little Elementals, before being absorbed into them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The flow of power was minimal—one of the reasons why this was such a useful conjuration.\n\n\"And now, you may conceal yourself within this room, until the vessels have come,\" she concluded, breaking the containment with a flourish of her wand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The entities gave her a mocking little bow, and faded away." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The girls looked at her, wide-eyed. \"Did you just—create a disease?\" Lauralee gaped." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include exactly 2 instance(s) of the word 'enough'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She shrugged. \"It is better to say that I altered one to suit our purposes. It will probably be a pneumonia or influenza, but when it is released, it will be something quite different from any other of its kind. It will certainly be bad enough to decimate the ranks of the Americans long enough to keep them from winning the war in a few months. And that is all that we will need.\" She smiled at her girls, who stared at her, wide-eyed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I doubt it will kill one in four of those that are really healthy; the Elemental I conjured is not strong enough for that. But it will cause a great deal of havoc. That is something else to remember. Sometimes you do not need to confront your enemy directly; you only need to interfere with him.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She began putting her supplies away; neither girl offered to help, as was proper. She would not have allowed them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They were never to touch her Working materials.\n\nThat, after all, was how she had managed to get control over her teachers." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I've got writer's block. I'll send something, then continue 3 sentences at a time, matching character context, in urban fantasy, romance, fairy tales genre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Eleanor was certain that alison and the girls were on the train to London, the first thing she did was to go straight to the kitchen, throw open the pantry doors and plan herself a feast." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Brushing aside Alison's magically laid prohibitions like so many cobwebs, Eleanor could not help but gloat. She felt the barriers, certainly, but she was able to push right through them. And the irony of it was, there had never been any good reason to make the pantry off-limits while the Robinsons were gone, nor to restrict Eleanor to the foodstuffs that Alison allowed her to keep in the kitchen." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When they returned, there were things in here that would have had to be thrown in the bin because they were spoiled, that Eleanor could perfectly well have eaten while the others were gone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It made no sense, no sense at all." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was all just spite, just pure meanness." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She surveyed the shelves, and decided that she would clean out her ever-simmering soup-pot and give it a good scrubbing before starting a new batch, while she ate those things that would go bad before long." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And she could include the end of that ham in the soup." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It wasn't all cream for her, though; most of Alison's magics still worked. Before she had done much more than empty out the soup-pot into a smaller vessel to leave on the hearth, and fill the pot with soapy water, the compulsions to clean struck her. Up the stairs she went, discovering that she still had to sweep and dust, air the rooms out and close them up again, mop and scrub down the bathroom." }, { "from": "human", "value": "True, she didn't have to spend as much time at it, nor work quite as hard, but she couldn't fight the compulsion off altogether." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And although she tried, she discovered that she couldn't leave the house and garden either, even with Alison gone. But after some experimentation, she had the measure of the compulsions. She finished everything she needed to do in the upstairs rooms by luncheon, which meant that she would have the rest of the day free for herself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The first thing that she did was to make herself a proper luncheon, and to read while she ate it; she chose a book from the library, a room which had been mostly unused since her father died." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She ate in the library, too, in defiance of crumbs—after all, she was the one who was going to be doing the cleaning-up—curled up in her father's favorite old chesterfield chair with her feet to the fire she built in the fireplace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After she had finished eating, the compulsions urged her into work briefly, but she discovered that she could satisfy them merely by making a few swipes with a dust-mop and the broom in each room so long as they were visibly clean." }, { "from": "human", "value": "By this time her soup-pot had soaked enough, so she gave it a good scrubbing inside and out, and put beans to soak in it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She returned again to the library with a tray laden with teapot and the cakes that would have gone stale, there to lose herself in a book until the fading light and growing hunger called her back to the kitchen and that feast she had promised herself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then—luxury of luxuries!—she drew herself a hot bath, and had a good long soak and a proper hair-washing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Baths were what she got at the kitchen sink these days, and often as not, in cold water. She used Lauralee's rosewater soap, knowing from experience that it was something Lauralee wouldn't miss, whereas if she purloined Alison's Spanish sandalwood, or Carolyn's Eau de Nil bars, they would be missed. After a blissful hour immersed to the neck in hot water, and an equally blissful interlude spent giving her hair the good wash she had longed for, she emerged clean and scented faintly with roses." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her hair wasn't very long, though it was unlike the girls' ultra-fashionable bobs—Alison hacked it off just below her shoulders on a regular basis—so it didn't take long to dry in front of the kitchen fire. She slipped a bed-warmer into her own bed to heat it while she dried her hair, and after banking the fires in the kitchen and the library, and making sure the stove had enough fuel to last through the night and keep the hot-water boiler at the back of it warm, she went to bed at last feeling more like her old self than she had since before her father had left on that fateful trip.\n\nShe fell asleep at once, relaxed, warm, and contented." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She hadn't expected to dream, but she did." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And her dreams were—rather odd. Full of fire-images, of leaping flames themselves, of odd, half-fairy creatures whose flesh glowed with fire and who had wings of flame, of the medieval salamanders that were supposed to live in fires, of dragons, and of the phoenyx and the firebird. They weren't nightmares, nothing like, even though she found herself engulfed by fires that caressed her like sun-warmed silk." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In fact, she found herself wearing the flames, like an ever-changing gown. In her dreams, she found these mythical beings welcoming her as a friend, and in her dreams, that seemed perfectly natural and right. They were lovely dreams, the best she'd had since before Alison came—and she didn't want to wake up from them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The compulsions broke into those dreams, jarring her awake her at dawn.\n\nFull of resentment, she resisted them for a moment, pondering those dreams while they were still fresh in her mind. What on earth could they mean?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That they meant something, she was sure.\n\nAnd once or twice, hadn't she felt a sense of familiarity about them? As if the things she did and saw were calling up an echo, faint and far, in her memory?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Finally she could resist the compulsions no longer, for her legs began to twitch, and a nasty headache started just between her eyebrows." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She knew those signs of old, and got reluctantly out of bed to start her round of morning chores.\n\nAt least she was going to get more to eat this morning than a lot of tasteless porridge.\n\nThe sun was just coming up over the horizon, and distant roosters were crowing, as she began the day." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was the day of the week when Eleanor usually did the heavy laundry, the sheets and the towels, and her own clothing, and there was no real reason to change her schedule." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Usually she looked forward to the day, as she often got a chance to wash up in the laundry-water, though the lye-soap was harsh enough to burn if she wasn't careful." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She went out to the wash-house in the little shed at the back of the garden to fire up the wash-boiler out there, a huge kettle built right into a kind of oven, pump it full of cold water, and add the soap." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She returned to the house and collected all of the linen before breakfast." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'wouldn't' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A glance up at the sky told her that the day was going to be fair again—a good thing, since it meant she could hang things out in the sunlight, and wouldn't have to iron them dry. With even Howse gone—Alison wouldn't have traveled a step without her maid—there was less of the wash than usual, but Eleanor was feeling unusually energetic. Perhaps it was simply that she wasn't forced to do her work on a couple of spoonfuls of unflavored oat-porridge and a cup of weak tea." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She actually enjoyed herself; the winter had been horribly, dreadfully cold, and doing the household laundry had been nothing short of torture." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Today—well, it was cold, but briskly so, and it was grand to have the sun on her back as she pinned up the sheets and towels." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "By mid-morning, it was all washed and wrung dry and hanging up in the garden, and Eleanor was scrubbing the kitchen floor, exactly as she usually did on wash-day, though it wasn't often that she was done this early.\n\nAnd that was when a knocking at the kitchen door startled her so much that she yelped, and dropped the brush into her bucket of water with a splash.\n\nShe stared at the closed door, sure that what she had heard must have been some accident of an echo—someone out in the street, perhaps, or knocking at one of the neighbors' gates." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But the rapping came again, brisk and insistent.\n\nWho could be knocking at this door? Surely no one knew that she was here—" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It must be a tradesman. Or someone about a bill. It couldn't be a delivery; Alison was punctilious about canceling all deliveries when she expected to be gone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The old cook had been quite incensed about that—\"As if we're of no account and can live on bacon and tinned peas while she swans about London! \"—but she had even done so back when the house was full of servants.\n\nNot that I would mind if there had been a mistake! A delivery of baked goods would be jam on top of the cream...." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The knocking came again. Whoever was there wasn't going away. She got to her feet, and slowly opened the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was a woman there—perhaps Alison's age, or a little older, but she was nothing like Alison." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her graying brown hair was done up in a knot at the back of her head from which little wisps were straying." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Friendly, amber-brown eyes gazed warmly at Eleanor, though the focus suggested that the gaze was a trifle short-sighted. Her round face had both plenty of little lines and very pink cheeks. She was dressed quite plainly, in a heavy woolen skirt and smock, with an apron, rather like a local farmer's wife, complete with woolen shawl wrapped around herself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She smiled at Eleanor, who found herself smiling back.\n\n\"Hello, my dear,\" the woman said, in a soothing, low voice that tickled the back of Eleanor's mind with a sensation of familiarity. \"I'm Sarah Chase.\"\n\nSarah Chase! Eleanor knew that name, though she had never actually met the woman." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sarah Chase was supposed—at least by the children of Broom—to be a witch!\n\nNot a bad witch, though—she didn't live in a cobwebby old hut at the edge of the forest, she lived right in the middle of Broom itself, in a tidy little Tudor cottage literally sandwiched in between two larger buildings. On the right was the Swan pub, and on the left, the village shop." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Any children bold enough to stand on the threshold of the door and try to peer into the heavily curtained windows never were able to see anything, and the extremely public situation meant that their mothers usually heard about the adventure and they got a tongue-lashing about rude behavior and nosy-parkers. No one in Eleanor's circle of friends had ever seen Sarah Chase, in fact—\n\nBut here she was, standing on the threshold, a covered basket in one hand, the other outstretched a little towards Eleanor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well, dear,\" the woman prompted gently." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Aren't you going to ask your godmother inside?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Godmother?\n\nHer mind was still taking that in, as her mouth said, without any thought on her part, \"Come in, Godmother.\" And the village witch stepped across the threshold and entered the kitchen like a beam of sunshine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For the third time in her life, Eleanor's life turned upside down.\n\nShe sat, in something of a daze, on a stool beside the kitchen fire, where her prosaic soup-pot full of beans and the end of the ham simmered, and listened to impossible things.\n\nThings which she never would have believed—if her finger wasn't buried beneath the hearth-stone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sarah looked perfectly comfortable in the sunny kitchen with its blackened beams and whitewashed walls." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eleanor never even thought to invite her into the parlor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But then, these were not particularly discussions for the parlor.\n\nEleanor was hearing, for the first time, that the woman her father had thought he had married was no more than a fraction of what she actually was.\n\n\"... so your father never knew, of course,\" Sarah concluded." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Never knew that your mother was a Fire Master, or that we were such friends, she and I, never even knew such a thing as magic existed at all.\" Her cheeks went pinker, and she gave Eleanor an apologetic little shrug. \"That's the way of it, usually, when one of Us marries one of Them, Them as has no magic. We generally keep it to ourselves, for more often than not it does no good and a great deal of harm to try and make them understand. The ones with minds stuck in the world they can see are usually made very unhappy by such things. Either they think they have gone mad, or they think their spouse has, and in either case it only ends in tears and tragedy.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She nodded wisely. \"Like the Fenyxes. Him and his father, they have the magic—or Lord Devlin did before he died, but Lady Devlin, she's got no more idea than a bird.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eleanor gaped at her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was somehow harder to believe than that her own mother had magic." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Fenyx family? Were what Sarah called Elemental Masters?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sarah went right on, not noticing Eleanor's state of shock—or else, determined to get out everything she needed to say without interruption." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So we met here, of a night, or of an afternoon, over cups of tea as two old friends from such a small place often do, and your father would look in on us and laugh and ask us if we were setting the world aright, and of course, we never told him that we were—in small ways, of course, but small ways have the habit of adding up.\"\n\n\"You were—setting the world aright?\" Eleanor repeated, and shook her head. \"But how—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"A little magic here, a little magic there; hers more than mine, you understand, since I'm but a mere Witch, and she was a Master. But—oh, she would speak to the Salamanders of a night, and find out whose chimneys were getting over-choked with soot, and I'd have a word with the owner of the house by-and-by, and Neil Frandsen would come along and clean it, and there'd be no chimney fire, do you see?\"\n\nEleanor blinked again. \"Is that the plumber, Mr. Frandsen? The man that cleans chimneys with a shotgun?\"\n\nSarah threw back her head and laughed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, aye! But less often then than he does now, I'm afraid—he was nimbler when he was young; now he don't like to go atop the houses much. But you see what we did? And there was other things—never a house-fire have we had hereabouts once she came into her powers, nor a barn-fire, and no accidents with fire either. If a cottager's baby tumbled into a fire, it tumbled right back out again, with just enough scorching on his smock to make his mama take better heed. No fires from a coal hopping out; no curtains blowing into candles nor gas-flames. Sometimes it isn't so much doing things that's important as it is keeping them from happening.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She sighed. \"I remember how she used to put you in your cradle next to the fire, or once you were old enough, just on a blanket. No worries you'd be burned, of course—the Salamanders used to frisk and play around you, and you'd laugh and try to catch them with your little hands. Clear enough it was, you'd taken after her. And then—she died.\"\n\n\"She drowned,\" Eleanor whispered, and shuddered. All her life, the one thing she'd been afraid of was water. Sarah nodded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The enemy Element,\" Sarah said sadly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The Element that hates hers; the river flooded, you see, and to this day, I don't know if it was accident or an enemy. She could have told me, but—well, the river flooded and washed out the bridge as she was trying to get across to get home to you. Her allies had no power to save her. And your father, well, he couldn't bear to look upon me, who was her close friend, so I stayed away. And you seemed to be flourishing, and I heard about you going up to university and all, and I thought, well, well enough, I'll leave her be, and when she starts to come into her power, I'll send to the Fire Masters who've people at Oxford, and they'll take on the teaching of you. So much more clever than I, those dons and scholars—\"\n\n\"But She came.\" Eleanor's voice cracked.\n\n\"Then She came.\" Sarah's voice hardened." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"My Element, but a Master, more powerful than me, and better connected by far. In magic as in everything else, it's who you know that gets you places, and what you've got.\" Sarah grimaced." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She's trusted by them as should know better, but don't; there's no help there—yet. I could no more stand against her than your mother could stand against the flood. But you are coming into your powers, and I can set your feet on the right path, and you can break her, if you grow strong enough. And this is where I can make a start—\"\n\nShe got up out of the chair where she was sitting and walked over to the hearth. She stared down at the hearthstones for a moment, then bent, and traced a symbol with her index finger on one." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It glowed for a moment, a warm, lovely golden-amber, before sinking into the stone.\n\n\"Blast her,\" Sarah muttered under her breath. \"She's stronger than I thought.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What?\" Eleanor asked.\n\n\"It's a spell that will answer to Fire as well as Earth; it's what She did to bind you here. I know a counter that will work within her spell to free you from this house and hearth for a few hours at a time, though you won't be able to go farther than, say, Longacre,\" the witch said. \"You'll have to learn how to work magic of your own to make her spell answer to you, how to bend it to your will for a little—we'll start you learning Fire magic now, if you're ready, but definitely before she comes back.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I—Sarah, I don't know, this all seems so—\" She was going to say, \"impossible to believe,\" but at exactly that moment, something looked at her out of the hearth-fire. She looked back, feeling her eyes widen as she recognized the fiery-eyed lizard of her dreams.\n\n\"Well, and there you are,\" Sarah said, with triumph, following her startled glance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Salamander. Sure sign of you coming into your powers, no matter what she's done.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You can see it too?\" she asked incredulously.\n\n\"Well, of course. I can see the Elementals, and if they feel like it, they might help me out, but I can't command them, not even Earth. I'm not a Master,\" Sarah said; wistfully, Eleanor thought. \"But you can command the ones of Fire; because you're a Fire Master, you'll have their respect, and because of your mother, you already have their loyalty, and the only way you'd lose that would be to do something they didn't like.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What do you mean, I have their loyalty?\" Eleanor asked incredulously." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hold out your hand,\" Sarah replied." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"To the fire, I mean. You'll see.\"\n\nDubiously Eleanor did so, and before she could pull away with surprise, that same something leapt out of the flames and began twining around her hands like a friendly ferret. It looked like a lizard made of flame, and it felt like sun-warmed silk slithering through her fingers and around her wrists." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's not burning me—\" she gasped, staring at the creature in fascination.\n\n\"And I'll wager you've never been burned in your life,\" Sarah replied triumphantly. \"Have you?\"\n\n\"Only—\" Eleanor began, then stopped." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She had been going to say, \"only when Carolyn cauterized my finger,\" but then she realized that she had not actually been burned, not even then." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The bleeding had been stopped, and the wound sealed, but no more, and it hadn't been a burn that had caused her so much pain, it had been the wound itself and the fever that followed. \"—ah, I haven't,\" she admitted, watching the Salamander weave around her outstretched fingers.\n\n\"What—what does all this mean?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "she asked at last." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That I need to begin teaching you what I can, and there is no time like the present. Unless you had something planned?\" Sarah tilted her head to the side. \"A garden party, perhaps?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That brought a smile to Eleanor's face, and a rueful shrug. \"So long as my stepmother isn't here—\"\n\n\"We must take advantage of that. Let your friend go back to his fire and we'll begin.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "By nightfall, Eleanor knew a hundred times more about magic than she had before Sarah knocked on the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She knew about casting circles of protection and containment, a little about summoning, and something about the Elementals of her own Element, although the only one she had seen as yet was the little Salamander, the weakest of the lot." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And she was far more tired than she would have thought likely." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It wasn't as if she'd been working, after all, just sitting and walking about the kitchen, nothing more.\n\n\"It takes it out of you,\" Sarah said solemnly, as the two of them worked on a little supper in the evening gloom. \"And you're lucky that woman is of another Element, or she'd know when you were working, as she'd be able to cut you off from your power. As it is, she's strong enough to bind you and command you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "By this point, Eleanor had gotten well past the suspension of disbelief and was at the point where she would have accepted the presence of an invisible second moon in the sky if Sarah had insisted it was there." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Part of this was due to fatigue, but most of it was simply that she had taken in so many strange things that her mind was simply fogging over." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why am I so tired?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "she asked, setting down plates on the kitchen table, while Sarah ladled soup into bowls and cut slices of bread for both of them.\n\n\"Because the power you've been using to cast circles and all has to come from you yourself, lovey,\" Sarah replied.\n\nEleanor frowned, and rubbed her temple with the back of her wrist." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But I thought magic just was—magic!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Something out of nothing, you mean?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sarah laughed. \"Not likely, my girl. The only time you get power at no cost to you is when your Elementals grant it to you, or you take it from someone else. And I'll give you a guess where your stepmother gets much of hers from.\"\n\nEleanor sat down in her chair. \"She'll be back in a day or two—and what will I do then?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "she asked. \"How am I going to see you, or keep learning?\" It was a good question; what would she do? She was kept busy from dawn to dark and then some; how could she ever get time to continue learning and practicing?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'you'll' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Does she lock the doors?\" Sarah asked. \"You'll wait until the house is asleep, and then you'll draw the glyph and bend her spell and come to me for an hour or two.\" She smiled slyly. \"You do the cooking, don't you? Well, one advantage of being a mere Witch is that I don't rely on power to do everything. I'll give you some things to put in their food that will send them to bed early on the nights you're to come, and keep them there a-snoring, and they'll be nothing the wiser!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eleanor blinked. \"Is that safe?\" she asked, dubiously." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I mean, what if they—taste it, or something?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"They won't. And I'll have a charm on it to make sure they eat enough of it to do what I want.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sarah seemed quite confident that she could do exactly what she claimed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Eleanor wasn't nearly as confident—but then, she didn't have anything to lose by trying, either. \"Now, you eat,\" Sarah continued, \"so you get your energy back, and we'll practice those shields and wards again.\"\n\nEleanor sighed, and applied herself to her food." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She wanted to protest; she hadn't had a moment to herself all day." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When she hadn't been learning the \"shields and wards\" that Sarah thought were so important, and which didn't seem very much like magic to her, she'd been taking in the laundry, putting it away, and tidying up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had been so looking forward to another afternoon in the library—but the promise that she might be able to break herself free of Alison's magic was so tempting that she hadn't so much as whispered a complaint.\n\nAs if she had heard all those thoughts, Sarah looked up from her dinner and smiled at her. \"I know it's hard, my dear,\" she said, in a kindly voice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Cruel hard on you, it is. But I'm having to teach you the hard way, to bring up the protections and take them down without leaving a trace for your wretched stepmother to find. Until you can do that, you daren't even try to work magic here, for she will know, and that will be no good thing at all.\"\n\nEleanor shuddered at the idea of her stepmother discovering such a thing.\n\n\"And you should shiver,\" Sarah said, noting it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do believe me in that. It would be very, very bad for you. She would bind you in so many spells that you would scarcely be able to walk without being under compulsion, and I should not be able to do a thing about them. Never forget that she is a Master, and until you have Mastery of your own, she can bind you by that finger beneath the hearthstone to whatever she wills.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eleanor glanced over at the hearth, and shuddered again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I won't forget,\" she said, quietly.\n\n\"Then eat,\" the witch replied, \"And we'll work tonight until you're too tired to carry on.\"\n\nAnd so they did, though to her credit, Sarah Chase helped with the washing up before they did." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Over and over again, Eleanor spun out the cinnamon-tasting, warm-red power of the Element of Fire from the crackling blaze on the hearth, and built it into an arching dome around herself, then sent the power back into the hearth and erased all traces of the energy from the very air around her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wondered now why she had never noticed the power before this, though; although it was easier to see amid the flames of the real fire, there were wisps of it everywhere, like the last breath of fog above the grass on a spring morning, or the trailing bits of smoke above a chimney. There were other colors of power there too, now that she knew what to look for—a warm amber glow that was somehow as sweet as honey that seemed to surround Sarah Chase like sunlight, a hint here or there of a thread of blue or a flicker of green—but none of them called to her as that scarlet flame did.\n\nThere were several Salamanders in the hearth-fire by now, and she felt their presence as a friendly and encouraging warmth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That helped her when she faltered, right up to the point at which she ran out of energy altogether, and simply sat right down on the hearth and looked up at the witch with pleading in her eyes. \"I can't,\" she said, plaintively. \"I—\"\n\n\"Ah, then we're finished for now!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sarah exclaimed. \"The one thing your mother always told me is that Fire is the most dangerous of the Elements; handle it carelessly at your peril, is what she said!\"\n\n\"She did?\" Eleanor glanced at the hearth; three little Salamanders coiled quietly amid the flames and blinked slow and sleepy eyes at her. They didn't look dangerous—" }, { "from": "human", "value": "But then, neither did a bull, until you got into the field and it charged you." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'they'll' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She did.\" Sarah offered her hand; Eleanor took it, and the witch pulled her to her feet with surprising strength. \"You sit at the table for a moment, until you're feeling livelier, then get yourself to your bed. I'll be back tomorrow at the same time, unless she's come back by then. And in that case—well, I'll leave you a note in the wash-house. Oh, and any time yon Salamanders want to frisk about you, let them. They'll do a bit of slow healing on you when they do. Give them a month, maybe two, and they'll heal those scullery-maid's hands of yours.\"\n\nEleanor nodded. Of all the places in and around The Arrows that Sarah could get to, the wash-house was the safest to leave any such thing; Alison hadn't so much as set foot in it in all the time she'd lived here." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Now, I'll let myself out, don't get up,\" Sarah concluded cheerfully. \"Maybe have yourself a cup of tea and a bit of toast before you go to bed.\" She picked up her basket, wrapped her shawl around her shoulders, and suited her actions to her words, slipping out into the night-shrouded garden and closing the door after herself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Eleanor simply sat, and looked back at the hearth-fire again. The Salamanders were still there, still watching her, reminding her of nothing so much as a tangle of kittens.\n\nIf kittens could be made of flames." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why didn't I ever see you before?\" she wondered aloud." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was shocked to her bones when the one in the middle raised its head, looked straight at her, and answered her.\n\nBecause She was there, and you had not fought her power. Just a touch of scorn came into the creature's tone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why should we show ourselves to one who would not fight for her own freedom?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was a good question." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But I thought that I had—\" she replied, slowly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All three of them shook their heads negatively." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hating someone is not fighting them, the middle one pointed out. You pushed, but pushing is not fighting, and you gave up too soon. Yesterday, you fought. That was good." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Add 2 sentences to continue story. May include established elements" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sunshine and fresh air flooded the kitchen, and The Arrows was very peaceful without the Robinsons and Howse present. So peaceful, that Eleanor wondered what it would be like to live here like this forever—if somehow, the Robinsons would just never return." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I've thought and I've reasoned, and I've looked,\" Sarah said aloud, startling Eleanor as she concentrated on a particularly obtuse paragraph about the Hanged Man card." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And much as I hate to admit that I'm wrong—well, I'm wrong.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Eleanor blinked, and stared at her mentor. Sarah was sitting cross-legged on the floor of the kitchen, staring down at a pile of stones with markings on them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rune-stones, she called them, and she used them not only to try and give her some direction for the future, but to try and learn what was going on around her that might be hidden from her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If, for instance, someone was sick enough that he needed to see the medical doctor and not just depend on her herbal remedies." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There were many country folk who still were suspicious of the doctor and veterinarian, and sometimes it took Sarah a deal of convincing to get them to go to either gentleman.\n\n\"Wrong about what?\" Eleanor asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It took a lot to get Sarah to admit she was wrong about anything." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was dreadfully stubborn that way.\n\nThen again, she had every right to be." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I've always said that the big house and the village haven't got much of anything to say to each other,\" Sarah replied sourly, still staring down at her stones." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Still, I knew it was an Air Master that chased off the revenants; I knew it couldn't be a local witch, no matter how powerful, when you told me about it, and I was right. It turns out she's a guest up there at Longacre, though, and it seems that she's staying the summer. And that changes everything.\"\n\n\"An Air Master?\" Eleanor said, catching her breath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, granted, it wasn't her Element, but any Master could help her—" }, { "from": "human", "value": "More to the point, unlike, say, a constable or any other authority figure, any Elemental Master would know she was telling the truth about Alison and what Alison had done to her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wouldn't have to try and convince an Elemental Master that she wasn't mad because she was talking about magic.\n\n\"That's what we've needed, what you've needed, to see if you can't get cut free of your stepmother and her wicked magic. And now, I've asked the cards, the bones, and the stones, and they're all saying you need to go up there and meet with that Air Master. In fact, they say if you don't, well—\" she shook her head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It'll be bad, that's all. Not just bad for you, either. The stones reckon Alison's got some wicked mischief going that's going to be a trouble no matter what steps are taken to stop her, but horrible bad if she isn't stopped.\" Sarah looked up, her face full of fear." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I can't tell what it is, but at a guess, she's let loose some kind of sickness; she's Earth, and that's the sort of thing they do when they go to the bad. Pestilence and plague.\" Sarah bit her lip." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well, the stones say that if you work with that Air Master and get yourself cut free, Alison will fall, but if you don't, she'll use you somehow and put more power into whatever it is she's done, and the stones don't say how much worse it will be, but they're all showing their bad sides.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She felt as if hope and fear were at war inside her. Hope, because here was exactly what she needed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Fear, because how could she ever get what she needed with Alison's hearth-binding still holding her?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But—I can't get as far as Longacre,\" she protested. \"And even if I could, I can't just stroll up to even the tradesman's entrance and ask to be introduced to the Air Master!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Even if she knew the Air Master's real name." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Especially not looking like a servant. She knew better than to go to the front door—she'd be turned away in a heartbeat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well, now, that's not necessarily true... because you only need to get inside those walls once and talk to her. After that, if she's worth anything, and the stones say she is, she'll come to you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sarah gathered up the stones and poured them into a little leather bag. \"And there is one night, coming up, when you can walk in the front door and be presented like you were to the manor born. Provided you're wearing a fancy dress.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She tilted her head to one side." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Think about it. The night of that fancy dress ball. If your stepsisters are good enough to be invited, you surely are as well.\"\n\nEleanor's hand flew to her mouth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Good gad!\" she cried." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'you're' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're right, you're exactly right! But—\" As quickly as her hopes rose, they dropped again. \"Where am I going to get an invitation? Or a costume? Especially one that will look as if it belongs among people like that?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Ah, now, what about that attic of yours?\" Sarah replied, with a lift of her brow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I think we ought to take a look up there, first, before we think about any other possibilities. As for the invitation, you leave that up to me. I'll find a way to get you invited.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Eleanor wanted to protest that she'd been through all of the chests and had salvaged the only usable garments up there, but Sarah was already on her feet and marching towards the steps. With a sigh of resignation, Eleanor followed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was easier to move the chests with two of them, but it was rather disheartening to see what the moths and time had done to some of the once-beautiful gowns that had been inside them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Silk shattered and tore like wet tissue as they lifted gowns out; the satins had mostly discolored, beadwork fell off the bodices. But just as Eleanor turned away, even though there were older chests and clothes-presses waiting, certain that they had completely eliminated any possibility of finding anything, Sarah let out an exclamation of satisfaction." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What?\" Eleanor blurted, turning back." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sarah held up a froth of flounces and lace. \"I knew there should be one of these still good!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "she exclaimed with satisfaction." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's still a tale in the village, how the three girls from Broom went up to London and were the belles of the ball. The fellow who owned The Arrows before your father bought it was just as well-off; the wool-trade, d'ye see, that and The Arrows had been in his family since Great Harry's day. This is a ball-gown from the time of Victoria's coronation; all three of the daughters here went down to London on account of some aunt who married a title got them all manner of invitations. She got them into all the right circles and chaperoned them about for three weeks. It must have worked, since two of them got husbands out of the journey, and but the third never could settle on anyone, and ended up back here, taking care of her parents when they got old. That's who your father bought the house from, the daughter who never married.\"\n\nCurious now, Eleanor made her way back to where Sarah was unpacking the petticoats that went with the gown." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They, remarkably, were also still sound." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The gown was stupefying to one used to the current narrow skirts and minimal (or in Eleanor's case, nonexistent) corseting. She couldn't imagine how much Venice lace had gone into trimming the row after row of flounces on the skirt. Twenty yards? Thirty?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The neckline was low enough to make her blush; the puffy little flounced sleeves were as tiny as the skirt was huge." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was made of some sort of flounces of netting or gauzy stuff in a dark ivory tone over a slightly heavier skirt. Maybe it had once been pure white, and had aged to this color, but if so, it had done so uniformly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You'll look a rare treat,\" Sarah said, giving the gown a good shake." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"This is Indian cotton, from back in the day when it was dearer than silk.\"\n\n\"I'll look a rare Guy—\" Eleanor retorted." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But she reached out to touch the delicate lace, anyway, wondering wistfully if she really could fit into it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A moment later, she found out, at Sarah's insistence. She was surprised to find that it fit her very well indeed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A good thing that they didn't reckon young girls should wear much but flowers or feathers, back in the day,\" Sarah said, looking very pleased. \" 'Cause how I should manage jewels, I haven't a clue. We'll say you're little Princess Victoria herself. Here, I've got a nice rose-colored sash off that silk that went to bits, that'll take the place of the old one that's gone, a bit of cleaning, some flowers and a domino-mask—you leave it to me. Put your hair up, and a bit of glamorie, even Alison won't recognize you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Eleanor looked down at herself, feeling a thrill of excitement. And it wasn't because she would finally find a possible mentor, or because this might be the chance to plead her case to an Elemental Master." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, there was only one thought in her head at the moment." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reggie will be there. And he'll see me like this—not shabby." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But how am I going to get there?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "she asked, as it occurred to her that trying to walk up to Longacre in that dress was going to be in impossible proposition.\n\n\"I'll borrow a cart and horse and put a glamorie on them, too,\" Sarah said dismissively." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Make them look like a carriage. Wouldn't pass in daylight, but this will be after dark. I'll be your coachman, I'll hand you out, so nobody gets close enough to see through the glamorie.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But—I still can't get as far as the manor!\" she objected weakly. \"Alison's bindings—I've tried stretching them, and they still only go as far as the meadow.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You will be able to. Alison will have her hands full with her girls. She'll be trying to hide her nature from that Air Master, you can count on it. She'll be distracted by the ball. For an hour or two, and working together, we'll be able to stretch those bindings just far enough that night.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sarah sounded quite sure of herself, and Eleanor just gave in.\n\nShe had to be right." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was Eleanor's only chance to get some outside help." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wanted to see Reggie, even if he didn't recognize her. Maybe because he wouldn't recognize her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just once, she wanted to talk to him, and see him look at her the way he would look at any other girl that was his social equal." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She wanted—a memory. No matter what happened to her after that night, she wanted to have a memory of being a princess at a ball, dancing with a handsome knight, and allow herself to be just that little bit in love with him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're right,\" she said, with a nod. \"If we don't seize this opportunity, there may never be another one; we have to make it work.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "[ July 17, 1917 London ]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thanks to her friendship with Lady Devlin, the Savoy had put the Robinsons up in a better suite than usual; the girls didn't even have to share a room, which made for a little more peace and quiet. It certainly impressed Warrick Locke when he arrived on Alison's summons." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Alison saw no need to trouble herself with secrecy today; what could be more natural than a meeting with her solicitor since they both \"happened\" to be in London?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The girls were at fittings for their costumes; nothing could be more respectable than having him come to her hotel suite in broad daylight with a briefcase full of papers. Howse was right in the next room, though she could have been in this one, if Alison had wished, and neither seen nor heard anything but her book." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It had taken more than a year, but now Howse was nicely obedient to Alison's will and directions, yet still had enough freedom of thought that she performed all of her duties properly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Just for the sake of verisimilitude, Locke had a stack of papers on the table. The fact that none of those papers concerned her was something no one else would ever find out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Some of them, however, concerned Eleanor, who was the central topic of their conversation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eleanor was a loose end that Alison very much wanted tidied up before there was a wedding in the offing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It would be harder to dispose of her quietly when one was connected to the Fenyxes of Longacre Park." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But Locke still had no better plan than the old one, even though he'd had weeks to think of alternatives." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Alison was extremely disappointed in him; normally he was full of ideas, but he seemed terribly fixated on this one. Perhaps it was because of his own personal obsessions, but if that was indeed the case, the sooner he got them under control, the better." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I tell you, Warrick, no matter how much you like your plan to break that wretched girl's mind, it is too complicated,\" Alison objected." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What's more, it relies too much on that man of yours, as well as bringing in possible confederates. I know you trust him, but every time you add a person to a plan you double the chances of something being said or done at the wrong time and either ruining the whole thing or giving the plan away. Or worse still, you've added the danger of having your confederate decide to betray you.\"\n\nWarrick Locke frowned. \"Robbie has been working with me for a very long time now. Frankly, if you are concerned about him doing something other than what he has been ordered to do, I can tell you that in all the time that I have known him, he has never once had an original idea for himself.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's too complicated a plan,\" Alison countered, throttling down her rising irritation with him. \"There are too many things that can go wrong, including that the wretched child just might be tougher-minded than you think." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The closer I come to reaching my goals, the less I like complicated plans. I find that the more I have to lose, the less inclined I am to take chances on something that might work." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And the whole house of cards you wish to construct has far too many points of possible failure for my comfort.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's the only idea that has any chance at all of giving you the results you want,\" he replied, with ill grace. \"If she dies, you lose, because the inheritance goes to the cousin. If she disappears, you lose, because until she's proven dead, you can't touch her money and when she's proven dead, the inheritance goes to the cousin. If she stays sane, and attains her majority, you lose, because sooner or later the trustees are going to want to see her to turn her fortune over to her and then there's no telling what will happen. If you injure her physically to the point that she can't care for herself, you still lose, because doctors will be involved, and someone will find out that you've been making a slave of her and making free with her inheritance. The only way you win is if you keep her alive and drive her so completely mad that she withdraws into herself and never comes out again. That means breaking her will, her spirit, and her mind, and there's only one way that I know for certain to do that. After all, it's not as if you can drop her down a hole and be done with her.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Wait a moment—\" she said, with a sudden surge of interest and a jolt of euphoria as his words caused an interesting image to flash across her mind. She caught and held that image; quickly extrapolated something from it, and then, smiled, slowly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You just might have something, Warrick. You might just have solved the conundrum.\"\n\n\"Pardon?\" He blinked at her, caught off-guard by her words." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You said something very interesting. You said that I couldn't just drop her down a hole and be done with it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her smile broadened. \"But that just might be exactly what we want to do with her. There's more than one way to get the results we want from her.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now he was completely confused, that much was very plain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I thought the best plan was to break her mind.\"\n\n\"Be patient with me. What was the first spell I put on her? To bind her to the hearth. Correct?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She nodded as he frowned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So this has kept her confined to the house and grounds. She can't go off on her own; that binding was intended to keep her from looking for help. But that same binding spell may serve us in another way. If she were to be taken away from the hearth, carried off somewhere, she would have to try and make her way back, no matter what obstacles were in her path. Or—? Do you remember how I constructed the bindings? Because I certainly do.\"\n\n\"I'm not sure I see where this is going, but I believe the geas you put on her forces her to try, and keep trying, to make her way back to The Arrows. And the longer she's away the more of her mind becomes obsessed with the need to return, until she can't even eat or sleep, she's so driven by and consumed with that need.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now his frown looked as if he was beginning to see the shape of something, but hadn't yet deciphered the puzzle she had set him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She helped him out with some clues. \"Warwickshire is full of abandoned coal mines. Lady Devlin was just complaining about one of them last week—it's collapsing, evidently, and causing subsidence on the property of one of her friends, spoiling a good meadow. Now suppose, just suppose, that we were to drop her down one of those, then report that she has gone missing, as we always intended to do. The first thing and only thing she would try to do is return to the hearth, driven by her growing obsession, and if we took care to drop her into one where she couldn't climb out, where the tunnels run from the entrance towards Broom, can you see what would happen?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His frown deepened. \"I—think so—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Alison sat forward in her chair, leaning towards him. \"She will have to follow the pull of the geas. Which means she would be forced to penetrate deeper into the mine, until she could go no further, without lights, without anything to help her.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She nodded as his eyes widened with understanding." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Think of that; alone in the dark and possibly injured, she comes to a dead end. She can't retrace her steps, because the spell won't let her go back. She can't go on, because she's at a dead end. She's hungry, thirsty, and more and more of her mind is taken up with the obsession to return. Now, just to add something to ensure that we get the results we want, a mine is in the earth, and what's more, it's in violated earth, which means the Elementals associated with it are all of my sort. So if trying to claw her way through coal-bearing rock with her bare hands isn't enough to drive her mad, my little friends can take care of that problem by pushing her over the edge of sanity. Little monsters with glowing eyes appearing and vanishing in the dark, things gibbering and drooling on her, cold hands clutching at her, plucking at her clothing... it would take a stronger mind than she has to come out of that intact!\"\n\n\"But you need to have her in your custody in order to keep control of her inheritance,\" Locke objected." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was already prepared for the objection." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And I can do that. I merely wait a day or so, then nudge a rescue party to the right coal mine and allow them to find her. Fear, thirst, hunger, constant attack by gnomes and kobolds, and the geas—if she has any mind left after forty-eight hours of that, I will be shocked and amazed. By that time, I imagine the only thing we'll need to worry about is replacing her with a servant.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She did sigh at that. It was getting impossible to find servants that weren't thieves, drunks, or both." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With so many women getting much better wages and shorter hours by taking the places of men than they could ever obtain as servants, only the dregs were left." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "On the other hand, once the business of Eleanor is settled, perhaps the answer would be simply to use magical coercions on whatever I can get. I pity any thief that tries to purloin anything from my house." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Or perhaps she could take someone feeble-minded from the workhouse." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The same coercions that kept Eleanor scrubbing and tending should work on the feeble-minded.\n\nLocke gazed at her with astonishment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"My hat is off to you. I would not have thought of any of that. I hesitate to call anything a perfect plan, but this one is as close to perfect as a reasonable person could wish. I assume you'll put her to sleep to make her easier to handle?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Probably,\" Alison agreed. \"I wouldn't even need to use a spell, if I didn't want to. A little chloroform on a sponge would do the trick.\"\n\n\"More reliably renewable than a spell, too,\" Locke murmured admiringly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And costs nothing in power. You could even do it with your daughters; simply wait until the girl has gone to sleep, go up to her room, administer the sponge, and there will not even be a struggle.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She did not ask how he knew that. Presumably he had some experience in such matters." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"As I told you, I prefer simple plans,\" she replied, feeling so pleased with her own ideas that she was willing to be very pleasant to the man. \"And it does occur to me that when this works, I'll be needing to find some place safe and secure to put the afflicted child. I scarcely intend to keep her at home; the present servant problem is bad enough without trying to find someone to care for and stand guard over a madwoman. I presume that you've been looking into such things?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Discreetly, I assure you, and mentioning no names,\" he responded immediately, and dug into his case for a file." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And here are the best places I found—quite discreet, very understanding about the need to keep someone alive and healthy, but once a patient is checked in, they don't ever emerge.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She smiled, and leaned over the table to examine the tastefully subdued brochures. On his own ground, Locke was knowledgeable and immensely helpful." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She would definitely keep him around a while longer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Especially now that he realized she didn't need him to come up with better plans than he could." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It would make him a little on edge, and anxious not to get on her bad side, because she was, after all, a most generous client.\n\n[ July 18, 1917 Longacre Park, Warwickshire ]" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lady Devlin was a very old-fashioned hostess, and that meant she believed in doing things the old-fashioned way." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was writing out every one of the invitations for the ball herself, since she no longer had a secretary to tend to such things for her. The estate manager could probably have done it for her, but she claimed that she was enjoying it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After a while, out of sheer guilt, Reggie elected to help her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His once-neat copperplate handwriting was gone all to hell, of course, with lack of practice, but it was good enough to address envelopes.\n\nWhich was tedious, but saved his mother the effort of writing out the addresses and allowed her to concentrate on the aesthetics of producing the invitations." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They couldn't be printed, alas; perhaps the middle-class found invitations where one filled in missing names and dates acceptable, but no one of Lady Devlin's stature would even consider resorting to such a stratagem." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Besides, many of them required a certain level of personalization in the form of a note.\n\nIt did allow him to sit down without looking like a malingerer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It also gave him a chance to find out who the girls were that would be pursuing him at this little hunt disguised as a party." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Roberta and Leva Cygnet; not much of a surprise there. They were already coming to teas and tennis-parties." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Mrs. Regina Towner,\" though—\"Regina Towner?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'casually' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "he asked, casually. \"Do I know the Towners?\"\n\n\"An old friend from school,\" his mother replied, just as casually." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Right enough; mother's age, which means her daughter is probably my age... Mr. and Mrs Robert Tansy, Esq., and daughter." }, { "from": "human", "value": "So Ginger will be in the howling pack." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Good gad, I hope some of my lads come through. I need all the distractions I can muster, and Ginger likes to dance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Some of the next few were innocuous enough." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then, \"Lt. Commander Matthew Mann, the Hon. Mrs. Matthew Mann, Miss Mann.\" Ah, good gad. The Brigadier's granddaughter, and Mama is an \"Hon.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I've never seen an \"Hon.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "that wasn't on the hunt for a title for the family. Well, the Brigadier warned me. \"Viscountess Arabella Reed.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "One of Lady Virginia's friends, she was a chatterbox, but at least she didn't have any daughters." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then, at last, the run of invitations that he hoped would save him—pilots-in-training at the school headquartered at Oxford, and lads he knew either were on leave or could get it. Even a cadet was a second lieutenant, and while Mamas were on the hunt for titles, daughters were easily distracted by officers' dress-uniforms." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Second Lt. Michael Freed, Second Lt. David Jackson, at Reading." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lt. Vincent Paul Mills, good gad, I hope he doesn't get shot to bits before this thing comes off; that handsome face will be even more of a distraction than his uniform. Captain Michael Dolbeare; good thing he's training the lads at Oxford; he's a got enough medals at this point to sink him if he fell in the river, and the girls can't resist the shiny." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lt. Allen McBain; arm in a sling, but even if he can't dance he's another handsome devil." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That Scots burr, though; the girls will giggle over it and make him blush, which is entertaining as well as a distraction. Now the Oxford lot." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Second Lt. John Oliver, Second Lt. Charles Goddard, Second Lt. Lyman Evans—at least they aren't losing a flying-student a day the way they were at the start of the war, or half my invitations would never get answered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of course Turner had made sure that the names he had given Reggie were of the better students who had less chance of cracking up. That was a concern; ambulances were stationed at the students' fields because they were, by heaven, needed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The accident rate was appalling, the death-rate even more so." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Rumpetys killed more lads than combat did. Thank God for the Gosport system." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Things had changed since he was a cadet; now there was a logical system in place for training." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Still. Back in his day, there were always several dozen crashes a day when the weather permitted and the planes were up. Usually one cadet died a day, and several more were injured." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not so bad now, though." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Can't afford to lose that many in training, I suppose. Took those old men long enough to figure that out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He shook off the shakes that threatened him as he remembered some of those crashes... fortunately, his sojourn at the school as a cadet had been mercifully short. He already knew how to fly, and didn't take long to prove it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Captain William Robert Howe." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Can't do without him. He's bringing the band— Thanks to the Brigadier; this was a regular infantry band, though they had played for the RFC." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That would give some of the PBI a thrill, coming up to a country house to play. Captain Howe was the officer in charge and the bandleader, all in one." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And, the Brigadier claimed, single." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Another alternate target for the husband-hunters. PBI he might be, and less glamorous than a pilot, but he was a captain." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Captain Steven Stewart, and he'd damned well better get leave." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Steve had pledged on his life he'd come." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tommy had sworn he'd see to it. Tommy had incentive; was getting a case of whiskey from the Longacre cellars if Steve did make it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lt. Commander Geoffrey Cockburn, and if he puts his auto in the pond again, I'll make him go in after it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Captain Christopher Whitmore, and he had better not bring all that photographic paraphernalia with him. Both had been chums of his at college." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Geoff was a tearaway, Chris studious, both still single and not at all unhandsome. Yet more fodder for the husband-hunters." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With luck, he'd get a word with them ahead of time so they could help keep the harpies off." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Here's the uniformed lot, Mater,\" he said, with relief, putting his stack beside the rest of the finished envelopes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Ah, good,\" she replied, absently. \"Here, there's just a few more of the local people. Be a dear and do them, would you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mrs. and Mrs. Donald Hinshaw, the vicar and his wife." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Doctor and Mrs. Robert Sutherland. And then—\n\nMrs. Alison Robinson, Miss Danbridge, Miss Carolyn Danbridge, Miss Eleanor Robinson...." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eleanor? For a moment, his mind went blank." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then it re-focused again. Eleanor Robinson." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His Eleanor?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was that—woman's daughter? But how was that possible?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Mater, who's this Eleanor Robinson?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "he asked casually, or at least, as casually as he could manage.\n\n\"Oh, she's just dear Alison's stepdaughter,\" his mother said, indifferently." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The vicar reminded me about her, or at least, I think it was the vicar. Someone did, anyway. She's supposed to be at Oxford, so I suppose she's a terrible bluestocking not to come home for the summer, but it wouldn't do not to invite her, even if she doesn't come.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She's supposed to be at Oxford? But— He felt as if he'd been poleaxed, he was so stunned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was certainly no monetary reason why she shouldn't be at university—that woman spent money as freely as his own mother did, and it was common knowledge she was well-off, so there should be no trouble with the fees." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For that matter, given how Alison Robinson spent lavishly, why was Eleanor always so shabby-looking?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why did she have hands like a charwoman?\n\nWhat was going on there?" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "lets do a fantasy thing. u write four sentences bits. keep character vibes" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "On the high balcony of his gleaming tower the King of Elfland stood. Below him echoed yet the thousand steps. He had lifted his head to chant the rune that should hold his daughter in Elfland, and in that moment had seen her pass the murky barrier; which on this side, facing toward Elfland, is all lustrous with twilight, and on that side, facing towards the fields we know, is smoky and angry and dull. And now he had dropped his head till his beard lay mingled with his cape of ermine above his cerulean cloak, and stood there silently sorrowful, while time passed swift as ever over the fields we know." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And standing there all blue and white against his silver tower, aged by the passing of times of which we know nothing, before he imposed its eternal calm upon Elfland, he thought of his daughter amongst our pitiless years." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For he knew, whose wisdom surpassed the confines of Elfland and touched our rugged fields, knew well the harshness of material things and all the turmoil of Time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even as he stood there he knew that the years that assail beauty, and the myriad harshnesses that vex the spirit, were already about his daughter. And the days that remained to her now seemed scarce more to him, dwelling beyond the fret and ruin of Time, than to us might seem a briar rose's hours when plucked and foolishly hawked in the streets of a city. He knew that there hung over her now the doom of all mortal things. He thought of her perishing soon, as mortal things must; to be buried amongst the rocks of a land that scorned Elfland and that held its most treasured myths to be of little account." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And were he not the King of all that magical land, which held its eternal calm from his own mysterious serenity, he had wept to think of the grave in rocky Earth gripping that form that was so fair forever. Or else, he thought, she would pass to some paradise far from his knowledge, some heaven of which books told in the fields we know, for he had heard even of this. He pictured her on some apple-haunted hill, under blossoms of an everlasting April, through which flickered the pale gold haloes of those that had cursed Elfland. He saw, though dimly for all his magical wisdom, the glory that only the blessed clearly see." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include exactly 2 instance(s) of the word 'shivered'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He saw his daughter on those heavenly hills stretch out both arms, as he knew well she would, towards the pale-blue peaks of her elfin home, while never one of the blessed heeded her yearning. And then, though he was king of all that land, that had its everlasting calm from him, he wept and all Elfland shivered. It shivered as placid water shivers here if something suddenly touches it from our fields.\n\nThen the King turned and left his balcony and went in great haste down his brazen steps." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He came clanging to the ivory doors that shut the tower below, and through them came to the throne-room of which only song may tell. And there he took a parchment out of a coffer and a plume from some fabulous wing, and dipping the plume into no earthly ink, wrote out a rune on the parchment. Then raising two fingers he made the minor enchantment whereby he summoned his guard. And no guard came." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have said that no time passed at all in Elfland. Yet the happening of events is in itself a manifestation of time, and no event can occur unless time pass. Now it is thus with time in Elfland: in the eternal beauty that dreams in that honeyed air nothing stirs or fades or dies, nothing seeks its happiness in movement or change or a new thing, but has its ecstasy in the perpetual contemplation of all the beauty that has ever been, and which always glows over those enchanted lawns as intense as when first created by incantation or song. Yet if the energies of the wizard's mind arose to meet a new thing, then that power that had laid its calm upon Elfland and held back time troubled the calm awhile, and time for awhile shook Elfland." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Cast anything into a deep pool from a land strange to it, where some great fish dreams, and green weeds dream, and heavy colours dream, and light sleeps; the great fish stirs, the colours shift and change, the green weeds tremble, the light wakes, a myriad things know slow movement and change; and soon the whole pool is still again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was the same when Alveric passed through the border of twilight and right through the enchanted wood, and the King was troubled and moved, and all Elfland trembled." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When the King saw that no guard came he looked into the wood which he knew to be troubled, through the deep mass of the trees, that were quivering yet with the coming of Alveric; he looked through the deeps of the wood and the silver walls of his palace, for he looked by enchantment, and there he saw the four knights of his guard lying stricken upon the ground with their thick elvish bloody hanging out through slits in their armour. And he thought of the early magic whereby he had made the eldest, with a rune all newly inspired, before he had conquered Time. He passed out through the splendour and glow of one of his flashing portals, and over a gleaming lawn and came to the fallen guard, and saw the trees still troubled.\n\n\"There has been magic here,\" said the King of Elfland." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And then though he only had three runes that could do such a thing, and though they only could be uttered once, and one was already written upon parchment to bring his daughter home, he uttered the second of his most magical runes over that elder knight that his magic had made long ago." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And in the silence that followed the last words of the rune the rents in the moon-bright armour all clicked shut at once, and the thick dark blood was gone and the knight rose live to his feet. And the Elf King now had only one rune left that was mightier than any magic we know.\n\nThe other three knights lay dead; and, having no souls, their magic returned again to the mind of their master.\n\nHe went back then to his palace, while he sent the last of his guard to fetch him a troll." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dark brown of skin and two or three feet high the trolls are a gnomish tribe that inhabit Elfland. And soon there was a scamper in the throne-room that may only be told of in song, and a troll lit by the throne on its two bare feet and stood before its king. The King gave it the parchment with the rune written thereon, saying: \"Scamper hence, and pass over the end of the Land, until you come to the fields that none know here; and find the Princess Lirazel who is gone to the haunts of men, and give her this rune and she shall read it and all shall be well.\"\n\nAnd the troll scampered thence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And soon the troll was come with long leaps to the frontier of twilight." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then nothing moved in Elfland any more; and motionless on that splendid throne of which only song may speak sat the old King mourning in silence." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Today you will be acting as a writing assistant, your partner will send something and you will write the next 8 sentences. The story may reference existing characters and events - incorporate them as presented." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "All too soon, the tap on the divider signaled we were about to be at the hotel. Unable to resist, I stole one more kiss before I eased Izzy from my lap and onto the seat next to me. Not bothering to hide the maneuver from her, I adjusted my crotch. Hunger filled her eyes as she watched. It made my blood boil each time I was able to read her desire. When we'd first explored our passion as teenagers, she'd always shuttered her feelings except in moments of absolute vulnerability. But three years ago, when we decided to venture from friends to lovers, we were both all in, hiding nothing from each other.\n\n\"I want you so bad right now,\" she growled in my ear." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Believe me, flutterby, the feeling's mutual. I hope you didn't have your heart set on seeing anybody else tonight.\"\n\n\"Just you. Every delectable inch.\" She smirked and straightened her shirt.\n\nThe smile permanently cemented on my face didn't even fade with the group of fans waiting outside the Okura when we pulled up outside. Flashes of light flickered outside the window. I squeezed Izzy's thigh and shifted to the partition separating us from Joe and Ty. With the press of a button, the dark glass whispered down.\n\n\"Somebody must have alerted the fans that you didn't return to the hotel with the rest of the band earlier. Sorry. You want to go in more discreetly?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Joe asked, eyeing me in the mirror." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah. I don't want Izzy hounded, and I don't want to get hung up signing a bunch of autographs right now.\" Priorities.\n\n\"Give me two minutes,\" he said, and the glass slid shut.\n\nMoving back to my spot next to Izzy, I tucked her against my chest and just relished the feel of her against me. Over the years, we'd managed to keep our relationship on the downlow. Originally, it was by our own design. We just hadn't wanted to be hassled. But when Izzy worked for the label to photo document one of our tours, it had been the label's insistence that we stay out of the public eye. I'd begun to resent it though." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was tired of the world thinking I was someone I wasn't." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'stopped' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The motion of the vehicle stopped, and in moments, Ty had the door opened. He and Joe moved to the rear to get Izzy's bag and the groceries we'd stopped for on the way to the airport.\n\nI climbed out, then held my hand into the interior to help Izzy. \"You coming?\"\n\n\"Not at the moment, but hopefully I will be soon,\" she said with a sassy smirk.\n\nWhen she put her hand in mine, I tugged her to me so fast, she collided with my chest. \"Oh, you definitely will be. Over and over and over,\" I mumbled in her ear. \"I owe you like a month of orgasms.\"\n\n\"While I'm giddy at the prospect of that, technically you don't owe me a month of them. I mean with all the video calls, we certainly assisted each other with plenty of climaxes while we were apart.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Over her head, I glanced at Joe and Ty, who grinned back at me, telling me they'd heard at least part of our exchange." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They'd never let on to Izzy though because they'd never embarrass her like that." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I shuffled her to my side then walked to where Joe and Ty waited." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Izzy, it's good to see you again. I'm sure I'll catch you in the next few days or so,\" Ty said as he gave her a one-armed hug.\n\n\"You're not coming in?\" she asked.\n\n\"No. The rest of the guys are heading out in a little bit. I'm going to wait with the car for them.\"\n\n\"OK. Then I'll see you later. Be safe.\"\n\nJoe, laden down with a handful of cloth grocery bags and Izzy's suitcase, led the way to the elevator. When the doors opened, he leaned in, checking it out before letting us board. The small box was empty. Izzy and I settled in the back corner while Joe stood formidably in front of us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With one large finger, he stabbed the button for the seventeenth floor." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🔍 Find a place to insert: \"Definitely go with them. I'd feel better knowing you were keeping them safe,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You planning to stay in for the rest of the night?\" Joe asked me without turning around.\n\n\"Yes. Maybe tomorrow too. At least the morning. Why?\"\n\n\"The boys want to go to the Red-Light District. I'd feel better if they went with a full security team. Don't want them finding too much trouble. But I also don't want to leave you unprotected if you're going out.\"\n\n\"Definitely go with them. I'd feel better knowing you were keeping them safe,\" I said.\n\nIzzy turned her head so that her mouth was by my ear. \"You sure you wouldn't rather go with the guys? Sounds like the perfect place for a rock star to be seen.\"\n\nMost of the time she was totally secure in our relationship, but occasionally it seemed as if there were these little doubts about why I'd choose to spend my time with her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Leaving one arm wrapped around her abdomen, anchoring her to me, I ran the other one up and down her arm, comfortingly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "[ ♪ \"What Makes You Beautiful\" by One Direction ]\n\n\"Even if you weren't here, I wouldn't be heading to the Red-Light District. Going there doesn't appeal to me. Unless…\"\n\n\"Unless what?\" Her beautiful lips turned down in a frown.\n\nMy mouth hovered near her ear, so I could speak directly into it, \"Unless I went with you.\"\n\nShe squirmed in my arms at the prospect but stayed silent.\n\n\"We'll talk about it later. First, we have more important things to take care of.\" I pressed my lips to the sensitive spot right behind her ear, eliciting shivers from her.\n\nDing. The elevator came to a halt on the seventeenth floor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Once we were inside my suite, Joe set the bags of groceries on the kitchen counter and deposited Izzy's suitcase in the living room next to the staircase. Izzy and I both toed off our shoes, a habit both our parents had engrained in us since we were kids.\n\n\"Need anything else before I round up the guys and head out?\" He moved toward the door.\n\n\"Nah. I think we're good. I'll check in with you tomorrow if we're going to go anywhere.\" I gave him a one-armed bro hug. \"Thanks for picking up Izzy for me.\"\n\n\"No prob.\" Joe pulled Izzy into a hug." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's good to have you back.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'suite' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Missed you all too,\" her words were muffled against his chest.\n\n\"Hey now, hands off my girl.\" Playfully, I tugged her back to me.\n\nHe chuckled all the way out of the suite and into the hallway.\n\nOnce Joe left, I said, \"Let's put the groceries away, then I'll give you a tour.\"\n\n\"Your room is big enough to warrant a tour?\" Her brow quirked up at me.\n\nThe suite reserved for us was the biggest I'd ever stayed in." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And I'd stayed in some nice places ever since our second album dropped to huge acclaim." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh yeah. Wait 'til you see it. There are lots of surfaces for us to make use of. But groceries first.\"\n\n\"You sure you don't want to go out with the guys? I wouldn't be mad if… you know… you wanted to go… um… watch one of those shows.\"\n\nShe was staring at her feet and twisting the hem of her shirt between her fingers.\n\n\"Isabelle, look at me.\" I hadn't used her real name in years, so it caught her by surprise. Wide green eyes met mine. \"Yes, this is serious enough that I pulled out your real name. So, pay attention. I don't want to go out with the guys to the Red-Light District. Or anywhere else for that matter. Maybe when I was nineteen I would've jumped at the chance. But ever since you and I decided to go all in, I have had zero desire to go clubbing or partying or anything with the guys. I might grab a beer with them on occasion at a bar. And I attend the mandatory meet and greets hosted by the label and the parties thrown by radio stations. But the entire time, I'm counting down the minutes until I can get back and call you. Does the record label hate it? Yes. They want me more visible. They want me partying and living the rocker lifestyle within reason because it makes for good publicity. But I don't give a crap. We're almost done with our contract, so they can go eff themselves. Do you understand?\"\n\n\"Yes,\" she whispered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Good. Now let's put these away.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I gave her a quick kiss before I turned my attention back to the kitchen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I reached into one bag and pulled out strawberries, whipped cream, grapes and cheese. Working together, we put the items in the fridge. Then I unearthed a box of expensive chocolates, several bottles of Mt. Dew, a couple bottles of wine, ranch dressing and bar-b-que sauce.\n\n\"They sell Mt. Dew in Amsterdam?\"\n\n\"I had Joe take me to this American specialty store, so I could stock up on your favorites. Then we hit up a couple other places to get some authentic Dutch treats.\" Peeking in one of the last two bags on the counter, I carried it over by her suitcase. When I got back to the kitchen, she was pulling out a loaf of truffle cheese bread, a dozen oliebollen and ontbijtkoek with butter for breakfast in the morning." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Izzy folded the empty bags and stuck them on the shelf in the corner by the fridge." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reaching for her delicate hand, I intertwined our fingers, relishing in how they fit together like puzzle pieces. \"Now for a quick tour. Obviously, this is the kitchen.\" I tugged her through the doorway and to the left. \"That's the dining room table, I'm guessing. Or maybe for conferences. Who knows? We're not going to need seating for eight in here. But it is a nice large surface for us to use.\"\n\nShe ran her fingers across the shiny, light tan fabric of one of the chairs. Leaning forward, she sniffed a bloom perched in a vase on the table. The centerpiece was a beautiful rainbow of tulips, heavy on pink at my request. With a twist of a knob on the wall, sparkling lights twinkled from the crystal chandelier suspended on long cables from the second story of the suite." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She gasped. \"There's an upstairs to your room? How much did this cost?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The hotel actually comped our rooms this time and offered this one to me since we agreed to play a five-song set in their bar upstairs last night.\"\n\n\"Wow. That's awesome. I just wanted to make sure you hadn't reserved this one just because I'm visiting. You already spent so much flying me here.\"\n\n\"Make no mistake about it, I'd have paid for this suite for your visit no matter what. You deserve to be treated like a queen all the time. My queen.\"\n\nShe opened her mouth to protest, but I silenced her with a soul-searing kiss. Her fingers slipped beneath the hem of my shirt, digging into the flesh of my back, pressing me closer. I was desperate for her. The tour of the suite was probably going to be cut short at the rate we were going. Forcefully, I tore my mouth from hers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Come on, let me finish showing you our little slice of heaven.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I led her to the right into the living room which had a couple of couches, chairs with matching ottomans, a large square table, flat-screen TV and windows looking out over the city. Izzy flopped backwards onto the couch and moaned at the softness of the cushions. She looked so inviting sprawled on the couch.\n\nYanking her back up, I grinned. \"Tour's not over.\"\n\n\"We could take a little detour,\" she said seductively, running her fingers in the edge of my waistband.\n\nQuickly, I trapped her hand in mine. \"Nu-uh. The first time I'm buried in you after a month without you is going to be on a bed where I have room and when I can take my time.\"\n\nHer lower lip jutted out in an adorable pout, which I thumbed gently. \"Come on.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "With a dramatic sigh, she followed me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Twisting the silver knob on the door set in the corner, I showed her a bedroom. Two full-sized beds lined one wall while windows lined the other. The covers on the bed closest to the door were rumpled.\n\n\"Oooo, a bed,\" she exclaimed and started to dive on it.\n\n\"Not this room.\"\n\n\"But that's your shirt right there,\" she pointed out.\n\n\"Yeah, I tried sleeping in the master bedroom last night. But I kept reaching for you in my sleep and coming up empty handed. So, I moved down here halfway through the night. We might break in these beds at some point during your visit. But not first.\"\n\nShe snatched up my discarded shirt and spun toward the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Don't you want to check out the view from the windows?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<EMBED THIS>>: \"Not in this lifetime or the next.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No. Right now, the only view I want is you naked above me. So, take me to bed or lose me forever.\"\n\nI busted out laughing at her Top Gun quote.\n\n\"Is that even a possibility?\" I asked her seriously as I wrapped my arms around her waist.\n\n\"What?\" Her head tilted back slightly to gaze deeply into my eyes.\n\n\"Losing you forever?\" My heart ached at the mere thought of it.\n\nHer fingers ran across my jaw. \"Not in this lifetime or the next.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The need radiating between us was a pulsing, living entity that couldn't be denied or ignored any longer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Rest of the tour can wait. I need you.\"\n\nScooping her up in my arms, I dashed up the stairs.\n\nShe squealed and laughed. \"Don't drop me.\"\n\n\"Never. I've got you.\" It was more than a promise for the moment. It was a promise for forever. One of these days I was going to convince her of that. Ignoring the burn in my legs from running up the floating glass steps, when I reached the top, I turned in the direction of my destination." }, { "from": "human", "value": "[ ♪\"I Get Weak\" by Belinda Carlisle ]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Wow,\" she breathed out when she caught sight of the sleeping area of the master suite. \"You were busy.\" I'd bought three dozen kaleidoscope roses arranged in three vases from a florist who hand dyed them in her shop. They were placed strategically around the room. There was also a bouquet of pink knockout roses on the headboard. And the bed was covered in pink rose petals.\n\n\"I wanted you to feel how much I love you when you got here. So, the three vases of kaleidoscope roses represent the three years you've officially been mine. I had them hand dyed because I knew you'd appreciate their beauty, and they're a good representation of all the color you've brought to my life. And the big pink bouquet has one rose for every year you've had my heart. So, eighteen.\"\n\nTears shimmered in her eyes. I carried her over to one of the colorful arrangements and set her on her feet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With a delicate touch, she stroked one of the blooms." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory inclusion (with quotes): I'm glad I brought my camera. I've never seen anything so stunning." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm glad I brought my camera. I've never seen anything so stunning.\"\n\n\"I have,\" I whispered in her ear as I rested my chin on her shoulder and admired her. I inhaled deeply, breathing in her sweet scent. \"Mmmm. You smell good enough to eat.\"\n\n\"It's Happily Ever After,\" she replied.\n\n\"Do you still like it?\" It was a total gamble when I custom designed a perfume for Izzy. But man, it was the perfect fragrance for her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I love it. It's perfect.\"\n\n\"You're perfect.\" My lips trailed across the sensitive skin of her neck, leaving a variety of kisses in their wake—soft, hard, pecks, open-mouthed, nibbles and licks. Her head fell to the side giving me better access, which I happily exploited. She gripped the bottom of her shirt and started to lift, but I stopped her.\n\nFor several long weeks, I'd had to watch her undress through a computer screen. Now that we were in the same space again, I wasn't going to be denied the opportunity to undress her myself. But first I needed to kiss her. With a hand on her hip, I spun her around." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her face turned up to mine, and I moved the small number of inches necessary to connect my mouth to hers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eagerly, her lips parted to allow me entrance." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Without haste, I plundered her mouth, relearning every nook and cranny of the mouth I loved so much.\n\nSo as to keep us both at a slower tempo, I ran my hands down her shoulders until my fingers laced with hers. Then I wrapped our joined hands around behind her back. She moaned and clutched me tighter.\n\nAs the kiss became more heated, I backed her toward the bed. After unwinding my fingers from hers, I gently lifted her shirt, breaking our kiss so that I could lift it over her head. A flash of color and shine caught my eye once the fabric was out of the way. Delicately, I picked up the heart-shaped pendant to examine it. \"New necklace?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yeah. I made it. Do you like it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You made it?\" The rainbow swirled heart lay in my palm, a mixture of colors bleeding into one another, stunning in their chaos.\n\n\"Yeah. Something I've been experimenting with. I painted a bunch of designs on the back of some glass pieces one of my professors was going to toss. Then I turned them into pendants.\"\n\n\"It's beautiful and unique. Like you.\" I lowered the tiny masterpiece back between her breasts. Then I reached behind my head and clasped a handful of my shirt and tore it over my head.\n\nReaching up, she tugged the beanie from my head I used to disguise myself earlier. I groaned when she dragged her fingers through my hair, scratching my scalp lightly.\n\nWith hands trembling in excitement, I unfastened my jeans and shoved them to the floor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I closed the gap between me and Izzy. My palms pressed against her sides, feeling the silky heat of her skin. Hard fingertips spanned her ribcage as her breath shuddered in and out of her lungs. The jerky rhythm was a song in itself, the bass groove. Her moans, the melody. Our hearts, the lyrics.\n\nI reached around her and snatched the covers back, sending a shower of pink petals floating through the air. Lifting her, I carefully laid her on the bed as if she was the most precious thing I'd ever touched." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And she was. Even if I had the occasion to hold the Hope Diamond, nothing would ever be more valuable than what I currently held in my hands.\n\nLeaning up, she snaked her arms around my neck and planted scorching kisses along my collarbone while her hands skated down to my boxers. If she continued to touch me, the tempo to our love song would be shoved into fast forward, and I was determined to savor every moment of our reunion.\n\nGripping her wrists, I drew them over her head. Leaning against them, I pressed them into the mattress and gave her a breath-stealing kiss and ground my pelvis against her center. Too many layers separated us. When I pulled away, I said, \"Keep your hands there. Don't move. Understand?\"\n\nShe nodded eagerly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Good girl, flutterby.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With my mouth and fingers, I composed a song across her skin—a verse along her neck and collarbone, the chorus across her breasts, lathing the refrain on her nipples so they puckered beneath the red lace of her bra. Another verse written on her quivering stomach. The bridge played on the apex of her thighs. Her pants and sighs added lyrics in a language spoken only by the two of us. With a patience I didn't know I possessed, I peeled her leggings from her body. My cock jumped to attention at the sight of her in the matching crimson bra and panties. The tiny scraps of lace left little to my imagination, but I appreciated the visual.\n\n\"Did you wear these for me?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "My index finger dragged a line along the scarlet edge on her inner thigh." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Mmmhmm. Bought them just for you,\" she panted.\n\nSneaking one hand beneath her torso, I unfastened her bra. \"I've still got it.\" I grinned in triumph as the fabric fell away. Even though we weren't official back then, being with her as a teenager had made me a pro at one-handed bra removal. Hooking my fingers in the thin waistband of her panties, I tugged them down her legs, baring her to me. Her scent filled my nostrils, making my mouth water.\n\nLike a mighty tree, I planted my body between her thighs and leisurely kissed my way up her thigh." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Dawson, please,\" she keened." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her body wriggled, trying to bring my mouth to where she wanted it most." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With one arm, I reached up and plucked at her nipples, alternating between them. Her heart thundered beneath my palm.\n\nPutting my mouth to her body once more, I continued my song composition. Varying the tempo between long, languid licks and fast, sharp beats, I created a piece full of complexity. Her skin heated beneath me, flushing a beautiful pink, and her muscles tightened like a guitar string wound too tightly. I began spelling \"I love you\" one letter at a time, over and over with my tongue on her clit. I managed to brand her with the words four and half times before she shattered and fell apart.\n\nAs she floated back to earth, I kicked off my boxers and climbed up her body." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eagerly, she wrapped her legs around my waist and tilted her pelvis, aligning my body with hers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As I sunk deeply into her, I mentally blessed the day she got on birth control years ago, so there'd never have to be anything between us again. Once I was fully inside, I lay pressed against her, reveling in the feel of being surrounded by her. My body was connected to her body. My heart was connected to her heart. My soul was connected to her soul. It was a heady feeling.\n\nWhen I could take it no more, I began to move. In and out. Bodies joining and separating in pleasure and love." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reaching the heights of heaven together, then floating back to Earth safe in love's strong grip." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I love you so much,\" I declared, staring into her eyes as we shattered together.\n\n\"I love you too.\"\n\nI'd missed the feel of her in my arms, the taste of her on my lips, the sound of her in my ears, the sight of her in my eyes and the weight of her on my soul." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Ive got a bit of writers block, im gonna send you something then keep it going 11 sentences at a time, also im going for a Charli B. Rose sorta thing. heads up - might drop you in mid-story with existing characters" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Dawson, if you're not down here in five minutes, I'm coming in there, regardless of what state of undress you're in,\" Lila shouted just outside my door.\n\nGrowling, I stood from my bed. No point in lingering in it and daydreaming about Izzy. Lila's voice through the pressed wood caused an instant deflation of what dreams of Izzy had inspired. At least I wouldn't have to call Lila back. But she was raining on my parade.\n\nSighing heavily, I yanked on some clothes. I tucked my phone in the back pocket of my jeans and opened the door. As I plodded barefoot down the stairs, I tugged the hem of my shirt down. Without acknowledging any of the group sitting in the living room, I headed straight for the pot of coffee someone had the good sense to brew this morning. Tipping the pot of heavenly elixir, I filled the mug Izzy made me in the ceramics class she hated." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Add this exact quote somewhere appropriate: \"Our schedule was already overbooked. When are we supposed to sleep?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The handle was lopsided, and the rim wasn't perfectly rounded, but I loved it. Once I added cream and sugar, I moved to the couch and sat next to Brooks.\n\n\"Where's the fire,\" Maddox demanded. He looked like he'd just rolled out of bed himself. He didn't come back to the bus when the rest of us did last night, having found a groupie to kill some time with.\n\n\"Technically the fire only concerns Dawson. But while you're all here, I need to add a few more things to your schedule.\"\n\nA collective groan filled the room, which she ignored as she tapped away on her phone. \"Let's see, tomorrow in addition to the morning show interview and after party, you also have a photo shoot with Lady Love magazine. Then on Friday, we added an interview with Rock Journey magazine and a live spot on KROX radio after the concert. And Saturday you have a couple of phone interviews to do while we travel to the next show.\"\n\n\"What the hell, Lila?\" I fumed. \"Our schedule was already overbooked. When are we supposed to sleep?\"\n\n\"You guys need to capitalize on the hype. Everyone wants a minute of your time. Be thankful. Give it to them. This could all disappear like that,\" she said as she snapped her fingers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Whatever. We can't perform if we're exhausted. And if we can't perform well, then no one's gonna want to talk to us anyway,\" Wilder said as he stood and stormed the length of the bus.\n\n\"Was that all you needed us for?\" Brooks asked, fidgeting in his seat.\n\n\"There were a few more additions for next week—\"\n\n\"Text them all to us,\" Brooks interrupted as he followed after Wilder.\n\n\"Yeah, I'm out too,\" Jett informed her. Maddox left silently, casting me a pitying glance at leaving me to fend for myself.\n\nI scowled at their retreating backs, but I didn't blame them. If I didn't have to deal with her, I would've been the first one out of here.\n\nSpreading my knees, I leaned back on the couch, adopting a pose of indifference. I didn't speak. Lila moved to the section of sofa I occupied." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Once she settled on the cushion beside me, she turned her body toward me, crossing her legs, making her skirt hike up on her leg." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She clasped her hands together and leaned forward in a practiced move so that her button-up shirt gaped open.\n\n\"You should have the stylist do you up like this for the photo shoot,\" she said, waving her hand over my body. \"Even though you just woke up, you're looking quite hot this morning, or rather afternoon. The women will eat it up.\"\n\nShe'd been quite a bit too forward on more than one occasion. I didn't bother to answer her. My eyebrow quirked up, silently urging her to just get on with it.\n\nShe cleared her throat awkwardly. \"Anyway, I needed to talk with you about the latest articles. Seems that the images of you and Izzy didn't simply die down.\" With her bright, red-tipped fingernail, she navigated her phone screen. Once she located what she was looking for, she scooted over next to me on the couch. Her leg brushed against mine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I turned my body, so my knee dug into her thigh, keeping her at bay." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With a sigh of annoyance, she handed me her phone.\n\nThe headline read, LO's Dawson Anderson Finds Love. It contained the two photos which were previously published from Amsterdam. But the article had a new photo. The two of us passionately kissing in the airport. My hand cradled her face, keeping most of her invisible to the camera. The previous photos showed two people enjoying each other's company. But this third photo, though slightly out of focus, showed two people madly in love and saying goodbye.\n\nThe article went on to speculate that my absence at parties and clubs was explained by me being in a relationship. The writer thought it was romantic that I'd found love amid the chaos of the music industry. The author also wondered who the girl was who'd captured my heart and put out a call for information." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You can see the problem,\" Lila stated." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Actually, I don't. Unless you mean that people might start harassing Izzy soon. But I know that wouldn't bother you. The article doesn't say anything negative about me being in a relationship. It's actually supportive. So, I fail to see what your issue is.\" I held the phone out to her.\n\nShe pushed it back to me. \"Look at how many times the article has been shared.\"\n\nI glanced at it. Ten thousand shares already. \"When was this posted?\"\n\n\"Late last night.\"\n\nSo not even twelve hours old yet.\n\nI whistled. \"Wow. It's making the rounds.\"\n\n\"This is not something you want to go viral with, Dawson. Check out some of the comments.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She's just a groupie." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She's a prostitute he met in the Red-Light District.\n\nI mean, hello, stripper hair.\n\nI'd bang the unicorn slut.\n\nIf Dawson is off the market, what's the point in hanging out after the shows?\n\nThat last statement had a lot of interaction beneath it. Some agreeing with the sentiment and others arguing that rockers in relationships would never remain faithful so there was no need to worry.\n\nFury rose in my veins. How dare they? These were supposed to be my fans. They were supposed to care about me.\n\n\"You need to let me go public about us. Our real fans will understand. They'll be happy for me.\"\n\nLila gave a harsh chuckle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You didn't read far enough. There are hundreds of comments against you being in a relationship. And do you really want people talking about Izzy that way?\"\n\nI shook my head. It broke my heart thinking of people saying anything bad about my girl. She was my everything. I had to figure this crap out. \"What do you suggest?\"\n\n\"The same thing I suggested to you a few days ago when your picture hit the papers. Party more. Flirt. Be photographed with girls. Warn Izzy it's coming, so she isn't blindsided.\" She ticked each item off on her fingers.\n\n\"I'll think about it.\" I didn't want to. But I had to figure out what was the best way to protect Izzy from a situation that looked like it might get ugly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You've got to get in front of this. You need this leg of the tour to finish strong. It's only six months. Then you're on a break for a few weeks and won't be in the public eye so much. A lot of important people are watching how the band handles the European and Asian legs of your tour. A lot of people with deep pockets. Movie producers needing soundtracks. Advertising execs needing a catchy jingle. You have to start thinking of all the ways to capitalize on the band's growing popularity.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Find a natural way to mention that Let me know what you decide, so I can help," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Izzy and I will figure out what to do.\" I stood and moved away from Lila.\n\n\"Let me know what you decide, so I can help,\" she offered as if she was our friend.\n\nI moved down the narrow walkway toward the back of the bus.\n\n\"Dawson, don't forget the phone conference with the video director in a couple of hours.\"\n\nI waved over my shoulder.\n\nLater the guys and I gathered around my laptop to video conference the director.\n\n\"Hey there, fellas,\" Todd Davidson greeted us.\n\nWe returned the sentiment.\n\n\"So, I'll just get right to it. According to my notes, your next video is scheduled to be 'Love Rocked'. That's going to be the last single released off your latest album. Right?\"\n\n\"That's correct,\" I confirmed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know you guys worked with a different studio on your previous five videos. They were well received by your fans. But I can get you better,\" he boasted." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'heart' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We'd all enjoyed working with the other studio and director, but because she was pregnant she was unable to travel to us to shoot the footage.\n\n\"What did you have in mind?\" Brooks asked.\n\n\"Well, if I correctly understand the meaning of the song it pretty much compares love and music.\"\n\nMy lips turned down at his simplistic summation. So many people never bothered to examine the lyrics to the songs that flowed through their ears and into their minds.\n\nHe held up his hand and hastened to continue, \"I mean, I know it's deeper than that. But the first verse is about loving rock and roll and what music does to your heart. Right?\"\n\n\"Right,\" Jett encouraged. The look on his face said he was eager to see what the guy had in mind. Jett was a music video connoisseur.\n\n\"And the second verse is about how finding love rocks your heart,\" Todd continued.\n\n\"Mmhmm,\" Maddox chimed in, his tone noncommittal.\n\n\"And the last verse is about how love on the rocks crushes your soul.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yeah,\" I gave him a one-word answer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know your previous videos have pretty much been live recordings of you guys in concert and the recording studio, but not really telling a story. This song is perfect for telling a story.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'we'll' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was skeptical. Our previous music videos had been pretty successful and well-received. The fans liked the behind the scenes clips normally scattered within the videos. And those fans who never got the chance to see us in concert, at least felt like it when they watched our videos.\n\n\"What is it that you envision?\" Wilder asked.\n\n\"Well, for verse one, we'll do like you've been doing. Live concert footage. But in addition to filming you guys playing, we'll also put a few actresses in the front row. We film them too. As the verse progresses, you guys will bring them on stage. Lots of sexy dancing from the girls. The song has a sensual beat. It always gets your fans dancing seductively. So, having dancing on stage is a good transition.\"\n\nThe guys were all nodding as he painted an image of what he saw in his mind.\n\n\"We're with you so far,\" Brooks encouraged.\n\n\"Verse two, we progress the story. Shots of you guys with the girls from verse one, but more relationship type shots. Flirting. Kissing. Passion. Sex. Well, not actual sex. But implied sex.\"\n\n\"I'm not so sure I'm down with that,\" I mumbled.\n\nTodd frowned. \"When I ran the concept by your manager, the label execs and your PR person, they all thought there would be no issue with you guys getting on board with my vision. This conference call is actually just a formality.\"\n\n\"I just don't know how I feel about pretending to be in a relationship with someone for the video. Our videos before have been authentic. They've been us. This sounds like a lie,\" I argued." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's just acting. We'll hire professionals. They won't get any ideas or anything. You'll have nothing to worry about.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He waved off my concerns." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wasn't supposed to discuss my being in a relationship with anyone. But damnit, I didn't want to kiss some actress. I only wanted to kiss Izzy. The guys looked at me sympathetically.\n\n\"Anyway, the third verse will be various versions of breakups. Fights, tears, broken stuff, shouting. You get the idea,\" Todd continued, completely unaware of the turmoil raging in me. \"What do you guys think?\"\n\n\"It is different from our normal. Can we take some time to discuss it and let you know?\" I asked.\n\n\"Sure. We wouldn't start filming until a couple of months from now anyway. It'll take that long to get everything lined up for where you guys will be then. So, think about it. It could be epic.\"\n\n\"We'll talk about it and let you know. Thanks for trying to develop a concept to fit the song's meaning,\" Brooks told him before we said our goodbyes and terminated the call.\n\nNo one moved once the screen went blank. Wilder cleared his throat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I kinda like the idea. It goes back to what music videos used to be, a tool to help tell the song's story.\"\n\n\"I get that, man. But I can't kiss another girl, act like I'm having sex with another girl, even if it's fake. It would hurt Izzy. Plus, the press is always looking for an opportunity to print trash about me. I don't want to make it easy for them.\" The very thought of it made me nauseous. I couldn't touch another girl like I was in love with her. I wouldn't. I slammed my fist on the table.\n\n\"Maybe the story can be told without you having to take part in that portion of the plot,\" Brooks suggested.\n\nI nodded in contemplation. \"Maybe.\"\n\n\"Talk to Izzy, dude. See what she thinks about the idea,\" Jett proposed.\n\n\"I will. But first I need to talk to her about the damn gossip stories before she finds them on her own.\"\n\n\"Ahh. Is that what had Lila's panties in a bunch this morning?\" Maddox joked.\n\n\"I don't know anything about Lila's panties. But that is what had her so pissy. There's a new article that came out last night showing me kissing Izzy goodbye at the airport.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Does it have her name?\" Brooks asked concerned." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Essential phrase to include: \"That's tough. We need to really deliver on this tour so there won't be any issues with venturing out on our own in eighteen months,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No. It doesn't even really show her face.\"\n\n\"Oh, well that's not so bad then,\" Brooks breathed.\n\n\"But the comments were brutal. Like ripped her apart brutal. I think Lila just needs to let us go public. She thinks it would be a disaster for ticket sales.\"\n\n\"That's tough. We need to really deliver on this tour so there won't be any issues with venturing out on our own in eighteen months,\" Maddox reasoned.\n\n\"I know. That's the only reason I haven't declared my love for Izzy on social media already. Made us Facebook official.\"\n\n\"You should talk with her before the show. You know your mind won't be able to settle until you call her,\" Brooks said.\n\n\"You're right. I'm going to go do that now.\" I stood and tucked my laptop under my arm. Then I strode purposefully back to my room.\n\nWith a click of my bedroom door, I shut out the world. Sighing deeply, I flopped back onto my mattress, unable to even smile at the bounce I made." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I rolled to my side and booted up my computer. Once I had a search engine up, I did something I hadn't done in years, I typed my own name into the search bar.\n\nThe very first result return was the article Lila showed me this morning. In the short time since she'd stormed out, the article had been updated. Now it also included more photos. One of the two of us staring into each other's eyes over a romantic dinner. It was blurry and obviously shot through the window. But Izzy's smile and hair were discernable. The other one was zoomed in on us to the point of it being grainy, but still depicting us floating down the canals in a loving embrace.\n\nHow many images were snapped of us without our knowledge? And why did they keep popping up randomly instead of one big expose with the first article released?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was obvious to anyone looking at the photos, that we were completely enamored with each other." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lila wasn't going to be able to keep insisting I wasn't in a relationship in her statements to the press. She could deny it and even force me to not confirm it, but the photos didn't lie. The shouted my love, loud and proud.\n\nI pressed the necessary buttons on my phone to video call Izzy.\n\n[ ♪ \"When You're Gone\" by Avril Lavigne ]\n\nWhen her face filled the screen, the first thing that registered were the dark smudges beneath her eyes. Even her bright smile didn't erase the exhaustion.\n\n\"Hey, baby,\" she enthused, her eyes sparkling.\n\n\"Hey there, flutterby. How's your day been so far?\"\n\n\"Not too bad. I've just kind of hung around the house. Cleaning, painting, you know. Hanging my print of 'Sunflowers' that arrived this morning.\"\n\n\"How does it look?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It looks perfect hanging over the couch.\" She yawned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You still feeling jet lagged?\" I frowned as I took in the paleness of her skin and the lines around her eyes.\n\n\"Yeah. Normally all I need is one long sleep to bounce back. But that didn't quite get it this time. Maybe I'll go to bed early tonight.\" She brushed off any seriousness that her appearance suggested. \"So, what did Lila want earlier?\"\n\n\"I'm guessing you haven't been surfing the net today?\"\n\n\"Nope. Why? Is something wrong?\" She pursed her lips together.\n\nI exhaled deeply. \"Seems we were photographed several times while we were out and about in Amsterdam.\"\n\n\"Really? I bet she loved that. Are the pictures bad?\" Her eyes rolled.\n\n\"No. They did catch us kissing at the airport.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hell. I bet that pissed all over her cornflakes. What did the article say?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She leaned to the left, out of the frame of phone's video screen. Soft tapping ensued.\n\n\"It said that I'd found love. If you're looking for the article, do not read the comments,\" I warned.\n\nHer face came back into view. \"Why not? Your fans hating on me?\" she teased.\n\nShe had no idea how vicious some of them could be. I hadn't known either. \"Something like that,\" I offered with a shrug.\n\nA muted gasp slipped through her parted lips. \"The picture of us in the airport is kind of pretty. I mean it's a bit blurry. But the emotion oozes from the image. I kind of want to save the image to my computer. It's hard to deny that the couple in the photograph is deeply in love,\" her voice was filled with awe.\n\n\"Exactly. I'm kind of relieved in a way that someone managed to capture the depth of our feelings. Makes it hard for Lila to spin it any other way in the press. I don't want people thinking you're some random groupie I picked up after a show.\"\n\n\"I agree. But you know Lila will never confirm that you're in a relationship,\" Izzy scoffed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"True. But a picture's worth a thousand words, especially when the words are lies.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How did so many people manage to take pictures of us without us noticing? And how did they always seem to know where we were?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "she asked, perplexed. She had a point. It wasn't like we had a trail of people following down behind us. Joe and the security guys were always discreet except when they had to make their presence known.\n\n\"I don't know. Maybe because when you're around, the world ceases to exist.\" I smirked at her, my heart feeling lighter just from being able to see her face.\n\n\"So, other than your rude awakening to Lila, how has your day been?\" she asked.\n\nThe smile dropped off my face. Instantly the heaviness was back, pulling my heart beneath a turbulent sea of worry and fear.\n\n\"Dawson, what's wrong? Is everyone OK?\" Concern colored her tone.\n\n\"Nothing like that,\" I hastened to assure her. \"It's just…\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Just what?\" Her brow furrowed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Well, the label hired a new director for our next music video. He wants to go in a different direction from our previous videos.\"\n\n\"Oh. Sometimes different can shake things up. What does he want you to do? Dance around naked? Kill someone? I mean the dread on your face makes it seem like he has envisioned something terrible.\"\n\n\"The song is 'Love Rocked'.\"\n\n\"I love that one. It's so sexy. You're so sexy when you perform it.\" She waggled her brows at me in an attempt to be seductive. It was adorable, which was sexy in its own way.\n\n\"It is sexy. And that's the vibe the director wants to capture. He wants backup dancers with us for verse one on stage.\"\n\n\"Oh, I could see that. I'm actually surprised the label hasn't made you guys add backup dancers to your shows already. Why does the thought of backup dancers concern you? You're a good dancer, if they make you dance too.\"\n\n\"That's just his vision for the first verse. For the second verse, he wants the backup dancers to enter into on-screen relationships with us.\"\n\n\"Ooo-kaaaay,\" her voice held a hint of apprehension.\n\n\"Yeah. With embraces, kissing, and….\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I couldn't even say it." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'voice' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I choked the words down, pushing them away from the tip of my tongue and wishing I could banish the idea of it as easily.\n\n\"And what, Dawson?\" her voice held an edge of hysteria.\n\n\"Implied sex,\" I mumbled.\n\nShe swallowed hard, fighting to figure out how to respond. \"I see,\" she whispered. Her eyes glistened.\n\n\"I don't want to do it. I'm hoping they come up with a way around that part.\" My eyes begged her to understand.\n\n\"And what for verse three?\" her voice was so soft.\n\n\"Epic breakups.\"\n\nHer head bobbed. The look on her face shifted, the artist in her envisioning the song being transformed into a work of art telling the story." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The artist in you is picturing it, aren't you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah. But it's at war with my heart, combatting the part of me that can't imagine the love of my life being immortalized forever with his hands touching another girl. His arms holding another girl. His lips kissing another girl. His flesh pressed against another girl's,\" her voice broke on the last word.\n\nMy heart clenched then lurched like it wanted to jump out of my chest and flee to her. \"I know, baby. I don't want it either. I promise, I'm trying to figure out another way.\"\n\n\"I believe you,\" she whispered and wiped a tear away. \"And I know in my head that it would mean nothing. It's just your job. But I still hate it.\" She straightened her spine. \"If you have to do it, I'll find a way to deal with it. Don't worry about me. You're almost done with the record label, so soon you'll be able to call the shots. This is the last video they get a say on.\"\n\nA lightbulb went off. Why hadn't I thought of it before? \"Maybe we could get them to use you for the video. Then it wouldn't be fake feelings. Well, except for the breakup.\"\n\n\"That's definitely an option. When are they going to shoot the video?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"In a couple of months,\" I answered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So, when I'm back with you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "her voice was hopeful.\n\n\"Possibly. I'll find out for sure.\" My heart was lighter with the possibility.\n\n\"Whatever you find out, don't worry about me or about us. I'll be fine. Anyway, I'm sure it's almost time for you to get to sound check.\"\n\nI glanced at the time. \"How do you do that?\" I chuckled.\n\nShe smirked at me. \"Don't forget to charge your cell phone.\"\n\n\"I won't. Text me when you go to bed.\"\n\n\"OK. Call me after the show.\"\n\n\"How about I text you, and if you're awake still, you can call me back?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was really concerned by how tired she appeared." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"OK. Have a great show. I love you, baby.\"\n\n\"I love you too, flutterby.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "expand on the story like Monica Walters would. btw might have existing characters/lore" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The way the gray hair mingled in with the black was so incredibly sexy on her. The woman I'd only fantasized about for the last twenty years was seated right in front of me. The world was small, but I believed God orchestrated it this way. I was supposed to see her again. Clearly, she was still married to that jackass. She defended him, saying he was traditional, like that nigga couldn't change to be what she needed. My father was traditional. Her husband was a disrespectful, chauvinistic muthafucka.\n\nWhen I met her twenty-two years ago, I thought that I'd seen an angel. She was so beautiful, but I could tell in her eyes that she wasn't happy. I'd approached her at a club and had given her my business card, begging to adorn her in fabrics from Africa for a fashion show." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd agreed and had even met me at one of our boutiques." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But within a week, she had to decline, because her husband had said no." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That was where our personal relationship blossomed.\n\nIt was like I was her sounding board, but I soon became the man that took her places she'd only dreamed of going. I remembered it like it was yesterday. I'd invited her to Houston, and we'd gone to dinner… as friends. We'd stood to dance, and as I held her in my arms, she'd started crying. Before I knew it, my lips were on hers, and we ended up against the wall in my loft, fucking each other's brains out.\n\nShe'd stopped talking to me for a couple of weeks, but she couldn't fight the pull I had on her. It was hard for me to fight it too. We saw each other at least twice a month, and normally we spent the night with one another once a month. It was like I was the female in our situation. I'd begged her to leave her husband time and time again, only for her to shut me down." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That shit went on for two years before that dreadful night. I didn't know what had happened, but the fear and terror I heard in her voice that night made me want to go looking for her, especially after that nigga got on the phone, making demands about his wife. I just didn't know where to start looking.\n\nAs I ate my food, I watched her eat, occasionally licking her fingers and laughing at the tall guy that got undressed during the wedding. They resembled as well, so I assumed they were related. I remembered her saying she had a lot of siblings, but I didn't remember how many. We talked about our personal lives quite a bit, which was what made me fall for her. She was so open and vulnerable with me. The passion when we made love was off the charts. It was like she was craving me after having to deal with her husband.\n\nFrom what I'd witnessed, it didn't seem like things had gotten any better." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd been watching her since she walked down the aisle, in awe that I was actually seeing her again. But I also saw her demeanor change when she talked to him. Her smile had faded, and her shoulders had slumped slightly. All this time, I had never been married, and I felt like it was because I was here to rescue her. She just seemed adamant about not letting me in.\n\nAs I enjoyed the food, LaKeith came and sat next to me. \"So how's everyone been? It's been a while since I've seen you.\"\n\n\"Everyone's okay. I moved to Houston full time, so I haven't been around as much. My parents are still in Beaumont though.\"\n\n\"They still have the store in Kountze?\"\n\n\"Naw. They sold it. It was too much to keep up with a convenience store. And I hated being bothered with it after Ayodele died.\"\n\nHe nodded his head as I continued watching Jenahra. \"She's beautiful, huh?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I glanced at him and said, \"Yeah, you did good, man. I'm happy for you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm not talking about Chrissy. I can see the way you're watching Jenahra. You already know her, don't you?\"\n\n\"It's that obvious?\"\n\nHe smiled slightly. \"I met her twenty-two years ago at a club in Beaumont. I'd given her a business card to be a model for our boutique. She was pretty excited about it, but a week later, she'd turned it down because her husband said no. That didn't stop us from talking though. We ended up carrying on a relationship for two years. Then it ended, and I still don't know why.\"\n\n\"You and Jenahra? The holy roller?\"\n\n\"Yeah, but you can't say anything, man. What you mean holy roller?\"\n\n\"That's what her family calls her. She's always at church… doesn't drink, smoke, or curse like the rest of her sisters and brothers. She just started coming around a little more. From what Chrissy said, once she gave her life to God, she changed around them… like telling them the things they needed to do or shouldn't do… bossy as hell.\"\n\n\"Damn. So I probably don't have a chance at just being able to talk to her.\"\n\nHe chuckled. \"Not in a million years.\"\n\n\"You said she owns a diner?\"\n\n\"Yeah. It's called Jen and Chrissy's on Highway 90. Although it's much bigger than a diner now. They have a zydeco breakfast on Saturday mornings and a jazz brunch on Sundays. It's really nice. Jenahra doesn't work the weekends though. They hired a chef from Beaumont for the weekends… Wait a minute. You not finna try…\"\n\n\"I just wanna see her. That's it for now. I missed the hell out of her.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required word frequency: 'don't' (2x)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I cleared my throat, realizing that I was telling LaKeith way too much. After stuffing some potato salad in my mouth, I noticed him staring at me. \"Man, don't go causing no trouble. I don't know much about Jenahra's home life or anything like that, but she seems happy. Plus, she has four brothers that will fuck you up for less.\"\n\nI wasn't worried about her brothers. They clearly didn't know of the verbal and emotional abuse she was suffering at home, or they would have fucked his ass up by now. \"What you think you're seeing is happiness. That's not what her happy looks like. It's much more expressive, and the joy in her soul reaches her eyes. She's not happy.\"\n\nI stood from my seat and threw my plate in the trash receptacle. When I glanced over at her, she was watching me. And if my gut was telling me right, she wanted me to stick around. She needed me just as badly as she did twenty years ago, and it would be my pleasure to give her everything she desired. If she didn't respect her fucked-up marriage, then I wouldn't either." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her family didn't seem to know the Jenahra I knew." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And I couldn't wait to resurrect her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When I took my seat again, I watched LaKeith and his bride dance. They looked so in love. Here I was, forty-five… almost forty-six years old and hadn't felt the love of a woman. The closest I'd been to it was with Jenahra. I'd dated quite a bit, but I didn't seem to be compatible with anyone else. My eyes drifted over to her, and she was watching her sister with such longing.\n\nAs more people joined the happy couple dancing, her eyes drifted to mine. I only stared at her. I wouldn't dare ask her to dance because I knew she wouldn't. Her family meant a lot to her, and she tried to provide a blueprint for how they should do things. I hated that she was wired that way." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She could never just live for herself and allow herself to be happy, standing in her truth whether it was roses or shit.\n\nHer eyes still hadn't left mine, and as I watched her lips part, everything in me propelled me to my feet. She looked away when I stood. Going over there to talk to her was a mistake. I could see that before I got to her, but that didn't deter me. Sitting next to her, I handed her my business card. \"My number is still the same. I live in Houston now though. We still have the boutiques and are always looking for models if you're interested.\"\n\nI smiled brightly as she side-eyed me. The smile that was threatening to break out on her face only let me know that she was amused. Deciding to be a little more personal, I looked straight ahead at the people dancing as I said, \"I missed you. But now that I've seen you, I don't even know how I was breathing without you in my life. You're still amazingly beautiful… like a fine wine. Better with time. When I saw you, you literally took my fucking breath away.\"\n\nTurning to look at her, she was staring straight ahead, but her face was red." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Grabbing my card from the table, she stood to her feet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I have to go. It was nice seeing you again, Carter. God bless you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "God bless me? That must have been the holy roller LaKeith spoke of. I'd gotten to her though. She went inside the house, and I swore I wanted to follow her and pin her up against a wall. Time had only made her finer. The cliché statements I made to her earlier were absolutely true. Her small figure had filled out some and in all the right places. The only difference was her hair. Those gray streaks were stunning on her.\n\nAs I sat there waiting to see if she would come back out, a woman asked if I wanted to dance, and I obliged her. When we got to where everyone else was, I saw Jenahra heading back to the table. She looked a little disappointed that I wasn't still sitting there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When she sat and saw that I was on the makeshift dance floor, she rested her head on her hand. Damn, I want that woman. As the beautiful woman I was dancing with got a little closer, my eyes fell to her ass.\n\nFor just that small amount of time, when I looked back up, Jenahra was gone. She couldn't have left. I continued dancing with the woman until the song ended, then took a seat and looked around as I wiped sweat from my brow. That was when I noticed she was bringing food in the house. Standing from my seat, I went to the table and grabbed a pan of food to bring inside. When I walked in the kitchen where she was slightly leaning over the sink, I asked, \"Where do you want me to put this?\"\n\n\"You can set it on the bar. I'll get to it.\"\n\n\"You okay?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes. Thank you.\"\n\n\"Nahra—\"\n\n\"Carter, please,\" she said, lifting her hand. \"I'm okay. Just please…\"\n\n\"Nahra, although it's been twenty years, I still know you. Whatever is wrong, I just hope that you make the right decision and do what's best for you. I'm still here… always have been.\"\n\nI turned to walk out of the kitchen as she stared at me. When I saw the tears leave her eyes, it stopped me in my tracks. \"I know God isn't pleased with me right now. You're making this so hard for me. I'm trying to do His will. So please… just go.\"\n\nI nodded and left her to her thoughts. When I rejoined the celebration outside, I decided that I was going to leave. I didn't want to make anything difficult for her, but at the same time, I wanted to give her another option." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wanted her to be so engulfed in how she felt for me, that whatever changes she needed to make would be easy. I fell in love with her back then, and I wanted to fall again. But I needed a reason to do so. It was my fault last time. I knew her situation. I just couldn't help myself.\n\nShe was a passionate woman, one that needed her man to love on her… show her affection and make her body feel like it was at heaven's gates. I just was never able to have her heart, because she'd given it to someone else… someone who'd sold her a fucking wolf ticket. She trusted that he was the man she fell in love with, only to find out he was the furthest thing from what he'd shown her.\n\nI walked over to LaKeith and congratulated him and Chrissy once again then left. But as I was leaving, I saw Jenahra watching me from the window." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could only hope that she would call. Maybe she missed me as well. That night, I wished she would have reached out to me to help her. Something had happened, besides him finding out about us. Apparently, he didn't know what I looked like, because we'd made eye contact at the wedding and nodded at one another.\n\nBut in true Joseph style, he'd left her here, and I wasn't mad about that. It gave me the opportunity to talk to her. Although she didn't say as much as I hoped she would say, she said enough. I knew that she still had feelings for me. Maybe not as strong as the ones I had for her, but if I was making things difficult for her just off the little bit I'd said, then those feelings were definitely there.\n\nAfter leaving, I headed to my parents' home in Beaumont." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They were on the verge of fully retiring from the business and leaving it all in my hands. I wasn't against that. They'd worked hard all their lives, being immigrants from Africa. My mom was from Ghana, and my dad was from the Ivory Coast, neighboring countries in Africa. Ironically, they met here on American soil while in school and got married.\n\nThey began their business not long after graduating, but my dad handled most of it in the beginning, being that my mom had gotten pregnant with my brother then two years later had a rough pregnancy with me. It was why she chose not to get pregnant again. Originally, they said they'd wanted a house full of children. My dad said they couldn't risk losing her. She'd suffered so much from a placental abruption that could have killed us both if proper precautions weren't taken.\n\nWhen I got there and knocked on the door, I let myself in. \"It's me!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I did the same thing every time I arrived. There was no need in them coming to the door. Most times it was unlocked, and if it wasn't, I used my key. However, I always announced myself. One time I'd come earlier in the morning than usual. I didn't want to wake them, so I didn't announce myself. My dad had met me in the kitchen with his gun in hand. \"Carter! We're in the back!\" my mom yelled.\n\nI could hear the excitement in her voice. They were always excited to see me, although I tried to come to town once a week to check on them. Sunday was usually my preferred day of visit, but every now and then, I ventured to town on Saturday evenings." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When I joined them in the back of the house in what they called their TV room, their smiles were contagious. I greeted them both, my mom with a kiss, then sat in the chair across from them. \"Hey, son. How's everything?\"\n\n\"Everything's good. No changes have been made, and the flow is smooth.\"\n\nThat was my response every time he asked the question, and that was usually good enough for him. Only this time, he tilted his head to the side and asked, \"Then what's the concern in your eyes? Is it a woman?\"\n\nWhy was I so damn readable? \"Yes, but there's nothing I can do about it. She's married.\"\n\n\"Then why are you concerned? Is she in danger?\"\n\n\"She's someone from my past… my very distant past… twenty years ago. She just doesn't seem happy. She's the sister of the bride that married LaKeith. I noticed her long before she noticed me, and I could see the sadness in her eyes. That made me realize just how soft my heart still is for her.\"\n\nMy parents had no idea that I was seeing a married woman all those years ago." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd just claimed to be single and dating." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm sorry, baby,\" my mother said.\n\n\"It is what is.\"\n\nWe continued our conversation, but my mind was miles from here… stuck on the beautiful woman back in country-ass Nome, Texas who still held my heart in her hands." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll be your writing partner for this section. I'll provide a segment, and you continue with four sentences, channeling Monica Walters in the romance genre. Characters may have backstories from previous chapters." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Jen, what are you doing here? We got this. Ugh! You are so hardheaded!\"\n\n\"Hush, Tiff. The doctor cleared me today. So I'm back, bitches.\"\n\n\"Bitches, huh? I got'cho bitch!\" Tiffany yelled then laughed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I felt so damn free. Carter had been with me for a week, and Jacob and I had been doing so much better. While he was worried about me and thought that I was better when Carter was around, I thought the same about him. He was more social and vocal when Carter was around too." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It had been five weeks since Joseph's horrible attack on me, and my body had healed amazingly well." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The doctor had cut the strings holding my jaw in place, and I could finally talk normal… and eat! Finally! However, the first thing I did was kiss the hell out of Carter.\n\nHe'd been amazing, catering to my every need. I didn't know how he found the energy to run his business at the same time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Three days out of the past week, he'd driven to Houston to handle things. Storm, WJ, Kenny, and Jasper had taken turns checking in with me on those days, since I was home alone. Carter took care of me like I was his prized possession, and I couldn't help but be appreciative. I still hadn't met his parents though." }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'dinner' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd gotten cold feet when he went there to get his clothes, but we were supposed to be going tonight for dinner.\n\nMy ribs were still tender, but not as much as they were. I could manage moving around a lot better, but of course, they let me know when I'd done too much. Hopefully, I would feel okay for dinner." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was already nervous with how they would receive me, knowing what I'd been through. It was natural human reaction to want people to like you. However, I knew if they didn't, it wouldn't stop a thing. Carter and I were too old for that kind of foolishness." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But being with him made me feel young again. I supposed that was because of our past.\n\nAfter washing my hands, Chrissy hugged me tightly. \"I'm so happy that you can eat now. But I still haven't gotten used to the old Jenahra making her way back.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Well, get used to her, because she's here to stay. I'm still going to church, I still love the Lord with my whole heart, but I refuse to pretend to be someone I'm not any longer. Speaking of getting back, Tiff, I need you to ride my horse for me. I'm itching to ride, but he hasn't been ridden in a while, and I wanna make sure he ain't salty about that.\"\n\nShe laughed. \"I got'chu, sis. Shit! It feels good to have the two of you finally in the loop! So Friday… you joining us at Jasper's, Nahra? You know how it goes down.\"\n\n\"Yep. Me and Carter will be there.\"\n\nTiffany did a dance as I laughed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I only came here to fry my stuffed chicken. Instead of mac and cheese, I did seasoned garlic mashed potatoes this time. Y'all gon' trip out over this. Storm, Kenny, Aston, and Jasper are gonna have heart attacks when they taste this.\"\n\nChrissy and Tiffany laughed as I put on some gloves and took the chicken from the fridge. Chrissy had already had the grease on the stove on a low fire. I upped the temperature and smiled as I began seasoning the chicken." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Being back in my element with minimal pain was what I had been striving for." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not being active was killing me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Although I was getting out more, I wasn't doing anything. Storm and I were able to have in-depth conversations about me and WJ, and although he was crazy as hell sometimes, he listened with an open heart. I'd asked him to try to get in touch with WJ's father, and he promised me he would.\n\nI could only hope that speaking to him would help him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was at my wit's end, and so was everyone else." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They'd given up all hope, and contacting his biological father was my last hope." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Maybe since he was in jail, he would be easy to find. As I stuffed and rolled the chicken in flour, I felt arms slide around my waist and lips on my neck. I couldn't help but smile brightly and turn around to kiss Carter's lips.\n\nI was so engrossed in cooking, I'd never heard him come in." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Joseph had never come to the diner this way or even shown an interest in what I was doing… only the money I was bringing in that I was barely allowed to spend. However, because of that, I had a nice nest egg saved up. \"I got Jessica's pictures in today. When you're done, I'll show you. She's a natural in front of the camera. Just like her mother.\"\n\n\"I can't wait to see them.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'll show you before we go to dinner tonight. Have you ever eaten goat?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No. But I've always wanted to try it. Thank God I'm done with the wire.\"\n\nHe chuckled. \"If you weren't, I wouldn't have agreed to dinner at all.\"\n\n\"Okay. Let me finish this chicken, and I'll be all yours.\"\n\n\"Mmm.\" He moaned as he nuzzled his nose in my neck. \"All mine?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'close' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I giggled as the hairs stood straight up on my neck. His voice that close to my ear always did that. Just him being that close to me period… gave me goosebumps every time. I knew what he was insinuating, and I wanted to give him everything he desired." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It had been a rough month since my attack, and I'd been dying to feel Carter again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"All yours… gently though.\"\n\nHe backed away and licked his lips. \"Whatever you need me to do to get us there quicker, I got'chu.\"\n\nI laughed and said, \"Okay, sous-chef.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He moved around the kitchen effortlessly, getting the ingredients I needed, and within a couple of hours, we were leaving." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd kissed Chrissy and Tiffany's cheeks as they served customers and spoke to some of the regulars who were glad to see me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When we got to my house, Carter was already on one." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He started the shower in the guestroom." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Next week, I had renovators coming to remodel my bedroom." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd already bought new furniture for it. I couldn't comfortably invite Carter inside it without doing so.\n\nWhen he came back to me, he stared at me, making my body heat up with desire. My nipples were hard as hell, and I needed his tongue on them ASAP." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As he drank me in, I pulled my shirt over my head then looked down at my wrap." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Sorry. I don't guess this looks sexy.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Everything about you is sexy. Sexy is in the eyes of the beholder, and you a fine muthafucka, Nahra.\"\n\nMy body shivered at his words. Jesus Christ. This was the fire I was missing in my marriage. Carter walked closer to me and gently pulled me to him then began unwrapping my middle." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His gaze was penetrating my soul, and my God if my core didn't attach to his." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His energy had sucked me in whole, and I couldn't be happier about that. Once he'd unwrapped me, he pulled me closer to him by my waist as his other hand slid to my neck, tilting my head back. I continued staring in his eyes and licked my lips. \"If you gon' choke me, then choke me, Carter.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He bit his bottom lip and applied more pressure, causing me to close my eyes and moan. \"Mmm yeeeesss.\"\n\nHe bit my earlobe and said in my ear, \"Quit tryna wake the beast. Yo' ribs gon' be wrapped for another five weeks fucking with me.\"\n\nWhen he growled in my ear, I knew I was his prey, and I was caught. My breath got caught in my throat as he continued to taunt me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't get quiet on me. Talk that shit you was talking a minute ago. You know that shit turns me on.\"\n\nHe kissed then bit my neck right below my ear. \"I'm ready for action, Carter. Fuck all the talking.\"\n\n\"Mmm, let me find out that my nasty Nahra is here. Fuck,\" he said as his hand slid to my ass and squeezed." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'she's' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She's limited, but she's here at your disposal.\"\n\nHe brought his other hand to my ass and squeezed once more as he sucked my neck. Sliding my hands under his shirt, I rubbed his chiseled chest then lifted it. All that chocolate was so addicting." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He didn't have a tattoo in sight, because he didn't believe in marking up his body, but I was about to mark it as mine in just a minute when I leaked my juices all over it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When my hands got to his waistband, he slid his hand to the back of my head and pulled me closer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Feeling him breathe on me was sexy as hell, and I couldn't stop my eyes from rolling to the back of my head. He remembered how to handle me… how I liked to be handled. But he was doing it in a way that had me about to cum on myself. After he slid his tongue over my lips, I opened my mouth, welcoming him in." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The way his tongue loved me was shocking to my senses." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As he made love to my mouth, he brought his hands to my bra and unfastened it. Once my bra fell to the floor, he leaned over and pulled my nipple into his mouth.\n\nMy hands immediately went to his head, holding him in place. He sucked my nipples, giving them an equal amount of time, then went to his knees to pull off my pants." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When I was fully nude, he placed kisses on my stomach then went further south." }, { "from": "system", "value": "At some point in your response, insert this verbatim: \"In that case, let me sit on your face. I don't want you to miss a drop.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Let's take a shower, baby, before you go there.\"\n\n\"Hell no. I don't need straight out of the shower pussy. Let me taste this shit that's been waiting for me all day. Let me suck the stress outta that shit. I can bear the weight of all that shit for you. I want them true flavors. This pussy been marinating in that seasoning all day, so I know this shit good. Now spread them legs and give me my pussy.\"\n\n\"In that case, let me sit on your face. I don't want you to miss a drop.\"\n\nHe stared up at me and frowned… not a mad frown." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A frown that said he was ready to suck my soul right out of my pussy. It caused a shiver to go up my spine. He stood and walked over to the bed. Pulling his pants and drawers off, his dick bounced out, and I felt like I was in a trance." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Carter had plenty of muscles, but that one… whew shit! That muscle was gonna have me weak in the knees and speaking in tongues that only God could understand.\n\nHe laid in the bed, positioning his feet flat on it. \"Come bring me that shit, Nahra. I'm hungry, so quit making me wait.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "My pussy took the lead and pulled my ass straight to him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Before I could get in the bed good, he was gripping my thigh." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Grabbing his phone from the nightstand, I put on a song I found the other day on TikTok, \"Gud\" by Zae France. His eyes widened slightly as I straddled his chest and slowly rocked on it, teasing him. \"Man, you gon' put that shit on then tease me? You better bring that good ass pussy up here before I hurt yo' ass.\"\n\nI bit my bottom lip then slowly slid to his lips, hovering over him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He looked up at me and jerked me to him. My eyes widened slightly, and there was a slight pain in my ribs. Nothing terrible to where I needed to stop. \"Quit fucking with me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When he pulled my hips to him and he indulged in the marinated flavors, he groaned like he was dying for it. I moaned along with him, as I rocked on his lips. He had me positioned where my clit was rubbing the tip of his nose and I was about to fire off like a rocket heading to the moon. \"Caaaarteeerrr… Jesus!\"\n\nI was pretty sure this wasn't what the scripture meant when it said call upon the name of the Lord, but I needed Him now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Otherwise, Carter's whirlwind for a tongue was gonna take me out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He gripped my ass for a moment and pulled me down further on his face then wrapped his arms around my waist. I was rolling my hips like I was on a swing… just going full throttle on his face… but slowly. He turned his head slightly to get air, I was sure, then went right back to it.\n\nI didn't know how my ribs would handle it when my body tensed up for this orgasm, but I was not about to tell him to stop." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was enjoying my first-class seat on this flight that was about to take me straight to heaven… no stops." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Carter… Oh, God is soooo good. You so blessed, baby. Damn! I'm cumming!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As I leaned back, I grabbed on to his dick as I unleashed all my marinade on his beard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Before I could even finish, he'd slid me to the bed and had entered me. My juices were still dripping from his beard, because he didn't bother wiping his face. \"This beard needed a deep conditioning, and you gave this shit a hot oil treatment.\"\n\nWhen he began stroking me, I closed my eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You blessed too, Nahra. This shit flowing with living waters. Seem wetter than the last time. You missed daddy?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yeeeess, baby. You can come a little stronger. Damn, I want you to fuck me so bad.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He began applying more force, and I came suddenly, causing my body to convulse. \"Oh fuck!\"\n\nNow that shit hurt. The way my body was spasming was about to take me out. He slowed his stroke as he gazed into my eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You want me to stop?\"\n\n\"Please don't… don't stop.\"\n\nI would just have to endure that pain, because the pleasure my pussy was feeling couldn't be fucked with. She was insanely happy and expressing her gratitude all over Carter's dick." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He continued stroking me as my wave subsided, taking care of me like I needed. The way his hands caressed every part of my body and teased it in only the way he could had me on the verge of cumming again. \"Oh shiiiiit. I love you, Carter.\"\n\n\"Mmm… I love you too, Nahra.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My eyes opened. It had only been a week since I'd first told him. I wasn't expecting him to admit what I already felt in my soul since Chrissy's wedding. The tears left my eyes as he stroked me slowly but giving me all of him in deep strokes. \"That pussy good,\" Carter said in a low voice, mimicking the song that had been on repeat this entire time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was still stuck on him telling me he loved me though." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He gently wiped my tears then placed soft kisses on my tear-stained cheeks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When his lips met mine, I held his face in my hands, daring him to pull away from me before I'd had my fill." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The kiss was sloppy as hell… so sloppy until spit was rolling down my cheek. Carter leaned over and licked it off my face, knowing that it tasted like me. \"I'll never get enough of you. Fuuuuck, I'm 'bout to nut all up in this shit. Can I nut in my pussy, baby?\"\n\n\"Hell yes. Give it to me, Carter.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His pace increased slightly, and his strokes became more powerful. My body was absorbing all the energy he was releasing, and every part of it was tingling in pleasure. As he frowned deeply, I knew he was about to cum. His body stiffened as he growled out his release." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Shiiiiiit!\" he yelled as he slid his arm under me, slightly lifting me from the bed.\n\nHe was still stroking me, and I was pretty sure that my ribs were done for the night. Allowing his dick to slide out of me, he said, \"Nahra?\"\n\n\"Yes?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"God is soooo good? You so blessed? I done heard it all during sex, but that was a fucking first.\"\n\nI chuckled. \"Well, you are extremely blessed. God is soooo good because He endowed you with gifts to make me scream… gifts that have me questioning why He chose me to receive what all He blessed you with.\"\n\n\"Doesn't God reward His people?\"\n\nI gave him a one-cheeked smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When I tried to move though, my body was so stiff. \"Ooohh.\"\n\n\"Don't move, baby. I'm gonna run you a bath so you can soak. I'm sorry. I was too rough.\"\n\n\"You were perfect. If you would have been any better, God would have taken me into glory, because I would have experienced the best you had to offer.\"\n\nHe rolled his eyes and chuckled." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Keep going w/ eight sentences more. Note: Might reference existing chars" }, { "from": "human", "value": "When a cynical bartender and a driven musician throw caution to the wind, sparks fly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But sometimes giving in to passion can have life-altering and deadly consequences." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As an ex-Marine, Jack Sander understands danger." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But the hot, curvy woman staying at his brother's place poses a threat he's never faced." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 9 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Within minutes of walking into his pub, Blaine Zima, the famous Russian singer, claims a spot in Jack's life.\n\nNow, he wants her on a plane back to Russia before she can steal his heart too. He has enough people to worry about. He doesn't need to add a woman who calls another continent home to the list.\n\nBut after a day of hard labor ends in a passionate encounter he can't stop thinking about, Jack's faced with a dilemma: how to go from being two happily single people to a couple falling in love without getting burned along the way. Especially when Jack's not the only one with a stake in Blaine's future.\n\nAnd with an enemy lurking in the shadows and her career on the line, Blaine needs someone in her corner. Jack is determined to be that someone. He's never fought for anyone more important than the unexpected lover who took more than just his heart with her back to Russia." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Team writing exercise. I start (might include existing characters), you do 10 sentences in Hayden Wolfe style." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With a death grip on the handles of her seat, Blaine squinted against the dust kicked up by the ATV. She leaned when Kyle did and squeezed her eyes shut each time they hit a bump, but the ATV never tipped on the trip down the mountain, despite the deep grooves in the path and the steep slope. The ease with which Kyle handled the ATV no doubt came from experience. Reaching the level field behind Wyn's house relaxed her shoulders, however.\n\nNext time, she'd pass on the offer of a quick trip just as she'd passed today on Kyle's suggestion she hold on to his waist while riding on the ATV. Hiking down the mountain or taking the long way around wouldn't leave her awkwardly trying to keep space between her body and another woman's boyfriend.\n\nKyle brought the ATV to a stop in front of his house and cut the engine. \"If you want to use the bathroom before we head up to my mom's house, go for it. Otherwise, I'll yell for Ronnie and we can take off.\"\n\n\"On this?\" Where would Ronnie sit?\n\n\"No.\" Kyle snorted." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We'll take Ronnie's car. We have to pick up Levi.\"\n\n\"Will there be room for Jack too?\"\n\n\"We're not stopping for him.\"\n\n\"Oh.\" She hadn't seen him since their unexpected tryst. They still hadn't finished their after-sex talk. Not that she wanted to delve into that box again. Spur-of-the-moment encounters demanded it, unfortunately. \"He's still coming right?\"\n\nKyle climbed off the ATV. He cut a quick glance at her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His brows pinched. \"Not sure. All I can say is that when I asked if he wanted a ride as I was bringing you too, he passed.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'mentioned' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Frozen in place, Blaine fought to keep her expression neutral. The immediate punch of hurt from Kyle's news churned her stomach.\n\nShe pulled the hair tie free and tossed her hair, loosening the strands before an unnatural kink from the elastic band distorted her waves. The deliberate action gave her a chance to slow her quickened pulse and get herself together.\n\nBlaine had no reason to expect anything from Jack Sander. Neither of them even mentioned the sex after her mattress was dropped off. They'd made a second trip down the mountain to get her luggage and a bag of food Iona had prepped for her, then he'd left her to unpack. No kiss. No promise of a repeat performance. Nothing.\n\n\"Jack mentioned he was coming tonight. Said something about how he'd be a fool to pass up on his mother's cooking.\" Blaine smoothed her hands over her thighs." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dust covered her. She brushed at her arms." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I wonder what came up to change his mind.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I know he's been fighting with Levi a lot lately. Maybe that's it.\" Kyle shrugged. \"Or he could be out with Brenna. Never know.\"\n\nPain radiated along her jaw. \"Brenna?\"\n\n\"His date for the wedding.\"\n\nThe front door opened. Ronnie, the woman she'd met briefly on her first day in Sander's Valley, stepped out. Two plastic grocery bags hung from one arm. A purse dangled from the other. And a large cake pan obscured most of her face.\n\nKyle rushed forward and took the items from his fiancée while Blaine stood completely still." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hands fisted to hide the trembling, she focused on her breathing and fought the urge to claw out Brenna's eyes.\n\n\"Is everything okay at the cabin?\" Ronnie hurried toward where Blaine stood fuming for no reason.\n\nSo what if Jack was with another lover? What he'd done with Blaine had been a spur-of-the-moment thing. Nothing more. She wanted it that way.\n\n\"Yes.\" Blaine eased the pressure in her hands and stretched her fingers. \"Everything is fine. The view is absolutely beautiful, and it's so very peaceful up there.\" If not a little lonely. The cable had yet to be turned on, and her cell phone only worked when she stood on one section of the deck." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And the well pump worked okay?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ronnie stepped next to her.\n\n\"Of course.\" Blaine flashed the bright smile required for small talk, though the topic Ronnie chose left a lot to be desired. The weather offered a wider range of responses. What could you say about a well pump other than it worked?\n\n\"Good. You looked upset for a moment. I thought something might be wrong.\"\n\nDarn Jack. He'd unsettled her. Hopefully, he did skip out on dinner. In her mood, simply looking at him would ruin her night. How would she manage small talk while her blood boiled? \"No. Everything is fine. Really. I'm just angry with myself.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "/insert_quote: \"But don't feel obligated to come either. It's completely up to you. I'm just glad Iona has you close for a little bit. She talks a lot about you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Grabbing the first reason that came to mind, Blaine linked her hands and dipped her chin. \"You sent me an invitation to your wedding, and I didn't respond. I meant to, but honestly, I didn't know where I'd be this weekend. It would've been even ruder to accept then not show up.\"\n\nRonnie rounded the classic sports car and climbed into the back. Blaine joined her while Kyle stood texting next to the driver's door.\n\n\"Nonsense. It's not too late, if that's what you're worried about. I've planned for late RSVPs and no-shows.\" Ronnie set her purse on the floor and turned to face Blaine. \"But don't feel obligated to come either. It's completely up to you. I'm just glad Iona has you close for a little bit. She talks a lot about you.\"\n\nKyle opened the driver's door and slipped behind the wheel. \"I texted Jack. He's out at Brenna's place. Said he's busy. Doesn't know how long he'll be or if he's even coming.\"\n\nThe memory of being held between the wall and Jack's hard body flashed before her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They'd been busy too. He'd given up his whole day for her.\n\nA heaviness settled in her chest. Blaine glanced out the window. The car moved, and the house Jack had pointed out as Levi's came into view. A leanly muscled blond man in jeans and an open white dress shirt jogged toward them. He buttoned the shirt as he approached.\n\nThe man hopped in the passenger seat and tipped his head in her direction. \"Welcome to the valley, Blaine. I'm Levi.\"\n\n\"Thank you.\" Blaine took in Levi's lighter hair, blue eyes, and defined features." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was beautiful where Jack was rugged with his beard and tanned skin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He could've been a mountain man. \"You don't look anything like your twin.\"\n\n\"Nope.\" Levi laughed, but the bitter sound didn't convey amusement. He faced the front. \"We're fraternal. People still mix us up anyway, though.\"\n\nHis tone didn't invite discussion. Blaine didn't push it. Kyle had mentioned Jack had been fighting with his twin. If their disagreements stemmed from working together, she could relate. Avery was the best brother a woman could have." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her love for her sibling didn't translate into blind acceptance of his wishes, especially where her private encounters came into play." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Avery never hesitated to question the reputation or worth of anyone she spent time with." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Except Iona. Everyone loved Iona. She didn't even have to fall back on small talk to pass time with people. Everyone treated her as their best friend.\n\nThe car moved again. Kyle followed the winding path through Sander's Farm. Tall stalks of corn towered over both sides of the road. The sounds of birds chirping and bugs she had no name for filled the silence that had descended.\n\nKyle slid his hand over the steering wheel. \"Jack's been spending a lot of time with Brenna these past couple of days.\"\n\n\"Yep.\" Levi propped his arm over the open window. \"He has.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine waited a moment, but Levi didn't elaborate." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She leaned forward. \"Why? Is she his girlfriend?\"\n\nRonnie snickered. \"Jack's never had a girlfriend.\"\n\n\"He's a fuck 'em an—\" Kyle flicked his gaze to the rearview mirror and caught his fiancée's eye. He coughed into his shoulder. \"Jack believes in having fun.\"\n\n\"Hmm…\" Blaine focused on the ears of corn outside her window. They didn't have farms in St. Petersburg. Actually, nothing in Sander's Valley reminded her of the city in Russia she called home, or any of the places she'd visited across the world either.\n\nHere it was…quiet. Everything moved slower, including life. Everyone seemed content with existing, not conquering life or harnessing it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine didn't understand that drive, or lack thereof." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She had no hope of fitting in here." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of course, she didn't have to.\n\nBlaine didn't belong here any more than she belonged in this car with Jack's family.\n\nBlaine smoothed her thumb over her nails. The worn edges would need to be fixed before she went anywhere she'd be getting her picture taken. \"Life's too short not to have fun. I can't blame him.\"\n\n\"Jack needs to pick his lovers better, though.\" Kyle slowed the car, allowing a groundhog to run across the road. \"He's going to end up getting himself in trouble messing with the wrong woman. Maybe knock up some girl he barely knows.\"\n\n\"Or destroy his relationship with his family and friends.\" Levi's voice hardened.\n\n\"Jack's thirty. If he hasn't already left a string of bastard children or done something so unforgivable that he'd alienate his friends or family, I don't think it'll happen now.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ronnie shook her head." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to seamlessly include 'The only thing threatening Jack's future is regret. He's going to grow old alone.' in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The only thing threatening Jack's future is regret. He's going to grow old alone.\"\n\nThe car stopped in front of a large white farmhouse, saving her from coming up with some response to Ronnie's predications.\n\nBlaine studied the home she'd barely glanced at driving out here. Chickens walked in the front yard. Two large rocking chairs sat on the front porch. And a big fluffy dog lying near the walkway lifted its head. The sheepdog wagged its tail but didn't stand.\n\n\"Nope. You're all wrong. Jack faces the same threat I do.\" Levi opened the car door and got out. \"People telling us how we should live our lives.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine couldn't argue with that statement." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She'd been fighting the same battle over her two and a half decades of life too. By living in the spotlight, she'd invited the scrutiny, however. Luckily, she'd gotten used to maintaining her image as others expected.\n\nShe took one last calming breath and mentally ticked off the list of superficial things she could discuss with the Sander family, then sighed. It would be a dreadfully long evening without Jack. She couldn't help but think small talk would be the death of her one of these days." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Today you will be acting as a writing assistant in the nsfw, suspense, romance genre. Your partner will send something and you will write the next six sentences, matching their level of character familiarity." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So…you and Jack, huh?\"\n\nBlaine choked on her water. She hadn't expected Iona's direct question the moment Blaine sat down. Later, maybe. But not so soon.\n\nShe set her glass on the coaster advertising a tire company and glanced at her best friend. Iona reclined in the corner of the large sectional in the house she shared with Wyn." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She appeared out of place among the décor that belonged in the waiting room of a garage, but hints of Iona's personality were already blending in to the predominately male-themed home." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A decorative umbrella stand occupied a corner of the foyer, along with one of her father's paintings and a vase given to her by the Russian president. This room, however, belonged to Wyn. She'd said as much when she'd apologized for the fishnet-stocking lamp on the end table.\n\n\"Did Levi tell his entire family how he dropped Jack off at the cabin last night?\"\n\nIona leaned forward. \"Jack spent the night?\"\n\nCaught. Blaine clenched her jaw." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Clarify, Iona. Me and Jack…what?\"\n\n\"The wedding. Sparks were flying between the two of you.\" Iona rolled her hand. \"Now, spill. Did you spend the night with Jack?\"\n\n\"He's quite persuasive.\" One look and she'd turned into a sex-starved woman.\n\nIona grinned. \"I hear he's hung like a horse too.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine stared at her friend." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She snapped her mouth closed. \"How did you hear that?\"\n\n\"Wyn mentioned it.\" Iona raised a hand. \"Believe me. It was not something I wanted to know, but it came up in conversation.\"\n\nBlaine wasn't sure she wanted to know what kind of conversation involved discussions of siblings' penis sizes. She shook her head. \"Not commenting.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'iona's' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Iona's grin turned wicked. She shrugged. \"Smart choice, because I'm not sharing any details about Wyn either.\"\n\nBlaine snorted. She turned, drawing her legs up and matching Iona's pose on the opposite side of the couch. \"You don't have to. The man's gigantic. I'd imagine everything about him is quite…um…proportional.\"\n\nIona took a sip of her wine. Her smile never wavered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She set the glass on a matching tire-shaped coaster. \"Should I expect to be seeing you around Sander's Valley often?\"\n\n\"Because I slept with Jack?\" Blaine fought not to laugh. \"Please. I have never planned my life around a man, and I have no intention of doing so now. No matter how amazing the sex.\"\n\n\"So he is hung like a horse?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Iona raised her brows." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'blaine' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes. But Blaine wasn't going to confirm Iona's guess. Time to change the subject.\n\n\"Guess what Eliot gave me?\" Smiling, Blaine sat up straighter, basically bouncing in her seat. The high of holding the Zima violin hadn't eased overnight. It could've been Christmas and Easter all rolled into one." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She'd gotten the best present in the world.\n\n\"Obviously not sex if you spent the night with Jack.\"\n\n\"Mind out of the gutter, Iona.\" Blaine tucked her legs under her and spread her hands over her thighs. \"Guess.\"\n\nIona took another sip of her wine and studied Blaine intently. Her eyes narrowed. \"I'm not sure. You look happier than I've seen you in years. I'd assumed Jack had something to do with it. The way you were laughing and smiling with him at the wedding looked real. Completely out of character for you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine glanced at her hands for a moment and fought her frustration." }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must include the following in quotes somewhere in your response: No comment about how I must need a man to make me happy since I'm still here in Sander's Valley with Wyn?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why was everything coming back to Jack Sander? Just because the man had a way of getting past her small-talk boundaries did not mean he was the reason for her happiness. She lifted her gaze, not her head, and glared at Iona. \"I don't need a man to make me happy.\"\n\n\"No comment about how I must need a man to make me happy since I'm still here in Sander's Valley with Wyn?\"\n\n\"No. I'd never say such a thing, and you know that.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Blaine took a calming breath. She recognized her friend's defensive tone. \"Who's giving you a hard time?\"\n\n\"Who isn't?\" Iona tilted her wine, studying the dark red liquid. \"About the only people happy about my decision are the bank's board members. They've been looking to establish permanent ties in the States for years. They'd be even happier if I married Wyn and applied to become a dual citizen.\"\n\nBlaine tensed. The realities of being a foreigner in love with an American weren't something she'd ever considered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How long can you stay on your visa?\"\n\nIona's back arched slightly. She glanced at the gaudy leg lamp on the end table. \"I've applied for a green card. The bank's lawyers are helping me establish an acceptable business here that'll qualify and quicken the approval process. If all goes well, I won't have to worry about anything.\"\n\n\"And if it doesn't?\" Blaine had never paid much attention to politics, but she understood enough to know Russia was not a country viewed favorably by most people in the States." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Especially not Russians who had the private cell number of their president.\n\nIona set her wine down. \"Then I move home.\"\n\n\"You could always marry Wyn.\" Blaine's smile hurt her cheeks. Marriage shouldn't be used as a tool." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Of course, most married people she knew used each other." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required dialogue to include (maintain exact wording): \"I always hated Dmitri and his family.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The immigration laws here are complicated. There are forms to fill out and get approved. Timelines to meet.\" Iona laughed, but the sound held no humor. \"Apparently, falling in love with a foreigner or marrying one can be viewed as immigration fraud as I originally entered the country on business.\"\n\n\"What do you mean?\"\n\n\"Dmitri's family is claiming I purposely used my business trip to find an American man to marry. It's not true, of course, but if they spread those rumors to the right people in America…\"\n\n\"I always hated Dmitri and his family.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine wished she'd made her opinions about Iona's ex-fiancé known sooner." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Respecting her friend's choice in love had been hard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Watching her recover from the beating she'd gotten from Dmitri when he'd tried to kidnap her was harder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Every time Iona winced, Blaine's heart ached a little more." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I can't change the past. It's made me into the woman I am today.\"\n\n\"I know.\" Blaine had said something similar to Iona a couple of weeks ago. \"It's simply ridiculous that you need to be worrying about how his family might try to destroy this thing you've found with Wyn. Dmitri's the one who came to America with the intent to hurt you.\"\n\n\"The Kozar family is powerful.\"\n\n\"In Russia. Not here.\"\n\nIona smiled wanly. \"They have money. That brings a certain amount of power anywhere.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But so do you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Iona Volkova came from old money, much like the Zima lineage." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Since their families both shared the same investment firm, their old money had grown substantially across the globe." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Only Blaine's sat in a trust fund." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, and I plan on getting my green card and investing some of it here in Sander's Valley. Everything will work out.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And if it doesn't?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Blaine raised a brow. \"Are you really going to be able to leave Wyn and return to Russia?\"\n\n\"We're happy. We're in love, but honestly, we're just dating.\" Iona held up a hand. \"Don't go out and buy a maid of honor dress or anything.\"\n\n\"You're living in Wyn's house and talking about how you can get a green card so you can stay here with him.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine gave her stubborn friend a knowing look." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'think' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't bother telling me marriage hasn't crossed your mind.\"\n\nSmiling, Iona shrugged. \"It has, and if it comes to it, Wyn would follow me to Russia.\"\n\n\"He's told you that?\"\n\n\"No, but if he loves me as much as I think he does, he'd love me whether we lived in Russia or here. I don't doubt that for a second. At least with my connections in Russia, I know he'd be safe from deportation.\"\n\nBlaine leaned forward. \"What does that feel like? To love someone so deeply you can anticipate their actions?\"\n\n\"I don't think 'good' is the answer you want, is it?\" Iona smirked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No.\" Blaine shook her head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A smile tugged at her lips. \"But I'm serious. Tell me what it's like to be in love.\" Maybe Iona's insight would give Blaine the inspiration to finish her song.\n\nIona motioned to the fishnet-covered leg with its ugly lampshade. \"It means I can live with that thing in my house and not have a coronary every time I see it.\"\n\n\"Your house?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Iona glanced around the room. \"Yes, my house.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine leaned into the deep cushion." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How did this happen? I saw you a couple of days before you left for the States. You were bitter, jaded. I never would've guessed less than two months later, you'd be here, in love and talking about how to secure your future with a man. An American man, no less.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't know.\" Iona held up a hand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's the honest truth. One minute, I was flirting with a sexy mechanic, and the next, I'm sharing his bed and discussing names for our puppy.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Puppy!\" Blaine sat up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're getting a dog? As in a slobbering, dirty, four-legged creature?\"\n\n\"A boxer, actually.\" Iona's eyes twinkled. \"She's almost weaned and ready to move from the whelping box in the main barn to our house.\"\n\nBlaine glanced out the window. She couldn't see the barn where she'd talked to Jack the other night. The rich, earthy scents of life had surrounded her then." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd been tempted to make her way to the stalls." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd never touched a horse. Or a puppy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Jack's parents' barn?\" Blaine asked to be sure." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes.\" Iona's voice took on a teasing edge. \"And let me just point out it's interesting that you refer to them as Jack's parents, not Wyn's parents. It's almost as if Jack is the first thing that comes to mind.\"\n\n\"Please.\" Blaine rolled her eyes. \"You're reading into things.\"\n\n\"Come on.\" Iona pouted. \"I'm trying to find out what Jack means to you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He's a man I had sex with.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine waved a warning finger at her friend." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Don't make anything more out of it. Unlike you, I have a life I'm returning to in Russia. My fans won't take kindly to an extended trip. My next concert's been sold out for weeks.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But was it good sex?\" Iona bit her lip, a horribly fake attempt to hide a smile.\n\nA wide grin spread over Blaine's face. Any attempt to mask it would be impossible. Her body ached in all the right places.\n\n\"Uh-huh…\" Iona's smile turned wicked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So you never answered me. Is Jack hung like a horse or not?\"\n\nLaughing, Blaine tossed a pillow at her friend. \"No comment.\"\n\nIona tucked the pillow next to her. \"Enough said. I was right.\"\n\nBlaine smiled but didn't reply. There was no reason to respond." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Iona was right, but Jack's size wasn't what made him the best lover Blaine had ever had." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was something else. She just couldn't put her finger on it. With a little over a week left in Sander's Valley, she didn't need to focus on uncovering the detail. Life went on, and Jack would soon become another chapter in hers." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "CREATIVE WRITING:\n12 sentences sentences\nMaintain character context\nGenre: nsfw, suspense, romance" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The shock in Jack's expression was understandable." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So was the anger sliding into his eyes. Blaine had just dropped a bombshell on him. She'd prepared for both reactions, but seeing the fury directed at her churned her stomach.\n\nBlaine took a deep breath and willed her belly to behave. There was no bathroom close, and she refused to throw up off the side of this gazebo. \"I recorded the heartbeats on my phone if you'd like to hear them.\"\n\n\"Are they mine?\" Jack cleared his throat. \"The babies you're carrying. Are they mine?\"\n\nEyes closed, Blaine fought the hurt slipping into her heart. She'd prepared for this question too. She'd also hoped he wouldn't ask it. \"Yes. I haven't been with anyone in a long, long time before you, and I haven't been with anyone since.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jack cursed. He ran a hand over his head and walked to the center of the gazebo." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She glanced at his strong back, then took in the view of the trees and their waning colorful display." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her eyes burned. She squeezed her eyelids closed and fought the tears." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She would not cry. She would not cry. Blaine repeated the mantra. She'd had time to prepare for this talk. Everything would be fine, no matter Jack's choice. She was strong and so were her babies. They'd be okay.\n\n\"I don't want money from you, Jack. I don't want anything you're not willing to give. I came here because I wanted—\"\n\nJack stepped behind her and hooked an arm around her waist. His palm settled on her belly. \"I'm sorry, angel. I don't know why I asked that. You told me you haven't been with anyone in a long time. I believe you. I just…\"\n\nBlaine focused on Jack's long fingers splayed over her stomach, right over her growing baby bump. Her vision blurred. She swallowed past the lump in her throat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This talk was proving harder than she'd expected. \"You weren't expecting this. I know. That's why I didn't want you to come all the way to Russia. I wouldn't have been able to keep this from you, and I wanted to make sure the babies were okay before I said anything. No need to drop this on you, then say oops, my mistake. I didn't want to mess with your mind that way. I was only a fling.\"\n\n\"You were never a fling. I think I recognized that the second I looked into your eyes. You were someone who'd change my life, and you have in the most unexpected way.\" Jack pulled her closer. He nudged her hair away from her shoulder with his chin, then kissed her neck. \"In that regard, you're absolutely right. I wasn't expecting this, but that doesn't give me the right to accuse you of something I know isn't true.\"\n\n\"I should've mentioned pregnancy was a possibility. We talked about STDs, but—\"\n\n\"The furniture store arrived with your mattress. Then I got away from you the first moment I could without looking like an ass.\" Jack made a rough sound and rested his cheek on her shoulder. He wrapped both arms around her. \"Trust me. I considered skipping out once the delivery truck left, but I figured that'd be too obvious.\"\n\nHis honesty cleared her vision." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She blinked, easing the grittiness in her eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why? I'm guessing it wasn't because loving me was unpleasant. We did end up together a few more times.\"\n\n\"What we did…how I acted…\" Jack eased away from her. His fingertips trailed over her stomach as he stepped away. \"I never got my dick anywhere near a lover without a condom on. No way in hell did I want a lifetime tie to a woman who meant nothing to me. That's something I promised my mama way back when I just started looking at girls. She set me down and put the fear of God into me.\"\n\nBlaine turned and swept her gaze over the man she'd have a lifetime tie to even if things didn't work out between them. Not only was he deliciously hot, Jack was a good man. She suspected if he did stay involved in their children's lives, he'd make a wonderful father too.\n\n\"With you…\" Jack rubbed the back of his neck. He laughed, a bitter sound that held no humor. \"With you, I fought to hold on to my honor from the moment you stepped into my arms out on the deck. I knew I didn't have a condom. I hadn't expected to need one. Still, I couldn't stop thinking about getting inside you. When you dropped to your knees…\"\n\nJack glanced over his shoulder. \"I lost it. All I knew was that I wanted you. Nothing else mattered. You understand?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine smiled, even though she knew her mouth didn't behave the way it should, and went to Jack." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wrapped her arms around him, resting her good cheek on his chest, right over his heart. \"What I remember is a man who kept trying to make me see reason. I was the one who wouldn't have any of it. Passion ruled me. All I knew was that I needed you more than anything.\"\n\nJack held her as tightly as she held him. \"It wasn't just that time, angel. It was every time we were together. I wanted the right to love you without a condom, any time and any way I needed you. I knew what I was thinking wasn't right so I kept my mouth shut and my dick wrapped, but dear God, it was hard.\"\n\n\"Well, for the next few months, we can have all the sex we want without protection.\"\n\n\"This has nothing to do with sex, Blaine.\"\n\nHer frown tugged on the wound that was still healing. She eased her tight expression. \"I don't understand? Aren't we talking about sex?\"\n\n\"Not any longer.\"\n\nThe seriousness in Jack's tone quickened her pulse. She turned in his arms." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What are we talking about now?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What are your plans for your career? You hinted but didn't give me any definite decisions.\"\n\nJack's loose grip around her waist stopped her from retreating from this conversation. While she'd come to terms with her decision, it still left her anxious thinking about the future. \"My publicist was waiting for the green light to start the process of canceling any shows or business obligations I've committed to doing in the next two years. I got that yesterday when I heard their heartbeats. Trust me, hearing two when I was only expecting one shocked me, but it only made my choice all the easier to make. Bringing healthy babies into this world and taking care of me is more important than singing.\"\n\nJack studied her face. His brows turned down. \"So you're giving up everything you worked so hard to accomplish for our babies?\"\n\nShe laughed. \"When you put it like that, my choice sounds horrible.\"\n\n\"Not horrible. It's just that you were very adamant about not putting anyone in front of your wants. Not a baby. Not a husband. Nothing. You seemed so sure of your decision.\"\n\nBlaine traced Jack's beard as she'd longed to do over the weeks they'd been separated. \"I'm not giving up. I'm taking a break. When I'm ready, I'll sing. Maybe not as well as I used to sing, but nothing will kill my desire to express myself. Whether it will still be marketable to do so remains to be seen. In the meantime, I'm taking time to think about my options. That's a good thing. Life isn't meant to be constant, and I plan on rolling with whatever life throws at me.\"\n\nA pleased expression spread over Jack's face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do those options include playing your violin?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Laughing, she shook her head. \"Playing my violin, yes. Playing in Eliot's tour, no way. That's officially off the list.\"\n\n\"Why?\" Curiosity twined into the word.\n\nShe gave him a \"you're not serious\" look. \"I am not hauling two babies around with me on a worldwide tour. That's crazy talk.\"\n\n\"How about if I haul them while you focus on your violin?\"\n\n\"You?\" Blaine stepped back, breaking the loose hold Jack had on her.\n\n\"Yeah, me. They're my babies too.\" Jack exaggeratedly spread his arms and wiggled his fingers. \"And I've got two arms. One for each of them.\"\n\nBlaine pressed a hand to her mouth, hiding the big goofy grin on her face, but nothing she did would stop the tears from pooling in her eyes. \"You plan to be a part of their lives, then?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And yours.\" Jack drew her hand from over her mouth and linked their fingers. \"That's what I've been craving, Blaine. I want the right to love you. Nothing between us. Not a condom. Not an ocean. Not a promise to my mama. Nothing. Just me and you.\"\n\nThe trembling started in her fingers and raced up her arms. Blood drained from her face, leaving her lightheaded. Jack's steady gaze on her stopped the anxiety from spreading. She focused on his brown eyes and let the fear leave her with her exhaled breath.\n\n\"What are you asking me, Jack?\"\n\nJack leaned in and took her mouth on a gentle kiss, a press of lips, an exchange of air, a promise that'd last a lifetime. Finally, he eased back, took her left hand in his, then met her eyes. \"I'm not prepared for this any more than I was prepared to meet the angel meant to be mine, but I figured we could wing this. It's worked for us so far, right?\"\n\nA shaky breath escaped her. She licked her dry lips." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, spur of the moment seems to work for us.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Work this phrase into your response organically: \"Good. That's what I was hoping you'd say.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Good. That's what I was hoping you'd say.\"\n\nHer heart turned over, and tears wet her lashes by the time he dropped to his knees. Jack glanced up the length of her body. \"Marry me, Blaine Zima. Make me the luckiest man to ever have walked this earth.\"\n\n\"Yes.\" Tears choked her voice. \"Yes, I want to be your wife, your partner, your everything.\"\n\n\"Thank God,\" Jack muttered. He stood and hugged her, stealing her breath. \"You've just saved me from the beating of my life.\"\n\nBlaine laughed and playfully slapped at his chest. \"You better not have proposed because of your mother, Jack. Because I'll tell her I got pregnant before you got down on one knee.\"\n\n\"My mama was a math teacher before she had me and Levi. I think she'll figure it out on her own.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "CREATIVE WRITING:\n12 sentences sentences\nMaintain character context\nGenre: nsfw, suspense, romance" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With the ivory cane that had belonged to her grandfather supporting him, Jack stood waiting for her in front of the same airport coffee shop he had a few months ago. Blaine had never seen a more beautiful or perfect man. Her gaze slid to the thick platinum band on his ring finger. Possessiveness flared within her. Their simple wedding at the embassy office was nothing to write home about. She didn't care. This man was hers. She was his. And next fall, their babies would be in their wedding photos with the backdrop of Sander's Lake in its full autumn glory.\n\nLife was good.\n\nBlaine smiled and made her way to the man who'd hold a spot in her future no matter where life took them or what it threw at them. \"Have I ever mentioned how hot you are, Jack Sander?\"\n\n\"That's Jack Zima-Sander to you.\" Jack wagged a finger in her face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And no, I believe you once said I have a nice ass. You never mentioned anything about me being hot.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'other' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She laughed and rested her cheek against his chest just as she'd done all those months ago. He drew her closer with his free arm but they didn't quite fit together the way they had then. Her ever-expanding belly prevented them from getting too close. \"You only have to be a hyphenator in Russia, Jack. I plan on taking your name here in America.\"\n\n\"Don't let my brother's teasing bother you. That's just what we do. We pick at each other, exploiting any little thing we can.\"\n\n\"You do?\"\n\nHe shrugged. \"It's a brother thing. Levi and I just take it to new levels when we can.\"\n\nShe didn't get it, but according to Iona, picking at each other was what the Sander brothers did. \"I'm glad it doesn't bother you, but I'm serious. You don't have to hyphenate your name in America. I'm happy to be Blaine Sander.\"\n\n\"You're right. I don't, but I will.\" Jack glanced into her face. \"Your dad wanted the Zima name to be associated with you and your violin, not mine. I've chosen to respect his wishes. Figured it's only fair.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Really? Why is that?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He's the one who taught you how to play the violin, and you playing it for me is what made me realize I couldn't let you walk out of my life.\" Jack focused on her. The seriousness in his expression stole her breath \"That moment out on the deck was life-altering for me.\"\n\n\"It was for me too. I'd forgotten how much I loved playing the violin. There's something freeing about it. I close my eyes, and I'm lost to the song. I can see it, Jack. The notes, the passion, all of it.\"\n\nJack glanced at the two carry-on bags on the ground next to him. Her violin case sat on top of them. \"Play it for me. All of it this time.\"\n\nHer fingertips tingled with the need to touch the Zima violin. \"When we get home.\"\n\n\"What's wrong with now? Levi won't be here to pick us up for another twenty or thirty minutes.\"\n\n\"Now?\" Brows raised, she stared at her husband. \"You can't be serious.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm very serious.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory inclusion (with quotes): My fans would never scream for me to play the violin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We're in the middle of an airport.\"\n\n\"And?\" Jack opened the violin case but didn't pick up the bow or the violin. He left them both lying there in the velvet padding, taunting her. \"Pretend like you're back in Russia and standing in front of a crowd of screaming fans.\"\n\nShe laughed. \"My fans would never scream for me to play the violin.\"\n\n\"Then you need new ones.\" Jack shifted the cane in front of him and rested both hands on the carved lion's head. \"I'll be your first one.\"\n\nShe opened her mouth but closed it before she told him he was biased. The look on his face the last time she'd played for him was too genuine to dismiss as politeness. She slid her gaze across the travelers moving through the airport. She didn't know any of these people." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd never see them again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If she messed up a note or looked ridiculous swaying to the music when she was now entering the waddling stage of her pregnancy, who'd care? They could have something to laugh about as they went about their day.\n\nBesides, the music was calling to her.\n\nBlaine stretched her fingers, then rolled her shoulders. \"If somebody calls the police on me, I'm blaming you.\"\n\n\"Seems fair.\"\n\nJack handed her the bow and the rosin block. He knew her routine even if she hadn't played for him since that night in the cabin. She'd needed solitude and time to refine her symphony. He'd given her both. She knew he listened to her, though. Every time she stepped out of her music room in her town house, he'd been there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There'd always been a small, satisfied smile on his face too.\n\nWith quick, steady strokes, she prepped her bow, then checked the tightness. The moment she set the block back into the case, Jack passed over the violin. Blaine caressed the lion's head, then the chin rest before closing her eyes and allowing the music to dance across her mind.\n\nThen she played.\n\nBlaine let the music guide her, swaying and gliding across the floor while the bow and her fingers skipped over the strings, urging the notes out until the brutal, soul-wrenching moment she'd ended her half-finished symphony all those months ago. She hung her head as the rest of the instruments in her musical story spoke the words only she heard. Maybe someday, Jack would hear them too, if her symphony was ever played by a full orchestra. Now, though, it was hers. So was the ending.\n\nShe dragged the bow over the strings, drawing out a heartbreaking sound, like a cry of despair. Then the chords that stitched the utter desolation to the hope and then the racing fear of losing everything again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sweat beaded on her brow as she brought the song—her love story—to life." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "All the fear she'd felt when Jack fell, when she'd watched blood soak his clothes, when she'd heard the gunshots but could no longer see him, bled into her music. She channeled it the only way she could, then paused with the bow a hairsbreadth from the strings and met Jack's eyes. Everything she needed to see in this moment shone in them. The passion, the love, the devotion, the trust—it was all there. She gave everything back to him, using her music to express herself.\n\nWhen the final note played, Jack was there, pulling her into his arms. \"My angel.\"\n\n\"My heaven.\" Blaine whispered the words into his ear.\n\n\"That was phenomenal.\"\n\nThe lazy Southern drawl drew Blaine's gaze to the man who'd spoken. Five bodyguards in matching suits stood around a man wearing jeans and a T-shirt, forming a necessary wall to keep back the crowd that'd gathered.\n\n\"Well, damn.\" The shock in Jack's voice meant he knew who'd stopped to listen.\n\nToo bad she didn't." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Blaine shook off the awkward feeling." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She knew how to act around strangers. She'd perfected small-talk even if she hated it most of the time.\n\nShe flashed a bright, lopsided smile. \"Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed it.\"\n\n\"I did.\"\n\nHis gaze slid to the scar on her cheek, and she fought to keep her smile as bright as it had been. With Jack, she didn't even think about her scar. Other people? She was still working on it. Jack was helping her.\n\nThe stranger stepped forward, his circle of bodyguards moving with him. \"Like I said. You are phenomenal. I've never seen anyone play a violin like you just did.\"\n\nJack caught her gaze." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The \"I told you so\" look on his face made her laugh." }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must include the following in quotes somewhere in your response: I'm Owen Douglas. You are?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm serious.\" The man stepped forward and held out his hand. \"I'm Owen Douglas. You are?\"\n\n\"Blaine Zima.\" She shook his hand.\n\n\"You know, your name sounds familiar.\"\n\n\"Does it?\" She turned and handed Jack the bow and violin, giving herself a moment to get herself together. Besides the arranged interview where she'd officially announced that she was separating with her band and canceling all her upcoming appearances, she'd managed to avoid the media. She wanted it to stay that way.\n\n\"Yeah.\" One of Owen's bodyguards leaned close and whispered something to him. Owen zeroed in on the scar on her face, scrutinizing it more than he had moments ago. \"Shit. Aren't you that Russian singer who got attacked on stage a few months back?\"\n\n\"Yes. That's me.\" Blaine managed to get the words out without sighing. If her publicist had still worked for her, she would've been proud." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Owen ripped out a section of a magazine page, scribbled a number on it, and handed it to her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm late for a flight, and this isn't exactly the place to discuss business, but give me a call late next week. I think I know someone who'd be very interested in talking to you.\"\n\nBlaine took the jagged paper and watched as Owen's bodyguards cleared a path through the crowd for him. The moment they were gone, she looked at Jack. \"Who was that?\"\n\n\"A famous American singer.\" Jack took the paper from her and slipped it into his pocket, then closed the violin case.\n\n\"I've never heard of him.\" Blaine grabbed the handle of her carry-on as she caught a glimpse of Levi making his way toward them. \"What do you think he wants to talk about?\"\n\n\"How amazing you are with the violin. Maybe he'll hook you up with a record deal.\"\n\nShe shook her head. \"Well, we just agreed to five shows in Eliot's tour after the babies are born. That's going to take up a chunk of our time.\"\n\n\"We have a lifetime ahead of us, Mrs. Zima-Sander. We'll meet each day's opportunities as they come.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Opportunities? Not challenges?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes, opportunities. Life's full of potential wins.\" Jack flashed his brother an amused smile. \"And thanks to your friend, I have an amazing opportunity for my brother.\"\n\nLevi froze. A cautious look on his face, he glanced between them. \"You do?\"\n\n\"Yep.\" Jack nudged her. \"Tell Levi what we decided about the pub.\"\n\nBlaine smiled. \"Oh, you mean about buying the two buildings on either side, tearing them down, and expanding?\"\n\n\"Yeah.\" Jack smirked. \"That's the one.\"\n\n\"Wait! What? That wasn't my idea.\" Levi held up a hand. \"That's way more than I planned.\"\n\n\"You told me to think about it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jack shrugged. \"So I did. Found someone who'd invest cash in the place too.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 8 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't you think I should be involved in this decision?\" Levi glared at Jack.\n\n\"Sure.\" Jack smacked Levi's back, making him stumble. \"But I know my intelligent brother wouldn't let a good opportunity pass him by.\"\n\nBlaine let her gaze travel over her husband's body before meeting his eyes. \"And when the opportunity of a lifetime is in front of you, the smart thing to do is act, not think, or else you might lose everything.\"\n\nJack's knowing smile wrapped around her, completing her. He was the best spur-of-the-moment decision she'd ever made." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "make story longer like Elizabeth Hayley would. heads up: might have existing chars/lore" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What do you have in here, bricks?\" Drew asked as he dropped a box on the floor before sprawling onto our couch.\n\n\"Ew, don't get your sweat all over everything. We don't own this furniture.\" I swatted at Drew before grabbing the box and pulling it toward the bedroom I'd be sharing with Taylor.\n\nWe'd lucked into finding a furnished apartment in the same complex as Drew and Aamee, which was amazing since buying furniture we'd only need for the summer wasn't high on my list of priorities.\n\nDrew rolled off the couch onto the floor and remained there.\n\n\"So lazy,\" I teased.\n\n\"Shut up. This is the second apartment I've moved someone into today.\"\n\nI squished up my nose. \"You only had to move your stuff, which wasn't even a full carload.\"\n\nAamee had hired movers for her stuff because of course she had. She hadn't even shown up until the movers were practically finished." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd been wearing her dark sunglasses and had only offered us a few grunts before shutting herself in her bedroom." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was classic hungover Aamee.\n\nGraduation had been yesterday, and I guessed Aamee had gone all out celebrating her freedom from college. I'd heard from Brody that they'd met up with some of Aamee's friends after having dinner with her parents.\n\nBrody had met the parents. I wished I'd been there to see it, though Brody said it had gone well.\n\nAbandoning the box I was slowly dragging across the carpet, I crawled over to Drew and nestled in next to him. He put his arm around my shoulders so I could rest my head on his chest. It was a tight fit between the couch and coffee table, but we managed.\n\n\"You feeling okay?\" I asked because the man had been in a major motorcycle accident five months prior. And while he was pretty much healed, I didn't want him to push too hard.\n\n\"Yeah, I'm good.\" He pressed a kiss to my head and held me tighter.\n\nWe stayed there and enjoyed having each other close for a few minutes until a voice interrupted us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You guys stuck?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'taylor' 3 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I looked up to see Carter looming over us.\n\n\"Yes,\" Drew groused. \"But we like it, so go away.\"\n\n\"Soph, Taylor just pulled up. She said she texted you.\"\n\nSitting up, I looked around and surveyed the disaster zone that was our apartment.\n\n\"I don't know where my phone went.\" I got to my feet and turned to offer a hand to Drew, who took it with a smile.\n\n\"Carter and I will go help Taylor unpack her car if you want to start sorting through things up here,\" Drew said.\n\n\"I just want to go down and say hi to her first.\"\n\nWe all made our way out of the third-floor apartment that was thankfully right around the corner from the elevator, though it seemed none of us wanted to wait for it. We bypassed it and headed for the stairs that led to the parking lot.\n\nI hurried down and swung the door open, revealing Taylor leaning back against her old blue Explorer.\n\n\"About time you showed up,\" I yelled to her as I galloped toward her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She stood up straight, a wide smile on her face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm an hour earlier than I said I'd be.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Whatever,\" I replied before I squealed and threw myself at her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm so excited you're here.\"\n\n\"Me too. This is going to be the best summer ever.\"\n\n\"You two need a minute, or can we watch?\"\n\nI turned around to glare at Carter. \"Shut up, perv.\"\n\nTaylor moved around me and walked over to Drew to give him a hug.\n\n\"Good to see ya,\" Drew said.\n\n\"You too. I heard we're going to be neighbors.\"\n\n\"Yeah. Hope that's okay.\"\n\n\"Of course. It's gonna be a blast.\" Then she turned her attention to Carter and stepped forward to give him a brief hug.\n\n\"Did you have a good drive?\" Carter asked.\n\n\"Yeah, not too bad.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Taylor's smile was bright, and I was wearing one to match.\n\nIt was so great to have my best friend here. My worlds were merging in the best ways—at least I hoped it would be the best ways. There was a little niggle in the back of my brain that warned me not to be too idealistic in my expectation for the summer, but I couldn't help but be excited.\n\nTaylor looked around. \"Where's Brody?\"\n\n\"Brace yourself,\" I said. \"He has a job.\"\n\nTaylor clutched her chest dramatically and staggered back a few steps. \"What is this blasphemy you speak of?\"\n\nI chuckled. \"I know. He's working with Drew at Rafferty's.\"\n\n\"What about Nite Bites?\" she asked as we all started grabbing stuff out of her car." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I sighed heavily. \"We've talked about it a few times after everything went down with the school and decided a couple days ago that it just wasn't smart to keep going with it. Now that the school knows, they'll be watching us like hawks, and we also didn't want to risk them taking it to the next level and getting the police involved. Also, my dad wasn't too hype on keeping it going.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 9 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Taylor nodded. \"Makes sense. And having a job at a bar will at least give him some experience for when he and Drew open one.\" She smiled at Drew as she spoke.\n\nI'd told her all about my dad's offer as well as all the drama with Veronica. She'd said it was like we were all moving onto the set of Melrose Place, a reference I'd had to google but seemed appropriate once I'd read up on it.\n\nI grabbed one more bag, bringing my arm strength to the absolute limit. \"Ready to see our apartment?\" I asked excitedly.\n\n\"Yes!\" Taylor yelled and started making her way quickly to the building like the little Tasmanian Devil she was.\n\nAnd as I followed my crew inside, I couldn't help letting my hopes grow beyond my control. This was going to be a kick-ass summer." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Ive got a bit of writers block, im gonna send you something then keep it going eight sentences at a time, also im going for a Elizabeth Hayley sorta thing. heads up - might drop you in mid-story with existing characters" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"This can be all yours for the summer,\" Sean said as he gestured widely with his arms. \"What do you say?\"\n\nI wanted to say that this was some bullshit.\n\nSean had had the brilliant idea of adding a deck to Rafferty's, but now that it was there, he had no idea what to do with it—and clearly no desire to figure it out. Pawning it off on me meant he'd have someone to blame if the deck didn't bring in any extra money.\n\nHe'd asked me to come in a little early with Brody so we could discuss a few things. I'd thought it had to do with me training Brody behind the bar, since he was relegated to barbacking until he got some training, but instead Sean wanted to discuss the new deck and how it was my responsibility.\n\nBeyond having to stay within a set budget, he would pretty much give me free rein to do what I needed to attract a crowd." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I looked around. While the area was spacious—probably even big enough to have a small band perform—and had a small service bar to quickly throw together simple cocktails, it was in no way ready to handle a large influx of customers without a lot of help from the bar inside, which would be incredibly limiting." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was no doubt in my mind that in order to be a success, we needed a full bar out there. And on top of that, the deck was bare bones. The wood looked like it still needed to be treated, there were no tables or chairs, no outdoor servingware, the small bar it did have didn't look like it was hooked up to the water line yet, and obviously it wasn't stocked.\n\nNice weather had arrived, but the deck wasn't ready for people to take advantage of it. It felt like we were already behind the eight ball with selling this to the public.\n\nWhen I didn't reply, Sean clapped a hand on Brody's back. \"I figured I could give you full use of your buddy here.\"\n\nI resisted the urge to roll my eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Like giving me a guy with no experience and a penchant for mishaps was a selling point." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But I didn't point that out to Sean, nor did I air any of my other gripes.\n\nInstead, I smiled like a schmuck and nodded. \"Yeah, man. Sounds good.\"\n\nI told myself it would've been stupid to refuse. After all, this was what I'd wanted: to run a bar. This was my chance, even if it wasn't optimal. It would be good experience for when Brody and I ventured out on our own, and it would be something to show off to his dad if it ended up being a success.\n\n\"Great. I'll leave you guys to it, then. Let me know what you need.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sean hurried away before I could actually ask him for anything." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'about' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When we were alone, Brody clapped his hands together. \"Where do we start, boss?\"\n\nThere was no missing the excitement thrumming through him. It was good to see, even if I was about to extinguish it.\n\n\"You ever stain a deck before?\"\n\nBrody's eyes widened comically. \"Uh, no.\"\n\n\"Looks like you're about to experience something new, then.\"\n\n\"Can't we, like, hire someone to do that?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I shrugged. \"Probably. But by the time we got someone out here, we'd probably lose another day or two minimum. Not to mention we'd have to take it out of the budget Sean's giving us to set up, and I'd rather put that toward things we need to purchase or can't realistically do ourselves.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But…what if we can't stain this deck ourselves?\"\n\nI put a hand on his shoulder and squeezed. \"Brody, we can do almost anything.\"\n\n\"Those words aren't as motivating as you think. Your tone makes them…ominous.\"\n\n\"It'll be fine.\"\n\nBrody dramatically unleashed a full-body shiver. \"Terrifying.\"\n\n\"Shut up and come to the store with me.\"\n\nWith a resigned sigh, Brody followed me back inside." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hoped I was leading him into a future that would benefit us both rather than toward disaster." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Knowing us, I wasn't sure how good our odds were." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "The user will write a bit then you need to write around one sentence continuing directly from the user's text. Characters and story elements may appear without introduction - roll with them naturally. Try to mimic the style of Elizabeth Hayley." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As Sophia and I moved around her kitchen, I couldn't help but think how in sync our movements were." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We skated around each other, gathering plates, utensils, and food as if we'd choreographed it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It made me insanely happy to have these small domestic moments with her, even though thinking about how much I liked it made me feel a bit like a sap." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was Friday, and everyone was kind of run down from internships, jobs, and life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "So we'd decided to invite everyone to hang out in the courtyard of our apartment complex, grill some food, and enjoy one of the fire pits." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Taylor and Aamee were already downstairs guarding the grill and mixing cocktails." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sophia and I were putting the finishing touches on the food before everyone else showed up." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was thrilled to have the night off so I could hang out with everyone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Since I'd been put in charge of the deck, Sean had started paying me as a manager, which meant I could pull back from bartending." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I still planned to keep Saturdays until the deck actually opened because every extra dollar helped, but I'd been more than happy to give up Fridays." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Which reminded me… \"I talked to Sean about your ideas today.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sophia looked up from where she was chopping fruit to give me a small smile. \"And?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He was into it. He basically just wants to make money, and he's fine with whatever as long as I think it'll help us do that.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's awesome,\" she said as she dumped the fruit into a bowl." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I thought he'd be resistant to giving it its own name.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No, he took that surprisingly well. Waiting a few more weeks to open was a harder sell since he wanted us to launch Memorial Day weekend.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sophia stopped bustling around the kitchen and looked at me with a scrunched-up face that made her look cuter than anyone had a right to look." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her dark wavy hair framed her round, tan face perfectly, her green eyes sparkling against the darker contrast." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What the hell someone so gorgeous was doing with me, I wasn't sure, but I was damn thankful." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How would you ever be ready to open by next weekend?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We wouldn't, but I think Sean was hoping for a miracle. He was bummed, but he also understood how important a grand opening would be.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sophia smiled brightly and stepped into me, wrapping her arms around my waist." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I love how much faith he has in you. You deserve to have him be in your corner like that.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hugged her back, allowing myself to soak up her unwavering support." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It felt damn good." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After a moment, we pulled away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We better get the rest of this stuff downstairs,\" I said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah. I'm surprised they haven't come looking for us yet.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We packed the food into coolers—thankfully Sophia had ones with wheels—for easy transport and carted it downstairs." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When we got to the courtyard, I saw Brody and Carter trying to light the grill while Veronica was sitting at a table chatting with Taylor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When Sophia had insisted Brody invite his fake wife, I wasn't sure she'd actually come, but there she was, casually dressed, her dark hair piled under a wide-brimmed hat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She looked comfortable in her skin, which was a feat since Aamee seemed to be resolutely ignoring her presence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Food!\" Carter bellowed across the courtyard when he caught sight of us. \"Gimmee.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sophia rolled her eyes fondly as we arrived at the table the girls had claimed and began unpacking the food." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Carter wasted no time grabbing a plate and piling fruit and pasta salad onto it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you have a single manner?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sophia asked him, arms akimbo." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He pretended to think for a minute before saying \"No\" and resuming eating." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Boys,\" Sophia said with a sigh before smiling at Veronica." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hey, Vee. Glad you could make it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Veronica returned the smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thanks for inviting me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Absolutely. Mi courtyard e su courtyard.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I leaned in and pressed a kiss to Sophia's cheek." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I love when you speak bad Spanish.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Well then, you better stick around. There's a lot more where that came from.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I felt a buzzing in my pocket, so I pulled away and checked my phone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Xander's on his way,\" I said as I put the phone away again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Awesome,\" Carter said. \"I didn't even know he was still around.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'aniyah' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I didn't either. Aniyah texted me a couple nights ago to ask if I'd heard from him. When I said no, she asked me to reach out. I guess he's become a recluse since school ended. I just assumed he went home for the summer like Aniyah and Toby did.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm not surprised he didn't,\" Carter said, his mouth full of a hodgepodge of food." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he managed to swallow it without asphyxiating, he continued." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Toby said he had a shit home life. His dad's a real asshole.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I felt my brow furrow as I let that bit of information digest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd known Xander's dad had given a shit ton of money to the school after Xander had almost burned down the library." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Xander had never spoken about his dad as if they were close, but I didn't know he would prefer to spend a summer alone than be near the man." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "While I considered Xander one of my good friends, it bummed me out to realize I didn't know that much about him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Though I guess it didn't really surprise me." }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'always' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Xander had always kept us at arm's length, despite always being there when we'd needed him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe I could break through some of his barriers this summer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh, I almost forgot,\" Carter said, standing abruptly enough to almost knock his plate off the table." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I brought my cornhole set. Be right back.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He took off, all of us staring after him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Is there some kind of cornhole emergency I'm unaware of?\" Aamee asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Who knows,\" Sophia said as she scooped some fruit onto her plate and sat down." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We have way more pressing issues anyway.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Brody pulled an extra chair beside Aamee and sat down." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Like how we get those people off the bocce court.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's so cool you have all this here,\" Veronica said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I know,\" I agreed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"There's even a four-hole mini-golf course and shuffleboard on the other side of the pool.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Veronica sighed. \"I definitely moved in with the wrong member of this group.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's true even without all the yard games,\" Sophia muttered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her head shot up suddenly, causing me to look at her in alarm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You okay?\" I asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yard games,\" she whispered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes.\" I dragged the word out, unsure of what she meant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Sophia didn't say anything else, Aamee sighed in disgust." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Is this like charades? Because that game totally sucks.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No,\" Sophia said excitedly, reaching a hand out to grab my arm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's your angle. At the deck. It's how you separate your business from everyone else's. You turn the empty space the deck overlooks into a place people can play yard games.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I sat back and contemplated what she was saying." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's…a pretty awesome idea.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sophia looked about ready to come out of her skin." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It would be so much fun. A place people can relax after work. None of your competitors in the area have anything like that. You'd be completely unique.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I turned to look at Brody." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What do you think?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He swallowed his mouthful of food before answering." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"As much as it pains me to admit it in front of Sophia, it's a great idea.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sophia pushed her hands up in victory." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes! Now we just need a name.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The Backyard,\" Veronica said simply." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Everyone looked over at her, and she paused with a forkful of pasta salad when she noticed she held the attention of the entire table." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What? No good? It was just a suggestion.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No, no, I'm kinda into it,\" I assured her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sophia was quiet for a moment before she said, \"I like it too, but maybe it would be better shortened. What about just the Yard?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I like it,\" I said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Vee set her fork down and put her elbows on the table so she could talk with her hands." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It sounds like it would have a backyard feel. And you can do a lot with the name. Like, 'My bocce balls bring all the boys to the Yard, and they're like, my bar's better than yours.'\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Veronica sang the last part, and then looked at us self-consciously when we were silent. \"Or not.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No, no, that's actually…amazing,\" Sophia gushed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"'Amazing' may be a bit of a stretch,\" Aamee mumbled, but no one paid her any attention." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We were all too busy throwing ideas out to acknowledge the shade she was throwing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hey, look who I found,\" Carter said as he approached, carrying one cornhole board, Xander right behind him with the other." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A chorus of \"Hi, Xander\" erupted around the table, and Sophia told him to help himself to food and to join the brainstorming session." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Brainstorming what?\" he asked as he grabbed a plate and filled it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Ideas for the bar Drew's managing.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Xander looked impressed. \"That's awesome, man. What kind of place is it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I gave him a quick rundown of the place, as well as the ideas Sophia had thrown out and the name Veronica had come up with." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Now I just need to get through the interviews I have lined up so I can staff it. Hopefully there are some solid people who applied.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'll do it,\" Aamee said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do what?\" I asked her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Work at the bar.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I couldn't help a surprised expression from overtaking my face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Have you ever worked at a bar before?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The answering glare I got was icy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No,\" she said, enunciating the \"o\" especially heavily." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But how hard can it be?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's not exactly the attitude I'm looking for—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're hired,\" Brody said, cutting me off." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Aamee squealed and bounced in her seat happily." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No offense, Brody, but you have no authority to hire anyone,\" I reminded him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Dude, sometimes the path of least resistance is the only way.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I wasn't sure exactly how that related to this situation, but arguing seemed futile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, maybe I do get it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'll work there too,\" Xander said casually." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wasn't sure how I went from talking about interviews to people saying they'd work for me like they were doing me some kind of big goddamn favor, but here we were." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Have you ever worked at a bar?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I've never worked anywhere,\" he said with a smile as he popped a grape into his mouth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's reassuring,\" I muttered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But I can learn anything. I'll watch a few YouTube videos and be a well-trained bartender by tomorrow.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's not how it works,\" I argued." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How does it work?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "he asked, his tone genuine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Normally someone trains you or you go to a school and learn.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So, you watch someone mix drinks and then do what they do?\" he asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Which is different from YouTube how?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I sighed heavily. \"Whatever. You're hired.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Sweet,\" Xander replied." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sophia leaned toward me, giggling, and pressed a kiss to my cheek." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're a very easy mark.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Evidently,\" I grumbled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's endearing,\" she said, \"how much you want to help people.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It also may be career suicide, but I appreciate you seeing the positive.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She laughed and kissed me again. \"It'll be fine.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Knowing the trajectory my life typically took, I doubted that. But it never hurt to be hopeful. Right?" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Ive got a bit of writers block, im gonna send you something then keep it going eight sentences at a time, also im going for a Elizabeth Hayley sorta thing. heads up - might drop you in mid-story with existing characters" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As I stood in the conference room, I tried to decide whether it was a good idea to look Jeff in the eye. It would be rude to avoid direct eye contact, but after I word-vomited a bunch of shit that made it look like he had no idea what was happening in his own company, I felt like the black-speckled carpet would be more forgiving.\n\nJeff hadn't spoken since he'd asked the initial question, and standing about four feet away, I could feel the fire radiating from him.\n\n\"Someone better start talking,\" he said, prompting me to finally look up.\n\n\"I apologize for all of that,\" I said, trying to decipher if Jeff was murderous angry or just you should probably change your major because you'll never get a job in marketing on the East Coast angry.\n\nI thought his expression fell somewhere in between.\n\n\"I mean, I'm not sorry for what I said but for how and when I said it,\" I added. \"That wasn't the appropriate time to discuss something like that.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include exactly 2 instance(s) of the word 'meeting'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Jeff cleared his throat harshly and folded his hands. \"Then why did you?\"\n\nWhen I didn't answer—because I didn't have an answer that would do anyone any good—Jeff continued.\n\n\"You could've told us after the first meeting with Trey or at any point in between that one and this meeting. In private. Jesus, Sophia, this isn't like telling your RA the roommate you can't stand stole twenty dollars from you. This is a business. A well-respected business. And that wasn't just any client. That was Trey Daily, celebrity.\"\n\n\"I know. I'm sorry,\" I said again. And I was. I wished I'd said something before now and that Carole's talk with me hadn't been needed to prompt some sort of action.\n\n\"Well, sorry's not good enough.\"\n\n\"What do you want from her, Jeff?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "asked Carole. \"It's done. She said she was sorry. What more is there to say?\"\n\nCarole had said that she'd guarantee me a meeting with her and Jeff after all this was over, but this wasn't the meeting she probably had in mind. Though she seemed significantly less irritated than Jeff, my outburst could've cost them a client, and I knew Carole wasn't blind to that.\n\nJeff turned toward Carole, looking a little disgusted that she wasn't completely backing him. \"Oh, I don't know. How about how all this started and why we're just finding out about it now? Interns kept us in the dark about something in our own office. Interns, Carole.\"\n\nThe way Jeff said \"interns\" sounded like he was discussing some sort of mild STD he was embarrassed he'd contracted.\n\n\"I wasn't in the dark,\" Carole blurted out, causing Jeff's head to jerk back. Whether the movement was from anger or shock, I wasn't sure." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe it was a little of both." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Carole's admission surprised me, though it shouldn't have. Not really. From the moment I'd met her, she'd been honest and direct, blunt to almost a fault. It made her intimidating and unpredictable in a way that I'd never experienced before. And this moment shouldn't have been any different.\n\n\"You knew about this?\" Jeff practically growled.\n\n\"Oh, calm down. You're acting like I was in on some sort of conspiracy. I'd never condone this sort of behavior from anyone, especially someone who isn't even employed at Margot Nathan.\"\n\n\"But you said you knew about it?\"\n\n\"Well,\" she scoffed, \"I had my suspicions from that first meeting. And if you were capable of paying attention to anything other than your own thoughts and comments, you might've noticed Sophia's reaction when Jake blurted out an idea she came up with.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Okay, that's enough of the low blows,\" Jeff said, his voice quieting as he added, \"I had enough of that when we were married.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, that's new information.\n\nIt brought so many questions to mind. Were they together when they formed the business? Had working together caused their divorce? Who was on top most often?\n\nI had no idea where that last comment came from, but deciding I didn't want to actually get sick during this meeting, I dismissed the thought as quickly as it had arrived.\n\nCarole let out an exaggerated laugh to let everyone, especially Jeff, I guessed, know that she didn't find the comment funny. I assumed that Carole would rather have kept her personal life out of this conversation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Okay, you're right,\" she said. \"We'll hold off on listing each other's faults for another time.\"\n\n\"Thank you,\" Jeff said, sounding almost relieved. \"Okay, so let's begin again. Jake, would you please tell me everything I need to know to understand the chronology of all this? And don't spare any details. It's in your best interest to be as forthcoming as possible.\"\n\nHe'd obviously have to respond to Jeff's request, but if I knew Jake at all—and unfortunately, I thought I did—he wouldn't pass up an opportunity to throw me under the bus and then hop into the driver's seat so he could run me the fuck over with it to make sure I was good and dead.\n\n\"Sure, I can do that.\"\n\nI could tell he was trying to sound composed, confident even, because he knew as well as I did that we were probably both done here, and hearing each of our sides of the story was more of a courtesy than an actual attempt at gathering information for the purpose of making a fair and educated decision.\n\n\"A while back, Sophia was making some flyers or something for a place called the Yard. I asked her about what it was, and she told me her boyfriend was in charge of opening a new part of the bar he worked in. When I tossed out the idea of calling Mr. Daily's bar the Yard, it just slipped out.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now I was the one trying to remain calm, when all I wanted to do was jump onto him and eat his face off like a lion protecting her young." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Because when it came down to it, the Yard was my baby. Or it was my baby's baby. Whatever. And Jake had stolen that from me.\n\nWhat was more, I'd let him.\n\n\"Bullshit it slipped out! That was intentional, and you know it. Not only that, but you had countless opportunities to tell the truth, and you never did.\"\n\n\"You didn't either,\" he said simply.\n\nThe fuck is wrong with this prick?\n\n\"That's not even remotely the same thing,\" I tried before Jake cut in." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's not? You didn't tell the truth because having Jeff and Carole find out that you were making advertising materials for your boyfriend's bar on company time would've made you look bad too. We were both looking out for ourselves.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Is this true?\" Jeff asked.\n\nJake smirked like the information he'd shared was all that was needed to ensure I received the same fate as him. There was a certain amount of satisfaction in knowing that I'd be let go because of something I'd said and not because of what Jake revealed.\n\n\"Careful you don't break an ankle in those heels when you jump down off that high horse,\" Jake added.\n\n\"That's enough,\" Jeff snapped. \"I've heard enough from you, beginning with but not ending with the lie you told to your superiors and a client. Before either of us says or does something he can't take back, it's probably best that you get your things and see yourself out.\"\n\nJake looked like someone had punched him. I only wished someone actually had." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He turned toward Carole, probably looking for sympathy in any place he might be able to find it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why he thought Carole was a good option showed just what a dumbass he was.\n\n\"Okay, um, is this like for tonight, or—\"\n\n\"Forever,\" Jeff said. \"It's for forever.\"\n\n\"Right,\" Jake replied quietly. \"Well, thank you both for the oppor—\"\n\n\"Get out,\" Carole said. Her tone was low, quiet in a way that should not have been as intimidating as it was, but Jake hustled out without another word.\n\nAnd as I stood occupying a space with two people who both scared the hell out of me, I almost wished I'd been asked to leave then too." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'carole' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The room was silent as Jeff and Carole watched Jake pack his things through the glass windows behind me. At least that's what I assumed they were doing.\n\n\"He just put a pack of our printer paper in his bag,\" Jeff said.\n\n\"Let it go,\" Carole told him.\n\nReluctantly, Jeff turned his attention back to me, his expression softening a bit in what looked like disappointment. \"And then there was one,\" he said. He tapped the pen he'd been holding on his leg as he leaned back in his chair and studied me.\n\nI felt uncomfortable, but not because he was staring at me like some creeper while I stood on display." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He wasn't. I felt uncomfortable because I'd wanted so badly to impress these people and all I'd done was disappoint them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So,\" Jeff said, \"is what Jake said true, Sophia? Was Jake able to steal the name of your boyfriend's bar because you were working on something for it while you were here?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not wanting to appear broken even though I felt exactly that, I stood a little taller. \"Yes. It's true.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hadn't wanted to make excuses for why I'd used company time for a personal task, but Carole spoke up when I needed her to the most.\n\n\"And this was while you should've been doing work for Margot Nathan?\" she asked, already knowing the answer.\n\nThank you, Carole.\n\nIf she were the type of person who accepted hugs easily, I would have squeezed the hell out of her in the parking lot later. Instead, I'd have to settle for composing a professional email to her once this was over. And I had no doubt it would be over any minute, because even though Carole had opened the door for me to explain, it wouldn't make a difference. At least not professionally speaking." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Maybe it would make Jeff less likely to smear my name in a pile of dog shit, but I wasn't naïve enough to think it would mean I could finish out the summer here.\n\n\"Well, I had finished all my tasks for the day,\" I explained. \"I'd even helped Jake finish some of his before deciding that working on the materials for the Yard would be a more productive use of my time than playing around on social media or making dating profiles.\"\n\nToo bad Jake wasn't here to hear the last part, though it would've been pointless to explicitly state that I'd been referring to him.\n\n\"But you did use company time for personal responsibilities?\"\n\n\"Well, I wouldn't consider it a responsibility, but yes. Semantics aside, I worked on something other than work for this company.\"\n\nJeff sighed deeply and rubbed his forehead before turning toward Carole. \"We can't allow this type of thing to happen under our watch, especially without our knowledge. This is a fucking nightmare. You do realize that, right?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Carole pressed her red lips together and nodded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It is that,\" she said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I wish this hadn't come out like it did, but I'm happy it came out nonetheless.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't know if 'happy' is the word I'd use to describe the emotion I'm feeling right now.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah, well, in the twenty years I've known you, I can count on one hand the number of times I've ever seen you actually happy.\"\n\nHis nose let out a harsh laugh, but I thought I saw a corner of his mouth twitch. Though he quickly steadied it.\n\n\"Yeah, well, one of those was when you signed the divorce papers.\"\n\nThe skin around Carole's eyes creased when she chuckled. These two were about as easy to read as German IKEA directions.\n\n\"Um, I guess I'll see myself out,\" I said. \"Is there anything I need to do before I go? Maybe just to make sure I get internship credit for the time I was here or something? You know what, I'll just send you an email if that's okay.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We're not done,\" Carole said sternly." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory inclusion (with quotes): We've been in this business a long time, and we've seen countless people come through our doors, employees and interns alike, and only a few have shown both natural talent and a passion for the profession." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Jeff and I have some things we'd like to discuss with you.\"\n\nYou do?\n\nHere it came. The moment when they told me there was no way in hell I'd be getting any internship credit after my behavior.\n\n\"I don't think I need to tell you what an embarrassment all of this was,\" Carole began.\n\nNope.\n\n\"We're running a business, a business we've worked very hard to make successful. We won't tolerate this type of behavior in our office. I'm not sure why you millennials think the world revolves around you, but I'd be doing you a disservice if I didn't tell you otherwise.\"\n\nI knew better than to correct her by explaining that I wasn't actually a millennial, especially since I'd already kind of proved her point by thinking about it in the first place.\n\n\"We've been in this business a long time, and we've seen countless people come through our doors, employees and interns alike, and only a few have shown both natural talent and a passion for the profession.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew better than to get my hopes up and think that I'd be allowed to stay. Carole had already shown a softness toward me, and because they probably both liked me better than Jake, they didn't just want to send me packing without a professional goodbye.\n\n\"Thank you\" was all I said.\n\n\"You know,\" Jeff said, looking toward Carole and then back at me, \"we've both talked about you quite a bit during your short time here. We thought you'd be a good fit here one day, so it's a shame this had to play out like this.\"\n\n\"I understand,\" I said quietly. \"You really don't need to say anything else.\"\n\n\"No. I do, Sophia. I need to tell you that you're creative in a way that most people aren't, and you're a hard worker. Christ, you're such a hard worker, you were doing other people's work here in your free time. I mean, it was wrong,\" he clarified. \"If you'd been an employee and you'd done that, that could've been considered theft of time.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd never heard that phrase before, and it sounded…imposing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Like a bear I didn't ever want to poke again." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'assholes' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That being said, I'd rather have you steal time than steal an idea. Because not only does that compromise the integrity of the business, it compromises your integrity as well. And honestly, letting someone else take credit for an idea you had sacrifices your integrity as well. So while it kills me to agree with Carole, I have to this time. I'm glad you took credit for your idea.\"\n\nInhaling deeply, he rolled his eyes widely as if his mind were replaying what had happened in the conference room earlier. \"I seriously wish you'd had the forethought and the professionalism to disclose this to us another time. Any other time, actually.\"\n\n\"But learning to stand up for yourself,\" Carole interjected, \"will come with experience, and so will knowing the right time and place to discuss certain matters.\"\n\n\"Look,\" Jeff said. \"Carole and I can be assholes. We know that. But we're smart assholes. We know talent when we see it, Sophia. You've got talent and an intrinsic drive that we don't see in many students your age.\"\n\nFlickers of hope had sparked deep inside me a few minutes earlier, but I hadn't let them fully ignite. But those flickers had turned into an inferno I couldn't put out even if I'd wanted to.\n\n\"We'd be dumb to get rid of someone like that,\" Jeff said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You understand what I'm saying?\"\n\nI was nodding so fast I probably looked like a bobblehead. \"Yes! Yes, you're not dumb. You're just assholes. I mean—\"\n\n\"Get back to work, Sophia,\" Carole said.\n\n\"Yes, right. Thank you. I'm going back to work right now.\"\n\nEven to my own ears, I sounded like I'd taken half a bottle of uppers and chased them with a couple Red Bulls. It was a good thing Jeff and Carole already thought I was insane, or I'd be worried about them wanting to drug test me. I headed to the door, a smile spread wide across my face like I belonged in Arkham Asylum." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'll be working on stuff for the Yard if you need me. Not my boyfriend's Yard.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I smacked myself hard on my forehead with my notebook. \"Trey's Yard. You knew what I meant, right?\"\n\n\"Goodbye, Sophia,\" Jeff said.\n\nAnd as I managed to escape without putting my foot in my mouth again, I had one thought: I'd never liked two assholes more than I liked these two." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "expand on the story like Jacqueline Carey would. btw might have existing characters/lore" }, { "from": "human", "value": "When last I entered the City of Elua, it was riding in triumph in the entourage of Ysandre de la Courcel, fresh from victory over the Skaldi, with the Royal Army and Drustan mab Necthana and the Alban contingent at our side." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This time, my return to the city of my birth was considerably less dramatic, although it meant a great deal to me.\n\nIt is a powerful thing, homecoming. I had come to love Montrève, with its green mountains, its rustic charm; but the City was my home, and I wept to see its white walls once more. My heart, a year and more accustomed to the sedate pace of the countryside, stirred within my breast and beat faster.\n\nWe had been long days on the road, while the brisk weather of autumn turned to the chill of impending winter." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When I had travelled before, it had been with no more thanmy companions and I could carry on sturdy mounts. Now, we were accompanied by laden wagons of wool, product of the last shearing of the season, with an entire wagon for my goods, which included the volumes and scrolls of Yeshuite research I had accumulated within a year.\n\nIt was a goodly amount, for the followers of Yeshua were a prolific folk. Their history is ancient, reaching back long before the time when Yeshua ben Yosef, the true-gotten son of the One God, hung upon a Tiberian cross, his blood mingling with the tears of the Magdelene to beget blessed Elua. I had not yet discovered in their writings a clue to unravel the geis that bound Hyacinthe, but I was yet hopeful." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Also in our train was a wagon for our gear, tents and foodstuffs, and pack-mules for my retainers' possessions. There was even a pair of saddle-horses we led unridden, fresh mounts for Remy and Ti-Philippe, who dashed back and forth between our slow party and the City.\n\n\"You'll need a carriage,\" Fortun said pragmatically as we drew near to the City. \"It won't do for the Comtesse de Montrève to ride astride, my lady. But I reckon it can wait until we've sold the wool.\"\n\n\"It will have to.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must use the word 'ysandre's' exactly 2 times in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had supposed, before Ysandre's Chancellor of the Exchequer had informed me that I was the inheritor of Delaunay's estate and never-claimed title, that all D'Angeline nobles had coin in abundance; in truth, it was not so. I drew a modest income from my holdings at Montrève, and I had funds from the recompense of Delaunay's City house. It had been seized upon his death, when I was judged in absentia to be his murderer. Now, my name was clear, thanks to Ysandre's intervention. In the City of Elua, it is known that I loved my lord Delaunay well and had no part in his death; as he named me his heir, so did I inherit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Still, I had no wish to dwell in the place where he died." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required word frequency: 'toward' (2x)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So, his estate of Montrève I inherited, and I accepted recompense for the sale of his home in the City; but the proceeds from the former went toward the payment and equipage of my retainers, and the latter toward the purchaseof a home for us. Of the small amount that remained, I confess, a great deal went into my library.\n\nThose purchases, I did not regret. All knowledge is worth having, Delaunay used to say; and I had every intention of putting what I garnered to good use. But it left me with little in the way of capital." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had a diamond, once, that would have financed the beginnings of a salon any courtesan might envy. Thinking on it, I touched my bare throat where it used to hang. I would rather have starved than profit from that gem.\n\nAs we rode nigh to the southern gate, Fortun raised the banner of Montrève; green, a crescent moon in argent upper right, and sable crag lower left. The City Guard hoisted their spears in answer, a shout sounding from the white walls— Ti-Philippe, dicing with the Guard, had been awaiting our arrival." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I heard a ragged chant arise, all too familiar: the marching-song of Phèdre's Boys, born out of our desperate quest to Alba." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Glancing at Joscelin, I saw his shoulders set with resignation.\n\nSo we entered the City.\n\nIn some parts, it was small, and in others, vaster and more lovely than I remembered, gracious and proud. Ti-Philippe scrambled down to meet us, and led us inward, along the winding course of the river toward the Palace. In the street, citizens paused and watched curiously, marking our passage." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'where' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could hear the rumors begin to spread. To the east, the hill of Mont Nuit sloped upward. The Night Court was there, with its Thirteen Houses, where I had received my earliest training; in Cereus House, First among the Thirteen. At its foot lay Night's Doorstep, my refuge, where Hyacinthe had established himself as the Prince of Travellers.\n\nThat was the past." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The future lay before us." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In sight of the Palace, at the juncture of a narrow street, Remy met us. After a hurried conference, Ti-Philippe took stewardship of the wool-wagons, leading them to the worsters' district.\n\n\"My lady.\" Remy grinned, and swept me a bow from thesaddle, rising to point down the street. \"Your quarters await you!\"\n\nIf anyone might question the wisdom of allowing my wild sailor-lads to seek out lodgings for us, their fears would be mislaid; they were jealous of my honor, Phèdre's Boys, and no one was allowed to mock it save they themselves." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidden away in the shadow of the Palace, it was a charming house. It had a tiny courtyard near overgrown with shade vines, a stable and a deceptively generous layout, being narrow, but deep. There was ample room for our party.\n\n\"I contracted a kitchen-mistress,\" Remy said anxiously, \"and a day-maid. There's a lad to help with the stables, and I reckon between the three ... four of us ...\" he shot a glance at Joscelin, \"... we can do what else needs doing. Will it suit, my lady?\"\n\nI stood in the entry, where the winter light filtered cool and green through the hardy vines." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It will suit,\" I said, catching my breath in a laugh. \"It will suit most admirably, chevalier!\"\n\nThus did I take up residence as the Comtesse de Montrève in the City of Elua.\n\nMy first invitation arrived before I'd scarce gotten settled; no surprise, for I'd written to Cecilie in advance that I was returning. We had maintained a steady correspondence during my time at Montrève, for in addition to being one of my oldest acquaintances—and one of the few I trusted nearly as much as I did Joscelin—she was a delightful correspondent, her letters laden with bits of news and gossip that I relished to no end." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I accepted her invitation at once." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Phèdre.\" Meeting me at her door, Cecilie Laveau-Perrin enfolded me unhesitatingly in a warm embrace that I returned without reserve." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her light-blue eyes, set in a face no less beautiful for encroaching age, glowed as she held me at arm's length." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You look well. Country living must suit you.\" Smiling, she gave Joscelin the kiss of greeting. \"And Joscelin Verreuil! I am still jealous of Cassiel's claim upon you.\"\n\nJoscelin flushed to the roots of his hair and murmuredsomething in reply; he had been more gracious, the last time. \"With your permission,\" he said stiffly to me, \"I'll see if I can find the scholars' hall that Seth ben Yavin spoke of, and return for you in a few hours' time. I'm sure you and the Lady Cecilie have much to discuss.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"As you wish.\" It was awkward, this formality between us; I could have bitten my tongue at the tone of my voice, though it was no cooler than his." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Cecilie raised her eyebrows, but said nothing until we were seated in her lesser parlour, the cozily appointed room where she received her intimate friends. A maidservant poured wine and brought a tray of delicacies, withdrawing with the immaculate discretion of one trained to serve an adept of Cereus House. \"So did the strain of your star-crossed union prove too great, my dear?\" she asked then, kindly.\n\n\"Not in Montrève, no.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I shook my head and took a sip of wine, then drew a deep breath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I am returning to the Service of Naamah.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Ah.\" Cecilie rested her chin on her fingertips, regarding me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And Messire Joscelin grieves. Well, I did not think Naamah had done with you, Phèdre,\" she said, surprising me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You were born to be one of the great ones, not to waste your youth on sheep-shearings and barn dances. How old are you? Twenty?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "'Twenty-two.\" A touch of indignation in my tone made her smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You see? Scarce out of girlhood.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She toyed with a strand of pearls, but her pale blue eyes were shrewd." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Although I'll allow that you've seen and done things no Night Court adept could survive. Still, in ten years, you might come into your prime. Is it only that, my dear, or is it Anafiel Delaunay's game you seek to play?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I should have known she would suspect it. Cècilie had been the one to train us, Alcuin and me, in the arts of love; she had also been one of the few who knew what Delaunay was about. For a brief moment, I considered confiding in her. I trusted her discretion. But it would worry her; and itcould endanger her, too." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'sworn' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And unlike Joscelin and my chevaliers, Cecilie was no warrior sworn to my protection, skilled in the arts of defense. It cast Delaunay's dilemma in a different light, and for the first time I sympathized with his desire to shield me in ignorance.\n\n\"I'm sworn to Naamah, and not to House Courcel,\" I said lightly. \"Unlike my lord Delaunay. But you may be sure, I've not forgotten what I learned in his service. I will keep my ears open and my wits about me. If I learn aught that Ysandre should know ...\" I shrugged. \"So much the better.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not entirely convinced, Cecilie leveled her gaze at me. \"Be careful, Phèdre.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As an adept of Cereus House, she had cause to know. In the Thirteen Houses of the Court of Night-Blooming Flowers, Naamah's Service was an item of faith. As Naamah had lain down with strangers on blessed Elua's behalf, so did we; but we were mortal, and where power intersects with pleasure, there is danger. Adepts of the Night Court dabbled with great caution in political intrigue. As a peer of the realm, I risked all the more." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No one living had done it.\n\nPlacing a candied rose petal on my tongue, I let it melt in a wash of sweetness. \"I will,\" I promised. \"What news have I missed?\"\n\n\"Ah, well!\" Her eyes danced." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Despite the Cruarch's visit this summer, it grows obvious that the Queen is not with child. Now that winter stares us in the teeth, speculation mounts as to whether or not she will take a lover; and if so, whom.\"\n\n\"Does it indeed?\" I murmured. \"Do you think she will?\" We were D'Angeline. Love as thou wilt. She would not have been the first, nor the last." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No,\" Cecilie said decisively, shaking her head before sipping her wine. \"Ysandre was raised as a pawn on the playing field of marital alliance; she knows how to play the game and commit to none. Any mind, I hear she is committed to him. If House Courcel provides an heir, he or she will be half Picti.\"\n\nIt was true; I had reason to know it. Against all odds, themarriage of the Queen of Terre d'Ange and the Cruarch of Alba was a love match—and the Strait that divided them was nigh as deep as the one between Joscelin and me.\n\n\"Still,\" Cecilie continued, \"it is open season on the position of Queen's paramour, and contenders abound.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If Ysandre is not troubled, I'll not trouble myself.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I took up the wine-jug and refilled our glasses. \"What of the Skaldi? Have the borders been quiet?\"\n\n\"As the grave.\" There was satisfaction in her tone. \"Somerville was awarded a duchy, you know; sovereign in L'Agnace. No one disputes it. The Royal Army's been approved to stand down, now. Camaelines hold the border.\"\n\n\"D'Aiglemort's men?\" I glanced up, surprised. Cecilie nodded." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The Unforgiven, they call themselves,\" she said softly. \"They bear black shields.\"\n\nWe were both silent a moment, remembering. Only a few of the Allies of Camlach had survived the battle of Troyes-le-Mont, where the Skaldi warlord Waldemar Selig had united his people, leading an invasion against Terre d'Ange. He had had reason to believe he would prevail, encouraged in his endeavors by Melisande Shahrizai, who played a deep-laid game." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I know, for she sold me into slavery among the Skaldi when I learned her plan. I do not think she meant me to survive. I did, though. In the deepest winter of Skaldia, I survived to become Selig's mistress, and I learned his plan, escaping in time to warn Ysandre. It was enough, by the nearest of margins. Ysandre sent me to Alba, and I brought the Cruarch's army to my country's aid." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In the end, only Melisande escaped unscathed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could have done none of it without Joscelin.\n\nThe Allies of Camlach had been vassals of the traitorous Duc Isidore d'Aiglemort, Melisande's ally, whose fatal conspiracy had opened the door for the Skaldic invasion and nearly brought ruin on the nation. Isidore d'Aiglemort is dead now, and he died a hero at the end.\n\nI was there, watching from the parapet, when he led the charge against Waldemar Selig's army. It was the Allies ofCamlach who had driven a wedge into the massed Skaldi, and d'Aiglemort himself who slew Selig." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He didn't live to tell of it; not many men of Camlach had survived that charge. Those who had lived had vowed themselves to driving the invading Skaldi far beyond D'Angeline borders.\n\nThe Unforgiven. It was a disturbing name.\n\n\"Did you hear?\" Cecilie changed the subject, poring over the tray of dainties. \"Prince Benedicte has remarried.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, yes.\" She looked amused." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you suppose the passions of the flesh wither with age, my dear?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But he must be ...\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Only sixty-aught,\" Cecilie said complacently. \"And twelve years a widower. Ganelon was his elder, by a considerable amount. He took a Camaeline lass to wife, whose family was slain in the war. Tourande, Tourais, something like that. They're expecting a child, come spring. I didn't tell you?\"\n\n\"No,\" I said absently. \"What does it betoken, for the throne?\"\n\n\"Naught that I know of.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She nibbled at a bit of marche-pain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"As Ganelon's brother, Benedicte is still formally next in line, but he has two daughters to succeed him, although I understand Thérèse is imprisoned for her part in Isabel L'Envers' death.\"\n\n\"And Barquiel L'Envers?\"\n\n\"The Duc L'Envers.\" Cecilie set her piece of marchepain down unfinished. \"If you're wary of anyone, be wary of him, Phèdre. Ysandre is thick with her uncle—and I do not say it is wrong, for blood calls to blood. But House L'Envers was ever ambitious, and he was your lord's enemy, you know. Ysandre may be Isabel's daughter, but she bears Rolande's blood.\"\n\nI knew; I knew it well." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Duc Barquiel L'Envers was high atop the list of peers I mistrusted." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As it happens, I also owed him my life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well,\" I said reflectively." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"A proper hornet's nest, it seems.\"\n\n\"When were politics aught else?\" Cecilie gave me a long, evaluating glance. \"If you're going to do this, we'll need to set you up properly, Phèdre no Delaunay de Montrève. In living memory, no peer of the realm has chosen to follow Naamah's service. You're going against fashion, my dear.\"\n\n\"I know,\" I said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But Naamah's arts are older than Terre d'Ange itself, and her service is ancient among us. I was her Servant before I was a peer. There was honor in both, once, and neither precluded the other. I swore an oath, Cecilie. I made the dedication and released a dove in Naamah's name. Do you say I should gainsay it?\"\n\n\"No,\" Cecilie sighed. \"Nor will the Queen. Do you plan to maintain a salon?\"\n\n\"No.\" I smiled. \"I never did, in Delaunay's service. My ... patrons ... prefer to set their own terms, on their own territory. I am an anguissette, after all.\"\n\n\"Well, if anyone can restore the lustre to Naamah's service, it's you, child.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She cocked her head. \"You'll at least need the services of a proper attendant. Have you a seamstress in mind? If you've not, I've word of a lass in Eglantine House who might do.\" I shook my head. \"Have you registered with the Guild yet? You'll need to do that, now that you've made your marque. Oh, Phèdre!\" Cecilie clapped her hands together, eyes sparkling. \"We've so much to do!\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "expand on the story like Jacqueline Carey would. btw might have existing characters/lore" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The fabric for my costume had arrived, and a courier had sent word from Favrielle nó Eglantine that I was to come for a fitting." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "One matter, however, pertaining to the Queen's Masque remained unsettled.\n\n\"I would like you to come,\" I said to Joscelin, \"but if you want to maintain your vigil, I will understand.\"\n\nWe had made peace, after a fashion; he had brought me a silent offering of apology, a beautifully wrought plinth of black marble on which Delaunay's bust now stood. Where he had gotten the monies for such a thing, I did not know, nor did I ask. Later I learned that he had pawned a jeweled dagger for it, a gift of Ysandre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I think it might be best if you took one of the lads,\" Joscelin murmured." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't... It's been a long time since I held Elua's vigil on the Longest Night, Phèdre, and I think I am better suited for it than sharing joie with nobles right now.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He gave a faint smile, to remove any hurtfulness from his words." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Let Fortun escort you; he's more sense than the other two.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"All right.\" I stooped to kiss his brow on my way out; he shivered under it.\n\nSo it was that Fortun accompanied me to Eglantine House, where Favrielle eyed him with approval. \"Asmodel,\" shesaid, measuring the breadth of his shoulders with the span of her arm. \"One of the seven courtiers of hell, who served under Kushiel. We'll put him in a black velvet doublet and hose, and a great bronze key on a chain about his neck. A simple horned domino, I think; black satin. A fitting attendant for Mara. Noreis!\" Raising her voice, she beckoned to a tailor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No adept, he hastened to obey." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Will you see to it? Something elegant, not this season's forsaken nonsense.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'favrielle' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Of course.\" He bowed his head. Genius rules in Eglantine House. If Favrielle was unfit to serve Naamah, she clearly reigned over the fitting-room.\n\n\"Very well.\" With a sigh, Favrielle turned back to me. \"Let's see what we have.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Once I had stripped and donned the half-sewn gown, I had to admit a grudging acknowledgment of her skill." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Truly, it was splendid." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The scarlet of the silk jersey-cloth matched the accents in my marque perfectly, and it flowed on my skin like a living thing. Standing on a stool while Favrielle grumbled about me, gathering and pinning, I gazed wide-eyed at my reflection in the mirror.\n\n\"Favrielle, my sweet!\" The door to the fitting-room swung open to admit a tall adept in his mid-thirties, with merry eyes and a handsome, mobile face. \"Where's my three-layered cloak for the Troubador of Eisande? I'm commissioned for Lord Orion's fête tonight, and the Dowayne promised him a private performance!\" Catching sight of me, he stopped and swept an elaborate bow." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Forgive me, gentle lady ...\" His resonant voice trailed off, and the merry gaze turned sharp as it swept up the length of my marque. His eyes met mine in the mirror, looking for the scarlet mote. \"My lady, indeed. Phèdre nó Delaunay de Montrève, if I am not mistaken.\"\n\n\"Roussillon no Eglantine.\" I smiled. His satires were famous in Night's Doorstep; I'd heard him declaim, once. \"Well met.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory inclusion (with quotes): And me without an ounce of doggerel!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And me without an ounce of doggerel!\" He made a dismayed face, then struck a pose. \"Waldemar Selig was a warlord,\" he declared. \"Waldemar Selig had a big sword. But his plan fell apart, thanks to Kushiel's Dart, and Waldemar Selig got Isidore'd.\"\n\nAcross the room, Fortun gave a snort of repressed mirth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He had been there, on the battlefield, when Isidore d'Aiglemort slew Waldemar Selig." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It cost him his life, but I reckoned Terre d'Ange's greatest traitor won his redemption in destroying her greatest enemy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Still, it was good to be able to laugh.\n\n\"I'm not done,\" Roussillon said mildly, and cleared his throat. \"Mighty Selig turned his back, when he divulged his attack, to the men of his barbarian horde. His loins, how they burned! Too late, Selig learned, a skilled anguissette is not safely ignored!\"\n\nI laughed aloud, clapping my hands; Roussillon swept me another bow, and Favrielle muttered in disgust. I winced as a carelessly wielded pin scratched me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The trim needed stitching,\" she said crossly to the satirist. \"I'll have it sent to your room on the hour. Now get out, and stop distracting me with your wretched verse!\"\n\nHe mimed fear convincingly, and I was hard put to keep from laughing again. \"Thank you,\" he said then to Favrielle. Catching up her hands, he kissed them despite her best efforts to swat away his grasp." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You are a very angel of clothiers, precious one, and I shall light a candle to your name.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Releasing her, he smiled at me, this time without any artifice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"May I say that it is an honor to meet you, my lady. Naamah's Servants are in your debt.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thank you.\" I returned his smile gravely. He laughed, gave one last swirling bow, and departed.\n\n\"Blathering jackass!\" Favrielle muttered, picking up a dropped pin and driving it hard through the silken fabric. The fine stuff gave easily, and she buried the pin nearly an inch deep in the flesh at the base of my spine. I barely had time to gasp." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Pain, fiery and radiant, burst outward in concentric circles, pulsing and contracting. It washed over me in ripples, acute at the core, sweet as it spread. A red haze occluded the vision in my left eye, blurring my reflected image. Somewhere, behind it, I sensed the bronze visage of Kushiel, rod and flail crossed on his chest, stern and approving.\n\nWhen it cleared, Favrielle knelt staring up at me in blank astonishment, holding the pin she had withdrawn." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She blinked and closed her mouth. \"That must be ... inconvenient.\"\n\nFor once, her voice held no censure, just a certain wry sympathy. I drew a long, shuddering breath. \"Yes.\" I released my pent breath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"An anguissette is not exactly a convenient thing to be.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Through long discipline, I made my tone match hers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It doesn't mean I like you any better.\"\n\nAgainst her will, Favrielle no Eglantine laughed.\n\nWhen I returned home, I found Joscelin agitated and the Rebbe's solemn pupil awaiting me. He rose as I entered the room. \"It is suitable for the Rebbe to see you now, Comtesse,\" he said. \"Will you come?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Include the following text] → \"He really means when he summons me, doesn't he? All right.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I sighed. \"He really means when he summons me, doesn't he? All right.\" I brushed the front of my gown; it was a finespun blue wool, less drab than what I'd worn before. \"Give me a moment to change into something the Rebbe would find suitable. Fortun, tell Benoit not to unhitch the team.\"\n\nThe Rebbe's pupil gave a slight smile. \"Your attire is fine, Comtesse. You mustn't take everything he says to heart. He may disapprove of Servants of Naamah, but I believe he was having a jest.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I made a face, which was probably not an appropriate response for a peer of the realm. \"The Rebbe's humor leaves somewhat to be desired.\"\n\n\"Perhaps.\" The Yeshuite ducked his head, hiding another smile. \"But he is a very great man, and he has earned the right to his small jests, I think. Shall we go?\"\n\nHe had spoken truly; Nahum ben Isaac made no comment on my clothing, but merely sat me down at a desk and brought forth a scroll from the cabinet in his study." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Joscelin sat quiet on a stool. \"Now,\" the Rebbe said decisively. \"We will see.\" Unfurling the top of the scroll, he revealed the opening words of the Be'resheith. With a pointer, he indicated the first sentence. \"You will read until I tell you to stop. And then you will tell it to me again, in your own tongue. And we will see.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Following the pointer—it was a holy scroll, one used for services, which may not be touched by human hands—I read aloud in Habiru, smoothly at times, faltering at others." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Each time I stumbled, the Rebbe corrected me; impatiently, I thought, but then he would gesture for me to continue. When at last he motioned for me to stop, I took a deep breath, and recited the entire tale in D'Angeline, all the way through the covering of the earth with the great flood.\n\nThe Rebbe leaned back and listened, chewing thoughtfully on his beard. Periodically, he nodded with something resembling approval; periodically, he winced.\n\nWhen I was done, he looked grudgingly at me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You studied a translation, I suppose.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No.\" I shook my head. \"I've read it in translation before, father, in the past. But you told me to study it in Habiru, and I did.\"\n\nHe gave me a suspicious glare. From the corner, Joscelin spoke up. \"Phèdre is a gifted linguist, father. The Queen sent her to Alba because of it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hah. I have heard that story.\" The Rebbe plucked a few strands of beard from his bottom lip, and gave me his cunning look. \"Well, then. You will read it again, child, line by line. First in Habiru, then in D'Angeline. And perhaps— perhaps—if you make it through without too many mistakes, I will tell you a tale my own master told me, about the Sefer Raziel and the disobedience of Rahab.\"\n\nOn this stool, Joscelin settled and prepared for a long wait. I sighed, and began again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nahum ben Isaac was an exhausting teacher." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If I thought young Seth had taught me well, I was disillusioned that day." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A great many of the mistakes I made in pronunciation and translation, he had allowed me, slight as they were." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No surprise, I suppose; for the first weeks, he could not even look at me without blushing. But slight mistakes accumulate, and grow to gross errors if unchecked. The Rebbe allowed meno mistakes, and halted me repeatedly during this last reading to correct some minor point until both of us were irritable with it.\n\n\"Blame!\" he said crossly, correcting me a third time; it was a mistake in translation I'd got lodged in my memory. \"Not sin, blame! Blame! Only Yeshua was without sin!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Emphasizing the point, he rapped my knuckles smartly with the pointer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With a faint scraping sound, Joscelin surged to his feet, daggers half-drawn before he realized what he was doing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he did, he looked mortified." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Forgive me, father! I...\"\n\n\"Are still more Cassiline than anything else.\" Looking up at Joscelin, the Rebbe chuckled into his beard. \"Well, apostate, we will see.\" Fingering his khai pendant, he nodded at me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You did not embarrass the Tanakh. Master these verses, and next time I will tell you of Rahab and the Lost Book. Maybe there is somewhat in these children's tales you may use.\"\n\n\"Thank you,\" I said gratefully, standing. My muscles had grown cramped from sitting so long, and my mind felt taxed. Oddly enough, it was not a bad feeling. So it had been when I was a child in Delaunay's household, and he used to push Alcuin and me to cram our minds full of history and politics and language." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I had fretted at it, then, though I learned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now I knew the value of it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I will come at your summons, father, whenever I am able.\"\n\nJoscelin, still red-faced, made his Cassiline bow. \"Ya'er Adonai panav elekha, father, please accept my apology. I was half-drowsing, and did not think.\"\n\n\"So like a child, you rest safely in the presence of Yeshua, hah!\" The Rebbe gave his cunning smile, and poked a finger at Joscelin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"There is something to think about.\" He made a wave of dismissal, \"Now go.\"\n\nOutside, Joscelin moved like a man in a dream, hitching the team and making ready to drive. I longed to say a word to draw him back, but what that word might be, I did not know.\n\nArriving at home at dusk, all three of my chevaliers were clustered in the reception salon, with Gemma hovering over Ti-Philippe and pressing a cool, moist cloth over his right eye." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't tell me,\" I sighed. It had been a long day.\n\n\"It's not what you think, my lady.\" Ti-Philippe pushed Gemma's hand away and grinned at me, revealing a bruised and swollen visage. \"We didn't get caught, or any such thing. We were dicing in quarters with the Palace Guard, like you said.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"One of 'em accused Ti-Philippe of cheating,\" Remy said helpfully, \"and we quarrelled. Then he said somewhat about you that we didn't take kindly. So we showed him the error of his ways.\"\n\nI flung myself into a chair. \"And how much trouble are you in?\"\n\nRemy coughed. \"Not much. The Captain of the Guard agreed we had the right of it and put the fellow under reprimand. We're allowed back, all right. But there's, um, a small fine for causing a disturbance in their quarters.\"\n\n\"How small?\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "hey can u write 6 sentences more sentences? keep same character vibes in erotica, romance, fantasy style" }, { "from": "human", "value": "You're sure.\" Joscelin frowned at me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'd stake my life on it. He's terrified.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Well,\" he reflected. \"If Lord Marmion Shahrizai conspired to free Melisande, why should he fear her?\"\n\n\"He wouldn't.\" Chin in hand, Fortun sat staring at the two-story plan of Troyes-le-Mont spread and weighted on the table; markings indicating Melisande's room, the postern gate, the guards' positions. \"Because he didn't.\" He looked up at me. \"Does it make sense any other way?\"\n\n\"No.\" I shook my head.\n\n\"Then why did he kill his sister?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Fortun contemplated the map again as if it held answers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That guardsman Branion, I tell you, my lady, he was sure of it. Remy and Ti-Philippe made no mistake about it.\"\n\nJoscelin and I exchanged a glance.\n\n\"There are two possibilities,\" I said, holding up a forefinger. \"One, your guardsman is mistaken, Fortun. And since this is the simplest explanation, it is the likeliest. But two ...\" I held up a second finger, \"... 'Twas the other way 'round. Marmion killed Persia because she helped Melisande escape.\"\n\n\"So?\" Fortun frowned, puzzling it through. \"If she did, and he learned it, why kill her? He gained the Queen's trust by betraying Melisande's allies, for Elua's sake. Why let this coin slip through his fingers? To kill his sister? He's torn House Shahrizai apart, with the rumor of it! Unless ...\" He glanced up at us." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Unless he had no proof, that's why.\"\n\n\"No.\" Joscelin leaned forward, folding his arms over his knees. He looked at me like in the old days, when our survival depended on our ability to think and act together as one. \"That's only part. You're right, he's no proof of it, but there's still somewhat more. Marmion or Persia, either one, the same premise holds true. The guard at the postern gatewould have given challenge. There's still the unknown ally, the trusted one. Whatever Marmion learned, if he threatened Persia with it, she would have threatened back, with somewhat he feared.\"\n\n\"Melisande,\" said Fortun.\n\n\"He's scared of Melisande now,\" I observed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It can't be that. It's got to be someone whose reach is closer. Someone Ysandre trusts implicitly, whose mere word would be enough to condemn him. If Persia threatened him with that... well, mayhap.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If he knew who it was,\" Joscelin said simply, \"he could tell the Queen.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But if he didn't,\" Fortun observed, \"he'd be left with the choice of calling her bluff, or—\"\n\n\"Or killing her,\" I finished. \"He doesn't know. If he did, he'd not suspect me. And he does, believe me. He warned me at the Masque, and he turned grey seeing me talking with Severio. I don't think he's playacting. He's feared for his life.\"\n\n\"How does he know Melisande is in La Serenissima?\" Joscelin asked reasonably. \"We only do because ...\" He eyed me sidelong. \"That damnable cloak.\"\n\n\"Which means a patron,\" I murmured." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If I knew which one, I promise, this would be much simpler. Well, if Marmion confronted Persia, who knows what she told him? Enough to know that Melisande is well protected, here and in La Serenissima. Enough to threaten him, so that he was moved to kill her. But not enough for proof.\"\n\n\"Why would Marmion suspect his sister?\" Fortun asked.\n\nI pressed my temples and stared at the plan of the fortress until it swam in my vision. There, marked with her initials, were Melisande's quarters on the second floor. So little space in Troyes-le-Mont, we all slept two and three to a room, except for Melisande. Ysandre had allowed her that much, on what was to be her final night on this earth: A room of her own." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thelesis de Mornay's voice echoed in my memory, repeating the words she had recorded when she interviewed Ghislain de Somerville about that night." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bynow, my father had emerged, and assumed command unthinking." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He wasted no time in ordering a detachment to the second floor, to Melisande Shahrizai's chamber where she was confined. There, he found her guards slain; one with a dagger to the ribs, and the other with his throat cut. The chamber itself was empty.\n\nA piece of the puzzle fell into place, with a satisfying sense of tightness and surety I'd nearly forgotten.\n\n\"She never left Melisande's room,\" I said, lifting my head.\n\n\"You think ... ?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Joscelin stared at me. \"Melisande.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" I said. \"Remember Selig's steading? People see what they expect. You put a wolf-pelt over your head and muttered a few words of Skaldi, and Selig's folk saw one of the White Brethren. It would take less than that for the guardsmen of Troyes-le-Mont to see Melisande as Persia. The Shahrizai are all cast from the same die. They saw a daughter of House Shahrizai enter alone, and they saw her leave. They saw what they expected.\"\n\n\"Well, but how would Marmion guess it?\" Fortun asked.\n\nI shrugged. \"Look to the wolf-pelt. Whatever his sister wore into that chamber, she didn't have it afterward. They rode into Troyes-le-Mont cloaked and hooded. I'd be willing to hazard a guess that Persia Shahrizai somewhere mislaid that garment, and her brother Marmion took note of it. He's not stupid, no matter if he's a match for Melisande or not. He'd guess well enough to confront his sister with it.\" I stirred. \"Elua! We need to talk to those guardsmen. Did the lads have any luck at the barracks?\"\n\nFortun pulled a glum face." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'anyone' 3 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No one who served that night was with de Somerville in Camlach, my lady, but most of his men are quartered in outlying L'Agnace. Do you want us to pay a call?\" His face brightened at the prospect.\n\n\"I think so,\" I said decisively. \"I need to hear from Phanuel Buonard, who found the slain guard at the postern, and anyone else on duty that night. Anyone! Unless I miss my guess, Melisande was at large from three bells onward, and Persia simply slipped back to her own quarters when thealarm sounded, before anyone thought to check Melisande's rooms. Whoever thought they saw Persia in that time, saw Melisande. Ghislain de Somerville made no report of it, but someone must have seen!\"\n\n\"Who killed the guards at Melisande's door, then?\" Joscelin asked softly. \"Did she do it herself, then, with never a sound to alert the guard at the stair?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He placed a finger on the map of the fortress, raising his eyebrows. \"Is she so skilled with a dagger, think you? Or was it the unknown ally?\"\n\n\"I don't know,\" I murmured. \"Melisande uses people well; it is her gift. I have never known her to dirty her own hands.\" I met his eyes. \"What do you think?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Gazing at the plan, he bit his lip." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I think,\" he said slowly, \"I think it was someone very skilled with a dagger, to dispatch two of Percy de Somerville's hand-picked guardsmen without a sound. If I were you...\" His voice shook; he cleared his throat and steadied it, holding my gaze." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'cassilines' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If I were you, my lady, I would ask who among the Cassiline Brethren attended Ysandre de la Courcel during the siege of Troyes-le-Mont. Because ... because that is a possibility so impossible we never even considered it. But there were Cassilines there. And we are human.\"\n\nFortun sucked in a hissing breath. \"Cassilines! If I were posted on guard by Admiral Rousse, in the old days ... my lady, I'd never think to question a Cassiline! I don't know as I'd even mark one's passing.\"\n\n\"They carried intelligence,\" I said, sick at remembering. \"The length and breadth of the nation, working on Ysandre's behalf. Lord Rinforte, the Prefect, pledged as much, because no one would ever suspect the Cassiline Brotherhood of politicking.\" I saw the same sickness reflected in Joscelin's eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Joscelìn, you were one of them. Is there any Cassiline, for any reason, who would support Melisande?\"\n\n\"No.\" He sank his face into his hands. \"I don't know. The training, oh, Phèdre! It goes bone-deep. But stranger... stranger things have happened, I suppose.\"\n\n\"I will try to find out,\" I said gently. \"But will you writeto the Prefect, and ask him? All I need are the names. We will do the rest.\"\n\nJoscelin raised his stricken face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'll ask,\" he whispered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You said ... do you remember? Even if...\" He made his voice stronger. \"Even if it is so, you said you didn't think the same person killed the guard at the postern gate, do you remember?\"\n\n\"Yes.\" My heart ached for him. \"It may be ... it may be another blind alley, Joscelin,\" I said slowly, not pointing out the fact that he himself had been first to disabuse me of the notion. \"But we need to know.\"\n\n\"I will ask,\" he whispered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Fortun had resumed staring at the plan of Troyes-le-Mont, a formidable scowl on his face. \"The question remains,\" he said. \"Why?\"\n\nNone of us could answer.\n\nTrue to his word, Joscelin wrote to the Prefect of the Cassiline Brotherhood, though I knew it cost him to go begging for information not rightly his to the man who had condemned him as a vow-breaker. Whether for spite or other concerns, no answer was forthcoming.\n\nRemy and Ti-Philippe rode to Champs-de-Guerre, where the Royal Army was quartered, with funds enough for a three-day carouse." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This they did to the fullest degree, returning to the City of Elua with aching heads, empty pockets and no more knowledge than before." }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<USAGE LIMIT>>: 'don't' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The guardsmen of Troyes-le-Mont had as good as vanished.\n\nI checked with Thelesis de Mornay, who had no record of the Cassiline Brothers attendant on Ysandre during the siege; indeed, she looked at me with mild surprise, having never considered the matter. At length, I found an opportunity to query Ysandre herself, broaching it in a sidelong manner.\n\nThe Queen frowned, pale brows knitting. \"Honestly, I don't recall. There have always been Cassilines about, ever since I was a child; I don't think I ever saw my father without a pair of them hovering in the background. One comes to forget their presence. Lord Ignace d'Avicenne was Secretary of the. Presence, he might remember. Or you could ask the Royal Archivist. May I ask why?\"\n\nHer tone changed, with that last question; Ysandre de la Courcel was nobody's fool, and most certainly not mine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I murmured something inadequate about Joscelin having an interest in the matter." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'ysandre' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ysandre was sensitive enough to the troubles in our relationship not to pursue it, but her gaze rested thoughtfully on me. And beyond her, just out of earshot, I saw that same interest mirrored in another pair of violet eyes.\n\nNicola L'Envers y Aragon, whose presence at court troubled me.\n\nTaking leave of the Queen, I went to bespeak Lord Ignace d'Avicenne, and found him old and feeble in his wits. He had been Ganelon's Secretary of the Presence; Ysandre had allowed him to retire gracefully after the war. He remembered the names of every nursemaid he'd had as a child, and not a one of the Cassiline Brethren who'd attended the Queen." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I went then to Micheline de Parnasse, who was the Royal Archivist." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'years' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had ten years on Ignace d'Avicenne if she had a day, but her mind was as sharp as Cassiel's dagger. She peered at me and spoke a few sharp words to one of her assistants, a lanky young Siovalese lordling who grinned when she wasn't looking, and treated her with the utmost deference.\n\nOne might expect dust and disarray in the Royal Archives, where the records of a thousand years of D'Angeline royalty are housed, but the place was spotless, smelling of sweet beeswax and organized within an inch of its life. Micheline de Parnasse's assistant followed her orders unerringly; and halted, stock-still, in astonishment.\n\n\"It's not here, my lady,\" he said. \"The pages are missing.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her brows beetled furiously, \"What! You must be looking in the wrong place. Let me see.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Moving with the aid of a cane, she came to scan the shelf." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He passed her the hidebound ledger he'd withdrawn, and she examined it carefully, tilting it to and fro in the lamplight. At length, she looked soberly at me. \"He's right. Three pages have been excised.\" Balancing the ledger, she showed me the sharp edges buried in the spine where the pages had been cut. \"Five years of Cassiline Brethren attendant on House de la Courcel, recorded there. Someone's taken them out.\"\n\nOh, Joscelin! With an effort, I kept my voice level." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"My Lady Archivist, who has access to these records?\"\n\n\"Directly?\" Micheline de Parnasse frowned, absently stroking the ledger as one might comfort a wounded child. \"Myself, and my two assistants, who'd sooner murder a babe in the cradle than tamper with the archives! The Queen, of course. And the Secretaries of the Privy Seal.\"\n\nI had been out of the City too long. \"Who holds those posts?\"\n\nShe gave me three names, and I startled at the third." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Solaine Belfours? I did not know she held the honor still.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hastily, I gathered my wits." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"My Lady Archivist, it is needful that these records be complete.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes.\" Distraught, she held the ledger close to her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes, I will write to the Prefect of the Cassiline Brotherhood, and ask him to supply the information. Rinforte will know, they keep records of their own. 'Tis a grave thing, to desecrate the Royal Archives!\" She scowled, and I'd not have liked to be held accountable for the crime. \"Rinforte will know. Do you want me to send notice when it conies, young... Phèdre, was it?\"\n\n\"Yes, my lady,\" I murmured. \"If you please.\"\n\nI wrote out my name and address for her Siovalese assistant, who held the bit of parchment on which I'd written like it was a precious thing, and grinned at me. \"Don't worry,\" he said. \"We'll find it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "So I left them, the Royal Archivist muttering in a fury, and her smiling assistant." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had learned a great deal in the pursuit of knowledge that eluded me." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "expand on the story like Jacqueline Carey would. btw might have existing characters/lore" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "1 he next day, we said our farewells to the Lady of Marsilikos, and made our way to the quai to board the Darielle. She was a three-masted galley, one of the newest and finest merchanters D'Angeline traders had afloat, and not even my chevaliers had a word to say against her.\n\nThe last thing we did, before boarding, was conclude the sale of our mounts and packhorses to one of the many horse traders who provide for and profit from travellers in Marsilikos. We had not arranged for their portage, and I was minded to start anew in La Serenissima, unencumbered upon my arrival. Still, it was a frightening thing, to commit ourselves to the bowels of the ship, knowing we would arrive without home or transport." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I prayed that my factor's arrangements held good, and the sale of the shipment of lead would go through without difficulty." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Quintilius Rousse had accompanied us to the quai, and whatever it was he said to the captain, hauling him aside and muttering ungently in his ear, I daresay it went a long way toward explaining the careful, courteous treatment I received throughout our journey.\n\nWhen he had done with the Captain, he turned to me, and his blue eyes were canny in that unhandsome face. \"Phèdre nó Delaunay,\" he mused. \"Off to chase a will-o'-the-wisp. Well, you have my pledge, and I have your promise. Now hear me, for I've one last piece of advice for you to heed.\" He laid his calloused hands on my shoulders and gripped them hard, staring down at my upturned face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Your lord Delaunay might not have died had he toyed less lightly with Melisande Shahrizai. If you're right, lass, and you find her in La Serenissima, don't play at her game. Go straightaway to Prince Benedicte, and tell him. Royal-born he may be, but Benedicte's a soldier from olden days. He rode with Rolande de la Courcel and Percy de Somerville, and aye, Delaunay too, before you were born. He'll know what to do.\"\n\n\"Yes, my lord,\" I promised him. \"I will.\"\n\n\"Good.\" One last squeeze of my shoulders and a rough embrace, his coarse red hair tickling my ears, and then Quintilius Rousse released me, turning to Joscelin. \"You, lad!\" he said gruffly, shaking him. \"You're travelling with the most beautiful courtesan in three generations of Naamah's Servants! Try to look a little less as if it were a death sentence, will you? And keep her safe, for if that prune-mouthed Cassiel doesn't have your guts for bowstrings, I surely will, if she comes to harm.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "To his credit, Joscelin grinned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I will remember, my lord!\" he said, giving a sweeping Cassiline bow, his steel vambraces flashing in the sunlight.\n\nRousse merely grunted, and turned away. He brooked no foolishness, the Lord Admiral, and he knew whereof he spoke; one does not command the seas and face down theMaster of the Straits without learning to take the measure of a man. He gave a seaman's salute to Fortun, Remy and Ti-Philippe, crisply returned by all three, then strode away, his rolling gait carrying him swiftly the length of the quai." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A fair breeze sprang up past the noon hour, and all was in readiness." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sailors on board the Darielle shouted to and fro with those on the docks; knots were undone, ropes tossed on deck." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required word frequency: 'harbor' (2x)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My chevaliers were restless, eager-eyed, clinging to the railings. This had been their lives, once. The rowers set to, and the galley moved ponderously away from the dock, into the narrow harbor, where the breeze briskened. At a shout from the Captain, the mainsail dropped. The stiffened canvas filled slowly, bellying in the wind, and the ship glided toward the mouth of the harbor, prow nosing toward the open seas." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We were on our way." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'voyage' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In truth, a lengthy and uneventful sea voyage makes for a poor tale; and, by Elua's grace, that is what we were granted. Laden with cargo, our ship rode low in the water, but for all of that, the winds blew fair, and we made good time.\n\nFor the first two days of the voyage, Joscelin Verreuil, my Perfect Companion, spent a great deal more time than was seemly hanging over the railings and disgorging the contents of his stomach. No born sailor, he.\n\nMy chevaliers, for their part, were at home in an instant, and it did not take long for the crew of the Darielle to ascertain that they had expert sailors aboard ship." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They took turns at manning the rigging, or the oars, when we rounded the Caerdicci point and the winds turned against us. I daresay I could have bartered their aid against the price of our passage, if I'd been minded to, but it kept them out of trouble and the Captain's nature sweet, so I held my tongue.\n\nAs for me, I had a cabin in the aft castle; a narrow berth, to be sure, but my own. The hempen strands of my hammock cradled me securely, and I slept soundly therein.\n\nThe winds held steady and we surged ahead of them, a froth of white water where our prow cut the seas, keepingin sight of the coastline for the most part." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Captain, whose name was Louis Namot, was quick to summon me, pointing out such sights as might be seen from shipboard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I have learned, since, that there are sailors who think a woman's presence aboard ship to be a sign of ill luck." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Elua be thanked, D'Angelines are spared such idiotic superstitions." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There is a certain peace to it, committing one's fate to the seas, even as there is in surrendering to a patron's will." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I thought often of Hyacinthe on that long journey, wondering if he had come to gain mastery over the scudding waves, and how such a thing might be accomplished. I wondered, too, how far his dreadful inheritance extended. Rahab's realm lay everywhere pn the deep, if Yeshuite teaching was to be believed; but the Master of the Straits was born of a D'Angeline woman, who loved a mortal Alban, and I never heard of his dominion extending beyond the waters that bordered our two lands.\n\nWith such things were my thoughts occupied during our journey, and I daresay it passed quickly enough. White-winged gulls circled our three masts as we travelled, always within a half-day's sail of land." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I thought them pretty; 'twas Remy who told me that they followed the wake of offal left by our galley, descending to pluck the waters clean of fish entrails and other such discarded matter." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Day by day, we made our way northward up the length of the Caerdicci coast.\n\nWe passed tiny islands; barren rocks thrusting into the ocean, fit only for gulls and the poorest of fishermen. 'Twas another matter, according to Louis Namot, on the far side of the sea, the Illyrian coast, which was fair riddled with islands, rich and fertile and a veritable breeding ground for pirates. Indeed, his men kept a keen watch once we'd rounded the point, sharpening their swords and manning the trebuchet mounted atop the forecastle, but we passed unmolested. Illyrian pirates are notorious, but their country is caught between the hammer of La Serenissima and the anvil of Ephesium; they have no quarrel with Terre d'Ange." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "On our twenty-third day at sea, the watcher in the crow's top the midmast gave a shout, and we passed the isle that marks the outermost boundary waters of La Serenissima. Unlike the others, this was no barren grey hummock-a sheer cliff faced the sea, black basalt crags towering angrily above the waves, which broke hard on the rocks below. I didn't know why, as we passed, the sailors all whistled tunelessly, and had to ask the Captain.\n\n\"La Dolorosa,\" he said, as though it explained everything-even he averted his eyes from the black isle. \"It is a Seremssiman superstition, my lady. They say that when Baal-Jupiter slew Asherat's son Eshmun, the Gracious Lady of the Sea wept and raged and stamped her foot, and the floor of the sea rose up in answer, spewing forth La Dolorosa to mark her grief.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am always interested in such things, and leaned upon the guardrail as we sailed by, giving the black isle a wide berth. There was a fortress nestled amid the crags, and I could make out the faint, spidery lines of a hempen bridge suspended high in the air, swaying and sagging betwixt the isle and the mainland. \"But why do they whistle?\" I asked intrigued.\n\n\"To mimic the grieving winds, and turn aside the wrath of Asherat-of-the-Sea, who is wroth still at the death of her son.\" Louis Namot shuddered and took my arm, drawing me further in deck." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include this dialogue snippet naturally: \"Of course, my lord Captain,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"My lady, if you ask me on dry land, I will say it is an old quarrel between the descendants of the Phoenicians and the conquering Tiberians cast in terms to explain a volcanic phenomenon, but we are at sea, and I do not want the Gracious Lady to think we mock her grief with staring. I pray you, turn away!\"\n\n\"Of course, my lord Captain,\" I said politely. His manner eased the moment I obeyed, and he wiped his brow. \"Forgive me, my lady,\" he said, apologizing. \"But the currents around La Dolorosa are strong and uncertain, and no one is wise who mocks the superstitions of a place! most especially not a sailor.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No.\" I remembered Quintilius Rousse tossing a gold cointo the Lord of the Deep upon reaching safe harbor in Alba. \"I should say not.\"\n\n\"I heard tell of a rich merchant,\" one of the sailors offered, \"who laughed at the ship's crew for whistling, and no sooner had he done, than a great wind came up and the ship heeled hard about, and he was thrown over the side and dashed on the rocks of La Dolorosa.\"\n\n\"No,\" said another. \"I heard it too, only they never found his body.\"\n\n\"And I heard,\" Louis Namot said grimly, \"his corpse washed ashore on the isle of Kjarko a hundred leagues south, on the Illyrian coast. And that, lads, is no Mendacant's tale. My uncle served aboard a trireme under Admiral Porcelle, and they chased down a band of Illyrian pirates who were raiding D'Angeline ships along the point. Their captain was wearing the merchant's signet. He pled clemency and told how they found the body. My uncle had to return it to the merchant's widow.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I turned back and gazed at the black isle, dwindling in our wake, the fortress towers silhouetted against the sky." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Who would live in such a place?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No one, by choice,\" the Captain said shortly. \" 'Tis a prison.\"\n\n\"The worst prison,\" a sailor added, and grinned. \"If I'm ever accused of aught in La Serenissima, I'm taking refuge in the temple of Asherat, I am! I'll take the veil myself, like Achilles in the house of Lycomedes, and give all her priestesses a nice surprise!\"\n\nOne of his fellows hushed him quickly, with a furtive glance in my direction. I paid it no heed; I'd been three weeks at sea, and had heard worse." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sailors must make do with one another aboard ship—those who favor women are notoriously eager upon making landfall." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Still, it made me think on what I knew of La Serenissima. Women do not hold offices of power in most of the Caerdicci city-states, that much I knew. It is men who built them, and men who rule, by dint of toil and iron. Asherat-of-the-Sea holds sway, still, because she is the Gracious Lady ofthe Sea, and men who live by the grace of the sea are wise enough to fear her wrath, but this was not Marsilikos, where Eisheth's living blood runs in the veins of the Lady who rules there.\n\nIn La Serenissima, it would be different." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Soon the lookout cried again, and presently we saw before us the long, low line of the spit that bars the great lagoon of La Serenissima; the Spear of Bellonus, they call it, another legacy of the Tiberians." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It extends nearly all the way across the vast, wide mouth of the lagoon, some seven leagues long, forming a natural barrier well guarded by the Serenissiman navy.\n\nAs we drew near to the narrow strait that breaches the spit, there were a great many more ships to be seen, of all makes and sizes, flying all manner of colors: cogs and galleys and triremes, and the low, flat-bottomed gondoli and gondolini with the curving prows and sterns that are ubiquitous in the city, propelled by skilled rowers at tremendous speed. And, too, there were craft I had never seen before, small ships with masts canted forward, bearing odd triangular sails—of Umaiyyat make, the Captain told me. It did not look as though they could carry much in the way of cargo, but they moved swiftly and agilely across the waters, tacking back and forth before the wind while larger vessels must needs go to oars.\n\nA fleet of Serenissiman gondolini surrounded us at the mouth of the straits, their insubstantial menace backed by manned watchtowers on either side and the presence of the navy within the lagoon." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Namot's papers, his writ of passage, were all in order, and in short order, they waved us through.\n\nThus we entered the lagoon.\n\nJoscelin had come to stand beside me in the prow of the Darielle, and I was glad of his presence as we gazed together on our first sight of La Serenissima.\n\nSerenissimans claim she is the most beautiful city in the world, and I cannot wholly begrudge them; 'tis indeed a splendid sight to see, a city rising up from the very waters. I had read what I could find prior to our journey, and I knewit was an ever-ongoing work of tremendous labor that had built La Serenissima, not on dry land, but on islands and marshes, dredged, drained and bridged, oft-flooded, always reclaimed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If I sound unpatriotic in acknowledging the city's beauty, I may add that a great deal of the engineering and building that had made her splendid had come in recent decades, under the patronage of Prince Benedicte de la Courcel, who brought with him Siovalese architects and engineers when his fate was wed to the Stregazza family, exiling him from his homeland.\n\nThe sun shone brightly on the waters as we crossed the lagoon and made for the Great Canal, the sailors cursing good-naturedly as they took to the oars. Ahead of us, galleys and darting craft were everywhere on the vast waterway. Ti-Philippe, who had been once to the city during a brief apprenticeship aboard a merchanter, took it upon himself to point out the sights.\n\n\"The Arsenal,\" he said reverently, nodding behind us to a vast, walled shipyard hugging the lagoon." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It houses one of the finest navies in the world, and they can build a ship faster than you can cut timber.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As we curved along the vast quai, he simply pointed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The Campo Grande. There lies the Palace of the Doge. At the end, the Temple of Asherat-of-the-Sea.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Great Square; it was that, indeed, a vast, marbled terrace simply opening onto the sea. In the center, where it verged the water, stood a tall column, and atop it a statue of the goddess, arms outspread, gazing benignly over the lagoon. Asherat-of-the-Sea, bearing a crown of stars, waves and leaping dolphins worked into the plinth. To her left stood the Palace of the Doge, a long, tiered building worked in white marble, with a level of striated pink, surprisingly rich in the glowing light.\n\nIt is the seat of all politics within La Serenissima, and not merely the Doge's home; within those walls was housed the Judiciary Hall, the Chamber of the Consiglio Maggiore, indeed, the Golden Book itself, in which were inscribed thenames of the Hundred Worthy Families deemed fit to hold office in La Serenissima." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Beyond, at the far end of the square, sat the Temple of Asherat, with its three pointed domes; an Ephesian influence, that, for they ruled La Serenissima for a time and worshipped the goddess under another name. I could see little of the temple, as the square itself was crowded with a vast market, stalls occupying preordained spaces marked in white brick, and, in between, a throng of people. Serenissimans and other Caerdicci, most of them, but I saw unfamiliar faces—proud Akkadians and hawk-faced Umaiyyati; Menekhetans, dark-eyed and calm; Ephesians; even an entourage from Jebe-Barkal, ebony and exotic.\n\nAnd here and there, fair, brawny Skaldi, which gave me a shiver.\n\nThen we were past it, and entering the mouth of the Great Canal itself, and Ti-Philippe pointed to the left where stood the Temple of Baal-Jupiter on the island's tip." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It had clean, straight lines in the Tiberian style, and before it stood a statue of the god himself, one foot striding forward, thunderbolt in hand." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He had slain Asherat's son, according to myth.\n\nI knew what the Captain had meant; 'twas but a translation of mortal history into divine terms, the faith of the conquering Tiberians mingling with the beliefs of those inhabitants they found here. Still, I thought on the black isle of La Dolorosa, and shuddered.\n\nGreat houses rose along the canal after that, splendid and magisterial, with balconies and winding stairs leading down the quai; along its length were docked craft like the gondoli, only larger and more luxurious, canopied, painted in bright colors and rich with gilt and carving. I did not need Ti-Philippe to tell me we were among the homes of the Hundred Worthy Families." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I did not need Ti-Philippe to point out the Little Court, although he did." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I daresay it was nearly as large as the Doge's Palace, although not quite. Three tiers tall, with long, colonnadedbalconies, rippling water-light reflected along the marble length of it. Fluttering pennants hung from the balconies, bearing the silver swan of House Courcel.\n\nDeserving of its name, I thought.\n\nAnd then we were beyond it, and sailed beneath the cunning, peaked bridge of Rive Alto that linked the largest islands of La Serenissima, tall enough to admit a galley to pass, and on our right stood the vast, elegant structure of the Fondaca D'Angelica, the D'Angeline warehouse." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Already the Captain was shouting to men on the quai, and the rowers heaving to all on one side, as our ship wallowed in the deep green waters of the canal and sailors tossed ropes ashore, bringing us to port at last." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had reached La Serenissima." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Expand the story by adding two sentences. Context: May include pre-existing characters and lore." }, { "from": "human", "value": "1 he steps leading down into the tunnel were narrow and treacherous, overgrown with a slick coating of mold." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I could well believe this passage was used but twice a year." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We went in single file, with Joscelin in the lead." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I followed close on his heels and Ti-Philippe behind me; Kazan and his Illyrians followed.\n\nAfter the bloodshed in the warehouse, the Yeshuites were less loathe to be left behind to secure our retreat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Those who had fought on the mainland at La Dolorosa had done so against armed prison guards; 'twas another matter altogether, this slaying out of hand of innocent attendants, ceremonial spears or no. We found a stack of grain sacks bound with twine and cut the cord, using it to tie Cervianus securely, hand and foot, gagging him with a wad of bed-linen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It pained me, but there was nothing else for it. I had promised him his life, and we could not risk leaving him free to give an alarm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The gag cut sharply into the corners of his mouth, and his sunken eyes continued to glare hatred at me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I spoke to him before we left.\n\n\"For what it is worth,\" I said to him, \"I spoke the truthto you, Cervianus. I am sorry for the deaths of your companions.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His expression never changed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazan, passing, caught my arm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do not waste such pity on him, you,\" he advised in a grim tone. \"If we had not taken them by surprise, eh, the catamites would have killed us, yes. You heard him speak of the tunnel, eh? They do not hesitate to kill for their goddess.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was true—and yet. I knew beyond doubt that if I lay coiled once more enduring the agonies of the thetalos, I would endure the blood-guilt of their deaths." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So be it. I had made my choices, knowing full well I must live with the consequences. 'Twas only pain, after all; and who better equipped to bear it than I?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Surely, I thought, though it never be given us to know, the tally of the living must outweigh the dead." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If we did not fail." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Down and down and down went the stairs, growing ever more slippery." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Once my heel skidded and I put out a hand to catch myself, finding the walls green with slime, moisture seeping between the solid blocks of stone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We were beneath a city built on water." }, { "from": "human", "value": "By the time we reached the floor of the tunnel, the air had grown increasingly dank." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The flame of Joscelin's oil lamp guttered, and I felt my lungs working for sustenance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The passage is open at our end, I reminded myself; surely air must be moving in it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Joscelin held up his hand and waited patiently for the flame to steady, growing brighter. Massed behind us, the Illyrians muttered superstitiously, falling silent at Kazan's harsh order." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We proceeded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I do not know how far it was, that stone-sealed journey beneath a city built on water." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not far, I suppose; a mere city block, as the architects would reckon it. Outside, I had seen the domes of the Temple and shuddered at their nearness." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Below ground, it seemed a world away. The dense, sodden stone absorbed the sound of our footfalls until we seemed a line of shuffling wraiths." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I felt a weariness born of dampness and chill and stone, the never-ending dark eye of thetunnel opening on and on before us. It came almost as a shock when Joscelin stopped in front of me and gazed upward, lifting the lamp." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Another set of stairs, equally steep and narrow, leading upward to vanish in darkness.\n\n\"This is it,\" Joscelin whispered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Phèdre, the plan is yours. What do you will?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I gazed up the stairs, straining eyes and ears, but I could not penetrate the darkness and no sound filtered down to us in the tunnel." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Let me go first and see,\" I whispered back." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If the priestesses of Asherat are the only danger, I'm best equipped to avoid it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His face tightened. \"And if they're not, you're the worst. I'm coming with you.\"\n\n\"Will you stay three paces behind and wait on the stair for my signal?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Joscelin paused, then gave a curt nod." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Good.\" I turned to the others." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Wait here. We'll investigate, and send word.\"\n\nTi-Philippe let out a sigh of resignation; he knew better than to try talking me out of anything." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kazan frowned. \"I do not like it any better than he does, I,\" he said in a low voice, jerking his chin at Joscelin. \"That you should walk first into danger, no. Better one of us.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I smiled in the dim, lamplit tunnel." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You named me rightly when you named me a spy, my lord, long ago on Dobrek. This is what I am trained to do. I would no more allow you to go in my place than you would allow me to lead your men in battle.\"\n\nSomeone at the rear—Volos, I thought—offered an Illyrian jest under his breath regarding the nature and extent of my training." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was glad of the dim light hiding my blush, and doubly glad that Joscelin spoke not a word of Illyrian.\n\nKazan's mouth twitched in a reluctant smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Then be careful, you,\" he said aloud.\n\nI nodded, took a deep breath, and began to ascend the stair." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It is harder to move silently in utter blackness, which iswhat I found myself in once the sharply rising walls cut off sight of the tunnel below. All sounds seem magnified, and one is prone to a vertiginous unsteadiness without vision's markers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As well that Delaunay made Alcuin and me train at such things blindfolded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I let my fingertips trail along the slimy walls and climbed steadily, step by noiseless step." }, { "from": "human", "value": "True to his word, Joscelin followed several paces behind me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He did a fair job of stealth—Cassilines are trained to move with grace and balance and discretion, all of which stood him in good stead—but I could hear him clearly enough; an occasional scrape or creak of leather, the faint sound of his breathing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then again, I am trained to hear such things, too.\n\nAs it happens, our stealth on the stair was unnecessary; 'twas sealed at the top with another door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I felt at the slick, mossy wood with both hands and pressed my ear to it, grimacing with distaste. Faintly, very faintly, I could make out the sound of voices beyond, a low, rhythmic chanting." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In the Temple, I thought; not near enough to be immediately on the other side of the door. I tried the handle cautiously." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was locked, of course.\n\n\"The eunuch may have a key.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Joscelin spoke at my ear, so quietly his breath scarce stirred my hair.\n\n\"And he may not,\" I murmured in reply, reaching for my brooch. \" 'Twill be quicker, this way.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I found the lock by touch, working the pin in blindly; it does not matter, for such a task." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The faint scratching sound rattled loud in my ears.\n\n\"I am sorry,\" Joscelin said almost inaudibly, \"we never found a way to free him.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "So he thought of Hyacinthe too." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't say never. We're not dead yet.\" The lock gave and I held my breath at the thundering clatter, going still and listening." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did you get it?\" Joscelin whispered; he hadn't heard a thing. \"Is it open?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I nodded, forgetting he couldn't see. \"Stay back.\" I turned the handle, opening the door narrowly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Only a dim, ambientlight filtered through the crack and I could hear the chanting more clearly now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Four or more voices; it was hard to discern, in unison, but of a surety, it came from a distance, echoing from the dome of the Temple. I listened hard for anything nearer, and heard naught." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Repinning my cloak, I drew its hood up and slipped through the door, ducking low to crouch with both hands splayed on the floor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nothing before me, and only the door behind." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was hi a low-ceilinged hall that slanted upward toward a tall, narrow archway." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It framed a balconied alcove, in which sat a three-legged stool. To the right and left of the alcove, clearly visible from behind, were openings onto dark chambers, slanted recesses which, like the hallway, would have been nearly undetectable from the front." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lying flat on my belly, I squirmed forward, positioning myself behind the stool to gaze through its legs and the balustrade beyond into the Temple." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Directly opposite me was the massive visage of Asherat-of-the-Sea, wide-eyed and staring, a crescent moon adorning her brow; old, this goddess was, ancient and mighty! I caught my breath, staring back at her, feeling a cold sweat break out between my shoulder blades." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have come to keep my promise, I reminded her silently; have a care for your children's children, O Asherat!\n\nBelow, the Temple was filled with candlelight and the sweet blue smoke of incense." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I wormed my way forward to peer down at the sight." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Seven women stood before the stone altar and the mighty image of the goddess; seven women clad in robes of flowing blue silk, with silver netting overlaying it and shimmering, crystal-strung veils." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The one in the center wore a tiara on her unbound hair, with seven diamonds set in starry silver rays." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Priestess of the Crown, I thought, and her six Elect. One had hair as white as milkweed, upraised hands gnarled with age; old Bianca, who had told my fortune true." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This would be her balcony from which I espied, then, for surely she was the rightful Oracle." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I felt a little better, to think on it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And which had betrayed their goddess for gold or mortal power?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Vespasia, I knew; that was the name of Bianca's successor, who had given the Doge false foretelling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Was she one of the Elect?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had no way of guessing. The Priestess of the Crown?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mayhap. If not her, it had to be one or more of the Elect." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Such risk, such blasphemy, was not undertaken lightly, without surety of gain." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Face-to-face, I might have gauged it; hidden above, I could discern little." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There were two sets of stairs curving down from balcony, leading to the floor below. Slithering like an eel, I checked both and found them empty; only pink-veined marble steps disappearing from my sight where they curved, framed by gilded railings." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well and good; thus far, at least, Cervianus had not lied." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I backed my way carefully to gaze inside the hidden flanking rooms." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Echo chambers, both of them; Sarae's great-great-aunt Onit had spoken true, too." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I had some little knowledge of such things, by virtue of my friendship with Thelesis de Mornay." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Each had sounding boards, cunningly set, to conduct the Oracle's voice into the chamber, and thence into the vaulted ceiling of the central dome, magnifying it vastly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A trick, I thought, to pitch one's voice just so; but it could be done in either direction, to the right or left." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "One held a flexible sheet of bronze, rigged to a mechanism with lever and cogs. This I guessed to be the thunder machine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Hellenes had such devices of old.\n\nSave for the bronze sheet and some ceremonial items— incensors and the like—the chambers were empty." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Satisfied with my inquiry, I withdrew discreetly and slipped through the door to rejoin Joscelin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"'Twill suit, for our needs,\" I said in lowered tones. \"It is as Cervianus said; they maintain a vigil below. Let Ti-Philippe join us, and Kazan's Illyrians wait behind this door, on the stair. I'd sooner they were out of the way, and quiet.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Joscelin nodded, barely visible in the faint, filtered light. \"It's a mad plan, Phèdre,\" he whispered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You know that, don't you?\"\n\n\"Madder than singing Skaldi hearth-songs to the Master of the Straits?\" I whispered back." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No.\" He grinned in the darkness." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That was mine, wasn't it? Blame it on the Tsingano, then, for putting me in Mendacant's robes, and pray yours works half as well.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Believe me,\" I said fervently, \"I do.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reaching blindly for him, I brushed his cheek with my fingertips, caught a double handful of his shorn, tangled hair and kissed him hard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Elua keep you, whatever happens.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And you,\" Joscelin whispered against my lips." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And you, my love.\"\n\nIn all the time we had been together, in all that we had endured, I couldn't remember him calling me that." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I let him go, breath catching in my throat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Go on, then, and bring them.\"\n\nHe did, and in short order we were all positioned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With every sense and every nerve on edge, I thought the rustling and creaking and whispering would drive me to distraction, but in truth, they handled it with subtlety." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kazan and his men would wait on the stair, ready to spring into action should need be; Joscelin and Ti-Philippe lurked in the echo chambers, hidden from view to all but me, where I could summon them at a glance.\n\nFor my part, I resumed the position I had taken before, lying on my stomach and gazing through the legs of the stool into the Temple below." }, { "from": "human", "value": "'Twas a waiting game, from this point hence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And wait I did, for yet another seeming eternity, half-lulled by the melodious chanting below." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It matters naught, I thought. I have waited, and waited and waited and waited, throughout this long sojourn; waited for information in the City of Elua, waited for events to turn in La Serenissima, waited on my ransom, waited on the thetalos, waited on the Archon's answer... for months on end, I had done naught but wait." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I could wait this while longer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At last the Priestess of the Crown brought an end to their litany and she rose with her Elect, clapping her hands.\n\nSomewhere, outside, dawn was breaking." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I lay hidden, watching as the Temple of Asherat-of-the-Sea scurried to life." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Candles were replenished, the incensors refilled, and a great dais of wood brought before the altar in three parts, borne by harried eunuchs. Untouched by it all, the mighty image of Asherat stared forth, hands reaching down to touch the stone-wrought waves." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In all the bustle, I took the measure of the echo chamber's pitch, humming softly in either direction until I was sure I had the angle of it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ti-Philippe looked at me as if I were mad, though he held his tongue; Joscelin's eyes glinted with an answering wildness." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Once he had committed to a thing, he held nothing back." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Whether or not he learned it in his brief tenure with Anafiel Delaunay or no, we were alike, in that." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Somewhere, a ray of light struck Asherat's crown alongside the harbor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I saw sunlight flood into the Temple as the great entrance doors opened in the antechamber; I heard the muted roar of the gathered crowd in the Campo Grande outside. I heard it rise as the procession drew near and the Dogal Guard formed a double line, protest breaking against the wall of shields and spears." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I saw the Priestess of the Crown take up her place before the altar, flanked by her chosen, while acolytes and attendants made ready to receive the royal retinue.\n\nI saw them enter the Temple." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, Elua! They were all there, all of them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Cesare Stregazza, still the Doge, and a frail woman at his side who must be his wife; Marco and Marie-Celeste, with Severio proud beside them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Others I knew by sight, knowledge garnered, it seemed, so long ago: Orso Latrigan and Lorenzo Pescaro, once contenders for the Dogal Seat, defeated by Marco's bid, and others, too, members of the Hundred Worthy Families and the Consiglio Maggiore, noblemen from the Six Sestieri, attired in garish splendor, embittered or sycophantic according to their natures." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And there were D'Angelines." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh yes, there were D'Angelines.\n\nIt took me aback, to see Ysandre de la Courcel enter the Temple of Asherat; to see, after so long, all the glory and beauty of Terre d'Ange, my homeland, personified in my Queen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wore a gown of pale lavender with a cloak of green, Elua's color, laced with gold brocade, and even from my poor view on the floor of the balcony, I could see the workmanship was exquisite. A simple circlet of gold sat atop her pale blonde hair and a gold mesh caul bound it, and her profile was breathtakingly pure." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had forgotten, somehow, that Ysandre was no older than me.\n\nAlong with a handful of D'Angeline nobles and a file of men-at-arms, who took posts at the rear of the Temple, four Cassiline Brothers accompanied her to a place of honor to the right of the Doge and the Doge-elect on the dais." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With their ashen-grey attire, hair bound in neat clubs at the napes of their necks, daggers at their waists and swords at their backs, they were nearly identical, all of an age, somewhere betwixt forty and fifty years, I guessed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Any one of the four might have been David de Rocaille ... or none.\n\nAnd then Prince Benedicte's party entered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hadn't been sure, until then, if Melisande would dare it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I should have known that she would." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She came in on the arm of Benedicte de la Courcel, tall and hale in the blue and silver of his House, his erect carriage belying his age. Her gown of deep-blue velvet matched his doublet, and her head was lowered modestly, the shining Veil of Asherat hiding her features; but behind, ah!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her hair hung loose and unbound, falling in gleaming blue-black waves to the small of her back." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Melisande, I thought, laughing silently, tears in my eyes; oh, Melisande!\n\nWhen all was said and done, there was no one to match her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My heart beat quickly in my breast and my breath came hard and fast, making my mouth dry." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Desire beat in me likea pulse, remembering her hands, her mouth, her scent. But I had been Naamah's Servant for a long time too, twice-dedicated, and I knew what it was to endure yearning as fierce as pain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A coterie of guardsmen surrounded them, clad in the livery of House Courcel. I marked their faces well, and saw many of the veterans of Troyes-le-Mont among them as they took their place amid the jostling throng of noble retinues at the back of the Temple." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Benedicte and Melisande mounted the dais to the left of Marco and Marie-Celeste Stregazza, their strong allies and reunited in-laws.\n\nLast to enter was the double line of the Dogal Guard, securing the doors against an already-roaring crowd in the Campo Grande." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I heard crisply shouted orders and injunctions as they did and guessed—rightly, as it happened—that at least one unit of the civic Serenissiman Guard was posted to ward the doors outside." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Inside, it grew quiet, save for the rustle and murmur of several hundred bodies gathered in one place and the hiss of incense burning, the slight crackle of candle flame. From my hidden perch, I gazed down at the gathered tableau." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A chair had been provided for Cesare Stregazza; I could see the peaked crimson cap atop his thinning white hair, the Dogal Seal flashing gold on his trembling hands where they rested on the arms of the chair." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He had asked my aid in keeping it, the canny old manipulator. Of a surety, what he had intended was not what I had in mind; but it was the course that had offered itself to me, and I had no other choice.\n\nThe ceremony of investiture was about to begin." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for 3 sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the erotica, romance, fantasy genre." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It took yet another day to make ready our departure.\n\nThere was no time for me to seek out Kazan at the Illyrian Ambassador's; I had guessed aright, on that score. I did see Severio Stregazza, who was present at the Little Court to consult with the Vicomte de Cherevin." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Although Ysandre had deferred judgement on the matter, it was tacitly assumed that the claim would eventually be settled in Severio's favor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was an awkward meeting, though I was glad he requested it.\n\n\"I cannot exactly thank you for bringing destruction to my family, Phèdre nó Delaunay.\"\n\n\"I know,\" I murmured." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I would that it had been otherwise, Severio. But—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He cut me off with a gesture." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know. What my father did was treason. What my mother did was blasphemy. By the grace of Asherat or Elua or Baal-Jupiter, or whosoever watches over me, I am enough unlike them to hate them for it. And yet they are my parents, and I was raised to honor them.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He sighed. \"You did what was right and necessary. I only wish it had not been.\"\n\n\"What will happen to them?\"\n\n\"Imprisonment is likely.\" Severio shrugged." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Perhaps exile. It depends on the Judiciary Tribunal's findings, on the mood of the people and the Consiglio Maggiore, my grandfather's wrath, and too,\" he added quietly, \"it depends on Terre d'Ange.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I knew what he was thinking, although neither of us said it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marco and Marie-Celeste were not accused of plotting to kill the Doge, merely to supplant him. Their part in the conspiracy to assassinate the Queen of Terre d'Ange was a graver charge. But if matters went ill at home ... if Ysandre lost the throne, no D'Angeline voice would call for Serenissiman justice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It would be Percy de Somerville who ruled, in the name of the rightful heir, Prince Benedicte's son. And if he called for anything, it would likely be the freedom of the infant heir's wrongfully accused mother. 'Twas no wonder Melisande was prepared to wait." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Terre d'Ange stands under the rule of Ysandre de la Courcel,\" was all I said.\n\n\"Truly, I hope so. I am weary of intrigue tearing my loyalties asunder.\" Severio took my hand, face somber." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He had grown a great deal from the rough-tongued young nobleman I'd met at the Palace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Phèdre, I do not know if events to come will make enemies or allies of us. If Ysandre falls ... I must stand with La Serenissima, and the city will follow where profit lies. Whosoever rules Terre d'Ange, trade must continue. But know that I will always think fondly of you, and I am sorry for what passed between us before.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I owe you my life,\" I said to him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"For that, among other things, I will always be grateful, Prince Severio.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "At that he smiled, a little bit." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You taught me to be proud of my D'Angeline heritage, Phèdre nó Delaunay, and to gaze at those parts of myself I despised without fear. It would not, I think, have been so ill a marriage.\" Bowing, Severio released my hand. \"Luck to you, my lady,\" he said softly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And warn your Queen not to look to the Doge over-long for support. Once she's left Serenissiman soil, Grandfather will wait to see how matters play out.\"\n\nI'd never doubted it; but then, Severio was a slow learner in the family business of intrigue. I prayed he remained thus, for he was a better person for it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you, my lord, and Blessed Elua keep you in his regard.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was my final farewell in the city of La Serenissima, for we departed the next day at dawn, escorted on the Doge's mighty ships to the D'Angeline encampment on the mainland." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My heart swelled to see the bright silken tents with all their pennants fluttering, glossy-hided horses at pasture, hundreds of D'Angeline faces waiting expectantly!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "So many ... and yet so few, when one reckoned the odds." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The entourage of the progressus regalis numbered a mere seven hundred, of which nearly two hundred were household attendants, cooks, grooms, seamstresses, hairdressers, poets, musicians and the like." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Two dozen noble peers, men and women alike, accompanied the Queen; the number set down in ritual centuries ago." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Some had brought their families and men-at-arms." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It made me nervous to see children in the entourage—for there were several—knowing the danger we were leaving behind, and the danger that lay ahead." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The progressus has never been intended as a show of D'Angeline force in Caerdicca Unitas; it is an act of respect and mutual trust." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No monarch has undertaken it when the city-states were at war—which is one reason it had not been done in so long—and no monarch has undertaken it without being secure in the knowledge of D'Angeline loyalties being united behind them, promising dire retribution on any nation that dared threaten the progressus." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Although there were valid political reasons behind it, most especially the need to rebuild the Caerdicci alliances whose absence was evinced during Selig's invasion, I do not think Ysandre would have done it if it had not been for the steady urgings of Benedicte de la Courcel." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Queen's Guard—the Queen's Guard numbered only five hundred men." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And one hundred of these would remain in La Serenissima to secure the Vicomte de Cherevin's stewardship of the Little Court.\n\nIf there was a good face one could put on it, it meant that we would be able to move swiftly, retracing a course across the Caerdicci peninsula strung with alliances solidified mere days and weeks before. Elua willing, they would provide us with aid in the matter of supplies and fresh horses." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ysandre held a brief meeting with her Captain of the Guard and his four remaining lieutenants, her Bursar and the Master of Horse." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Whatever transpired, it did not fare well—a tent affords poor insulation for voices raised in heated argument. I know that Ysandre left the meeting in considerable temper, a flush of color on her high cheekbones, and Amaury Trente stormed angrily about the tents, calling for the encampment to be struck.\n\nIt was done in record speed, supply wagons loaded, trainordered and formed." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'there' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "One of the Master of Horse's assistants found mounts for Joscelin, Ti-Philippe and me; there were riderless horses aplenty, since the guardsmen remaining in La Serenissima would have little use for them. There were carriages for some few members of the party, but most rode astride, as Ysandre preferred to do on the road.\n\nWe were assigned a position in the ranks of peers behind the Queen, surrounded by a cordon of her Guard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No one had bothered to tell us the plan of action; the chain of command had slipped by us, having never included us in the first place." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ti-Philippe tolerated this for all of a half-hour's march before he began querying the guards and learned that we were headed to inland Pavento, two days away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Queen's emissaries had already ridden ahead to alert the Principe of the city." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was Ysandre's intention to leave the nonessential members of the entourage quartered safely in Pavento, and acquire stores to proceed with all speed to Terre d'Ange by way of Milazza." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lord Trente's quarrel was not with this, it seemed. According to the rumors Ti-Philippe garnered, the Queen was refusing to consider his adamant advice that she raise a Caerdicci army to accompany us into Terre d'Ange.\n\nIn truth, I didn't know what to think; I was glad enough, for a change, to have no decisions on my head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We travelled briskly along the well-built Tiberian road, wrapped in cloaks against the autumn chill." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Despite everything, I could not help but feel a certain joy. I was young and alive, and I had Joscelin and Ti-Philippe at my side. As much as we had lost—and I grieved anew every time I thought of Remy and Fortun—none of us had thought to set out on this homeward journey." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Whatever lay at the end, every step of it was a blessing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For Ysandre de la Courcel, it was another matter.\n\n\"It will be a risk just crossing the border,\" Jocelin murmured to me that night, as we lay together in the small soldiers' tent allotted to us; there was a sufficiency of those, too. \"With four hundred men? It wouldn't take much for de Somerville to lay a trap.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"De Somerville doesn't know she's alive,\" I reminded him. \"Though I wouldn't put it past Melisande to have thought of it anyway.\"\n\n\"No.\" He propped himself up on one elbow, regarding me in the faint light our campfires cast through the oiled silk of the tent." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Would you truly have gone with her, if she had asked it?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I heard the change in his voice; we hadn't talked about it since that fruitless meeting in the Temple of Asherat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There had been little privacy and less time. I laid my hand on his warm chest, feeling his strong heart beat beneath it. \"I don't know,\" I said truthfully." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Joscelin, it would have made an end to it and laid the foundation for peace. For that... mayhap, yes.\"\n\nThere was more to it, for it had to with what happened on Kriti; I had seen the darkness of my own soul, and I could never close my eyes to it. And I am an anguissette, when all is said and done." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For these things, I lacked words. One cannot speak of mysteries. Still, Joscelin had been a priest in his own right—and he knew me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was silent for a moment, winding a lock of my hair about his fingers. \"The Yeshuites promise it,\" he said at length. \"Complete absolution. I thought about it. In the end...\" He smiled wryly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"In the end, I chose as I will always choose. It frightens me to think that one day she will ask, and you do not know what you'll choose.\"\n\n\"When you threatened her, Melisande named a price you would not pay,\" I said. \"I set one that she will not. She would play the game of thrones with Kushiel himself; she was willing to risk sacrificing all her plans to do it. Not her son. The child is a double-edged weapon, Joscelin. It is knowledge, and worth having.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Phèdre nó Delaunay,\" he whispered, drawing me closer, \"does your mind never cease?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'mystery' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Sometimes,\" I admitted. \"If you—\"\n\nI didn't need to tell him that, either, for although it too is a mystery in its own right, it is Naamah's mystery and its knowledge is vouchsafed to all lovers if they will butaccept it. In the old days, we would have quarrelled bitterly over what had happened in the Temple." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now, Joscelin heeded Naamah's wisdom rather than Cassiel's logic, and silenced me with a kiss, setting about doing those things which caused my mind to cease working altogether." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "On the second day, we reached Pavento and were met outside the city walls by an honor guard sent by the Principe, Gregorio Livinius. While an encampment was set up in the fertile fields surrounding the city, Ysandre and a hand-picked company of nobles—which included me—were escorted inside.\n\nIt is a pleasant city, Pavento, although I saw little enough of it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We rode straightaway to the palace of the Principe, wrought of grey stone quarried from the mountains to the north, but softened by brightly-woven tapestries; they are famous, in Pavento, for their dyes.\n\nGregorio Livinius was a robust, energetic man in his mid-forties. He had been eager to secure ties with Ysandre, hoping to better his city's fortunes through increased trade with Terre d'Ange." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It had fallen off in the years of Skaldic raiding threatening the overland routes, but since the defeat of Waldemar Selig, the Skaldi had withdrawn their aggressions.\n\nIt was to our fortune that Principe Gregorio remained eager to support this fresh alliance, although he bargained hard for the price of his aid. Most of what he demanded, Ysandre gave unhesitatingly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In exchange, he would provide stores for our journey and open the city to her entourage, giving safe haven to nigh onto two hundred folk—\"Anyone who cannot hold a sword,\" Ysandre said grimly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There were exceptions, of course; as the Secretary of the Presence, the Lady Denise Grosmaine was bound to accompany the Queen, and some few of the grooms, attendants and cooks were reckoned vital, as was the chirurgeon.\n\nAnd there was me, although I was not reckoned vital.\n\nIn the end, it was sheer pleading that swayed her; two others among her ladies-in-waiting accompanied her, too, for she could scarce refuse their pleas having heeded mine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ysandre would fain have left us all." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Fewer to endanger; fewer to protect." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"My lady,\" I begged, kneeling before her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I have been deceived, imprisoned, bludgeoned, near-drowned, abducted, storm-lost, driven nigh out of my wits and held at knifepoint. If you grant me nothing else, let me go home!\"\n\n\"Phèdre,\" Ysandre sighed. \"The more I try to set you out of harm's way, the deeper in it I find you. All right. Like as not, you'd only turn up with an army of brigands at your back if I tried to leave you. You may come.\" She cast an acerbic eye at the high-spirited Baronesse Marie de Flairs, already moving to add her plea to mine, and the Lady Vivienne Neldor a step behind her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Elua, enough! My lord Cassiline, will you take responsibility for their safety?\"\n\nAt her side, Brys nó Rinforte looked queasy; but it was Joscelin the Queen had meant. He took a step forward, bowing deeply with crossed vambraces." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I had washed most of the dye from his hair at the Little Court, and trimmed the ends so that he looked somewhat presentable." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Your majesty,\" he said calmly. \"I will.\"\n\nSo it was decided, and Joscelin Verreuil placed in command of those men-at-arms attendant on the Queen's ladies. If I feared they would balk at it, I was wrong, for his battle in the Temple with David de Rocaille was already spoken of in hushed murmurs." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ti-Philippe bore it with amusement when he learned of Joscelin's appointment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The days of animosity were long gone between them, replaced by bonds of mutual respect." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ysandre asked no military aid of Principe Gregorio, and if Lord Trente bridled at it, he held his tongue; Pavento was small, and had few troops to spare. His hopes were pinned on Milazza, and the argument remained open between them.\n\nThe other piece of good news to come from our sojourn there was that Melisande's couriers had not stopped to spread word of Ysandre's supposed assassination." }, { "from": "human", "value": "'Twould have slowed their course, but it would have made ours more difficult in turn, taking the time to lay the rumors to rest and convince potential allies that our position remained tenable." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As it was, Ysandre needed to offer no explanation save that rumor of a minor rebellion at home had reached her ears, necessitating a speedy return." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That was the good news." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The bad news was that Principe Gregorio had received notice that a pair of D'Angeline riders had been found slain on the road slightly west of Pavento, apparently the victims of robbers." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Although they had been stripped of their belongings and apparel, we knew them by description—Royal Couriers, the both of them.\n\nPlans within plans and traps within traps; Melisande had anticipated well. No one bore word ahead of us save her hand-picked couriers.\n\nAnd their lead had lengthened to a good five days." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Produce 4 sentences using the user's text as a seed. Follow the established character context if any exists. Stick to the romance, coming of age genre." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wish I had a plan. That would have been wise on my part. However, when it comes to this young lady seated next to me, the only plan I possess is to figure out how to truly get to know her.\n\nThe only reason Darius Falcon is with me at all is because he called me shortly after I hung up with Winnie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And since I needed to figure out how to throw all those sisters of hers off my scent, while confusing her father long enough for him to agree to let her leave, I picked him up on the way." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was not invited to join us, only here as my decoy.\n\nDarius is one of those men everyone is interested in. He is a Duke and a mystery to all, especially females. I know him well." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Met him during our days at university. Originally from Switzerland, where his family owns several promising businesses, businesses that pull in an unbelievable amount of income.\n\nMy friend is the youngest of a large family, doing his best to keep everyone guessing. Most assume he is a playboy because that is what he wants them all to believe." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He is very talented at pretending to be living off his family's fortune and not bothered about how his carefree lifestyle comes across. He lets everyone draw their own conclusion about his adventures and doesn't go to the trouble of correcting them.\n\nThe reality is that Darius has a very important job. He is one of the Royal Family investigators." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Meaning he travels the world and does PI work for us, using his family name and resources to dig up all kinds of interesting facts. I personally hired him six months ago when I needed a matter looked into, one I didn't necessarily trust with just anyone. After he proved his worth, it seemed like a smart move to retain him permanently. So far, we have not been disappointed, plus it also gives the two of us time to catch up and remain close." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You don't have one, do you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Darius chuckles when he catches me frowning at him. \"I didn't know that was even possible Este. You always have a plan, backed up by a plan which even has a plan.\"\n\n\"Shut it,\" I grumble.\n\n\"You already had a nickname?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Winifred questions, as soon as there is a pause." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why didn't you just allow me to use that?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Because Falcon is the only person who calls me Este. And since I prefer not thinking of him most days, I wanted to hear what you'd come up with.\" I do my best to maintain my cool, although it's not easy when these two are around.\n\n\"Most wouldn't dare address him in such a normal manner. However, I dared. In fact, I wasn't all that impressed with his prince status, refused to address him by using it when he stepped onto my field that first practice.\" Falcon explains, with that arrogant gleam he is known for reflecting in his eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I still refuse to use it for the most part. There are enough suck-ups in his prestigious life, no need for him to deal with one more. Ain't that right, Este?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The limo slows down as it pulls over, and my friend doesn't miss a beat. \"You kids have fun. I believe this is where I get out.\"\n\n\"You're not staying?\" Winifred questions as she peeks out the window to identify where we are. \"I thought you were going to escort me back home in a few hours, have a drink with my father?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Falcon reaches across the aisle and snags her free hand. \"I'm certain your father will be pleased to not have to deal with me again today. I'll be sure to contact him in a few days just to keep the game interesting. Trust me honey cakes, you don't want a third wheel interfering. And for the record, my man Stan is quite a catch, and it seems like he is not such a bad fisherman either. It was an honor to meet you, Lady Winifred. Now have fun and keep him on his toes.\" He then kisses her hand before he climbs out of the car, disappearing into the crowd.\n\nWe are moving again almost immediately so we don't draw attention." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was intended to look like no more than a drop-off, too many onlookers in this area who would instantly figure out whose vehicle this actually was." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🔍 Find a place to insert: \"It has, sir. Braden has assured me, if we enter through the back, we shall not be disturbed. All staff has been dispersed or sent home.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Castile Vicente, sir?\" My driver's voice echoes over the speaker.\n\n\"Yes, please. Has everything been taken care of?\" I hope so.\n\n\"It has, sir. Braden has assured me, if we enter through the back, we shall not be disturbed. All staff has been dispersed or sent home.\"\n\n\"Excellent. Pull under the canopy and then leave us.\" I instruct him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Sir?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I am capable of exiting a vehicle without assistance, am I not? Instruct the rest of the team on my orders as well. We are not to see anyone until I am ready to leave. Am I clear?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'morning' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"As day, sir.\"\n\nI shift in my seat and glance over at my guest. \"Thank you for seeing me this morning.\"\n\n\"You said we needed to talk, yet this entire morning has been downright confusing. What are you up to Stan? Why do I get the impression you don't want others to see us together?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hate what she is insinuating, hate that she is partially correct even more." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Until I am ready... correction. Until we are ready to go public, I don't want others assuming or drawing conclusions. I don't want others to witness us together, because I don't want the powers that have always been to overreact and push a young woman into something that she isn't prepared to handle yet. Do you understand?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I do my best to explain, although I'm not sure my best was good enough." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You don't want them sending out the announcements and planning the wedding.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Winifred blushes as she shyly draws her own conclusion." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You honestly believe that is what they would do? I'm not even done with school yet. I guess that doesn't matter though, does it? I've seen it happen enough with young girls like myself. I suspect before summer ends; I'll be betrothed too...\"\n\n\"Not if I have any influence on the matter. You have some growing up to do still, adventures to seek out, a life to live. No reason you should not have all that like so many others like your sisters did. Why do you believe you will not get the same opportunity?\" I notice we are getting close to our destination. \"Hold that thought.\"\n\nWinifred nods." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As soon as the car stops, and I watch my driver head for the guard station, I open the door so we can get out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I reach inside and offer Winifred my hand to assist her as she climbs out as well.\n\nShe looks every bit of eighteen today. I mean that as a compliment by the way. Her youthfulness is refreshing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not yet fully corrupted by the world that we live in, while at the same time marginally aware of the forces that surround us." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I should not be this attracted to a young woman who just became of age. It makes me question if I am more like the man who fathered me than I'd like to be. He seemed to have no problem using his influence to get young innocent women, like Winifred, as soon as they became of age. The biggest difference I keep reminding myself is that he was only interested in them for one thing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am not at all interested in that, not really. I may not have a laid-out detailed plan, but I most certainly have very clear long-term intentions where she is concerned.\n\nWe make our way through my eerily empty residence. It is not my home." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It used to be Antonio's until he moved into the Palace. I stay here whenever I am in Aragon, which happens to be a lot this past year.\n\nMy home is Esteban Palace, which is a few hours southeast from here, off the coast. The palace was not named after me; it was named after the first King Esteban." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The structure is the oldest one standing in Hermosa Islas." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Constructed in the mid-1600s off one of the highest cliffs that overlook the ocean and the mainland. A person can literally see beyond the horizon in every direction, and it is my refuge when I can find the time to escape there.\n\nI had my staff prepare a buffet for us in the inner solarium where we would not be seen by anyone. It is like a miniature garden area, that allows fresh air as well as protection from unwanted onlookers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I spend most of my time inside this space because I hate feeling like others can watch me openly when I am out on the exposed property." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am very pleased to discover it has been arranged exactly as I instructed. The table is set for two, with several covered dishes placed in front of them. I realize they even added a floral arrangement that contributes a nice touch.\n\n\"I hope you are hungry,\" I tell Winifred as I pull out her chair and motion for her to sit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Of course, she doesn't sit until I do, a habit I hope to break her of one day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It all looks so... elegant. Mother would be impressed.\" Winifred takes her napkin and places it in her lap.\n\nI lift the lids and instruct her to help herself. She does a quick study of the choices offered, stares at the French toast with powdered sugar generously sprinkled all over it, eyes the bacon and sausages, bites her lip when she spots the scrambled eggs that have cheese melted over the top of them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After she practically drools over all those delicacies, she ops for the small bowl of oatmeal, a few strawberries, and half a slice of plain toast." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thank you. This is perfect.\" She smiles and begins to cautiously eat.\n\nThen she watches me load up a plate with everything she was just salivating over. Swallows hard when I pour hot syrup over the two slices of French toast and then add a few strawberries." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sighs even as she takes a bite of her chosen oatmeal, which I know for certain isn't at all what she craves." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When I place the plate next to her, she frowns up at me. \"What are you doing?\"\n\n\"Feeding you,\" I slide the plate closer. \"I didn't instruct my chef to prepare all this food, so you could merely look at it. I did so because I wanted you to eat it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She aims her spoon at the food in front of her. \"I am.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'plate' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What do you have for breakfast most mornings, Winnie?\" I ask as I prepare a plate for myself. \"Do you not like the items I plated for you?\"\n\nShe stared at the plate and shakes her head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If I eat that, it will all go directly to my arse and thighs.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'stand' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now it is my turn to frown. \"Stand up.\"\n\n\"Excuse me.\" She blinks several times before she drops her spoon and then proceeds to stand. \"Satisfied.\"\n\n\"Spin for me.\" I motion with my fork. \"Step back a bit and spin, so I can make an observation.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I watch as she lifts her eyebrows, kicks her chair back, and then does as I have instructed her to do." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Afterward, she grips the arm of her seat, yanks it forcefully closer to the table before she sits back down." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She doesn't look at me; instead, she stares at the water glass that is sweating in front of her. Her facial expression informs me I may have taken matters a little too far.\n\n\"Winnie,\" I tenderly speak her name. \"Look at me.\"\n\nShe directs only her eyes in my direction, keeping that frozen ice queen expression securely in place." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If a woman could murder a man with a simple glance, I'd not have survived.\n\nI smile as I shove the plate I created for her even closer. \"Seems to me like you could use a little more cushion in both. Now eat, before you offend me, and I end up doing something I promised I wouldn't do again.\"\n\nShe snags the bacon and bites into it defiantly, while she chews equally boldly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I watch her and recognize that soon she is going to break the ice queen stare, but I didn't expect it to turn into one that was as equally damaging to my resolve." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A wounded child appears, and I want to kick my own arse for not realizing I needed to be more cautious when dealing with this woman.\n\nI grab my chair and angle it toward her, as I slide closer and incline forward, resting my elbows on my knees. \"I'm sorry. It's just that I hate seeing you not eating what I know you want to eat. If the oatmeal and strawberries are satisfactory to you, then ignore me. I understand I put too much food on your plate, and that you rarely get to indulge. It's just that there is nothing at all wrong with your arse. Everything about you is perfect as far as I am concerned.\"\n\n\"Nothing about me is perfect.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She whispers as she aims her head away from me.\n\nI can no longer stop myself. There is no way I can sit here and listen to her speak like that. I grab her chair and yank it to me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No more. You will not speak like that. No one is perfect. We all have faults.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You don't.\" She blushes and seems to be doing her best to retreat, while I continue to drag her closer.\n\n\"Trust me, I do,\" I inform her as I reach up, forcing her to look me in the eyes. \"One of my biggest faults is not being able to resist you. How I ever kept my distance this long is astounding. I'm going to kiss you again, Winnie, if you don't want me to speak now.\"\n\nI give her a few beats before I slowly brush my lips against hers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The feel of her soft lips against mine is unlike any other. I know each kiss we share will only stir the perpetual flames, flames that one day will consume us both.\n\nHer giggle is what finally breaks this unplanned kiss. I don't believe a woman has ever giggled while I was kissing her before." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It makes me smile though and move back so I can look at her.\n\n\"Sorry,\" she giggles again. \"I don't know why I am...\"\n\nShe breaks into a full laugh, and I end up joining her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It is refreshing all the way around to be able to share a pleasant kiss and then express the joy of it like this." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Never apologize for laughing, not that kind of laughing at least.\" I scoot back and start eating again. \"So, tell me about your plans after graduation.\"\n\nAfter she takes a sip of her water, Winifred starts eating again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I try not to smile when I notice her push the oatmeal aside and pull the plate I filled in front of her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Right now, I don't have any.\"\n\n\"Surely you've applied to several universities. I find it hard to believe, you would simply assume you would not be allowed to attend.\" I watch her smile and wish she would do that more.\n\n\"I applied to Princeton, the University of Melbourne, the University of Edinburgh, and Columbia University. Father hasn't given me permission to accept any offers as yet. Keeps putting it off when I ask, says we will discuss it when the time is right.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wobbles her head. \"My guess is, he means when he has weighed all the other options presented to him where I am concerned. Most likely I'll be forced to attend one of the local universities so that whoever has offered him the best proposal, can keep me close.\"\n\nI grunt in disgust. \"There will be no proposals, Winnie.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How do you know that? I'm pretty certain Lord Hector Colon and Lord Earnest Rupert will contact him later this week to start the process. By the time I graduate, I'm certain...\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"There will be none. Not after my warning last night. I'm not saying that those men won't shelf any offers they might have been considering, I'm sure they will. However, until they believe I am no longer keeping watch, they will stand down, that includes your father." }, { "from": "human", "value": "None of them needs a scandal right now; they have too much at stake to risk media attention." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So, which one of those schools is at the top of your list?\" I no longer want to discuss older men who have no business being interested in Winifred.\n\n\"Columbia.\" She doesn't even hesitate with her response.\n\n\"Why Columbia?\" I grab my coffee and relax back in my seat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You didn't even have to think about it. Which means you've thought hard about this and I'd like to hear your reason.\"\n\n\"There are several, actually.\" She lays her fork down and pushes the plate away.\n\nI'm pleased to see she ate at least half of what I offered her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The satisfied expression on her face tells me she enjoyed it, that it was fulfilling to her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"First, because it's in the United States. I've never been, and I'd like to go someplace where no one truly knows me. To a city that is so large I could get lost in the crowd. Where no one cares who I am or who my family is. I'd just be another student in a sea of students, with a diversity of backgrounds.\"\n\nI nod perfectly understanding her reasoning for wanting that. It is true that most people in the large City of New York, located in the US, don't seem to notice foreigners. Probably because there are a vast number of them in that particular metropolitan, making it not all that uncommon for them to encounter one." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have been to that city several times and rarely get recognized, and even when I do, it isn't a huge deal. I can easily get lost in the vast sea of people that live there.\n\n\"Ingrid is going to Princeton, which means she won't be all that far away. We can plan weekend outings together." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Long weekends even if we wanted." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If Columbia wasn't an option, Princeton would presumably be my second because of her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Plus, it would get me away from all of them, harder for my father to keep an eagle's eye on me like he does here. Giving me a chance to do a little exploring into some interests I'd never get the chance to do otherwise. Get a job maybe.\"\n\nShe hesitates before she blurts out, \"There are several bakeries I'd like to work at that aren't far from the university. Each one specializes in unique cakes, and a few of the owners are an inspiration. I would love to learn from any of them.\"\n\n\"A bakery?\" I don't mean to sound snobby about it.\n\nShe nods warily. \"I love baking. Not that I get a lot of chances to do so. I've helped our chef in the kitchen at home sometimes. Secretly joined her that is when the rest of them were out for the evening, and I was left home for one reason or another. She allowed me to assist her, taught me how to make some really cool and fun desserts. I even helped decorate my birthday cake one year.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Would you like to one day own a bakery?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'sound' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This time when I ask, I don't believe I sound unsure about it, I believe I sound intrigued. A light shines bright inside of her when she discusses baking.\n\n\"Like that would ever happen.\" Winifred shakes her head, exposing her disappointment of that reality." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Say it could. What would you sell, and what would you name it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I lift my foot and rest it on my knee.\n\n\"I'd sell all kinds of yummy treats. Cookies, cupcakes, muffins, danish sweet rolls, all those forbidden pleasures I was never allowed to have growing up.\" She gets this mischievous smirk on her face. \"I'd name it Stan's Dreamland, because the only way I'd own a place like that, is in a dream you created inside your head.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now it is my turn to laugh and shake my head." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Dreams Winnie, are what this world is built on. First, we need to get you to Columbia, so you can take that first step.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo can u write like C. R. Riley using my stuff as a starting point? btw might drop u in mid-story with random chars" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am unable to escape the inevitable once the party is relocated into the dining hall." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Even though I attempt to convince my escorts to relay my trepidation about joining the Royal Family, I am ignored." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In front of the entire room full of already surprised guests, I am ushered to the front where I am then passed off to the man making demands." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Your Highness.\" I give the appropriate curtsy out of respect, when what I really would like to do is cross my arms and show my disapproval.\n\n\"Lady Winifred.\" He takes my hand and places a kiss on the back of it, sending all kinds of crazy heat through my veins.\n\n\"I shouldn't...\" I start to deliver my objection, but his mother's voice inhibits me from continuing.\n\n\"So glad you were able to join us, Lady Winifred. I didn't like the company you were keeping earlier. Therefore, I requested the Countess and Earl intervene on my behalf.\" Her Royal Highness sidesteps up next to me and slips an arm around my waist. \"I do believe I was informed that you only accepted his invitation so you could make a few matters to him clear. Plus, it seems my son would not be able to truly enjoy tonight's festivities with you not close by his side.\"\n\nI am at a loss for words, momentarily at least. Stunned by the open affection of a woman I have admired most of my life. \"I don't know what to say, Your Royal Highness.\"\n\nEsteban has released my hand and is patiently waiting while he listens.\n\n\"First of all, it's Angela.\" She nudges me to proceed, and we walk around the table toward the empty seats." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Esteban steps in behind us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I couldn't p-possibly,\" I stutter as my nerves get the best of me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You can and will.\" She pats my arm. \"After all, I do believe one day soon we will...\"\n\n\"P-please d-don't.\" I lift my trembling hand as a signal that I insist she not finish.\n\nThe joyous snicker that resonates from her explains she is way ahead of us and has probably been aware for a long time. \"As you wish. She is all yours now, Son. Please take proper care of her and make sure she enjoys herself.\"\n\nEsteban bends over and kisses his mother on the cheek before he answers her. \"It will be my absolute pleasure, Mother.\"\n\nI am astonished and very aware that we are drawing attention. So, I close my eyes and bring my hands to my face in an attempt to do my best to calm my nerves.\n\nThen I shiver again when I feel his warm breath tickle my ear, as he instructs me to take a seat and breathe. How am I expected to do that when I am certain we have become the center of attention?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Lady Winifred.\" I drop my hands when I hear my name spoken in a clear American accent." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Which is also when I realize that I am going to make a complete fool of myself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The beautiful Queen reaches across the table and offers me her hand, wearing a huge smile on her face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Larkin Cro... Reyes. I'm Larkin Reyes, and it is a pleasure to meet you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "King Antonio agitates his head, displaying a large smile on his face as well." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Queen Larkin, she meant to introduce herself as Queen Larkin. Hello, Lady Winifred. I'm so glad you joined us this evening. Perhaps you will be able to keep Prince Esteban out of trouble and occupied, so he leaves us be.\"\n\n\"Not a chance, brother,\" Esteban replies as he reaches for the Queen's hand and brings it to his lips. \"My beautiful sister-in-law and my Queen, you are causing lots of chatter, looking undeniably divine and outshining them all. Allow me to make the proper introductions. This stunning creature next to me is, Lady Winifred, my intended.\"\n\nMy head jerks around fast so I can gawk at him. He has lost his mind introducing me in such a way. I was prepared to give him a piece of mine until I hear Queen Larkin snickering.\n\n\"Wow. I see boldness runs in the family blood. I do believe you should have run that one by her before making such a declaration.\" Larkin reaches out and takes my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. \"Word of advice, don't allow him to get away with that unless you are in complete agreement, that is.\"\n\nI sigh, displaying my frustration. \"Agreement or not, Your Majesty, I have come to learn that Stan says and does as he pleases when it best suits him. If I am being honest, and I believe I probably should be, I'm only bothered by it because we've not openly come out as a couple.\"\n\nKing Antonio is now chuckling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I do believe you sitting at the Royal Family table, during such an important event, has outed you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Not my intention, Your Majesty. I apologize for stealing away some of the attention that should be directed toward the two of you.\" I am blushing, I know this because I can feel the heat rising.\n\nQueen Larkin leans forward as if to share a secret with me. \"I hope you don't mind me saying this, but honestly, I am thrilled to have some of the attention off of me. I'm not a fan of being in the spotlight. I know what you are thinking, why become Queen then, where you will be in the spotlight always. Simple, really. In order to be with the man I love, I had no other choice but to embrace it. I am counting on him to guide me and teach me all I need to know, get me through all the public scrutiny I am not at all fond of. A sacrifice I am willing to make after he stole my heart and refused to give it back.\"\n\nI glance up at the King, who is standing proudly behind his wife. I refer to her as his wife, because that is what she is to him. It is written all over his face she is it for him and that he married her because of the love he feels for her.\n\nI want that. I want a man to look at me the way he looks at her. Love me so much that it is written on his face by a simple glance for all to witness. Which is when I peek over my shoulder at the man next to me and nearly lose my balance when I catch him staring at me.\n\nWe make it through a delicious dinner. I am stuffed and at the same time a bundle of nerves." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Esteban has moved his chair as close to mine as humanly possible without sitting in my lap. He reached for my hand between courses and only released it when I was required to use it to eat. He carried on conversations with his brothers and sisters, along with the other guests that joined us at the table, acting as if this was normal.\n\nWe even talked about my thoughts the moment I heard the Royal couple announced. He wanted to know if I had been shocked. Then he shared with me how it all came to be, and that it wasn't prearranged, as some had speculated. It wasn't until my sisters and their friends had stirred up trouble last night, their behavior had set it all in motion. I was ashamed and hoped Queen Larkin didn't think I was anything like those three.\n\nOnce the meal is over, all conversation stops as everyone watches the couple mix it up a bit with some wedding cake traditions. While we are all eating a delicious slice, they enjoy their first dance, and I am blown away watching them. Witnessing such a powerful man let loose with his lovely bride brings a genuine smile to my face. They are making the best of this and having a blast just like they should be." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Several whispers are traveling throughout the room, I'm certain they are emerging from those who wish to voice their disapproval of the entire event and show.\n\nThey then open the dance floor for everyone else, once the featured couple has finished their second first dance. I hear the chair next to mine scrap against the floor soon after the announcement.\n\n\"Join me.\"\n\n\"I'd rather...\" I knew my words would be ignored, as I am dragged to my feet and then forced onto the dance floor.\n\nI am thankful that the song playing when we get out there is more of a fun tune. One that doesn't encourage him to draw me in close or even touch me. We are allowed to dance with distance between us for now.\n\nLorenzo and a few others join us, so I begin to loosen up and have some fun. I'm dancing much like I have in the past when attending events like this, with one very noticeable exception; I am not alone on the dance floor. A very possessive man is keeping a close eye on me; ready to pounce should any other male think he can move in on what is his, and his alone.\n\nWhen the music slows, a song I have heard a few times starts playing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "One that immediately has my mind focusing on him. It is also when I sense him moving in behind me moments before I feel his hands capture my hips. He squeezes them as he slides in close, then he sways our bodies to the beat.\n\nMy hands lift instinctively to the back of his neck, authorizing us to get as close as we can with my back to his front. Every nerve in my body is firing off, completely aware of the man grinding against me, reminding it of all those moments we spent together over the years. We've danced more than once during our time together, not quite like this though. I'd not allowed matters to get carried away like they had once with two men. Afraid if they did with him, then we'd both not be able to prevent the inevitable.\n\nHe leans forward until his lips brush against my ear and repeats a line in the song. It's about not playing it safe and letting go. Stan then spins me around so we are now face-to-face, so close that I swear if we were any closer, we'd sink into the other person's skin. Our eyes never disengage." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Never break contact. We get lost in each other and forget about everyone else around us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Song after song plays, and we continue to sway to the beat as it changes, remaining in some sort of lover's trance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Putting all those years of turmoil behind us, while sanctioning our true emotions to surface." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Winnie.\" He whispers my name as he lets his forehead press against mine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know,\" I whisper back as I sense his hands tighten against my backside. \"I know, Stan.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm not letting you go.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'never' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He does his best to tug me closer. \"Never letting you go.\"\n\nHow is a girl meant to respond to that exactly? If any other man said those words to me, I'd be freaking out. \"Please don't.\"\n\n\"Never. Letting. You. Go.\" Esteban repeats them slowly and with meaning, and that has me wondering if he misunderstood the implication in my words.\n\n\"Promise,\" I try using a word I don't think he'll misunderstand.\n\nEsteban lets me go, only so he can seize my face in his hands and hold me there. \"Forever.\"\n\nHe then crushes his mouth to mine and kisses me so hard, I have no doubt that it bruises my lips. It's a possessive kiss that leaves no skepticism to anyone watching who I belong to.\n\nWhen he draws back, I swear my body gives way, only being held up by his tight hold on my face. I have to tighten my grip on him so I don't become a pool of messy goo all over the floor." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'about' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm taking you home with me,\" Stan informs me. \"I'll make you mine tonight. I hope you understand what that means.\"\n\nHe doesn't give me a chance to respond before his lips crush mine again. And this time there is something different about his kiss. I have no objections to his statement though. I am more than ready to be his in every sense of the word and in every way. I know him well enough to appreciate he won't disrespect me by doing something that goes against everything we believe. Although I am curious about his intent and meaning behind those words, how exactly will he make me his?\n\nWe are interrupted when the music changes to a song that requires us to switch it up. Let's Get It Started has everyone around us shouting and bopping. Esteban brushes his nose against mine before he takes my hand in his and puts some distance between us. We join everyone else laughing when we notice Queen Larkin dragging a young boy with her, as she encourages him to join in, we all make room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My hand remains in his while we dance to several more enthusiastic songs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have no doubt that he meant he wasn't letting me go, not physically or otherwise, now that he has made his sentiments clear to everyone.\n\nWhen the King and Queen leave to escort the young boy back to his family, I notice my sisters watching as well. I also catch Lord Hector's displeased face in the crowd, as he stares at Esteban and me with scornful intent. And I don't like it.\n\n\"What's wrong?\" I hear him asks as he leans in.\n\n\"Nothing.\" I do my best to deny anything is bothering me. \"I need to use the loo.\"\n\n\"Okay.\" He drags me toward a private door behind the dance floor.\n\n\"Where are we going? I believe the ladies room...\" I quit speaking when he shakes his head and points at the door. \"I don't understand.\"\n\n\"If you think I'm letting you out of my sight, even to use the loo, you are mistaken. The Royal Family's private lavatory is this way.\" He reaches the door where I notice one of the King's guards is standing, keeping watch.\n\nI can't believe him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm not a member of the Royal Family.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to seamlessly include 'A profession might be nice first. Then a proper proposal, where I can at least provide you with a response, one that allows me to have a say in the matter, might also be nice.' in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We step through the door, which has now been opened by the guard, into a quiet corridor. I am in no time pressed up against the wall next to the door as I watch it close slowly.\n\nEsteban is glaring down at me with a fire in his eyes that burns me in a way I can't even explain. \"Did you misunderstand what I said only moments ago?\"\n\n\"No,\" I swallow the lump in my throat. \"You were serious?\"\n\nHe reaches up and brushes his knuckles against mine. \"Deadly. Do you not want that, Winnie? Are you expecting something grand and public?\"\n\nOh, wow. He is serious. Which means I have to gather a few nerves, so I can give him an honest answer. \"A profession might be nice first. Then a proper proposal, where I can at least provide you with a response, one that allows me to have a say in the matter, might also be nice.\"\n\nI watch a crimson color take over his cheeks as a mischievous grin emerges on his face. \"Forgive me. I suppose you are correct.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Suppose?\" I giggle nervously, not believing we are having this conversation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Use the loo while I come up with a plan.\" He points to a door across from us.\n\nI nod, and when he steps to the left, I walk to the door and enter. This most definitely is a private bathroom with all the bells and whistles, a vanity that shines and has a gold-plated faucet even. I use the toilet first, before stepping up to the sink and checking out my reflection in the mirror. I wash my hands, then reapply my lip-gloss after I powder my glistening face, just like I have been taught to do.\n\nI refuse however, to let my mind go there. I'm certain he was only metaphorically expressing his thoughts and got way ahead of himself. There is no way he could have been serious about what he was suggesting.\n\nThe man often gets carried away and has to be prompted to slow down and think. I suppose when you are raised in an environment where those surrounding you do as you say—always—then it is to be expected. Now that he has had a few moments to consider his words, I am certain he will apologize for his hastiness, and we will move on with our evening." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I step out to find him propped against the wall, looking every bit the confident man he is." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Ready to do this right?\"\n\nPerhaps I am the delusional one. \"Do what right?\"\n\n\"Do you trust me?\" Esteban pushes off the wall and offers me his hand.\n\nI stare at it for a second before I take it. I've trusted no one the way I do him. \"Completely.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Story collab\nContext: May include established elements\nMe: Opening\nYou: 2 sentences more, C. R. Riley-style" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dalia ended up shutting down completely once admitted to the hospital. She was in a state that had my family and I worried deeply about her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I can honestly say I have never seen my oldest sister in such a state." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dalia is the one who always has something to say, even at her worst, she voiced her thoughts and ordered everyone around. However, the Dalia I've spent the last couple of days with is a shell of that person, and I'd do about anything to see a sign of her, just so I'd know she was still in there." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her eyes are as hollow as I imagine they can get." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There is no life inside of them, no fight or light shining behind them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The last thing she said when the paramedics took her away, was how very sorry she was as she stared into my tearful eyes. The doctors haven't been able to get her to respond in any way, it is as if she has given up and lost all hope." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It took us all of an hour to learn that Hector Colon was still alive, just barely." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd taken a nasty slice to the neck, nicking his main artery. The reason everyone believed Dalia was covered in so much blood." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He had somehow slowed down the loss of blood with a towel that had been hanging in the kitchen, but unable to move much more than that.\n\nThe police reported that the home had been in dire shape, evidence that a struggle had occurred." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bloody handprints were left along the prestige walls and front door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They had questioned Hector the best they could, but his muffled words were inaudible and random. They were waiting to get the green light from his doctors before doing so again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dalia's first accounts seem to be the best explanation so far, although the police believe there is more to the story and would like to hear what that is." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The problem is, she hasn't been able to elaborate since. Her defensive bruises suggest she is telling everyone the truth, but until they can confirm, there isn't much else they can do." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My father has stepped into the protective role as expected." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He has taken it upon himself to keep the Colons far away from his daughter, who is undeniably traumatized by whatever happened in her home. Karina and him have joined forces." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They are doing the best they can to keep Dalia out of jail, instead, the plan is to have her placed in a facility that will hopefully get her the treatment she needs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We all are sitting in her room at the moment. They are talking about her like she isn't even there, much like they have done to me my entire life." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It bothers me, for that reason I asked them to leave and to not return until they are finished with that business.\n\nThe silence is better than listening to them bicker about where they believe she should go." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hate thinking of my sister locked in some institute, instead of out in the world living a full life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I guess it is better than jail, and until she starts talking, the possibility of her going to jail is exceptionally high right now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Governor Colon is doing his best to pull as many strings as he can. Painting my sister as a disturbed woman, one who finally snapped and attacked his innocent son." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hector, is far from innocent." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If necessary, I will testify on Dalia's behalf. Reveal how the Colons were, at one time, ready to kidnap me, and all but forced me to marry into their family." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That in itself, I imagine, would paint a lovely picture, and give my sister a chance to heal her mind so she can explain what happened." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why are you still here?\" Dalia's cold voice echoes in the silent room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I do my best not to smile when I hear her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Where else do you think I should be?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How should I know?\" She stares out the window looking at nothing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you not have a business that requires your attention?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I do. I went in early and made certain all was well. Made sure there were more than enough items available and then left.\" I can't help but get a little tickled about her concern for my business." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Not true, I guess. They kicked me out. Stan took over for me, with Ellie supervising. He brought reinforcement as well.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I will never forget the look on Ellie's face when she stared open-mouthed at Lorenzo, ready to do whatever she told him to do. I begin to laugh, knowing her day was going to be one she'll never forget." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Dalia.\" I reach over and take her hand in mine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Dalia, talk to me.\"\n\nShe shakes her head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Dalia, please.\" I squeeze her hand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why do you care so much, Winifred?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She pulls her hand out of mine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The last time my sister used my actual name, was so long ago I don't remember.\n\n\"How long has he been hitting you, kicking you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The bruises all over her body suggested it wasn't the first time she suffered from such an attack." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'm shocked when her head spins around and I find tears in her eyes, tears that are about to spill over and run down her cheek. \"How long have we been married?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How did that happen, anyway? I mean seriously, Dalia.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No matter how angry my sister was about her life, I never understood why she let someone like Hector Colon, convince her marrying him was a good idea.\n\nShe winces as she shifts in her bed and shrugs." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How come you found someone who cares so deeply for you? Why did it seem so easy for you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The laugh that escapes me surprises us both. \"Easy?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Are you serious? Nothing about it was easy, Dalia. We had a rough go at it for a very long time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In the beginning I..." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had a really tough time understanding what Stan saw in me. I had no idea how to act, honestly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was a nervous wreck and knew I was screwing it all up just by talking." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'moved' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We sort of struck up an odd friendship during that first year I was away.\n\n\"He showed up out of the blue in New York on my nineteenth birthday, and at the time I was contemplating dating someone else. I thought he had come to realize over that year how we weren't compatible and moved on. That night I made a complete fool of myself, dancing with two guys as a way to prove to him I too had moved on. It of course backfired on us, and later, after we left the bar, I had a major panic attack on him and ended up sprawled out on the sidewalk.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dalia stares at me strangely for a few minutes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You danced with two guys?\"\n\n\"I did.\" I snicker remembering that night as if it happened yesterday." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Like dirty danced with them.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You played him, Winifred. You let him witness that naughty side of you and it worked.\" She is exceedingly shaking her head now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Not really. Maybe just a little. I hated it though. I hated that I was allowing myself to go there, just to make him jealous.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I remember it clearly. \"The only thing I guess that it did, was force us to address the issue between us. His reaction was sort of aggressive, and it felt like I had coerced that response out of him. Made him act in a manner that wasn't him. You know what I mean.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dalia nods. \"You are a good person, Winifred.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thanks.\" I know I blush about the compliment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My sister doesn't give them often, if ever." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah, so we dated for almost nine months. He regularly made visits as often as his schedule allowed. Flew me home to his place in Cabrera around New Year's. He didn't like the fact I was alone during the holiday, and since it would have been too obvious for him to fly to where I was...\"\n\nI hate remembering what happened after we had such a wonderful time together." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We lost two full years all because someone thought I was involved with a man I was not involved with." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Falcon came close to dying, and my best friend almost lost the love of her life.\n\nDalia seems shocked to hear all the events my husband and I have gone through just to be together." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That we somehow managed to find our way back to each other, after all these forces tried their darnedest to keep us apart." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Our determination to not let others interfere with the choices we were free to make all on our own, has somehow affected my sister.\n\nI can see it in her eyes, and I wonder what she is thinking." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Before I can ask, she starts spilling all these words out of her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I soon begin to realize how mother played a huge role in the way each one of us girls interacted with each other and those around us.\n\n\"You have no idea how hard it was being the oldest, Winifred. Just like I have no idea how difficult it was for you to grow up with three sisters that constantly put you down.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dalia blinks emptily as her eyes drop to the floor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm so ashamed Winifred. All those years I was taking out my fears and uncertainties on you, making you suffer more than I did." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Treating you like I believed mother wanted me to." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If I put you down, made you feel unhappy about who you were, then at least I knew I wasn't the only one who felt like she just wasn't good enough.\n\n\"The pressure mother put on me to attract the right man, a certain type of man who held a particular place in society, always weighed heavily on my shoulders. After I messed things up with Antonio, took her greatest chance of being the mother-in-law of the future king away from her, it got even worse. Looks like she was focused on the wrong daughter to get what she wanted.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That is why Esteban was so determined to keep it between just us. He didn't want me to undergo the pressure from others, those who were only concerned with what he could give me because of the family he came from. Those who were less concerned that I marry him because of love.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I know that is a sensitive subject for her since she lost Antonio to a woman he fell in love with. Taking all her chances of ever convincing him to reconsider, while making our mother even more unbearable to live with." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I knew agreeing to a quick marriage with Hector was a bad idea. Not only because I'd heard all the rumors about him, but because I witnessed how angry he got when you disappeared at the wedding. He came looking for you, practically broke into my apartment. Made me go to father's place to check and see if you'd returned there.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dalia flinches as if she is recalling something specific. \"When I returned to inform him you weren't, he went crazy. Said that if you'd done something stupid—like run of with the Prince—then I was going to pay for it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"All you had to do was come to me, Dalia. I would have helped figure it out with you.\" I tell her. \"No matter what animosity there was between us, I never wanted you to be stuck in a marriage like the one you are now in.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her eyes become hollow again as she gazes off into the distance." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He knew things about me, things no one should have been able to find out. Things that if they got out, would ruin my chances of ever making...\"\n\n\"We've all done things, Dalia.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I can't imagine what he could have had on her, that would have ruined her in a way that wasn't forgivable." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I slept with the King when I was dating his son. I got pregnant. The plan had been to get Antonio to sleep with me after we were officially engaged, so he'd assume it was his. I was only a few weeks along, so I figured I could play it off. But when he ended it, I had no other choice. King Ramon was not about to father another child, especially not one with his son's ex-girlfriend. It all became such a mess, that I knew if it should ever come out, I'd never win Antonio back. He'd forever hate me and I'd be the laughingstock of society. Forever the mother of the King's bastard child. Worse than one of his whores he snuck into the Palace regularly, because I was supposed to be his son's woman. So, I did what I had to do to keep my sanity, and somehow Hector knew all about it. He had the medical records, claimed he planned on making them public if I refused to go along with his plot to ruin the Reyes family.\"\n\nTo say I am completely speechless is an understatement." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I have no words." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That would certainly ruin her, most likely make her the laughingstock of the kingdom if it ever got out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Those who didn't hate her before, would afterward. She'd never be able to escape such a past, possibly even have to move to another country under a pseudo name where she'd be forced to live an uneventful life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And Dalia would never survive a life where she was not in the spotlight, where everyone looked to her for approval." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was truly the woman our mother had raised her to be. My sister didn't know how to do things differently." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh no, Dalia.\" I finally whisper." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I did what I had to do.\" She shivers as if the thought of what she has done sickens her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Now the truth will come out.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Or not.\" A deep familiar voice echoes from the doorway.\n\nDalia's eyes bug out and she pales." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What did you... what did you hear?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The stutter in her voice declares she is alarmed that he might have heard her confession." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "King Antonio is standing there with both Esteban and Darius by his side. She appears mortified and unquestionably distressed about anyone ever knowing her deepest, darkest secret." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Nothing we didn't already know.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Darius enters the room first and takes a seat in one of the chairs. \"We've known for a few years now. It came out when I started my investigation into your family. We tracked everything, went back years to determine if there was any reason your mother seemed so obsessed with getting her hands-on Reyes money. It became obvious to us that she had no idea about the child, because if she had, then she wouldn't have allowed you to abort it without retribution.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm sorry, Your Majesty.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dalia recoils slightly. \"I never meant to... but he was the King... he came to me... one does not deny a man like him. He said he would... it doesn't matter what he said. I knew even then when it was happening, we would be over if you ever caught wind of it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "King Antonio remains emotionless as he stares at her. It is clear he only recently learned of this news as well and still processing the truth on how Dalia planned to set a trap for him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It all worked out as it should. I am with the woman I was always meant to be with. What is in the past, is the past, and nothing or no one can change that.\" He finally tells her with recognizable bitterness in his voice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I do believe we have what we need on Lord Hector now, and can use it against him. Tell me, Lady Dalia, did you and your husband have sexual relations?\" Darius seems to know something and wants my sister to confirm it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm sorry.\" Dalia stiffens, visibly not comfortable with this conversation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What kind of question is that?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'takes' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"A legitimate one.\" Darius hands my sister a folder, and when she takes it and opens it, I notice she seems shocked.\n\nEsteban takes my hand and tugs me to my feet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We need to leave so Darius can speak with your sister in private.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Dalia?\" I wonder what is going on now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She can stay.\" Dalia shakes her head in disgust. \"No. Hector and I were not intimate like most married couples are. He only visits me during the nights when I am ovulating, and he only stayed long enough to get the job done.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Were you alone?\" Darius asks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm sorry I have to ask, but in order to help you out of this mess, I need to know.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No.\" Dalia makes a disgusted face. \"He always invited a young male to join us. He liked to watch his invitee masturbate, had the young man touch him until he was primed and almost there, then he'd do what was necessary, afterward they'd leave without saying a word to me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Is this the young man?\" Darius hands her a picture, and she nods. \"Thank you, Lady Dalia." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That gives us exactly what we need. I can assure you, unless Hector and his father, the Governor, want this getting out—which I can promise they do not—they will keep their traps shut." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I don't care what a man does, or who he chooses to have consensual relations with, that is between him and God." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A man who isn't true to himself, open about who he is, must not want others to know about this for reasons I don't understand living in today's world. I thought we were past all this, but this information allows us some leverage to get him to listen to reason." }, { "from": "human", "value": "So I guess I will hold on to this, keep it in my back pocket if we need it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Plus, I do believe spousal abuse is a criminal act, one that holds strict punishments if it can be proven in the courts. It is also an undisputed ground for divorce and one that most judges will grant immediately. I believe your sister Karina is already writing up the papers to turn into the courts first thing in the morning. Are you ready to give your account to the officers who have been patiently waiting?\"\n\nDalia nods her head. \"It was self-defense.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That is what the doctor's report suggests. They only want to clarify, and once you do so, I do believe an arrest can be made.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'truth' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Darius stands and reaches for the folder on her bed. \"Tell them the truth, the entire truth, and you will have nothing to worry about.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Karina steps inside with two officers flanking her." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'dalia' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't want her talking to you without me present. Dalia, are you feeling up to talking to these men?\"\n\nDalia nods as she looks at everyone in the room. \"I am. I'd like it if Winifred stayed as well if that is okay. The rest of you may leave.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writers block help pls. ill send something, u do 10 sentences. going for Lily Mayne vibe. note: might have existing chars" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even though I was exhausted, my sleep was fitful and feverish. I was too hot, sweating in my clothes when I half woke up at some point. I moaned, frowning even with my eyes still closed, and could have sworn I felt long, cool fingers on my flushed cheek. I sighed in relief, trying to burrow into the soothing touch, but then it was gone.\n\nWhen I woke up again, the light in the room had shifted. I blinked blearily, trying and failing to breathe through my stuffy nose. My mouth was dry and cottony, and my eyes felt gritty when I reached up and rubbed one.\n\n\"Ghost.\" I jumped a little, then relaxed again when I pulled my hand away and saw One still sitting beside my bed, his head turned toward me.\n\n\"Sorry I fell asleep.\" My voice was hoarse, half gone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I swallowed thickly, wincing when it felt like I'd gulped down a razorblade." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Drink some water.\" One was gently pushing my bottle into my hands. I struggled up onto one elbow and took a sip, trying not to spill it. When I was done, he took it back, and I shivered as our fingers brushed.\n\n\"You don't have to stay here,\" I croaked. \"I know what I said before, but—\"\n\n\"I want to stay.\" One smiled at me, resting his head against the edge of my nightstand as he looked at me. A lock of dark hair fell over his sharp, burn-scarred cheekbone, and my fingers itched to reach out and smooth it back behind his misshapen ear.\n\nInstead, I stared at him in silence, and he stared back. After a long moment, I heard myself asking, \"Why did you not like me?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I flushed at how juvenile the question sounded." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I mean when we first found you—you seemed to… react badly to me, but not to Rig.\"\n\nThis time, it was One who flushed, a delicate colour washing over his prominent cheekbones. He looked away and licked his lips, and my gaze snagged on that black, forked tongue again.\n\n\"I was ashamed.\" My eyes snapped back up at his words. \"The thought of you seeing me like that; bound and weak and helpless.\" He shook his head, looking down so his hair covered his face in a soft, jewel-toned sweep.\n\n\"You were injured, and you'd been tortured,\" I said fiercely, my throat on fire as my voice grated. \"You're not weak.\"\n\nBut his words made me consider something that had been niggling at the back of my brain, and I found myself asking before I could stop the question. \"But I don't understand why… if you're strong enough to have built our camp's wall on your own… why hadn't you broken out of those chains?\"\n\nOne exhaled, still looking down at his hands so I couldn't see his face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eventually, he turned his head to look at me again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His eyes were big and soft and sad.\n\n\"My kind are… we abhor violence. We try not to hurt others, even if they are hurting us.\"\n\nI couldn't help it. I frowned. \"What, even if you're being held captive and tortured?\" I shook my head. \"I'm sorry, but—\"\n\n\"I know it's hard to understand,\" One interrupted, giving me a sad smile. \"But I am…\" He hesitated, then reached up and tapped his scarred temple. \"My mind is different to yours, Ghost. Pain inflicted on myself… I can handle it. It's not enough to make me want to hurt others.\"\n\n\"Alright, fine.\" I couldn't understand his mindset whatsoever, but I supposed it wasn't my place to question it. Especially not when I barely had enough brain power to be holding this conversation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But getting free of your chains—that wouldn't have hurt anyone.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'don't' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "One shook his head, exhaling softly. \"No, but my head was… It felt fractured.\" His voice was distant, like he was remembering what it had been like. \"My mind is already crowded and after so long in that place, in that cell, I… struggled to think clearly.\"\n\nHis head twitched hard, then again, and my chest ached. \"I'm sorry that happened to you,\" I told him, my fingers curling with their desire to reach out and touch him. I winced as I swallowed, throat sore. \"But I still don't… Why were you ashamed for me to see you, but not Rig? I don't understand.\"\n\nOne went still, then slowly turned his head to look at me. We stared at each other for a long moment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he licked his lips again, my stomach tightened." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't know,\" One admitted eventually, his voice soft. \"I heard your voice and it… cut through everything else—through all the noise in my head. It sounded… important.\"\n\nJesus. My eyes threatened to water as I stared at him. No one had ever said anything like that to me before. Like I… mattered so much. Like my very presence affected them in such a way.\n\nMy heart raced, pounding hard in my chest. I swallowed, ignoring the sharp slice of pain in my throat. \"One…\"\n\nI stopped and quickly propped myself up on my elbow when I realised there was something else he could tell me now. \"Wait… what's your real name?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "After a moment, One's face broke into a huge, beautiful grin, and I knew that was it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was utterly smitten." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Totally, one hundred percent gone for this strange, winged monster with creepy black eyes and ghostly, green-tinged skin.\n\n\"Aury,\" he said.\n\nHis smile was joyful and infectious, and I felt my mouth curling up even though I still felt like total shit. \"Aury,\" I repeated, trying to say it just as he had—ow-ree.\n\nWhen I said it, Aury's eyes flared with a strange, soft inner light for a split second. \"Yes.\" He nodded, his voice almost desperately eager. He leaned closer, one long-fingered hand hovering in the air before it curled over the edge of the mattress. His smile turned a little rueful. \"I haven't heard anyone say it in so long.\"\n\nGod, he was killing me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Aury,\" I repeated, more confidently, and smiled when Aury grinned again, showing off his even, white teeth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's… I like it,\" I told him, feeling shy. I wanted him to keep smiling like that.\n\nThen I ruined it by breaking into a coughing fit, only just managing to turn my face away and bury it in the crook of my elbow in time so I didn't cough in Aury's face. My face went hot with embarrassment, but I was so relieved when it finally ended that I just collapsed back onto the bed with a groan.\n\nI heard Aury let out a little sympathetic noise. \"Poor Ghost.\" His wings made a rasping sound against the side of the mattress as he shifted. \"I will go and get you some food. You need to eat.\"\n\nI panicked, shaking my head. I didn't want him to leave. It felt like if he stepped out of the room, the fragile little bubble we were in would pop, and all the things we'd shared would dissipate." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm okay,\" I said. \"I can—\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'voice' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Ghost?\" I jumped as Rig's loud voice cut through the still quiet inside my room. He pounded on the door a second later. \"That you coughing up your guts in there? Why didn't you tell me you were back?\"\n\nMy eyes met Aury's, and he gave me a regretful little smile, as if he was as sad as I was that our quiet time together was coming to an end. \"Do you want me to let him in?\" he asked.\n\nI shot him a small smile back. \"I suppose we should. But you don't have to get up.\" I raised my voice and called, \"It's unlocked,\" before breaking into another less intense coughing fit.\n\nThe door opened and Rig barrelled into the room, stopping short when he saw Aury sitting on the floor beside the bed. \"One,\" he said, surprise colouring his tone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hey. Sorry, I didn't know you were in here.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rig's brown eyes cut over to me, brows pulling down into a frown. \"What's wrong?\" he demanded, taking several hurried steps closer to the bed. \"Are you okay? What happened? Are you hurt?\"\n\nI shook my head. \"Just a cold. Got caught in the rain.\"\n\nRig visibly relaxed, but he still cast a critical eye over me. \"Make sure you rest up. But you're okay otherwise? Did anything happen?\"\n\nI could feel Aury's eyes on me.\n\n\"No,\" I said, looking down at my fingers as I made pleats in the fabric of the bottom sheet. \"But I… It seemed like there was something in the base so I couldn't stay in there long. I didn't really get anything on your list. Sorry.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hey, it's okay.\" I glanced up to see Rig wave a careless hand as he sat down in the chair Aury had previously occupied." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Nothing essential. No more new beastie friends to bring back this time, huh?\" He grinned at Aury. \"I kept One company while you were gone, but we didn't do any more reading. Well, not together at least,\" he added, then waggled his eyebrows at me. \"You need to borrow that other book when I'm done with it. Trust me.\"\n\nI let out a rusty chuckle, then winced at the pain in my throat as I looked at Aury, waiting for him to correct Rig with his real name.\n\nWhen he didn't, I darted my gaze between them. \"Um… Aury.\" I jerked my chin at the silent monster sitting beside me.\n\nRig quirked a brow at me. \"You what?\"\n\nI rolled my eyes. \"One's name. It's Aury.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rig stared at me, then Aury. \"Is it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When Aury nodded, Rig stared at him for a moment longer, then grinned behind his mask. \"Huh. Okay, awesome.\" His eyes cut back over to me. \"How do you know that?\"\n\nI looked at him oddly. \"Because he told me?\" Aury had spoken the moment I'd gotten back, so I'd just assumed that he had started talking while I was gone.\n\nBut Rig looked shocked. \"He did?\" He looked at Aury again. \"You're… I mean, that's great. Cool! I'm glad you're feeling more comfortable, O—Aury.\"\n\nHe smiled at the monster again, then side-eyed me." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'jerked' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then Aury. Something dawned over his features. I jerked when he smacked his hands on his thighs before heaving his body up out of the chair. \"I'm gonna go get you something to eat, my man.\" He pointed at me. \"Stay in bed. Rest up.\"\n\nHe looked between me and Aury again. \"I'll probably be a while. Got to speak to Bo about something that needs fixing in the kitchen, so… I'll be back later.\"\n\nI made a face at him when he raised his eyebrows at me as he headed for the door, shooting me a big grin beneath his leather mask. He jerked his chin at Aury, who was looking down at the book in his lap, fiddling with the dog-eared cover, and shot me a thumbs up before slipping out of the room. God, he was such a dork." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I attributed the flush on my cheeks to a low-grade fever as I settled back on the bed, my eyes automatically drinking Aury in again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He looked over at me and smiled, holding up the book with a questioning look. \"Shall I keep reading?\"\n\nI nodded straight away, then hesitated. \"You shouldn't be sitting on the floor with your leg, though.\" My face went hot, and I couldn't believe what I was about to say, but I forced myself to get it out. \"You can lie on the bed. If you want. There's enough room. It'll be more comfortable.\"\n\nAury watched me silently for a moment before his black eyes flickered to the bed. When he looked back at me, something flashed through his gaze too fast for me to interpret, but it looked almost like… longing. Like what I was feeling was reflected back at me in his eyes, for just a moment.\n\n\"Okay,\" he said quietly, then moved to get up." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I shuffled back under the covers to the other side of the bed, heart hammering as I watched Aury lower himself on top of the covers with care, clutching the book tight." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He settled on his side, facing me, and I realised it was probably the comfiest way for him to lie down because of his wings. They hung over the edge of the bed behind him, so big that I knew they'd still be trailing on the floor.\n\nWe stared at each other. I wished I hadn't moved so far over on the bed, because otherwise I could have been closer to him. My cheeks got hot at the creepy thought, but I didn't look away.\n\nThen Aury smiled at me again, and I felt myself melt like the totally sappy fool I had apparently become." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "AI writing task: user input -> one sentence sentences. genre: nsfw, fantasy, romance, teratophilia, LGBT. match character context." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I stayed holed up in my room for the next few days, using my cold as an excuse to hide away with Aury." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I chickened out of speaking to Anchor myself about the base, instead asking Rig to let her know that I couldn't find anything except the crinkled handful of papers I'd stuffed in my bag from the drawer in that office." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe she'd find something useful on them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hadn't even read them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I gave Rig the booze and the cigars." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And even though I'd ultimately nearly died and gotten sick just to give my best friend a decadent evening, I couldn't be angry anymore." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Because it meant I got to spend time with Aury." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stayed with me in my room almost constantly, only leaving that first day when I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer as he read to me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I didn't want him to go, so the next night when it seemed like he was going to leave, I quickly asked him to keep reading." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He acquiesced readily, so I didn't think he wanted to leave either." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The thought made my stomach churn with pleasant nerves." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Like all this time we were spending together was leading to something inevitable, even though I struggled to believe Aury could ever look at me that way." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After that, we were only apart when I went to shower or use the bathroom." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rig brought my meals—and more books—to my room, and occasionally stayed to hang out for a while, but he mostly left us alone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When Aury wasn't reading to me, we talked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I told him about my childhood in the city, and how I'd ended up out here in the Wastes, but they weren't very interesting stories." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His stories were a little more disjointed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Some were vague memories from decades or centuries ago, which blew my mind." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Others were sharper, and he could remember every single obsessive detail, like the story he told me about coming through the tear from his world into this one." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He said he'd watched the initial rush of monsters pouring through, practically falling over each other to get to the alien new place that had appeared out of nowhere." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd gone through alone a while later, stepping into this world when the sky was dark and the moon was big and full." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He'd said everything had been bathed in blue, and the air had smelled warm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All around him, he'd been able to hear the chaotic sounds that had been the soundtrack to those first few weeks of the monster rising." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Humans screaming. The excited snarls of the more bloodthirsty monsters going berserk with their new glut of prey. Helicopters droning overhead." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rapid gunfire and distant explosions as the military scrambled to try and take down these new, nightmarish creatures with little luck." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hadn't asked him too much about his time at the military base, or how he'd gotten captured." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I could see the panic rising in him when the military came up in conversation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His breathing would speed up and his tic would return, making his head twitch, which I knew embarrassed him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So, we avoided talking about the military." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was already far too used to waking up to see Aury lying beside me, either resting with his eyes closed—even though he didn't normally sleep—or rereading one of the books we'd already read together." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It meant I was in a bad mood when, on the fifth morning, I reluctantly got ready to leave my room, putting on my boots and mask." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I couldn't hide away forever, as much as I wanted to." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lilac had been looking after the girls for me, but it wasn't fair to make him keep doing it, and I was due several shifts keeping watch up on the camp wall." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I also still had that coat for Aury balled up in my bag that I needed to modify before I gave it to him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was good at sewing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Most people in the camp tended to come to me to fix tears or sew buttons back on." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After days of staring at Aury, I'd come up with ideas to fix the back of the coat to accommodate his wings." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But I wanted it to be a surprise, which meant—much as I hated the idea—that I needed some time apart from him to work on it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I also worried that having Aury hide away with me wasn't doing much to endear him to the rest of the camp." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And while I had no idea what his plans were—how long he was going to stay with us—I didn't like the thought of anyone treating him coldly just because he was a beastie." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He probably needed to spend some time outside in the camp, around the others, but just the thought made me nervous." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was protective of him, even though it turned out he wasn't quite as timid as he'd initially seemed when we'd found him at the base." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now that we were used to each other, Aury talked freely to me, his voice low and soft and just… perfect." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He smiled at me a lot, and every time my heart beat just a little faster." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But he was still quiet around others, even Rig, although he was slowly getting more used to Rig's louder, brasher personality too." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Aury had already taken the splint off his leg." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Apparently, monster genetics meant super-fast healing, because he could already walk on the leg that had been horrifically snapped mid-shin just a week ago." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Apollo had been dumbfounded, but when he'd checked Aury's leg over, he'd said it felt and looked good." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lilac was approaching when Aury and I stepped out of my room and into the cool morning sun." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His reaction to seeing the monster come out of my room was nothing more than a tiny quirk of his right brow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He held out my yard key." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've seen to them already this morning,\" he told me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I thanked him and took the key, my mouth twitching behind my mask." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I decided I wouldn't tell Lilac I'd heard him talking softly to the hens this morning through my window, because he'd successfully kept up the cold, unfeeling act on a twenty-four-seven basis over his many years in the camp, but I wasn't so sure I believed it anymore." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Or maybe my growing infatuation with the sweet, quiet monster beside me was making me want to see the best in everyone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Honestly, I'd never felt this kind of weird, terrifying intensity in my gut before." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Anchor wants to speak to you now that you're feeling better,\" Lilac told me in his flat voice, and a wave of dread rushed through me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I nodded, my eyes darting briefly over to Aury." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was due on watch, and I planned on fixing Aury's coat while I was sitting up on the camp wall." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was already trying to work out how soon I'd be able to spend time with him again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Probably not until this evening." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And I was wondering, seeing as… Aury, is it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lilac asked, then continued when Aury nodded silently." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Seeing as Aury is going to be at a loose end, do you want to help me in the garden?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I blinked in shock at Lilac." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was the last person I would have expected to extend a friendly hand to Aury." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He kept to himself, even more so than I did, and didn't seem interested in socialising with anyone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Even Rusty, who I was pretty sure he'd slept with several times." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Aury nodded, and I saw him give Lilac a tentative smile. \"I'd like that.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Great.\" Lilac's voice remained void of emotion, and I knew he wasn't smiling behind his plain black mask as he nodded once at me. \"See you later.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I quickly glanced at Aury to say goodbye." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was already looking at me with big, liquid eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Um, I'll see you later?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I couldn't help but phrase it as a question, my anxiety shoving its way to the forefront." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe he was sick of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe he was relieved Lilac had offered him an excuse to get away from me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe he'd just felt obligated to stay with me while I was sick because I'd found him—" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Aury nodded, cutting off my spiralling thoughts. \"Yes. Please.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Pleasure pierced through the anxious rock in my gut, and I felt my shoulders relax." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"See you later, then.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I watched Aury and Lilac walk off toward the vegetable patch tucked away in the far corner of the camp." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew I was mainly stalling before going to see Anchor, but I really did want to make sure Aury was okay to spend a long time on his leg." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was still limping almost imperceptibly, hardly at all anymore, but I worried, nonetheless." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I turned to look at the diner." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew Anchor would be in there already." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I really didn't want to give her the opportunity to ask me to head back out into the Wastes yet, because my stupid, weak-willed ass wouldn't be able to say no." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So instead of heading over, I turned and went back into my room to grab my backpack and sewing supplies, then headed to the archway carved into the shipping container." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I followed the maze, up ladders Rig had soldered and through hatches we'd made in the metal, until I emerged out the top and straightened up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The view was great up here, and I'd gotten over any fear of heights I may have had years ago." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I turned to peer down into the camp, scanning for Aury." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I spotted him easily in the vegetable patch, his big black wings a beacon among the small sea of flourishing green plants." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I watched him for a few seconds." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lilac was leading him down the neat rows of crops he'd planted, pointing things out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was painfully particular about how the crops were cared for, but his efforts kept us well-fed, so no one complained." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reluctantly tearing my gaze away, I made my way along the wall to where Rusty was sitting, her legs dangling over the edge." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That creepy white mask turned up toward me as I approached." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Relieving you early,\" I told her, and she didn't hesitate to get to her feet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Won't complain about that.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Before walking off, she hesitated." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How's the beastie? Is it… getting better?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He,\" I corrected. \"And yeah. His leg's healing up.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She nodded, the blank face of her mask bobbing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Some of the others really don't want him here,\" she told me, voice grim." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Just so you know.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't doubt it,\" I said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But he's…\" I flushed, concerned about coming across as too gushing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He really is harmless.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Doesn't look it,\" Rusty muttered, then walked off before I could say anything else." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I exhaled, sitting down on the edge of the container and doing a cursory sweep of the horizon." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nothing, not even a wild animal." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The day was cool, but the pale blue sky was clear." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We were getting closer to winter, though, which meant snow." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A lot of it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And while that meant easy access to water, because we could boil the snow, it brought with it far more negatives than positives." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Although Rig's chicken-wire roof over the camp did mean that after an initial dusting, if the snow was thick enough it tended to pile up without falling." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It helped to insulate the camp, but meant we lived in weird, glowy darkness for a while unless we left the perimeter." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The months leading up to winter also meant even more trips out to the Wastes for me, to try and scavenge extra supplies before travelling became too hard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Would Aury still be with us then?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I tensed up at the thought of him leaving." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now his leg was healed, maybe he'd want to move on soon." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Straight away. Panic clutched at my throat at the thought of looking down and seeing him walking away from the camp." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd never see him again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I jerked the zip of my bag down and grabbed the coat from inside, determined to distract myself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This wouldn't take me long to do." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And then even if Aury did leave—when, not if; who was I kidding?—he would have something to remember me by." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The thought just made me feel sadder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was sewing the last button onto the back of the coat when movement from the corner of my eye pulled my gaze up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I squinted, trying to work out what I was seeing, but it was still too far away." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I glanced back down to snip away the excess thread and shove all my sewing supplies back into their tin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After putting it in my bag, I carefully folded Aury's new coat and laid that on top, then zipped my backpack shut." }, { "from": "human", "value": "By the time I looked back up, the object was closer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Close enough that trepidation tightened my stomach as I made out shapes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Three big shapes—a large, long vehicle that looked like a bus, and two huge, monstrous forms pulling it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A smaller figure walked beside the slow-moving vehicle, but they were still too far away for me to tell if they were human or beastie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I pulled on my backpack and got to my feet, staring at the strange procession as I quickly put on my gloves." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They were like the final piece of my armour, and I didn't feel comfortable facing anything without them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The vehicle was coming this way, heading straight for the camp, not angling to go around us." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was another raider at the opposite corner of the camp wall to me, keeping watch in the other direction." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I whistled our short, sharp signal that meant someone or something was approaching." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The other raider was too far away for me to tell who it was even when they turned around at the sound, and a few other raiders in the camp below stopped and looked up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Get Anchor and Lilac,\" I called down, and saw two of them start running in opposite directions—one toward the diner, the other toward the vegetable patch." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I quickly turned back to watch the procession." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They were closer now—close enough for me to make out the grey, non-human tone of the walking figure's skin, and something that glinted in the sun on its head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was dragging something with a long handle behind it, leaving a deep furrow in the ground." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The two monsters pulling what I could now see was an RV were big, lumbering beasts with wrinkly, sand-coloured skin and three long horns protruding from the tops of their heads." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd seen those kinds of monsters before out in the Wastes, at a distance and usually near forests." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Ghost.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I turned and saw that it had been Nun who'd been keeping watch up here with me, and she'd jogged around to meet me on my corner." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I jerked my chin toward the weird procession." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She squinted, tiny lines fanning out from the corners of her bright blue eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nun was a tall, broad woman with pale blonde hair that she pulled up into a ponytail most of the time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was a self-taught fletcher, and she fingered the crude crossbow hanging from her hip as she eyed the approaching group." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What the hell?\" she muttered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Only a faint hint of her Swedish accent remained these days." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd been over here on vacation with her family when the monsters rose—her mother, father and two younger sisters." }, { "from": "human", "value": "None of them had survived the first few weeks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm going to go down to let Anchor know,\" I told her as we both watched." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They were close enough now that I could make out the drooping eyes of the two big monsters pulling the RV, attached to it with harnesses and chains." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The thing glinting on the walking figure's head was some kind of cage." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What the hell was this?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'll keep an eye up here,\" Nun said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She patted her crossbow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Just give me the signal if you need me to use this.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I will.\" I made my way over to the hatch and swung myself down, climbing quickly down the ladder." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "By the time I emerged out of the containers onto the grass, Lilac and Anchor were striding toward me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could see Aury watching from a short distance away, Rig beside him, brown eyes anxious." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Three monsters, two of them pulling an RV,\" I said shortly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Anchor's thick brows furrowed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What?\" she said blankly, sounding confused." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I shrugged. \"Yeah. No idea.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lilac walked past me, into the container." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Best find out what they want, then,\" he said flatly, before vanishing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I met Anchor's eyes for a moment before we both hurried after him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I pulled my useless shotgun off my back to grip in my hands, wishing I'd grabbed Rig's pipe gun before taking watch." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At least that one actually worked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We emerged into the Wastes and followed Lilac as he made his way around the perimeter to meet the approaching group head-on." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He twirled his machete lazily in his hand as he walked, his shoulders and overall gait relaxed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was so freaking calm, which just unnerved me even more." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I tried not to look too twitchy as I clutched my useless gun and followed silently behind." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "By the time we got around the perimeter, the RV and the monsters had nearly reached us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I cast my eye over the two lumbering beasts pulling the vehicle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Their eyes were sad, but calm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They didn't appear interested in us at all, but I could see them gazing at the trees behind the camp." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The beastie walking beside the vehicle was far more unnerving." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His build was solid and masculine, his bare chest a wall of thick grey muscle, his right shoulder and bicep bulging as he dragged that long-handled object behind him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It looked like a heavy weapon of some kind, but before I could focus on it, I was distracted by the sunlight glinting dully off the metal encasing his head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I stared. His head was covered by a cage, with bars so thick and close together I couldn't see a hint of the monster's face beneath, even when he got close enough that his features should have been visible." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was insanely creepy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then I noticed the harness over his shoulders, and a chain hanging between his back and the side of the RV." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A thick ring of metal had been welded to the side to attach the heavy metal chain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "These monsters didn't look like they were here of their own free will." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I heard Anchor exhale a trembling breath from beside me, but I couldn't tear my eyes away as the procession got closer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A rapid clicking sound, like a signal, emerged from the cage enclosing the head of the grey-skinned beastie, and the two big, lumbering monsters slowed to a stop." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I stood shoulder to shoulder with Lilac and Anchor in the ensuing silence, broken only by the gentle rustle of leaves on the nearby trees." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The two big beasts shifted their weight lazily on their long arms, eyeing up the trees again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could feel the eyes of the grey monster sweeping over us, but he didn't say a word." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I gritted my teeth, barely managing to suppress my surprised jump when he swung what I could now see was a huge war hammer up off the ground." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It came to rest easily over his shoulder, his posture far too casual to be anything but a subtle threat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I felt an almost imperceptible tensing of Lilac's frame, his narrow shoulder brushing mine, as the door to the RV swung open, its metallic squeak cutting through the stillness." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A small, sandalled foot appeared on the little metal step, followed by a plump calf and then the swish of a dark skirt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A dainty hand curled around the edge of the door, pulling it closed and revealing the rest of the woman to us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was short and dressed immaculately in a black dress and dainty pink cardigan, her dark hair brushed and glossy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her face was plump and pale, lips painted pink." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I stared at her, something like morbid fascination making me unable to pull my gaze away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She looked so out of place." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Like a mirage out here in this wasteland littered with the remnants of past civilisations." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Beside the towering, silent grey monster, she looked even tinier." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Movement in her arms finally drew my gaze down, and my brows pinched when I saw the small beastie cradled against the woman's chest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was a thin, bony creature, hairless and the colour of red wine held up to the sun in a glass." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Its head was a blank teardrop on its side, a smooth, round skull thinning to a sharp point for a snout." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could just about make out two black eyes that swivelled around excitedly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Its four spindly legs each ended in two tiny claws that reminded me of the tarsal claws on a tarantula, which I'd read about in a book I'd once borrowed from Cat's room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The woman took a step forward, snapping my attention back to her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She cast a sharp eye over the three of us, then beyond, at the looming wall of the camp behind us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When she smiled, I couldn't work out if it was meant to be friendly." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If it was, she failed.\n\n\"Hello, pets,\" she said in a saccharine, high-pitched voice. \"My name's Mary.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing exercise: 2 sentences sentences continuing this chapter, Lily Mayne style, nsfw, fantasy, romance, teratophilia, LGBT genre. characters may be pre-established" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd thought Moth's visit might make me start getting back to normal." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That I'd get up and, instead of sitting on the camp wall staring at the horizon like a mindless zombie, I'd make myself useful around the camp again. Maybe even go out scavenging for stuff before I told Anchor I'd be leaving to find Rig." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Instead, I didn't even get out of bed the following morning." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I slept until my head hurt, then dragged myself out of bed around noon to use the bathroom and shower for the first time in days." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When I got back to my room, Lilac had left a bowl of stew on the table, so I sat down to eat it, the silence in my room broken occasionally by faint clucks from the girls outside.\n\nThe sound made my chest hurt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I missed them, which was kind of stupid but… they were more than just laying hens to me. To Aury, as well." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd loved them. Maybe there was kinship there, although I wasn't sure if he'd appreciate being grouped in with chickens. Or maybe it was because they hadn't been afraid of him, and that was so rare—they'd been more affectionate with him than anyone else." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When I finished eating, I dragged my chair over beneath the window and pushed back one of my curtains." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As I shoved the window open as far as it would go, I wondered if I should just try and fix the damn latch myself. Rig wasn't here to fix things anymore." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My eyes prickled at the thought, so I quickly stuck my head out of the gap to distract myself. \"Hi, ladies.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "None of them paid any attention to me whatsoever, but it made me feel better to see them, aimlessly wandering around the yard as the sun set." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I couldn't open the window any further, and the bottom edge was pressing against my throat uncomfortably, so I pulled my head back in and rested my chin on folded arms against the windowsill, watching Trixie give herself a dust bath while Bianca squawked angrily at Pearl, who'd gotten too close." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I zoned out until a knock at the door made me jump. I made a grunting sound to let Lilac know he could come in, but it was Moth's voice that sounded from behind me. \"Ghost.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I looked over my shoulder at him. \"Oh. Hey.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I stood up and dragged the chair back to the table as Moth glanced back at Lilac, who was hovering outside the door, before taking a step inside and closing the door behind him.\n\n\"Um… I did something,\" he said, voice stilted." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I made a face at him. \"What.\"\n\nMoth's face did something complicated, flitting from uncertainty to determination to resignation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He worried the ring going through the centre of his lower lip before finally speaking." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I… went and found him for you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I stared at him, unable to move, even as my heart started pounding hard in my chest. \"What?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I went and found the rycke for you. Aury. He's here.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I swallowed hard. \"He's here?\"\n\nMoth nodded, watching me closely." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He's outside. Lilac's with him.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Moth's throat bobbed, and he took a few steps closer. \"Ghost, if you don't want to see him—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I do,\" I burst out, wondering if I should be coy about it, but… fuck it. \"Okay,\" I said, mainly to myself, exhaling a long breath. \"Okay.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I looked back up at Moth, confused." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How did you find him? Lilac and I looked everywhere, for days.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Moth shrugged, looking uncomfortable." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I knew he wouldn't have gone far, because he would want to watch over you. So I just walked around until I got the sudden urge to flee in terror, which meant he was nearby.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I stared at him. \"Does he really… trigger that reaction in you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I asked. I couldn't imagine it. At least, not when Aury was just Aury." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he changed, that was… different." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Moth nodded; face entirely serious. \"In all monsters. Yeah.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He watched me for a moment longer. \"So… you want to see him?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I nodded, resisting the urge to smooth down my hair, which was ridiculous." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At least I'd put clean clothes on." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Anxiety rose inside me like a storm, the first true emotion I'd had in days, and it made me want to chew on my thumbnail." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I didn't, mainly because if I messed up the manicure Lilac had given me, I was pretty sure he might actually kill me.\n\nI was vibrating with nerves when Moth turned toward the door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Wait,\" I blurted, and Moth turned around again. \"Did you tell anyone?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I asked him, unable to keep the edge of desperation out of my tone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"About what… Aury did? The Topeka camp?\"\n\nMoth shook his head, lips pulling down at the corners." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No one. I promise.\"\n\nMy eyes got hot." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Moth… thank you.\" I stepped forward to hug him, but he stumbled back and put his hands up, making me freeze and feel like a complete fool.\n\n\"Sorry, I just… The rycke's right outside.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He tilted his head toward the door and gave me a small, sheepish smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're his mate, so… I'd rather not risk it.\"\n\n\"Oh.\" I dropped my arms, cheeks getting hot. \"Okay. Sorry.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I just… I hope whatever happens makes you happy, Ghost,\" Moth said, and I forced myself to give him a smile, but it was distracted because I was jittery with nerves. I didn't want to be rude when Moth had done something so kind and selfless." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My breath caught when he opened the door and I saw Aury standing there next to Lilac, anxiously rubbing long fingers up and down his arms. Like he had all those weeks ago, when he'd knocked on my door and asked to come in, and everything had changed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was frozen to the spot as we stared at each other, Aury's black eyes big and mournful." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He took a single step closer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Can I come in?\"\n\nI managed to nod, only vaguely aware of Moth plastering himself against the wall beside the door to avoid Aury's wings touching him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He blinked in slight alarm when Aury looked directly at him after stepping into the room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thank you,\" Aury said, and Moth made a little sound in response.\n\nWhen Aury looked back at me, my breath shuddered out of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Half of it was my body's sheer relief at having him near again, his cold-air scent enveloping me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The other half was a confusing blend of want and hurt and anger.\n\nAnger won. I took a step toward him, hands balled into tight fists by my sides." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You are such an ass, Aury.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Moth was staring at me from behind Aury's back with a look of horror. Without saying a word, Lilac reached into the room, his face carefully expressionless, and grabbed Moth's arm to tug him out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He shut the door behind them, leaving us in tense silence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Aury fidgeted. \"I just wanted you to be safe—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You abandoned me!\" I flushed as soon as the words burst out of me. Maybe that had been a tad melodramatic." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He gave me a patient look. \"I left you where you'd be safe, Gage, and you know why I can't stay here.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah, but we were going to leave together!\" I clenched my jaw to stop my chin from trembling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Aury shook his head, and I saw his eyes flicker down to my mouth with longing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're safe here. It's too dangerous out there. You don't want to live out there.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Even with you? With what you can become? That's bullshit.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I shook my head, anger rising again. \"I know the Wastes, Aury. I'm used to them. I can survive out there on my own—I've been doing it for years. But with you, I know I'd be fine. I'd be safe. You'd keep me safe.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You really want to live out there with me? With what I… become?\" Aury's eyes were achingly vulnerable." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I love you.\" I stared up at him, determined to make him see." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know you're not human, Aury. It doesn't make me love you less.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But it's not just that, Gage.\" Aury looked agonised. \"This is your home. You have friends here. I can't take you away from that.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I felt a pang at his words, because there was a part of me that desperately didn't want to leave the camp, despite its bad points." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was right. It was my home." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'would' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I would leave, though. For him, I would." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't want to be apart from you, Aury,\" I said, voice ragged with desperation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I made that clear. We talked about what we were going to do.\" My chin trembled, no matter how much I tried to stop it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And then you just left without me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm sorry.\" Aury's eyes were anguished as he took a halting step forward, his wings shivering. \"I would give anything to stay with you, Gage. Anything. But I can't take you from your home and make you live out there.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He gestured toward the window. \"And we both know why I can't stay here. I could hurt someone.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Frustrated anger made me tremble. \"Well, I'm not even staying here,\" I snapped, an ugly part of me wanting to hurt him like he'd hurt me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm leaving to look for Rig, so I'll still be out there—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What?\" Aury stared at me, a panicked look on his face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Leaving? Look for Rig? What do you mean?\"\n\nMy jaw ticked. \"He's gone. Anchor let him leave with Mary.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Aury stared at me. \"Oh, no.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah. So I'm going out there anyway. Just on my own now.\" I couldn't stop the bitterness creeping into my voice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Aury rushed forward and took my hands, squeezing tight. \"Don't. I'll go—Let me go and find him.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His voice was desperate. \"You stay here.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My hands trembled in his grip. I couldn't decide whether I wanted to pull him closer or rip free from his hold. \"No. I'm going.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Gage, please.\" Aury let go of my hands to reach up and cup my face. \"I'll find him and bring him back, just stay here—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No.\" I stepped back, my heart hurting when his hands fell to his sides and his head twitched.\n\n\"Then let me come with you,\" he said, his tone pleading." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"To protect you. Please.\"\n\nI shook my head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You can't. If Mary gets to you—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm not letting you go out on your own. And I won't let her get me.\" Aury looked down at me, and his usually soft black eyes were harder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "More determined. Similar to how he'd looked after he'd killed those soldiers for pointing their guns at me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'll never let her or her aytorin hurt you, Gage. Or Rig.\"\n\n\"I know,\" I said, voice urgent with the need to make him see." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know you'll never let anything hurt me, which is why I'd be fine living out in the Wastes with you, Aury. We'd be fine.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Aury stared at me, expression wavering with longing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A tiny ember of hope sparked in my chest at the sight." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then it flared when I remembered Moth's words from before." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What about if you could control your change?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I asked. \"Then we could… maybe we could stay. After we found Rig, we could stay here.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I couldn't hide the fragile hope that bloomed.\n\nAury looked pained. \"It's too much of a risk, Gage,\" he said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"There's no guarantee I can… control it fully.\"\n\n\"I think you can learn to,\" I said with more confidence than I truthfully felt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You did after those soldiers. I could tell. You calmed yourself down.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes, but…\" Aury shook his head, and then it twitched hard. \"There's still no guarantee.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're not violent by nature, Aury. It's not like it's your first instinct.\"\n\nHe gave me a sad smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I think it is, though. Deep down. I always thought my ancestors' memories were of… of what my kind was like before. Long ago. Not anymore. But it looks like it's what I'm destined to be like, too.\"\n\n\"No.\" My voice was ragged as I stepped closer to him again and fisted his shirt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's not. You're not. You can control it, Aury. I'm asking if you're willing to try and learn to control it. To at least try. For me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Aury's brows pinched. \"Gage, I would do anything for you,\" he told me. My chest ached." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I clenched my fist tighter, scrunching the fabric of his shirt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But the thought of staying here worries me so much. I don't want to accidentally hurt anyone.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We have time,\" I urged." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We'll go out and look for Rig, and you'll have a chance to practise controlling it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Aury didn't look convinced. \"Gage…\"\n\n\"While we're out there, we can work out if it's safe for us to stay here,\" I pressed on, ignoring him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And if it's not, then we leave here together after dropping Rig off. Yes?\"\n\nAury parted his lips to speak, but I got there first." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We both get a say in this, Aury. Not just you. If I want to leave the camp, I can.\"\n\nAfter a long, agonising pause, he finally nodded, but I could see the worry still in his eyes, even as it mixed with a tiny ray of hope." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I just… want what's best for you,\" he said, voice soft. \"And I don't think that's me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My resolve crumbled entirely. \"You are,\" I told him, then leaned up to kiss him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Aury made a soft noise against my mouth as I dug my fingertips into his chest, needing to anchor him to me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Please, Aury,\" I said against his lips, my voice shaking. \"Please don't leave without me again.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He made an anguished sound." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm sorry.\" He kissed me. Then again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I thought it was for the best, even though it was so painful.\"\n\n\"You told me yourself ryckes are martyrs by nature,\" I said as we finally parted." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He huffed with amusement before leaning down to kiss me again, seeming as unable to stop as I was. I felt him smile against my mouth, and I sagged into his chest when his forked tongue pushed inside a moment later." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm so glad you came back,\" I mumbled against his mouth between kisses. \"Can't believe I'm going to owe Moth for the rest of my life.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Aury nodded, breaking the kiss to drop another on my cheek. \"He told me how sad you were.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His breath shuddered out of him, and he nuzzled my cheek. \"I hated the thought of it. But… I came back mainly for the girls.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I stilled, my brain taking a few seconds to process what he'd said. By the time I gave him a weak shove, he was already snuffling with laughter." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Real nice, dork. Well, don't let me keep you from them then,\" I said with mock annoyance, stepping back and gesturing at the window, where we could see the hens pecking about.\n\nBefore I could get very far, Aury's wings were swooping around and folding me back up against his chest, holding me there tightly as his arms looped around my back and he grinned down at me." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I rolled my eyes. \"Alright, you have a new party trick, but you can't just—\"\n\nHe kissed me, successfully shutting me up." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: This is part of a larger narrative. The user will write a segment, then you need to write around 10 sentences continuing directly from it. Characters and events may be pre-established from earlier chapters.\n\nAuthor style: Ann Maxwell\nGenre: scifi, romance" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Light flared over their faces, limning each in a harsh blue blaze that recalled myths of star demons. When the Access energy ebbed, Faen and Kayle emerged in all the warm tones of humanity. Only Ryth remained apart, as enigmatic as a Sharnn god … and more dangerous. His Sharnn cape wrapped around his body, clinging, then fanned as though in a breeze, but there was no breeze.\n\nThe three of them stepped off the Access platform into the receiving room of their luxurious Vintran h'kel.\n\n\"Do you think Lekel believed we were going to Sharn?\" asked Kayle.\n\nThe Sharnn made a gesture of complete indifference.\n\nFaen glanced sideways at him, then answered Kayle. \"Probably. I told him that I would be on t'kirl.\"\n\n\"T'kirl?\" asked Kayle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"An ancient custom,\" explained Faen. \"A way to heal wounds between the families of newly bound couples. Each goes to the other's family and asks if there are any unpaid insults between them. If so, there is ritual recompense. When everyone is satisfied, we breathe m'zamay and move with crystal music and laugh while moonlight pours through the black lace of tere groves.\"\n\nKayle smiled at her longing tone. \"It sounds like a custom Sharn would appreciate.\"\n\nFaen looked narrowly at Ryth. His face was composed of forbidding planes and angles, dark and baffling.\n\n\"I doubt that Sharn cares about Malia's customs,\" she said coolly. \"But t'kirl gave us the only reason to leave Malia that Lekel could not question.\" She glanced at Ryth again. \"How long do you suppose the Sharnn will go on acting like a castrated zarf?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Before Kayle could frame a reply, Ryth's long fingers traced apologies down Faen's body. Her senses leaped in answer, though her talent warned her that the Sharnn stranger was still there, waiting beneath the warmth of his smile. Yet she could not help replying, fingertips kneading the muscular curves of his neck and shoulders.\n\n\"Where are the Carifil?\" asked Ryth, rubbing his lips against her skin as though he had forgotten her special textures and fragrance.\n\n\"They came before us,\" she replied while her fingers paid extravagant compliments to his hair and lips. \"I never got closer to them than the room where they had waited.\"\n\n\"Very bad for you?\" said the Sharnn.\n\n\"Not exactly bad,\" she said, nibbling on his fingertips. \"Just very strong. Very distracting.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't I distract you?\"\n\nHer answer was a lithe Malian movement that made his breath catch. The last of the cold stranger evaporated in a flash of sensual heat. Yet even then she sensed an aching shadow of pain deep inside him.\n\nWhat is it, laseyss? she asked again.\n\nA pattern. A pattern that kills Malia. Or— His mind closed.\n\nOr what?\n\nNo. Not until it is the only possible pattern. And even your Great Destroyer wouldn't be that cruel." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Sharnn held her with a strength that would have been punishing, had it not been a pale reflection of his inner turmoil." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her lips gentled him until his arms loosened slightly." }, { "from": "system", "value": "/set_word_count: colors, frequency: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With a silent apology he released her and looked at their surroundings, seeing them for the first time. He sang through his teeth in Sharn's expression of admiration for sheer excess.\n\n\"Is that really a pool I see?\"\n\nKayle smiled while his fingers stroked a tapestry that had a hundred textures and a few bold colors.\n\n\"Vintrans have clay eyes,\" Faen said scornfully, dismissing the obvious colors with a glance.\n\nThe Sharnn's jade green eyes cataloged the room's patterns in swift, consuming glances while he walked across ankle deep fieldfur to the transparent expanse of pool that occupied one large h'kel. The water's alluring warmth made him smile.\n\nDo you like water, m'zamay? he asked silently, sending a swirl of sensual possibilities with his question. Faen laughed low in her throat and started toward the Sharnn." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Later, children,\" said Kayle, accurately reading their intentions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Just a few moments,\" asked Faen, voice and body swaying toward Ryth.\n\n\"Malian moments are legend in the Concord—and Sharn's ought to be,\" said Kayle dryly.\n\nWith a rueful smile, Ryth took Faen's hand and led her away from the fluid temptations of the pool.\n\n\"The rooms don't seem to bother you.\"\n\n\"No, they don't!\" She frowned and Ryth sensed her reaching out. \"These rooms have hardly been touched. It doesn't feel like Vintra at all. No … purple.\"\n\nKayle made a gesture of mock submission. \"You were right, Sharnn. As always.\"\n\n\"It wasn't a difficult calculation,\" said Ryth. \"Less than one millionth of one percent of the Concord population could afford to stay here. Total privacy is expensive.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Faen laughed and stretched as though to embrace the h'kel." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'enjoy' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The Great Destroyer's smiles are few, but appreciated. I am reluctant to bring others here.\"\n\nKayle's eyes deepened into orange embers as he listened to an inner dialog. Then he smiled sadly and spoke. \"Carifil—profound sorrow—that their auras disturb the magnificent Ti Faen.\"\n\n\"I share their sorrow. In time—\" she gestured ambiguously. \"In time I may be able to enjoy them. I'm beginning to enjoy you, Kayle. You are very distinctive, strong textures and deep silences. Difficult, but rewarding.\"\n\nA look of surprised pleasure softened Kayle's normally blunt features. \"I have rarely been so praised.\" Then, smiling wryly, \"I assume that I'm something of an acquired taste?\"\n\nFaen clapped her hands together once, approval and respect." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then her smile faded as she gathered herself for what she must do." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She looked over at the Sharnn and made a gesture of assent.\n\n\"Are you sure?\" he said slowly. \"You had a shock this morning with the Gint and the assassins, plus you're not used to the Access shifts. And the shuttle …\"\n\nFor a moment they both remembered the shuttle ride to Malia's inner moon. The Sharnn's self-absorption had been so great that he had not been aware what it was costing Faen to lie on a shuttle couch permeated by hundreds of conflicting auras. By the time he had noticed, she was sweating with the effort of holding off the hammering energies. He had pulled her onto his couch without a word from either his mind or his lips, but even that uneasy silence could not diminish her relief.\n\nI'm sorry, m'zamay. It was cold comfort I gave you.\n\nMuch better than none at all. Believe me. I know." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kayle waited until he sensed their mindspeech end, then said, \"Carifil Mim would like to see both of you personally. She would also like to share mindtouch with both of you, but realizes that is possible only with Ryth.\"\n\nFaen's smile was too quick, too brittle. \"Invite her in, Kayle. I'll be glad to meet more Carifil.\"\n\nBut for all the civility of her words, Faen stepped back until a gentle pressure from Ryth's arm made her realize her retreat. He caught the edge of her wry thought that meeting Mim could not be worse than fighting assassins in Lekel's gardens.\n\nMim must have been waiting nearby, for she appeared at the h'kel's entrance almost immediately. Kayle greeted her, mind and body, with the affection of one who had known Mim intimately for many maturities. Though she was dressed in the concealing purple robes of Vintra, Ryth knew immediately that she was Nendleti; that powerful rolling gait could not be disguised. Her dark skin, bronze hair and pale orange eyes, coupled with the strength of her face, made Mim attractive to both Ryth and Faen. She acknowledged the Sharnn's mental compliment with a swift mindtouch that was as decisive as her walk." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thrice-wife,\" murmured Kayle, touching her bright hair with both his palms, \"these are the two friends you have picked over my mind to know.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thrice-wife?\" said Faen.\n\nMim answered in a voice that was intriguingly soft and husky. \"Nendleti aristocrats marry once for political imperatives, once for sensual pleasures, and once for mental stimulation. Thus most Nendleti have three wives or three husbands. My thrice-husband and I found all three needs answered in each other.\" Even as she explained, she weighed Faen's physical appearance with eyes that missed nothing. When it seemed that Faen would ask another question, Mim said, \"I would be honored to tell the Ti Faen whatever she desires, but ask that such telling be delayed.\" She glanced doubtfully at Kayle. \"Are you sure?\"\n\n\"Faen is very resilient,\" said Kayle. \"And—we need her.\"\n\nMim noted the dark shadows and lines of stress on the elegant Malian profile, and wondered if Faen should work at all. But though the tall, powerful Sharnn beside Faen plainly wanted to object, he said nothing. Mim looked a question at Kayle, who signaled for silence in their private language." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I dislike using anyone as harshly as Faen has been used,\" said Mim bluntly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But because the need is great, I'll condone this unaesthetic rush.\"\n\nWith a speed that made them blink, Mim pulled a string of misa-wrapped articles out of her robe.\n\n\"These fifteen things belong to Carifil. Would you arrange these objects in order of least displeasing to most displeasing?\"\n\nWith a reluctance she could not conceal, Faen took the string and began unwrapping the packets. She glanced once at Ryth, and he immediately knelt beside her.\n\n\"Do they understand,\" Faen said, fingers hovering above the objects, \"that my preferences are as involuntary as the color of my eyes?\"\n\nMim smiled wryly. \"Child, not everyone loves the taste of bgli or the smell of nyko or the feel of misa or the sound of crystal music. Others would kill for the chance to experience any one of those things. No Carifil will be offended if he or she does not suit your particular senses.\"\n\nPale eyes weighed the sincerity of Mim's words for a moment, then Faen began touching the objects quickly, biting her lip in an attempt not to reveal what she learned. In spite of that, words rumbled out.\n\n\"Smooth and cool and lethal,\" as she brushed a platinum hair-band." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Gentle. Hidden,\" as her fingers barely touched a lock of silver-blue hair." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Ahhh, yes, this one! A knife spinning, brilliant and deadly and warm, so warm.\"\n\nRyth took the object—an earring made of three blue metal chains, set with brilliant blue-white gems—and put it to one side. As Faen murmured directions, he arranged the other objects. Within a very short time, it was finished. Only one object had made her flinch; three had pleased her and all had displayed rich, bright energies that were clean and easy to read.\n\n\"Done,\" said Faen, rubbing her fingertips delicately over Ryth's palm, more out of new habit than old need.\n\nKayle bent over the row of objects, picked up the earring that had so pleased Faen, and flipped it to Mim.\n\n\"When I saw you without it,\" he said gruffly, \"I thought you had negated all three of our marriages.\"\n\nMim responded with a Nendleti phrase that made Kayle laugh softly.\n\n\"That was for the Vintran alley where you nearly negated all our marriages,\" said Mim, fastening her nuptial earring in place." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I owe you three lives,\" she said to the Sharnn.\n\n\"He repaid them all in the Topaz Arcade,\" Ryth said, giving her a vivid mental picture of Kayle's knife appearing in the back of an assassin and Kayle's powerful arms sweeping much larger assassins into oblivion.\n\n\"Thank you,\" she said huskily. \"We've been apart physically so much that I rarely have the pleasure of seeing him fight.\" She smiled. \"But that will probably be remedied on Vintra.\" She eyed the line of objects. \"How many of them were unacceptable, even for short periods?\"\n\n\"That one,\" said Ryth, knowing Faen would be reluctant to answer. His finger flicked a green scarf. \"Only in an emergency.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Unnecessary,\" said Kayle. \"We expected all of them to be unacceptable.\" He looked at Faen speculatively. \"Perhaps if you touched more people who had undergone Carifil integration … ?\"\n\nFaen shrugged in excellent imitation of Ryth. \"Is this getting us closer to that gint? I keep remembering the Concord agent who was tortured into unconsciousness.\" She made a frustrated gesture. \"I should have brought something of hers when I followed Ryth, but I only thought of his cape. I didn't know we'd go to Vintra.\" Her lips flattened over the word Vintra and she made a disdainful gesture.\n\n\"Could you find her if you had something to touch?\" said Mim, looking intently at Faen.'" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Perhaps. It would depend on my stamina,\" she said matter-of-factly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I could at least narrow the geographical possibilities.\"\n\n\"You followed and found Ryth easily,\" said Kayle.\n\n\"Ryth is laseyss.\"\n\nThere was nothing Kayle could say to her flat statement. In silence, he watched Mim hand yet another misa-wrapped package to Faen.\n\n\"Jsyl's favorite river stone,\" said Mim. \"She used it for meditation.\"\n\n\"Jsyl?\" Faen asked. \"Is she the one? Was it her headband the Gint brought?\"\n\n\"Yes.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Maps?\" asked Faen, looking from Ryth to Kayle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No,\" said Ryth ruefully. \"I was so wrapped up in my discovery that I forgot to tell Kayle.\"\n\n\"Discovery?\" asked Mim.\n\nThe Sharnn said nothing, and his eyes refused questions.\n\n\"Maps,\" said Kayle, going to an antique, chest-high desk and tapping open the center slit. \"Maps of the Ten Continents, Myriad Isles and Fifteen Seas. Also, section-by-section maps of any area can be ordered through the room computer.\"\n\n\"Privacy coded?\" said Ryth.\n\n\"Automatic erase unless otherwise instructed.\"\n\n\"Good,\" Ryth looked at Faen. Her eyes were pale and her skin drawn; yet when she sensed his attention, she gave him a smile of breathtaking promise." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Are you sure?\" he asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Jsyl must be enduring far worse,\" said Faen, resuming her cross-legged position on the floor.\n\n\"Why didn't she call out to us?\" wondered Mim aloud.\n\n\"She was taken by surprise,\" said Faen.\n\n\"The others?\" asked Kayle.\n\n\"Off-planet,\" said Mim crisply.\n\nRyth put the river stone within reach of Faen's right hand and the map beneath her left.\n\n\"Remember,\" he said urgently. \"Location only. Try to block out all other information.\"\n\n\"Of course,\" she said, but her eyes told him that nothing obstructed the flow of information, ever.\n\n\"Location,\" he said again, touching her cheek and lips gently with his knuckles." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She rubbed her cheek across his hand, then put one fingertip lightly on the green river rock." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Female—barely conscious—they're coming again, oh don't—\"\n\n\"Location only!\" Ryth commanded, shaking the grip the stone had on her mind.\n\n\"Not—there,\" she whispered, brushing aside the map beneath her left hand.\n\nRyth yanked the map away and slid a second one under her hand. He continued, demanding focus on location and changing maps until her body jerked.\n\n\"Yes—\"\n\n\"Nimar'k'n continent,\" said Ryth, holding out his hands for the series of maps that covered the fifth continent, quadrant by quadrant.\n\n\"At least it is not on the other side of the world,\" said Mim.\n\nRyth ignored Faen's stumbling words of pain and terror by continuing to place new maps beneath her fingers as quickly as she rejected the old.\n\n\"Yes!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Fifteenth quadrant,\" snapped Ryth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kayle put that series of maps in Ryth's hands.\n\n\"Program section maps of Sima,\" said Ryth quietly, easing a map beneath Faen's shaking hand.\n\n\"This city?\" said Mim. \"But Jsyl entered through the Klylmi Access.\"\n\nRyth put another map under Faen's hand and tried to batter encouragement through her monolog of agony. \"Just do it!\" he snapped. \"Pattern.\"\n\n\"Error and regret,\" Mim said, turning away quickly, but Kayle was already punching instructions into the standard Concord room terminal.\n\n\"Scale?\" she said tersely.\n\n\"Begin at 1,000:1, then 500:1, then 100:1, then 50:1,\" answered Ryth, shifting maps in a hiss of plastic sheets.\n\nFaen made a sound as though she were fighting for breath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Without hesitating, Ryth forced in beyond the edges of her mind, and found his own body convulsed in pain, slippery with sweat and agony." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Quickly,\" gasped the Sharnn, wrenching his mind free. \"She can't last much longer. I won't let her!\"\n\n\"She?\" asked Mim. \"Do you mean Faen?\"\n\n\"Both!\"\n\nFaen's low cry, followed by a hoarse word brought Ryth's concentration totally back to her.\n\n\"Sima,\" he hissed. \"Begin with section eighty-nine.\"\n\n\"But you'll miss—\" A look from Ryth silenced Mim's objection to taking maps out of order; she quickly decided she would not care to cross wills with the Sharnn where Faen was concerned. \"Eighty-nine,\" she agreed briskly. \"City center.\"\n\nFaen's voice had fallen to a hoarse mutter of words distinguishable only to Ryth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her body jerked, trembled, and her breath came out in a long sigh." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She relaxed and her words became more distinct. Ryth delicately merged with the edges of her mind.\n\n\"Praise the Twelve Hawks of the Seventh Dawn,\" murmured the Sharnn, making a strange gesture with his right hand. Then, \"Jsyl has escaped into mirva—what you call q-consciousness.\"\n\n\"You're sure?\" said Mim, skeptical in spite of herself; it was too convenient, just when Faen's difficulties seemed to be at their greatest.\n\n\"Faen cannot fake her responses,\" said the Sharnn grimly. \"Look at her.\"\n\nThe pale fire of Mim's eyes measured Faen. Sweat was drying on Faen's body and the twisting tension of her muscles had almost vanished. Her breathing was slow and deep and regular.\n\nRyth switched sector maps in the sudden silence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Jsyl no longer hurts,\" said Ryth, moving maps again after a negative gesture from Faen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She no longer fears.\" New map. \"Her body and mind have let go of all but the most enduring need—survival.\" Another map. \"But we don't have much time. Q can be lethal.\"\n\n\"Yes. Here.\"\n\nFaen's calm assertion echoed in the suddenly voiceless room, Ryth picked up the map.\n\n\"Give me the ninety-sixth section, 500:1. Begin with the green code area.\"\n\nMim's blunt hands flew over the computer studs. Plastic maps began whiffing into the receiving tray. As fast as they came, Ryth put them under Faen's hand, but it was still an agonizingly slow process.\n\n\"Yes. Here. Right here.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ryth snatched up the map, scanning the area where Faen's finger had pointed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Now give me green code, 100:1. Begin with—No. Give me 50:1, c-sub-d. Then work in a left-circle around that center. N'ies?\" Then, realizing he had used a Malian word, he added, \"Do you understand?\"\n\n\"Yes,\" said Mim, fingers a blur of instructions over the studs.\n\nSeven maps later, in the b-sub-c area of the city Sima, Faen's finger came down on a series of circles that indicated a large cluster of vertical kels that had been popular with Vintra's first, nervous colonists.\n\n\"There.\"\n\nHer hand covered an area called Old Sima, with a population of perhaps 30,000. It was a cluttered, seething place, crammed with the oldest buildings in the oldest city on the planet. Kayle looked at it with a deep frown.\n\n\"An unaesthetic area,\" he said with a mildness that was belied by the distinct quiver of his nostrils. \"Built out of flarebrick and blackstone. Home of most of the disease and random violence in Sima.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His voice dropped into pure contempt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"They should burn it down to the decaying granite that supports it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mim frowned at the irregular circle Kayle had drawn on the map." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I had hoped—\" She stopped and snapped her fingers restlessly. \"If we take you there, Faen, could you narrow the area further?\"\n\n\"That's too—\" began the Sharnn angrily, but Faen cut across him.\n\n\"I received a few clear impressions of her surroundings. I will try.\"\n\nThe urgency in Faen's voice aroused Ryth.\n\nWhat is it, m'zamay? *\n\nHer only reply was an evasive sliding away from mindtouch. He pursued.\n\nFaen, what did you see through Jsyl's eyes?\n\nHe held the contact, demanding and finally getting a cool reply.\n\nIt was too quick." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not focused. Something even a pattern-man might mistake or misunderstand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Try me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The mildness of his thought was inviting, as was the warmth curling out to her from him. And with the warmth, the cape sliding over her skin in a caress that was as sweet as it was surprising. Faen stroked the cape, almost smiling, but her mind was still withheld.\n\nGive me time, laseyss. For now we must each hold our secrets until they're proved true or false beyond all doubt or error. N'ies?\n\n… n'ies … But tell me this. Did you see a shadow?\n\nFear was her only answer. The Sharnn looked up and found Kayle and Mim watching intently.\n\n\"Fascinating,\" murmured Mim. Then, to Kayle, \"Apologies, sri. I didn't believe there was a mind I couldn't force, but you were right. Faen and Ryth are impenetrable when they want to be.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She looked at both of them. \"Are you finished?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'through' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"For the moment,\" said Ryth.\n\n\"Regrets, Ti Faen,\" said Mim. \"I would have left you here to rest, but we still need your skill.\"\n\n\"We may need more than that,\" said the Sharnn dryly.\n\nHe went to the baggage chute, pulled out a soft leather rollup and rummaged through it. He removed several knives. Kayle watched for a moment, then began sorting through his own luggage and strapping on weapons. Mini's look went from one man to the other, then to Faen.\n\n\"When a Sharnn wearing a cape starts arming himself,\" said Faen, \"so do I.\"\n\n\"Without insult, thrice-wife,\" Kayle said, \"I would be pleased if you would wear weapons. Many weapons.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "At Mim's baffled look, Ryth explained." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The Gint seems to arrange odds of at least fifteen to one in his favor. His assassins aren't unskilled, as Kayle can tell you.\"\n\n\"I thought those guards belonged to Lekel?\"\n\n\"Perhaps. But they fought to the Gint's benefit.\"\n\nThe Sharnn said nothing more, letting Mim conclude what she wished as to Lekel's guilt or innocence in the question of guards. With a very thin smile, Mim caught the weapons Kayle threw to her.\n\nWhen they stepped out of the hotel, they stepped into a world composed solely of different tints, tones, shades and intensities of purple. It was as though neither blue nor red were allowed to exist in an uncombined state.\n\nFaen shuddered when the brooding light washed over her, making her eyes white as ice and her hair darker than the space between the stars, She hesitated for a long moment, fighting not to show her loathing for the very light that spread over Vintra's surface.\n\nThe Sharnn's hand touched her, smoothing her robe that no longer was clear turquoise.\n\nM'zamay?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'ryth's' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ryth's soft question went through the tightness of her mind. Though Vintra ruined all colors for her, his presence was still a savage radiance that even a mauve sun could not diminish.\n\nIs it the people? he asked, pulling her hand beneath his Cape until her fingers spread against the muscles of his chest.\n\nNo.\n\nMemories of Ti Vire?\n\nNo. She laughed raggedly. It's the light! Can you understand that, Sharnn?\n\nRyth's cape flared restlessly. So that's why your Ti Vire lasted only seven years." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had to escape … all the colors of hell … there's no honor in dying insane.\n\nThe Sharnn cape licked out, comforting. Faen almost smiled as she caught a soft fold between her hands. Then she realized that Kayle and Mim were waiting with little patience. The cape drifted from Faen's fingers when she gestured curtly for Kayle to proceed.\n\nThe four of them rode the city shuttles as far as they could and used lavender slidewalks until those fell into disrepair. Then the Sharnn led them deep into Old Sima, twisting through trash drifts and around garbage heaps slimed with age. The kels surrounding them grew higher, older, more ramshackle. The crowds that they had seen in the newer part of Sima gradually dwindled to nothing; only the furtive shadows of native scavengers spoke of other life. Occasionally a cry would echo among the leaning kels, but no one could be sure whether the sound was human or animal." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Is this the same place you were ambushed?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "murmured Mim in a voice that went no further than their ears.\n\n\"No,\" said Kayle with an equally muted voice. \"It looked much like this, though. Vintra must have lost a lot of people in the Undeclared War, to have abandoned so many large kels to howls and slinkers.\"\n\n\"But the maps,\" said Mim, \"showed this area as densely populated.\"\n\n\"The maps must have been very old.\"\n\nThe Sharnn halted, staring at the canted kels as though seeing them for the first time.\n\n\"Not old maps,\" said Ryth softly. \"Most of these kels haven't been abandoned that long; The garbage is not yet dust. But even so, this area could easily have held twice the population the map gave. Perhaps the war did cost Vintra too much.\"\n\n\"Not war,\" Faen said, her voice soft yet rasping with inner strain. \"Disease. Pekh. Many died here, heat and coma. Many, manymanyMANY—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ryth grabbed Faen and held her until she stopped shivering." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'kayle' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It just came in a wave—all those deaths,\" she whispered. \"Thousands and more thousands. Didn't you feel it?\"\n\n\"Just a distant sense of many small patterns ending and a great one continuing. It didn't tear at my emotions as it did at yours.\"\n\nFaen laughed shakily. \"The wave is past, now. I'm whole again.\"\n\nRyth let go of her slowly and turned to Kayle. \"Epidemic, not war.\"\n\nThe Sharnn turned and led off down an alley that seemed gloomy in spite of Vintra's huge lavender sun hanging directly overhead. As Faen followed, her eyes searched every purple shadow for life. Kayle and Mim stayed close to the ripple of sickly turquoise that was Faen's robe. Even as Ryth walked, his cape changed into a semblance of the loose two-color robe of a Vintran city dweller.\n\nA few of the tall kels surrounding them took on an air of habitation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Leashed suncallers preened in open windows, fragments of conversation glittered through the brooding lavender silence, less garbage slumped in the shadows, and there was an occasional flutter from a ragged robe." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Once, footsteps followed them. They turned, saw a pale flash of eyes, then nothing except the sound of footsteps running away, fading, gone.\n\nAs one, Faen and Kayle and Mim turned their robes inside out, a trick used by poor Vintrans to keep one side of their robes unstained for special occasions. The inside of the robes was much less bright; should anyone see Faen or the others from a distance, they would look like faded residents of the ramshackle kels.\n\nRyth hesitated, then reached out to Kayle's mind.\n\nOne-way link.\n\nThe Sharnn's blunt invitation/demand was surprising; he had always displayed a disinclination to anything more intimate than simple mindspeech.\n\nYou want me to ride your mind? asked Kayle, still uncertain.\n\nYes. Faen will take all my attention soon." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I don't want the distraction of separate mindspeech with three people. Keep Mim informed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ask her to be our eyes and ears." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And please be very small in my mind, Kayle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Otherwise, it could be impossible for Faen.\n\nKayle's mental presence seemed to thin and dissolve among the interstices of Ryth's mind. With growing surprise, the Sharnn realized that this was how Kayle linked disparate minds, sliding among energies until he had woven new connections of incredible subtlety.\n\nMy greatest respect, Ti Kayle.\n\nKayle's answer was a distinct sense of smiling ease deep within the Sharnn's mind. Tentatively, Ryth reached out for Faen.\n\nWe're approaching b-sub-c.\n\nThere was a feeling of confusion and discomfort, followed by surprise.\n\nKayle? asked Faen.\n\nRyth swore silently, and sensed distant consternation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Can you tolerate it? he asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It—it's like a veil over your radiance." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not painful, just … dimming. It won't hurt me.\n\nGood. Do you sense anything else?\n\nNothing.\n\nRyth unwrapped Jsyl's river stone and held it out to Faen. She touched it, closed her eyes and concentrated. Ryth watched her muscles cord with effort, but when he urged her to use herself less harshly, she ignored him.\n\n\"She's still—\" Faen's body swayed like a compass needle, turning between kels, \"—there. That way!\"\n\nFaen's blindly pointing finger indicated a huge kel, half-full of people and alive with the iridescent purple wings of suncallers.\n\nInside? asked Ryth, doubting that Jsyl would be hidden in an inhabited building." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Faen's answer was a biting need to be moving." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ryth pulled her around the building at a near-run.\n\nAgain! he demanded.\n\nA small hand closed over the rock Ryth held. Faen swayed, her upraised arm pointed down a long, unappetizing alley between leaning rows of very tall kels with sagging blacktree facades.\n\nThe Sharnn's pattern talent washed through him like adrenaline; a thousand traps waited in the too carefully piled rubbish heaps. Nor would any of the other approaches be any better. The Gint liked odds heavily in his favor.\n\n\"Flarebrick and purple suncallers,\" murmured Faen, voice rising, \"running down walls faded and cracking and quiet so quiet—Help me!\"\n\nFaen's scream died against Ryth's hard hand. He snatched the stone away from her and called to her mind." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Faen. Faen! Which kel?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With a long shudder, Faen opened her eyes, surprised to see she was at the mouth of an alley instead of on a cold floor with someone approaching, someone familiar and hated, a woman who wielded power with a vengeful hand.\n\nThen Faen realized that the Sharnn was deep inside her mind. She banished the mental picture before the woman's face could be more than a suggestion of shape and color.\n\n\"No!\" said Faen, wrenching away from him. \"No!\" Then she controlled herself and pulled his arms around her, breathing apologies against the hard muscles of his neck and pouring warmth into his mind.\n\nThe picture of a woman approaching did not appear between them again, yet Ryth sensed a fear growing in Faen, a fear unlike any he had sensed in her before. A fear like his own for Malia and for the loss that had brought him to her, a finder. Suddenly he had to know if Faen had seen the shadow that had haunted him off Sharn.\n\nThe Sharnn spread through Faen's mind like a golden net, gathering up every vagrant thought, but he could not make the link any deeper, could not touch her memory of a shadow/woman approaching, could not touch the core of her fear. She told him it was Kayle's presence that separated their minds, but the Sharnn sensed it was a reflex born of terror and survival." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he truly pressed her, driving himself against her evasions, Faen fought back with deadly potential." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "G'el n'si, came Ryth's careful thought as he retreated. Then, M'zamay, I need what you're hiding.\n\nNot yet, she responded, both plea and command. Not yet!\n\nTrust me.\n\nRyth sensed two Faens locked in combat; one calling to him as to her second self, and the other seeing him as a dark-eyed executioner.\n\nAnd he could press her no further, for she could be right. He could be the death of her people.\n\nRyth gathered Faen beneath the folds of his cape. For a moment her body remained rigid, then she melted against him until her sensual presence sent waves of pleasure through him. With a slow twist, she stepped out of his arms; her movement was promise and regret and apology." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Give me the stone, laseyss." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For an instant the Sharnn wanted to refuse, wanted to hurl the stone into a rubbish heap and turn his back on everything but her warmth. But he put the cool stone in her palm. Deep in her mind and his, below even Kayle's reach, they shared the inarticulate hope that they would not find their separate fears.\n\nWhen Faen's hand closed around the stone, she was torn out of his mind. She stumbled forward.\n\nRyth's arm went out to support her and to hold her back until he checked the narrowing alley for traps. But there were no bombs this time, only pits lined with ragged shards of glass and mounds of rubbish oozing poisonous gases. To Ryth's eye and mind, each carefully placed danger was another sign pointing to the Gint.\n\nFaen turned toward the front of a building where a long-dead artist had painted purple suncallers flying against Vintra's moon. Some of the birds appeared to be running down the flarebrick walls where the heavy black-wood facade faded and cracked and sagged.\n\nWithout hesitation, Faen stepped forward into the kel—and tripped over a strategically placed bit of rubble." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With a bone-deep rumble, part of the facade sheared free and hurtled to the entrance floor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Only Ryth's reflexes saved Faen from being crushed beneath the heavy fall of stone and wood. He wrenched Jsyl's talisman out of Faen's hands.\n\nThe kel is a trap! he called in her mind. Trap! N'ies? You stumbled over a trigger that brought down half of the facade. Do you really need this stone any more?\n\nSlowly, sanity replaced agony in her silver eyes.\n\nShe's out of q-consciousness. Dying.\n\nI know. Her dying sucked you into the stone. It's too dangerous for you!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hold on to me, demanded Faen, grabbing the stone before he could stop her." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'sharnn' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Sharnn picked up Faen and his cape wrapped around her so that it was impossible for her to move or cry out. Her body convulsed in death throes until the edge of his hand smacked against hers. The stone dropped from her fingers and crashed to the floor.\n\nWe're standing—on top of her! groaned Faen. Then she succumbed to the strain of touching a dying mind. Her body went limp as she retreated into a form of q-consciousness.\n\nThe Sharnn glanced around, hoping to see ramp or stairs, anything but a downshaft; he would trust the kel's creaking machinery only if the alternative was immediate death. Along one curve of the elliptical kel was a shadow suggestive of an arch or door. He shifted Faen's weight across his shoulders and ran toward the shadow. Before he reached it, Mim passed him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She felt it would be better, came Kayle's bland explanation. I agreed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But the traps—!\n\nKayle's response was an image of Ryth carrying Faen as he tried to fight off an ambush. Ryth knew Kayle was right. The falling facade had surely warned any guards who were present.\n\nTell Mim not to go through any doors or down any narrow paths until I've checked.\n\nDone.\n\nMim waited near the top of a narrow ramp that twisted Into the purple gloom below. The ramp was steep and studded with tread latches; it was meant for machines rather than men. Ryth, Kayle and Mim stood on the brink, barely breathing, listening with mind and body.\n\nMim senses nothing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jsyl?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Just once. A flash of agony when q-consciousness ended.\n\nIs she dead? asked the Sharnn angrily.\n\nPerhaps. Or perhaps she just went back into q.\n\nAs though Faen were no more burden than an extra knife, the Sharnn bent and picked up several fist-sized chunks of flarebrick nibble. With a snap of his wrist he sent one chunk ricocheting down the ramp. Before the first piece completed the spiral descent, the second and third were caroming after it. There was no response.\n\nWhen the bits of rubble stopped rolling, Mim looked up at Ryth. He gestured caution. Mim dropped lightly into the gloom. Kayle counted three and leaped after." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ryth waited for a five count." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "To his relief, there was nothing more dangerous than shifting rubble the whole twisting length of the ramp. He quickly picked his way down, balancing Faen across his shoulders.\n\nThe sub-surface room stretched away on all sides, huge, unpartitioned, and cluttered with defunct service machinery. Yellow-white lightstrips burned in tepid imitation of a sun the colonists would never see again.\n\nKayle and Mim stood with their backs to each other, watching.\n\nFaen's head moved restlessly against the Sharnn and she moaned. Her eyes opened nearly opaque, dulled by something that was nearly death. Ryth eased her into a standing position, holding on to her until he felt her strength and awareness return. With a motion that was almost awkward, Faen pulled free of his support.\n\n\"Jsyl is dead.\" Her thought was thin and distant." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Did that faceless woman kill her?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "demanded Ryth, sending with his question the blurred female form that he had taken from Faen's mind.\n\nFaen's flesh of panic was so quickly smothered that the Sharnn could not be certain he had sensed it at all.\n\nI don't know who killed Jsyl, answered Faen calmly. \"She died without thought. *\n\nHow did she die?\n\nShe was strangled.\n\nDeep in his mind Ryth felt Kayle's sudden feral alertness; if Jsyl had been strangled, her killer had to be nearby. Yet Mim had sensed nothing, no one, and Mim was highly skilled at sensing and forcing entry into minds.\n\nThey all heard the faint rattle of debris slithering over the floor above their heads. Mim and Kayle spun back toward the ramp, scrambling through rubble in an attempt to catch whoever was fleeing. An attempt the Sharnn knew would be futile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He leaped, caught a heavy metal conduit, and swung up to an air-exchange." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Through the dull plastic mesh he saw nothing; yet the faintest sounds of a man running came back to him.\n\nAn instant later Kayle and Mim appeared, running with a speed that surprised the Sharnn. He watched, though he was certain that all their speed would be useless. He had been the fastest runner of the Seventh Dawn, but the shadow they were chasing had eluded him.\n\nRyth swung down and landed lightly beside Faen.\n\n\"Let's find Jsyl's body.\"\n\nFaen hesitated. Her eyes dimmed as she remembered things she would rather forget. \"Yes, I suppose I must touch her, if only to find out—\" Faen's voice dried up. She swallowed and began again. \"Jsyl was kept near a tall, black machine with rust running down its sides. Very old. As old as the lightship that brought Malians here. She—\" Faen closed her eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She watched that machine until she went blind. And the floor—the floor was cold and uneven and had splinters of white glass like shattered eyes watching her die.\"\n\nFaen looked at the smooth floor beneath her feet. \"Poor Jsyl,\" she murmured. \"The Carifil told her nothing. She didn't know why she died.\"\n\n\"Do any of us?\"\n\nFaen glanced at Ryth, startled by the bitterness in his tone, but his back was to her and he was running between mounds of rubble and rusting metal, looking for a single black machine. He found several before he found the one Jsyl had known. The floor here was broken, crumpled by the same seismic shudders that had tilted the tall kels of Old Sima.\n\nThe Sharnn looked around carefully. His hard green eyes missed nothing, but he learned nothing new." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Concord Agent Jsyl had been tortured and strangled by an expert—or experts, if what he believed was true. Except for the places where Jsyl's thrashings had disturbed old patterns of grime and debris, nothing showed that the area was at all different from any other part of the kel.\n\nNor was there a body for Faen to touch and learn from.\n\nThe Sharnn's mind closed while he struggled against the pattern that was becoming more clear and more ugly with every moment. Facts and questions he had never wanted to know or ask clawed at his unwillingness. Either the Gint had a pattern gift to equal a Sharnn's, or someone had warned him about Faen's presence on Vintra. Was that someone Lekel? Or did Faen already have proof of Malia's guilt? Was she playing a game too subtle for a Sharnn who had succumbed to the white moment of Malian sensuality? Could he trust her with Vintra's future?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Could he trust himself?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You have a stranger's mind,\" said Faen. \"Closed and cold.\"\n\n\"At this moment, I would not share my thoughts with an enemy, much less you.\"\n\n\"Then I'm not your enemy?\"\n\n\"No.\" He held out his arms in spite of the uncertainty cutting at his mind.\n\n\"And you're not Malia's executioner?\" she asked faintly.\n\n\"No,\" he whispered against her rain-scented hair. \"No.\"\n\nFaen did not fight the grip that held her painfully close, filling her senses with his strength and his breath warm in her hair. She moved bonelessly against him until their bodies drove away Jsyl's tortured cries, drove away death and fear and agony. They held each other with aching force, as though if they held hard enough, nothing could ever divide them.\n\nBut when they finally released one another, they were further apart than before, separated by unspoken fears, shadows haunting their eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mim and Kayle found them standing silently, fingertips touching and moving in t'sil'ne." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Sharnn turned to face Kayle, but said nothing, for there was nothing he wanted Kayle to hear." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Find a natural way to mention that What did Faen learn from Jsyl's body?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What did Faen learn from Jsyl's body?\" said Kayle, his voice harsh with the frustration of a failed hunter.\n\n\"The killer took Jsyl's body with him.\"\n\nKayle swore explosively. \"He must have known about Faen.\" He looked at her, but Faen's white eyes stared through him.\n\n\"Perhaps,\" said the Sharnn. \"And perhaps he merely took Jsyl's body to increase the mystery of her disappearance.\"\n\nKayle started to ask a silent question, but found Ryth's mind totally unapproachable; if the Nendleti had not been looking at Ryth, Kayle would have sworn no one was there. Mim's efforts brought the same result; Ryth was as impervious to her as a stone.\n\n\"You've changed,\" said Kayle in blunt displeasure." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Sharnn can become whatever they can understand, whatever they can conceive.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What made you … conceive … of such mental defenses?\" asked Kayle.\n\n\"It was time,\" said Ryth, his eyes green and deep with the infinite possibilities of Sharn.\n\n\"Is it time for you to become a finder like Faen?\" asked Kayle sardonically.\n\n\"Sharnn can be anything, but not everything.\" Ryth turned his face to Mim. \"You did not sense the killer's presence?\"\n\nShe moved abruptly. \"Malians are a frustrating race. Above a certain level of potential their minds are an enigma to me. The whole time I waited on Malia's inner moon, the only Malian minds available to me were of the dullest sort.\"\n\n\"So the Gint is Malian,\" said Kayle. \"That's why Mim didn't sense him earlier.\"\n\nFaen stiffened, then forced herself to relax, but her whole body radiated subtle protest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Perhaps,\" said the Sharnn blandly. \"Or perhaps he is Vintran. Or perhaps he is something else entirely.\"\n\n\"Are Vintrans difficult for you?\" Kayle asked Mim.\n\n\"Not as often.\"\n\n\"Perhaps,\" said Ryth, \"Vintrans don't have as many minds of the requisite complexity to inhibit—\"\n\nKayle interrupted the Sharnn with a rude noise. \"From pattern-man to perhaps-man. It's clear to me that Malia is guilty.\"\n\n\"There are alternate possibilities for everything that has happened,\" said Ryth without heat.\n\n\"Tell me, perhaps-man, what the chances are that Malia is not guilty.\"\n\nRyth ignored Kayle's sarcasm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Even if there were only seven chances in one hundred—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That few!\"\n\n\"If,\" repeated Ryth emphatically, \"if the chances were only seven in one hundred that Malia were innocent, that is not certain enough to condemn a race of intelligent beings to extinction.\"\n\n\"The kind of certainty you're looking for doesn't exist,\"\n\n\"But it does, Kayle. It must. I have conceived of it, understood its necessity, and I am Sharnn. I shall find that certainty.\"\n\nWhat will Faen do if Malia is guilty? asked Kayle, and his mindspeech carried too many emotions to name. Then Kayle felt a hollow falling away, as though he had slipped into a downshaft. The Sharnn's mind was again closed and cold.\n\nRyth knitted the fingers of his right hand through Faen's left and brought her palm to his lips. \"The Ti Faen needs rest,\" he said, his voice as smooth and polished as the exterior of his mind." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We can learn nothing further here.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His enigmatic eyes watched Mim and Kayle, but neither one objected, for neither one wanted to fight him. The four of them scrambled up the ramp, and out into the ground floor of the leaning kel.\n\nFaen stumbled in the gloom and rubble; though she caught herself with surprising grace, the Sharnn reached out and lifted her off her feet. She protested, low-voiced, then let her forehead rest against the slow pulse in his neck. Her hair rippled down his arm like black water as he carried her through the dull sunlight and slanting purple shadows of Old Sima.\n\n\"We must talk, m'zamay,\" said Ryth, mopping up the last drops of their meal with a small piece of lavender bread.\n\nFaen, still sleep-drugged, began absently cleaning her sticky fingers with a damp cloth.\n\nRyth took the cloth from her. \"On Sharn,\" he said, delicately licking her smallest finger clean, \"this is the best part of the meal.\"\n\nFaen shivered with pleasure as his tongue moved between her fingers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You should have been born a Malian,\" she said, her low voice like another tone of the twilight glowing in the room." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Weave this into your narrative: \"But it does not matter how I was born, m'zamay, for I will surely die a Malian.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Perhaps I once was.\" His teeth slid across her palm and pressed together gently at the base of her thumb; then his tongue moved again over her fingers. \"But it does not matter how I was born, m'zamay, for I will surely die a Malian.\"\n\n\"No—!\"\n\n\"No?\" asked the Sharnn, pretending confusion. \"Does it tickle?\" His tongue flicked around her fingertip. \"I should take all my food from your hands,\" he said, voice low. \"It tastes so much sweeter.\"\n\n\"Don't,\" said Faen, as much moan as word. \"You are Sharnn, not Malian. Sharnn! Whether Malia lives or …\" her voice faded to a lightless whisper." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Dies,\" he finished, kissing the soft golden pulse inside her wrist. \"Shall we talk now, m'zamay?\"\n\n\"You call me m'zamay,\" she said with a ragged laugh, \"yet you are far more seductive than the silver dust in the center of the zamay flowers. M'zamay.\" She shivered as he sucked lightly on her finger, tongue caressing in a way that promised other pleasures. \"I can't think with you so close.\"\n\n\"You don't need to think, my Faen,\" he said, his breath soft on her breast as his hand parted her robe, \"Just tell me—\" his tongue made slow small circles, \"who Jsyl saw before she died.\" His body moved swiftly, holding her sudden struggles in a vise of skill and power. \"And I shall tell you—\" his teeth closed with melting gentleness \"—why you spent such a lonely shuttle ride. And then we—\" his fingers moved surely beneath her robe \"—will undress each other and I will teach my beautiful Ti Faen how Sharnn use a warm pool.\n\n\"Talk to me,\" he whispered.\n\n\"It's not equal,\" she cried. \"I'm helpless between your hands and you—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And I,\" he interrupted hoarsely, \"am helpless when I so much as think of you. Shall we die because of it?\" he asked, fingers warm with her warmth. \"Or shall we talk to each other?\"\n\n\"And say death to Malia.\"\n\nHer words hung in the room like the ringing of a vire crystal.\n\n\"Are you so certain?\" he asked, drawing her close, comforting and seeking comfort.\n\n\"Aren't you?\" she asked, her silver eyes dark and her fingers warm inside his cape, touching. \"Weren't you sure—\" the back of her hand rubbed lightly against his hard strength \"—when we left Malia?\" Her teeth closed over the Sharnn cape, impatient with the half-life dividing her skin from his." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What did you discover on Malia, laseyss?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Faen's whisper was as soft as her tongue between his lips and beneath his robe her hands kneaded down his back, counting and caressing each sliding muscle. Ryth groaned and gave himself up to her gliding tongue and for long moments they lived only where they touched one another.\n\n\"I—\" they said simultaneously, then smiled.\n\nBut their smiles faded as they watched each other and the amethyst dusk streaming through flawless glass.\n\n\"I'm afraid,\" Faen said simply. Her eyes were molten silver and her voice was thick. \"If I condemn Malia with my words, no death could be painful enough for me, not even Ti Kiirey-g'ii, redemption by agony.\" When she looked down, her black lashes made ragged shadow arcs across her cheeks: \"There is no possible redemption for such a traitor as I would be, a Sandoliki Ti who delivered her people to kh'vire'ni, death without honor or vengeance.\"\n\nWordlessly, the Sharnn put his knife in her hands and lifted until sharp metal creased the pulse swelling in his neck. It was the ultimate Malian gesture of trust." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Unless you, the Sandoliki Ti, have planned and executed Vintra's decline, nothing you say can irrevocably condemn Malia.\"\n\nThe knife dropped from her fingers and fell soundlessly onto the velvet floor.\n\n\"That proves nothing,\" she whispered. \"You know I could not kill you.\"\n\n\"Even to save your planet?\"\n\nThe agony that wrenched her made him curse the question, and its necessity.\n\n\"Listen to me,\" said the Sharnn, his voice rich with shared pain. \"What I said was the truth. Unless you are guilty—\"\n\n\"I'm not,\" she said, then added sadly, \"and I am.\" At his stricken look, she tried to explain." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If Memned is guilty, every Malian is equally guilty.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But—\"\n\n\"No. Let me finish while I have the courage.\" Faen's fingers clamped together until the skin around her knuckles turned pale gold. \"Jsyl saw Memned.\"\n\n\"Many people have seen Lekel's wife,\" said Ryth gently.\n\n\"Not as torturer.\" Faen's fingers loosened and lay slackly against her thighs. Her voice was a thin tumble of words. \"She's very skilled. Even Lekel is not better and he has known much torture, both in the giving and the receiving. That's how he became k'm'n Sandoliki while I fought Ti Vire.\n\n\"Oh Vintra,\" she moaned, \"why were you ever hung in Malia's future? Why did Maran sing?\"\n\nThe Sharnn looked at her eyes staring sightlessly into a past he had never known and did not comprehend. Yet he must comprehend or they both were lost." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'first' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I do not understand.\" Ryth stroked her fingers until the clammy feel of fear dissolved into the warmth of their skins sharing textures. \"Talk to me, my Faen. Teach me.\"\n\n\"I am—I was—the last Sandoliki. Have you never wondered why Lekel rules?\"\n\n\"It was enough for me to know why you did not rule.\"\n\n\"Lekel was Relle's vire brother,\" said Faen, her voice a monotone. \"Though Relle and I were bound with the first words we spoke, Lekel wanted me. If not as wife, then as f'mi. He was determined to be my first lover. I was not yet fourteen, below the age of full combat training. Or passion. He was twice my age, and highly trained." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But he was vulnerable, as a hungry man is always vulnerable. He did not truly believe I would refuse him.\n\n\"He'll not forget that instant. He took no woman, willing or otherwise, for many days. By the time he recovered, Relle and I were husband and wife.\n\n\"We were also off-planet, training to become Concord Agents.\"\n\n\"Ti Lekel must be a formidable fighter,\" said Ryth, more to himself than to her, \"to have driven you off Malia.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" she said unflinchingly. \"Even then, five assassins could not hold him. Children such as Relle and I wouldn't have made Lekel take a second breath. I knew that and ran, but I did not want Relle to know. For in spite of lust, Lekel and Relle were true knife-friends as well as vire brothers.\"\n\nHer hands stirred, slim and strong, and her fingers curled around his wrists." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"When I first saw Kayle move, I knew I had met a warrior to give even Lekel pause. Kayle taught me many things, deadly things. And I learned. Great Destroyer, how well I learned!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I know,\" said Ryth, kissing the fingers wrapped like choking vines around his wrists. \"I know, m'zamay.\"\n\n\"Not everything. Not yet.\" Her fingers loosened, leaving arcs where nails had scored flesh, and neither noticed, for they were focused in each other's eyes. \"When Skemole murdered Relle, I was carrying his children. I felt a hatred such as I'd never imagined. I screamed death oaths to the Great Destroyer. And was answered.\" She closed her eyes and then opened them, blind silver suspended in purple twilight. \"I initiated darg vire on Skemoleans. They were murderers, not warriors. Sly and malicious and foul. I killed them all.\"\n\nFaen looked at her hands. \"It was so easy. The room where Relle died in pieces was filled with their raw energies. A black explosion of knowledge and then I knew where each murderer was. I knew! So easy. Easy. Ah yes, the Great Destroyer had answered my oaths.\"\n\nHer laughter thinned into an eerie echo of descending night.\n\n\"I stole gems enough to lose myself among the Accesses of a thousand planets." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When my time was near, I returned to the Sandoliki Estates to bring life to Relle's children among the thousand moments of Malia that were their heritage." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Sandolikis had thought me dead with Relle; they feared the Concord would demand me to punish my darg vire. Sandoliki Jomen hid me in the most remote part of the Estates, the part where the sacred sarsa was kept. The part that became Darg Vintra.\n\n\"It was there that I began to learn the price asked by the Great Destroyer for the death of Relle's murderers. I could touch only my children. I could speak only to my children's minds. I turned to the sarsa … and sensed something I still do not understand. But the m'sarsas were like white-hot metal, energies that seared me. I could not play for long.\"\n\nShe sighed so deeply that her hair slid forward, veiling her face until her hand pushed the heavy mass away.\n\n\"Lekel did not believe that I could not endure touch. He came to me, testing. I was too impatient. My reflexes gave away my deadly skills. He fought only long enough for me to touch him.\"\n\nFaen's memory lived in Ryth's mind. Lekel, lithe and swift, weaponless, facing her, and their feints and counter-feints were blurs of speed and power until his arm deflected a death blow and she screamed, a scream of agony such as even Lekel had never before heard, and the scream dulled his eyes with a pain like hers as he began to believe that she would never faint with pleasure at his touch.\n\n\"He believed, then,\" said Faen. \"He knew that the price I had paid for avenging Relle was to be forever barred from touch.\n\n\"Lekel's plan to become a true Sandoliki by marrying me was ended. His ambition choked him. He was pale when he turned his back and walked away from me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Not just ambition,\" said Ryth, smoothing the back of her hand with his cheek and remembering Lekel, tall and potent, hard with passion and jealousy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He wanted you, Faen. Even now. The Great Destroyer must smile to see Lekel's hunger for you.\"\n\nFaen's fingertips slid along Ryth's thighs, gentle pressures and promises.\n\n\"Perhaps. But he killed seven men whose only transgression was to amuse me. They did not touch me. No one touched me except my children, but the older they grew the less I could touch even them. And Lekel there, always, until I demanded that he leave or fight me.\" Her lips curled. \"He left.\"\n\n\"Not from fear,\" said Ryth, shifting his weight to his side without taking his eyes from hers. \"He did not want to see his touch give you agony. I believe he loves you. I know he wants you.\" And Ryth gasped involuntarily as her fingers surrounded him like gentle flames.\n\n\"He wanted to rule Malia,\" Faen said, releasing him slowly and trailing her fingertips across his stomach. \"After Darg Vintra, I was the last Sandoliki—and I wanted only Ti Vire. Malia needed a leader, so a k'te kiirey was called.\"\n\nThe Sharnn watched while night folded around Faen like a dark dream." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He did not know where her words were leading, nor did he care; for this instant it was enough that he felt her alive between his hands." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you know what k'te kiirey is?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Teach me,\" he murmured as his palms savored the soft skin at her waist.\n\n\"When a ruler dies and there is no true heir, the people who believe they should rule Malia challenge each other. Survivors challenge survivors until only seven remain. Then it begins. Malia's most renowned torturer, the Kiirey Ti, uses his skill on each of the seven. The last person to break becomes Malia's ruler.\"\n\n\"And Lekel was last?\"\n\n\"Yes.\"\n\n\"I saw no scars, no signs that he was ever maimed.\"\n\n\"The Kiirey Ti would never be so crude.\" Faen sighed as her eyes watched Vintra's moon rise and breathe tainted light through the darkness. \"More than seven years after k'te kiirey, I returned to Malia. Though no Sandoliki, Lekel was a strong ruler. I wanted solitude, not a Sandoliki's duties. We agreed that Darg Vintra would be my home.\n\n\"So I went back there to my memories, back to the sarsa and back to the thing that I had sensed in its music, the thing that I had to have. I wore the m'sarsas strapped to my skin like weapons until their searing energies no longer made me grind my tongue between my teeth. Only then could I play crystal music. Only then could I hear my children's laughter, see their blue eyes, and have Relle around me silver and warm.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Somewhere in your response, you need to say: \"I can call them shadows of my imagination and need, and theirs. Whether they were real or not …\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Defiance rippled through her stillness, but Ryth was undisturbed. He held the woman now; whatever the sarsa had held was past.\n\n\"Today,\" Faen said, \"I can call them shadows of my imagination and need, and theirs. Whether they were real or not …\" She waited, but he did not speak. \"Were they?\" she demanded, suddenly fierce.\n\n\"I don't know.\" Then, \"I don't want to know. Unless it affects Malia's guilt or innocence.\"\n\n\"How could it?\" she asked, then laughed bitterly. \"How could it not? The sarsa is Malia's soul. If Memned is guilty, we are all guilty, even the shadow songs of Malia's past Maran's Song.\"\n\n\"Even if Memned is partnered with the Gint, does that make Malia guilty? I have heard you say that Memned is Vintran.\"\n\nFaen sat up suddenly, ignoring the robe that slid off her shoulders onto the floor. With tangible intensity she thought about what he had said, but after a moment she rejected it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Lekel could not marry a Vintran,\" she said with a finality in her tone that left no room for doubt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Memned is merely a woman to lie in my place, a shadow of me with dark hair and light eyes. Humiliating for her, but she accepted the position with sheathed weapons.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Remember to mention: \"She desires power the way most Malians desire touch. As Lekel's wife, she has it. Especially now that his advisors are dead.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why?\"\n\n\"She desires power the way most Malians desire touch. As Lekel's wife, she has it. Especially now that his advisors are dead.\"\n\n\"Where did she come from?\"\n\n\"The Ice Continent, I think.\" Faen made a dismissing gesture, \"Does it matter? All that matters is that Jsyl saw Memned as the enemy who tortured her into q-consciousness. Not even a pattern-man can wriggle off the point of that truth!\"\n\nRyth's skin gleamed in the wine-tinted night as he sat up beside Faen. His eyes held her motionless, the eyes of a man who had called a shadow's name. Then he put both name and shadow from his mind with a finality he had learned from her.\n\n\"Tell me, laseyss,\" Faen whispered. \"What did you discover on Malia?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't know.\" The Sharnn sat unmoving, a statue carved out of descending night." }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<USAGE LIMIT>>: 'death' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Because I don't want to know.\"\n\n\"What could be worse than Malia's death?\"\n\n\"Knowing I had caused it.\"\n\n\"But that's impossible.\"\n\n\"Is it?\" Mauve shadows slid across the Sharnn's shoulders as he leaned toward her. \"I hope so, m'zamay,\" he murmured, tongue between her lips. \"But I dream of a shadow, hungry. He has my eyes, my face, my—\"\n\nFaen's skillful mouth blurred his words. After a long moment she relented, a last caress, then she moved away.\n\n\"When Vintra orders Malia's death,\" began Faen." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No! Even now the pattern is not inevitable. There 1s still room for an innocent Malia. There is still time to catch a shadow.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Silence congealed and he reached blindly for her. \"There must be time!\"\n\nFaen's throat tightened as she held his face between her palms. \"You share none of our guilt.\"\n\n\"Malia is not guilty.\"\n\n\"The Concord disagrees. You must leave me, laseyss. You are not a Malian, to die when Malia dies.\"\n\n\"I became a Malian when I kissed my blood on your lips.\"\n\nThe Sharnn stood, lifting Faen with him. Her body moved, slow and supple, sliding down his body, sinking to her knees while his breath thickened in his throat.\n\n\"There is time to teach me about Sharn and pools,\" she murmured, touching him with her tongue." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Sharnn's fingers rubbed through her hair, holding her so close that her breath became another land of caress." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"There is nothing I can teach you,\" he said hoarsely.\n\nBut he was wrong. In the sliding warmth of the pool, he taught Faen that a Malian can faint twice for a Sharnn lover." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Narrative Extension Protocol:\nQuantity: 9 sentences\nContext: Match character familiarity\nGenre: scifi, romance" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kayle looked from Faen to the Sharnn. Both had refused to talk after their return from Zamir. Food and stimulants had restored their strength, but the Sharnn's eyes were darker, as though light moved less easily through their green depths.\n\n\"You lost your gamble,\" Kayle said bluntly.\n\nNeither one answered. Nor was it necessary. They had returned without the Gint's answers. Vintra had won. Tomorrow Malia would die.\n\nKilled by a Sharnn.\n\n\"You once told me,\" said Kayle, staring at Ryth, \"that there were patterns even beyond disaster. Was that truth or merely a Sharnn evasion?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It was true,\" said Ryth wearily, \"but Sharnn truth is not the same as Sharnn concept.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "/set_word_count: echoes, frequency: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Then make it the same!\"\n\nThe Sharnn's eyes became almost opaque with inner argument, silent calculations that spun and leaped until all but he felt time passing on the shadow wings of Malia's approaching death.\n\nSuddenly the Sharnn's whole body stretched until he stood with legs and arms spread, fingers wide as though to grasp the impossible. The room seemed to shift and slide, light wheeling around him, braided radiance twisting until he stood as a still focus of spinning energies.\n\nThen he laughed, and they sensed echoes of light more beautiful than light itself. A blink, and the room was normal, neither pouring light nor transcendent echoes and each person again cast a shadow.\n\nRyth spoke slowly, as though the need for urgency had passed. \"With Carifil help, how many minds can you mesh?\"\n\nKayle's orange eyes sparked as they searched the Sharnn's strangely compelling face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't know,\" said Kayle, his constricted voice reflecting his bafflement at Ryth's transformation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Then talk to me about variables.\"\n\nKayle paused, looking into Ryth's brilliant green eyes with a feeling he could not describe. \"Training and receptivity are the two greatest. Given those, I could even join Faen with a Vintran.\"\n\nRyth ignored Faen's shudder. \"Good,\" he murmured, and Kayle felt absurdly pleased. Then, as though it were unimportant, the Sharnn added, \"Can Mim penetrate the Malian mindset now?\"\n\n\"Yes, with Carifil help. You taught us how, Sharnn, though Memned was mostly a Vintran. What we learned enabled us to reach even you on Malia.\" Under Ryth's calm, encouraging glance, Kayle expanded. \"It's a matter of immense delicacy, of exquisite timing, of weaving among the intricate rhythms, of … of …\" Kayle stopped, spreading his hands." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"There are no words to describe it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ryth's smiling lips moved and Sharnn phrases burned for an instant behind Kayle's eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes,\" said Kayle excitedly. \"Yes! That's exactly what happened!\" Then excitement oozed out of his voice as the phrases faded, leaving behind not even an echo. \"Just get them in the right mood, Sharnn, and I'll mesh them.\"\n\n\"Hundreds?\" said Ryth quietly. \"Thousands? And more, many more?\"\n\n\"No. Too dangerous. If we pass a certain threshold—and we don't know what the threshold is—we get Unity. No one can control Unity. It's the kind of chain reaction that is the fear of every psi.\"\n\n\"How is uncontrolled Unity dangerous?\"\n\n\"If it doesn't disintegrate spontaneously, it bums out every mind in the mesh.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kayle's eyes looked haunted." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Only a few people are unlucky enough to survive.\"\n\nKayle's eyes slid away from the Sharnn's knowing gaze. The fear of Unity was built into every psi at the level of survival reflexes, as basic as pain. But the Sharnn was not every psi.\n\n\"What are you planning, Sharnn?\" asked Kayle, a curious mixture of reluctance and excitement in his voice.\n\n\"A Sharnn moment,\" said Ryth softly. \"The moment when we either conceive of the impossible, or we die.\"\n\nThe Sharnn stood silently, waiting, as mysterious and compelling as life itself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Faen's fingers moved intimately, tingled with his response and a shared moment that only a Malian could name. He smiled for her alone, but his words were for Kayle.\n\n\"We must convince the Council of what we know is true: Vintra is sabotaging itself and blaming Malia.\"\n\n\"Only someone who understood—really understood—both cultures could believe that. And,\" the Nendleti added bluntly, \"no one but a Malian understands Malian culture.\"\n\n\"I do,\" said the Sharnn. \"So do you … sometimes. So will they. We'll teach them, Kayle, you and I and Faen. And they will learn.\"\n\n\"Mindlink,\" whispered Faen, guessing, disbelieving, appalled at the very thought of such intimacy with anyone but the Sharnn.\n\n\"Impossible,\" said Kayle flatly. \"Even with your pattern skills, Malian culture is far too intricate to be taught in a gulp. The psi who tried it would die raving like a zarf. Impossible.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I have conceived it,\" said the Sharnn simply." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And Faen will help me.\"\n\nRyth leaned over her until his lips brushed hers, murmuring Sharnn phrases that she suddenly understood. She cried out once, then his radiance healed the pain of his words.\n\n\"The sarsa,\" she said slowly.\n\nKayle's eyes narrowed with uneasy speculation. \"Teach me.\"\n\nThe Sharnn waited for Faen to speak, but she was lost within herself and what he had asked her to do.\n\n\"I conceived,\" said Ryth hesitantly, searching for Galactic words to equal Sharnn concept, \"that the sarsa, touched by a supremely skilled musician who has certain mental energies … affinities with the sarsa's resonance spectrum and timeshadows …\" The Sharnn's voice faded and he gestured abruptly, frustrated by the limitations of a language that viewed reality very differently than a Sharnn.\n\nHe began again, simplifying to the point of insult. \"The sarsa can link minds, even mesh minds, below the level of awareness. It draws energy through the link/mesh and uses that energy to create … images. These visual/aural/ mental resonances act as a force that meshes present minds with the timeshadows of former minds, former …\" Ryth made an exasperated sound." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Galactic is a very limited language,\" he observed sourly." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'alone' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Galactic alone is more complex than any nine languages together,\" said Kayle. \"Only one language ever surpassed Galactic in complexity—the language of the Singers.\"\n\n\"Did you understand anything I described?\" asked the Sharnn impatiently.\n\n\"You plan to use the sarsa as an aid to linking/meshing the untrained, probably unwilling, minds of the Council. You're insane, of course.\"\n\nRyth shrugged, a muscular movement that was distinctively Sharnn. \"I suppose your understanding is complete enough for our purposes. Faen will bear the brunt of the assault.\"\n\n\"I won't be alone,\" she said, her fingertips stroking the sliding muscles of Ryth's arm. \"You will be with me, closer than my own blood.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"When?\" said Kayle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"As soon as we can get the Council on Malia,\" Ryth answered.\n\n\"That will be difficult. The planet is under primary proscription.\"\n\n\"Tell the Council,\" said Faen, \"that they will hear Maran's Song played on the Sandoliki sarsa, Malia's soul.\"\n\nRyth almost heard the questions hammering at Kayle, but all the Nendleti said was, \"The Carifil will convince the Council.\" He fixed his eyes on the Sharnn. \"Do you know—really know—what you're going to do to Faen?\"\n\nThe Sharnn's face changed and it was as though he had never conceived of laughter. Faen's soft voice slid between their anger.\n\n\"He has not hidden any patterns from me, Kayle. We have already forgiven each other and ourselves. We are ready.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"To die,\" sighed Kayle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His eyes brooded over Faen's deceptively fragile face and pale glowing eyes. \"Are you sure, daughter? There is no need for either you or Ryth to suffer and die.\"\n\nWhen Faen finally spoke, her voice was husky with memories and regret. \"For many years I had the privilege of being Sandoliki Ti. Yet I did nothing. I drank from Malia's well and gave nothing in return. Not love, not duty, not even gratitude. I owe my people a last chance, however small.\"\n\n\"If they knew the danger to you,\" said Kayle, \"if they knew that we would allow you to survive Malia's death, they would release you with blessings.\"\n\n\"Yes. And that is why I must return to Malia.\"\n\nKayle's eyes closed and the sense of hammering questions ended. \"As you will. It will.\" When he opened his eyes and looked at Ryth, he could not help but wonder how a man felt who asked his complement to undergo a terrible dying." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then he saw darkness twisting deep within Sharnn eyes and wondered no more." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kayle touched Ryth with gentle hands. \"How can I help?\"\n\nRyth accepted the touch, returned it. \"Teach my Sharnn curiosity about Unity. Can the Carifil control it?\"\n\nKayle moved minutely, as though uncomfortable deep within his mind. \"Once, on a planet called Tal-Lith, Carifil … guided … a Unity for a very short moment. But the people were uniquely focused. Their world was melting around them and they thought they had seen their God.\" Kayle shook off the reservoir of Carifil memories that even now could make him shudder. \"It's not an experience that Carifil want to repeat,\" said Kayle. \"But, as only the Councilors will be involved, there's no risk of Unity.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Faen looked at Ryth and knew … and said nothing, for measured against certain extinction, no risk was too great, not even Unity." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The seamed face of Darg Vintra raced below the flyers. In the lead flyer, Kayle and Mim sat silently, unmoving, appalled by the ruined landscape and the rusty wind.\n\n\"Now I believe,\" said Mim, her low voice husky with unspoken emotions. \"A people who could do this could do anything.\"\n\n\"Vintrans were Malians once,\" Faen said hollowly. Her fingers clenched on Ryth's thigh. \"Once and always.\"\n\nThe thought of Vintrans still repelled Faen, an ingrained cultural aversion nearly as strong as a survival reflex; Ryth lifted her hand and rubbed her knuckles across his lips until her fingers relaxed.\n\nThe land grimaced and bled shallow streams thick with rock dust. Long shadow fingers crept out of blast furrows, a dark, soundless welling that joined fingers to hands and hands to arms until the body of night materialized over the destroyed land." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In the distance, lit by the last direct light of Malia's incomparable sun, the ancient tere grove of the Sandoliki Estates leaped out of darkness, a red flame burning against the blind welling of shadows." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Faen leaned forward, silver eyes drinking the silent cry of color. When the last ray faded from the highest scarlet tree, she breathed the name of a moment. With new tranquility, she leaned back, eyes closed, lips like two tere leaves curving around a white flower.\n\nNeither Faen nor Ryth looked behind, where Carifil and Councilors filled nine flyers. Since the flyers had sliced through the final high pass and skimmed low over the face of Darg Vintra, none of the Carifil had spoken. After seeing galaxies of silver insects glittering over blue-green zamay seas, after being caressed by winds fragrant with desire and moist with promise, the blasted face of Darg Vintra was shocking to the point of obscenity.\n\nWhile the flyers circled the living remnants of the Sandoliki Estates, Councilors' comments began to filter through the listener in Ryth's flyer.\n\n\"—never believed—\"\n\n\"—after such beauty, too. Malia is the most beautiful—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Did you say there was no warning before the molecular fire?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"—died. Except for her, of course. I wonder if they were as cold as she is, or half so beautiful. But then, all Malians are beautiful. Too beautiful for—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Darg Vintra? Vintra's Revenge. It's taken from the Malian darg vire, meaning death vendetta. Remember her Ti Vire—\"\n\nThe Sharnn listened to summations of Malia and Malians, accurate and inaccurate, but did not use his flyer's override to comment; he wanted the hideous contrast between Darg Vintra and Malia's living beauty to seep into the center of the Councilors' minds. Only then could they begin to appreciate the tenacious hold Malia had on the psyches of its people; only then could they take the first minute step toward a grasp of Malian esthetics, a grasp that would normally take several maturities—if it were possible at all.\n\nA grasp that he was going to attempt to teach them in the space of moments.\n\nHe would have help, of course. Faen and the sarsa, and Malia itself, all her people, all of them seeing/hearing their Sandoliki sarsa. He only hoped that Faen was correct, that the comnet built into the sarsa garden would carry subtleties as well as tones, nuances as well as chords. And that the Gint would hear and be held, a shadow caught in the intangible vise of Unity.\n\nBut that was only Sharnn hope. Not conception." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ryth rubbed his lips over the soft skin of Faen's hand, unaware that his grip had tightened." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🎯 Target word: 'shattered' | Required occurrences: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even without that pressure she would have known his mental unease, but other than a gentle return pressure on his lips, she did nothing to disturb him. She knew that he had a separate peace to make, a peace that included a shadow that he did not permit himself to name, much less conceive, in the center of his mind.\n\nThe flyer sideslipped down, down, until it was below the sudden thrust of the Western Wall. The flyer knifed between ridges until it burst over the tilted bench of land where Faen's metal shelter crouched among golden stones buffed by ages of sun and wind.\n\nThe ten flyers landed as one. At the edge of the landing site, shattered crystal made heaps of blue-black shadows that were shot through with secret glimmerings. In the radiant twilight, a surviving crystal god smoldered with turquoise mystery, wind-pitted eyes staring into a future that never came.\n\nWhen Ryth and Faen stepped out of their flyer, the scarlet bird called, high and sweet, piercing the gathering night. Faen paused, and her lips shaped a flawless answer, a rising trill more haunting than twilight and tere and shattered gods." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Sharnn bent over her, held her as though she were twilight sliding through his fingers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kayle led the Councilors down a path glowing with the phosphorescent bells of blooming nightvine." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'living' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The flowers' subtle fragrance strengthened with each step until the crushed petals underfoot were overpowering, almost narcotic; no matter how penetrating the smell, the Councilors could not get enough of it. Then the scent vanished, absorbed by living tere bark. The sudden change brought both relief and regret, one of the myriad sensual paradoxes that was the core of Malia's unique appeal. Kayle led the Councilors into a towering tere grove where dry leaves whispered underfoot and living leaves swept the sky with separate fans opened against the first brittle stars. He stopped when he reached the deserted courtyard where the sarsa waited. Wordlessly he gestured to stone benches and gnarled tere roots carved into inviting curves.\n\n\"The Ti Faen will not approach the sarsa until the third moon rises.\"\n\nThe Councilors looked around the garden, eyes sliding off a sarsa made nearly invisible by twilight. Tere leaves drifted down, still velvet with recent life, a soft benediction with a fragrance like dawn." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Though the Councilors represented thirty-five planets ranging from the blue seas of Lirl to the fused deserts of Verlael, each person was silenced, wordless, because no one had words to describe the unique beauty of tere leaves and wind and twilight sliding into night." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Councilors moved little, and then softly, as though the moment and the night were exquisitely fragile.\n\nAnd then they moved not at all, for Malia could only be described or felt in superlatives, excesses of hyperbole that finally left the mind stunned and quiescent until another moment subsumed the first and surfeit became wonder once more.\n\nKayle watched them, measured their awe in their unnatural stillness and the brilliance of their eyes. Nor did he disturb their meditations, for he remembered his own first moments on Malia, his certainty that he had been reborn into a world of infinite sensual possibilities. The newness had faded with time, but not the fine edge of anticipation; that never dulled, for Malia renewed wonder with each breath.\n\nC'Varial Ti rose, the first moon, a clear turquoise crescent that towed behind it a second moon, a pearl half-circle whose rich glow equaled that of the larger moon. As light from the two moons mingled and filtered through tere leaves, the sarsa seemed to stir. Tiny glints, echoes of light, movement unexplained yet certain, subliminal presence too tenuous to be known.\n\nAs one, the Councilors turned and faced the sarsa." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They watched, unblinking, waiting for something they sensed but could not name." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The third moon rose, a silver disc called C'Sarsa Ti, full and flawless, pouring silver light down until a thousand silent facets blazed and the sarsa split its husk of darkness." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The soundless explosion of light was received by sighs of pleasure and pain mingled. As though satisfied, the sarsa's radiance dimmed subtly, becoming a silent symphony in all the tones of silver. At that moment, like a memory of a dream, the exquisite voices of tiny crystal bells chimed in the tere grove.\n\nFaen walked into the moonlight, her feet soundless on worn stones, her graceful body swaying just enough to make carved crystal earrings cry softly. Kayle heard the tiny chimes and knew why she wore them, and knowing, wept. Others wept, knowing only that the bells also cried. Ryth moved behind the soft-ringing bells, his Sharnn cape rippling with a half-light half-life that answered the sarsa's gleaming silver. His fathomless Sharnn eyes searched the courtyard, a single green glance that dismissed even as it recognized that the enemy was not here, for he had heard chimes grieve for her child, his child, the child who could die without knowing the moment of birth.\n\nHe did not know if even Malia was worth the life of their unborn child." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Faen stopped in front of the sarsa and a pulse of light lit her face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She stood unmoving, moonlight and sarsa glow tangled in her hair and robes until both seemed alive with silver energy and her earrings burned with light so pure it had no color, only presence. When she finally spoke, her voice was an echo of that light and her earrings clashed and sparked, marking her words.\n\n\"You are not Malians, yet you will soon know Malia as few ever have. You will know all our secrets, and the secrets of our deadly shadow, Vintra.\"\n\nThe Vintran representative stirred and would have protested, but the Sharnn looked at her and her words died unspoken.\n\nFaen's arms lifted in a gesture almost like worship and her fingers touched the sarsa's shining crystal surfaces. Then fingertips sought and found four slender m'sarsas.\n\n\"In Malian, sarsa means soul, and souls always precede the life that grows to recognize it.\n\n\"This sarsa is older than the Sandoliki name we give it, older than the Malian who named and numbered our first moment, older than the stones worn smooth beneath your feet.\"\n\nFaen breathed deeply and light shimmered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What the sarsa gives to us, we give to it in return, and then it returns to us In a cycle ever new, ever renewing. Each Sandoliki creates changing yet changeless song, the echo of an individual being, an individual soul realized in music. This song we give to the sarsa while we live. This song the sarsa returns to our children when we die.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ryth remembered a man's song and a man's shape condensing out of moonlight. Remembering, he stirred, and the Sharnn cape curled around his calves like liquid light. For the first time, Faen looked beyond the sarsa to the waiting Councilors. Her eyes paused over Wys, the Vintran representative, then moved on, searching for something she did not find.\n\n\"You don't understand, do you? Only Wys, and her fifth-parents were Malian, once.\"\n\nTiny bells rang, fierce, impatient.\n\n\"Some cultures have monuments to recall their past; some have teachers or dreamers or machines; some even have gods. Malia has the Sandoliki sarsa. It is the repository of Sandoliki memories, Sandoliki minds." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Tomorrow you will take all Malian lives. But tonight I will give you Malia's soul!\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'longest' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Faen's arms dropped, sweeping the four m'sarsas across crystal faces. Music shimmered in the clearing, complex resonances older than tere or garden, older than sun-worn stones, ancient notes recalling the first Sandoliki.\n\nIt was a woman's song, supple and savage with the certainty of life.\n\nThe, sound swelled, divided into separate harmonies, children unfolding, growing and then a new song slowly consuming all others. The longest crystal hummed with ominous resonance, dark harmonies shivered. The clash of battle shook the sarsa and moonlight ran down long crystals like ghostly blood.\n\nCacophony faded into a new song, oddly thinned but still powerful: a child, old beyond reason, strength and cunning of a savage mountain beast. Other melodies flowed into the child's swift rhythm and were consumed by his enormous power. The longest crystal, the vire, shimmered vengeance and death." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A fully-grown man led lightning armies across the moonlight night." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The song ended in a crystalline shriek of agony." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The vire crystal tolled the death of the second Sandoliki ruler, then trembled into silence. High notes sighed into separate songs, slowly forming, melody coalescing into a new generation.\n\nAncient songs poured out, each different, each created by a separate Sandoliki, summation of individual souls flowing in ghostly pageant. Some songs were brief, cut off in first harmony, and for them the vire crystal tolled and tiny crystals wept. But always there were more, sisters and brothers, man and woman, children swelling into separate songs, fading beneath the surer rhythms of the strongest of their generation as a new Sandoliki rose to power and fought and lived and died while three moons arced across the outer darkness.\n\nThe songs subtly shifted range, quivered in eerie harmonics, as Malians discovered other races could cross the darkness to new worlds, to Malia. Concord scouts rode lightships to Malia, bringing seven more lives for each living Malian, until children stood next to parents seven times removed.\n\nUntil Malians were too many and moments were too few.\n\nA rogue Sandoliki rode a stolen lightship to other worlds and found one, unnamed, a shadow of Malia where purple coiled and flowed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But to him, it was beautiful." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But for him, it would have remained a shadow with no name.\n\nThe vire crystal boomed as Malians killed each other in endless duels, rolling thunder while crystals cried and sensuality sank into a mire of flesh, t'sil'ne replaced by knives, too many people and too few moments, shadow esthetics crowding out the thousand names of transcendence.\n\nThen a woman was born in a shower of perfect tones, a lilting hope that began Maran's Song, the forbidden song of Malia.\n\nSandoliki Ti Maran, leader of the old race, mother of the new, creator of a song that was known throughout the Concord for its torrential power and exquisite nuance.\n\nKnown, but not understood, for only Malians understood the meaning of Maran's Song, Malian secret, Malian shame, Malian flaw at the core of perfection.\n\nFew artists could play Maran's Song adequately on any instrument. None but Maran had ever played it on the Sandoliki sarsa. And Maran had shared her song only once, for all her people, an entire race focused in unknowing Unity so that it might divide itself into substance and shadow, Malian and Vintran, thereby saving one and perhaps the other.\n\nBut the Councilors knew nothing except that for the first time in Concord history aliens listened while the Sandoliki sarsa spoke." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They were completely caught, suspended in the space between notes as her four m'sarsas called intricate music out of triple moonlight, each movement a sure touch, each note a flawless aspect of the sweeping whole, Maran's Song cascading until their breaths sighed out unknowing and their blood surged with Maran's rhythms, Maran's hopes, Maran's triumphs, Maran living again in her song and in them, timeshadow of her mind touching and links forming, deepening, a mesh balanced by a Nendleti whose skill was as great as his fear." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At the first breath of the Councilors' linkage, the Sharnn fused with Faen, saturating her mind with his presence as he saturated her senses with his touch, protecting her from minds outside his own.\n\nHe discovered more than just her mind held in the net of his radiance. Each crystal note called another timeshadow, touched a past mind, shadows and music and moonlight twisting, condensing, glowing woman-shape turning, silver-eyed Maran, laughter and a timeless murmur of greeting as other shapes shimmered, returning, called by Faen and the Sandoliki sarsa.\n\nIt was then that Ryth realized that the sarsa braided present and past, mind and timeshadow, drained a little life from one and a little death from the other, eerie synthesis of energy and time.\n\nMaran's Song soared on the wings of a thousand past minds, ten thousand, and Malians again gathered in ghostly concourse, murmuring of moments known only in legend, whispering of solutions known only in hope, addressing everything but the name of a shadow found by a rogue Sandoliki.\n\nMaran stood and named the shadow, ignored its vices, called each of its virtues with piercing notes, sang of uncrowded futures for all who followed her to Vintra, moments beyond numbering, beyond naming.\n\nHalf of the Malians came to her, half-Malians followed her to half-life on a planet that contained every shade of madness known to Malian senses. But Maran believed that a shadow could have substance, if only its name were sung superbly, its shadow moments discovered and cherished, named, for, once named, those moments would change perceptions until Vintra became more real, Malia less so.\n\nMaran was almost correct, almost as great as her song." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But the new Vintrans lived too long; they remembered too well; they taught their children too much about the planet they had left behind, the culture they could not achieve, the perceptions that had become unattainable … and the haunting resonance of one thousand names, Malian moments Vintrans would never know." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Maran died among the shards of her dream, pouring her life over their merciless edges, but not enough life, not enough death, for the shadow had been named and once named, became half-alive, half-aware, wholly craving.\n\nThe vire crystal shuddered, shapes twisted, moonlight shook with hatred as the sarsa exploded with undeclared war. Darg Vintra. Separate songs leaped and shattered, songs truncated by the vire's awful toll, genealogy of song and Sandoliki death, death and hatred, hatred and black light blooming, molecular fire and Ti Vire, Sandoliki song and death and hatred and death until throttled screams tore each throat and the clearing felt the consuming pulse of darg vire, hatred shared in common, Malian and Galactic alike.\n\nToo late Kayle realized that, just as Mim had learned from the Sharnn the key to Malian mind patterns, the Sharnn had learned from her the way to force minds into linkage. Now the Sharnn reached out in expanding concept, sweeping up minds all over the planet, minds already focused on Maran's Song, Malia's song, the song of their past and their only possible future. Too many! screamed Kayle's mind. Too fast!\n\nThere was no response from the Sharnn's driving mind, unless it was the sarsa's atonal cry as Faen's hands jerked and m'sarsas chattered across crystal faces. Shadows seethed. The fabric of reality tore. Instinctively, Kayle poured himself into the dissolving mesh, mending rents through which shadows leaped, craving." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Faen steadied and the sarsa's moonlit notes drove shadows back, triple moonlight poured silver chords over smooth stone, harmony soaring, binding mind to mind in triple intimacy of past and present and future." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "FUTURE … ?\n\nEvolving Unity's question echoed through the velvet night, Unity shaped by sarsa's clear energy, held by sarsa's clear focus until Unity stirred just once and Faen screamed and the scarlet bird shrieked with Sandoliki agony as Faen withered beneath the consuming energy of Unity awakening.\n\n(Losing her.)\n\n(No!)\n\n(Let us help.)\n\n(Carifil?)\n\n(Yes.)\n\n(Take the Councilors. They blur us.)\n\nThe impossible weight of Councilors vanished." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Sharnn flexed, driving back Unity a mere fraction, a fragile margin where Faen sought and found surcease from hammering intimacy, too many memories, too many fears, too many hopes and lies and minds all hammering, clamorous, cacophonous in their greed to speak and see and above all" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "NOT DIE\n\nfor they had heard crystal summation, chords of urgency and despair and truth.\n\nUnity coalesced, still seething, becoming, controllable so long as to focus did not falter, so long as Faen could call song on Sandoliki crystal, guiding massed minds until she was no longer needed, or until she broke beneath the freezing wash of intimacy, Unity.\n\n(Cold.)\n\nAnd Ryth stood behind her, body covering hers, fingers warm over hands numbed by silver m'sarsas' hum, pouring warmth into her exhausted chill, giving her more than he had, more than he could conceive, because there was no other choice but extinction. The Sharnn cape fanned out, licked soundlessly against the brilliant sarsa as though seeking warmth, light, any energy to power the driving need of two fused minds desperately warding off Unity, for if the focus was subsumed, Unity would implode and crush all its living minds. Sharnn cape clung, draining timeshadow energies until the sarsa dimmed, past pouring itself into the present.\n\nThe truth of sarsa music was not dimmed; it chimed unremittingly, focusing. Maran's Song had ended, its last chords blending into a disintegrating Vintra, a two-dimensional race staggering toward a three-dimensional extinction they could not understand, much less avoid." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'conceived' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Unity listened. Its heavy center was now intelligent, integrated, saturated. Only the edges seethed, finding and aligning new minds, seeking completion in a dynamic process even a Sharnn could not conceive.\n\nBut Ryth had conceived of the intelligent center, of living minds able to sweep through the reservoir of knowledge held by each member to find the solution to survival. Or at least to find what he had lost so many years ago, on Sharn.\n\nDelicately, the Sharnn conceived of Vintra's disasters, disasters guided by a shadow with no name …\n\nA clap of energy shook the clearing as Unity demanded individual knowledge, the discovery of those minds who had conspired to kill Malia by seeming to kill Vintra, individual acts of commission and omission that added up to the death of a race. For Ryth/Faen knew that Memned and the Gint alone could not have shaped Malian extinction. There must have been others, many others who had helped, knowing or unknowing that it was toward Malia's death they labored.\n\nIt was to find these minds that Faen had dared Unity." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was in search of these minds that the sarsa poured out its eerie cry of hate and betrayal … these minds and one more, unnamed and unknown." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Except to a Sharnn.\n\nUnity listened and decided. With the unflinching eye of necessity, Unity examined each of its component minds for complicity.\n\nAnd found—\n\nOne of Lekel's advisors who had traded integrity for a few tangled moments with Memned. It was he who betrayed Cy, Ninth Circle Assassin and Lekel's f'mi. When the compromised advisor became suspicious, Memned smiled and touched him again, explaining that it was Vintra's death she worked for, Vintra's extinction. Though the concept of extinction was anathema to Malians, he believed her because he wanted to. And said nothing.\n\nMemned's body servant who knew of the illegal Access, knew Memned worked against the k'm'n Sandoliki and, knowing, did nothing, for Lekel had refused to share a moment with her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Many guards who had many times seen Memned in Vintran costume and looked away from her because they feared Lekel more than they loved Malia." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And more, too many more, found and weighed in a savage instant, annihilated with a ruthlessness that appalled Carifil and Councilors alike." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Use the word 'unity's' 2 time(s) - this is a strict requirement" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But there was nothing the Carifil could do; it took all their strength and skill just to withhold the Councilors from Unity's consuming imperatives.\n\nEven while the last shockwaves of death quivered, Unity realized that it had achieved only a fragment of its purpose; survival was not yet assured. Carifil screamed against Unity's decision, but Ryth/Faen smiled, guided, and Unity came to Vintra like a thousand dawns, soundless and searing.\n\nFor Vintrans were Malians once. And always.\n\nNow the edges of Unity were heavy, satiated, a whole people ingested. Questioned. Now the vire crystal tolled for Vintrans, long rolling thunder as mind after mind fractured beneath the demands of Unity. Thousands died, each giving up a separate piece of the catechism of hatred, dream of Malia's death.\n\n(Enough!)\n\nBut the Carifil cry went unheeded while Unity ransacked minds, seeking an answer as whole as itself" }, { "from": "human", "value": "(No more!)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "and a retribution as complete as a Sharnn concept.\n\nCOME TO ME SHADOW MAN\n\nThousands more died, until the edges of Unity writhed, crumbling, and shadows slithered up, muffling sarsa's radiance, reaching for the driving focus of Unity.\n\nThe Sharnn cape thinned, surged impossibly wide, flaring until the clearing was drenched with light. The sudden radiance left no hiding places, even for a shadow.\n\nThe Gint stood behind Faen/Ryth, limned against the darkness of ancient tere.\n\nFaen/Ryth turned away from the sarsa to face the Gint while Unity's rage twisted through clearing and grove, wrenching apart light to reach a shadow. The m'sarsas slipped and jerked in agony over the wrong crystals. The spaces between notes became long, longer, too long, until even the vire's attenuated hum drained into silence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Unfocused, Unity heaved. People on two planets died shrieking mindlessly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Gint reeled beneath the backlash of Unity's savagery." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His writhing cape blurred at the edges and he vanished but for dark eyes a fraction closer to Faen/Ryth with every breath, every mindless death." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Carifil demand was a scalpel among Unity's axe blows, a skilled slash that scored across Faen/Ryth, demanding." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "(Focus!)\n\n(But—Gint)\n\n(Now! Or Unity will kill you before the shadow can!)\n\nAs though pulled in pieces, Faen/Ryth jerked back to the sarsa. Ancient crystal cried arrhythmically. Then his hands covered hers and strengths fused once more, seamlessly, a new whole. A song poured out, a song never before heard, never played, never conceived until the moment Unity wrenched apart light to reach a shadow.\n\nFaen's song, sung by Sharnn and sarsa.\n\nIt was not a song of rage and seeking and annihilation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was a song of completion, of two halves rejoined in a whole that could survive better than either half alone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The song climbed through light and darkness and distance alike, drenching the crumbling Unity with the timeless possibilities of survival.\n\nThe Gint clawed closer to Faen/Ryth while they poured their energy into Unity's flaws, filling spaces with music as the shadow came ever closer, invisible but for black-green eyes and Ryth/Faen's certainty that the Gint crawled closer, for the Sharnn had conceived of everything, even death and the shadow oozing closer to Ryth's heels.\n\nUnity shuddered, enticed by the sarsa's sweet chiming of Malians and Vintrans rejoined, neither extinct, one people again, all past moments numbered and named, meeting for the first time. Unity consummated.\n\nAnd two eyes sliding closer.\n\n(can you)\n\nHand closing invisibly around a hidden knife.\n\n(no choice)\n\nStrong arms pulling a thick shadow closer.\n\n(just an instant)" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Killing knife's silver smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "(yes go kill it)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Sharnn left Faen in a leap, spinning in mid-air while his cape clung to his feet, turning away a knife's killing smile. The knife slashed upward, where the Sharnn would have been if he had not separated from Faen.\n\nBut even while Ryth leaped, Unity filled Faen's margin. Focus fractured. Faen was driven screaming to her knees and m'sarsas were frozen in mid-stroke. The Sharnn was gone.\n\nVanished.\n\nLike the Gint, Ryth had become a mere thickening of the air, a subliminal sense of presence. But Ryth was even less accessible than the Gint, for Ryth did not need eyes to see, eyes whose shine betrayed presence. Memory and reflexes and faal-hnim became a low driving roll." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His cape whipped out, fastened onto the edge of shadow and yanked, tearing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ryth's knife appeared, vivid in moonlight the instant before steel flashed beneath the edge of the Gint's invisibility, seeking and finding and burying its cold blade in the center of warmth.\n\nThe Gint's scream was a thin and anguished sound echoed by the sarsa's atonal shriek until Faen and Ryth fused again, forcing chilled flesh and cold crystal to create joyous song, a compelling explosion of music.\n\nWith a blind reaching, Unity turned to the song, fragments flowing together, bound by moonlight, shaped by music. For one terrible moment Unity focused and saw/felt/knew that all survival imperatives had been met except one.\n\nWith vast gentleness, Unity dissolved.\n\nThe m'sarsas slid from Faen's numb fingers and clanged over cold stone. She searched for warmth, for strength, for her other self, but he was gone beyond reach of her eyes or mind.\n\nAnd then the Sharnn was visible, within reach, bending over the Gint. She touched Ryth and moaned, unknowing, for the agony in his mind was too great for anyone to bear." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Ryth!\" She leaned toward him, arms reaching out, not touching. \"Ryth …\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ryth did not hear her, for he was speaking in the spiral phrases of Sharn poetry.\n\nAnd the Gint answered.\n\nThe exchange took only moments, long enough for a man to die. His outline writhed, slurring over light and darkness alike; then the Gint lay dead inside the husk of a Sharnn cape.\n\n\"Sharnn—\" whispered Faen hoarsely. \"It—He—Sharnn.\"\n\n\"Yes.\"\n\nRyth stood with the uneven motions of an old man. He glanced down at the shadow now wholly visible, powerful even in death, black-green eyes staring back at moonlight. The Councilors stirred, waking, saw a dead man and a dimmed sarsa and three moons untouched by either Sharnn death or Malian salvation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Wys walked slowly over to Faen, going around the dead man who was the essence of Vintran hatreds." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She did not give so much as a sidelong glance to acknowledge the Sharnn who had died trying to make her people as complete as a Sharnn concept.\n\nWhen Wys spoke, her voice was raw with knowledge she had never wanted and still could not accept. \"Vintra and Vintrans belong to Malia. To you, Sandoliki Ti. I ask more mercy for my people than we would have given to yours.\"\n\n\"T'mara'hki,\" said Faen slowly. \"Though you will never transcend the shadow, your children might walk in three dimensions.\"\n\n\"My children will die on Vintra,\" said Wys bitterly.\n\n\"Only if you wish it. You are welcome to return to Malia. All of you. It was your planet, once.\"\n\n\"But … what is our punishment?\"\n\n\"Vintrans are not Malians. Do you need more punishment than that?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Wys's eyes darkened, but she said nothing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "All Vintrans had just enough of Malia left to appreciate and desire that which was beyond their grasp: one thousand Malian moments, named and numbered and most of all lived. Wys lifted her face to the triple moons and her Vintran eyes saw only grey shapes. She breathed deeply, smelling nothing, and her skin felt only a single texture of chill out of the eleven distinct textures of this night that any Malian child could have named.\n\nBut Wys's mind sensed more, so much more, just beyond her ability to grasp. With a cry she turned away from Faen's compassionate silver eyes.\n\nThe rest of the Councilors followed Wys out of the garden, feet soundless on worn stone. Though it was superfluous, they would return to Centrex to pronounce Vintra's guilt, Malia's innocence … and their own secret agony that they were not Malians.\n\nAs quietly as leaves, Mim and other Carifil began to gather around the Sharnn. Each face showed lines of anger, exhaustion, and a need to know that was greater than anything else." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'nearly' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Silent questions pressed against the Sharnn, questions that were both delicate and inexorable.\n\nRyth looked up, his eyes flat and indifferent, his Sharnn body revealing a weariness that went beyond simple exhaustion. When he looked down again, even his Sharnn control could not mask his grief.\n\n\"He was a great Sharnn,\" said Ryth tonelessly. \"But he conceived only of shadows.\" Ryth's lips twisted in what could have been a smile but was not. \"Yet what a conception it was, my gint, my shadow. So nearly perfect. So nearly complete.\" Ryth looked up again, seeing nothing, no one. \"He fell in love with his conception, with Memned and her shadow life. He became captive to Vintra's hatreds, essence of shadow.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Sharnn moved his hands suddenly and his fingers gleamed blackly with his brother's blood." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'n'ies' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He died trying to make shadow into substance.\"\n\nKayle walked closer, though he flinched at the possibilities turning deep within Sharnn eyes.\n\n\"Teach me,\" said Kayle huskily. \"There is time, now. N'ies?\"\n\nThe Sharnn cape snapped out like the living animal it almost was, then subsided at a quiet thought.\n\n\"N'ies,\" agreed the Sharnn at last, stroking his cape, fingertips hypersensitive, appreciative, a gesture so Malian that it made Faen weak with desire.\n\n\"Sharnn,\" continued Ryth slowly, voice echoing emotions that had no words, \"Sharnn are nothing. And everything. We are what we can conceive of being.\"\n\nThe cape moved over him, consoling, a sound like silk rubbing over amber.\n\n\"When the Sharnn permitted First Contact with you,\" said Ryth, \"we thought that new conceptions would evolve from the new questions you would bring. And so it was, mysteries and enigmas and tantalizing wisps of the beyond, enough to compel generations of Sharnn.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Unconsciously, Ryth sighed, remembering the innocence of a race that had not known what he knew now. \"Malia, with its uncounted textures, uncountable subtleties, was the most intriguing of all the new experiences Concord brought to us. Except for the Carifil, but I had not conceived of you then, and you do not mention yourselves in loud voices …\"\n\n\"But,\" said Kayle, groping to sum up the conversations ringing in his mind, \"no Malian ever went to Sharn. How did you know of Malia?\"\n\nThe Sharnn smiled, but there was neither light nor laughter in the line of his lips. \"Musicians,\" he said succinctly. \"Musicians from Markaran. They played what they knew of Maran's Song, what little even their great skill could conceive.\n\n\"Because music is important to the Concept of the Seventh Dawn, my … family … heard the Markarans. Maran's Song claimed us, the mystery of a complex history half-finished, all possibilities open. Many mutually exclusive concepts were possible, many paradoxes, many terminations.\" Ryth's voice thinned into the bittersweet sarcasm of a Sharnn. \"Maran's Song was a joyous enigma wriggling with paradoxes, more difficult to disentangle than a nest of Sharnn capes.\"\n\nRyth stopped, but the silent pressure had not abated; he would have to say it all to the final twisting word—all but the name, and that he would not say." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We listen,\" said Kayle.\n\nFaen moved closer to Ryth, still not touching the man who had fused with her, completed her and himself and never once mentioned the deadly Sharnn whose blood now sank between the cracks of ancient Sandoliki stones. Her silver eyes were baffled, splintered, as though Ryth were still beyond her reach, invisible inside his cape and alien Sharnn concepts.\n\n\"He,\" said Ryth, gesturing to the dead man, \"saw Vintra as Malians did, as even Vintrans did, as Maran's Song did—shadow days and shadow places, shadow lives and shadow faces.\n\n\"He conceived only of shadows. And, inevitably, became what he conceived. His conception eliminated possibilities, terminations, required certain acts to complete Maran's Song.\n\n\"I conceived of a different ending. After the custom of Sharnn, he and I … played … a game to test the perfection of our very different concepts." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"My concept was stronger.\"\n\nThe Sharnn's apparently calm summation incensed Faen. \"He nearly destroyed Malia! You knew—and trusted no one, told no one! Not even me!\"\n\nAs Ryth turned to face her, his bloody hands moved in a gesture of odd helplessness.\n\n\"Why did he want Malia's death?\" Faen demanded, her silver eyes as narrow as new moons.\n\n\"Malia casts a shadow rather than being a shadow,\" said Ryth. He searched for understanding in her eyes but saw only cold silver. His voice flattened even more and the green of his eyes drained into shadows." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He was trapped in his own concept. He hoped that if all Malians died, Vintrans would become real again—and so would he. Then he would be free, whole, alive. Able to conceive once more.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Work this phrase into your response organically: \"I hope my brother learned that it is futile as well as foolish to conceive only of shadows.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But it—the Gint—was all too real!\"\n\n\"To all but himself, yes.\"\n\nRyth looked at the blood congealing on his long fingers and said nothing more.\n\n\"Then he was as insane as his dead lover, Lekel's wife,\" said Faen flatly. \"Insane.\"\n\n\"Not by Sharnn standards. But he is surely dead.\" Ryth's voice thinned and suddenly he showed the immense effort it took him to talk. \"I hope my brother learned that it is futile as well as foolish to conceive only of shadows.\"\n\n\"Your—brother!\" For the first time, Faen really looked into the Sharnn's eyes. She saw that they were too dark, nearly black, as though light no longer moved through their depths." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had seen those eyes before, shadow eyes. Their bleakness answered more questions than she had ever wanted to ask.\n\n\"I understand too much,\" Faen said hoarsely.\n\nIt was as though he had not heard her, as though now that he had begun to speak he must finish.\n\n\"I left Sharn because it was my … turn … to test my concept. Though I could not find my brother, I knew he was out there, either Malia or Vintra, but I did not, could not, believe that he had lost control of his concept. That he had become part of it and I would have to kill him before he killed a planet, a people. I refused to conceive of that.\n\n\"Yet some of me knew, must have known, for I deliberately chose to become part of my own concept.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He looked at Faen, totally, his whole being focused in a moment of such yearning that Carifil linked to lock out Ryth's anguish." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I could not let Malia die, for I had found there something even a Sharnn had never conceived.\"\n\nRyth looked away from her perfect lips hard with moonlight.\n\n\"I sought the solution to my own and Malia's problems without knowing that my brother was the core of both.\"\n\n\"When did you know,\" she said, her voice as colorless as sarsa crystal.\n\n\"I've suspected since five men died in a Vintran alley. A Sharnn cape is almost the only way such stealth could have been achieved. Almost.\"\n\n\"Pattern-man—\" began Faen, her voice hard with disbelief.\n\n\"Gently, daughter,\" said Kayle. \"Ryth's pattern gift fails when he is part of it. You, of all people, should know that.\"\n\nFaen looked away, her face suddenly expressionless." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And then? When did you know?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"When he lost me in the Topaz Arcade, I almost knew. The cape again. I almost conceived. Almost, but not quite …\" Ryth looked at her with eyes that were no longer green." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Even when I touched him, shaved his dyed hair, I—I could not conceive of my brother trapped among shadows he had named. Even when I knew. I. Could. Not. Conceive.\"\n\nAnd Faen remembered her own mind reeling after touching the Gint, a shadow, his brother, and sensing something of Ryth's pouring radiance, light-shot shadow shining and her mind refusing to acknowledge, to know, and darkness exploding in welcome oblivion. Even when she woke in Ryth's arms, she had refused to know the impossible link between her lover and a gint.\n\nShe was as willfully blind as he.\n\nIn spite of her pain, Faen's hand moved over Ryth's bare arm in t'sil'ne curves that spoke of realization and need. With an inarticulate sound, the Sharnn gathered her fingertips together and held them against his lips. Still afraid of mindtouch, he murmured against her palm.\n\n\"My limitations and my brother nearly destroyed your people, yet you don't turn away from me.\" Ryth looked at her with eyes that again conceived of light." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I did not hope for such forgiveness.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'malian' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"From a Sandoliki?\" The sweet-sad irony of Faen's laughter rippled like his cape. \"It is one of our thousand moments. T'mara'hki, the moment when we forgive all, even ourselves … the Malian name for unity.\" Her fingers moved within his grasp, silent pressures that spoke of everything he had conceived and more, for she was Malian. \"Your brother didn't divide Malia into substance and shadow, the living and the merely existing. Without that division, the Gint would have had nothing to mould with his deadly concept.\"\n\nFaen leaned toward him, unsmiling and serene, her long hair redolent of zamay and night. \"Don't take onto yourself more than is deserved.\" Then she smiled slightly. \"And I will tell you how much that is.\"\n\nFaen's hand moved, supple and warm, devastating." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Sharnn cape opened, allowing her closer. Kayle waited for a long moment before he gave in to Carifil pressure.\n\n\"You told us that you had lost something. You found it?\"\n\n\"Yes,\" said the Sharnn, his voice thinned in spite of Faen's warmth spreading through his body. His eyes lingered over the face of his dead brother, a face that could have been his. Faen's body moved, comforting.\n\n\"It was just a game, n'ies?\" Ryth said softly. \"A Sharnn game.\" Then he spoke again in sinuous Sharnn words that no one but he understood … or wanted to." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As though impelled by Sharnn curses, the Carifil silently left the clearing. One by one they vanished into the tere grove's rustling intimacy. At the edge of the fragrant darkness, a Carifil stopped and turned toward them.\n\n\"I regret your brother's death,\" Kayle said haltingly.\n\nRyth's cape pulsed once, a wash of dull silver, then it was as still as the windless night.\n\n\"My brother died long ago, on Sharn, when he named all of his shadows.\"\n\nKayle looked for a long moment at them, standing so close that they were one, and hoped that one day he would understand both of them, or either. But not now, in darkness except for triple moons and sarsa.\n\n\"Breathe the white wind,\" said Kayle softly, Nendleti farewell." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then Kayle turned and walked into the grove where tere and zamay and Carifil waited." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Faen's head moved and her earrings sang of a child still alive within her. She pulled Ryth's hands down, holding them against the unborn life.\n\n\"Kayle still doesn't understand,\" said Faen.\n\nRyth's hands moved, knowing as only a Sharnn's could be. \"Galactics,\" murmured Ryth against her neck, \"believe that the universe is beyond human conception. And Sharnn believe that the universe is shaped by human conception.\"\n\nShe turned in his arms to face him, alive as only a Malian could be.\n\n\"It will be the greatest game in Sharnn memory to find out which concept is stronger,\" whispered Ryth, breath warm against her lips.\n\n\"And the most dangerous?\" Faen said, breath returning his warmth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Always.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Sharnn cape licked out, folding around Faen with a strength as gentle and unyielding as Ryth's body. She moved sinuously, warmth sliding over warmth in a seamless joining.\n\nThe cape blazed with a light that cast no shadows." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "AI Prompt: 7 sentences sentences. Match character context. romance, paranormal genre." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His head throbbing from being slammed into a hard steel wall by a woman he wanted to throttle, Caillen cursed as he regained his equilibrium and realized what was happening.\n\nThey were launching away from the Arimanda.\n\nMobilizing, he climbed over his female annoyance who appeared frozen in horror by her actions, but by the time he reached the console, it was too late.\n\nThey were adrift and the ship was leaving them in its wake. Son of a…\n\nWould the misery of this day never end? He sat down in the black leather chair next to hers and shook his head as deep aggravation filled him.\n\nThere was nothing he could do to stop this." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nothing. He let out a slow, agitated breath and cursed his crappy luck that had betrayed him yet again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Of all the flipping shit…" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Can't we catch up to the ship?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh yeah, there was an award-winning question of the day and it set his temper boiling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He gave her a withering glare." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not even the vulnerable look on her face that made her extremely attractive could cut through his need to want to launch her out an air lock head first." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Still, he forced himself to keep his tone even and his sarcasm at an acceptable level that wouldn't quite motivate her to murder—no need in both of them being pissed in tight quarters." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We have one small thruster that's only strong enough to safely land us on a planet.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Caillen pointed out the window to the ship that was quickly becoming a silver dot in the darkness." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"In case you haven't noticed, they're moving a lot faster. I don't know about the laws of physics on your planet, but where I come from an object moving at subclass speed can't catch up to one running at starclass. But if you know something about turbines, thrusters and engines, quantum or classical physics that I've somehow missed, then please enlighten me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yeah, okay, so he'd never been the best at corralling his sarcasm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At least he'd tried. That counted for something, right?\n\nShe curled her lip. \"You don't have to be an asshole.\"\n\nNow the gloves were off. \"Oh, baby, this ain't asshole. Trust me. There's a hole keg of asshole I haven't even begun to tap yet.\"\n\nThe expression on her face was so scalding he felt the burn of her anger even from his seat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Another time and place, they'd be getting naked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But this wasn't the place and it definitely wasn't the time. All he wanted right now was to finish what her fake attacker had started. Choke her until her eyes bulged out. \"Don't even give me that look. Not after what you were planning.\"\n\nShe scowled at him as if she were baffled by his words. It'd be a nice expression if it were real. \"What? Protecting my mother?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What the hell was she talking about? She hadn't appeared to be protecting anyone while she'd lain on the floor being strangled. \"Yeah, no. That whole act of setting me up for your queen so that she could get her vengeance on me for calling her crap crap. Nice move. But I'm not that stupid.\" At least not today. And definitely not for her.\n\n\"Are you on something?\"\n\nShe was good. He could almost believe that innocence she was trying to sell." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But he'd been around actresses and grifters before who were much more convincing.\n\n\"Like you don't know what I'm talking about.\"\n\nShe shook her head. \"I have no clue and you're wasting my time.\" She pointed toward the sector where the Arimanda had vanished. \"We have to get back to the ship before the assassins go after my mother. It's imperative.\"\n\nHe paused in confusion." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Was her mother one of the Guards or someone else?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What are you talking about?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "🎯 Target word: 'fight' | Required occurrences: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Desideria had never been more frustrated in her life. The man was insane. Did he have some kind of mental problem that he couldn't recall what had happened right before they fell into the pod? How hard had the imbecile struck his head?\n\n\"Hello? Remember the fight you broke in on? Me on the floor being choked? The bad guys who attacked you…\"\n\n\"I didn't break into a fight. You were setting me up by allowing them to choke you.\"\n\nHe really was mentally defective." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Did he honestly think she'd allow herself to be choked like that?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "On purpose? What kind of people did he run with that such an idea would even enter his mind?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She pointed to the nasty burn on her throat she was sure was bruised if not bleeding. \"Does this really look like I was pretending?\"\n\nCaillen paused as he focused on the purple welts that belied his accusation. Actually it did look painful and authentic. Not to mention the fact that it would probably scar and most women he knew resisted permanent disfiguration.\n\nStill, there were people who'd maimed themselves before for a lot less reason and Qills weren't normal in any sense of that word. For her queen's pleasure, she just might be insane enough to ruin her neck, scar her face or even eat small babies for breakfast." }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Use 'barged' 2 times in response]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You were serving your country well. I'm sure they'll decorate you for it.\" That was, after all, what her people lived for.\n\nShe screwed her face up in disgust. \"What do you think was happening when you barged in?\"\n\nBarged in? Yeah, she was a piece of work. In his neighborhood it was called helping someone. Which just proved what he knew, she wasn't really in any danger." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't think. I know. I heard your boss lady call security and say that I was trying to kill your princess. That is a cold, hard fact.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And which of the women in that hallway do you think the princess was?\"\n\nCaillen went over the people who'd been there. Two robed figures whose gender was unknown and the three Guards. A princess wouldn't have Guard duty so it left the other two he'd been fighting. \"I assume one of the people in the robes or no one at all. The bitch just lied.\"\n\nShe rolled her eyes. \"You understand quantum physics and you can't rationalize this? I am the princess, nescient.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yeah, right. Sure she was." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That didn't even make the least bit of sense. He'd seen the way the others had looked at her and treated her—like dirt. If she was the daughter of their sadistic queen, they wouldn't have dared such. Not to mention one small other thing… \"I wasn't trying to kill you.\" Though he might if she didn't bring that attitude down a notch.\n\nShe gave him a duh stare.\n\nAnd that made him feel like a total fool as he got what she was trying to tell him. \"You're the princess.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She nodded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"They were trying to kill you and frame me for it… you fice.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He wasn't about to let her insult slide without adding one of his own.\n\nBy the light in her eyes, he could tell she'd like to beat him into little bloody nuggets. \"All right, stop with the high-end insults.\"\n\n\"You started it.\"\n\nShe raked him with a repugnant sneer. \"What are we? Four? Please cease before you call me a doodie head. I really don't think in my current mood that I could survive such a juvenile attack. That might actually undo me.\" Curling her lip, she flicked her nails at him—an obscene Qill gesture." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You need to respect the fact that at the moment it's taking every ounce of willpower I have to not hurt you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He laughed at her threat. While she was muscular, she was tiny in comparison to his size. So long as he kept his cock guarded, there wasn't much she could do to hurt him. \"Baby, I'd like to see you try. Believe me, I've had men and women who eat your lunch try to kill me and here I am. Still standing. Still kicking ass.\"\n\nShe scoffed. \"Explain to me how is it possible that the three of us actually fit into this pod?\"\n\nNow he was the one who was baffled. Did they do math differently on her planet too? \"Three of us?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You, me and your extremely overdeveloped ego.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He opened his mouth to speak, but she put her hand over his lips." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'alert' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Enough,\" she said in an imperious tone that verified her breeding. \"My mother is on that ship and they're going to kill her. Can you understand the written console language enough to help me find some way to let her know what happened? Or at the very least to alert security to guard her?\"\n\nIgnoring the fact that her hand was incredibly soft and felt good on his skin, he snatched it away from his lips and returned it to the arm of her chair. \"We're in an escape pod, babe. It's not designed for communication of any kind.\"\n\n\"Well that's stupid. How are we to alert them that we're—\"\n\n\"An emergency pulse is emitted every six seconds. It goes out on the EBF to let the authorities know there are living occupants in the pod who need rescue.\"\n\nShe let out a relieved breath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Then they'll come back for us.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No. They won't.\"\n\n\"Why?\"\n\nHe gestured toward the darkness where the Arimanda had vanished. \"It's a ship filled with politicians and royalty. They'll notify a League patrol to check on us. But there's no way in hell they'd come near us for fear we're setting a trap for them. For all they know, someone packed this bad boy with enough explosives to disintegrate a subclass planet with a life form just big enough to register, and the minute they near it…\" He ended with the sound of a nasty explosion. \"Trust me. They won't chance it.\"\n\nShe raked her hands through her hair as if frustration filled her too. \"I can't believe this is happening.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You? I was planning to leave our little soiree, but not like this.\" And definitely not with her. This was what he got for changing his mind about leaving and heading back to his rooms to apologize to his father.\n\nCaillen growled as he sat back on the chair and started running over their settings to see where the pod was taking them.\n\n\"What are we going to do?\"\n\nLike he would tell her that? It wasn't any of her business." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not to mention the small fact that he still wasn't one hundred percent convinced this wasn't a setup on her part." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For all he knew, she was still playing him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They might very well be accusing him of kidnapping her right now. Something that also carried a death sentence.\n\nEven for a prince.\n\nHer people were ruthless and he'd insulted their queen. Publicly. There was no telling what they'd do to retaliate. His father had said as much.\n\n\"Don't worry about it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He moved his hand over the monitor and brought up the star chart on their main display." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He would use his link to call for backup, but without a booster signal it was useless." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They wouldn't be able to call anyone until they landed. Damn.\n\nShe scowled at the brightly colored chart that showed him every corner of their current sector. \"What's that?\"\n\nHe pointed to a planet on the right and touched it, then dragged his finger diagonally to enlarge it for her to see. \"We're heading there and should reach the surface in a little over an hour.\"\n\n\"An hour?\"\n\nHe gave her an arch look over her despondent tone. \"We're in the middle of space, far away from the gravitational pull of large masses of rock and self-luminous spheres of gas. It makes landing a bitch, but it keeps us from crashing into something uncomfortable. Sorry if that offends you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're what offends me.\"\n\nHe had to stop himself from responding to that imperious tone with something even more juvenile. There was just something about her that got right up under his hack and made him want hurt her. Gods, if he had to be trapped with a woman couldn't it have been one who would make passing time with her enjoyable?\n\n\"Oh well… next time I see someone choking you, I'll leave them to it.\" Or help them. \"Especially now that I understand what it was that motivated them. Too bad I didn't bring the garrote with me.\"\n\n\"You're not funny.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Really not trying to be.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He fell silent as he pulled up information on the planet they were headed toward.\n\nDesideria didn't want to be impressed, but the ease with which he navigated the intricate computer and read the foreign language was something to be envied. It made her wish she'd paid more attention to the classroom portion of her education. \"What language is that?\"\n\n\"Universal. Same as we're speaking. Can't you read it?\"\n\nShe felt her face heat at a truth that embarrassed her. \"If I could, I wouldn't have hit the wrong button.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His eyes widened in surprise." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No one ever taught you to read Universal?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She glanced away, grateful that it wasn't entirely her fault that she was ignorant of it. \"I was to start learning the written part of the language next year. It's not considered a priority to my people. But I am literate in Qillaq.\"\n\nCaillen backed off criticizing her over that. Since her people were so reclusive that made sense and he could tell by her sudden reservation that she was bothered by the lack of education. Hell, he wouldn't have known it either but for the fact that the more languages a smuggler knew the less likely he was to be caught. \"Well be glad you can't read it.\"\n\n\"Why?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Because it says we're heading toward an Andarion planet.\"\n\nShe cocked her head. \"Is that a bad thing?\"\n\nHe laughed low in his throat. Is that a bad thing? Yeah… \"Do you know anything about them?\"\n\n\"No. Not really. My people don't interact with them. Why?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucky them. Then again, the best course of action with Andarions was to keep your head low and put as much distance as possible between you and them. \"Simply put, they make your people look like frilly-dressed pansies.\"\n\nThe fire returned to her eyes. \"You are shardridden if you think that.\"\n\nHe didn't know why, but he loved the way she looked when she was riled. It made her eyes sparkle and added a becoming blush to her cheeks. \"I am so not full of excrement, dearest. It's the truth. They stand around seven feet tall on average, have fangs, night vision and train from birth to kill any and everything that gets in their way. Oh and lest I forget, their favorite delicacy happens to be human meat. Lucky us.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She scoffed at him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're just trying to scare me.\"\n\nHe pulled up an encyclopedia in her language and showed it on the monitor. \"See for yourself.\"\n\nDesideria had to force her eyes not to widen as she read words that confirmed his dire prediction. He was right. A warring race in the purest sense of the word, the Andarions did make her people look like pansies. Normally she'd be more than ready to take them on and prove her worth. But the two of them had no weapons that she knew of and suicide didn't appeal to her in the least. \"Can we not divert?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He leaned back in his chair and narrowed that cocky stare at her that she was beginning to loathe." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It didn't help that the lights of the console highlighted his arrogant smirk. \"See the problem with escape pods… they're designed to run even if you're completely incapacitated. Once you're in it and you hit the magic orange button that you so nicely discovered, it takes care of everything for you. It summons help and steers you to the nearest habitable planet that matches whatever breathing mixture is in the pod.\"\n\n\"But it's stupid to not have an override of some sort.\"\n\nHe scratched the side of his mouth while his eyes silently laughed at her. \"I suggest you take that up with the designer when next you see him. That is if we survive long enough to be rescued.\"\n\n\"We will be rescued.\"\n\n\"How can you be so sure?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'mother' precisely 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Because I won't allow my mother to die. The traitor happens to be part of the Head Guard. My mother trusts her implicitly. If I don't get to her and warn her about Pleba, she's as good as dead.\"\n\nCaillen started to point out that he really didn't care about her mother who had intended to subjugate an entire race when his attention was drawn to the display. His stomach hit the floor as he recognized their next obstacle. \"Yeah and we have another problem.\"\n\n\"That is?\"\n\nHe enlarged a portion of the star chart that showed the area where the Arimanda had vanished. He pointed to the glowing orb that was quickly getting larger." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm really hoping I'm wrong, but judging from the size and speed, that looks like a fighter to me.\"\n\nHer entire face lit up with hope. \"Is it coming to rescue us?\"\n\nWow, he'd sell his soul to be that naive. Without responding to her question, he slid out of his chair and ducked underneath the controls to open a panel so that he could access the wires. \"It's a fighter,\" he repeated.\n\nDesideria was baffled by his single obsession with that one statement." }, { "from": "human", "value": "To her, this was a good thing. \"Meaning?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It can't hold more than two people and it's flying solo.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His deep voice was muffled by the metal he was underneath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"They're designed to kill, not rescue. And unless I miss my guess, which I never have yet, I'm pretty sure that one's headed this way to finish what was started in that hallway.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Pah-lease…" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was no reason to think that. It could merely be a scout. Especially if, as he'd said earlier, they thought this might be a trap. It made sense to send a single fighter to see if they were hurt or needing rescue. It might be nothing more than an escort for them. Could the man never be optimistic? Must he always see the worst in every situation even when it didn't warrant it? \"You're being paranoid.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Those words had barely left her lips before a blast of color shot across space, straight at them." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They were under attack.\n\nAnd they were completely defenseless." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "AI writing task: user input -> 9 sentences sentences. genre: romance, paranormal. match character context." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Desideria saw Caillen go down. Everything moved in slow motion as her world came to an end. He hit the wall with such force, there was no way he could live through it.\n\nNone.\n\nUnable to breathe, she ran for him with everything she had while images of his death tore through her. Don't you dare die. Don't you dare.\n\nShe couldn't stand the thought of it. Not after they'd fought.\n\nWhy had she fought with him?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Suddenly, nothing mattered to her. Not her mother's death. Not her standing.\n\nNothing.\n\nAll of that paled in comparison to losing him. She slowed as she drew near. Caillen lay on the ground, covered in blood, completely unmoving. This wasn't like he'd been on the outpost. His features were so pale…\n\nTears blinded her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Qillaqs don't cry. Yet, she couldn't stop herself. \"Caillen?\" She sobbed, falling to her knees. She pulled him into her arms and held him close. \"Don't you leave me.\" Not after he'd taught her to depend on him. Not after he'd made her want something she knew she couldn't have.\n\n\"Caillen, please open your eyes.\"\n\nHe didn't.\n\n\"Desideria?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She heard his sister's voice, but didn't respond. She couldn't. Images of Caillen's teasing smile haunted her. The way he'd felt when he made love to her earlier. The sound of his voice.\n\nI need you. Please, please don't die. Not like this. Not with the last words I said to you…\n\nShahara pulled her back. \"You have to let him go.\"\n\nShe started to argue until she saw the medics." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her entire body quaking in fear, she released him to their care." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Syn and Shahara were saying something to her, but she couldn't understand them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not through the painful haze that shredded everything.\n\n\"We'll meet you at the hospital.\"\n\nShe inclined her head to them, knowing that wasn't where she was headed.\n\nFirst, she had someone to kill.\n\nCaillen came awake to the sound of whispering voices nearby. He opened his eyes to find himself lying on a sterile hospital bed, hooked to monitors in a small room. It took a full minute before he remembered everything that had happened.\n\nThe explosion. His leg.\n\nDesideria!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She'd been ahead of him. Right in the line of fire…\n\nFear seized his heart as he sat up and started to leave the bed to find her.\n\nShahara stepped out of the shadows to catch him. She refused to allow him to put his feet on the floor. \"Don't you dare.\" She hadn't used that tone with him in a long time.\n\nA tic started in his jaw as he locked gazes with his tiny sister. If she honestly thought she could keep him here, she'd need a lot more backup than Syn who stood behind her. \"Where's Desideria?\"\n\nShe exchanged a nervous glance with Syn over her shoulder that did nothing to help his terror." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'hadn't' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh God… Desideria was hurt.\n\nMaybe dead. Why else wouldn't she answer the question?\n\nUnimaginable pain slammed into him as he struggled to breathe. Their last words had been a fight. Of all people, he knew better than to let someone leave angry.\n\nWhy hadn't I been faster?\n\nWhy hadn't he apologized?\n\n\"Where is she?\" he demanded.\n\nShahara cringed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He felt tears sting his eyes as unimaginable grief tore through him. How could he have failed to protect her? How? \"She's dead, isn't she?\"\n\nAll the color drained from her face before her cheeks turned bright red. \"Good Lord, child, no! I swear you get the most bizarre ideas sometimes.\"\n\nRelief poured through him. Desideria was alive. He could finally breathe again.\n\nAt least a little bit. \"Then where is she?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Syn grinned evilly as he moved closer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Locked up at present.\"\n\nCaillen scowled in confusion. \"What? How? Why?\"\n\nSyn let out a low laugh. \"You remember the explosion?\"\n\nHow could he forget it? His ears were still ringing.\n\nCaillen sat back on the bed as he tried to figure out how that related to Desideria being locked up. Surely they didn't think she had any part in the explosion…\n\nDid they?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Of course I do. Was she caught in the blast?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'shahara' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Syn shook his head. \"No. She was clear, but she ran back to you when you hit the wall.\"\n\n\"She was hysterical,\" Shahara interjected. \"And worried sick about you. Just like us. She barely beat us to you and she threatened our lives if we hurt you.\"\n\nSyn snorted. \"Yeah, she was impressive in her rage and she didn't budge from protecting you until the medtechs arrived. Once you were stabilized and ready for transport, we thought she'd follow us to the med center. She didn't.\"\n\nCaillen's frown deepened. \"Where'd she go?\n\nShahara let out an annoyed breath. \"Your little bunny headed over to lockup, forced her way in and then damn near killed the assassin who's been following you.\"\n\nThat didn't make sense to him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why would she do that?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shahara picked at the lint on his hospital gown before she smoothed over a wrinkle. \"He was the one who'd set a trap on his ship that the techsperts accidentally set off while trying to see if the ship was wired to detonate. Since you were hurt by the blast, she wanted his head in the worst sort of way.\"\n\n\"And she got it too,\" Syn said with a hint of laughter in his voice. \"Damn, boy, I thought your sister had a temper on her. I do believe you've found the only woman alive with one worse than—hey!\" he snapped as Shahara popped him on the stomach. Grimacing, he rubbed the area where she'd hit him. \"See what I mean? She's brutal to live with.\"\n\n\"Anyway,\" Shahara continued after she passed one last malevolent glare at Syn, \"she got information out of the assassin, but not before she almost killed him during the interrogation. And she wasn't beating him for answers. I swear, she hit him twice as hard when he answered her correctly as she did when he didn't. I take it the Qills don't instruct their people on the fine art of interviewing prisoners.\"\n\nSyn laughed again. \"Yeah, it looked like she went to the School of Nykyrian for that.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Caillen wasn't sure if he should be amused or appalled by what they described. In the end, he was flattered that he meant enough to Desideria that she'd come back to check on him and then had decided he was worth breaking someone's ass over. On the other hand, he definitely didn't want her questioning him. Especially after their fight. \"And you locked her up?\"\n\nSyn shrugged. \"Had no choice. She was planning on heading to Exeter to beat the crap out of your uncle's advisor. We thought it best to confine her until her sanity returned… or they died of natural causes. Whichever comes first.\"\n\nCaillen shook his head. \"Good call. So what did she find out?\"\n\nShahara's gaze turned grim and deadly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The assassin was hired by your uncle's primary advisor to kill you and your father. Then after you escaped, he was to make sure you didn't return alive.\"\n\nHe winced at the confirmation of his worst suspicions. \"So it's true. Talian purchased the contract on my father's life.\"\n\nShe nodded. \"That's what it looks like.\"\n\n\"What about Desideria's mother?\"\n\nSyn passed a sympathetic glance to Shahara. \"He claims he knows nothing about that at all. He was only after you and your father.\"\n\nBut that didn't go with what Caillen had heard… \"The two are tied together. I know they are.\"\n\nSyn continued to contradict him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I've searched through every League database and every contract server I could find.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Which was impressive since information was what Syn excelled at. \"Nothing has the two related. I think it's just damn bad luck that the two of them were together at the time they died.\"\n\nMaybe Syn was right. Coincidences happened, but…\n\nSomething just didn't seem right. It was too pat and too ironic. Caillen refused to believe that it was all happenstance.\n\nHe glanced to Shahara. \"Can I get up now?\"\n\n\"You're not supposed to, but there's really no way to stop you, is there?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Depends on how much fire power you're carrying.\"\n\nShe rolled her eyes. \"I worry about you, Cai. All the time. But you know, I saw the look in your eyes just now when you thought Desideria was dead and I saw how insane she went when you were hurt and the anger she broke on the one who'd harmed you. I don't know what's between the two of you, but from the outside it looks pretty real and pretty fierce. I just want you to always remember that feeling you had a minute ago whenever you think of her. That desperate choking sensation you had when you thought you'd never see her again and that she was gone forever.\"\n\nShe cut Syn a gimlet stare. \"Relationships aren't easy. Some days they don't even seem tolerable. Especially when a Dagan's involved. There will be times when she'll make you mad enough to murder her and it's usually over something truly stupid.\"\n\n\"Like leaving the seat up at night or forgetting to tighten the cap on bottled water,\" Syn muttered.\n\nShahara ignored him. \"But don't ever let yourself forget that the person you care about fills an emptiness no one else ever has and that while life with them can seriously suck at times, those moments when it doesn't are worth all the aggravation of falling into the toilet and getting soaked when you're half asleep.\"\n\n\"What about the water?\" Syn asked hopefully.\n\nShahara glared at him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You ruined my computer and lost my data. Don't even go there, Syn. I'm still mad enough to choke you for that one.\"\n\n\"I bought you a new one and I got most of the data restored… just a few things I couldn't salvage.\" Now that was a new tone from Syn that Caillen had never heard before. Petulant like a kid, it would have amused Caillen except he'd lived with his sister enough to feel pity for Syn for having incurred her wrath.\n\nShe flung her hand up to silence him.\n\nCaillen laughed. \"You two have a twisted marriage.\"\n\n\"And I'm grateful every minute of my life for it and for Syn.\" There was no mistaking the conviction in her golden eyes. \"I couldn't live without him.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And he knew she was right, especially given their pasts. The ghosts that lived inside the best of childhoods could be fierce to fight. The demons that stalked them from theirs…\n\nThose were debilitating.\n\nTo have someone who would brave those demons and stand beside him was a miracle he wouldn't forget.\n\nShahara stood back so that he could leave the bed.\n\nAs he reached the door, Syn's voice gave him pause. \"Just FYI, bud, you might want to put on some pants before you go see her. Hard to sweep a woman off her feet and look badass in a hospital gown when your bare ass is hanging out.\"\n\nCaillen slowed his steps as he neared the holding cell where they'd locked up Desideria." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hauk, Fain and Chayden sat in front of the monitors, watching as she paced back and forth in her room like a caged predator.\n\nChayden laughed nervously. \"You know, one of you is going to have to let her out of there eventually.\"\n\nFain scoffed. \"For the record, it ain't going to be me. My parents killed the dumb ones.\"\n\n\"Yeah, well, you don't see stupid stapled on my forehead either. I think you should do it.\" Hauk gave his brother a pointed stare.\n\nFain's expression was one of abject horror. \"Why?\"\n\n\"You didn't put her in there. She might still like you.\" He gestured to himself and Chayden. \"Dumbass there is the one who threw her in head first and I'm the idiot who locked the door.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Caillen's eyes widened as a wave of anger went through him. \"What did you do?\" If they'd manhandled her, he was going to make them limp their way to old age.\n\nChayden stood up and braced himself as if expecting a fight. \"I didn't do nothing. I just picked her up and carried her inside over my shoulder before the Sentella sentries tackled and cuffed her. Believe me, I saved her that horror. And by the way, I do not envy you that relationship. She is hell in high heels and she fights like an eight-armed Prostig.\"\n\nThat wasn't good enough for him. \"You better not have hurt her.\"\n\n\"Relax.\" Chayden gestured toward the cell. \"Go see for yourself. She's pissed, but fine and unbruised.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah,\" Hauk added. \"And let her out of there while you're at it. I like having my balls attached to my body so I don't intend to go near her for a while. At least a century or two. Maybe five… dozen.\"\n\nCaillen disregarded Hauk as he headed for the door. Maybe he should guard his boys too…\n\nWith his little Qill, one could never be too careful.\n\nAs soon as he entered the tiny bare, steel-walled room, Desideria spun around and by the look on her face he fully expected a kick to the groin like Hauk had feared. But the moment her gaze focused on his face and she realized it was him, a beautiful smile curved her lips and added fire to her eyes.\n\nTwo heartbeats later, she ran to him so fast that he staggered back from her assault. She kissed him desperately.\n\nThe taste of her combined with the sweet scent of her hair and breath drove all thoughts out of his mind for several seconds as his body roared to life and craved her so badly that it was all he could do to remember they were being watched." }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'brains' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even so, he couldn't focus on anything other than how good she felt in his arms.\n\nShe pulled back to stare up at him with a look of such concern that it made his stomach clench. Now this was something he could definitely get used to. \"Are you all right?\" There was a note of desperation in her voice.\n\n\"Am I not supposed to be?\" he teased her.\n\nShe cupped his face in her hands. \"Not the way you hit that wall. I've never seen anything more terrifying. I thought I'd lost you.\"\n\n\"Just damaged my leg. Probably rattled my brains. It hurts, but I'll limp. As for the brains… never used them enough to miss them anyway.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Letting out a frustrated breath, she shook her head at him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I swear I'm wrapping you in a padded, blaster-proof suit and locking you inside a shielded bomb shelter.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He didn't know why, but that threat made him smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Gods, how glad he was to see her alive and well. He kissed the tip of her nose. \"Am I forgiven then?\"\n\n\"For what?\"\n\nHe started to remind her of the \"um\" mistake, but luckily his errant common sense finally tackled him to the ground and told him to shut his mouth before he ruined this moment. He quickly searched for something a little more intelligent to say.\n\n\"For scaring you.\"\n\nShe fisted her hands in his shirt and pulled his head down to hers. \"No. Don't ever do that to me again.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He smiled at her angry tone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I heard you put a major ass whipping on our assassin friend.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He'll be feeling it for a while. I would have ripped his heart out had Fain not stopped me.\"\n\n\"Why?\"\n\nDesideria barely caught the answer before it rushed past her lips. Maybe she should tell him she loved him. But fear of his reaction kept those words locked tight. He might be happy about it or it could make him run for the door. Caillen was a complicated man and this was definitely not the time or place.\n\nEspecially after his \"um\" comment earlier. He might think she'd forgotten about it, but she hadn't." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At the end of the day, he was a player and what little she knew about such people was that they were phobic when it came to any kind of commitment or emotions." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Never be the first to lay your heart on the table…" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'didn't' 3 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "First man in was always slaughtered at the door and she didn't want to be hurt or rejected.\n\nShe cleared her throat before she answered. \"He had information and I needed it.\"\n\nThere was a light in those beautiful dark eyes that said Caillen didn't believe her. But at least he didn't call her on the lie.\n\nThis time.\n\nInstead, he gave her that cocky grin. \"Shall we go see an advisor then and give him a concussion or two?\"\n\nShe laughed at his overexuberant tone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Absolutely.\" She gestured with her thumb toward the surveillance camera that was mounted high on the wall over her head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Provided the crew of lackwits allow us to leave that is.\"\n\n\"I heard that,\" Hauk said over the intercom. \"Didn't anyone ever tell you to be respectful of the man who holds the key to the lock on your cage?\"\n\nShe scoffed. \"Qillaq, Hauk. I was taught to kick him in the groin or the teeth until he handed it over.\"\n\nCaillen laughed as the door lock buzzed open.\n\nFain and Chayden were waiting for them just outside the door. \"By the way, we're going with you.\"\n\nWhat the…?\n\nThose words seriously offended his ego." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mostly because it was something his sisters would say and he was not helpless by any means." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't need help.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hauk scoffed as he joined them. \"Yeah right. Every time we leave the two of you alone something bad happens. You get lost or blown up or some other shit. I'm tired of cleaning up the bloodstains. So we're taking up a post at your back.\"\n\n\"Great,\" Fain muttered. \"Now the blood will splatter us.\"\n\nCaillen would argue with Hauk, but he knew better. Hauk was as stubborn and crazy as they came. Any attempt to discuss this would only delay them.\n\nNot to mention the small fact that Hauk happened to be right. Things hadn't exactly gone right since he'd met Desideria. Another pair of blasters, or in this case, three, might come in handy." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'could' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Fine. Your funerals.\"\n\nChayden snorted. \"Not so loud. The gods might oblige.\" He led the way down the hallway.\n\nIn no time, they were rounded up in Chayden's ship and headed for Exeter to make an unannounced meeting with Talian's head advisor. If ever there was hope of getting to the bottom of this, the advisor should be able to give testimony about who'd ordered him to hire the assassin and why Caillen and his father had been targeted. That would be enough to get the League involved and allow Caillen to clear his name.\n\nYeah, payback was coming and it was going to be bloody.\n\nCaillen left everyone on the bridge and went to the head so that he could check the wound on his leg. He could feel it bleeding again, but he didn't want the others to know." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Better to camouflage it now before it became obvious." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As soon as he was finished and had left the room, he met Desideria in the hallway." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Concern lined her brow as she scanned his body with an interest that made him go instantly hard." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'about' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "An image of her naked flashed through his mind and did nothing to help his sanity.\n\nYeah, that sucked the pain right out of him.\n\nShe paused her gaze on his thigh as if she somehow knew what he'd been about. \"How's your leg holding up?\"\n\nCurrently better than his groin…\n\nBut he didn't want her to worry about him. \"It's throbbing, but I'll live.\"\n\nShe appeared less than convinced. \"How do you manage your pain so well?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I focus on other things.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Such as?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He dipped his gaze to her breasts that he was dying to sample again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Heat stung her cheeks. \"You're awful.\"\n\nLike he regretted telling her the truth. \"You're the one who asked.\"\n\nShe growled at him in the back of her throat. \"Why is it I don't think it's quite so simple?\n\nShrugging, he decided to give her a reprieve from his lecherous tendencies. \"Because it's not. You want the truth?\"\n\n\"Always.\"\n\nCaillen swallowed as old memories haunted him. He wasn't much into sharing with anyone, but for some reason he never minded allowing Desideria inside him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not even something as personal as the unspoken past that always hovered right on the edges of his conscious thought." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What keeps me going is this image I have in my head of my adoptive father dying alone in the gutter. I was there that day, hiding and watching him through a small crack as his enemy rolled him over and ended his life with one cold, brutal shot. It was the second worst day of my life.\" Shahara's rape had the designation of being in first place.\n\nDesideria choked on the sympathetic grief that swelled up inside her. She heard the pain in his voice as he spoke of something she knew had to give him nightmares to this day. \"Caillen, I'm so sorry. Why were you there?\"\n\nThere was no missing the agony and torment in his eyes as he looked down at the ground. \"It was Kasen's birthday and my father had sold his wedding ring so that we could buy her something special since she'd been really sick that year. We'd just picked up her present when my father noticed we were being followed. I'd never in my life seen him afraid until then. He forced me to rush ahead and then he ordered me to run home. I hid instead, thinking… I don't even remember. I was too terrified to think straight. But what haunts me every night when I close my eyes is the image of my father on the street, bleeding and hurt. The sound of the final blast that killed him and the faces of the people who did that to him. I wish to the gods, just once, to be able to give to them what they gave to him.\"\n\nShe wished he could too. It was what they deserved." }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'nothing' exactly 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Maybe you will one day.\"\n\nHe shook his head. \"No. Even if I kill them, nothing will ever make amends for me staying there in that hole, scared and traumatized, and then having to tell my sisters that we were orphans.\"\n\nShe covered his hand with hers. \"I wish I could take that memory from you.\"\n\n\"Yeah… it blows, right? And now you know why I hate birthdays so much. Nothing good has ever happened on one. They always end up just a big kick in my teeth. And that's my secret. Whenever I feel physical pain, I remember the day the life drained out of my father and I hold on to that. So long as I feel pain, I know I'm alive and life, even when it sucks sideways, is so much better than death, that I embrace even the agony of it.\"\n\nHow different his view was from what she'd been taught. Her people embraced death. There was nothing more glorious than to die in battle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you not believe in an afterlife?\"\n\n\"I do. But I'm a pragmatist. This life I know is real. The other… I'm gambling on. So for the time being, I'll take what I know even when it hurts.\"\n\nHow was it that he always surprised and amazed her? Just when she thought she knew him, he exposed a depth and strength that she hadn't even guessed existed. At first glance, Caillen seemed like a simple hedonist. But there was nothing simple about him.\n\nAnd while he was definitely hedonistic, he wasn't selfish or sociopathic.\n\nShe squeezed his hand. \"I like your logic.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hey, Dagan,\" Chayden's voice came through the intercom, interrupting them. \"We're approaching the Exeterian port in Mykonia. Stay low and we'll let you know when we're scanned and docked. So long as you stay put, they won't be able to pick up any residuals from you.\"\n\nThat was the beauty about pirates she was learning. Their ships had all manner of interesting jammers and devices that helped them to elude authorities and their equipment.\n\nFor once, they landed without incident.\n\nChayden and Fain came to collect them while Hauk stayed on board as a guard for their ship.\n\nBoth men had their Tavali pirate garb on, including the mask over their faces so that all anyone could see was their eyes. It gave them a feral, intimidating appearance, especially Chayden's mask which was made of a brushed silver-colored metal. No wonder they wore them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well that and it kept people from seeing their faces and identifying them on wanted posters." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Chayden passed them both masks that included eye shields. \"So long as we're together, they'll think we're here for a shipment and that you two are part of my crew.\"\n\n\"You're not wanted here, are you?\" Caillen asked before he pulled the mask over his face.\n\nChayden snorted. \"Like that would be a concern given the fact that the two of you are plastered all over the media right now? Please. Don't insult me.\" Then his eyes turned a bit sheepish. \"But to answer your question, there is a reason I'm wearing the mask.\" And he quickly lifted his cowl to cover his head.\n\nCaillen laughed. \"Looking real brave there, pun'kin.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'someone' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Chayden made an obscene gesture at him before he led the way off the ship. Desideria kept her head covered as she traveled behind Caillen and in front of Fain. The men walked with that predatorial grace that was unique to soldiers and assassins. The gait of someone who had no doubt they could win any battle or fight.\n\nThe collective power sent a shiver over her.\n\nSince it was well after dark, the street traffic was relatively light. Still, every transport gave her pause as she waited for the authorities to be notified and for someone to try and arrest them.\n\nTheir luck held as they approached the royal palace. Caillen pulled them to a stop in an alley across the street." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Keeping to the shadows, he made sure they were out of sight for the cameras and guards.\n\n\"There's a back way in through the servant entrance.\"\n\nFain arched a brow at Caillen's words. \"You know this how?\"\n\n\"I crawled through their security while I lived there. I had my father plug most of it, but his head asshole thought he knew better than me, so he left a few holes intact. That one happens to be large enough for me to sneak through.\"\n\nDesideria shook her head. \"Not without me.\"\n\nCaillen paused at her determined tone. \"It'll be faster if I go in alone.\"\n\n\"You're wounded and I've got as much at stake in this as you do. There's—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Children, rest it,\" Chayden snapped. \"All of our necks are in the gallows on this one. Caillen, lead. We follow.\"\n\n\"Yeah, but don't get used to it,\" Fain muttered.\n\nCaillen started to argue, but realized every delay was costing them. \"Fine. But keep up and follow exactly in my steps. Otherwise we'll be seen and I really don't feel like running away right now.\"\n\nHe crept along the wall, into the back gardens. There were several dark zones in the surveillance. Part of him was disgusted that they were there after the attempt had been made in this very place on his father's life, but the other part was grateful since it allowed them to slip inside and make their way to his father's office.\n\nCaillen paused at the door he'd entered dozens of times to meet with his father." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not wanting to think about it, he cracked it open and slipped inside." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Completely dark and empty, it looked just as it had when they'd left for the Arimanda." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Any minute, he expected to see his dad walk in.\n\nClenching his teeth against the agony of that thought, he went to the monitors and pulled up the surveillance for the palace. His father had everything wired to this room so that he could monitor it and see what was going on.\n\nIt only took a few seconds to locate his father's advisor. Ironically, he was in the war room and appeared to be reading over some reports. Good. There was very little surveillance there since it was where his father met with military commanders.\n\nWithout a word, he led his small group through the servant halls that were hidden. These should be monitored too, but Bogimir and the others had thought it rude and unnecessary.\n\nWe have never in our history monitored them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why should we start doing so now?\n\nYeah…\n\nCaillen paused outside the hidden war room door to meet Desideria's gaze. He had no plan on what he was going to say or do once he confronted the advisor. Oh hell, just wing it. That was how he flew through his life and he was too old to change his ways now.\n\nHe opened the door and snuck inside. His anger rising, he crossed the room silently and nudged the chair. The instant he touched it, the advisor fell out of it and went sprawling into the floor where he landed with a thud." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What the…?\n\n\"He's dead,\" Desideria breathed.\n\nCaillen's gaze narrowed on the trail of blood near the chair. A trail that led to the next room. Instinctively, he moved his hand to his blaster as he followed it.\n\nOn the other side he found his uncle.\n\nEqually dead.\n\nShit. It's a setup. No sooner had that thought gone through his mind than an alarm blared." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Fain cursed as he pulled his own weapon out to cover them. \"Move it!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They could hear guards coming from every direction. Caillen pulled out a blaster for each hand, preparing to make them regret their decision to come after them.\n\n\"Meet up back at my ship,\" Chayden said before he ran down the hallway alone.\n\nCaillen inclined his head before he grabbed Desideria by the arm and dragged her behind him.\n\nShe frowned. \"This isn't splitting up.\"\n\n\"Yeah, but you don't know where you are or how to speak or read the language. Do you really want me to leave you to your own means?\"\n\nHe did have a point. \"Fine.\"\n\nCaillen led her to the guard station where there were several transports parked. Bypassing the guards who were patrolling the area, he quickly commandeered one, then wired it so that he could \"borrow\" it to get them back to the hangar." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 10 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The moment he started the engine, the guards scrambled, shooting at them.\n\nDesideria held her breath as Caillen careened out of the lot and then eluded them. A few minutes later, they were the first ones to reach Chayden's ship.\n\nNotifying Hauk who was manning the guns about what was happening, Caillen rushed to fire the engines and do the prelim checks as he waited for Fain and Chayden to join them.\n\nShe went to eye the hatch so that she could allow Fain and Chayden inside. Glancing back at Caillen, she saw he'd frozen in place as he stared at the small monitor in front of him.\n\n\"Desideria?\"\n\n\"Yes?\"\n\nHe enhanced what he was looking at and put it up on the main display. \"Any idea why Chayden has an entire file on you and your mother? One that dates back decades?\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo can u write like Jane Austen using my stuff as a starting point? btw might drop u in mid-story with random chars" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage requirement: 'other' must appear 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Barton Park was about half a mile from the cottage. The ladies had passed near it in their way along the valley, but it was screened from their view at home by the projection of a hill. The house was large and handsome; and the Middletons lived in a style of equal hospitality and elegance. The former was for Sir John's gratification, the latter for that of his lady. They were scarcely ever without some friends staying with them in the house, and they kept more company of every kind than any other family in the neighbourhood. It was necessary to the happiness of both; for however dissimilar in temper and outward behaviour, they strongly resembled each other in that total want of talent and taste which confined their employments, unconnected with such as society produced, within a very narrow compass. Sir John was a sportsman, Lady Middleton a mother. He hunted and shot, and she humoured her children; and these were their only resources. Lady Middleton had the advantage of being able to spoil her children all the year round, while Sir John's independent employments were in existence only half the time. Continual engagements at home and abroad, however, supplied all the deficiencies of nature and education; supported the good spirits of Sir John, and gave exercise to the good breeding of his wife." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lady Middleton piqued herself upon the elegance of her table, and of all her domestic arrangements; and from this kind of vanity was her greatest enjoyment in any of their parties." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But Sir John's satisfaction in society was much more real; he delighted in collecting about him more young people than his house would hold, and the noisier they were the better was he pleased. He was a blessing to all the juvenile part of the neighbourhood; for in summer he was for ever forming parties to eat cold ham and chicken out of doors, and in winter his private balls were numerous enough for any young lady who was not suffering under the unsatiable appetite of fifteen.\n\nThe arrival of a new family in the country was always a matter of joy to him; and in every point of view he was charmed with the inhabitants he had now procured for his cottage at Barton. The Miss Dashwoods were young, pretty, and unaffected. It was enough to secure his good opinion; for to be unaffected was all that a pretty girl could want to make her mind as captivating as her person. The friendliness of his disposition made him happy in accommodating those, whose situation might be considered, in comparison with the past, as unfortunate. In showing kindness to his cousins, therefore, he had the real satisfaction of a good heart; and in settling a family of females only in his cottage, he had all the satisfaction of a sportsman; for a sportsman, though he esteems only those of his sex who are sportsmen likewise, is not often desirous of encouraging their taste by admitting them to a residence within his own manor.\n\nMrs. Dashwood and her daughters were met at the door of the house by Sir John, who welcomed them to Barton Park with unaffected sincerity; and as he attended them to the drawing-room repeated to the young ladies the concern which the same subject had drawn from him the day before, at being unable to get any smart young men to meet them. They would see, he said, only one gentleman there besides himself; a particular friend who was staying at the Park, but who was neither very young nor very gay. He hoped they would all excuse the smallness of the party, and could assure them it should never happen so again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He had been to several families that morning, in hopes of procuring some addition to their number, but it was moonlight, and every body was full of engagements." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Luckily Lady Middleton's mother had arrived at Barton within the last hour; and as she was a very cheerful, agreeable woman, he hoped the young ladies would not find it so very dull as they might imagine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The young ladies, as well as their mother, were perfectly satisfied with having two entire strangers of the party, and wished for no more.\n\nMrs. Jennings, Lady Middleton's mother, was a good-humoured, merry, fat, elderly woman, who talked a great deal, seemed very happy, and rather vulgar. She was full of jokes and laughter, and before dinner was over had said many witty things on the subject of lovers and husbands; hoped they had not left their hearts behind them in Sussex, and pretended to see them blush whether they did or not. Marianne was vexed at it for her sister's sake, and turned her eyes towards Elinor to see how she bore these attacks, with an earnestness which gave Elinor far more pain than could arise from such common-place raillery as Mrs. Jennings's.\n\nColonel Brandon, the friend of Sir John, seemed no more adapted by resemblance of manner to be his friend, than Lady Middleton was to be his wife, or Mrs. Jennings to be Lady Middleton's mother. He was silent and grave. His appearance, however, was not unpleasing, in spite of his being, in the opinion of Marianne and Margaret, an absolute old bachelor, for he was on the wrong side of five-and-thirty; but though his face was not handsome, his countenance was sensible, and his address was particularly gentlemanlike.\n\nThere was nothing in any of the party which could recommend them as companions to the Dashwoods; but the cold insipidity of Lady Middleton was so particularly repulsive, that in comparison of it the gravity of Colonel Brandon, and even the boisterous mirth of Sir John and his mother-in-law, was interesting. Lady Middleton seemed to be roused to enjoyment only by the entrance of her four noisy children after dinner, who pulled her about, tore her clothes, and put an end to every kind of discourse except what related to themselves.\n\nIn the evening, as Marianne was discovered to be musical, she was invited to play." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The instrument was unlocked, every body prepared to be charmed, and Marianne, who sang very well, at their request went through the chief of the songs which Lady Middleton had brought into the family on her marriage, and which, perhaps, had lain ever since in the same position on the piano-forte; for her ladyship had celebrated that event by giving up music, although, by her mother's account, she had played extremely well, and by her own was very fond of it." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 7 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marianne's performance was highly applauded. Sir John was loud in his admiration at the end of every song, and as loud in his conversation with the others while every song lasted. Lady Middleton frequently called him to order, wondered how any one's attention could be diverted from music for a moment, and asked Marianne to sing a particular song which Marianne had just finished. Colonel Brandon alone, of all the party, heard her without being in raptures. He paid her only the compliment of attention; and she felt a respect for him on the occasion, which the others had reasonably forfeited by their shameless want of taste. His pleasure in music, though it amounted not to that ecstatic delight which alone could sympathise with her own, was estimable when contrasted against the horrible insensibility of the others; and she was reasonable enough to allow that a man of five-and-thirty might well have outlived all acuteness of feeling, and every exquisite power of enjoyment. She was perfectly disposed to make every allowance for the colonel's advanced state of life which humanity required." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mode:\nCo-writing\nContext: Story continues from larger narrative, characters/lore may lack introduction\nLength:\n12 sentences\nStyle:\nJane Austen" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mrs. Dashwood's visit to Lady Middleton took place the next day, and two of her daughters went with her; but Marianne excused herself from being of the party, under some trifling pretext of employment; and her mother, who concluded that a promise had been made by Willoughby the night before of calling on her while they were absent, was perfectly satisfied with her remaining at home.\n\nOn their return from the Park they found Willoughby's curricle and servant in waiting at the cottage, and Mrs. Dashwood was convinced that her conjecture had been just. So far it was all as she had foreseen; but on entering the house she beheld what no foresight had taught her to expect. They were no sooner in the passage than Marianne came hastily out of the parlour apparently in violent affliction, with her handkerchief at her eyes, and without noticing them ran up stairs. Surprised and alarmed, they proceeded directly into the room she had just quitted, where they found only Willoughby, who was leaning against the mantel-piece with his back towards them. He turned round on their coming in, and his countenance showed that he strongly partook of the emotion which overpowered Marianne.\n\n\"Is any thing the matter with her?\" cried Mrs. Dashwood, as she entered:—\"is she ill?\"\n\n\"I hope not,\" he replied, trying to look cheerful; and with a forced smile presently added, \"It is I who may rather expect to be ill—for I am now suffering under a very heavy disappointment!\"\n\n\"Disappointment!\"\n\n\"Yes, for I am unable to keep my engagement with you. Mrs. Smith has this morning exercised the privilege of riches upon a poor dependent cousin, by sending me on business to London. I have just received my despatches, and taken my farewell of Allenham; and by way of exhilaration I am now come to take my farewell of you.\"\n\n\"To London!—and are you going this morning?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Almost this moment.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'dashwood' must be used 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"This is very unfortunate. But Mrs. Smith must be obliged; and her business will not detain you from us long, I hope.\"\n\nHe coloured as he replied, \"You are very kind; but I have no idea of returning into Devonshire immediately. My visits to Mrs. Smith are never repeated within the twelvemonth.\"\n\n\"And is Mrs. Smith your only friend? Is Allenham the only house in the neighbourhood to which you will be welcome? For shame, Willoughby, can you wait for an invitation here?\"\n\nHis colour increased; and, with his eyes fixed on the ground, he only replied, \"You are too good.\"\n\nMrs. Dashwood looked at Elinor with surprise. Elinor felt equal amazement. For a few moments every one was silent. Mrs. Dashwood first spoke.\n\n\"I have only to add, my dear Willoughby, that at Barton cottage you will always be welcome; for I will not press you to return here immediately, because you only can judge how far that might be pleasing to Mrs. Smith; and on this head I shall be no more disposed to question your judgment than to doubt your inclination.\"\n\n\"My engagements at present,\" replied Willoughby, confusedly, \"are of such a nature—that—I dare not flatter myself—\"\n\nHe stopt. Mrs. Dashwood was too much astonished to speak, and another pause succeeded. This was broken by Willoughby, who said, with a faint smile, \"It is folly to linger in this manner. I will not torment myself any longer by remaining among friends whose society it is impossible for me now to enjoy.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He then hastily took leave of them all, and left the room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They saw him step into his carriage, and in a minute it was out of sight." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mrs. Dashwood felt too much for speech, and instantly quitted the parlour to give way in solitude to the concern and alarm which this sudden departure occasioned.\n\nElinor's uneasiness was at least equal to her mother's. She thought of what had just passed with anxiety and distrust. Willoughby's behaviour in taking leave of them, his embarrassment, and affectation of cheerfulness, and, above all, his unwillingness to accept her mother's invitation, a backwardness so unlike a lover, so unlike himself, greatly disturbed her. One moment she feared that no serious design had ever been formed on his side; and the next that some unfortunate quarrel had taken place between him and her sister:—the distress in which Marianne had quitted the room was such as a serious quarrel could most reasonably account for, though, when she considered what Marianne's love for him was, a quarrel seemed almost impossible.\n\nBut whatever might be the particulars of their separation, her sister's affliction was indubitable; and she thought with the tenderest compassion of that violent sorrow which Marianne was in all probability not merely giving way to as a relief, but feeding and encouraging as a duty.\n\nIn about half an hour her mother returned, and though her eyes were red, her countenance was not uncheerful.\n\n\"Our dear Willoughby is now some miles from Barton, Elinor,\" said she, as she sat down to work, \"and with how heavy a heart does he travel?\"\n\n\"It is all very strange. So suddenly to be gone! It seems but the work of a moment. And last night he was with us so happy, so cheerful, so affectionate? And now, after only ten minutes' notice,—gone, too, without intending to return!—Something more than what he owned to us must have happened. He did not speak, he did not behave like himself. You must have seen the difference as well as I. What can it be? Can they have quarrelled? Why else should he have shown such unwillingness to accept your invitation here?\"\n\n\"It was not inclination that he wanted, Elinor; I could plainly see that. He had not the power of accepting it. I have thought it all over, I assure you, and I can perfectly account for every thing that at first seemed strange to me as well as to you.\"\n\n\"Can you, indeed?\"\n\n\"Yes. I have explained it to myself in the most satisfactory way; but you, Elinor, who love to doubt where you can—it will not satisfy you, I know; but you shall not talk me out of my trust in it. I am persuaded that Mrs. Smith suspects his regard for Marianne, disapproves of it (perhaps because she has other views for him), and on that account is eager to get him away and that the business which she sends him off to transact is invented as an excuse to dismiss him. This is what I believe to have happened. He is, moreover, aware that she does disapprove the connection; he dares not therefore at present confess to her his engagement with Marianne, and he feels himself obliged, from his dependent situation, to give in to her schemes, and absent himself from Devonshire for a while. You will tell me, I know, that this may or may not have happened; but I will listen to no cavil unless you can point out any other method of understanding the affair as satisfactory as this. And now, Elinor, what have you to say?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Nothing, for you have anticipated my answer.\"\n\n\"Then you would have told me, that it might or might not have happened. Oh, Elinor, how incomprehensible are your feelings! You had rather take evil upon credit than good. You had rather look out for misery for Marianne, and guilt for poor Willoughby, than an apology for the latter. You are resolved to think him blamable because he took leave of us with less affection than his usual behaviour has shown. And is no allowance to be made for inadvertence, or for spirits depressed by recent disappointment? Are no probabilities to be accepted, merely because they are not certainties? Is nothing due to the man whom we have all so much reason to love, and no reason in the world to think ill of? To the possibility of motives unanswerable in themselves, though unavoidably secret for a while? And, after all, what is it you suspect him of?\"\n\n\"I can hardly tell you myself. But suspicion of something unpleasant is the inevitable consequence of such an alteration as we have just witnessed in him. There is great truth, however, in what you have now urged of the allowances which ought to be made for him, and it is my wish to be candid in my judgment of every body. Willoughby may, undoubtedly, have very sufficient reasons for his conduct, and I will hope that he has. But it would have been more like Willoughby to acknowledge them at once. Secrecy may be advisable; but still I cannot help wondering at its being practised by him.\"\n\n\"Do not blame him, however, for departing from his character, where the deviation is necessary. But you really do admit the justice of what I have said in his defence?—I am happy—and he is acquitted.\"\n\n\"Not entirely. It may be proper to conceal their engagement (if they are engaged) from Mrs. Smith; and if that is the case, it must be highly expedient for Willoughby to be but little in Devonshire at present. But this is no excuse for their concealing it from us.\"\n\n\"Concealing it from us! my dear child, do you accuse Willoughby and Marianne of concealment? This is strange, indeed, when your eyes have been reproaching them every day for in-cautiousness.\"\n\n\"I want no proof of their affection,\" said Elinor, \"but of their engagement I do.\"\n\n\"I am perfectly satisfied of both.\"\n\n\"Yet not a syllable has been said to you on the subject by either of them.\"\n\n\"I have not wanted syllables where actions have spoken so plainly. Has not his behaviour to Marianne and to all of us, for at least the last fortnight, declared that he loved and considered her as his future wife, and that he felt for us the attachment of the nearest relation? Have we not perfectly understood each other? Has not my consent been daily asked by his looks, his manner, his attentive and affectionate respect? My Elinor, is it possible to doubt their engagement? How could such a thought occur to you? How is it to be supposed that Willoughby, persuaded as he must be of your sister's love, should leave her, and leave her perhaps for months, without telling her of his affection, —that they should part without a mutual exchange of confidence?\"\n\n\"I confess,\" replied Elinor, \"that every circumstance, except one, is in favour of their engagement; but that one is the total silence of both on the subject, and with me it almost outweighs every other.\"\n\n\"How strange this is! You must think wretchedly indeed of Willoughby, if, after all that has openly passed between them, you can doubt the nature of the terms on which they are together. Has he been acting a part in his behaviour to your sister all this time? Do you suppose him really indifferent to her?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No, I cannot think that. He must and does love her, I am sure.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 13 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But with a strange kind of tenderness, if he can leave her with such indifference, such carelessness of the future, as you attribute to him.\"\n\n\"You must remember, my dear mother, that I have never considered this matter as certain. I have had my doubts, I confess; but they are fainter than they were, and they may soon be entirely done away. If we find they correspond, every fear of mine will be removed.\"\n\n\"A mighty concession indeed! If you were to see them at the altar, you would suppose they were going to be married. Ungracious girl! But I require no such proof. Nothing in my opinion has ever passed to justify doubt; no secrecy has been attempted; all has been uniformly open and unreserved. You cannot doubt your sister's wishes. It must be Willoughby, therefore, whom you suspect. But why? Is he not a man of honour and feeling? Has there been any inconsistency on his side to create alarm? can he be deceitful?\"\n\n\"I hope not, I believe not,\" cried Elinor. \"I love Willoughby, sincerely love him; and suspicion of his integrity cannot be more painful to yourself than to me. It has been involuntary, and I will not encourage it. I was startled, I confess, by the alteration in his manners this morning: he did not speak like himself, and did not return your kindness with any cordiality. But all this may be explained by such a situation of his affairs as you have supposed. He had just parted from my sister, had seen her leave him in the greatest affliction; and if he felt obliged, from a fear of offending Mrs. Smith, to resist the temptation of returning here soon, and yet aware that by declining your invitation, by saying that he was going away for some time, he should seem to act an ungenerous, a suspicious part by our family, he might well be embarrassed and disturbed. In such a case, a plain and open avowal of his difficulties would have been more to his honour, I think, as well as more consistent with his general character;—but I will not raise objections against any one's conduct on so illiberal a foundation, as a difference in judgment from myself, or a deviation from what I may think right and consistent.\"\n\n\"You speak very properly. Willoughby certainly does not deserve to be suspected. Though we have not known him long, he is no stranger in this part of the world; and who has ever spoken to his disadvantage? Had he been in a situation to act independently and marry immediately, it might have been odd that he should leave us without acknowledging every thing to me at once: but this is not the case. It is an engagement in some respects not prosperously begun, for their marriage must be at a very uncertain distance; and even secrecy, as far as it can be observed, may now be very advisable.\"\n\nThey were interrupted by the entrance of Margaret; and Elinor was then at liberty to think over the representations of her mother, to acknowledge the probability of many, and hope for the justice of all.\n\nThey saw nothing of Marianne till dinner-time, when she entered the room and took her place at the table without saying a word. Her eyes were red and swollen; and it seemed as if her tears were even then restrained with difficulty. She avoided the looks of them all, could neither eat nor speak, and after some time, on her mother's silently pressing her hand with tender compassion, her small degree of fortitude was quite overcome, she burst into tears, and left the room.\n\nThis violent oppression of spirits continued the whole evening. She was without any power, because she was without any desire of command over herself. The slightest mention of any thing relative to Willoughby overpowered her in an instant; and though her family were most anxiously attentive to her comfort, it was impossible for them, if they spoke at all, to keep clear of every subject which her feelings connected with him." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo can u write like Jane Austen using my stuff as a starting point? btw might drop u in mid-story with random chars" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Palmers returned to Cleveland the next day, and the two families at Barton were again left to entertain each other. But this did not last long; Elinor had hardly got their last visitors out of her head,—had hardly done wondering at Charlotte's being so happy without a cause, at Mr. Palmer's acting so simply, with good abilities, and at the strange unsuita bleness which often existed between husband and wife,—before Sir John's and Mrs. Jennings's active zeal in the cause of society procured her some other new acquaintance to see and observe.\n\nIn a morning's excursion to Exeter, they had met with two young ladies, whom Mrs. Jennings had the satisfaction of discovering to be her relations, and this was enough for Sir John to invite them directly to the Park, as soon as their present engagements at Exeter were over. Their engagements at Exeter instantly gave way before such an invitation; and Lady Middleton was thrown into no little alarm, on the return of Sir John, by hearing that she was very soon to receive a visit from two girls whom she had never seen in her life, and of whose elegance—whose tolerable gentility even—she could have no proof; for the assurances of her husband and mother on that subject went for nothing at all. Their being her relations, too, made it so much the worse; and Mrs. Jennings's attempts at consolation were, therefore, unfortunately founded, when she advised her daughter not to care about their being so fashionable; because they were all cousins, and must put up with one another. As it was impossible, however, now to prevent their coming, Lady Middleton resigned herself to the idea of it with all the philosophy of a well-bred woman, contenting herself with merely giving her husband a gentle reprimand on the subject five or six times every day.\n\nThe young ladies arrived: their appearance was by no means ungenteel or unfashionable. Their dress was very smart, their manners very civil: they were delighted with the house, and in raptures with the furniture; and they happened to be so doat ingly fond of children, that Lady Middleton's good opinion was engaged in their favour before they had been an hour at the Park. She declared them to be very agreeable girls indeed, which, for her Ladyship, was enthusiastic admiration. Sir John's confidence in his own judgment rose with this animated praise, and he set off directly for the cottage, to tell the Miss Dashwoods of the Miss Steeles' arrival, and to assure them of their being the sweetest girls in the world." }, { "from": "human", "value": "From such commendation as this, however, there was not much to be learned: Elinor well knew that the sweetest girls in the world were to be met with in every part of England, under every possible variation of form, face, temper, and understanding." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sir John wanted the whole family to walk to the Park directly and look at his guests." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Benevolent, philanthropic man! It was painful to him even to keep a third cousin to himself.\n\n\"Do come now,\" said he—\"pray come—you must come—I declare you shall come. You can't think how you will like them. Lucy is monstrous pretty, and so good humoured and agreeable! The children are all hanging about her already, as if she was an old acquaintance. And they both long to see you of all things; for they have heard at Exeter that you are the most beautiful creatures in the world; and I have told them it is all very true, and a great deal more. You will be delighted with them, I am sure. They have brought the whole coach full of playthings for the children. How can you be so cross as not to come? Why they are your cousins, you know, after a fashion. You are my cousins, and they are my wife's; so you must be related.\"\n\nBut Sir John could not prevail: he could only obtain a promise of their calling at the Park within a day or two, and then left them in amazement at their indifference, to walk home and boast anew of their attractions to the Miss Steeles, as he had been already boasting of the Miss Steeles to them.\n\nWhen their promised visit to the Park, and consequent introduction to these young ladies, took place, they found in the appearance of the eldest, who was nearly thirty, with a very plain and not a sensible face, nothing to admire; but in the other, who was not more than two or three and twenty, they acknowledged considerable beauty: her features were pretty, and she had a sharp quick eye, and a smartness of air, which, though it did not give actual elegance or grace, gave distinction to her person. Their manners were particularly civil, and Elinor soon allowed them credit for some kind of sense, when she saw with what constant and judicious attentions they were making themselves agreeable to Lady Middleton. With her children they were in continual raptures, extolling their beauty, courting their notice, and humouring all their whims; and such of their time as could be spared from the importunate demands which this politeness made on it was spent in admiration of whatever her Ladyship was doing, if she happened to be doing any thing, or in taking patterns of some elegant new dress, in which her appearance the day before had thrown them into unceasing delight. Fortunately for those who pay their court through such foibles, a fond mother, though, in pursuit of praise for her children, the most rapacious of human beings, is likewise the most credulous: her demands are exorbitant; but she will swallow any thing; and the excessive affection and endurance of the Miss Steeles towards her offspring were viewed, therefore, by Lady Middleton without the smallest surprise or distrust. She saw with maternal complacency all the impertinent encroachments and mischievous tricks to which her cousins submitted. She saw their sashes untied, their hair pulled about their ears, their work-bags searched, and their knives and scissors stolen away, and felt no doubt of its being a reciprocal enjoyment. It suggested no other surprise than that Elinor and Marianne should sit so composedly by, without claiming a share in what was passing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "'John is in such spirits to-day!\" said she, on his taking Miss Steele's pocket handkerchief, and throwing it out of window—\"he is full of monkey tricks.\"\n\nAnd soon afterwards, on the second boy's violently pinching one of the same lady's fingers, she fondly observed, \"How playful William is!\"\n\n\"And here is my sweet little Anna-maria,\" she added, tenderly caressing a little girl of three years old, who had not made a noise for the last two minutes; \"and she is always so gentle and quiet. Never was there such a quiet little thing!\"\n\nBut unfortunately in bestowing these embraces, a pin in her Ladyship's head-dress slightly scratching the child's neck, produced from this pattern of gentleness such violent screams, as could hardly be outdone by any creature professedly noisy. The mother's consternation was excessive; but it could not surpass the alarm of the Miss Steeles, and every thing was done by all three, in so critical an emergency, which affection could suggest, as likely to assuage the agonies of the little sufferer. She was seated in her mother's lap, covered with kisses, her wound bathed with lavender-water, by one of the Miss Steeles, who was on her knees to attend her, and her mouth stuffed with sugar plums by the other. With such a reward for her tears, the child was too wise to cease crying. She still screamed and sobbed lust ily, kicked her two brothers for offering to touch her; and all their united soothings were ineffectual, till Lady Middleton luckily remembering that in a scene of similar distress last week some apricot marmalade had been successfully applied for a bruised temple, the same remedy was eagerly proposed for this unfortunate scratch, and a slight intermission of screams in the young lady on hearing it gave them reason to hope that it would not be rejected. She was carried out of the room, therefore, in her mother's arms, in quest of this medicine; and as the two boys chose to follow, though earnestly entreated by their mother to stay behind, the four young ladies were left in a quietness which the room had not known for many hours." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Poor little creature!\" said Miss Steele, as soon as they were gone; \"it might have been a very sad accident.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yet I hardly know how,\" cried Marianne, \"unless it had been under totally different circumstances. But this is the usual way of heightening alarm, where there is nothing to be alarmed at in reality.\"\n\n\"What a sweet woman Lady Middleton is!\" said Lucy Steele.\n\nMarianne was silent; it was impossible for her to say what she did not feel, however trivial the occasion; and upon Elinor, therefore, the whole task of telling lies, when politeness required it, always fell. She did her best when thus called on, by speaking of Lady Middleton with more warmth than she felt, though with far less than Miss Lucy.\n\n\"And Sir John, too,\" cried the elder sister, \"what a charming man he is!\"\n\nHere, too, Miss Dashwood's commendation, being only simple and just, came in without any eclat. She merely observed that he was perfectly good humoured and friendly.\n\n\"And what a charming little family they have! I never saw such fine children in my life. I declare I quite doat upon them already, and indeed I am always distractedly fond of children.\"\n\n\"I should guess so,\" said Elinor, with a smile, \"from what I have witnessed this morning.\"\n\n\"I have a notion,\" said Lucy, \"you think the little Middletons rather too much indulged; perhaps they may be the outside of enough; but it is so natural in Lady Middleton; and for my part I love to see children full of life and spirits; I cannot bear them if they are tame and quiet.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I confess,\" replied Elinor, \"that while I am at Barton Park I never think of tame and quiet children with any abhorrence.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A short pause succeeded this speech, which was first broken by Miss Steele, who seemed very much disposed for conversation, and who now said, rather abruptly, \"And how do you like Devonshire, Miss Dashwood? I suppose you were very sorry to leave Sussex.\"\n\nIn some surprise at the familiarity of this question, or at least of the manner in which it was spoken, Elinor replied that she was.\n\n\"Norland is a prodigious beautiful place, is not it?\" added Miss Steele.\n\n\"We have heard Sir John admire it excessively,\" said Lucy, who seemed to think some apology necessary for the freedom of her sister.\n\n\"I think every one must admire it,\" replied Elinor, \"who ever saw the place; though it is not to be supposed that any one can estimate its beauties as we do.\"\n\n\"And had you a great many smart beaux there? I suppose you have not so many in this part of the world. For my part, I think they are a vast addition always.\"\n\n\"But why should you think,\" said Lucy, looking ashamed of her sister, \"that there are not as many genteel young men in Devonshire as Sussex?\"\n\n\"Nay, my dear, I'm sure I don't pretend to say that there an't. I'm sure there's a vast many smart beaux in Exeter; but you know, how could I tell what smart beaux there might be about Norland; and I was only afraid the Miss Dashwoods might find it dull at Barton, if they had not so many as they used to have. But perhaps you young ladies may not care about the beaux, and had as lief be without them as with them. For my part, I think they are vastly agreeable, provided they dress smart and behave civil. But I can't bear to see them dirty and nasty. Now there's Mr. Rose at Exeter, a prodigious smart young man, quite a beau, clerk to Mr. Simpson, you know, and yet if you do but meet him of a morning, he is not fit to be seen. I suppose your brother was quite a beau, Miss Dashwood, before he married, as he was so rich?\"\n\n\"Upon my word,\" replied Elinor, \"I cannot tell you, for I do not perfectly comprehend the meaning of the word. But this I can say, that if he ever was a beau before he married, he is one still, for there is not the smallest alteration in him.\"\n\n\"Oh, dear! one never thinks of married men's being beaux—they have something else to do.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Lord! Anne,\" cried her sister, \"you can talk of nothing but beaux; you will make Miss Dashwood believe you think of nothing else.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And then, to turn the discourse, she began admiring the house and the furniture.\n\nThis specimen of the Miss Steeles was enough. The vulgar freedom and folly of the eldest left her no recommendation; and as Elinor was not blinded by the beauty, or the shrewd look of the youngest, to her want of real elegance and artlessness, she left the house without any wish of knowing them better.\n\nNot so the Miss Steeles. They came from Exeter well provided with admiration for the use of Sir John Middleton, his family, and all his relations; and no niggardly proportion was now dealt out to his fair cousins, whom they declared to be the most beautiful, elegant, accomplished, and agreeable girls they had ever beheld, and with whom they were particularly anxious to be better acquainted. And to be better acquainted, therefore, Elinor soon found was their inevitable lot; for as Sir John was entirely on the side of the Miss Steeles, their party would be too strong for opposition, and that kind of intimacy must be submitted to, which consists of sitting an hour or two together in the same room almost every day. Sir John could do no more; but he did not know that any more was required: to be together was, in his opinion, to be intimate; and while his continual schemes for their meeting were effectual, he had not a doubt of their being established friends.\n\nTo do him justice, he did every thing in his power to promote their unreserve, by making the Miss Steeles acquainted with whatever he knew or supposed of his cousins' situations in the most delicate particulars; and Elinor had not seen them more than twice, before the eldest of them wished her joy on her sister's having been so lucky as to make a conquest of a very smart beau since she came to Barton.\n\n\"'Twill be a fine thing to have her married so young, to be sure,\" said she, \"and I hear he is quite a beau, and prodigious handsome. And I hope you may have as good luck yourself soon; but, perhaps, you may have a friend in the comer already.\"\n\nElinor could not suppose that Sir John would be more nice in proclaiming his supicions of her regard for Edward, than he had been with respect to Marianne; indeed it was rather his favourite joke of the two, as being somewhat newer and more conjectural; and since Edward's visit, they had never dined together without his drinking to her best affections with so much significancy and so many nods and winks, as to excite general attention." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The letter F had been likewise invariably brought forward, and found productive of such countless jokes, that its character, as the wittiest letter in the alphabet, had been long established with Elinor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Miss Steeles, as she expected, had now all the benefit of these jokes; and in the eldest of them they raised a curiosity to know the name of the gentleman alluded to, which, though often impertinently expressed, was perfectly of a piece with her general inquisitiveness into the concerns of their family. But Sir John did not sport long with the curiosity which he delighted to raise, for he had at least as much pleasure in telling the name, as Miss Steele had in hearing it.\n\n\"His name is Ferrars,\" said he, in a very audible whisper; \"but pray do not tell it, for it's a great secret.\"\n\n\"Ferrars!\" repeated Miss Steele; \"Mr. Ferrars is the happy man, is he? What! your sister-in-law's brother, Miss Dashwood? a very agreeable young man to be sure; I know him very well.\"\n\n\"How can you say so, Anne?\" cried Lucy, who generally made an amendment to all her sister's assertions. \"Though we have seen him once or twice at my uncle's, it is rather too much to pretend to know him very well.\"\n\nElinor heard all this with attention and surprise. \"And who was this uncle? Where did he live? How came they acquainted?\" She wished very much to have the subject continued, though she did not choose to join in it herself; but nothing more of it was said, and, for the first time in her life, she thought Mrs. Jennings deficient either in curiosity after petty information, or in a disposition to communicate it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The manner in which Miss Steele had spoken of Edward increased her curiosity; for it struck her as being rather ill-natured, and suggested the suspicion of that lady's knowing, or fancying herself to know, something to his disadvantage." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But her curiosity was unavailing; for no farther notice was taken of Mr. Ferrars's name by Miss Steele when alluded to, or even openly mentioned by Sir John." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "CREATIVE WRITING:\nseven sentences sentences\nMaintain character context\nGenre: romance, historical fiction" }, { "from": "human", "value": "In a firm, though cautious tone, Elinor thus began:—\"I should be undeserving of the confidence you have honoured me with, if I felt no desire for its continuance, or no farther curiosity on its subject. I will not apologise, therefore, for bringing it forward again.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you,\" cried Lucy, warmly, \"for breaking the ice: you have set my heart at ease by it; for I was, somehow or other, afraid I had offended you by what I told you that Monday.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Offended me! How could you suppose so? Believe me,\" and Elinor spoke it with the truest sincerity, \"nothing could be farther from my intention than to give you such an idea. Could you have a motive for the trust, that was not honourable and flattering to me?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And yet, I do assure you,\" replied Lucy, her little sharp eyes full of meaning, \"there seemed to me to be a coldness and displeasure in your manner, that made me quite uncomfortable. I felt sure that you was angry with me; and have been quarrelling with myself ever since, for having took such a liberty as to trouble you with my affairs. But I am very glad to find it was only my own fancy, and that you do not really blame me. If you knew what a consolation it was to me to relieve my heart, by speaking to you of what I am always thinking of every moment of my life, your compassion would make you overlook every thing else, I am sure.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Indeed, I can easily believe that it was a very great relief to you, to acknowledge your situation to me, and be assured that you shall never have reason to repent it. Your case is a very unfortunate one; you seem to me to be surrounded with difficulties; and you will have need of all your mutual affection to support you under them. Mr. Ferrars, I believe, is entirely dependent on his mother.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He has only two thousand pounds of his own: it would be madness to marry upon that; though, for my own part, I could give up every prospect of more without a sigh. I have been always used to a very small income, and could struggle with any poverty for him; but I love him too well to be the selfish means of robbing him, perhaps, of all that his mother might give him, if he married to please her. We must wait, it may be for many years. With almost every other man in the world, it would be an alarming prospect; but Edward's affection and constancy nothing can deprive me of, I know.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That conviction must be every thing to you; and he is, undoubtedly, supported by the same trust in yours. If the strength of your reciprocal attachment had failed, as between many people, and under many circumstances, it naturally would, during a four years' engagement, your situation would have been pitiable indeed.\"\n\nLucy here looked up; but Elinor was careful in guarding her countenance from every expression that could give her words a suspicious tendency.\n\n\"Edward's love for me,\" said Lucy, \"has been pretty well put to the test, by our long, very long absence, since we were first engaged, and it has stood the trial so well, that I should be unpardonable to doubt it now. I can safely say that he has never gave me one moment's alarm on that account from the first.\"\n\nElinor hardly knew whether to smile or sigh at this assertion.\n\nLucy went on. \"I am rather of a jealous temper, too, by nature; and from our different situations in life, from his being so much more in the world than me, and our continual separation, I was enough inclined for suspicion, to have found out the truth in an instant, if there had been the slightest alteration in his behaviour to me when we met, or any lowness of spirits that I could not account for, or if he had talked more of one lady than another, or seemed in any respect less happy at Longstaple than he used to be. I do not mean to say that I am particularly observant or quick-sighted in general, but in such a case I am sure I could not be deceived.\"\n\n\"All this,\" thought Elinor, \"is very pretty; but it can impose upon neither of us.\"\n\n\"But what,\" said she, after a short silence, \"are your views? or have you none but that of waiting for Mrs. Ferrars's death, which is a melancholy and shocking extremity? Is her son determined to submit to this, and to all the tediousness of the many years of suspense in which it may involve you, rather than run the risk of her displeasure for a while by owning the truth?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If we could be certain that it would be only for a while! But Mrs. Ferrars is a very headstrong proud woman, and in her first fit of anger upon hearing it would very likely secure every thing to Robert; and the idea of that, for Edward's sake, frightens away all my inclination for hasty measures.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "🔍 Find a place to insert: \"And for your own sake too, or you are carrying your disinterestedness beyond reason.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And for your own sake too, or you are carrying your disinterestedness beyond reason.\"\n\nLucy looked at Elinor again, and was silent.\n\n\"Do you know Mr. Robert Ferrars?\" asked Elinor.\n\n\"Not at all—I never saw him; but I fancy he is very unlike his brother—silly, and a great coxcomb.\"\n\n\"A great coxcomb!\" repeated Miss Steele, whose ear had caught those words by a sudden pause in Marianne's music. \"Oh, they are talking of their favourite beaux, I dare say.\"\n\n\"No, sister,\" cried Lucy, \"you are mistaken there,—our favourite beaux are not great coxcombs.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I can answer for it that Miss Dashwood's is not,\" said Mrs. Jennings, laughing heartily; \"for he is one of the modestest, prettiest behaved young men I ever saw; but as for Lucy, she is such a sly little creature, there is no finding out who she likes.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh,\" cried Miss Steele, looking significantly round at them, \"I dare say Lucy's beau is quite as modest and pretty behaved as Miss Dashwood's.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Elinor blushed in spite of herself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lucy bit her lip, and looked angrily at her sister." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A mutual silence took place for some time. Lucy first put an end to it by saying, in a lower tone, though Marianne was then giving them the powerful protection of a very magnificent concerto,—\n\n\"I will honestly tell you of one scheme which has lately come into my head for bringing matters to bear; indeed I am bound to let you into the secret, for you are a party concerned. I dare say you have seen enough of Edward to know that he would prefer the church to every other profession; now my plan is, that he should take orders as soon as he can; and then, through your interest, which I am sure you would be kind enough to use out of friendship for him, and I hope out of some regard to me, your brother might be persuaded to give him Norland living, which I understand is a very good one, and the present incumbent not likely to live a great while. That would be enough for us to marry upon, and we might trust to time and chance for the rest.\"\n\n\"I should be always happy,\" replied Elinor, \"to show any mark of my esteem and friendship for Mr. Ferrars; but do not you perceive that my interest on such an occasion would be perfectly unnecessary? He is brother to Mrs. John Dashwood—that must be recommendation enough to her husband.\"\n\n\"But Mrs. John Dashwood would not much approve of Edward's going into orders.\"\n\n\"Then I rather suspect that my interest would do very little.\"\n\nThey were again silent for many minutes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At length Lucy exclaimed, with a deep sigh,—\n\n\"I believe it would be the wisest way to put an end to the business at once by dissolving the engagement. We seem so beset with difficulties on every side, that though it would make us miserable for a time, we should be happier perhaps in the end. But you will not give me your advice, Miss Dashwood?\"\n\n\"No,\" answered Elinor, with a smile, which concealed very agitated feelings; \"on such a subject I certainly will not. You know very well that my opinion would have no weight with you, unless it were on the side of your wishes.\"\n\n\"Indeed you wrong me,\" replied Lucy, with great solemnity; \"I know nobody of whose judgment I think so highly as I do of yours; and I do really believe, that if you was to say to me, 'I advise you by all means to put an end to your engagement with Edward Ferrars, it will be more for the happiness of both of you,' I should resolve upon doing it immediately.\"\n\nElinor blushed for the insincerity of Edward's future wife, and replied, \"This compliment would effectually frighten me from giving any opinion on the subject, had I formed one. It raises my influence much too high: the power of dividing two people so tenderly attached is too much for an indifferent per son.\"\n\n\"'Tis because you are an indifferent person,\" said Lucy, with some pique, and laying a particular stress on those words, \"that your judgment might justly have such weight with me. If you could be supposed to be biassed in any respect by your own feelings, your opinion would not be worth having.\"\n\nElinor thought it wisest to make no answer to this, lest they might provoke each other to an unsuitable increase of ease and unreserve; and was even partly determined never to mention the subject again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Another pause, therefore, of many minutes' duration, succeeded this speech, and Lucy was still the first to end it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Shall you be in town this winter, Miss Dashwood?\" said she, with all her accustomary complacency.\n\n\"Certainly not.\"\n\n\"I am sorry for that,\" returned the other, while her eyes brightened at the information; \"it would have gave me such pleasure to meet you there! But I dare say you will go for all that. To be sure, your brother and sister will ask you to come to them.\"\n\n\"It will not be in my power to accept their invitation if they do.\"\n\n\"How unlucky that is! I had quite depended upon meeting you there. Anne and me are to go the latter end of January to some relations who have been wanting us to visit them these several years. But I only go for the sake of seeing Edward. He will be there in February, otherwise London would have no charms for me; I have not spirits for it.\"\n\nElinor was soon called to the cardtable by the conclusion of the first rubber, and the confidential discourse of the two ladies was therefore at an end; to which both of them submitted without any reluctance, for nothing had been said on either side to make them dislike each other less than they had done before; and Elinor sat down to the cardtable with the melancholy persuasion that Edward was not only without affection for the person who was to be his wife, but that he had not even the chance of being tolerably happy in marriage, which sincere affection on her side would have given; for self-interest alone could induce a woman to keep a man to an engagement, of which she seemed so thoroughly aware that he was weary." }, { "from": "human", "value": "From this time the subject was never revived by Elinor; and when entered on by Lucy, who seldom missed an opportunity of introducing it, and was particularly careful to inform her confidant of her happiness whenever she received a letter from Edward, it was treated by the former with calmness and caution, and dismissed as soon as civility would allow; for she felt such conversations to be an indulgence which Lucy did not deserve, and which were dangerous to herself." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The visit of the Miss Steeles at Barton Park was lengthened far beyond what the first invitation implied. Their favour increased; they could not be spared; Sir John would not hear of their going; and in spite of their numerous and long arranged engagements in Exeter, in spite of the absolute necessity of their returning to fulfil them immediately, which was in full force at the end of every week, they were prevailed on to stay nearly two months at the Park, and to assist in the due celebration of that festival which requires a more than ordinary share of private balls and large dinners to proclaim its importance." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: This is part of a larger narrative. The user will write a segment, then you need to write around 1 sentence continuing directly from it. Characters and events may be pre-established from earlier chapters.\n\nAuthor style: Jane Austen\nGenre: romance, historical fiction" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mrs. Jennings was was very warm in her praise of Edward's conduct, but only Elinor and Marianne understood its true merit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They only knew how little he had had to tempt him to be disobedient, and how small was the consolation, beyond the consciousness of doing right, that could remain to him in the loss of friends and fortune." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elinor gloried in his integrity; and Marianne forgave all his offences in compassion for his punishment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But though confidence between them was, by this public discovery, restored to its proper state, it was not a subject on which either of them were fond of dwelling when alone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elinor avoided it upon principle, as tending to fix still more upon her thoughts, by the too warm, too positive assurances of Marianne, that belief of Edward's continued affection for herself which she rather wished to do away; and Marianne's courage soon failed her, in trying to converse upon a topic which always left her more dissatisfied with herself than ever, by the comparison it necessarily produced between Elinor's conduct and her own." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She felt all the force of that comparison; but not as her sister had hoped, to urge her to exertion now; she felt it with all the pain of continual self-reproach, regretted most bitterly that she had never exerted herself before; but it brought only the torture of penitence, without the hope of amendment." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her mind was so much weakened, that she still fancied present exertion impossible, and therefore it only dispirited her more." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nothing new was heard by them, for a day or two afterwards, of affairs in Harley Street or Bartlett's Buildings." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But though so much of the matter was known to them already, that Mrs. Jennings might have had enough to do in spreading that knowledge farther, without seeking after more, she had resolved from the first to pay a visit of comfort and enquiry to her cousins as soon as she could; and nothing but the hinderance of more visitors than usual had prevented her going to them within that time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The third day succeeding their knowledge of the particulars was so fine, so beautiful a Sunday, as to draw many to Kensington Gardens, though it was only the second week in March." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mrs. Jennings and Elinor were of the number; but Marianne, who knew that the Willoughbys were again in town, and had a constant dread of meeting them, chose rather to stay at home, than venture into so public a place." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "An intimate acquaintance of Mrs. Jennings joined them soon after they entered the Gardens; and Elinor was not sorry that by her continuing with them, and engaging all Mrs. Jennings's conversation, she was herself left to quiet reflection." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She saw nothing of the Willoughbys, nothing of Edward, and for some time nothing of any body who could by any chance, whether grave or gay, be interesting to her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But at last she found herself, with some surprise, accosted by Miss Steele, who, though looking rather shy, expressed great satisfaction in meeting them; and on receiving encouragement from the particular kindness of Mrs. Jennings, left her own party for a short time, to join theirs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mrs. Jennings immediately whispered to Elinor,—" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Get it all out of her, my dear. She will tell you any thing, if you ask. You see I cannot leave Mrs. Clarke.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was lucky, however, for Mrs. Jennings's curiosity and Elinor's too, that she would tell any thing without being asked; for nothing would otherwise have been learnt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I am so glad to meet you,\" said Miss Steele, taking her familiarly by the arm—\"for I wanted to see you of all things in the world.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "And then lowering her voice, \"I suppose Mrs. Jennings has heard all about it. Is she angry?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Not at all, I believe, with you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That is a good thing. And Lady Middleton, is she angry?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I cannot suppose it possible that she should.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I am monstrous glad of it. Good gracious! I have had such a time of it! I never saw Lucy in such a rage in my life. She vowed at first she would never trim me up a new bonnet, nor do any thing else for me again, so long as she lived; but now she is quite come to, and we are as good friends as ever. Look, she made me this bow to my hat, and put in the feather last night. There now, you are going to laugh at me too. But why should not I wear pink ribands? I do not care if it is the Doctor's favourite colour. I am sure, for my part, I should never have known he did like it better than any other colour, if he had not happened to say so. My cousins have been so plaguing me! I declare, sometimes I do not know which way to look before them.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had wandered away to a subject on which Elinor had nothing to say, and therefore soon judged it expedient to find her way back again to the first." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well, but Miss Dashwood,\" speaking triumphantly, \"people may say what they choose about Mr. Ferrars's declaring he would not have Lucy, for it's no such thing, I can tell you; and it's quite a shame for such ill-natured reports to be spread abroad. Whatever Lucy might think about it herself, you know, it was no business of other people to set it down for certain.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I never heard any thing of the kind hinted at before, I assure you,\" said Elinor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, did not you? But it was said, I know, very well, and by more than one; for Miss Godby told Miss Sparks, that nobody in their senses could expect Mr. Ferrars to give up a woman like Miss Morton, with thirty thousand pounds to her fortune, for Lucy Steele, that had nothing at all; and I had it from Miss Sparks myself. And besides that, my cousin Richard said himself, that when it came to the point, he was afraid Mr. Ferrars would be off; and when Edward did not come near us for three days, I could not tell what to think myself; and I believe in my heart Lucy gave it up all for lost; for we came away from your brother's Wednesday, and we saw nothing of him not all Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and did not know what was become with him. Once Lucy thought to write to him, but then her spirit rose against that. However, this morning he came just as we came home from church; and then it all came out, how he had been sent for Wednesday to Harley Street, and been talked to by his mother and all of them, and how he had declared before them all that he loved nobody but Lucy, and nobody but Lucy would he have. And how he had been so worried by what passed, that as soon as he had went away from his mother's house, he had got upon his horse, and rid into the country, some where or other; and how he had stayed about at an inn all Thursday and Friday, on purpose to get the better of it. And after thinking it all over and over again, he said, it seemed to him as if, now he had no fortune, and no nothing at all, it would be quite unkind to keep her on to the engagement, because it must be for her loss, for he had nothing but two thousand pounds, and no hope of any thing else; and if he was to go into orders, as he had some thoughts, he could get nothing but a curacy; and how was they to live upon that? He could not bear to think of her doing no better, and so he begged, if she had the least mind for it, to put an end to the matter directly, and leave him to shift for himself. I heard him say all this as plain as could possibly be. And it was entirely for her sake, and upon her account, that he said a word about being off, and not upon his own. I will take my oath he never dropt a syllable of being tired of her, or of wishing to marry Miss Morton, or any thing like it. But, to be sure, Lucy would not give ear to such kind of talking; so she told him directly (with a great deal about sweet and love, you know, and all that—Oh, la! one can't repeat such kind of things you know)—she told him directly, she had not the least mind in the world to be off, for she could live with him upon a trifle, and how little soever he might have, she should be very glad to have it all, you know, or something of the kind. So then he was monstrous happy, and talked on some time about what they should do, and they agreed he should take orders directly, and they must wait to be married till he got a living. And just then I could not hear any more, for my cousin called from below to tell me Mrs. Richardson was come in her coach, and would take one of us to Kensington Gardens; so I was forced to go into the room and interrupt them, to ask Lucy if she would like to go, but she did not care to leave Edward; so I just run up stairs and put on a pair of silk stockings, and came off with the Richardsons.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I do not understand what you mean by interrupting them,\" said Elinor; \"you were all in the same room together, were not you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No, indeed, not us. La! Miss Dashwood, do you think people make love when any body else is by? Oh for shame! To be sure you must know better than that. (Laughing affectedly.) No, no; they were shut up in the drawing-room together, and all I heard was only by listening at the door.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How!\" cried Elinor; \"have you been repeating to me what you only learnt yourself by listening at the door? I am sorry I did not know it before; for I certainly would not have suffered you to give me particulars of a conversation which you ought not to have known yourself. How could you behave so unfairly by your sister?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh, la! there is nothing in that. I only stood at the door, and heard what I could. And I am sure Lucy would have done just the same by me; for a year or two back, when Martha Sharpe and I had so many secrets together, she never made any bones of hiding in a closet, or behind a chimney board, on purpose to hear what we said.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Elinor tried to talk of something else; but Miss Steele could not be kept beyond a couple of minutes, from what was uppermost in her mind." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Edward talks of going to Oxford soon,\" said she; \"but now he is lodging at No.—, Pall Mall. What an ill-natured woman his mother is, ain't she? And your brother and sister were not very kind! However, I shan't say anything against them to you; and to be sure they did send us home in their own chariot, which was more than I looked for. And for my part, I was all in a fright for fear your sister should ask us for the huswifes she had gave us a day or two before; but, however, nothing was said about them, and I took care to keep mine out of sight. Edward have got some business at Oxford, he says; so he must go there for a time; and after that, as soon as he can light upon a bishop, he will be ordained. I wonder what curacy he will get! Good gracious! (giggling as she spoke) I'd lay my life I know what my cousins will say, when they hear of it. They will tell me I should write to the Doctor, to get Edward the curacy of his new living. I know they will; but I am sure I would not do such a thing for all the world. 'La!' I shall say directly, 'I wonder how you could think of such a thing. I write to the Doctor, indeed !'\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well,\" said Elinor, \"it is a comfort to be prepared against the worst. You have got your answer ready.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Miss Steele was going to reply on the same subject, but the approach of her own party made another more necessary." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, la! here come the Richardsons. I had a vast deal more to say to you, but I must not stay away from them not any longer. I assure you they are very genteel people. He makes a monstrous deal of money, and they keep their own coach. I have not time to speak to Mrs. Jennings about it myself, but pray tell her I am quite happy to hear she is not in anger against us, and Lady Middleton the same; and if any thing should happen to take you and your sister away, and Mrs. Jennings should want company, I am sure we should be very glad to come and stay with her for as long a time as she likes. I suppose Lady Middleton won't ask us any more this bout. Good-by; I am sorry Miss Marianne was not here. Remember me kindly to her. La! if you have not got your spotted muslin on! I wonder you was not afraid of its being torn.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Such was her parting concern; for after this she had time only to pay her farewell compliments to Mrs. Jennings, before her company was claimed by Mrs. Richardson; and Elinor was left in possession of knowledge which might feed her powers of reflection some time, though she had learnt very little more than what had been already foreseen and foreplanned in her own mind." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Edward's marriage with Lucy was as firmly determined on, and the time of its taking place remained as absolutely uncertain, as she had concluded it would be:—every thing depended, exactly after her expectation, on his getting that preferment, of which, at present, there seemed not the smallest chance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As soon as they returned to the carriage, Mrs. Jennings was eager for information; but as Elinor wished to spread as little as possible intelligence that had in the first place been so unfairly obtained, she confined herself to the brief repetition of such simple particulars, as she felt assured that Lucy, for the sake of her own consequence, would choose to have known." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The continuance of their engagement, and the means that were to be taken for promoting its end, was all her communication; and this produced from Mrs. Jennings the following natural remark:—" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Wait for his having a living!—ay, we all know how that will end:—they will wait a twelvemonth, and finding no good comes of it, will set down upon a curacy of fifty pounds a year, with the interest of his two thousand pounds, and what little matter Mr. Steele and Mr. Pratt can give her. Then they will have a child every year! and, Lord help 'em! how poor they will be! I must see what I can give them towards furnishing their house. Two maids and two men, indeed! as I talked of t'other day. No, no, they must get a stout girl of all works. Betty's sister would never do for them now.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The next morning brought Elinor a letter by the two-penny post from Lucy herself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was as follows:" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"BARTLETT'S BUILDINGS, MARCH." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I hope my dear Miss Dashwood will excuse the liberty I take of writing to her; but I know your friendship for me will make you pleased to hear such a good account of myself and my dear Edward, after all the troubles we have went through lately, therefore will make no more apologies, but proceed to say that, thank God!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "though we have suffered dreadfully, we are both quite well now, and as happy as we must always be in one another's love." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We have had great trials, and great persecutions, but, however, at the same time, gratefully acknowledge many friends, yourself not the least among them, whose great kindness I shall always thankfully remember, as will Edward too, who I have told of it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am sure you will be glad to hear, as likewise dear Mrs. Jennings, I spent two happy hours with him yesterday afternoon: he would not hear of our parting, though earnestly did I, as I thought my duty required, urge him to it for prudence sake, and would have parted for ever on the spot, would he consent to it; but he said it should never be, he did not regard his mother's anger, while he could have my affections; our prospects are not very bright, to be sure, but we must wait, and hope for the best; he will be ordained shortly; and should it ever be in your power to recommend him to any body that has a living to bestow, am very sure you will not forget us; and dear Mrs. Jennings too, trust she will speak a good word for us to Sir John, or Mr. Palmer, or any friend that may be able to assist us.—Poor Anne was much to blame for what she did, but she did it for the best, so I say nothing; hope Mrs. Jennings won't think it too much trouble to give us a call, should she come this way any morning, 't would be a great kindness, and my cousins would be proud to know her.—My paper reminds me to conclude; and begging to be most gratefully and respectfully remembered to her, and to Sir John, and Lady Middleton, and the dear children, when you chance to see them, and love to Miss Marianne," }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I AM, &C. &c.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As soon as Elinor had finished it, she performed what she concluded to be its writer's real design, by placing it in the hands of Mrs. Jennings, who read it aloud with many comments of satisfaction and praise.\n\n\"Very well, indeed!—how prettily she writes!—ay, that was quite proper to let him be off if he would. That was just like Lucy. Poor soul! I wish I could get him a living, with all my heart. She calls me dear Mrs. Jennings, you see. She is a good-hearted girl as ever lived. Very well, upon my word. That sentence is very prettily turned. Yes, yes, I will go and see her, sure enough. How attentive she is, to think of every body!—Thank you, my dear, for showing it me. It is as pretty a letter as ever I saw, and does Lucy's head and heart great credit.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: This is part of a larger narrative. The user will write a segment, then you need to write around 2 sentences continuing directly from it. Characters and events may be pre-established from earlier chapters.\n\nAuthor style: Jane Austen\nGenre: romance, historical fiction" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marianne got up the next morning at her usual time; to every enquiry replied that she was better, and tried to prove herself so, by engaging in her accustomary employments. But a day spent in sitting shivering over the fire with a book in her hand, which she was unable to read, or in lying, weary and languid, on a sofa, did not speak much in favour of her amendment; and when, at last, she went early to bed, more and more indisposed, Colonel Brandon was only astonished at her sister's composure, who, though attending and nursing her the whole day, against Marianne's inclination, and forcing proper medicines on her at night, trusted, like Marianne, to the certainty and efficacy of sleep, and felt no real alarm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A very restless and feverish night, however, disappointed the expectation of both; and when Marianne, after persisting in rising, confessed herself unable to sit up, and returned voluntarily to her bed, Elinor was very ready to adopt Mrs. Jennings's advice, of sending for the Palmers' apothecary." }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'palmer' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He came, examined his patient, and though encouraging Miss Dashwood to expect that a very few days would restore her sister to health, yet, by pronouncing her disorder to have a putrid tendency, and allowing the word \"infection\" to pass his lips, gave instant alarm to Mrs. Palmer, on her baby's account. Mrs. Jennings, who had been inclined from the first to think Marianne's complaint more serious than Elinor, now looked very grave on Mr. Harris's report, and confirming Charlotte's fears and caution, urged the necessity of her immediate removal with her infant; and Mr. Palmer, though treating their apprehensions as idle, found the anxiety and importunity of his wife too great to be withstood." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her departure, therefore, was fixed on; and, within an hour after Mr. Harris's arrival, she set off, with her little boy and his nurse, for the house of a near relation of Mr. Palmer's, who lived a few miles on the other side of Bath; whither her husband promised, at her earnest entreaty, to join her in a day or two; and whither she was almost equally urgent with her mother to accompany her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mrs. Jennings, however, with a kindness of heart which made Elinor really love her, declared her resolution of not stirring from Cleveland as long as Marianne remained ill, and of endeavouring, by her own attentive care, to supply to her the place of the mother she had taken her from; and Elinor found her, on every occasion, a most willing and active helpmate, desirous to share in all her fatigues, and often, by her better experience in nursing, of material use." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Poor Marianne, languid and low from the nature of her malady, and feeling herself universally ill, could no longer hope that tomorrow would find her recovered; and the idea of what tomorrow would have produced, but for this unlucky illness, made every ailment more severe; for on that day they were to have begun their journey home; and, attended the whole way by a servant of Mrs. Jennings, were to have taken their mother by surprise on the following forenoon. The little that she said was all in lamentation of this inevitable delay; though Elinor tried to raise her spirits, and make her believe, as she then really believed herself, that it would be a very short one." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The next day produced little or no alteration in the state of the patient; she certainly was not better, and, except that there was no amendment, did not appear worse." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Their party was now farther reduced; for Mr. Palmer, though very unwilling to go, as well from real humanity and good-nature as from a dislike of appearing to be frightened away by his wife, was persuaded at last, by Colonel Brandon, to perform his promise of following her; and while he was preparing to go, Colonel Brandon himself, with a much greater exertion, began to talk of going likewise. Here, however, the kindness of Mrs. Jennings interposed most acceptably; for to send the Colonel away while his love was in so much uneasiness on her sister's account would be to deprive them both, she thought, of every comfort; and, therefore, telling him at once that his stay at Cleveland was necessary to herself; that she should want him to play at piquet of an evening, while Miss Dashwood was above with her sister, &c. she urged him so strongly to remain, that he, who was gratifying the first wish of his own heart by a compliance, could not long even affect to demur; especially as Mrs. Jennings's entreaty was warmly seconded by Mr. Palmer, who seemed to feel a relief to himself in leaving behind him a person so well able to assist or advise Miss Dashwood in any emergence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Marianne was, of course, kept in ignorance of all these arrangements." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She knew not that she had been the means of sending the owners of Cleveland away, in about seven days from the time of their arrival. It gave her no surprise that she saw nothing of Mrs. Palmer; and as it gave her likewise no concern, she never mentioned her name." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Two days passed away from the time of Mr. Palmer's departure; and her situation continued, with little variation, the same." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mr. Harris, who attended her every day; still talked boldly of a speedy recovery; and Miss Dashwood was equally sanguine; but the expectation of the others was by no means so cheerful. Mrs. Jennings had determined, very early in the seizure, that Marianne would never get over it; and Colonel Brandon, who was chiefly of use in listening to Mrs. Jennings's forebodings, was not in a state of mind to resist their influence." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include exactly 2 instance(s) of the word 'which'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He tried to reason himself out of fears, which the different judgment of the apothecary seemed to render absurd; but the many hours of each day in which he was left entirely alone were but too favourable for the admission of every melancholy idea; and he could not expel from his mind the persuasion that he should see Marianne no more.\n\nOn the morning of the third day, however, the gloomy anticipations of both were almost done away; for when Mr. Harris arrived, he declared his patient materially better." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her pulse was much stronger, and every symptom more favourable than on the preceding visit." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elinor, confirmed in every pleasant hope, was all cheerfulness; rejoicing that, in her letters to her mother, she had pursued her own judgment rather than her friend's, in making very light of the indisposition which delayed them at Cleveland; and almost fixing on the time when Marianne would be able to travel.\n\nBut the day did not close so auspiciously as it began." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Towards the evening Marianne became ill again, growing more heavy, restless, and uncomfortable than before." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her sister, however, still sanguine, was willing to attribute the change to nothing more than the fatigue of having sat up to have her bed made; and carefully administering the cordials prescribed, saw her, with satisfaction, sink at last into a slumber, from which she expected the most beneficial effects. Her sleep, though not so quiet as Elinor wished to see it, lasted a considerable time; and anxious to observe the result of it herself, she resolved to sit with her during the whole of it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mrs. Jennings, knowing nothing of any change in the patient, went unusually early to bed; her maid, who was one of the principal nurses, was recreating herself in the housekeeper's room, and Elinor remained alone with Marianne." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The repose of the latter became more and more disturbed; and her sister, who watched, with unremitting attention, her continual change of posture, and heard the frequent but inarticulate sounds of complaint which passed her lips, was almost wishing to rouse her from so painful a slumber, when Marianne, suddenly awakened by some accidental noise in the house, started hastily up, and, with feverish wildness, cried out,—\n\n\"Is mamma coming?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Not yet,\" replied the other, concealing her terror, and assisting Marianne to lie down again; \"but she will be here, I hope, before it is long. It is a great way, you know, from hence to Barton.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But she must not go round by London,\" cried Marianne, in the same hurried manner. \"I shall never see her, if she goes by London.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Elinor perceived, with alarm, that she was not quite herself, and, while attempting to soothe her, eagerly felt her pulse." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was lower and quicker than ever. And Marianne, still talking wildly of mamma, her alarm increased so rapidly, as to determine her on sending instantly for Mr. Harris, and despatching a messenger to Barton for her mother." }, { "from": "human", "value": "To consult with Colonel Brandon on the best means of effecting the latter was a thought which immediately followed the resolution of its performance; and as soon she had rung up the maid to take her place by her sister, she hastened down to the drawing-room, where she knew he was generally to be found at a much later hour than the present." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was no time for hesitation. Her fears and her difficulties were immediately before him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her fears, he had no courage, no confidence, to attempt the removal of: he listened to them in silent despondence; but her difficulties were instantly obviated; for, with a readiness that seemed to speak the occasion, and the service prearranged in his mind, he offered himself as the messenger who should fetch Mrs. Dashwood." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elinor made no resistance that was not easily overcome. She thanked him with brief, though fervent gratitude; and while he went to hurry off his servant with a message to Mr. Harris, and an order for post-horses directly, she wrote a few lines to her mother." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The comfort of such a friend at that moment as Colonel Brandon,—of such a companion for her mother,—how gratefully was it felt! a companion whose judgment would guide, whose attendance must relieve, and whose friendship might soothe her!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As far as the shock of such a summons could be lessened to her, his presence, his manners, his assistance, would lessen it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He, meanwhile, whatever he might feel, acted with all the firmness of a collected mind, made every necessary arrangement with the utmost despatch, and calculated with exactness the time in which she might look for his return. Not a moment was lost in delay of any kind." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The horses arrived, even before they were expected; and Colonel Brandon only pressing her hand with a look of solemnity, and a few words spoken too low to reach her ear, hurried into the carriage." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was then about twelve o'clock, and she returned to her sister's apartment to wait for the arrival of the apothecary, and to watch by her the rest of the night. It was a night of almost equal suffering to both." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hour after hour passed away in sleepless pain and delirium on Marianne's side, and in the most cruel anxiety on Elinor's, before Mr. Harris appeared." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her apprehensions once raised paid by their excess for all her former security; and the servant who sat up with her, for she would not allow Mrs. Jennings to be called, only tortured her more, by hints of what her mistress had always thought.\n\nMarianne's ideas were still, at intervals, fixed incoherently on her mother; and whenever she mentioned her name it gave a pang to the heart of poor Elinor, who, reproaching herself for having trifled with so many days of illness, and wretched for some immediate relief, fancied that all relief might soon be in vain, that every thing had been delayed too long, and pictured to herself her suffering mother arriving too late to see this darling child, or to see her rational." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was on the point of sending again for Mr. Harris, or if he could not come, for some other advice, when the former—but not till after five o'clock—arrived." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His opinion, however, made some little amends for his delay; for though acknowledging a very unexpected and unpleasant alteration in his patient, he would not allow the danger to be material, and talked of the relief which a fresh mode of treatment must procure, with a confidence which, in a lesser degree, was communicated to Elinor. He promised to call again in the course of three or four hours; and left both the patient and her anxious attendant more composed than he had found them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With strong concern, and with many reproaches for not being called to their aid, did Mrs. Jennings hear in the morning of what had passed. Her former apprehensions, now with greater reason restored, left her no doubt of the event; and though trying to speak comfort to Elinor, her conviction of her sister's danger would not allow her to offer the comfort of hope." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her heart was really grieved." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The rapid decay, the early death of a girl so young, so lovely as Marianne, must have struck a less interested person with concern. On Mrs. Jennings's compassion she had other claims." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had been for three months her companion, was still under her care, and she was known to have been greatly injured, and long unhappy. The distress of her sister, too, particularly a favourite, was before her; and as for their mother, when Mrs. Jennings considered that Marianne might probably be to her what Charlotte was to herself, her sympathy in her sufferings was very sincere." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mr. Harris was punctual in his second visit; but he came to be disappointed in his hopes of what the last would produce." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His medicines had failed; the fever was unabated; and Marianne only more quiet—not more herself—remained in a heavy stupor. Elinor, catching all, and more than all, his fear in a moment, proposed to call in farther advice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But he judged it unnecessary: he had still something more to try some fresh application, of whose success he was almost as confident as the last; and his visit concluded with encouraging assurances which reached the ear but could not enter the heart of Miss Dashwood." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was calm, except when she thought of her mother; but she was almost hopeless; and in this state she continued till noon, scarcely stirring from her sister's bed, her thoughts wandering from one image of grief, one suffering friend to another; and her spirits oppressed to the utmost by the conversation of Mrs. Jennings, who scrupled not to attribute the severity and danger of this attack to the many weeks of previous indisposition which Marianne's disappointment had brought on. Elinor felt all the reasonableness of the idea, and it gave fresh misery to her reflections." }, { "from": "human", "value": "About noon, however, she began—but with a caution—a dread of disappointment which for some time kept her silent even to her friend—to fancy, to hope she could perceive a slight amendment in her sister's pulse: she waited, watched, and examined it again and again; and at last, with an agitation more difficult to bury under exterior calmness than all her foregoing distress, ventured to communicate her hopes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mrs. Jennings, though forced, on examination, to acknowledge a temporary revival, tried to keep her young friend from indulging a thought of its continuance; and Elinor, conning over every injunction of distrust, told herself likewise not to hope. But it was too late." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hope had already entered; and feeling all its anxious flutter, she bent over her sister to watch—she hardly knew for what." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Half an hour passed away, and the favourable symptom yet blessed her. Others even arose to confirm it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her breath, her skin, her lips, all flattered Elinor with signs of amendment; and Marianne fixed her eyes on her with a rational, though languid, gaze." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Anxiety and hope now oppressed her in equal degrees, and left her no moment of tranquillity till the arrival of Mr. Harris at four o'clock; when his assurances, his felicitations on a recovery in her sister even surpassing his expectation, gave her confidence, comfort, and tears of joy.\n\nMarianne was in every respect materially better; and he declared her entirely out of danger." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mrs. Jennings, perhaps satisfied with the partial justification of her forebodings which had been found in their late alarm, allowed herself to trust in his judgment, and admitted, with unfeigned joy, and soon with unequivocal cheerfulness, the probability of an entire recovery." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elinor could not be cheerful. Her joy was of a different kind, and led to any thing rather than to gaiety." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marianne, restored to life, health, friends, and to her doting mother, was an idea to fill her heart with sensations of exquisite comfort, and expand it in fervent gratitude; but it led to no outward demonstrations of joy, no words, no smiles. All within Elinor's breast was satisfaction, silent and strong." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She continued by the side of her sister, with little intermission, the whole afternoon; calming every fear, satisfying every enquiry of her enfeebled spirits, supplying every succour, and watching almost every look and every breath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The possibility of a relapse would, of course, in some moments, occur to remind her of what anxiety was; but when she saw, on her frequent and minute examination, that every symptom of recovery continued, and saw Marianne at six o'clock sink into a quiet, steady, and to all appearance comfortable, sleep, she silenced every doubt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The time was now drawing on when Colonel Brandon might be expected back. At ten o'clock, she trusted, or at least not much later, her mother would be relieved from the dreadful suspense in which she must now be travelling towards them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Colonel, too!—perhaps scarcely less an object of pity!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, how slow was the progress of time which yet kept them in ignorance!\n\nAt seven o'clock, leaving Marianne still sweetly asleep, she joined Mrs. Jennings in the drawing-room to tea." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Of breakfast she had been kept by her fears, and of dinner by their sudden reverse, from eating much; and the present refreshment, therefore, with such feelings of content as she brought to it, was particularly welcome." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mrs. Jennings would have persuaded her, at its conclusion, to take some rest before her mother's arrival, and allow her to take her place by Marianne; but Elinor had no sense of fatigue, no capability of sleep at that moment about her, and she was not to be kept away from her sister an unnecessary instant. Mrs. Jennings, therefore, attending her up stairs into the sick chamber, to satisfy herself that all continued right, left her there again to her charge and her thoughts, and retired to her own room to write letters and sleep." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The night was cold and stormy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The wind roared round the house, and the rain beat against the windows; but Elinor, all happiness within, regarded it not. Marianne slept through every blast; and the travellers, they had a rich reward in store, for every present inconvenience." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The clock struck eight." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Had it been ten, Elinor would have been convinced that at that moment she heard a carriage driving up to the house; and so strong was the persuasion that she did, in spite of the almost impossibility of their being already come, that she moved into the adjoining dressing-closet and opened a window shutter, to be satisfied of the truth. She instantly saw that her ears had not deceived her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The flaring lamps of a carriage were immediately in view." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "By their uncertain light she thought she could discern it to be drawn by four horses; and this, while it told the excess of her poor mother's alarm, gave some explanation to such unexpected rapidity.\n\nNever in her life had Elinor found it so difficult to be calm as at that moment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The knowledge of what her mother must be feeling as the carriage stopped at the door,—of her doubt—her dread,—perhaps her despair!—and of what she had to tell!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "with such knowledge it was impossible to be calm. All that remained to be done was to be speedy; and, therefore, staying only till she could leave Mrs. Jennings's maid with her sister, she hurried down stairs." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Team writing exercise. I start (might include existing characters), you do 2 sentences in Alyson Santos style." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Another night of tears, years of fear leave me cold" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Another day of searching, always learning I'm alone\n\nThrough the shadows of the sun" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I stayed hidden as the one\n\nWho couldn't breathe, couldn't see" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Trapped in broken destiny" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I never saw you coming\n\nI'd been too busy running" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Take me in your arms and show the fear a\n\nHero" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I don't need prince charming,\n\nJust the calming strength of your smile" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Cuz we don't have to fly\n\nTo survive the tides of life" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It only takes a hand to hold\n\nTo know" }, { "from": "human", "value": "A true hero" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "[ GENEVIEVE ]\n\nI'm sad to see Oliver's family go." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The truth is, I loved having my cavernous house feel full." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I loved the laughter, the teasing, and even the hugs that I started to get used to by the end. Christmas for me was always a chore." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "One more performance I had to endure, while pretending it meant anything. But it was different with Oliver's family." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The gifts, the food, the conversation, it was so relaxed and organic." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We stayed up late into the night on Christmas Eve, laughing and exchanging simple presents that meant the world. I teared up when they presented me with a box of tokens from Quebec." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I went through it with reverence, pulling out each item and wishing I could capture the excitement in the room as they shared the significance with me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're one of us now,\" Oliver had whispered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd never been so honored in my life, felt so included." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I also totally embarrassed myself when the twins gave Oliver their gift: a framed drawing of him pictured as a superhero." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It took my breath away, the simplicity and significance of that heartfelt image. He's a hero to so many and it has nothing to do with sports." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As life resumes after the holidays, so do the rehearsals, interviews, and stress of disparate schedules." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oliver and I are stuck with scraps of what's left, sneaking short visits, quick dinners, and heated but rushed rendezvouses whenever we can. And after Genevieve Fox's album launches in mid-January, the little time we had disintegrates into nothing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I miss him so much and cling to the knowledge that once we get through this final tour, I'll have endless hours with him to make up for lost time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Okay, not endless, but it will feel that way after the pitiful seconds we have now.\n\nHoly shit, Gen! Number one?? Congratulaations!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It's a text from Oliver. I ignore the typo and grin at my phone as I take a swig from my water bottle backstage." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The crew is still setting up, and normally I'd be hiding out for this part, but today is different. Our tour officially opens tonight in L.A., and despite Oliver's own milestone day, he's promised to finally see me perform." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'm so excited I could burst.\n\nThanks. Wish you were here to celebrate with me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd take you over a number one album any day.\n\nIt's true too. None of it matters to me anymore." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd trade it all for something real with Oliver and Viv. Still, it's nice to go out with a bang." }, { "from": "human", "value": "White Flame is over the moon happy with the performance of Last Resort." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Two days to platinum, and debuting at number one. All three singles are now in the top ten as well, with \"Fool for You\" hitting number one on two separate charts." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The video has been streamed over seven million times in two weeks. The tour is sold out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They've added six dates and are already talking about adding more. That news would have broken me a few months ago." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This time I smiled when Sam asked if I thought I had a few more stops in me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The Girl in the Mirror\" has exploded as well." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The world may not know Viv Hastings, but they know Mason West, Xander Silva, and Joel Harrison, and it doesn't take long for those connections to send it viral." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'm enjoying the speculation, the mystery. Reading the reviews and chatter is so different now that I know it has nothing to do with me and everything to do with the art I created." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sure, the negative stuff still hurts, but the positive gleams so much brighter. Besides, for the first time in my life I don't even care what they're saying." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I know it's amazing and that's enough." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oliver: Lucky for you, you get us both. Okay, about to go in for my first test. Wish me luck." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My stomach twists with nerves for him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He's been waiting weeks for this moment, doing everything he could for the chance to get back on the ice. In a few hours he'll know if it was worth it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He hardly slept last night in anticipation of his evaluation today." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was awake for other reasons.\n\nI'm about to put my phone away when it buzzes with another text." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I glance down and grunt at the message from my mother, another plea to meet for coffee before I leave L.A." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I already told her I'll reach out when I'm ready to attempt a reconciliation, but for now, I don't need that distraction in my life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I glare at my screen when my phone buzzes yet again—but instead of my mom's name, it's Joel." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not gonna believe this but Samantha Turner is looking for you. Just got a message." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Confused, I open the chat and write him back. Sam? She has my number." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why is she contacting you?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Joel: Not YOU you. Viv. She wants to talk to Viv Hastings." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Me: What? ?\n\nJoel: Right?? What do you want me to tell her?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Crap, I have no idea. What could she possibly want with Viv?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My heart races as I respond. Give her the email address we set up for the social media accounts." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Did she say what she wants?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Joel: Nope. Just wanted to know if I knew how to reach Viv Hastings.\n\nI'm completely distracted the rest of the day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Worried about Oliver and if he'll get cleared to skate. Anxious and excited for the first show of our tour—with Oliver in attendance no less." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And now this. Sam doesn't work with new artists, especially not directly. I could understand interest from one of her junior managers, but a direct inquiry?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Viv is no one and has expressed no interest in representation. Sam has to swat away potential clients like flies." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd never seek them out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She doesn't have to.\n\nIt's after lunch when a message finally shows up in Viv's inbox from Turner Artist Management." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There's an attachment as well, and I rush to my dressing room to open it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hello Viv," }, { "from": "human", "value": "My name is Samantha Turner and I represent the Turner Artist Management Agency." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We are a premier management company for top level talent, including bands like Dream Filter, The Hallowed, and Burn Card. You came to our attention through your collaboration with Mason West, who is a client of mine (as mentioned)." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I currently have another client in search of a lead singer, and we all agree your sound and vocal style would be a great fit for what they're trying to build. While I certainly appreciate the merits of a solo career, if you have any interest in fronting a new alternative rock band, please sign the attached NDA, and I will provide more specifics on the opportunity." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you for your consideration." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We love your single and wish you lots of success." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sincerely," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Samantha Turner\n\nTurner Artist Management" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'm shaking when I finish reading, staring at the message. I re-read it. Then again. And again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It can't be true. Is this a joke?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "But that's definitely Sam's e-mail address." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My main inbox is full of messages from her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It's just… Viv Hastings is good enough to grab her attention as well?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tears spring to my eyes as I pick up my phone to call Oliver, then stop when I remember he'd be in important meetings of his own right now. I text him instead." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh my gosh!!! You're never going to believe what just happened! Ahhh!!! !" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I turn back to the message and almost laugh at her polite request. Do I want more information?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Do I want to know about the band that thinks I'm good enough to jump through hoops to find? Of all the artists out there, they want me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A nobody that didn't exist until a couple of weeks ago." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Am I interested? Two words." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hell." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After adding my digital signature to the Non-Disclosure Agreement, I attach it to my reply and write her back immediately." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dear Samantha," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thank you for your message. It means more than I can express to have you and your client believe in me enough to ask." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd love to know more about the opportunity." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My only question is, does this NDA go both ways? If so, here's my number.\n\nBest," } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "hey can u write two sentences more sentences? like Mia Ford but Romance; Rating: X style. btw this is from middle of a story" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thankfully, it turned out that none of the blood on his shirt was Uncle Allen's. It all belonged to Reed Helstrom." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It came from his nose when Allen slammed his fist into it.\n\nI had Monique get Uncle Allen an ice pack for his hand and a glass of scotch for his head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He sat in the chair in front of my desk with gritted teeth, telling us both the story of how they had stolen his beloved company.\n\nAt first, I refused to believe it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was no way Conner—my Conner— could be a party to such a devious plan." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Who would buy a man's life's work only to sell it out from under him? But deep down, I knew he was part of the plan." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was Conner's deal." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was the mastermind behind it. He knew all along how it was going to turn out because he was the one orchestrating it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And he had played me for a total fool." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I knew now that nothing between us was real." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Monique was right all along.\n\nWhy would he be attracted to a Plain Jane like me when he could have a woman like Cassandra Leone in his bed?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Conner wasn't falling for me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Christ, he probably didn't even like me.\n\nHe was just fucking me so I wouldn't find out about him fucking over my uncle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He kept me busy all week to make sure that I wouldn't uncover his plan.\n\nHe had seduced me and I had made it so easy for him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I had gone along willingly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Like a lovesick little girl.\n\nOh my god." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What a fucking fool I was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'll talk to Ed Ridgely, our senior partner, and see what we can do,\" I said hopefully." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He'll know what to do. Maybe we can halt the deal somehow. Get an injunction. Or charge them with fraud.\"\n\n\"It's no use, Katie,\" Uncle Allen said quietly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He finished the scotch and held out his glass for more. Monique poured another glass and glanced my way." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm going to let the two of you talk,\" she said, heading toward the door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The hard look on her face told me exactly what she thought. I had to tell Uncle Allen about my relationship with Conner." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had no other choice.\n\n\"Don't bother calling anyone,\" Uncle Allen said, shaking his head at me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It was all perfectly legal. All on the up and up. They didn't do anything against the law.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Maybe not legally, but—\"\n\n\"There's no but to it, Katie,\" he said, blowing out a long breath." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I was a fool. I let them do it. It never occurred to me that all they cared about was the patents. I was blinded by the money. And this damn cancer… Christ, how could I have been so incredibly stupid?\"\n\nMy phone was lying on my desk." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It buzzed with an incoming call. I didn't have to look at the screen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew who it was. Conner calling to explain or gloat, as if there was a difference at this point." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I had no desire to talk to him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I silenced the phone and set it back on the desk.\n\n\"I feel responsible,\" I said quietly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You asked me to look over the agreement. I should have dug deeper. I should have gotten a full list of all assets. I should have—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"This wasn't you're doing, Katie girl,\" he said, mustering a sad smile for my benefit. \"You had no idea what these bastards had planned. Christ, asking you to meet with Conner McGee was like asking a lamb to enter the lion's den. I'm sorry I ever got you involved. Can you ever forgive me?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My phone buzzed again. This time, I turned it off and shoved into a desk drawer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I watched Allen drink the scotch for a moment, me feeling guiltier with each swallow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I finally couldn't stand it anymore." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had to tell him what I had done.\n\n\"Uncle Allen, I have to tell you something. And I just hope that you can someday find it in your heart to forgive me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "[ Conner ]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After that Friday, Katie refused to take my calls, answer my texts, or come to the door when I showed up multiple times at her apartment. I knew that Allen Benson would run to tell her his version of what had happened, how Reed and I backstabbed him, and \"stole\" his company away." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Fuck that.\n\nWe didn't steal anything." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He made tens of millions of dollars off the deal, and retained a ten-percent stake in the company that owned the patents." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He would have made a hundred times more if he had just closed his mouth and gone along with our plans.\n\nReed and I just did what made the most sense for our company, and his." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We did what he should have done all along." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It wasn't our fault that he was shortsighted and dedicated to a bunch of employees that sucked him dry.\n\nAllen Benson was a decent guy, but his priorities as a business man were fucked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We had made him wealthy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rather than breaking Reed's nose, the guy should have been kissing his feet.\n\nI dropped by Katie's office a few times over the next couple of weeks, but never got past the receptionist, who looked at me like I was the Devil himself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Obviously, the news travelled fast at Yates Hamilton & Booz." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Do not let the wolf back into the hen house…" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I knew that things would be rocky between us after we pulled the rug out from under Allen, but I didn't think Katie would just kick me out of her life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I figured that she would show up at my office or my penthouse to cuss me out in person." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I would let her rant and rave for a bit, then I could turn on the charm and give her my side of the story. An hour later, we would be in bed and all would be forgiven." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Katie was smart. She would understand why we did what we did." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I desperately wanted to explain things to her, to make her see that I did not use her, at least not on purpose. She wouldn't even give me the chance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After Allen Benson came around the table to break Reed's nose, he stormed out of the conference room with his attorney in tow, whom he promptly fired in a very loud confrontation on the elevator as they rode down." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Before the day was done, we'd been contacted by Ed Ridgely, the senior partner at Yates Hamilton & Booz, who just happened to be Katie's boss. He and Reed were old golfing buddies, but unlike Reed, Ed was incorruptible." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He informed Reed that his firm had been formally retained by Allen Benson, and he had filed an injunction with a judge to freeze the deal to sell Benson Digital's manufacturing operation to Amalgamated Industries, at least until both sides could present arguments to the judge." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was just a tactic to buy time until they could come up with a better plan." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Fine, I wasn't too worried about it. Our contract with Benson was iron clad, and Price Bean & Whitlock owned a good chunk of Amalgamated, so they wouldn't pull out of the deal." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It would just delay things a bit." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The judge would see that we had done nothing wrong. It might take a few weeks to sort it out, but in the end, the deal would go through as planned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "One week went by with no contact from Katie, then two." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was surprised at how much I found myself thinking about her at all hours of the day, and especially late at night, lying in bed alone.\n\nIt was crazy because we had spent a sum total of four nights together." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It wasn't like we were long time lovers or an old married couple." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Still, the thought of her kept gnawing at my brain. And I felt like a total dick because I knew that my actions had hurt her, and embarrassed her in the eyes of her beloved uncle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Penny for your thoughts, young man,\" Reed said, staring at me from across the lunch table at the Roxie. I was picking at a steak and potato." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was devouring a plate of crab cakes like they were going out of style and working on his third scotch." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I would bet that you haven't had a penny in your pocket in decades,\" I said, forcing a smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Even if you did, you wouldn't get your money's worth paying for what's going on in my head.\"\n\nReed grinned as he chewed, despite having a Band-Aid going across the bridge of his nose and two black eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Funny, I thought Reed would stay in his office until his wounds healed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "To the contrary, he wore the fact that Allen Benson had broken his nose like a badge of honor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He could hardly wait for people to ask him what the hell happened, so he could tell the tale of the big deal that led to his nose getting mashed to his face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Okay, then, tell me for free.\" He narrowed his eyes at me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Let me guess, you're still thinking about that girl.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That girl has a name,\" I said with a sigh." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I set my silverware on the plate and pushed it away, then signaled for the waiter to bring me another martini. \"It's Katie. Katie O'Hara.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Right. Katie O'Hara. I take it you haven't spoken to Miss O'Hara since the Friday free-for-all.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The Friday free-for-all?\" I smiled as I took a sip from my drink. \"I have not spoken to her, but it's not for a lack of trying. She won't take my calls, answer my texts, or come to the door. And apparently I am persona non-grata at her office.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He shrugged as he sliced a bite from my steak and shoved it into his mouth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So? What's the problem? Come on, Conner. It was a fling. It was fun while it lasted. It's not like she was the one you wanted to spend the rest of your life with.\"\n\nI nodded slowly for a moment, then said, \"Who knows. Maybe she was.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reed stopped chewing and frowned at me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He winced as his swollen nose pulled against the Band-Aid. \"Excuse me? Maybe she was the one? Seriously?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I picked up the fancy napkin and wiped my mouth with it, then tossed it aside." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What if she was the one, Reed? What if I totally fucked up the one relationship in my entire life that wasn't based on bullshit.\"\n\n\"You cannot be serious right now,\" he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He picked up his scotch and scoffed over it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She's just some girl, Con. For the love of God, you have Cassandra Leone on speed dial. Why the fuck are you acting like a lovesick puppy over this Plain Jane lawyer?\"\n\n\"You can be a real dick sometimes,\" I said, mainly because that was all I could think of to say." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I couldn't explain to him the feelings I was experiencing at that moment. The fact that I felt like I had a hole in my chest he could shove his fist through would be a foreign concept to him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The only time a woman ever made Reed Helstrom cry was when she had a divorce lawyer sitting beside her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was right about one thing; I had Cassandra on the string, along with dozens of other gorgeous girls who would jump at the chance to spend time with me. Why, then, was I pining away over Katie O'Hara?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Because I was in love with her, that was why.\n\nShit. I had fallen in love." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And now she wouldn't give me the time of day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And I really couldn't blame her. I was as big of an asshole as Reed was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was just much prouder of it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why don't you just show up outside her apartment or her work if you're that hell bent on seeing her?\"\n\n\"I've tried that,\" I said, head shaking." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"She refuses to come out when I'm there. She has the doorman threaten to call the cops. And then there's this fucking injunction that Ed Ridgely filed. That's just fuel to the fire.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We'll beat that,\" Reed said confidently." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I've talked to Ed. He knows it's a losing battle. He's just buying time to give Allen Benson a chance to cool down.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah, I know. But that is the nail in the coffin as far as Katie is concerned.\" I leaned back and blew out a long breath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Goddammit, why did things have to end up this way?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Because that's how business works, my boy,\" Reed said, hands spread over his empty plate. \"Somebody wins, somebody loses. That's the way it works.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I began to nod slowly as a small light flickered inside my brain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What if it doesn't have to work that way?\" I asked. \"What if we actually did a deal that was win/win for everyone involved?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That would be a first,\" he said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What do you have in mind?\"\n\n[ Conner ]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I called my old college pal, Andy Whitlock, to ask him the name of the beautiful black girl he had been with on New Year's Eve. She was Mollie the paralegal's —Katie's— best friend." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Katie had mentioned her name a time or two, but I was not the best at paying attention to small talk." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I found it hard to focus when Katie was in the room. I would watch her lips move, then my brain would just shut down as the blood drained to more pertinent parts of my body." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Monica, was her name, I thought.\n\nOr Monique or…" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Anyway, Andy would know her name." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was an old flame, or so he said, and probably the most beautiful girl he had ever been with. Maybe she could help me get a message to Katie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If my plan worked, Katie would be thrilled to hear from me and give me the chance to make things right." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At least that's what I kept telling myself.\n\n\"Her name is Monique Griggs,\" Andy said with a hint of irritation in his voice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I had caught him leaving his office and he was talking to me while trying to find his car in the parking garage." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why do you want to know? You run out of other girls to charm, old pal? Now you're trying to horn in on my ladies?\"\n\n\"Nothing like that,\" I said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm actually trying to get in touch with the girl I went home with that night. She said her name was Mollie. Anyway, it's a long story, but I need Monique to help me track her down.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why do I get the feeling that you're not telling me everything?\" Andy asked. \"Come on, old buddy, give it up. What's going on? Did she leave you with a raging case of crabs?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had forgotten what a dick Andy could be.\n\nI said, \"Nothing like the case of crabs your sister gave me, thank God.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He chuckled. I heard a car door slam." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The car dinged as he stuck in the key to start it up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Then why do you need Monique to help you track her down?\"\n\n\"Look, Andy, I don't want to waste your time with boring details,\" I said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you know where Monique works or not?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Sure, she's an associate at Yates Hamilton & Booz right there in the Big Apple, probably a few blocks down from your office.\"\n\nI rolled my eyes at my own stupidity." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was Katie's best friend." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Where else would she work?\n\nI said, \"She's an associate at Yates Hamilton & Booz? I'll be damned.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yeah, so why do you need to talk to her?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I can't talk right now, Andy,\" I said. \"Text me the next time you're in New York City and I'll buy you a beer.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Okay, pal, take care.\"\n\nI hung up the phone and leaned forward to tell my driver where to go.\n\nFifteen minutes later I was standing on the sidewalk outside of Yates Hamilton & Booz waiting for Monique Griggs to emerge." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Narrative Extension Protocol:\nQuantity: nine sentences\nContext: Match character familiarity\nGenre: Romance; Rating: X" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I listened as Tanner followed me inside the apartment and closed the door behind him. I turned the track lighting to low and hung his coat over the breakfast island chairs. Before I could fully turn around, he raced forward and pushed me against the counter, wrapping his hand under my chin and pressing his lips to mine. I could feel the erection in his pants rubbing against my wet, hot crotch, and I wanted him to take me right there and then. His lips were so soft and the taste of whiskey on his breath and cigar on his fingers was incredibly arousing.\n\nI wrapped my arms around his waist, feeling the muscles rippling through him. I couldn't get my mind to slow down. It was like part of me was freaking out while the other part of me was throwing a party, wanting more and more. Oh, my God. I couldn't believe this was happening for real and not a fantasy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What in the hell was I doing?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "But, I knew the answer to that." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was enjoying my life and giving in to my urges, that was what I was doing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was finally being a mid-twenties woman who had everything on the right track and was making decisions based on what I wanted, not what everyone else wanted for me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His lips were so damn soft, and his hands felt so good around me, I couldn't even begin to think of backing away from him.\n\nHe ran his hands up my sides and lifted my dress up, tickling the skin above my thigh high stockings. I leaned my head back, and he trailed his lips down my neck, making my heart beat wildly in my chest. I had to stop. I had to get control over what I was doing, but it was so difficult. Between the alcohol and the fact that I had wanted this since the first day, my mind was the only thing saying stop while the rest of me was screaming for him to take me. I could feel his hand shifting to the inside of my thigh, and I slowly moved my legs apart, letting him run his fingers up to the edge of my panties. He slid his fingertips right next to my wetness and a gasp and moan escaped my chest. I opened my eyes and brought my legs back together, trying to get myself into a place where I could control myself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He leaned back, grabbing the back of the chair next to him and breathed deeply. I could tell he was trying to control himself as well, and I was fighting myself to keep my hands to myself. I wanted to pull him back in, keep going, and just let the night take us. Then, there was my conscious, and it was starting to rear its ugly head.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" he said, shaking his head. \"I need to have better self-control than that.\"\n\n\"Don't apologize.\" I smiled. \"It is not your fault that I want you so badly. This attraction is out of control.\"\n\n\"It is,\" he said stepping forward, his eyes darkening again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Slowly he reached his hand up, pushing the rogue strands of hair from my face and leaning in, kissing my lips ever so lightly. I could feel electricity move through my entire body, and I held my breath, not wanting the moment to end. He pushed his mouth harder against mine, but before I could reach my hands forward to pull him in close, the phone on the counter next to us went off. I looked over and saw my father's name on the screen. Tanner started to laugh, and I turned the phone over, allowing it to go to voicemail.\n\n\"If that isn't a sign,\" he said, \"I don't know what is.\"\n\n\"I had a really good night.\" I reaching up and kissed his cheek. \"Maybe this is all for the best.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'walked' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He smiled and grabbed his coat off the chair, wrapping it around his shoulders. I walked him to the door and stood there as he leaned over and kissed me softly, pulling away before we could get ourselves lost in another kiss. I watched as he left, blushing when he looked back and flashed me a charming smile. I closed the door and locked it, leaning my back against the cold metal and sighing. That man was going to drive me absolutely insane. Just as that thought passed through my mind, I could hear the beeping of my phone, letting me know I had a missed call. I sighed and walked over, figuring I should probably call my father back before he called again. I dialed the number and sat down on the couch in the living room, bracing myself for the conversation.\n\n\"Hey, baby girl,\" he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hi, Daddy.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I just wanted to call and see how your first week at work went,\" he said, sounding enthusiastic.\n\n\"It went great,\" I replied. \"We did a lot of financial analysis, some workups for clients, and I met a lot of the other staff.\"\n\n\"That's so great, honey,\" he said. \"What's your boss's name?\"\n\n\"Oh, uh, Rick. Rick Tanner.\" I slapped myself in the forehead. Should have been prepared for that question. \"But he's barely ever there.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"They usually aren't.\" He laughed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How's Mom?\" I wanted to change the subject drastically, since I was feeling overwhelmed by guilt for lying." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My father had always been one of the hardest-headed people I ever met, but he was also the biggest family man I had ever seen as well. He and I had been really close through the years, especially once he realized I was more like him and nothing like my mother, except for the way she looked. We were both dark-haired beauties, as my dad like to call us. I knew he was proud of me, but I felt absolutely terrible for lying to him. If he found out, he would be so hurt. I didn't have a lot of close relationships, and damaging ours would be devastating.\n\n\"She's good,\" he sighed. \"You know, being your mother.\"\n\n\"Is the new cook making good meals?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Your mother fired him his second day,\" he said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She's a tough one.\"\n\n\"No kidding,\" I scoffed.\n\n\"Well, kiddo,\" he said. \"I'm going to head to bed. Just wanted to check in on you.\"\n\n\"Thank you, Daddy,\" I replied, smiling. \"Have sweet dreams.\"\n\n\"You, too.\"\n\nI got off the phone and looked down at it, shaking my head at both his wit and my guilt spilling out everywhere. Well, I guess I had to make my own decisions at some point, and that point was now. I tossed my phone to the side and stretched, realizing how alone I was in the apartment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Tanner had just been there, pressing his body against mine, moving his lips over my skin, and letting me know just how much he wanted my body." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As I sat there thinking about what could have been, the heat rose again in my stomach." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If only I had asked him to stay, we would be rolling around on my bed in throes of passion right now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Instead, I was sitting here, thinking about rolling around in the bed, and he was on his way back to his place.\n\nI got up, deciding bed was probably my next best course of action since I was feeling pretty tipsy and self-serving at that moment. I took off all my clothes and climbed in under the covers, lying on my back and staring up at the ceiling. I closed my eyes and imagined Tanner there in my bed, his hands moving up and over my body. I could almost feel every one of his fingers caressing my thighs and pushing down against my wet mound. I sighed and slid my hand down my belly and through my folds, rubbing my clit with my palm. Immediately, fire went through my belly, and I knew I wasn't getting out of this without an orgasm. I took my other hand and sucked on two of my fingers, rubbing them down and then pushing them inside of myself. I moaned softly enough that only I could hear it and then went back into my head where Tanner was underneath the covers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He moved his head up my legs and hovered over my pussy, his breath hot against my wetness." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I reached up out of the covers and into the drawer of my nightstand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I pulled out a medium-sized pink vibrator and clicked it on, rubbing it softly against my nub, pretending that it was Tanner's tongue." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🎯 Target word: 'against' | Required occurrences: 3" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I tore the blankets off me and spread my legs wide, leaning my head back and moaning loudly as the pulsating action of the rubber head bounced softly against me. I pushed down on it, sliding it downward and inside of me, wanting to prolong the feeling of building pressure even though I could come right then if I wanted to.\n\nI began to fuck myself with the vibrator, sitting up slightly in the bed and wrapping my whole hand around it as I plunged it deep and hard inside of me. I imagined Tanner there, his hard muscles flexing as he thrust his hips over and over against me, his cock sopping wet from my juices. I moaned loudly, turning myself on by the sounds coming from my own throat, picturing him there doing it to me, as hard and fast as he could. I slipped the vibrator out and back up to my clit, rubbing it in circles, wishing I had more than one. Wishing even more that I had Tanner there to do it for me. I leaned back against the bed, wanting to feel the buildup nice and slow, imagining that I was getting ready to come all over his cock. I reached out with one hand and grabbed the bed as I used the other hand to control the vibrator." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The rubber on the head was smooth and slick from my wetness, and it easy slipped back and forth over my hard nub, while swooping down and moving deep inside of me where it vibrated against my walls. I closed my eyes once again and imagined Tanner fucking me so hard he was ready to explode. I gripped the bed next to me imagining him thrusting deep and holding it there. I pulsed the vibrator inside of me, pretending it was his cock, exploding, and pumping his hot seed while pleasure ran through his body. The vision in my head was too much for me to hold on any longer. I pulled the vibrator out and flipped myself onto my knees reaching back and rubbing it hard against my clit. I arched my back as the pleasure began to spread, my body erupting in orgasm as I pushed the dildo in and out, over and back, allowing every single part of my body to feel the sensation.\n\nI screamed loudly, grabbing my nipple and twisting it as the erotic feeling of release flushed through every part of my body. I sat there for several minutes, unable to move, the vibrations sending shockwaves through me and causing me to shake and tremble." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When my body began to relax, I turned the knob and dropped the vibrator into the bed, collapsing onto my stomach and groaning in defeat." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "God that felt so good. If only it were Tanner's doing. Instead, I opened my eyes and remembered that the house was quiet, and he was on his way back to his place. How depressing to be twenty-five and have your Dad cock-block you.\n\nI thought that would have satisfied me, help me give up on the idea of having Tanner like I wanted to, but as I lay there thinking about him, I realized nothing but his cock was going to satiate this lust." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "hey can u write two sentences more sentences? like Mia Ford but Romance; Rating: X style. btw this is from middle of a story" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "All day, yesterday, Ava made it impossible for me to talk to her. Hell, I didn't even see her for the rest of the day, but I knew she was still there because she was working with the financial department." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I tried to nonchalantly ask around for her, but every time I ended up somewhere, she had just walked out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was extremely irritating." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was going to try to take her to lunch, realizing that our conversation seemed emotionless, and I'd come off pretty cold. The thing was, she had made the decision that she wanted to keep our relationship professional, and I wanted to honor that." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was difficult to not tell her otherwise as she sat across the desk from me, looking gorgeous as always. I held my breath when I asked her if she wanted to switch offices, completely relieved when she said no." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I may have sounded cold when I made the remark about too much paperwork, but I couldn't very well tell her I was glad because I wanted her to be close to me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That would completely negate the whole purpose of the conversation where I was showing her that I could be professional with no hard feelings.\n\nI looked up as she walked down the hall and into her office." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Finally, I was going to be able to talk to her. I stood up and walked over, nonchalantly knocking before entering." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As I walked through the door, she glanced up and then back down at her paperwork. I could see her cheeks get red, and I realized that she still didn't believe that her father and I fighting had nothing to do with what happened between us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you want to grab lunch with me? It's been a while,\" I said, smiling." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I have too much to do today.\" She didn't even look up from her work." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Would you like to go to dinner with me tonight?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's sweet, but I can't,\" she replied, still not making eye contact with me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How about tomorrow night?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I have plans,\" she said, this time trying to hold back a smile.\n\n\"Is there any chance that you will be available at any point this week to have dinner?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Maybe,\" she sighed, putting down her pen and finally looking me in the eye. \"I'll have to check my schedule.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "It had been a very long time since I had approached a woman and had her turn me down at every pass." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew that I already technically had hooked up with Ava, but this new attitude was like dealing with another side of her. It was turning me on that she was playing hard to get, and from the look on her face, and that smirk that she was trying to hide, I could tell she knew exactly what she was doing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She wanted to be professional, but she couldn't deny the pull between us, just like I couldn't when I started to obsess over not talking to her for a day." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That mischievous grin on her face made me want to shut her office door and bend her over the desk, smacking her ass as I fucked her hard and deep." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I shuffled my stance, slyly adjusting my half-cocked dick." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My pants were getting tighter, but I didn't want her to know that she was having that effect on me. I hadn't had to chase a woman down since before my ex-wife, and while other men might find it annoying and a waste of time, I found her playfulness refreshing and erotic." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wanted to be in charge, and that alone made my cock stand at attention. However, if she wanted to play games, then games we could play." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I sat down in the chair and crossed my legs, watching her as she took a phone call from upstairs. The silence between us was making her anxious, and she was feeling as if that control she thought she had was quickly slipping away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I chuckled as she furrowed her brow at me, taking notes from whomever was on the other line." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I sat quietly, listening, watching her body movements, glancing at her heaving breasts, and thinking about what my next move was. When she hung up the phone, she tried to ignore that I was sitting across from her, staring." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was fidgeting, and I smiled teasingly, watching her glance up at me from the corner of her eye. She was trying so hard to keep a straight face, and I thought it was adorable." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Finally, she took in a deep breath and put her pen down, looking straight over at me, raising her eyebrows. I stood up from the chair, walking over to the door and pausing before I opened it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'll see you at my place at eight on Friday. I'll send a car,\" I said.\n\nI turned the doorknob and walked out of her office, shutting the door behind me before she could say a word back to me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As the door shut, I heard her let out a deep sigh, and I couldn't help but chuckle to myself. I had really gotten to her, and I found that this game was even more fun than the first one had been." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I knew I wasn't keeping my promise to respect her wishes for a professional relationship, but who was I kidding?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wanted her, and now that she was playing hard to get, I wanted her even more. She acted like she wanted a professional relationship, but that was her way of trying to protect herself and her job." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She wanted me around as much as I wanted her around, and it wasn't some big secret." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was terrible at hiding that fact, and though it was endearing, I was going to show her that she may think she was in charge, but that was only because I let her be. I was taking back the ball this time, and I wasn't going to take no for an answer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In fact, I wasn't even going to let her answer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I walked down the hall and to the elevator, going to check on the other departments to see how they were doing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As soon as the elevator doors shut, I let out a deep breath, realizing that I was more brazen than I ever thought I could be." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This old man still had it, and I wanted to use it on Ava. I didn't care that my fear of commitment was slapping me in the forehead." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I just wanted to make sure Ava didn't go running off. I did my rounds and came back downstairs, looking over at Ava's closed door and chuckling to myself as I walked over to my secretary's desk." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had a couple new messages for me, so I went into my office and returned the important phone calls. Everyone seemed to need something from me that day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No matter what the issue was, I couldn't stop thinking about Ava, and I didn't mind it at all.\n\nWhen I got off the last call, I leaned back in my chair, opening my email to send responses back that I had neglected to address that morning." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As the email loaded, I leaned my head back in my chair and laughed to myself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was fun, at least it was for now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I had no intention of letting this carry on forever, but I also had no intention of letting Ava go." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I opened my eyes and leaned forward, looking at the new messages in my inbox." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Suddenly, I froze, staring at a message from Ava's father, Dean. My mouse hovered over the message for several seconds and fear bubbled up in my stomach." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What if he had found out about Ava? That couldn't be it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was pretty sure if he found out about Ava, he wouldn't be sending an email." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He would be stomping through the office raising hell and dragging her out of there like a twelve-year-old caught sneaking out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I clicked on the message and began to read." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Tanner," }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was offsetting to see you at the polo match after so many years, and my actions toward you may have been unwarranted." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd like to sit down with you, talk about everything. There is no reason to spend our lives angry at one another." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If you are free tonight, pick a place and just let me know when and where and I'll be there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dean\n\nI sat back in my chair, at a loss for what to say or do." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dean seemed like he was reaching out, wanting to smash decades of animosity and anger. He had been my best friend for many years, and I loved him like a brother." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This email must have taken him a lot to write, knowing how stubborn he was." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I couldn't pass this opportunity by, even if it meant upsetting Ava. I was going to go to dinner with Dean and at least hear him out, and I would tell her the next day, making sure to calm her fears." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I looked up several restaurants, not used to picking places that weren't for romantic reasons." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I didn't want to romance Dean. I wanted to have a nice dinner, but make the situation comfortable and inviting." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Fine dining was off the table." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew how much he hated fine dining. He may be an extremely wealthy man, but when it came to food, he liked meat and potatoes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I called up the local steakhouse, Chima, and made a reservation for the two of us. I made sure the table was somewhere relatively private and comfortable, so we could talk openly without having to worry about other people listening in." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I also wanted to make sure we had some sort of privacy, so if things got heated, there wasn't some huge scene to be made." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When I finished up the reservations, I took a deep breath, the reality of the situation hitting me like a ton of bricks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I didn't know what made him change his mind, but part of me was excited, while the other part of me was terrified he was going to find out Ava." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was deadly serious about not letting her father know, especially if he was in the mindset of hating my guts like he had been for a couple of decades. I typed out a reply and read it to myself several times before hitting send." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dean,\n\nIt's good to hear from you, and I agree, life is too short to bicker like we did at the polo match." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I let my irritation and anger get the best of me as well. I made reservations at Chima at eight tonight." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I put them under both of our names, so if you get there before me, you can grab a drink. I look forward to talking." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tanner\n\nIt seemed good enough, giving him the boost I knew he was looking for from my apology and being open to talking through our issues." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For some reason, there was this weight lifted from my shoulders that I didn't even realize was there." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For the first time since Dean and I went our separate ways, I felt okay with my company, okay with everything I had sacrificed, and didn't feel angry about anything from the past." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was amazing what one little email could really do." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I didn't want to get my hopes up because there was a good chance we would leave this dinner in a huff, never talking again. But there was also a chance we could leave with a fresh start." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo, this is from the middle so some people might show up without backstory. write 8 sentences sentences like Mia Ford. genres: Romance; Rating: X. ideas: multiple points of view, nsfw, steamy" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Talk about frustrating. I had spent the rest of work the day before stewing in my own irritation because Tanner had made plans for dinner on Friday and given me absolutely no choice in the matter. I was supposed to be in charge of all of this. I was supposed to be the one who called the shots when it came to us having any kind of relationship beyond a professional one. However, I couldn't deny that I found his arrogance almost sexy. I lay in bed that night thinking about how mad I wanted to be, but I couldn't deny I was extremely turned on. So, turned on, that I considered calling him, but I turned over and forced myself to sleep instead.\n\nWhen I woke up, I was groggy and frustrated, more sexually frustrated than anything else. I took a hot shower to wake up and got ready for the day." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'tanner' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wondered what crazy things this day would bring, especially since I couldn't seem to go even an hour without some kind of drama. When I got to the building, I climbed into the elevator and leaned back against the wall. Before the doors could shut, Tanner shoved his arm in and climbed inside next to me, breathing heavily as if he'd made a run for it. I cleared my throat and smiled at him, moving over to the corner and leaning back. I didn't want to make a big deal about him being there with me, but his cologne smelled so damn good.\n\nInstantly, I could feel desire start to raise up to my chest. I crossed my legs at the ankle, feeling the heat coursing between my legs. It was raining outside, and Tanner had water dripping down his neck." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I followed as a drop moved from the edge of his hair and slid slowly down his smooth, tanned skin, falling beneath his collar. I imagined it continuing down his large muscled back, his shoulders flexing as it tickled his skin. I rolled my eyes and took a deep breath, leaning back and trying to ignore the fact that I wanted to hit the stop button and fuck him on the elevator. Instead, I ran the pictures of our meeting the other day through my mind to remind myself how cold and collected he could be. Before I could get through them all, I sensed him scoot closer to me. I opened my eyes and looked at him. He was staring at my face, his back pressed against the elevator as well. He looked like he wanted to say something, but I thought if I opened my mouth, he wouldn't hear anything more than my lust for him and that had to stay buried deep inside of me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I have something to tell you,\" he said, looking down. \"I met with your father for dinner last night.\"\n\n\"What?\" My eyes got bigger and I stood up, all lust completely washing out of my system. \"Wait, you did what? Say that again, please.\"\n\n\"Your father sent me an email yesterday,\" he explained. \"He apologized for our fight at the polo match and wanted to meet so we could talk. I agreed. It was so good, Ava. We talked through everything that happened between us for the last ten years. We talked about the split of the business, our animosity, our anger, and the fact that we always considered each other family. It was like a weight off both of our shoulders.\"\n\n\"Did you tell him I work for you?\"\n\nI was stunned and confused, and I barely knew what to say." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That was something he should have told me about. What if he felt so comfortable, he told my father about us, about me, about everything? I couldn't believe I was standing there having this conversation with him. So much for a morning without any damn drama. It was like I was a pawn in this whole situation and what happened to me made no difference to Tanner. He was looking out for himself at every pass, completely oblivious to how things would affect me.\n\nI put my face in my hands and groaned, not wanting to hear whatever answer he had. My life was beginning to crumble around me and I was given no choice in any of it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe I should have taken the job in Sweden I was offered instead of this one." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe I had made the wrong choice in all of it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Of course not,\" he said, turning to me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That isn't my business to tell him, but now it might be easier for you. I thought maybe if your father and I were back on good terms, then you could let him know everything and stop feeling guilty for lying to him. I know how much that bothers you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You want me to tell him I've been lying to him this whole time?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I started to get angry." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You want me to tell my father that I betrayed his trust and on top of it all, I was fucking you? Are you out of your goddamned mind? You didn't think that this was something you might should have warned me about? Like maybe sent me a message or walked across the hall and told me you were having dinner with my father, so I could be prepared. It's like you don't ever use your damn brain unless it has to do with business. Lord, this is a mess.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No,\" he said shaking his head confused. \"I mean, don't tell him then. I thought it would be a good way to have a clean start. I don't mean to hurt your father. I mean to take some stress off you.\"\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" I said, shaking my head. \"I know you didn't mean any harm, but damn, this just makes everything more complicated, and it adds you to the mix. You just rekindled your friendship with my dad, and now you are going to start it off by keeping something from him.\"\n\n\"Nothing about this is simple, Ava,\" he said quietly.\n\n\"No shit,\" I said.\n\nAs soon as the doors opened, I stomped out of the elevator, not stopping at the lounge. I went straight into my office and slammed the door, leaving him standing in the elevator as if he had actually done something wrong." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was so freaking confused at that moment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He hadn't told me anything about his dinner plans with my father, nothing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This all could be extremely messy if we didn't play it safe. Why, after all these years, did he pick now to decide that my father was so damn important to him? Why did he go to dinner like it was top secret and not even give me a heads up? Everything was a damn mess, and I didn't even know where to start to fix it. Part of me wanted to quit, to say screw it and start over somewhere else. If I was going to lie about this, I could lie about why I left, too. At that point, lies seemed to be the name of the game in my life, either me dishing them out or me receiving them from everyone around me.\n\nI looked down at my cell phone, and it was Tanner calling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I pressed the ignore button and tossed my phone on the desk." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I didn't want to hear anything from him at that point." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I needed to breathe." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I felt like I was starting to suffocate in my own damn life." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I couldn't decide whether I should be mad at him for lying or mad at myself for allowing myself to get into this position in the first place. I was a grown woman, and I couldn't blame Tanner for all of this. I had lied to my father before I even started my first day at MJ, and Tanner had agreed to go along with it, not that he had much of a choice if he wanted to keep me on staff.\n\nFrom there, it had continued to snowball out of control until it landed right where I was, sitting there not knowing what my next move should be. I wanted to stop playing games, to live back in the real world, to not lie to my father anymore, but I had dug myself a hole that I didn't know how to get out of. The fact that Tanner was exasperating the situation was frustrating as hell, and I couldn't figure out how I felt about him from one minute to the next. It was like my heart was taking both sides of the fence, and I was stuck in a mean tug of war battle with my own emotions.\n\nI threw my phone in my purse, grabbed my umbrella, and stomped back out of the office." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Tanner's door was shut, and I leaned around the corner, looking at his secretary." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She smiled at me and then scrunched her eyebrows as I whispered.\n\n\"I have to leave,\" I said. \"Please tell Mr. Johnson I had an emergency. But wait until I'm in the elevator please.\"\n\n\"Okay,\" she said, confused. \"Hope everything turns out okay.\"\n\n\"Thanks,\" I replied before turning and walking toward the elevator.\n\nI hope everything worked out okay, too. My mind was all over the place, trying to figure out how I felt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nothing really had changed as far as my father was concerned, except for the fact that Tanner was now going to have to lie to keep my existence there at MJ a secret. Telling my father that I was sleeping with Tanner wasn't even something I would tell him if he knew I was working there, so I wasn't worried about that part. I just didn't even understand what I was doing with my life. I had thought I'd figured it out, but after Tanner showed up at my place on the day of the polo match, everything I had figured out just drifted away in a ball of ecstasy and sweat.\n\nI stepped into the elevator and turned around. As the doors shut, I watched Tanner step out into the hallway, looking at me as I left the office. I caught his eyes but looked away, glad that the doors shut before he had a chance to say anything. I just needed some time to myself, some time to figure out how I was feeling about everything." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew there was a part of Tanner that did what he did because he truly thought it would help my situation, but he didn't seem to really understand how that parent-child relationship worked.\n\nWhen I got out of the office, I opened my umbrella and walked along, not wanting to jump into a cab just yet. When I reached the opening to the park, I decided to go for a walk, watching the other umbrellas peppering the sidewalk and lawn. I loved when it rained, especially in the fall. The vibrant colors of the leaves exploded next to the gray of the sky. It was like one of those doctored photos where everything was black and white except for the leaves on the trees. As I walked along, listening to the water hit the umbrella and trickle down, I could feel my shoulders beginning to relax.\n\nThis was my life, no matter how much I seemed to have screwed it up, and I couldn't take back any of it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was disappointed in myself for going against my gut instinct from the beginning, but beating myself up was not going to solve anything." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'going' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I still had an amazing career and a bright future, and MJ was going to give me that resume boost that would really get me going in this financial climate.\n\nNow, all I had to figure out was what to do with Tanner." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "hey can u write two sentences more sentences? like Mia Ford but Romance; Rating: X style. btw this is from middle of a story" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His smell, his lips, that moment, it was all so overwhelming, so erotic, and just crazy to me. I couldn't believe I was there." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I couldn't believe I was standing in the moonlight in his bedroom, getting ready to make love to Tanner." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Everything leading up to that moment was so chaotic and stressful and almost seemed unreal, but I was finally back where I always knew I wanted to be. I couldn't help but come over, even though I tried so hard to fight myself on it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Everything in my brain was telling me to stay home, but my heart and my emotions were playing war against my brain. In the end, my heart won, and I found myself back in Tanner's arms." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was erotic, it was confusing, and it was emotional, but it felt so absolutely right and perfect. I couldn't explain the range of emotions washing over me at that time, but there was nowhere else I wanted to be at that moment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was drawn to Tanner like a magnet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was a force I couldn't control, and I wanted to be near him, to feel him around me and inside of me. And at that point, that attraction was controlling everything around me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I could fight it further, but I was tired of fighting." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I could push it away, but what would be the point?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I would end up right back where I was.\n\nHe walked toward me, taking my face in his hands and kissing me deeply and passionately." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could barely breathe, my lungs were moving so fast, and I could feel my heart beating in the palm of my hands. There was something so sensual and erotic about his touch." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I moaned softly as his lips moved down my neck, and I reached up, grabbing his shirt with both hands and pulling him into me. I pushed my hips against his cock, feeling it bulging inside of his pants." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just knowing how much he wanted me made the heat in my chest move down between my legs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He reached around me and unzipped my dress, pulling the shoulders down and trailing his lips across my skin. He pulled the dress from my body and tossed it to the side, reaching back and unclasping my bra." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My breasts bounced out, my nipples hard from the feeling of electricity between us. He kissed my belly as he bent over and slipped my panties down, allowing me to hold on as I stepped out of them." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'unbuttoned' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When he stood back up, I unbuttoned his shirt, pulling it from his body. I reached down and unbuttoned his shorts, letting them fall to the ground and watching him step out of them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His long, hard cock was pushing, trying to be set free from his boxers. Instead of pulling them down, I backed up, sitting down on the bed and pulling him toward me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He stepped forward, running his hand over the top of my head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Slowly I pulled his boxers down and off, tossing them to the side." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I ran my fingertips down the shaft of his cock, listening to him groan softly above me. I looked up and met his eyes, feeling the ecstasy rolling between us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The passion that we felt, that magnetism pulling us together, was the strongest I had ever felt before." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I no longer felt like I was fucking a stranger, but instead making love to a man who I felt very deeply for." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My hand grasped tightly around his shaft, moving up and down slowly as I pushed my head forward and ran my lips over the tip of his cock." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He groaned as I took him into my mouth and plunged my head down, my lips reaching the base." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As I slowly pulled my head back up, I sucked hard at the back of my throat and swirled my tongue all around. He let out a deep breath and tangled his hand in my hair, pushing me lightly as I went back down." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His huge cock filled my throat, and as my head came back, I glanced up at him, my eyes watering and a moan vibrating through my throat. I reached my hand up and cradled his balls, rubbing them around in my hand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He growled as I continued, sucking his dick faster and faster, feeling it bulging inside of my mouth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After a few moments, he pulled my head back and reached down, grabbing me under the arms and pulling me up onto the bed. He moved back in front of me and stroked his cock for a moment looking over every inch of my body." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Watching his hand move up and down his shaft was so erotic, and I spread my legs open, welcoming him in. He reached forward and slid two fingers through the folds, rubbing them over my clit and then moving down to slide them inside of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I moaned loudly, feeling him bending forward and bringing his face into my wet mound." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I laid back while his tongue ran through my juices, unable to control myself any longer. I spread my thighs apart and began to grind my pussy against his mouth, screaming out as he moved me closer and closer to orgasm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As his fingers moved in and out of me, his tongue massaged my clit, sending electricity through my body." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Just as he picked up the pace, I arched my back and grasped onto his back, feeling the heat inside of me explode. Tendrils of electric waves pulsed through my muscles, and my body screamed out in pleasure as my juices trickled out into his mouth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He groaned against my pussy as my body shook and writhed beneath him, feeling every second of the orgasm. It was the strongest pleasure I had ever felt, and I could barely keep my legs from shaking around his face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As soon as my body had relaxed, he climbed forward, rolling me onto my side." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He laid down behind me and picked up my leg, scooting in and rubbing his cock through my juices." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He reached back and grabbed a condom from his nightstand, slipping it over his hard shaft and returning to my side." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He pushed forward, leaning his body against mine as he entered me, filling me fully with his cock. I moaned loudly as he wrapped his arm around me and rubbed my nub, his hips moving in and out with a slow steady rhythm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could already feel another orgasm coming on as if the first had triggered a waterfall of pleasure inside of me. I gripped down on the comforter next to me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My heavy breathing showed him where I was, and he started to rub my clit harder and faster. I screamed out feeling all the sensations at once, knowing that I was about to explode all over again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He lifted his head and sucked on my ear, his hot breath flowing over my neck." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm gonna' come,\" I moaned, loudly.\n\n\"Yes,\" he whispered. \"Let me feel it, baby.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He began to push hard and deep as I clenched down, screaming loudly and throwing my head back into his. As the pleasure pushed through me once again, I could feel how sensitive my clit had become." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I reached down and grabbed his hand a mixture of moans and giggles escaping my throat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He chuckled as he moved from his side and crawled back in front of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I laid there for a moment, breathing heavily and looked up at him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was smiling mischievously before flipping me over on my stomach and spreading my legs wide." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He reached underneath my stomach and lifted my hips so just my ass was in the air." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He slid forward and rubbed the tip of his cock against my wetness before slowly sliding into me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I screamed out in ecstasy and grabbed onto the edge of the bed as he began to thrust hard and deep inside of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He no longer had the self-discipline he had shown before, and he was fucking me as hard and deep as he possibly could." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It felt amazing, and I pulled my legs in slightly and tilted my hips to give him better access." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He reached his hands forward and grabbed my ass gripping down as he plunged in and out over and over again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Fuck,\" he groaned. \"You are so fucking wet.\"\n\nI moaned loudly at the sound of his voice, and every time I screamed out, he became needier." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He slapped me lightly on the ass cheek and the pain mixed with pleasure shot straight into my stomach." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He reached his hands up and gripped my waist tightly as his cock began to pulsate inside of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, baby,\" I moaned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I want to feel you come.\"\n\nHe growled as he thrust forward three more times before falling into me and gripping tightly to my hips." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He pulsated his body against me as he leaned his head back and moaned loudly. I could feel his cock bulging inside of me as it exploded his seed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His body was stiff against mine and after a few moments, I could hear the air leaving his lungs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He leaned forward and kissed the center of my back before pulling out and allowing me to fall forward on my belly.\n\nHe pulled the covers up over me and went into the bathroom to clean up." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I laid there, my heart still beating wildly, staring out the window at the city lights." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Everything about what just happened was perfect. I could hear him walking back toward the bed, and before I could get up, he had crawled into the covers beside me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I turned over and laid my head against his stomach. He scooted down and propped a pillow under his head, putting his arm around my shoulders and pulling me close." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I could hear his heart beginning to slow to a normal rhythm, and he leaned over, kissing me on the top of the head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What do we do now?\" I looked up at him with wide eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Go with the flow,\" he said, smiling.\n\nNormally an answer like that from a guy was a bad sign, but knowing Tanner and his playboy ways, that was the equivalency of a full-on relationship proposal." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I smiled and chuckled leaning my head against his shoulder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He picked up the remote and turned on a movie, settling in with me beside him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could tell he wasn't going to let me leave, and I was perfectly fine with that. Through all my college years, I had never spent the night in a man's apartment before, and I was pretty sure Tanner didn't make it a habit of having women in his." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I didn't say a word but just relaxed and watched the movie with him, feeling more comfortable than I ever had with anyone.\n\nAs the night progressed, the stress of the week crashed down on me, and I laid my head on the pillow." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was exhausted but trying to keep myself awake, not wanting to assume he wanted me to stay with him in his bed. However, as I fought to keep my eyes open, he leaned over and turned off the television, scooted down behind me, pulled me close to him, and laid down with me, closing his eyes." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I held my breath for a moment, unsure of what to do, but the feeling of his warmth and comfort made me feel safe and right. So, underneath the shining of the moon, I fell asleep in Tanner's arms, knowing love was a fickle thing. I didn't know how exactly I felt, but I knew that everything about that moment was perfection." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "lets continue this story bit. 3 sentences more like Mia Ford would. Romance; Rating: X genre. characters might be established already" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I woke up on Saturday morning with my father and Tanner on my mind. There was so much going on in my life, and I couldn't find the ability to sort it out myself. I felt slightly broken, worn down from the stress of fighting with my father, the emotional roller coaster that was my relationship with Tanner, and the fact that I wasn't sure what to do about MJ." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My career was really important, but I was smart enough that I didn't need to stress out so much about it. Tanner was the biggest thing on my mind. My father was about to find out that I'd lied to him again, and though it was still uncertain as to where my future with Tanner was going, I knew that I loved him, and I needed to try to get to the point where we could figure it all out without the stress of sneaking around and worrying about the lies in the background." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I shuffled out of my bedroom and walked into the living room, plopping down on the couch and looking out of the window. It was sunny, but from the chill in the apartment, it must be cold outside, something I really loved about autumn in New York. I could break out the sweaters and boots earlier than most other places." }, { "from": "human", "value": "However, at that moment, I only wanted hot coffee and a warm blanket and maybe a really good conversation with my father." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I leaned over and grabbed my phone, dialing my father's number, expecting to leave a message. To my surprise, he picked up and seemed cheerier than normal.\n\n\"Hey, Daddy,\" I said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What are you doing?\"\n\n\"I just got to the city,\" he said happily. \"I was thinking about you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You want to come over?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That sounds perfect,\" he said kindly. \"I'll be over soon.\"\n\nWe hung up the phone, and I grabbed the fleece out of the closet, not wanting to turn on the heat just yet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The day was fresh and there was a good likelihood it would warm up into the sixties outside later, which would raise the temperature of the apartment to a comfortable seventy-four or seventy-five degrees." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was the time of year I could save some money on the crazy electric bill that New York weather produced." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I lay there bundled up on the couch for quite a while, my head on the pillow, and my eyes gazing out at the tree in front of the window. There were people out walking their dogs, taking their children to the park, and doing other normal Saturday activities. Part of me was jealous, wanting to have that kind of life as well." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "However, in order to do so, I needed to get through this first part of things, telling my father the truth.\n\nI was pretty sure my father was going to show up with either coffee, breakfast, or both, which was fine with me since I had completely forgotten to buy coffee or groceries for that matter. Everything had been a mess recently, so much that I was thankful I had remembered to brush my teeth everyday much less keep up with the grocery shopping." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I got up and bounced to the door as soon as I heard the knock, opening the door and hugging my father." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I took the bags from his hands and walked over to the table, sitting down and unloading the breakfast." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He sat down a coffee in front of me and smiled.\n\nWe started talking immediately, having our normal chitter chatter about the city and the weather before talking about anything else. My father seemed happy, something I hadn't seen in a really long time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was always so stressed out when I was growing up and part of that had to do with my mother and her constant nagging.\n\n\"You know what I thought about the other day?\"\n\n\"What's that, sweetie?\" He leaned back in his chair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The time Mom and I went upstate to that amusement park,\" I said smiling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Neither one of us like roller coasters, so we spent all day eating candy and riding the Merry Go Round.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That was when I couldn't get off work,\" he said laughing.\n\n\"Yeah,\" I replied. \"It was such a good day. What happened to Mom?\"\n\n\"The same thing that happens to almost everyone,\" he said sighing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You pass on life experiences over and over, and then one day, you're terrified that you missed out on life. That was what, or is what, your mother is going through.\"\n\n\"But she's hurting everyone else around her,\" I said, \"which kind of sounds like someone else I know.\"\n\n\"Oh, sweetie,\" he laughed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You are not going through the same thing. You're young, and you're testing the waters. You're figuring out who you are and what you want.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's funny how I want both sides of the fence,\" I said, looking down at my sandwich. \"I want the career and the personal life. I don't want to have to make a choice like you and Tanner had to. I want it all.\"\n\n\"And you can have that,\" he said laughing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You are much smarter than me.\"\n\n\"Dad,\" I said, thinking about Tanner. \"What you and I have, how close we are, is extremely important to me. I'd go to any lengths to keep it intact.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I would too, baby,\" he said kindly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That being said, my relationship with Tanner is just as important to me,\" I said, looking up at him and waiting for a reaction." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I waited for a moment as he played the words over in his head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He tapped his finger on the glass tabletop underneath his hand, and slowly his face softened. He sighed and smiled slightly, and I let out a deep breath. He chuckled slightly and took a sip of his coffee, obviously not surprised at all about anything I'd said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was confused, but I didn't want to ask any questions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I just wanted to hear what he had to say about it.\n\n\"I already knew all of this,\" he said with a smile. \"Yesterday afternoon, I met with Tanner. We hashed a lot of things out. And before the lunch was over, he was extremely honest about how he felt about you. I know when that man is lying, but I saw tears in his eyes when he talked about how important you are to him and how much he loves you. So, I gave him my blessing, as long as you felt the same way.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh,\" I said, taken back by what he was saying." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We continued talking for a couple of hours, but my mind was back on Tanner. I should be ecstatic, seeing that my father was on board with us dating, but I wasn't. Tanner had gone behind my back and talked to my father, and didn't say anything about it to me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We had just gotten done promising each other a fresh start, a clean slate, and a relationship with no lies." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Here I was again, finding out that what he told me was not the truth." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'again' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "How could he go and do that? I knew he did it to make my father feel he could trust him again, but still, the partnership I thought we had was not going to happen the way I wanted it to. Instead, I was sitting there thinking about how he had betrayed me again." }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'didn't' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My father didn't seem to notice that I was upset, which was good, because I didn't want him to be involved in any of this anymore. He had come to terms with my job, my relationship, and the fact that I had lied to him. From there on out, it was going to have to be me dealing with Tanner the way I thought was best." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I couldn't figure out why my heart wanted to see him but my brain was screaming at me to be angry." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Everything was complicated all over again, and I was really looking forward to getting this over with and moving on, with Tanner and I receiving the opportunity for a fresh start." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was all too good to be true from the start, and I should have been prepared for something like that. Again, I was left dizzy after being sideswiped by the man I loved. It was starting to get annoying how much I had to deal with." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"All right,\" Dad said, stretching his arms out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Can I help you clean this up?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No,\" I said snapping back to the present. \"I got this.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm going to head out,\" he smiled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I have a tennis match with a few guys from the office. Gotta keep myself in shape.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Okay,\" I said happily. \"Thank you for breakfast and coffee.\"\n\n\"Anytime, sweetheart,\" he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Anytime. You just call me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I will,\" I said walking him to the door.\n\nWe embraced, and he kissed me on the cheek before walking out. I closed the door and locked it, standing there staring and thinking about what I had just found out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I sighed and walked back to the table, cleaning up the trash and wiping it down. When I was done, I grabbed my cell phone and laid down in my bed, staring at the ceiling. I dialed Brianna's number and laid there, waiting for her to answer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hey, girl,\" she said happily." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hey,\" I sighed.\n\n\"Uh oh,\" she replied. \"What happened? Tell me all about it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I went to work yesterday to apologize to Tanner, and we ended up making up,\" I explained." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We promised each other no more secrets and no more lies. The last thing left was to break the news to my father. Well, Dad came over today, and I told him that Tanner was important in my life.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And your dad freaked out?\"\n\n\"No, actually the opposite,\" I replied.\n\n\"Okay,\" Brianna said confused." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So, what's the problem?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He felt that way because Tanner took him to lunch yesterday and told him about his feelings for me,\" I said. \"He didn't even warn me that he had done that.\"\n\n\"And you are angry over this,\" she said without emotion." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Of course, I am,\" I scoffed. \"He immediately went out and betrayed my trust again.\"\n\n\"Ava,\" she said with a sigh." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You need to get your shit together. Tanner didn't do anything wrong. You're just mad because you don't have any more excuses.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't know what you are talking about.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, you do,\" she said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You are being a pussy, and the longer your father is upset with Tanner, the longer you can wait to tell him exactly how you feel about him. You're scared. But Ava, your fear is completely ruining your life.\"\n\n\"What am I supposed to do? This was not in my plans,\" I said with emotion.\n\n\"When is love ever in the plans? You need to tell Tanner how you feel, lay it all out for him, and then see where the chips fall,\" she said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Stop being so scared. it's your biggest hindrance. Everyone who knows you knows that. You're just too scared to see it yourself.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "We talked for a few more minutes before hanging up." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I sat up in the bed and replayed her words over in my head, chuckling arrogantly as I attempted to blame away her response." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "However, as the thoughts of how I handled us that whole time played in the back of my mind, I realized that she might be right. Maybe I didn't spill my guts every time I had a feeling, but that was what was keeping me going. I had amazing walls that even Tanner couldn't completely knock down. The problem was, I wasn't sure if I was ready to let that guard down." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Narrative Extension Protocol:\nQuantity: nine sentences\nContext: Match character familiarity\nGenre: Romance; Rating: X" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I looked in my bathroom mirror after applying the last of my makeup and my cherry lip gloss." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My hair looked silky smooth and flowed over my shoulders in ringlets." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was nervous, and I didn't really know why." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The other night was amazing with Jason, and we had talked non-stop since then, sending silly texts back and forth and staying up until the wee hours of the morning talking on the phone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He had a great dinner with his parents and laughed at how they noticed his attention was elsewhere." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Everything seemed perfect, except that our relationship was a huge secret." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I didn't know where it was going or if I should even be thinking about that, but I couldn't help but let it plague my mind. I just wanted everything to go smoothly. I wanted his parents to accept that we were dating, Jordan to get off his high horse about thinking I was still his property, and this medical stuff to be lifted off my shoulders. The only thing I could tell myself was to be patient and let it play out. Nothing was going to come from worrying so much.\n\nI had gotten a lot of work done on Saturday and was ready to turn it in for more, but that meant going to the office. This time, however, I wasn't as nervous as before, knowing Jason would be somewhere in the office. John would be pleased the files were done, and I knew there was plenty of work to keep me busy for a while. I wasn't quite ready yet to get back to my office, but I didn't mind having something to keep me occupied during the day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew, too, when I got there, I would be able to stick my head in Jason's office and surprise him since he didn't know I would be coming in today. I finished getting ready and grabbed my phone, dialing John's cell phone number.\n\n\"Hey there,\" he said happily.\n\n\"Hey, John,\" I replied. \"I finished up those files and was going to come trade them for some more. I wanted to ask—\"\n\n\"I'll make sure Jordan is out of the office,\" he interrupted kindly. \"I have some errands I can actually send him on right now if you're ready to come over.\"\n\n\"Sounds perfect,\" I replied.\n\n\"Great,\" he said. \"I'll see you soon.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hung up the phone feeling better that he wouldn't be there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The last thing I wanted was for Jordan to ruin my good mood. I hopped in a taxi and headed over to the building, excited and nervous to see Jason's smiling face. He texted me on the way, but I didn't answer back, figuring dropping in would be better than a text. When I arrived, I took the elevator up and smiled at the receptionist who seemed happy to see me. I wondered what kind of chaos was going on while I've been gone but pushed the thought from my mind, not ready to jump back into anything stressful. I walked to Jason's office and poked my head around the corner, smiling as he looked down at his phone with a concerned look.\n\n\"I'm okay,\" I said smiling.\n\n\"Hey,\" he said excitedly. \"This is a surprise.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know,\" I replied." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I mean it to be one. I just came to grab some more work. I'll poke my head in before I leave.\"\n\n\"Please do,\" he said happily. \"I'll walk you out.\"\n\nI nodded and walked merrily down the hall to John's office. He was equally as pleased to see me and was very gracious for the expediency in which I prepared the files. I stopped by my office and refilled the box, noticing that only one or two folders had been taken since the last time I was there. The temp must really be struggling since a pile like the one on my desk would normally have been done in two working days. I shook my head and headed back to Jason's office, standing in the doorway with a smile for him. He got up and walked over, taking the box from my hands." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Walk me out?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Of course,\" he replied with a wink." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We walked to the elevators, ignoring the blank stares from the people around us. Once inside, I reached over before he could press the button and hit the seventh floor button. He looked at me strangely, and I chuckled.\n\n\"Are we doing some construction today?\"\n\n\"The crew is off on Tuesday,\" I said as we rode down to the seventh floor.\n\nWhen the doors opened, I walked out backward, giving him a knowing look. He laughed, carrying the box with him and setting it down on a pile of wooden beams. The floor was being renovated, so it was slightly dusty, but I knew we could be alone there. I watched Jason as he looked around the floor, still unsure of what we were doing there." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All I could think about was getting him out of those clothes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I walked over and grabbed him by the tie, mashing my lips against his." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stepped forward, putting his arms around me and kissing me deeply. I could feel the warmth between my legs as his cock began to grow hard in his pants.\n\n\"Take me,\" I whispered into his ear, pulling his jacket down and tossing it to the side.\n\n\"Yes, ma'am,\" he said with a coy smile.\n\nInstantly, we were on each other, pulling at each other's belts. I could feel the passion ignite as we stumbled across the room toward the windows. Pressed against the window was a desk, covered in a white drapery. I pulled the drape off and watched as Jason undid his pants and pulled his cock out the top. He stroked it hard with his palm, staring me in the eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I immediately took my pants off and backed up to the desk, sitting part way on the edge and reaching down between my moist folds." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He gritted his teeth and jacked his cock harder, watching as I rubbed my fingers through my pussy, my eyes fixed on his." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wanted him so bad, but I loved watching him want me even more. I lifted my fingers to my mouth and sucked on them, pulling them back down to my clit and then pushed them deep inside me. I gasped with a small whine as I began to finger myself, watching his cock get harder and harder.\n\nHe groaned as his hand slipped over his cock, but he stood steady, watching me bring myself closer and closer to orgasm. I pulled my fingers out and rubbed my clit fast and hard, feeling his eyes rolling over me in the heat of the moment. I lifted myself up and leaned back slightly to give him a better view as my fingers circled around my nub, bringing me closer to the edge of ecstasy. I tilted my head back as I rubbed my pussy, moaning loudly, not caring if anyone could hear me. The cold bare wood beneath me squeaked as I lifted my hips and moved them around, my hand still rubbing hard against my skin.\n\n\"I want to see you come,\" he growled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I smiled in agreeance, knowing the sooner I came, the sooner I could have that large, hard cock inside of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I licked my fingers again, watching his hand tighten around his shaft and then plunged them deep inside, moaning as I moved my hand faster and deeper inside of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He stepped forward, pushing my thigh open, a serious and determined look on his face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could feel myself at the tipping point, and I reached up with my other hand and grabbed my breasts, squeezing hard as my fingers moved over my nub. I arched my back and continued to grind as the orgasm in my stomach flowed over, sending waves of pleasure through my body.\n\nJason stepped forward, groaning, and yanked me off the desk, turned me around, and bent me over, shoving his cock into my pulsating pussy. He growled as the juices flowed over his hard shaft, grabbed me by the waist, and began to fuck me deep and hard. He reached back and slapped my ass with the tips of his fingers, the pain mixing with the pleasure. I reached forward and grabbed the other end of the desk, still feeling my clit pulsing from the orgasm I had given myself. I could feel every single inch of his dick sliding in and out of me, and I screamed out loudly as pushed in hard, our bodies slamming into each other.\n\n\"Yes,\" I yelled out, flinging my hair back out of my face.\n\nJason reached one hand up and grabbed my hair pulling my head back slightly as he used my waist to push and pull from." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I could feel his unexpected erotic emotions pulsing through the air as he slammed his cock into me over and over." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The sound of the desk bouncing into the beams on the windows echoed through the empty office, accompanied by my loud moans." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He let go of my hair and pulled my body toward him as his hips thrust forward. I looked back at him, gritting my teeth, and watched as his face showed determination and lust. I could tell he was on the edge of orgasm, and immediately, that turned me on. I spread my legs apart and reached down, rubbing my clit as his cock filled me over and over again. The vision of his face and the sound of his groans brought me to another peak very quickly.\n\nI rubbed hard, screaming out as he leaned forward grabbing my shoulders and thrusting deep. I came all over his dick, and he dug his fingers into my shoulders, his breath on the nape of my neck. His hips moved melodically as his body tensed and his cock twitched inside of me. He growled loudly as he lurched, his orgasm shuddering through his body." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could feel him release inside of me, and even after it was done, he continued to gently push in and out with his hips until finally, he slowed to a stop. He leaned forward against me and breathed heavily, his heart beating so hard I could feel it on my back. I pressed my face against the cold wood of the desk and relaxed for a moment, feeling the closeness of our skin. Slowly, he stood up and pulled his pants up, reaching over and helping me to my feet.\n\nQuietly we got dressed, smiling with blushed cheeks when catching each other's eye. When he was done dressing, he walked over to me and wrapped his hands around my neck, kissing me sweetly on the lips. He looked into my eyes and smiled, a small chuckle shaking his chest.\n\n\"What?\" I said smiling.\n\n\"That was the best work surprise I have ever gotten.\" He laughed again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I thought you'd like that,\" I said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But you need to get back to work.\"\n\n\"I do,\" he groaned. \"Come on, I'll walk you out.\"\n\nWe stood close in the elevator, our shoulders touching and our breath matching. I checked my hair in the mirror and wiped the cherry lipstick from his cheek, turning back and grasping the box in my arms as the doors to the elevator opened. I looked up to once again find Jordan staring at me, an irritated look on his face.\n\n\"Hey,\" I said, walking past. I turned and winked at Jason before heading out to catch a cab.\n\nAs I climbed in, I realized something." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I didn't feel anything when I saw Jordan." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was no wrenching feeling in my chest or drop in my stomach. It was like seeing some random person from the office. At that moment, I understood there was a reason for that. My heart had never actually belonged to him in the first place, something I knew all along but never allowed myself to see. Finally, I felt free from his clutches, free to feel however I wanted to for Jason." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Build on the story like Mia Ford, keeping consistent with any established elements." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I finished up everything at work and rushed to get out of the office. Tiffany was strongly on my mind, and I really hoped the doctor hadn't given her the bad news. She didn't need any more stress or sadness in her life. She had endured enough over the last few months. I hopped in one of the company cars and had him stop for flowers on the way. Whatever it was she had to tell me, I wanted to be ready to catch her, be there for her, and make her feel better the best I knew how. When I got home, she wasn't there yet, so I went inside and changed my clothes. I pulled on a pair of jeans and sweater, stopping at the thermostat to turn on the heat. It had gotten freezing cold outside lately, and I wanted everything to be comfortable for Tiffany when she arrived. I had no idea what she was on her way to tell me, and my nerves bubbled in my stomach." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What if she'd found out there was nothing they could do?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What if she'd discovered it wasn't PCOS but something else instead? Whatever it was, I would be there for her, and we would take the next step together, whatever it may be.\n\nI walked through the house, pacing as I checked out the window for a cab every five seconds. I was assuming she was coming from the doctor's office, which was across town, so she probably got stuck in traffic. I went into the kitchen and started the coffee maker, wanting something warm to heat up my hands while the heat in the house caught up enough to take the chill out of the air. At the same time, I didn't know whether it was the house or my nerves causing me to be so cold and shaky. Everything had been going so well between us, and I was determined to help her get to a place with this condition where she felt comfortable, satisfied with her results, and resolute to move forward. The last thing I wanted was for her to be all alone, receiving some bad news from a doctor, and then have to repeat it all over again when she got to me. It wasn't my place to go with her to the visits, but at that moment, I wished I had forced the issue.\n\nI poured myself a cup of coffee and put the cream and sugar in, just how I liked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wrapped my hands around the mug and carried it over to the window, leaning against the wall as I watched different cars pass back and forth down my road. Finally, a yellow cab pulled up out front, and I quickly made my way to the front door where I greeted Tiffany with open arms. I wrapped myself around her and squeezed her tightly, trying to gauge the look on her face. She didn't look like there was anything seriously wrong, but it was more like her mind was on another planet. I took her hand and led her inside, closing the door behind us and following her into the living room. She took off her jacket and sat down on the couch, leaning her head back against the seat.\n\n\"Can I get you anything? I just made coffee,\" I said, pointing to the kitchen.\n\n\"No.\" She sent me a shaky smile. \"Just come sit down.\"\n\n\"Okay,\" I said, taking a seat across from her. \"I'm really nervous.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's not completely confirmed yet,\" she said, clenching her hands together. \"But it looks like I'm pregnant.\"\n\n\"What?\" I blinked at her trying to wrap my head around those words. It was like she was talking in a different language. \"You're pregnant?\"\n\n\"That's what the blood tests said,\" she replied. \"I got a call earlier today from my doctor who said that my blood test, which they did since I had sex between periods, came back positive during the pregnancy test. They said I do have PCOS, but it seems that my body was willing to give this a chance without me having to jump through hoops. The blood test is going to make sure my HCG levels are rising like they are supposed to. Once they have that confirmed, then I go back to my regular doctor and go through this pregnancy like any normal person, with just a tad bit more attention because of the PCOS.\"\n\n\"Wow,\" I said standing up and walking around the room. I started laughing. \"Wow, that is just absolutely amazing. This is beyond anything I could have imagined. I am more than thrilled.\"\n\n\"Really?\" She acted as if she expected a different reaction. \"We only just started dating.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know.\" I sat next to her and took her hands in mine." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🔍 Find a place to insert: \"I don't care how long we've been dating. I'm really excited to have a child with you. I want you to be happy, no matter what that means. I've always wanted children, and I have some very serious feelings for you. I mean nothing ever truly happens when we want it to, right? This baby is a miracle and a gift, and I couldn't imagine sharing that with anyone else.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't care how long we've been dating. I'm really excited to have a child with you. I want you to be happy, no matter what that means. I've always wanted children, and I have some very serious feelings for you. I mean nothing ever truly happens when we want it to, right? This baby is a miracle and a gift, and I couldn't imagine sharing that with anyone else.\"\n\nShe smiled wide, and I reached over, pulling her head toward mine, and pressed my lips against hers. She kissed me passionately before pulling away to rest her forehead against mine and look deep into my eyes. Tears pooled at the edges of hers, and I reached up and brushed my hand over her cheek. She was so beautiful and full of life, and with just those words of support, I could see her letting go of the fears and starting to allow herself to get excited over the news.\n\n\"So,\" I said, leaning back and turning toward her. \"Life is going to change so much. It's really exciting.\"\n\n\"Gosh,\" she scoffed. \"More change, just what I need.\"\n\n\"Yeah, but this is a good change,\" I said excitedly. \"I mean, we are really going to have a baby. I wonder if it will be a boy or a girl. I wonder if it will laugh like me or smile like you? I hope whatever gender it is, it has your wonderful, beautiful heart.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She laughed, throwing her head back and sniffling. I leaned my head against my hand and smiled at her, loving the way she was starting to open up about everything. She relaxed a bit and pulled the throw on the edge of the couch around her shoulders. She looked deep into my eyes, her thoughts dancing across her face.\n\n\"When I was a little girl,\" she began, \"and my parents were all drugged up in the living room, I would lock myself in my room and dream about being a wife and mother. I imagined myself being the best mother ever. I knew I had to give my child lots of hugs, lots of kisses, and lots of love, more love than my parents had ever given me. I imagined my husband to be kind and sweet but strong and protective. He would take care of us, hold us, and be the kind of father I always wished I'd had. When the doctor told me I would never have children, it was almost as if I saw that memory shatter into a million pieces right in front of me. But now, now everything has changed again.\"\n\n\"When I was a child,\" I said, rubbing her arms, \"I always knew I wanted to be a father one day. I knew I wanted to be a father to my child like my dad was with me. He was caring and soft but. at the same time, pushed me to be the best man I could be. He made us remember that having pride in ourselves, always being truthful and valiant, and being able to love would open so many doors in our life, not just romantically. I always wondered what he would have been like if one of us had been a girl. I had seen his soft side on a daily basis with the way he handled my mother. He has always been so gentle and kind with her, making sure she never wanted for anything, making sure she was completely taken care of. His family always came before the business, and part of me believes that was why he did so well.\"\n\n\"Your dad is a wonderful father, and he is going to be an amazing grandfather.\" She shook her head. \"Part of me really wished my father was responsible enough to be a grandparent, but since I know that will never happen, I couldn't be happier to have your father there as the solo grandpa.\"\n\n\"My mom and dad are going to freak.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I laughed at the thought of telling them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"In a good way, of course. They have been waiting forever to become grandparents.\"\n\n\"Jordan might be another story.\" She cringed and shook her head. \"He still thinks I can't have children at all. It's going to be interesting breaking the news to him.\"\n\n\"Just shows he gave up too soon, but I'm sure he'll be fine,\" I replied, standing up and reaching down to pull Tiffany to her feet. \"Come on, let's go get comfy and watch movies in my bed. We can just relax for tonight and enjoy this news between the two of us.\"\n\n\"That sounds perfect.\" She followed me back to the room with a satisfied smile replacing the lost expression she'd arrived with.\n\nIt was almost shocking how easy that went and even more shocking that there wasn't an ounce of fear inside of me when she'd told me I was going to be a father. So many men would have taken that very poorly, especially having only dated someone for not even a full month. But with Tiffany, it was different, we were different, and I had never felt closer to her than I did then." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was so beautiful and so complete that I couldn't imagine having a child with anyone else." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We threw on some warm comfortable clothes and pulled the covers up over us. At first, she laid her head on my chest, watching the old black and white movies that were playing, but she quickly sat up and continued talking about her childhood. I turned the sound down on my television and listened to her intently, wanting to hear every single story she had. I knew her childhood hadn't been easy, but I was so glad that she and I could provide a life for our child that was comfortable, loving, and protected. My mind was whirling around like crazy at the thought of a baby growing inside of Tiffany's stomach.\n\nWe sat up and talked almost all night long, turning off the movies after about an hour, recognizing we were more interested in discussing all of this and getting to know each other more than we already did. Luckily, she knew my parents and what kind of upbringing I'd had, so she felt comfortable talking about hers. A little after two in the morning, I got up to get a glass of water, but by the time I had come back, Tiffany was sound asleep in the bed. I turned on her alarm so she would have time to go home and change, and then curled up under the covers next to her. She was so warm and calm, and I couldn't stop watching her sleep." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With each breath, I knew that she was growing a child inside of her body, and not just any child but my child." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I loved this woman more than anything, and I couldn't wait to become a father with her by my side." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "lets continue this story bit. 3 sentences more like Mia Ford would. Romance; Rating: X genre. characters might be established already" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I watched the girl behind the counter, sipping the strong coffee as I sized her up. She was young, probably more than ten years under me. She was also beautiful and I remembered her lavender name tag that was pinned to the light pink shirt that boasted the name of this place." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mountain Brew. It fit being in this town, one that I was new to as of a week ago." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The base needed to add to their staff to tighten things up after a scandal with another major and a female assistant." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was not the kind of man to fuck up at work that way, not after my twenty-year career with the air force." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I would not allow those under me to either and I'd been demonstrating my leadership in the week that I'd spent with them. I had the financial means to live off base in a charming home at the edge of town so I could have my peace and finally decided to take my morning off today to wander a bit.\n\nI found this cafe right away and felt drawn to it somehow." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was a quaint little place and not that crowded, and I couldn't resist the strong smell of coffee and baked goods once I was inside. Once I saw Molly, I knew that I was drawn to her as much as I was to the cafe that she worked at. She was around five foot six with intoxicating eyes that reminded me of a good whiskey and pale skin." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her dark brown hair was pulled high on her head but I wanted to release it so that her thick waves would tumble over her shoulders." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She seemed to be stunned by my presence, unable to speak." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That pleased me as my body responded but I also saw the intense fear in her beautiful eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was a redhead that answered some of my questions and I only knew that from a quick glance before looking at Molly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew that the other girl was the outgoing one and probably more of a candidate for what I wanted, but I couldn't be bothered. I paid Molly and watched as she turned to fix my coffee, noticing the soft curves of her ass in the black slacks that she was wearing. She wasn't skinny like so many women and I liked that." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I dropped something into the tip jar as I took my items and surveyed the room carefully." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'after' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was a small table by the fireplace that was bright with a fire and I wandered over to it to take a seat. The warmth felt good after the crisp air outside and I sipped the hot coffee as I looked over the other customers seated around me. This was a mountain town and the faces represented that though I found it comforting in an odd way after being in much more populated places in the past." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "These people were happy with a small table, their breakfast, and a paper or one of the books that graced the shelves. Life was slow here even though I knew there was always some excitement to be found. I let my eyes drift to Molly again, watching her shake the hand of the young man that the other woman was clearly enamored with." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I watched as Molly smiled and talked but could tell that I was still affecting her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She glanced my way and her cheeks flushed pink at our eye contact before she looked away to help some new customers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd slept with women of all ages, all legal." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It wasn't the thrill of their age as much as it was their willingness to please me. I kept that part of my life separate from my job and excelled at both. I also didn't do long term commitment since I moved a lot and wasn't craving a family now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My own parents were from the military and I moved all the time, so I didn't want to do that to my own family." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I followed in Dad's footsteps who followed Grandpa and I loved my life." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He met my mom when he was new to the Air Force and they married quickly before starting their journey that led to my brother James and me.\n\nI was never struck so hard by a woman. I enjoyed them and took time to get to know them out of bed, taking them out and showing them a good time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was a man, not a boy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could fuck them without all of that but I liked to treat the person that I was with well. I liked building them up and watching them get confidence, depending on where they were in life. I ended things respectfully once I was done, moving on quietly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd like to think that they remembered me a few months later fondly as well as with a shudder as they remembered what I did to their bodies." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I looked back at Molly as she walked back and forth between the counter and some back room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could smell food over the other scents that lingered in the air and wondered what else they served here. This cafe would be a nice place to catch up on reports or even read some of the books that were piling up around my house. I worked several hours a week and was forced to take today with all the rearranging I'd been doing on base this week." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A scandal affected so many people in the time that it was happening. This one was with a married major and a young female which was even worse. They were both off base now and considering their next steps in life, but I blamed him more." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He took advantage of a woman mentally and physically and while she played a role, she was more vulnerable." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew this because I'd done the same, just not on the job. I remembered how badly I felt when I realized the damage done to the pretty young women before we parted way and as I glanced at Molly, I realized that she resembled Brittany. Was this why I couldn't stop staring at her?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The tryst with Brittany happened quickly when I was new to the air force and we were in bed the night that we met." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I took from her that night and every one that followed, dominant and demanding in my lust for her. She wasn't a virgin physically but damn close and I didn't realize that I was breaking her down until a month or so in. I didn't realize that she was traumatized from it even as she was falling for me, not until she was weeping in bed one night." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was then that I talked to her about her life, finding out that she'd been in a sexually abusive relationship a year before she met me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She admitted that she liked my dominance in some ways, craving it even but that it was bringing back some pain for her. She told me that she loved me. She'd been crying the entire time and I knew that I'd rushed this." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I needed to talk to women more and make sure that they were into what we were doing because some complied for the wrong reasons." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I respected the fact that Brittany ended things to get herself some help, apologizing to her for the role that I'd played. I knew that I needed some ground rules after that.\n\nI still allowed myself to imagine Molly on my bed, naked and on her knees." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I let my fantasy move forward to see the red marks on her ass from my hands for a moment as my cock stirred in my jeans." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could imagine it without doing it, though seeing her walk back out to the front of the cafe made me want it.\n\nI stayed for about an hour before I piled my dishes in a bin near the garbage to finish wandering the town. I glanced back to see Molly watching me as the door closed behind me, vowing to come back for her and the place itself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I found some stores that I'd shop at regularly and admired the views frequently." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My house was at the edge of a forest and I had so much peace there but this location was breathtaking." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'settle' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wondered if this might be the lifestyle I'd settle in, enjoying the slow pace. I could work on this base through retirement and settle here since my parents weren't far at only a few states away.\n\nThat was an interesting thought." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I made my way back down the street and stopped in a used book store to get some of the novels that were new to the shop and add them to my collection before walking past the cafe and glancing inside again.\n\nMolly was helping a small line of people as the redhead moved behind her to fix orders. She was a pretty girl, the redhead." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I sensed that she was confident and vibrant with a little sass and smiled at the image of the young man that was with her. She was going to be a handful. Molly looked over to see me through the glass and our gazes locked for a few seconds." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd be back soon to pursue her, because I needed her deep inside. I craved her.\n\nI walked back to the house that I was renting and fixed some eggs for breakfast. That muffin was delicious, but I needed food now and I sat at the table and took in the view as I ate." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was lush and green, gorgeous to look at as well as explore." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd done a small amount of that in my free time here and tossed around the idea of a hike today. I took pride in my body and worked out a lot; running outside or just doing some basics inside. Most women didn't take me for being forty-two years old and I wondered for a moment how old Molly was." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her face was youthful but her eyes showed experience and I guessed her to be in her twenties, perhaps around twenty-four or so. The redhead was slightly younger with the curiosity of a girl.\n\nI knew that I didn't want her, but I did want the dark-haired beauty that was haunting me now as I started out into the forest." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I had to take my time with her, not wanting a repeat of Brittany." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I needed to keep my cool and do this right since I had a lot of pressure at work to think about as well." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mission: User starts, continue w/ ~11 sentences sentences. Context: May be mid-story. Themes: multiple points of view, nsfw, steamy" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I got up slowly the following morning, tracing a dying rose with my finger as I blinked sleepily." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I didn't get home too terribly late but was so used to staying home at night." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nothing I'd done for years had been as exciting, or as confusing as last night. I knew how badly Robert wanted me but he didn't press me. I could feel the tension in his body as we kissed and the way his erection was pressed against my thigh, intimidating and large. God, how would that ever feel inside of me?\n\nI blushed as I took a quick shower and dressed for work. I told him about Lance. That was embarrassing the more time passed and I looked back. I knew that it still hurt me at times but that didn't make it all right to just talk about it on a first date.\n\nI pulled my hair into a messy bun and glossed my lips with a deep pink color before heading downstairs. Noel was waiting for me with curiosity burning in her eyes as I groaned softly. \"So, how was it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Your mom told you, I see.\" Noel wasn't home and I hadn't told her about the date after work.\n\n\"Yes, when I got home. How was it?\" She demanded as we walked through the garage to the car.\n\n\"It was…intense. It was fun. He's so charming, Noel but he's forty-two!! That's so much older.\" I looked at her as she got into the driver's seat.\n\n\"You know, it really isn't. You've always been mature for your age, much more so than anyone that we knew in college,\" she assured me as she started the car and raised the garage.\n\n\"Was I mature when I was catering to Lance's demands?\" I asked before dropping my head back against the seat.\n\n\"You fell for the wrong man, Molly. It happens to the best of us and I am so glad that you didn't sleep with him. You knew it was wrong. It won't always feel that way.\" She drove into town and turned to head to the cafe as I let out a sigh." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I told him about Lance. The gist, anyway.\" I looked at her as she parked next to the police car. \"Things got heated and I kind of freaked out. It just spilled out.\"\n\nNoel smiled at me and turned the car off. \"Did he run screaming from you and bring you right home?\" I shook my head. \"He gets a point, then.\" We got out and greeted the officer as he watched us go inside and lock the door behind us. I yawned and went to make coffee first thing while Noel went back into the kitchen to get things started in there. I got two steaming cups and brought them inside of the kitchen as I helped her mix some batters, pouring them into the baking pans carefully. Everything had to look good and I turned on all the ovens before sipping my drink." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's tough having a life with this schedule, isn't it?\"\n\n\"Worth it. I think that as time goes on, we can get some more people on here and maybe get a break. I don't want to just work and have nothing else, and neither should you.\" She smiled at me as I slid a pan into the oven.\n\n\"You're right. I have been hiding out for too long.\" We baked and talked about Robert as she swooned, telling me that she was going to trade Nate for him.\n\n\"Older men are so sexy. They know just what they're doing and they do it so well. Right?\" She asked as I raised an eyebrow.\n\n\"When did you go out with an older guy? And all I did was kiss him, but he was so good at that.\" I thought back to it as I smiled dreamily and Noel squealed.\n\n\"I did in college but I never told you. I met him at a bar and we hooked up a few times. It was amazing but just a fling.\" Noel shook her head sadly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Now I can live vicariously through you.\"\n\n\"We will see if he takes me out again. He might have come to his senses,\" I joked as she shook her head at me.\n\nI walked out to brew all the coffee and start the fire as I looked around. I did love this place and was proud of it and I checked around the dining room as I sang along to the song on the radio. Despite being tired I felt happy, even hopeful. Maybe this would work out well and we could become something.\n\nMy core ached as I thought about him and I hoped that I'd get to see him again. I finished and walked over to the front door to unlock it, grinning as Mike walked in. \"Morning.\"\n\n\"Good morning, beautiful,\" he greeted me with a wink as I shook my head. I turned the sign on and walked with him to get his order as Noel brought out the second tray of baked goods and said hello. She gave him a fresh muffin and I got his coffee as he tipped us and walked away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I watched Mike, guessing that he was around sixty or seventy." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'seemed' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was retired I was guessing since he was here every day and told us that he used to work for the mechanic in town. He seemed happy here.\n\nCould Robert be? I knew that he wasn't retiring tomorrow but he could make a life here unless he decided to transfer. I knew how the military worked that way and he could move almost anywhere if he wanted to.\n\nI pushed the thought away as the door opened and more people came in, forcing a bright smile on my face as I helped them. At the end of the day, this cafe was my constant in life. I shouldn't think about anything more.\n\nThe morning still seemed to drag even with the steady flow of regulars coming in and I let Noel sit down for her break first to eat since Nate came in to see her. I watched them, thinking how cute they were together.\n\nI grabbed some soup for my own break and took it to the same table that I sat at when Robert was here. I still felt the electricity in the air from that day and my phone chimed when I was mid-bite." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I checked it to see a message from Robert asking if I was free tonight. My heart soared. He wanted to see me again. I replied that I was and he said that he would pick me up at six again if that was enough time after work for me.\n\nI agreed and returned to my lunch with a smile on my face. Noel noticed and asked if lover boy contacted me for another romantic date as I blushed deeply. \"Yes.\"\n\n\"For tonight? He's into you,\" she smiled at me with bright eyes as I shrugged and took my place at the counter.\n\n\"Maybe,\" I agreed as the lunch crowd started to leave and we cleaned up. I wiped down the tables and cleaned the glass as I hummed the song that was playing over the speakers. I was tired but the adrenaline running through me, along with the coffee, seemed to balance that out. I knew that I should sleep a little bit when I got home but I wanted time to get ready for Robert.\n\nWe walked in to smell a roast cooking slowly in the oven as my stomach growled." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How was it last night?\" Marta called out as Noel and I glanced at each other curiously.\n\n\"Who do you mean?\" Noel called back with a wink as her mother poked her head out of the kitchen.\n\n\"Both of you, sillies.\" She laughed as we went into talk to her. Noel told her about the dinner she'd had with Nate and his roommates before she looked at me like the cat that swallowed the canary. \"And your night?\" Marta asked, trying to contain the laughter at the look on Noel's face.\n\n\"It was nice. We went to that Asian place in town and had a nice dinner,\" I replied as I felt them both staring at me. \"He's a good man.\"\n\n\"I'm sure that he is. One thing I will say is that Robert is a gorgeous man!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Marta told me as I smiled at her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He seemed pretty smitten with you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, I don't know about that,\" I told her as Noel smirked at me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He asked her out tonight as well. Does that sound like something a confident, older man would do if he was smitten?\" Noel challenged me as I rolled my eyes.\n\n\"Why, yes it does. Where are you going?\" Marta asked as she leaned on the counter.\n\n\"He mentioned the movies last night, but I'm not sure.\" I shrugged, feeling like a child. I had no idea what I was doing and last night still had me reeling.\n\n\"I don't know if you're ready for this, but I made a huge roast for dinner. He's invited to stay and eat before the movies,\" Marta offered as Noel clapped her hands.\n\n\"Oh, my goodness.\" I imagined sitting at the table with the two of them watching us and Keith interrogating Robert. He looked at me as a daughter now and he'd protect me as fiercely as he would Noel. \"No. We can't do that.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I got ready, dressing in some gray slacks that were perfect for dinner or the movies, paired with a lavender shirt that buttoned up over my curves." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was no time for a nap since the idea of him eating dinner here got me all worked up, so I freshened up my makeup and hoped for the best. I was just slipping my feet into some black flats when I heard the doorbell and groaned. There was no way that I would make it to the door before anyone else, so why bother trying?" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "hey can u write two sentences more sentences? like Mia Ford but Romance; Rating: X style. btw this is from middle of a story" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Molly's mouth was so willing as she pressed herself up against me, her pussy hot against my cock as I thrust against her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew that my jeans might give her the friction that she seemed to desire, and I moved a little to the left as she cried out my name. I kissed her neck as she wailed, tearing at my shirt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Not yet,\" I told her, grinding my hips against her as she froze against me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Molly jerked, moaning as I watched her come for me, her eyes wide and dazed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I moved to pull her pants down, gripping her underwear as well." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Once she was bare before me, I spread her legs and tasted her release hungrily, hearing her breathy moans. She was so sweet and the juices kept coming as I licked and sucked, my finger sliding inside of her as she whimpered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My cock was drilling a hole in my jeans but I wanted to make her come on my tongue. It was then that I would fuck her hard when she was recovering from it and tight as sin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Molly scratched my head with her nails, making me stroke my hand over my pants to offer some relief to myself. I told her to come and once she did, I slid my own pants down and ripped off my shirt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Can I take you bare again?\" I knew that I was clean for a fact and she felt so fucking good last night." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, just take me,\" Molly ordered as I lifted her shirt from her body, finding a thin camisole underneath." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She yanked that off as I leaned down to suck on a nipple, drawing her deep into my mouth as she spread her legs. I slid inside of her as she cried out, deciding to start this way, and ease her onto her knees." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Rob, God. You feel so good,\" she told me as I pressed my mouth to hers and moved even deeper." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'before' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I got her hot and ready before I told her to turn over, watching her eyes widen as she looked at me. Molly complied and I took in the sight of her juicy ass before I raised her to her knees, licking her pussy for a moment as she squirmed in front of me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I reached down to grasp a cheek tightly before I slid inside of her, hearing her groan at the angle. She dropped her face to the bed, offering me more of her as I gripped her hip tightly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Rob!\" Molly cried out as I let go of her ass, slapping it lightly as she jerked forward. The sound filled the room; hand to skin as her moan followed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I drove into her harder as she rocked against me, spanking Molly a little harder the second time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you like that?\" I asked her as she told me that she did, her voice trembling. \"Want it harder?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm so close,\" Molly sounded like she was weeping as I raised my hand, catching her skin again as I told her to come on my cock. She did, hot and hard as I held onto her and fucked her wildly until I was filling her, moaning her name." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Once I was empty, I pulled out slowly and dropped to my side as she fell to her stomach, breathing raggedly. \"What was that?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That is a taste of my world, Molly. I like to take things a little bit further. I think you liked it.\" I said as I stared at her, blinking at me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I did but it's hard to separate the feeling before with…Lance and with this. He was the same but different.\" Molly looked confused and I took a deep breath." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It is different. Molly, when I was younger, I think that I was a form of Lance. I met a woman and I was too new to this and inexperienced to handle the kind of relationship that I forced her into. It seemed to be okay for a couple of months, maybe more. We both liked it but I watched her start to fall apart before my eyes.\" I didn't want to give Molly details but needed to express what happened with Brittany; what I wanted to avoid with her." }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'towards' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She ended up in a facility towards the end though I wasn't entirely to blame. There were things beforehand that I didn't know about.\" I pulled Molly towards me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The point is, I want you to be comfortable with all of this. I don't want you to fear me like you did Lance. I am older now and I have more control. I want to be a team in this.\"\n\n\"Is she okay now?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Molly's eyes were wide as she stared at me. I didn't know since that was a few moves ago but I hoped that she was." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I moved away from there and let her be to heal. I honestly don't know,\" I admitted, moving closer to kiss her. \"I never want that again for anybody. I tried to hold back with you as long as possible, Molly. I did. Then you told me that you were ready and that you wanted me and you felt so fucking good. I just want to do this at your pace.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I liked what you did tonight. It was arousing to have you spank me like that and I'm curious as to what else you want. I'll be honest about everything, Rob but I want to be with you. I like the way you make me feel.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Molly pressed her lips to mine for a moment as I stroked her cheek." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I like all of that, too. I am in this only with you. I don't sleep with more than one woman at once,\" I promised her as she reached around my neck to press her body against mine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We made love again, her body under mine as I thrust deep inside of her without holding back. Molly rocked against me, wanting all of me and we came together before she pressed her face into my chest and breathed deeply." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Can I stay here?\" She asked as I smiled and stroked her damp hair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Of course.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She stayed that night and many others." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We pushed the boundaries together and she'd cry sometimes, agonized by memories while I held her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Other nights, she'd suggest something and we'd make it work together. I let go of some of my control, but I did ask her to call me when she was at the cafe and safely locked inside." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I figured if I didn't hear from her in a reasonable amount of time, I could rush down there and I had enlisted the help of the police force in making sure that both girls arrived." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was a small town and they got there in the dark, so it was slow enough then that they could have an escort.\n\nMolly split time between my house and Noel's place, but when she was there, I joined them a lot for dinner." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I met her parents at Thanksgiving and while they seemed a bit surprised at my age, I saw the twinkle in her mom's eyes when she looked at Molly. They were simple, kind people and I was soon laughing with her father as we talked easily together." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He wanted the best for his daughter and I was going to give that to her, even though we didn't tell them about the restraints tied to my bed and the chest of toys at the foot of it.\n\nMolly was open to new experiences in a comfortable, open situation and I loved watching her find new pleasures in sex at my hands." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew that I was falling for her early on and settled into the base on a permanent basis, even though I fixed all the issues there. I held back on telling her until the time was right though I wasn't sure when that was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I just enjoyed every day with her, falling asleep with her in my arms after I'd introduced her to something else or repeated something that she loved." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Molly was responsive and genuine with me every time we were together and I saw the expression on her face when she'd look shyly away from me.\n\nThe girls got the cafe figured out within a few months." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They closed on Mondays and got a few local high school girls in town to work for them. They trained them to run the front of the cafe while Noel focused on baking and their new chef that made lunch entrees." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Molly supervised the front and Noel adjusted her schedule for baking so they could get to work a little later in the mornings, offering them a little more freedom with their time outside of work.\n\nNate asked Noel to move in with him a year after I met Molly and they found a cute cottage on the edge of town." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Those two went through a lot being young and learning, and their fights got pretty epic sometimes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I saw that he loved her though, and he finally took the next step and proposed to her on Christmas, making all the women in the house cry. I looked at Keith as he wrapped an arm around his wife, seeing his eyes full of emotion as I kept looking towards Molly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was hugging Noel and crying and I swallowed the lump in her throat. I'd seen them grow closer over the last few years, only building on the time before that while I found Molly fit well into my life with my own friends on the base." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was always a private man and kept my circle small and tight, particularly since I moved a lot." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not now, though. I moved from the rental and bought a house that had an amazing view of the mountains from the front porch." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It had four bedrooms and three bathrooms, with a large backyard." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Use the word 'wanted' 2 time(s) - this is a strict requirement" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I made it clear that I was here to stay and even set a retirement date for when I turned fifty. It felt strange having a solid future as opposed to moving when I wanted to or needed to, but I wanted more to it than what I'd done so far." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wanted Molly to be a part of my life and with each night that we spent together, I knew that I wanted to make her more of a part of it.\n\nWe met friends at a bar every Friday since the other girls opened the cafe on Saturdays." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They were loved by the regulars as much as Noel and Molly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It gave all of us a chance to get out and relax, watch some music, or shoot pool." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Michael was dating a local girl now and she was sweet, fitting in well with the small group. I loved watching Molly, now confident and comfortable, socialize and dance with Noel as the local band played." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was beautiful and free of the pain that Lance caused her now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was my everything: my submissive when I wanted it and my best friend when I needed her. It was the most serious relationship I'd ever had and as slow as we were taking it, I knew that I loved her more than I was willing to say." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My friends saw it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her friends saw it. All the women in the cafe asked me when I was going to make an honest woman out of her when Molly wasn't looking." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was glad that we'd scaled down from the hot topic of the town to a long-term relationship that everyone admired." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was lucky to have Molly and I needed to tell her that in the right way." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I needed to sweep her off her feet in the best way." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I needed to show Molly how special she was." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was leaving the base one night, later than normal due to a problem with some upcoming classes. I was supposed to meet Molly for dinner at the place where we had our first date and of course I was running late now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Tonight was the night I was going to ask her to move in with me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was a step towards what I wanted, but Marta and Noel were going to help me with the rest of the process." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They knew her best after all.\n\nI was just pulling through the green light when I felt my car twist around, hearing the sound of an impact as my world turned upside down." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hit something and the car started moving violently, closing my eyes as I tried to breathe. Everything hurt and I took a ragged breath as Molly's face flashed through my mind." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Molly. I love you, Molly.\" Why had I only told her that a few times when I knew how true it was?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I heard the sounds of voices around me before my head dropped back and everything went black.\n\n[ Epilogue 1 ]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "[ Six months later ]\n\n[ Molly ]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I stood at the trees, waiting for my cue. The lilies were in my hand and I was beyond emotional as I glanced back at Noel." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She looked beautiful in her white wedding dress with the sweetheart neckline and long, flowing train." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was her wedding day and despite the planning nearly killing me, I was happy to see it happening before my eyes. It was a hard time for me but I wasn't selfish." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I told Noel to go ahead with her plans and that I was there for her.\n\nI heard the violin and I blew her a kiss before I walked out, turning left to walk towards Nate as he waited for his bride." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was March in Idaho and gorgeous today." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was a light breeze and I felt the curls blow around my head as I made my way down the aisle." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I saw Marta sitting in the front with my parents, sniffling as she clutched a tissue." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wasn't the only one and I moved my eyes forward to look at the men standing beside Nate, nervously shifting on their feet.\n\nRobert stared at me, his eyes intent on my face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He looked gorgeous in a black suit with a white shirt, blue tie blowing in the breeze." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It matched my dress and I smiled at him, taking my place to the left of the minister as I looked down the aisle.\n\nThe last few months had been so intense." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd gotten the call that Robert was in an accident on a night like any other." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He'd been hit by a drunk driver and his entire car was smashed up with his broken body inside of it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Keith and Marta took me to the hospital in the next town over right away and waited for news. Noel came with Nate and Michael even showed up to wait." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Robert was my life but I'd held that inside. He was my everything but I was moving along like we had forever and now life proved to me that we didn't." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marta sat down beside me and took my hand as we stared forward. I couldn't talk with my thoughts jumbled together the way they were." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I couldn't make sense of the regret and the pain that was eating me up inside. I couldn't stand the fear that held me back from committing myself to him completely." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I thought that I wouldn't have the chance at all." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I love him,\" I'd told her as she looked at me.\n\n\"He knows that,\" Marta assured me as I gazed at her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I haven't told him enough, Marta. I've held back.\" I felt tears slide down my cheeks as I dropped my head forward." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd dressed up for dinner, planning to tell him how much I cared for him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd given my body to him so willingly but held my heart back and tonight, I was done with that.\n\nLife might be done with us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Robert had some broken bones but I sobbed when I found out that he was going to be fine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His family was flying out and got to see him first after a rushed meeting with me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It wasn't what I would've chosen but I knew that we could make up for it later." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When I finally walked into the room, I dropped beside the bed and took his hand gently." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Molly,\" Robert gasped as he looked at me with tired eyes.\n\n\"I thought that I lost you,\" I had told him as I started to cry again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm here. They told me I'm going to be okay. Don't cry,\" he said as I shook my head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No, I want to cry. Damn it, Rob. I love you. I am in love with you and I never told you. That was the plan tonight and…\" I closed my eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Is it too late?\" All the emotions rushed through me and I squeezed his hand as I looked at him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Robert chuckled and shook his head before he winced. \"No. I have a confession to make as well.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I looked at him. \"I asked you to dinner tonight to make things official. I want you to move in with me for now and I had plans for later. I had a key in a box but it's in the car somewhere.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You were going to give me a key?\" I asked as he smiled." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah, I was. I will as soon as I can if you say yes.\" He stared into my eyes as I leaned forward to press as kiss to his lips." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes.\" His face was bruised and he looked awful, but he was mine, all mine.\n\nI came back to the present as Noel walked down the aisle on Keith's arm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She looked like an angel and I wiped the tear from my eye, trying to save the professional makeup job I'd sat through earlier." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This day was so perfect and I smiled down at the grass as I took a deep breath. Nate took her arm after he shook Keith's hand, standing before the minister as they said their written vows." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was a short ceremony but sweet and heartfelt and I think every woman was dabbing their eyes at the end.\n\nThe minister announced them and Nate held up her arm as he led her down the aisle to the cheers of the crowd." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They kept the kiss innocent but I knew that they were around the corner making out like high school students. I was with Noel when she bought the best kiss proof lipstick that money could buy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I smiled as Robert held out his hand, taking it as we walked past the crowd.\n\nLiving together was amazing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I loved the idea that I didn't have to leave apart from working; that we could make dinner every night and mess the sheets up before we fell asleep." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We still had dinner with Keith and Marta a lot and even went to Nate and Noel's as often as we could. I still worked with her but since we were best friends, I couldn't get enough time with her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I loved her and Nate together now that they'd worked through the harder parts." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rob got along with everyone and he and Keith were getting to be good friends." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They got together for games at the house and even at the corner bar sometimes when Marta and I were doing girl things." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nate joined them when we brought Noel along and it was like an extended family." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I loved it. My parents came out more and more and Dad started talking about moving to Mountain Home next year." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They might be here by the holidays.\n\n[ One year later ]" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I came home from the bakery on a Friday with a bag full of muffins for the weekend." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rob still loved them though he liked all the flavors now. I knew that he was planning on cooking something for dinner since it was so beautiful outside and I looked forward to relaxing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I pulled into the garage and parked, shutting off the engine of my car with a smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It ran great and I loved getting around on my own." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I slipped out of the driver's seat and headed into the house through the breezeway, calling out Rob's name." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The house was only lit with a few lights and I looked around for him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The patio was even darker, lit with candles placed around the table." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What?\" I asked as I set the bag down and walked outside. Rob had a screened in patio that we ate dinner in a lot and it was gorgeous tonight." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There were vases of light colored roses placed on the tables and it smelled beautiful, something like vanilla in addition to the fragrance of the flowers. \"Rob?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I called out as I looked around.\n\nHe didn't answer and I walked to the door to look into the backyard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was by the barbeque making something and I licked my lips at the sight of him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was more gorgeous every time I looked at him and I just stared for a few minutes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He must have felt my gaze because he turned towards me and grinned. \"Hey, baby.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Are you trying to burn down the house in here?\" I teased him as he shrugged and pulled something from the grill." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I thought we'd have a romantic dinner tonight. It's the weekend and you have it off, for a change.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He approached me with a big plate of meat and vegetables, leaning over to brush his lips against mine briefly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We finally had a weekend off. The girls were great at the cafe and since Noel baked for the next couple of days, we decided to relax." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There were no real plans yet but I could just stay in bed with Rob all weekend and be completely content. I watched as he went into the house to plate the food and carry it out to the patio." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I grabbed a bottle of wine from the fridge and opened it, pouring two glasses." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I joined him and took another look at the room as I placed the glasses on the table." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rob pulled my seat out for me, kissing me when I approached him. There was something different in this kiss, something more urgent and it took my breath away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was just melting into him when he pulled away, his eyes dark and hungry. \"Let's eat.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I licked my lips that were still tingling and nodded, taking my seat. The sun was starting to set and we could see it well from where we were, so I sat down and looked at my plate." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd fixed some salmon and grilled broccoli, along with a fresh salad. \"This looks so good.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I want to get some practice in for the summer. With your folks moving here and mine visiting, we'll be doing a lot of entertaining.\" He smiled and I gazed at him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I picked up my fork and broke off a piece of the fish, moaning as I tasted it. \"Good?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Amazing,\" I replied as I grinned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You can be my personal chef anytime, handsome.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'd like to be more than that,\" he said as I blinked at him, still chewing the fish." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What do you mean?\" I asked as I stared at him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rob cleared his throat and stood up slowly, moving to drop down before me. He stared into my eyes as he reached out to take my hands." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Molly, I have gone through my entire life at the speed of light. I was only focused on work and getting ahead to reach the end, and I never let anyone inside. I never thought that moving here would change all of that, but the morning I walked into the cafe and saw you…everything changed. I think I fell in love that day but I was so unsure. I didn't think we'd make it or that I was good enough for you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I sucked in my breath as he stayed there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Understanding was setting in and I felt my heart begin to pound. \"Will you give me the rest of your life so I can love you? Will you marry me?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Rob,\" I whispered as tears slid down my cheeks. \"Yes, I want to marry you so badly. I love you so much.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He stood up and pulled me into his arms tightly, holding me as I cried happily." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I was going to wait until after dinner and take you outside when the sun was just going down over the horizon, but I couldn't wait.\" I laughed and looked at him as he pressed a kiss to my lips." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He reached into the pocket of his slacks and revealed a beautiful ring with a delicate stone in the center and tiny diamonds on the band, taking my left-hand to slip it on." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's so pretty,\" I said, appreciating the candlelight as the ring shimmered in the warm glow. \"Thank you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Let's eat because we're going to Marta's for dessert. Just a random thing,\" he joked as I laughed and wrapped my arms around him.\n\n\"Everyone knew but me?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I guessed as he nodded and kissed me softly.\n\nWe stayed there for a long time and ate cold food, but it didn't matter." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was going to marry him and live my life with Rob, the man of my dreams.\n\n[ Hot Deleted Scene 1: The forest ]" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I walked through the forest with Rob in the morning, not up for a run." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd heard so much about what he called beautiful backyard and wanted to see it for myself, since I had the morning off." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It really was gorgeous and I looked over the meadow with a hundred types of wildflowers as he walked ahead of me, looking around." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rob turned and came back to me, pulling me into his arms for a deep kiss as I moaned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The sun was warm as it beat down on us and my skin responded to him easily, my thighs aching with need as his tongue swept against mine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"C'mere,\" he said as he walked backwards, kissing me again. I laughed and followed him through the trees to a soft blanket that was spread out on the ground and I realized why he dashed out of the house earlier, claiming that he was getting something out of the car." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rob walked right to the center of it and dropped down on his back, pulling me over him. I wore a skirt today since it was already so warm, and the hard ridge of his jeans brushed against my clit as I bit my lips." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Are we alone out here?\" I asked as he nodded." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've never seen anybody out here on any of my runs.\" He reached up and pulled my head down to kiss me firmly, his hand sliding into my hair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I've always thought of us out here, in nature doing what the animals do.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh, my God. You're terrible,\" I said before he kissed me again, claiming my mouth this time. His tongue slipped between my lips and I pressed against him and forgot all about where we were." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rob kissed me senseless and I felt him roll me onto my back, so he was between my legs and kissing my neck." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I spread my thighs open, feeling the breeze on my legs as the skirt rose." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rob drew my skin between his teeth as I cried out, thrusting my body up against him. I wanted him and I didn't care where we were." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rob unbuttoned my shirt and tugged the cup to my bra down, sucking a nipple into his mouth before he slid a hand between my legs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He moved aside the material to my underwear and stroked my clit as I fought the urge to scream. \"Rob,\" I moaned as he slid a finger inside of me and curled it, still teasing my swollen nub." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He knew that this would make me come and I dropped my head back.\n\nBirds chirped around us and I blinked as he dragged his finger against my sensitive spot." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, fuck. I was already so close to the edge and as he pressed my clit I shook with my release. Rob eased his finger out of me and told me to get on my knees, and I reached up for him to help me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Once I was positioned and ready for him, Rob smacked my ass making me jerk forward." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I cried out, losing all my inhibitions as he pressed his cock into me and gripped my hips. \"I am going to fuck you now, Molly.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "And fuck me he did, with hard strokes of his thick cock." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rob slammed into me as I pressed back, needing all of him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I tried to be quiet and keep in mind where we were but moans escaped my throat as I felt my body tightening around him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rob pulled me up, finding my hard nipple as he caressed it, still going so deep inside of me.\n\nI screamed as I came and he jerked one more time before filling me, my name a whisper on his lips." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We both tumbled down to the blanket, breathing heavily and recovering as he pulled me against him. \"You are the hottest woman I've ever seen, Molly. I love the way you give yourself to me anywhere I want you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You make it hard to say no,\" I said huskily, still feeling the aftershocks in my body." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I looked up through the tall trees and smiled at the sun and the feeling of being in his arms." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'being' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This was a totally new experience for me; being outside like this. I would have never considered it before but there was something so organic about being out here with Robert." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew that I was safe with him and a part of me never wanted to end this with him.\n\n[ Hot Deleted Scene 2: Restrained ]" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The night that Robert moved into his new house, he insisted that I stay that night with him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I didn't want to be anywhere else, despite the busy day." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He had plenty of help with family and friends from the base and it went smoothly, but there's always that element of sheer exhaustion once the sun goes down." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Robert grabbed some water and led me to the bedroom; a gorgeous, sprawling room that offered a beautiful view of the forest behind his house. It was similar to the one behind his rental, but this was his house." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hoped that someday it might be ours though I'd never say that.\n\nHe pulled me into his arms, kissing me hungrily as I pressed myself closer to him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Our lips crashed together in the dim light of the room from a single lamp, our tongues pressing together as I let out a low moan. \"I want to do something tonight, baby,\" Robert murmured to me as I blinked and looked at him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Take your clothes off and get on my bed.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I stepped away from him and removed my leggings and oversized t-shirt, tossing the bra and underwear in the pile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I glanced back and moved to the bed, set against the back wall and across from the fireplace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Robert watched me intently as he stripped off his own clothes, taking my breath away as he always did." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He walked over to the closet and grabbed a few things from it before coming over to me and moving beside me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Robert lifted my right arm, securing it to the iron with little wiggle room and then proceeded to do the same with the left arm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It wasn't like I hadn't been tied up before now but there was something different about this. There was an electricity in the air; an intensity." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Robert returned to the end of the bed and proceeded to spread my legs and tie my legs to either corner." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was new." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Robert looked over his handiwork and crawled between my legs, dragging something with him. I watched silently as he moved his mouth between my legs and licked slow and hard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I dropped my head back and cried out as he teased the sensitive bud that was always ready for him.\n\nRobert teased me, alternating between licks and sucking me deep into his mouth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, God. I jerked when I heard something vibrating and looked down to see him rubbing something blue against me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was hitting my clit and I felt the response everywhere in my body as I came. \"What is that?\"\n\n\"I did a little shopping for us. Did you know how many kinds of sex toys there are to stimulate your clit?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He asked as I breathed in deeply.\n\n\"Never…thought…about…it,\" I managed as he slid something inside of me, also vibrating and big." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Robert did just fine doing that on his own." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was something to be said about the way he fucked me with whatever he had though, along with the way that it stroked everything inside of me as the speed increased." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I let out a long cry as he pushed it in and out, waiting for me to beg for more. He loved having this little bit of control and I closed my eyes and rocked my hips against his hand. \"Fuck me, Rob.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He did so in earnest, pumping it in and out of me as I moved with him as best I could with the restraints. I was just ready to come again when I felt his body move against mine as he entered me. \"Molly, you feel so good,\" he told me as he lifted my exhausted legs to his shoulders. \"I love watching you come apart for me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Robert was hard and pulsing as he fucked me and I let go as my pussy gripped him, selfishly holding him inside of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He jerked one more time, filling me as we both moaned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Robert dropped beside me, his arm splayed across my stomach as we both breathed in. That was one hell of a welcome to his new, permanent house in Mountain Home." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, smelling our sex in the air as I smiled weakly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I hope you made a lot of purchases, Rob. I like the way you took me so hard and fast. I think it turned you on as much as it did me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You turn me on. It's the way you respond to me and how wet your pussy gets. It's how much you just give in and stop fighting it that way you wanted to in the beginning.\" I had been like that, so shy and uncertain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now I was an utter nympho and fine with it.\n\n[ Hot Deleted Scene 3: It's going to be forever ]" }, { "from": "human", "value": "We walked into the house after a boisterous and emotional celebration at Keith and Marta's." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was so sore from laughing and crying and felt Robert pull me against him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're going to be my wife, Molly. I've never fucking wanted that before you. I've never wanted forever the way that I do with you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stroked the ring on my finger gently as I smiled as I wrapped my arm over his.\n\nWe shut down the house and walked up the wide stairs to the bedroom where I kissed him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I pulled him against me and searched his mouth with my tongue, needing all my fiancé.\n\nMy fiancé. I was going to marry Rob." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My dream was coming true and I felt his arms slide around me as he pushed me slowly back towards the bed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We landed on it together, my legs wrapped around his body as he pressed into me and kissed me deeply." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I loved the celebration with family about this event; the hugs and the emotion." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But right now, I needed Rob in a different way." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I needed him inside of me now and we moved apart to strip in an unspoken agreement." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I pushed him down on the bed and he stared at me as I crawled over him. I leaned down to take his rigid cock into my mouth, sucking lightly as he groaned and slid a hand into my hair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I loved the taste of him, sweaty and salty at the tip where he was leaking out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My man was sexy, masculine and her made me wet as I continued to draw him into my mouth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I stroked my clit before moving up to kiss his chest and sink over his cock. Robert let out a guttural moan as I bit his nipple, holding me closer as I drew him into my mouth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I love you,\" he whispered as I whimpered and started to ride him. I wanted him deep inside and moved to nestle my face into his neck as I moved up and down, back and forth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was everywhere as we made love, his hands on me and cock inside but I felt it everywhere." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I felt it in my nipples, hard and pressed against him as I breathed him in." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I love you. You're everything to me,\" I murmured as I felt my body grip him and breathed out, gripping the pillows above his head. \"I'm going to come, Rob.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It moved slowly at first and then like a freight train, taking me over as I came hard, the feeling pulsing through my body.\n\nHe took a moment but rocked up inside of me as his heat joined mine, violent in its release as he cried my name." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I knew that I loved you when we met, Molly. I knew it when I kissed you the first time and felt your body wrapped around mine. You were a game changer from the start.\"\n\n\"I did, too. I've never felt the way I did with you the moment our eyes locked,\" I whispered as I felt the pulsing aftershocks through my body." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm so glad that you moved here.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I am, too. We're going to settle here, baby. This town, this house. We're going to have babies here and watch them grow up the best way possible.\" I smiled at the idea of being pregnant with his babies and watching them grow up." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Marta said the same thing tonight at our small party." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With Nate and Noel getting married soon, she was over the moon about having grand babies." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I knew that with her and Keith here as well as my parents, it would be a help." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I could have it all." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I felt him roll me to my back as the head of his erection pressed against me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Robert chuckled as he slid inside of me and filled me again, still slick with our come. He fucked me hard and slow; his lips on my ear, my jaw and then my lips." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I cried out as he took me without abandon and gripped his back, my claws digging into him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "[ Epilogue 2 ]\n\n[ Robert ]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I drove myself inside of my girl; my fiancée. I couldn't believe that she said yes, even though I had no doubt that she would." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I felt a wash of love, lust and a hundred other things.\n\nHer pussy was wet and hot, tight around my cock like it was the first time I was inside of her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd never forget that feeling and I thrust harder, needing to feel her wrapped around me.\n\nI used to live for work." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now that was just a way to keep this life that I had, and I was looking forward to everything else." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wanted to balance my life for a change and I knew that I'd have it all.\n\nI slid my arms under her arms, angling my body to slide against that spot that made her lose complete control and based on the sound that she made, I managed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Molly cried out and rocked against me as she came and I followed, filling her with my come as I pressed against her.\n\nI couldn't wait to knock her up." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I knew that we had to get married and a little more settled first, but I wanted kids with her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Three or four, whatever we could agree on.\n\nI finally stopped moving and settled over her for a moment, memorizing her hot, sweet skin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When I rolled to my side, I pulled her against me tightly and kissed her messy hair. \"I love you.\"\n\n\"I love you,\" she whispered against me as I felt her relax." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I played back all the times I'd felt Molly wrapped around me in my mind, hardening again as she giggled. She felt good from the start, so different than any other woman I'd ever been with." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Innocence was sexy on Molly and I loved taking that away from her little by little though I'd always see it in her face and eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you ever get enough?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Molly whispered as I shook my head, knowing that she felt it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Not of you,\" I assured her as I felt her hand slide down and wrap around my half-hard shaft and stroke.\n\n\"I can't believe that you want me,\" I heard her say, shock registering inside of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I can't believe that I do this to you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Only you do.\" I cupped her breast, pulling on her nipple as her grip tightened around me. Women had asked for a commitment from me in the past, a few times." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd been running from it but I also didn't want them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I didn't need them the way I did Molly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We ended up making love again before we fell asleep. Our bodies were pressed against each other as I pulled her leg around me and angled my way inside of her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "How the fuck was she always so tight and wet for me?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Molly groaned as I slid deep inside of her and I gripped her hips to move harder, faster." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I want you pregnant,\" I told her as I kept moving, hearing her gasp. 'I want to fuck a baby inside of you, Molly.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes,\" she cried out as she gripped my neck. \"I want that.\"\n\n[ We kept rocking together, hard and rough as we searched for a mutual release." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wanted to come with her and I gripped her ass. My fingers moving close to her tight hole as she cried out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Fuck, Molly.\" I grunted as I kept pushing. I was barely inside of her, the tip of my finger barely pressing into her ass as Molly shook and cried out my name ]" }, { "from": "human", "value": "That was next on my list and I smiled as I joined her, our voices rising together." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I finally found the meaning to my life.\n\n[ Twin Brothers ]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "[ Blurb ]\n\nTwo gorgeous twin brothers, one unsuspecting good girl!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Seems like everything will go south!\n\nBut, that's the BEST thing that ever happened to me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jane applies for a secretarial position in a shipping company, managed by two hot as hell bad boys!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Enter Brent and Brandon." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They are two HOT. SEXY. KINKY." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "ALPHAS.\n\nAnd they love to share!" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo, this is from the middle so some people might show up without backstory. write 8 sentences sentences like Mia Ford. genres: Romance; Rating: X. ideas: multiple points of view, nsfw, steamy" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was fresh from fucking Cecile when Brandon moved her to her back, plunging inside of her. He'd already come in her mouth just after she and I had come seconds apart. I watched her body rock with him, hungry for sex. She was the perfect woman for us and I ran a hand through my hair as I watched them fucking. I knew that we'd both had her individually at this point, a fact that didn't matter as I watched them right now. She loved this. Cecile had signed onto this and was taking our cocks like a pro.\n\nI couldn't thank my brother enough for this idea. I watched as she trembled beneath him before stumbling into the bathroom to clean up, staring at my bloodshot eyes in the mirror for a long moment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was still mid-morning and we had plenty of time left to get some real work done." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It worked out that all three of us enjoyed working some nights and we took the time to be alone in the building once a week or so.\n\nMom bought it, knowing how much Dad worked. What he did here at night was a far cry from what Brandon and I were doing, but she didn't have to know that. We seemed to want to fuck Cecile more than working anyway, and it just got hotter. Once we were both with her, it came naturally to all of us and she happily took one of us in her mouth while the other one filled her pussy each and every time.\n\nWhen she told me to fuck her in the ass one night, I felt myself thicken as I looked at my brother. He tossed me some lube as he and Cecile moved together on the couch, buried deep inside of her pussy as I stroked my cock with the lube. I slipped her cheeks apart, teasing her with my finger as I had before and hearing her groan as the tip slipped inside of her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Cecile was perfect." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I eased her tight entrance open and prepped her before I slipped my cock inside of her. Brandon and I both paused, pinning her between us for a moment to let her adjust. I slipped my free hand around to cup her breast, stroking her nipple as she let out a soft groan. I heard her begin to beg in a wavering voice as Brandon moved first and then me, taking her with a rhythm that made my cock so hard as she enveloped both of us with her body.\n\nIt was perfect as we moved in sync, filling her as she rocked with us. I knew that none of us would last long, pinching her tight nipple as she whimpered and arched her back as much as she could against me. Within a few more thrusts, I was filling her ass as she jerked and clutched Brandon's chest. I knew that she was coming as well and he was the last one as he stilled before thrusting inside of her roughly once or twice more." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We both pulled put slowly, as I fell back against the couch and she dropped over his body." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I took several deep breaths as I closed my eyes, thankful for the empty office. We tried to reserve the more hardcore sex for those times but sometimes it was too easy to give in to her hot little body.\n\nI could tell that the office was buzzing every time that one of us walked through the halls. I hoped that they hadn't put the pieces together but Cecile spent a lot of time in the office and we had reputations. There was still chatter in the papers about our womanizing, but it seemed to lessen now that we had such a sweet deal at work. There was still the occasional weekend at the bar and the easy women but we spent a lot of time at home with the family as well. Mom was bouncing back slowly, spending time with friends and even planning an Alaskan cruise with them. It was during Ashley's break and she asked if our sister wanted to join her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They both packed for their early September trip." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ashley went to a private school and her time off varied from the public schools in the area. It didn't hurt that she was a gifted student and could make up the week that she was taking on her own accord without any issues.\n\nWe took them to the airport, kissing them goodbye on that Saturday morning before we walked back to the car. We planned on picking Cecile up and heading over to the house in The Hamptons for a night and part of tomorrow. It was a bold move going out with her in public but well worth the risk as she walked out of the building with some luggage and sunglasses over her beautiful eyes. Cecile slipped into the back seat with the tinted windows and shook her hair out as she leaned forward for a kiss from each of us. I grinned and pulled out into traffic to head to the gorgeous mansion, looking forward to the time away from the city. We knew people there but the weekend was going to be a quiet one and we'd stay inside, going out to get food and keeping everything low key." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Cecile gasped as we pulled into the four-car garage, leaning forward as she touched Brandon's arm. \"This is beautiful.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The spacious brick home was one of the most beautiful homes on this stretch of beach, and it was at the end." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We had a lot of privacy here. I got out, followed by the other two and we managed to get the luggage into one of the large bedrooms before we gave her a tour. The house had ten bedrooms and five bathrooms, even though we only planned to use one of each this weekend. The kitchen was ready for cooking and stocked by staff every time we were coming down.\n\nDad had a grill in the back by the pool as well as anything we could need in the chef's kitchen, so there was no reason to leave the house at all. I understood that being seen with Cecile could be risky, once it was leaked that she was our assistant. Brandon had caught wind of some of the speculation around the building, causing us to tone it down for some while we were working.\n\nHere, we didn't have to do that." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Cecile dropped her dress right in front of us to slip on a tiny green bikini as I watched her intently." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That ass called to me now and she tossed us a look over her shoulder before telling us to get ready for the pool.\n\nBrandon chuckled as he dressed in his board shorts first before heading outside. The backyard was private enough, but he checked around before Cecile came out in large sunglasses. Brandon got started on some drinks in the blender as she slipped into the water, and I watched her nipples react to the cool water. I twitched and stepped into the pool myself, swimming over to her as she sat on the wide step and smiled at me. \"What are you doing?\" She teased me as I nudged the top aside to take a nipple into my mouth. I slipped a hand between her legs, stroking the material of the suit before slipping my fingers underneath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The water was cool but she was slick with need as I pumped two fingers inside of her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Cecile dropped her head back as Brandon brought us each a drink, taking in the action with an amused expression." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You couldn't wait, could you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He made a reprimanding noise as Cecile groaned and looked into his face. He sat beside her, his legs in the water as he played with her free nipple leisurely for a moment. Cecile was ready to blow and he leaned down to kiss her as she started to jerk against my hand as I thumbed her needy clit. She groaned against his tongue as her release rocked through her body and over my hand for a fleeting second before it disappeared into the water of the pool. Brandon continued to kiss her slowly as she recovered, offering her a drink as she pulled away.\n\nWe all swam around for a bit to cool off after the drive before resting on chaise lounges that were scattered along the edge. Cecile chose something in the shade to protect her pale skin while we took the full brunt of the sun. I missed Dad and the family as I let the peace take me over, but I needed this." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hoped that Mom and Ash were doing the same on their trip." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After a couple of hours of dozing, Brandon stretched as Cecile watched him closely. \"I am going to see about making something to eat.\" His voice was husky and I watched as they shared a glance before he strolled into the living room before smiling at me.\n\n\"Do you like it here?\" I asked her as she nodded lazily.\n\n\"I can see you boys growing up here, playing on the beach,\" she mused as I laughed.\n\n\"Every fucking second was spent out there. Mom always brought a nanny along just to get anything done.\" I smiled sadly at the memory and sipped the melting Pina colada." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We'll go later on, after we eat. It's a very private stretch of the beach and especially pretty at night, with the stars in the sky.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Great idea,\" she agreed with a soft laugh. \"The sun is not your friend when you have this skin.\"\n\nBrandon returned with something on a plate, lighting the charcoal before he placed the meat over the flame. He started the other grill and cooked what was I assumed his marinated veggies along with some Jerk chicken, judging from the scent of the food that was in the air. Cecile seemed to doze for a while as he was cooking, curled up in her oversized chair as I smiled at her.\n\nWe ate at the smaller bistro table, sipping more drinks as she moaned over the food. There was something about eating in this setting with the ocean waves just feet away as the salty wind blew over our skin. After the meal, we snacked on fresh fruit before Cecile insisted on cleaning up." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When the place was clean and the sun was going down, we made our way to the sand as I took in the ocean." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Cecile walked barefoot over to the water, bathed in the orange flow of the setting sun as I stared at her. Brandon walked to the edge of the water and they joined hands as their lips curled into smiles. I couldn't help but snap a picture with my phone, knowing that it was vague with the bright sunset, though still gorgeous.\n\nWe frolicked in the waves as the sky darkened further and Cecile smiled brightly as she ran away from us. We were all still in our suits and Brandon tackled her, gently bringing her down in the water as she laughed. The tide was rising and we'd been moving with it, so the waves just brushed against her. I was a few feet behind, taking a break and when I reached them I could hear her moaning about the sound of the ocean. Cecile was on her back with her legs spread as his hand teased her under the material of her bottoms." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could see that he was fucking her with his fingers and stopped to watch as I imagined the bed in the house. I was just waiting for her naked body and I adjusted myself as I watched my brother plunged harder inside of her as he spoke in a low voice.\n\n\"Brandon, yes. Yes!\" Her voice rose as she cried out and jerked against him, and I could tell that she was coming. I glanced up and down the beach, seeing nobody anywhere on it and focused on her nipples straining against the cloth of her top, wet with the water.\n\nWe both helped her up once she was done, and walked towards the house as she took ragged breaths. We walked into the house and locked the doors on the lower floor and headed upstairs where we showered. Cecile started on her own but both Brandon and I joined her as he stepped behind her and cupped her breasts. I reached down to stroke my cock as I watched him kiss her neck before I walked forward and dropped to my knees to taste her pussy with my tongue." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Even with the water dripping down her thighs, I could taste her release from earlier and I found her clit with my teeth, drawing it into my mouth as she whimpered." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I kept stroking myself as I looked up to see Brandon pinching her beautiful pink nipples as I tugged at her.\n\nCecile was a weak mess by the time we left the bathroom and carried her to the bed. I looked at Brandon and he nodded with understanding as he walked to the luggage for the soft binds that we'd bought to surprise her. I was kissing her as Brandon tied her arms to the headboard, making her eyes widen as she groaned. \"What's this?\"\n\n\"You're ours tonight,\" he told her as I kissed her again, tracing down her body with my hand as she shivered. I made my way down her neck before I reached for a condom, sliding it over my shaft as I looked down at her." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Produce 5 sentences as a continuation. Note: Story may reference established characters/events." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I pushed back from the desk, rubbing my temples. \"Now I know why Dad always had an assistant this time of year. It's so fucking busy.\" I glanced up at my brother who looked as tired as I felt. He nodded. \"Can we borrow someone else's for a while?\"\n\n\"They're trained for that manager and I don't want to do that. Let's get through the next couple of weeks and we'll get someone to clean everything up, okay?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We were working so much and so quickly that there would be a shit ton of spreadsheets to finalize. \"Let's make it a working situation this time.\"\n\n\"You didn't like the other ones?\" I challenged as Brent gazed at me.\n\n\"I did, but neither seemed to end well and now we're here working all goddamn day. I just want to be more responsible in the future.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He returned to his work on the computer and I stood to get some more coffee." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I made him a cup as well, knowing how tired he was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We were doing dinner out with Mom later tonight with some friends and I didn't know how I was going to get through that when all I wanted to do was sleep." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Christmas party had been a great event." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The food was good and everyone hit the open bar and enjoyed themselves, talking in groups and dancing once they felt their inhibitions slip. I realized just how beautiful the women on the staff were when they were dressed in their little cocktail dresses and wasted, their flirtations much more obvious when they got me alone. Fuck, it was hard to turn them away. I could easily take one down the hall and into a bathroom or storage closet and fuck her so fast, releasing the stress from work.\n\nI didn't. I knew where I was and even more than that, who I was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd never disrespect Mom that way after all the work that she put into this night." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It wasn't easy, though, and I looked at Brent as I set the coffee down in front of him. \"Here, Brent.\"\n\n\"Thanks,\" he smiled weakly at me as he leaned back. \"I should get someone in here to massage everyone. Wasn't that in a movie that Mom liked?\" I laughed, knowing which one he was thinking of.\n\n\"She said the same thing to Dad.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We shared a long glance and I looked at the clock. \"Want to get one before dinner?\"\n\n\"We have so much to do that I don't know if we should take an extra few hours on top of dinner,\" he replied thoughtfully as I sighed. \"I'll consider bringing someone in next week, since everyone has been working so hard. It would be a nice break.\"\n\nWe stayed in the office until five, leaving to take Mom and Ashley to the restaurant with our friends." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They asked Brandon and I everything about the company and we answered, faking enthusiasm through the exhaustion that we were both feeling. I didn't know how Dad did it year after year with a smile on his face, but it kept me going. There were times I thought he was crazy for giving us the run of the company so quickly but it was safe to assume that he thought he had years left with us.\n\nWe talked about Dad over the meal, sharing memories and laughter as I made sure that Mom was okay through it. She seemed to enjoy talking about it with everyone and I felt guilty for working so hard and not being home." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jesus, life was difficult." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I missed the days of travel and parties, where the hardest decision was what girl I was going to pick for the night." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We took them home just before ten, ready to drop." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Our day started at eight the following morning and I personally knew that I could sleep for a day right now. I didn't know just how Brent felt but it was probably similar. We hugged Mom and Ashley before heading upstairs and changing into something to sleep in, not talking at all.\n\nI told a friend I would meet them Saturday night, needing something other than the office in my world. They chose a popular nightclub and I pulled on some black slacks and a button up shirt as I thought about Brent back at the office." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He'd chosen to stay at work while I skipped out." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'headed' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mom was out with a friend and I left the house, taking one of the cars as I headed into Manhattan.\n\nThe club was crowded and brightly lit in the blue and pink lights all over the building. I got right in, knowing every bouncer in town and clapped Marvin on the shoulder as I headed towards the bar. The guys were there, drinking beer and chatting up some girls as I walked up, and they all greeted me with sarcasm and humor about being a working man now. I shook my head and ordered from the pretty bartender before I turned my attention to the girls gathered around." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hello, ladies. I'm Brandon.\"\n\nThe night passed with dances and drinking as I let myself relax. There was a lot of women there tonight and I found myself off in the corner making out with a platinum blonde with great tits. She said that she was a paralegal assistant when we were dancing but that thought skipped my mind as her tongue slipped into my mouth, igniting my desire for her touch.\n\nWe made plans to leave and go to her place, and I sent a quick text to friends telling them I was leaving." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I needed a night with a woman in her room, reminding myself what sex was since we lost Veronica." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I couldn't believe that I hadn't touched anyone since then and we walked down the street to an impressive brownstone before she unlocked the door and led me into a large foyer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I locked my lips back on hers and pressed her hard against the wall before kissing her neck and asking where her room was.\n\nBrittany led me down a hallway and through a door, and I glanced around to see a big bed in a very lavender room. Jesus, it was girly in here but I looked back at the girl lifting off her dress and decided that I could get over it quickly. She had a body to die for. I stepped forward, unbuttoning my shirt, and letting it slip from my shoulders as her bright blue eyes shimmered with desire." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're so hot,\" Brittany breathed out as I reached forward to unclasp her bra before kissing her deeply." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We stumbled back to the bed where I kissed her lips senselessly before moving down her neck. Brittany gasped and clawed at me while I teased her, pushing my leg against her core. Fuck, she was so wet.\n\nI sucked her nipple hard as she screamed for more, holding my head in place. I moved down her flat abdomen, slipping off the barely there thong before licking her glistening pussy gently." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She ripped my clothes off after I made her come and her mouth was locked around my needy cock before I could blink. I slipped my hands into her thick hair and fought the urge to fuck her mouth.\n\nI took her from behind, slapping her ass in between hard thrusts as Brittany cried out my name. She wasn't as tight as I liked but it was better than the times I'd used my hand recently when I wasn't too tired. I pumped into her, feeling her come before I shot deep into the condom that sheathed me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I dropped on the bed beside her and looked around the room again. It was the epitome of feminine and I took a deep breath. \"You felt great, baby.\" I fed her the words that I knew girls liked, though I wasn't lying. Not entirely. She did feel great but I knew I'd never see her again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That point hit me in the gut when I dressed and left after a second round, feeling her behind me in the hallway as I headed towards the living room. It was brightly lit and I glanced in, freezing as Brittany bumped into me. One of the assistants was sitting there with a couple other girls and her dark brow raised at the sight of me. \"Mr. Moyen,\" she said slowly as I ran a hand through my hair.\n\n\"You know him?\" Brittany asked behind me as the girl laughed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He owns the company that I work for, Bri,\" she replied as I felt my skin heat up. The sex had not been quiet and I wondered how much they heard. I wondered how much talk there would be Monday about my sexual prowess after working on taming the rumors. Jesus, this wasn't good.\n\n\"You own a company?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Brittany asked as her arms slipped around my waist. Great. I didn't tell her that on purpose so I could avoid her being clingy, since she seemed to think I was just a guy that worked for a shipping company. We didn't talk that much before coming here, fueled by alcohol and lust.\n\n\"Yes,\" I replied shortly as I stepped out of her embrace. I turned to look at her and forced a smile." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'closed' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thank you, Brittany. It was a great night.\" I kissed her cheek chastely and headed towards the door, needing to be out of the line of vision of all the mouthy girls currently staring at me.\n\nI walked down the empty street to the club to retrieve my car and head home, shocked into sobriety over the night's events. The club was long closed and I slipped into the sports car and let it warm up for a moment as I closed my eyes. \"Fuck. Why did she have to live there?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd enjoyed all that Brittany had to offer and I didn't realize that she even had a roommate that entire time. Maybe I should talk to women before fucking them.\n\nI headed home, hoping that it wasn't a total disaster at work. It wasn't like I slept with one of my employees and I was entirely unaware of the hot brunette's name, much less the fact that she lived there. I didn't do anything wrong but based on the looks on the faces in that living room, their tongues were wagging." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'brent' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Brent was watching television in the living room, catching up on some sports as I gave him a curious look. \"Why are you up?\"\n\n\"I think I'm too tired to sleep like a normal person and I also gave everyone tomorrow off. We all need some rest,\" he replied as he tore his gaze away from the screen to look at me. \"Have fun?\"\n\n\"Shit, Brent. I went home with a girl and her roommate works for us.\" I dropped onto the couch, knowing that nobody else was up right now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was too late." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Bran, did you do her as well?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He asked, irritation in his voice.\n\n\"Fuck, no. I came out to leave and she was sitting in the living room. She didn't say that she lived there but I gathered as much. There was a group of them on the couch and I expect some gossip.\"\n\n\"It would be worse if you slept with her too, so don't worry about it. It'll die down if it starts at all. Did they hear you guys or something?\" He asked as I smirked. \"That bad?\"\n\n\"She was vocal. I was vocal. End of story.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I stretched and looked at him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Get some rest, buddy.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'almost' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Brunch at noon tomorrow with Mom and Ash,\" Brent told me as I almost groaned. \"Christmas is next Friday so the rush is almost over.\"\n\n\"Yeah, I hope so,\" I told him as I headed upstairs for some sleep. I woke up in time to shower and head downstairs to take them to eat, catching up with Mom since it felt like I never saw her. Ashley spoke about school and new boyfriend as I gave Brent a dark look." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was too young for that shit and I was going to meet this guy as soon as I could.\n\nWe took them home after a couple of hours and I took a nap, since I had the day off and all. I didn't want to go out again tonight so sleep sounded like a great plan, and Mom told me to come down for some soup later if I got hungry. She'd thanked us for working so hard at the end of brunch, hugging us both tightly before Brent drove us all back to the house.\n\nI woke up in my dark room, seeing my phone lit up on the table beside it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I blinked and yawned before reaching for it, seeing a text from one of the regulars." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew that I wasn't going anywhere tonight and sent a text back responding to that.\n\nI decided that I felt like forty-two more than I did twenty-two right now as I rolled back over and sighed. I hoped that things would slow down after the holidays and I could find some of my old life again." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's continue this chapter fragment. Characters may appear without introduction. Write 12 sentences sentences like Mia Ford. Genres: Romance; Rating: X. Elements: multiple points of view, nsfw, steamy" }, { "from": "human", "value": "We dragged ourselves in the following morning and grabbed coffee at the small stand just outside the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I had the idea to grab a cafe mocha for Jane, since girls seemed to like those kinds of drinks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I added it to the order, shrugging when Brent gave me a curious look." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's a nice thing to do,\" I defended my action as he raised an eyebrow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I told Brent not to entertain any ideas about Jane, but she was gorgeous in a much different way than Cecile and Veronica was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They were experienced and oozed sensuality, particularly Veronica." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was as free a woman as any that I'd ever met and that was saying a lot.\n\nJane was the sweet, country girl and I had half a mind to think she was still a virgin. I didn't doubt that men hit on her all the time with those eyes and her curvy body, but Jane didn't seem to be the one-night-stand kind of girl. That made her a great assistant for us but I didn't like the fact that I was attracted to her, as well as my brother.\n\nI carried the coffee into the elevator and smiled at her when she glanced up at me. \"I brought you a coffee,\" I offered as she smiled widely. \"I hope you like mochas.\"\n\n\"I do. They're my favorite. Thank you.\" A flush spread over her cheeks as I observed her and Brandon walked up behind me.\n\n\"You're welcome to work in the office today if you'd like.\" He offered with a grin as I glanced back at him.\n\n\"Sure. I can ask questions that way since I hit a few snags yesterday.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She grinned and we walked inside of the office as she gathered her stuff together. We took our seats and she came to sit at the smaller desk with her coffee in hand, filling the air with the scent of chocolate in addition to our strong brew.\n\n\"This was your father's office?\" Jane asked hesitantly as we worked and I glanced at Brandon.\n\n\"It was. Hence the family pictures that we left up. It makes me think about him.\" I smiled as I glanced around.\n\n\"It's a great space,\" she offered as I nodded. \"Did you come here as kids?\"\n\n\"Here and there. Once we got older, other things distracted us,\" Brandon told her with a smirk on his face. She looked at him and frowned for a moment as I watched the wheels turning in her head. It would be easy to google us and see our story, something I wouldn't be surprised about at all. People did it all the time." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Use the word 'looked' 2 time(s) - this is a strict requirement" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Jane returned to her work, entering order after order with a few pauses as she figured something out. She'd think deeply about what she needed to do and smile brightly when she figured it out. I sensed that she was an independent woman hidden in a sweet southern girl and it turned me on more. I was seeing a couple of girls when I could, but nobody special and I craved a girl with a heart and a mind.\n\nWait…what? Was the innocent assistant more appealing to me than the past two?\n\nWe worked through the morning, and she got us all some more coffee for the break before we got back into that. We asked her questions, and she spoke lovingly of her father and other family members that were gone now. She talked about Tennessee, admitting that she lived in a smaller town than she first said.\n\nJust after twelve, there was a tap at the door and our mother walked into the room. We looked at her as she looked around the space with emotional eyes for a moment before they took in the three of us. \"Oh, hello there.\" She walked right over to Jane and offered her hand, introducing herself.\n\n\"It's nice to meet you, Ma'am.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to seamlessly include 'I moved here from Tennessee about four years ago. I came with a company that sadly closed, and I was lucky enough to hear about this position.' in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Jane smiled brightly as she shook her hand. \"I'm Jane Drury and I just started as their assistant. It was kind of being in the right place at the right time.\"\n\n\"They didn't mention another assistant. It's wonderful to meet you. Where are you from?\" Mom asked her and I could see her tucking Jane under her wing and taking care of her already.\n\n\"I moved here from Tennessee about four years ago. I came with a company that sadly closed, and I was lucky enough to hear about this position.\" She glanced at us with a flush on her face as Brandon leaned back.\n\n\"She's coming to lunch with us,\" he said under his breath as I nodded.\n\nThe four of us left about fifteen minutes later, with Mom leading Jane ahead of us as she walked towards her favorite Thai place. We watched them bond as they chatted and Brandon let his eyes roam over Jane's body. \"I don't know if this is good or not, Brent. Mom is obviously crazy about her and she's going to be at our house for Christmas with that beautiful smile.\"\n\n\"I know. I know,\" I assured him as Mom turned towards the restaurant, at which point I stepped forward to open the door for them. Mom smiled at me as she and Jane ducked inside while Brandon slipped past me with his obnoxious laugh." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I followed them to a table in the corner and sat beside Jane as Brandon sat by Mom." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We ordered and sipped water as Mom brought up Christmas and asked if Jane had plans.\n\n\"My mama is in town. We were just going to have a small dinner at my apartment,\" Jane replied as I watched Mom shake her head slowly.\n\n\"Oh, honey. We're having a big feast at our house with lots of family, and you're both welcome to come on over. It's just the two of you?\" She asked as Jane nodded.\n\n\"Most of the others have passed away.\" She frowned when she realized what she said and pressed her lips together. \"I'm sorry for your loss, Mrs. Moyen.\"\n\n\"It's Brenda, Jane. Thank you. It's been a few months but this time of year, and the first one since he passed…it's a lot to take in. I am filling my house with people and holiday cheer to remind me of holidays past.\" Mom smiled.\n\n\"I…I can mention it to my Mama and see what she says. That sounds…incredible.\" Jane smiled as she glanced at me. \"Do you guys mind? I don't know if you want your assistant hanging around on the holidays.\" Jane said slowly as I grinned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hated the idea for reasons that I'd never admit to but I wanted to make Mom happy.\n\n\"No, not at all. It'll be a crazy afternoon,\" I assured her as she smiled gratefully. \"I might want to go to your place for some quiet time.\" I winked at Mom as she narrowed her eyes playfully at me, making Brandon laugh.\n\nWe enjoyed lunch and it was good to see Mom smiling so much. She came back into the building with us and chatted with people as we headed back to our office. Jane watched as she came inside and giggled. \"Your mom is too sweet.\"\n\n\"She likes you. Over the years, she's taken in a lot of the staff as family and vice-versa,\" Brandon told her as he looked at me. We talked about the upcoming holiday and we told her about some of the more eccentric family members and a couple of the wild kids that would be tearing around the place. Jane laughed and sent in an order as she mused that her mom might enjoy it. She was alone in Tennessee apart from some friends and Jane was trying to talk her into moving here." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Jane told us about the holidays when her family was still around and how festive they were. They went caroling around the town and looked at Christmas lights as a big group on a planned night. There was coffee and hot chocolate at the local shop with treats for the kids. Emotion played across her face as she spoke and I knew why Mom invited her to come to our house now. Mom could see that she needed it at some point today.\n\nWe left at five, since everyone decided as a group that it was the week of Christmas and we all deserved it. That wasn't a direct order from Brandon or me but we agreed. Tomorrow there was a catered lunch and gift exchange for those that signed up. Dad always used to enjoy them and I felt sad as I shut the light off to go home. He'd never see one again and in all the rush of taking over, neither my brother or I signed up for it.\n\nWe talked as we left, going to a shop after we saw that Jane made it to the bus safely. It was a coffee shop on the way home and we bought gift cards for everyone, enough to where they could buy several coffees." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We grinned as the cute girl behind the counter helped us to get them into festive envelopes as she batted her eyelashes at us a few times, trying to ask us out with the gentle hint that she was done with her shift soon." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I politely thanked her, cutting Brandon's question off as she handed us the red bag of cards with a wistful smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She wanted a sandwich, Brent.\" Brandon told me as I rolled my eyes.\n\n\"She was eighteen if that.\" I got into the car and started the engine.\n\n\"Didn't you go through a series of coffee house girls for a while?\" Brandon reminded me as I chuckled. I had but that was before…before I was running a company and responsible for my family. That seemed like a long time ago.\n\nWe went home and left the bag in the SUV as we walked inside. There was some chili in the kitchen and we fixed bowls of it with the thick bread fresh from the over, joining Mom and Ashley at the table. Mom told her about our sweet, new assistant as Ashley looked at us with an eyebrow raised. \"You couldn't get a middle-aged woman or even a guy, could you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her voice was sarcastic as Brandon tossed a chunk of bread her way." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 13 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ashley seemed sullener by the day lately and I knew it was the upcoming holiday. Out of the four of us, they had a special bond that should have never been broken.\n\n\"It was opportunity. We took it,\" I replied as she rolled her eyes. \"Mom invited her to Christmas.\"\n\n\"There will be a lot of people here, so it won't make that much of a difference,\" Ashley spoke slowly, her tone saying that a million people wouldn't replace Dad. She was right, though we wanted Mom to have her day. Mom gave her a long, sad look as she stirred her chili before taking a bite.\n\nWe all went to bed later that night, Brent and I readying ourselves for two more days at the office before having some time off. We were looking forward to it after working so much. Tomorrow would be casual with the lunch, since it leads people to relax a little more and hang out together. Dad didn't mind and neither did we. The staff was great since we took over, helping us in so many ways. We wanted them to have some fun today." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Build on the story like Mia Ford, keeping consistent with any established elements." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I dressed the next morning in dark jeans and a green Henley for breakfast, knowing that people were already arriving." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We'd had a small family night last night, opening gifts and just being together." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mom was emotional but she held the tears at bay for the most part.\n\nI knew that today was going to be busy and distracting, thinking of Mom as I ran a hand through my hair. It was longer than I preferred but I would deal with it later as I thought about Jane arriving in a few hours. Something had changed between her and us; both Brent and me. With other girls, it wasn't as intimidating but I didn't think that she could handle us both. I didn't think she could handle one of us with her glaring innocence, but she was beautiful and attracted to both of us.\n\nI knew that we'd be busy with all the guests and I wouldn't have too much time alone with her, but she was going to be here. I was curious to meet Jane's mother and see if they looked alike, or if she might take after her father more. I wondered if her sweet nature was more like her mom and I grinned at the impending arrival. I slipped my feet into some black socks and headed downstairs, insisting on comfort over formality." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I didn't want to wear a suit all day with uncomfortable shoes, so I got away with this for now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I dressed more for dinner later, something that Dad gave in to when we were young and argumentative.\n\nI headed down the stairs to find some aunts and cousins running around as Mom finished the breakfast casseroles. They were still in the oven and Ashely cooked some bacon and sausage on the stove, since we gave Monica the weekend off. She did a lot of the prep for us throughout the week. I went in and poured some coffee, offering to help as Brandon walked in dressed like me. The difference was that his Henley was a darker red, and Mom smiled at us. \"Toast would be great,\" she said before I grabbed some bread and started sliding it into the toaster. Brandon got his own coffee and we got all the food together and set up buffet style on the counter.\n\nI felt the absence of Dad at the table as we started to pray. It wasn't a habit other than holidays, something left from Mom's strict Catholic upbringing but I listened closely today." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wondered if he knew that we missed him. I wondered if he could see us as I let the idea of the driver that killed him enjoying his holidays cross my mind briefly. He was facing some charges for driving drunk but we all knew that it wouldn't make up for our loss.\n\nThe kids lightened the mood, chattering about Santa and their presents as I watched them. There were two more sets of twins on my mom's side of the family and it always made me pity her and Dad as I took in how much fucking energy they had. I had to pour another cup of coffee to get whatever I had back from when I woke up this morning, as we sat with our uncles and talked about the company. Everyone was supportive of us taking over and there were pats on the back and hugs from everyone that arrived.\n\nI was on the back patio with my older cousin Nate when I glanced up to see dark curls and a wide smile. There was a woman that looked a lot like Jane standing beside her as Mom hugged them both and introduced them to the relatives that were all over the house at this point. Jane was wearing what looked like black slacks and a red blouse and her hair was loose around her shoulders as she shook someone's hand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Who is that? She's gorgeous.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "My eyes snapped back to Nate, fifteen and full or hormones as I remembered being that age." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Calm down, Romeo. She's our new assistant Jane and way too old for you,\" I told him as I ruffled his hair, making him step away from her and tell me to stop." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Damn, you hire girls that look like that?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He asked as I nearly choked on the beer that I was sipping." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He had no idea what shit we pulled at the office.\n\n\"It just worked out that way. I'm her boss, Nate. Chill out.\" He looked at me with wide brown eyes as I shook my head. \"I'm going to go say hello.\" I walked in and Jane looked up to see me as our eyes locked. She looked beautiful with a dark liner on her lids and a nude stain to her lips as she smiled and I stepped up to her. \"Jane. Merry Christmas,\" I told her as she introduced me to her beautiful mother, Chelsea. They both looked a little bit flustered and I knew that the crowd was intimidating.\n\n\"Your house is gorgeous,\" her mom told me as I smiled and thanked her.\n\n\"I think my place would fit into the kitchen,\" Jane quipped as I smiled at her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Brandon stepped into the kitchen and took in Jane with a hungry gaze before she noticed him, introducing her mom to him. The woman looked from him to me as she fanned herself.\n\n\"My word, you are handsome,\" she said as Mom laughed.\n\n\"They look just like their father,\" she said, sadness in her voice as Chelsea hugged her. They spoke softly to one another as Jane smiled and looked at us. We went outside to the balcony after she met everyone and her mom was caught up with the aunts and she sipped the glass of wine in her hand as she looked over the city.\n\n\"This is gorgeous. I can't imagine what it must look like at night,\" Jane said softly as the wind blew her hair into her face. I reached out and tucked it behind her ear as she stared at me for a moment, letting out her breath slowly. \"Brent…\"\n\n\"We would take care of you,\" I promised her as she frowned. \"You're something special, Jane.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're my supervisor. You guys are my bosses,\" she told me as the door behind is slid open." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What am I interrupting?\" Brandon asked smoothly as he moved to stand beside her, smiling crookedly. He looked at me and then back to her as he raised an eyebrow. \"What's going on?\"\n\nJane sighed and looked back over the buildings as she leaned forward. I knew that she was confused. Hell, I was, too. \"I am not the kind of girl you boys would like.\"\n\n\"Says who?\" Brandon challenged her as I groaned and she rested her head in her hands.\n\n\"Bran,\" I said as he moved close to her against the railing.\n\n\"You feel what's between us, Jane. I know you do.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I stood beside her, shame flooding me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jane was too sweet for this, too innocent." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I work for you. I'm…nothing can happen.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I heard the urgency in her voice as Brandon only moved closer, his eyes locked on hers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You say that now, Jane.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He brushed his lips against her cheek as something filled me, pressing close to her before he walked through the door that led to our room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She slumped forward and dropped her face into her hands.\n\n\"He's so damned straightforward,\" she mumbled before looking at me. \"Why? You have women at your feet everywhere you go. Why me?\" Her eyes narrowed as I swallowed thickly. \"Is it an assistant thing? Do you have to conquer all of them?\"\n\n\"What have you heard?\" I asked as she sighed.\n\n\"You had other girls. People say that you were sleeping with them and then poof. They were gone.\" She looked at me, long and hard. \"I need this job. I need the money. I can't risk that because you and Brandon are hot as hell, because this is my future. I can't lose my future just because of some attraction.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She turned and walked into the house, and I watched as she got some more wine before she disappeared into the living room. I wanted her more than I'd ever wanted anybody right now and I licked my lips before turning to look over the city again. The sun was setting and the lights were coming on, reminding me of Dad and his values and business sense. He would never let this happen; would have never let it happen with the other assistants. I knew that there was something more with Jane, a tug that was going to be hard as hell to ignore.\n\nWe had to, though. We had no choice.\n\nEveryone was called inside for dinner, plates loaded with food as voices rose in chatter. There were people seated at the long formal table, Jane and her mom squeezed in next to my mother as they laughed. I sat with my brother and some of the cousins in the kitchen as I kept an eye on Jane, Brandon following my gaze several times." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We looked at each other, expressing the need that we felt as well as the urgency to stay away from her. I was going to go off on him for what he did outside as soon as I had the chance, irritated at his bold move.\n\nJane skillfully avoided us all night, getting to know everyone else in the house as she made the rounds. I saw her talking with Ashley and her boyfriend, a tall dark-haired kid with a rogue look in his blue eyes. At least, that's what I saw. He sat close to her, his arm slung protectively around Ashley's shoulders as she talked closely with Jane, smiling as she seemed to draw comfort from her.\n\nEveryone left in groups, hugs and holiday wishes echoing through the house. I said goodbye on auto pilot, hugging everyone warmly as I accepted their well wishes. I kissed Chelsea's cheek and thanked her for coming before looking down at Jane's impassive face as she shuffled out of the door.\n\nI grabbed another beer and went upstairs, sitting on the bed as I looked out of the window." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Brandon stepped in and I didn't look at him before speaking. \"What the hell was that outside?\"\n\n\"I barely touched her,\" he said as I glared at him. \"After everything else we've done, that was nothing.\"\n\n\"We. Can't. Touch. Her.\" I said slowly as he looked at me. \"She said that she doesn't want that and I want to respect that. She isn't like the others, Bran.\"\n\n\"Have you seen the way that she looks at us? Those damn eyes make me want to kiss her senseless,\" he murmured as I shook my head. \"I kissed her cheek. That's it.\"\n\n\"That is where it ends. We have girls for that so use them. Not her. I don't want to fuck up her future,\" I said, ending the conversation with my tone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He stood for a moment before going to his own room and I leaned back against the pillows." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The day was hitting me as I took a long tug from my beer, feeling the emotions well up inside of me.\n\nThere was a part of me that felt like Jane would be good for the hurt side of me; that she would soothe me." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo, this is from the middle so some people might show up without backstory. write 8 sentences sentences like Mia Ford. genres: Romance; Rating: X. ideas: multiple points of view, nsfw, steamy" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was in over my head with these guys. Being with them made me feel sexy and confident and the night we danced together, I knew that I was going to give in. I knew that I had no willpower left at all, though I wasn't ready for it to go all the way quite yet.\n\nThe first night, I just kissed them and they touched me. I say just, but the feeling of being kissed by such charismatic guys, brothers no less, was intense. I could come just from my mouth against theirs, their styles different and skin warm under my hands.\n\nThe second night that we were together, I attacked Brent. I kissed him first, deepening it quickly as I felt Brandon's eyes on us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Brent moved us to the chair, lying under me as he kissed me again; I knew that I had no hope." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I found his shaft and pressed against it, finding the friction that I needed. Oh God, he felt so good as he held my hips and guided me, his rhythm matching the movement of our kiss. I rocked with him, needing the release that he promised as my clit burned with desire. I moved against him once, twice; crying out as I felt myself exploding. Brent slipped his hands into my hair and kissed me tenderly as I felt the waves pass through me. He was so gentle as I rode through the orgasm, stilling, and letting me control things.\n\nI crawled into bed with Brandon, snuggling against him as I kissed him. I knew that he was next and I promised him that it would be him making me orgasm the following night." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I wanted him to touch me where no man ever had before since Derrick left me before things progressed that far." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We had a lazy morning the following day, sipping coffee on the patio before I went downstairs to change for the tour the hotel set up for all of us as a break. I looked around as I walked into the room, wondering if I'd ever sleep in here. I knew that I didn't want to.\n\nWe went on a tour of some of the other beaches, having lunch in a seaside restaurant as a group. I struggled to not touch them as we sat at a table with a few others, trying to pay attention to the conversations around me as I smiled and laughed in the right places.\n\nWe got back on the bus to go to meet a boat that took us to a place called Deer Island, passing by a few other places along the way. It was beautiful, and I leaned against the railing, taking pictures, and mulling over what I was doing. This trip was so much more than I thought it would be as I approached the idea of having sex with one man, much less two." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Did it matter who it was? Was Brandon jealous that it was Brent that made me come first? Would this ever cause a problem between them?\n\nI was lost in thought as I felt someone come to stand beside me. \"Are you okay?\" Brent asked me as I glanced at him.\n\n\"Yes. Why do you ask?\" I replied as he tilted his head.\n\n\"This…is a lot. I know that it's not a typical situation for anyone, but you strike me as a rather innocent woman.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His voice was very soft and I looked over the water." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to seamlessly include 'Yes, I am. It might not be tonight or even tomorrow, but I want all of this. I just wonder what happens when we get home.' in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I am a virgin,\" I admitted as I felt his eyes on me.\n\n\"Are you sure about this?\" His voice was serious and I nodded slowly before giving him a quick look.\n\n\"Yes, I am. It might not be tonight or even tomorrow, but I want all of this. I just wonder what happens when we get home.\" I kept looking slowly around to make sure that we were alone, until Brandon joined us. We worked together and this was natural.\n\n\"We will figure that out as we go. This will stop wherever you want it to,\" Brent said as Brandon looked at us. We stayed there as the boat pulled into the island, stunned by the rough trip to the shore as I held my bag over my head and made my way through the water." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was a fun afternoon and we went back to the boat to return to the hotel." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We'd already decided to have dinner in the suite, just the three of us and I joined them on the elevator. We walked in together and I stretched as I felt the sunburn starting to sting. I always wore sunscreen but the water seemed to have washed it off a bit.\n\nBrent got the room service menu and we looked at it, deciding on a few dishes to share and a bottle of wine. Brandon looked at me and saw my red skin as he touched me gently. \"You should soak in a bath after dinner. Maybe it'll take the sting out of that.\"\n\nThey did have a beautiful tub.\n\nWe had dinner on the balcony and laughed as we ate, discussing the day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I drank two glasses of wine and took the third into the bathroom to draw up a nice bubble bath. I was inside of the water when they walked into the bathroom and sat down on either side of the tub, talking to me as I relaxed.\n\nI got out blushing as I grabbed a towel and wrapped it around my body. I had barely touched them all day and stepped over to Brandon, nuzzling his lips with mine as I felt lips on my neck. It made every nerve ending in my body react as Brandon deepened the kiss slowly. I lifted my arms to slide my hands into his hair, feeling the towel slide down my body before I could stop it. \"You're beautiful,\" Brent told me as I felt him tracing my back gently with his fingers. Brandon slipped a hand between us, and I felt him slide it up my stomach to capture one of my breasts in his hand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh. God." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He thumbed the nipple as our tongues collided together and I felt Brent take a gentle hold of the other one." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He tugged, and I pressed my thighs together as my pussy screamed with need. I never felt this before, and I knew that I'd give them everything I had to offer.\n\nThe odd embrace had continued for a while before I felt Brandon cup my ass and lift me against him. Excitement flooded me as he brought me to the bed and placed me on it, still damp from the bath. His rough voice told me to lay back against the pillows, and I did, all too aware of my nakedness on display. One of them kissed me slowly, distracting me as our tongues moved together quickly. I knew it was Brent by the way a hand tugged again at my pert nipple while another pair of hands parted my legs. \"Do you want to come?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Brandon asked me as I let out a moan and splayed my legs open for him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd used the toys at home to death and my own hand, and now I needed his touch.\n\nI felt him tracing my thigh, damp with desire. Brent worked my breast with his hand, careful with just enough force to send heat to my core. When a finger slid into my folds, I let out a pained cry as my body instantly reacted. He found my clit, swollen and needy and stroked it teasingly as I felt myself creep closer to the edge. The feeling of coming against Brent's cock was incredible, and I knew that this would be too, no clothes between us. \"You are so wet,\" Brandon told me as he circled my nub again, sliding a finger over my entrance.\n\nI came as he slid a finger inside of me, thumbing my clit at the same time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I screamed, rocking forward as Brent held me close." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He peppered me with soft kisses, and I moaned as I felt warm breath between my thighs. I looked down to see Brandon's eyes watching me as he covered me with his mouth, tracing me with his tongue. \"Brandon…oh God. I've never…\" my voice trailed off as he sucked me between his lips, focusing on my sensitive clit and bringing me to another orgasm as I cried out. I closed my eyes and breathed, feeling better than I ever had. This was wrong, me being involved with my supervisors but it felt so right. The guys moved to either side of me, and I felt a mouth cover my right nipple, working it with teeth and tongue before a hand slid down between my legs to touch me again. Oh, God. I was coming again, and I never wanted to stop as lips covered mine.\n\nWe woke up to the alarm, and I blinked in the dim room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Where was I? I felt the warmth surrounding me and looked to see Brent and Brandon sleeping beside me in boxers as everything came back to me. The conference." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mazatlán." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The way they made me feel when we were all together, making me blush and reach over Brent for the alarm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He opened one eye and gazed into my face for a long moment. \"Are you okay with what happened?\" His voice was soft in the quiet room as I pressed myself against him. I nodded. \"I won't…we won't go further if you don't want us to.\"\n\n\"I want to,\" I assured him as I pressed a soft kiss to his neck, hearing him moan softly. His skin was soft and smelled so masculine as he slid an arm around me. I kissed down his chest slowly with uncertainty as he whispered for me not to stop. My mind went over everything that happened between the three of us, and I thought about how turned on they both must be." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'stroked' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I circled his small nipple with my tongue as I slid my hand into his shorts, gripping him.\n\n\"Jane,\" he choked, sliding his hand down to cover mine. \"You don't have to.\"\n\n\"Guide me,\" I told him as he covered my hand and stroked me over him slowly. He was thick and long, making me wonder how this would ever fit inside of me. I stroked him, first gently and then hard, feeling his breath quicken before he jerked forward and warmth flooded our hands as he choked out my name.\n\nThe alarm went off again, and Brandon stirred as he rolled towards me. He wrapped me in his arms, feeling me pressed against Brent as his hand slid lazily down my side." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We stayed together every night, taking things just a little bit further every day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The last night is when I knew that I was ready since I'd fallen madly for these men in the short time that we'd known each other. They played my body skillfully before Brent slipped into me for the first time, slow and gentle so I could adjust to him. Brandon stroked my skin as I moaned and whimpered, pinching my nipple once I was ready for Brent to move. Before I went to sleep, I felt Brandon inside of me, gentle so he wouldn't hurt me. \"So wet. So tight. So fucking beautiful,\" he told me as he moved above me, kissing me gently. \"You're ours, Jane.\"\n\n\"Yours,\" I agreed as I came for him, feeling him still inside of me before jerking. I had no idea how this was going to work out yet, but I loved these men. I loved them both and as unconventional as that was, it was the truth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Brandon's words to me only assured me yet again that they felt the same." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We planned on a lot of nights at my apartment while we worked through this new situation and some private time in the office until we could sort through that, keeping our relationship under the radar.\n\nI landed in New York with a smile on my face, ready to take this on. I was ready to love these men the best that I could, showing them all my feelings along the way.\n\n[ Dirty Professor ]\n\nI am going to make her mine.\n\nEven if that means….going against my own self and breaking all rules.\n\nElena is sassy, s*xy, gorgeous….\n\nF*ck…she's everything a man could dream of." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But there's one problem." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 9 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She's my student.\n\nAnd f*cking her is against all rules.\n\nDo they make rules for professors too?\n\nApparently yes,\n\nBut who says you have to be compliant!\n\nYou can be non-compliant…as long as no one comes to know about it.\n\nIt's HARD for her and I really don't care about the rules.\n\nI am willing to take this relationship sh*t DEEP, really DEEP….\n\nThe question is how long can she hide that baby bump from me and from the world?" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Build on the story like Mia Ford, keeping consistent with any established elements." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I ripped off my long-sleeved shirt when we were in Liam's room, tossing it to the floor as he unhooked my pale, pink bra. His lips were on my nipples as he pushed me to the bed on my back, leaning over me. He was taller than I was, making this look uncomfortable to me for his back but I pushed the thought aside as he sucked on my pebbled skin. I never knew how sensitive I was here until Liam and I reached into his hair to hold me close to him. God, the way his lips and tongue teased me while his teeth dragged slowly across my skin was almost too much to bear. I knew what was coming and just what Liam did to me.\n\nHis hand wandered down my body and found my clit again. He never seemed to stop touching me, and I didn't want Liam to ever stop. He stroked and sucked, teased and tasted until I was begging him to fuck me. The words shocked me since I rarely cursed, but Liam brought something out on me that I couldn't control." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I want you from behind.\" I gulped and moved slowly to my stomach, feeling the butterflies inside of my stomach. I'd never done it this way, and I stilled, not sure what to do as I felt his lips on my back. \"Get on your knees. Spread your legs for me. Show me that gorgeous ass.\" Liam's voice was just above a whisper, and I could hear how much he wanted me in the words. I complied, hoping that I was doing all of this right as I listened to the tear of a wrapper and his body behind me.\n\nLiam had squeezed my ass before he pressed forward, entering me as I moaned. His fingers were spread over me as I felt fingers slide inside of my cheeks, stroking the skin there. Holy shit. What did this man do to me? He pulled back and fucked me harder this time, surprising me with the sensations from this angle." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It felt dirty and so fulfilling as I cried out and started to rock with him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We found a careless, harsh rhythm as we moved together. Our bodies slapped together as I felt myself get wetter, even closer to my orgasm. It was going to be different, but I wasn't sure how as I gathered the comforter into my fist and steeled myself for what was happening next.\n\nI came around him like always, but there was something harder about this one. I felt my body jerk back as something washed over Liam's cock and then down my legs. Huh. That was new. He groaned and fucked me harder a few times before he jerked and came with a cry of my name. It was intense, and I felt him grip my hip with one hand as he supported himself on the other, breathing against my skin as he rested gently on my back.\n\nI couldn't stay up any longer and slumped to my stomach as he followed. The bed was soaked underneath us and heat washed over me as I frowned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What happened? Was I bleeding?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I started to move before he spoke. \"I have never felt a woman squirt like that before. It was so fucking hot, Elena. I need to take you bare this way and feel it again.\" His voice was rough as he stroked my skin, still turned on and hard as I felt his lips on my skin.\n\n\"Squirt?\" I asked as he chuckled.\n\n\"It's a difficult thing to reach for some, but it is a great bonus to an orgasm, for all parties involved. I will try to make it happen again, trust me.\" I thought for a moment and remembered the mess under us.\n\n\"Your sheets, Liam,\" I murmured as he reached his hands around my waist and rested more weight against me.\n\n\"They can be washed. It didn't get through to the mattress. I'll wash them right now if you want, but I don't mind it. I think it's hot,\" Liam assured me as I laughed.\n\n\"Really? I feel like I wet the bed!!\" I said as I blushed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's similar, but I don't mind at all. Hold on,\" Liam told me as he pushed off the bed and left the room for a moment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I can put a towel down, so you're not right in it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I moved so he could arrange it, not wanting to change the bed sheets right now. I used the bathroom and cleaned up a bit before making my way back to the bed. It was covered with a thick, soft towel and I snuggled against Liam. \"Have you seen that a lot?\" I asked him, a little scared about talking about his past. I knew from the way he fucked me and his age that he had a lot more experience than I did.\n\n\"Squirting?\" Liam asked as I nodded. \"I have seen it a few times but it isn't common with women. I've never liked it as much as I did with you.\"\n\n\"How many women have you been with?\" I asked as he sighed softly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you really want to have this conversation, Elena?\" He asked me as he brushed his lips against my hair.\n\n\"Yes. I know that you're older with more experience, Liam.\" Did I?\n\n\"Yes, baby. You are just starting out, and you are one of the hottest women I've ever been with. I need you to know that,\" he said as I nodded and closed my eyes, ready for the blow that was about to come. I focused on his warm skin and the way that Liam made me feel so safe. \"I don't tally since I am not as an asshole, but there have been a few. I do mostly casual things with women, and it doesn't last with them. So, there has probably been fifty or maybe a little more. Like I said, I don't do it to brag. It just happens.\"\n\n\"Never with a student?\" I asked as he kissed my skin.\n\n\"No. I slept with another teacher once and realized that I should keep it away from work pretty quickly.\" I hated the idea of him with an older, better woman as I felt the jealousy flood me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That was a long time ago, Elena. A few years. I haven't wanted anyone on campus until I saw you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What happens when this goes wrong?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I asked him painfully as he pulled me closer to him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I thought about that a lot before ever doing this. I don't know. I suppose we just wait for the class to end if it happens before that,\" he replied, breaking my heart as I imagined being without him. \"Let's not talk about that, Elena. We're still fine. I still want this with you.\"\n\n\"Good. Me, too,\" I told Liam as I pressed back against him and smiled. I wanted to ask what would happen if it didn't end but I remained quiet. We stayed in bed until he went to get some cake and bring it to bed, where he smeared some of the sweet frosting over my nipple and sucked it off. That led to another session of hard sex with me on my back and my feet pressed against his shoulders as he took me fast and hard.\n\nI came with a scream, relieved that I didn't make a mess this time. Liam lowered my legs and dropped over me to kiss me, tasting of chocolate as our tongues moved together. We kissed and kept nibbling on the cake, sipping water in between everything. Liam told me to stay with him before he kissed me sweetly, making me realize that this was an ongoing thing for us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Did he have feelings for me or was it still just sex?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hated being young, sometimes. I wanted to be sure of what I was doing here and just in life, not wanting any horrible regrets later. I always focused on success and what others termed as happiness, but I felt that now. This was messy and so flawed, but I felt safe and content here in his arms.\n\nWe fell asleep without setting the alarm that night, but I woke up with a jerk and looked around to see that it was four o clock. Liam breathed evenly beside me as I sucked in my breath and considered what to do. I could go to sleep for another hour and a half, cuddled in his arms or just go home in the cold darkness. I didn't have class until noon and he just had office time so we could be here together for longer.\n\nFucking rules. I couldn't leave his place in the daylight in case someone recognized us. I wanted to make breakfast and walk around the city with Liam, talking about anything and everything." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He lived in such a great part of the city.\n\nLiam moved behind me, and I felt him harden against my ass. The man was always ready, and he murmured something as he pulled me against him. His hands were roaming over me, and I held my breath as Liam found all my favorite places with his fingertips. I took the next step and reached around to grip him in my hand, stroking him as he moaned. \"Need you, Elena.\"\n\nI rolled to my stomach as he slid his fingers over me, finding me wet and ready. I drew my knees underneath me, and he pushed a thick digit inside of me as I cried out his name. Oh, God. He removed his finger and replaced the void with his cock, making me realize that he didn't have a condom on. We'd talked about how safe he was before, and I was clean with my lack of partners. I slid back against him, claiming him as Liam rocked with me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Was he half asleep or did he just not care?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I didn't care as Liam took me with slow, hungry thrusts. I knew that he was feeling all of me and my wetness, loving the idea. Liam slipped hands over me, one on my hip and one on my breast, tugging a nipple as he moaned my name.\n\nWe came together, our heat mingling together as we moaned and rocked through the mutual release. Liam dropped over me, covering me with his heat as his cock kept him inside of me. I heard him sigh and smiled as I accepted that I was going to be here a while. I fell back asleep as Liam moved to his side, still holding me in his arms as I smiled happily.\n\nWe woke up to the sun shining through the window, and I felt Liam's arms tighten around me. I swallowed as he took a slow breath before asking me when my first class was. \"It's at noon,\" I replied as I kept my voice calm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I have time. I'll make sure that nobody sees me leave.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Liam reached around to cup my breast as I smiled, remembered what happened a few hours earlier. He stroked my nipple as I breathed in and his hand found my core. \"You're so wet, Elena.\" His voice was filled with wonder as I tried to remember if he was sleeping or not. \"Shit. Earlier…I took you bare, didn't I? I was dreaming, and it seemed like it all blended all together.\"\n\n\"You did,\" I replied as he slipped his fingers in me to feel our release blended together.\n\n\"Did you mind?\" He asked as he stroked my walls, making me close my eyes and sigh. I shook my head. \"You're on the pill, and we know that we're both clean.\" I nodded again, unable to speak as he parted my legs and teased me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I always seemed to wake up on my back, but I didn't mind that today at all." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I want to be inside of you again. Nothing between us. Can I?\"\n\n\"Of course,\" I replied as he moved over me, his lips at my neck as he pressed himself between my legs. He slipped inside, his voice rough as he said my name and I gripped his shoulders.\n\n\"Shit. This feels so good, Elena. So fucking good.\" He rocked a few times slowly, seeming to memorize it before I wrapped my legs around him and kissed his lips.\n\n\"We came together earlier,\" I told him as he started to fuck me harder.\n\n\"Why the fuck wasn't I fully awake for that?\" He groaned as he kept moving. Liam wanted to come, and he worked hard for that, breaking me down before he was ready as I cried out his name. \"So tight. Yes, baby. Yes.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He jerked and I felt him fill me with his heat for the second time that day as I whispered his name." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was something different in this. That much I knew, but I had no idea what it was." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "lets continue this story bit. 3 sentences more like Mia Ford would. Romance; Rating: X genre. characters might be established already" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I have been seeing a woman for a few months,\" I admitted as she looked down sadly. \"I didn't think we'd ever talk again, Elena. I kept telling myself to move forward, but she's never meant to me what you did.\"\n\n\"Do you want to be with her?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elena asked me as I reached out and cupped her face. I stared into her face as best I could in the light from the high lamp and licked my lips.\n\n\"Not more than you, Elena. She's never felt like you did but she is a kind person, and I thought that she deserved a bit of a chance. Now that I know this and I've seen you, I want you back more than anything.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I wanted to kiss her, but I knew that I needed to wait until it was over with Nora." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I wasn't that man now and even sleeping with other women while Elena and I were apart made me feel guilty." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I couldn't kiss her and feel good about myself. \"I am going to break things off with her immediately.\"\n\n\"Are you sure?\" She asked as I laughed softly." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include exactly 2 instance(s) of the word 'nodded'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could feel the heat between us drawing me to her and nodded.\n\n\"Positive. I am going to go do that, and I'll call you later. Is your number the same?\" Elena nodded as I stepped back to try and snap out of the fog that I was in." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I needed to focus on the moment, and I looked at her for a moment." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Text me when you get home. I'll call you later.\" There was a part of me that was worried that I wouldn't hear from her tonight, just like before.\n\n\"I will,\" Elena promised me as she turned to head towards the car." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Pregnancy suited her, and I watched her for a moment before getting into the jeep. I wondered if I should tell Nora that it was over in person or on the phone, turning down her road as the question answered itself. She deserved the best even if it was going to hurt her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I parked in the lot and jogged to her door, my heart racing in my chest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew that tonight was going to be different starting from the text in the morning and now everything was coming together. I took a moment to catch my breath before I knocked on it, hearing her call out across the living room. \"How is she? You were gone a while.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nora told me as she opened her door with a wide, worried smile. I looked her over for a moment, not ignorant to the short, clingy dress that she wore and what it suggested.\n\n\"Yeah, it did. We were talking for a while.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I walked inside, brushing past her as my body screamed that this felt wrong." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I went and sat down in the chair by myself, watching her frown as she sat on the couch across from me. \"I had a lot to get out over there.\" I didn't plan to tell her about Elena and talking to her, or about the baby." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I just needed to end this right now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Okay. What's going on, Liam?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nora asked, picking up on the vibe from me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You know I have that ex. Marie was friends with her, and they've talked a bit, so she came up in conversation tonight.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I glanced at Nora, seeing her face pale. \"I had already been thinking about her a lot and talking about her…it's not fair to be with you when my heart is still with her.\"\n\n\"Are you getting back together?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nora asked as she leaned forward, her hands clenched in her lap." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm not sure,\" I wasn't lying, but I knew more than I was letting on. \"I just need to figure my head out, and I don't want to hurt you while I do that.\"\n\n\"I knew that she was on your mind a lot. I didn't like to think about it because I was falling for you this entire time, but I was aware of it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nora looked out of the window as she spoke, pain in her pretty eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I am sorry, Nora. Maybe I should have thought about this in the beginning. You're a wonderful person though, and I wanted to try this.\" I leaned forward and looked at her, watching a small smile cross her lips.\n\n\"It was fun, Liam. I had a great time with you, but I want you happy.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nora told me, looking at the floor before she met my gaze." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You are going to find someone that adores you. I just couldn't be that man, and I'm sorry.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I told her as she nodded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nora pulled uncomfortably at the revealing dress." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Stop. You're gorgeous, Nora. I am just not the one.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I sure thought you were,\" she murmured as we both stood. I licked my lips and looked around the apartment, stocking the good memories here away before I thought about Elena and a sweet baby girl.\n\nI left after giving her a hug, walking towards my Jeep with a smile and hope for my future." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It isn't what I would have chosen, but I was excited now, thinking about moving Elena in and setting up a nursery in my place. Hell, I'd sell it and buy a house of that was what she wanted. I knew that she sent me a text when my phone vibrated in my pocket, but I didn't read it while I was talking to Nora." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was hurting her enough.\n\nI pulled it out now and read her words, calling her right back. \"I'm done. I'm ready. Can I come over?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What? We just spent hours talking, Liam.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Elena sounded surprised, and I tried to rein in my enthusiasm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, after months of no contact,\" I reminded her as I glanced at the apartment building in front of me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was right. \"I couldn't kiss you earlier, Elena. I wanted to be completely yours when I did that again, and I am.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Fine, then. Ginger is on a date so we can talk some more,\" Elena told me with a hint of something else in her voice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I remembered bits and pieces of what I'd heard about the hormones of pregnant women and my cock hardened at the thought of being inside of her again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She gave me the address, and I started the engine to head over." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I turned up the radio and sang along to the song, feeling like a weight was lifted off my shoulders." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I knew that having a baby in four months was not going to be easy on any level, but with Elena, I felt like I could do anything. Marie was already in love with the idea, and Ginger sounded like she was involved, along with her family. We could do this." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I heard the voice tell me to take a right at the next light and I followed the directions to the gated complex, using the code that Elena gave me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was a beautiful place, and I preferred it over the studio that she was staying at before." }, { "from": "human", "value": "These units were clearly expensive with all the amenities, and I wondered if Ginger was a trust fund baby." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I decided that it didn't matter if she was or not since she was helping my girl out and I respected her for that." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I found a parking place once I found the number of Elena's building, walking around until I found the unit. I tapped on the door, taking in the quiet around me before the door was unlocked and opened. Elena smiled as she looked at me, dressed in the same shirt and skirt from before." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I forgot to ask if you wanted anything on the way. Are you having any cravings right now?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Gin keeps the place stocked with everything, so I'm good right now. Thank you, though.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her smile was adorable, and she stepped aside to let me in. I walked in to see a small foyer that led to a spacious living room with a couple of couches and a fireplace against the main wall. That room led to a kitchen that looked like it was made for a chef and I let out a whistle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I like this much better than the studio,\" I told her as I looked back to see her rubbing her stomach gently with a warm look in her eyes. I kept staring at her, falling back in love with her all over again as I watched the mother of my child. Fuck, was I ever not in love with her?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's so nice. I am thankful that she let me move in here. It might be a bit small for the baby since there is just a smaller room for the nursery, but we're going to make it work.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elena glanced at me to see me staring at her as she blushed and looked at the floor. \"I think there's beer in the fridge. Would you like some?\"\n\n\"Sounds great,\" I told her as she walked to the kitchen and grabbed a couple of things from the fridge." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Elena returned with a bottle for me and juice for her, sitting down on the couch as she gave me an inviting glance. I took the beer from her, seeing that she'd opened it before I took a long sip.\n\n\"Thanks for coming over. I wasn't sure if you would want to after being with me all day.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She smiled as she twisted her bottle open and took a sip.\n\n\"I want to make up for every moment that I missed with you, Elena,\" I assured her as she looked at me with scared eyes for a moment.\n\n\"You're not scared about the baby?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required text (preserve exact wording): \"You look so damn beautiful carrying my baby, Elena. I can't stop looking at you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I was surprised. I won't lie. It's going to come fast, but we can do this,\" I said thoughtfully as I looked her over. \"You look so damn beautiful carrying my baby, Elena. I can't stop looking at you.\"\n\n\"I feel like I am gaining too much weight and my belly is really starting to get bigger,\" her voice was filled with laughter as she looked at me and I set the beer down and moved closer to her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had barely touched her at Marie's due to the situation with Nora, but I was free now. I reached out to touch her face, stroking her cheek with my finger as she stared into my eyes. I knew that she wanted me, but I couldn't just jump her right here and now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We needed to move at the pace that she was the most comfortable at.\n\n\"You are doing none of that. You look incredible,\" I said as I moved my face closer to hers. \"Can I kiss you, Elena?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes,\" she replied with an urgency in her voice as she moved to press her lips against mine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The kiss was hot and hungry from the start, and I reached my hand into her hair as our lips crashed together." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All the nights without her faded away from my memory as she parted her lips to allow my tongue entrance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We didn't forget the way we were together in the least as she moved closer, turning towards me as she slid onto my lap." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Maybe her pace was as fast as mine after all.\n\nThe time seemed to stop as I kissed her, getting to know her sweet mouth all over again. Her breasts pressed against me and I felt the small bump of her belly pressing against my stomach as I marveled in it all over again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was pregnant with my baby." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I slipped one hand over her thigh while the other remained wrapped around her head to keep her close to me." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mission: User starts, continue w/ ~11 sentences sentences. Context: May be mid-story. Themes: multiple points of view, nsfw, steamy" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I felt like I was pimping myself out, but it was for a good cause. My father was beside himself worrying with sleepless nights. Coughlin hadn't made any bold claims, but it was only a matter of time before he came knocking on the door.\n\nMy family heirloom was set to fall into enemy hands. I thought he was smug to ask me to have dinner with him. I couldn't shake this feeling of anticipation in the air. I'd gone out and found a knockoff original in flaming red. It slithered down my body like a second skin.\n\nI'd already called the taxi and it was waiting at the curb idling in neutral with the meter running. I grabbed my knee-length leather jacket from the back of the door. An unfinished masterpiece was covered with a cloth by the window where I found my inspiration." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The cityscape and my neighbors were my muses for my paintings." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🔍 Find a place to insert: \"Just tell me what you want. What is it going to take to make this go away? I don't mean to be curt, but this is my family we're talking about. My father has made his fair share of mistakes. I can't let him be ruined financially.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I turned the knob and opened it to face Coughlin in a grey trench coat. He breezed right past me and into the living room. He sat down with his eyes clearly ordering me to follow suit. I was about to protest, but I knew better than to argue.\n\n\"I've been thinking about this for the past few days. If I was only 20 years younger, I would seriously consider making a play for you myself. Family means the world to you. It's a trait that you don't find very often in today's generation. You have a kind heart.\" He was buttering me up for something and I was waiting for the other shoe to drop.\n\n\"Just tell me what you want. What is it going to take to make this go away? I don't mean to be curt, but this is my family we're talking about. My father has made his fair share of mistakes. I can't let him be ruined financially.\" Living beyond his means wasn't something I hadn't seen before.\n\n\"Jessica, a man is defined by what he decides on the spur of the moment. A child should never be in a position where the sins of the father are laid at their feet. With that being said, there is a way to give your father back his life.\" I was all ears until I heard the next few words coming out of his mouth.\n\nMy mouth started to drop and by the time he was finished I was stunned beyond words." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The world was crashing down around me and I had no control over it. Coughlin had articulated his position to the best of his ability. He wasn't asking me to kill somebody. There was nothing illegal and I breathed a sigh of relief despite his demands.\n\nMy apartment was an open concept with exposed piping and wood beams. I looked around and the investment was paying off.\n\nThis decision couldn't be made lightly over an empty stomach.\n\n\"It's not unreasonable, but you're going to have to give me time to think about it.\" I had heard through the rumor mill Coughlin wasn't a very patient man when it came to negotiations.\n\n\"I will give you until the end of the week. There is a time constraint. You're obviously a smart woman. This is the best deal you are going to get. There's no reason to bother your father with this foolishness. He already has more than enough on his mind.\" I saw a flicker of concern in his eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't keep secrets from my father.\" There were white lies made to prevent somebody from getting hurt.\n\n\"This arrangement has to be between the two of us. This isn't ideal. It would be nice if we could do this the old-fashioned way. In this age of convenience, everything is the quickest way to the finish line. I've never been a big believer in procrastinating.\" I wanted to get him to make some concessions, but I didn't know where to begin.\n\nThe family heirloom could stay in my possession. I wasn't sure this was the answer to all of my problems. The thrill of the evening was marred by his presence. Coughlin had come here with a purpose. His proposition wasn't easy to swallow.\n\n\"I understand the need for secrecy. I might have to bite the bullet and do this for my father's own good. He can't seem to help himself. The lure of the big payday is hard for him to ignore. We both know you set him up to fail that night. You waited for the right time to strike.\" He scooted forward with the leather of the chair squeaking in protest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm an opportunist. Business is built on knowing when your opponent is bluffing. Your father thought he was holding all the cards. It was nothing personal. I have no vendetta or grudge against your father. I watched you all evening. I know you were signaling your father. He shouldn't have used you like that.\" I felt relieved to have somebody to talk to about this.\n\n\"It wasn't like he put a gun to my head. The money was hard to walk away from. It's easy for somebody who has loads of it. The temptation of getting that piece of the pie can make people do some strange and interesting things. I wasn't expecting this. It's highly unusual, but there has been a precedent for this kind of thing.\" Living in sin had become a staple of my generation.\n\nWe didn't need the almighty piece of paper for any kind of commitment. Standing in front of our loved ones to declare our intention to spend the rest of our lives together was steeped in religion. I was happy to cohabitate with my significant other. It gave me the chance to learn those quirks that made me go mad in the middle of the night.\n\n\"I will sweeten the pot. I will take care of all of your student loans. You can start fresh without having the educational system with their hand out. I will even introduce you to a few art dealers. I've seen some of your creations. You have some raw potential. I'm not just saying that.\" He knew which buttons to push.\n\nThis was another instance where he was doing his due diligence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His life revolved around the art of the deal." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Personal or business…the results were still the same.\n\n\"You do drive a hard bargain. I will tentatively agree to your terms.\" We sealed the deal with a handshake.\n\nIt was legally binding, but there was going to be no paper trail in this negotiation.\n\nI heard the dripping from my faucet. It was something I had argued incessantly with the landlord about. I had even gone ahead and bought a book, but everything in plumbing was like speaking a different language.\n\n\"I'm glad you see it my way. The first test is a dinner party. I will send you over something appropriate to wear. You're going to be the Belle of the ball.\" He walked towards the door and stopped with his hand pressed up against it.\n\nI was young with my whole life ahead of me. This was a pothole with my path clearly marked in the art world." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was trying to convince myself this was going to work. I didn't have to give Sebastian something that was emotionally priceless. I could've called off the dinner, but I thought it was rude. Besides, I wanted to see him again and I didn't know why.\n\n\"I'm not going to fit in. They will see through me.\" He walked back and lifted my chin with my neck straining towards the ceiling.\n\n\"You are an unpolished gem looking for some validation. Acceptance doesn't come easy. I'm giving you a way to walk through the door.\" I was wasting my breath and this was nothing I planned.\n\n\"I've never aspired to be of highbrow society. I had no problem being the one looking in from the outside. I live modestly without the trappings of the finer things to get in the way." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Watching all of you in your ivory tower is a particularly interesting pastime." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I bring to life the faces you don't show the public." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include \"You're wasting your time, but it's your time to waste. I will be at the dinner party fashionably late. It will set the tone for the evening. I'm going to need some lessons. You can't throw me in with the sharks with the blood churning in the water.\" somewhere in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What do you see about me?\"\n\n\"I see the scared little boy inside you. You weren't born into this, but there's no way you're going to give it up without a fight. Once you have money there's no going back to eating Raman noodles. The root of all evil is in the dollar bill.\" I was waxing poetic knowing full well he was not going to see the underlying meaning of my statement.\n\n\"When you have more than you can spend it affords you opportunities of a lifetime. The value of a dollar is hard to assess. Having children comes with pitfalls. I remember the first time my son wrapped his hand around my little finger. I became a prisoner of his every whim. I wanted him to have the things I never did growing up.\" He was looking at me underneath the microscope and smiling.\n\n\"You're wasting your time, but it's your time to waste. I will be at the dinner party fashionably late. It will set the tone for the evening. I'm going to need some lessons. You can't throw me in with the sharks with the blood churning in the water.\" Everything depended on pulling this off.\n\n\"You have street smarts. It's not enough. You will come to the estate. Refinement for most of these socialites is something they were born with. I have a few favors I can call in to make it easier for you to swim with the sharks. They can be vipers with no filter. Don't underestimate them.\" Failure wasn't an option.\n\n\"I want to go on the record to say this is a very bad idea. Stepping into those shoes is going to put a target on my back. It won't take people long to uncover this sordid business.\" My life was an open book with many of the pages left unwritten." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 12 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We're going to reinvent the wheel together. I will backstop your identity leaving little doubt to your heritage. We're going to strip you of your old life in exchange for another.\" I didn't want to be some kind of trophy, but Coughlin was a man that wasn't used to anybody refusing him.\n\n\"It doesn't give us a lot of time. The window of opportunity is closing fast. I don't know how you plan to pull the wool over their eyes. How in the world are you going to pull this off? A man with money is a dangerous man.\" The one painful truth was that I owed my father more than I could ever pay back.\n\n\"I am a businessman looking for profitable opportunities. This building is one of the last holdouts in a development deal. Everybody has a price. I haven't found the owners, but I will.\" The heritage of the building went back to when it was a factory.\n\nThere was history in every piece of peeled paint coming off the walls. I could hear the sound of the sewing machines late at night. It was sacrilege to even think about bulldozing a footnote in history.\n\n\"I thought the name of the development company was familiar. It's one of your subsidiaries hidden under a cloak of legitimacy. I don't have to like you to work with you. I have someplace to be.\" Once he was gone, I was a fuming mad and looking for the first person to lash out at.\n\nMy dinner with the pompous Sebastian Cole was going to take an ugly turn." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mission: User starts, continue w/ ~11 sentences sentences. Context: May be mid-story. Themes: multiple points of view, nsfw, steamy" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It should have been the happiest moment of my life. The white dress hanging loosely down to the floor was like a noose around my neck. Marriage was final. The ball and chain were hard to wrestle away from after the priest declared us husband and wife.\n\nThe seamstress was making the necessary alterations. I could see my father in the mirror. He looked like he had aged 10-years. I wanted to say something to lighten the mood, but I couldn't think of one single thing to say.\n\n\"I don't want you to do this for me. I will find a way to pay Coughlin what I owe him. I don't know where he gets off asking you to marry his son. I know you have a mind of your own, but I insist you stop this foolishness.\" He wasn't feeble-minded, but it wasn't like I was a little girl asking for his permission.\n\nI had sworn him to secrecy.\n\n\"This is a small price to pay for your financial freedom.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It had been three days and I was constantly avoiding Sebastian's phone calls.\n\nI couldn't blame Sebastian for being increasingly upset. The tone of his voice had this commanding quality. Sebastian wasn't giving me room to breathe. He was suffocating me over one night of unadulterated bliss.\n\nI found myself lying in bed looking at the ceiling and reliving those moments one second at a time.\n\n\"There's another way. There's always another way. We just need to find it. Coughlin can be reasonable. Give me a chance to talk to him.\" It was a marriage of convenience to protect my father and give Coughlin's son a clean slate to his image.\n\nThey stood on the platform of being a family oriented company with wholesome values. Timothy had given the family a black eye by cavorting with a stripper. There was no accounting for good taste." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was their way of mitigating the damage." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The wedding was going to be an extravagant display for the world to see.\n\n\"He has made his position very clear.\" Coughlin didn't want a gold digger sticking her hands in his son's pocket.\n\n\"I don't know how to repay you for all that you have done for me. I could skip town, but it will mean always looking over my shoulder waiting for the other shoe to drop. I hate to see you unhappy.\" I was grieving for the relationship that could never be.\n\n\"You have been there for all of my milestones. It couldn't have been easy dealing with a little girl asking for her mother. I wasn't old enough to know the finality of death. You did your best and I can't fault you for that.\" He could have run from the responsibility, but he stuck around to raise me in his image.\n\n\"I haven't been the kind of father you deserve. What father would allow his daughter to walk down the aisle with no love in her eyes for the groom? I'm a selfish and despicable man to put you in this position.\" The big day was approaching and seeing my reflection in virginal white almost made me burst out laughing.\n\nThey claimed I was an idiot savant when it came to learning how to be a refined lady. I soaked everything up like a sponge." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was as if I was born to live a life of luxury." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I almost forgot how the man that was going to be standing at the end of the aisle was nothing more than window dressing.\n\n\"Don't beat yourself up over something beyond your control. I'm going into this with my eyes wide open. I could change my mind at the last minute, but I wouldn't count on it. I'm doing this on the condition you follow through with your treatment. Don't shake your fist in defiance when it comes to gamblers anonymous.\" His guilt was going to help make him a productive member of society.\n\n\"I see no reason why I can't start with baby steps. It's going to be a long road to recovery. I can't promise not to slip off the wagon. I will think of your sacrifice and know that you are depending on me to clean up my act.\" He hated himself and that was going to give him the courage to try something foreign to him.\n\nThe shop was a classy boutique catering to the elite. Coughlin was fitting the bill and using word of mouth to make sure the church was going to be standing room only. It was a public relations nightmare. They had devised the perfect way to sweep the bad press under the rug. It was all about the next big story. This wedding was it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Father, I want the best for you. You're stronger than you give yourself credit for. Don't let people say that you can't do it. Never let their whispers of discouragement have any power over you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There were times that I got the impression I was the parent in this equation.\n\n\"A father should be taking care of his daughter and not the other way around. Normally, I would go out and find a card game to distract me from my problems. I'm going to refrain for you. My first meeting is in a few hours. I would like you to be there to make sure you put my hand in the fire.\" It was a good step in the right direction and I was proud of how hard he was fighting to get his life back.\n\n\"I would be honored to accompany you. Let me finish up here and then we can get a bite to eat before the meeting. I know this Thai fusion place.\" He looked deflated and the urge to gamble was evident in his eyes.\n\n\"You make a beautiful bride.\" I got a catch in my throat and nothing would have made me happier than to run down the street screaming.\n\n\"It's too bad it's not happening for the right reasons.\" The seamstress didn't speak a lick of English.\n\nWe could speak openly without worrying it was going to find its way into journalistic hands. The press was everywhere." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I had them jumping out of the bushes to ambush me with questions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was coached on what to say without revealing too much. I claimed we fell in love during his recent stay in rehab.\n\n\"I will stand by you every step down the aisle. It's the least I can do considering the circumstances of this wedding.\" Having him to walk me down the aisle was a dream come true for the little girl who planned her wedding down to the minute detail.\n\nThe variety of dresses made my head hurt. I couldn't decide and then one stood out from the rest of them. It was perfect, but I wasn't sure I wanted to waste it on a sham marriage.\n\nI changed and came out with the glow of acceptance on my face. There was no need to alter its appearance. It fit like a glove and was practically made for my unique body shape.\n\n\"I am a very proud father. That is the one. Don't settle for something that pales in comparison.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage requirement: 'can't' must appear 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I stood and admired the dress from every angle.\n\n\"I couldn't have said it better myself.\" Sebastian was wearing a white suit with a blood red tie.\n\n\"It's not a good idea for you to be here. It was a fling and nothing more. I let myself be seduced. I can't believe you came here.\" He was like a dog with a bone.\n\n\"This can't be what you want. Tell me something that will make me understand any of this. What we did couldn't be your idea of sowing the last of your wild oats. I won't believe it until I hear it from the horse's mouth.\" I had to be convincing even though I was breaking apart inside by hurting him unnecessarily.\n\n\"I was never one for commitment until I met Timothy. He showed me a life without love is no life at all.\" Sebastian had his arms crossed and was trying his level best to read something into what I was saying to him.\n\n\"You never mentioned Timothy. There was no engagement ring on your finger. He can afford to give you a huge diamond. The family is loaded.\" He was waiting for an explanation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I was scared and I used you for my own selfish reasons. I couldn't bring myself to wear his ring. You probably didn't notice that it was swinging on a chain around my neck. It was always close to my heart. I told him all about you and he forgave me without question.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'everything' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was playing with fire with the risk of being burned by my lies unraveling before my eyes.\n\n\"Can you honestly stand there and tell me that you don't feel anything for me? Look me in the eyes and make me believe it.\" It was a slippery slope when the only thing I wanted to do was jump into his arms.\n\n\"I don't love you. I never did. I don't know how much plainer I can make it. I made a mistake and it almost cost me everything. I'm glad my husband to be is forgiving.\" The words felt like bile coming out of my mouth.\n\n\"You said that with a straight face. You're either a conniving bitch or you really do believe what you're saying. I'm not sure there's anything left to say. I hope your wedding is everything that you have dreamed of. Your happiness is important to me.\" It was killing me inside to see him expose his heart with such vulnerability.\n\n\"It's about time it got through to your thick skull. I want you to leave and never come back. I don't need this drama in my life. This is my chance for a new chapter with the man I love. I can't have you muddying up the waters.\" There was no way that I was going to pull him into my family problems.\n\nHe could have easily paid off Coughlin. This wasn't his mess to fix." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That particular responsibility fell on my shoulders. I was destined to pull my father's ass out of the fire. It was my cross to bear.\n\nMy father had vacated the premises and came back in after Sebastian took his leave. He showed his feelings on his face. A confession was good for the soul. I was no fool. Resistance was futile. My fate was to walk down the aisle with only the family and my father knowing the real reason.\n\n\"I hope you know what you're doing. I can tell he really cares about you. Don't throw this away because of me. I don't think that I could live with it.\" His crestfallen expression had me reaching out and putting my hand on his shoulder in a comforting gesture.\n\n\"Everybody makes decisions they sometimes regret. This isn't one of those times for me. I don't need love to be happy. Curing you of your addiction is the only thing that matters. I walk into this with my head held high. The smile on my face might be a cheap imitation, but I can live with that.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 12 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I didn't choose the dress I wanted and went with a brand name.\n\n\"You are deluding yourself if you think Timothy is going to substitute for the one you love. Forget about dinner. I'll get something on the way to the meeting. I don't want you to come with me. It will only be a painful reminder of what I'm putting you through. I need some time to myself.\" I was going to say something, but once he made up his mind there was nobody that was going to stop him.\n\nI didn't even have a matron of honor. That position was going to go to Timothy's little sister. She was oblivious to the machinations of the family. Sheila believed the story of our chance meeting. I had repeated it so much that it was becoming gospel.\n\nTo the outside world I was the happiest woman, but inside I was dying a little more each day. The fact remained Timothy was nothing but a way to get out from underneath my father's debt. The wealth and prestige was a consolation prize.\n\nThe big day of pomp and circumstance was going to leave me empty inside." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Cooperative storytelling\nContext: May include established characters/lore without introduction\nMy role: Provide a brief opening\nYour role: Expand upon my opening with 2 sentences, emulating the writing style of Jayne Rylon." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant spun around lazily on a swivel-top stool." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He sat at the one of the tall tables in his college's hydrology laboratory." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He couldn't believe he was running out of time here. The science complex had become his haven over the past six years." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was never really home, exactly. More like a sanctuary." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even though he'd been in academic exile, he'd stayed away knowing someday he'd take everything he learned and apply it, improving his family's ranching operation back in Wyoming. Still… For a while, it had been a safe place." }, { "from": "human", "value": "One where he was judged by his performance and his own actions exclusively, independent from the expectations or privileges that came along with the Compton name." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After years of taking extra credit loads and advanced coursework, he was set to break the record for the fastest time to earn a PhD in water conservation engineering from his college. All that stood between him and his diploma was one final project." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "To be exact, it was the proof-of-concept portion of his dissertation, which had otherwise been complete for nearly a month. The theoretical work had all been approved by the school board." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now he had to show that what he'd hypothesized on paper could work in reality.\n\nThe science of it all didn't scare him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Equations were made to be solved. And he was damn good at it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The emotional impact of returning home—not for a quick holiday visit, but to stay—well, that was kind of freaking him out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He didn't want to lose the self-sufficient person he'd discovered he could be at school in the herd of Comptons waiting for him to rejoin them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Plus, he felt like he might have been so busy sticking his head in his books that he wasted his chance to stick more fun parts of himself in more fun places. Once he went home, the opportunity to explore his sexuality as a relative unknown would be gone for good." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And lately, he'd found himself thinking about relationships more and more." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It must have been because his cousins Austin and James had recently become infatuated with two particular women, reminding him of what he'd been missing all this time.\n\nOnly one person would understand why. Jake." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Okay, maybe two, but he would never talk to the other about his anxieties. It was better if he forgot Vaughn Sevan existed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Otherwise he'd start showing up in Bryant's dreams for a do-over of that fateful day as he sometimes did." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As much as Bryant tried not to think about the sexy cowboy, it was hard not to when Jake constantly updated him about the guy. Even his sister, Sterling, periodically mentioned that Vaughn had asked how he was doing when the two of them got together for their coffee breaks at their neighboring shops in town." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was hard enough to pretend Vaughn, and the terrible event he was linked to in Bryant's memory, didn't exist from here." }, { "from": "human", "value": "How the hell would he manage it at home?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant reread the long line of scribbles covering his whiteboard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He wished it was as easy to solve the rest of his problems." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Whether or not he was ready, he was going to have to face them soon." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As if he were psychic, Jake chose right then to call.\n\nBryant grinned as he connected his phone for voice only." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Unlike Bryant's cousins, the Compass Boys, the gruff old ranch hand hadn't embraced the video chat functions the rest of the world now considered default. \"Hey.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How's it going, kid? Haven't heard from you in a while. That usually means something's up.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Here I thought you had super powers. I was just thinking about you.\" Bryant couldn't wait to share his thoughts about what he could do for the ranch." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Although he'd earned a free ride to university, his parents had still sacrificed by letting him go." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It took enormous amounts of manpower to run Compass Ranch. A young, strong guy could be a lot of help." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Over Christmas break he'd realized Jake had slowed down. Hopefully he could start picking up some of the slack." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If I could have a super power, I wouldn't waste it on knowing when you wanted to talk to me. I'd fly. Or have laser-beam eyes. No…time travel. That's it. There are a few things I'd like to change about my younger, foolish days.\" Jake sighed then." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Me too.\" Bryant echoed his sentiment, though he could only imagine how much more Jake had suffered, especially over the loss of the love of his life." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Haiwee had left him about a half a century ago, taking Viho—their unborn son—with her. She'd passed away before Jake could reconcile with her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "On top of that, he'd spent decades completely oblivious that Viho even existed.\n\nMaybe it was time Bryant bucked up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Things could be so much worse than his petty drama. Letting one bad choice ruin the prime of his life might be even stupider than the original mistake he'd made." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After a slightly awkward pause, Jake said, \"I was just calling to check up on you. What was on your mind? I'm guessing you wanted to chat about more than the weather. That's usually Doug's specialty.\"\n\nBryant could imagine Jake kicked back in one of the wooden chairs on the porch of the main house." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Probably with a toothpick between his lips as he fished the remnants of Aunt Leah's lunch from between his charmingly crooked teeth. She cooked for him and the rest of the hands most days." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yeah.\" No sense in denying it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I have to finish some practical application stuff for my final project. I think it could be really useful for Compass Ranch. Kill two birds with one assignment, you know?\"\n\n\"That doesn't sound like a problem,\" Jake said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's not going to be cheap.\" Bryant sighed. \"The grant I applied for was denied since I've already hit the lifetime max for student financial aid through my scholarship.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What's this project do? And don't tell me in your fancy scientist mumbo jumbo either.\" Jake snorted." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant thought of the holistic system he wanted to implement in layman's terms. \"It's a top-to-bottom water conservation, capture, storage, and delivery system. Think of it as drought-proofing the ranch.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"For the livestock or the crops?\" Jake clarified." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Although Compass Ranch focused on cattle, there were a bunch of side shoots of business that had developed over the years." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Uncle Seth bred horses, and they'd started growing extra hay to sell in case of rough times." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Austin had even expanded his trucking services to haul stuff for their neighbors." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Diversification removed some of the risk from ranching." }, { "from": "human", "value": "None of it could function without water." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant hoped to protect them all from a crisis situation by ensuring they always had a sustainable hydrological plan, especially given the impact of climate change on the region." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Both.\" He started to get amped up. \"Given the high evapotranspiration rate of the current straw variety, we could start with switching to more tolerant species, then use soil additives and plant border landscaping to retain more moisture. I've designed proprietary fixtures and an irrigation delivery network to manage outlays on as small as a plant-by-plant basis. I'd also fortify the drinking supply for the cattle by building a collection system that feeds an underground storage network, a few dams, and retaining ponds. Then we could focus on the purification of wastewater, recycling it instead of letting it run off. With all of the improvements taken into account, I estimate we could supply the ranch with at least two cycles worth of water to be rationed during droughts. That is, once the system comes up to maximum capacity.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What did I tell you about that fancy shit?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jake growled. \"I think what you're saying is that you know a way to guarantee the ranch could keep on as usual even if it didn't rain for two whole years?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yep.\" Bryant nodded even though the other guy couldn't see him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Probably more. Because if we can also revamp the consumption side—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Bryant, that's enough.\" Jake cut him off." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He wasn't excited to hear the rest? Damn, maybe Bryant had misjudged the ranch's needs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I mean, you don't have to pitch me any more than that. That's worth a hell of a lot, kid.\" Jake chuckled. \"Your dad can be tight with the ranch's purse strings, especially with all of this season's expenses, but if you can show him a solid plan to do what you just said, he'll be writing you a check so fast his pen will melt.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"A six-figure check? Seriously?\" Bryant should have figured Jake would understand his hesitation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This was the first time he could prove to his family that his education had been worthwhile. That what he'd done while he was away had the power to make an impact at least as big as Austin's with his truck-driving, and James's with his life-saving jumping-out-of-planes manliness, and Doug chasing those tornadoes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sometimes brains were just as important as brawn, right?\n\nHe sure hoped so." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yeah, of course.\" Jake got quieter then." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm proud of you, Bryant. They are, too. If you can pull off even half of what you think you can, you'll be making a big difference around here. Fuck, it's only April and it's fifteen degrees above average. Mark my words, by July we're going to be scorched. We'll need some help to make it through this year. The sooner you can get home, the better.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant didn't know about that. The sooner he went home, the sooner he had to deal with the consequences of his bad decisions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hopefully he'd be far too busy to worry about the ghosts in the barn.\n\nHey, it had worked for the past six years." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why not a few more?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Whipping out his super powers again, Jake must have picked up on his silence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Have you been letting loose any out there?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Jake wondered, his casual tone one Bryant knew was anything but innocent.\n\n\"Nope.\" He had a clean conscience there." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I've been studying and working my ass off. It hasn't been easy to finish these three degrees in the time it takes most people to earn two.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hmmm.\" Jake could show a lot of disapproval with a single sound. Sort of like he had that day…" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What hmmmm?\" Bryant was wiser now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He asked and Jake let him have it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"There are plenty of things to learn besides stuff you read about in a book.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Like what?\"\n\n\"Like how to find a boyfriend, for one. What to do with him for another.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Jake sounded like he'd gotten to his feet and was pacing the porch.\n\n\"I promise, I learned my lesson, Jake. I'm not going to fool around with the cowboys, causing a ruckus for you, my dad or uncles, or anyone else back home by screwing the help. I swear.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jake cursed beneath his breath." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You idiot, that was never the problem. You weren't the problem.\"\n\n\"Then my choice to wait for the right person—someone I care for, someone I trust—shouldn't cause any issues either.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It felt good to say it out loud. When his cousins teased him about his living the monk life, he brushed it off." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With Jake, he could be honest. The guy knew why he felt that way." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He didn't have to explain or relive those terrible moments. Jake got it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If that's how you really feel, you're right. There's nothing wrong with that.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'you're' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Jake paused then added, \"But if you're avoiding intimacy because you're afraid to open up again, well…that doesn't sound healthy.\"\n\nFear and denial caused Bryant to lash out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The instant he opened his mouth, he wished he could call his words back, but they were gone and said before he could stop them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Is that why you never found another partner after Haiwee?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jake grunted as if her name was like a punch to the gut." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His breathing was ragged for a few seconds, ones Bryant felt insanely guilty about." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm sorry, Jake. I shouldn't have said that.\"\n\n\"You're entitled to call me on my bullshit. Someone ought to have years ago.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The old man sounded even older now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Don't be dumb like me. Be smart, like you. Okay?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant chuckled since Jake was wiser than most people he'd ever met. \"I'll do my best.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Maybe you should consider discussing this with Colby when you get home,\" Jake suggested. \"Or maybe even Vaughn.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant pointedly ignored the V-word.\n\n\"Uncle Colby? Why?\" He was incredibly likeable, charismatic, and easy to talk to, but Bryant couldn't see where the guy would have any input on his sex life that could be helpful. Plus…his uncle?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "No thanks." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He'll understand where you're coming from. Clayton, too. Either would be a good choice if you need someone to vent to.\" Jake was confusing Bryant more and more." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What would one of his cousin Hope's two husbands have to say about gay hookups?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Wait… \"You mean because they both have lovers that work the ranch, right? I told you, you don't have to worry about that.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Bryant, you have got to be the most emotionally dense kid I have ever met.\"\n\n\"Then enlighten me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You know that Silas and Colby are as in love with each other as Clayton and Wyatt are, right? They're not only in the relationship to share their woman. They share each other, too. It's a three-way connection.\"\n\nAt that, Bryant spun himself a little too hard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His stool tipped precariously, nearly dumping him on his ass on the linoleum floor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He gaped at his phone before wheezing, \"I mean…I guess. Sort of. I never really thought about it that explicitly. But choosing ménage isn't the same thing as being gay.\"\n\nTo him it seemed kind of normal." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd grown up with Uncles Silas and Colby and Aunt Lucy, who loved each other as much as they loved their kids and nieces and nephews. Besides, Uncle Silas was mean enough to pulverize anyone who dared object or upset his partners." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant was pretty much his polar opposite." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Nah, you're right. It's probably more common. Downright boring.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jake laughed. \"Yep, kid. You're not as freaky as you think. Nowhere near as freaky as your mom, for example. Back in their day, your mom and dad and I and about a half dozen other cowboys used to—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No. Nope. Stop right there. I am not interested in hearing what you are about to say.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jake laughed harder until he fell into a coughing fit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You okay?\" Bryant asked when he didn't recover right away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Haven't felt quite right lately. Must be getting a cold or something. I'll be fine.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jake brushed off his concern, then hammered home his point." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Look, we want you home and we want you happy. Take some time to think about what I've said and we'll discuss it more when you get here, okay?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant tried to believe Jake. \"Okay.\"\n\n\"Quit worrying. Everything's going to be fine.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thanks, Jake. I miss you.\" Bryant slumped on his stool." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Maybe he could do this after all. With a little help from his mentor." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You know I'm only a phone call away. And soon I'll be bugging you every day in person.\" Jake chuckled. \"You'll be sick of me in a week.\"\n\n\"Never.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "AI Prompt: 5 sentences sentences. Match character context. romance, MM, nsfw genre." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His mom nodded, then tucked herself against his dad's side. She hugged him fiercely and without words Bryant knew what she was thinking. There would come a day when they were separated. His parents. Their kids. All of them. And those days would be dark." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They would make the most of the time they had together before then if they were smart.\n\nWith a rich history came lots of loss, Bryant realized then. But he knew deep down that Jake and his grandparents wouldn't want them to let their grief eclipse their many blessings, including the progress they could make for future generations, Comptons to come, if they kept the legacy of their ancestors' hard work alive.\n\n\"What's all that?\" Sam jerked his chin toward the canvas tarps in the back of the truck. They covered some of the equipment Bryant had borrowed from school." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did you bring home all your stuff? Thought you had a few months to go yet. You're not quitting now, are you?\"\n\n\"Hell no.\" Bryant had been looking forward to walking across the stage and claiming his doctoral degree for as long as he could remember. \"It's my final project. Or parts of it. Jake…he told me he thought you would approve.\"\n\n\"Then I'm sure I will.\" His dad nodded. \"Can it wait until after the services?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Although Bryant winced mentally, aware of his approaching deadlines and the need to catch as much rain as possible during the initial phases of the system set up, it didn't feel right to discuss it now. \"Yeah, of course. But I'll warn you now, it's going to be expensive.\"\n\n\"So you'll tell me why we should spend a bunch of money on whatever it is you're cooking up. Hopefully it's at least as useful as that still Jake busted you and your cousins cobbling together when you were underage. I'm pretty sure he financed the addition to his house by selling moonshine from that thing. Claimed it was the best he'd ever had.\"\n\n\"That bastard.\" Bryant laughed. On a ranch, water was more valuable than booze." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's even better, I promise.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sam nodded. \"I'm looking forward to hearing about it. It'll be nice to have something to work on after...\"\n\nBryant should have known it would be as simple as that. His father trusted him implicitly. Then again, he didn't have all the facts regarding Bryant's poor judgment and the repercussions it could cause, like Jake had. As far as Bryant knew, Jake had never broken his confidence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Had never told his parents why that ranch hand had disappeared so fast, and why Bryant had been so quiet until he too could escape Compton Pass.\n\nNow that his self-imposed banishment was over, he had to come home for longer than a brief visit and deal with reacquainting himself with ranch life and all the restrictions that came with it by himself.\n\nDamn, he missed Jake.\n\nHow would he do this on his own?\n\nSimple. The way he had for years now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "By ignoring his wayward desires and keeping to himself so he didn't get hurt. He thought of his mom and what she'd said. It was better to be lonely than broken. He knew that now. Next time he saw Vaughn he'd make sure they both understood that so no one, especially not Bryant, got hurt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Uncle Bryant!\" His niece Lomasi snapped him from his morose thoughts as she raced out to greet him. At twelve years old, she reminded him so much of Sterling and the way she'd done the same thing when she'd spotted him outside her shop that he couldn't help but grin. Then again, her gray eyes and the wisdom in them reminded him of Jake, her paternal grandfather.\n\nHe would see the old man in everything around them.\n\nFor a moment that thought struck him hard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Until he hugged Lomasi tight. \"Hey there!\"\n\n\"You look so sad. Mom said it's okay to cry about Grandpa, but he'd rather you laugh when you think of him.\" She patted his cheek.\n\nHe hoped one day Lomasi and the rest of his nine honorary nieces and nephews—some of whom were technically first cousins once removed, his cousins' kids, not that anyone bothered to make that distinction—might say the same thing about him. For a moment, he pictured the retaining ponds he planned to build and the border landscaping that would help trap water inside the fields." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They could be both functional and beautiful.\n\nHe vowed to do it right. To contribute what he could to this place they'd all built and continued to improve on together. If he lived well, maybe someday he'd be as loved as Jake. Okay, probably not. But close would be good enough." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well, I brought something with me that might cheer you up some.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He pivoted and reached into his backpack, which was sitting on the middle of the truck's bench seat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "From within he drew out a T-shirt with his college's name and mascot—a bald eagle—printed on it, and handed it to her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He'd picked it for her because of her love of wildlife." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Viho had taught her a lot of his customs. They seemed to resonate with Lomasi more than with her brother and sister.\n\n\"This is for me? Really?\" Lomasi tugged it on over her dress, then spun in a circle. \"I love it! Now we match. I always wanted to be like you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Are you kidding?\" Bryant rocked back on his heels. He had no idea Lomasi looked up to him in that way. Her admiration swelled his heart and made him wish he'd brought more gifts for her and her siblings.\n\n\"Of course.\" She smiled up at him. \"Don't tell Uncle Austin, James, or Doug, but you're my favorite.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant grinned. \"Damn straight, I am.\"\n\n\"I won't even tell that you swore. Take a selfie with me?\" she asked.\n\nHe whipped his phone out of his back pocket and crouched down so they fit in the frame together. For the first time, he saw she resembled him a little around her mouth and nose. Funny that he'd seen everyone else in her instead." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant knew then and there that he was home for good, other than defending his thesis and graduation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now he just had to figure out how to fit his life into the complex ecosystem of Compass Ranch." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It would be harder without Jake's guidance, but not impossible when there were so many people who cared about him around." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He couldn't wait to see his cousins at the bonfire later.\n\nMaybe it was time to talk to Austin, Doug, and James about what was really bugging him.\n\nLomasi put her hand in his and tugged him toward Sterling and Viho's house, where he usually bunked when he was on breaks. They had lived in Sterling's original cottage until they outgrew it and built a full-sized house next door instead. So he often claimed the \"guest house\"." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe he'd talk to Viho and Sterling about renting it from them now that he'd need a place to stay indefinitely." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At least until he figured out exactly where to go from here." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Today you will be acting as a writing assistant, your partner will send something and you will write the next nine sentences. The story may reference existing characters and events - incorporate them as presented." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"As in a date?\" Bryant wondered.\n\n\"Yeah, sure. If that's what you want to call it.\" He shrugged. \"Mostly I just want to catch up. Find out what your life has been like since I knew you before. And maybe try to convince you that I'm not the asshole you think I am.\"\n\n\"I don't—\"\n\n\"Hey, I didn't give you a lot of reason to believe otherwise last night. I'm sorry about that. I guess I underestimated how what happened back then still affects you now. And once I figured it out, I felt pretty shitty about my part in it. I know ice cream doesn't count for much…\"\n\n\"A lot of problems could be solved with ice cream.\" Bryant flashed his dimples as he climbed into the cab. \"Get in, Vaughn. I'm hungry.\"\n\n\"Me too,\" he murmured under his breath as he jogged around the hood and boosted himself into the passenger seat of Bryant's truck." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Both of them understood there was no way Bryant had left his aunt's house anything less than stuffed, but he was giving Vaughn this shot anyway.\n\nMaybe he wanted to rewrite history as badly as Vaughn did.\n\nHe could hope.\n\nThey rode without saying anything for a while, long enough that Vaughn wondered if they'd ever speak or if Bryant would just keep driving until he reached the ice cream stand, bought himself a treat, then went back home. As if Vaughn was some phantom hitching a ride.\n\nEventually, he couldn't stand it anymore. \"Are you still pissed about last night?\"\n\n\"Nah. I'm not the kind of person to stay angry. I guess I'm just…wrung out. Overwhelmed and exhausted.\" Bryant sighed.\n\nVaughn covered Bryant's free hand, which rested on his thigh, and squeezed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If this is too much, turn around. That's fine.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh no, I'm getting some damn ice cream. You put that idea in my head—now it sounds really good.\" He glanced over with a wicked grin that reminded Vaughn of the boy he used to be. \"Besides, I feel like torturing you by making you watch me lick it.\"\n\nVaughn groaned. Maybe he should have thought harder about his plan.\n\nWhen Bryant laughed, he figured the torture would be worth it.\n\nThey rolled up to the stand and placed their orders. When Becky Sue told them how much it would be, Vaughn whipped out his wallet. He ordinarily wasn't a super traditional guy, but he wanted Bryant to realize he'd made something of himself. Okay, so most anyone could afford a couple of ice cream cones, but truth was, there'd been a time when Vaughn wasn't one of them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You didn't have to do that. But…thanks.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant smiled and gave his ice cream a long lick from the cone to the tip." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Vaughn's cock noticed, and approved. Damn." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant laughed again as he sauntered to a picnic table nearby and straddled the bench." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Vaughn took a seat just past Bryant's knees, with his back resting against the table." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After a few minutes of dedicated eating, complete with incredible soft hums from Bryant—which Vaughn could easily repurpose in his imagination as sounds he'd make when they were fooling around—Bryant asked, \"Where are your tattoos?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Vaughn glanced down at his bare arms and braced himself for Bryant's mockery. He clenched his jaw, then spat, \"Don't have any.\"\n\n\"Isn't it weird for a tattoo artist not to have any tattoos?\" Bryant wondered without laughing.\n\n\"Probably.\" Vaughn forced himself to relax, took a bite from his cone, and then tried to explain. \"Every day I do cover-ups and draw dumb shit people will regret eventually. I'm going to get tattooed someday. I'm just waiting for the right thing. The absolute perfect thing. Until then…I can wait.\"\n\n\"I respect that,\" Bryant said when most people would have shaken their head or called him some kind of hypocrite. Hell, plenty of guys had before. \"When you're looking for a forever thing, it's better to be sure.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Vaughn wondered what Bryant was waiting for." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'vaughn' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As far as he knew, the guy had never had a serious boyfriend. Maybe that was what he meant. It wasn't worth the hassle of bringing someone home and introducing them to the millions of Comptons swarming Compass Ranch until it was the perfect somebody.\n\nIf they hooked up, would Bryant keep it a secret, too?\n\nSomehow that didn't sit right with Vaughn. He wanted everyone to know he'd staked a claim.\n\nSomething in his expression must have tipped Bryant off to his thoughts. \"Settle down, Vaughn. I wasn't referring to you. I was talking about myself. Anyway, never mind.\" He flashed a lopsided smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You remind me a lot of your dad. Direct, kinder than you think under a tough exterior, a badass artist, a little moody, you know?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "At least he'd included the art thing." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'snake' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was the one trait Vaughn was grateful he'd inherited from Snake.\n\n\"The truth is, you knew my dad better than I did.\" Vaughn shrugged one shoulder. Still, it touched something deep inside him to know Bryant thought so. \"I never had that tight bond, like you do, with your family. My mom does the best she can, but she's not like yours. Her focus was never me. She worked a lot of nights, and partied hard, even after having me by mistake with a cowboy just passing through for the rodeo. She told me not to worry because she'd gotten her tubes tied after that little surprise. It took her a few years to track Snake down, and by then he was already older. He always provided for me, or thought he did, but my mom used a lot of that cash on getting her nails done, or making her hair bigger, always in the hopes of snagging some rich guy. As if there were billionaires pouring through the doors of the shithole bar where she waited tables." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It was probably around the time that Jake found Viho that my dad started bringing me up here for the summers. At first, it was awkward as shit. I was a punk and didn't handle it well. I was used to essentially being on my own and he had a hell of a lot of rules. Then, just about the time we'd sort through all that each summer, I had to go back. When I came up here for good, at the end, Snake made a real effort. But it was too late. It was impossible for me to get attached knowing I was only going to lose him. The last thing he said to me was that I was his biggest regret.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Vaughn figured his relationship with his dad, and putting Bryant in a situation where he got hurt, had to top his own list. So that seemed fair enough. At least he had a chance to make amends to one of the important people he'd disappointed now.\n\n\"I'm sure he meant not bringing you to Compass Ranch to live sooner was a mistake.\" Bryant didn't hesitate on that one.\n\n\"I think so too, now. Jake helped me see that was probably true. But I guess we'll never know for sure. He fell into unconsciousness soon after and never woke up.\" Vaughn scrubbed his hands over his face. \"Shit. Not sure why I'm telling you all that. I guess Jake…it's bringing those memories to the surface.\"\n\nBryant scooted closer and put his hand on Vaughn's knee." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm sorry, that sucks. I can't imagine growing up without my family. They're loud, and overwhelming sometimes, but I always knew they were there for me. That they love me unconditionally.\"\n\n\"Then why didn't you tell your cousins about what happened in the barn that summer?\" Vaughn asked before he could think better of it.\n\nBryant choked on the last bite of his ice cream cone. He took longer than necessary to wipe his mouth on a tissue-thin napkin, then said, \"How do you know I didn't?\"\n\n\"Because they never would have let you keep blaming yourself like you do. You'd have dealt with it better and moved on by now, I'm guessing.\"\n\nBryant didn't bother to deny it. He looked down at his boots. \"I don't know. It's weird being the only gay guy in the bunch. They don't get some things. They try. They're accepting of me. It's just not part of their experience, you know? And they've certainly never been overpowered by one of their dates. I guess I didn't think they'd really understand.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And you were ashamed.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Vaughn tried not to get angry." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It took every ounce of his self-control not to ball his fists or shout at the injustice of it all. He didn't want Bryant to misinterpret his emotions.\n\n\"Of course.\" Bryant looked around to see if anyone was listening. They weren't. No one gave a shit about what two random dudes were saying. If anything, there were several women eying them up hopefully. Sorry, ladies. \"Can we talk about something else?\"\n\nVaughn was sure now that Bryant still needed help dealing with what had happened.\n\nHe wasn't positive he was equipped to handle it, but he planned to try.\n\nIt was the least he could do to make up for his part in the situation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Sure. Are you staying out at Sterling's place?\" Vaughn wondered. Would his sister notice if Bryant didn't go back to the cottage behind the beautiful house she and Viho had built for their family? And if she did, would she care?\n\nVaughn had gotten to know her pretty well, since their shops were so close. She'd bring him coffee in the afternoons when she was winding down and he was gearing up for the busy evening shift. He'd even done a few tats on her—her kids' names. Pretty, understated. They'd stand the test of time because they meant something. Exactly the sort of thing that would make him go under the gun.\n\nHe kind of thought Sterling would give him the thumbs-up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then again, she was fiercely protective of her baby brother. Just like every other Compton. They looked out for their own. It was probably for the best that Bryant had never told his father—or hell, his uncle Silas—about what had happened. They'd probably have done something violent and gotten themselves in trouble.\n\n\"Yeah. Yeah, I am.\" Bryant sighed. \"I guess I should be heading back there before she gets worried. Besides, I'm pretty wrecked after today.\"\n\nIt wasn't a super-long ride out to Compass Ranch from town, but there were plenty of wild animals that liked to jump into the road and sharp turns could catch him off guard in the dark. Especially if he wasn't used to the trip at night, having been away so much of the past six years." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You know, my place is on the way if you're not up for the drive.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'bryant' × 6" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Vaughn tried to remain casual, though everything inside him wanted to pick Bryant up, put him over his shoulder, and cart him off right then and there. That probably wouldn't go well since Bryant was actually broader and taller than him and had learned how to scrap with the rest of the Compass Boys, who were no pushovers.\n\nJust because Bryant was less of a hothead than James and less rowdy than Doug or Austin didn't mean he wasn't capable of protecting himself. Vaughn had been shocked, and turned on, the first time he'd seen Bryant after he'd moved away. He'd clearly made physical fitness a priority despite the time he spent with his nose in a book.\n\nVaughn wondered if it was precisely so that Bryant could fight back hard if he ever had to again.\n\n\"Where do you live?\" Bryant asked, cutting off Vaughn's train of thought.\n\n\"Above my shop. I built an apartment there. It's not huge or fancy or anything, but it suits my needs.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Short commute, too. Can't beat that.\" Bryant should know—him and all his family lived on the ranch they worked. Although the damn thing was big enough that it could take a while to get from one section to another, especially if going on horseback, which they sometimes did.\n\n\"Yeah.\" Vaughn nodded. \"I don't get to ride my horse to work, but I sometimes slide down the bannister when no one's looking.\"\n\nBryant chuckled. \"Well, since we're so close, want me to drop you off? You could catch a ride out with Sterling to pick up your truck tomorrow. Or I could have one of the hands drive it back to you.\"\n\nVaughn cleared his throat and took his time wiping the last of the ice cream from his face with the shitty napkin. His chance was slipping away. He could feel it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And the last thing he wanted was for Bryant to rebuild the wall between them. \"Or…you could stay over and we could ride out to Compass Ranch together in the morning so I could pick up my truck.\"\n\n\"Uh…\" Bryant looked around, as if searching for a graceful exit where there was none.\n\nWith any other guy, Vaughn would know how to handle the situation. He'd picked up plenty of men. Enough to have it down to a science. With Bryant, he had to be careful. Thoughtful. The kind of guy worthy of having him, if only for a night.\n\n\"Look, Bryant, while I'd like nothing more than to pull some alpha bullshit, grab your keys and tell you I'm not taking no for an answer….\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Vaughn shook his head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's not how I roll. And I don't think that's what you need. I want you to come home with me. But if you're not ready—\"\n\nBryant growled like he'd rip Vaughn's throat out if he said that again.\n\n\"It's not a bad thing!\" Vaughn put his hands up. \"No worries if you're not. I'll ask you again tomorrow. And the next day. And the next day. Feel free to tell me no as many times as you like. You won't hurt my feelings or keep me from trying again. Unless you tell me you don't want me to do that either. But I hope you won't.\"\n\nBryant chugged a bottle of water he'd bought as if his mouth had gotten parched at the thought of tearing up his sheets. \"I don't know what I want, Vaughn. That's the honest truth. There are so many things running through my mind right now, I can't process them all.\"\n\n\"I get that.\" How many times had Vaughn waffled between heartache and lust in the past day? It was a weird combination." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You don't have to decide right now. Just come with me. We'll talk, hang out, chill, and if something more comes of it, fine. If not, at least neither of us will have to be alone tonight.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant blinked as he considered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You really won't be disappointed if all I want to do is crash on your couch later? I'm not trying to lead you on. I need to be really clear about that, okay? Tell me you understand.\"\n\nLead him on? Why did that sound like bullshit leftover from years ago? Was Bryant still struggling with what his abuser had claimed that day? How he'd tried victim-blaming in an effort to keep from being slaughtered by a herd of loyal cowboys? Could Bryant still believe even a shred of what that loser had said was true?\n\nVaughn narrowed his eyes, concentrated on keeping his fingers loose and unfisted, then said, \"I understand. Perfectly.\"\n\n\"Okay.\" Bryant nodded.\n\n\"Okay?\"\n\n\"Did you really think I would turn you down?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He smiled shyly, making every one of Vaughn's primal instincts roar to life. \"It killed me to do it last night. I've wanted this for years.\"\n\n\"Me too.\" Vaughn groaned. \"Why the hell did you have to pick a college so far away?\"\n\n\"I guess you were right that day. I wasn't ready. More so after… So I put myself out of range.\" He shrugged.\n\nVaughn squeezed Bryant's knee. \"Do you know that you're safe with me?\"\n\n\"Yeah.\" He paused. \"I guess I'm just wondering…why would you bother? I'm a pain in the ass. Complicated. Surely you've had a bunch of boyfriends since then. You could choose anyone. Why me?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Vaughn figured the least he could do was be as honest as Bryant was being, even if it made him a little uncomfortable to admit it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Plenty of sex, sure. Boyfriends, no. Not really.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh. Is that what you're looking for now? Otherwise, it makes even less sense. Why would you pick me to sleep with when there are lots of other men in this town who know what to do with a man like you and would jump at the chance?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant cleared his throat when he referred to fucking around, making Vaughn realize that he still didn't have much experience." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Damn, wasn't that what college was for?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "That's what it looked like on TV, anyway." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It figured Bryant was the one guy who went all study and no play." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'first' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The urge to help him unwind grew until it was as big of a motivator as Vaughn's rock-solid cock.\n\n\"I've always found you attractive on the outside.\" Vaughn trailed his knuckles over Bryant's cheek then down his jaw. \"Now that I'm getting to know you, you're only getting hotter to me.\"\n\n\"Same goes.\" Bryant stood up and shocked Vaughn by holding out his hand. Not just to help him up, as he first suspected when he placed his palm in Bryant's. No, he didn't let go even after Vaughn was standing beside him. Instead, he led Vaughn to his truck and opened the door for him.\n\nThat was a first for Vaughn." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And he'd be lying if he said he didn't get off on it." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I like that you're different from the other guys I've been with. You're special, Bryant. Don't ever let someone make you doubt that.\"\n\nThough he didn't say anything, Bryant turned to him with a smile that transformed him from smoldering to irresistibly sexy. Vaughn had finally said the right thing.\n\nThey couldn't make it to his place fast enough." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "The user will write a bit then you need to write around 4 sentences continuing directly from the user's text. Match the familiarity level of any character introductions. Stick to the romance, MM, nsfw genre." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant climbed the metal stairs at the back of Cowboy Ink while staring at Vaughn's tight ass in his perfectly cut jeans. He'd give all the water in the Indian Ocean to see what was beneath that denim. Was pretty sure that if he asked, Vaughn would show him this time. And still, he was too afraid to open his mouth and admit he craved a taste of this man even more than the vanilla-chocolate swirl they'd devoured." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He followed Vaughn, who seemed more willing to listen than he had been in the past." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And that's when Bryant realized it.\n\nVaughn had grown. Matured. While Bryant was still standing still, stuck in the same spot he'd been in since their lives had last crossed paths. He hated that about himself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe it was time to do something about it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "To unfreeze his emotions and desires.\n\nSure, he was progressing on a professional level, but personally…not so much. Bryant steeled himself for the night ahead and hoped whatever happened would help him take the first steps forward. If he was going to do that, he had to explain the situation to Vaughn. Fuck." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He did believe he was in good hands with Vaughn." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required word frequency: 'apartment' (2x)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But it was still hard to talk about.\n\nJust about the time he got ready to spill his guts, Vaughn unlocked the door to his apartment and ushered Bryant inside. Whatever he'd been about to say got stuck in his throat when he took in the sleek, masculine apartment. It looked nothing like the rest of Compton Pass." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Completely out of place in their tiny country town. Just like Bryant.\n\nThere wasn't a hint of shiplap or a single quilt or distressed anything. Instead, it was all gray tile floors and honed black granite counters. Stainless steel appliances and high efficiency fixtures." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Straight-line, simple furniture. Modern. Sexy as fuck." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Wow,\" Bryant muttered as he kicked off his boots at the door, then turned in a circle, loving the open-concept floor plan. Though he couldn't see it at night, he was sure the giant windows on the rear wall of the apartment provided a glorious view of the surrounding mountains. It was exactly like something he'd want for himself. He took mental notes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd either need to renovate Sterling's cottage or build something of his own if he was going to stay on the ranch long-term. Something like this would be ideal. \"This place is…\"\n\n\"Small, I know.\" Vaughn winced. \"But it's just me. No need for anything extravagant.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You made great use of the space. It's perfect.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant's eyes were drawn immediately to a charge controller discreetly concealed behind a smoky glass panel. \"Is this for solar?\"\n\n\"Yep. Not so useful in the winter, but this time of year I can get most of my power from the roof.\" Vaughn shrugged. \"Seems like a no-brainer to me. I also installed a catchment system to make use of runoff for the landscaping in front of the shop, and the toilet, and stuff.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "And…Bryant was officially in lust." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eco-friendly, knew his way around the bedroom, not quite a cowboy but still full of swagger?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh yeah. Vaughn was the one. He'd always been the one.\n\nBryant refused to miss out on another chance with him.\n\nBut first he had to come clean about his lack of experience so Vaughn knew what he was getting into, and so he knew to take it easy on Bryant…at least at first." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hopefully Vaughn wouldn't change his mind if he knew just how fucked up Bryant was.\n\nVaughn took him for a brief tour, though most of the area was on display. \"If you need to use the bathroom, the only one is in here, through my bedroom. Sorry, I didn't really think of having guests when I designed the layout.\"\n\nBryant knew what he really meant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd assumed anyone sleeping over would share his bed. Well, hopefully, Bryant wouldn't be the first to break the streak. \"I'd rather stay with you anyway. If that's okay.\"\n\nVaughn blinked. \"Of course. I just thought… I mean, I'm not trying to push you into anything you're not comfortable with.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We both know that's not what you're doing. I've been in that situation. It was nothing like this.\" Bryant cleared his throat, prepared to lay himself bare. In fact, he was kind of looking forward to it. For years, he hadn't had anyone who understood where he was coming from or why he was so damn cautious about finding a lover." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Back when that happened, you know…\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Damn, this was harder than he thought. He took a shaky breath, but Vaughn beat him to it. \"When that child molester attacked you?\"\n\n\"Well, when you put it like that it sounds a lot worse.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Worse than what, exactly?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Vaughn turned to face Bryant. \"How do you think about what happened that day in your own mind?\"\n\n\"I was butt-hurt when you turned me down. Because of that, I made a terrible decision. I just wanted a kiss. To know what it felt like to make out with a man. Instead, it was a disaster of a hookup.\"\n\n\"That's completely crazy. Bryant, that asshole was on the prowl for someone susceptible to his manipulation. When he found you, he pounced. He lured you in so he could rape you. Plain and simple. That's what he fucking did.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Vaughn's teeth were clenched." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The veins in his neck bulged.\n\nBryant had never thought of it like that. Definitely had never considered the R word in regards to himself. Was that what had happened?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Things had gotten out of hand, sure." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But rape? He reflexively waved Vaughn off. \"Not exactly.\"\n\n\"Did you at any time say no?\" Vaughn asked matter-of-factly. \"I don't care what you said or how it started out. At some point, did you tell him you weren't into it?\"\n\nBryant nodded." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did he stop?\"\n\nBryant shook his head. They both knew he hadn't.\n\n\"Shit, if I hadn't left you there alone that day, it wouldn't have happened. If you want to blame anyone, it should be me. Not yourself. I relived that moment—the one where one of the hands said they'd heard Bill grunting and you screaming then saw Jake charge in there, or the one where I saw your face and the blood on your clothes after and realized what had happened—a million times in my nightmares, but I can never change it. I'd give anything to go back…\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What?\" Bryant whipped his stare to Vaughn." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His tortured gaze ripped Bryant open.\n\nHad Vaughn suffered because of that bastard, too? He'd never imagined the other guy might have been beating himself up or he would have reached out to put his mind at ease. Bryant didn't blame Vaughn." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not one bit. He shouldn't blame himself for the actions of a despicable bastard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In that moment, Bryant had an epiphany: Jake had been absolutely right. If he was willing to absolve Vaughn of any guilt in the situation, maybe he too had been a victim, not responsible for Bill's vile actions.\n\nIn that instant, he became a million pounds lighter. Vaughn had helped him without even realizing it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Maybe we've both been too hard on ourselves.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include exactly 2 instance(s) of the word 'compton'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Could be. I think it's time we fixed the mistakes we made that day.\" Vaughn ran his knuckles over Bryant's cheek. \"You were so damn attractive, and you didn't even have a clue you were causing every cowboy who was into guys within a hundred miles to nearly break their necks trying to catch a glimpse of you.\n\n\"I'd been struggling to keep my hands off you since the first day I showed up that summer—tired from traveling and worried about what I was going to find here—and you offered to help me carry my luggage into Snake's house. I was frustrated that I couldn't have you every time I saw you out washing one of the ranch vehicles or mowing your sister's lawn, tempting me to do something I knew was wrong. I almost died that time I came across you and your cousins skinny-dipping in the back pond. When you burst up from the still waters, glistening with droplets that you shook from your hair and face while laughing, I swore I'd seen a merman or some other mythical creature designed to entrap men who should know better. You weren't old enough for all the things I wanted to do with you. Besides, I was bitter that I wasn't good enough for a Compton. I shouldn't have let that bubble over and burn you.\"\n\n\"Wait, what do you mean you're not good enough? You're plenty fine yourself. For a Compton or any damn person.\" Bryant took a step forward until he could look down into Vaughn's eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "How dare he say shit like that about himself?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Look at everything you've done. You came for your dad even though he hadn't been a big part of your life, and you stayed for yourself. You've made something here, Vaughn. The shop. Your home. You. It's impressive.\"\n\n\"Now, yes.\" Vaughn stood straighter then. \"Maybe I finally feel ready. For you.\"\n\nWow. Could Vaughn be serious?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant just needed one small double check before he launched himself onto the other guy's bed and started ripping his clothes off." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So you weren't really turned off by the fact that I didn't know what to do with a cowboy like you? A real man?\"\n\n\"Nah. I would have loved to show you, to give you the answers you were looking for. But it wasn't the right thing to do.\" Vaughn scrunched his eyes closed. \"I've never regretted doing the right thing more than I did that day…and every time I've thought about it since.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant took a deep breath, then confessed, \"Good, because I still don't know what I'm doing. I need you to teach me how to please a real man. I promise I'm a great student.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'bryant' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I…uh…whoa.\" Would Vaughn turn him away again now that he knew that Bryant didn't have a single shred more experience than he had that day?\n\n\"You don't want to? I'm not going to force you, that's for fucking sure. I don't want to take anything from you that you don't want to give freely. I wouldn't have told you at all. Except I'm afraid…you're going to be disappointed.\" Bryant rambled, desperate to explain himself without ruining the sweet tension building between them.\n\nVaughn cracked up at that." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He wrapped his arm around his middle and rocked until his face was as red as the prize-winning tomatoes in Vivi's garden." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I highly doubt that.\"\n\n\"But I'm not like the rest of the guys you've been with.\"\n\n\"Are you terrible at blowjobs or something?\" Vaughn chuckled, as if Bryant should know how he was at going down on someone by now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Because he probably should." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What are you really trying to say, Bryant?\"\n\n\"My friends at school mostly relied on social media hookup apps to find partners.\" He cleared his throat. \"That didn't seem safe to me. After what happened…I don't trust men I don't know and I haven't met any gay guys I was into romantically. I spent a lot of time studying, not going to parties. My social life is nonexistent.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hang on. Are you telling me you're still a virgin?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Vaughn stiffened at that, his face going blank and unreadable.\n\n\"You know damn well I'm not.\" Bryant couldn't stop the shame that flooded him at the memory and the embarrassment that accompanied it, especially knowing the one man he lusted after was privy to his worst secret.\n\n\"So you've slept with other guys—at least once or twice—in the past six years, right?\" Vaughn asked casually." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant shook his head again. Negative." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Are you serious? You haven't done…anything…since then?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Not unless it involved my own hands. And a few toys I got off the internet.\" He tried not to stumble over that confession. Like smuggling a purple mail-order Fleshlight into his dorm and hiding it under his pillow was no big deal. When one of his roommates had passed by in the hallway, he'd nearly passed out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Holy shit, Bryant.\" Vaughn didn't run this time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He reached out and drew Bryant to him. \"I'm so damn sorry. And as far as I'm concerned, that day doesn't count. That wasn't sex. It was violence.\"\n\nDid that mean Vaughn was about to reject him again? Tonight, of all nights, he didn't think he could stand to sleep alone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He needed a distraction from his grief—both new and old. He needed to make progress. To be sure he wasn't wasting the life not everyone had the luxury to live.\n\n\"Will you show me the difference then?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant let his wildest hopes slip from his lips into the darkness before he could lock them inside." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah. I'd love to.\" Vaughn kept holding him close, making him forget to be awkward or afraid or sad.\n\nBryant hugged him back, glad for the man filling his arms. Giving him something steady to hang on to in a sea of confusion and misery." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ironically, on one of the hardest days of his life, he had found hope." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After a while, Vaughn's hands began to wander up and down his back. \"Are you sure tonight is the best timing, though?\"\n\n\"I want to stay.\" Bryant nodded.\n\n\"That's not what I said. You're not going anywhere tonight or any night you feel like this is the place you'd most like to be. You're always welcome. I'm glad I'm not alone tonight either. But…your first time should be special.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've waited long enough. If you're here with me, that's all I care about.\"\n\nVaughn closed his eyes for a moment, as if weighing the pros and cons. Then he opened them. The resolve there spiked Bryant's pulse. This was happening." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It wasn't a dream." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It wasn't a fantasy.\n\nIt was real life and it was going to be incredible." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo next ten sentences bits needed. Jayne Rylon style, romance, MM, nsfw genre. this is from a bigger story k?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'father' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Dad, can I talk to you about something?\" Bryant thought back to Jake's advice as he hovered on the threshold to his father's office, where Sam managed the ranch and its financials.\n\nHe was ready to make a significant contribution to Compass Ranch. He just needed his father to believe he was capable of it. To trust him and take a chance. Then be able to deliver on the promises he made to Jake, his dad, the thesis board, and himself.\n\n\"Hey, Bryant.\" Sam waved him inside and toward a chair. \"Of course. Sorry I haven't spent more time catching up. This past week… It's been rough.\"\n\nBryant had heard some rumors. About his mother, father, Jake, and the special relationship they'd had, especially when she was—hell, about the age he was now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Things he didn't honestly understand or want to know all the details about." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Based on the shred of evidence Jake had given him in their final phone conversation, the gossip likely held some truth. His parents seemed to be mourning Jake harder than even the Compass Boys, who'd always thought of him as their surrogate grandfather, seeing as JD had passed away before they were born.\n\n\"I can come back some other time.\" He shifted from one boot to another. It felt odd to be wearing them again. He'd gotten used to the dress shoes he'd donned in his lab. Not that different from his father, he supposed, who'd gone to New York City for a time to work as some kind of financial guru before he'd returned to Compass Ranch when JD had gotten cancer.\n\nIn that way, they were a lot alike. Neither had the desire to work the land the way Uncle Silas or Uncle Seth did. That didn't mean his father wasn't crucial to the ranch's success." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It also meant Bryant had some chance to make an equal impact in his own way…if he stood up for himself now and asked for what he needed in order to prove his worth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Actually, no. Dad, I take it back.\" Bryant tucked his hands in his pockets. He rocked on his heels yet held his ground. \"I need to talk to you now.\"\n\n\"It must be serious.\" His dad cocked his head sideways, sort of like a confused dog. \"I've never seen you quite like this.\"\n\nBryant nodded.\n\nSam smiled. \"I like it.\"\n\n\"You might not when you hear what I'm thinking.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant stepped closer and leaned his hip against his father's desk." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's like this: I have to do a final project. Something to give my thesis some merit. I have to implement a practical application that demonstrates the viability of my design developments.\"\n\n\"Anything you need for school, you know we're behind you.\" Sam smiled. \"We're proud of you, Dr. Compton.\"\n\nBryant wished people would stop calling him that until it was official. It felt like they might jinx it or something. Besides, he hadn't earned the honor quite yet.\n\n\"If this goes right, I'll deserve that.\" He didn't want to hide behind his degree, though. This was about more than an assignment. \"It's not just school I'm talking about. I feel like I can do something for the ranch. Something major. I'd talked about my ideas some with Jake. He agreed they would be a good fit for our operations.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now he wasn't there to help him pitch his dad on a major outlay." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So Bryant would have to do it for them both.\n\n\"He might not have had three degrees.\" Sam crossed his arms, poking fun at himself and his own MBA every bit as much as Bryant's higher education. \"But he was a smart man. One of the most intuitive I've ever met. Let's hear it. If he approved, I'm sure I'll agree.\"\n\n\"It hinges on recapturing evapotranspiration and channeling those resources. Attacking our consumption rates through an intelligent irrigation system while increasing the reserves on the ranch. There's a special polymer I can infuse in the soil. It will retain up to four hundred percent more moisture than untreated soil. In addition, we can add reserve tanks and modify the feed types we're growing. With these and other adjustments, plus the addition of catchment and retention systems, we can expect to drop our reliance on fresh rainwater to seventeen percent of today's requirements.\"\n\n\"Son, I'm not going to pretend I understand seventeen percent of what you're saying right now, except I think you're telling me that we'd be able to survive an epic drought with the changes you want to make. Is that right?\" His dad's face grew serious.\n\nBryant nodded. \"Yes. Even with the crazy weather patterns and climate change shifts we've been seeing, we could be insulated from most of those seasonal variations. I project that once everything is online and at capacity, we could sustain Compass Ranch's average water usage for two full years, potentially longer.\"\n\n\"Well, shit. That would be…incredible.\" Sam rubbed his hand over his face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So how much is all this going to cost us?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I could do a tiny mockup that would generate enough evidence to finish my project for about seven grand. But if you want me to do it right, to actually implement my designs…to go all in, we'd be looking at closer to a hundred thousand dollars.\"\n\nSam spun around in his chair at that. He whistled as he stared out at the ranch behind them. \"That's a lot of money, son. At any time, but especially now. We've got a lot tied up in Seth's new line and allocated for an upgraded rig for Austin. It's…\"\n\nBryant tried to rein in his disappointment. There would always be another shot later. \"I understand.\"\n\n\"No, I don't think you do.\" Sam rotated back to stare at Bryant. \"I need a couple of days to make some calls, but you're going to have that cash. Jake believed in you, and so do I. Don't ever doubt it.\"\n\nBryant whipped around and stared at the wall until his eyes stopped stinging dangerously. \"Thank you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No, Bryant. Thank you. For making our home a better place.\"\n\n\"It's not done yet. And…Dad, it's an experiment. It might not work. I could fail. Bad.\"\n\n\"Do you believe you've got something?\" Sam asked.\n\nBryant nodded. \"I've done the calculations a million times. It should work.\"\n\n\"Then it will.\" Sam shrugged as if it were already a foregone conclusion.\n\n\"I can't control the weather, though.\" Bryant wanted to make absolutely sure his dad understood the risk they were taking. \"I can build the system. Lay the foundation. But if it doesn't rain enough, it won't be up to full capacity. Ideally, this should have been finished months ago. We've missed almost the entire spring already…\"\n\n\"Don't do that, Bryant.\" Sam leveled a stern look he'd reserved for times like when he, Austin, Doug, and James had accidentally burned down one of the ranch's sheds when they were kids." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He took a step back. \"What did I do?\"\n\n\"Doubted yourself.\" Sam leaned forward then. \"You're bright as fuck. And a good kid. I wish you'd see what the rest of us do when we look at you.\"\n\nBryant's stare inadvertently slid to the mirror on the wall beside his father's desk. It surprised him, seeing them both reflected there, how alike they were. As he aged, he was starting to look more and more like a Compton. But he'd never quite felt like one inside.\n\nBecause he was gay? Maybe, though his family had been very accepting when they'd realized he was into guys." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just like his project, however, it had been a theoretical exercise." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd never brought a guy around, or even been with one, not since that day in the barn.\n\nHe didn't even want to think about that in his dad's office in case the guy could read his mind or something. Jake had taken that secret to his grave. The only person around who knew about it now was Vaughn.\n\nVaughn.\n\nBryant thought of the night before and the subtle ache in his muscles today. What would his family say if they knew how he'd spent the hours after Jake's funeral? He didn't think it was disrespectful to his hero. After all, Jake had told him he should have hooked up with Vaughn.\n\nHopefully it wasn't too late to take his advice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Anything else you want to talk about? Your sister mentioned you didn't come home last night. She was worried until I told her about Vaughn's truck parked in the yard.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sam rocked back and put his boots on his desk, his legs crossed at the ankles. \"I know you boys confided in Jake and relied on his advice, but I hope you never forget that I'm here for you. Me and your uncles. Your mom and your aunts. You can talk to any of us at any time.\"\n\nYeah. Right. Bryant wasn't about to be sharing the intimate details of his love life with his father.\n\nBut maybe just one thing… \"Are you disappointed that I'm gay?\"\n\nSam laughed so hard he started coughing. Until he realized Bryant was serious. \"What would ever make you wonder about that? I don't care who you're attracted to. As long as they're of age and you treat each other with respect, I'll be glad when you find someone to love. Seriously, Bryant, have you spent more than one moment worrying about that? Ever?\"\n\nHe nodded slowly. \"It's not easy growing up around all of you dominant guys. Uncle Silas, Uncle Seth, you, Uncle Sawyer, you're enough to give a guy a complex.\"\n\n\"What about Uncle Colby?\" Sam shrugged." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What about him?\" He was just as fierce as the rest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Another Compton man with brass balls bigger than Bryant would ever have. \"Jake said something about him too. That I should talk to him sometime.\"\n\n\"See, you should listen to your elders. I mean, you remind me a lot of him when he was your age.\" His dad tapped his chin. \"I guess he's changed some over time, but he was always happy to let Silas take the lead. Nothing wrong with that. He also kept your uncle from doing dumb shit, or letting his temper get out of hand. If two guys like Uncle Silas tried to hook up, I'm thinking it would be a disaster. There has to be give and take. Different areas and types of strength. Otherwise, all you'd do was butt heads constantly. True of any relationship, really.\"\n\n\"I guess you're right.\" Plus, the more he thought about it, the more he realized his aunts were every bit as intimidating as their husbands, just in other ways.\n\n\"And if you're worried that you're the freakiest Compton just because you like other guys, I'm afraid to tell you that your mother and I have you—and the rest of them—beat by a mile.\"\n\nBryant shook his head. This was one competition he didn't need to win." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He held up his hands, palms out." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'about' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He hadn't cared to hear about their sexcapades from Jake, the rumor mill, and definitely not directly from his own father. \"You know what. I'm good. That's all I needed to hear.\"\n\nHe straightened up and edged toward the door of his father's office. Sam wasn't about to let that be the end of it, though. \"I'm honestly proud of you, son. For more than your grades. Don't forget that, okay?\"\n\n\"We'll see how this project goes.\" Bryant struggled to take a deep breath then, the weight of this impending trial growing.\n\nSam waved him off. \"You're in charge and you know what you're doing. All the other ranches are going to be jealous as fuck when we tell them what we're up to. You're going to have a waitlist of future clients once they see the improvements you make. Just wait.\"\n\nThat would be incredible." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Could it be that he'd have meaningful work, and a partner to share his life with here, in the place he'd never stopped thinking of as home?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was too much to hope for.\n\n\"Thanks, Dad.\"\n\n\"Anytime. Now go get your laptop and email me a spreadsheet of everything you need and how much it costs. Get your ass to work.\"\n\n\"Yes, sir.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: The user will write a bit then you need to write around seven sentences continuing directly from the user's text. Characters and lore may appear without context - work with what's given.\n\nAuthor style: Jayne Rylon" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant couldn't believe how much this mattered to Vaughn. It seemed like a simple thing, strolling down the street together holding hands. For them, it was huge.\n\nIt was important that his boyfriend realize he was glad to be seen together with him.\n\nAnd secretly, Bryant suspected Vaughn liked to parade him around and make sure everyone knew who he belonged to. Bryant had never been the kind of person anyone wanted to show off before, but he was willing to admit he liked the feeling.\n\nThey talked about everything and nothing as they spent Vaughn's day off wandering around the downtown area of Laramie, Wyoming, one of the closest cities to Compton Pass." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sure, it wasn't a megalopolis like New York or L.A., but it was bigger and busier than their sleepy little town." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They walked along the main street, browsing through shop windows. It was incredible to spend time like this, like a normal couple. Bryant was hardly paying attention to the goods in the stores until they passed a high-end antique dealer, which ordinarily wouldn't have been his thing.\n\nExcept something caught his eye.\n\nHe stopped in his tracks, jerking Vaughn to a halt. Then he practically dragged the guy inside and over to a display case where he leaned in for a better look.\n\n\"You like that watch?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Vaughn asked subtly, maybe hinting around for Christmas or birthday ideas." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not that either of them could afford the one he was studying with his photographic memory." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Of course I do. I've admired it my whole life…when my dad was wearing it. It was JD's.\" Bryant clenched his fists. Had his dad sold it to help raise some of the cash for Bryant's experiment? Oh shit, that couldn't be it, could it?\n\n\"Hang on a second, maybe it's just one similar…\" Vaughn's grim face spoke volumes.\n\n\"It's not. See the tiny ding on the band? It's from when I was eight or nine. Doug and I were goofing around on the back of one of the tractors. His jacket got caught on a tree and tugged him off. He was heading straight under the tire until my dad jammed his hand down and grabbed him before something awful could happen. But the watch took the brunt of the impact. My dad always said it saved him from breaking his wrist that day. Besides, it's engraved to JD from Vicki.\" Bryant bent over with his hands on his knees." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Vaughn caught the eye of the shopkeeper and raised his hand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hi, could I take a look at this?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's a beaut, that one. A rare find. Solid gold. Handcrafted by a master watchmaker, too. They don't make them like that anymore.\" The guy nodded as he unlocked the case. He was careful as he handed it to Vaughn, who immediately flipped it over.\n\n[ With my timeless love…Vicki ]\n\nBryant thought he might be sick. Doubly so when he caught sight of all the zeroes on the price tag. A perpetual student with no job, he couldn't even dream of affording it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His only option was to accept that this was what it had cost his family to support him in an effort that hadn't succeeded.\n\nMight never succeed.\n\nIt was going to rain eventually, but until it did, he wouldn't even know if all this had been worth it. And what if it hadn't been?\n\nHe felt that familiar urge to run tugging at his boots.\n\nUntil he looked over at Vaughn. The creases around his mouth and between his brows made it clear he was wondering how Bryant would react." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Would this be the wedge that drove them apart forever?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not if Bryant had anything to say about it.\n\nThis time he wised up and leaned on Vaughn instead of shoving him away. They thanked the shopkeeper and left a significant piece of his family's history behind when they went back to the truck, where he slid across the bench seat to rest his head on Vaughn's shoulder, defeated. \"I don't have any way to make this right. The system and all my improvements have to actually work before I can make any money from them. What am I going to say to my family? What will I say to my dad?\"\n\nAh, fuck.\n\n\"I don't know, Bryant. But we'll figure out something. Your dad believes in you. If he didn't, he would never have done this. Think of it this way—he's so sure that your technology will advance the farm and the improve life for everyone involved that he was willing to gamble that watch on it.\" Vaughn shook Bryant's shoulders." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He's willing to let the past go in order to make the future better. He has faith in you. And so do I.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In that moment, there was only one thing Bryant knew to be true. So he didn't try to repress it. \"I love you, Vaughn.\"\n\n\"I love you, too.\" Vaughn kissed his temple. \"I know it's tough to deal with now, but this is going to be okay.\"\n\nBryant sat there for a while, wrapped in his lover's arms." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After he felt steady again, he reached for his phone and called Doug.\n\n\"Hey, there's the cousin I was just thinking of!\" Doug joked.\n\n\"Why?\" Bryant was afraid to hope. \"Do you have good news? What's the weather doing?\"\n\nDoug turned his phone around so that the video transmitted an image of his laptop screen and the weather forecast running on it. It was blotchy with red blobs. Rain. Heavy rain everywhere." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant held his breath as he reminded himself it was only a simulator the storm-chasing crew used." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You think it's actually coming?\"\n\n\"Yeah, but I thought that the last four times there was a low pressure system over this way, too.\" His cousin shrugged. \"The weather this summer is more confusing than a woman.\"\n\n\"Or a guy.\" Vaughn rolled his eyes so Bryant smacked him in the gut with the back of his hand.\n\nIf this rain didn't come, not only would the herd suffer, but the money his father had sunk into the irrigation and water retention systems would keep them from being able to ship more hay in from a neighboring farm.\n\nBryant might have fucked them all.\n\n\"Calm down.\" Vaughn rubbed Bryant's thigh out of sight of his phone." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Write 12 sentences like Jayne Rylon would, using user's text as beginning. Story may drop in mid-narrative" }, { "from": "human", "value": "A couple days later, Bryant was sitting at the table in Sterling's cottage with Vaughn." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate this exact phrase, preserving the quotation marks: \"Look at the sky. It's coming. I can feel it in my ankle.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They'd stayed out here the past few nights in case, as was forecasted, it finally fucking rained.\n\nOf course it hadn't.\n\nSo he paced the kitchen some more.\n\nVaughn reached out and grabbed his wrist, tugging him into his lap. He banded his arms around Bryant, refusing to allow him to stand up again. \"I love you, Bryant. But if you don't sit your ass down, I'm going to have to bum some rope off your uncles and tie you up.\"\n\n\"I'm trying my absolute hardest.\" Bryant swore his insides were being eaten through from all the acid churning in his gut.\n\nHe couldn't sleep. He couldn't eat. Hell, he couldn't even fuck.\n\n\"Look at the sky. It's coming. I can feel it in my ankle.\" Vaughn grimaced as he rotated it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The one you broke in eighth grade?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bryant had nearly forgotten the summer Vaughn had been hobbling around on crutches or the time he'd accepted a ride across the farm on Bryant's horse." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It was worth it for that horseback ride you gave me over to my dad's place.\" Vaughn smiled as he hugged Bryant like he had back then.\n\n\"Once a perv, always a perv,\" Bryant teased.\n\n\"There's my boyfriend.\" Vaughn laughed. \"I missed you. Stay here with me for a while. I think today's the day.\"\n\n\"Well, you should know.\" Bryant turned and kissed Vaughn gently. \"After all, you broke my drought.\"\n\n\"I guess I did, didn't I?\" Vaughn leaned in, about to make the sweltering kitchen even hotter when a bolt of blue-white light illuminated the sky an instant before the loudest clap of thunder Bryant had ever heard rattled the windows of his sister's house. There was no mistaking it this time. Thunder!\n\nHe looked over at Vaughn and grinned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Instead of shutting the blinds and standing back from the window like any sane weatherman would recommend for their safety, Bryant grabbed his boyfriend's hand and tugged.\n\n\"Where are you taking me?\" Vaughn chuckled as he shook his head.\n\n\"Outside!\" Bryant didn't waste any time. He bolted for the front door and flung it open. Wind whipped through the grass outside, birds dove for cover in the crispy leaves of the trees, and they ran out into the yard.\n\n\"You're going to get us killed, you lunatic!\" Vaughn cringed when another series of flashes pinged around them.\n\nBryant didn't care. He stared up at the sky and the clouds rolling past overhead, hoping. For rain. For the rest of his prayers to be answered. \"Come on. Jake, please, help us out.\"\n\nAs if in answer, a big fat drop of rain fell and splattered right in his eye." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant whooped and swiped it away as he turned to Vaughn. \"It's raining!\"\n\n\"Yes, yes, it is.\" He held his arms out, palms up, and collected the moisture that began to splash down in more and more spots around them. \"You think Jake heard you?\" Vaughn whispered.\n\n\"I'm not sure, but if so… I hope he looks away now.\" Bryant started to strip. He wasn't wasting this chance to celebrate with the love of his life. Thankfully the cottage blocked the view between where they were standing and Sterling and Viho's house.\n\n\"What the hell are you doing?\" Vaughn stared at him as if he'd lost his mind.\n\nBryant met his gaze and held it as he removed the rest of his clothes. For the first time in his life, he felt confident enough to seduce the man he wanted more than anything." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Even more than the rain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Remember that shower sex you wanted? How's rain sex sound instead?\"\n\n\"A rain check. Nice. I'm in.\" Vaughn kicked off his boots and practically ripped his shirt in half as he yanked it from his jeans. Periodic bursts of light outlined his six-pack, which was growing wetter by the second.\n\nThe patter and plop of moisture turned into a constant barrage. Then they were soaked.\n\nSo much water fell from the sky that Bryant couldn't even hear himself as he called out to Vaughn. It didn't matter. The other guy responded as if he knew what Bryant needed. Maybe even needed it himself.\n\nThey came together in the wide-open yard behind the cottage. Damn anyone else who might happen by. A stream of warm water poured from Bryant's hair and down his face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His chest slapped against Vaughn's when they collided with enough momentum to make him wonder if the thunder was coming from within him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The effect Vaughn had on him was powerful enough to be its own force of nature." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'vaughn's' appears 3 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For a moment or two they stood there, peering into each other's eyes. Crystalline drops beaded on Vaughn's onyx lashes, making them glisten.\n\nThen he closed the gap between them, crushing his mouth to Bryant's.\n\nTheir groans smashed together like the warm and cold fronts above them, mingling and turning into the perfect storm of passion. Bryant sank to his knees at Vaughn's feet, craving the taste of him. He filled his mouth with heat and cock, sucking just the way his partner preferred.\n\nThe clench of Vaughn's hands on Bryant's shoulders guaranteed he was having the effect he intended. But it wasn't long before they both needed more. He pulled off and began to lie back.\n\n\"No, you're not going to lay in the dirt while I fuck you.\" Vaughn kept him from settling into the muddy area forming around them.\n\nHe turned and splayed himself on the ground instead, then held his arms out to Bryant, whose heart ka-thumped a little at the tender side his gruff boyfriend sometimes unwittingly showed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant followed Vaughn's urging and crouched over his torso. Vaughn locked his hands onto Bryant's quads, then guided him upward until his cock dangled near Vaughn's mouth.\n\nHis boyfriend lunged upward, taking the shaft between his lips and sucking. He didn't screw around, instead applying just the right amount of suction to border on discomfort while pumping up Bryant's cock as rapidly as possible.\n\nMeanwhile, he reached beneath Bryant. The hum that radiated along Bryant's shaft made him fairly certain the other guy had taken his own cock in hand and started to jerk himself off. Thank God, because he wanted Vaughn inside him, as deep as he could go, while they enjoyed the storm raging around—and within—them.\n\n\"I need you to fuck me, Vaughn. Now. Please.\" Begging didn't bother him in the least. Vaughn wouldn't lord his needs over him.\n\n\"Wait, Bryant. Lube.\" Vaughn grunted as he tried to prevent Bryant from descending, putting his ass in prime range for fucking. \"Damn it. I don't want to hurt you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Vaughn's head sank onto the dampening ground.\n\n\"It's a good thing I was wearing this then, huh?\" Bryant grinned as he took Vaughn's hand and brought it to his ass. He gasped when his boyfriend nudged the base of the generously lubed plug he'd had in all day in the hopes that Vaughn would take him for a hard ride later, either because it'd finally be raining and they were celebrating like they were now, or because he needed to be soothed after more disappointment.\n\nIt looked like all his wishes were coming true today.\n\n\"You're a fucking genius, has anyone ever told you that?\" Vaughn grinned as he teased the toy from Bryant's body and chucked it into a flowerbed nearby.\n\nThey had, but it had never meant as much to Bryant as it did right then. Knowing he made his boyfriend happy was damn near as enjoyable as the pressure of Vaughn's cock nudging his ass, seeking entry.\n\nBryant watched rain splash onto Vaughn's abs, saw them clenching beneath the sheen of the fresh, clean water pouring over them. He shook his head to clear some of the moisture from his eyes so that he could see the expression on Vaughn's face when they were joined once again.\n\nEven though it had only been half a day since they'd been linked like this, their connection had the power to electrify him." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required word frequency: 'there' (2x)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He sank onto Vaughn's cock, bit by bit, working himself down as his boyfriend thrust upward.\n\nTogether, they made themselves fit each other. If there was a tiny bit of residual pain, Bryant didn't mind. He knew that they'd get past it and give each other far more pleasure than that initial pinprick of discomfort.\n\nHe sighed when Vaughn's thighs cradled his lower back and his balls rested against Vaughn's belly.\n\n\"Don't get too comfortable there, Doc.\" Vaughn laughed as he reached down to run a finger along the entire length of Bryant's cock. \"You've got some riding to do.\"\n\nOne of Vaughn's palms connected with the side of Bryant's ass, then gripped it, using the hold to help him get started. His other hand concentrated on massaging Bryant's cock and balls, which were presented for him to easily play with. Their position also let Vaughn openly admire the artwork Bryant wore with honor.\n\nIt was nearly complete now, after more sessions than he could count." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Someday soon he'd show his cousins and his father and uncles." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He finally felt like a fully fledged Compton, wearing symbols of their ranch, their ancestors, his profession, and—of course—Vaughn's name." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The calluses on Vaughn's hands, at the base of his fingers, only added to the rough edge of his steady grip. He pumped Bryant in time to the rhythm Bryant set as he began to fuck himself on Vaughn's cock. Bryant put his hands behind him and braced them on Vaughn's knees, using the leverage to help him pick up speed.\n\nHis hips rose and fell, working Vaughn's cock in and out of himself. Watching the heavy-lidded stare Vaughn gave him as they fucked had his own dick jerking in his boyfriend's grip.\n\n\"Fuck yes, Bryant,\" Vaughn cheered into the storm. \"Ride me. Show me how much you love this. Come all over me and I'll fill you up.\"\n\nHow could Bryant resist a dirty-talking not-cowboy like that?\n\nHe stared straight into Vaughn's eyes as he surrendered to the moment. He embraced the rapture streaking through him as bright as the lightning striking around them, adding drops of his own fluid to the rain spattering all over Vaughn's torso. Vaughn angled his chin down and lapped a pearly line from his own pectoral muscle, sampling the proof of Bryant's pleasure.\n\nAnd then his cock bulged inside Bryant's ass a moment before he began to buck." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "True to his word, Vaughn deposited jet after jet inside Bryant, his fists pounding the ground, sending water spraying in every direction. Though the wind shrieked and the storm seethed, all Bryant heard was that guttural gasp of ecstasy that he'd inspired.\n\nThen he collapsed beside Vaughn.\n\nThey lay there, staring up at the sky, being washed clean of all their fear, doubts, and worry. Until, after a while, the summer rain brought chills to even the toasty places where they connected.\n\n\"You're dying to go check the system, aren't you?\" Vaughn asked.\n\n\"Yeah. Do you mind?\" Bryant bit his lip.\n\nVaughn climbed to his feet, then held his hand out for Bryant. \"Not at all. How can I help?\"\n\nBryant ran for the cottage. \"Just stay with me while I do my thing and don't let me freak out if things aren't as they should be.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's not a problem, but we should probably rinse off and get dressed first.\"\n\n\"Good thinking.\"\n\nVaughn was never more than a step behind as they splashed through puddles, inspected connections, and monitored the water levels while the retention ponds began to fill. Everything worked perfectly.\n\nHours later, Bryant felt solid enough to return to the cottage. Once there, Vaughn grabbed a blanket off the back of the couch and wrapped it around them both, bundling them together.\n\nThey stood, dripping and shivering, in the entryway, hugging each other and slow dancing in place until the chill began to fade from his fingers and toes. It would be impossible not to be warm in Vaughn's arms.\n\n\"Rainy days are my new favorite,\" Vaughn purred.\n\n\"Mine too.\" Bryant squeezed him tight enough he might be smothering the other guy. Still, he refused to let go. \"Though with you, any day is amazing.\"\n\n\"But especially the wet ones.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bryant laughed and nodded. \"Especially those.\"\n\n\"Even though you're a stubborn-ass Compton, I love you, Bryant. I think I have from the first moment I saw you. I don't ever want to lose you again.\" Vaughn took Bryant's palm. He smoothed it over his heart and the tattoo he wore so proudly there. \"I'll do my best to make sure you're never hurt again, especially because of me.\"\n\n\"I've told you a million times. That wasn't your fault. None of this was your—\"\n\n\"And it sure as fuck wasn't yours either.\" Vaughn shook his head. \"But it screwed us both up anyway. No more. That's done and so is the running. If there's trouble, we'll deal with it together and come out stronger for it.\"\n\n\"Deal.\" Bryant choked when Vaughn loosened the blanket just enough to drop to one knee.\n\n\"I never imagined doing this buck-ass naked, but what the fuck? You see all of me, loved all of me when no one else thought I was worth it.\"\n\n\"You do the same for me,\" Bryant whispered, his voice somewhere down around his ankles." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So…will you be my partner for life? Marry me?\" Vaughn asked.\n\nBryant swallowed hard so that he could roar. \"Hell yes!\"\n\nHe put his hands beneath Vaughn's arms and lifted him up, like they'd always do for each other. \"But…\"\n\n\"No. No buts allowed. It's a yes or no question.\" Vaughn bit his lip as if he had any reason at all to worry.\n\n\"I'm just wondering… I know you asked me, but I'd love it if you would become a Compton.\" It was a dumb detail. His mind specialized in facts, though, and now that he'd thought of it, he couldn't imagine it any other way.\n\n\"You think your family would want me having their name?\" Vaughn asked.\n\nConsidering how serious he was when he said it, Bryant knew without a doubt he would insist the other guy take it. Convince him he was as worthy of it as any of the rest of them. \"Of course they would be proud to give it to you. Snake was an honorary Compton. It feels right that you should make it official.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I would love that.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Vaughn hugged him tight. \"Nearly as much as I love you.\"\n\nOf course, that led to more kissing, and more fucking—this time the long and slow variety in the comfort of their bed. The entire time, it rained. And rained. And rained. Until Compass Ranch's water retention system overflowed, filled to the brim like Bryant's heart and soul." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Cooperative storytelling\nContext: May include established characters/lore without introduction\nMy role: Provide a brief opening\nYour role: Expand upon my opening with nine sentences, emulating the writing style of T. J. Klune." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The offices of Extremely Upper Management were located on the fifth floor of the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. He'd heard rumors about the fifth floor, most of them downright alarming. He'd never been there himself, but he assumed that at least some of the rumors had to be true.\n\nHe was alone in the elevator as he pressed a button he never expected to.\n\nThe bright gold five.\n\nThe elevator started to rise. The pit of Linus's stomach seemed to stay in the basement. It was the longest elevator ride of Linus's life, lasting at least two minutes. It didn't help that it stopped on the first floor, opened, and began to fill with people." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They asked for two and three and four, but nobody ever asked for five.\n\nA handful got off on the second floor. Even more at the third. And it was at the fourth that the remaining exited. They glanced back at him curiously. He tried to smile but was sure it came off as more of a grimace.\n\nHe was alone when the elevator began to rise again.\n\nBy the time the doors opened on the fifth floor, he was sweating.\n\nIt certainly didn't help that the elevator opened to a long, cold hallway, the floor made of stone tile, the gold sconces on the wall casting low light." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At one end of the hall was the bank of elevators where he stood." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At the other end was a shuttered pane of glass next to a pair of large wooden doors. Above them was a metal sign:" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo hit me with 1 sentence more. same character energy. fantasy, LGBT, romance genre k?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What on earth have I gotten myself into now?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Linus whispered as another breeze ruffled the letter in his hand." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He read through the letter a second time, trying to read between the lines, but he was left with more questions than answers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He folded the letter and put it in his breast pocket before looking at the files in his hand." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No time like the present, I suppose,\" he told Calliope." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Let's see how big of a secret this actually is. I'm sure this is all blown out of proportion. The higher your expectations, the greater the disappointment.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He flipped open the first file." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Attached to the top was a photograph of a young boy of perhaps six or seven years of age." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was smiling rather devilishly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was missing his two front teeth, his hair was a mess, sticking up all over the place, and his eyes were— Well." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They looked as if they were suffering from red-eye effect, the flash happening too quickly for the pupils to react." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was a ring of blue around the red." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was certainly chilling, but Linus had seen it many times before." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Just a trick of the light." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That's all it was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Underneath the photograph, in blocky letters, was a name." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "LUCY." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A boy named Lucy,\" Linus said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's certainly a first. I wonder why they chose … the name … Lucy…\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The last word came out choked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There, written in clear English, was exactly the reason why." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The file read:" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "NAME: LUCIFER (NICKNAME LUCY)\n\nAGE: SIX YEARS, SIX MONTHS, SIX DAYS (AT TIME OF THIS REPORT)" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "StoryBot: Add 8 sentences to this segment. Style: T. J. Klune. Genre: fantasy, LGBT, romance. Note: Part of larger work." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As strange as the situation Linus found himself in was, dinner went relatively smoothly for the first ten minutes. It was while he was picking at the salad on his plate (not responding to the call of the potatoes, no matter how loud it was), that it came to a screeching halt.\n\nIt started, of course, with Talia.\n\n\"Mr. Baker?\" she asked innocently. \"Wouldn't you like something more than just the salad?\"\n\n\"No,\" he said. \"Thank you. I'm quite fine.\"\n\nShe hummed under her breath. \"You sure? A man of your size can't live on rabbit food alone.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Talia,\" Mr. Parnassus said. \"Leave Mr. Baker—\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'round' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's because of my size,\" Linus interjected, not wanting someone to speak for him again. He was in charge here, after all. And the sooner they knew that, the better.\n\n\"What's wrong with your size?\" Talia asked.\n\nHe flushed. \"There's too much of it.\"\n\nShe frowned. \"There's nothing wrong with being round.\"\n\nHe stabbed a tomato. \"I'm not—\"\n\n\"I'm round.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well, yes. But you're a gnome. You're supposed to be round.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She squinted at him. \"So why can't you be?\"\n\n\"It's not—it's a matter of health—I can't—\"\n\n\"I want to be round,\" Lucy announced. And then he was. One moment, he was the skinny little thing sitting in his booster seat, and the next, he began to blow up like a balloon, his chest stretching out, bones cracking obscenely. His eyes bulged from his head, and Linus was sure they were about to pop out onto the table. \"Look!\" he said through pinched lips." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm a gnome or Mr. Baker!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why have you never seen the ocean?\" Phee asked as Linus stared in horror at Lucy. \"It's always there. It never goes anywhere. It's too big to move.\"\n\nLucy deflated, bones rearranging themselves until he was nothing but a six-year-old boy again. \"It is,\" he agreed, as if he hadn't just blown up to three times his size. \"I tried.\"\n\n\"That was a weird day,\" Chauncey said, sliding a potato through his mouth with a tentacle. Linus watched as it slid down inside of him, perfectly clear though tinged green. It began to break down into tiny particles." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So many fish died. And then you brought them back to life. Most of them.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Use 'happy' 5 times in response]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've just … I've never had time,\" Linus said, feeling dizzy. \"I—too many responsibilities. I have an important job and—\"\n\nTheodore attacked the meat Ms. Chapelwhite had set on his plate, growling low in his throat.\n\n\"Arthur says that we should always make time for the things we like,\" Talia said. \"If we don't, we might forget how to be happy. Are you not happy, Mr. Baker?\"\n\n\"I'm perfectly happy.\"\n\n\"You're not happy being round,\" Phee said. \"So you can't be perfectly happy.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm not round—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What is your job, Mr. Baker?\" Chauncey asked, eyes bouncing on his stalks. \"Is it in the city?\"\n\nLinus wasn't hungry anymore. \"I—yes. It's in the city.\"\n\nChauncey sighed dreamily. \"I love the city. All those hotels that need bellhops. It sounds like paradise.\"\n\n\"You've never been to the city,\" Lucy reminded him.\n\n\"So? I can love something even if I've only seen pictures of it. Mr. Baker loves the ocean, and he only saw it for the first time today!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If he loves it so much, why doesn't he marry it?\" Phee asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Theodore chirped through a mouthful of meat. The children laughed. Even Sal cracked a smile.\n\nBefore Linus could ask, Ms. Chapelwhite said, \"Theodore hopes you and the ocean are very happy together.\"\n\n\"I'm not going to marry the ocean—\"\n\n\"Ohhh,\" Talia said, eyes wide, mustache twitching. \"Because you're already married, right?\"\n\n\"You're married?\" Phee demanded. \"Who is your wife? Is she still in your suitcase? Why would you put her there? Is she a contortionist?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Is your wife your cat?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Add this exact quote somewhere appropriate: \"Not exactly. Why, I never—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucy asked. \"I like cats, but they don't like me.\" His eyes started to glow red. \"They worry I'll eat them. To be fair, I've never had one before, so I don't know if they're delicious or not. Is your wife delicious, Mr. Baker?\"\n\n\"We don't eat pets, Lucy,\" Mr. Parnassus said, wiping his mouth daintily.\n\nThe red faded from Lucy's eyes immediately. \"Right. Because pets are friends. And since Mr. Baker's cat is his wife, that's like his best friend.\"\n\n\"Exactly,\" Mr. Parnassus said, sounding amused.\n\n\"No,\" Linus said. \"Not exactly. Why, I never—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I like being round,\" Talia announced." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It means there's more of me to love.\"\n\n\"I love you, Talia,\" Chauncey said, laying one of his eyes on her shoulder. That same eye turned slowly to look at Linus. \"Can you tell me more about the city? Is it bright at night? Because of all the lights?\"\n\nLinus could barely keep up. \"I—I suppose it is, but I don't like being out at night.\"\n\n\"Because of the things in the dark that could rip your bones from your flesh?\" Lucy asked through a mouthful of bread." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No,\" Linus said, feeling queasy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Because I would rather be home than anywhere else at all.\" That was truer now than it'd ever been before.\n\n\"Home is where you feel like yourself,\" Ms. Chapelwhite said, and Linus could only agree. \"It's the same for us, isn't it, children? Home is where we get to be who we are.\"\n\n\"My garden is here,\" Talia said.\n\n\"The best garden,\" Mr. Parnassus said.\n\n\"And my trees,\" Phee added.\n\n\"The most wonderful trees,\" Mr. Parnassus agreed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Theodore chirped, and Ms. Chapelwhite stroked one of his wings." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Your button, yes. It is here too.\"\n\n\"What a lovely gift,\" Mr. Parnassus said, smiling at the wyvern.\n\n\"And where else can I practice being a bellhop but at home?\" Chauncey asked. \"You have to practice something before being good at it.\"\n\n\"Practice makes perfect,\" Mr. Parnassus said.\n\n\"And this is the only place in the world where I don't have to worry about priests trying to stick a cross on my face to cast my soul back to the pits of hell,\" Lucy announced. He laughed as he shoved more bread in his mouth.\n\n\"Pesky priests, to be sure,\" Mr. Parnassus said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Are you going to take our home away from us?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The table fell quiet.\n\nLinus blinked. He looked around for the source of the voice and was surprised to find it came from Sal. Sal, who was looking down at the table, hands curled into fists. His mouth was set into a thin line, and his shoulders were shaking.\n\nMr. Parnassus reached out and laid his hand on one of Sal's fists. A long finger tapped the inside of Sal's wrist. He said, \"That isn't Mr. Baker's intention. I don't think he ever wishes for something like that to happen. Not to anyone.\"\n\nLinus thought to disagree, but he didn't think it would do any good." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Especially in the light of an obviously traumatized child. And while Mr. Parnassus wasn't wrong exactly, he didn't like when someone else spoke for him.\n\nMr. Parnassus continued. \"His job is to make sure I'm doing my job correctly. And what is my job?\"\n\n\"To keep us safe,\" the children intoned. Even Sal.\n\n\"Precisely,\" Mr. Parnassus said. \"And I like to think I'm good at it.\"\n\n\"Because you've had practice?\" Chauncey asked.\n\nMr. Parnassus smiled at him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes. Because I've had practice. And if I have my say, you will never be separated.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That was a challenge, and Linus didn't care for it one bit. \"I don't think it's right to—\"\n\n\"Who's ready for dessert?\" Ms. Chapelwhite asked.\n\nThe children began to cheer." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "AI writing task: segment from larger work -> 5 sentences sentences. style: T. J. Klune. genre: fantasy, LGBT, romance. note: established characters likely." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He blinked his eyes open slowly the next morning.\n\nWarm sunlight filtered in through the window. He smelled salt in the air.\n\nIt felt like a lovely dream.\n\nBut then reality burst through, and he remembered where he was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And what he'd seen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh dear,\" he muttered roughly as he sat up in the bed, rubbing a hand over his face.\n\nCalliope lay curled at the edge of the bed near his feet, tail swishing back and forth, eyes closed.\n\nHe yawned as he pulled the comforter back, putting his feet on the floor. He stretched, popping his back. Regardless of the situation he'd found himself in, he had to admit he hadn't had such a good night's sleep since he could remember." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Between that, the morning sunlight, and the distant crash of the waves, he could almost pretend that this was nothing but a well-earned holiday, and that he was—\n\nSomething cold and wet wrapped around his ankle.\n\nLinus screamed as he jerked his legs up. In his fear, he miscalculated his own strength, and his legs went up and over his head as he somersaulted backward and off the other side of the bed. He landed on the floor on his back with a jarring crash, breath leaving his lungs in a spectacular fashion." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He turned his head toward the underside of the bed." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Use 'linus' 2 times in response]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hello,\" Chauncey said, eyes dancing on the end of their stalks. \"I'm not actually trying to scare you. It's almost time for breakfast. We're having eggs!\"\n\nLinus looked back up toward the ceiling and waited for his heartbeat to slow.\n\nDepartment in Charge of Magical Youth\n\nCase Report #1 Marsyas Orphanage\n\nLinus Baker, Caseworker BY78941" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "AI writing task: segment from larger work -> 5 sentences sentences. style: T. J. Klune. genre: fantasy, LGBT, romance. note: established characters likely." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The interior of the house appeared to be an extension of what could be found outside. Instead of a floor, there was exposed earth, the grass forming a thick carpet. Pots filled with flowers hung from the ceiling. Tiny blue crabs and snails with shells of green and gold clung to the walls. The windows were open, and Linus could hear the ocean in the distance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was a sound he had grown accustomed to." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He would miss it when it was time for him to leave.\n\nFood had been spread out for them on a wooden counter. The children held what appeared to be large shells, stacking food high on them. There were sandwiches and potato salad and strawberries so red Linus thought they had to be fake until Theodore bit into one, eyes rolling back in his head in ecstasy.\n\nArthur Parnassus sat in an old chair, hands folded in his lap as he watched with amusement as the children began to gorge themselves, even as Zoe warned them to slow down." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Expeditions were hungry work; Linus's stomach was growling too." }, { "from": "system", "value": "At some point in your response, insert this verbatim: \"I'm glad to see you survived,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm glad to see you survived,\" Linus said, shifting awkwardly as he stood next to the chair.\n\nArthur tilted his head back to look up at him. \"Quite brave of me, I know.\"\n\nLinus snorted. \"Indeed. They'll write epic poems about you.\"\n\n\"I should like that, I think.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Of course you would.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The corners of Arthur's eyes crinkled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Before they descended upon their bounty, I was told you were a good caretaker in my absence.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Linus shook his head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Lucy was probably having one over on you—\"\n\n\"It came from Sal.\"\n\nLinus blinked. \"Come again?\"\n\n\"Sal said you held Talia's hand without her needing to ask. And that you listened to all of them, letting them make their own decisions.\"\n\nLinus was flustered. \"It wasn't—I was just going along.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Well, thank you, regardless. As I'm sure you know, that's quite high praise coming from him.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Linus did know. \"He's getting used to me, I guess.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Arthur shook his head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's not that. It's … He sees things. Perhaps more than the rest of us. The good in people. The bad. He's come across all kinds in his short life. He can see what others cannot.\"\n\n\"I'm just me,\" Linus said, unsure of where this was going. \"I don't know how to be anyone but who I already am. This is how I've always been. It's not much, but I do the best I can with what I have.\"\n\nArthur looked at him sadly. He reached out and squeezed Linus's hand briefly before letting go." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I suppose the best is all one could ask for.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He stood, smiling, though his smile wasn't as bright as it usually was." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How is the bounty, explorers?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Good!\" Chauncey said, swallowing an entire sandwich in one bite." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It sank down inside of him and began to break apart." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It would be better if there were actual treasure,\" Lucy muttered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And what if the treasure was the friendships we solidified along the way?\" Arthur asked.\n\nLucy pulled a face. \"That's the worst treasure in the world. They already were my friends. I want rubies.\"\n\nTheodore perked up and chirped a question.\n\n\"No,\" Talia said through a mouthful of potato salad." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bits of egg and mustard dotted her beard. \"No rubies.\"\n\nHis wings drooped.\n\n\"But there is pie,\" Zoe said. \"Baked especially for you.\"\n\nLucy sighed. \"If I must.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "help with this chapter? 3 sentences more sentences, T. J. Klune-style, fantasy, LGBT, romance genre. some context might be from earlier" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I solemnly swear the contents of this report are accurate and true. I understand per DICOMY guidelines that any discoverable falsehoods will result in censure and could lead to termination.\n\nMy second week at the Marsyas Orphanage has brought new insights into its inhabitants." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Where once there seemed to be chaos, I now see a strange yet definitive order." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It has nothing to do with hastily brought changes at my arrival (of which I assume there were a few; such things usually occur before a caseworker walks through the door), but more so with me growing accustomed to how things are run.\n\nMs. Chapelwhite, though she isn't on any kind of DICOMY payroll, cares for these children as if they were her own. Given that she's a sprite, it's a little surprising, as her kind are known for their solitary existences and being extraordinarily protective of the lands that they tend to." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In fact, I don't know that I've ever met a sprite who wasn't fiercely protective of their privacy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And while Ms. Chapelwhite isn't exactly forthcoming, she does work in tandem with the master of the house to ensure the children are well provided for. She is often found in the kitchen preparing meals, and even takes to handling study groups for the lessons Mr. Parnassus has taught. She is well-versed on a variety of subjects, and her tutelage enhances what the children have learned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It appears to be free of any sort of propaganda, though that might be for my benefit." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I've now seen Lucy's room, and sat in on one of his sessions with Mr. Parnassus. If you take away what is known about the boy—who he is supposed to be—you are left with an inquisitive youth who tends to say things for shock value rather than with any sincerity. He is intelligent, almost frighteningly so, and well-spoken." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If DICOMY weren't sure he was the Antichrist—a word that's not to be uttered at the Marsyas Orphanage—I would think he was nothing more than a boy capable of conjuring images meant to scare." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "However, I expect this is what he wants me to think. I would do well to keep my guard up. Just because he appears as a child doesn't mean he isn't capable of great calamity." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His room is small, converted from a walk-in closet in Mr. Parnassus's own room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was somewhat shy in showing me where he resides, but his love for music allowed me to form a connection with him. I believe—under proper guidance—that he will be capable of becoming a productive member of society. So long, that is, as he doesn't give in to his true nature." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It does beg the question of nature versus nurture, if there is inherent evil in the world that can be overcome by a normalized upbringing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Can he be rehabilitated? Assimilated? That remains to be seen.\n\nI haven't seen Sal's room, though I think I am slowly gaining his trust." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I have to be careful with him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He reminds me of a skittish foal. That being said, I have heard him speak more in the last day than I have in the entirety of my stay on the island thus far. Granted, he wasn't speaking to me but around me, but I don't know that it matters." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He's like a sunflower, I think." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He needs to be coaxed with proper care to show his true colors.\n\nTheodore—the wyvern—has a hoard that I haven't seen yet, though it has to be filled with at least a dozen of my buttons. I may not ever see it, but as of yet, it doesn't cause me any great concern." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They're only buttons, after all." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I plan on keeping a sharp eye out in case there are hints at anything more nefarious.\n\nThe biggest issue I see to date is what appears to be isolation. The children don't leave the island, large as it is." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There is a reason for it, and one I am bothered by." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It would have been helpful to know before my arrival that the villagers are paid by the government for their silence. Little details like this are important, and the fact that I was unaware makes me look unprofessional. It does raise the question, too, of the source of these payments." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Do they come from the funding that's earmarked for this specific orphanage?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I would expect an auditor would take issue if that's the case.\n\nThe village nearby seems to be somewhat hostile to the inhabitants of the orphanage. I believe DICOMY isn't doing itself any favors with its campaigns in conjunction with the Department in Charge of Registration." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There are signs of SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING in every corner of the village, and it's reminiscent of those in the city, though they seem more cluttered here." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If the children don't feel welcome in the real world, how can we ever hope to integrate them into society?\n\nI'm thinking of a day trip, perhaps. To test the waters." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'll need to bring it up to Mr. Parnassus, of course." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think it would do the children good, and hopefully allow the villagers to see their fears are unfounded. If Arthur says no, I suppose I'll have to abide by it.\n\nSuch a strange fellow Arthur is." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He cares for the children." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That much is clear. While he doesn't follow RULES AND REGULATIONS to the letter (possibly not at all), I think there is merit to what he does. The children all care about each other immensely, and I believe that is in no small part due to Arthur." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Still, he is an enigma." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For all that I've learned about this place, I feel as if I know him the least. I will need to rectify that, I think.\n\nFor the children, of course." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Talia showed me more of her garden today." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Gnomes are quite proficient in horticulture, but she seems to outshine even the very best and …" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo hit me with 11 sentences more. same character energy. fantasy, LGBT, romance genre k?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "That might have been an understatement." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Linus gasped awake, shooting up in his bed, hand clutched to his chest, his heart beating rapidly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was disoriented, unsure of what was happening." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His eyes adjusted to the darkness, and it took him a moment to understand what he was seeing.\n\nThe house appeared to be shrinking.\n\nThe ceiling overhead was much closer than it'd been when he'd gone to sleep.\n\n\"What on earth?\" he exclaimed.\n\nHe heard a meow come from somewhere below him. He looked over the side of the bed, only to see that it wasn't the house that was shrinking. No, the reason the ceiling looked so much closer was because the bed was floating five feet off the ground.\n\n\"Oh dear,\" Linus said, clutching the comforter as Calliope stared up at him, eyes bright in the dark, tail twitching.\n\nLinus had never been in a floating bed before. He pinched himself quite hard to make sure he wasn't dreaming.\n\nHe wasn't." }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'right' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh dear,\" he said again.\n\nAnd then he heard a low, rumbling roar come from outside the house.\n\nHe pulled the comforter up to his chin as the bed swayed gently. It seemed like the safest option.\n\nCalliope called up to him again.\n\n\"I know,\" he managed to say, voice muffled by the heavy blanket. \"It's probably nothing, right? I should just go back to sleep. That would be best thing for everyone. For all I know, this is something that happens all the time.\"\n\nThe bed tilted sharply to the right, and Linus barely managed to shout before he hit the floor, pillows and blankets raining down around him.\n\nHe groaned as he rolled over onto his back.\n\nCalliope licked his thinning hair. He never understood why cats did that." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Well, obviously I'm up now,\" he said, staring up at the bed above him. \"Might as well see what this is all about. Perhaps it's just … an earthquake. Yes. An earthquake, and it's almost over.\"\n\nHe pushed himself up from the floor, knocking his head against the bottom of the bed. He rubbed his forehead as he muttered to himself. He managed to find his shoes, which thankfully still appeared to be anchored to the floor. He slipped them on and exited the bedroom, Calliope following close behind him.\n\nThe chair in the living room was floating, spinning lazily in the air. The portable record player flipped on and off. The lights flickered.\n\n\"I can deal with most things,\" he whispered to Calliope. \"But I believe I'll draw the line at ghosts. I don't think I much like the idea of being haunted.\"\n\nThat rumbling sound happened again, and he felt it vibrate up through the floors." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 12 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But it appeared to be coming from outside the house, and though he was loath to do so, he opened the front door.\n\nThe lights were flashing in the main house. He was reminded of the bright orange light he'd seen after Mr. Parnassus had left a few nights before, but it wasn't the same. It looked as if something was happening inside the main house. And though he wanted nothing more than to shut the door against it and pretend none of this was happening, he stepped off the porch onto the grass.\n\nAnd promptly screamed when a hand fell on his shoulder.\n\nHe whirled around to see Zoe standing behind him, a worried look on her face.\n\n\"Why would you do that?\" he growled at her. \"Are you trying to send me to an early grave? It's like you get enjoyment out of frightening me!\"\n\n\"It's Lucy,\" she said quietly, wings glistening behind her in the moonlight. She looked ethereal. \"He's having a nightmare. You must come at once.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Cooperative storytelling\nContext: May include established characters/lore without introduction\nMy role: Provide a brief opening\nYour role: Expand upon my opening with nine sentences, emulating the writing style of T. J. Klune." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Merle stood on the ferry, gaping.\n\nLinus leaned out the open window from the front passenger seat. \"Are you going to lower the gate?\"\n\nMerle didn't move.\n\n\"Useless man,\" Linus muttered. \"I don't know why we're supposed to trust him in charge of a large boat. I'm surprised he hasn't killed anyone yet.\"\n\n\"Are we going to crash and sink in the ocean and maybe die?\" Chauncey asked. \"That would be neat.\"\n\nLinus sighed. He really needed to learn to censor himself better." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'children' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He turned around to look in the back of the van. Six children stared at him with varying degrees of interest at the idea of sinking in the ocean and dying, Lucy and Chauncey more so than the others.\n\nZoe, sitting in the third row, arched an eyebrow at him, indicating without so much as a single word that this was his mess and he might as well own up to it.\n\nHe hoped he wouldn't live to regret this.\n\nChances were pretty high he would.\n\n\"We're not going to sink into the ocean and die,\" Linus said, as patiently as possible. \"It's merely an expression used by adults, and therefore, children such as yourselves shouldn't say anything like it.\"\n\nArthur snorted from the driver's seat, but Linus ignored him. He was on very strange ground with Arthur since the night in his bedroom." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Where once he'd had no problem in speaking his mind to the master of the house, he now found himself blushing and sputtering as if he were a school boy. It was ridiculous." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do adults think about death a lot?\" Lucy asked. He cocked his head at an odd angle. \"That must mean I'm an adult too, because I think about it all the time. I like dead things. I would still like you if you were dead, Mr. Baker. Maybe even more.\"\n\nZoe smothered a laugh with the back of her hand and turned to look out the window.\n\nUseless. Her and Arthur both.\n\n\"Adults don't think about death a lot,\" Linus said sternly. \"In fact, they barely think about it at all. Why, it doesn't even cross my mind.\"\n\n\"Then why are so many books written by adults about mortality?\" Phee asked.\n\n\"I don't—it's because—that's neither here nor there! What I'm trying to say is that there is to be no more talk about death or dying!\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should naturally weave in this dialogue: \"I can tell you when you're going to die,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Talia nodded sagely as she stroked her beard. \"Exactly. Because it's better not to know if we're about to die. That way, we don't start screaming right now. It'll be a surprise. We can always scream then.\"\n\nTheodore chirped worriedly, hiding his head under his wing as he sat on Sal's lap. Sal reached down and stroked his back.\n\n\"I can tell you when you're going to die,\" Lucy said. He leaned his head back and stared at the ceiling of the van. \"I think I could see the future if I tried hard enough. Mr. Baker? Do you want me to see when you're going to die? Ooh, yes, it's coming to me now. I can see it! You're going to perish in a terrible—\"\n\n\"I don't,\" Linus snapped. \"And I will tell you again, while we're in the village, you can't go around offering to tell people about what fate awaits them!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucy sighed. \"How am I supposed to make new friends if I can't tell them about how they'll die? What's the point?\"\n\n\"Ice cream and records,\" Arthur said.\n\n\"Oh. Okay!\"\n\nThis was a very bad idea.\n\n\"Do you think I look good?\" Chauncey asked for what had to be the hundredth time. \"I don't know if I got my outfit quite right.\"\n\nHe wore a tiny trench coat, and a top hat was set between his eyes. He said it was his disguise, but it did little." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It'd been his idea, and Linus hadn't felt like arguing, especially when Chauncey had exclaimed quite loudly that he couldn't go to the village nude, even though that was how he spent most of his time on the island." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Linus had never thought about it that way. And now he couldn't not.\n\n\"You look fine,\" Linus said. \"Dashing, even.\"\n\n\"Like a spy hidden in the shadows about to reveal a big secret,\" Sal told him.\n\n\"Or like he's going to open his coat and flash us,\" Talia muttered.\n\n\"Hey! I wouldn't do that! Only if you asked!\"\n\nZoe was no longer trying to hide her laughter.\n\nLinus turned back around in the seat, staring out the windshield. Merle was still gaping at them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Second thoughts?\" Arthur asked." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Linus didn't have to look at him to know he was smiling.\n\n\"No,\" Linus said. \"Of course not. This is going to be fine. This is going to— Good God, man! Lower the damn gate!\"\n\n\"Ooooh,\" the children said.\n\n\"Mr. Baker cursed,\" Talia whispered in awe.\n\nIt was going to be fine." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo hit me with 10 sentences more. same character energy. fantasy, LGBT, romance genre k?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The total, after being rung up, was astounding. Linus had never spent so much on gardening tools in his life.\n\nTalia smiled up at the woman. \"Can you excuse me for a moment?\"\n\nThe woman nodded.\n\nTalia turned away from her, smile disappearing. She looked frantic. She grabbed Linus's hand and tugged on it, pulling him down. \"I don't have enough,\" she whispered. \"And we can't push her down and steal it, right? Because that's wrong.\"\n\n\"We absolutely cannot push her down and steal it,\" Linus said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucy rolled his eyes. \"I knew you were going to say that.\" He frowned and then reached into his pocket. He pulled out a handful of crumpled bills. He held it out to Talia. \"Is that enough, you think?\"\n\nTalia shook her head. \"No, Lucy. You can't. Those are for your records.\"\n\nLucy shrugged. \"I know. But not all of them are broken. And the ones that did break were my fault anyway. You can have it.\"\n\n\"Put your money away,\" Linus said quietly. \"Both of you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But, my tools—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stepped forward to the counter, dropping their hands as he pulled out his own wallet. He smiled weakly at the woman as he handed her his Diners Club Card, something he only used in emergencies. She placed it on top of the imprinter and snapped the handle over for the receipt.\n\nHe heard whispering behind him and glanced back, wanting to make sure that they weren't actually planning on robbing the garden store. Instead, he found Talia smiling, her eyes wet as Lucy wrapped an arm around her shoulders.\n\nThe woman cleared her throat, and Linus turned back around. She handed him his card and started to bag up the tools. Linus felt Talia step beside him, reaching up to the counter, waving her hands as she couldn't quite see over it. The woman handed her the bags.\n\nShe hesitated. Then, \"This garden of yours. It sounds lovely.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It is,\" Talia replied without a trace of ego." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Would it—I like to take pictures of the gardens here in Marsyas.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'baker' precisely 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She pointed toward a cork board on the wall with photographs of different gardens. \"From the people who shop here. Every garden is different, I think. They reflect the personalities of those who care for them.\"\n\n\"There are no dead bodies in our garden,\" Lucy said helpfully. \"But other than that, it's pretty much exactly like Talia.\"\n\n\"That's good to hear,\" the woman said faintly. She shook her head. \"Perhaps—if it's all right with your Mr. Baker here—perhaps I could come out and see your garden one day? In the spring, when things are blooming? Or sooner, if that would be all right.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" Talia said, eyes sparkling. \"Oh yes. Except, it wouldn't be Mr. Baker. You'll need to ask Arthur. But I'm sure he'll be okay with it. Mr. Baker is here to make sure we aren't starving or getting beaten or being kept in cages. He goes home soon.\"\n\nLinus turned his head toward the ceiling, asking silently for guidance." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh,\" the woman said. \"That's … good?\"\n\nLucy nodded. \"So good. But Mr. Baker isn't all bad. I mean, sure, I tried to scare him off the island when he first arrived, but now, I like that he's alive and not … the other way.\"\n\nLinus sighed.\n\n\"Wonderful,\" the woman said weakly. \"Lovely to hear. I'll send word to Arthur when I can make the trip.\"\n\nTalia gave her a dazzling smile. \"I hope you're prepared to be amazed. My garden makes all those ones on your picture wall look like crap.\"\n\nIt was time to go. \"Thank you,\" Linus said stiffly as he grabbed the children by the arms and began to pull them from the store.\n\n\"Bye, plant lady!\" Lucy screeched." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 11 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"See you real soon!\"\n\nThey were outside back in the sunlight when Linus was able to breathe again. But before he could speak his mind, he was surprised when his right leg was wrapped tightly in a hug. He looked down to find Talia holding on to him. \"Thank you, Mr. Baker,\" she said quietly. \"That was very nice of you.\"\n\nHe hesitated, but then reached down and patted the top of her head through her cap, something he wouldn't have dared to do even a few days ago. \"Think nothing of it.\"\n\n\"He's so wonderful and generous,\" Lucy said, spinning in a circle on the sidewalk, arms outstretched for reasons Linus didn't understand. \"And I hope he remembers to do the same for me, so I don't have to spend my own money and feel left out and have to open a pit to hell and watch this village be swallowed whole. Because that would just be so easy.\"\n\nLinus barely had time to wonder why Lucy's threats didn't scare him as much as they once had before they were on their way." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "same energy as T. J. Klune, keep writing. story might have ongoing elements" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His alarm went off bright and early Monday morning.\n\nHe got up.\n\nHe fed the cat.\n\nHe took a shower." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mode:\nCo-writing\nContext: Match existing character familiarity or establish new\nLength:\n7 sentences\nGenre:\nfantasy, LGBT, romance" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "yo hit me with 10 sentences more. same character energy. fantasy, LGBT, romance genre k?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was waiting to see if DICOMY would send a new caseworker to the island, especially after the petition Arthur had recently submitted. So far, there hadn't been word of such a thing, though Helen was here now. Maybe she'd learned something and had come to warn them.\n\n\"I'll keep working on it,\" she told him.\n\nHe smiled softly at her. \"We know. And we're grateful for it.\"\n\nHe led her into the house. He could hear the sounds of a home filled with happiness around them. It creaked and groaned as a house does when it's old and well lived-in. He saw the tip of a tail thumping happily from underneath the couch." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As they climbed the stairs, there came the sound of typewriter keys clacking furiously, of a cheerful \"How do you do?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "coming from Chauncey's room. He was practicing more and more these days, especially after he'd been asked by the manager of the hotel if he'd like to spend one day a month working with their bellhop. It seemed the man who'd given Chauncey his cap was getting on in years and would soon be looking to retire. Chauncey had collapsed in a quivering puddle, something Linus and Arthur hadn't known he was capable of. Eventually, when he pulled himself together, he tearfully accepted. He had his first day on Saturday.\n\nLinus heard Lucy exclaiming loudly as they reached the bedroom door. He glanced back at Helen, who arched an eyebrow at him. \"Lucy was the first to say something to Arthur about what he was,\" Linus explained. \"Everyone else pretty much already knew, but Lucy decided to be more forthcoming about it. He's been asking Arthur to light things on fire for a few weeks now.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh boy,\" Helen said." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'things' must be used 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He pushed open the door.\n\n\"—and just think about it, Arthur! Think about all the things that burn! Paper! Cardboard! Trees! Wait. No. Not trees. Phee will kill me if we burn trees. But we could if we wanted to. Between the two of us, we can light so many things on fire— Hi, Linus!\"\n\nLinus shook his head. \"Lucy. We've talked about this.\"\n\nLucy scowled. \"I know. But you also told me the only way we can learn new things is if we ask about them.\"\n\nArthur smiled. \"You did say that, didn't you?\"\n\n\"I regret everything,\" Linus muttered.\n\n\"You're fibbing,\" Lucy said. \"You love me.\" That smile took on a sinister curve. \"Just like you loooove Arthur.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Linus felt himself turning red, but he didn't try and argue." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Everyone in the room would know he was lying. \"Be that as it may, I think there's a plate of biscuits with your name on it in the kitchen. Why don't you see if Sal and Chauncey want to join you?\"\n\nLucy stared up at him suspiciously. \"Are you kicking me out to talk about me? Because if you are, I didn't do whatever you think I did.\"\n\nLinus's eyes narrowed. \"Did you do something I should be aware of?\"\n\n\"Biscuits!\" Lucy crowed, running from the room. \"Hi, Helen! Bye, Helen!\" He hollered for his brothers as he slammed the door shut behind him. A painting on the wall—that of a lemur in a confoundingly salacious pose that Arthur found inexplicable delight in—was knocked crooked.\n\n\"A little devil, isn't he?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Helen asked, staring at the closed door in wonder." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Quite literally,\" Arthur replied. \"Helen, I don't think we were expecting you.\"\n\n\"Sorry about that,\" she said. \"I—it couldn't wait. I needed to see you.\" She glanced at Linus. \"Both of you. It's important.\"\n\n\"By all means,\" Arthur said, nodding to the chair Lucy had vacated. She sat while Linus moved to stand next to Arthur. He turned redder when Arthur reached up and took his hand, kissing the back of it. He didn't pull away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Getting on then, are you?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage requirement: 'quite' must appear 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Helen asked, a spark in her eyes that Linus didn't like.\n\n\"We're taking it one day at a time,\" Linus said stiffly.\n\n\"Oh, sure. I understand that. Talia told me last weekend that you haven't slept in the guest house since Christmas. And that they've had quite a few sleepovers with Zoe, though I don't think she quite understands why.\"\n\nArthur laughed as Linus groaned. \"Meddling little things.\"\n\n\"It's a good look on you,\" she said quietly. \"The both of you. I'm happy you found each other.\" She sobered. \"I've waited to come to you with this. I wanted to make sure, but I think it's almost time.\"\n\nLinus was confused. He glanced down at Arthur before looking back at Helen. \"What are you talking about?\"\n\n\"A child,\" Arthur said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Isn't it? You've found a new child.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Linus felt goose bumps on the back of his neck.\n\nHelen nodded. \"He's undocumented. But he has no one else. He's staying with … some friends. People I trust, but they don't have enough room, and it was always meant to be temporary. And given … what he is, he'll need more than they could ever provide.\" She smiled, though it trembled. \"I know it's asking a lot, and it might bring down more attention on you than you want, but he has nowhere else to go. They've looked for relatives, but haven't been successful. I think he's alone. He's shy, and scared, and doesn't talk much. Reminds me a little of Sal, in fact. Or, rather, how he used to be. I don't think I've ever heard that boy talk as much as he has in the last few months.\"\n\n\"Regular chatterbox,\" Linus said faintly. \"What's his name?\"\n\n\"And that's how I know this could be the place for him,\" Helen said, her smile growing. \"Because you didn't ask me what he was, just who he is. I don't know that anyone has ever done that for him.\" She reached inside a pocket on her overalls and pulled out a photograph. She glanced down at it before handing it over. \"His name is David. He's eleven years old. And he's a—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A yeti,\" Linus said in awe." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stared at the photo in Arthur's hand. In it, there was a smiling boy covered in thick, white hair. But it was his eyes that Linus noticed more than anything.\n\nThey were cerulean.\n\n\"We'll take him,\" Linus said immediately. \"Whenever he's ready. Can we get him today? Where is he? Does he have much? Oh, we'll have to figure out where he should sleep. The guest house might work but—wait. Will he be all right here? Won't he like the cold more than anything? I suppose we can work something out. Anything we can do to make him comfortable—\"\n\nHe felt Arthur squeeze his hand.\n\nHe looked down. \"Gone off, have I?\"\n\nAnd Arthur said, \"You dear, dear man. How I adore you.\"\n\nLinus coughed. \"Uh. Yes. You too. The same.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Helen was grinning at them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I knew it. I knew I was doing the right thing. And yes, he likes cold, though he's survived more without having it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He shouldn't just be surviving,\" Linus said irritably. \"He should be living.\"\n\n\"The cellar,\" Arthur said, and Linus gaped at him. \"We could convert the cellar into a cold room. Just for him.\"\n\n\"Are you sure?\"\n\nArthur nodded. \"Yes. It's time, I think. To let the past rest. Take something filled with anger and sadness and make it better.\"\n\nLinus Baker loved Arthur Parnassus more than he could ever put into words.\n\n\"Will it cause problems with your petition for adopting the others?\" Helen asked, sounding worried. \"I don't want that to be put into jeopardy.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Arthur shook his head." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't see why it would. This place is still considered an orphanage, though DICOMY is reviewing their guidelines, or so they say. And he is … unusual, just like the rest of us. If he finds that he likes it here, and wants to stay, we'll do what we can to go through the proper channels. And if he doesn't, we'll find him a place to belong.\"\n\nHelen looked relieved. \"There's more, you know. So many more.\"\n\n\"We know,\" Linus said. \"And while we may not be able to help them all, we'll do as much as we can for all those put in our path.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: The user will write a bit then you need to write around four sentences continuing directly from the user's text. Note: Characters may be introduced as if already known - maintain any existing context or treat as new if unclear.\n\nGenre: historical fiction, romance, Egypt" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Two streets away, the girl and her master were nearing home.\n\n\"Goat! Barbarian! Swineherd!\" raged Mara under her breath, in Babylonian. She far preferred to rage in Egyptian, since its heavy gutturals lent themselves perfectly to invective. But she was too wise to indulge her preference at the moment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With her arm in her master's harsh grasp, and his other hand reaching for his stick, she confined herself to a tongue he did not know." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even so, it was satisfying, since she knew it infuriated Zasha to be reminded that his slave was better educated than himself.\n\n\"Son of three pigs! Know-nothing!\" she spat at him.\n\n\"Cease that babble!\" he roared." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They had reached the front courtyard of his house and he gave her a fling that sent her staggering across the paving to land painfully upon the broad stone steps." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Crocodile!\" she added.\n\n\"Stop it, I say!\" Zasha had his stick out of his belt now. \"Hai! Unhappy day that I bought you, miserable one! Sister of the serpent you are, always sneaking away from your work to go mischief-making in the square! What have you stolen today? Well? What?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Bread,\" Mara answered him." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Use the word 'across' 2 time(s) - this is a strict requirement" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Feed your slaves like humans instead of dogs and they'll not steal.\"\n\n\"Silence!\" bellowed Zasha. He strode across the court and the stick whistled across her bare shoulders. \"Hold that tongue of yours, girl, or I'll have it out! Now, what else? Bread and what else?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Naught else!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The stick whistled again. \"The truth!\" Zasha demanded.\n\n\"It is the truth! I took only a loaf or two from a fat baker who had more than he needed.\"\n\n\"Pah, you lie!\" Zasha raised the stick again, and she decided to cringe, knowing that as long as she defied him he would continue to beat her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When she shrank against the column he grinned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What, do you fear me then?\"\n\nMara said nothing. Immediately the stick came down with savage force. \"Hai! You shall fear me, though I wear my arm out teaching you!\" All at once he drew back, gulping." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Turn away your eyes, you kheft-maiden! Look away, I say!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His free hand groped for the amulet he wore at his throat, and a mocking smile deepened the corners of Mara's mouth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She knew what the amulet was—an ouzait, a little enameled model of the Sacred Eye of Horus. He had got it from a magician soon after he had bought her from her former master. Zasha was afraid of her blue eyes.\n\n\"What, do you fear me?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "she could not help taunting." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She leaned forward, fastened her eyes upon him, and widened them deliberately. When he stumbled back another pace she laughed aloud—then he was upon her again, his blows falling as fast as his curses, his voice shaking with rage, while she wrapped her arms about her head and endured the punishment.\n\nBoth were too absorbed to notice the stranger, still wrapped from head to toe in his woolen cloak, who had that moment entered the courtyard. He stopped just inside the gate, watched the scene impassively a moment, then strode forward and dropped a heavy hand upon Zasha's shoulder, whirling him halfway around." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Let be,\" he ordered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Put away your stick.\"\n\nZasha gasped and blinked. \"By Amon!\" he puffed. \"Who are you to walk into my own courtyard and tell me—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Be quiet, fool. I'm buying this slave of you. How much do you want?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The jewel trader gaped. Then he straightened, massaging his hands craftily. \"She's a valuable property,\" he grunted. \"I've said naught about selling. What makes you think I'd part with a girl like this? Look at her—young, strong, quick as a cat. She's no common drudge, but can read and write, and she speaks Babylonian as well as our own tongue. Moreover she eats little and is docile as a— Stand up, you!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "he hissed angrily at Mara. \"Smile!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mara stayed where she was, merely regarding him scornfully. The stranger's laugh was brief and not altogether amused. \"Yes, I see how docile she is! Come, cease this chatter, fellow. Name your price or you'll have to take what you get.\"\n\n\"Not so fast,\" retorted Zasha." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Who are you? I'll not sell until I know with whom I'm doing business. I'll not sell at all unless I get my price.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The stranger growled impatiently, brushed past the bridling jewel merchant, and, leaning down, seized Mara's wrist and pulled her to her feet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You'll sell, right enough! I'm here to buy a clever slave and this is the one I want. Name your price or I'll simply take her.\"\n\n\"In whose name?\" shouted Zasha.\n\n\"In the queen's name.\" The stranger reached inside his cloak and brought out a purse, which he flung contemptuously at Zasha's feet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then he led Mara out of the courtyard without another word, leaving the merchant white faced and staring behind him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The whole thing had happened so fast that Mara felt giddy. In astonished silence she followed her new owner through the crooked streets, stealing curious glances at what she could see of his face. But he was an eye, a jutting nose, and a length of white wool, nothing more. She shrugged and gave it up." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No doubt he would show himself in time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Meanwhile—she felt a glorious lightness grow within her at the thought—meanwhile, she was rid of Zasha!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of all the masters she had had, he was the worst. Perhaps this new one would feed her.\n\nHer hand went to her sash, where a few of the honey cakes were still tucked away safe. She frowned. She had meant to give one to Teta, poor soul, who would now have to iron those hateful shentis still lying neglected in their basket." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was too bad." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had never resented Teta's scolding, knowing that most of her ill temper stemmed from hunger.\n\nNo matter, Mara thought, and her face cleared. Teta is gone from your life as others have come and gone, and their fate is no concern of yours. Look after yourself, my girl! Nobody else will." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After some minutes of walking they came to an inn surrounded by a high mud-brick wall." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The man turned through the gate, ignored the lower-floor entrance, and led the way up a flight of stairs set against the outside of the building." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When they reached the room at the top he secured the door and turned to face Mara, throwing off his cloak at last.\n\nShe had to make an effort to conceal her surprise. He was dressed in the finest linen, with arm bands of chased gold and a broad jeweled collar of remarkable beauty. A man of great wealth!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "But his face filled her with misgivings." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was cold and stony as the Sphinx itself.\n\n\"Your name, girl?\"\n\n\"Mara. Daughter of Nobody and his wife Nothing.\"\n\nHis granite face showed no flicker of expression, but his voice grew icy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Take care! Wit becomes impudence in a slave's mouth.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He sat down in the room's one chair and regarded her impassively. \"I watched you in the marketplace. You are both daring and unscrupulous, and you think fast. I have been looking for a person with those particular characteristics. Also I noticed you speak Babylonian. I presume your command of the language goes somewhat beyond mere invective?\"\n\n\"I speak the tongue well,\" murmured the girl. This conversation astonished her even more than the suddenness of her sale." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She could not imagine its purpose." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'choice' precisely 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Good. Now look you. I have bought you for no ordinary purpose, as you may be guessing. I have a very special duty for you. But\"—he leaned forward to emphasize his words—\"it is so dangerous a duty that I will give you free choice whether or not you will attempt it. If your choice be 'nay,' you have only to say so, and I will sell you at once to some other master. I've no need for more household slaves.\"\n\n\"And if my choice be aye?\"\n\n\"It may bring you sudden death, or worse. But you will find the danger has its compensations. So long as you obey my orders you will be quite free from the usual slave's life, and if you carry them out successfully, I will free you altogether.\"\n\nMara gripped the edge of the table that separated them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was no hesitation in her mind, but it took a moment to control the wild excitement that filled her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Aye! My choice is aye!\" she whispered.\n\n\"Think well. You may be choosing destruction.\"\n\n\"No matter! I would rather be dead than a slave!\"\n\nHe gave a faint smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So I thought. Now listen closely. One reason I picked you is that you have the appearance of a girl of the upper classes—or you would have if your hair were clipped and dressed and your rags exchanged for decent clothing. If these things were done, do you think you could live up to your fine garments?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why, yes, I suppose I could act the part of a human being.\"\n\nHe chose to ignore the sarcasm. \"So be it. As you heard, I bought you in the queen's name. You will serve the queen as well as myself, though no one will know this. No one will realize you are a purchased slave at all, for you will masquerade as a free maiden, the daughter of a priest of Abydos, now dead. If anyone should find out differently, you will die at once. Do you understand thus far?\"\n\nMara tingled with fresh astonishment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His eyes were cold, his mouth implacable." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He meant exactly what he said. \"I understand,\" she said slowly. \"What service am I to do?\"\n\n\"A princess of Canaan, one Inanni, is on her way to Thebes at this moment to become the wife of the young pretender Thutmose. She has her own train of servants and waiting women, but she will need an interpreter.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The man leaned forward, jabbing his finger at Mara." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You are to be that interpreter. You will go at once to the city of Abydos, where the princess is spending a week in the usual ceremonies of purification. You will seek out an Egyptian called Saankh-Wen, who is in charge of the ships, and give him this.\"\n\nHe drew from his girdle a tiny green scarab, inscribed with the name of Hatshepsut. Mara took it in a hand cold with excitement. So far this man had not really told her anything." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What was behind all these strange instructions?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The clothes? The hair?\" she murmured.\n\n\"Saankh-Wen will arrange for all that,\" returned her master, gesturing impatiently. \"When you leave Abydos attached as interpreter to Inanni's train, you will be suitably adorned, and entirely above suspicion of any kind. Now.\"\n\nHe paused, fixing her with narrowed eyes, and Mara stiffened." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Once in Thebes,\" the man went on softly, \"you will accompany the princess to her quarters in the palace and remain there for an indefinite period. You will be present at all her interviews with the king, naturally, since she does not speak a word of our language, and he will not deign to speak hers. Keep your ears open. Listen to whatever goes on between the king and those who surround him—his servants, his scribes, his musicians. I want to know which of these people carries his orders to others outside the palace walls. Somehow he is sending and receiving messages. I want to know how.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mara stared at him, breathing hard. \"In short, I am a spy.\"\n\n\"Exactly. If you are as clever as I think you are, you should have no trouble obtaining this information. If you succeed, you will not be dissatisfied with your reward. But if you fail, whether by accident or design—\"\n\nHe did not finish the sentence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He did not need to." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was smiling in a way that sent a little trickle of fear down Mara's spine.\n\nShe took a deep breath. \"How am I to report to you?\"\n\n\"Leave that to me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Is it permitted to know your name?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It is not. The less you know, the less you will be tempted to let your wits run away with you.\" The man stood up, taking a heavy gold chain from his neck. \"Take this. It will pay your passage to Abydos. Get on the next boat that leaves.\" Again the thin smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Remember I am no stupid baker's apprentice. Should the chain—and you—disappear somehow between here and the wharves it would be... regrettable. Do we understand each other?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Perfectly,\" said Mara." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Then go. Enjoy your freedom and your fine clothes and your acquaintance with royalty—while you can. It may not last long.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He leaned back, gesturing toward the door, and Mara realized that she was dismissed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She was free, free to walk out that door, make her way unchallenged to the wharf, and set sail for Abydos, Thebes—adventure." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'would' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No more rags. No more beatings or loaf snatching. No more hunger! Instead there would be luxury and royal intrigue and excitement; and once she was in the palace, whatever this man's threats might be, there would be endless opportunities for a girl who knew how to use her wits!\n\nThe future opened up before her in a vista radiant with possibilities, each more entrancing than the last. Without knowing it, she laughed aloud for joy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The man's dry voice rasped suddenly across her daydreams. \"Be careful, Mara. You are still a slave.\"\n\nShe shrugged and grinned. \"I'll try to remember.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I will be there to remind you,\" he remarked acidly." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He jerked his head toward the door and this time she went, without even looking back." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Continue with the same vibes and character familiarity in the historical fiction, romance, Egypt genre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Sheftu had assured himself that the street was finally empty, he opened the door in the wall and quickly slipped through it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Nubian was waiting for him.\n\n\"This way, my lord,\" he murmured.\n\n\"Well, Ebi, what think you? Is there good news for me?\" Sheftu asked in a low voice, following the servant across the courtyard.\n\n\"I cannot say, master. This garden is green and pleasant. Khofra is an old man now. To be truthful, he is tired of both wars and pharaohs, having seen too much of both in his life. I think he will decide to stay here.\"\n\nSheftu's heart sank. But he said only, \"Perhaps he may yet be persuaded.\"\n\n\"The old are sometimes stubborn, master,\" said Ebi.\n\nSheftu smiled grimly. \"The young are sometimes even more so! He'll come to Thebes if I have to carry him there in chains.\"\n\n\"I wish you good fortune, then.\" Ebi stopped before a door. \"He is here. Enter, if you will.\"\n\nDrawing a long breath to calm his nerves, Sheftu opened the door and stepped into a quiet, sunny room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was of familiar design, spacious, rectangular, windowless. But the two outside walls stopped some feet short of the ceiling, and through this open space, which was divided by graceful columns, light and air poured down into the room. In its center, in a chair beside a low table, sat the man Sheftu had come to see—Khofra, the warrior hero of all Egypt. Veteran of countless foreign campaigns, leader of men and for many years chief general of all the armies under the First Thutmose, Hatshepsut's father, Khofra was now, at sixty, enjoying a peaceful old age. But he was far from feeble. His eyes still flashed dark fire under his white eyebrows, and the hand he stretched out to Sheftu was vigorous and firm.\n\n\"Well, my boy. Were you observed?\"\n\nHe laughed soundlessly at the expression on Sheftu's face, and waved his visitor to a seat. \"No, no, naturally not. You are discretion itself, as skilled in mummery as you are in guile. One would never recognize the gold-hung son of Lord Menkau in those simple rags. I must congratulate you. You look neither more nor less distinguished than every third man one meets in the street, and so are practically invisible.\"\n\n\"That was my aim, Honored One.\" Sheftu forced himself to sit down unhurriedly, place relaxed hands on the arms of his chair, and smile with a confidence he was far from feeling. \"When you come to Thebes to offer your services to the queen as head of her armies, I promise none but you and Ebi and the king will ever have known of my connection with the affair.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"When I come?\" said the old man drily. \"I did not know I had made the decision.\"\n\n\"A mere formality! Yesterday I spread the facts before you, revealed our plans, and begged your assistance, without which we must fail. Today I come to hear your answer.\"\n\n\"And you have not the slightest doubt what that answer will be?\" inquired Khofra, even more drily.\n\n\"Not the slightest,\" said Sheftu.\n\nFor a moment their eyes met, the old man's ironic and a little sad, Sheftu's dark and steady. Khofra gave a laugh that was half a sigh, and moved restlessly on his cushioned chair.\n\n\"Look you, my boy,\" he said. \"I was young once, I know what you are feeling. I, too, loved my pharaoh; I rode in my chariot against his enemies and was fearless, and smote them down in great numbers and brought their severed hands and ears to his tent and was happy when he smiled. Together we subjugated the whole southern land of Nubia, even beyond the third cataract of the Nile. Together we rode northward against the Keftyews and the Canaanites and gazed at last on the strange Euphrates, the river which flows the wrong way. Together we returned to the Black Land with prisoners by the thousand—with an empire! But we were not together after that, not ever again, my friend. Pharaoh knew me not, once the empire was gained. He valued me not, loved me not, wanted me not. I was forgotten as though I had never been.\" The old general broke off, looking down at his hands.\n\n\"Haut meryt, you are mistaken!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "protested Sheftu. \"There is no name better remembered or more honored than yours in all the Black Land.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Honor I never cared for—nor fame nor riches—then or now. 'Beloved General,' you call me—\" Khofra raised his head. \"That was what I wanted, to be pharaoh's friend at home as well as on the battlefield. But pharaohs do not love men, they use them. No, Lord Sheftu, I have seen enough of pharaohs. Serve yours if you will—I will stay comfortably at home. And when young Thutmose tosses you aside like a worn sandal, come to me. Perhaps I can comfort you.\"\n\nThere was a pause. Then Sheftu said gravely, \"You do not understand, Haut Khofra.\"\n\n\"Understand?\" The old man frowned in surprise. \"Certainly I understand. You wish me to come to Thebes as head of Hatshepsut's troops, especially the two thousand of the bodyguard, who are sadly in need of training. You wish me to train them, inspire them, discipline them to blind obedience to me personally, so that at my word of command they will rise against the queen herself. I understand all this perfectly. What you do not understand, my boy, is that I have finished with pharaohs.\"\n\n\"But I do not ask it for pharaoh. I ask it for Egypt.\"\n\nKhofra's fingers stopped drumming upon the table. \"Egypt?\" he echoed.\n\n\"Aye, my general! Have you never known that it was Egypt you served?\" Sheftu left his chair to stand over the old man. \"That empire you conquered—was that pharaoh's? No, pharaoh is dead. It is Egypt's! But by all the gods, how long can we keep it, with this pampered woman on the throne? All Syria is growing restive. The Kadesh, the Keftyew, they have not felt the point of an Egyptian spear since their graybeards were young, and they need to be taught respect. You think Hatshepsut will do it? Pah! She cares for nothing except building more temples—at whatever cost!\"\n\nSheftu broke off, breathing hard." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include \"You are a remarkable young man, Lord Sheftu,\" somewhere in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Khofra's still profile told him nothing, and he had a sudden terrible vision of returning to Thutmose empty handed. He leaned closer, gripping Khofra's chair. \"But Egypt cares! Egypt groans under taxes, while the empire slips away, bit by bit! With you in control of the Army, Hatshepsut can be overthrown, and Thutmose, who is a man and a warrior, can set things to rights. Hai, think, Khofra! Pharaohs come and go—what matter if one used you and tossed you aside and loved you not? Egypt loved you, and she needs you worse than ever before. She is sick! Will you let her die?\"\n\nStill the old man sat motionless. Sheftu had done all he could, and he knew it. He straightened slowly, in a silence only intensified by the humming of bees in the acacia blossoms outside, and the shrill, far-off scream of an eagle. Khofra was looking at his hands, where they lay palm-down on the polished table. They were powerful hands still—blunt fingered and scarred and sinewy—and once they had gripped the mightiest sword in all Egypt.\n\nThe general rose suddenly and walked to the open door, where he stood looking out at the sunny courtyard.\n\n\"You are a remarkable young man, Lord Sheftu,\" he murmured at last. \"Remarkable and wise, for you have shown me a thing I never knew. So Egypt loved me!\" He paused, and for a moment longer remained motionless, leaning against the doorframe." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then he turned back into the room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Egypt needs me? So be it. I will come.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Blessed of Amon!\" breathed Sheftu. He crossed the room and bowed low. \"In pharaoh's name, in Egypt's name, I thank you, Haut meryt.\"\n\n\"I want no thanks. Up, my lord. It is I who thank you. You've cured an ache of twenty years' standing—and at last made my life seem a reasonable thing.\"\n\n\"Reasonable? By all the gods, it's glorious! Now, more than ever. This news—\" Sheftu stopped, then suddenly laughed. \"This news will cheer my prince so that he may even smile upon the Canaanite princess!\"\n\n\"Thutmose has sent for a Canaanite princess?\" exclaimed Khofra.\n\n\"Can you think so, my general? Nay, it is Hatshepsut who has sent for her. Thutmose wants no barbarian for a wife! He rages like the leopard of Upper Egypt at the very idea. It is just one more arrogant insult from that most arrogant of women, his sister. She holds him fast in a snare of politics and spies, and when he struggles, offers him this princess as one offers a toy to a fretful child. Ai, Khofra! She underestimates him!\"\n\nKhofra gave his soundless laugh. \"A pretty scene it will be, the arrival of this unfortunate Canaanite! When does she come?\"\n\n\"Soon. Her barge is at Abydos now. I may reach Thebes before her—unless my good river captain has set sail already, fearing me dead. I must take leave.\" Sheftu turned, placing his hand on his shoulder as he bowed once again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Live forever, Haut Khofra! Till we meet again in Thebes.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Five minutes later he was hurrying through the side streets toward the wharf and the Silver Beetle." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🎯 Target word: 'would' | Required occurrences: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thanks be to all the gods, his mission to Khofra had been successful. But there was one great obstacle in his path before it was finished. Word must be sent to the king as soon as possible. Since Sheftu's own carefully maintained position at court was that of a trusted favorite of the queen, it was unthinkable that he give Thutmose the message himself. And the old palace servant who used to act as go-between had been murdered in his bed two weeks before.\n\nSheftu's jaw set. It was dangerous business, to have anything to do with the king. So dangerous that it was highly uncertain where he would find another trustworthy messenger who was daring enough to serve him well. Yet find one he must, and soon.\n\nHe was still pondering the problem as he came out onto the wharves a few moments later, perceiving to his relief that the Silver Beetle was still waiting for him. It was the only southbound ship in the harbor; he would have been in a sorry plight had it sailed without him. A figure on its deck straightened suddenly and flung up an arm in greeting; Sheftu grinned as he waved back. Nekonkh must have been having a bad time of it the past hour." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well, so had he—but now all was done and they could be on their way." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He moved swiftly toward the ship." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "WRITING ASSIST:\n11 sentences sentences\nStyle: Eloise Jarvis McGraw\nGenre: historical fiction, romance, Egypt\nContext: Part of larger work" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was nothing of the simple scribe about Lord Sheftu as he sat at breakfast the next morning on the roof loggia of his villa on the Street of Sycamores in western Thebes. He was clad in a dressing gown of royal linen girdled with scarlet leather, and beside his chair was a table of carved Lebanon cedar bearing fruit, bread, cheese, and a lily-twined flagon of milk. A Kushite slave hovered in the background. Beyond the balustrade stretched the ample groves, gardens, and stables of Sheftu's town estate. They were extensive, but not so extensive as his ancestral holdings downriver, where acre upon acre of farmland—vineyards, pastures, orchards, grain fields—poured their riches every year into his storerooms and purse. It was a monthly accounting of those riches that was being read to him now by the old man in an elaborate wig who stood beside the balustrade—Irenamon, majordomo of the entire domain since long before the death of Sheftu's father, Menkau.\n\n\"From your lordship's dairies near the village of Nekheb, thirty pounds of cheese, both white and yellow, and twenty beef for slaughter.\" Irenamon's voice was like the rustling of a dried palm frond. \"In addition, a hundred skins of wine have been brought upriver on your lordship's barge Hour of Sunset, to be stored in your lordship's warehouses in the city of Thebes....\"\n\nBut his lordship was not thinking of beef or wineskins, nor was he showing much appetite for the array of dainties on the golden platter beside him.\n\nWhile his long fingers crumbled the bread and toyed absently with the fruit, his mind was far away, in the desolate wastes of the Valley of the Tombs of the Kings." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In one of the barren gullies of that wilderness was a certain pile of red granite boulders. It looked the same as the other piles tumbled here and there through the valley as if at the whim of a destructive giant. But to Sheftu it was not the same. Far below it, in vast and silent chambers hollowed out of the living rock, slept the one whose peace he must destroy, whose wealth he must steal, whose ka he must impoverish.\n\nThe dread of it had lain like a stone on his mind since he had dragged that message out of a reluctant Mara. Though he had not let her see it, he hated and feared his task with all his heart. But it was not the crime she thought it, nor was it certain the guardian khefts would rend his soul or even strike him blind. For there was one thing Mara had not known when she stormed and pled with him, and that was the identity of the royal slumberer. He was Thutmose I, father of the king—and of Hatshepsut. In life, his arrogant daughter had robbed him of his throne when he was ill and feeble. Would he not willingly be robbed once more, in death, if his gold could overthrow her?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The prince had vowed he would, and Sheftu believed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He had to believe. Because otherwise...\n\nSheftu shook away that \"otherwise,\" along with the memory of Mara's predictions as she clung to him in fear. Whatever the khefts might do, he had no choice but to descend into the tomb and come out laden. This was the last great gamble he and Thutmose had agreed on long ago, and the time had come to try it. Everything else that could be done was done....\n\n\"...therefore if the grain remained in the warehouses until such time as—I fear your lordship is not listening.\"\n\nSheftu pulled his attention back to old Irenamon's reproachful voice. \"Aye, aye, tell me that last again, please.\"\n\n\"According to the calculations of our river experts, who are never wrong,\" repeated Irenamon patiently, \"this year's inundation will be a small one, resulting in poor crops and a scarcity of grain in the months to come before Mother Nile again sends her gift to Egypt. Therefore, if a portion of your lordship's wheat still in the warehouses were to remain there, it would command a far greater price next summer in the time of hunger—\"\n\n\"I understand. Save it by all means against the time of hunger, but do not raise the price, Irenamon. The people must eat, whether they can pay or not.\"\n\n\"As your lordship wishes.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Irenamon cleared his throat and rustled the papyrus." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"However, we—er—sell much grain to the agents of Her Majesty for the palace kitchens....\"\n\nSheftu shot a glance at the blandly innocent old face, and hid a smile. \"Charge what the buyer can pay. I leave it to your discretion.\"\n\nThe old servant bowed and went on with his lists without further comment, but Sheftu knew that a fresh stream of gold from Hatshepsut's treasuries would soon be pouring into his coffers. Unless, indeed, the treasuries belonged to Thutmose by next summer.\n\nHe felt a tremor of emotion at the thought. After six long years it was hard to believe that the end of all this was approaching. Yet the plans he and Thutmose had made so long ago were almost complete, the work almost finished. Hatshepsut's elaborate structure of power was now like a house set upon columns of sand. Enlisting Khofra to gain control of the Army had further weakened the foundations. There remained only a few lords still stubbornly loyal to the queen, out of fear for their own fortunes and futures." }, { "from": "human", "value": "These must be won over, by persuasion—and by gold, the greatest persuader of them all." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sheftu smiled grimly, tossing bread to the pigeons strutting along the balustrade. His regard for his fellow man was not what it had been six years ago. He no longer believed, even in his heart, that there lived man or woman gold could not buy. Only their prices differed. These last cautious ones would cost a pharaoh's fortune, and a pharaoh must supply it—he who slept beneath that pile of boulders in the Valley of the Tombs of the Kings....\n\nHis thoughts had come full circle, for the twentieth time that morning. Sheftu left his chair abruptly, and the pigeons scattered with a drumming of wings. Irenamon stopped reading, then began to roll up his papyrus.\n\n\"My lord wearies of business,\" he said tactfully. \"Indeed, the morning is too fine for it. Hai, when I was your age... Shall I have the boat and the throw-sticks readied to divert you?\"\n\n\"Nay, old friend, I've no time for hunting. But I pray you, let us finish these accounts another time. I must drive to the temple within the hour. Go below and tell the barber to make ready for me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As the old man turned toward the stairs, Sheftu laid an apologetic hand on his shoulder. \"Forgive my inattention, Faithful One. I have much on my mind.\"\n\nIrenamon's face lighted hopefully. \"Indeed! Can it be that—My lord has perhaps met some young lady?\"\n\n\"Young lady?\" With some difficulty Sheftu achieved a careless smile. \"Patience, Irenamon. Someday, I promise thee, my mother's long-empty place at the table will be filled. But at present—Ai, get thee gone, now!\"\n\nYoung lady!\n\nTurning irritably as the majordomo hobbled down the stairs, Sheftu signaled the slave to pour him a cup of milk. But even the lotus twined about the flagon brought to mind two mocking eyes, blue as enamel under slanted brows. Why, in Amon's name, must he think so continually of that waif! For a waif she was—remember the marketplace at Menfe, remember her waking on the boat, a smudge on her face and wild defiance in her pose." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yet a dozen times a day he found himself thinking of the fluid way she walked, dwelling, fascinated, on some elusive curve of her cheek or throat, becoming preoccupied with the shape of her mouth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Aye, and remembering—far too vividly—the yielding warmth of her in his arms.... Osiris! He had all but made love to her last night in the tavern courtyard, all but forgotten she was an unprincipled little vagabond bound to him only by a threat and a bribe. He must not forget! The maid could worm secrets from the Sphinx himself!\n\nHis lordship set the cup down hard and descended the stairs. The devil! He had talked too much last night, why not admit it? He, Sheftu the Discreet. She knew far more than he had ever intended her to know, yet he'd had to fight the urge to keep talking. Have you not learned, he asked himself caustically, not to trust every maid who weeps on your shoulder?\n\nHe walked down a corridor and through a richly furnished sitting room, as blind to their sunny, familiar comfort as he was deaf to the greetings of a couple of house slaves who wished him good morning as he passed. How easy it would have been, there in the moonlight, to throw away all caution, to hold her tight in his arms and whisper that she must not fear; no khefts would harm one who came only to carry the dead king's gifts to his living son—to tell her even the name of the royal slumberer, and the place where he lay—Sheftu went cold at the thought." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Had the maid bewitched him, that he would court destruction merely to dry her tears?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He must come to his senses! He was acting as witless as that young—that handsome young sentry of hers.\n\n\"...but I fear I misunderstood. Does my lord wish me to return later?\"\n\nSheftu swung around. He was standing in the middle of his own apartments, but had no more recollection of arriving there than he had of the presence of the barber, though the fellow must have spoken before. He collected his wits with some difficulty, cursing Mara and his own befuddled senses.\n\n\"Nay, I want you now, Thoth,\" he muttered, stripping off his dressing gown. \"Prepare your razors at once, I'm in haste.\"\n\nThe feel of the cooling salves and the razor sliding over his chin restored a sense of normality to the day, and he was grateful for the barber's silence, which enabled him to compose himself. As the fragrance of sandalwood from the last lotion rose on the air, Sheftu stood up, running a hand over his jaw.\n\n\"You are expert as ever, Thoth. Send my dresser in at once, and tell one of the grooms to harness Ebony and Wind-of-Swiftness to my lightest chariot.\"\n\nTen minutes later Lord Sheftu spun out of the courtyard and down the Street of Sycamores toward the river." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Plumes tossed above his horses' sleek black heads, the sunlight flashed from his gold collar and from a thousand bits of colored glass set into the spokes of his chariot wheels." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Driving off the ferry into the crowded streets of eastern Thebes, he flung a handful of coppers to the expectant throng of waterfront urchins, then turned into the Avenue of Sphinxes, which bisected the city and brought him straight through the tall bronze gates of the Temple of Amon." }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must use the word 'sheftu' exactly 2 times in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stepped down, looking for someone to hold the horses. The huge courtyard swarmed with beggars, hurrying priests, white-clad Thebans buying frankincense and temple offerings from the hawkers whose booths lined the walls. Sacrificial fowl squawked and fluttered in their cages, lambs bleated plaintively. The smell of dust, animals, and sacred unguents mingled with the fragrance of a mass of fresh lilies on a flower-seller's stall.\n\n\"Haiii! Rejoice, master!\"\n\nAn old peddler had spotted him, set down his tray of consecrated bread, and hurried forward to catch the horses' reins. Tossing him a few deben, Sheftu made his way through the crowd and into the vast, columned corridors of the temple proper.\n\nHe found the priest he sought in a tiny anteroom off the Shrine of Hathor. Djedet was a calm, portly man with a face like a moon, wearing the leopard skin of the sem rank over his white linen robes. He was tying up onions into the hollow, circular bunches proper for the offering table, but at sight of Sheftu he paused.\n\n\"Your lordship, rejoice!\" He came forward at once, beckoning a subordinate to take over his task." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"There is some matter in which I may serve you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Aye. It concerns the mortuary shrine of my father's tomb. I wish to increase the number of loaves and honey jars left for his ka each month. And in addition—\"\n\n\"A thousand pardons, my lord. Pray come into more comfortable quarters, that I may offer you refreshment. My private chamber will serve...\"\n\nSheftu followed the solid, stately figure out of the anteroom and down a hall lined with columns so massive they made even Djedet seem fragile as a splinter. Once the door of the little room had closed firmly behind them, the priest's impassive manner vanished.\n\n\"Is it the signal? Shall I order the—\"\n\n\"Nay, my friend. The time is not yet. Indeed, the time will never be, unless you and I can perform one last impossibility.\" Sheftu sighed, the heaviness of his dread settling over him again. \"Sit you down, Djedet. I will tell you what we must do.\"\n\nThe priest's round face grew graver and graver as he listened. When Sheftu had finished, the little room was silent. Then Djedet rose ponderously and walked to the table, where he stood staring down at a pile of scrolls." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You have a plan?\" he muttered." }, { "from": "system", "value": "💬 Please integrate this quote: \"But I cannot do that! Only the high priest of the City of the Dead—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Aye. We will need two diggers—men we can trust to be silent. Ashor can find them. And to ensure their silence, after the task is done I will send them to my farthest estate, to live in luxury—and solitude—until it is safe to loose them. I know a river captain who will arrange all that. As for your part, you must obtain the Royal Seal.\"\n\nDjedet swung around, eyes bulging. \"But I cannot do that! Only the high priest of the City of the Dead—\"\n\n\"I know. But you must accomplish it somehow. Listen.\"\n\nDjedet listened, his expression changing slowly. He moved back to his chair and sank into it, his face intent, his voice low as he put a question or two. At last he nodded. \"I think it can be done. Unless the guards at the Valley...\" He chewed his lip a moment, then shrugged heavily. \"Ai, the plan is shot through with danger; but what is not, these days? Better we die, my lord, than Egypt.\" He rose, touching forehead and chest. \"I will do my best, and send word. May the gods be with us.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Better we die than Egypt, repeated Sheftu to himself as he walked slowly back down the corridor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His eyes moved to the columns rising close-set and massive on either side, stretching up and up until their carvings were lost in the dim reaches far above him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Old beyond memory they were, like Egypt itself, and they would stand unchanged a thousand years more. Aye, and so would Egypt, no matter who had to die! One death alone would be enough, thought Sheftu grimly—that of a bejeweled and willful queen....\n\nHe turned a corner and strode along a passage, neither noticing nor caring where it led. A few moments later, roused by the faint, irregular beat of hammers, he stopped and looked around him. Scowling, he realized he had strayed into the North Wing. Not since last summer had he come to this place, and he had sworn then he would never come again.\n\nSlowly he pivoted to his left. There, only a few paces distant, was the entrance to the hall the First Thutmose had built as his kingly gift to the god. Sheftu walked toward it, his face set, the tap-tap of goldsmith's hammers growing louder in his ears. At the tall doorway he stopped, looking into a huge room flooded with sunshine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There, in the middle of the roofless hall, stood the queen's new obelisks." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They were no nightmare, then, but seven hundred tons of solid reality—monstrous needles of stone ninety-seven feet tall, soaring straight up into the brilliant sky. Sheftu's gaze traveled their length, part of which was at the moment obscured by scaffolding upon which gold workers swarmed. Well he remembered the day last summer those shafts came floating down the river from the quarries, on a flotilla of linked barges that seemed to stretch back to Nubia. No man had ever seen their like, for they had been cut from single blocks of granite, without a seam or a joint, and—because the queen was impatient—in only seven months' time. There was an inscription on them swearing to it.\n\nHow, in Amon's name, had mortal hands accomplished it? It was all but impossible. So was raising the obelisks here, within the temple itself. But here Hatshepsut wanted them, and here they stood, though it had been necessary to tear out many of her father's beautiful cedar columns and the whole roof of the hall to make room for them. Bitterly Sheftu stared at the wreckage, remembering the crack of the lash and the antlike swarm of men straining on ropes, dropping, dying, being trampled by their fellows as with a shuddering slow movement the great shafts rose into place—monuments to Hatshepsut's pride and malice.\n\nAnd now—Sheftu's eyes moved to the scaffolding, through which a growing surface of pale yellow glittered in the sun." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Writer's block help needed. This is from a bigger story - gonna send you something then keep it going 6 sentences at a time. Going for Eloise Jarvis McGraw vibes in the historical fiction, romance, Egypt genre." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The big common room of the Inn of the Falcon blazed with light and resounded to the usual clatter of crockery and conversation. Though it was well past midnight, Ashor was still waddling here and there with platters of stew and mugs of Kede beer, and the juggler's balls wove a glittering pattern in the air before one of the larger and more boisterous cubicles.\n\nMara sat alone in the booth at the far corner, slowly twisting the ring which winked up at her mockingly from one finger. A cup of wine stood untouched on the low table before her; it was stale, and flecks of dust had gathered on its surface. She had been waiting for Sheftu since the mark of seven—five weary hours.\n\nThe torch flames dipped in a gust of air and she started up quickly, glancing toward the entryway door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But it was only Nekonkh who appeared there, for the third time in as many hours." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She sank back upon her mat as he lumbered across the floor toward her.\n\n\"Seen naught of him yet, I suppose?\" he grunted, sagging in the entrance to her booth. She shook her head, and he ran a hand wearily over his stubbly jaw and up under his wig. \"By Amon, I'm about at the end of my hawser. He should have been back by—\"\n\n\"Nekonkh, he'll not come back! Something's happened. I doubt we ever know what, but something's gone wrong.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include \"Perhaps I do, but he bade me stand by to sail sometime tonight, and the night's not done yet. I'll wager he's not either. I've yet to see the snare Sashai can't wriggle out of, one way or another—\" somewhere in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You mean to give up, do you?\"\n\n\"I'll wait a bit longer, but it's folly. You know that.\"\n\nNekonkh slapped his wig back into place and scowled down at her. \"Perhaps I do, but he bade me stand by to sail sometime tonight, and the night's not done yet. I'll wager he's not either. I've yet to see the snare Sashai can't wriggle out of, one way or another—\"\n\n\"Nekonkh, do you know where he is this time?\"\n\nThe captain shook his head uneasily." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Nay, he doesn't tell me everything, maid. I presume it's dangerous.\"\n\n\"Aye. It's dangerous. He was ten thousand kinds of a fool to attempt such a thing, that's how dangerous it is!\"\n\n\"Aye, well, now don't look so, little one. It may be all will come right yet....\" Patting her shoulder abstractedly, Nekonkh glanced toward the door. \"I'd best be starting back. If he should come, with me not there to take charge of that cargo...\"\n\nHe hurried away, his big shoulders drooping. The torch flames dipped once again as he went out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mara sat on, with her legs cramped and numbing under her, swirling the dusty wine in her cup." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Finally she, too, rose, groped for her discarded sandals, and slipped them on. Then she flung her cloak about her and wandered slowly across the room. As she passed the fire pan, Miphtahyah's thin, strong fingers reached out to clutch her arm.\n\n\"Where is he?\" whispered the old woman fiercely. \"You know, don't you? Why is he so late?\"\n\n\"Mistress, I can't tell all I know. But only he knows what's keeping him.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You could give me some notion, if you would! One word as to when he'll be here—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I've told you I know not!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mara jerked free. \"It may be he'll never be here! It may be—\"\n\nSomething in Miphtahyah's face cut her short—a curious puckering. She realized suddenly that the old woman's eyes were glassy with tears. Mara bit her lip, and moving closer, touched the tense shoulder. \"Mistress, my heart is with yours. I'd comfort you if I could.\"\n\nThe unexpected sympathy was almost too much for Miphtahyah; she pressed a skinny hand to her lips, half turning away." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For a moment painful to both of them, she struggled visibly to gain control of herself. Then her hand slid from her mouth down to her strange shell necklace, and her face settled stiffly into its usual network of wrinkles. \"We will not give up, Blue-Eyed One. He will—come.\"\n\n\"Aye, he will come.\" The lie tasted bitter on Mara's tongue. Turning abruptly, she went on across the room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The courtyard was still empty of everything but moonlight, and even that seemed dim and spiritless." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mara stood on the doorstep a moment, with the torch sputtering behind her, then turned back into the inn. She would order a plate of stew, and if he had not come by the time she had eaten it...\n\nFool! she told herself angrily as she settled down again in her cubicle. Why do you keep hoping? He's lost. You'll never even know what happened.\n\nShe could not eat the food Ashor brought any more than she could answer the anxious, unspoken question in his face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She sat toying with the big chunks of meat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It mattered little, now, what she told her master. She would tell him everything. Without Sheftu, the king was ruined, no one else could possibly... Oh, mother of truth, why had she ever met him? For a moment she longed to turn time back, undo everything, even go back to the fluting irons and Teta's familiar scolding.\n\nShe flung the spoon down, then stiffened, as a shadow fell across her. The juggler, Sahure, was leaning in the entrance to the cubicle, smiling his twisted smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Three gilded balls circled furtively above his hand." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Live forever, Face of the Lily,\" he greeted her. \"Thou'rt long alone tonight. Where is our friend Sashai?\"\n\n\"I know not. Begone!\" Mara picked up her spoon and started eating.\n\n\"Strange,\" purred Sahure. \"Often he comes here when you do not, but never before have I seen you, save at his side.\"\n\nMara glared at him, but preserved a stubborn silence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The maid of mystery,\" the juggler went on dreamily." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Invisible to poor mortals save in the hours of darkness, in this one spot. Where do you hide in the daytime, Eye of the Turquoise, that my heart is never gladdened by your countenance, whether in the marketplace or the villas of the Great Ones?\"\n\n\"That is none of your affair!\" Mara pushed her plate away, seething. \"You take my appetite, juggler! Be off with you!\"\n\nHe only smiled. With an air of pleasant leisure, he shifted his crooked body, and the balls danced lightly to the other hand.\n\n\"Aye, aye, one must be discreet. And you are the very flower of discretion, are you not, Lovely One? Not a word have you said about your troubles tonight, though it's obvious they weigh heavy on you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Suddenly he bent close to her, his breath in her ear." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Where is he? He is late. You may trust me, I'm in his confidence, like you—\"\n\nPushing him away, Mara scrambled to her feet, swatting his golden balls in every direction and spitting a stream of invective which included several Babylonian phrases Inanni could never have heard of. \"Get thee gone, I said, you son of forty devils! I'll not listen to your cursed babble! Be off! Be gone!\"\n\nShe broke off, breathless, aware that every head in the inn had whirled toward her. There was a pause; then Sahure picked up his gilded balls, and with a faint shrug, drifted away across the room.\n\nMara drew a long breath and eased down upon the mat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Trust that kheft-man? As well trust the red-haired Set himself!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's only curiosity,\" Sheftu had said. \"He's loyal.\" Aye, perhaps! And perhaps his loyalty was not as freely for sale as onions in the marketplace, but she doubted it!\n\nStill trembling a little, she watched him coolly begin his juggling again in another corner. Why, she reflected, should I not admire this rogue, instead of hating him? He seeks only to know which barrel holds the fish, and have I not always lived thus?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nevertheless, I do hate him, and what's more, I'm afraid of him.... Ai, forget him, she told herself wearily." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Forget all of it.\n\nNothing was to be gained by sitting here longer. She reached for her cloak and rose, moved for the last time through the din of tambourine and conversation and the thick smell of meat, into the chill fresh wind of night.\n\nBut this time the courtyard was not empty. Even as she left the torch behind and started across the dark pavements, she heard the click of the gate, and saw the tall, cloaked figure just inside it.\n\nShe stood one moment in startled disbelief." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then with a cry she darted toward him, stumbling on the uneven ground, reaching out to make sure... \"Sheftu?\" He was no wraith. He had come, he was here. She felt a relief so intense it made her almost dizzy. \"Mother of truth, what kept you, what kept you? I thought you were dead!\"\n\n\"So did I, little one,\" he whispered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was leaning against the wall as if too weary to stand." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She put out her hand to touch him, but hesitated, awe-struck by where he had been and what he had done since she saw him last.\n\n\"Sheftu, are you—well?\"\n\n\"Aye, I'm well enough.\"\n\n\"But something went amiss?\"\n\n\"Everything! Mara—our torch burned out.\"\n\n\"Burned out? Before you—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"As we were leaving the inner chambers.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mara felt goose flesh crawl up her arms as the full meaning of that came home to her. \"Osiris!\" she whispered. She drew her cloak about her, shivering.\n\n\"We tried every passage—some of them twice, three times. Amon! It seemed years. We ended by stumbling on the right one. Sheer chance.\"\n\nIt was a moment before she could make her mind go on to anything else. Then she lifted her head quickly. \"But you were successful? You brought the gold?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"All we could carry.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Then it's done! It's finished and over.\"\n\n\"Aye. It's finished.\"\n\nMara drew a long, shaky breath. \"And you're back safe. Do you swear all's well with you? Sheftu, come where I can see you. It's so dark.\"\n\n\"Dark? This courtyard dark? Merciful Amon! You know nothing of the dark.\"\n\n\"Nay, perhaps I don't. But I can't see you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was quiet a moment." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then he spoke in a different tone, very softly. \"I can see you. As clear as in the sun.\" He lifted one hand and touched her cheek, the lotus in her hair. Suddenly he pushed away from the wall and gathered her in his arms. \"I believed I would never see you again,\" he whispered. \"For five hours I believed that. Ah, Mara, what a difference five hours can make in the way a man thinks!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He's going to kiss me, she thought, he can't help it, he must, he must!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Sheftu,\" she breathed. \"It would have been hard, then, never to see me again?\"\n\nHe twined his fingers in her thick hair and, pulling her head back, looked down into her face. Then, murmuring something under his breath, he set his mouth against hers, hard.\n\nTriumph swept over Mara, giving way immediately to something so much stronger and deeper that every other reality dropped away. She found herself clinging to him fiercely, caught up in an emotion more compelling than any she had known. For once she did not plan or scheme or use her wits, since it was quite impossible." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She did not even think." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was a long time before he released her reluctantly and pulled her head onto his shoulder. The minutes went by, and Mara drifted back slowly to the ordinary Egyptian night, the courtyard—and cold reality. She was a little frightened. What was it that had happened, in the space of one kiss? This was not something she could play with as she chose. Nay, it was quite the opposite...." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His arms still held her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She became aware of them as a separate sensation, like the rough linen of his headcloth against her cheek, like the pebble pressing through the sole of her sandal. She stirred, and at once his arms tightened.\n\n\"Let me go, Sheftu, this is—\"\n\n\"I'll never let you go. Never.\" He turned his head against hers, brushing his lips over her hair, her ear, across her cheek. \"I love you, Mara.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, Amon, I would that were true!\" she whispered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It is true.\"\n\nFor a moment of pure happiness she closed her eyes and let herself believe it. Surely he meant it.... Aye, he meant it—tonight. He had kissed her, he needed her—tonight. But tomorrow? She knew quite well how these things turned out. She opened her eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Impossible,\" she said bluntly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're a great noble. A lord of Egypt.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"None of that matters. Not after five hours in the dark.\" He pushed her away enough to look at her, but kept tight hold of her arms. \"I'm not speaking lightly, do you understand?\"\n\n\"By tomorrow morning you'll forget you spoke at all.\"\n\nHis voice roughened. \"I'll not forget! I know what I want. Lotus-Eyed One, I'm weary of dueling with you. You'll share my life, as long as it lasts—and such as it is. Is that clear enough?\"\n\n\"Quite—clear. But you must be mad. Tomorrow—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He seized her chin between thumb and fingers and twisted her face up to him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Be quiet,\" he whispered. He kissed her, at first gently, then again, not at all gently, and she gave herself up to it.\n\nNever mind tomorrow, she thought. Never mind anything.... She was building dreams like palaces.\n\nSheftu loosed her abruptly and dropped both arms to his sides, moving away a step. \"Little one, this must stop.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He drew a deep, irregular breath." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I still must show myself inside there, lest they begin to mourn me as dead, and you must get back to your boatman.\"\n\n\"Aye,\" said Mara shakily. The dreams were still there, turret on airy turret. \"I hope he waited for me. Did you see Nekonkh?\"\n\n\"Before I came here. He's already off down the river with his passengers. As to the rest of it—\" Sheftu moved closer, lowering his voice. \"You must seek audience with the prince tomorrow.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Aye, Sheftu.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Tell him all's well. The door's plastered over and sealed as we found it, and the stones rolled back into place. The tomb has a second occupant now, but...\"\n\n\"It has—what?\"\n\nHe met her eyes in silence, and she shivered. \"No matter,\" he said quietly. \"Mention none of that—naught about the torch or any problems. It's done and finished. I want only to forget it. Tell him the gold's hidden—safe at hand to pay our promises when the time comes. Aye, and tell him Count Kha-Kheper is one of us, I talked to him... Osiris! It was only this afternoon. It seems a year ago.\"\n\n\"Ai, Sheftu, how tired you must be!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She reached out impulsively." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You'll seek your couch soon?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'suddenly' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Never fear!\" He smiled, folding his hand over hers and pressing it tight, then tighter. \"Mara,\" he whispered.\n\nSuddenly his face changed. He opened his hand and looked down at her finger. Too late, she was aware of the hard shape of the ring as if it were a circlet of fire burning into her flesh.\n\nShe could no more prevent her involuntary attempt to jerk away than she could break the iron grasp which suddenly held her. She stood paralyzed, as he slowly raised his eyes to hers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was the dangerous Sheftu of old who stood there now.\n\n\"I am touched,\" he said softly, \"that you should treasure this little keepsake for so long.\"\n\n\"You're angry,\" she breathed. \"Oh, Sheftu, I should have told you long ago. The old man in Abydos would take naught for helping me. But I was afraid if I told you, you would make me give it back....\" Thanks be to the gods, her voice was reasonably steady, for all she was giddy with fear. \"It was stupid of me, perhaps wicked. Here, take it, Sheftu—\"\n\n\"Nay, please!\" He was silent a moment, then gently loosed her hand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Keep it as a token of my—esteem.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mara tried to smile. Why did he stand there so still, just looking at her? He was thinking. Thinking what? She could never tell anything from that impenetrable face.\n\n\"I will, if you're certain you wish it.... It has brought me luck all day. I think it bears a powerful charm. I wore it tonight to bring you back safe, and it may be that—\"\n\n\"That I owe my life to it?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "he finished smoothly. \"Aye, perhaps you're right, little one. Perhaps I do.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He straightened, deliberately relaxed, and smiled—warmly, intimately, as only he could smile. \"I must leave you, Lotus-Eyed One, though tonight I confess I am especially loath to. Be here tomorrow, as soon after nightfall as you are able. It cannot be too soon, for me.\"\n\nHow much of that was irony? He gave her no chance to find out, for he turned quickly, strode across the courtyard and through the inn door.\n\nMara stood motionless where he had left her. The moon inched imperceptibly higher in the night sky, and a little breeze sprang up to stir a fold of her sleeve." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She shivered. Suddenly she tore the ring from her finger and hurled it with all her strength across the courtyard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Whirling, she started blindly for the gate, then slowed, then stopped." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After a moment she turned back, searched carefully for the ring, and found it at last. A guttersnipe did not fling away a fortune, even to satisfy the wildest disappointment. Such gestures were for the rich and secure, whose airy palaces were real.\n\nTucking the ring into her sash, she hurried out of the courtyard and along the dark and evil streets to the river.\n\nI am secure, she told herself. He believed me. Surely all is well." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Could he have smiled like that if it were not?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Aye, he could, and she knew it." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "WRITING ASSIST:\n11 sentences sentences\nStyle: Eloise Jarvis McGraw\nGenre: historical fiction, romance, Egypt\nContext: Part of larger work" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The tavern courtyard was dark and empty when Sheftu and Nekonkh pushed open the gate that night and cautiously let themselves in. They crossed the yard in silence, and Sheftu melted into the shadow of the dom palm while Nekonkh strode on to the torchlit door and disappeared inside. A moment later he thrust a hand out to signal.\n\nSheftu left the dom palm and moved swiftly across the paving stones and into the little entry hall, closing the door silently behind him.\n\n\"She's here,\" muttered Nekonkh.\n\nHe motioned toward the door to the big common room, which he had half shut to conceal Sheftu's entrance. Stepping to the crack at the hinge, Sheftu peered through it. One glance told him all was well. A second showed him a lithe, familiar figure curled up in the corner booth, waiting for him. She had slipped her sandals off, as usual, and had tucked her feet under her. Her bare, brown shoulders gleamed in the torchlight, looking like carven gold in contrast to the white straps of her dress and the ink-black locks which fell over them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As always, she had fastened a lotus in her hair." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A hard, cold core formed inside Sheftu. With a jerk of his head he motioned Nekonkh on into the room.\n\n\"Ah! Good evening, Captain! May thy ka rejoice....\"\n\nIt was Ashor's voice, and almost at once his broad back appeared in front of the door crack, cutting off Sheftu's view of the room. By the time the innkeeper moved on, Nekonkh was approaching the corner booth. As he stopped beside it, Mara's head jerked around as if he had pulled a string.\n\nSheftu found that he was chewing his lip cruelly, and made himself stop. Her first, sharp, wary glance had told him much. It was the same look she had given him that day on the Beetle, when he had surprised her out of sleep, and it reminded him of nothing so much as a quick-drawn sword.\n\nShe had disguised it at once, this time, and appeared to be questioning Nekonkh as he edged his big body into the booth beside her. Sheftu watched him closely as he answered her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was making a great to-do about settling himself on the mat, his eyebrows going up and down with elaborate nonchalance as he talked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nekonkh could shrug his eyebrows as other men shrugged their shoulders. He seemed to be convincing Mara that all was as usual.\n\nFeeling relief as to that, coupled with a restlessness of such prickling intensity that he felt he was being bitten all over by flies, Sheftu left his post and moved distractedly about the tiny entrance hall, then returned to his crack.\n\nEven from across the room, her eyes looked blue. Sheftu leaned against the wall and let the noise and music and clatter of crockery beat against his ears, trying to pick out her quick laughter from the confusion, trying once again to fathom the strange quality of wistfulness which underlay all her swift-changing expressions, even the most sardonic, the most impudent. What was Nekonkh saying to her now? She had grown serious, frowning down at the cup she toyed with, nodding. He spoke again and laughed; and as she raised her vivid eyes to him, her whole provocative, gamin's face lighted in an answering grin.\n\nSuddenly Sheftu could bear no more. He fled silently out of the inn, through the dark courtyard, and across the street, where he took up his waiting again in a doorway that smelled evilly of filth and rotting fish.\n\nIt seemed hours before the courtyard gate clicked open and Nekonkh emerged." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sheftu took a firm grip on himself and managed to appear casual as he joined him. \"Well, Captain?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 9 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Mate, I did what you told me. That's all you can ask, is it not?\"\n\n\"Did she seem—did you watch her face when you dropped the bait?\"\n\n\"No,\" said Nekonkh woodenly.\n\nAfter a moment he started down the shadowy street, and Sheftu fell in beside him. They walked in silence through the alleys and byways into the warehouse district edging the wharf. When they came to the customs dock, where their ways separated, Nekonkh faced around doggedly.\n\n\"Look you, Sashai. I know as well as you what's at stake in this, and if the maid trips herself up—well, it's her own doing, and I've naught to say for her. But if that vessel's raided tomorrow night, mate, I could whisk her on board the Beetle and sail straight for the Delta. She'd be no danger to anyone, you'd never need see her again. But you could still spare her life....\"\n\nHis voice trailed into silence. Sheftu was slowly shaking his head." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "expand on the story like Eloise Jarvis McGraw would. btw might have existing characters/lore" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nuit the Starry One, goddess of the sky, arched her spangled body over the land of Egypt and gazed down serenely on its sleeping thousands. In palace and villa and hovel they slept, long of eye, with their amulets about their necks, each stiffly pillowed on his headrest of wood or carven ivory or gold. The sailor slept on his vessel on the Nile, the priest in his temple cell, the beggar in his lane. The scent of lotuses and the river and the black earth rose like the very breath of night to delight Nuit's nostrils, and the cat slept, and the waterfowl slept, and the dead slept in their spices and wrappings, deep in the tomb.\n\nBut not everyone slept." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In Bubastis, in the North, a thief prowled the night; in Abydos three surgeons worked over an old man who moaned in pain; and in Thebes two men argued in tense and urgent whispers in an alley." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The eyes of Nuit rested on these two with mild curiosity. One was young, dressed as a scribe; the other a burly riverman. They seemed agitated and in anxious haste; presently they left their alley and moved swiftly, but with great caution, down another, glancing always from side to side as if searching for someone. Nuit became aware that there were other dark figures scattered throughout the alleys and byways of this particular area, hiding in twos or threes, sometimes venturing forth, also searching, until they found others. The scribe discovered one such group, joined it eagerly, and gave whispered orders, then hurried with his companion toward the river." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was a small papyrus boat bobbing against one of the ladders of the wharf, which Nuit had not deemed worth her notice until the scribe and the riverman dropped into it and paddled in silent haste out across the Nile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The eye of Nuit was distracted; for a time she was engaged in admiring her own starry reflection in the dark mirror of the water; when she remembered the two men, they were already scrambling up the opposite bank and starting at a run through the streets of western Thebes. At a corner within sight of the palace wall, near a clump of acacia trees, they halted, held a brief conference, then separated. The riverman melted into the thick shadows under the acacias; the scribe made his way by lane and back alley into the district of great walled villas to the northwest. He was moving with the utmost caution now, and he grew warier the closer he approached a certain broad street lined with sycamore figs, and an estate of noble proportions which fronted on it. Nuit was pleased; the sycamore was sacred to her, and its glassy leaves mirrored her own beauty, as well as emitting the delicate, sharp scent most welcome to her nostrils." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Because of the sycamores, she looked with favor on the estate whose walls the scribe was circling stealthily, and smiled when he scaled the wall by means of its vines, slipped through a corner of the large date grove, and approached the great columned, silent house set in its midst." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She watched him until he gained an inner courtyard by the servants' wing, and knocked softly on a door. Then the faint cry of a woman in Menfe reached Nuit's velvet-dark ear, and remembering her duties as protectress of mothers and childbirth—for was she not the mother of great Osiris himself?—she turned her attention to another drama." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "expand on the story like Eloise Jarvis McGraw would. btw might have existing characters/lore" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mara swam up slowly out of her sea of dark oblivion. Someone was splashing cold water into her face, and shaking her roughly.\n\nThey will only beat me again, she thought, keeping her eyes shut. I'll pretend...\n\nBut even as she planned it she gasped and cringed as the hand touched her raw shoulders.\n\n\"She's but feigning now,\" said Nahereh." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Up on your knees, you!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "But it was not his voice which forced her eyes wide open suddenly, jarred her whole mind alert." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was another voice, outside in the anteroom, and a stir among the soldiers who stood nearest the doors.\n\n\"Up on your knees, I said!\" repeated Nahereh. Then, impatiently, \"What is that? Who's outside there?\"\n\n\"A noble who demands admittance, Excellence,\" mumbled one of the soldiers. \"He seems most—\"\n\n\"Let him in,\" commanded Hatshepsut." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mara raised herself to her knees, disregarding the pain the movement caused her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It couldn't be—it mustn't!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But it was. The tall doors swung open and an arrogant, gold-decked figure she had never thought to see again strolled through them and bowed with debonair grace toward the throne.\n\n\"Good evening, Radiant One! Excellencies, rejoice!\" remarked Lord Sheftu.\n\nHe did not glance at Mara, nor did she at him, after her first agonized recognition. Her attention froze on Sahure, whose sudden intent frown showed that it was only a matter of moments until the jeweled collar and golden headcloth would no longer confuse him. Had Sheftu noticed him?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He must have, and he must be all but reeling from the shock of it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ai, why did he come! thought Mara. Whatever plan he'd had in mind, it was defeated before it began.\n\n\"You might rather say good morning,\" the queen was remarking irritably. \"Have we turned night into day, or is it your habit, Lord Sheftu, to visit the palace at this hour? I supposed this audience was secret.\"\n\n\"Your Radiance, it is difficult to keep anything secret in the city of Thebes, when both servants and rivermen gossip like magpies—often with each other. I felt my place was by Your Majesty's side. However\"—the smooth voice took on a note of amusement—\"I seem to have overestimated the emergency. Where are the criminals, Daughter of the Sun? Surely my lord Nahereh's adroit and fearless coup netted more than one wretched slave girl!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A poor catch indeed, but all we have,\" returned the queen, frowning at Nahereh, who had gone red with anger." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And the stubborn wench has told us naught!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Perhaps she knows naught,\" suggested Sheftu carelessly." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Use the word 'senmut' 2 time(s) - this is a strict requirement" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But whether she be innocent or guilty, Your Majesty has been ill-advised in the manner of questioning her,\" he added, with a glance at Senmut. \"The maid looks half-dead.\"\n\n\"Should she defy pharaoh and go unpunished?\" snarled Senmut.\n\n\"Nay. But on the other hand, of what value is her corpse?\"\n\nMara listened breathlessly. By Amon!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Already he had contrived to make the whole matter seem vaguely ridiculous, and the count and Lord Nahereh a pair of fools." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Could it be possible that— Then she glanced at the juggler and her heart sank." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His narrowed eyes were gleaming. He had realized the truth. But would he dare accuse so great a lord? He could prove nothing....\n\n\"If Your Majesty will allow me,\" Sheftu was saying easily, \"I might soothe the maid a little, tempt her with some small reward—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Nay, we've tried that. My majesty offered her both gold and freedom. She scorned them.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She scorned them?\" Sheftu was not acting now, and there was a note in his voice that stirred Mara to a deep, unreasonable joy. As if he could not believe what he had heard, he repeated, \"She refused a bribe?\"\n\n\"Aye, she did, the wretch!\"\n\nThere was a little silence, and when Sheftu spoke again his voice shook almost imperceptibly. \"In that case, naught on earth can unseal her lips. Perhaps, after all, she knows nothing....\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And perhaps she knows much!\" It was a new voice—Sahure's. It rang loud and derisive through the room. \"But you know more—Sashai!\"\n\nEvery head jerked toward the juggler, still crouched on his knees but now pointing a long, accusing finger at Lord Sheftu." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How dare you speak without permission?\" gasped the queen." }, { "from": "system", "value": "can you add this somewhere in your response:\n\"And if she knows naught, Your Majesty—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sheftu went on at once, as if good breeding alone forbade him to notice an outrageous interruption. \"And if she knows naught, Your Majesty—\"\n\n\"Wait!\" cried Count Senmut. \"Let the juggler speak! Did he say 'Sashai'?\"\n\n\"I did, Lion of Courage and Wisdom! That is Sashai—he who stands before you in fine raiment and gold! He is the scribe of the Falcon—the same, the same!\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<EMBED THIS>>: \"What is this babble! Do you know of whom you speak, insolent fool? That is Lord Sheftu, son of Menkau the Friend of Kings, and my trusted courtier!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The queen rose to her feet. \"What is this babble! Do you know of whom you speak, insolent fool? That is Lord Sheftu, son of Menkau the Friend of Kings, and my trusted courtier!\"\n\n\"He is also Sashai, Your Magnificence! He is the same, I swear it!\"\n\nSheftu's amused voice broke in. \"Who is this madman? He intrigues me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Of course he's mad!\" cried the queen. \"He offends my majesty! Take him away, Nahereh.\"\n\n\"Your Radiance, wait!\" Count Senmut stepped forward, and the harsh furrows of his smile deepened slowly in his face as he studied Sheftu. \"Surely my lord would be even more intrigued if this juggler could prove his claims. That would be amusing, would it not? Speak, juggler! Have you proof?\"\n\n\"I have, Lion of Wisdom!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The queen stiffened. Nahereh pulled the juggler toward him, and Mara caught her breath in sharp and sudden fear." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You can prove this accusation?\" burst out Nahereh. \"Speak, then, quickly!\"\n\n\"Let his Highest Excellence the Architect look upon the left wrist of the great Lord Sheftu—\"\n\nOh Amon, it's over, it's all over, he's lost! thought Mara, and the fragile bubble of hope that had been growing in her burst, all in an instant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What will I find there?\" asked Count Senmut, moving toward Sheftu stealthily, like a great cat.\n\n\"An amulet of strange design, Highest Excellence. I have not seen it this night, for his wrist is hidden from me, here where I kneel. Nevertheless I will describe it to you, for I know it well, aye, well, from the wrist of Sashai....\"\n\n\"Describe it, then!\" Senmut seized Sheftu's wrist, and hiding it from the juggler with his own body stared down at it.\n\n\"It is a twist of flax thread strung with seven green beads, and knotted seven times. There is a flat bead of carnelian in the midst of the seven, inscribed on both sides. Is it not as I say, Excellence?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Slowly the Architect's eyes climbed up to rest on Sheftu's immobile face. \"It is as you say.\" He flung Sheftu's wrist down. \"Here is your traitor, Radiant One—the incorruptible Sheftu!\"\n\n\"Osiris!\" whispered the queen, dropping back upon her throne." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required dialogue to include (maintain exact wording): \"It cannot be! It cannot be!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It cannot be! It cannot be!\"\n\nFor Mara, time itself seemed to halt. Then Sheftu sighed, shrugged, and turned to Count Senmut.\n\n\"So it is over, comrade,\" he said. \"We had best admit everything, had we not? But it is sad, that in spite of all our precautions—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We!\" Senmut was staring at him, suddenly ashen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Great Amon, what are you saying?\" Hatshepsut fairly screamed. \"Do you tell me that Count Senmut, too—\"\n\nThe Architect whirled to her. \"Majesty, it is a lie! He but seeks to drag me down with him! Radiant One—you do not believe—\"\n\n\"Oh come,\" put in Sheftu coolly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The game's over. We've been comrades, let us die like men.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Curse you! You'll die like a rat, here and now—\" Senmut sprang upon him savagely, a knife flashed upward, only to clash upon another that seemed to leap of itself into Sheftu's fist." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In an instant the room was pandemonium; Nahereh's cloak fanned Mara as he rushed forward, Hatshepsut was on her feet, shrieking orders that brought soldiers flying from every corner of the room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mara, torn between terror and wild elation, found herself standing erect, hurling defiance at all of them at the top of her voice. Then the knot of soldiers around the two men burst apart, Nahereh staggered back, and there was Sheftu, held fast by two soldiers, with his fine robe torn but his eyes flashing. On the floor at his feet sprawled the body of Count Senmut.\n\n\"So!\" breathed Hatshepsut. \"One is gone—and the other shall follow!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her voice rose with fury. \"You stand condemned of treason and murder, my lord Sheftu! At sunrise you die.\"\n\n\"And my secrets with me,\" taunted Sheftu.\n\nThe queen's features seemed to freeze; for the first time Mara saw a glint of real fear in her eyes. \"What mean you? There are others?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sheftu laughed softly, and pharaoh rose as if the sound itself drew her to her feet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Cease this mockery! What secrets?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Aye, what? And when is it to happen? And who will do it? Count your hours, Hatshepsut, for there are few left, and you will not enjoy them. Who can you point to now and say with confidence, 'He is my friend'? Your court is full of traitors, and you know them not! But I know them.\"\n\nHe is gambling for time, thought Mara. On what frail hope she could not imagine, he was taking one last chance, playing on the queen's one weakness—her fear for her throne. And he was doing it as skillfully as a harpist plucks his strings. Hatshepsut was standing rigid, with panic in her eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What traitors?\" she cried.\n\n\"Their names die with me.\"\n\n\"And their plans as well! Son of the Devourer, what can they do without their leader?\"\n\n\"My death will be as nothing to them. It will be as a stone thrown into the Nile in the time of inundation! Do the waters stop for a stone? The plans are made, Hatshepsut, and the hour is near. You will know your enemies when they strike.\"\n\nFor an instant Hatshepsut's face was sickening to gaze upon." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then slowly she straightened, and something of her cold beauty returned as she forced herself under control. She sat down slowly, stiffly, and grasped the arms of her throne.\n\n\"Lord Sheftu,\" she said, \"let us approach this in a different manner. Why go to your death when you might serve me in Count Senmut's place—when you might own the choice lands that were his, tax free—when you might be the most powerful man in Egypt? All this I could give you, or more—whatever you asked! Surely there is some treasure you crave?\"\n\nSheftu hesitated and a gleam of triumph appeared in Hatshepsut's eyes. At last he said, \"Aye, there is, Majesty.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The queen let out her breath slowly and relaxed, leaning back with a faint smile twisting her lips." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Soldiers! Release his lordship,\" she commanded.\n\nThe men loosed their hands and stepped back. Sheftu stood free. At once he turned, strode quickly to Mara, and took her in his arms. Mara, in a rapturous confusion at the unexpectedness of it, barely heard the queen's outraged exclamation. But she felt with all her heart the gentleness with which Sheftu held her, taking care not to touch her blood-stained shoulders, and she heard his murmur in her ear." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, Mara, my beloved Mara, I would I could save thee, but they come not, and it will soon be too late....\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'treasure' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Who comes?\" she whispered.\n\nBut the queen's mocking laughter cut in. \"This is your treasure, Lord Sheftu?\"\n\n\"Aye. The greatest treasure in Egypt—a maid whose loyalty cannot be bought. Whatever bargain we make, Daughter of the Sun, must include her freedom.\"\n\nMara did not see what signal the queen made to the soldiers; but suddenly she and Sheftu were jerked apart and held fast, and Hatshepsut was on her feet, her voice lashing at them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We will make no bargain! Nahereh! Bring forth your Libyan and instruct him to beat this maid to death before his lordship's eyes. Unless—did you wish to speak, Lord Sheftu?\"\n\nMara flashed him a terrified glance and saw that Hatshepsut had found her weapon at last. All Sheftu's cool poise had shattered in an instant; he was fighting his captors like a madman—though his lips were shut tight.\n\n\"Begin, Libyan,\" ordered Hatshepsut.\n\nThe lash curled through Chadzar's fingers like a lazy black serpent, then struck." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The pain was nauseating; through it Mara heard Sheftu's furious voice, and though she could not understand what he said, she screamed out, \"Don't speak! Don't speak! It will not last long—\"\n\nIt would not last long at all, she thought dimly as the lash came down again. Already the blackness was closing in. She had had too much. After the next blow she would feel nothing...." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But the next blow never fell. For an instant she could not distinguish the strange new sound she was hearing from the roaring in her own ears. Then she realized this new roar came from outside; men were running, shouting. And suddenly Hatshepsut was crying out orders in a strange, hoarse voice, and Mara felt herself dumped like a discarded burden as the soldiers leaped over her and ran.... The big doors burst open." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mara struggled painfully to rise, staring about her at the wildest confusion. Soldiers were everywhere, pouring into the room in endless streams, clashing in hand-to-hand combat with those ranged around Hatshepsut, who stood screaming orders before her throne. Nahereh fell as Mara watched, and the gnarled old general who had struck him down whirled as the juggler crept past toward the inner door, seized him, flung him bodily into the arms of two archers—\n\nA shadow fell across her. \"Mara! Oh, Amon, no hand but mine shall slay that misbegotten Libyan!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sheftu scooped her up, cursing incoherently, carried her to the far side of the room, and thrust her into a pair of strong and sheltering arms she recognized with wonder as Nekonkh's. As Sheftu whirled away again, she heard the captain's comforting growl in her ear. \"Now, little one, all's well at last, everything's out of our hands, our task is done. Rest, little Blue Eyes.\" He flung his cloak about her, and with a deep sigh of gratitude Mara buried her face in the rough folds of his tunic, and shut her ears to the noise of conflict, and shut her eyes....\n\nWhen she opened them, she knew not how much later, all was strangely quiet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She twisted about in Nekonkh's arms, which instantly loosened, and for a moment had the peculiar sensation that she was back with Inanni, in Hatshepsut's formal court. Once more the big room glittered with the jeweled collars of courtiers. But now the walls behind them were lined thick with soldiers—those wearing the scarlet helmets of pharaoh's bodyguard. The courtiers, headed by Sheftu, stood in two ranks down the length of the room. At one end of the open aisle thus formed was the dais, the great throne, and Hatshepsut standing motionless and stiffly erect, with her black hair falling in a cloud about her cold and beautiful face, and the cobra on her brow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At the other end, approaching her with the stride of a conqueror, came the long-fettered king." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thutmose stopped before the throne and spoke. \"Come down.\"\n\nThere was a pause, during which not a head moved, not a finger stirred. Then slowly, haughtily, Hatshepsut descended the steps of the dais and stood before him. He reached out and jerked the coronet of Egypt from her head. Then, still without turning his eyes from hers, he beckoned someone in the crowd." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A servant stepped forward, bearing a tray on which rested a golden cup full of some dark liquid.\n\nFor just a moment Hatshepsut's gaze wavered, as she looked at the cup. Then it returned unflinchingly to Thutmose.\n\n\"You show little mercy, half brother,\" she said bitterly.\n\n\"I show much! I grant you leave to die by your own hand, rather than another's. Take the cup and drink.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hatshepsut was silent, and the mask of youth fell suddenly from her face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So be it! I will drink, and forget. But you will not forget, nor will these others, though you chisel my cartouche from every monument in the Double Kingdom! My works stand, Son of the Lesser Wife, and they will eclipse yours, and your sons', and those of all pharaohs after me, so long as the land of Egypt is watered by the Nile! You cannot kill the name of Hatshepsut the Glorious! Now, give me the cup. But I am pharaoh and I will not drink it here, in the presence of my enemies! Stand aside, that I may pass.\"\n\nWith a sweep of her fragile, flowing robes Hatshepsut turned and bore the golden cup to her private chambers. Thutmose followed her. The door closed quietly behind them.\n\nA sound like a sigh passed through the crowd in the throne room, but no one stirred from his place, though Sheftu turned to seek Mara's eyes across the space that separated them. It seemed a long time before the inner door opened again, and Thutmose stepped forth—alone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At sight of the royal cobra on his brow, the entire company fell to their knees." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But the king walked straight to Sheftu, raised him, and grasped his shoulders in both hands. There was a low conversation unheard by any save themselves, then both turned toward Mara, and Sheftu quickly crossed the space of blood-stained floor and took her hand.\n\n\"Beloved—come with me, unless your hurt is too great....\"\n\nConscious of a hundred eyes upon her, Mara followed him painfully but with pounding heart down the double line of kneeling courtiers to the king.\n\n\"So,\" said Thutmose in the gentlest tone she had ever heard him use." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It is the little interpreter who has saved Egypt and me this night.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'lifted' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was silent a moment, then lifted his hand to touch his lips and forehead in the salute of respect. \"Blue-Eyed One, never again shall you cover your shoulders. I declare your scars to be medals of gallantry greater than any I could bestow, and it is my will that all the Black Land look upon them, and learn the nature of courage.\" Gravely he lifted a massive gold chain from his own neck and placed it around Mara's. \"Count Sheftu,\" he added, raising his voice so that it carried to all parts of the room, \"I advance your status to Nearest Friend and Advisor of Pharaoh. Your place is at my right hand as long as I rule Egypt. But I charge you now, leave me and find the most skilled physician in Thebes to treat this maid's wounds. Farewell, and the gods go with you.\"\n\nHe turned away from them, and as they moved once more down the long room, they heard his confident and vigorous step advancing toward the throne." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A moment later his voice rang out." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"In the name of Ra the Shining One and of my father, whose royal will decreed it, I claim my heritage as pharaoh of the Two Lands and sole ruler of Egypt!\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: This is part of a larger narrative. The user will write a segment, then you need to write around four sentences continuing directly from it. Characters and events may be pre-established from earlier chapters.\n\nAuthor style: David Connor\nGenre: paranormal, romance, LGBT" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It was a dark and stormy night, October 27, 1863,\" our Civil War reenactor instructor said, peering out at us over his wire-rimmed glasses. \"If it wasn't then, it sure is now.\" He had a big smile. Everything about him was big, his shoulders and chest, the reddish bushy beard that covered most of his face, and his boots." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Guy must have had size fourteen feet, at least." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The sky was angry, its noise as loud as artillery fire.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Right on cue—BOOM!—a clap of thunder rattled the casement windows set in concrete block all around us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I jumped. Loud noises weren't really my thing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We were down in the basement of a beautiful antebellum home that was now a museum. Upstairs, according to the website I'd scoured, the furnishings were antiques, the walls covered in original brocade paper, the windows with silky drapes. Where we were stuck, everything was musty, gray, and dank.\n\n\"The Battle of Browns Ferry had one purpose,\" our leader continued." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Food. After the Confederate victory in Chickamauga left thousands of union soldiers trapped and starving in Chattanooga, General William S. Rosecrans telegraphed Lincoln with dire news, stating our hold here could not be assured.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I couldn't remember the instructor's name." }, { "from": "system", "value": "At some point in your response, insert this verbatim: \"Come do a reenactment with me,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wanted to say Philip?\n\n\"There were very few nighttime battles during The Civil War,\" he read from a hardcover text book eerily similar to one I'd used in high school more than a decade prior, \"but this was one of the more significant.\"\n\n\"Come do a reenactment with me,\" my brother-in-law, Rip, had said. \"It'll be fun,\" he'd told me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "So far, it felt a lot like studying for a final." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When I checked my phone for the football scores, Rip nudged me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What?\"\n\n\"Pay attention, Goose.\"\n\n\"I'm listening,\" I said.\n\nTruthfully, I wasn't. Yeah." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could be immature sometimes. I'd giggled when Rip and I first drove under the sign that read Welcome to Cocke County.\n\n\"It's pronounced like the soda, you freak,\" he'd told me. \"Not the body part.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I kind of thought we'd put on the uniforms, run around like kids, and yell \"Bang! Bang! Bang!\" I pictured it being like a production of Hamilton, only with different costumes, setting, plot, and music I would make up in my head. I had no idea so much effort was put into these things to make them accurate. We were learning about The Battle of Wauhatchie, which took place in Tennessee and Georgia." }, { "from": "human", "value": "About thirty of us had gathered on the grand southern estate to relive those two days in history." }, { "from": "human", "value": "According to that website I'd read over and over ahead of time, our lodgings had everything, from stunning architecture, to famous historic visitors, to secret tunnels, to ghosts." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What it didn't have on the level we were stuck in, were enough bathrooms. There were only three, which meant I'd have to fight ten or fifteen other guys at shower time in the morning, unless being accurate to the era meant we were going to go into battle stinky. At almost thirty, I was too old for that frat house crap.\n\n\"Jesus!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What?\" Rip whispered.\n\n\"The lightning.\" The entire room had turned blue for half-a-second, accenting a bunch of backpacks and several dozen sleeping bags.\n\nI wished more than ever I was in one of the comfy rooms upstairs, with air conditioning, a soft mattress, and drapes to shut, so I wouldn't have to see Mother Nature's light show. We weren't allowed to sleep up there, though." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All sorts of rules applied that it was likely assumed we, as Neanderthals, would be incapable of following." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The house's management had little faith in us. Checking out some of the stains on some of the undershirts not quite covering some of the bellies around me, I could see their point. At any rate, we were stuck in an annex at basement level, with bathroom amenities that looked as if they'd come from another period in history as well. I was guessing the 1970s." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You afraid of thunder?\" Rip asked me.\n\n\"No.\"\n\nKind of.\n\nThe old home's exterior was white, with beautiful columns and terraces outside the upper and lower rooms." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The wrought iron railings were sculptural and ornate." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They'd captured my eye the moment Rip and I had driven up the long, winding driveway. I kept drawing them in the notebook I was supposed to be using for actual notes. I liked to draw.\n\n\"Pay attention,\" Rip said to me again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I focused in once more on our speaker." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thirty-five of us will work to reopen a route to Chattanooga from Browns Ferry on the Tennessee River,\" Paul said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Or was it Peter? I checked my notebook to see if I had written his name down. \"And five of you will be the starving soldiers.\"\n\n\"What do they do?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Essential phrase to include: \"Well, it's called the 'Cracker Line' operation, Mr. Tucker.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I asked Patrick. According to my scrawling, his name was Patrick.\n\n\"Just lie around, um, starving,\" he answered.\n\n\"Pretend starving, or are you telling us we don't get to eat? Is the food authentic? What did they eat in 1863?\"\n\n\"Well, it's called the 'Cracker Line' operation, Mr. Tucker.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Call me Goose,\" I said.\n\n\"Okay, Goose. My point is, there will be crackers, for one thing.\" Patrick smiled. \"Also, coffee, and tea…\"\n\n\"Yum.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Is this your first time with us, Goose?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah. That obvious, huh?\"\n\n\"It's fine. I like questions. I also like to keep things as authentic as possible. Just think, if going twenty-four hours without eating is hard, imagine what those soldiers must have felt like day after day. If you can come away from all of this with a sense of understanding and appreciation for the plight of these frightened, hungry, devoted, patriotic men, well, I'll have done my job. Is there anything else you'd like to know?\"\n\nDamn. Suddenly, I felt pressured. \"Um…Nope. Proceed.\" I turned to Rip." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I should have packed more snacks. I wonder if there's a convenience store nearby.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why didn't you ask?\"\n\n\"After Pat said all that about appreciating the soldiers? I'd have come off as a pretty big jerk, don't you think?\"\n\n\"You said it.\"\n\n\"We can have beer, right?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Shh!\"\n\n\"Currently,\" Patrick explained, \"following previous battles not as successful as we might have liked, the confederates have occupied positions that require us Federals to bring in supplies from the Stevenson railroad. We must travel via wagon, up the Sequatchie Valley, and then south, over Walden Ridge, to the north bank of the river opposite Chattanooga to get rations where they are needed. The sixty-mile route is treacherous and winding. After rainy weather, this trek was taking our men over a week, and our animals were breaking down.\"\n\n\"There's not a test after, is there?\" I muttered.\n\n\"Shut it!\" Rip scolded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Patrick mentioned a man named \"Baldy Smith\" I chuckled." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rip sneered. I had a feeling he was already regretting his decision to include me, as much as I was regretting saying yes.\n\nRip and my sister had done so much for me. I owed them. This was step one in paying them back, except I was every bit as frustrating as a Civil War reenactment partner as I was as a depressed and isolating relative.\n\n\"Baldy Smith,\" Patrick said again, \"has devised a way to open a shorter route via Kelly's and Browns ferries.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Patrick pulled out a brittle, yellowed map we all had to gather closer to see." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The guy really knew his stuff. \"To do this, we must first drive the Confederates from Raccoon Mountain. With the approval of Major General Ulysses S. Grant, Hooker's force at Bridgeport will secretly move across here.\" He traced the route with a small wooden pointer. \"One group will lead the advance along the line of the railroad south of the river toward Wauhatchie.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The pointer showed that proposed journey as well." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'hoorah' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Ours will cross northwest of Whiteside to join them. At Chattanooga, we will all drift downstream, past the enemy, to Browns Ferry, where we will secure the heights overlooking the site. We will have to fight off a small counterattack, but victory shall be ours.\"\n\nI was late in joining the rousing Hoorah!\n\n\"Hoorah!\" Better late than never, I figured.\n\n\"Another brigade will then cross at Browns' Ford's north bank,\" Patrick told us, \"and a pontoon bridge will be erected. On the morning of October 30, forty thousand rations and tons of forage will have arrived because of our efforts.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The Cracker line is open. Full rations, boys!\"\n\nOnce again, everyone else seemed rehearsed. The exclamation came in force, with me as an echo. \"…rations, boys!\"\n\n\"We'll all meet back up here at eleven,\" Patrick said, \"in full garb, to prepare to start the reenactment. In the meantime, feel free to roam the grounds.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The torrential rain pouring down challenged the notion.\n\n\"Or not. Maybe take the opportunity to relax and get to know one another before we start.\" Patrick fixed his glasses. They were always crooked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"There was downtime during war. The bond some of these men formed with one another is something else I hope we can replicate in the short time we have. Our mission will be grueling,\" he continued, \"but once again, keep in mind it's nothing compared to what these actual young men went through in real life. You'll all be leaving here alive.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Another loud crack of thunder had me airborne. \"Fuck!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As our compatriots dispersed, Rip was giving me stink eye." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're not taking this serious,\" he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Seriously…\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I believe, seriously is the word you want. I'm not taking this seriously. You know History. I know English.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Jerk.\" Rip walked away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What? You're really mad?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He headed for the door in the rear of the basement and went out into the storm.\n\n\"I'm angry. Angry is an emotion. Mad is an affliction.\"\n\nOkay, so I wasn't the only grammar cop in the room.\n\n\"You coming?\" Rip held the door for me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was pouring, but an awning overhead kept him dry. As lighting lit up the entire black Tennessee sky twice in a matter of seconds, I wondered if the overhang would do anything to protect us from that.\n\n\"I guess.\" I went out. \"I'll behave. Don't be angry.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rip and I had known one another since entering junior high as Richard and Max." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Richard\" to \"Rip\" wasn't much of a stretch. I don't even recall how it came to be. My last name, Tucker, prompted another classmate to call me \"Tuck,\" then \"Tuck, Tuck, Goose,\" and eventually, just \"Goose,\" which might as well have been on my driver's license by the time I'd turned twenty. No one in my life, not family nor classmates, army buddies, nor lovers, called me anything else." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rip was family now." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He and my sister would celebrate five years as husband and wife in December." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Another friend of his had dropped out on the reenactment weekend late on Thursday. That was when Rip started begging me to come.\n\n\"Playing pretend doesn't really sound like my idea of fun,\" I'd said, lying on the couch trying to concentrate on Gran Turismo on my PlayStation.\n\n\"You stare at that game twenty-four seven. It's exactly your thing,\" he'd argued." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yeah, but this is three fingers and a thumb. I'd have to put on pants and move my legs. It's a whole thing.\"\n\nI'd been accused of being anti-social, a hermit. That was nonsense. I left the house daily. I worked, as a cleaner at a big box store." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Expand on the story, maintaining character relationships, in the LGBT, lesbian, romance, older protagonist, post-covid genre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Melissa had to ask three times before she found the right baseball diamond." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The town park had multiple games going on simultaneously, and the place was swarming with pre-teen girls in colorful uniforms." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Unfortunately, Melissa had forgotten to ask Courtney the school colors." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She ought to know them by now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She'd seen enough signs around town for car-wash fundraisers, banners congratulating graduates, and the school band marching in parades. As one of the summer people, she'd never paid much attention, but if she wanted more than a summer fling with the assistant principal, she probably should.\n\nAren't you getting ahead of yourself?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "You spend a half hour drinking coffee with a woman, and you're already thinking of a possible relationship? Slow down!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Some of her hurry came from her lack of opportunities for sex." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She'd broken up with her girlfriend, a pediatric surgeon at Dana Farber, right before Hanukkah. Her friends in Boston attempted to play matchmaker, and she'd tried online dating, but what was the point if you couldn't get together with your prospective dates?\n\nMelissa finally found the home team." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She'd read in the local paper that the Hobbs Hawks had recently changed their name because their former moniker, Hobbs Tomahawks, disrespected Native Americans. Now, instead of an Indian hatchet, the team logo was a hawk in flight. The graphic was an improvement, but Melissa hated to side with conservatives, who objected because \"it's always been that way.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She spotted Courtney across the field." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She waved to her and she waved back." }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'played' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A ball whizzed past Melissa's ear, reminding her that she should have taken the long way. When Melissa was in school, girls only played softball. Now, they played baseball too." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Being hit by one of those could be painful." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Although Courtney had the entire top bleacher to herself, she moved over to make room for the new arrival.\n\n\"Hey, Melissa. I wasn't sure you'd make it. Thank you for coming.\"\n\n\"I came to root on the home team.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Melissa's guarded message, her way of trying not to seem too eager, fell flat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She tried again. \"I want watch the soccer moms supporting their daughters.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's a baseball game,\" Courtney pointed out dryly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I see that. I'm no expert when it comes to sports, but that much, I know.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm not athletic either, but Kaylee's dad is a phys ed teacher. He coached the girls' team in her school. Of course, she had to be on it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Courtney pointed to a slim girl in the outfield." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's my daughter, number fourteen in the outfield. She's athletic, unlike her mother, who can't catch to save her life.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Don't feel bad. I can't catch either.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Courtney smiled, seemingly pleased to learn that they shared this deficit.\n\n\"Baseball is such a slow game,\" complained Melissa, stretching out her long legs. \"I've never understood what people see in it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Me neither.\" Courtney moved closer. \"I was afraid I'd scared you off.\" When Melissa gave her a quizzical look, she added, \"When I told you about being bi.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Honestly, I'm not sure what bi means, and I may have acquired some bad attitudes. I'm willing to be educated.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Courtney smiled. \"Since I'm in the education business, you came to the right place. It's not a deal breaker, is it?\" Courtney's anxious expression was touching. Melissa patted her thigh reassuringly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I like to think I'm open minded, but my mother will probably object to you because you're not Jewish.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're Jewish?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include \"Then hopefully you don't know about all the stereotypes.\" somewhere in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Come on! You didn't know? With a name like Morgenstern?\"\n\n\"Sorry. There weren't many Jewish people where I grew up.\"\n\n\"Then hopefully you don't know about all the stereotypes.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm afraid I don't.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Melissa studied Courtney to make sure this wasn't a joke. The woman couldn't really be that sheltered, but apparently, she was.\n\n\"People say we're too aggressive, too clannish, too entitled…\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Is it true?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Like all ethnic prejudices, there's probably the tiniest grain of truth, cultural traits that are exaggerated in some women, more in my mother's generation than in ours.\"\n\n\"I've never dated a Jewish woman before,\" Courtney admitted.\n\n\"So, we're both in for a new experience.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm looking forward to it,\" said Courtney with a warm smile like the one that had turned Melissa's head when they'd first met." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was a loud cheer from the ball field, but they didn't turn to look. \"I think we're missing something,\" Courtney said, finally releasing Melissa's gaze.\n\nMelissa saw girls scrambling on the ball field, and the ball zinging from one base to another, but what had happened beforehand wasn't immediately clear." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The people on the bleachers on the other side of the field began cheering and jumping up and down, so she assumed the development wasn't good for the home team." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She glanced at the scoreboard. Another run was posted to the visitors.\n\nMelissa scrutinized the behavior of the girls on the field." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was nothing \"girly\" about them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They meant business. What a change from when she was growing up!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "There were always the \"jock girls,\" even in her mostly Jewish school in New York, where academics were far more important than sports." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The coach of the girl's basketball team had encouraged Melissa to try out because she was so tall." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She made the team, but she was uncoordinated and sat on the bench for most of the games. She'd only stuck out the season because her father hated \"quitters.\"\n\n\"I'm glad you came.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Courtney gently patted Melissa's knee." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Me too.\"\n\n\"Maybe you can come over for pizza after the game?\"\n\n\"You found a place in Hobbs that makes good pizza?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Melissa asked with exaggerated surprise.\n\nCourtney laughed. \"It's better than most places up here. You'd think a resort town would have a dozen good pizzerias.\"\n\n\"Nothing like New York pizza.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I beg to differ,\" said Courtney." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Pepe's in New Haven makes the best pizza in the world.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You lived there?\"\n\n\"Nearby. In Branford. I got my administration degree from Quinnipiac.\"\n\n\"The place that does all the polls?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Among other things.\"\n\n\"What made you want to be a principal?\"\n\n\"The Connecticut public schools pay well, but the real money is in administration. That wasn't the only reason, of course. I love teaching., and I love kids. The superintendent liked me and encouraged me to go for an advanced degree.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Melissa listened carefully, storing away the information. One thing she'd learned in legal practice was to collect details that might be useful later.\n\n\"Where did you go to college?\" asked Courtney." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Radcliffe. My father really pushed me to get into one of the Seven Sisters. He went to Harvard Law. So did I.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'courtney' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Courtney gave her a look between admiration and disapproval. \"Rich girl, huh?\"\n\n\"Not really. Dad worked hard to get into Harvard Law. He didn't come from big money. His father was a rabbi.\"\n\n\"I shouldn't make assumptions about people,\" said Courtney, patting her hand." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Sorry.\" Melissa's hand tingled at the touch of Courtney's.\n\nShouts from the ball field made Courtney suddenly jump up and cheer. \"Nice play, Kaylee! Way to go!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She turned to Melissa with a grin." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You can always tell the sports mamas.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I like the way you encourage your daughter.\"\n\n\"Thank you,\" said Courtney, looking pleased. When she sat down again, she sat close enough for their hips to touch." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After that, Melissa's mind wasn't on the game." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She took her cues from Courtney and the others on the home team bleachers about when to groan or cheer.\n\nWhen the game was over, there was a brief meeting of the team with the coaches before the girls streamed off the field with their bats and gloves. The slim girl Courtney had pointed out headed to where they sat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Come meet my daughter,\" said Courtney, stepping down the bleacher." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Melissa felt the girl's eyes taking her in. They were the same warm brown with gold flecks as her mother's. She was a blonde too." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Kaylee,\" Courtney said, \"I want you to meet Melissa Morgenstern.\"\n\n\"Hello, Ms. Morgenstern.\"\n\n\"Hello, Kaylee. You can call me Melissa.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The girl turned to her mother, who nodded permission.\n\n\"I'm in the school system, so she's been encouraged to be more formal with adults.\"\n\n\"A little formality is good.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Melissa reached out her hand to Kaylee." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The girl's felt a little sweaty, but she had a good grip." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Good for you, Melissa thought." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It's never too early to learn the value of a firm handshake.\n\n\"The pizza place is on the way home. It's a little hole-in-the-wall general store that caters to fishermen. We live near the brook that feeds Jimson Pond.\"\n\n\"I hear it's nice out there, although I hardly ever venture over the highway to the other side of Hobbs,\" Melissa admitted." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Maybe you'll have an excuse now.\" The little suggestive twitch of Courtney's brow surprised Melissa. She wasn't sure what to do with it, especially because she preferred to be the one who made the first move." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her solution, as usual, was to take charge." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If you tell me the address and what you like on your pizza, I can pick it up and bring it over.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No, this one's on me. You paid last time, and you promised. Besides, Kaylee likes to come in and choose her sodas. The brewery in Portland makes craft sodas, and this place has a fill-your-own-six-pack deal. She thinks that's the coolest thing.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Melissa decided not to argue about who would pay. Hopefully, there would be other occasions to fight this battle. Obviously, she had more resources than Courtney, but creative socialism could wait until they knew one another better." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She browsed the store while they waited for the pizza to bake." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Like many general stores in Maine, this one had a wide variety of items—everything from Band-aids to potato chips." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was an old-fashioned refrigerator full of snap-lid paper containers of night crawlers and mealworms, but right next to it was a display of craft beers from all over New England." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Beside the shelf of white bread and split-top hot dog rolls was an impressive selection of wine. Melissa chose a pinot she'd tasted and enjoyed. It was a few dollars more expensive than she'd pay in town, but she didn't mind giving a little extra to a small business." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You ready?\" asked Courtney, locating her in the wine aisle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Just let me pay for this, and I'll be right with you.\"\n\n\"That's a lot of money for a bottle of wine,\" said Courtney, looking at the price on the shelf.\n\n\"But it's worth it. You'll see.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'roads' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Melissa followed Courtney down the country roads. Good thing the satellite signal was strong in most of Hobbs because she doubted that she could ever find her way out of the maze of back roads. In this rural part of town, there were only signs at major intersections." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It would be easy to get lost, especially in the dark. Was that hopeful thinking? That it would be dark when she left?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The days were longer now that summer was approaching." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They arrived at one of the neglected trailers common in the back country, but the interior was clean and tidy. \"You led me to expect a dump,\" she said as she followed Courtney into the house. \"This is actually a sweet, little place.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I like to set expectations low and exceed them,\" Courtney said, dropping her school bags on a bench with a gingham cushion." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's much too expensive for what it is, but I found out about the job just as the summer tourist season was getting started, so I couldn't be too choosy.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She called down the hall in the direction Kaylee had disappeared. \"Take a shower, honey. Then we can eat.\"\n\n\"It must be hard to be a single parent,\" Melissa observed as Courtney put the pizza in the oven to stay warm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It wasn't much easier when Doug was in the picture. He coached every sport possible for the extra money. He was busier after school than I was.\" She took a corkscrew out of a drawer and put it on the counter. \"Will please you open the wine?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'glasses' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Melissa was pleased to have something to do while Courtney raced around the kitchen, bringing plates to the table and folding paper towels to use for napkins. \"I suppose we could use some glasses. Do you mind not using the wine glasses? They're delicate and need special care. I've already broken most of them.\"\n\n\"Of course. Anything that holds wine is good with me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Courtney took out three sturdy juice glasses. Melissa filled two of them, handed one to Courtney, and they clicked. \"Welcome to my humble abode.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kaylee returned with wet hair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Melissa noticed her toenails were painted bright green with sparkles." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She took the remaining juice glass and popped the lid off a brown bottle." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I love blueberry soda,\" she confided, pouring the pale-violet liquid into the glass. \"It's my favorite.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Everything is blueberry up here,\" Melissa said, \"but that looks good.\"\n\n\"Want a taste?\"\n\nMelissa hesitated. \"Sure,\" she finally said and took the glass Kaylee was offering. \"It is good.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She felt Courtney studying her as she spoke to her daughter and realized she was making subtle assessments." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She hoped she'd passed the test.\n\nThey were silent while they ate, sitting at the tiny table in the dining room. The pizza was a New-York style, thin crust type, and a passably good imitation of the real thing, well seasoned and not overly greasy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"My sister has two girls your age, Kaylee. They're coming up to visit this weekend. Would you like to meet them?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Courtney was watching the interaction cautiously. Maybe she didn't like the idea that Melissa was negotiating directly with her daughter.\n\n\"They're the same age?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "asked Courtney. \"Are they twins?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, but not in the usual sense. My sister and her partner did in vitro fertilization. They had the same sperm donor. Each carried her partner's fertilized egg. Instant family.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Oh,\" said Courtney. Melissa listened for hints of judgment, but she didn't hear any.\n\n\"Becca was invited to give a guest sermon at St. Mary's by the Sea because June is Pride Month. Apparently, the opening of the Episcopal summer chapel is a big event in Hobbs. Would you like to come along?\"\n\nCourtney's eyes widened. \"I'm not religious,\" she said quickly and downed the rest of her wine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm not either, but with a sister who's a rabbi, I need to show up…to support family, of course. And it's a beautiful setting. There's an outdoor chapel with the altar overlooking the ocean. You've met Lucy Bartlett, the rector, at your 'coming out' meeting the other day.\"\n\nEither Courtney didn't get the double meaning or was deliberately ignoring it for Kaylee's sake. \"Yes, I remember her, the woman with the red hair and the beautiful smile.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's the one.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Melissa waited patiently while Courtney chewed her pizza, evidently considering the invitation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Will your mother be there too?\"\n\n\"Of course. She's one of Becca's biggest fans.\"\n\n\"What do you think, honey?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "asked Courtney, turning to her daughter.\n\n\"Sure, Mom. If you want to.\"\n\n\"Okay, then,\" Courtney concluded with a nod. \"I guess we're going.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's engage in collaborative writing in the LGBT, lesbian, romance, older protagonist, post-covid genre. I'll provide a starting point, and you'll continue with 12 sentences, maintaining any established context." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For the sake of her patients, Liz forced herself to calm down. She reflected on the unfairness of it. If not for Cathy's appendicitis, she and Lucy would be having breakfast at the Plaza. After a night of passionate sex, room service would have been ideal, but they also could have enjoyed a leisurely meal in the hotel restaurant. The breakfast buffet featured exotic specialties like blini with crème fraîche and caviar. Liz salivated at the thought. Stuck in her office in Hobbs, she had wolfed down a yogurt at her desk.\n\nDealing with her disappointment over the ruined plans for the weekend was hard enough, but now Lucy had a surprise guest staying at the rectory, some old friend from divinity school. After they'd been separated for two weeks, how could Lucy even think of spending the day with this friend? Liz seldom showed Lucy her anger, but she was too frustrated to hold back. Lucy responded with characteristic understanding and generosity while Liz snarled.\n\n\"Liz, I love you, and I miss you so much. We'll be together soon. I promise.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Together together?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Weave this into your narrative: \"Susan helped me through a very difficult time in my life. She pretty much scraped me off the ground and helped me find my way. I owe her so much.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"When the time is right, yes.\"\n\n\"Come over after your dinner with your friend.\"\n\nLiz sensed Lucy's indecision before she finally said, \"I'll see you on Sunday morning. Afterwards, we'll talk.\"\n\nLiz stifled a grunt of anger. \"Who is this friend that she's so important?\"\n\nA deep sigh was audible through the phone speaker. \"Susan helped me through a very difficult time in my life. She pretty much scraped me off the ground and helped me find my way. I owe her so much.\"\n\nLiz was almost afraid to ask the question that had been nagging her, but she did. \"Were you lovers?\"\n\nThe long period of silence made Liz even more anxious. Finally, Lucy answered, \"Yes.\"\n\nThe jolt of anxiety that went through Liz felt like touching a live wire. \"Should I be worried?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Are you sure you're not still interested in her?\"\n\n\"Liz, I haven't seen or heard from her in seven years. No, that ship has sailed.\"\n\n\"Does she know that?\" Liz asked curtly.\n\n\"I don't know. She's the one who broke it off. She left because she felt she needed to be celibate. That's what the Church taught at the time. She thought being near me was too much temptation.\"\n\n\"Maybe she's changed her mind.\"\n\n\"Maybe she has, but that has nothing to do with me…or with us.\"\n\nLiz liked the \"us\" part of that statement, but she cautioned, \"Be careful, Lucy. That blast from the past can be very seductive. Look what happened to me and Maggie.\"\n\n\"But you were meant to explore that relationship, Liz. She really needed you, and you were there for her. It was meant to be.\"\n\n\"Just watch out, Lucy. You have such a kind heart.\"\n\n\"Don't worry, Liz. I can look after myself.\"\n\nLiz wanted to say, I hope so, but she didn't. She needed to dial back on the advice, especially because she knew Lucy didn't respond well to pressure." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kristy, the new assistant, knocked on her open door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Dr. Stolz, you have a patient in two and another in five.\"\n\n\"Thank you. And dammit, call me Liz, will you?\"\n\nThe young woman backed up a step. Liz knew she had to stop being so irritable, but who the hell decided to schedule the newbie while Cathy was out? \"Hold on, Lucy.\" Liz muted the call and said she'd take the patient in exam room two first. \"Gotta go, Luce. Call me later when you have time to talk to the woman who loves you.\" Liz despised passive-aggressive behavior, so she regretted rubbing in her disappointment.\n\n\"Liz, I know you love me. I love you too, but I need to deal with this. I hope your day isn't too busy without Cathy there.\" Liz sensed Lucy's annoyance in her tone, there wasn't time to sort out the misfire. A patient was waiting.\n\nLiz hurried down the hall to the exam room. She gave her usual warning knock and found Denise Chantal sitting on the table." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I didn't expect to see you so soon,\" said Liz, offering her hand and taking a seat on the stool." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Your post-op follow-up isn't for a couple of weeks.\"\n\n\"I know, but I was uncomfortable, and when I found out you were on call, I made an appointment right away. I didn't want to take my chances with urgent care.\"\n\n\"What seems to be the trouble?\"\n\n\"I can't stop peeing. After surgery, I was so happy that I could pee, but that didn't last long.\"\n\n\"Well, urinating is better than not urinating. They rerouted a lot of your plumbing. Have you been keeping everything clean as they instructed?\"\n\n\"Absolutely.\"\n\n\"Hygiene is different for women. Now, you know what it's like to live with our geography.\"\n\n\"Believe me when I say I've looked forward to it for years.\"\n\nLiz patted Denise's arm to reassure her. \"We'll figure it out.\" Denise's symptoms sounded like a simple UTI, but this was a unique situation. Liz pulled up the leg support." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Lie down, please. Besides the urinary symptoms, how are you feeling today?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Pretty good. I'm so glad it's over. I've waited so long for this.\"\n\nLiz inspected the surgical site, still amazed that surgeons could achieve such good results in a surgery that basically turned the penis inside out and constructed a working vagina and labia. The urethral opening seemed clear and healing nicely. She was relieved to see there was no sign of overt infection.\n\n\"Any urinary incontinence?\"\n\n\"No, only urgency.\"\n\n\"Sounds like a simple infection, but I'd like you to give a sample for culture. Sometimes, people pick up exotic bacteria in the hospital. While we're waiting for the results, I'll prescribe a broad-spectrum antibiotic. It should help you feel better by tonight. If not, call me. You should follow up with your surgeon too. He'll want to know about this.\"\n\n\"She,\" said Denise. \"I chose her because she's trans too.\"\n\nSkill and experience were probably better criteria for choosing a surgeon, but plenty of patients had admitted they'd chosen Liz as their breast surgeon because she was female. People often had strange reasons for choosing doctors.\n\n\"You can get dressed now,\" said Liz. \"Kristy will be back in a few minutes and give you a specimen cup. There are wipes in the dispenser on the wall. Be gentle. I'm sure it's still raw. Thanks for coming in today.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As Liz headed down the hall to her next patient, she realized that thanking someone for taking care of their own health would have sounded strange before the pandemic, yet she was still saying it a year after they'd reopened the office." }, { "from": "human", "value": "By now, it had become a part of her regular script." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Fortunately, none of the patients Cathy had scheduled for Saturday morning were particularly interesting or demanding." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They always had a few walkins during the summer season." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "People who were on vacation sometimes forgot their medications or developed sudden symptoms. Sprained ankles from walking on the rocks at the beach or pulled tendons from bicycling for the first time in years were common. They saw the Hobbs Family practice sign on the way to the beach and stopped in looking for a doctor.\n\nAs Liz locked up the office, she wondered what to do with herself for the rest of the day. She wouldn't have minded some company, but Sam was still working on her big renovation every day of the week. That meant Olivia was available, but she always wanted to talk about town business, and Liz wasn't up for that. Brenda was busy training rookie cops today.\n\nLiz was twitchy knowing Lucy was with that woman. She needed to do something to keep her mind occupied. She remembered that the bulkhead door still needed scraping. After she changed, she grabbed her favorite sander out of her shop and headed to the harbor. On the way, she stopped at the food truck on Route 1 for a lobster roll." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As she ate it, she found herself wondering what Lucy was doing with her old \"friend.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Liz, who'd mostly had open relationships, wasn't the jealous type." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The only one exception was the idea of Maggie being with a man." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That drove her crazy.\n\nShe popped the last tasty bit of lobster roll into her mouth and noticed a familiar girl and a man coming down the dock. As they came closer, she recognized Courtney Barnes' daughter, Kaylee.\n\n\"Hey, Dr. Stolz,\" the girl called, waving.\n\n\"Kaylee. What brings you down here?\" Liz kept smiling, but she eyed the man with Kaylee. He was a good-looking man in his forties. He had a muscular physique and moved with an athlete's confidence. She'd never seen him before, but that meant little. During the summer, the town was full of strangers.\n\n\"I told my dad about your boat, so we came to look at it. Is that okay?\" Kayle called back.\n\nThe man smiled and waved." }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<EMBED THIS>>: \"Kaylee really want me to see your boat,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He had a pleasant face with friendly, blue eyes, and thinning, sandy hair. Liz could see the resemblance between father and daughter. \"Hello, Dr. Stolz. Nice boat.\"\n\n\"Want to come aboard?\"\n\nKaylee grinned. \"Yes!\"\n\n\"Kaylee, show your father where the ladder is.\" The man let Kaylee board first. Liz reached down to help her up.\n\n\"Kaylee really want me to see your boat,\" said the man, offering his hand. \"I'm Doug Barnes. Thanks for having us, Dr. Stolz.\"\n\n\"Call me Liz,\" she said, giving his hand a firm squeeze and looking directly into his eyes, but she didn't perceive any threat. Kaylee seemed relaxed and looked at the man affectionately." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Liz finally lowered her guard. \"Can I offer you something to drink? How about an iced tea for you, Kaylee?\" The girl nodded enthusiastically. \"A beer, Doug? I have lagers, Pilsners, IPAs, wheats…\"\n\nThe man laughed. \"I'm no expert on beer,\" he said cheerfully. \"Pick for me. Nothing too bitter, please.\"\n\nIn the galley, Liz found some bags of pretzels and chips. She chose a citrusy wheat beer for Kaylee's father and peach-flavored iced tea for the girl.\n\n\"Thanks,\" said Doug. \"It's really nice of you to allow us to invade your space while you're working,\" he said, peering at the dusty sander bag on the deck.\n\n\"Sanding isn't my favorite thing.\"\n\n\"I'm with you on that,\" he said, raising his glass. \"This boat looks brand new.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's not, but it was hardly used. A lot of people buy boats but don't have time to use them. There's still some work it needs, mostly minor stuff. The engines were in great shape.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Doug glanced toward the fore deck. \"I bet a boat of this size burns a lot of gas.\"\n\n\"It does. And gas prices are going up again.\"\n\nThe man huffed out a sigh. \"Tell me about it. I just drove back from Oregon.\"\n\n\"Oh? That's a long drive.\"\n\n\"The coaching job I thought I had there fell through. College sports programs are cutting back because they lost all of last year's season.\"\n\n\"Sorry to hear that.\"\n\nThe man shrugged. \"It happens. I had nothing better to do, so I came back East. I haven't been to Maine since I was a kid, so I figured I'd come up and look around. I'm a phys ed teacher. Maybe I can find a high school job.\"\n\n\"I hear they're hurting for teachers up north. Unfortunately, they don't pay well, which probably explains why.\"\n\n\"College coaching jobs certainly pay better.\"\n\nKaylee plopped down in the sling chair near her father." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I wish we could take a ride,\" she said with a sad pout.\n\nDoug frowned disapprovingly at his daughter. \"Kaylee, let's not complain. It was nice of Dr. Stolz to let us come aboard and give us snacks.\"\n\nLiz hadn't planned to take The Wet Lady out today, but the sea was calm and the sun glittered brilliantly on the surface of the water. She suddenly decided she wouldn't mind a brief run. Anything to avoid breaking out the sander.\n\n\"We could take a quick ride up to Kennebunkport and back. You okay with that, Doug?\"\n\n\"Sure, why not?\" he replied with a big grin. \"Let me run up and close my car windows in case it rains.\"\n\nAfter he climbed down the ladder, Liz smiled at Kaylee, who had finished one bag of chips and was working on another. \"I have some salsa to go with those chips. I should have brought it up.\"\n\n\"I'm fine.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You seem happy to see your dad.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include \"This afternoon. I was supposed to spend two weeks with him in Oregon at the end of the summer. Now, I don't have to wait that long. I really missed him.\" somewhere in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kaylee nodded enthusiastically. \"I haven't seen him since we moved.\"\n\nLiz uncovered the instrument panel and started the engine. She was pleased when Kaylee came into the pilot house to sit in one of the passenger's chairs.\n\n\"When did your dad come?\" asked Liz.\n\n\"This afternoon. I was supposed to spend two weeks with him in Oregon at the end of the summer. Now, I don't have to wait that long. I really missed him.\"\n\nLiz found herself enjoying the ride and wondered why she hadn't decided to do this from the beginning. Why did she work so hard? She knew it was the work ethic ingrained in her by her grandmother. When the woman wasn't cleaning or digging in her garden, she was crocheting afghans like a human loom. The only time Liz had ever seen her relax was when she watched her daytime soap operas.\n\nAfter they got underway, Kaylee and her father sat with Liz in the pilot house. Listening to the girl describe the purpose of the instruments to her father, Liz was amazed at how much the girl had learned from her last boat trip." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Wow, Kaylee, you know so much about boats!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Doug said, beaming with pride after she showed him how the fish sonar worked.\n\nLiz was reluctant to return, but there wasn't much gas in the tank, so she headed back to Hobbs. As she backed into her mooring, she noticed people running down the dock. One of them was Brenda Harrison. The other was Kaylee's mother.\n\n\"Hi, Mom,\" Kaylee called brightly as Liz looped the lines over the piers. \"Dr. Stolz took us out for a boat ride!\"\n\n\"Kaylee! You had me worried to death!\"\n\nThe girl's enthusiasm instantly deflated. Her face went white.\n\nDoug leaned over the railing. \"I'm sorry, Courtney. It's my fault.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'turned' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You!\" she said with venom in her eyes. \"What the hell did you think you were doing?\"\n\n\"Nothing. Kaylee wanted to show me her school and around town. I didn't mean anything by it.\"\n\nCourtney glared at him. \"You could have called to tell me you were coming.\" Then she turned her furious eyes on her daughter. \"I came home, and you were gone. I called and called you. You never answered.\"\n\nKaylee took out her phone and looked at it. \"Sorry, Mom. I turned off the ringer by accident.\"\n\n\"Why didn't you call me?\"\n\n\"I forgot. I was so happy to see Dad.\"\n\nKaylee took a step closer to Liz and looked up to plead for her support." }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must use the word 'called' exactly 2 times in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Liz put her hand on the girl's shoulder.\n\n\"I'm sorry, Courtney,\" Liz called down to the angry woman. \"I should have asked if you knew she was here before I took them out.\"\n\n\"That's not your job, Dr. Stolz. She's old enough to know better. She should have called me before she went off with him.\" Courtney glared at Doug, then at her daughter. \"Come down here this minute!\"\n\n\"Thanks for the ride, Dr. Stolz,\" murmured Kaylee.\n\nLiz patted the girl's shoulder. \"Sorry I got you in trouble.\"\n\n\"You didn't.\" Kaylee headed to the ladder.\n\nFrowning, Doug watched the scene below. He eyed Brenda, who was busy talking on her radio." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Liz guessed she was calling off a search for the girl." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She hoped it hadn't gotten as far as an Amber Alert.\n\nOnce Kaylee was in reach, Courtney grasped her daughter's arm and yanked it before leading her up the stairs to the parking area.\n\nDoug turned to Liz with a lame smile. \"I asked Kaylee to text her mother and tell her where we were going. She probably just forgot.\"\n\nLiz gave him a hard look. \"Really? She seems like a good kid. Very responsible.\"\n\n\"Maybe she didn't want her mother to know she'd gone off with me.\"\n\n\"Is there a reason for that?\" asked Liz, unwilling to let his actions go without comment. Maybe she shouldn't have made assumptions. She frowned so that Doug understood that she was suspicious. Cases of parents kidnapping their children after a divorce were, unfortunately, much too common." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No. I mean. I don't know. Kids have their own reasons for doing or not doing things.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Is there a reason Courtney wouldn't have wanted Kaylee to come down here with you?\"\n\nDoug shrugged. \"If there is, I don't know about it. Our divorce wasn't especially nasty.\" He gave her a quick anxious look. \"I should go. Thanks for the boat ride.\"\n\nLiz tried to decide what she thought about the man as she watched him walk down the dock to the stairway." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Write seven sentences sentences in the style of Elena Graf spawning from what the user wrote. Note: Characters and worldbuilding may appear mid-story." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucy, sitting beside Susan during the readings, watched her rearrange her stole for the umpteenth time. She picked at the embroidered brocade as if she were allergic to the fabric. Scanning the congregation, Lucy noticed Liz in the back, glowering at Susan with undisguised menace. Lucy gazed over the seawall and prayed for patience. Having one anxious woman at her service was uncomfortable but having two was distracting.\n\nAt communion time, Liz didn't budge. Lucy waited until it seemed unnatural before returning to the altar." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Liz, you're not hurting me by staying away." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You're not going to win this tug of war. Stop being so gosh darn stubborn!\n\nAfter the service, Lucy greeted the people in her congregation, introducing Susan as a visiting priest. She noticed Liz watching from a distance with her arms folded on her chest.\n\n\"Who is that?\" Susan murmured, nodding in Liz's direction.\n\n\"That's Liz Stolz,\" said Lucy, leaning forward to fist bump a boy from the youth group. \"The town doctor.\"\n\n\"She keeps watching us. Why doesn't she just come over?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"She's territorial. She's probably waiting for us to go over there.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The line finally wound down to the end. \"Come on,\" said Lucy to Susan. \"Let's get changed.\"\n\nBy the time all the vestments were hung up in the closet, there was a knock on the open door. Liz regarded Susan with a cold stare as she stepped into the room. Lucy recognized it as Liz's 'I'll show you who's boss' look, left over from her days as a surgeon. Before Lucy got to know Liz, even she could be intimidated by it.\n\n\"I was wondering when we'd see you,\" Lucy said sarcastically as Liz bent to kiss her on the cheek." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I didn't want to interfere.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Liz's eyes narrowed as they engaged Susan's. She offered her hand. \"I'm Liz Stolz.\" Her tone was civil but not friendly. As if Susan weren't standing there, Liz directed her comments to Lucy. \"I came to invite you to brunch at Cliff Manor.\"\n\n\"Susan too?\"\n\n\"Yes, of course,\" said Liz, glancing at her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Are you sure we can get in there?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'always' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "asked Lucy. \"It's always so crowded in the summer.\" The restaurant had the best brunch in the county and known for its spectacular view from Webhanet's rocky cliffs.\n\n\"I made reservations,\" replied Liz. \"The parking lot will be full. I'll pick you up at the rectory, and we can drive together. My MD plates always guarantee me a place to park.\"\n\nLiz almost never flaunted her influence, but she was not above using it when it suited her purposes, like getting Lucy into the hospital when Erika was dying. Lucy had never seen her use it to impress people. Susan must be making Liz feel really insecure." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucy glanced at the slight woman with fading blond hair. Her gentle eyes gave her face a saintly quality. Her attitude was unassuming. She looked like a beloved elementary-school teacher, a role she'd taken to support herself since she'd left the convent. Lucy wondered what Liz saw.\n\nThey agreed to meet Liz at the rectory. When Lucy drove into the parking lot, she wasn't surprised to see Liz already waiting." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She knew every back road in town and always drove too fast." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lucy noticed Susan eyeing the expensive Audi SUV." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I guess family doctors do well in Maine.\"\n\n\"Actually, they don't. Liz used to be chief of surgery at Yale before she moved up here. She calls Hobbs Family Practice her retirement business.\"\n\n\"She's a little old for you, isn't she?\"\n\nAlthough Lucy hadn't said a word about her relationship with Liz, she wasn't surprised that Susan, who was perceptive, had already figured it out. Lucy merely shrugged in response to her comment.\n\nOn the way to the restaurant, Liz pointed out sights along the way like a tour guide. Lucy silently commended her for making an effort to appear friendly, despite the undercurrent of hostility." }, { "from": "human", "value": "While they ate the ridiculously expensive breakfast, Liz interviewed Susan as thoroughly as if she were taking a medical history." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucy's role in this conversation was to listen, and she was attentive because Liz's relentless inquiry unearthed facts she hadn't heard before. Susan's mother had recently died of breast cancer, followed by her sister who'd met the same fate. Sympathetically, Lucy reached under the table for Susan's hand. Liz didn't notice because she was lecturing Susan about genetic testing.\n\nSusan drank three mimosas in quick succession and soon became obviously giddy. Liz, watching her, called for the check so they could leave.\n\nWhen they arrived back at the rectory, Susan went in right away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lucy decided that she and Liz needed to talk, so she remained." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know you're being on your best behavior, Liz.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But what? It's not good enough?\"\n\n\"No, it's very good. That's what worries me.\"\n\nLiz laughed. She gazed at the rectory door through which Susan had disappeared. \"I just can't figure her out. What does she want?\"\n\n\"I'm not sure I know either. But I can see she's having a hard time. She's looking for a new job, which can be a long process. I want to be supportive.\"\n\nLiz turned to her and gave her a penetrating look. \"Are you sure you're not interested in getting back together with her?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Once upon a time, maybe, but not anymore.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But she's interested. That's obvious from the way she looks at you.\"\n\nWhile Liz's gaze was focused on the rectory door, Lucy admired her handsome profile. \"It doesn't matter what she wants. I've moved on. I always thought there was so much unfinished business. Sometimes, the need for closure is just an excuse for irrational hope.\"\n\n\"That's good,\" said Liz, finally turning in her direction. \"Are you going to spend the day with her? Your guest?\"\n\n\"No, I was going to spend the day with you. That is, if I'm invited. I haven't seen you in weeks.\"\n\nLiz smiled. \"We can go out on the boat.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'd rather stay home with you and talk. I think we need to talk.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Liz mimed a look of horror. \"Oh no, the talk! Erika dreaded it. She was terrified you'd try to convert her.\"\n\n\"I don't try to convert people. I model the greatest love of all time and make it so attractive that people find it irresistible.\"\n\n\"Resistance is futile. Erika always compared you to the Borg queen.\"\n\n\"Did you two talk about me a lot?\"\n\nLiz grinned. \"Let's just say, you were a frequent topic of conversation.\"\n\n\"Like two little boys talking behind a pretty girl's back?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Something like that.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucy opened the car door. \"Let me take off my work clothes. I'll be over in a little while.\" She got out and blew Liz a kiss. \"See you later.\"\n\nAs soon as she got home, Lucy took off her collar and black blouse, which was so hot in the summer weather. Naked except for her black lace bra and panties, Lucy stared into her closet. She took out one of the pastel-colored clerical shirts that Erika had encouraged her to buy for summer wear and a black skirt. She realized that by packing clothes for the morning, she was acknowledging that she would spend the night with Liz." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Even though they both knew that sex was likely during their big date in New York, the act would have been more spontaneous, a celebration as well as a consummation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now, it would be more purposeful because they both needed this affirmation. Susan's confusing reappearance had made it even more necessary.\n\nLucy had said they needed to talk, but she doubted there would be much talking this afternoon. Besides, it was too soon to talk to Liz about marriage. After her divorce, she was understandably \"gun shy.\" Lucy would happily enter another marriage, not to replace her wife, but because she loved her so much. She knew Erika loved her too and would have wanted her to be happy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Lucy arrived at Liz's house, she wanted to avoid being obvious about her intentions, so she left her overnight bag in the car." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'dress' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had the key to Liz's house, but she respectfully rang the bell.\n\nLiz was in bare feet when she came to the door. The plaque inside proclaimed, \"This is a barefoot home.\" Lucy took off her sandals and put them on the rack. She felt Liz's eyes looking her over appreciatively. \"Pretty dress,\" she murmured, as she offered a quick kiss of greeting that left Lucy wanting more, but Liz seemed almost shy.\n\nLucy was a little surprised that Liz had made no special effort to dress up for the occasion." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her shorts were a little threadbare in places." }, { "from": "system", "value": "At some point in your response, insert this verbatim: \"Lucy, you're a member of the family. I don't expect anything. And after all, you invited yourself.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her faded T-shirt that had gone through the washer too many times. She looked like she would on any other lazy Sunday afternoon.\n\n\"I'm out on the deck,\" Liz explained, gesturing in the direction. \"I opened some wine.\"\n\n\"I'm sorry, but I've come empty-handed.\"\n\n\"Lucy, you're a member of the family. I don't expect anything. And after all, you invited yourself.\"\n\n\"You'll still feed me?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"As long as you don't mind leftovers.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I enjoy everything you cook.\"\n\nLiz's blue eyes smiled into hers. Since they'd parted, all the thorniness of the morning had vanished, which made Lucy suddenly think of Erika cutting roses from her garden for the kitchen table. Lucy always felt sad that the flowers would be deprived of sunlight and the quenching morning dew, but Erika reminded her that, either way, their beauty was brief.\n\n\"I snuck in a cup of coffee before you came,\" Liz explained. \"I'm not used to drinking alcohol so early in the day. I bet your friend takes a nap this afternoon. If you weren't coming over, I probably would have taken one myself.\" Liz handed Lucy a glass of wine and sat across from her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She stared at Lucy's red toenails." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I like your nail polish.\"\n\n\"I thought you might. I put it on for our date. I was going to color my fingernails too, but I knew I had this morning's service. I don't want my fingernails to be a distraction.\"\n\n\"They certainly would have distracted me.\" She gave Lucy a canny look. \"You were planning to make love that night.\"\n\nLucy smiled. \"I'd hoped we would.\"\n\n\"Then what are we waiting for?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'staying' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm enjoying sitting here in the sun with you, talking about nothing. I want to look at you and get to know you again. I haven't seen you for weeks.\" Lucy reached out her hand. \"Talk to me. Tell me how you've been.\"\n\n\"It was hard to be without you. I was so disappointed I couldn't come to New York.\"\n\n\"But now, we have all day…and all night.\"\n\nLiz flashed a smile. \"You're staying?\"\n\n\"Of course, I'm staying. You think I'm going to leave after we make love?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Liz put down her glass and moved to the chaise lounge where Lucy sat." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm sorry, Lucy, but I can't wait any longer.\"\n\n\"Sure, you can.\"\n\n\"Nope. Not one second longer.\"\n\nLiz's kiss made her head swim, but when an eager hand tried to find its way into the neckline of her sundress, Lucy gently pulled it out. \"Liz, I can't wait either, but I'm not making love on the deck. Let's go to bed.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "i'll kick things off by writing a bit (might include characters you don't know yet), then you'll take over and write the next ten sentences in the distinctive voice of Elena Graf." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucy sang as she drove to Southern Med to make hospital visits. Susan always knew when Lucy was singing because she was happy. While she was recovering from the rape, Lucy only sang to maintain her voice. It had been pitiful to hear her sing with such effort and sorrow. All the songs she chose were sad. When she'd finally turned a corner in her therapy, she finally sang for pleasure. Today, it was obvious that she was singing with pure joy.\n\nLucy's effervescence confused Susan. She'd expected to find her friend a physical and emotional wreck from the death of her wife. After reading about it in the diocesan newsletter, she'd wanted to drive straight to Hobbs to comfort Lucy, but she couldn't abandon her students or her church and ever hope to return." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now, of course, it didn't matter." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was never going back to St. Anselm's or the Greenleaf public school system. Those doors were closed for good.\n\nThe aria ended. \"I hope I wasn't too loud,\" Lucy said. Susan smiled because Lucy always asked that question when she had an audience in a small space. Her powerful voice was stunning even when she sang sotto voce.\n\n\"I love to hear you sing, Lucy. It can never be too loud.\"\n\nA radiant smile was Susan's reward for saying exactly the right thing.\n\n\"You're so happy this morning,\" Susan observed.\n\n\"It's a beautiful summer day, the sun is shining brightly, and I can make music! Yes, I'm happy.\"\n\nLucy was the sunniest person Susan had ever known, but this morning, her joy was simply overflowing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Susan wondered what had happened since they'd parted yesterday.\n\nSusan's afternoon had been miserable. When she'd awakened from her nap, the memory of getting so tipsy in front of Lucy's friend was mortifying. She'd considered calling Lucy to apologize, but her burner phone was almost out of minutes. She needed to save them for her job search. But she couldn't sit still. She had to know that Lucy would forgive her for making such a fool of herself.\n\nShe decided that making her apologies was in person was best and drove to Lucy's beach house. From the street, she could see that no one was home. When she returned a few hours later, she worked up the courage to ring the bell, but no one came to the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She prayed that Lucy would come home soon." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Only Lucy could reassure her that they were okay. Only Lucy could make her whole again, Lucy's smile, Lucy's beautiful voice…Lucy's sweet kiss. Oh, that kiss!\n\nOn the way back from Lucy's house, Susan passed the supermarket with the sign out front indicating it was a Maine Liquor Store. Temptation was everywhere in this state—in supermarkets, convenience stores, even pharmacies. Susan hadn't touched a drop of alcohol for almost two weeks, but those mimosas had gone down so easily.\n\nShe wrestled with herself in the supermarket parking lot for over ten minutes before she went into the store and found the wine aisle. She passed up the flasks of vodka on sale. That was for cheap drunks. Instead, she bought two bottles of Australian merlot for only $4.99. One was gone already." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She hoped Lucy hadn't noticed her bloodshot eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When she had a chance to get to the drug store, she'd buy some of those eye drops that hide the redness.\n\n\"Is there something special you'd like to hear?\" Lucy asked brightly.\n\n\"'Qui la Voce' from I Puritani? I loved you in that opera.\"\n\n\"Let me see if I have the voice for it this morning.\" Lucy cleared her throat a few times. Finally, she began to sing.\n\nSusan closed her eyes and savored the sound of Lucy's full, round soprano embracing the delicious notes. When Lucy finished the aria, she said, \"Oh, that felt good!\" She flashed a smile in Susan's direction.\n\n\"Your voice hasn't darkened a bit. It sounds as bright as ever.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lucy gave her a skeptical look." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Use the word 'stage' 2 time(s) - this is a strict requirement" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're prejudiced. I know my prime has come and gone. I do all the exercises to keep my high notes, but some days, they're not there. If I were still on the stage, I'd be exploring a different repertoire.\" She looked reflective as she focused on the road ahead. \"I'm glad I was able to have a career so early. I'm especially glad that my mother lived to see me on the stage of the Met.\"\n\n\"She was taken too soon,\" Susan said in a sad voice.\n\nLucy momentarily took her hand off the wheel to pat Susan's arm. \"I'm sorry I wasn't there for you when your mother died.\"\n\nSusan caught a glimpse of her mother's face. She'd suffered terrible pain, despite the morphine drip. There were tubes coming from everywhere. Then the memory of her mother dissolved, replaced by the many faces of Lucy—Lucy weeping, Lucy almost destroyed by the probing of discernment, Lucy coming in her arms." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucy's face during a climax had become Susan's metaphor for the experience of the beatific vision.\n\nThat was heresy, of course, like so many heresies Susan had embraced. If she hadn't felt she'd been called to the priesthood, she would never have switched. The Episcopal liturgy was almost identical to the Roman Catholic Mass. Despite the similarities, Susan had gravitated toward a stricter church. She couldn't imagine serving in an ultra-liberal parish indistinguishable from the Unitarians. The 'anything goes' approach to religion had never sat right with Susan.\n\n\"Thank you for coming on my visits today,\" said Lucy with another brilliant smile. \"Maybe you can help us out while you're here. There are so many people who still won't come out of their homes, despite the loosened COVID restrictions. Tom and I can't visit them all.\"\n\n\"I'll help as much as I can, but I really need to find a paying job.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Would you go back to teaching? I know the assistant principal at the elementary school. I could ask if there are any openings.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required text (preserve exact wording): \"Of course. It's honest work. Lucy, I can't believe you're shocked.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A little shiver of fear rippled through Susan. A job in any public school system would require a background check. \"Thanks, but I'm done with teaching,\" Susan said quickly.\n\n\"But if you don't teach, what will you do?\"\n\n\"I saw the sign at McDonald's. They're paying fifteen dollars an hour and a signing bonus.\"\n\nFortunately, they were stopped at a light because Lucy turned and stared at her. \"You would really work at McDonalds?\"\n\n\"Of course. It's honest work. Lucy, I can't believe you're shocked.\"\n\n\"I'm shocked because you have so much education and training. You have two master's degrees! You can do better. Much better!\"\n\n\"Lucy, that's an elitist view. I need money. They're paying a decent wage.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She shrugged. \"And I like to cook.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I can't believe I'm hearing you say this. You're the one who kept pushing me to go back to the Met.\"\n\n\"Of course, I did. You should have never left. You would still be singing if it wasn't for that horrible man trying to destroy your career. I can't believe people listened to your rapist instead of you.\"\n\n\"That's the way it was then. Powerful men believed other powerful men, not the women they abused. They still do. Look at all the lawsuits against the former president. None of them stuck. Look at that poor woman who testified against Kavanaugh. She told her humiliating and painful story in front of millions of people. Our senator, a woman who claims to be for women's rights, stood up in the Senate and defended him. Nothing's really changed.\"\n\n\"You gave up too easily. You should have sued him.\"\n\n\"I'd already spent too much money on lawyers.\" Lucy shook her head. \"Sometimes you have to cut your losses and move on.\"\n\n\"The City Opera wanted you to sing.\"\n\n\"The City Opera,\" repeated Lucy in a disparaging voice. \"The City Opera was teetering on bankruptcy. They wanted me because they were desperate.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You could have gone to Europe. I would have gone with you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I wouldn't have let you. You'd found your calling. How could I take you away from God?\"\n\n\"Then He found you too.\"\n\n\"She,\" Lucy corrected.\n\nSusan stared at her. \"Lucy, you can't just change dogma to suit your personal beliefs.\"\n\n\"Paul says, in God, there is neither male, nor female. Our bishop calls the Spirit, 'she.'\"\n\nSusan knew she would never win this argument. She gazed out the window to calm down. The traffic in the northbound lane of the interstate was bumper to bumper. \"It seems like everyone wants to come to Maine.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Now, you've seen it and know why.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's beautiful here. The ocean is so healing, especially after the desolation of the plains. The heartland has its own natural beauty, but the winters are so long.\"\n\n\"Don't be fooled by this beautiful weather. Our winters are long too. Would you ever go back?\"\n\n\"I don't understand those people. Their religious views are conservative like mine, but they're so right-wing, and that governor! I can't minister to people who refuse to believe basic facts.\"\n\n\"But Susan, you are so loving and so caring. You're one of the best communicators I know. You aced our preaching class.\"\n\n\"When I'm inspired, I can write a great sermon, but my rector insisted I preach from the lectionary. One year, I gave a sermon on the role of mothers on Mother Day's. Well, you should have heard him. I thought I'd need to pack my bags on the spot. After I fell into line, he backed off. All that obedience training in the convent helped me, I guess.\"\n\n\"Weren't there any people like you? How about where you taught?\"\n\n\"The school was very small. They knew I was a priest and couldn't figure out what to make of that. To answer your question, no, I didn't have close friends at school. It's hard when there are no others like you for miles and miles, and you're the only one.\"\n\nLucy glanced at her with a sympathetic look. \"Oh, Susan, you must have been so lonely out there.\"\n\n\"I was, but I kept trying to fight the good fight. As you know, it's not always easy.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lucy turned into the front entrance of Southern Medical Center." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She showed Susan the parking space set aside for clergy in the staff lot." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"…for when you come here by yourself,\" said Lucy with one of those brilliant smiles that could make anyone do anything.\n\nLucy opened the lunch cooler she'd used to transport Communion and counted the small plastic containers inside. Susan's mouth gaped when she realized they held consecrated wine. She managed to keep her mouth shut until they were alone in the elevator. \"Lucy, you put the communion wine in Chinese restaurant cups?\"\n\n\"Yes, why? I felt sad that our Communion was restricted to one element. I got the idea when we had Chinese takeout one night,\" Lucy explained. \"We use individual hosts, why not individual cups? You don't really think it's sacrilegious, do you?\"\n\nSusan didn't know what to say. Yes, the idea of the sacred blood being delivered like duck sauce horrified her, but she smiled and said, \"You are so inventive.\"\n\nThe hospital visits were brief, but Lucy spent extra time with an elderly woman who had survived COVID only to lose her daughter to the virus." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm all alone now,\" she confided to Lucy as she held her veiny, large-knuckled hand." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're not alone,\" Lucy countered. \"You have us, your St. Margaret's family.\" When most clergy said things like that, they sounded like platitudes. When Lucy said them, they rang completely true.\n\nThe home visits went pretty much the same way. Lucy spoke to the members of her congregation as if she really knew each one of them. Apart from the Communion wine in the Chinese condiment cups, everything Susan had witnessed so far was like her own pastoral visits, but the last one threw her completely off balance. This parishioner, who was also the church music director, was a transsexual recovering from \"bottom\" surgery. Lucy shocked Susan by treating him…her—it still stuck in Susan's throat to say it—like it was the most natural thing in the world.\n\n\"Thank you for sending me to Dr. Stolz,\" said the trans woman." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm so sick of doctors pandering to me to be politically correct. She put her concerns right out there.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A worried look briefly crossed Lucy's face. \"Dr. Stolz can be pretty direct.\"\n\n\"I like that about her. She's direct, but she really listened to me when I said I had a problem. When I called the surgeon's office, they said my symptoms were normal. I know my body. My symptoms weren't normal, and it turned out I was right.\"\n\n\"Welcome to our world, Denise. Doctors don't always pay attention to women's medical complaints. Sometimes, you have to be a pest to get them to listen.\"\n\nDenise frowned. \"So I'm beginning to learn, but we're lucky to have Dr. Stolz in town. I hope she doesn't retire soon. I think she's close to retirement age. Is she?\"\n\n\"Yes, but I don't think she has any plans to retire soon.\"\n\nSusan's mind wandered while they discussed vocal exercises. She waited until they were in the car to say anything about the trans woman. \"I can't believe the vestry let you hire that man…uh…woman.\"\n\n\"It was a struggle to win them over,\" admitted Lucy, starting the car." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I bet the conservative people in your vestry were alarmed when you told them she's not a real woman.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I didn't tell them. That's not my place. And she is a real woman.\" Lucy turned to her with a frown. \"Susan, do you have a problem ministering to trans people?\"\n\n\"No, of course not! They're God's children too.\"\n\n\"Yes, and it's important to always remember that.\" Lucy's auburn brows dipped toward the base of her nose. \"You've changed, Susan.\"\n\n\"I'm sure we've both changed.\" In fact, the further Susan had gotten from the liberal theology they'd taught in divinity school, the more she'd reverted to the strict Catholic beliefs of her childhood. But that was a conversation for another time. \"Why don't we have dinner tonight and talk about it?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm sorry, Susan, but I can't tonight. I invited a friend to dinner. I'm going to cook, which I still find nerve-wracking. Erika was a great cook, so I never had to worry about it while she was alive.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lucy sighed and glanced out the window. Susan perceived she was revisiting her grief.\n\n\"If you ever want to talk about it,\" Susan said gently, \"I'll be happy to listen.\"\n\n\"Thanks,\" replied Lucy briskly. She engaged the gearshift to back up. Susan waited for Lucy to say more, but she didn't." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "hey can u write 9 sentences more sentences? like Elena Graf but LGBT, lesbian, romance, older protagonist, post-covid style. btw this is from middle of a story" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rev. Bartlett came into the pilot house bringing a beer for the skipper, who wore an Acadia ball cap perched jauntily on her head. Courtney observed the tenderness of their interaction, the little smiles, the soulful looks. They stood close, hips touching. Yes, they were a couple.\n\n\"You want to stay, Luce? There's a bench seat there that folds down. See there?\" said Dr. Stolz.\n\n\"I want to talk to Brenda and Cherie for a bit. I haven't seen them in a while.\" She smiled warmly at Courtney and Melissa. \"Keep an eye on the skipper, girls. She's a cowboy.\"\n\n\"Thanks for taking us out today, Liz,\" said Melissa." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's wonderful being out here on the water.\"\n\n\"I would have invited your mother and her new friend, but after Tom and Jeff backed out, that would have left Jack as the only guy.\"\n\n\"Don't worry. Mom and Jack went to New Hampshire to climb Mt. Washington. In a car, of course. Mom's not in shape for mountain climbing.\"\n\n\"Good for them. It's beautiful up there.\" Dr. Stolz carefully navigated away from an approaching boat. \"Where's Kaylee today?\"\n\n\"She's spending the Fourth with a friend. The family has a cabin on Sebago,\" Courtney explained. She missed having her daughter on a holiday weekend, but she was glad that she was finally making some friends. It was always harder for a student arriving late in the term.\n\n\"Why don't we have fireworks in Hobbs?\" Melissa asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Fireworks are banned in Hobbs,\" Dr. Stolz explained." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Of course, that doesn't stop people from having them. There are no fireworks on our beach to protect the nesting plovers. Our beaches are part of a federal conservation program.\" Liz cut the motor. \"I'm going to drop anchor here, so we can have dinner. Wait until you taste Cherie's Southern Fried Chicken and slaw. Oh, my God.\"\n\n\"I saw that potato salad you made. That looks pretty good too,\" Melissa said.\n\n\"I love Fourth of July. It's an excuse to make great salads and watch fireworks.\" Dr. Stolz craned her neck to look down to the deck, where her other guests were obviously engaged in conversation. Even so, she spoke in a soft voice. \"While I have you two alone, I heard that someone is looking for an apartment.\" Courtney glanced at Melissa, knowing the exact source of that rumor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If there's any interest, I have an unoccupied one-bedroom apartment over my garage. It would be snug for the three of you, but the place has a sleeping alcove with a French door.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm on a tight budget,\" said Courtney." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, I think you'll find the rent very affordable. It's on a separate gas and electric meter. Pay the utilities, and you have a deal.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Courtney exchanged a look with Melissa. This was too good to be true. \"I'm not that desperate. I can pay rent.\"\n\n\"I know, but no one's living there, and it's just wasted space. I built it for my mother. She died last year, so she won't be using it any time soon.\"\n\n\"That's really too generous, Dr. Stolz.\"\n\n\"Please, Courtney. Call me Liz. And I decide what's too generous. If you feel you have to pay me something, I'll take a hundred dollars a month to help pay the guy who cuts the grass. It's not a legal apartment, so I can't really charge you rent.\"\n\n\"Are you sure about this?\" Courtney asked incredulously.\n\n\"It's only temporary. I'm sure it will be too small to live there long term, but it's a place to hang your hat until you find something better. It's furnished. Do you have a lot of furniture?\"\n\n\"No. The place I rented is furnished.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If you need storage space, there's some room in the loft over my shop. Otherwise, the self-storage in town is pretty reasonable.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's so kind,\" said Courtney grasping Liz's hand." }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must use the word 'before' exactly 2 times in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Check out the place before you thank me. It's pretty small.\"\n\n\"The sleeping alcove sounds tight for my daughter.\"\n\n\"Don't worry. I promise it's bigger than solitary confinement. You'll see when you take a look at it.\"\n\nCourtney watched Liz head down to the main deck to lower the anchor line. She stepped back and let it spin to depth before tying it off. Sam McKinnon got up to help her. They playfully punched one another and laughed. The conversation of the women on the deck was also punctuated with laughter. Courtney looked at their happy, engaged faces and realized how lucky she'd been to land in Hobbs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That was very generous of her to offer you an apartment for literally nothing,\" said Melissa, putting her arm around her.\n\n\"Did you tell Dr. Stolz I need a place to live?\" Courtney said, trying to modulate the disapproval in her voice.\n\n\"No, I meant to call her, but I didn't get a chance. I mentioned that you were looking for a place to Lucy. I guess she told her. The place is supposed to be small, but very nice. I think you should look at it.\"\n\n\"Oh, I will, if for no other reason than courtesy. Dr. Stolz has a lot of influence in this town. I want to stay on her good side. Was it your idea that you'd live there with us?\"\n\n\"That would be fun, but I'm guessing it will be too cramped for the three of us. Let's say, I'll visit often. Meanwhile, we can both save up to get a house.\"\n\n\"Why do you need to save? I thought you made a big salary.\"\n\n\"I do, but I have a lot of expenses. I'm paying a mortgage on the condo in Boston. Commuting is expensive…I just bought a car. I have to dress up at my job, so a lot of money goes on my back…\"\n\n\"Okay, I get the idea.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'kaylee' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Courtney found it hard to commiserate with Melissa's financial problems, when her grocery bill kept getting bigger, especially in the summer when they raised the prices for the tourists.\n\nMelissa leaned over and kissed her cheek while no one was looking. \"Mom and Jack are away for the weekend. You and Kaylee want to come over tomorrow? I can make pizza on the grill.\"\n\n\"Did I hear someone say pizza on the grill?\" asked Liz, stepping back into the pilot house. \"Come over tomorrow, and you can taste mine and see the apartment. Bring Kaylee.\"\n\n\"Won't we be intruding?\"\n\n\"Not at all. Lucy will be there and Emily, her daughter. She loves kids. A few other people. Nothing fancy, a low-key holiday weekend cookout. In fact, that's something I should warn you about. There are always people at my house, especially in the summer. We're not generally noisy, but when Lucy sings, she can be pretty loud.\"\n\n\"Lucy sings for you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Melissa asked. \"I've wanted to hear her sing.\"\n\n\"She only sings by special request, but some wine helps get her going.\"\n\n\"A tipsy opera singer. Now, you've got me really curious,\" said Melissa. \"I accept.\"\n\n\"Wait a minute,\" said Courtney. \"Don't I have anything to say about it?\"\n\nLiz clucked her tongue. \"Ladies, I don't want to create discord. Why don't you talk it over and get back to me? Now, come down and have something to eat.\"\n\nLiz hopped down to the deck. Watching her, Courtney spoke her thoughts aloud." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's hard to believe she's almost the same age as your mother.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Remember to mention: \"I know. Proves age is just a number.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I know. Proves age is just a number.\"\n\nCourtney drew Melissa back into the cabin. \"I wish you'd given me a heads-up before you started telling everyone I need a place to live. Now, I look desperate.\"\n\n\"No! They already know the situation. How rentals and houses have been snapped up by people trying to escape the pandemic. They know schools don't pay enough.\"\n\n\"I hope you didn't tell them about Doug not paying child support.\"\n\n\"No, of course not. That's no one's business.\"\n\n\"Melissa, I appreciate what you're trying to do, but I really need to do this myself. This is part of finding out if I can manage. I haven't been on my own since I got married.\"\n\n\"What's wrong with saying you need a place to live? Networking is a great way to find real estate. I wouldn't have found my condo in Boston without help from a woman I work with.\"\n\n\"But I'm not you, Melissa. I can't accept charity from the town doctor. It doesn't look good, especially because she's an advisor to the school board.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's not charity, and it's a simple transaction. She has the space. No one is using it. She's certainly not going to talk about it because the apartment's not legal.\"\n\n\"But what does she get out of it?\"\n\nMelissa raised her shoulders. \"If you get a nice apartment, what do you care?\"\n\n\"I care because I'm a public figure in this town. I can't afford even the hint of impropriety. I need this job. Melissa, I don't mean to sound ungrateful. But, please, in the future, let me handle these things. If I need your help, I'll ask for it.\"\n\nLiz called up from the deck. \"Hey! You two better get down here, or all the food will be gone!\"\n\nMelissa reached out her hand. \"I'm sorry. Still friends?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Courtney took her hand." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Next time, ask first.\"" } ]