(set: $full_version to 1)(set: $canundo to false)(set: $array_position to 1)(set: $randarray to (a:(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20)))(if: $full_version is 0)[To be continued...
Thanks for reading! I'm still working on the remaining chapters. Feel free to write to elyneknight@gmail.com.](else:)[(set: $data to StrayHeirs["datastore"])
##Chapter 5 (set: $canundo to false)
#The Search For Rain
|Recap>[(display: "recap")]
Drifting in dreams, you're unsure when those rough, calloused hands began to move across your body. Fear slices through you, but your limbs will not move. Your nostrils flare at the scent of leather, steel and musk.
[[Wake up. ->wakeUp]]
(if: $data's censored is 0)[[[Continue. ->continueDream]]]]"Norvidge, m'lady. Thank ye. (set: $data's charm to it + 1)(display: "manEnteredChamber")I wouldn' 'ave entered, m'lady, but it's an hour past dawn, and Andreas asked me to wake ye. We've a long ride ahead."
You nod, still disoriented with sleep, and wave him out. You dimly recall halting here last night, exhausted after two hours' hard riding from Nyora's camp.
When the door closes, you slither naked from Andreas's furs and douse your head in cold water. Muscles complain all over, but the shock suffices to wash away the last lingering tendrils of your (if: (history:) contains "wakeUp")[nightmare](else:)[dream]. Thank goodness for that!
As you stumble around in search of clothing, you feel yourself watched. You look around, but see only the russet dog, Prince, curled at the end of the piled furs. His amber eyes follow you everywhere.
Folded neatly upon a rustic bench you find a leather tunic, leggings, and tall black boots. The leggings are clearly designed for riding comfort and safety; their fit is snug against your thighs.
You also discover a short sword on a leather belt. It's not nearly as pretty as Nyora's blade, but feels serviceable enough - and sharp, if the blood welling from your thumb is any indication. You buckle the belt tight around your waist.
Such unabashedly practical clothing is exotic to you, and reveals your figure in unexpected ways. You can't resist twirling a little to admire the effect. Your father would most certainly disapprove. Andreas, on the other hand...
Prince watches you, mouth open in a wide doggy grin.
There's no time to waste.
[[One last twirl, and exit the cabin. ->exitCabin]]Andreas nods. "You know that emotion some men claim to feel in the houses of the gods? Of humility, of... sacredness? Khargai has temples as great as any in the land, yet I never understood that feeling. Until I came here. If anything is sacred, it's the forest. At least, for me."
(set: $data's charm to it +1)(set: $data's likesA to it +1)
[["That's probably because you were busy cutting purses every time you entered a church." ->cutPurseChurch]]
[["I know what you mean." ->oldTrees]] Andreas chuckles. "Don't you think monsters can also enjoy beauty?"
[["I suppose so." ->mountHorses]]
[["Thanks for the sword." ->thanksSword]]He laughs. "You may be correct."
[["So, what's for breakfast?" ->mountHorses]]
[["Thanks for the sword." ->thanksSword]]He smiles. (set: $data's likesA to it +1)
[["So, what's for breakfast?" ->mountHorses]]
[["Thanks for the sword." ->thanksSword]]You glance around. The hut where you woke up is nestled in a small overgrown clearing, already half-reclaimed by the forest.
On the far side, a small fire burns in a ring of stones, barely smoking. Norvidge and a hulking ape of a man -- Grimvold? -- are seated on logs by the coals, spooning raisin-dotted porridge from a vat.
[[Join them. ->breakfast]]
[["Ewww, porridge! I think I'll skip breakfast today." ->skipBreakfast]]Summoning your courage, you grip the pommel and put one foot into the stirrup. You move too fast, making Blueberry sidestep as you accidentally kick his ribs. The horse turns his head to look at you reproachfully while you hop in the mulch.
(set: $data's will to it + 1)
Andreas raises an eyebrow, purring: "Grimvold, would you mind assisting her Highness?"
You scowl at him, but allow Grimvold to boost you into the saddle.
(display: "mountedBlueberry")Even as you frame the words to ask for help, Grimvold is at your side. "Here, m'lady!" He holds out his hands, fingers netted to boost you into the saddle.
(set: $data's charm to it + 1)
(display: "mountedBlueberry")Everyone turns around at your yell. Norvidge twists, frowning, just as the arrow whizzes past his head. He curses. (set: $data's charm to it + 1)
You point into the branches, but the bowman is already swinging down from the tree. The outlaws rush at the stranger, shouting. Instead of attacking him, they clap him on the shoulders and shake his hands.
"Tsk, tsk, Andreas," he says, his voice rich as caramel. "How many times must I tell you to check the ceiling before your picnics? Had your lady friend not disturbed Norvidge, I would have had his hat for a trophy."
(display: "meetKiaru")You bite your lip as the arrow flies straight into Norvidge's peaked hat, skewering it. Norvidge looks up and snatches the hat from his head, swearing at the sight of the feathered shaft.
The bowman is already swinging down from the tree. You expect drawn swords, but the outlaws rush at the stranger, shouting. Instead of attacking him, they clap him on the shoulders and shake his hands.
"Tsk, tsk, Andreas," he says, his voice rich as caramel. "How many times must I tell you to check the ceiling before picnics?"
(display: "meetKiaru")Kiaru grins, his emerald eyes sparkling. "Another of my weaknesses is that I'm highly susceptible to flattery."
(set: $data's likesK to it + 3)(set: $data's charm to it + 1)
Andreas steps between you. "Highness, please don't encourage him. Kiaru is an old friend, and we've a duty to prevent his ego outgrowing his hat. He can't afford a new one."
(display: "newsKiaru")Andreas steps between you. "My apologies, Highness. Our friend has known few ladies, and is ignorant of etiquette."
(display: "newsKiaru")Andreas touches the mare with his feet, and she at once breaks into a trot. Blueberry follows, the russet dog loping beside. Norvidge and Grimvold ride behind.
As soon as you leave the cabin, the horses break into a canter along the narrow trail. You watch the greenery rush by as the path twines down through fern-laced gullies, across tea-brown pools and up sunlit hills draped in emerald lianas.
Hours later, Andreas reins in by a glimmering brook. "Beyond this bridge lies the ravine where King Torveld's men likely wait in ambush. But we may bypass it by following the creek."
The sun has grown warm; the horse sweats between your thighs. A bird whistles, loud in the mid-morning stillness.
Andreas walks his horse into the water, wading downstream across a bed of deep grey pebbles. There's no undergrowth here, only a damp bed of red-brown leaves through which bright flowering strands protrude. Even so, the path soon vanishes from view behind a low ridge.
Abruptly, the stream cascades into a bowl-like canyon, hidden from the woods above. Norvidge tethers the horses at the base of the slope while the others open packs of bread and cheese. You stand, trying to look regal. Would it be too undignified to dabble your feet in the brook?
A movement high up catches your eye. A bowman is balancing on a branch, his arrow pointed at Norvidge's head. He pulls back the string.
[["Norvidge! Watch out!" ->watchOutNorvidge]]
[[Say nothing. ->sayNothingNorvidge]]Andreas smiles, but it doesn't reach his eyes. "Kiaru," he mutters. "How delightful to see you again."
"The pleasure is all mine," replies Kiaru. He's a slender man, almost skeletal, with a mop of butter-yellow hair and angular green eyes in a narrow, pock-marked face. His cloak and tunic are gaudily colored, but patched and threadbare; a battered harp is slung across his back.
The russet hound stands, hackles rising and teeth bared. Kiaru gazes back at him, whispering. The beast looks away, sniffs some fallen leaves, and curls up in the mulch as if he has forgotten the stranger.
Kiaru turns to you. He seizes your hand and raises it for a kiss, meeting your eyes with a smile that seems both intrigued and delighted, though the jagged teeth hint at sanguinity. Despite the summer's day, his lips are cool. "Andreas, won't you introduce us?"
Andreas's smile grows more strained. "Your Highness, this is Kiaru, a beggar, vagabond and ne'er-do-well who suffers from the grandiose delusion that he can sing, though his one true talent lies in thievery."
Kiaru bows effusively, grinning. "Andreas is too kind," he murmurs in your ear. "In truth, I am merely an amateur pickpocket."
[["Delighted to meet you. And something tells me you're more skilled than either of you will admit." ->flatterKiaru]]
[[Pull away from him. "Charmed, I'm sure." ->neutralKiaru]]"I couldn't agree more." Kiaru's green eyes move between you and Andreas with penetrating amusement. "The Crown Princess, off to rescue her darling Prince from her own father's wrath, accompanied by the besotted outlaw. You *definitely* need a competent bard."
"If only we knew one," Andreas tartly replies. He stalks over to the horses and starts rubbing them down.
Neither Norvidge nor Grimvold seems to share Andreas's antipathy, for they at once surround Kiaru, chatting affectionately and urging him to sing. He looks to you, a half-smile on his lips. "With the lady's permission?"
[["Sure, why not?" ->singKiaru]]
[[(set: $difficulty to (8 + 4*($data's likesK/10)))(set: $skill_name to "Will")(display: "makeDice"): "We can't risk making so much noise. Besides, shouldn't we be working on a plan to rescue Prince Rain?" ->refuseSing]]To your surprise, Kiaru laughs delightedly, whilst Andreas shakes his head. "Normally, Highness, I'd happily leave Kiaru behind. But we may find a use for him this time."
(display: "weNeedKiaru")"If you've *quite* finished slandering me, Andreas, I have some news that may interest you. Or not." Kiaru's tone is consciously nonchalant.
Andreas gives him a sharp look.
Kiaru needs no more encouragement. "Last night I came upon a band of soldiers camped by the ravine. Not the most sophisticated audience -- it's hardly Splashglass Harbor. The men were bored, and glad to share their fire with a bard. I kept my ears open." As he speaks, Kiaru sits upon a boulder and helps himself to bread and cheese.
"Better than your mouth," growls Andreas.
"Sadly, the King's men seemed to agree with you on that. I suppose one cannot expect appreciation for the refined arts in such a lonely region." Kiaru's voice is muffled by the food he's stuffing into it. "In any case, after they had amply expressed their aesthetics, we shared a wineskin. Their mood was merry, for they had just that evening captured Prince Rain of Saragai."
You cannot restrain a gasp. Somehow, you never truly expected him to be captured. He's always been so confident, so self-controlled. Surely no band of common soldiers could outwit him.
[["Where are they stopping tonight?" ->whereRain]]
[["Is he alive? Did they hurt him?" ->hurtRain]]Kiaru takes the harp from his back and runs his fingers across the strings affectionately, evoking a ripple of shimmering sound. Though aged and scratched, its tone is among the loveliest you've heard. At once, the men fall silent. Even Andreas puts down his brush and leans against a tree, listening. (set: $data's likesK to $data's likesK + 3)
Your anxieties melt away as the notes proceed, each at once perfect and surprising, in a tune ever-changing as a mountain stream. You stare at Kiaru, whose face has gone still and quiet, gazing into the distance as if searching for a long-lost memory.
When he starts to sing, his voice has the liquid warmth of honey, each syllable a caress. It's an ancient love song, a tragic one. His eyes meet yours, green reflecting the greenwood, and hold your gaze as if he sees a thousand years of history there.
[[Look away. ->lookAwayKiaru]]
[[Return his gaze. ->gazeAtKiaru]]You force yourself to look away, not wanting to be drawn into those emerald pools. Even so, his voice ensnares you, and you find you are blinking away tears. (display: "endSong")Despite the sadness of the song, the ghost of a smile creeps across Kiaru's lips, and his eyes almost glow. (set: $data's likesK to $data's likesK + 5) You've never seen eyes that color before, deep and brilliant as moss, as strange and lovely as the forest itself. Though Kiaru appears young, his eyes are old. Not weary, but brimming with memories. (display: "endSong")He sings as if the events in that ancient song happened yesterday, and he was there to see them.
When the song finishes, all is silent for a moment. Then, slowly as if waking from a dream, the outlaws begin to clap.
[["Kiaru, that was incredible! I've never heard such beautiful singing!" ->praiseKiaru]]
[["Thank you, Kiaru. Now, shouldn't we be working on a plan to rescue Prince Rain?" ->planRescueRain]]Kiaru bows, grinning. "Did I mention I'm susceptible to flattery?"
(set: $data's likesK to $data's likesK + 3)(set: $data's charm to it +1)
After Kiaru's liquid tones, Andreas's voice sounds harsh as a raven's. "I hate to spoil the party, but we should be working on a plan."
(display: "planRescueRain")"Yellowtooth has two hundred men at Fort Greyshard. And they'll all be eager to claim the reward for finding the Princess. We'll never make it past the gate." Norvidge spits.
"Then we'll have to wait until they move out, and ambush them on the path." Andreas sounds grim.
Kiaru raises an eyebrow. "As much as I enjoy a good ambush, do you have any idea how many men they'll have guarding the Prince of Saragai? If I were Yellowtooth, I'd send half my army."
Andreas glares at him. "Do you have a better idea?"
Sir Raddibore Yellowtooth is one of your father's oldest generals; no matter how tedious he may be at court, he wouldn't have survived so long without being a wise military commander. Clearly, a direct assault would be suicide. That leaves cunning - your forte.
[["Actually, I do." ->spontaneousIdea]]
[[Say nothing. ->betterIdeaKiaru]][["I know Sir Raddibore well. He's an old man, and cautious. You won't find him unprepared. But I believe I can get us all into the fort unchallenged." ->iKnowRad]]
[["Leave it to me. There's no need to contemplate using force. I know Sir Raddibore well. I can ensure his cooperation." ->leaveToMe]]Kiaru folds his hands in his lap. For a moment, all is silent. Then he raises his eyes; his emerald gaze finds and holds yours. There is a warmth to his look, yet you feel exposed, as if he sees your every layer, right down to the bone.
He smiles. "The Princess wishes to speak."
It's true.
[["I have an idea." ->forcedIdea]]
[[(set: $difficulty to (8 + 4*($data's likesK/10)))(set: $skill_name to "Will")(display: "makeDice"): Clench your teeth and say nothing. ->modPlanKiaru]](display: "dice")(set: $data's will to it +1)
(if: $success is true)[Kiaru's eyes narrow, and an odd expression flickers across his face, swift as a passing butterfly.
Then his gaze hardens. What were you thinking?
]Your cheeks grow flushed. All is silent; everyone is waiting for you. You open your mouth to tell them to stop staring, and instead hear your voice say: "I have an idea."
You bite your mouth shut, but it's too late.
(display: "forcedIdea")Kiaru grins at everyone, raising his mug. "Let us drink then, to our brave and cunning future Queen!"
As the outlaws bump mugs, the tension dissipates. These are men of action: they'll gladly risk their lives when inspired, but indecision discomfits them. Even Norvidge seems to have forgotten his reservations.
Kiaru sits quietly, his eyes moving lazily between them, a smile lingering upon his lips.
As the men dismantle the makeshift picnic and ready the horses, Andreas tugs you aside.
"You never cease to surprise me, Highness." He stares down at you, his dark eyes unreadable.
[["Then perhaps you should revisit your assumptions." ->checkAssumptionsAndreas]]
[["Coming from you, Andreas, I can only presume that's a compliment." ->assumeCompliment]]
[["Thank you, I guess." ->loyaltyCourage]]Andreas gives you a sharp look. "I try to make none, but that does not prevent me being astonished when you exceed my imagination."
He leads you downstream, picking your way through the ferns until you are hidden from the others by a murmuring cascade, and halts at the base of an oak tree where purple lilies grow. Their petals shimmer in a ray of afternoon sun.
[["Oh? So, what does your imagination suggest of me, then?" ->imaginationAndreas]]
[["Then I suppose I must thank you for the compliment." ->loyaltyCourage]] He snorts. "Indeed, it's a compliment. And there's no need to be so prickly, Highness. I intended to convey only that you continue to exceed my wildest imagination."
He leads you downstream, picking your way through the ferns until the men's voices are hidden by the murmuring brook, and halts at the base of an oak tree where purple lilies grow. Their petals shimmer in a ray of afternoon sun.
[["Oh? Do tell me more about these wild imaginings, Andreas." ->imaginationAndreas]]
[["Why, thank you." ->loyaltyCourage]]
[["You seem to dislike Kiaru. Are you sure we should accept his help?" ->acceptHelpKiaru]]Andreas turns, staring at you with only the hint of a smile upon his lips. The predatory intensity of his gaze almost makes you cry out in fear. (set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 3) (set: $data's charm to it + 1)
His hands, hard and calloused, encircle your wrists as he pushes you against the oak, still staring down at you with burning hunger. You notice again the power in his shoulders, the knotted muscles tensed now in self-restraint.
Suddenly he grins. "Oh, Highness. There is much in my imagination that I would like to share with you. But I am equally curious about *yours*."
His words recall your consciously-forgotten dream from this morning, and you find yourself blushing furiously. Andreas's smile widens. He leans closer to you, so close his stubble scratches your cheek and you sense the pounding of his heart. You gaze up at him, feeling a deep shiver at the musky scent of his body.
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Fight")(display: "makeDice"): Pull your hand loose and draw your sword. ->drawSword]]
[["Let me go! You know my heart belongs to Rain!" ->heartBelongsToRain]]
[["Andreas, whatever I dream about -- it does not matter. I will not dishonor my future husband." ->cannotDishonorRain]]"I admire your loyalty to Rain, though I cannnot imagine what inspires it."
[["I'm not doing this for Rain. My people need me." ->notForRain]]
[["I would not expect a man like you to understand." ->notExpectUnderstand]]
[["You seem to dislike Kiaru. Are you sure we should accept his help?" ->acceptHelpKiaru]]Footsteps crackle in the forest floor.
Norvidge gives you both a speculative look. "Come, Highness. Andreas, it's time to ride. You can tell the Princess your bedtime stories later."
Andreas laughs, stepping backward; the seriousness has vanished from his eyes. "If her Highness permits," he murmurs, offering you a mocking half-bow.
[["There's no sense in which that could possibly be appropriate." ->endConvoHistoryKiaru2]]
[["Your presumption does not amuse me, Andreas. I shall expect you to approach me with more respect in future." ->endConvoHistoryKiaru3]]Returning to the horses, Andreas gives you one last look, then turns to mount his mare.
Blueberry blinks sweetly at you. This time, though your ascent is hardly graceful, you reach the saddle unassisted.
The horses step sidelong between the great boulders lining the stream, picking out a hidden path that leads uphill through dense shrubbery. Ahead, a wall of red rock looms; Andreas's horse vanishes into it. It's only when you get within a few feet that you realise a long cleft scars the cliff, winding deep within the wind-carved sandstone. Blueberry clip-clops inside, his steps echoing on the sandy floor. Looking up, blue sky is a narrow slit far above the rounded red walls.
The passage is only a few hundred feet long, releasing you into a tangled woodland where your path is no more than a deer-trail. Minutes later, you break from the forest, descending through rolling hills grazed by rotund sheep. The overgrown track merges into a broad road. In the distance, a fortress squats at the peak of a pyramidal hill, with a distinctive tapered spire in its midst.
Kiaru spurs his horse to your side.
"That's Greyshard," he confirms. "It's said that when it was built, centuries ago, the lord had that obelisk coated in shining gold. But the Sorcerer of Caer Goroduin cursed it. At once, the metal turned dull, and nobody's succeeded in polishing it since."
[["The Sorcerer was around centuries ago?" ->longLivedSorcerer]]
[["Why did the Sorcerer curse the spire?" ->whyCurseTower]]Andreas grins. "I'm mortified, Highness. But if I *were* appropriate, would your eyes sparkle so?"
(display: "rideFortGreyShard")(if: not ((history:) contains "whyCurseTower"))[The russet dog, running beside your horse, suddenly looks up and starts barking at Kiaru. His teeth are bared and the whites of his eyes gleam.
The bard leans over, putting a finger to his lips; at once, the dog falls silent and returns to placid running.
]Kiaru's long green eyes study yours with odd intensity, but his words remain light. "If he was, none who saw him then still live. There are always stories of the Sorcerer, but is it always the same man? How could one know?"
[["Everyone knows there's no magic that can grant immortality. Perhaps it's an hereditary title?" ->hereditaryTitle]]
[["Does Prince have something against you? He's acting very strangely." ->inexplicablePrince]]
(if: not ((history:) contains "whyCurseTower"))[[["Why did the Sorcerer curse the tower?" ->whyCurseTower]]](if: not ((history:) contains "longLivedSorcerer"))[The russet dog, running beside your horse, suddenly looks up and starts barking at Kiaru. His teeth are bared and the whites of his eyes gleam.
The bard leans over, putting a finger to his lips; at once, the dog falls silent and returns to placid running.
]"Oh, I expect the lord had done something to offend him. There are two sides to every story, aren't there? Or maybe there was no curse. Maybe the lord chose an alloy that tarnished, and blamed the Sorcerer for his own mistake."
(if: not ((history:) contains "longLivedSorcerer"))[[["Was the Sorcerer really around centuries ago?" ->longLivedSorcerer]]
][["Speaking of stories with two sides, how did you come to know Andreas?" ->howKiaruMetAndreas]]
[["Does Prince have something against you? He's acting very strangely." ->inexplicablePrince]]
Kiaru grins. "I admire your skepticism. And yet, the world *is* full of inexplicable wonders."
[["Speaking of stories, how did you come to know Andreas?" ->howKiaruMetAndreas]]
[["Speaking of the inexplicable, does Prince have something against you? He's acting very strangely." ->inexplicablePrince]]Kiaru takes some time to answer. "I used to stop by Stelgarte now and then in my travels. When I met Andreas, he was a teenage urchin. Underfed, unguided and wild, like thousands before him. I came upon him crying on the palace steps. He'd lost his shoes on the road, and his feet were bleeding. Sometimes I tried to help such children, and his story intrigued me."
[["Why?" ->why]]
[["So you tried to help him? He doesn't seem very grateful." ->ungratefulAndreas]](display: "dice")
A fetid stench emanates from his swollen gums. You force yourself to wrap your arms around him, crying, "Oh, Sir Raddibore! Thank goodness you're here. I was kidnapped! It was so awful... Please, please, protect me!"
(set: $data's deceive to it + 3)(set: $data's charm to it +3)
The old man's (if: $success is true)[chest puffs(set: $data's likesY to it +3)](else:)[eyes narrow] as you clutch him, and you bury your face in his doublet to hide your (if: $success is true)[distaste](else:)[anxiety]. His shirt smells of old cheese.
"Now, now, dear. You're safe now," he croons, patting your hair with a plump, blue-veined hand. "Sir Raddibore is here, there's nothing to be afraid of. I'll always be your protector, my dear."
You pretend to wipe away a tear. "Thank you, thank you! Sir Raddibore, you're a true hero to me."
"Of course, dear, of course. Now, let's see about getting you out of those nasty rags. (display: "fewComfortsHere")Sir Raddibore's smile remains fixed. "Your Highness, it shall be my honor strive to change that regret to pleasure. (display: "fewComfortsHere")(set: $data's will to it + 2)He looks taken aback by the interruption. "Of course, of course, Your Highness. (display: "apologiseRaddibore")(set: $data's will to it + 1)(set: $data's likesY to it -2)"eight... or is it nine... I forget these numbers. And, my dear, you aren't the least interested in numbers anyway, are you? (display: "apologiseRaddibore")Though I fear the comforts on offer here are small compared with those of my main stronghold. This fortress, you see, is merely an outpost in the far reaches of my lands. My home lies far to the west, on the fertile plains. I believe I may have mentioned my extensive crops of rutabagas? Yes, my holdings comprise... fourteen square miles in total? That supplies almost eight..."
[["Sir Raddibore, I beg your pardon, but these brave men, who rescued me from my kidnappers, are tired and wounded." ->InterruptRaddibore]]
[[Let him ramble. ->rambleRaddibore]]"Certainly, certainly, my dear. There's nothing to get in a tizzy about, you know. But it's hard to be patient when you're young, isn't it? I do remember, you know. Oh, when I was your age... (display: "ramblingAgainAgain") (set: $data's will to it + 1)"say, though of course it doesn't do to blow one's own trumpet, one must be forgiven a little pride in the creature comforts of one's home... (display: "ramblingAgainAgain") I do apologise. It's just such a pleasure to have you here. An unexpected pleasure, I might say, but I've many times hoped for an opportunity to show you my lands. Though this is, as I mentioned, merely a small corner of my holdings. And far from the most attractive. Had we the leisure, I would much prefer to show you my primary stronghold. One notable feature we do enjoy here is an unusual plumbing system, which benefits from the castle's location above a subterranean river. We have an extensive network of pipes moulded from lead, which deliver fresh water to the baths and kitchens, and feed into the sewers located below. It's quite luxurious, I must --"
[["Sir Raddibore! My men are starved and bleeding! Please, might we continue this inside?" ->InterruptRaddiboreAgain]]
[[Say nothing. ->rambleRaddiboreAgain]] but there I go, rambling again. Do forgive me. My castle is right this way..."
He takes your arm with courtly precision. The position is awkward since you are a full head taller than he. With a grandiose wave, he gestures everyone into the fortress.
You pass beneath the looming portcullis, into a dank tunnel, and the gate screeches again as it descends. Andreas and his men trail after you. You glimpse trapdoors above you, and alcoves in the wall. This castle, unlike the elegant chateau at Stelgarte, is all business.
Sir Raddibore gestures at the trapdoors, and leans close to whisper conspiratorially. "Boiling pitch. When the castle was under seige, we'd let a few enemies inside, then drop the portcullis and flood the tunnel. You should have heard 'em squeal!"
You hold your breath as his odour once again washes over you.
At last you emerge into a stone-paved courtyard. No sun reaches its floor; only the upper ramparts are still tinted with daylight. You shiver. In the center stands the inner keep, a grim cube of hewn stone. The obelisk towers from its roof.
Andreas stares around the courtyard, eyes narrowed. Kiaru gazes up at the obelisk, chuckling as if at some private joke.
Sir Raddibore eyes you beadily. "Yes, it's quite *large*, isn't it? Many visitors, you know, they tell me they've never seen such an, err, erect structure."
[["Did the Sorcerer of Caer Goroduin really put a curse on it?" ->reallyCursedTower]]
[["It's very impressive." ->impressiveTower]]Sir Raddibore's smile vanishes, and he ushers you onwards into the keep. "Certainly not," he snaps. "Where-ever did you hear such a disreputable rumor? No, the tower was built by my great-great-great-great-great-great... or was it seven greats... dear me, how forgetful I've grown. Let's see, there was Raddibore the Fourth, that's my great-grandfather..."
(set: $data's will to it + 1)(set: $data's likesY to it -1)
(display: "toRadHall")Sir Raddibore beams. "Quite so, my dear, quite so." He makes a puzzling grimace. For a moment you think it's a tic; then you realise he just winked at you. "It's said to represent the, err, masculine energy of my lineage."
(set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's charm to it +1)(set: $data's likesY to it +3)
[["Did the Sorcerer of Caer Goroduin really put a curse on it?" ->reallyCursedTower]]
[["How intriguing. It must have a most exciting history." ->intriguingTower]]Sir Raddibore's eyes narrow. "Absolutely, Your Highness. Naturally, your wish is my command." (set: $data's will to it + 1)
(set: $data's likesY to it -1)
(display: "bath")Sir Raddibore shrinks back. Your words seem to strike with the force of blows, as he cowers under each one. But his pale eyes flicker with cold fury. "Ah, Highness, Highness. You mistake me... I'm most dreadfully sorry, Highness. All I meant to say was that my men should have done better. There they were, trotting around with hounds and horses, on the very path along which the Crown Princess was helplessly being shanghaied, and all they caught was a bedraggled boy. It's a disgrace, Highness, an utter disgrace to my family's repute."(set: $data's will to it + 1)
(set: $data's likesY to it -3)
[["Then perhaps you should have said so, rather than spreading slanderous falsehoods concerning the Royal Family." ->slander]]
[["Perhaps, rather than berating your soldiers for not rescuing me, we might toast the heroes who did?" ->toastHeroes]]Sir Raddibore continues: "There they were, trotting around with hounds and horses, on the very path along which the Crown Princess was helplessly being shanghaied, and all they caught was a bedraggled boy. It's a disgrace, Highness, an utter disgrace to my family's repute."
[["Perhaps, rather than berating your men for failing to rescue me, we might toast the heroes who succeeded?" ->toastHeroes]]
[["I am sure your men did everything they could, Sir Raddibore." ->didEverything]]Irritation flashes across Sir Raddibore's face. "Quite, quite, my dear. That's just what I'm getting at." He raises his cup high. "To the heroes! The real heroes!" (set: $data's charm to it + 1)
(set: $data's likesY to it -1)
"To the heroes," echo his soldiers, sullenly.
Norvidge and Grimvold clash their cups with enthusiasm that seems only partly feigned; they may not consider themselves heroes, but they at least seem to be enjoying the party, unlike anybody else. (display: "partyOn")He stares at you, one eyebrow cocked in an expression that's probably meant to appear shrewd, though it rather makes him look like a startled rooster. "Oh, is that so, Your Highness?"(set: $data's likesY to it -2)
(set: $data's will to it + 1)
[["Yes. It is." ->yesDefyRaddibore]]
[["Sir Raddibore! Kindly desist with these ungentlemanlike enquiries. I will tell the full story when needed; until then, I would prefer not to relive it." ->yesDefyRaddibore]]"So you say, my dear, so you say. But I'm not so sure... (display: "moreWine")Sir Raddibore chuckles merrily, putting one finger against his nose. "Oh, come now, Highness. Let us drop the pretense, shall we? You would have us believe that you were kidnapped, under the noses of all Thronheim's guards, from the highest tower in your father's castle? Really, do you take us all for fools?"
You stare at him open-mouthed.
"You should never have absconded with Prince Rain, of course. Especially at a time like this. Don't you understand, things are terribly tense with Saragai right now, ever since Prince Morael vanished? And as for Rain's henchmen -- that dark-eyed Khargaian fellow, for instance -- he seems a thoroughly unsavory chap. The others are little better. Such company does not become you, Highness. Perhaps you had second thoughts. Perhaps you fought. Perhaps now, you regret that, and you've come to beg for mercy for your lover. But really, my dear, it was never wise to lie to me. If you were my daughter, oh my, I'd bend you over my knee and give you a good hard spanking."
His eyes brighten, and his tongue runs across his lips. "Although, my dear, I must say, I'm glad you're *not* my daughter."
Your expression must reveal your sudden fear, for he puts one chubby hand upon your arm with a satisfied smile. "Don't be concerned, my lovely Princess. All is well. Sir Raddibore is here to protect you, even from your own foolishness."
[["Unhand me, sir. I will tolerate no more of your insults! We shall leave at once, and you had best pray to all the gods I conceal your insolence from my father!" ->unhandMeRaddibore]]
[["How dare you spread such lies! I was brutally kidnapped, and you accuse me of eloping with a disgraced lover?"->unhandMeRaddibore]]
[["Oh, dear Sir Raddibore! I've been such a fool! Will you truly help me, after everything I've done?" ->fool]]Sir Raddibore licks his lips again. "Oh, Highness. Who do you think the Court will believe? The King's most trusted advisor, or *you*?"
(set: $data's likesY to it -2)
You move toward the door, but he shakes his head. "I'd simply *hate* to see you being manhandled by rough men," he purrs. "But I did post two of my guards outside this room, with orders to ensure you remain inside. I'm sure you'll be most comfortable. My former wife, bless her heart, used this as a sewing room. Perhaps you'd like to take up some embroidery whilst you're here."
As you open your mouth, he continues: "And don't go calling for Rain's men, my dear. I had those traitors sent to the dungeon as soon as we left the banquet."
He beams at you, letting his eyes linger on your form in an insultingly intimate manner. You glare back at him, biting your tongue to hold back harsh words.
His expression does not waver. "Now, now, Your Highness. I am only here to help, remember? But I think perhaps you don't yet understand the gravity of your situation. You see, your, err, despoilment by young Rain will present a significant barrier to a respectable marriage. Quite apart from the circumstances, which will speak poorly of your character to any potential suitors. It's well-known throughout the kingdom, of course, that your father has always been soft on you. I'm afraid he's let you get *quite* out of hand. I warned him he was neglecting you, but still, none of us expected such outright wildness from a daughter of his."
You clench your teeth.
[[Say nothing. ->continueConvRad]]
[["Is there a point to this monologue, Sir Raddibore?" ->continueConvRad]]Andreas flashes you a welcoming grin as you rein in alongside the buckskin mare.(set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 2)
[["Sounds like you and Kiaru have quite a history." ->historyK]]
[["Why don't you tell me more about swordplay?" ->tellMoreSword]]The fortress squats grim and plain upon a rocky outcrop: other than the dull obelisk at its heart, it's devoid of decoration. There's no town at its feet, just endless hills swathed in wind-rippled grass.
You suppress a shiver. It does not look welcoming. Above the ramparts flies Sir Raddibore's sigil.
[[Approach the gate. ->approachGate]](display: "storyKiaru")
(display:"arriveFortress")"The thing is, my dear, you've created a sticky situation for the King. You are, if you don't mind me saying so, quite *ripe* for marriage. Yet it will be years before all the fuss over this elopement dies down -- and it will never be forgotten, sadly. And what if you are pregnant already?
"No, your father will see that the only thing to do, my dear, is to marry you off at once to whomever will have you. But despair not, my dear! Who better than his most trusted advisor? A seasoned warrior, wealthy in lands and gold, with the wisdom of years to moderate the passion of your youth. Not to mention a steady hand, ready to guide the kingdom through the turbulent times ahead.
"I must admit, I had not thought to take a *damaged* wife. I've never been one to enjoy another man's leavings, heh heh. But for your father's sake -- and for yours -- I am willing to overlook it."
He waits for your response, breathing heavily. The russet hound, who has been dozing on the floor, raises his amber eyes to look at you.
[["This is indeed a, err, generous offer, Sir Raddibore. Might I have a moment to contemplate it before answering?" ->contemplateOffer]]
[["Sir Raddibore, does your arrogance blind you to my disgust? I would sooner marry that dog!" ->soonerMarryHound]](set: $storyKiaru to $storyKiaru + 1)
(if: $storyKiaru is 1)[Andreas nods. He stares at the ground, as if collecting his thoughts. "He's... older than he looks, Seline. When I first came to Stelgarte, I was just a teenage street urchin. I'd lost even my shoes upon the road, so I tied rags around my feet to stop the bleeding. Of course the guards wouldn't let me into the palace to present my case.
Kiaru found me weeping outside the castle gates. He looked just the same then as now. He looked into my eyes, and I saw such compassion there... he took my hand and led me to an abandoned warehouse." Andreas falls silent a moment, his expression sombre.
"There were other children there, some older, some younger, all filthy and dressed in rags. They ran to him then, just as they do now. Kiaru gave us bread and fruit, and sang for us.
And then he left. We thieved and begged, and starved and hid. Sometimes we fought. There was a girl, Thera. She was so thin... and always tired. We shared what we could, but she grew thinner. One morning we could not wake her, and the next she was cold and still.
Weeks after, Kiaru came again. This time he brought blankets as well as food. He never asked about Thera. And then he was gone again."] (if: $storyKiaru is 2)["So, Kiaru would disappear for months. When he returned, sometimes he brought other children. One was a teenage girl, the strongest I'd ever met, with hair like a waterfall in moonlight.
Nyora worshipped Kiaru. Oh, we all did... we waited like dogs for him, never knowing when he would arrive, or if we'd live to see it. But Nyora was different. We just tried to survive, but *she* had ambition. She organized us. She taught us to fight together, instead of alone, to plan and think ahead. We'd wake before dawn to rush a laden wagon on the road, or beat a rival gang to a pulp, expanding our territory. We made treaties and dealt in smoke, and when it suited us, we broke treaties to grow our little empire of the streets.
But all that time, Nyora had another ambition. When Kiaru returned one night, she was waiting. She'd washed and combed her hair to molten silver, and she wore a child's silken skirt she'd stolen at the market, though she was no child. I saw how Kiaru looked into her eyes, and I feared for her. He took her hand with a smile, and led her away into the dark."
Andreas falls silent, his expression sombre.](if: $storyKiaru is 3)["So, Nyora was gone. Months passed. I held the gang together, but I lacked the heart to expand our power. With Nyora gone, it seemed pointless.
And then, just as suddenly, she returned to us. Alone. She never wept, nor spoke of what he'd done to her. She was cold as ice, and she redoubled her ambition, attacking neighbouring gangs with unprecedented fury. Once, in the heat of battle, a boy called her Kiaru's whore. I knocked him out, and would have left him there, but Nyora pushed past me. She didn't kill him. She tied him and took him back to our headquarters. It took him days to die..."](if: $storyKiaru is 4)["I was telling you how Nyora returned changed. She'd always been eager for power, but now she was cold. Her bloodlust became the cruelty of a cat... Some months later, Kiaru came back. We all looked to Nyora. Some of us expected her to kill him. But she greeted him sweetly, as if nothing ever happened. And he was the same as ever, bringing sweets and songs.
When he vanished again, she began to systematically exterminate every rival we had. She would torture the leaders before she killed them; she said it was necessary to inspire fear, but she revelled in their suffering. She was very... inventive.
By this time, we'd acquired a reputation far beyond Stelgarte's underworld, and in time we attracted more than casual attention from the city authorities. Nyora staved off the inevitable with bribes and favors, but it was only a matter of time before our dominance became a threat. One night when we lay sleeping off a victory celebration, a troop of soldiers swarmed into our lair. Half of us died... the survivors fled, harangued on all sides by enemies on both sides of the law. Now Nyora's cruelty rebounded, for our allies were no more trustworthy than we, and they enjoyed our downfall as much as did our enemies. We were forced out of the city. And that is how we came to the Twisted Forest. To be honest, I prefer the forest. I never loved the city, and I loved Nyora's scheming and power games even less. Since we moved to the forest, there's been little need for politics. Until now, anyway."]"Certainly, certainly, Your Highness. It is a big decision, after all, I wouldn't dream of hurrying you. And you have been through a great deal recently. So many new experiences -- some of them, I can only imagine how traumatic. Naturally you are confused. Take as long as you wish. If there's anything you desire while you think -- *anything* at all, Highness," he gives you another tic-like wink -- "you may simply ask one of the guards to call for me, and I shall be at your service."
(set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's likesY to it +5)
He gives you a last bow and finally exits the room.
(display: "endchapter")The hound thumps his tail on the floor. Sir Raddibore gapes at you. Slowly, his cheeks turn from red to purple, and his eyes bulge.
(set: $data's will to it + 1)(set: $data's likesY to it -5)
"Your Highness," he says, spitting each word as though it were a lemon seed, "You will regret those words."
Slowly, his breathing calms, and he continues in a milder tone: "You have spoken from the heart, as youth does. I must not be ungenerous. I will give you time to reconsider the wisdom of speaking thus to your future husband."
He stalks out the room, slamming the door behind him.
(display: "endchapter")Sir Raddibore swells like a peacock, his rheumy eyes sparkling. "You are not at all mistaken, my dear. It's a tale fit for a bard, I assure you. You see, Greyshard was built by my great-great-great-great-great-great... or was it seven greats... dear me, how forgetful I've grown. Let's see, there was Raddibore the Fourth, that's my great-grandfather..."(set: $data's likesY to it +3)
(set: $data's deceive to it + 2)(set: $data's charm to it +2)
(display: "toRadHall")Your mind wanders as Raddibore enumerates his ancestors. He leads you upstairs, to the dim and smoky great hall. The russet dog pads at your heels, nose to the ground.
To your mind, the hall lacks windows, but as a defensive structure this is a necessary compromise. Unnecessary, however, are the elaborate chandeliers, gilded chairs, and numerous scenes of gruesome combat depicted in tapestries hanging around the hall. You make out the features of a young Sir Raddibore in many.
He notes your interest. "Ah, yes. My little hobby, do forgive me. My dear departed wife always liked to commemorate my favorite victories with a little needlework. That one, where I'm beheading the knight in blue, is the Battle of Saragai. It's quite a nice depiction, don't you think? His head really did end up dangling like that." He chuckles wheezily.
[["How thrilling. Perhaps you might tell me more over dinner?" ->eatDinnerRaddiborePolite]]
[["Sir Raddibore, the men who assisted me in my escape are hungry and weary. Kindly arrange for their provisioning." ->eatDinnerRaddibore]]The man snorts. "A thousand apologies, m'lady. Next time, I'll send for Andreas instead; wast calling his name just now, eh?"
He grins, revealing broken teeth, as you gasp in fury. "(display: "manEnteredChamber")
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Andreas shakes his head. "One good thing about the Forest - it's an easy place to disappear. I laid a false trail from the camp. And Grimvold here has a way with fire, so the smoke will not betray us."
He sighs. "I do not know why she took such a dislike to you, Highness. She's cruel, yes, but her cruelty's matched in cunning, and she should know better than to trust the sorcerer."
Norvidge shrugs. "I get the feeling her plans go deeper. T'were no fault of the lass."
His ape-like companion shakes his head, grumbling: "Sorcerers. Never worth it."
"T'ain't right, anyhow, sacrificing a young girl like that. Even if she be royalty." Norvidge pulls his hat down over his ears.
Andreas gestures expansively at his companions. "Norvidge and Grimvold, as you can see, concur with our views. Unfortunately, Nyora still holds most of the men enthralled."
[["I guess she is kind of inspiring, in a psychopathic way." ->inspiringPsychopath]]
[["I still don't understand. Why didn't you just order them all to come with us? What kind of an outlaw chief are you?" ->soOrderThem]]Andreas hesitates, looking at his companions. Norvidge nods, and Grimvold shrugs. "Highness, the main path into the Twisted Forest leads through a narrow ravine. It's a place well-known to your father's men, who rode close upon our heels when we came through. They will most likely have laid an ambush upon that path, thinking to seal us into the Forest. They are mistaken, of course. But I doubt your fencing-master knows any other road in. So, if Prince Rain followed us, he must either wait beyond the ravine, or be captured there. A friend of mine, a wandering bard, went out yesterday to search for him. He did not return before we left Nyora's camp."
Your chest tightens at the thought of Rain being captured. But surely the Prince would not be so careless.
[[(set: $difficulty to 17)(set: $skill_name to "Will")(display: "makeDice"): "What are we waiting for? Any delay risks my true love's life!"->command]]
[["Then our best hope is to intercept Rain before he approaches the ravine." ->equalTone]]Grimvold's whistle summons a towering buckskin mare and a diminutive jet-black gelding from their grazing in the sunlit clearing.
Andreas swings lightly to the back of the mare. "Come, Highness! Your true love awaits."
You stare awkwardly at the black gelding. Though small for a horse, he still looks enormous up close. His heavy, clomping feet are as big as saucers.
You hold your hand out. His breathe is warm, steaming in the morning sun.
Grimvold strokes the gelding's neck. "Don't worry, m'lady. E's got a kind nature, that one. We call 'im Blueberry."
Blueberry blinks at you, revealing improbably long eyelashes.
[[Try to mount the gelding alone. ->tryMountAlone]]
[[Ask for help. ->askHelpMount]]Andreas grins at you. "Why, no kind at all, Highness."
(set: $data's will to it +1)
Norvidge chuckles at your puzzled frown. "M'lady, t'is only natural. You've been raised to think men need a ruler, as children need a father. But when men live free, they learn to *be* men. We answer to ourselves, and need no master."
[["And yet they still cling to Nyora's apron-strings." ->apronStrings]]
[["If you say so. Now, how are we going to rescue Prince Rain?" ->planSearchRain]]Andreas nods. "Yes, she still has that power. More than ever, perhaps."
(set: $data's charm to it +1)
He sits silent a moment, his eyes lowered. Then he meets your gaze. "You should have met her before, Seline. She was always fierce, always strong. Like a burning flame, she drew us all. The hardening of her soul, that came after..." Andreas hesitates, and in his clenched face you sense an old, bitter anger mingled with grief.
The bear-like man puts a hand upon Andreas's arm. "T'is over an' done. No use chewing on it."
Andreas takes a deep breath. His voice is hard, decisive. "I know that, Grimvold. She has gone too far this time. No, I must not sugarcoat it -- she went too far long ago, but until now, I would not see it."
He sighs. "Let's be going. We must keep the Princess out of Nyora's clutches, and find Prince Rain as soon as possible."
[["How exactly do we plan to do that?" ->planSearchRain]]
[["Then let us delay no more! Saddle the horses!" ->planSearchRain]]Andreas's expression darkens. "Nyora *leads*, she does not rule. Can you not comprehend the difference? Oh, I know how she seems to you..."
Norvidge shakes his head. "Reckon the princess 'as the right of it. Oh, our Nyora speaks sweet enough, but her eyes betray a hunger... She'd climb over all our corpses, just to be on top."
"Aye," rumbles Grimvold. "An' for that, men follow her."
(display: "inspiringPsychopath")(display: "dice")
Kiaru smiles at you, long green eyes glinting with the warmth of summer leaves. Though the bony, pockmarked bard is in no way handsome, his smile seems to caress your soul, sending a shiver down your spine.
(if: $success is true)[You frown. There's something unsettling about the bard's tranquil, unblinking gaze. It pins you like an insect.
Almost imperceptibly, his eyes widen.
At last he replies. "I suppose the situation interests me. To be precise, *you* interest me. And more so now."
Softly, he adds: "Of course, my motives cannot matter to you."
Which you realise at once is indubitably true; why did you question him at all?](else:)[You blink at him, trying to remember something. Oh, that's right, you were about to thank him for offering to help rescue Rain.]
[["Thank you so much, Kiaru. We need all the help we can get." ->weNeedKiaru]]Norvidge and Grimvold exchange a look.
(set: $data's will to it +1)
"Highness, we'll likely be in battle ere sunset. Do you wish us fatigued with hunger?" Though his words are courteous, Andreas's tone cuts like ice. "If not, I suggest you let my men finish their breakfast."
[["Very well, take your time." ->continueEating]]
[["Okay, sorry." ->equalTone]]Norvidge nods. "T'is fair, m'lady, there's no time to waste." He scoops the last of the porridge from his bowl, then stands, stretching.
(set: $data's charm to it +1)
(display: "horses")Andreas chews his lip. "Perhaps we could persuade Yellowtooth to send only a few guards with Rain, and then take him on the road."
"How would you do that?" Kiaru scoffs.
"Make him think Greyshard is about to be attacked by Saragaian forces. Burn crops and raid outlying villages."
Grimvold shakes his head. "Not enough time. Nor men."
Kiaru smiles at you.
[["Burn crops and raid villages? I won't be party to a plan that victimises innocent peasants." ->avoidBurning]]
[["How will that work? We only have one night... how many villages would we need to attack to scare Yellowtooth? And who knows, maybe he'll actually send *more* guards with Rain if he thinks Saragaian forces are nearby. Or he might hole up in the castle indefinitely." ->badIdea]]Norvidge looks to Grimvold, frowning. "What say you, friend? We're no servants of the crown; the lass cannot command us. (if: $success is false)[We followed Andreas when his plan seemed just, but now they're asking us to risk our lives upon a fool's errand."](else:)[Yet something in her face tells me she may yet prevail in this, and her cause is just."]
Grimvold opens his mouth.
[[Say nothing. ->letGrimSpeak]]
[["I cannot deny, it is a dangerous mission. If you are too afraid, I understand." ->insultGrim]]
[["Grimvold, Norvidge, I do not ask you to risk your lives uncompensated. My father shall reward you richly when this is over." ->buyGrim]]
[[(set: $difficulty to 12)(set: $skill_name to "Persuade")(display: "makeDice") "Grimvold, I will not order you. No man shall follow me unwillingly, I swear, and it is indeed a dangerous mission. But remember, I do not ask this for myself. It is for our people, to protect them. We need your strength." ->persuadeGrimvold]]Andreas shrugs. "If we can rescue Rain, Highness, then many more villages will be saved."
Kiaru's green eyes narrow, and though his words are for Andreas, his gaze is on you as he speaks. "Can such calculations truly be made? Would you slay one man to save others? And we have another plan, that requires neither time, nor men, nor bloodshed -- only courage."
He looks at Norvidge. "Were you not raised upon the western downs? The villages here are much like your family, then..."
(display: "kiarusRight")"True. And we have no supplies. It's a gamble." Andreas scratches his scar, frowning.
Kiaru shakes his head, and his piercing green eyes seek out yours. "Would you destroy your peasants' livelihoods for a mere gamble?"
He's right. It's much too risky. The other plan was more sensible.
Kiaru smiles. He turns to Norvidge. "Were you not raised upon the western downs? The villages here are much like your family, then..."
(display: "kiarusRight")Norvidge sighs. "Kiaru's right. We've no call to harm innocents when another way will serve."
Grimvold nods, his frown fading. "M'lady?"
You shake your head, trying to clear your mind, but all you can think of are Kiaru's eyes. What's wrong with you today?
He's right, though. You're not the sort of coward who would abuse your own people as a means to an end.
[["What kind of a Queen would I be if I could treat my own people with such injustice? My mind is made up. We will use guile to win our way into the castle." ->travelToGreyShard]]Norvidge shakes his head, grumbling. "T'is a fool's mission. Yellowtooth will never fall for it. And Greyshard's dungeons may be legendary, but I've no wish to see their innards."
Andreas turns on him. "And what *would* you have us do, then? Turn tail and cower in the Forest while Thronheim burns? Hand the Princess back to Nyora to be sold like a side of beef?"
Norvidge glances at you.
[["Norvidge is right. We need a better plan." ->needBetterPlan]]
[["I say we do it." ->goodPlan]](if: $data's deceive < 5)["M'lady, t'is an unlikely plan. Perhaps Norvidge is right."
Kiaru leans closer, gazing into Grimvold's eyes with piercing clarity. "It is not an easy choice, is it? Yet if Prince Rain dies, then war is inevitable. To follow the Princess seems our only hope of saving our people."
Grimvold sighs. "Aye, ye have a point. Very well, m'lady. My sword is yours, for now."](else:)["Aye, Norvidge. T'is an unwise plan, yet I see no better one. Very well, m'lady. My sword is yours, for now."]
Norvidge shrugs. "I guess that settles it."
(display: "travelToGreyShard")(display: "dice")(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
(if: $success is true)[Grimvold's eyes brighten at your words, and his back straightens. "M'lady, you needed only to ask, of course. My sword is yours!"
Norvidge looks at the others and shrugs. "Well, I guess that settles it then."](else:)["M'lady, that was well said. Yet t'is an unlikely plan, still. Perchance Norvidge is wise to hesitate."
Kiaru leans closer, gazing into Grimvold's eyes with piercing clarity. "It is not an easy choice, is it? Yet if Prince Rain dies, then war is inevitable. To follow the Princess seems our only hope of saving our people."
Grimvold sighs. "Aye, ye have a point. Very well, m'lady. My sword is yours, for now."]
(display: "travelToGreyShard")Grimvold shakes his head, grimacing. "Seems there's little risk we'd ever claim thy father's reward."
Norvidge adds, "And even if we survive, how can we know your father would honor that promise?"
[["Very well then. Don't do it for me. Do it for our people. Without your strength, we're lost -- and that means war is inevitable." ->persuadeGrimvold]]
[["I cannot deny, it is a dangerous mission. If you are too afraid, I understand." ->insultGrim]] "Afraid!" roars Grimvold, leaping to his feet. "*Nobody* calls me a coward! Why, I'll storm the castle myself --"
Norvidge puts a hand on his arm. "Don't be a fool. Can't you see she's just goading you?"
"Men, men." Like a bucket of water, Kiaru's liquid voice instantly douses their agitation. "The Princess intended no insult, I am sure. And remember, this is our only chance to rescue Prince Rain. If you succeed, both Saragai and Thronheim will owe you a great debt."
"And we might stop a war," adds Andreas.
Grimvold nods. "T'is fairly spoken. I'll do it."
Norvidge shrugs. "Well, I guess that settles it."
(display: "travelToGreyShard")Pretending to slice some ham for yourself, you discreetly slither the ham-bone off the plate. The russet hound catches it in mid-air and dives beneath the table. (set: $data's charm to it + 1)
(display: "feast")The hound heaves a large sigh, and vanishes beneath the table again. Minutes later, you glimpse him wolfing down a roasted potato.
(display: "feast")Your companions, seated at a lower table, are rapidly depleting the platters around them. The combination of abundant food and a simple back story devised by Kiaru have quenched any curiosity about them. Your men are hired goons, who usually make a living defending merchant caravans as they pass near the Twisted Forest. Kiaru, a wandering bard, had joined them for safety. Returning from a job, they heard your screams, attacked, and defeated your kidnappers.
Even Andreas seems to slip into the role of mercenary hero without difficulty, but every so often his eyes meet yours with dark anxiety.
Seated at Sir Raddibore's right hand, you are no more sanguine. Hoping to calm your nerves, you accept a glass of wine. Everything about this situation makes you uneasy. Your hand rises to touch your locket, and finds... nothing.
Silent panic seizes you. When did you last have it? You're not sure. The last time you recall noticing it was at the outlaws' camp. It could be anywhere. You bite your lip, refusing to show any sign of consternation.
[[Search for the locket. ->searchForLocket]]
[[There's no time to worry about that now. ->noTimeForLocket]]"My dog?" Andreas frowns. Then he blinks. "Oh, you mean Prince. You're right, it is strange. Especially since Kiaru took him in."
[["Kiaru took in Prince?" ->rescuedPrince]]
[["Isn't Prince yours?" ->rescuedPrince]]Andreas nods. "Kiaru brought him to me a few months ago. Said he'd found him begging on the streets of Stelgarte, and we had more than that in common. Typical Kiaru. I didn't want a dog, but in the morning Kiaru was gone and the dog wasn't. He's a strange beast, but harmless -- at least, he was until you got here."
[["What do you mean, he was harmless until I got here?" ->harmlessDog]]
[["Strange? How do you mean?" ->harmlessDog]]"Haven't you noticed? He's always so quiet, but he follows *you* everywhere. And I think when he tried to attack Kiaru, he was protecting you."
[["Then why did he stop when Kiaru just looked at him? It was like he instantly forgot all about him." ->whyDogStop]]
[["Wait, I just assumed you had commanded him to guard me. You didn't do that?" ->guardPrince]]Andreas gives you a sharp look. "Now perhaps you see why I dislike Kiaru."
(display: "influenceMinds")Andreas nods. "Do you think that's all it is?"
[["It doesn't seem natural. But you know him well; who am I to judge?" ->unnaturalKiaru]]
[["What do you mean, all it is? How could it be anything more?" ->howcouldKiaru]](display: "kiaruFoundAndreas")"Indeed, how could it?"
(display: "kiaruFoundAndreas")(if: (history:) contains "whatsWithDog")[Andreas nods. "Indeed. So he was right when he said the dog and I had much in common... And he must always play the puppeteer. (display: "meddling")] (else:)["My dog?" Andreas frowns. Then he blinks. "Oh, you mean Prince. You're right, it is strange. Especially since Kiaru took him in."
[["Kiaru took in Prince?" ->rescuedPrince2]]
[["Isn't Prince yours?" ->rescuedPrince2]]]"His puppeteering. (display: "meddling")Andreas shakes his head. "Another time, Seline. It's too dark a story for a sunny day." Eyeing you speculatively, he grins. (display: "verywell")Andreas shakes his head. "To be honest, I find it hard to remember that the dog is even there. He's... self-effacing, somehow."
He hesitates. "Do you see why I dislike Kiaru? It's always like this with him. Things never quite work as they should."
(display: "influenceMinds")Andreas's eyes narrow, gazing at you sharply, and you sense he's holding back words. When he does speak, his tone is measured. "I have my reasons, Highness. Perhaps you shall come to understand them. But that's immaterial. His skills may aid your mission, and you can hardly afford to be picky."
[["I might understand your reasons better if you chose to explain them." ->understandBetterExplained]]
[["I think I know what you mean." ->knowWhatYouMean]]"Oh, really?" he purrs. "So you do not truly care for the Prince?"
[["Of course I care for him! But above all else, I serve my people." ->servePeople]]
[["Your questions are impertinent, Andreas. Remember, you are speaking to your future Queen." ->noMoreInsolence]]
[["You seem to dislike Kiaru. Are you sure we should accept his help?" ->acceptHelpKiaru]]"Ah, such purity and strength. You cut me to the core." Lightly, with one gauntleted hand, he lifts your chin to gaze into his eyes. Their tone is warm as damp earth, gleaming gold-flecked where the dappled sun slants across the iris.
(set: $data's charm to it + 4)
Softly, he murmurs: "I dreamed of claiming you, Seline. Of owning you, using you for my pleasure. But instead I'll serve you. Even if it kills me, Highness; even if you never look at me again. And yet the way you *do* look at me... I think you cannot blame me for speculating."
His touch now is strangely gentle, almost tentative, far from the violence of his words, and his eyes hold a question.
[[Look away. ->lookAwayAndreas]]
[[Return his gaze. ->lookAtAndreas]]
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Fight")(display: "makeDice"): Pull your hand loose and draw your sword. ->drawSword]]He sighs. "A fair point, Highness. Yet some things are more easily sensed than explained."
(display: "historyKiaru")"Do you?" Andreas hesitates. "I wonder, what is it that you think I mean?"
(display: "historyKiaru")Though porridge is not usually your preferred breakfast, hunger makes it delicious. Norvidge hands you a steaming mug of honey-sweet tea.
[["Has there been any sign of Nyora?" ->whereEverybody]]
[["Should we plan the search for Prince Rain?"->planSearchRain]]
[["What is this place?" ->whereAreWe]]Andreas shrugs. "As you wish. But be warned, we've a long ride ahead."
You stand awkwardly, watching the men eat. They ignore you.
[["Has there been any sign of Nyora?" ->whereEverybody]]
[["Should we plan the search for Prince Rain?"->planSearchRain]]
[["What is this place?" ->whereAreWe]]"As my lady commands." Norvidge inclines his head, provoking a chuckle from Grimvold. Slowly and carefully, he dips his spoon again, raises it to his lips and blows gently at the steam.
Grimvold sips delicately at his tea.
"Fine weather, isn't it?" drawls Andreas. He refills his bowl.
"Shall I make another pot of tea?" asks Grimvold.
"Why thank ye, that'd be splendid." Norvidge stretches, languidly. "T'is just the thing to take the edge off the morning chill."
[[Say nothing. ->ignoreDawdling]]
[["Oh, for goodness sake, stop dawdling, will you?" ->stopDawdling]]You bite the inside of your lip in frustration. But you won't let them bait you.
(set: $data's will to it +1)
At last the meal finishes.
(display: "horses")"Dawdling? Highness, you wound me." Andreas smiles.
Norvidge squints at you, teeth agleam. "'Ear that, Grimvold? She thinks we're slow."
"To be fair, we *could* eat more quickly. We've done it in the past, 'aven't we?" Grimvold yawns.
"'We 'ave? Do ye happen to recall when?" Norvidge removes his hat and twirls it idly in one hand.
"I think it may've been that summer, three years ago, when we took down a caravan on the road to Fort Greyshard."
"Why yes, I do believe you are correct."
"More porridge, Grimvold?" asks Andreas.
"Thank ye, that'd be lovely."
The men are all grinning broadly, giving you sidelong looks. Their banter shows no sign of ever ending.
[[Say nothing. ->ignoreDawdling]]
[["Oh, *come on*. I'm truly sorry if I sounded arrogant, I'm not used to things being so, umm, egalitarian. But would you *please* hurry up? If we don't get to Prince Rain soon, he could be killed!" ->equalTone]]His eyes grow flint-cold, staring blackly down at you. In a venom-laced whisper, he hisses: "If you say so, Highness." (set: $data's likesR to $data's likesR + 1)
Abruptly, he releases your hands. He stands, breathing deeply, staring at the ground. When he looks up, the ice is gone from his gaze, and his tone is measured: (display: "loyaltyCourage")His smile glows wickedly. "You dreamed of me? That's delightful. Do tell me more." (set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 3)
[["Let me go! You know my heart belongs to Rain!" ->heartBelongsToRain]]
[["I asked first, Andreas. Surely you would not be so impertinent as to leave my curiosity unsatisfied?" ->satisfyCuriosity]]
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Fight")(display: "makeDice"): Pull your hand loose and draw your sword. ->drawSword]]"Highness, I might do many things, but I promise I shall *never* leave you dissatisfied." (set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 3)
[["Quite a promise." ->quiteAPromise]]
[["Oh, really? Then you can satisfy me right now." ->satisfyNow]]He leans closer, runs his teeth along your ear. The sensation is electrifying; you gasp as the hairs rise on the back of your neck.
(set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 3)
"Allow me to demonstrate," he whispers, sliding one hand down your spine to pull you roughly against his body. With the other, he pins your hands above your head.
(display: "historyKiaru")You brush his hand away. He steps back, allowing you space to pass. You dip your hand in the clear brown creek, not looking at him. All is quiet; you hear only the trickling of the brook and the occasional call of birds.
"We should return to the others." (display: "interruptionFight")Time seems to halt as you gaze into Andreas's eyes. For once, the harshness is gone from his expression, and the restless cynicism as well. You see not a brutal kidnapper, nor even a seductive warrior, but only a human tormented by conflicting desires and dark history. Empathy wells in your heart like a mountain spring.
(set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 5)
And you feel his gaze likewise strip away the superficialities; no longer does he see a spoiled princess, the daughter of an enemy, nor even an object of prey. You are seen and accepted as a whole. Nothing is refused, nothing is held back.
As you watch, the conflict fades from his eyes, and they light with warmth that bathes you like sunshine. You want to stay there forever, held in that unexpected ray of kindness.
(display: "historyKiaru")Andreas backs away, raising his hands to protest innocence. It would be more convincing if he were not grinning from ear to ear. "My apologies, Highness. I intended no disrespect; only, it seems I cannot resist provoking you. There's something terribly endearing about your bursts of outrage."
(set: $data's will to it + 1)
You bite your lip, fuming, as you struggle to marshall an appropriately crushing response.
(display: "interruptionFight")Footsteps crackle in the forest floor.
Norvidge raises an eyebrow, surveying the tense scene. "Come, Highness. Andreas, it's time to ride. You can tell the Princess your bedtime stories later."
Andreas laughs. "If her Highness permits," he murmurs, offering you a mocking half-bow.
[["There's no sense in which that could possibly be appropriate." ->endConvoHistoryKiaru2]]
[["Your presumption does not amuse me, Andreas. I shall expect you to approach me with more respect in future." ->endConvoHistoryKiaru3]]Kiaru chuckles. "Why did I help him, or why was I intrigued? I helped him *because* I was intrigued. As for why I was intrigued... (display: "whyIntrigued")Kiaru looks amused. "Well, this *is* Andreas we're talking about."
[["So why did his story intrigue you?" ->whyIntrigued]]
[["How exactly did you help him?" ->howHelpAndreas]]"Says the hereditary princess." Kiaru's grin softens his words. "Fairly spoken, Highness. But as a bard, I've moved among many sorts of company, and I've come to know their ways. I'll eat my harp if Andreas's mother was a Khargaian baker."
[["Why would Andreas lie about that?" ->whyLie]]
[["Then who do you think she was?" ->thenWho]]"Oh, Andreas is not lying. That's the most curious part. I am certain he fully believes what he is saying."
(if: (history:) contains "thenWho")[[["How very mysterious. And I get the feeling you're making it so on purpose." ->notExplainAboutAndreas]]] (else:)[ [["So who do you think she was?" ->thenWho]] ]
[["Let me guess, you're not going to tell me any more." ->notExplainAboutAndreas]] "Indeed, I puzzled over that question for years. Who was she? I even travelled to Khargai myself, but the woman was dead by then, and she had lived an inconspicuous life; few recalled her. In the end, it was Andreas himself who revealed the answer -- but first I had to discover the right questions."
(if: (history:) contains "whyLie")[[["How very mysterious. And I get the feeling you're making it so on purpose." ->notExplainAboutAndreas]]] (else:)[ [["Why would Andreas try to deceive you?" ->whyLie]] ]
[["Let me guess, you're not going to tell me any more." ->notExplainAboutAndreas]] Kiaru gives you a sharp look; though he masks it at once, you glimpse intrigue in his narrow green eyes.
He looks away, and half a minute passes before he replies. Finally he smiles, and says: "I suppose he does. I've merely helped him get what he wanted. But it appears he doesn't like my methods."
(if: (history:) contains "howKiaruMetAndreas")[[["You're surrounded by ingratitude." ->surroundedByIngrates]]] (else:)[[["How ungrateful." ->surroundedByIngrates]]]
[["Why, what did you do to help him?" ->howHelpPrince]]Kiaru sighs theatrically. "Quite so. But that's humanity for you, isn't it?"
[["You mean caninity, I suppose." ->caninity]]
[["Indeed. Whatever did you do to help him?" ->howHelpPrince]]His sidelong look brims with amusement. "Also that, Your Highness. But Prince is an unusual creature, don't you think?"
[["He's the strangest dog I've ever met." ->strangestDog]]
[["Seems normal to me." ->buriedBlood]]
[["Indeed. Whatever did you do to help him?" ->howHelpPrince]]"So you *did* notice that. How fascinating."
[["What exactly did you do to help him?" ->howHelpPrince]]
[["How cryptic. You're not going to explain yourself, are you?" ->notExplain]] Kiaru laughs. "Oh, I helped him find something that had been misplaced."
[["Like what? A buried bone?" ->buriedBone]]
[["Then why is he so hostile?" ->whyHostilePrince]]"Blood, not bone, Your Highness. Buried blood."
[["Buried blood? I don't understand." ->buriedBlood]]
[["Well, that's cryptic. You're not going to explain yourself, are you?" ->notExplain]] "Perhaps that's for the best, Highness."
[["And perhaps not." ->notExplain]]
(if: not ((history:) contains "howKiaruMetAndreas"))[[["Then tell me something else. How did you come to know Andreas?" ->howKiaruMetAndreas]] ] (else:)[[["I hate it when people say that." ->notExplain]] ]"Highness, I'm older than I appear. You must forgive the pleasure I take in small mysteries; it's one amusement that never fades."
(if: not ((history:) contains "howKiaruMetAndreas"))[[["Then tell me something else. How did you come to know Andreas?" ->howKiaruMetAndreas]] ] (else:)[(display: "endKiaruConv")]"Ah, Highness. If only everyone understood me so well!" Kiaru laughs.
(if: not ((history:) contains "inexplicablePrince"))[[["Then tell me something else. Does Prince have something against you? He's acting very strangely." ->inexplicablePrince]] ] (else:)[(display: "endKiaruConv")]He stares into the distance, as if collecting his thoughts. "I do not know *what* Kiaru is. He's... older than he looks, Seline. When I first met him, I was a teenage street urchin, but he looked just the same as now. It was he who found me weeping on the palace steps at Stelgarte, after my dying mother sent me to beg justice from King Torveld.
I'd lost my shoes upon the road, so I tied rags around my feet to stop the bleeding. Of course the guards wouldn't let me into the palace to present my case.
He looked into my eyes, and I saw such compassion there... He took me in and found a home for me among the outlaws, just as he took in Prince. Such kindness!" He spits.
"They all worship him, you know. They do not see it..."
[["Apparently your dog sees it." ->princeSeesIt]]
[["See what?" ->seeWhat]]Andreas's smile fades. "Have a care when you speak with him, Highness."
[["Why, are you jealous?" ->jealousAndreas]]
[["What do you mean?" ->whatMean]]He snorts. "Why would I be jealous? You're no property of mine. No, I only sought to warn you for your own benefit, Highness. Do you not see it, then? When Kiaru's around... things never quite work as they should."
(display: "influenceMinds")He hesitates, as if debating whether to speak more. "Something made me think you felt it... Do you not? When Kiaru's around... things never quite work as they should."
(display: "influenceMinds")Your mind flashes back to the conversation in the glade. How Kiaru's green-eyed gaze seemed to play the outlaws' emotions like a lute.
[["Are you suggesting he has some kind of... influence?"->unnaturalKiaru]]
[["Well, he is a bard. He's spent a lifetime studying how to evoke feelings." ->persuasiveBard]]Andreas nods. "Kiaru brought him to me a few months ago. Said he'd found him begging on the streets of Stelgarte, and that we had more than just that in common. Typical Kiaru. I didn't want a dog, but in the morning Kiaru was gone and the dog wasn't. He's a strange beast, but harmless -- at least, he was until you got here."
[["What do you mean, he was harmless until I got here?" ->harmlessDog2]]
[["Strange? How do you mean?" ->harmlessDog2]]"Haven't you noticed? He's always so quiet, but he follows *you* everywhere. And I think when he tried to attack Kiaru, he was protecting you."
[["Then why did he stop when Kiaru just looked at him? It was like he instantly forgot all about him." ->whyDogStop2]]
[["Wait, I just assumed you had commanded him to guard me. You didn't do that?" ->guardPrince2]]Andreas shakes his head. "To be honest, I find it hard to remember that the dog is even there. He's... self-effacing, somehow."
Now you think about it, you realise that you know what he means. It's oddly difficult to focus your attention on Prince. Your thoughts seem to slide right past the topic. And the outlaws all but ignore him. But why shouldn't they? He's only a stray dog.
He hesitates. "Do you see why I dislike Kiaru now? He must always play the puppeteer. (display: "meddling")Andreas gives you a sharp look. "Now perhaps you see why I dislike Kiaru." He hesitates. "He must always play the puppeteer. (display: "meddling")Andreas sighs. "He's always meddling... sometimes for good, sometimes for ill. The worst was what he did to Nyora. But come, let's speak of happier topics."
[["Very well." ->verywell]]
[["Why don't you tell me more about swordplay?" ->tellMoreSword]]
[["What did he do to Nyora?" ->whatNyora]]You wake abruptly from an exquisitely pleasurable dream -- or was it a nightmare -- whose details you choose not to recall. Though the air is cool, your body feels flushed with warmth beneath the heavy skins of the bed. The warm, strange ecstasy of your subconscious tugs you back toward slumber, but you fight it off.
(display: "awakening")His eyes, black with hunger, trace fire in your skin. You know you should flee, but your body has its own will, and it twists to meet him. His tongue flickers across your throat, then moves lower, to circle your breast. The gentle touch awakens a piercing yearning, a need so powerful it's almost painful. Your back arches with desire as his hands roam lower and his lips tighten upon a nipple. You bite your lip to repress a moan, feeling his rough beard scrape against your skin.(set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 1)(set: $data's charm to it + 1)
His fingers push aside your silken underwear to stroke the soft, wet hair beneath. As he does so, he looks into your eyes again with the raw honesty of a predator's stare. You know you should tell him to stop, but the words won't come. Slowly, he smiles, and his fingers move lower and harder. Willy-nilly, your body writhes against his hand, the release of desire with every touch like a small explosion. You want to beg for mercy, but need controls you now, and what would mercy mean anyway? His fingers probe deeper, and your body jerks as if electrified, pulling him close, moving harder and faster --
"M'lady?"
His mouth moves across your ribs, licking and biting, tasting every inch of your torso even as his fingers explore your soft folds.
"M'lady, wake up!"
This time, the incongruity fractures your reality. The man vanishes, and your mind slithers painfully through the cracks into daylight.
(display: "awakening")Blearily, you open your eyes. Log walls swim into view. The cabin is bright and warm, aglow with sun-shafts that creep between gaps in the straw thatch and uneven, moss-chinked timber. A swallow darts in through the largest hole in the roof, greeted by a shrill cacophony of hungry nestlings.
(set: $canundo to true)
"M'lady, are you well? Wast moaning in thy sleep." You peer up at the scrawny figure standing over your bed. It's one of the outlaws; you vaguely remember him from last night. He wears a peculiar, pointed hat.
[["Umm, I'm fine, thanks, it was just a nightmare. Err, Norwich, isn't it?"->NorwichIsntIt]]
[["How dare you enter a lady's bedchamber! Begone!" ->howDareEnter]]You look around, uneasily. Kiaru's musical voice holds an inescapable charm, and his gaze seems guileless as ever. But the evasiveness of his answers makes your skin prickle.
Behind you, Norvidge and Grimvold ride side by side, engaged in some private conversation. Andreas's buckskin mare canters ahead, her dark mane flying in the wind. Seeing your glance, he throws you a questioning look.
When your gaze returns to Kiaru, he's watching you speculatively. It's hard to recall his words, but his voice - warm as honey and scintillating as the night sky - is all you need to distract yourself from your suicidal mission.
[["Then you must likewise forgive me. I must speak with Andreas." ->talkToAndreas]]
[["Tell me more about the Sorcerer." ->talkSorcerer]] "Just an abandoned cabin." Andreas's voice is sombre. "Such places are dotted all over the Forest, if one knows where to look. Desperate men flee here, thinking to make a new life in the isolation of the Forest, telling themselves that it cannot be so bad as the rumors say... Some live long enough to leave traces, like this."
[["Where are we, though?" ->whereAreWeAgain]]
[["Is that how you lot came here?" ->howYouCameForest]]"Essentially, yes." Andreas seems disinclined to say more.
Norvidge snorts. "T'was Nyora's doin'. That one and her blind ambitions."
"Aye." Grimvold nods.
[["I guess she is kind of inspiring, in a psychopathic way." ->inspiringPsychopath]]
[["Has there been any sign of her?" ->whereEverybody]]
[["Should we plan the search for Prince Rain?"->planSearchRain]]"Some three hours' ride from where the road enters the outskirts of the forest. That, I suspect is where we'll find Prince Rain, or news of him at least."
[["Has there been any sign of Nyora?" ->whereEverybody]]
[["How are we going to find him?"->planSearchRain]]Andreas inclines his head. "Understood, Highness. Neither my nature nor upbringing make respect an easy concept, but I'll endeavor to show it nonetheless."
(display: "rideFortGreyShard")He grins. "Just don't use it on me. Okay?" (set: $data's likesA to it +1)
[["That would be ungracious, I suppose." ->ungracious]]
[["Oh, please? I need the practice." ->needPractice]]"That said, if you're going to carry a weapon, you should know how to use it." (set: $data's charm to it +1)
[["Will you teach me?" ->learn]]
[["Maybe you can show me later. I'm starving!" ->mountHorses]] He inclines his head. "True."
(set: $data's fight to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it +1)
You barely see his hand move. His blade arcs smoothly from the sheath. You gasp; cool metal touches your throat.
"If you want to avoid *that* happening again."
[["Stop it!" ->stopThat]]
[["Show me how you did that." ->learn]]Smirking, he sheaths his sword and saunters away. (display: "mountHorses")He raises an eyebrow. "You won't learn overnight, Highness. But I'd be more than happy to help you practice." (set: $data's fight to it + 4)
(set: $data's likesA to it +1)
He steps back and tosses his sword aside, smirking as you wrestle your blade from the sheath. "Try to kill me, now."
The hilt weighs cool in your hand. You glare steelily at your opponent's lean, muscular frame. Recalling what he did to you, it's not hard to summon the will to hurt him.
But where to strike? He's yet to don his armor, wearing only a wide-necked shirt and vest whose loose folds highlight the power in his broad chest and shoulders.
You could stab him practically anywhere.
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Fight")(display: "makeDice"): Aim for the chest. ->strikeChest]]
[[Try to figure out what he expects. ->lookUp]]Sheathing your sword, you stomp away. (set: $data's will to it +1)(display: "mountHorses")As you pick up the sword, he approaches. "Like this," he murmurs, wrapping warm hands around yours. (set: $data's likesA to it +2)
The difference is immediate; now the weight of the blade seems to work with you. He guides your strike, his body at your back.
In half an hour, you succeed in reducing a small bush to tatters. Andreas is pleased, but your stomach growls.
Panting, you sheath your sword. (set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 5)
(display: "mountHorses")He shrugs. "You said you wanted to learn, Highness. That's how you learn."
(set: $data's will to it + 1)
[["By you disrespecting me? I think not!" ->disrespect]]
[["Oh, fine." ->learnAgain]] "By setting aside your ego. My opinion of you doesn't matter."
(set: $data's will to it +1)
[["Fine, whatever." ->learnAgain]]
[["Forget it! I didn't come here to be humiliated by a mere brigand." ->forgetIt]] (display: "dice")
(set: $data's fight to it + 1)
Before you can change your mind, you rush at him, slamming the blade into his unprotected chest...
...except his hand flicks up casually as you move. (if: $success is true)[
You try to dodge, but he chops downward, knocking the blade from your hand.
His eyes narrow. "You've an aptitude, Highness."
](else:)[Something stings your wrist, and you cry out. Your sword is lying on the ground, and Andreas's glee is palpable.
Stepping back, he jerks his head, eyes glittering with challenge.]
[["Forget it! This is stupid." ->forgetIt]]
[[Try again. ->learnAgain]]As you hesitate, your eyes flicker upwards.
(set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it +2)
A mistake. His black gaze catches yours. Your cheeks grow hot. His grin widens, tugging at the scar.
You force your gaze downwards, but you can still feel him watching, and his body is scarcely less distracting.
You grip the blade tighter. Focus.
"Are you sure you want to cut me, Highness? There are other sports that two can play."
His mockery tightens your resolve.
Before you can change your mind, you rush at him, slamming the blade into his unprotected chest...
...except his hand flicks up casually as you move.
Something stings your wrist, and you cry out. Your sword is lying on the ground, and Andreas's glee is palpable.
Stepping back, he jerks his head, eyes glittering with challenge.
[["How dare you! I will not tolerate such insolence!" ->noInsolence]]
[["Forget it! This is stupid." ->forgetIt]]
[[Try again. ->learnAgain]](display: "dice")
Twisting, you manage to free one hand. (set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 5) (if: $success is true)[Before he can react, you snatch your blade from its sheath. Agile as a mountain lion, he leaps backward.](else:)[But even as you grasp the hilt of your blade, his hand covers yours.
He raises it to his lips and gently kisses your fingers. Then he pushes you away.]
"Ready to play again, Highness?" he purrs, grinning. He snaps off a slender willow switch and wields it like a sword.
[["We're on a mission, remember?" ->mission]]
[["Oh, I'm *always* ready. Are you?" ->fight]]He sighs. "I suppose you're right."
(display: "historyKiaru")Tightly gripping the hilt of your sword, you lunge toward your opponent. (set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 4)
His eyes widen at your unhesitating attack, and he steps aside with less-than-perfect grace. But he quickly recovers himself, and twists. The switch whips across your ribs. You gasp.
"That was well played," he notes. "Hesitation will kill you."
[["Then why'd you hit me?" ->whyHit]]
[[Attack again. ->attackAgain]]
His eyes narrow. "I wonder if you understand it yourself."
(set: $data's likesR to $data's likesR + 1)
(display: "interruptionFight")This time, the blow catches you on the shoulder. You yelp.
"Because I can. You're in a fight, remember? Don't try to reason with people when they're trying to kill you."
Even as he speaks, he lashes at you again. This time, you manage to evade the switch.
[["Stop it! That's enough!" ->interruptionFight]]
[[Attack again. ->attackAgain]](set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 4) You raise your sword again, eyes locked on Andreas.
(display: "interruptionFight")"Tell me your desire, Highness." (set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 1)
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Fight")(display: "makeDice"): Pull your hand loose and draw your sword.->drawSword]]
[["Tell me yours." ->quiteAPromise]]"Tell me, have you not wondered at Andreas's speech? Oh, I know he claims that he was born to a Khargaian baker, or some such nonsense. But how many baker's sons have such an eye for politics? And his manner of speech -- his accent may be rough, but his vocabulary bespeaks an educated past."
[["Are you implying that a baker's son can't speak well or care for his people's future? How very classist!" ->veryClassist]]
[["What do you mean? Who do you think his mother was, then?" ->thenWho]]
[["Why on earth would he lie about that?" ->whyLie]] "Oh, only in the usual ways. He was quite alone, poor thing, all bones and big, bitter eyes. Quick hands, though, even then." Kiaru chuckles. (display: "whyIntrigued")Kiaru shrugs. "What can I say? Not everyone understands when you're doing them a favor."
[["Well, that's cryptic. You're not going to explain yourself, are you?" ->notExplain]] "Let me tell you instead, the tale of the sorcerer and the ogre's eye."
That tale turns out to be a bawdy joke. Andreas tells it well, but you only half-listen. Instead, you watch him covertly, appreciating how he effortlessly guides the buckskin mare. His bronze complexion matches the beast's hide, and his movements are so fluid that they seem to merge into one huge and powerful animal.
Andreas apparently finds your inattention to his joke insulting, for he follows it with an even more salacious one. He's determined to make you blush, and when he succeeds, you are forced to avenge your honor by reciprocating.
The afternoon passes quickly.
(display: "approach")He grins wickedly. "As you wish, highness." He launches into a detailed explanation of different weapons.
You learn a good deal, but find your teacher distracting. His bronze complexion matches the buckskin mare's hide, and his movements are so fluid that they seem to merge into one huge and powerful animal. (set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 3)
The afternoon passes quickly.
(display: "approach")The men look at you in surprise. You spoke before you had thought your plan through; now you must compose it on the fly.
Drawing a deep breath, you continue:
(set: $data's will to it + 1)(set: $data's persuade to it + 2)
(display: "betterIdeaSeline")The men look at you in surprise. You flush. Where did those words come from? You have no idea what to say next.
(if: $data's deceive > 4)[But if there's one skill you've practiced diligently in life, it's spontaneous fabrication.
]As the men stare, you blurt out:
(display: "betterIdeaSeline")The men look at one another uncertainly. Andreas nods. "That would be ideal. But how will you do it?"
You give them your best reassuring smile, one you perfected with years of mirror-work.
[["Easy. I walk up to the castle gate and announce that I've just escaped from my horrible kidnappers with your help. Sir Raddibore will be obliged to welcome you as heroes." ->easy]]
[["Leave that to me." ->leaveToMe]]Norvidge snorts, and Andreas raises an eyebrow. "We don't exactly *look* like heroes. What makes you think you can convince him?"
(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
[["I don't need to convince him. I'm the Crown Princess. He won't dare challenge my words." ->noNeed]]
[["Believe me, *that* won't be a problem." ->noProblem]]"What sane man would?" Kiaru smiles.
(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
Andreas shrugs. "And then what?"
[["After that, your men can locate Rain whilst I distract Sir Raddibore." ->distract]]
[["I'll see to it that Sir Raddibore frees Prince Rain." ->makeRadFreeRain]]Nobody questions your talents in that direction, at least.
(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
Andreas's frown lingers. "Highness, are you sure about this? If you're caught, Rain will die along with me and my men, and you'll probably spend the next decade locked in Castle Stelgarte's highest tower."
(display: "norvidgeGrumbles")Norvidge and Grimvold look dubious. Andreas meets your eyes; it's hard not to falter under that steady, questioning look. Kiaru looks away, but you sense delight in his sidelong glance.
(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Persuade")(display: "makeDice"): "Trust me. I grew up around men like Raddibore. I can wrap him around my little finger." ->trustMeWrap]]
[["Well, if you must know, I intend to walk up to the castle gate and announce that I've just escaped from my horrible kidnappers with your help. Sir Raddibore will be obliged to welcome you as heroes." ->easy]]Andreas's stare is hard. "If you fail, my men's lives hang in the balance. Among other things. Do you understand what you're asking of us?"
(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Persuade")(display: "makeDice"): "Trust me. I grew up around men like Raddibore. I can wrap him around my little finger." ->trustMeWrap]]
[["All I need to do is distract Sir Raddibore while you locate Rain." ->norvidgeGrumbles]](display: "dice")(set: $data's deceive to $data's deceive + 2)(set: $data's persuade to it + 2)(set: $data's charm to it + 2)
(if: $success is true)[(display: "goodPlan")](else:)[(display:"norvidgeGrumbles")]"But why *should* we believe you?" Norvidge shakes his head.
(set: $data's will to it + 1)
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Persuade")(display: "makeDice"): "Trust me. I grew up around men like Raddibore. I can wrap him around my little finger." ->trustMeWrap]]
[["All I need to do is distract Sir Raddibore while you locate Rain." ->norvidgeGrumbles]]"Fort Greyshard."
You dredge your memory, recovering the information that this is a grim castle guarding the foothills north of the Twisted Forest. Its lord is Sir Raddibore Yellowtooth, a sour-breathed old man who once cornered you for several hours bragging about his extensive rutabaga crops. You shudder.
"Damn!" Andreas swears.
Kiaru's teeth gleam. "Come, Andreas, don't be greedy. Isn't stealing one royal scion enough for you?"
"That's hardly the point!" snaps Andreas.
"Perhaps I might assist?"
Andreas gives him a bleak look. "How, exactly?"
"Well, among other things, I could check the ceiling for potential ambushes."
Andreas's scowl deepens, even as Kiaru grins wickedly. You have to admit you are impressed. In all your attempts to needle Andreas, you've never succeeded half so well as the green-eyed vagabond. Perhaps you should ask him his secret.
[["Don't be silly, Andreas. We need all the help we can get." ->weNeedKiaru]]
[[(set: $difficulty to (8 + 4*($data's likesK/10)))(set: $skill_name to "Will")(display: "makeDice"): "I don't mean to be rude, but *why* would a wandering bard want to help a band of outlaws free a wanted criminal?" ->whyKiaruHelp]]"He's alive, at least. Nobody wishes to ruin the King's plans for a public execution." Kiaru's eyes linger on you mockingly. "Though possibly a little the worse for wear."
"Where are they taking him?" demands Andreas.
(display: "whereRain")Kiaru laughs. "With pleasure, Highness."
His long green eyes move lazily over you, warm as sunlight on your skin. The stories he tells you seem to have no beginning and no end, yet all the time he holds you enthralled, painting ancient times and glittering cities, scenes of murder and betrayal. The Sorcerer moves through each tale half-glimpsed, kind and cruel, merciless and mercurial, sly and unobtrusive, shaping all to his will.
At last you realize he's fallen silent. To your surprise, you see that the sun is westering, and the feet of the pillowy hills are wreathed in shadows, though their heads shine golden. They remind you of something in Kiaru's tales, but when you reach for it, you discover you cannot recall a single word.
(display: "arriveFortress")By the time you approach the keep, the sun is westering, and the feet of the pillowy hills are wreathed in shadows, though their heads shine golden. (display: "arriveFortress")(display: "dice")(set: $data's deceive to it + 3)(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
You burst into tears, sobbing loudly. Sir Raddibore puts an arm around you, engulfing you in noxious fumes, and rubs your back with lascivious glee. "Now, now, my dear," he says. (if: $success is true)["There's no need to take on so, really. You've admitted your mistake, and that's what matters."
You nod tearfully.
"I must say, it is unfortunate that you fell in with that ill-bred Saragaian lad. Really, you cannot be blamed - such trusting naivete is quite natural, even appropriate, in a young lady. I told your father, many times - but he *would* let you have your way in everything, and this is what comes of it. I'm sure young Rain promised you the stars and moon, didn't he? Before he so cruelly seduced and abandoned you? But don't fret, my dear. The scoundrel shall pay for his crimes."
Unable to tolerate the stench, you dab at your eyes and move away. He keeps his hand on your back as long as possible, then stares at you beadily.](else:)["All these waterworks aren't nearly as convincing as you imagine. You must think me quite the sentimental old fool. But the fact of the matter is, you're in need of much firmer handling, and for your father's sake, I've resolved to take on the task." He emits a wheezy chuckle, eyeing you with lascivious contempt.]
(display: "continueConvRad")(display: "dice")(set: $data's deceive to it + 3)(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
(if: $success is true)[(set: $data's likesY to it +3)"Oh, yes. I can only imagine. Indeed, it must have been quite *terrifying*. You poor, innocent thing." Sir Raddibore licks his lips. Then his gaze shoots sideways. "Still, one can't help but wonder... ](else:)["Oh-ho, were you indeed? Let's be frank, my dear. This was no kidnapping, was it? Oh, don't look so shocked. You can trust Sir Raddibore with your secrets. That is one of the advantages of an experienced man. ](display: "moreWine")More wine, Your Highness?"
In your nervous state, you've been gulping wine. That will not help with your facade, nor will it improve your judgement. You allow him to refill your cup, but resolve to tip it in a pot-plant at the first chance. Unfortunately, this room contains no pot-plants.
"Now, Highness, I'm sure you understand, there have been all sorts of rumors flying around -- you know how rumors are, and naturally I don't pay any mind to them, nasty things, but even so, Highness, it does make one wonder..."
You hope Andreas is making the most of this opportunity. You're not sure you can tolerate much more of this conversation.
He fixes you with a pale, beady eye. "You see, Highness, love can make a young lady do strange things. Things she might... regret. Things that go against her better judgement, against her conscience... even..." he hesitates dramatically, "against her country."
[["What exactly are you suggesting?" ->whatSuggestingRaddibore]]
[["I will not listen to such imputations!" ->whatSuggestingRaddibore]]
[[(set: $difficulty to 10 - $data's likesY)(set: $skill_name to "Deceive")(display: "makeDice"): "Oh, dear Sir Raddibore! I've been such a fool! Will you truly help me, after everything I've done?" ->fool]]You awaken as the girl wheels in a stand of elegant dresses that would have been the height of fashion in Stelgarte thirty years ago. Selecting the least cumbersome, your conceal your sword-belt beneath a flowing cape.
Much refreshed, if a little retro-styled, you return to the great hall. You find the tables groaning, laden with roasted pig, a whole peacock, loaves of fresh-baked bread, odorous cheeses and piles of early grapes and pomegranates. Whatever you might think of Yellowtooth, he does not starve his guests.
Something wet nudges your hand from beneath the table. You look down, into the amber eyes of the russet hound. His ears flicker up and down, as he looks from you to a large ham-bone on the side table.
[[Give the dog a bone. ->giveGervainBone]]
[[Ignore him. ->ignoreGervain]]Sir Raddibore gives you an oily smile. "But of course, my dear. It would be my pleasure."(set: $data's likesY to it +3)
(set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's charm to it +2)
(display: "bath")He calls over a guard, and whispers something in his ear. A frown crosses the guard's face, then the man strides from the room with alacrity.
Servants bustle around you, setting up trestles, platters and barrels of drink. One young maid leads you to a private room containing a steaming bathtub.
Gratefully, you sink into the warm water. The girl rubs your shoulders with soothing oils redolent of exotic herbs; after your long ride, the sensation is ecstatic. Your limbs loosen and your eyelids grow heavy.
[[Wake up. ->wakeUp2]]Could it have fallen off in the bath? Quietly, you slip back to the private room to search. But it's nowhere to be found. Neither is the maid.
Returning to the great hall, you find Sir Raddibore glaring at his cup in dissatisfaction. (display: "grumpRad")It's not like the locket really has magical powers. It can't help you now. Still, you feel lost without it. Somehow, as long as you wore it, you could feel your mother's spirit watching over you.
An angry snort brings you back to reality. Sir Raddibore is glaring at his cup in dissatisfaction. (display: "grumpRad")Abruptly Raddibore slams his fist upon the boards, and hurls the wine to the floor. "Fools!" he shouts. "Did I not command you to bring my finest southern vintage?"
The servants scurry away like frightened chickens. One returns, shoves a wineskin into the old man's hand, and flees.
He shakes his head. "Cowards. I should hang the lot of them."
Then his face brightens. "Listen up!" He thumps his fist again, until the chatter dies down. "All you men, you loyal soldiers. You've worked hard, these last days. You've captured the Prince of Saragai. Something to be proud of, eh? Well, maybe. While you were all chasing down one frightened boy, what do you think was happening to your Crown Princess? You know, don't you, lads? *Unspeakable* things."
The soldiers whisper and chuckle at his words.
You shoot to your feet, blood boiling. But as you move, you're caught by Kiaru's green gaze. Suddenly self-conscious, you hesitate.
[["Sir Raddibore! This is a slander upon the Crown. You will take back those words, or face the fury of the King!" ->attackRaddibore]]
[[Bite your tongue and sit down. ->sayNothingRaddiboreSlander]]"Everything they could! Nonsense! I expect much, much better from them. But, no matter. This is no topic for the dinner table."
(set: $data's deceive to it + 1)
Slowly, the hum of conversation resumes, though you hear much bitter grumbling from Raddibore's men. Only Norvidge and Grimvold seem to be enjoying the party. (display: "partyOn")Soon, they call on Kiaru for a song, and he obliges with a rollicking, tuneless ballad.
After a few more glasses, Sir Raddibore pulls you aside. "Highness," he mutters. Neither his smell nor his coherency are improved by wine. "I'd appreciate a word with you in private."
You can hardly refuse your host, so you trail after him, hoping that the discussion will not be entirely about rutabagas.
He leads you to a small drawing room and shuts the door, standing a moment to listen at the jamb before he collapses into a comfortable-looking armchair. You perch opposite. Raddibore's pale eyes bore into you.
"So, tell me more about this kidnapping, Highness. The more, err, detailed information you can give us, the better our chances of catching these fiends."
You hesitate. Kiaru's back story had included no such details, and one of Raddibore's men could be interrogating Andreas right now.
[["It wasn't Rain who kidnapped me. He's innocent. You have to let him go!" ->innocentRain]]
[[(set: $difficulty to 10 - $data's likesY)(set: $skill_name to "Deceive")(display: "makeDice"): "In truth, sir, I was so very frightened, I recall nothing that could assist your investigation." ->scaredTellRaddibore]]
[["That, Sir Raddibore, is not your concern. I will speak to the King's soldiers when they arrive; they shall hunt down these vermin with ease." ->refuseTellRaddibore]]Sir Raddibore gasps, drawing himself up. "Your Highness! I beg your pardon. I most certainly did not intend any disrespect to your father's name."
(set: $data's will to it + 1)(set: $data's likesY to it -3)
You can still feel Kiaru's eyes on you. You sense his slight, jarring smile.
[["I understand, Sir Raddibore. You must be most disappointed." ->disappointed]]
[[(set: $difficulty to (8 + 4*($data's likesK/10)))(set: $skill_name to "Will")(display: "makeDice"): "Unacceptable, Sir Raddibore. My father will hear of this." ->fatherWillHear]]"Indeed I am, Your Highness, indeed I am. But, no matter. This is no topic for the dinner table."
Slowly, the hum of conversation resumes, though you hear much bitter grumbling from Raddibore's men. Only Norvidge and Grimvold seem to be enjoying the party. (display: "partyOn")(display: "dice")
(set: $data's will to it +1)
(if: $success is true)[Sir Raddibore's eyes grow frosty, but he gives you a jackal-like, subservient grin. "Oh, yes. I am sure he will, Highness."
(set: $data's likesY to it -3)
Slowly, the hum of conversation resumes, though you hear much bitter grumbling from Raddibore's men. Only Norvidge and Grimvold seem to be enjoying the party. (display: "partyOn")](else:)[As you start to speak, Kiaru's eyes harden, his half-smile widening into a tight flash of teeth. Flustered, you hesitate - and realise the stupidity of alienating Raddibore.
[["I understand, Sir Raddibore. You must be most disappointed." ->disappointed]]]"Oh-ho, innocent you say? Well, you are right about one thing. Let's be frank, my dear. This was no kidnapping, was it? Oh, don't look so shocked. You can trust Sir Raddibore with your secrets. That is one of the advantages of an experienced man. (display: "moreWine")(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)Andreas grimaces. "That's what you were talking about?"
[["I'm starting to see why you dislike him." ->meddling]]
[["Never mind. Can you tell me more about swordplay?" ->tellMoreSword]](if: $canundo)[
(link-undo:"Undo")]Opening the door, you gasp. New shades of green sparkle all around; every leaf and petal glimmers with dew. Sunrays slice yellow through the mist, illuminating mosses, ferns and tiny flowers growing at the base of hundred-foot trees. Through the canopy filter chittering and whistling sounds.
"Do you like the Forest, Highness?" You jump, though Andreas's voice is soft.
[["It's beautiful!" ->forestBeautiful]]
[["It's treacherous. Nothing that pretty should be full of monsters." ->forestTreacherous]]A horn sounds within. The portcullis rises with a ghastly screech, and a portly, ornately robed figure emerges, surrounded by three tall knights. Evidently you have been under observation for some time. Sir Raddibore raises his arms in a welcoming gesture, then gives you a deep bow which exposes a scraggly grey and balding scalp. His knights kneel.
"Your Highness." His voice wheezes and crackles with age. "Words cannot express my delight at seeing you return unharmed." He smirks, revealing a motley array of blackening teeth and gilded substitutes. His eyes remain still and cold as a reptile's.
You slither gracelessly from Blueberry's back. It's time to play your part.
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Deceive")(display: "makeDice"): Run to him and throw your arms around his neck, weeping. ->affectionRaddibore]]
[["Sir Raddibore, I thank you. I regret I must ask your hospitality this night, for these men and myself." ->regretAskingHospitalityRaddibore]]{
(if: $recap is 1)[*Over dinner and a bath in his tent, the kidnapper Andreas revealed that the heir presumptive of Saragai, Prince Rain's brother Morael, is missing, presumed murdered by King Torveld of Thronheim. Torveld plans to execute Rain as well. Despite his growing feelings for Seline, Andreas hopes to prevent a war between Saragai and Thronheim by engineering a marriage between Rain and Seline. But the outlaw queen Nyora still intends to sell Seline to the Sorcerer. Seline agreed to Andreas's plan. Late at night, they fled from Nyora's camp, going in search of Rain with two friends of Andreas.*
<p style="color:red">Skills: Deceive (print: ($data's deceive/10).toFixed(1)) | Persuade (print: ($data's persuade/10).toFixed(1)) | Charm (print: ($data's charm/10).toFixed(1)) | Will (print: ($data's will/10).toFixed(1)) | Fight (print: ($data's fight/10).toFixed(1))</p style>
<p style="color:red">Relationships: Tertia (print: ($data's likesT/10).toFixed(1)) | Andreas (print: ($data's likesA/10).toFixed(1)) | Rain (print: ($data's likesR/10).toFixed(1)) | Nyora (print: ($data's likesN/10).toFixed(1)) | Morael (print: ($data's likesM/10).toFixed(1)) | Kiaru (print: ($data's likesK/10).toFixed(1)) </p style>
-----]
(else:)[
(link: "Show recap")[
(set: $recap to 1)
(replace: ?recap)[(display: "recap")]
]
]
}{
(if: $show_roll_details is 1)[$skill_name: $recorded_ability | Difficulty: $recorded_difficulty | Roll: $roll | Total = (print: ($recorded_ability).toFixed(1)) + $roll = $total | (if: $success is true)[$total >= $recorded_difficulty: Success!](else:)[$total < $recorded_difficulty: Failure :(]
]
(else:)[
(link: "Show roll details?")[(set: $show_roll_details to 1)
(replace: ?roll_details)[(display: "Roll_details")]
]
]
}(set: $roll to $randarray's ($array_position))(set: $array_position to it + 1)(set: $total to $ability + $roll)(set: $recorded_difficulty to $difficulty)(set: $recorded_ability to $ability)(set: $recorded_skill_name to $skill_name)(if: true)[(set: $success to true)Success!](else:)[(set: $success to false)Failure :(] |roll_details>[(display: "Roll_details")](set: $show_roll_details to 0)(if: $skill_name is "Deceive")[(set: $ability to $data's deceive/10)](elseif: $skill_name is "Fight")[(set: $ability to $data's fight/10)](elseif: $skill_name is "Charm")[(set: $ability to $data's charm/10)](elseif: $skill_name is "Will")[(set: $ability to $data's will/10)](elseif: $skill_name is "Persuade")[(set: $ability to $data's persuade/10)](else:)[Error: unknown skill] $skill_name (Skill $ability)(display: "dice")
(set: $data's will to it +1)
(if: $success is true)[Kiaru inclines his head. "That is very true, your Highness." But his eyes follow yours with fascination, not submission.
(display: "planRescueRain")](else:)[(display: "singKiaru")](display: "dice")
(if: $success is true)[(display: "equalTone")](else:)[(display: "commandingTone")]