##Chapter 2
#Andreas (set: $tellMeCounter to 0)
|Recap>[(display: "recap")]
The tall warrior stands, arms folded, in the middle of your tower bedroom. His dark eyes gleam, taking in the ornate bed with its sun-drenched counterpane, the mirrored dresser, bookshelf and chest. Finally, they settle upon you. (set: $who_is_andreas to 0)
You back away, almost to the edge of the bed.
[["Wh..who are you?"->whoAndreas]]
[["You have exactly one minute to explain why I shouldn't summon my guards and have you beheaded."->explainWhy]]
[[Scream. ->Scream1]](set: $who_is_andreas to 1)He laughs, and removes his helm with a mocking flourish. You choke back a gasp as the memories flood back.
(set: $canundo to true)
Though it's been almost a year since that day in the woods, you've never forgotten those wide, bleak eyes in which you glimpsed a predatory hunger. His bronzed complexion might have been handsome once. But it's twisted by a pale scar that sweeps from one brow, across the bridge of the nose, and down the cheek almost to his lip.
Your cheeks burn as you recall how you (if: $data's fantasyA is 1)[thought of him just hours ago.](else:)[fought to banish him from your thoughts.] In real life, he's far more intimidating than you recalled, and also far more magnetic. Flustered, your gaze drops -- and snags on the opening of his shirt, which reveals a tantalizing glimpse of the sculpted muscles around his collarbone.
His broad shoulders are covered by an old jerkin of metal-studded leather, heavily scratched and scuffed. Gauntlets shield his forearms, but his knotted biceps are bare. A battered sheath houses a short sword hanging from his belt. The tight lines of his leggings strain against muscular thighs.
When you look up, he's watching you with the intensity of a stalking cat, a lopsided smile on his lips.
He holds your gaze until you look away in confusion, then bows with grace.
"Andreas de Silvio, at your service, Highness. Natural son of Marquis Cadmire, a minor noble who lost his life in your father's war on Saragai. I was never acknowledged, and so his lands reverted to the Crown. Consequently I have enjoyed the free life of an adventurer, soldier of fortune, and lord of the woods."
[["Liar. Why do you have an accent if you were born here?" ->whyAccent]]
[["You make light of it, but it sounds like you have suffered a grave injustice." ->injustice]](display: "dice")
His eyes gleam as he moves closer, towering over you. They're very dark eyes, almost all iris, like the eyes of a beast. (set: $data's deceive to it + 1) (set: $data's charm to it + 1) (set: $data's persuade to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)
"Thank you, princess," Andreas purrs. (if: $musk is 0)[(set: $musk to 1)He smells of leather and steel, and something wilder, a musky odour that makes your legs tremble.](else:)[His musk makes your legs tremble.] (if: $success is true)["I prefer to stand. Unless you'd care to lie down with me?"
[["Do I have a choice?"->sexChoice]]
[["I can't. Father would freak out if he knew." ->cantFreak]]](else:)["It's an enticing offer, but we'd best be going. Let's continue this discussion when we're less likely to be interrupted."
He grabs a cloak from the closet and tosses it in your direction.
[["Going? What do you mean?" ->"Proceed where?"]]]The big warrior stretches languidly, with all the self-satisfaction of a cat. (set: $data's will to it + 1)
(set: $canundo to true)
(display:"whyNotScream")His tongue flickers across his lips like a reptile's. Smiling, he asks:
"Do you want a choice?"
[["Yes."->rejectAndreas]]
[[(set: $difficulty to (6 - ($data's likesA/4)))(set: $skill_name to "Charm")(display: "makeDice"): "No."->sex1]]"I am sure that's true." Andreas sighs. "And little girls should always obey their Dads. At least, if they don't want to get eaten up by a big, bad and very hungry wolf." You catch the gleam of his teeth as he says the last words. (set: $data's wolfA to 1)
(set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 2)
[["I'm not a little girl!"]]
[["Would the wolf really eat me up?"]]"I see." His eyes glint with amusement as he steps away from you. Clearly this is all just a game to him. "Let me know if you change your mind."
[["You still have not told me your intentions here, Andreas." ->"Proceed where?"]]
[["Leave now, Andreas, or your life will be forfeit." ->leaveNow]]He snorts. "Oh, clearly. My mistake. Obviously you're a mature woman who just can't do anything without asking Daddy first."
(set: $data's will to it + 1)
[["How dare you speak so disrespectfully to the Crown Princess!"->respectYourPrincess]]
[["That is SO not fair! You know perfectly well what I'm talking about." ->fairPoint]] He steps back, raising his hands. "My apologies, Your Highness. Please be assured I intended no disrespect. I mistakenly believed you were enjoying our little game." (set: $data's will to it + 2)
[["Nonsense. I was just trying to catch you off guard."->rejectAndreas]]
[["I kind of was, to be honest. But if anyone found out I were fooling around with a strange warrior in my bedchamber, well, my life would be over! Father would send me to a convent." ->kindOfWas]]He moves closer, gazing into your eyes. The gleam of sunlight from the window slants across his irises, revealing that they are not black after all, but deep brown, like a forest river tumbling over black stone. (set: $data's deceive to it + 3) (set: $data's charm to it + 2)(set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 3)
He cups your face in his hands, and his voice is husky. "I'd set you upon my midnight stallion, and we'd ride for hours, deep into the forest where nobody would ever find us. I'd carry you to a mossy mound where the leaves sway beneath a thousand stars."
As he speaks, his hands move lightly across your body, hesitating at your throat, then roving downwards(if: $settings's censored is 1)[.](else:)[, flickering across a taut nipple and circling your breast. Every touch sparks a line of fire.
]"I'd strip away your black habit and dress you all in forest flowers. I'd pluck from earth the secret lilies that glow in the dead of night, and make you a crown of them."
His hands move lower(if: $settings's censored is 1)[ still.](else:)[, into the fold of your skirt, and then inside your silken panties, stroking the soft hair inside. Wetness surges there.]
(set: $touching to 1)
"You'd be my outlaw queen, and hunt with me whereever we please. I'd teach you to use a crossbow. Kings and merchants would be naught but prey to us. And when we tired of sporting with them, we'd return to our safe hideaway in the greenwood."
[[(set: $difficulty to (6 - ($data's likesA/4)))(set: $skill_name to "Charm")(display: "makeDice"): "So... do I have to become a nun to make this happen?" ->nunsOnly]]
[["Sounds fun, but I think I'll stick with being a princess." ->rejectAndreas]] Andreas shrugs. "Your father's no saint, Highness. Do you have any idea how difficult things are for ordinary people? It's their taxes that pay for your silk dresses. And what do they get in return? Their sons slaughtered and crops burned in wars, roads plagued with bandits..."
(set: $data's will to it + 1)
Anger flares in you at his harsh words. But in truth, similar whispers have been bandied about the Court for years. The only difference is that he states it baldly.
[["Bandits like *you*. Are you seriously trying to claim the moral high ground here?"->"Bandits like you"]]
[["I'm trying! That's why I go out into the city. To know the common people and understand their troubles."->understandCommoners]]"Your Highness, forgive me asking, but did you actually think drugging and kidnapping the Crown Princess wasn't treason?"
His casual tone chills you as much as the words themselves. You covertly glance around the room, but no weapons have magically materialized. The crystal vase remains out of reach. (if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[The only attack you can think of is to hurl a jar of perfume at Andreas.]
[["Wait, this is a kidnapping?"->waitKidnapping]]
[["As I understand it, a kidnapping is primarily a business matter. It's entirely different from slandering the Crown, which is rude, and, frankly, unneccessary."]]
[["You fiend! You'll never get away with this!" ->notGetAway]]
(if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[[[Throw perfume. ->throwPerfume]]] (set: $kidnapping to 1)"Oh, naturally. Why wouldn't you?" he growls, staring into the distance. (set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's persuade to it + 1) (set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)
[["I had no part in what was done to your family, Andreas. At least your life is your own." ->fairPoint]]
[[(set: $difficulty to (6 - ($data's likesA/4)))(set: $skill_name to "Charm")(display: "makeDice"): "It must have been tiring breaking through all that stone. Would you like to sit down?"->mustBeTiring]](set: $data's persuade to it + 1)"My apologies, Your Highness. I am merely repeating what's said on every street corner in the city. But since you do not wish to know of such things, let us return to more cheerful topics. Like me kidnapping you."
[["You fiend! You'll never get away with this!" ->notGetAway]]
(if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[[[Throw perfume. ->throwPerfume]]] (set: $kidnapping to 1)He winces. "For her brilliant insight and sunny disposition, presumably. I'm sure there couldn't possibly be any other reason."(set: $knowsSorcerer to 1)
(if: $knowsSaragai is 1)[[["Oh, that makes perfect sense. Well, don't expect to get away with this! I'll fight you every step of the way, Andreas!" ->doNotQuestionKing]]](else:)[[["Oh, that makes perfect sense. How about King Estevan? Same?" ->whoKingSaragai]]]
[["I get the feeling you know more than you're letting on."->liar]]His gaze darkens. "There is no moral high ground here, Highness. You have no idea what it's like outside these castle walls. Last winter was hard... So yes, the life of an outlaw becomes attractive." (set: $data's will to it + 1)
[["At least you're not a prisoner in your own home. Even when I'm not literally locked in a tower, most days the most important decision I'm allowed to make is eggs or toast for breakfast."->freePrincess]]
[["I believe you. My life here is far too sheltered. That's why I keep going out into the city, even at the expense of my reputation. Don't you see? It's the only way I'll ever know what things are like for the common people. How else can I learn to rule fairly and wisely?"->understandCommoners]](set: $whyAccent to 1)Andreas shrugs. "I didn't say I was born here. My mother lived in Khargai."
Khargai. Of course. Now you recognize those grating consonants. Your tutor used to call it the tongue of swords. But the outlaw's voice has a music of its own, thrilling in its harshness, like the caress of a lion's tongue.
You frown, banishing distraction, and regain your focus. Where was Khargai again? Wasn't it one of the provinces Father bragged about conquering in his glorious youth? Or was it the one that got away?
[["Khargai? The vampire-infested swamp in the far south of Saragai?" ->vampSwamp]]
[["Ah, Khargai. Excellent vineyards, I'm told. Karghaian wine is the pride of Saragai." ->vineyards]]Andreas runs one finger down the scar, still grinning. "By being slow. I'm faster now." The taut, pale flesh gleams disturbingly against his bronzed skin, and there's a cleft in his eyebrow where the scar runs through. Millimeters deeper, and he'd have lost an eye.
You're staring. Your cheeks grow warm. You try to look away, but his onyx-dark eyes capture your gaze, their corners crinkling with amusement.
"You can look at me as much as you wish, Your Highness. I find your gaze quite enjoyable."
He waits for a response, but you're tongue-tied. His words are presumptuous, but you can't deny there's something compelling in that leonine physique. Even the striking asymmetry of the scar makes your spine tingle. How would that tight skin feel under your fingers?
He looks at you sidelong. "Would you like to touch it?" (set: $data's deceive to $data's deceive + 1)
[[Touch the scar.]]
[["Ugh, no thanks."->rejectAndreas]]
[["I can see you've led a difficult life."->soundsTough]]You still feel shy, but the invitation is irresistable. Your heart pounds. Close up, he seems even taller. His musky scent, suffused with leather and steel, makes your nostrils flare. (set: $data's deceive to it + 1) (set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 2)(set: $musk to 1)
You reach up to trace the pale line where it crosses his cheek. It's smoother than the surrounding flesh. He's breathing hard, and his gaze burns into you. You can taste his breath, a dark honeyed savor upon your tongue.
When you raise your eyes to meet his, an electric jolt runs through your core. Your body wants to melt against his lean form.
[[Break eye contact and step away.->rejectAndreas]]
[[Stay where you are.]]
[["You've led a difficult life, haven't you?"->soundsTough]]He shrugs, grimacing.(set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)
"Eh, Highness, my life's no worse than most. I'm a free man. I've a horse and a blade, a mossy bed in the greenwood by day, and the pleasures of the hunt by night. And I thank my father daily for teaching me the foolishness of scruples. Don't pity me, pity your innocent commoners, who follow their King like lambs, when to him, they're naught but meat and fleece."
[["How dare you show such disrespect for the Crown!" ->respectYourPrincess]]
[["I do not pity you, Andreas. If anything, I envy your freedom." ->peopleSuffer]] "Oh yes, princess. He would enjoy it immensely. To him, you look positively delectable." His eyes rove lazily across your body. "He would start by licking you from head to toe, enjoying the way you squirmed when he touched your most tender parts." (set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 1)
He steps closer to you as he speaks, and his nostrils flare, inhaling your scent. His eyes are wide and black, and his voice drops to a whisper. "He would nibble at your soft throat(if: $settings's censored is 0)[, nip at your breasts, and then he would] lick(if: $settings's censored is 1)[ing] you(if: $settings's censored is 0)[r most tender parts] lovingly, again and again, playfully at first, and then more deeply, until your squeals changed from fear to ecstasy, and then at last he would devour you."
(if: $sex1 is 0 and $hitAndreas is 0)[[[(set: $difficulty to (6 - ($data's likesA/4)))(set: $skill_name to "Charm")(display: "makeDice"): "I think I want him to eat me up."->sex1]]
][["Yikes. That's really not how you should speak to a Crown Princess."->respectYourPrincess]] "I believe I was about to drug you and abduct you. Unless you've other plans, of course."
His casual tone chills you as much as the words themselves. You covertly glance around the room, but no weapons have magically materialized. (if: $vase is 0)[(if: not ((history:) contains "hitAndreas"))[The crystal vase remains out of reach.]]
(else:)[(if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[[[Throw perfume. ->throwPerfume]]
]][["You fiend! You'll never get away with this!" ->notGetAway]]
[["Wait, this is a kidnapping?"->waitKidnapping]] (set: $kidnapping to 1)
[["Uh, actually I do. Have other plans, I mean." ->otherPlans]]Andreas cocks an eyebrow. "I suppose you're right, that was a touch unfair. Then again, I am, as you have observed, a traitor and an outlaw. Perhaps *unfairness* from me should be the least of your fears." (set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)
He moves closer to you, his eyes wide and dark as he studies you with renewed interest. (if: $musk is 0)[You're trembling.](else:)[His scent surrounds you.] There's nowhere to run. (if: $musk is 0)[(set: $musk to 1)You breathe in his musky scent, mingled with leather and steel.]
[["What else should I fear?"->fearWhat]]
[["How dare you speak so to a Royal Princess!" ->respectYourPrincess]] He leans over you, lifting your chin with one finger to examine your face. Sunlight catches his irises: they are not black at all, but deep brown flecked with gold, like a clear river. (set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 3) (set: $data's deceive to $data's deceive + 1)(set: $data's charm to it + 1)
Your willpower melts away as his gaze traps you. His expression is almost tormented, suspended between hunger and restraint like a starving man at a feast. Undirected, your body responds, leaning closer.
He pulls you tight against him to stroke your hair. Then his hands rove lower, gently sliding over your back, down your spine(if: $settings's censored is 0)[ to your buttocks].
He maneuvers you back toward the bed, leaning over you, his predatory gaze still locked upon yours. (set: $touching to 1)
"Princess," he murmurs, "perhaps what you should fear is also what you most desire."
[[(set: $difficulty to (6 - ($data's likesA/4)))(set: $skill_name to "Charm")(display: "makeDice"): "I think I want to find out."->sex1]]
[["Let's not find out."->rejectAndreas]]The muscular warrior pulls a vial of blue liquid from a concealed pocket and dabs it on a handkerchief. You cringe as he looms over you, but there's nowhere to run.
You flail at him, kicking and scratching, and he gasps as your nails connect. Quick as a fox, he pins your wrists with one hand whilst the other thrusts the damp handkerchief against your mouth and nostrils.
The cloth has a pungent herbal smell, somewhere between licorice and kelp. You're dizzy, your limbs heavy as lead. You can't focus; everything is fuzzy, as if underwater.
Somewhere far away, you hear Andreas's voice, soft and gentle though his hands bind you hard as iron. "Don't be afraid. You'll sleep for two days, and when you awaken, you'll be safe in the forest."
The room whirls around you, and stars burst from the walls, blazing like supernovas. Then the light turns to red-gold surf in which you tumble until you dissolve into darkness.
-----
(display: "skills")<script>window.StrayHeirs.createChapter(3)</script>
(print: "<a href=\"ch3.html\">Chapter 3</a>")
(print: "<a href=\"index.html\">Go to Contents Page</a>")Andreas gives a derisive snort. "Stalking? That was hardly necessary, Highness. Every street in Splashglass Harbor is abuzz right now with news of the royal hellion's latest escapade. It's so romantic! The people are torn between sympathy for the star-crossed lovers, and outrage at your scandalous lack of propriety. Not to mention your cruelty to your poor, long-suffering handmaiden. Naturally, your servants relish sharing every morsel."
You are shocked into silence.
He chuckles. "Did you really think you could fool anyone with that ridiculous disguise? Highness, your mannerisms, your speech -- every move betrays you. Your people are not idiots."
At last you find your voice.
[["How dare you repeat such gossip! Rain and I are definitely not lovers."->notLovers]]
[["How dare they talk so! Don't they respect the Crown?"->peopleRespectCrown]]
[["Which servants? My father shall know of this treachery."->whichServants]]He raises an eyebrow. "Oh, I'm glad to hear that. He's quite a loyal friend, isn't he? Perhaps poor Tertia stands a chance after all."
(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)
[["Tertia? Surely you don't think Rain could care for that faithless tattletale?"->cruelToTertia]]
[["Not if I have the little viper beheaded, she won't."->beheadTertia]](set: $insultedCrown to 1)Though his tone remains light, Andreas' mouth twists with bitterness. "King Torveld is respected as he deserves, Highness. After all, where would your people be without royalty? They'd have nobody to demand half their income in taxes, or haul them off to die in jail for trivial crimes. Their sons would have no far-off wars to die in, and their fields wouldn't get burnt and pillaged regularly. Where's the fun in that?"(set: $data's will to it + 1)
(if: $kingNotSaint is 0)[[["What? How dare you say such things about your King?" ->kingNotSaint]]]
[["Are you suggesting that's what all our servants think? Even Tertia?"->cruelToTertia]](set: $whichServants to 1)He chuckles. "All of them, Highness. Don't you understand? As far as the people are concerned, one of the few compensations of having a royal family is the opportunity for endless gossip. To be fair, your sweet Tertia has always kept loyally silent until now. I've no idea what you said to her this morning, but apparently it drove her over the edge."
[["What, Tertia? That cowardly little tattle-tale?"->cruelToTertia]]
[["How dare they talk so! Don't they respect the Crown?"->peopleRespectCrown]]Distaste flashes across the stranger's leonine features. "Yes, Tertia. The handmaid who last year almost took an arrow for you. The same one who last night strove to dissuade you from your folly and, when she realized she couldn't, chose to protect your person even at the cost of your royal friendship. And whose friends are now down by the docklands, spilling her tale of woe to anyone who'll listen."
[["You mean the arrow *you* shot at her?" ->youShotTertia]]
[["Seriously? That's what she's telling people? I should have the little viper beheaded."->beheadTertia]]He nods. "Indeed. Such selfless devotion is intolerable, I can't think why you put up with her for so long."
[["Selfless! Poppycock. She was just currying favor with the King. Or maybe trying to come between me and Rain."->curryingTertia]]
(if: $princessBored is 0)[[["Oh come on, I wouldn't actually behead her. But I need to be able to trust my handmaiden, especially when I'm going against the King. I'd suffocate if I couldn't sneak out sometimes."->princessBored]]]The warrior chuckles. "Yes, I can see why you resent that. It must be terribly dull going to all those balls and feasts, and being forced into endless witty banter with local luminaries and foreign diplomats."
(set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)
You start to nod, with a rush of emotion at his unexpected empathy. Even Rain doesn't really understand your rebellion; he just knows better than to try to dissuade you.
The big warrior continues, but now his tone is barbed with mockery: "Imagine how much happier you would be slaving every day in the fields with the peasants, dressed in sexy hempen rags, working those soft pink hands until they blistered and calloused and cracked, and wondering every day if you'll starve, or wind up being eaten by rats in the city jail because you don't earn enough to pay the King's taxes."
(if: $kingNotSaint is 0)[ [["What are you talking about? Father would never let that happen to our peasants. He's always granting boons and forgiving debts."->kingNotSaint]] ]
[["I know there are worse lives. But that's the point. If I don't even meet my future subjects, how can I hope to grow into a just ruler?"->understandCommoners]]"Possibly," he agrees, with a flash of teeth. "We all have our rationalizations, don't we?"(set: $data's likesR to $data's likesR + 1)
[["Yes, she's totally rationalizing her treachery, telling herself that she had to do it to protect me. Damn, I hate it when people do that."->TertiaRationalizing]]
[["What are you talking about? I'm not rationalizing anything!"->princessRationalizing]]
[["Indeed we do. So tell me, what are you rationalizing right now?"->AndreasRationalizing]]His eyebrows rise. "Really? So you were crawling the Splashglass bar scene until an hour before dawn just to bond with your citizenry? Now that's dedication to your job." (set: $data's persuade to it + 1)(set: $data's claimGoodQueenA to 1)
(set: $data's likesA to it + 5)
Is that amusement or intrigue beneath the sarcasm?
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Persuade")(display: "makeDice"):"Laugh all you like. It is my destiny to rule, and I shall do so in the manner I see fit."->ruleAsISeeFit]]
[["Well... I'd be lying if I said last night was all work and no play. But have you any idea what it's like trying to obey the rules here? Even when I'm not *literally* locked in a tower, I can't go five steps without a chaperone. As soon as he can, Father will marry me off to some stinky old courtier, and then it'll be babies and embroidery for the rest of my life."->freePrincess]]He laughs. "What makes you think I was referring to Tertia?"
[["Then who on earth did you mean? I'm certainly not rationalizing anything!"->princessRationalizing]]
[["Indeed we do. So tell me, what are you rationalizing right now?"->AndreasRationalizing]]He nods seriously, his eyes wide. "Of course not, Your Highness. I am sure nobody who met you could doubt the crystalline clarity of your self-awareness any more than I do."
You frown, struggling to decipher whether this is an insult or a compliment. His expression remains perfectly humble and sincere. (set: $notsmiling to 1)
[["Then you were speaking of yourself? Tell me, what are you rationalizing?"->AndreasRationalizing]]
[["Hasn't anyone ever told you that mocking princesses is an unhealthy habit? It can lead to head loss." ->dontMockPrincess]](set: $AndreasRationalizing to 1)(if: $notsmiling is 1)[A grin warps his scar.](else:)[His grin broadens, warping around the scar.] "Oh, Your Highness. Where to begin? Why am I standing here chatting instead of getting down to business? Why am I going to do... the thing I am about to do? I can construct the most high and pure motives for all of it, but the truth is..."
Andreas hesitates, his gaze burning into you with an intensity close to torment. His tongue flickers across his lips. Finally, he continues, "The truth, I suppose, is that you make me... curious. Ever since we met in the woods, I've wondered about you."
He steps closer, lightly touching your face with one massive gauntlet, and the urgency in his eyes pulls you with the force of a dark star. You restrain a gasp. Though his tone is playful, he looks at you the way a starving wolf looks at a fawn.
[["What did you wonder?" ->wonderedWhat]]
[["I'm curious about you, too. How did you get that scar?" ->howScar]]
[["Right. Do you always break into people's bedrooms just because you're curious about them?" ->breakInCurious]](set: $wonderedWhat to 1)He steps to your window, where the sunlight shafting down catches his bronzed skin and dark eyes as he gazes outwards. He doesn't look at you as he speaks.(set: $data's likesA to it + 3)
"I wondered if I would ever again feel your soft skin moving under my hands, Princess. I wondered how it would feel to stroke your neck, your back and your thighs. I wondered how I could make you wriggle with pleasure, and what I would need to do to make you scream."
He turns to look at you. His face is in shadow, but his stance has the sinuous intensity of a predator coiling to strike. You flinch.
"Shall we find out, Highness?"
[["How did you get that scar?" ->howScar]]
[["I can't. Father would freak out if he knew." ->cantFreak]]
[["No!"->respectYourPrincess]]"Anyway, it's not like royal virgins *actually* have anything special in their blood, is it?"
(display: "switchTopic")(display: "dice")(set: $data's persuade to it + 3)
(set: $data's will to it + 1)
(if: $success is true)[(set: $data's likesA to it + 3)The warrior's eyes widen, and he leans closer to you. "You know, Highness, I think you actually believe that. And if I could believe it too, I'd give up banditry and follow you. But](else:)[The warrior shakes his head, his lips twisting in cynical amusement. "No, you cannot have grown up in this court, and still believe in such dreams. We both know that ] in reality your future husband will claim the power, and things in this kingdom will go on the same as always. So let's not pretend, Highness, that fine words are more than rationalizations. We do what we must to satisfy our needs, and justify it afterwards."
[["Things stay the same only when those who have power lack the courage for change. I don't intend to be that kind of Queen, and I will not marry a man who expects me to!" ->notThatQueen]]
[["What are you talking about? I'm not rationalizing anything!"->princessRationalizing]]
[["Indeed we do. So tell me, what are you rationalizing right now?"->AndreasRationalizing]]Andreas laughs warmly at that. "Indeed, I could not abide such constraints either. We were not made to be caged, you and I -- we crave adventure, like gulls yearn for the ocean." His voice grows softer as he speaks, and his gaze holds yours with genuine intrigue.
(set: $data's charm to it + 2)(set: $data's likesA to it + 5)
"It never really matters if prison bars are gilded. And..." he pauses, as if reflecting on what he's just said, "we all have our rationalizations. We do what we need, and justify it after."
[["What are you talking about? I'm not rationalizing anything!"->princessRationalizing]]
[["Indeed we do. So tell me, what are you rationalizing right now?"->AndreasRationalizing]]
Andreas purses his lips. "Are you so unaware of politics, Highness? Your father has held Prince Rain for years as a leash on Saragai. Yet there's no trust between the nations. King Estevan of Saragai desires his grandchild back, and a princess for a prince is fair trade."
(set: $knowsSaragai to 1)
A princess for a prince. Does Andreas know of the fate your father has planned for Rain? Would Saragai reciprocate?
[["My father intends to execute Rain. If you're going to send me to Saragai, you might as well kill me now." ->kingWillKillRain]]
(if:(not((history:) contains "whySorcerer")))[[["I see. But what about the sorcerer? Why does he need a princess?" ->whySorcerer]]] (else:)[ [["The King has cared for Prince Rain like his own son, and you would trade the Crown Princess to our worst enemies? I'll fight you every step of the way, Andreas!" ->doNotQuestionKing]]]Andreas's eyes widen. "Kill Rain? Is he mad?" (set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
You shrug. You've never seriously questioned the King's sanity. As a leader, he's a mighty conqueror who has led your people to countless victories. As a father, he oscillates between neglect and tyranny. But you always assumed that the unpleasant whispers you sometimes overheard among the Court were merely the spoutings of natural malcontents, whose whining is inescapable in civilized life.
But Andreas is right. Killing Rain in cold blood would be a deliberate provocation of your wealthy, populous and not-entirely-friendly neighbor, who just so happens to be building the greatest warship the world has ever seen. King Torveld may be crazy, but he isn't stupid.
[["He must want a war with Saragai. But I can't imagine why he would." ->whyWarSaragai]]
(display: "switchTopic2")Andreas frowns. "Yes, that's the only explanation. But he must be mad to seek it. Doesn't he realise Saragai is as eager for blood as he is? The long peace has chafed both nations raw, and Saragai still broods over its last defeat. And Thronheim's over-extended already; Torveld's campaigns have sucked the Treasury dry, his debts are mounting and his creditors impatient. Whilst Saragai have quietly gathered their strength this last decade." (set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
You'd like to defend your father, but Andreas's suspicions match the rumors at court too well.
[["Do not underestimate the King. He must have a plan." ->kingHasPlan]]
[["That does seem kind of crazy." ->yepKingCrazy]]"Now, to business. I assure you, I won't enjoy this." He looks at you thoughtfully. Then he grins. "Actually, that was a lie. I will thoroughly enjoy it. Especially if you wriggle. But in any case, I can't rely on you keeping quiet once we're out of the tower. The drug is harmless, I promise."
He flexes his shoulders, giving you a speculative look. Slowly, his grin broadens. "You *will* try to fight me, won't you?"
[[(set: $difficulty to 3)(set: $skill_name to "Charm")(display: "makeDice"): "Andreas, I could never defeat such a powerful warrior as you. But please, may I brush my hair before we go? I couldn't bear to be kidnapped in my current state." ->brushHair]]
[[Fight him. ->Fight.]]The warrior winces as you yell at the top of your lungs. He makes no move to silence you. Echoes rebound and slowly die. All is quiet. (set: $screamed to 1) (set: $canundo to true)
(display:"whyNotScream")You scan the room for a weapon. The vase of blue crystal on your bedside table would be perfect, but you'd never reach it in time, and he's watching your every move. (set: $data's fight to it + 3)(set: $data's likesA to it + 2)
(display: "perfumeFight") His tone remains light and pleasant as he adds, "Try it again, and I'll put you to sleep."
(if: $who_is_andreas is 0)[[["Who are you and what are you doing here?"->whoAndreas]]
](if: $explainWhy is 0)[[["You have exactly one minute to explain why I shouldn't summon my guards and have you beheaded."->explainWhy]]
[[Scream. ->Scream1]]](if: $who_is_andreas is 1 and $explainWhy is 1)[[["I see... You've planned this quite meticulously. How long have you been stalking me?"->howKnow]]
(if: not ((history:) contains "whyAccent"))[[["You said that you were born here in Thronheim. So why do you have an accent?" ->whyAccent]]]]Andreas seems, if anything, charmed by your defiance.
(display: "toBusiness")(set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 1)He pushes you down against the soft mattress, straddling your hips. His eyes meet yours, black now in shadows, and your last shred of resistance melts under that burning gaze. Your hands are captured in his, and he lifts one to his mouth to bite gently at your arm, looking like a jaguar hovering over a kill. Your willpower is gone, helpless with fear and yearning.
He holds you there a moment, his warm weight pressed lightly against your body. His pulse beats hard and fast, and his scent engulfs you.
Abruptly, he pushes away from you. He stands, staring down at you, smiling viciously.
"We'd best be going. Let's continue this discussion when we're less likely to be interrupted." His voice is as much snarl as purr.
Your body is still aglow with heat, tingling as if his touch has sparked a forest fire that can only consume you.
He grabs a cloak from the closet and tosses it in your direction.
[["Going? What do you mean?" ->"Proceed where?"]]Andreas simply watches, head cocked, as you hurl books in his general direction. He blocks them with one arm, wincing as a particularly nice illuminated text breaks its gilded spine upon the flagstones. (set: $data's fight to it + 1)
When the shelf is empty, you stand glaring at Andreas, chest heaving with effort and fury. You feel slightly better.
"Are you done?" he asks mildly. "We really should be going."
(if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[ [[Throw perfume at Andreas. ->throwPerfume]]](else:)[[["Go? Why would I go anywhere with you?" ->becauseNoChoice]]]
[["I'm not going anywhere with you, you treacherous knave!" ->yellAtAndreas]]"Oh, I'm afraid you are, Highness." (set: $data's will to it + 1)(display: "becauseNoChoice")Irony twists the warrior's scar, and he fixes you with a darkly amused gaze. "Mostly because I'm not giving you a choice. I believe that's the custom with kidnappings, no?"
[["You fiend! You'll never get away with this!" ->notGetAway]]
(if: $kidnapping is 0)[ [["Wait, this is a kidnapping?"->waitKidnapping]]] (set: $kidnapping to 1)(display: "perfumeFight") "Are you done trying to kill me, Highness? We really should be going."(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)
[["I'm not going anywhere with you, you treacherous knave!" ->yellAtAndreas]]
[["Go? Why would I go anywhere with you?" ->becauseNoChoice]] He chuckles. "An occupational hazard of banditry in general, Highness. But I was mostly speaking of myself, in truth." (set: $data's will to $data's will + 1)(set: $notsmiling to 0)(set: $data's charm to it + 1)
(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)
[["Oh, really? Then tell me, what are you rationalizing right now?"->AndreasRationalizing]]
[["Explain yourself."->AndreasRationalizing]](display: "dice")
(set: $data's flirtA to 1)
"Understood." He speaks softly, but something in his tone chills you more than anything he's said before.
(set: $data's deceive to it + 2) (set: $data's likesA to it + 5)(set: $data's charm to it + 2)
(if: $success is true)[(display:"AndreasRunsAway")](else:)[Abruptly, he steps back, laughing(if: $touching is 1)[ as he releases you. Your flesh sings with the memory of his touch]. "An *almost* irresistible offer, Highness. And if I thought you wouldn't try to brain me with that vase, I'd be even more tempted. But let's continue this discussion when we're less likely to be interrupted."
He grabs a cloak from the closet and tosses it in your direction.
[["What are you doing?" ->"Proceed where?"]]](display: "dice")
"I suppose the part with the habit could be optional."
(set: $data's deceive to it + 3)(set: $data's charm to it + 3)(set: $data's likesA to it + 3)
(if: $success is true)[(display:"AndreasRunsAway")](else:)[Abruptly, he steps back, laughing(if: $touching is 1)[ as he releases you. Your flesh sings with the memory of his touch]. "An *almost* irresistible offer, Highness. And if I thought you wouldn't try to brain me with that vase, I'd be even more tempted. But let's continue this discussion when we're less likely to be interrupted."
He grabs a cloak from the closet and tosses it in your direction.
[["What are you doing?" ->"Proceed where?"]]]You know you should move, but your legs are shaking, and his eyes are locked upon yours. (set: $data's deceive to it + 1) (set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 1)
Slowly, as if not to startle you, he strokes one finger upward along your wrist. When he reaches your hand, he abruptly clasps it in a grip like iron. You gasp, but even as you try to yank that hand away, he's capturing the other. You wrestle for a few moments, but his hold on you is effortless, and he watches with interest as you struggle like a hooked fish. At last you give up and stand glaring at him, panting.
"Say please, Highness. If you want me to let you go."
[[Grit your teeth. "Please let go of my hands."->rejectAndreas]]
[[(set: $difficulty to (6 - ($data's likesA/4)))(set: $skill_name to "Charm")(display: "makeDice"): "I don't."->sex1]] His hard, dark gaze burns into you. You try desperately to look away from that scarred face, but you can't, and then his hands are cupping your face, drawing you close. His mouth is like iron on yours, the taste of his tongue sweet as licorice, and his hands caress your hair and make your neck tingle.
(set: $data's likesA to it + 5)
You should push him away, but he captures your hands easily in one fist, pushing you backward as he kisses and then gently bites at your throat.
You're forced onto the bed, and he pins you down between his thighs. (if: $settings's censored is 0)[His manhood surges hot against your breasts, straining the tight leather breeches.] He releases your hands to pull your body close, stroking your spine with urgent hunger.
You can now reach the heavy crystal vase on the side table. (set: $vase to 1)
[[(set: $difficulty to (10 - ($data's likesA/4)))(set: $skill_name to "Fight")(display: "makeDice"): Hit Andreas with the vase. ->hitAndreas]]
[[Let him continue. ->AndreasStops]](display: "dice")(set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 3)(set: $data's hitVaseA to 1)
(if: $success is true)[You grab the heavy vase and slam it into Andreas's head.
Just as you move, he looks up and tumbles to the side. The blow connects with his ear. He yelps and staggers back. Before you can move again, he's snatched the vase from your hand and tossed it out the open window. (set: $vase to 0)
"I guess I should have expected that." He steps back, watching you as he rubs at a trickle of blood running down his cheek.
At least you wounded him. Eager to press your advantage](else:)[You grab the heavy vase, intending to slam it into Andreas's head.
Even as you grip it, his wrist tightens upon yours. He grins down at you viciously, then raises your hand to his lips. "You'll have to be faster than that, Highness." He twists the vase from your grip and tosses it out the open window. Furiously], you look for another weapon, but all you see are books(if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[ and a small jar of perfume].
His lips quirk with amusement as he follows your gaze. "Much as I'm enjoying this, Highness, we should proceed."
[[Throw books. ->throwBooks]]
(if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[[[Throw perfume. ->throwPerfume]]
][["Proceed where?"]]Andreas bristles, and his black eyes spark with some lightless emotion; whether amusement or anger, you cannot tell. "If I had shot *at* her, she would be dead, Princess. That arrow was a warning. And in any case, I owe your vassals no mercy. You, however, might show some loyalty to the handmaid who has served you faithfully since childhood." (set: $data's deceive to $data's deceive + 1)
[["Or, alternatively, I might have the little viper beheaded."->beheadTertia]]
[["Faithful! Nonsense. Seems to me she was just currying favor with the King. Or trying to get between me and Rain."->curryingTertia]]"A convent, huh?" Andreas's teeth flash, white and sharp. "That *would* be a pity. Still, it's always possible some brutal villain might invade that sanctuary and steal you away for his own amusement." (set: $data's likesA to $data's likesA + 3)(set: $data's charm to it + 3)
[["How terrifying. What would such a monster do with a poor, helpless princess?" ->whatWoods]]
[["A foolish villain. I'd slit his throat while he slept and leave his corpse for the jackals." ->rejectAndreas]](display: "dice")(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)(set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's charm to it + 1)
(if: $success is true)[Andreas's eyes narrow. He rolls his shoulders. "I haven't got all day, Princess," he growls.
[["Please, Andreas. It will only take a minute." ->hesitates]]
[["I suppose I should have known better than to expect the smallest courtesy from an uncouth villain like yourself." ->uncouth]]](else:)["I think not, Your Highness," he snarls, looking you up and down with an evil smirk. "As curious as I am about your idea of abductee fashion, I find your current state quite perfect for the occasion."
(display: "Fight.")](display: "dice")(set: $data's deceive to $data's deceive + 3)
(if: $success is true)[Andreas chuckles. "As you wish, Highness; it's a small price to satisfy my curiosity. And I would not wish you discomfited." He gazes ostentatiously out the window. "You have a lovely view from up here."
You suspect you're still within his peripheral vision, but at least he's not staring at you any more.(set: $andreasLooking to 0)
(display: "brushingHair")](else:)["*Proper*, Highness, is a word that's rarely used to describe kidnappers. And as much as I enjoy your spirit, I'd rather you didn't stab me with a hat-pin, or whatever you have in mind."
(set: $andreasLooking to 1)
(display: "brushingHair")]Your reflection gazes back at you with surprising coolness.
So that's what you look like when you're on the verge of panic. You're pale and wide-eyed, and your hair is indeed a mess. But there's nothing to betray the pounding of your heart, nor the racing of your thoughts.
You straighten your locket.
The mirror is set in a frame of gilded wood attached to the dresser. If you could smash it, the shards would be as good as knives. But without protection, you'd cut your hands to pieces before you even touched Andreas.
Your hairbrush lies in a shallow drawer below the mirror. You pull it open, hoping your maid hasn't been in to tidy up. Thank goodness for your messiness and her laziness! There's your brush, and assorted other objects, including an ornate hat-pin with a garnet head, and a pair of kid-skin gloves.
[[Take the brush. ->actuallyBrush]]
[[Take the hat-pin. ->hatPin]]
[[Take the gloves. ->gloves]]He merely chuckles. "Is it that obvious?"
(display: "brushingHair")(set: $data's hatpinA to 1)(if:$andreasLooking is 0)[You palm the hatpin, watching Andreas from the corner of your eye. (set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 1) (set: $data's deceive to $data's deceive + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 5)
He's still gazing out the window, arms nonchalantly folded.
You consider concealing the hat-pin upon your person, but your nightgown is far too skimpy. Besides, Andreas is planning to drug you; no doubt he'll revel in the chance to search your body. The thought makes you shudder.
You won't get a better opportunity.
You hold your breath, stepping kitten-soft across the cool flagstones toward him.
Still he doesn't move. From here, you can see the delicate flutter of the large vein in his throat.
You raise the hat-pin.
[[(set: $difficulty to 16)(set: $skill_name to "Fight")(display: "makeDice"): Stab him in the jugular. ->stabAndreas]]
[[Hold it to his throat, but don't kill him yet. ->threatenAndreas]]
](else:)[(display: "caught")]You slip the gloves over your hands, then pick up your hairbrush.
(set: $data's deceive to $data's deceive + 1)
(if:((history:) contains "actuallyBrush"))[[[Take the hat-pin. ->hatPin]]](else:)[[[Brush your hair. ->actuallyBrush]]]
[[Ram the hairbrush into the mirror. ->punchMirror]]You comb your tangled locks until they shimmer like a dark waterfall, then fold them into a neat braid. Much better. Who knows when you'll next see a hairbrush, what with being kidnapped and all?
Andreas stirs impatiently. "I don't mean to rush you, Highness, but we haven't got all day."
You glance down at the open drawer.
[["Very well, I suppose this will have to do." ->Fight.]]
[[Take the hat-pin. ->hatPin]]
(if:((history:) contains "gloves"))[[[Ram the hairbrush into the mirror. ->punchMirror]]](else:)[[[Take the gloves. ->gloves]]]With all the force you can muster, you slam the back of the hairbrush into the mirror. There's a loud crunch, and the mirror shatters into shining pieces that crash to the floor around you. (set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 1) (set: $data's deceive to $data's deceive + 1)(set: $data's glassedA to 1)
(set: $data's likesA to it + 5)
(if:$andreasLooking is 0)["Hey!" Andreas is turning, but not quick enough; you bend and scoop up a large, razor-sharp fragment in each hand.
"Stay back!" you bark in your fiercest voice. As you raise the fragments threateningly, he backs off, hands raised. But to your dismay, he's grinning again.
"Ah, Highness," he purrs, "Remind me never to underestimate you."
Is that admiration in his voice, or just mockery? And why are you even thinking about that?
He puts his helm on. "My apologies, Highness. Much as I enjoy your spirit, I would hate to see anyone get hurt here."
[[Throw a fragment of glass at him. ->throwGlass]]
[[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Fight")(display: "makeDice"): Use the glass like a dagger. ->daggerGlass]]](else:)[Even as the shards fall, Andreas moves. Quick as a snake, he grabs your hands, thrusting them against the cool stone of the bedroom wall.
He stands gazing down at you, a lop-sided grin upon his scarred face. "I do so hate to spoil your plans, Highness. Your spirit's adorable, but not *quite* enough that I'll let you kill me."
(display: "Fight.")]You hurl a large chunk of glass at him. Andreas ducks effortlesly; it crashes against the wall. Before he can rise, you throw another, then bend to scoop up more shards.
He yelps, but he's still coming at you, quick as a snake, gauntleted arms shielding his face. Wildly, you slash at him, but he wraps his arms around you, ignoring the blows even when a fragment of glass slices deep into a bicep. A moment later, he has your arms pinned. Hands slick with blood, he plucks the glass from your fingers.
Then he holds you still a moment, embracing you tightly against his armored body. Your heart pounds. Will he crush you in fury? Run his dagger across your throat? He could kill you with one hand. But he does nothing.
His chest shakes with laughter. "Highness," he says, "every minute in your company reveals delightful new facets of your nature. I shall find it quite difficult to ransom you."
Roughly, he pushes you to the floor -- thankfully, you land in a place where no glass fell -- and strides toward you, eyes glittering with anticipation.
(display: "Fight.")(display: "dice")(set: $data's fight to it + 3)
Holding the fragments high, you dash toward Andreas. He sidesteps, black eyes widening.
Wildly, you slash at him, but he (if: $success is true)[wraps his arms around you, ignoring the blows even when a fragment of glass slices deep into a bicep. A moment later, he has your arms pinned. Hands slick with blood, he plucks the glass from your fingers.](else:)[effortlessly evades the blows. Though he barely seems to move, somehow, he slips away every time you strike. Seconds later, he has your arms pinned, and he gently plucks the glass from your fingers.]
Then he holds you a moment, embracing you tightly against his armored body. Your heart pounds. Will he crush you in fury? Run his dagger across your throat? He could kill you with one hand. But he does nothing.
His chest shakes with laughter. "Highness," he says, "(if: $success is true)[I admit I am impressed. Every minute in your company reveals delightful new facets of your nature. I shall find it quite difficult to ransom you."](else:)["you have a great deal to learn about combat. And I'd be more than happy to educate you, once we're in a more private place. But for now..."]
Roughly, he pushes you to the floor.
(display: "Fight.")(display: "dice")(set: $data's fight to it + 3)(set: $data's hatpinA to 1)
You slam the hatpin directly toward the soft skin of Andreas's throat. As you move, his eyes slide toward you. (if: $success is true)[The point grazes his neck as he slips to one side. Before you can withdraw, he catches your forearm in an iron grip, plucks the hat-pin from your palm and tosses it aside. With his other hand, he rubs at the scratch on his throat. His eyes find yours once more, dark and probing. "I see you've a taste for blood sports, Highness." He shows you his finger, streaked with red. "Whatever you hunger for, I'll be more than happy to satisfy your desires. Later.](else:)[With one hand, he knocks your arm out of the way, then plucks the hat-pin from your palm and tosses it aside. (set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 1)
"Ah, Highness," he says. He's breathing hard, but not with effort. "That *was* exhilarating, wasn't it?] But now, I think it's my turn to play."
(display: "Fight.")You raise the hat-pin and silently place it against his jugular vein.
(set: $data's likesA to it + 3)
His eyes slide toward you. Is he *smiling*?
"Ah, Highness," he says. "It appears you have me at your mercy."
His heart pounds against your arm, and your nostrils flare at the scent of musk and leather. The nearness of his living flesh melts your resolve like flame-touched wax.
You tighten your grip.
A minute ago, you could have stabbed him with no more thought than you'd give to swiping a mosquito. Now, his life rests heavy in your hands. You've never killed a man before. And somehow, Andreas seems more alive than other men.
It's him or you. He doesn't deserve to live. He'll be executed anyway.
Your hand trembles.
Andreas waits.
[[Kill him. ->killWithHatpin]]
[[Hesitate. ->hesitateHatpin]]Quick as a snake, Andreas grabs your hands, thrusting them against the cool stone of the bedroom wall.
He stands gazing down at you, a lop-sided grin upon his scarred face. "I do so hate to spoil your plans, Highness. Your spirit's adorable, but not *quite* enough that I'll let you kill me."
(display: "Fight.")You slam the hat-pin downward. But you can't prevent the flicker of your gaze; even as you start to move, he's moving too. He knocks your arm out of the way, then plucks the hat-pin from your palm and tosses it aside. (set: $data's hatpinA to 1)
(set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 1)
He fingers the scratch on his neck, rubbing away a trickle of blood.
"Ah, Highness," he says. He's breathing hard, but not with effort. "That *was* exhilarating, wasn't it? But now, I think it's my turn to play."
(display: "Fight.")His eyes gleam with smug self-satisfaction. "So, you *do* like me."
(set: $data's likesA to it + 3)(set: $data's hatpinAHesitate to 1)
You tense, but not quickly enough. With one hand, he knocks your arm out of the way, then plucks the hat-pin from your palm and tosses it aside.
"Ah, Highness," he says. He's breathing hard, but not with effort. "That *was* exhilarating, wasn't it? But now, I think it's my turn to play."
(display: "Fight.")He scratches at his scar. "Oh, I didn't do it out of *pure* curiosity, I assure you. Or pure anything, for that matter."
[["Then why did you do it?" ->"Proceed where?"]]
[["Well, that is not okay! If you wanted to meet me, you should have requested an appointment with the Royal Secretary." ->royalSecretary]]He nods thoughtfully. "Hmm, I see your point. How about if I want to kidnap you? Is there a procedure for that?"
His casual tone chills you as much as the words themselves. You covertly glance around the room, but no weapons have magically materialized. The crystal vase remains out of reach. (if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[The only attack you can think of is to hurl a jar of perfume at Andreas.]
[["Yes, it involves you jumping out that window before my father's jailor castrates you with a dull fruit-peeler." ->fruitPeeler]]
[["Wait, this is a kidnapping? I thought we were friends!"->waitKidnapping]] (set: $kidnapping to 1)
(if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[[[Throw perfume. ->throwPerfume]]]Andreas grimaces. "That's, umm, evocative. You'll have to forgive me for violating protocol then." (set: $data's will to $data's will + 1)
He steps toward you, eyes gleaming voraciously.
[["You fiend! You'll never get away with this!" ->notGetAway]]
(if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[[[Throw perfume at Andreas. ->throwPerfume]]]"Oh yes, Highness. You most certainly will." His lip twists with amusement. (set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's charm to it + 1)
[["It's only fair. Actually, I'll just pop downstairs and have a word with my father about your case right now." ->popDownstairs]]
(if: $explainWhy is 0)[(display: "explainWhyOpt")](else:)[[["I see... You've planned this quite meticulously. How long have you been stalking me?"->howKnow]]]He laughs. "That won't be necessary, Your Highness. Did you actually think I would permit you to leave?" (set: $data's deceive to it + 1) (set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
(if: $explainWhy is 1)[You flinch inside at his casual tone.](else:)[You restrain a gasp at his casual tone, and open your mouth to yell for the guards.]
(display:"whyNotScream")His grin widens, the scar tugging the expression into a wicked caricature. "You misunderstand, Highness. There is nothing you can offer me that would be nearly as rewarding as that which I intend to take." (set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)(set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)
[["Please, Andreas. The King will hear you, I promise. Don't throw your life away... we can give you justice!" ->justice]]
[["I see... You've planned this quite meticulously. How long have you been stalking me?"->howKnow]]"Royal justice?" scoffs Andreas. "I've traveled far and wide, and found no such beast, Highness. It's easier for a prince to turn into a dog than show justice to a commoner."(set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's deceive to it + 1)(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 1)
[["That is enough! Have you no respect for the Crown?" ->kingNotSaint]]
[["You're right, my father's rule has been imperfect. But I hope to do better. That's why I go out in disguise, to meet my people. When I am Queen, I'll -"->understandCommoners]]Andreas's expression grows dark. "As if that were unusual! Open your ears, Highness, and you'll hear a thousand such tales of woe." (set: $data's charm to $data's charm + 1)
He shakes his head. (display: "storyAndreas")"When your father pillaged Saragai, my father raped my mother, who was a baker's daughter in the capital, Isholme. Her family cast her out, and she fled to Khargai, where she lived in poverty, struggling to support me until I was old enough to thieve for her." His tone is grim; he puts a hand in a pocket, touching something there.
[["Khargai's hundreds of miles away. What brought you to Thronheim, then?" ->whyHere]]
(if: $explainWhy is 1)[[["How awful. I'm sure we can arrange some compensation for your suffering." ->recompense]]](else:)[(display: "explainWhyOpt")]Andreas snorts with laughter. "How interesting. Another splendid rationalization." (set: $data's will to it + 1)
[["What are you talking about? I'm not rationalizing anything!"->princessRationalizing]]
[["Hasn't anyone ever told you that mocking princesses is an unhealthy habit? It can lead to head loss." ->dontMockPrincess]]The warrior winces as you yell at the top of your lungs. He makes no move to silence you. The echoes rebound and slowly die. All is quiet.
[["Andreas, please! Think about it... if you harm me, you'll be a fugitive for life. Let me help you instead. A royal pardon, a position in the court, perhaps a small castle..." ->letMeHelp]]
[["Please, Andreas. The King will hear you, I promise. Don't throw your life away... we can give you justice!" ->justice]](if: $explainWhy is 0)[His eyes meet yours with cruel sincerity. "Scream all you like, Highness. Nobody will answer. Your guards are fast asleep downstairs. They won't wake up for at least an hour. Normally, I would worry that dear Prince Rain might notice that, but he's nowhere to be found - likewise, your faithful Tertia. Meanwhile, King Torveld is out hunting for the day."
Your gut says he's not lying, and you shiver inside as the full extent of your vulnerability strikes home. Not only is he larger and stronger, but he moves like a panther, as you vividly recall from his unconventional entry. And you are entirely unarmed: the nearest thing to a weapon is the vase of blue crystal on your bedside table, and that is out of reach.
Fighting would be pointless. But you force yourself to keep a neutral expression. Showing weakness will only make things worse. Keep him talking? (set: $explainWhy to 1)
(if: $screamed is 0)[Or you could yell for help.
[[Scream. ->Scream1]]
]](if: $who_is_andreas is 1)[[["Andreas, please! There's no need for this. Think about it... if you harm me, you'll be a fugitive for life. Let me help you instead. A royal pardon, a position in the court, perhaps a small castle..." ->letMeHelp]]
[["I see... You've planned this quite meticulously. How long have you been stalking me?"->howKnow]]](else:)[[["Who are you and what are you doing here?"->whoAndreas]]
[["How dare you invade my private chamber! Explain yourself." ->explainYourself]]]You snatch up a jar of perfume and unscrew the lid. Perhaps it'll sting in his eyes. (set: $data's fight to $data's fight + 1)
He stands still, watching you with one eyebrow raised. "Princess, I admire your spirit, but even if you manage to hit me with that, the worst it can possibly do is annoy me. And I'm warning you," he says with a smile, "when I'm annoyed, I can be a little rough."
You hesitate, hoping he'll look away. But his gaze never wavers.
"Don't mind me, Your Highness."
You hurl the open bottle at his face.
Which goes about as well as you expected. Perfume arcs from the jar as it hurtles toward his face. He snatches it lightly from the air, rights it, and places it carefully back on your dresser. The scent of lotus blossom fills the room.
"Royalty," he mutters, looking at the smear of perfume staining your rug with pursed lips. "Always making messes for other people to clean up."
You take the chance to rush at him and slam your fist toward his face. As you swing, his gaze flicks upwards, and he diverts the punch almost idly, then twists your arm behind your back, pulling you against him. You gasp in pain.
"Mmm, I like that sound, Highness." He tightens his grip on your arm, staring down at you with eyes hard as onyx. His expression makes your heart pound. "It's pointless, of course. Even if you were a competent warrior, you haven't the strength or the speed to harm me. Yet the fact that you tried is... enchanting."
Smirking, he pushes you away.Andreas hesitates. He glances at the sky outside. Then he looks back at you and sighs. "Such vanity! But I suppose I can spare a few moments. By all means, decorate yourself for the occasion. I can't wait to see what you consider appropriate."
You move to the mirror.
[[(set: $difficulty to 5)(set: $skill_name to "Deceive")(display: "makeDice"): "Very well, Andreas. But I must ask you to turn your back. It isn't proper to observe at a lady at her toilette." ->askAndreasTurnAway]]
[["Dignity, not vanity, Andreas. A concept *you* are evidently unfamiliar with." ->dignityNotVanity]]"Indeed, you should have," he snarls, with an evil smirk.
(display: "Fight.")The warrior chuckles. "Do not be concerned, Highness. If your father is half as fond of you as people say, he'll gladly empty his treasury to bring you home. Though I must admit we expect competing offers from the Sorcerer of Caer Goroduin and King Estevan of Saragai."
[["A sorcerer? Why would a sorcerer want a kidnapped princess?" ->whySorcerer]]
[["The King of Saragai? Why?" ->whoKingSaragai]]Andreas leans against the wall, arms folded, one eyebrow raised in amusement. You can't help noticing the power in his rounded biceps. "Are you frightened? There's no need to be. If your father is half as fond of you as people say, he'll gladly empty his treasury to bring you home. Though, I must admit we expect competing offers from the Sorceror of Caer Goroduin and King Estevan of Saragai."
[["A sorcerer? Why would a sorcerer want a kidnapped princess?" ->whySorcerer]]
[["The King of Saragai? Why?" ->whoKingSaragai]]"Possibly. Possibly not."
[["Come on, please. You've got to tell me." ->dunno]]
(display: "switchTopic")"I truly don't know what he has in mind, okay? I mean, rumors are just rumors, right?" (set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
[["So... you're plotting to sell me to an evil sorceror, who you suspect is going to do something awful to me. Am I supposed to be okay with that?" ->evil]]
[["Rumors? What rumors, exactly?" ->plotting]]"Look, I may have heard something about ingredients used in certain magical rituals, but it's not like I know for sure."
[["*Ingredients?*" ->ingredients]]
[["How can you think that's okay? Have you no sense of decency?" ->decency]]"Do I look like I do?" (set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
He has a point.
[["You won't get away with this!" ->doNotQuestionKing]]
(display: "switchTopic")Andreas shrugs. "Don't count on it. In his youth he was a great tactician, I'll grant, but he never cared for balancing the books. And wars are expensive, especially when you cannot hold the lands you take. Thronheim's wealth has been smoke and mirrors since his reign began."
(set: $data's persuade to it + 1)
[["It is not for the likes of you to question the King's wisdom."->thenWho]]
(display: "switchTopic2")His tone grows dangerously sharp. "Then who shall, Highness? His court of sycophants? His peasantry? The former are too busy lining their pockets; the latter are too busy starving."
(set: $data's will to it + 1)
[["Either would be better than a common bandit with no respect for the rule of law!"->doNotQuestionKing]]
(display: "switchTopic2")Andreas nods. "Then my task is all the more urgent, Highness. Nothing can protect you from Saragai's fury if Prince Rain is killed, but perhaps your disappearance will stay your father's hand."
[["I'll fight you every step of the way, Andreas!"->doNotQuestionKing]]
(display: "switchTopic2")"Evil is such a prejudiced term. It really doesn't capture the complex nuances of human moral --"
[["How can you think that's okay? Have you no sense of decency?" ->decency]]
[["What rumors, anyway?" ->plotting]]"Oh, come on. It's not like royal virgins *actually* have anything special in their blood, is it?"
[["How can you think that's okay? Have you no sense of decency?" ->decency]]
(display: "switchTopic")(if: $knowsSaragai is 1)[[["I'll fight you every step of the way, Andreas!" ->doNotQuestionKing]]](else:)[[["I see. What about King Estevan of Saragai? What use am I to him?" ->whoKingSaragai]]](if: $knowsSorcerer is 1)[[["Enough! You shall pay for your insolence, villain!" ->doNotQuestionKing]]](else:)[[["And what about the sorcerer? Why does he need a princess?" ->whySorcerer]]]"With pleasure, Your Highness." (display: "whoAndreas")"It was my mother's dying wish. I was barely a teenager -- she sent me here to seek redress. You can see how that turned out. So much for the King's justice!" Andreas spits.
[["How awful. I'm sure we can arrange some compensation for your suffering." ->recompense]]
(if: $explainWhy is 1)[[["How dare you speak so! Have you no respect for your King?" ->kingNotSaint]] ](else:)[(display: "explainWhyOpt")][["You have exactly one minute to explain why I shouldn't summon my guards and have you beheaded."->explainWhy]]
[[Scream. ->Scream1]]
(if:(not((history:) contains "Fight1")))[[[Attack him. ->Fight1]]]"I was being facetious, Princess. " (display: "notGetAway")He laughs. "Indeed, it's high time *we* left." Seeing you flinch, he adds, "You do understand this is an abduction, Princess?"
His casual tone chills you as much as the words themselves. You covertly glance around the room, but no weapons have magically materialized. The crystal vase remains out of reach.(if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[The only attack you can think of is to hurl a jar of perfume at Andreas.]
[["Wait, this is a kidnapping?"->waitKidnapping]]
[["You fiend! You'll never get away with this!" ->notGetAway]]
(if: not ((history:) contains "Fight1"))[[[Throw perfume. ->throwPerfume]]] (set: $kidnapping to 1)(set: $settings to StrayHeirs["settings"])<script>window.StrayHeirs.applyStyle();</script>
(if: $canundo)[
------
|==
(if: $settings's darkmode is 1)[(link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="arrow3.png"/>')](else:)[(link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="arrow3dark.png"/>')]
==|
(if: $settings's darkmode is 1)[(link: '<img src="settings.png" alt="Info & Settings" />')[(goto:"otherInfo")]](else:)[(link: '<img src="settingsdark.png" alt="Info & Settings" />')[(goto:"otherInfo")]]](else:)[(set: $canundo to true)]"Yes, and curiously enough, also your own mother's homeland. We have ever so much in common, Highness." His eyes glint, reading the shock on your face. "Were you not aware?"
You scowl. Your mother, a Saragaian? Surely he's mistaken. Your father would never - and you would have known - wouldn't you?
But you have more pressing concerns, and he's already continuing.
(display: "storyAndreas")"True, though only by right of conquest - Khargai was its own nation, Hysberad, until King Estevan annexed it and appropriated the vineyards."
(set: $data's charm to it + 1)
You shake your head, irritated. Did this intriguing-looking outlaw break into your room merely to lecture you on ancient history? Perhaps your tutor is paying him...
[["Yeah, yeah, and then Dad conquered Saragai, Saragai seceded a decade later, and everyone's still mad about it. Will this be on the test?" ->notATest]]
[["So you're a citizen of the world." ->citizenWorld]]"For some of us, Princess, this is more than academic." Andreas's face grows colder. (set: $data's will to it + 1)
(display: "storyAndreas")"I'm a citizen of nowhere, Highness." His smile fades. (set: $data's charm to it + 1)(display: "storyAndreas"){
(if: $recap is 1)[*After a night of illicit revelry, Princess Seline of Thronheim has been dragged home to face her father's wrath. She's locked in her bedroom in Castle Stelgarte's highest tower; worse, it emerges that she has been betrayed by her handmaid Tertia, and the King plans to execute her best friend, Prince Rain of Saragai, which seems likely to trigger a war with Saragai. And now a sinister warrior has broken into her bedroom...*
(display: "skills")
-----]
(else:)[
(link: "Show recap")[
(set: $recap to 1)
(replace: ?recap)[(display: "recap")]
]
]
}(set: $show_roll_details to 0)(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: $total >= $difficulty)[(set: $success to true)Success!](else:)[(set: $success to false)Failure :(] |roll_details>[(display: "Roll_details")](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){
(if: $show_roll_details is 1)[$recorded_skill_name: (print: ($recorded_ability).toFixed(1)) | Difficulty: (print: ($recorded_difficulty).toFixed(1)) | Roll: $roll | Total = (print: ($recorded_ability).toFixed(1)) + $roll = (print: ($total).toFixed(1)) | (print: ($total).toFixed(1))(if: $success is true)[ >= ](else:)[ < ](print: ($recorded_difficulty).toFixed(1))]
(else:)[
(link: "Show roll details?")[(set: $show_roll_details to 1)
(replace: ?roll_details)[(display: "Roll_details")]
]
]
}{
(if: $settings's censored is 0)[shown.
(link: "Hide them?")[
(set: $settings's censored to 1)
(replace: ?button)[(display: "Button")]
]
<script>window.StrayHeirs.settings["censored"] = 0;</script>
]
(else:)[hidden.
(link: "Show them?")[
(set: $settings's censored to 0)
(replace: ?button)[(display: "Button")]
]
<script>window.StrayHeirs.settings["censored"] = 1;</script>
]<script>window.StrayHeirs.saveSettings();</script>
}(set: $canundo to false)
###Info & Settings
* **Undo**: Use the link at the bottom of each page. Don't use your browser's back button. To change a choice in an earlier chapter, you need to complete that chapter *and* any subsequent ones again.
* **Skills**: Some choices can succeed or fail. You succeed if your skill + a D20 roll exceeds the difficulty of the choice. Skills increase as you use them.
* **Relationships**: Relationships can affect the difficulty of skill-based choices.
* **Endings**: The story has up to 20 chapters and a variety of endings. All major endings remain accessible until Chapter 15, though the paths leading to them may change. From Chapter 16, the story diverges.
####Your data
* **Data storage**: Local storage is used only as needed to transfer some choices between chapters. If you change browsers or delete your browser history you will start over.
* **Privacy**: No personal data returns to the server.
####Settings
* **Content**: Sex scenes are |button>[(display: "Button")]
* **Display**: |modeButton>[(display: "DarkModeButton")]
* **Font**: |fontButton>[(display: "FontSizeButtons")]
(print: "<a href=\"index.html\">Go to Contents Page</a>")(set: $settings to StrayHeirs["settings"])<script>window.StrayHeirs.applyStyle();</script>
------
(if: $settings's darkmode is 1)[(link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="arrow3.png"/>')](else:)[(link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="arrow3dark.png"/>')](set: $data to StrayHeirs["datastore"])(set: $settings to StrayHeirs["settings"])(set: $canundo to false)(set: $array_position to 1)(set: $randarray to (a:(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20),(random: 1,20)))<script>window.StrayHeirs.applyStyle();</script><p style="color:red">Skills: Deceive (print: ($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: ($data's likesT/10).toFixed(1)) | Rain (print: ($data's likesR/10).toFixed(1)) | Andreas (print: ($data's likesA/10).toFixed(1)) </p style>{
(if: $settings's darkmode is 0)[
(link: "Switch to dark mode?")[
(set: $settings's darkmode to 1)
(replace: ?modeButton)[(display: "DarkModeButton")]
]
<script>window.StrayHeirs.settings["darkmode"] = 0;</script>
]
(else:)[
(link: "Switch to light mode?")[
(set: $settings's darkmode to 0)
(replace: ?modeButton)[(display: "DarkModeButton")]
]
<script>window.StrayHeirs.settings["darkmode"] = 1;</script>
]
<script>window.StrayHeirs.saveSettings();</script>
}{ (set: $fontsize to $settings's fontsize)
(if: $fontsize > 0)[
<span style="font-size: 150%">(link: "↓")[
(set: $settings's fontsize to it - 1)
(replace: ?fontButton)[(display: "FontSizeButtons")]
]</span>
] size
(if: $fontsize < 6)[
<span style="font-size: 150%">(link: "↑")[
(set: $settings's fontsize to it + 1)
(replace: ?fontButton)[(display: "FontSizeButtons")]
]</span>
](set: $settings's fontsize to $fontsize)
(if: $fontsize is 0)[<script>window.StrayHeirs.setFontSize(0);</script>](elseif: $fontsize is 1)[<script>window.StrayHeirs.setFontSize(1);</script>](elseif: $fontsize is 2)[<script>window.StrayHeirs.setFontSize(2);</script>](elseif: $fontsize is 3)[<script>window.StrayHeirs.setFontSize(3);</script>](elseif: $fontsize is 4)[<script>window.StrayHeirs.setFontSize(4);</script>](elseif: $fontsize is 5)[<script>window.StrayHeirs.setFontSize(5);</script>](elseif: $fontsize is 6)[<script>window.StrayHeirs.setFontSize(6);</script>]
<script>window.StrayHeirs.saveSettings();</script>}