Ch04 The Outlaw's Tent

(set: $eatAndreasTent to 1)There are no chairs in the tent; you sit cross-legged on a rug by the firepit to eat. The food tastes as good as it smells. (set: $canundo to true) Andreas lounges on the furs, watching you. He does not eat. He leans on his arms, letting the lamplight play on the muscles of his shoulders. You keep your eyes on the meal, but it's like trying to eat with a tiger in the room. At last he stands. "Highness, there's more to these events than you can know. Will you permit me to explain?" He fills two cups with blood-red wine, passing one to you. [["I have no interest in hearing your excuses, Andreas." ->noExcusesAndreas]] [["Okay. This should be interesting." ->AndreasExplainsEvents1]]

(set: $batheAndreasTent to 1)You dip one finger in the copper bath. The water is hot, near-scalding, and it's exactly what your tired, bruised and dirty body craves. (set: $canundo to true) Andreas watches you, his dark eyes alive with intrigue. You hesitate. [["Didn't you promise to respect my person?" ->respectPersonBath]] [[Take off your clothes while he watches. ->nakedWithAndreasBath]]

He snorts, and takes a sip of wine. "That's good, because I have no interest in making any. I merely thought you might like to better understand the situation. But it seems I overestimated your interest in your people's future. After all, what's it to you if the Crown Prince of Saragai has vanished and war is imminent?" [["I'm not interested in hearing any more ignorant political rants from an incompetent criminal." ->meanSeline]] [["The Crown Prince of Saragai? You mean Rain's brother, Prince Morael?" ->rainNotCrown]]

unrolls a map showing the Kingdom and its neighbours. "I don't know how much you follow politics, Highness, but this province is Khargai. I grew up there. Khargai lies in the far south of Saragai, your large and prosperous neighbour beyond the mountains." Prince Rain has rarely spoken of his homeland; when he did, you sensed an aching loss too cruel to probe. In contrast, on your father's lips, the name Saragai is most often accompanied by an expletive. He conquered all the surrounding lands in his glorious youth, bringing them under the protection of the Crown. But endless bickering made Saragai more trouble than it was worth. Shortly after your birth, the Saragaians seceded, re-installed their popular monarch, and ever since have harried your borders and responded to your father's gracious diplomacy with thinly-veiled insults and dark hints of future vengeance. Things improved only slightly after Rain was brought to foster at Castle Stelgarte. At least, that's how King Torveld tells it. You suspect Andreas has a different view. [["I see. You're working for Saragai." ->inLeagueSaragai]] [["So? Of course I know where Saragai is. It's only the biggest neighbouring kingdom." ->soWhatSaragai]]

"I work for my own interests, Princess. No nation has yet shown me loyalty - so why should I offer mine?" (display: "soWhatSaragai")

Andreas scowls, and the anger in his harsh voice makes you flinch. "No king will ever be my friend, Highness. Do you think it matters to me which flag flies over Castle Stelgarte? Does an ant care for the color of the boot that stamps it into the dust? No..." (display: "whatAndreasWants")

Andreas spits, his eyes burning with contempt. "You are not mistaken, Highness, and therein lies the tragedy. Your father, frankly, is a bloodthirsty despot, but his accumulated glory blinds the nobility to the danger they face. They will drag the whole nation to ruin with them." (display: "whatAndreasWants")

He looks you up and down pointedly, and grins. "Highness, I am thoroughly respecting your person. After you take off your clothes, I'll be happy to respect it in more detail." [["That's not what respect means!" ->respectMeansBath]] [["Enough! I require privacy, Andreas." ->privacy]]

Meeting Andreas's eyes directly, you let your cloak fall to the ground. The cool air bites your bare arms, and you look away, shivering. But you sense that his dark gaze is still locked upon you. (set: $data's charm to it + 3) (set: $data's likesA to it + 5)(set: $data's flirtCh4A to 1) The hot tub steams, awaiting you. Your silken nightdress feels paper-thin in the chill air. It's torn and soiled all over, no more than a tattered, mud-spattered rag now. You lift it over your head and toss it aside, daring a glance back at Andreas. His body is rigid with tension, but he does not move. What would happen if you approached him? [[Approach Andreas. ->approachAndreasNaked]] [[Get into the bath. ->getInBath]]

He inclines his head. "Ah, *respect*. I've always had difficulty with that word." He turns away and reclines on the bed of furs. "Please excuse my informality, Highness. It's tiresome being wounded." You notice that he's facing a large mirror, placed at a suspiciously precise angle to the tub. [["Turn that mirror away, too." ->turnMirrorAway]] [[Pretend you haven't noticed. ->letAndreasWatchInMirror]]

Andreas turns the mirror to face the wall. He gives you an ironic bow. "With your permission, Highness. There are matters I must attend to." (display: "aleavesbath")

You let your cloak fall to the ground and shiver as the cool air bites your bare arms. The hot tub steams, awaiting you. Your silken nightdress feels paper-thin in the chill air. It's torn and soiled all over, no more than a tattered, mud-spattered rag now. (set: $data's charm to it + 1) You're conscious that Andreas is covertly watching you through the mirror. [[Ignore him. ->undressIgnoringAndreas]] [[Tease him a little. ->teaseAndreas]]

You pull the nightdress over your head, glad to be free of the foul thing, and raise your arms near the fire. The warm ghosts of flames flicker against your skin. (display: "getInBath")

You walk to the copper bath and dip one hand in, swirling the water around. Then you stand up, as if you've changed your mind, and stretch. You put one foot up on the edge of the bath, exposing your thigh, and run your hands up and down your leg. (set: $tease to 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 3) (set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's flirtCh4A to 1) You hear a sharp intake of breath from the bed. The russet dog pads over to sit beside the bath. Its mouth is open and its tongue lolls out in a doggy grin. (set: $data's likesM to it + 1) You start to unbutton the nightdress, raising your chest to emphasise the outline of your breasts. Halfway down, you stop and turn your back on the mirror. You walk to the fireplace and lift the dress over your head, enjoying the warmth of flames licking near your naked skin. "Playing with fire is dangerous, Highness," warns Andreas, his tone amused. "You never know when things might get out of control." You turn; he hasn't moved. [[Tease him more. ->teaseAndreasMore]] [[Get in the bath. ->getInBath]]

You take the few cold steps to the tub and slide your foot in. The sudden heat makes you gasp, stinging exquisitely across the myriad scratches and bruises that mar your flesh. You lower your whole body in and rest against the copper side. Gradually, the pain recedes, displaced by ecstatic dissolution into exquisite warmth. You run your hands over your body, slowly and carefully, cleaning the mud from scrapes and cuts. (set: $data's charm to it + 1) Your eyes close. For timeless minutes, you float, just breathing and soaking, suspended in perfect, comforting warmth. A small sound alerts you. You open your eyes to see Andreas standing over the bath, gazing down at you. His expression is strangely soft, the angular lines more relaxed than you've ever seen them. How long has he been watching you? "Would you like some soap?" he asks, holding out a cake of scented pink in one large, calloused hand. [["Thank you." ->thanksForSoap]] [[Snatch the soap and hide your body. ->snatchHideSoap]]

"There are few things King Torveld truly loves, Highness, but his daughter is said to be one of them. He will sacrifice much to see you safely returned. We could use that attachment to drain the last of his treasury. Then his creditors will lean upon his allies, who will side with Saragai. Thronheim's armies will swiftly abandon him when they see he cannot pay them. And Saragai shall march in, undisputed, to take the throne. A bloodless victory." Pacing back and forth, he continues. "But that is not the only possibility. King Estevan is also aware of your father's soft spot. And he may be able to outbid him, thus securing a hostage to counterbalance Prince Rain. He could even force a marriage between you and Rain, and thus win the realm, again without bloodshed." "And then," he adds, "there's the Sorcerer of Caer Goroduin. Who knows what he intends? But in any case, with you out of the picture, Thronheim will be weakened and demoralized, ensuring an easy victory for Saragai." (if: $data's sawLetter is 1)[You hesitate. Based on Nyora's correspondence, she has already promised you to the Sorcerer. This is not at all how Andreas is painting the situation. Is he unaware of the letter, or does he wish to lull you with false hope? Should you confront him about it, or keep your knowledge to yourself? [["Didn't Nyora tell you? She's already promised me to the Sorcerer." ->crazyNotGoroduin]] ][["I'm impressed... you've thought of three different ways to morally justify getting rich from kidnapping."->getRichKidnapping]] [["So I'm just a pawn in your power games. Again, why are you telling me all this?" ->whyTellSeline]]

You move to the side of the bath nearer to Andreas, turning your back on him, and dip your hands in the warm water, then rub them up and down your body. (set: $data's likesA to it + 5) (set: $data's charm to it + 4)(set: $data's flirtCh4A to 2) You don't hear him move, but suddenly you sense him behind you. His touch sears like fire as his larger, rougher hands first move with yours, then gently start to wander. (if: $settings's censored is 0)[One slides down to cup a buttock, the other moves upward to a breast.] You feel his breathe on your throat, and as you arch your neck backward, the roughness of his beard sends a shiver of delight through you. His teeth tug your skin, and his tongue flickers against your flesh, tasting you. He's so close you can feel his heart pounding. He slides one arm beneath your (if: $settings's censored is 0)[buttocks](else:)[legs] and lifts you gently into the bathtub. The sudden heat makes you gasp, stinging exquisitely across myriad scratches and bruises. You rest against the copper side. Gradually, pain recedes, displaced by ecstasy. You feel like you're dissolving in exquisite warmth. You run your hands over your body, slowly and carefully, cleaning the mud from scrapes and cuts. Your eyes close. For timeless minutes, you float, just breathing and soaking, suspended in perfect, comforting warmth. When you open your eyes, Andreas is still staring down at you, eyes aglow. "Highness," he murmurs. "Would you like me to scrub your back?" [["Okay." ->AndreasscrubBack]] [["No, thank you. Please leave me alone!" ->rejectAndreasBath]]

"You are very welcome, Highness. Shall I scrub your back?" (set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 3) He smiles warmly, still looking down at you. Your skin flushes warm all over. It's just the heat of the bath. Surely? [["Okay." ->AndreasscrubBack]] [["No, thank you. Please leave me alone!" ->rejectAndreasBath]]

You pull your legs up against your breasts, concealing yourself as much as possible, and scrub vigorously at your body. (display: "rejectAndreasBath")

Andreas rolls up his sleeves and slides his hands across your shoulders. As they touch your bare skin, you feel the roughness of callouses, but his fingers are gentle. He takes the wet soap and makes circles around your shoulder-blades. (set: $tease to 1) (set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 3) Your fears melt in his confident grasp. You lean into his warm hands, sighing with pleasure. His fingers stray lower and rougher, digging into the knotted muscles of your back, then stroking gently once more. (if: $data's flirtCh4A < 3)[(set: $data's flirtCh4A to 3)] He scoops steaming water from the tub and trickles it over your neck and shoulders, then rubs his thumbs along either side of your spine, hard and deep. You suppress a moan of pleasure. Your self-possession dissolves under his knowing touch, and you want nothing more than to yield beneath his hardness. A chill breeze lifts your hair as the tent flap opens. "Andreas!" Nyora's voice cracks like a whip. Andreas jumps backwards like a cat. She's standing in the doorway, eyes blazing and mouth pinched into a tiny, furious rosebud. "I... err..." Andreas stares back and forth between you and her. It's the first time you've seen him lost for words. Nyora stalks toward the bath, ignoring Andreas. She stares down at you, and you sense clenched teeth behind her soft lips. Her eyes are luminous violet in the firelight. "Pretty," she says. "So very pretty." Leaning close, she whispers in your ear: "I think you'd look even prettier with your crackling nicely browned. If you ever let him touch you again, I'll roast you on a spit." [[(set: $difficulty to 10)(set: $skill_name to "Deceive")(display: "makeDice"):"I didn't do anything! He basically forced himself on me!" ->placateNyora]] [["You know, that sort of threat just comes over as really insecure." ->insultNyora]]

Andreas sighs and returns to the bed. He lies down, facing the other way, ostentatiously ignoring you. A chill breeze lifts your hair as the tent flap opens. "Andreas!" Nyora's voice cracks like a whip. She's standing in the doorway, eyes blazing and mouth pinched into a tiny, furious rosebud. He rolls over, raising a placating hand. "Merely guarding the prisoner, Nyora." Nyora stalks toward the bath, ignoring Andreas. She stares down at you, and you sense clenched teeth behind her soft lips. Her eyes glow luminous violet in the firelight. "Pretty," she says. "So very pretty." She leans closer to you, and whispers in your ear: "I think you'd look even prettier with your crackling nicely browned. If you ever let him touch you, I'll roast you on a spit." [["Look, nothing happened between me and him." ->placateNyoraHonest]] [["You know, that sort of threat just comes over as really insecure." ->insultNyora]]

(display: "dice")(set: $data's deceive to it + 3) (if: $success is true)[Nyora stares at you for a long time. Then she turns to Andreas. "You were too gentle with her. Next time, we'll both play." (set: $data's likesN to it + 3)](else:)["Do you think I'm a fool?" hisses Nyora. ](display: "insultedNyora")

"Oh, sweetheart, I'm not the one who needs to feel insecure around here." (set: $data's will to $data's will + 1) (display: "insultedNyora")

With surprising precision, Prince flicks his long tongue between your lips. Emitting a shrill yelp, he leaps backward and gallops out of the tent with his ears pinned back and his tail tucked. (set: $licked to 1) Grimacing, you hoist yourself out of the bath to vigorously gargle a mouthful of wine. Then you hop back in, shivering. Minutes later, the tent flap lifts and Andreas ducks inside. He doesn't come near you; instead, he stands by the fire, warming his hands. At last he looks at you. "Do not fear Nyora." he says. "I am sure my word means little to you, but she will not harm you while I live." [["So... the heroic kidnapper is here to protect me from his psychotic girlfriend? Yay for that." ->girlfriendAndreas]] [["How reassuring. Where would I be without your protection? Oh, that's right, safe at home in bed." ->safeHome]]

She puts her hand under your chin, digging sharp nails in as she turns your head. You gaze up into her pale, perfect face, its expression cold and yet aglow with something like anticipation. Andreas moves to her side, "Nyora..." he mutters. She wheels and slaps him. He flinches, but does not retreat. "Leave us!" she snaps. He moves between her and the bath. "No. We need her intact, remember?" Her eyes narrow in fury. "How dare you!" She starts to push past him, but he snares her wrists and holds her back. They stare at each other until Nyora looks away. Andreas leads her from the tent. From the doorway she calls to you over her shoulder: "Rest assured, I keep my promises, Princess." Left alone, you scrub your body clean and soak your hair in the warm, fragrant water, watching the doorway mistrustfully. Andreas clearly intends to protect you from Nyora, but does that make you any safer? The russet hound pads over and stands up, resting his large front paws on the edge of the bath. As your eyes meet, he wags his tail. A tag labelled "Prince" dangles from his golden collar. You stroke Prince's velvety head. He's a sleek, aristocratic creature, with feathered legs and a curling auburn tail. His amber eyes gaze into yours. [["Aww, you're such a sweetie, aren't y--" ->patPrince]] [["Don't even think about --" ->patPrince]]

Andreas shakes his head. "Girlfriend? Hardly." (set: $data's likesA to it + 1) [["She seems to think she is." ->girlFriend2]] [["Well, whatever she is, how do how you plan to stop her selling me to the Sorcerer?" ->howStopNy]]

He snorts. "It's not so easy. We started this gang together in Stelgarte, after your father turned me away. They're like family to me. But it's she who leads. All the men are half in love with her. She could have me skinned alive. And until now, I didn't realise..." (set: $data's likesA to it + 1) He trails off suddenly, and as his eyes meet yours, you sense a strange, wary speculation in them. [[(set: $difficulty to 10 - $data's likesA/10)(set: $skill_name to "Charm")(display: "makeDice"): "Didn't realise... what?" ->AndreasdidntRealise]] [["So you're afraid of her. And yet you had the audacity to kidnap a Crown Princess - *and* try to seduce her." ->cheatingAndreas]]

(display: "dice")(set: $data's charm to it + 1) "That I truly wanted something else." He speaks through clenched teeth. (if: $success is true)["Oh, I knew I wanted to fuck you, but Nyora's never objected to me having toys. This... whatever it is, this is different. (if: $tease is 1)[And we both know it now.]" (set: $data's likesA to it + 5) His suavity has vanished. Perhaps his current behaviour is as strange to him as to you. "The Crown Princess!" He turns away from you, his face grim and fierce. "You are everything I despise, and yet you intoxicate me! From the moment I first saw you, you set my every sense afire - how could I not pursue such contradiction? And then..." he darts a glance at you. [["Wait. Did you really think kidnapping was a good way to start a relationship?" ->relationshipKidnapping]] [["And then?" ->somethingElse]]](else:)[Abruptly, he stands and stalks to the doorway. "Highness, I do not ask your forgiveness. I act according to my nature, and I have no need of your respect. I merely wish that you despise me for the correct reasons." Before you can reply, he's gone. (display: "getOutBath")]

Andreas's voice is edged with frustration. "I did not intend...(if: $tease is 1)[ actually, I did intend to, but I didn't plan to. Not consciously, anyway."] Abruptly, he stands and stalks to the doorway. "Highness, I do not ask your forgiveness. I act according to my nature, and I have no need of your respect. I merely wish that you despise me for the correct reasons." Before you can reply, he's gone. (display: "getOutBath")

His eyes blaze with sudden, dark fire before he looks away. "A relationship? Of course not! I wanted to touch you, to possess you. To feel your soft flesh squirming in my arms and know that you were all mine, to use as I willed. I still do, damn it." (set: $data's charm to it + 1) Then he looks up at you, his expression now pained, almost pleading. (display: "somethingElse")

He meets your eyes suddenly, his gaze hard as onyx. "What I want, Highness, is to avert this war altogether. I do not want to see the *Leviathan* moored in your harbour, your fields burned and salted, your farmers' blackened corpses bloating in the rivers. I do not want to see your villages aflame, nor your cities looted. But it will not be easy to prevent." [["Then what is your plan?" ->AndreasPlans]] [["A noble ambition for a common thief." ->nobleThief]]

He seats himself on the bed of furs, head bowed. When he looks up, you're startled by the old, cold anger in his eyes. "She *used* to be my lover. But she changed. Or rather, she became more... like herself. Eventually my illusions became untenable."(set: $data's likesA to it + 1) [["Then why don't you leave?" ->whyNotBreakUp]] [["Sounds like a beautiful relationship." ->beautifulRelationship]]

Andreas grins. "Convenient, isn't it?" (display:"mustMarryRain")

Placating Nyora, you decide, is a lost cause. Andreas will just have to leash her, assuming he prefers his hostages alive. You don the velvet dress carefully. It's richly made, in a slightly exotic style. The skirt flares dramatically, with several layers of crinkling silk, and the tight-laced bodice is embroidered in a crane pattern. Footsteps approach, and Andreas enters. His eyes widen at the sight of you in the dress, and he begins to smile. But after a second, the smile fades, replaced by a mask of nonchalance. He gestures at the pile of furs, and you realise a lady's jacket of sable lies near the pillow. You put it on, grateful for the warmth. (display: "afterBath")

Footsteps outside - there's no time. You pull the ragged garment tight around you as Andreas enters the room. He raises one eyebrow. "Really, Highness? No matter how scathing your contempt for me, your dignity will be better served by accepting a clean dress. And among men like these, dignity can keep you alive." Despite yourself, your cheeks flush with mingled relief and embarrassment. [["Won't Nyora mind? She doesn't seem like the sharing type." ->NyoraNotShare]] [["Very well, as you leave me no alternative, I will tolerate these crude peasant garments for the time being." ->putOnDress]]

Andreas snorts. "Touche. But for all her drama, Nyora does appreciate the difference between a dead hostage and a live one. In terms of monetary value, at least. She won't make a fuss, trust me." (display: "putOnDress")

He tosses the velvet dress to you. You catch it clumsily, trying to prevent the nightdress dropping, and your face burns with the expectation of Andreas's gaze. But when you look up again, he has already turned away and is waiting, impassive, with folded arms. You don the dress carefully. It's not a peasant garment at all; in fact, it's richly made, in a slightly exotic style. The skirt flares dramatically, with several layers of crinkling silk, and the tight-laced bodice is embroidered in a crane pattern. Without looking around, Andreas gestures at the pile of furs, and you realise a lady's jacket of sable lies near the pillow. You put it on, grateful for the warmth. (display: "afterBath")

You can't resist his dark, hungry stare. His eyes widen as you walk toward him, flicking your hair behind your head and letting your hips sway. (set: $data's charm to it + 5)(set: $data's flirtCh4A to 4) He waits as if spellbound, only his chest moving as you pause, inches away, and gaze up at him. His scarred face is strangely quiet, accepting, as if he is drinking in the sight of not just your naked body but your soul. You grow still as well, suspended in the moment like a mote of dust, and when your lips touch his the sudden softness is both unexpected and inevitable. The taste of his breathe is the promise of summer nights, his shoulders are a sheltering oak, and in his eyes you feel yourself both known, and knowing. You want this connection to never end, and in that realization, you're pierced by the bittersweet knowledge that it already has. He leans away, breathing hard, and you flee to the bath, your mind flashing over the memory of the kiss as a dragonfly skims a pond. (display: "getInBath")

Andreas stares at you, and his tone holds a sharp rebuke. "Have you heard nothing I've said? This is no game, Seline. And if you can't figure out why I would tell you such things, then you've perceived nothing of my choices." (display:"mustMarryRain")

Andreas draws a sharp breath. He doesn't look at you, and you hear clenched teeth in his reply. "Understood, Highness. Nonetheless, there is information I must convey to you, for your own benefit. Will you permit me to continue?" [["Fine, whatever." ->AndreasExplainsEventsMean]] [["Okay, sorry." ->AndreasExplainsEventsKind]]

(if: $eatAndreasTent is 0)[When you turn, Andreas inclines his head. "Now, if you are ready, Highness, the food awaits. I have no wish to force my company upon you, but there are matters we must discuss at once." (if: ((history:) contains "relationshipKidnapping"))[ [["Is something wrong? You were not so formal a few minutes ago." ->whySoFormal]] ][[Eat->eatAndreasTent]] ](else:)[Andreas waits, arms folded. "Is there anything else you require for your comfort, Highness?" His tone is cool. [["No, thank you." ->noThanksAndreas]] [["Is something wrong?" ->offendedAndreas]]]

The bathwater has grown chill. You clamber out, prune-fingered, and towel yourself dry. A chartreuse velvet gown is laid out by the fire. It looks warm and soft, lined within with scarlet silk. It almost certainly belongs to Nyora. You sigh, and pick up your discarded nightdress between two fingers, wrinkling your nose at the scent of horse, blood and sweat. Not only is it entirely unsuitable for camping, it's now barely decent, its mud-crusted lace torn and unravelling. You grimace. But Nyora hates you enough already; she might not take kindly to you appropriating her wardrobe. [[Wear Nyora's gown. ->wearNyoraGown]] [[Wear your old nightdress. ->wearOldNightDress]]

He tidies away the remains of the meal(if: $licked is 0)[, tossing scraps to the dog] with sharp, agitated movements. But when he meets your eyes again his tone is calm, though his shoulders remain hunched and tense. "I want your cooperation, Seline. The best outcome for everyone -- your father included -- is for you to marry Prince Rain immediately and thus avert the war. And I believe I can persuade Nyora to ransom you to Saragai. But King Estevan loves his grandson. He will not consent to the marriage unless he is convinced he can rely on your devotion to Rain. Though he's not the warmonger your father is, he'd sooner take Thronheim by force than treaty if he thinks his heir might suffer for it." You hesitate. Haven't you always dreamed of marrying Rain? Until recently at least... But that's foolish. Who else could you possibly want to marry? Sir Yellowtooth? [["Of course I'll cooperate! Even setting aside the fact that we can stop a war and save my country, Rain's my best friend, and he's gorgeous. What could be better?" ->soundsPerfect]] [["You're asking me to pretend I'm in love with Rain?" ->pretendLoveRain]] [["You're asking me to betray my country!" ->betrayCountry]]

His eyes widen. "What are you talking about? Just hours ago, she told me that she was still considering the matter. Doubtless the Sorcerer has made a tempting offer, but why would she trust him? For all she knows, his gold may be accursed, or turn into a bag of toads once she leaves the tower. Or he could simply turn *her* into a toad as soon as she's through the gate." [["I found a letter in Nyora's tent from the Sorcerer. It was very clear." ->alreadyPromised]] [["Why are you telling me all this, anyway?" ->whyTellSeline]] [["I saw what I saw. And what do you want from me, anyway?" ->mustMarryRain]]

Andreas raises one eyebrow, and you suddenly feel naked - no, worse, transparent - under that piercing black gaze. He doesn't argue, but amusement tugs his lopsided lips. "If you say so, Highness. (set: $data's likesR to $data's likesR + 1) (display: "yesMarriage")

A flicker of intrigue lights his eyes, and he leans slightly closer to you. But his tone is mocking: "Would it be a pretence? Your doomed romance is already the talk of the court." Inside, you can't help asking yourself the same question. [["Does it matter? It's not like I have the option of marrying for love." ->loveDoesntMatter]] [["I... I guess I don't really know. I used to daydream about Rain -- all the girls did -- but I never thought my father would permit a marriage. And last time we talked, we fought. Badly. I don't know if he'll forgive me. I know I haven't forgiven him." ->lovenotsure]]

Andreas chews his lip. "Sounds like the perfect foundation for a relationship. You know, Seline, there are times when I'm grateful to my father for turning me away. I may be poor, but at least I won't have to wake up every morning of the rest of my life next to some random acquaintance my scheming family chose for political advantage." [["That's why palaces always have separate chambers for the King and Queen. In practice, you can remain random acquaintances forever. And as you keep reminding me, there are worse lives." ->couldBeWorse]] [["At least Rain's a friend. Maybe we're not in love, but I know he's always got my back." ->couldBeWorse]]

Andreas sighs. "Indeed, it could be worse. (display: "yesMarriage")

Andreas gives you a hard stare, then nods sharply. "Thank you for trusting me, Highness." (display: "batheOrEndChapter")

(display: "dice")(set: $data's will to it + 3) (set: $data's deceive to it + 5) Andreas's dark eyes narrow as he stares at you. You gaze back defiantly, willing him to believe you.(if: $success is true)[ "Not bad," he mutters. "Perhaps you will convince them after all."](else:)[ Slowly he shakes his head. "You will have to become a better liar, Seline, if you wish to rule all of Thronheim."] Then he bites his lip, and you sense he's restraining harsher words. "I do not blame you for mistrusting me. But haven't you realised, you and I are very much alike? You cannot lie to me, Seline(if: $data's likesA > 15)[. I will always know, the same way I know you have to fight yourself not to touch me. The same way I cannot lie to you. So here's some truth: I dislike Rain. It makes my skin crawl, just imagining that prissy little fencing-master pawing at you.](else:)[ - nor I to you. So let us be frank with one another. I despise that prissy little fencing-master.] But I believe he's a decent man, and also the best chance we have to save your people, and your throne. And *you* believe he's following your trail into the Twisted Forest at this very moment." (if: $data's likesA > 30)[He hesitates, then adds: "If I could lie, I'd tell you I don't care. That would make things ever so much simpler." ]You can't deny the rawness in his tone. And even if you didn't believe him, it wouldn't make much sense to blackmail Saragai when they're about to conquer the land. [["If your plan works, that prissy little fencing-master is your future King. So keep your feelings to yourself." ->RainIsKing]] [["Ridiculous! You and I are nothing alike. And Rain is a better man than you'll ever be." ->RainIsBetter]](if: $data's likesA > 30)[ [["Then if you will pretend you lied, I will pretend I believed you, and we can both keep some dignity intact."->pretendAndreasLied]]]

Andreas bows ironically. "I shall endeavour to do that, Highness." (display: "batheOrEndChapter")

You hope your words will strike like daggers, but Andreas merely stretches his shoulders with feline grace, his expression cool. "If you say so, Highness." (set: $data's likesR to $data's likesR + 1) (display: "batheOrEndChapter")

"As you wish, Highness. Personally, I find dignity an unnecessary encumbrance, but I'll endeavour to respect yours." (display: "batheOrEndChapter")

(if: $batheAndreasTent is 0)[Then a slight smile tugs his scarred features. "For tonight, I suggest you take advantage of the bathtub. We may not see such luxury again for some days." You finish your wine while Andreas tops up the bathtub with freshly-heated buckets. Despite his wounds, he moves lightly, and the firelight casts a sensual tone to his lean musculature. When he meets your eyes again, you find yourself blushing. He inclines his head, holding your gaze through the steam. "It's ready, Highness. I hope you'll find the temperature to your liking." [[Bathe->batheAndreasTent]] ](if: $batheAndreasTent is 1)[He turns away. (display: "talkWithNyora")]

He chews his lip, appearing to examine the edge of his sword, though you suspect he's avoiding your gaze. After a few moments, he replies stiffly: (set: $data's charm to it + 1) "I did not intend to impose my feelings on you, Highness. I know you think me a man without pride, but that is not entirely true: my vanity lies not in morality or valour, but in a certain kind of self-knowledge. And so I am ashamed: the full extent of my folly was not apparent, even to me, until too late. I will not speak of the matter again." [["You only spoke the truth. There's nothing shameful in that." ->noShameInTruth]] [["I'm confused by my feelings, too. And I know we cannot - must not - ever act upon them. But what use is there in pretending they don't exist?" ->denialNoGood]] [["You are right. No good can come of it." ->denialGood]]

He raises his eyes to yours at last, and for a second his pain pierces you like a lance. Then he leans away, the smiling mask descends, and when he speaks his tone is light as if you merely shared some casual banter over dinner. (set: $data's charm to it + 1) "Would that were so, Highness. But in the world of men, lies furnish the dignity of clothing. I'll thank you not to poke holes in mine." He gestures at the laden table. "Eat, highness. The food grows cold." (display:"eatAndreasTent")

"What use? Highness, you jest. Would you drive us both to madness? No? Then do not pursue a whim that can only end in your ruin. Do you think my will is so much stronger than my hunger? Remember we are much alike." (set: $data's charm to it + 3) He slams the blade back into its sheath. "Eat, highness. The food grows cold." (display:"eatAndreasTent")

Andreas slams the blade back into its sheath with unaccustomed violence. But when he speaks, his voice is soft and calm as usual. "Eat, highness. The food grows cold." (display:"eatAndreasTent")

(set: $demo to 1) ##Chapter 4 #The Outlaw's Tent |Recap>[(display: "recap")] A small bell chimes melodiously as you enter the tent. Following Andreas's lead, you remove your shoes. The earthen floor is strewn with rugs, brilliantly patterned though threadbare. In the middle of the tent, a firepit glows red with coals. The peaked roof guides smoke out through a central hole. "My tent is yours, Highness." Andreas meets your eyes, raising your heart rate despite your best intentions. You look away, flustered, and sense his smile without seeing it. A tub of beaten copper steams near one wall; next to it is a mound of thick-furred animal skins: Andreas's bed? On a table, a platter of meat, roasted vegetables and fresh fruit awaits. It's simple fare, but right now it looks wonderful. [[Eat. ->eatAndreasTent]] [[Bathe. ->batheAndreasTent]]

"Seline, you were just an idea to me. A phantom, a twisted mirror of my hatred and desire moulded in human form. I didn't know you. But when we spoke, you became a person... one whose spirit ached for freedom -- and I knew exactly how you felt. (if: $data's flirtA is 1)[The hunger in your body, every touch igniting a fire that matched my own. ](if: $data's claimGoodQueenA is 1)[The determination to forge your own destiny, when the world thinks you merely a tool. ]When I held you, I felt the beating of your heart, like a trapped bird. I couldn't leave you there, alone in that gilded cage - even if I couldn't yet see a way to set you free." (set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 5)(set: $data's apromise to 1) You are shocked into silence. (if: $data's flirtCh4A > 0)["And then after tonight - the way you revealed yourself to me - (if: $data's flirtCh4A is 2)[the way you invited my touch -](elseif: $data's flirtCh4A is 3)[the way your body yielded under my hands -](elseif: $data's flirtCh4A is 4)[the way you kissed me, Seline! -] whatever this is between us, I cannot believe you do not feel it too. And that makes what I must do now all the more galling."](else:)["And besides, I had my fortune to think of."] Abruptly, he stands and stalks to the doorway. "Highness, I do not ask your forgiveness. I act according to my nature, and I have no need of your respect. I merely wish that you despise me for the correct reasons." Before you can reply, he's gone. (display: "getOutBath")

"Did you know, Highness, that Rain's eldest brother, Prince Morael, heir presumptive of Saragai, vanished months ago within the borders of Thronheim? Because until tonight, I did not know this. And his grandfather, King Estevan, believes your father had him assassinated." (if: $licked is 0)[The russet dog, which had been dozing on the rug, gives a sudden, single bark. You and Andreas both look around, but see nothing that could have provoked the outburst. You stroke the beast's velvety head as you contemplate Andreas's words. ]You'd like to defend your father's honour, but in all honesty, it wouldn't surprise you if it were true. He's not entirely unreasonable, but discreetly offing the heir of Saragai might well have proven irresistible. [["Remind me, why was Morael the heir presumptive? Not the heir apparent?" ->heirPresumptive]] [["Wait. If Morael's gone, does that make Rain heir to the throne?" ->heirOfSaragai]] [["What? He's been missing for months, and nobody knew?" ->missingMonths]]

He gives a curt nod. "Very well, Highness. I suggest you rest. These summer nights are brief, and we ride at dawn." As he walks to the doorway, he adds (display: "talkWithNyora")

His nostrils flare. "Of course not, Your Highness. I am, as you've noted, a treacherous, thieving scoundrel. One who is about to become very wealthy. What could possibly be wrong?" Though his tone remains feather-light, the sarcasm bites. [["Okay. It's not like I care, anyway." ->upsetAndreas]] [["You seem upset about something." ->upsetAndreasNicer]]

He draws a deep breath. "Highness, if my words have been discourteous, I apologise. My private frustrations are no excuse for ill manners." He turns away. (display: "talkWithNyora")

He shrugs. "When nobles thieve from commoners, it's left to common thieves to act nobly." Then a grin flashes across his features. "Though I won't deny, I expect to be well compensated. (display: "AndreasPlans")

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His suavity has vanished. Perhaps his current behaviour is as strange to him as to you. "The Crown Princess!" He turns away from you, his face grim and fierce. "You are everything I despise, and yet you intoxicate me! From the moment I first saw you, you set my every sense afire - how could I not pursue such contradiction? And then..." he darts a glance at you. [["Wait. Did you really think kidnapping was a good way to start a relationship?" ->relationshipKidnapping]] [["And then?" ->somethingElse]]

"It's a mere technicality, that could not possibly ever be of any practical importance. The father of Rain and Morael was Prince Chrystovan, son of King Estevan. Chrystovan had an elder sister, Mirakai, who was lost in the war. If she had a child, that child would be the heir apparent, displacing Morael and Rain in line to the throne. Because of this possibility, Morael was the heir presumptive, not the heir apparent. But since she died twenty-five years ago, it's unlikely she'll bear a child." [["Why do you know all this?" ->whyKnow]] [["Saragai uses absolute primogeniture? How very, err, modern." ->absolutePrimogeniture]] [["I see. So, with Morael gone, that leaves Rain as the last surviving heir of Saragai?" ->heirOfSaragai]]

Andreas nods. "There were two siblings between him and Morael, but both died. And now, of course, King Torveld plans to execute Prince Rain on the flimsiest of pretexts." He draws a deep breath. (display: "warSaragai")

"Precisely." Andreas folds his arms. (display: "warSaragai")

"Highness, this changes *everything*. Estevan will start a war, and he'll win. Saragai have been quietly arming for years, planning and waiting, all the while itching for vengeance on Thronheim. You've no doubt heard of this mighty warship they're building at Isholme, the *Leviathan*? That is but the tip of the iceberg. Whilst King Torveld has spent decades emptying the Treasury to fund pointless, ill-conceived invasions. When he's not doing that, he's frittering away money on grandiose monuments and decadent luxuries. There's nothing left. You owe massive debts to all your old allies -- the few you haven't alienated. Nobody will come to your aid." Again, you want to argue, but his words echo the rumours you've been hearing for years. [["So why are you telling me this, if you and the Saragaian King are such good friends?" ->whatAndreasRole]] [["They'll never defeat us! My people will fight to the death!" ->fightToDeath]]

Andreas chuckles. "My mother. She was a quiet soul, but she'd talk my ears off about the ins and outs of royalty, and I suppose some of it stuck. It's a frequent hobby among the commoners of Khargai. We are sufficiently distant from the capital that the dramas of royalty carry an elevated mystique -- quite different from our sordid local politics." [["I see. So, with Morael gone, that leaves Rain as the last surviving heir of Saragai?" ->heirOfSaragai]] [["And now my father wants to execute Prince Rain, the last surviving heir, on a pretext?" ->executeRain]]

Now, if we are agreed that the marriage is desirable, there's a more urgent matter in which we need your help. Prince Rain is *also* missing." Your heart pounds with sudden, wild hope. Has Rain truly escaped? With a fast horse, he could be well on the road to Saragai. The mountain passes are remote and poorly guarded; he might well slip through before word could reach the border. But then a sick certainty rises in you, and your hopes fade. No. Even on the run, Rain will have heard of your kidnapping. And what would he do then? You know the answer in your bones. Honour, to Rain, isn't a choice, but the core of his self-worth. He could no more abandon you than he could murder a baby. [["Oh no... he must be searching for me. He'll be caught!" ->truthAboutRain]] [[Say nothing. ->sayNothingA]]

With surprising precision, Prince flicks his long tongue between your lips. Emitting a shrill yelp, he leaps backward and gallops out of the tent with his ears pinned back and his tail tucked. (set: $licked to 1) Grimacing, you hoist yourself out of the bath to vigorously gargle a mouthful of wine. Prune-fingered and shivering, you towel yourself dry. A chartreuse velvet gown is laid out by the fire. It looks warm and soft, lined within with scarlet silk. It almost certainly belongs to Nyora. You sigh, and pick up your discarded nightdress between two fingers, wrinkling your nose at the scent of horse, blood and sweat. Not only is it entirely unsuitable for camping, it's now barely decent, its mud-crusted lace torn and unravelling. You grimace. But Nyora hates you enough already; she might not take kindly to you appropriating her wardrobe. [[Wear Nyora's gown. ->wearNyoraGown]] [[Wear your old nightdress. ->wearOldNightDress]]

He shrugs. "It seems only fair. Wouldn't you find it galling to be outranked by your little brother?" [["Good thing I don't have one. Then again, *jus uxoris* is even worse. As soon as I get married, my husband becomes king. How is *that* fair?" ->jusUxoris]] [["Quite. Why do you know all this?" ->whyKnow]] [["Anyway, with Morael gone, that leaves Rain as the last surviving heir of Saragai." ->heirOfSaragai]]

Andreas rolls his eyes. "Why do the women of Thronheim put up with this nonsense? Any consort of a Saragaian queen who tried to claim the throne would be a head shorter by nightfall." [["And there I thought you Saragaians were all uneducated savages." ->uneducated]] [["What alternative do we have? My father can force me to marry whomever he chooses. And why would the King agree to change the law that made him King?" ->problemsReforms]]

Andreas laughs. "I rather suspect, Highness, that your father considers us uneducated savages *because* we lack male primogeniture and *jus uxoris*." [["Why do you know about all this?" ->whyKnow]] [["Quite possibly. So, with Morael gone, that leaves Rain as the last surviving heir of Saragai?" ->heirOfSaragai]]

Andreas's eyes narrow. "Well, what if your father didn't get to choose your husband? What if you were to choose for yourself?" You shake your head. He'd never allow that. "You are afraid to defy him. And with good reason. But, Highness, these are dangerous times. In truth, I think submission offers you no more safety than rebellion. Allow me to explain. He plans to execute Prince Rain, the last heir of Saragai, on the flimsiest of pretexts. What do you think will happen next?" It's clearly a rhetorical question. He draws a deep breath. (display: "warSaragai")

"Now, I must speak with Nyora. Let's hope she will see reason." [["I'm coming with you." ->speakWithNyora]] [["Okay. Good luck." ->okayGo]]

He frowns. "Highness, are you out of your mind? Your presence will only incite her to worse madness."(set: $data's will to it + 1) [["I am the future Queen, Andreas. I will not sit here like left luggage while you and she debate my future!" ->notLeftLuggage]] [["I suppose you're right. Good luck convincing her." ->okayGo]]

His eyes soften. "Try to sleep, Highness. If all goes well, we'll ride early tomorrow." Uneasily, you watch Andreas's back vanish through the tent flap. With your physical comfort satisfied, you find yourself giving the room a more measured glance. Is everything he possesses right here in this tent? You hear muted voices coming from the direction of the bonfire outside. Too distant to untangle, but the tone is heated. Are Nyora and Andreas arguing? [[Look around Andreas's tent. ->lookAndreasTent]] [[Sneak out and eavesdrop on the conversation. ->eavesdrop]] [[Just go to bed. ->goBed]]

What's most striking about the tent is what it doesn't contain. You see no personal possessions, no letters, no drawings or knick-knacks. The rugs upon the dirt floor, though tastefully chosen, reveal no symbolism, only geometric patterns. The space is too barren to indicate whether its occupant is tidy or neat, intellectual or romantic, sociable or solitary. Everything about it feels simply temporary, and you cannot help but wonder at a life so permanently ephemeral. There *is* something free and untameable in it, a refusal to be bound by the defining comfort of material possessions. Outside, the argument continues. [[Sneak out and eavesdrop. ->eavesdrop]] [[Just go to bed. ->goBed]]

You strip off your gown and slither naked between the cool furs. They are surprisingly soft, and a shiver of pure pleasure engulfs you as they yield beneath your aching flesh. It's as if your body has forgotten the meaning of comfort. As you snuggle beneath the covers, a hard corner digs into your ribs. Fishing reveals a small, leather-bound volume. [[Open it. ->openBook]] [[Set it aside. ->leaveBook]]

(set: $eavesdrop to 1)You creep out of the tent. Andreas stands silhouetted against the bonfire; facing him, Nyora's hair catches the flickering light, a golden waterfall. They are staring at one another. You cannot see Andreas's expression, but Nyora's smile is dazzling even by night. Nyora snorts, swaying slightly. "Andreas, sweetheart. No need to worry. It's all arranged. Have a drink with us!" "Arranged? What the hell are you talking about?" His tone is savage. Nyora shrugs. "Aww, don't make that face, love. It was scarcely a choice in the end, so I went ahead and signed." He stamps over to her. "Signed? Signed *what*?" he snarls. She gazes up at him, her violet eyes sparkling with no trace of submission. "Why, the deal, of course. The Sorcerer's offer was wonderfully generous, whilst the others were -- well, a little disappointing." "You said we'd talk about it!" Her smile broadens. "And here we are, talking about it." Andreas bites his lip, his eyes blazing with fury. Then he takes a deep breath. [[Wait in the shadows. ->dontInterrupt]] [["Nyora, wait. We have a better plan." ->betterPlan]] [["What the hell! Nyora, there is no way I'm going to let you sell me to some dodgy magician for his sordid experiments! You *will* return me to my father at once, or I'll have your entrails torn out by rats!" ->betterPlan]]

You manage only a squeak before the calloused hand slaps across your mouth, muffling you. Your struggles only tighten his grip. (set: $data's will to it + 1) His breath tickles your ear. "Highness, if Nyora's henchmen awaken, she'll have us killed. Will you be silent, or shall I gag you?" (if: $heardConv is 0)[So much for making Nyora see reason. ]Reluctantly, you nod. At once, he releases you. "We must ride at once. Get dressed." Such discourtesy! You bite back a haughty reply. (display: "followAndreas")

Soft fabric rustles and bunches; he's handing you your dress. As you grip it, your fingers brush against his. [[Jerk them away. ->pullAway]] [[Move slowly. ->slowTouch]]

You shrug the gown over your shoulders, and follow Andreas out into the cool night. All is quiet; the fire has burned low, and you can barely see the grey outlines of tents. The moon is gone; trees lift twisted black fingers against a velvet sky. Two horses stand saddled at the edge of the wood, their moist breath hazing the air. Wordlessly, Andreas lifts you to the back of the smaller one, then leads both out of the camp, into the dark and silent forest. Their hoofbeats sound very loud in the stillness. Every creak of leather and jingle of harness stops your breath as you wait for the alarm. But all you hear is a faint, rhythmic snoring from one of the tents. At last you let yourself hope you have eluded Nyora. Your heartbeat slows. "Andreas." The voice is soft and close -- barely a yard away. Your startled movement inadvertently tugs the reins; your horse gives a ringing huff of protest and dances sideways. "Hush there," Andreas turns, scowling. "Nice work, Norvidge. See if you can make him whinny next time?" "T'was the lady's doin'!" objects the other man. Two more horses emerge from the shadows, led by a bulky figure. In silence, the men mount up. Andreas meets your eyes. "Ready, Highness? We must ride hard tonight." ----- (display: "skills") (if: $demo is 0)[<script>window.StrayHeirs.createChapter(5)</script>(print: "<a href=\"ch5.html\">Chapter 5</a>")](else:)[ Thanks for reading the Stray Heirs demo! The rest of the story is now in beta testing. If you'd like to be a beta reader please message me: elyneknight@proton.me]

For just a moment longer than necessary, your fingers slide against his. They feel rough and hard, the skin heavily calloused. (set: $data's charm to it + 3) You hear his breath tighten. He does not move. (display: "pullAway")

Through clenched teeth, he sighs. "Very well, Highness. Shall we?" (set: $data's will to it + 3) Outside, the night air is cool, and the gathering at the bonfire has mostly dispersed. Nyora stands with only a few men, holding her hands above the flames. With Andreas at your side, you march to the fire. Nyora draws herself up like a hostile cat, her gaze flicking between you and Andreas. A scornful smirk twists her lower lip. Andreas looks at you and raises an eyebrow. [["Nyora, I have a proposal for you." ->proposal]] [[Let him speak. ->letAndreasSpeak]]

You leaf through the book, letting it fall open upon a much-thumbed page. It's a poem by a Khargaian master. Though you can catch the gist of it -- something about the flight of a wild hawk -- the feel of the language eludes you, as does any subtler meaning. (set: $data's charm to it + 1) Yawning, you set the book aside, but you can't help imagining Andreas's voice. You repress a sleepy smile. (display: "leaveBook")

Warmth incites the tendrils of exhaustion, tugging your thoughts into soft, descending spirals of nonsense. You must contemplate your situation. Make a plan. Can you really trust Andreas, at all? But your mind lingers in all the wrong places, entangled in (if: $heardConv is 0)[the feel of his hands, the dark warmth of his gaze.](else:)[troubling fantasies.] Resistance is futile. You wrap your fingers around your locket and let your eyes close. Something touches your shoulder. "Seline, wake up!" Andreas breathes in your ear. "Make no sound, but follow me." Your eyes open. Though you're warm beneath the furs, all else is chill, and black but for the muted pulse of coals dying in the brazier. [["What the -" ->talk]] [[Follow him quietly. ->followAndreas]]

"A proposal?" The words are swathed in peals of silvery laughter. "How hilarious. Ask yourself this, Highness: does the roast propose a recipe for stuffing?" (set: $data's persuade to it + 1)(set: $data's will to it + 1) [["Are you really that stupid, Nyora? Has it never once crossed your mind that a Crown Princess can be a useful ally -- or, for that matter, a deadly foe?" ->allyFoe]] [["Listen, Nyora. I didn't come here to trade insults." ->noInsults]]

Her eyes narrow. "Are *you* that stupid, Highness? Your buyer may want your hide unmarked, but believe me, I can work around that restriction. So be quiet now, or I'll make you scream all night." (set: $data's will to it + 1)(set: $data's persuade to it + 1) (display: "letAndreasSpeak")

"Then I propose you go away again, princess, for if I can't insult you, I shall have to *assault* you." Her voice is slurred: she is, you realize suddenly, extremely drunk. (set: $data's persuade to it + 1) "Nyora..." Andreas growls, warningly. [["Are you really that stupid, Nyora? Has it never once crossed your mind that a Crown Princess can be a useful ally -- or, for that matter, a deadly foe?" ->allyFoe]] [[Let Andreas speak. ->letAndreasSpeak]]

Andreas steps forward. "Nyora. It's time we decided where to ransom the Princess." Nyora snorts, swaying slightly. "Andreas, sweetheart. No need to worry. It's all arranged. Have a drink with us!" "Arranged? What the hell are you talking about?" His tone is savage. Nyora shrugs. "Aww, don't make that face, love. It was scarcely a choice in the end, so I went ahead and signed." He stamps over to her. "Signed? Signed *what*?" he snarls. She gazes up at him, her violet eyes sparkling with no trace of submission. "Why, the deal, of course. The Sorcerer's offer was wonderfully generous, whilst the others -- well, a little disappointing, though now I've seen *that* --" she jerks her chin toward you -- "I can entirely understand why they didn't want to pay full price." "You said we'd talk about it!" Her smile broadens. "And here we are, talking about it." Andreas bites his lip. For a moment, his eyes blaze with fury. Then he takes a deep breath, and nods. [[Let him speak. ->letSpeakAndreasAfter]] [["Nyora, wait. We have a better plan." ->betterPlan]] [["What the hell! Nyora, there is no way I'm going to let you sell me to some dodgy magician for his sordid experiments! You *will* return me to my father at once, or I'll have your entrails torn out by rats!" ->threatenNyora]]

"Very well then. I will guard the prisoner." Andreas turns to you. His eyes are utterly cold. "Move!" he snarls, shoving you back toward the tent. [["Hey, get your hands off me!" ->getHandsOff]] [[Let him push you around. ->letAndreasPush]]

(if: $eavesdrop is 1)[Nyora's eyes widen slightly. "What's *that* doing wandering around? Andreas dear, would you please truss it up again?"](else:)[She rolls her eyes. "Oh, goody. The meat is talking again. Andreas, silence it, would you?"] (set: $data's persuade to it + 1) "With pleasure." Andreas turns to you. His eyes are utterly cold. "Move!" he snarls, shoving you back toward the tent. [["Hey, get your hands off me!" ->getHandsOff]] [[Let him push you. ->letAndreasPush]]

She raises her eyebrows. Her voice is low and sweet. "Oh, will you, Highness? I wonder, Andreas, do you think the Sorcerer would mind if I cut off her hands? Surely he won't need them..." (set: $data's will to it + 1) "Better not," growls Andreas. "Don't worry, Nyora. I'll discipline her." Nyora smiles. "Oh, you will, will you? May I watch?" Andreas grins back at her. "You're drunk. Go to bed, Ny. I'll join you later." He turns to you. His eyes are utterly cold. "Move!" he snarls, shoving you back toward the tent. [["Hey, get your hands off me!" ->getHandsOff]] [[Let him push you. ->letAndreasPush]]

"Well, there's nothing to be done, then. We certainly cannot break a contract with the Sorcerer. Well done, Nyora. You've won." "I'd say we've *both* won, wouldn't you? Don't be angry, my dear. You're about to become a very wealthy man. And I have some other news for you..." He freezes. "What are you talking about?" She giggles. "Ah, why so anxious? You're in such a bad mood tonight, Andreas. I suppose I'll save your surprise for tomorrow. Sleep well!" She turns toward her tent -- and catches sight of you. Her eyes widen slightly. "Andreas! Your pet has slipped its leash again. Truss it up again, won't you?" "With pleasure." Andreas turns to you. His eyes are utterly cold. "Move!" he snarls, shoving you back toward the tent. [["Hey, get your hands off me!" ->getHandsOff]] [[Let him push you. ->letAndreasPush]]

His rough hands yank your forearms behind your back. "You heard what Nyora said, *Princess*. Your fate's decided already. The only question is, how much fun are you going to give me in the mean time?" (set: $data's will to it + 1) (display: "letAndreasPush")

(set: $heardConv to 1) As he marches you back to the tent, Nyora's laughter rings out behind you. The tent flap drops behind you. Andreas at once steps away from you. His voice is very soft. "My apologies, Highness. I had to convince her that I would support her plan, or she'd have set us both under guard." He gestures at the bed. "Try to rest a little, Highness. Once everyone is asleep, we'll ride out along a secret path. I'll go talk with the men. There are one or two I trust who might come with us." Without waiting for a reply, he's gone. You yawn. Maybe a rest isn't such a bad idea. You can at least lie down for a bit. (display: "goBed")

Andreas shakes his head, then scratches at his scar, seeming genuinely rattled. "That makes no sense! I must speak with her." (display: "mustMarryRain")

He snorts. "I'm asking you to do what's necessary to protect your people. That is the opposite of treachery. You know that by Thronheim's laws, whoever you marry shall be king. King Estevan will not invade a land ruled by his son! And is not Rain your own first choice?" You hesitate. [["Of course he is! I suppose you're right. It's the only way to stop the war. And he'll make a brilliant King." ->soundsPerfect]] [["I... I'm not sure. I don't want to pretend..." ->pretendLoveRain]]

He nods, and (display: "AndreasExplainsEvents")

Andreas looks thoughtful. "I

"Yes, Morael. Hear me out!" He (display: "AndreasExplainsEvents")

Ignoring your tone, Andreas (display: "AndreasExplainsEvents")

He (display: "AndreasExplainsEvents")

(set: $settings to StrayHeirs["settings"])<script>window.StrayHeirs.applyStyle();</script> (if: $canundo)[ ------ |== (if: $settings's darkmode is 1)[(link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="https://strayheirs.neocities.org/arrow3.png"/>')](else:)[(link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="https://strayheirs.neocities.org/arrow3dark.png"/>')] ==| (if: $settings's darkmode is 1)[(link: '<img src="https://strayheirs.neocities.org/settings.png" alt="Info & Settings" />')[(goto:"otherInfo")]](else:)[(link: '<img src="https://strayheirs.neocities.org/settingsdark.png" alt="Info & Settings" />')[(goto:"otherInfo")]]](else:)[(set: $canundo to true)]

Andreas nods. "Naturally, King Estevan covered it up - it places him in a weak position - but the news was bound to get out eventually." [["I see what you mean... If Morael's dead, then is Rain next in line for the throne? And he's in Stelgarte, right under Torveld's nose!" ->heirOfSaragai]] [["Remind me, why was Morael the heir presumptive? Not the heir apparent?" ->heirPresumptive]]

Andreas looks thoughtful. "And now you must fear for his life on top of that. Highness, I thank you for trusting me with your feelings. And I will do all I can to reunite you with Prince Rain. But after that..." his dark eyes glimmer, a flicker of intense emotion like a passing flame, "after that, if you do not wish to wed, I will defend your freedom with the same fervour." [["No, your plan makes sense. The marriage could be the only way to prevent a war." ->preventWar]] [["We'll see. At least Rain's a friend. Maybe we're not in love, but I know he's always got my back." ->couldBeWorse]]

Andreas sighs, shaking his head slightly as he gazes at you. Is that *sympathy*? You glare at him until his lip twists with amusement. "(display: "yesMarriage")

His dark gaze pins you. "And would you wish it so, Princess?" (set: $data's will to it + 1) You open your mouth, then close it. How to answer? It doesn't feel like the Forest can exist in the same world as the dull, luxurious prison of home. A numb gulf of unreality yawns between them. [["Nah, I'm having a lovely time. The torture, the threats, looking forward to being the blood sacrifice in a necromantic ritual - what's not to like?"->lovelyTime]] [["What's done is done, Andreas. Let's focus on the present. How are you going to stop Nyora selling me to the Sorcerer?" ->howStopNy]]

"I will not let that happen, Seline, whatever Nyora tries." (set: $data's charm to it + 1)(set: $data's likesA to it + 1) [["What's her deal, anyway? She seems kind of ...controlling?" ->girlFriend2]] [["And how exactly do you plan to prevent it?" ->howStopNy]]

"That's a delicate matter. You should understand - we started this gang together in Stelgarte, after your father turned me away. But it's she who leads. All the men are half in love with her. She could have me skinned alive." (set: $data's will to it + 1) [["Sounds like a beautiful relationship." ->beautifulRelationship]] [["Sounds like you don't actually have a plan." ->noPlan]]

He meets your eyes, and his gaze is so filled with bitterness and fury you recoil. But his tone is measured, and you realise abruptly that his anger is not toward you. "Things were different, once. When we were lovers, she was... not as you see her now. And as for me, I did not realise..." (set: $data's likesA to it + 1) He trails off suddenly, and as his eyes find yours again, you now sense a strange, wary speculation in them. [[(set: $difficulty to 10 - $data's likesA/10)(set: $skill_name to "Charm")(display: "makeDice")" Didn't realise... what?" ->AndreasdidntRealise]] [["Then why don't you leave?" ->whyNotBreakUp]]

He gives you an exasperated look. "I only wish you to understand, Highness, that the situation requires tact. And on that note, I'll leave you to finish your bath." (set: $data's will to it + 1) Abruptly, he stands and stalks to the doorway. "Highness, I do not ask your forgiveness. I act according to my nature, and I have no need of your respect. I merely wish that you despise me for the correct reasons." Before you can reply, he's gone. (display: "getOutBath")

{ (if: $recap is 1)[*After being kidnapped by the outlaw Andreas, Princess Seline remains imprisoned in the brigands' camp in the Twisted Forest. Her attempts to flee were foiled by (if: $data's metM is 1)[a mysterious naked knight](else:)[a russet dog named Prince], and she attracted the ire of the power-hungry bandit queen Nyora, who plans to ransom her to the sinister Sorcerer of Caer Goroduin. Andreas has invited Seline into his tent for refreshments.* (display: "skills") -----] (else:)[ (link: "Show recap")[ (set: $recap to 1) (replace: ?recap)[(display: "recap")] ] ] }

{ (if: $show_roll_details is 1)[$recorded_skill_name: $recorded_ability | Difficulty: $recorded_difficulty | Roll: $roll | Total = (print: ($recorded_ability).toFixed(1)) + $roll = $total | (if: $success is true)[$total >= $recorded_difficulty](else:)[$total < $recorded_difficulty] ] (else:)[ (link: "Show roll details?")[(set: $show_roll_details to 1) (replace: ?roll_details)[(display: "Roll_details")] ] ] }

(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")]

(set: $roll to $randarray's ($array_position))(set: $array_position to it + 1)(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](set: $total to $ability + $roll) $skill_name (Skill $ability)

(set: $data's charm to it + 1)(display: "upsetAndreas")

Andreas's dark eyes watch your reaction. He continues: "You know him better than anyone. Where would he go? Would he try to return to Saragai? Has he fled to some unknown backwater in shame at his disgrace? Or is he searching for you? Our first priority must be to find him, and return him to his grandfather." You look away, resisting the urgency of his questions. The idea of helping the bandits find Rain makes you uneasy. You can't be certain where he is, but if anyone can guess, it's you. Would the bandits truly return Rain to his family, or would they use their leverage against Saragai as they had against Thronheim? Perhaps they would sell you both to the Sorcerer. But is Rain better off alone, pursued by Thronheim's wrath? Unless Andreas is lying about everything, his interests align with Rain's. And if your intuition is correct, then Rain is putting himself in danger. [["He'll try to restore his honour by rescuing me. So he's probably following your trail, hiding from my father's men while searching the fringes of the Twisted Forest."->truthAboutRain]] [[(set: $difficulty to 20)(set: $skill_name to "Deceive")(display: "makeDice"): "He's heading for Saragai."->lieAboutRain]]

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(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")] (set: $settings to StrayHeirs["settings"])<script>window.StrayHeirs.applyStyle();</script> (link-undo:'<img alt="Undo" src="https://strayheirs.neocities.org/arrowpinksmall.png"/>')

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<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)) </p style>

Nyora stares at you for a long time. "Strange. He usually enjoys rifling through rich men's trash. Now I'll have to educate you myself..." (display: "insultedNyora")

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"As you wish, Highness." He gives you an ironic bow. "I would not wish to cause you any further discomfort." (display: "aleavesbath")

He doesn't wait for your reply, but turns on his heel and limps out of the tent. You pull the foul nightdress over your head and raise your arms to the fire's heat, feeling the warm ghost of flames flicker against your skin. When you slide your foot into the tub, the sudden heat makes you gasp, stinging exquisitely across the myriad scratches and bruises that mar your flesh. You lower your whole body in and rest against the copper side. Gradually, the pain recedes, displaced by ecstasy. You feel like you're dissolving into the exquisite warmth. You run your hands over your body, slowly and carefully, cleaning the mud from scrapes and cuts. Your eyes close. For timeless minutes, you float, just breathing and soaking, suspended in perfect, comforting warmth. When at last your eyes open, the russet hound stands resting his large front paws on the edge of the bath. As you meet his amber gaze, he wags his tail. You notice the tag labelled "Prince" that dangles from his golden collar. (set: $data's likesM to it + 1) You stroke Prince's velvety head. He's a sleek, aristocratic creature, with feathered legs and a curling auburn tail. He whines faintly, still staring at you. [["Aww, you're such a sweetie, aren't y--" ->dontPrince]] [["Don't even think about --" ->dontPrince]]