Of Knights and Dragons

,,,,,,,

"Knights, warriors, and people of the kingdom of Arisvielle!" the king proclaims, overlooking the crowd with his daughter at his side. [[Continue...|The King's Proclamation - 2]]

"As you all know, the dragon in the northern mountains has struck fear into our hearts with its presence for far too long! I stand before you today to tell you that I have heard your cries," he pauses, waiting for the murmur to die down. "I shall now issue a challenge to all who hear." [[Continue...|The King's Proclamation - 3]]

"Whosoever journeys into the mountains and puts an end to the draconic menace shall win the hand of my daughter, Princess Aria, in marriage. Let this word resound far and wide, that the dragon be slain for the good of this kingdom!" [[Continue...|The King's Proclamation - 4]]

As cheers break out in the crowd around you, you see the princess cover her face and run back into the castle. The king reaches after her as if to stop her, then quickly turns back toward the crowd with an awkward, forced smile. [[Continue...|The King's Proclamation - 5]]

You sigh and shake your head. The king has never fully understood Aria, as much as he may try. She would no doubt appreciate a friend's presence. [[Visit Aria.|Prologue Aria A - 1]] [[Head into town.|Prologue Tavern - 1]]

You decide it would be better to see Aria sooner rather than later. Using the crowd as cover, you slip away to the edge of the courtyard. [[Continue...|Prologue Aria A - 2]] (set: $visitedAria = true)

You walk into town, certain that the townsfolk will be abuzz with the king's proclamation. There's one place to go for gossip, and though you've never much cared fo the place, it'll have to do for today. [[Visit the tavern|Prologue Tavern - 2]]

The guards are all focused on the ceremony, so there are few to keep watch. Even so, you keep to the walls as you make your way to the eastmost tower. [[Continue...| Prologue Aria A - 3]]

As you reach the base of the tower, you can barely make out a thin thread, glinting in the sunlight. [[Pull the thread.|Prologue Aria A - 6]]

A bell chimes as you pull the thread, followed by the sound of a window opening somewhere higher on the tower. A girl's head appears from the opening, peering down at you. "Artur, is that you?" she asks, "Hold on, I'll lower you the rope." [[Continue...|Prologue Aria A - 7]]

In short order, you climb the rope leading into the upper room of the tower. You stand before //Aria, the Princess of Arisvielle.// Her face is streaked with tears and she still wears the dress from the ceremony you came from. [[Continue...|Prologue Aria A - 8]]

"Artur, I'm glad you're here," she forces a teary smile, "I suppose you heard my father's decree?" [["I did."|Prologue Aria A - 9]] (set: $relationshipAria = $relationshipAria + 15)

"I know some people who will jump at it," you continue, "and none for the right reasons." Aria breathes in slowly, another tear rolling from her eyes. [["I have a plan."|Prologue Aria A - 10]]

"You do? What is it?" she looks at you earnestly. "I'm going to take care of her." She rises quickly, a smile breaking across her face, "Are you sure?" [["Whatever it takes."|Prologue Aria A - 11]]

"If you're serious, you're going to need this," she holds out a parcel wrapped in brown paper, "It's a set of bandages coated in an herbal salve I made. If you use these, any wounds she has should heal and you can tell her to move somewhere safer. [[Take the parcel.|Prologue Aria A - 12]]

"Are you sure you can get there before anyone else?" she asks. "I'm about to go make sure of that," you reply, moving to the window. "Come to the square in the morning." "I'll be there," she smiles. "Oh, and, uh, about the reward," you put a hand behind your head sheepishly, "I don't-" "Don't worry about that, Artur. Focus on taking care of Daisy," she nods, gently ruffling your hair. [[Descend.|Prologue Aria A - 13]]

Now that you've made sure Aria is okay, you can move on. [[Head into town.|Prologue Tavern - 1]]

As you expected, the tavern is packed. While it's difficult to pick out any specific conversations, you can tell that the king's proclamation is on people's minds. Overcoming the anxious constriction in your chest, you can hear a voice raised above the surrounding din. [[Listen in.|Prologue Tavern - 3]]

"Well of course I heard what the king said! Who didn't?" a loud, armored man guffaws. "He's placing the future of the kingdom in the hands of whoever can kill some overgrown lizard? What a joke! I'll cut the beast down and have the whole farce taken care of within the week." [[Continue...|Prologue Tavern - 4]]

The man takes a swig from a tankard as large as your head, then seems to notice you for the first time. He gives a smug smirk and shakes his head, "Well, look what we have here. The snivelling squire, Artur. What are you doing here, kid?" (set: $courageBackup = $courageArtur) (link:"\"I'm going to take care of the dragon.\"")[(set: $courageArtur = $courageArtur + 10)(goto:"Prologue Tavern - 5")] (link:"\"U-um.\"")[(goto:"Prologue Tavern - 5")]

The man gives another boisterous laugh, (if: $courageArtur - $courageBackup is 10)["You can't be serious! You think you're going to get to the dragon before me?"](else:)["You can't even get the words out properly! What, do you think you're gonna take care of the king's little lizard problem?"] [["W-well, actually..."|Prologue Tavern - 6]]

The man cuts you off, "Save the backstory, Shrimpy. I'll be taking the king up on his offer, you just sit back and watch. With the princess' hand in marriage comes power and wealth the likes of which could only suit the bravest knight in the realm," he pauses. "That's me if you weren't aware." The crowd around you bursts into laughter and you take a deep breath. [[Continue...|Prologue Tavern - 7]]

(if: $visitedAria is true)[You've found the opportunity to set your plan in motion.](else:)[A plan formulates in your mind.] You look the man in the eyes and steel yourself to speak. "H-how about this?" you stutter but continue onward. "Tomorrow morning, you and I will meet at the town square. From there, w-we'll set out to take care of the dragon and fulfill the king's request. (if:$courageArtur < 15)[T-then we'll see if you're j-just talk, R-Reginald..." You trail off as the knight looms over you.](else:)[Then we'll see if you're everything you say you are, Reginald," you look up at the looming knight defiantly.] [[Continue..|Prologue Tavern - 8]]

With another raucous laugh, Reginald leans back into his chair, pounding a fist on the table, "You hear that, you lot? Little Artur here fancies himself a competitor! Oh, this is too rich!" He takes another swig of his drink. "Alright then, you've got yourself a challenge! Be at the square at daybreak and you can tag along to see me slay the beast!" [[Continue...|Prologue Tavern - 9]]

As the crowd resumes its excited chattering fueled by the promise of conflict, Reginald leans back over you. "And Artur," he says with a low, threatening tone, "it's //Sir// Reginald. If you're going to publicly proclaim a death wish, at least know your place." he thumps you on the head and returns to his drink. [[Continue...|Prologue Tavern - 10]]

With the challenge issued, you gather your things and head for the door. (if: $visitedAria is true)[ Once word of your competition spreads, it should prevent anyone else from setting out before you. All you have to do now is return home and prepare for tomorrow.](else:)[ Now that you've challenged Reginald, you may want to talk to Aria. However, as you look up, you realize for the first time how late it's gotten. It might be to your benefit to return home and prepare.] [[Head home.|Prologue Home - 1]] (if: $visitedAria is false)[[[Visit Aria.|Prologue Aria B - 1]]]

You return home for the night. You should rest and prepare for tomorrow's journey. [[Go to bed.|Prologue Home - 2]]

You leave town and head in the direction of the castle. Aria will want to hear of your challenge to Reginald, and you'd rather her hear it from you before any other word reaches her. [[Continue...|Prologue Aria B - 2]] (set: $visitedAria = true)

When you reach the castle grounds, you set off towards the eastmost tower. You keep close to the walls, aiming to stay within the shadows to avoid being seen. [[Continue...|Prologue Aria B - 3]]

As you reach the base of the tower, you can faintly see a thin thread glinting in the moonlight. [[Pull the thread.|Prologue Aria B - 6]]

You quickly ascend the rope and come to stand in the upper room of the tower. Before you stands //Aria, the Princess of Arisvielle,// dressed in a modest nightgown. Her hair is unkempt and her eyes are dull with sadness. [[Continue...|Prologue Aria B - 8]]

"I was hoping you'd be around soon," she says, forcing a slight smile. "I suppose you heard my father's decree." [["I did."|Prologue Aria B - 9]] (set: $relationshipAria = $relationshipAria + 10)

"I know some people who will jump at it," you continue, "and none for the right reasons." Aria breathes in slowly, a tear rolling from her eyes. [["Don't worry."|Prologue Aria B - 10]]

"Don't worry?" she shoots you a look. "If there was ever cause for worry, this is it. It's only a matter of time before someone follows my father's decree, and then-" "I know," you interrupt, "I've already accounted for that." "What do you mean?" [["I challenged Reginald to a race."|Prologue Aria B - 11]]

"Artur, are you serious?" Aria's eyes light up for the first time since you arrived. "Yes. I'm going to take care of her myself, before anyone else gets a chance." "If that's the case, then you're going to need this," she offers you a parcel wrapped in brown paper, "It's a pack of bandages covered in an herbal salve I made. They should be enough to heal any wounds she may have from people finding her, and then you can tell her to find another place to live." [[Take the parcel.|Prologue Aria B - 12]]

"The challenge should ensure that nobody else goes after the dragon before tomorrow. Just make sure to be in the square tomorrow morning," you say, moving to the window. "I'll be there," she replies with a genuine smile. "A-and, uh, about the reward," you add, face reddening, "I don't-" "I know, Artur. We can talk about it later, focus on helping Daisy," she gently pats your shoulder. [[Descend.|Prologue Aria B - 13]]

Now that Aria is taken care of, it's time to head home. [[Head home.|Prologue Home - 1]]

You wake just before dawn. You don't have much time to get ready. [[Continue...|Prologue Home - 3]]

You hurriedly throw food and other provisions into a light satchel, then head for the door. As you reach it, a bright flash catches your eye and you turn around. [[Continue...|Prologue Home - 4]]

Light glints from your unsheathed sword, resting against your bedpost next to its sheath. $visitedAria[Between you and it, Aria's parcel sits on your table. You don't have time to open your pack, and you can only carry one. Which will you take with you?] $visitedAria[[[Take the parcel.|Prologue Home - Parcel]] [[Take the sword.|Prologue Home - Sword]]](else:)[[[Take it.|Prologue Home - Sword]]]

You grab your sword and hastily sheath it, rushing out the door and swinging yourself up to the back of your horse. You can't fight a dragon without a weapon, after all. $visitedAria[Your thoughts drift back to the parcel as you make your way to the town square, but you push it from your mind. No time to dwell on other possibilities.] [[Continue...|Prologue Town Square - 1]] (set: $tookSword = true) (set: $tookParcel = false)

You grab the parcel and rush out the door, swinging up to sit atop your horse. $raisedDaisy[Daisy needs you, and you'll do whatever you can to be there to help her one last time.](else:)[Even if you've never fully understood, this is what Aria wants, and you'll do whatever it takes to see it through.] [[Continue...|Prologue Town Square - 1]] (set: $tookParcel = true) (set: $tookSword = false)

As you expected, the town square is full of people eager to witness the start of your little contest. In the center of the crowd, Aria stands near the town news board. Reginald sits astride his horse not far away. [[Continue...|Prologue Town Square - 2]]

$tookParcel[You see Aria flash a smile as you tuck the parcel into your pack.(set: $relationshipAria = $relationshipAria + 10)]$tookSword[Aria's sshoulders droop as you strap your sword at your side.](if: $visitedAria is false)[ "Artur," she says, "I heard you challenged Reginald to address my father's proclamation. What are you doing?" [["I'm doing what I have to."|Prologue Town Square - 2b]]] (else:)[Reginald seems to notice you for the first time with a smug glance from the corner of his eye. [[Continue...|Prologue Town Square - 3]]]

"So you did decide to show up!" he leans over condescendingly. "I didn't think you were actually that desperate for death. $tookParcel[But perhaps I underestimaated you. You didn't even bring a weapon with you! How do you expect to fight the dragon like that?" He laughs, shaking his head.]$tookSword[Though you did at least bring a weapon with you. Perhaps you're taking this more seriously than I thought!"] $tookParcel[[["I d-don't need to justify myself to you."|Prologue Town Square - 4]]]$tookSword[[[Continue...|Prologue Town Square - 4]]]

"Whatever," Reginald continues, "let's not put off my coronation any longer than we have to." [[Continue...|Prologue Town Square - 5]]

You and Reginald move to the northern edge of the square, facing toward the mountains where the dragon resides.(if: $relationshipAria > 15 and $tookParcel)[ Aria gives you a smile and quietly says, "Be careful, Artur." You smile and nod back.] Beside you, Reginald laughs loudly and spurs his horse into a near-instant gallop. The race has begun. [[Embark.|Act 1 Reginald Banter - 1]]

You drive your horse onward, coming up alongside Reginald. He slows his horse to a brisk trot and glances at you. [[Continue...|Act 1 Reginald Banter - 2]]

"You know, Artur, I'm glad you're coming along to watch me slay the dragon," he says with a low chuckle. (if: $courageArtur < 20)["I'm n-not going to just watch you-"](else:)["Oh, really?"] "I need someone around to witness my incredible might firsthand. After all, it's one thing to hear me tell of how I overcame the dragon's fiery breath and sharp claws, but it's another to hear a spineless wimp tell of how much better I am than him." (if: $courageArtur < 20)[[["That... c-certainly is a thing."|Act 1 Reginald Banter - 3]]](else:)[[["You'd tell of it anyway."|Act 1 Reginald Banter - 3]]]

(if: $courageArtur >= 20)["You're darn right I would," he laughs. ]"Listen, Shrimpy. I know you aren't completely daft, and clearly you can stutter big when you're feeling particularly brave--or stupid. But do you honestly think you stand even a ghost of a chance against a dragon?$tookParcel[ You didn't even bring a weapon to slay it with.]" (set: $courageBackup = $courageArtur) (link:"Yes, I do.")[(set: $courageArtur = $courageArtur + 10)(goto:"Act 1 Reginald Banter - 4")] (link:"Well...")[(goto:"Act 1 Reginald Banter - 4")]

(if: $courageArtur - $courageBackup is 10)["Really, now? You're prepared for searing flames, tearing claws, crushing jaws? You think there's even a chance you won't be eviscerated in an instant?(if: $tookParcel is true)[ And all of this without a weapon to fight with?] Perhaps you're more a fool than I thought,"](else:)["Of course you can't. You are nothing. You can't even speak confidently, much less act it.(if: $tookSword is true)[ I'm surprised you can even lift that knife at your hip. Or is it a toy? ] I must have given you too much credit,"] he shakes his head and gives a dark, biting laugh. [["W-what is there to laugh at?"|Act 1 Reginald Banter - 5]]

"It would be a shame if the dragon got to you," he says, almost as if you aren't there. "Such a shame, indeed. I'd return to town in sorrowful victory, telling of how valiantly I fought to save you... but in the end, I just couldn't slay the monster fast enough." [[Continue...|Act 1 Reginald Banter - 6]]

"What a shame it was, that you ever dared to fight the dragon. Of course," he looks at you, a dangerous glint in his eye, "if the dragon had help, there would be nobody around to tell of it." [["Y-you're insane."|Act 1 Reginald Banter - 7]]

"Worry not, knave. I'll not lay hand nor blade to you just yet. But I will not allow anyone, least of all a spindly kid like you, to stand between me and my kingdom." With a loud, menacing laugh, he spurs his horse onward, outpacing you with ease. [[Continue...|Act 1 Contemplation - 1]]

A chill goes down your spine as you watch Reginald grow smaller in the distance. You urge your horse onward gently, careful not to overextend it too soon on the journey. $tookParcel[[[Continue...|Act 1 Contemplation - Parcel 1]]]$tookSword[[[Continue...|Act 1 Contemplation - Sword 1]]]

With a loose grip on the reins, you reach into your pack and pull out the parcel Aria gave you. As you pull back the paper, the herby smell becomes almost overwhelming. Within the wrapping are several bandage-like cloth strips, coated in a greenish salve. [[Continue...|Act 1 Contemplation - Parcel 2]]

You take a look at the sword on your hip. You don't get much use out of it, but you've taken good care of it over the years. You know Aria wouldn't approve of you bringing it with you$visitedAria[, especially not instead of her package]. [[Continue...|Act 1 Contemplation - Sword 2]]

You nod, tuck the paper back around the cloth and put it back in your pack. These should be enough for a few wounds, though that partly depends on how large she's grown. [[Continue...|Act 1 Contemplation - Parcel 3]]

It's been ages since either of you saw her last, though the memory of her departure is still clear in your mind. $raisedDaisy[Aria seemed to take a real shine to you after you helped raise Daisy, but it was difficult to tell. You were never good at expressing your feelings, and didn't want to give them too much control. It never helps to get too attached to something that would never work out.](else:)[Sometimes you wonder how things would be different if you had helped Aria with Daisy. You know they were quite fond of each other, and she seemed disappointed when you refused. But at that point, how could you have known? Dragons aren't high on the list of adorable creatures to take care of.] [[Continue...|Act 1 Contemplation - Parcel 4]]

In any case, a few villagers toook a detour from the usual trade routes a year or so back, and had returned to town in terror of the "monster" living in the northern mountains. It didn't take long for you and Aria to guess who they had stumbled across. Adventurers set off to fell her, but none succeeded. Even so, chances were good she had been wounded, and without anyone to take care of her, it would be a while before she could heal. [[Continue...|Act 1 Contemplation - Parcel 5]]

That's why, when the king made his proclamation, you had to address it quickly. You couldn't let anyone hurt her more, and with Aria's parcel, you might be able to heal her wounds so she would be fit to find a more remote home. [[Continue...|Act 1 Split - 1]]

Without noticing, you've come upon rockier terrain. Reginald is out of view, but you can hear his horse's hoofbeats echoing through the mountain. He can't be too far ahead. [[Continue...|Act 1 Split - 2]] (set: $reginaldLead = 20)

You shake your head. You were there when she hatched, just like Aria was. $raisedDaisy[You'd helped her grow too.] But that was a long time ago. There's no telling how much she's changed since then. Chances are good she's not the same friendly, loving creature she was when you knew her. [[Continue...|Act 1 Contemplation - Sword 3]]

(if: $relationshipAria < 60)[You have to do what's best for the people, and keep her out of a forced marriage.](else:)[You have to keep her out of a forced marriage, and protect the people.] [[Continue...|Act 1 Contemplation - Sword 4]]

She'll thank you later, you're sure. [[Continue...|Act 1 Split - 1]]

The road ahead diverges. The lower path winds around the mountainside, but it's a smooth climb, and should be easy for your horse to take. The higher path is straight, but thin and rocky. If it goes well, you may gain some ground, but it could be tricky for your horse. [[Go up.|Act 2 High Road - 1]] [[Go down.|Act 2 Low Road - 1]]

Your horse seems to be taking the higher road well, if hesitantly. The path doesn't seem as bad as you thought it may be. You might be able to push faster, if you're feeling lucky. (set: $feelingLucky = (random: 1,6)) (link:"Go faster.")[(if: $feelingLucky < 5)[(goto:"Act 2 High Road - Push Fail")](else:)[(goto:"Act 2 High Road - Push Success")]] (link:"Take it slow.")[(goto:"Act 2 High Road - Slow")]

The low road is a nice, gentle ascent. As you trot along, you notice thick brush around several twists in the path. If you could go through it, it would cut out a fair bit of meandering along the way. $tookSword[[[Cut through.|Act 2 Low Road - Cut]]](else:)[[[Try to push through.|Act 2 Low Road - Push]]] [[Go the long way.|Act 2 Low Road - Long]]

- Include options to press on high road, go through/cut foliage low - Break up/elaborate on contemplation

The clearing reveals more than just Reginald. At its end, surrounded by harsh crags and outcroppings, is a gaping cave opening. The end will soon be in sight. [[Continue...|Act 2 Dragon Approach - 2]]

(if: $reginaldLead > 10)[(if: $reginaldLead is 40)[Reginald must have already entered the cave.](else-if: $reginaldLead is 30)[As you ride forward, you can see Reginald leading his horse into the cave.](else:)[Reginald is fast approaching the cave.] You have to hurry and make sure he doesn't $tookParcel[hurt her]$tookSword[get to her first].](else-if: $reginaldLead is 10)[Reginald is barely ahead of you. He'll barely make it to the cave before you can.](else:)[You pull ahead of Reginald, cutting him off and galloping towards the cave entrance. $tookParcel[Daisy will be safe soon.]] [[Continue...|Act 3 Dragon - 1]]

(if:$reginaldLead < 40)[(if: $reginaldLead > 0)[You ride into the dragon's cave to see Reginald cowering behind a rock outcropping. His horse has run off somewhere, and he's shaking enough that you can hear his armor clank against itself. "Y-you!" he cries out. "Get that thing away from me!" he points a finger in the general direction of the inner cave.](else:)[You ride into the cave, Reginald not far behind. You hear him scream and leap from his horse in terror as he sees the dragon for the first time.] $tookParcel[[[Continue...|Act 3 Dragon Parcel - 1]]]$tookSword[[[Continue...|Act 3 Dragon Sword - 1]]]](else:)[On entering the cave, you're horrified to find Reginald standing in front of a toppled Daisy, sword protruding from a gap between the scales on her chest. "I... I did it," he breathes, shoulders shaking, "I felled the dragon!" [[Continue...|Act 3 Reginald - 1]]]

You walk past Reginald, pulling the parcel out of your pack. Light streaming through a hole in the cave ceiling illuminates the sparkling, green scales of a dragon many times your size. She watches you closely, but her expression seems more curious than menacing. "Hey, Daisy," you say, "it's been a while." [[Approach.|Act 3 Dragon Parcel - 2]]

You draw your sword and walk past Reginald into the body of the cave. Light from an opening above streams in onto the green scales of a dragon many times your size. You can see a flash of recognition in its eyes, then sorrow turning into rage as it sees the blade in your hand. [[Continue...|Act 3 Dragon Sword - 2]]

The dragon extends a limb towards you, claws glinting in the light. With a grunt, you duck out of the way, hitting the ground hard, but avoiding the attack. [[Run directly at the dragon.|Act 3 Dragon Sword Death - FIRE ENDING]] [[Try to circle around.|Act 3 Dragon Sword - 3]]

As you rush toward the dragon, a roar and an orange glow spell your demise. Your blade is no match for searing flames as your efforts are turned to ash. [[Restart?|The Egg - 1]]

You race around the dragon's front and scale a small outcropping leading near its head. [[Leap at its neck.|Act 3 Dragon Sword - 4]] [[Wait and see how it reacts.|Act 3 Dragon Sword Death - CLAW ENDING]]

You push off of the cliff face, vaulting over the dragon's head and slashing cleanly through its neck. Its head falls to the ground with a thump as you land messily on your feet. [[Continue...|Act 3 Dragon Sword - 5]] (set: $relationshipAria = $relationshipAria - 50)

Out of nowhere, you see a claw whipping out to strike. You have no time to react before the dagger-like talons slash into you. [[Restart?|The Egg - 1]]

"You..." Reginald breathes, crawling from behind the rock, "You killed it. I didn't think it was possible." Reginald seems to mostly be in shock. It's doubtful that he'll try anything. You should return to town now that the dragon has been defeated. [[Return to town.|Ending - 1]]

You return to town, Reginald in tow. $tookParcel[Fear of Daisy keeps him in line for the duration of your return journey.]$tookSword[He seems to have developed something akin to respect for you after seeing you slay the dragon.] On your return, the townsfolk crowd around you, surprised at Reginald's lack of bravado. You leave him to explain and go find Aria. $tookParcel[[[Continue...|Ending Parcel - 1]]] $tookSword[[[Continue...|Ending Sword - 1]]]

Recognition flashes in the dragon's eyes, and she leans her head down to meet you. She seems to almost be smiling. "Where are you hurting, girl?" you ask, looking up and down her glinting scales. [[Continue...|Act 3 Dragon Parcel - 3]]

After a moment of observation, you notice several gashes along her hind legs, and what looks like a fresh wound on her belly.(if: $reginaldLead > 10)[ Reginald must have gotten one hit in before she scared him off.] "Here you are, Daisy," you pull a bandage from the parcel and let her smell it so she knows it's safe, "Aria made these up just for you, and I'm going to help get you patched up. You're gonna be alright." [[Continue...|Act 3 Dragon Parcel - 4]]

For a few minutes, you spread bandages across all of her wounds. She heaves a relaxed, smoky sigh and you scratch her gently behind the ear-like scales on her head. "Daisy, I need you to listen to me, alright?" you urge gently. "You need to live somewhere farther from here, so the villagers won't be scared of you. You'll be safe that way, I promise." [[Continue...|Act 3 Dragon Parcel - 5]]

Daisy gives a slight nod and turns towards the exit of the cave. As she walks towards it, Reginald rises from his hiding place and lets out a loud yell, running at her with his sword drawn. "I'll kill you and the whelp!" he cries. "Daisy!" you reach out a hand to warn her. [[Continue...|Act 3 Dragon Parcel - 6]]

Quick as a flash, Daisy lashes out with a claw, grabbing Reginald without harming him. His arms are pinned to his sides. "Don't hurt me, please!" he whimpers. Daisy looks to you for a response. [["Don't hurt him."|Act 3 Dragon Parcel - 7]]

Daisy breathes a disgruntled puff of smoke in Reginald's face, but places him gently on the ground. Before he has a chance to move, she thumps him on the back, sending his sword clattering to the ground. "You'll come back with me, but you'll leave your sword here. If you try anything, Daisy will be within earshot. The king can deal with you when we return," you say firmly. "Not a stutter in your words now you've got a dragon on your side, huh?" he mutters, defeated. [[Continue...|Act 3 Dragon Parcel - 8]]

Daisy leads you out of the cave and watches as you and Reginald ride back in the direction of the town. As you enter into the shadow of the trees, you see her take flight and head further north, away from the town and to more distant mountains. [[Return home.|Ending - 1]]

You find Aria standing by the news board, a smile breaking across her face. "Is she-" You nod, "She's safe, and she's moving somewhere else. She should be safe for the foreseeable future," you smile. "Oh, thank you, Artur!" she throws her arms around you. [[Continue...|Ending Parcel - 2]]

You find Aria standing by the news board, tears streaming down her face. "Aria," you say, "I know you're-" "Save it, Artur." she snaps, "And if you dare claim that reward, I swear, neither of us will ever be happy. [[Marry Aria.|Ending Sword - BAD ENDING]] [[Don't.|Ending Sword - No Marriage]]

Your royal wedding was not a happy one, and the marriage even less so. Though you ensured that the dragon would not threaten the village, Aria fell silent, and the kingdom of Arisvielle was darker for the lack of her radiance. [[Restart?|The Egg - 1]]

"But... What about the rest of the king's decree? You know I don't-" you say nervously. "Hey..." she cuts you off. (if: $relationshipAria >= 60)[[[Continue...|Ending Parcel - "BEST" ENDING 1]]] (else:)[[[Continue...|Ending Parcel - GOOD ENDING 1]]]

"Hey, hey, Artur, it's okay. I love you, who you are, all the quirks that make you you. You don't have to marry me, but I will be happy to accept if you wish," she continues, beaming a radiant smile. "I-I..." you stutter, "You would accept me? T-there might be someone else, or..." "Shh," she cuts you off, "Don't worry about any of that. I won't pressure you. But I would like to ask you of my own accord. Artur, will you marry me?" [["Yes."|Ending Parcel - "BEST" ENDING 2]] [["No."|Ending Parcel - GOOD ENDING 2]]

"Artur, you can refuse the marriage. You don't have to marry me just because you fulfilled my father's decree," she continues comfortingly. "A-are you sure?" you say, reddening. "Of course. We should both be happy, not locked into a marriage we don't want." [[Continue...|Ending Parcel - GOOD ENDING 2]]

You freed Daisy and refused the royal marriage--it was never what you were fighting for. Your friendship with Aria remained strong for the rest of your lives, and you were always a close advisor when she assumed the throne later in life. [[Restart?|The Egg - 1]]

Your royal marriage--though it was never your ultimate goal--was a joyous occasion, and celebration resounded through the town for weeks to follow. Your reign side by side was prosperous, and the kingdom of Arisvielle thrived under your guidance. Together, you and Aria took a yearly pilgrimage into the mountains to visit Daisy, who lived on happily and healthily. [[Restart?|The Egg - 1]]

"Artur, don't tell me you're going to..." You put up a hand to cut her off, $raisedDaisy["We can't know that she's still the same dragon after seven years. I'm going to get you out of this mess, and I need to protect the town."](else:)["I know how much you cared about her, but it's been seven years. I can't help but feel that she's not the same dragon you cared about anymore. I have to keep the town safe."] Reginald seems to notice you for the first time with a smug glance from the corner of his eye. [[Continue...|Prologue Town Square - 3]]

You are //Artur, a Squire of Arisvielle.// You are fourteen years of age and live in a village near the castle. You are currently exploring the forest near the village with your best friend, //Aria, Princess of Arisvielle.// She has run ahead a ways and disappeared into the trees. [[Continue...|The Egg - 2]] (set: $visitedAria = false) (set: $tookSword = false) (set: $tookParcel = false) (set: $raisedDaisy = false) (set: $relationshipAria = 0) (set: $courageArtur = 0)

"Artur, come look at this!" Aria calls, poking her head out from behind a tree up ahead. You look after her cautiously and she tilts her head to the side, eyebrows raised. "Well, aren't you coming?" (link:"\"Alright, I'm coming.\"")[(set: $courageArtur = $courageArtur + 5)(goto:"The Egg - 3")] (link:"\"A-are you sure?\"")[(goto:"The Egg - 3")]

(if: $courageArtur is 5)[You follow after her, stepping around the trees and into an open clearing. ](else:)[She rolls her eyes, but smiles in spite of herself. "Oh, come on, it's fine!" Aria walks up to you and takes you by the hand, pulling you along into the trees. When you overcome the redness in your cheeks, you realize that you're standing in an open clearing.] In the center of the clearing is what looks like a nest made of fallen branches and leaves. As you approach, you can see that the only thing in it is a large, emerald green egg. [["It's... an egg?"|The Egg - 4]]

"And such a pretty one, too!" Aria replies excitedly, "Look at the sun shining on it!" she looks at you, eyes gleaming. "Are you sure it's safe?" you ask, giving her a cautious glance. "Well of course it is, silly, it's just an egg!" [["If you say so..."|The Egg - 5]]

After that day, Aria returned to the forest whenever the opportunity presented itself, pulling you along with her any time she could. Several months later, she brought you to the clearing again, as she had noticed the egg changing the last few times she checked. [[Continue...|The Egg - 6]]

"It's hatching!" Aria says excitedly, pulling you behind her once again. "Hatching into //what//?" you reply hesitantly. Before your eyes, hairline cracks spread across the emerald surface of the egg, spiderwebbing over its once-pristine shell. With a loud crack, the egg shatters, revealing a lizard-like creature with a large head and small, leathery wings folded at its sides. "A dragon? Oh, how cute!" Aria exclaims, taking a step towards it. [[Stop her.|The Egg - 7]]

You reach your arm in front of Aria, halting her advance, "Aria, hold on a minute. We don't know what it is. It could be dangerous." "Artur, it's just a baby!" she protests. "I know that, but I also know what it looks like. We've grown up hearing stories about dragons, and I can't let you get hurt." Aria looks back at you, seeing care in your eyes, "I know you want to protect me, Artur. I'm thankful for it. That's part of why I brought you with me in the first place. But it's just hatched, we have a responsibility to take care of it. Will you help me?" (link:"I will.")[(set: $relationshipAria = $relationshipAria + 40)(set: $raisedDaisy = true)(goto:"The Egg - 8")] (link:"I can't.")[(goto:"The Egg - 8")]

$raisedDaisy["Oh, thank you!" Aria throws her arms around you and giggles happily, "Now, let's introduce ourselves!" she resumes her approach towards the hatchling. After a moment to hide the redness in your cheeks, you follow. ](else:)["Well, I'm going to take care of it, with or without your help," she says, turning away from you to approach the hatchling once more. ] The dragon eyes her curiously as she comes closer. When she reaches it, it lets out a quiet squeak and crawls out of the nest to meet her, stretching its neck to press its forehead against her hand. [[Continue...|The Egg - 9]]

"See, she's friendly!" Aria laughs, gently petting the dragon's scaly head. $raisedDaisy["I suppose so," you reply with a smile, crouching to introduce yourself at its level. It lets out another chirp and moves to let you pet it as well. ](else:)["I'm not so sure," you raise an eyebrow, hesitantly approaching to be close enough to protect Aria if anything goes wrong. ] "I'm Aria," she introduces herself, then gestures to you, "and this is Artur. I suppose you don't have a name yet, huh?" $raisedDaisy[[["How about Daisy?"|The Egg - 10]]](else:)[[[Continue...|The Egg - 10]]]

$raisedDaisy["That's what I was thinking!" she says, glancing at you. "Well, that settles it. Your new name is Daisy, little one!" ](else:)["I think I'll call you Daisy," she decides with a nod. ] As if understanding, Daisy whistles happily and spins around, scattering some of the leaves and twigs from her hatching place. [[Continue...|The Egg - 11]]

For the next two months,$raisedDaisy[ you and] Aria carefully looked after Daisy, playing with her and bringing food to her clearing. In time, however, she grew large, and the clearing was hardly wide enough for her wingspan, let alone any playing or other moving around.(if: $raisedDaisy is false)[ Despite your protests,] Aria brought you to the forest one last time to see what could be done. [[Continue...|The Egg - 12]]

"Daisy's gotten really big," Aria says, frowning up at the dragon's scaly face. "She has," you agree, unable to formulate any other response. Daisy now reaches above the treetops; you can barely see her eyes curiously gazing down at you. Daisy leans her snout to be within Aria's reach, and she reaches up to stroke it gently, "What do we do?" $raisedDaisy[[["It would be selfish to keep her here for us."|The Egg - 13]]](else:)[[["She has to go."|The Egg - 13]]]

$raisedDaisy["I know it would," she replies, sadness in her voice, "but where can she go?" ](else:)["That's... cold, Artur," her shoulders droop. "She has feelings, she's not just fangs and claws." "I know she does, and I know she means a lot to you. But she can't stay here," you reply. "You know that as well as I do." "I do. But where can she go?" ] "There might be enough room for her in the mountains to the north," you consider, pacing back and forth, "It would be far enough away that people wouldn't be in danger of stumbling across her and getting scared, and she would be free to find food or whatever else she needs." [[See what she thinks.|The Egg - 14]]

"Artur, that's a great idea!" Aria's eyes light up, "She'll have to be far enough away that we won't be able to go visit her anymore, but she'll be more comfortable there, I'm sure."(if: $raisedDaisy is false)[ she turns to Daisy, "Hey, Daisy? You've gotten real big in these last few months, and you've outgrown this little clearing. You've got to go, okay? Go north, into the mountains, you'll be safe there and have all the room you need." ](else:)[ "Daisy," you reach out to her, "you've got to find a new home now. You're too big to stay here. If you go that way," you point to the north, "you'll find some nice mountains you can live in. You'll have more room there, and you'll be safe, okay? I love you, girl," your voice breaks as you pat her on the snout. ] [[Continue...|The Egg - 15]]

Giving a slight nod in understanding, Daisy leans in to brush $raisedDaisy[each of you](else:)[Aria] with her snout before raising her head up again. You take Aria's hand and lead her back into the trees, out of the way of the dragon's takeoff. Daisy stretches her wings to disembark, splintering several nearby trees as she takes to the skies. As soon as she leaves the ground, Aria rushes out into the clearing, hair blowing wildly. "I love you$raisedDaisy[ too], Daisy! I'll miss you!" After a moment, she turns to you, "Do you think she'll be okay?" $raisedDaisy[[["I do."|The Egg - 16]]](else:)[[["I don't know."|The Egg - 16]]]

$raisedDaisy["After all, she's a dragon," you continue. "She can probably take care of herself better than either of us could." "That's true," Aria gives a sniffly chuckle. ](else:)["I believe in her," Aria says firmly, despite tear trails down her cheeks. "I didn't know her as well as you did," you sigh, "but I know she means a lot to you. If you have faith in her, so do I." "Thank you." ] "We should be heading back. I'm sure your caretakers are all in a huff again, as much as you've been out recently." "Probably," Aria laughs$raisedDaisy[ again]. "Will you escort me?" "It would be my honor." [[Seven years later.|The King's Proclamation - 1]]

As you sidle along the walls, you hear the creak of a door being opened up ahead. You can see a spearhead leading the way out of it, no doubt followed by a guard. You have to do something, quickly. (set: $courageBackup = $courageArtur) (link:"Strike up a conversation.")[(set: $courageArtur = $courageArtur + 5)(goto:"Prologue Aria A - 4")] (link:"Duck into a bush.")[(goto:"Prologue Aria A - 4")]

(if: $courageArtur - $courageBackup is 5)[(if: $courageArtur > 5)["Hello there!" you greet the guard enthusiastically as he exits the castle wall. "Gah!" he jumps, brandishing his spear wildly before noticing you. "Oh, Artur, it's just you. Off to see the princess, I assume?" "I am. It seems the best thing to do after the king's speech," you explain. "You're likely right there," the guard nods. "I can't imagine her taking kindly to it. Well, on your way now." You continue on your way to the tower. ](else:)["H-hi," you stutter awkwardly, a sheepish hand behind your head. The guard walks out, his face softening into a smile as he recognizes you, "Hey there, Artur. Going to talk to the princess?" "Uh, yes," you reply after a moment, "I figure she could use a friend right about now." "You're on the mark there, I'd imagine," the guard nods, "I wouldn't guess she's thrilled by the king's speech. Well, off with you then, don't want to keep her waiting." he motions to the tower. After a moment, you continue on your way to the tower. ]](else:)[You duck into a bush growing in the shade of the castle wall. The guard walks out from the doorway, glancing around before his eyes land on your hiding place. "Artur, is that your hair sticking out from that shrub?" he asks, an amused eyebrow raised. You rise sheepishly, "I, uh." "Were you trying to sneak to the princess' tower again? You know you don't have to do that, we all know you." "Well..." "On your way, now. I'm sure the princess needs a friend like you after that," the guard vaguely gestures towards the crowd. Face red, you continue on your way to the tower. ] [[Continue...|Prologue Aria A - 5]]

As you sneak along the castle wall, you hear a door creak open behind you. A cursory glance reveals the glint of a spearhead in the moonlight, which can only foretell the approach of a guard. You have to do something, fast. (set: $courageBackup = $courageArtur) (link:"Talk to him.")[(set: $courageArtur = $courageArtur + 5)(goto:"Prologue Aria B - 4")] (link:"Hide.")[(goto:"Prologue Aria B - 4")]

(if: $courageArtur - $courageBackup is 5)[(if: $courageArtur > 5)["Hello there!" you greet the guard, turning around to face the opening door. "What the-" the guard starts, waving his spear about before recognizing you, "Oh, it's just you, Artur. Isn't it a bit late to be visiting the princess?" "Perhaps, but there are things we need to discuss. It can't very well wait 'til morning," you explain. "Anything to do with the challenge Reginald was just laughing about?" the guard raises an eyebrow. "That would be the thing," you nod, "I'd rather her hear it from me first." "Fair enough. Well, carry on then. Just be home by midnight," he laughs at his own joke. You walk away, shaking your head in mild discomfort as you approach the eastern tower. ](else:)["H-hi," you mumble, glancing at the opening door over your shoulder. The guard turns to see you, face softening as he recognizes you, "Good evening, Artur. It's rather late for a visit to the princess." "W-well, yes," you say, turning to face him better, "I have to talk with her tonight, it can't really wait." "Reginald barged into the castle laughing about a challenge some squire issued. That have anything to do with it?" "Yeah, that was me. I think I should be the one to tell her," you nod slighlty. "Alright, well, off to it, then. Just be home before midnight," he laughs at his own joke. You walk away, reddening face toward the ground as you continue toward the eastern tower. ]](else:)[You duck into a nearby bush. In the darkness, the guard doesn't notice you, and you continue on your way as soon as he turns away. ] [[Continue...|Prologue Aria B - 5]]

You attempt to accelerate, but your horse panics, bucking wildly and flinging gravel about. After several minutes, you calm it down and resume a slower pace, but it's likely that you've lost time from it. (set: $reginaldLead = 30) [[Continue...|Act 2 High Road - 2]]

Your horse accelerates rapidly, kicking up gravel in its wake. By some miracle, nothing goes wrong, and you hear the hoofbeats of Reginald's horse growing louder. It seems you've caught up. (set: $reginaldLead = 0) [[Continue...|Act 2 High Road - 2]]

You keep up a gentle trot across the precarious cliffside. In short order, you start to hear Reginald's horse's hoofbeats grow in volume. You've gained some ground. (set: $reginaldLead = 10) [[Continue...|Act 2 High Road - 2]]

The high road eventually leads you to an expansive, open space. (if: $reginaldLead is 30)[You can see Reginald in the distance, fast approaching the cover of more mountains.](else-if: $reginaldLead is 10)[Reginald isn't far ahead, but he doesn't seem to have noticed you yet. His eyes are locked on the crags across the clearing.](else:)[Your horse takes a triumphant leap down from the road, landing mere feet to Reginald's right. He looks at you, clearly startled. "Where on earth did you come from?" he asks, too shocked to maintain arrogance. You ignore him.] [[Continue...|Act 2 Dragon Approach - 1]]

You unsheathe your sword, hacking away at vines and branches until you have a clear way through the foliage. The volume of the nearby hoofbeats indicates that you've gained significant ground--you may have caught up to Reginald. (set: $reginaldLead = 0) [[Continue...|Act 2 Low Road - 2]]

You stubbornly attempt to guide your horse through the trees and brush. Unfortunately, the foliage is densely packed and difficult to navigate, and you spend more time getting turned around and stuck than making progress. After a while, you decide to cut your losses and return to the path. There's no telling how much time you've lost. (set: $reginaldLead = 40) [[Continue...|Act 2 Low Road - 2]]

You continue to follow the low road, confident that the underbrush wouldn't do anything to save you time. The volume of Reginald's horse's hoofbeats is unchanged. It seems you haven't lost time, but you haven't gained it either. [[Continue...|Act 2 Low Road - 2]]

The low road winds around into a wide, open space. (if: $reginaldLead is 40)[Reginald is nowhere to be seen, and you're filled with a looming sense of dread. You have to hurry.](else-if: $reginaldLead is 20)[You can see Reginald up ahead, but he has significant distance on you.](else:)[You burst out from the trees, pulling up alongside Reginald. His face hides none of his surprise. "Where did you come from?" he asks, incredulous. You ignore him.] [[Continue...|Act 2 Dragon Approach - 1]]

"Artur, Artur, Artur," he says, confidence returning to his voice, "you knew this would happen. And yet you challenged me anyway." "I-I..." you can barely form a word. "And now," he turns to you, a mad glint in his eye and a wicked grin spreading across his face, "here we are. I killed the dragon. I won our little game. Now there's just one loose end to take care of." [[Run.|Act 3 Reginald - 2]]

You try to run, but your feet feel rooted in place. You're frozen in terror. Reginald laughs as he yanks his sword from Daisy's body, "So far you've come, only to fall here!" he swings wildly, barely missing you. "I've won! I have the princess! I have the kingdom! And you, you! You dared to stand in my way!" he takes one step closer. "Now, knave. Know! Your! Place!" an attack punctuates each word, too quick for you to feel. "Die!" with the final word, he jabs through you. You feel strength leaving you. Your last thoughts resound in your head as you fade to black. [[Restart?|The Egg - 1]]

You declined the king's offer of Aria's hand, knowing that she wouldn't forgive you for killing Daisy. You knew the people would be safe, without the threat of a dragon looming over them, but... was it worth it? [[Restart?|The Egg - 1]]