Castle Calling

"Oh dear dear oh dear oh dear oh dear //oh dear//." [[>->dear who]]

"Your Highness!" "Your Highness are you all right?" [[>>...->...]]

"Oh dear, oh dear, this is not good." "Your Highness." You felt someone shake you gently. [[>>open your eyes->wake up]]

You opened your eyes, blinking against the light. Two blurry faces hovered over you on either side. The older one had deep lines creasing his eyes and mouth. He kept wringing his hands and glancing between you and the other man. Said other man was much younger, the standard sort of chiseled, handsome type(link-reveal:"if you were into that sort of thing.")[ Which you (link-reveal:"were.") [ A lot.](set: $wynne to true)] He was crouched next to you, a line of worry in his forehead. [[>>"groan"->groan]] [[>>"What...what happened?->curious one]]

You rolled your head to the side, closing your eyes to keep out the light. Everything was just too much and you'd rather just sleep. "Your Highness! Your Highness, oh no" Someone—probably the chiseled one—shook you again, a bit more firmly now. You groaned louder, head pounding. [[>>Shrug him off->shrug]] [[>>"noo......"->sleep]]

You try to sit up but the chiseled one puts a hand on your shoulder to keep you down. "Not so fast your Highness, you have to be careful." It's probably for the best anyway, your limbs feel so heavy. The older one paces back and forth a few steps, a hand on his chest as he mutters something under his breath. If the light wasn't so bright you might've heard him. The grass is terribly soft and the pounding in your head tells you it's a great time to go to sleep... [[>>sleep->sleep]] [[>>"So what happened?"->what]] [[>>"Who are you two?"->who]] [[>>"Where am I?"->where]]

"You fell." "While you and your party were arriving at the castle your horse got spooked and sprinted down this hill. You tried to get it under control but it bucked you off." "Oh." Well that did explain why you feel like death, you got pretty darn close there by the sound of it. "The squires are collecting it now and the rest of the party is at the castle. "Are you able to sit up?" "I think so..." You get yourself into something of a sitting position with the chiseled man's help. Everything aches. {[[>>"God I need a drink"->drink]] (if: (history:) contains "who") [] (else:) [ [[>>"Who are you?"->who]]] (if: (history:) contains "where") [] (else:) [ [[>>"Where am I"->where]]]} [[>>"Why do you keep calling me 'your Highness'?"->Your Highness?]]

"You're at castle Fallieon, one of his Majesty's hunting castles. The castle itself is just over this hill." (if: (history:) contains "who") [Roland] (else:) [The older man] pointed behind him, a bit to your left, where the grass sloped up the hill you were apparently at the bottom of. Just beyond the crest, in the distance you could spy a great stone castle, the pennants flapping in the wind atop the walls. "You were quite young your Highness, the last time you visited, so I am not surprised you cannot recognize it." {(if: (history:) contains "who") [] (else:) [ [[>>"Who are you?"->who]]] (if: (history:) contains "what") [] (else:) [ [[>>"What happened?"->what]]]} [[>>"Why do you keep calling me 'your Highness'?"->Your Highness?]]

The two exchanged glances. "W-well it is your proper title, your Highness. You are the prince after all." >>[["I'm a prince?"->prince]] >>[["I'm a prince?"->princess]]

"Oh, yes. I am Roland, the seneschal of castle Fallieon." The older man bowed. "We are extremely honored to have your Highness here for the next few day and I apologize deeply for this incident." "I'm Sir Wynne, the chiseled man said. I was part of your party." "Oh, it's nice to meet you. Thanks for your help. "Oh of course your Highness, it is our duty and an honor. He bowed again. {(if: (history:) contains "what") [] (else:) [ [[>>"So what happened?"->what]]] (if: (history:) contains "where") [] (else:) [ [[>>"Where am I exactly? Is this Fallieon?"->where]]]} [[>>"Why do you keep calling me 'your Highness'?"->Your Highness?]]

"I...I'm sure we could get something for you, your Highness. First we must get you to the castle." "Not too quickly. We don't know what kind of damage might have happened during the fall." You sighed, extremely tired of all this. You felt pretty okay—other than the soreness and pounding and all your limbs feeling like jelly.... Okay wow you really needed that drink. "Okay...okay." You scrub at your face, trying to piece what you knew together. {(if: (history:) contains "who") [] (else:) [ [[>>"Who are you two anyway?"->who]]] (if: (history:) contains "where") [] (else:) [ [[>>"Where are we anyway?"->where]]]} >>[["Why do you keep calling me 'your Highness'?"->Your Highness?]]

"Well, naturally. Your father is the King so that makes you the prince and your sister the princess." [[>>"My sister?"->sib]]

"Right, yes, my apologies your Highness. You and your brother look so similar and my eyesight is not what is used to be." He adjusted the spectacles perched on his nose. >>[["My brother?"->sib]]

(if: (history:) contains "who") [Roland looked at Wynne] (else:) [The older man looked at the chiseled one] with worry, then back at you. (if: (history:) contains "who") [Wynne] (else:) [The chiseled one] had a serious expression as he locked eyes with you. "Your Highness, what day is it today?" [[>>"I...I don't know."->honest]] [[>>"It's...today I guess?"->duh]] [[>>"Ummmm, Tuesday?"->Tuesday]]

(if: (history:) contains "who") [Roland looked relieved but Wynne] (else:) [The older man looked relieved but the chiseled one] seemed more suspicious. "Your Highness, what day is it?" [[>>"I'm...not sure. Forgot to look at my calendar."->honest]] [[>>"It's...today?"->duh]] [[>>"Tuesday of course!"->Tuesday]]

(if: (history:) contains "who") [Roland and Wynne] (else:) [The two] exchanged deeply worried looks before turning back to you. "Your Highness, what day is it?" [[>>"I...don't know?"->honest]] [[>>"It's...today?"->duh]] [[>>"Tuesday?"->Tuesday]]

"Yes your (if: (history:) contains "prince") [sister, Amelia. The Crown Princess of Trenola] (else:) [brother, Amery. The Crown Prince of Trenola.]" "Oh." {(if: (history:) contains "what") [] (else:) [You carefully sit up with the help of (if: (history:) contains "who") [Wynne] (else:) [the chiseled man] and lean against a nearby tree.]} "Do you...not remember?" >>[["Uhhhh....."->shit]] >>[["No, no. I remember."->liar]] >>[["I...no"->no]]

You shrug the hands off but the effort is more than you expected it would be. "Your Highness, please. We have to make sure you're all right." >>[["I'm fine..."->fine]] >>[["Why?.....What happened?"->curious one]]

All you really want to do at this point is sleep. (if: (history:) contains "curious one") [You let your eyes close and your head loll to the side.] (else:) [] You don't have much energy to do anything else really, so it doesn't seem like a big issue. It's rather peaceful actually. You feel yourself drifting away.... "Your Highness!" [[>>keep drifting->drift]] [[>>fight against it->fight]]

Your Highness, we have to be careful. Injuries like yours can be very dangerous. There could be damage we can't even see." That sobered you up a bit. You were suddenly very worried to even move too quickly lest you mess something up internally. You took a deep breath and tried to keep the feeling of impending death away, instead you should focus on figure out what's happening. [[>>"So what happened anyway?"->what]] [[>>"Who are you two?"->who]] [[>>"Where am I?"->where]]

You wander into the stables, hoping to find some piece of mind among the horses. Unfortunately they all seemed to be out in the field at the moment, but their smell was still there. As you move down the stalls you hear someone humming. Curious, you followed the sound, coming out to a small work area near the back of the building. A young squire sat on a short stool, scrubbing down a piece of plate armor. They seem engrossed in the work, their wavy brown hair flopped over their face. They had mud-stained trousers on and what seemed to be a skirt tucked into their belt. >>[["Hello"->greet]] >>[[Leave->leave]]

(if: (history:) contains "leave") [The humming stops and the squire looks over their shoulder, revealing bright green eyes. As they sat up they grinned.] (else:) [The squire looks up, then grins, bright green eyes almost sparkling.] "Well met your Highness. What brings you all the way out here?" There was something oddly knowing in their gaze. All of a sudden you regretted everything. "S-sorry I just got a little turned around." "Mmm-hum." They smirked, setting the breastplate they had been working on to the side and looking you over. "So you are here now. What do you want?" [[>>"Uhh"->Uh]] [[>>"What do you mean?"]] [[>>"What do you want?"->cedar wants]]

Not wanting to disturb their work you start to back away, but accidently jam your foot against one of the stalls and barely cut off your string of curses. [[>>shit->greet]]

You ignore the cries and let yourself fall back into unconsciousnesss... [[>>wake up->sorry]]

Against your better judgement you groan and roll your head back, forcing your eyes open again. The chiseled on is hovering even closer now and you feel a hand on your head. "Your Highness, I know it is difficult but you must stay awake. I've seen many knights fall asleep after similar head injuries and never wake up again." Well that was terrifying to think about. Good thing you woke back up. [[>>"What happened to me?"->what]] [[>>"Who are you two?"->who]] [[>>"Where am I?"->where]]

Too late [[>>Try again->Begin]]

{(if: (history:) contains "no") [(if: (history:) contains "who") [Wynne] (else:) [The chiseled man] leaned back, a hand on his chin. "True..."] (else:) [ (if: (history:) contains "liar") ["Correct! Oh your Highness you had me quite worried for a moment." "Hold on..." (if: (history:) contains "who") [Wynne held up a hand to quiet Roland] (else:) [The chiseled one held up a hand to quiet the older one].] (else:) [ (if: (history:) contains "shit") [(if: (history:) contains "who") [Wynne] (else:) [The chiseled man] pursed his lips. "True..."] (else:) []]]} (if: (history:) contains "liar") ["Your Highness, what is your father's name?"] (else:) [ "If (if: (history:) contains "prince") [he] (else:) [she] got it correct, what does that mean? "Unsure. Your Highness, what is your father's name?"] [[>>"I...I can't remember"->honest]] [[>>"King...Phillip?"->wrong]] [[>>"King Edward."->wrong]] [[>>"King Amery."->wrong]]

(if: (history:) contains "no") [(if: (history:) contains "who") [Wynne took a deep breath while Roland looked more anxious.] (else:) [The chiseled one took a deep breath while the older one looked more anxious.]] (else:) [ (if: (history:) contains "liar") [(if: (history:) contains "who") [Roland suddenly seemed less confident while Wynne took a deep breath] (else:) [The older one suddenly seemed less confident while the chiseled one took a deep breath]] (else:) [ (if: (history:) contains "shit") [(if: (history:) contains "who") [Wynne] (else:) [The chiseled man] took a breath and closed his eyes] (else:) []]] "Yes your Highness, but do you know what day of the week it is?" [[>>"T-Tuesday?"->Tuesday]] [[>>"N-No."->honest]]

(if: (history:) contains "who") [Roland and Wynne] (else:) [The older man and the chiseled one] looked at each other. "I was afraid of this..." "Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear, oh dear." He kept covering his face with his hands and looking around. Should I fetch the healer? "We'll see her soon." He turns towards you. Your Highness." You look up to meet his (if: $wynne is true) [increadbly blue eyes] (else:) [eyes], an anxious ball forming in your stomach. "Can you remember anything?" [[>>"I...maybe?"->try]] [[>>"I...I can't..."->give up]]

"King Barrett." His voice was soft. You barely knew the man but a wave of shame washed over you. "I'm sorry I just...I don't know what's going on." "Neither do we your Highness, which is why you must be completely honest with us. So we can help. Can you do that? He put a hand on your shoulder and you looked up to meet his (if: $wynne is true) [incredibly blue eyes] (else:) [eyes], an anxious ball forming in your stomach. "Yes." He nods. "We should head to the castle soon then. We will have some issues to work out." "Some? After this I'm sure the king will have my head!" His hand went up to his neck. "Not to mention (if: (history:) contains "prince") [Princess Amelia] (else:) [Prince Amery] is already on (if: (history:) contains "prince") [her] (else:) [his] way here with (if: (history:) contains "princess") [her] (else:) [his] Highnesses' betrothed! They'll be here in three days time!" [[>>"What."->w1]] >>"What." [[>>"What."->w3]]

"All right. Can you tell me what your father's name is?" [[>>"I...I can't remember"->give up]] [[>>"King...Phillip?"->wrong]] [[>>"King Edward."->wrong]] [[>>"King Amery."->wrong]]

(if: (history:) contains "who") [Wynne took a deep breath. Roland] (else:) [The chiseled man took a deep breath. The older one] started pacing back and forth frantically, muttering something to himself about "utter failure" and "having his head." "What does this mean?" "It means we are in a bit of trouble." (if: (history:) contains "prince") [Princess Amelia] (else:) [Prince Amery] is already on (if: (history:) contains "prince") [her] (else:) [his] way here with your betrothed! They'll be here in three days time!" >>"What." [[>>"What."->w2]] [[>>"What."->w3]]

"That is one of the issues." "Oh your Highness I am terribly sorry, this must be quite overwhelming for you but this wedding has been months in the making! "Wedding? I'm getting married?" "Yes, the day after your (if: (history:) contains "prince") [sister] (else:) [brother] arrives. All the preparations have been made and the great hall is nearly set up." [[>>"Who decided all of this?"->decide]] [[>>"Who am I marrying?"->who2]] [[>>"Why is the hall already set up if the wedding isn't for four days?"->early]]

"That is some of the trouble." "Oh your Highness I am terribly sorry, this must be quite overwhelming for you but this wedding has been months in the making! "Wedding? I'm getting married?" "Yes, the day after your (if: (history:) contains "prince") [sister] (else:) [brother] arrives. All the preperations have been made and the great hall is nearly set up." [[>>"Who decided all of this?"->decide]] [[>>"Who am I marrying?"->who2]] [[>>"Why is the hall already set up if the wedding isn't for four days?"->early]]

"I'm getting married in three days?" "Well, four really. We want to give them a bit of time to rest from the journey." "It seems quick but this has been planned for months now your Highness. That's why we made the journey to castle Fallieon." {(if: $cedar is true) [[[>>"How am I supposed to get married in three—four—days if I can't remember who I am?"->remember]]] (else:) [] [[>>"Who decided all this?"->decide]]} [[>>"Who am I supposed to be getting married to?"->who2]]

"Well, I know not much about them myself, but I have heard they're very nice. From the Kingdom of Brenlynne I believe?" "Braolith."</span.> "Yes, of course. Braolith." "But who decided I should marry a complete stranger?" "You father and (if: (history:) contains "prince") [sister] (else:) [brother] made most of the arrangements, but you did agree to the union before it was confirmed." [[>>"Why would I agree to something like this?"->why]] [[>>"I did?"->you did]] [[>>"Oh."->oh]]

"W-well we wanted to be prepared in case anything went wrong. "Not having to worry about wedding set up will give up more time to make a plan." [[>>"Who am I marrying anyway?"->who2]] [[>>"Who decided all of this?"->decide]]

"You father and (if: (history:) contains "prince") [sister] (else:) [brother] made most of the arrangements, but you did agree to the union before it was confirmed." [[>>"Why would I agree to something like this?"->why]] [[>>"I did?"->you did]] [[>>"Oh."->oh]]

"It is part of the duties of a (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess], and you are known throughout Trenola for your commitment to the Kingdom. You are very well loved your Highness." It did make sense. Arranged marriages happened all the time for all sorts of reasons. You were a (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess]. You had an obligation your duty. "We should head to the castle and get you seen by the healer." [[>>"Okay."->let's go]]

"Why wouldn't you? You are the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess], it is your duty to serve and take care of it's people. This wedding is part of that." While you understood what he was saying it still put a bad taste in your mouth. It didn't seem right to have your future decided like that that for you. You might've agreed but that didn't really sound like you. Then again, you didn't really remmeber who "you" really were. "We should head to the castle and get you seen by the healer. [[>>"Fine."->let's go]]

"Of course. It is part of the duty of a (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess] and you went to it willingly." That did make sense. Arranged marriages happened all the time for all sorts of reasons. It was fairly common for a prince or princess like yourself to end up in one. You probably had no other choice. "We should head to the castle and get you seen by the healer." [[>>"Right."->let's go]]

You started to get up, but even with all of the rest you were still very tired. You managed to get most of the way upright when (if: (history:) contains "who") [Wynne] (else:) [the chiseled man] came and hooked his arm around your shoulders. "Here your Highness, let me." With than he bent over and scooped up your legs with his other arm, easily lifting you up in the air. (if: $wynne is true) [You felt you face grow suddenly hot and hoped it wasn't too obvious.] (else:) [] "Are you comfortable?" "I'm fine" (if: $wynne is true) [Your voice cracked slightly] (else:) [] (if: (history:) contains "who") [] (else:) ["Who are you anyway? I don't think I caught your names?" "Oh yes! I am Roland, the seneschal of castle Fallieon." "I'm Sir Wynne, I was part of your party." "Oh, nice to meet you. I'm...well I suppose you know that batter that I do at this point." You chuckled but didn't think it worked very well.] With you in Wynne's arms and Roland following after, the three of you headed up the hill. As you reached the top you got a beautiful view of the castle Fallieon, the setting sun behind it and casting the whole field in an orange glow. Your drop your jaw slightly. "Wow." "It is rather beautiful this time of day." You could hear the smile in his voice. [[>>Begin day one->Dayone]]

(Demo summary) Roland and Sir Wynne attempt to help you regain your memories by telling tales of you and your (if: (history:) contains "prince") [sister's] (else:) [brother's] and father's accomplishments. Roland even shows some old portraits that are hung around the castle. None of it works and you start to feel very discouraged. Having limited options the three of you decide to attempt to teach you how to act like a member of the royal family so you can get through the wedding with no one being the wiser. [[>>Begin Day Two->Daytwo]]

"I just needed to get some fresh air. It get's kinda stuffy up there." The squire nodded, casually crossing their arms. "If you want fresh you may wish to avoid the stables for a while, I have not yet mucked the stalls." "Yeah, I noticed." You wave a hand in front of your face. The squire smirks. "I am Cedar, one of Sir Wynne's squires. It is nice to see you up and about your Highness." "Oh, nice to meet you. Thank you. It's....It's be a rough few days. "I would expect." They cocked their head to the side. "I know I am not supposed to ask, however, I will admit I am curious about the...incident, that occurred when we first arrived." [[>>"Curious how?"->curious]] [[>>"What incident?"->incident]]

"I mean exactly what I said. You are here in the stables instead of up in the castle. Not e'en the most forgetful of monarchs get that lost. So there is some reason—and I am rather curious what it is." They cross their arms and lean back on the stool. You huff in annoyance. [[>>"Th-there's no reason. I got lost, I swear."->lost]] [[>>"Who are you anyway?"->who3]] [[>>"You know what? If you’re going to be like that about it then nevermind."->nevermind]]

"What do I want?" Their smirk turned into a smile. "Well, since you asked, I would indeed like to know what you plan to do about this whole ordeal." "What ordeal?" "The ordeal where you be not the true (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess]." [[>>"What!"->what2]] [[>>"What?"->what2]] [[>>"What."->what2]]

"Me? I go by Cedar. I work as a squire for Sir Wynne."(set: $cedarname to true) They did a sort of half-reverence from their seated position. The awkward act made you realize they were treating you with a lot less formal respect then everyone else in the castle. [[>>How dare->how dare]] [[>>Thank god->thank god]]

You could barely help the sigh of relief once you felt the stress of formality rush away. Cedar looked suprised. "Are you all right your Highness?" "I'm wonderful. These past few days I've been so stressed. Almost like I'm...playing at being a different person and I'm about to be found out." "That does sound rather stressful. Would you like to talk about it?" "I'm not sure I know how to talk about it. "We could give it a try? They crossed their legs, looking very intrigued. "Let us start like this: are you pretending to be someone else? Are you the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess]?" "It...it depends on how you look at it." "And how do you look at it?" [[>>->says]]<s>"I'm the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess] because everyone says I am."</s> [[>>->role]]<s>"I'm the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess] because that's the part I'm supposed to play."</s> [[>>->memory]]<strike>"I'm not the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess] because I don't remember who I was."</strike> [[>>->game]]<s>"I'm not the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess] because this is a game."</s>

You pull yourself up and square your shoulders a little. "Well, Cedar, is that really how you should be addressing your (if: (history:) contains "prince") [Prince] (else:) [Princess]?" Cedar's eyebrows went up and they had an amused smile on their face...not quite the reaction you were expecting. "Does this mean you be feeling a bit more comfortable with your role now your Highness?" There was a strange way they said 'your highness' that threw you off. Who were they? [[>>"What do you mean?"->uncomf]] [[>>"What are you talking about? I've always been comfortable."->comf]]

You turned on your heel and stormed out, feeling a bit silly about it but that squire just ticked you off! (if: (history:) contains "leave") ["Do not forget to see the healer about that foot your Highness!"] (else:) [] (if: (history:) contains "leave") [[[>>One more thing...->turn back]]] (else:) [] [[>>Leave->exit]]

That was it. You turn back around and stride back into the stable. The squire is still sitting there, an almost sit eating grin on their face. "If you think I'm going to let you get away with this you're wrong." "Glad to see you up and about still your Highness." [[>>"Who are you anyway?"->who3]] [[>>"What is your deal? What do you want?"->cedar wants]]

{(if: (history:) contains "nevermind") [Something nags at you in the back of your head as you stride across the grass back towards the castle proper. Maybe you shouldn't have been so hot headed, but it was too late now.] (else:) [ (if: (history:) contains "yes") [You give (if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [Cedar] (else:) [the squire] a nod and they return it, a small, almost knowing smile on their lips. You're not sure how to read it and you hesitate for a second before turning and walking out of the stables.] (else:) [ (if: (history:) contains "deny" or "they will") [You hesitate a moment before turning, walking out of the stables and back across the grounds to the castle proper.] (else:) []]]} [[>>->arrival start]]

"I mean tis no real secret that you have been locked away most of your time here. And those that do get to see you—other than Sir Wynne and the Seneschal—say there is something strange about your actions lately." "Strange how?" "Strange mostly in the way that implies you are not the true (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess]." [[>>What->what2]]

"Well, I certainly have heard tell that you be quite accomplished with your (if: (history:) contains "prince") [princely] (else:) [princessly] duties, I just have not been blessed with any evidence to that during your stay here. "Are you saying I'm not a good (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess]?" The truth of that statement made your stomach twist a little. "I say that you be not the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess], your Highness." [[>>"What."->what2]]

{(if: (history:) contains "curious" or "uncomf") ["Not the true...wh-what do you mean?"] (else:)[ (if: (history:) contains "comf") ["Or at least not quite the same as I have always heard about." The wave of relief that washed over you was frankly embarrassing.] (else:) []]} (if: (history:) contains "comf") ["And] (else:) ["Well] t'would not be the craziest thing to assume. Tis no big secret that you have been spending an awful lot of time locked away, either by yourself or with Sir Wynne and the Seneschal. Rumors grow fast in small castles." You feel a bit of relief even though you're not sure why. To compensate, you stand up straighter and square your shoulders. "Well they can rumor all they want. I am the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess]." The squire cocked an eyebrow. "Are you?" [[>>"Yes."->yes]] [[>>"No."->no2]] [[>>"Depends."->depends]]

They nod but there's something almost condescending in it. "Right, I can accept that. It can be simple to forget things sometimes." Did they just wink? Who were they! [[>>"Who are you anyway?"->who3]] [[>>"What do you want?"->cedar wants]]

(if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [Cedar] (else:) [The squire] gave a small smile. "Do not worry, I shan't tell anyone. I understand. Sometimes you need to pretend as someone else for a while." Is that what you were doing? (link-reveal: "Pretending?") [ (Of course you were.) (set: $understand to true)] [[>>"Thanks for understanding."->accept]] [[>>"I don't know what you mean."->deny]]

"Of course! What are friends for?" They leaned back and opened their arms wide. (if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") ["We don't even know each other."] (else:) [We don't even know each other. I don't even know your name!] (if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") ["That does not matter!] (else:) [It is Cedar, but that does not matter!] We know each other now, at least a little more than we did before. Could that not count?" Could it? You thought for a moment. "I guess..." "Excellent!" You looked down at your hands. You didn't feel all that different. Did you? Were you? "So what now?" "Another decision of course." (set: $cedar to true) [[>>Leave->exit2]] [[>>Stay->stay]]

"You do not?" You say nothing. (if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [Cedar] (else:)[The squire] shrugs. "Then I suppose this was all for naught." They leaned over and picked back up the breastplate they had been working on. "Should you not be getting back to the castle your Highness? Someone must miss you by now." "I suppose I should." [[>>->exit]]

(if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [Cedar] (else:) [The squire] pursed their lips for a moment then shrugged. "If you insist than I shall believe you." It didn't quite feel like you were insisting on it, but something still tickled at the back of your head. You quickly shook the feeling away. "Anyway, I should be getting back to my rooms." "Of course. You have to get ready for the wedding tomorrow-assuming your (if: (history:) contains "princess") [brother] (else:) [sister] show up in time of course." [[>>"Of course."->exit]] (if: (history:) contains "princess") [[[>>"He will."->they will]]] (else:) [[[>>"She will."->they will]]]

(if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [Cedar] (else:) [The squire] cocked an eyebrow. "On?" "Oh how you look at it." You rub the back of your neck, feeling a little nervous. They crossed their legs, looking very intrigued."And how do you look at it?" [[>>->says]]<s>"I'm the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess] because everyone says I am."</s> [[>>->role]]<s>"I'm the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess] because that's the part I'm supposed to play."</s> [[>>->memory]]<strike>"I'm not the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess] because I don't remember who I was."</strike> [[>>->game]]<s>"I'm not the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess] because this is a game."</s>

"There is an awful lot of secrecy surrounding it, as you probably know. And there was a fair amount of time you were kept away from everyone except for Sir Wynne and the Seneschal. Something about eh words made you a little defensive. "What are you implying." "Myself? Nothing. The rest of the castle...a few possibilities." Your heart rate quickened. "Like?" "You are not the true (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess]." [[>>->what2]]

"The one where your horse ran off as we arrived and you were near the edge of the woods with Sir Wynne and the Sensechal for nearly an hour." "Right..."</spam> [[>>Duh.->curious]]

"This isn't..." You hesitate, not sure what to say. "This doesn't have the same stakes for me as it does everyone else. I feel like no matter what I do, I'll be fine, but other people will be more deeply affected by my choices. But how can I trust myself to make choices for others if I don't have the same experiences?" (if: (history:) contains "Uh" or "who3") [Cedar] (else:) [The squire] was quiet for a moment, hand on their chin. "It may not be ideal...but if you are thinking this much about it then I at least feel confident in your decisions." You look up in surprise. "You don't even know me." They shrugged. "And you do not know me, yet you trusted me with your fears. I might as well return the same trust." You felt oddly touched by the gesture. "I guess...does this make us friends?" (if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [Cedar's] (else:) [The squire's] face split into a grin. "I would say it does! {You laugh. (if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [] (else:) ["I don't even know your name!" "It is Cedar, but that does not matter!" "Even so, it's nice to meet you Cedar." "And you as well your Highness."]} Still smiling, you looked down at your hands. You didn't feel all that different. Did you? Were you? "So what now?" "Another decision of course." (set: $cedar to true) [[>>Leave->exit2]] [[>>Stay->stay]]

"I don't feel like the same (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess] that everyone keeps telling me about. I feel like I'm someone different and I'm not sure why." "Is it because of the incident when you arrived?" "That's...part of it I think...But there's something else almost." "What sort of something else? "I...I don't know" "Will you try to figure it out?" [[>>Yes.->keep playing2]] [[>>No.->stop]]

"I'm not sure if I'm 'the' (if: (history:) contains "princess") [princess] (else:) [prince] anymore, but I still have to preform my duties. I have to play the role if nothing else." "Says who?" You were taken aback for a moment at their words. "No one forces you to do anything. You have to take certin steps to achive certin results, yes, but you never have to do anything. You never have to eat again if you do not mind dying of starvation." "That's a little extreme..." "Is it wrong? Couldn't you choose to stop playing the role?" "I...I guess...." "So why don't you?" [[>>"I don't want to."->keep playing]] [[>>"I don't know how."->don't know]] [[>>"I want to see how it ends."->keep playing2]]

"Everyone keeps telling me that I'm the (if: (history:) contains "princess") [princess] (else:) [prince]. I don't know what else I would be." "You could be a lot of things. There are plenty of options." "In general maybe, but for me? I only have a few at a time and have to work with what I have." "That is how it works for everyone your Highness." They laughed. "Choosing at all is a choice, and not choosing is another." "You mean I could just [[stop]]? Or [[start over->Begin]]?" "You know your choices better than I do. But I do know that you get to choose to play by the rules." [["Or play at all..."->keep playing]] (if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [Cedar] (else:) [The squire] winked. "So what is your next choice, your Highness?"

Do you want to stop? [[>>Yes->endstop]] [[>>No->

"I want to keep trying. I want to get to an end myself, not just...force one and give up." "Then there you are." (if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [Cedar] (else:) [The squire] grinned and stood up, hands on their hips. "Congratulations your Highness." "O-on what?" "On making your decision. That sort of active thought can be rare sometimes." "Oh." You looked down at your hands. You didn't feel all that different. Did you? Were you? "So what now?" "Another decision of course." (set: $cedar to true) [[>>Leave->exit2]] [[>>Stay->stay]]

(if: (history:) contains "memory") ["I want to know where this takes me. Even if I'm not sure who I am or why I'm here."] (else:) ["If I keep...playing this role. I want to know where this takes me."] "Then there you are." (if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [Cedar] (else:) [The squire] grinned and stood up, hands on their hips. "Congratulations your Highness." "O-on what?" "On making your decision. That sort of active thought can be rare sometimes." "Oh." You looked down at your hands. You didn't feel all that different. Did you? Were you? "So what now?" "Another decision of course." (set: $cedar to true) [[>>Leave->exit2]] [[>>Stay->stay]]

"Well I would think t'would be quite easy. Just...stop." "But what would happen if I do? Or what happens if I don't and end up caught. Or what–" "Your Highness." You stop. "You could get yourself lost in 'what ifs' till the end of the world. You won't know 'what' until you 'do'. "Then how do I decide?" "The same way you have been deciding all along. Play how it feels right to you." You stand there for a long moment, contemplating the words. "Thank you (if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh") [Cedar] (else:) [squire]." "My pleasure your Highness.(if: (history:) contains "who3" or "Uh")[ After all, what are friends for?"] (else:) [And you can just call me Cedar." "Thank you, Cedar"] You looked down at your hands. You didn't feel all that different. Did you? Were you? "So what now?" "Another decistion of course." (set: $cedar to true) [[>>Leave->exit2]] [[>>Stay->stay]]

You stop. In the back of your head you wonder what might've happened to the (if: (history:) contains "prince") [prince] (else:) [princess]—or you don't. Either way you'll never know. Thanks for playing

"Yes, of course your Highness." They leaned forward a bit, lacing their fingers together. "And what will you do then?" You were silent for a long moment. When you did finally speak, your voice was soft. "I'm not sure." They leaned back and picked up the breastplate they had been working on back up. "Should you not be getting back to the castle your Highness? Someone must miss you by now." "I suppose I should." [[>>->exit]]

You sighed heavily. "I should be heading back. Roland has most likely worked himself into a frenzy by now." "I do not doubt it. Till we see each other again your Highness." (if: $cedar is true) [They stood up and took your hand gingerly, pressing a soft kiss to the back of it. You felt a small flush creep up your neck.] "Till next time." You turned, halfway reluctantly, and headed out of the stables. You weren't even a third of the way across the field when you nearly ran into Wynne, who looked quite frantic. [[>>->arrival start]]

"I suppose I could stay here for a while longer." Cedar grinned. "I suppose I wouldn't mind that at all." You wandered over to a nearby stall, running a hand over the bridle hung there. Cedar stood up and walked closer, leaning in. They looked like they were about to say something when: "Your Highness! Wynne burst into the stables. You and Cedar turned to face him as he strode over, catching his breath. "Where have you been your Highness? I have been searching the entire castle for you." "I was...just getting some air." "(if: (history:) contains "princess") [She] (else:) [He] was perfectly safe, Sir Wynne." Wynne took a deep breath, glancing between the two of you. "Even so, a little warning would be nice next time, your Highness. "I'm not sure what the fuss is about. I'm I not allowed to have some time to myself? Or-" You paused, watching his face carefully. "Were you...worried about me?" He glanced away. "Of course I was, that is my duty." You wanted to say something else, but were interrupted by some sort of commotion out near the front gate. The three of you exchanged glances, then headed out towards the source. Over the heads of the gathered castle workers you spy someone sitting atop a beautiful red charger. Their hair was long and pulled back, and you couldn't quite get a glimpse of their face but were able to admire the deep purple of their riding cloak. "Who is that?" Wynne sucked in a breath before answering. "Your (if: (history:) contains "princess") [brother] (else:) [sister]" [[>>->demo end]]

(if: (history:) contains "exit") [You're not even a third of the way across the field when you nearly run into Wynne, who is looking quite frantic.] (else:) [] "Your Highness!" "Wynne! Hello! "Where have you been your Highness? I have been searching the entire castle for you." "I was...just getting some air." Wynne took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. "A little warning would be nice next time, your Highness. "I was perfectly safe, I never even got near the edge of the grounds. I'm not sure..." You paused, watching his face carefully. "Were you...worried about me?" He glanced away. "Of course I was, that is my duty." You wanted to say something else, but were inturruped by some sort of commotion out near the front gate. After a quick glance the two of you headed towards the source. Over the heads of the gathered castle workers you spy someone sititng atop a beautiful red charger. Their hair was long and pulled back, and you counlt quite get a glimpse of their face but were able to admire the deep purple of their riding cloak. "Who is that?" Wynne sucked in a breath before answering. "Your (if: (history:) contains "princess") [brother] (else:) [sister]" [[>>->demo end]]

(demo summary) You, Roland, and Wynne work on getting you acting like a proper (if: (history:) contains "princess") [princess] (else:) [prince], but even as you start to pick up on things it's ultimately not the same as if you had been raised in the traditions. Feeling more and more like a fraud and that your efforts are worthless, you try to voice some of your concerns to your new friends. Wynne doesn't quite get what you mean, as he believes that your efforts are entirely noble and proper for a true (if: (history:) contains "princess") [princess] (else:) [prince]. When you try to talk to Roland he lets it slip that there may be dire consequences for him and the rest of the castle staff it it became known you were seriously injured upon your arrival. Feeling more frustrated but also liek you have no choice you retire for the day and prepart to start fresh the next. [[>>Begin Day Three->Daythree]]

(demo summary) You begin the day like the last but are les and less engaded with the lessons. You take a small break near the evening, and—if you choose to—make your way out onto the castle grounds and towards the stables... [[>>go->Cedar start]]

This is the current end of the demo Thank you for playing