Noble Beta

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I was a young boy when I met my first knight. His armor seemed to shine like the sun as he passed through the crowd that gathered for him. The whole town surrounded him, wearing the best they could scrounge together. Back then, I was small. People pushed and shoved me until I could only see the top of the knight's helmet still shining. It called to me like a beacon. I knew I had to get to the front to see him before he disappeared forever. [[Elbow through.]] [[Crawl through.]]

As the knight started to pass me, his eyes met mine. His grin grew even wider, and the crowd roared as he approached me. "What have we here?" he asked, placing his large, armored hand on my head. "Have I met another knight?" He laughed and tussled my hair. The confidence and charisma radiated off of him. He was... invincible. From then on, I knew I wanted... [["...to be a knight like him!"|New Goal]] [["...to be a better knight than him!"|New Goal]]

I ran towards the man with the knife, yelling and flailing my arms to scare him. He jumped back, and the knife flew out of his hand. As I approached, his fist flew at me. [[Dodge to the right.|Success 1]] [[Dodge to the left.|Fail 1]]

Logic puzzles and exercise became a part of my daily routine. I wouldn't let another innocent become a victim. [["My path was made."|Adult Life Initiative]] [["I made my path."|Adult Life Initiative]]

When time came for my knighthood, I was ready. The training flew by, and I was fast to reach a spot before the king. After a few years, the king summoned the strongest of his knights to meet with him. Through the long, open windows of his court, I could see the sun setting. It's orange and purple hues faded into the night sky where bright stars were just starting to show. He was planning to invade a neighboring kingdom and wanted to assemble a strong party to take action. He asked if there was a volunteer to lead the attack. [[Volunteer.|Volunteer 1]] [[Ask about quest.|Question 1]] { (set: $Adlife to true)}

When time came for my knighthood, I was afraid. The training was a challenge, and I was slow to reach a spot before the king. After a few years, the king summoned the strongest of his knights to meet with him. He planned to invade a neighboring kingdom and wanted to assemble a strong party to take action. He asked if there was a volunteer to lead the attack. [[Volunteer.|Volunteer 2]] [[Ask about quest.|Question 2]] { (set: $Adlife to false)}

I edged my way forward, careful to avoid the hands as they swatted at me. Most of the townsfolk didn't appreciate me elbowing them in their sides, but I made it to the front anyway. The knight was fast approaching. He walked next to his horse as he waved to everyone that cheered and hollered for him. A knot in my stomach formed. I wanted so desperately to ask him everything in the world, but why would he stop for a boy like me? [[Try to talk to him.|Knight Notices]] [[Admire him.|Knight Notices]]

I edged my way forward, careful to avoid the feet that stomped around me. Most of the townsfolk didn't notice me crawling by them to get to the front, so I made it without much attention. The knight was fast approaching. He walked next to his horse as he waved to everyone that cheered and hollered for him. A knot in my stomach formed. I wanted so desperately to ask him everything in the world, but why would he stop for a boy like me? [[Try to talk to him.|Knight Notices]] [[Admire him.|Knight Notices]]

I left for home that night with my new goal in mind. I was going to make a name for myself as a knight. I would traverse the land, meet new people, and slay enemies of the king. As I passed by an open alley, I heard voices arguing. One person sounded desperate; the other sounded like he was in danger. I peered around the corner of a wall and saw a man holding a knife to a shopkeeper from town. His hands looked shaky, but it was clear that he wasn't leaving the altercation empty handed. [[Stop the thief.]] [[Find Help.]]

I dodged his swing, and landed a quick punch in his side. "Aye, you little brat!" he said, grabbing at me with his other hand. "C'mere!" [[Grab his fist.|Fail 2]] [[Duck out of the way.|Success 2]]

I ran right into his fist, and he knocked me out. The shopkeeper woke me up hours later and told me that the thief stole everything he had. He thanked me for trying, and I went home with a new black eye to show off to my family. It was a long journey before I would be capable of beating anyone in a fight. [[Train.]]

I lunged toward him and ducked under his arm to escape his long, knobby hand. He stumbled forward, still trying to grab at me. His footing was unsteady, and he looked like he could topple over any second. [[Kick him.]] [[Catch him.]]

I grabbed his fist, but he was quick to land a hit in my jaw. Everything went black. The shopkeeper woke me up hours later and told me that the thief stole everything he had. He thanked me for trying, and I went home with a swolen jaw to show off to my family. It was a long journey before I would be capable of beating anyone in a fight. [[Train.]]

I kicked him right on his rump, and he fell to the ground. His face skid across the dirt and rocks of the street. He stood, a little confused, and looked around to see if anyone saw his defeat to a ten year old. He bolted for an alleyway, cursing me as he ran. The shopkeeper thanked me and offered me a few gold for rescuing him. [[Take the gold.]] [[Refuse the gold.]]

I caught him by the shirt. Though I tried to pull him back to his feet, the strength in my arm couldn't hold him for long. I lowered him to the ground instead. He stood, a little confused, and looked around to see if anyone saw his defeat to a ten year old. He bolted for an alleyway without looking back. The shopkeeper thanked me and offered me a few gold for rescuing him. [[Take the gold.]] [[Refuse the gold.]]

I took the gold and thought this was what it meant to be a knight. The shopkeeper told me that without his business, his family would have nothing else to survive. I saved him from the thief, and my future started to take hold. He thanked me again, and I left knowing I wanted to be a knight. [["My path was made."|Adult Life Initiative]] [["I made my path."|Adult Life Initiative]]

I refused the gold and told him I just wanted to help. The shopkeeper explained that his family would not be able to survive without his business. He gave me a discount at his store for saving him. He thanked me again, and I left knowing I wanted to be a knight. [["My path was made."|Adult Life Initiative]] [["I made my path."|Adult Life Initiative]]

I stepped forward and bowed to the king. He seemed impressed that I volunteered when so many others had the opportunity. A knight that was standing a few feet away from me knelt to the king. "Your majesty, a young lad like him should not take on a task as important as this," he said. [[Speak up.]] [[Remove helmet.]]

When I asked why we were planning an invasion, many of the knights glanced in my direction or chuckled to themselves. They were hushed when the king walked toward me. "You are the first to question my motives in a long time, young knight," he said. He looked to the other knights who quivered in his presence. [[Persist.]] [[Remove helmet.|Remove helm]]

I stepped forward and bowed to the king. He seemed disappointed that I volunteered when so many others had the opportunity. A knight that was standing a few feet away from me knelt to the king. "Your majesty, a young whelp like him should not take on a task as important as this," he said. [[Speak up.|Speak up 2]] [[Remove helmet.|Remove helmet 2]]

My voice croaked when I asked why we were planning an invasion. Many of the knights glanced in my direction or chuckled to themselves. They were hushed when the king walked toward me. "You are the first to question my motives in a long time, young knight," he said. He looked to the other knights who silenced themselves in his presence. [[Persist.|Persist 2]] [[Remove helmet.|Remove helm 2]]

There had to be someone that could stop the thief, but I didn't have a lot of time to waste. If there was anyone to find, I had to act fast. [[Go to the market.|Market]] [[Go to the residential district.|Residential District]]

I ran as fast as I could to the market, but the streets were clear of people. All businesses were already closed, and all the shop owners had already gone home to their families. When I tried knocking on a few doors, no one answered. By the time I thought about returning to the shopkeeper, it was already too late. I was unable to find help, and that haunted me. I reasoned that there was nothing more I could do, but I knew better. [[Train.|Train 2]]

I ran as fast as I could to the residential district, but the streets were clear of people. Everyone was already settling in for the night. Windows were empty of light. [[Knock on doors.]] [[Run home and wake family.|Wake family.]]

I knocked on doors until the moon was high in the sky, but no one answered. I returned to the alley to see if the shopkeeper was still there. By the time I made it back, the thief was long gone. The shopkeeper was slumped on the ground, sobbing for his loss. I was unable to find help, and that haunted me. I reasoned that there was nothing more I could do, but I knew better. [[Train.|Train 2]]

I decided I should wake my family. If nothing else, my father would know what to do. When I woke him, he told me to go hide in my room. He left in a hurry, calling back to my mother to keep the children in bed. Fear spiked through me. I was afraid to let my father go alone, but I didn't want to get hurt. [[Stay behind.]] [[Follow him.]]

I took in a breath to testify, but the king held his hand to stop all speaking. He stood in front of the kneeling knight and stared off into the stars. "If he is so incapable, why did no one else volunteer?" he asked. When no one replied, he turned to me. [[Bow to the king.|King action.]] [[Kneel to the king.|King action.]]

I removed my helmet and looked to the king. He let out a smile at me before he walked to the kneeling knight. He stared off into the stars. "If he is so incapable, why did no one else volunteer?" he asked. When no one replied, he turned to me. [[Bow to the king.|King action.]] [[Kneel to the king.|King action.]]

Logic puzzles and exercise became a part of my daily routine. I wouldn't let another innocent become a victim. [["I made my choices."|Adult Life Regret]] [["My choices made me."|Adult Life Regret]]

I stopped my siblings that tried to follow him. Mother stood at the door, staring off after him as he faded away. She tried to hide her anxiety that night, but her eyes told me the truth. By the next morning, father was home, and the story of the theft started to spread across town. He didn't make it in time to stop the thief, but he was able to save the shopkeeper's life. The shopkeeper's family offered him gold as a reward, and he tried to give some of it to me. [[Take the gold.|Take gold]] [[Refuse the gold.|Refuse gold]]

I pushed past my siblings and tried to follow him. Just as I got to the frame of the door, my mother stopped me with her hand. We watched as he faded away. By the next morning, father was home, and the story of the theft started to spread across town. He didn't make it in time to stop the thief, but he was able to save the shopkeeper's life. The shopkeeper's family offered him gold as a reward, and he tried to give some of it to me. [[Take the gold.|Take gold]] [[Refuse the gold.|Refuse gold]]

I took the gold and thought this was what it meant to be a knight. Father told me about the shopkeeper's business and that his family depended on it. Without the shopkeeper, his family would not have survived. He praised me, but I knew that wasn't what I wanted as a knight. [["I made my choices."|Adult Life Regret]] [["My choices made me."|Adult Life Regret]]

I refused the gold and told him I just wanted to help. Father explained that the shopkeeper's family was very grateful that I stopped to help. Without him, they may not have been able to survive. He praised me, but I knew that wasn't what I wanted as a knight. [["I made my choices."|Adult Life Regret]] [["My choices made me."|Adult Life Regret]]

His eyes were determined. He had confidence I could lead the way. In the following weeks, we planned several strategies to capture the neighboring kingdom. I started to command my own troops, and the king saw to it that we had the best weapons money could buy. When the day came to invade, I had my mission: [[Take the enemy kingdom.|Find the king.]] { (set: $Kingtrust to true)}

I took in a breath to testify, but the king held his hand to stop all speaking. He stood in front of the kneeling knight and stared off into the stars. "If he is so incapable, why did //you// not volunteer?" he asked. When he didn't reply, he turned to me. [[Bow to the king.|King action 2]] [[Kneel to the king.|King action 2]]

I removed my helmet and looked to the king. He looked away before we could make eye contact. He walked to the kneeling knight and stared off into the stars. "If he is so incapable, why did //you// not volunteer?" he asked. When he didn't reply, he turned to me. [[Bow to the king.|King action 2]] [[Kneel to the king.|King action 2]]

We rode in on horses when the sun was at its highest. Their archers were expecting us. When we got in close, they fired at us. Arrows rained down on us. My men awaited my command. [[Charge.]] [[Scatter.]] { (set: $clinic to false) (set: $boy to false)}

I asked again, and the king's eyes filled with pride. "Only a fool would let blind sheep lead their men into battle," he said. He dismissed the other knights and instructed them to prepare themselves for the future. For hours, he explained to me that running a kingdom can be complicated. We talked about the need to grow and change, and he insisted that I lead the battle because of my bravery. [[Bow to the king.|King action.]] [[Kneel to the king.|King action.]]

I removed my helmet and looked at the king. He seemed to smile at my foolish bravery. He dismissed the other knights, and we talked for hours about growth and change in the kingdom. He insisted that I lead the battle because of my nerve. [[Bow to the king.|King action.]] [[Kneel to the king.|King action.]]

I cleared my throat and asked again. He seemed skeptical of me, but he had no other choice. He dismissed the other knights and instructed them to prepare their men for battle. After all of the knights left, he tried to explain to me the politics of the situation. I still didn't understand, but I didn't care because the king was leaving it in my hands. [[Bow to the king.|King action 2]] [[Kneel to the king.|King action 2]]

I removed my helmet and looked at the king. He seemed unimpressed by my foolishness. He dismissed the other knights, and we talked about the importance of the invasion. For a while, he tried to explain to me the politics of the situation, but I didn't understand. [[Bow to the king.|King action 2]] [[Kneel to the king.|King action 2]]

"Chaaaaarge!" I yelled. My men bolted forward in a straight line. The archers weren't fast enough to hit all of us, and we made it to the gates mostly alive. Men protected the gates with spears and swords. They looked under-trained for their jobs but remained determined to protect their city, even though we outnumbered them. [[Attack them.|Attack them.]] [[Suppress their attacks.|Suppress them.]] { (set: $time = 0)}

"Avoid the arrows! Scatter!" I yelled. My men zig-zagged across the field. The archers weren't able to hit all of us as we weaved, so we made it to the gates mostly alive. Men protected the gates with spears and swords. They looked under-trained for their jobs but remained determined to protect their city, even though we outnumbered them. [[Attack them.|Attack them.]] [[Suppress their attacks.|Suppress them.]] { (set: $time = 0)}

I ordered my men to attack them. There were enough of us to take them down with ease. Some resisted, but many of them surrendered when they saw us strike down a few of their people. I entered from the south as my comrades flooded into the city. They were siezing control of the people, but my orders were to take the king. Around us were dilapidated buildings made with cheap materials. My gut told me that the king's castle would be surrounded with more extravagant homes and businesses. Navigating the city was my best bet. I chose a direction and prayed that I was heading the right way. (align: "=><=")[ [[North.|Merchants]] ] (align: "=><=")[ [[West.|Food market]] | [[East.|Residential low]] ] { (set: $time to it + 10)}

I ordered my men to suppress them instead of fight them. There were enough of us to take them with ease. Some resisted, but many of the men ducked out of the way when our horses galloped toward them. I entered from the south as my comrades flooded into the city. They were siezing control of the people, but my orders were to take the king. Around us were dilapidated buildings made with cheap materials. My gut told me that the king's castle would be surrounded with more extravagant homes and businesses. Navigating the city was my best bet. I chose a direction and prayed that I was heading the right way. (align: "=><=")[ [[North.|Merchants]] ] (align: "=><=")[ [[West.|Food market]] | [[East.|Residential low]] ] { (set: $time to it + 10)}

Their merchants' buildings. This was where jewelers and blacksmiths made their business. The buildings were well maintained. Outside each store hung wooden signs that displayed the business name. (if: $clinic is false)[ To the east were a few buildings set up as the clinics. A few men patrolled the area as others brought in wounded. ](else:)[ To the east were the clinics. We decided not to pass through there. ] The schools were just to the west. They probably made a trip here to talk about professions. {(if: $time >= 20)+(if: $time <= 30)[ Fire broke out across town. The citizens were sacrificing themselves to take the city with them. There wasn't much time to waste. ](if: $time >=40)+(if: $time <=60)[ The fire spread and took out a few buildings. It was hard to move around the city, and my men were falling fast. If I was going to be successful, I had to find the king now. ](if: $time > 60)[ Everything burned to the ground. There was no city left to take. The castle inside its own protective walls was all that remained standing. [[Go to the castle.|Castle Ruin]] ]} (if: $time <= 60)[ (align: "=><=")[ North. ] (align: "=><=")[ [[West.|Schools]] | (if: $clinic is false)[ [[East.|Clinic guard]] ](else:)[ East.] ] (align: "=><=")[ South. ] ]\ { (set: $time to it + 10)}

Their slums. The houses here were already falling to pieces. Some blankets and market tarps were laying in the corners of the street where abandoned buildings met. The homeless were probably sleeping here before the invasion started. The food market was to the west. It was likely that the people of this area went there for trade or for quick work. (if: $clinic is false)[ To the north, the buildings appeared more occupied, but we were too far away to see if they led to the castle. ](else:)[ To the north were the clinics. We decided not to pass through there. ] {(if: $time >= 20)+(if: $time <= 30)[ Fire broke out across town. The citizens were sacrificing themselves to take the city with them. There wasn't much time to waste. ](if: $time >=40)+(if: $time <=60)[ The fire spread and took out a few buildings. It was hard to move around the city, and my men were falling fast. If I was going to be successful, I had to find the king now. ](if: $time > 60)[ Everything burned to the ground. There was no city left to take. The castle inside its own protective walls was all that remained standing. [[Go to the castle.|Castle Ruin]] ]} (if: $time <= 60)[ (align: "=><=")[ (if: $clinic is false)[ [[North.|Clinic guard]] ](else:)[ North. ] ] (align: "=><=")[ [[West.|Food market]] | East. ] (align: "=><=")[ South. ] ]\ { (set: $low to true) (set: $time to it + 10)}

Their food market. Fresh fruit and meats were still in their stands from the day's trade. Their stands were made of solid wood and each had a tarp shading them from the sun. They were sturdy for the most part, but they were cheaply built. The slums were to the east, so it was possible this was where they came for trading. The schools to the north may have brought the children here to learn the business behind agriculture or to take a nice walk. {(if: $time >= 10)+(if: $time <= 30)[ Fire broke out across town. The citizens were sacrificing themselves to take the city with them. There wasn't much time to waste. ](if: $time >=40)+(if: $time <=60)[ The fire spread and took out a few buildings. It was hard to move around the city, and my men were falling fast. If I was going to be successful, I had to find the king now. ](if: $time > 60)[ Everything burned to the ground. There was no city left to take. The castle inside its own protective walls was all that remained standing. [[Go to the castle.|Castle Ruin]] ]} (if: $time <= 60)[ (align: "=><=")[ [[North.|Schools]] ] (align: "=><=")[ West. | [[East.|Residential low]] ] (align: "=><=")[ South. ] ]\ { (set: $time to it + 10)}

Their makeshift clinics. It was just a few buildings they set up for their wounded in battle. Some of the citizens acting as nurses glared at us as we rode by them. We decided that it was better to leave their wounded be. To the north, the buildings melded into houses where the residential district started. The quality was mostly the same, but some of the homes had small yards and gardens. The merchant's businesses were to the west. Their clean buildings stood out against the clinics. The south was filled with shadows of the slums. They looked abandoned from here. {(if: $time >= 20)+(if: $time <= 30)[ Fire broke out across town. The citizens were sacrificing themselves to take the city with them. There wasn't much time to waste. ](if: $time >=40)+(if: $time <=60)[ The fire spread and took out a few buildings. It was hard to move around the city, and my men were falling fast. If I was going to be successful, I had to find the king now. ](if: $time > 60)[ Everything burned to the ground. There was no city left to take. The castle inside its own protective walls was all that remained standing. [[Go to the castle.|Castle Ruin]] ]} (if: $time <= 60)[ (align: "=><=")[ [[North.|Residential Medium]] ] (align: "=><=")[ [[West.|Merchants]] | East. ] (align: "=><=")[ [[South.|Residential low]] ] ]\ { (set: $time to it + 10)}

Their schools. It looked like it might've been a good place for the children to learn. Out front was a huge courtyard where the children might have played. There were clear footpaths where classes made trips to other parts of the city. The footsteps were the most worn heading north towards the church. The stained glass shimmered like beacons. To the east were the merchant's businesses. Their buildings looked newer than the schools. The food market was to the south. The teachers probably took their classes there when they wanted to stretch their legs. {(if: $time >= 20)+(if: $time <= 30)[ Fire broke out across town. The citizens were sacrificing themselves to take the city with them. There wasn't much time to waste. ] (if: $time >=40)+(if: $time <=60)[ The fire spread and took out a few buildings. It was hard to move around the city, and my men were falling fast. If I was going to be successful, I had to find the king now. ](if: $time > 60)[ Everything burned to the ground. There was no city left to take. The castle inside its own protective walls was all that remained standing. [[Go to the castle.|Castle Ruin]] ]} {(if: $time >= 20)+(if: $time <= 50)+(if: $boy is false)[ A child stood in front of the schools and watched as they burnt. He seemed to be unaware of the battle surrounding [[him.|Child conversation]] ]} (if: $time <= 60)[ (align: "=><=")[ [[North.|Church]] ] (align: "=><=")[ West. | [[East.|Merchants]] ] (align: "=><=")[ [[South.|Food market]] ] ]\ { (set: $time to it + 10)}

Their church. I could've sworn there were people still inside it. It stood tall and grim, but the ground felt sacred when I approached it. Despite the destruction, it still looked magnificent. The path from the schools to the south led directly to the front doors of the church. They must have gathered there often. The church faced to the east where the streets opened up into a courtyard made with intricate brickwork. {(if: $time >= 20)+(if: $time <= 30)[ Fire broke out across town. The citizens were sacrificing themselves to take the city with them. There wasn't much time to waste. ](if: $time >=40)+(if: $time <=60)[ The fire spread and took out a few buildings. It was hard to move around the city, and my men were falling fast. If I was going to be successful, I had to find the king now. ](if: $time > 60)[ Everything burned to the ground. There was no city left to take. The castle inside its own protective walls was all that remained standing. [[Go to the castle.|Castle Ruin]] ]} (if: $time <= 60)[ (align: "=><=")[ North. ] (align: "=><=")[ West. | [[East.|Courtyard]] ] (align: "=><=")[ [[South.|Schools]] ] ]\ { (set: $time to it + 10)}

The courtyard. It was flat and had different colored stones that spidered out toward each district of the city. In front of me was the stone wall that surrounded the king's castle. There was no gate, but the men at the entrance looked ready for a fight. [[Invade castle.|Castle]]

Their residential district. The houses here were probably nice when they weren't on fire. Some of the homes boasted beautiful gardens before the flames started to take them. The ground was littered with half-burnt flowers from some of the bushes. The clinics sat just to the south. They were almost indistinguishable from the homes of the residential district. The houses further north were built larger and better maintained. Their walls were made mostly of stone rather than wood. The streets eventually opened up in the west into a courtyard made with intricate brickwork. {(if: $time >= 20)+(if: $time <= 30)[ Fire broke out across town. The citizens were sacrificing themselves to take the city with them. There wasn't much time to waste. ](if: $time >=40)+(if: $time <=60)[ The fire spread and took out a few buildings. It was hard to move around the city, and my men were falling fast. If I was going to be successful, I had to find the king now. ](if: $time > 60)[ Everything burned to the ground. There was no city left to take. The castle inside its own protective walls was all that remained standing. [[Go to the castle.|Castle Ruin]] ]} (if: $time <= 60)[ (align: "=><=")[ [[North.|Residential high]] ] (align: "=><=")[ [[West.|Courtyard]] | East. ] (align: "=><=")[ [[South.|Clinics]] ] ]\ { (set: $time to it + 10)}

The "extravagent" homes. They were built much larger than the homes of the rest of the city. The stone walls began to crumble as their wooden infrastructure burned. As it turns out, money can't stop fire. We came upon the walls surrounding the castle, but there was no way in. I had to return and find a way in the front door. {(if: $time >= 20)+(if: $time <= 30)[ Fire broke out across town. The citizens were sacrificing themselves to take the city with them. There wasn't much time to waste. ](if: $time >=40)+(if: $time <=60)[ The fire spread and took out a few buildings. It was hard to move around the city, and my men were falling fast. If I was going to be successful, I had to find the king now. ](if: $time > 60)[ Everything burned to the ground. There was no city left to take. The castle inside its own protective walls was all that remained standing. [[Go to the castle.|Castle Ruin]] ]} (if: $time <= 60)[ (align: "=><=")[ North. ] (align: "=><=")[ West. | East. ] (align: "=><=")[ [[South.|Residential Medium]] ] ]\ { (set: $time to it + 10)}

The castle was untouched by the fire. It was humble but built to withstand an attack. Its walls glistened as it overlooked the remains of the city At the entrance stood a man dressed in golden armor. He held his helm under his arm and stared me down as I approached. Guards ran past him as they charged towards me and the men who followed me. [[Stop the guards.]] [[Avoid the guards.]] { (set: $city to true)}

The castle was untouched by the fire. It was humble but built to withstand an attack. It's magnificence rang hollow with no city to overlook. By the main door stood a man dressed in golden armor. He stared off into the city ruins as its smoke rose into the air. Guards ran past him as they charged towards me and the men who followed me. [[Stop the guards.]] [[Avoid the guards.]] { (set: $city to false)}

His eyes were weary. He lacked confidence that I could lead the way. In the following weeks, we planned several strategies to capture the neighboring kingdom. My troops trained in groups with other commanders, and the king saw to it that every man had a weapon. When the day came to invade, I had my mission: [[Take the enemy kingdom.|Find the king 2]] { (set: $Kingtrust to false)}

We rode in on horses when the sun was starting to set. Their archers weren't expecting us. We got in close to the wall before they heard us. People started to yell from the other side of the wall. My men awaited my command. [[Charge.|Charge 2]] [[Stealth.]] { (set: $clinic to false)}

We charged to the gates of the city before they could arm themselves. The hinges of the gate door were old and rusted, and there was plenty of time to break it open before the city soldiers arrived. [[Break the gate.]] [[Ambush the city soldiers.]]

We hit the hinges of the gate with our swords until they broke apart and let the door fall off. It made a lot of noise, but there was no one there to stop us. I entered from the south as my comrades flooded into the city. They were siezing control of the people, but my orders were to take the king. Around us were dilapidated buildings made with cheap materials. My gut told me that the king's castle would be surrounded with more extravagant homes and businesses. Navigating the city was my best bet. I chose a direction and prayed that I was heading the right way. (align: "=><=")[ [[North.|Merchants]] ] (align: "=><=")[ [[West.|Food market]] | [[East.|Residential low]] ] { (set: $time to it + 20)}

We drew the attention of a few soldiers passing by and hid. When they opened the gate to get a better look, we rushed the doors and surprised them. They looked under-trained for their jobs but remained determined to protect their city. I entered from the south as my comrades flooded into the city. They were siezing control of the people, but my orders were to take the king. Around us were dilapidated buildings made with cheap materials. My gut told me that the king's castle would be surrounded with more extravagant homes and businesses. Navigating the city was my best bet. I chose a direction and prayed that I was heading the right way. (align: "=><=")[ [[North.|Merchants]] ] (align: "=><=")[ [[West.|Food market]] | [[East.|Residential low]] ] { (set: $time to it + 10)}

We stayed quiet as we rode along the wall of the city. They were too busy arming themselves to see that we found an unarmed gate. The hinges of the gate door were old and rusted, and there was plenty of time to break it open before the city soldiers arrived. [[Break the gate.]] [[Ambush the city soldiers.]]

"So, he sent you," he said. He put on his helm to fight, but his attention was no longer on me. His sword glinted as he raised it. [[Draw sword.]] [[Question.|King's Knowledge]]

He lunged at me as I drew my sword. There was still a fight left in him, but I wasn't ready to attack him yet. [[Block with sword.|Use sword]] [[Block with shield.|Use shield]]

I asked him if he knew we were planning to invade his kingdom, but he lunged at me with his sword. I wasn't ready to attack him, but I couldn't let him hurt me. [[Block with sword.|Use sword]] [[Block with shield.|Use shield]]

I held my blade up to block his attack, but he was unfazed. He leaned into his sword and pushed me back. I could feel his strength start to wane. [[Push back.|Push]] [[Headbutt him.|Headbutt]]

I held up my shield and parried his attack. He stumbled back, and I had my opportunity. [[Stab his shoulder.|Stab shoulder]] [[Stab his knee.|Stab knee]]

My sword split his armor at the shoulder and tore through his muscle. A pained wail came from his helm as he hopped back to get off my sword. He held his shoulder as he backed away into the main hall behind him. (if: $Kingtrust is false)[ "You //would// cheat me like your king. You couldn't fight like a real man if you tried," he said. [[Hold him down.|Cheat king 2]] [[Fight him.|Fight king 2]] ](else:)[ "Would you cheat me like your king, or would you fight me like a real man!" he yelled. [[Hold him down.|Cheat king 2]] [[Fight him.|Fight king 2]] ]

My sword split his armor at the bend of his leg and shattered his kneecap. A pained wail came from his helm as he hopped back to get off my sword. He hobbled as he backed away into the main hall behind him. (if: $Kingtrust is false)[ "You //would// cheat me like your king. You couldn't fight like a real man if you tried," he said. [[Hold him down.|Cheat king 2]] [[Fight him.|Fight king 2]] ](else:)[ "Would you cheat me like your king, or would you fight me like a real man!" he yelled. [[Hold him down.|Cheat king 2]] [[Fight him.|Fight king 2]] ]

As he weakened, I put all of my weight into my sword and shoved him. He stumbled back and fell into the main hall behind him. (if: $Kingtrust is false)[ "He was right about you. You would rather cheat me like your king than fight like a real man," he said. [[Hold him down.|Cheat king]] [[Fight him.|Fight king]] ](else:)[ "Would you cheat me like your king, or would you fight me like a real man!" he yelled. [[Hold him down.|Cheat king]] [[Fight him.|Fight king]] ]

As he weakened, he opened up for an easy headbutt. When my helm met his, he stumbled back and fell into the main hall behind him. (if: $Kingtrust is false)[ "He was right about you. You would rather cheat me like your king than fight like a real man," he said. [[Hold him down.|Cheat king]] [[Fight him.|Fight king]] ](else:)[ "Would you cheat me like your king, or would you fight me like a real man!" he yelled. [[Hold him down.|Cheat king]] [[Fight him.|Fight king]] ]

His words had no effect on me. His kingdom had fallen, and, now, there was nothing left for him to live for. I held him down with my foot. (if: $Adlife is false)[ [[Decapitate him.|Decapitate Regret]] ](else:)[ [[Decapitate him.|Decapitate Initiative]] ] [[Threaten him.]] { (set: $fight to false)}

I held my stance, ready to fight. At first, he hesitated, but then he stood and threw off his helm. "Perhaps you would've been an ally of mine in another life," he said. [[Stab him.|Stab him]] [[Swing sword.|Swing sword]] { (set: $fight to true)}

His words had no effect on me. His kingdom had fallen, and, now, there was nothing left for him to live for. I kicked him to the ground and held him down with my foot. (if: $Adlife is false)[ [[Decapitate him.|Decapitate Regret]] ](else:)[ [[Decapitate him.|Decapitate Initiative]] ] [[Threaten him.]] { (set: $fight to false)}

I held my stance, ready to fight. He pulled himself together and threw off his helm. Though his face showed that he was in pain, he still held up his sword for battle. "Perhaps you would've been an ally of mine in another life," he said. [[Stab him.|Stab him]] [[Swing sword.|Swing sword]] { (set: $fight to true)}

I lunged with my sword forward. He dodged out of the way and elbowed me in the head. My helm was disheveled, but he didn't hurt me. [[Sweep his leg.]] [[Tackle him.]]

I swung my sword down on him, but he lifted his sword to block it. He kicked me back, and I stumbled. [[Stab him.|Stab him]] [[Tackle him.]]

I held my sword to his throat, but he did not care what I did. His eyes were focused beyond me, and I wondered if he thought of himself or his kingdom. (if: $Adlife is false)[ My threats were empty to him. ](else:)[ He was ready to die for his kingdom. ] (if: $Adlife is false)[ [[Decapitate him.|Decapitate Regret]] ](else:)[ [[Decapitate him.|Decapitate Initiative]] ]

I let my sword fall through his throat. His head rolled off, and I knew that what I did here would make me a hero or a villain in the eyes of my people. When I returned to my king, I thought briefly about hiding or telling him the truth of the enemy king's death. [[Lie.|Lie]] [[Tell the truth.|Truth]]

I plunged my sword through his throat. His head rolled off, and I knew that what I did here would make me a hero or a villain in the eyes of my people. When I returned to my king, I thought briefly about hiding or telling him the truth of the enemy king's death. [[Lie.|Lie]] [[Tell the truth.|Truth]]

I didn't give the king a fair fight, but no one had to know the truth. They would think that I won in a glorious battle that day. My king questioned my honesty, but assumed that not knowing the truth was probably for the best. Over time, he would send me on more quests that would lead to many victories. [["My future took hold."|King Life Regret]] [["I took hold of my future."|King Life Regret]] { (set: $truth to false)}

I didn't give the king a fair fight. I completed what I was sent out to do, but at the cost of the old king. My king appreciated my honesty of the battle and praised me for my successful invasion. Over time, he would send me on more quests that would lead to many great victories. [["My future took hold."|King Life Initiative]] [["I took hold of my future."|King Life Initiative]] { (set: $truth to true)}

I swept his legs out from underneath him. He fell to the ground, and his sword flew out of his hand. I dropped my sword and tried to hold him down, but he still fought. He punched at me with every bit of energy he had left. [[Punch him.]] [[Strangle him.]]

I rushed him and tackled him to the ground. His sword flew out of his hand, but he still punched at me. [[Punch him.]] [[Strangle him.]]

With every punch he threw, I gave him two more. After a while, his punches slowed and became weak, but I kept laying into him until they stopped coming period. I was successful in my mission, but there was a spark of something new inside of me. [["I felt rage."|Rage]] [["I felt pride."|Pride]]

I wrapped my fingers around his throat and squeezed with all of my strength. He kept punching me, but his hits became weaker. I endured his blows until they finally stopped coming. I was successful in my mission, but there was a spark of something new inside of me. [["I felt rage."|Rage]] [["I felt pride."|Pride]]

When I returned to my king, he saw the fire inside of me. I told him of the battle and how I killed the king. For a moment, I saw fear in his eyes. He explained that it was probably best that I didn't tell many people the details of my victory. Still, he praised me and rewarded me with many riches. Over time, he would send me on more quests that would lead to many great victories. [["My future took hold."|King Life Regret]] [["I took hold of my future."|King Life Regret]] { (set: $pride to false)}

When I returned to my king, he saw that I wore pride on my heart. I told him of the battle and how I defeated the king. He was overjoyed that the invasion was successful. He praised my duty to the kingdom and rewarded me with many riches. Over time, he would send me on more quests that would lead to many //great// victories. [["My future took hold."|King Life Initiative]] [["I took hold of my future."|King Life Initiative]] { (set: $pride to true)}

Over my lifetime as a knight, I learned to live with my regrets, take lessons from my failures, and always have a strategy. My boyish dreams of becoming a knight seemed silly now that I knew the sacrifice, but I never doubted that this was my path. Eventually, my king's health started to dwindle. When his son assumed his role, he told me of his father's respect for me. He praised me for my service and told me his father's plan to give me land of my own to rule. [[Refuse it.|Refuse kingdom]] [[Accept it.|Accept kingdom]] { (set: $Kinglife to true)}

Over my lifetime as a knight, my regrets haunted me, and my failures ruled me. I learned to always have a strategy, but I never learned to trust anyone. My boyish dreams of becoming a knight seemed silly now that I knew the sacrifice, and sometimes I wondered if I chose the right path. Eventually, my king's health started to dwindle. When his son assumed his role, he told me his father knew there was more to me than what was on the surface. He thanked me for my service and told me his father's plan to give me land of my own to rule. [[Refuse it.|Refuse kingdom 2]] [[Accept it.|Accept kingdom 2]] { (set: $Kinglife to false)}

He raised his hand to stop me before I could refuse. He reasoned that this was his father's will, and it was my job to execute the king's wishes. Though I still wanted to be a knight for his kingdom, the new king sent me off to lead my own people anyway. The land was a small kingdom that I had nearly forgotten in all of my years of travel. [[Return to the city.|Return]]

I had lived a long and victorious life as a knight. Though I would miss serving on the king's court, I was looking forward to my future as a king. We spoke for a while of the land that the king left me. It was a small kingdom that I had nearly forgotten in all of my years of travel. [[Return to the city.|Return]]

He raised his hand to stop me before I could refuse. He reasoned that this was his father's will, and it was my job to execute the king's wishes. Though I still wanted to be a knight for his kingdom, the new king sent me off to lead my own people anyway. The land was a small kingdom that I had hoped to forget in all of my years of travel. [[Return to the city.|Return 2]]

I had lived a long and tough life as a knight with much bloodshed. Though I would miss serving on the king's court, I was looking forward to retire as a king. We spoke for a while of the land that the king left me. It was a small kingdom that I had hoped to forget in all of my years of travel. [[Return to the city.|Return 2]]

(if: $city is true)[ I returned to the city that I invaded all those years ago. It was rebuilt with what was left after the fire. Most of the buildings were ghosts of the town it was before, but some new shops and people made it feel like home to me. ](else:)[ I returned to the city that I invaded all those years ago. It was rebuilt after the fire destroyed everything. The buildings looked new and fresh, and the people appeared happy to be in such a lively city. It felt like it could be home. ] This was my kingdom. I earned the right to be here, but there were nights when I questioned why my king might have led me to this place. [["Why would he do this?"|King question]] [["Why //this// city?"|King here]]

(if: $city is true)[ I returned to the city that I invaded all those years ago. It was rebuilt with what was left after the fire. Most of the buildings were ghosts of the town it was before, but some new shops and people made it feel like home to me. ](else:)[ I returned to the city that I invaded all those years ago. It was rebuilt after the fire destroyed everything. The buildings looked new and fresh, and the people appeared happy to be in such a lively city. It felt like it could be home. ] I earned this kingdom, but there was still a part of me that felt dirty for being here. There were many nights when I questioned why my king led me to this place. [["Why would he do this?"|King question 2]] [["Why //this// city?"|King here 2]]

The people who survived the invasion were devastated when they heard I killed the old king. Anyone who was left probably hated me, so why would my king leave me //this// land to rule? (if: $fight is true)[ I stood in the main hall where I fought the old king and looked out at the city as he once did. The stars twinkled in the sky as the streets calmed for the night. I was glad to know that my city was at ease, though my mind was not. ](else:)[ I stood in the main hall where I killed old king without a fight and looked out at the city as he once did. The stars twinkled in the sky as the streets calmed for the night. I was glad to know that my city was at ease, though my mind was not. ] There was a sound behind me. [[Ignore it.|Ignore noise]] [[Turn around.|Turn around]]

The people who survived the invasion were devastated when they heard I killed the old king. Anyone who was left probably hated me, so why would my king leave me //here// of all the places that I took in his name? (if: $fight is true)[ I stood in the main hall where I fought the old king and looked out at the city as he once did. The stars twinkled in the sky as the streets calmed for the night. I was glad to know that my city was at ease, though my mind was not. ](else:)[ I stood in the main hall where I killed old king without a fight and looked out at the city as he once did. The stars twinkled in the sky as the streets calmed for the night. I was glad to know that my city was at ease, though my mind was not. ] There was a sound behind me. [[Ignore it.|Ignore noise]] [[Turn around.|Turn around]]

I didn't tell anyone I killed the old king, so no one could have possibly known. Still, I believed that my king was playing a cruel joke on me. Why would he leave me //this// land to rule? (if: $fight is true)[ I stood in the main hall where I fought the old king and looked out at the city as he once did. The stars twinkled in the sky as the streets calmed for the night. At least my city was at ease, though my mind was not. ](else:)[ I stood in the main hall where I killed old king without a fight and looked out at the city as he once did. The stars twinkled in the sky as the streets calmed for the night. At least my city was at ease, though my mind was not. ] There was a sound behind me. [[Ignore it.|Ignore noise]] [[Turn around.|Turn around]]

I didn't tell anyone I killed the old king, so no one could have possibly known. Still, I believed that my king was playing a cruel joke on me. Why would he leave me //here// of all the places that I took in his name? (if: $fight is true)[ I stood in the main hall where I fought the old king and looked out at the city as he once did. The stars twinkled in the sky as the streets calmed for the night. At least my city was at ease, though my mind was not. ](else:)[ I stood in the main hall where I killed old king without a fight and looked out at the city as he once did. The stars twinkled in the sky as the streets calmed for the night. At least my city was at ease, though my mind was not. ] There was a sound behind me. [[Ignore it.|Ignore noise]] [[Turn around.|Turn around]]

I kept the noise in the back of my head, but I continued contemplating the decisions that brought me here. After a while, the cold steel of a knife found its way to my throat. An assassin had crept up behind me, but he did not kill me immediately. "Don't move," he said. He had me where he wanted me, but I had to defend myself. [[Elbow him.|Elbow Assassin]] { (set: $noise to true)}

When I checked to see what made the noise, I caught an assassin sneaking up on me. He was frozen in place with his knife already in his hand. He didn't look surprised that I caught him before he could attack me. His hand held steady. He was a young assassin that wore a mask over everything but his eyes. His intent was set on my life. I had to defend myself. [[Draw sword.|Draw sword]] (set: $noise to false)

I elbowed him in the stomach, and he buckled over. His knife left a small slice on my neck, but it wasn't fatal. When I turned, I saw a young man wearing a mask over everything but his eyes. As he caught his breath, I drew my sword. There was still a fight left in me. [[Swing sword.|Swing assassin]] [[Kick him.|Kick assassin]]

I brought my sword down, but he ducked out of the way. My blade hit the ground with a spark. He lunged at me with his knife. [[Block his attack.]] [[Dodge out of the way.]]

He ran at me, but I kicked his knee and he fell. It cracked on the ground where the old king died. [[Question him.]] [[Kill him.]]

I drew my sword to fight and swung at him. He ducked out of the way of my swing and stabbed me in the side. [[Grab him.]] [[Stab him.]]

I hit his hand out of the way and kicked his knee as he ran at me. He fell and his kneecap cracked on the ground where the old king died. [[Question him.]] [[Kill him.]]

I stepped out of the way and kicked his knee as he ran past at me. He fell and his kneecap cracked on the ground where the old king died. [[Question him.]] [[Kill him.]]

"Who are you?" I asked. "The true heir of this kingdom," he replied. He looked up at me and removed his mask. "Your king betrayed the true king by sending you and your army. This was a peaceful nation before you arrived. Now, my generation of these people will never know what once was." [[Question further.]] [[Kill him.]]

He held up his hands to stop me and gave me a letter that looked to be a few decades old. The sides of the paper were worn, but the ink still looked fresh. It was a letter from my king to the old king. In it were gifts and offerings for amicable trade between kingdoms and high praise of the old king's land. "They exchanged many letters like this," he said. "Some of them even included you." [[Ask about letters.|Letters/Me?]] [[Ask about myself.|Letters/Me?]]

"You're young. You couldn't have known what this place was before," I said. "No," he said, "I wasn't yet born when you invaded. My father was a young prince when you killed his father." [[Ask about betrayal.|Betrayal]] [[Ask about father.|Assassin father]] [[Kill him.]]

"You mentioned my king betrayed yours. Why do you believe that?" He gave me a letter that looked to be a few decades old. The sides of the paper were worn, but the ink still looked fresh. It was a letter from my king to the assassin's grandfather. In it were gifts and offerings for amicable trade between kingdoms and high praise of the old king. "They exchanged many letters like this," he said. "Some of them even included you." [[Ask about letters.|Letters/Me?]] [[Ask about myself.|Letters/Me?]]

"Your father was the prince?" He nodded then gave me a letter that looked to be a few decades old. The sides of the paper were worn, but the ink still looked fresh. It was a letter from my king to the assassin's grandfather. In it were gifts and offerings for amicable trade between kingdoms and high praise of the old king. "They exchanged many letters like this," he said. "Some of them even included you." [[Ask about letters.|Letters/Me?]] [[Ask about myself.|Letters/Me?]]

He explained that the letters became aggressive when the old king refused to work with my king. After a while, my king threatened him with a knight that would take his life. When the letters stopped coming, the old king knew an invasion was imminent. (if: $Kinglife is true)[ I looked to the young man before me and knew that I was the reason he chose this path. ](else:)[ I looked to the man before me and knew that he was the last of his line. ] (if: $fight is true)[ His intent was to kill me, but he was already defeated. Sparing his life might have been a mistake but killing him would have made me like my king. [[Spare him.|Spare assassin]] [[Kill him.|Kill assassin]] ](else:)[ His intent was to kill me, but he was already defeated. Sparing him might have been a mistake but killing him was too easy. [[Spare him.|Spare assassin 2]] [[Kill him.|Kill assassin 2]] ]

There were many decisions in my life that impacted my future. (if: $Adlife is false)[ I knew it would be a long journey, especially when I had to find someone else to save that shopkeeper from a petty thief. Now, before me was a would-be prince that was robbed of his right to the throne. ](else:)[ It was a long journey, but it started off strong when I confronted that petty thief trying to steal from the poor shopkeeper. Now, before me was a would-be prince that was robbed of his right to the throne. ] (if: $city is false)[ I let his city burn and killed his king. It was me who took his birthright away from him. I trusted the orders of my leader, but it was now becoming clear that there was more to the picture. ](else:)[ I killed his king and took away his birthright. I trusted the orders of my leader but taking the city was never his goal.] (if: $Kinglife is false)[ Looking at the assassin now, I knew that I couldn't kill him. My regret and my sorrows ruined his life. I let him go free and asked him never to return. [[My future as a king rested with him.|Paranoid Reign]] ](else:)[ Looking at the assassin now, I knew that I couldn't kill him. I accepted my regrets and sorrows, but he had many more to learn from. I let him go free but asked him to return to my court one day. [[My future as a king rested with him.|Pleasant Reign]] ]

There were many decisions in my life that impacted my future. (if: $Adlife is false)[ I knew it would be a long journey, and no one had confidence I would be successful. Now, before me was a would-be prince that was robbed of his right to the throne. ](else:)[ It was a long journey, but I knew everyone believed that I could be successful. Now, before me was a would-be prince that was robbed of his right to the throne. ] (if: $city is false)[ I let his city burn and killed his king. It was me who took his birthright away from him. I trusted the orders of my leader, but it was now becoming clear that there was more to the picture. ](else:)[ I killed his king and took away his birthright. I trusted the orders of my leader but taking the city was never his goal.] (if: $Kinglife is false)[ Looking at the assassin now, I knew that I had to kill him. My regrets and my sorrows ruined his life, but I couldn't let him take what was mine. I struck him down in the same spot that I took his grandfather and hid him away. [[My future as a king rested with me.|Greedy Reign]] ](else:)[ Looking at the assassin now, I knew that I had to kill him. I accepted my regrets and sorrows, and I knew I had to get rid of the one before me. I struck him down in the same spot that I took his grandfather and hid him away. [[My future as a king rested with me.|Tyrannical Reign]] ]

His knife was stuck deep into my side, so I grabbed his wrist before he could pull out his weapon. I pulled him up to meet my eyes. [[Question him.|Question him 2]] [[Kill him.|Kill him 2]]

His knife was stuck deep into my side, so I stabbed him in his leg with my sword before he could pull out his weapon. He knelt down, and I took a step away from him. [[Question him.|Question him 2]] [[Kill him.|Kill him 2]]

"Who are you?" I asked. "The true heir of this kingdom," he replied. He looked at me and removed his mask. "Your king betrayed the true king by sending you and your army. This was a peaceful nation before you arrived. Now, my generation of these people will never know what once was." [[Question further.|Question further 2]] [[Kill him.|Kill him 2]]

"You're young. You couldn't have known what this place was before," I said. "No," he said, "I wasn't yet born when you invaded. My father was a young prince when you killed his father." [[Ask about betrayal.|Betrayal 2]] [[Ask about father.|Assassin father 2]] [[Kill him.|Kill him 2]]

"You mentioned my king betrayed yours. Why do you believe that?" He gave me a letter that looked to be a few decades old. The sides of the paper were worn, but the ink still looked fresh. It was a letter from my king to the assassin's grandfather. In it were gifts and offerings for amicable trade between kingdoms and high praise of the old king's land. "They exchanged many letters like this," he said. "Some of them even included you." [[Ask about letters.|Letters/Me? 2]] [[Ask about myself.|Letters/Me? 2]]

"Your father was the prince?" He nodded then gave me a letter that looked to be a few decades old. The sides of the paper were worn, but the ink still looked fresh. It was a letter from my king to the assassin's grandfather. In it were gifts and offerings for amicable trade between kingdoms and high praise of the old king's land. "They exchanged many letters like this," he said. "Some of them even included you." [[Ask about letters.|Letters/Me? 2]] [[Ask about myself.|Letters/Me? 2]]

There were many decisions in my life that impacted my future. (if: $Adlife is false)[ I knew it would be a long journey, especially when I had to find someone else to save that shopkeeper from a petty thief. Now, before me was a would-be prince that was robbed of his right to the throne. ](else:)[ It was a long journey, but it started off strong when I confronted that petty thief trying to steal from the poor shopkeeper. Now, before me was a would-be prince that was robbed of his right to the throne. ] (if: $city is false)[ I let his city burn and decapitated his king. It was //me// who took his birthright away from him. I trusted the orders of my leader, but it was now becoming clear that there was more to the picture. ](else:)[ I decapitated his king and took away his birthright. I trusted the orders of my leader but taking the city was never his goal.] (if: $Kinglife is false)[ Looking at the assassin now, I knew that I couldn't kill him. My regret and my sorrows ruined his life. I let him go free, but I knew he might return. [[My future as a king rested with him.|Invaded Reign]] ](else:)[ Looking at the assassin now, I knew that I couldn't kill him. I accepted my regrets and sorrows, but he had many more to learn from. I let him go free but asked him to return to my court in one week. [[My future as a king rested with him.|Resigned Reign]] ]

There were many decisions in my life that impacted my future. (if: $Adlife is false)[ I knew it would be a long journey, and no one had confidence I would be successful. Now, before me was a would-be prince that was robbed of his right to the throne. ](else:)[ It was a long journey, but I knew everyone believed that I could be successful. Now, before me was a would-be prince that was robbed of his right to the throne. ] (if: $city is false)[ I let his city burn and decapitated his king. It was //me// who took his birthright away from him. I trusted the orders of my leader, but it was now becoming clear that there was more to the picture. ](else:)[ I decapitated his king and took away his birthright. I trusted the orders of my leader but taking the city was never his goal.] (if: $Kinglife is false)[ Looking at the assassin now, I knew that I had to kill him. My regrets and my sorrows ruined his life, but I couldn't let him go free. I struck him down in the same spot that I took his grandfather and hid him away. [[My future as a king rested with me.|Prison Reign]] ](else:)[ Looking at the assassin now, I knew that I had to kill him. I accepted my regrets and sorrows, but I couldn't let them come sneaking up on me. I struck him down in the same spot that I took his grandfather and hid him away. [[My future as a king rested with me.|Conservative Reign]] ]

I feared that, one day, the would-be prince would return, so I kept a constant eye over my shoulder after that night. Many of my people thought I was quirky for my paranoia, but I thought I could be betrayed any second. My family stayed small, and I taught them everything I knew about defense. When I passed away, my oldest son took over my position and made allies that I refused to work with. I asked for my body to be burned to ash after my death, but my children decided to bury me next to my wife. There were many decisions on my path that impacted my life. [[Start over?|NOBLE]] [[Chapter select.]] [[Credits.]]

It was a few years before the assassin returned. When he stepped foot in my court, I welcomed him with open arms. We talked a great deal about the kingdom, the current trade deals, and the allies we forged. I took him as an advisor, and, together, we brought our people into good health, wealth, and fortune. He thanked me for not killing him when I had the chance. Before I passed away, I asked him to continue to be an advisor for my son, and he agreed. There were many decisions on my path that impacted my life. [[Start over?|NOBLE]] [[Chapter select.]] [[Credits.]]

(align: "=><=")[ (text-style: "outline")[ <h3>//Noble//</h3> ] [[Start?|10 Years Old.]] [[Credits.]] {(if: $Noble is true)[ [[Chapter select.]] ]} ]

Story by Marissa Powell. JulkaWild. (2015, September 25). Background Texture Structure Surface Gold Course [digital image]. Pixabay. Retrieved from https://pixabay.com/illustrations/background-texture-structure-955454/. geralt. (2012, December 08). Paper Stationery Parchment Old Kink Bent Fold [digital image]. Pixabay. Retrieved from https://pixabay.com/illustrations/paper-stationery-parchment-old-68829/. [[Home.|NOBLE]]

My fears were realized the day that the assassin returned with an army. He planned to take my life as I had taken his grandfather's. As he invaded, I knew that the cycle would never end, but I prayed that my children would choose a life better than mine. I fought just as I did as a knight, but many of my men were killed. When the would-be prince found me, I was fighting off his troops and leading my people to safety. My body was left in the courtyard as an example of treason against the true king. There were many decisions on my path that impacted my life. [[Start over?|NOBLE]] [[Chapter select.]] [[Credits.]]

When the assassin returned, I asked that all of my knights join us in the courtyard. He thought I was going to betray him, but I assured him that there was going to be no ambush that day. I gave him my crown and asked my knights to protect the new king with their lives. I took my family and moved to a farm town far away. They didn't understand at first, but we learned to live a happy and humble life in my last days. My body now rests in peace buried next to my wife. There were many decisions on my path that impacted my life. [[Start over?|NOBLE]] [[Chapter select.]] [[Credits.]]

A few years after I killed the would-be prince, a man stormed into my court. He accused me of murder and asked the citizens of my kingdom to pass judgement on me. He spoke truth of the night that I killed the assassin and brought in a witness to testify against me. Though I fought against these accusations, my people thought lesser of me for being dishonest with them. I was thrown into a prison and forgotten about. My family was shamed, and I heard that they left the city for a new home after my trial. I didn't blame them My bones still sit in the corner of a stone cell for the rats to chew on. There were many decisions on my path that impacted my life. [[Start over?|NOBLE]] [[Chapter select.]] [[Credits.]]

I kept to myself after that night. Many questioned why I decided to lock up the castle walls and close myself to the public, but no one ever thought twice of my reign. There were few that I trusted, so I stayed distant as a king. My family grew, and my children were raised to be intelligent tacticians. When I passed away, my oldest son took over my position and opened the castle doors to the public once more. I was buried with honor under a statue of myself from my prime as a knight. There were many decisions on my path that impacted my life. [[Start over?|NOBLE]] [[Chapter select.]] [[Credits.]]

I was satisfied in knowing that I got rid of the only person who could try to lay claim to my throne. I raised the taxes in my kingdom and lived a wealthy life, though very few of my people approved of my reign. Many of my people lived in poverty, but the rich were happy under my rule. I threw extravagent parties and opened my doors to those who could afford entry while the poor starved in the streets. My children buried me in my most expensive attire under a statue of myself as a king. There were many decisions on my path that impacted my life. [[Start over?|NOBLE]] [[Chapter select.]] [[Credits.]]

After that night, I was never the same. I suspected many people of betraying my trust and ruled over my kingdom with an iron fist. Laws were set into place to protect myself, and my subjects began to resent me for tight security. Over time, my people started to lash out and planned organized attacks against the castle. There were rebellions and wars, and many did not survive. When everyone died or left, I sat on my throne and waited for raiders to attack. No one ever came. There were many decisions on my path that impacted my life. [[Start over?|NOBLE]] [[Chapter select.]] [[Credits.]]

[[Confront the thief or find help for the shopkeeper.|New Goal]] (if: $Adlife is false)[ [[Volunteer or ask a question for the king's quest.|Adult Life Regret]] ](else:)[ [[Volunteer or ask a question for the king's quest.|Adult Life Initiative]] ] (if: $Adlife is false)[ [[Invade the kingdom.|Find the king 2]] ](else:)[ [[Invade the kingdom.|Find the king.]] ] [[Approach the old king.|Approach him.]] (if: $Kinglife is false)[ [[Become a king.|King Life Regret]] ](else:)[ [[Become a king.|King Life Initiative]] ] (if: $noise is false)[ [[Spare or kill the assassin.|Letters/Me?]] ](else:)[ [[Spare or kill the assassin.|Letters/Me? 2]] ] { (Set: $Noble to true)}

I rode in on my horse and swung my sword at their heads. They ducked out of the way, but some of them still attacked us. Ahead of me, a man wielding a large broadsword clanked forward in thick armor. He knocked back a few of my men and aimed his sights at me. He readied himself to swing at my horse's legs as we approached him. [[Pull the reins back.]] [[Rush at the guard.]]

I rode in on my horse and dodged past them. They tried to swing at me, but my men attacked them while they were distracted. Ahead of me, a man wielding a large broadsword clanked forward in thick armor. He knocked back a few of my men and aimed his sights at me. He readied himself to swing at my horse's legs as we approached him. [[Pull the reins back.]] [[Rush at the guard.]]

I used all of the force I had to pull my horse to a stop, but he had too much momentum. His legs buckled underneath him, and I was thrown from his back. All of the wind was knocked out of me when I hit the ground at the guard's feet. He lifted his sword to bring down on my neck. [[Roll out of the way.]] [[Use arms as a shield.]]

I whipped the reins, and my horse gained speed. The knight did not move as I closed in on him. Instead, he held out his sword to the side and swept it across my horse's legs. His legs buckled, and I was thrown from his back. All of the wind was knocked out of me when I hit the ground. The guard walked towards me with his sword lifted to bring down on me. [[Roll out of the way.]] [[Scramble up.]]

He brought his sword down, but I managed to roll away. It stuck into the ground, and he had to struggle to pull it back up. He stumbled back when he finally got it loose. I hurried to my feet as he tried to steady himself. [[Tackle him.|Tackle guard]] [[Call for help.]]

I held my arms up as he brought his sword down on me. It clanged against my guantlets and left a couple of matching dents. He stumbled back from the shock. I hurried to my feet as he tried to steady himself. [[Tackle him.|Tackle guard]] [[Call for help.]]

Despite his clunky armor and massive size, he moved without hesitation. I tried to get to my feet, but his sword cut through the armor around my throat. This was not how my story was supposed to end. (if: $city is false)[ [[(Try again?)|Castle Ruin]] ](else:)[ [[(Try again?)|Castle]] ]

I caught him off guard when I tackled him and took him to the ground. He was stunned but still tried to get me off of him. Some of my men nearbly saw me grappling with the large guard and hurried to aid me. They pulled me off of him as others attacked him with their swords. As my comrades took down the last line of defense, I turned to the king who still stood in the entrance of his castle. Our eyes met among the chaos that surrounded us. [[Approach him.]]

A few of my men nearby heard my call and hastened to surround the guard. He couldn't handle all of them at once as they battered him with their swords and shields. I turned to the king who still stood in the entrance of his castle. Our eyes met among the chaos that surrounded us as my comrades took down his last line of defense. [[Approach him.]]

"Don't come any closer," said one of the men guarding the clinics. He held a spear at us as other men gathered behind him. None of the men had armor, but there were many of them. "This is a place for our wounded. We don't want to hurt you." [[Negotiate.]] (if: $low is true)[ [[Turn around.|Residential low]] ](else:)[ [[Turn around.|Merchants]] ] { (set: $clinic to true)}

"We are not here to hurt your men," I said. He and the others looked around. They bursted into laughter and pointed at us. "Look around you, fool," the man said. "We have clinics set up for a reason." [[Ask about King's location.]] (if: $low is true)[ [[Turn around.|Residential low]] ](else:)[ [[Turn around.|Merchants]] ] { (set: $clinic to true)}

"I see what it is now," he said, adjusting his grip on his spear. "Well, you can't have the king!" He charged forward and the others followed. [[Rear horse.]] [[Attack them.|Attack clinic]]

I pulled the reins back, and my horse lifted his front legs. The men charging at us drew back and tried to avoid his kicks. The ones that made it kept poking us with spears. [[Break their spears.]] [[Pull back.]]

We stormed them as they came at us. The men who were already injured drew back into the clinics when the others started to fall. They were scared of us and probably too hurt to fight back. [[Enter the clinics.|Clinics]]

I drew my sword and broke their spearheads, but they still tried to poke me with the splintered ends. With their only weapons reduced to stubs, my men drew in close and got their attention. We pushed them back into the clinics and cleared the path. [[Enter the clinics.|Clinics]]

I pulled my horse back and ordered my comrades to storm them. The men guarding the clinics put up a fight but were ultimately overwhelmed. They retreated back into the clinics, and the path was clear. [[Enter the clinics.|Clinics]]

I rode up next to him alone and watched the flames as he did. "Why is this happening?" he asked. [[Tell the truth.]] [[Spare his feelings.]]

"We never intended for your city to burn," I said. "The innocent were supposed to be spared." He looked at me as tears streamed from his eyes and mixed with some dirt on his face. It was clear that he loved this place. He bolted away, and I was reminded of what it was like to be a child with heart. [[Return.|Schools]] { (set: $boy to true)}

"This is not the end," I said. "One day, everything will be rebuilt." He turned to me with a small glimmer of hope behind his wary. New memories awaited him. He bolted away, and I was reminded of what it was like to be a child with heart. [[Return.|Schools]] { (set: $boy to true)}