Territorial

>>SHE IS MINE<< echoed the voice, and a mottled gray something shot past her and into the flesh of the winged creature. It screeched in rage and pulled away swiftly, a chunk of its flesh gouged out by what appeared to be a hooked and barbed tentacle. The creature hissed its fury, but flew away with its brethren.

Andrea was afraid to move. She did not want to see where that tentacle had come from and returned to. Behind her, she heard a calming voice. "Those Etharyx are tricky, my dear. Nekarb should have given you an illusion spell. Turn around." Those last words were less a request than a command, and Andrea found herself facing the man from the carriage[94251], now dressed in brown silk tunic and pants, with embroidered runes along the seams. His eyes (what was she trying to remember about his eyes?) were a brilliant green. She felt herself calmed, and knew she was safe.

"Sorry, Lord Arteth," Andrea found herself saying. He waved a hand dismissively and smiled, and she noticed he was no longer wearing his ring [94251].

"No problem, Andrea from Allaria. Now, join me at breakfast." He took her hand, and for a split second she felt a horrifying wrong sensation, but then it subsided. He then led her down the path to a majestic and luxurious banquet table, at which they both had ornate seats, almost thrones. "Have a seat, and help yourself."

The spread of food was magnificent, but mostly unrecognizable. There were bright red fruits, bursting with sacs of meaty pulp that smelled so good that she wanted to cram them into her mouth; mouthwatering loaves of freshly baked bread and sweet cream butter; huge bowls of hot steamy vegetables, spiced with something that stung the nostrils in a most delightful way; and at the center of it all a giant roasted beast, six legged, with one eye, before which was a giant knife. The smell of it was enough to drive Andrea mad.

Andrea knew something was wrong. The food she had in her room had been wrong both in texture and flavor [94298], but this stuff was working her into a frenzy just by its scent... "Do us the honor," said her host, indicating the giant carving knife. "Split it open, so we may feast upon the prize within..." he grinned a most disturbing smile, which Andrea found strangely comforting. She felt the urge to do as he suggested, and why not? Everything smelled so delicious...

1. Andrea takes the carving knife, and cuts open the belly of the roasted creature. What is inside is so horrifying, it threatens to snap her mind like a twig.
2. Andrea shakes her head, clearing it somewhat. What the hell was going on here?
3. Andrea takes the carving knife, and throws it at her host. She then makes a run for it back down the path.
4. Andrea declines, choosing instead to dig into the fruit, vegetables, and bread.
5. But then...

Add New Option

Go Back

View Forward Story Tree
View Back Story Tree