Convince Her

"I really didn't think you'd be this arrogant. Honestly, to demand such of me." She presses the knife deeper against your skin. "Give me one good reason why I shouldn't kill you." You knew she'd be pissed but you never considered she'd go off the deep end and actually try to kill you. But at least she hasn't raised her voice and you have kept yourself calm and your trousers clean.

"I'm the closest you'll get to a best deal." This made Eliza laugh, "You think you're better than all the other noblemen who's come to see me?" She challenged. Mathilde simply stands there with her hands and legs shaking slightly in the tense atmosphere Eliza and you have created.

"Yes and no." You say honestly. "But you're going to take my deal." You say confidently. Eliza presses harder and this time draws blood. "Why?" She demands.

This time you smile a full flash of your teeth, "I've figured you out."

"Have you?"

Time to play your bluff, "If I'm wrong, you can kill me." Mathilde holds Eliza's shoulder and the Duchess calms down. Eliza sighs and releases you. You rub your aching neck accidentally smearing blood on your hand. "Speak," Eliza commands.

"I'll start by saying what we all already know. You're your parent's only child. Dear old father wanted a son but he got you. Treated your mother terribly and you were no better off. You hated him, you must have hated him and even in the end, even now despite inheriting his lands and titles, you still hate him. Which is why you don't take well to other noblemen and their intent to marry you. Deep down you don't want to end up with the same man as your father."

She tightens her grip on the dagger but tears form in her eyes. "How did you know all that?" She holds back a sob.

"You made me wait a whole day. I did good on that day. My men and I went out to enjoy your realm. Beautiful realm but you already know that." You say kindly.

"No, not that! How did you determine how I feel?" And now she snaps. She tries to lunge at you but Mathilde hold her back. Eliza soon breaks down in her dear friend and cousin's arms. She drops the dagger and cries into the younger girl's chest.

You sigh. Looks like you'll live for another day but succeeded in making a lady cry. Nonetheless you take the dagger and drop it at the far corner of the chamber. You then seat on the table and contently and sadly watch Mathilde console Eliza there on the floor.