Gareth took one hand off of his sword, stroking his chin in contemplation. He was glad to see that the prince did not want to engage in any pointless fights. He had no idea how competant the noble was at fighting, but unarmed and unarmored, such a thing would be a death sentence even if he was a grandmaster.

The man's fortitude and decision-making was commendable as well, Gareth had to give him that. [i]It's true that I would probably get a fat purse for his ransom...[/i] Weighing that against what he was promised, he came to a firm conclusion. That wasn't good enough. He came for the girl, he would leave with the girl. But he couldn't just come out and say that, either. The chips were still on the table and he still held the advantage. If things were to go as cleanly as possible, he should be able to press his advantage a little further.

"I appreciate your offer, young Prince, but you should know that my initial target was the lady here. I could settle for you but..." He trailed off, leaving the end of his sentence hanging in the air.

"It's a rough world out there. I can't guarantee your safety if you come with me. And if we get mobbed by wolves, and I can't protect you, what will Afaede do without their future king? Perhaps you should consider the grand scheme a little more carefully.

"If, however, I leave with Princess Namyna, as was initially planned, my own head rests on her safety. She won't come to any serious harm, 'least before I do. I'm no politician, but if you ask me, it would be best for your kingdom if my plan goes off without a hitch, and you let me tie you up to that pillar there for the night."

As he finished speaking to Brelan, Gareth turned his head to face the Princess for what was, hopefully, the last nail in his plans. "Maybe you see reason, Princess? I don't have reason to hurt your brother if you come with me."