Those Long Dead - Public Ch.1

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<<nobr>><div class="chaptertitle"> <div class="chapterbox">CHAPTER</div> <div class="titlebox">00. Where</div> <div class="titlebox2">You Sleep.</div> </div><</nobr>> There is no light. There //can't// be any, here. Only darkness exists in this place, surrounding you, consuming you, writhing with nothing but pure rage and hatred. Or, perhaps darkness is the wrong word; it implies an abscense, a lack of something, and that is not accurate for what circles you now. There is a powerful force in this place; something that feels inherently //wrong//, like a painting purposely left crooked on a wall. The darkness is simply a tool for the force beyond it, and its touch tears at your very essence, the core of what you are, a close embrace turned sinister as it tries to grab and rip you away from your physical form. The ghostly sensation of something almost brushing against multiple parts of your skin pricks at your clouded mind, and when you numbly try to recoil away, your body doesn't move the way you will it to. Why are your limbs so heavy? Where //are// you? Somehow you know, and yet you cannot get your thoughts together to assign a word to it. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[The darkness is whispering to you.|Whispering]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

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<<link '<div class="menu-item"><b>✦</b> main menu</div>'>><<script>>UI.restart()<</script>><</link>> <<link '<div class="menu-item"><b>✦✦</b> status</div>' 'stats'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="menu-item"><b>✦✦✦</b> saves</div>'>><<script>>UI.saves()<</script>><</link>> <<link '<div class="menu-item"><b>✦✦✦✦</b> settings</div>'>><<script>>UI.settings()<</script>><</link>>

Those Long Dead <b>—</b> $gamechapter

<<nobr>><div class="directorytitle"><div class="directorybox">DIRECTORY</div><div class="statusbox">Status.</div></div><</nobr>> <<nobr>><div class="statuscontainer"> <div class="rectanglebox"> <div class="statusname"><p>$firstname $lastname <br><span style="font-size: 50%">✦✦✦</span></p></div> </div> </div> <div class="appearancebox"><<if $cccomplete is true>>You are a <<if $height isnot "average">>$height<</if>> ?woman <<if $height is "average">>of $height height<</if>> with $skintone skin, $eyecolor eyes, and <<if $hairlength isnot "shaved">>$hairlength, $hairtexture<<elseif $hairlength is "shaved">>$hairlength<</if>> $haircolor hair.<</if>><<if $checkhighstat is true>><<if $highstat is "considerate">> Generally speaking, you're a rather considerate person,<<elseif $highstat is "callous">> Generally speaking, you're a somewhat callous person,<<elseif $highstat is "amused">> Generally speaking, you're a rather humorous kind of person,<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">> Generally speaking, you're a rather stoic person,<<else>> Generally speaking, you're a person who is a bit hard to predict when it comes to personality,<</if>><<if $emotionstat is "emotional">> who tends to let their emotions guide them.<<elseif $emotionstat is "pragmatic">> who tends to let logical reasoning guide them.<<else>> who tends to maintain a healthy balance between emotional and logical reasoning.<</if>><</if>></div><</nobr>> <div class="stat-bar-group"> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Soul Magic $magicpowers%</div> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-right"></div> <div class="stat-bar" id="magic-stat"></div> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Weapon Training $weaponart%</div> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-right"></div> <div class="stat-bar" id="weapon-stat"></div> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Considerate $considerate%</div> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-right">Callous $callous%</div> <div class="stat-bar" id="statone-stat"></div> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Amused $amused%</div> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-right">Stoic $stoic%</div> <div class="stat-bar" id="stattwo-stat"></div> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Emotional $emotional%</div> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-right">Pragmatic $pragmatic%</div> <div class="stat-bar" id="statthree-stat"></div> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-left">Nervous $nervous%</div> <div class="stat-bar-overlay-right">Forthcoming $forthcoming%</div> <div class="stat-bar" id="statfour-stat"></div> </div></div>

<<set $gamechapter = "00.">> <<cacheaudio "musicbox" "media/zapsplat_twinklelittlestar.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "pageturn" "media/pageturn.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "paperslide" "media/paperslide.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "paperslidedown" "media/paperslidedown.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "newpage" "media/newpage.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "oldpage" "media/oldpage.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "pageslideon" "media/pageslideon.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "pageslideoff" "media/pageslideoff.mp3">> <<set $considerate to 50>> <<set $callous to 50>> <<set $amused to 50>> <<set $stoic to 50>> <<set $emotional to 50>> <<set $pragmatic to 50>> <<set $nervous to 50>> <<set $forthcoming to 50>> <<set $magicpowers to 0>> <<set $powerless to 100>> <<set $weaponart to 0>> <<set $untrained to 100>> <<set $highstat to "">> <<set $emotionstat to "">> <<set $checkhighstat to false>> <<set $firstname to "">> <<set $lastname to "">> <<set $eyecolor to "">> <<set $hairlength to "">> <<set $hairtexture to "">> <<set $haircolor to "">> <<set $skintone to "">> <<set $height to "">> <<set $metmc to false>> <<set $cccomplete to false>> <<set $magicdomain to "">> <<set $metkaine to false>> <<set $kainebff to false>> <<set $kainefriend to false>> <<set $kainestrained to false>> <<set $kainecrush to false>> <<set $kaineRflag to 0>> <<set $kaineTflag to 0>> <<set $kstrainedvent to false>> <<set $kstrainedconfided to false>> <<set $metmillie to false>> <<set $millieRflag to 0>> <<set $millieTflag to 0>> <<set $metleon to false>> <<set $leonRflag to 0>> <<set $leonTflag to 0>> <<set $metmilo to false>> <<set $miloRflag to 0>> <<set $miloTflag to 0>> <<set $metcleme to false>> <<set $clemeRflag to 0>> <<set $clemeTflag to 0>> <<set $annoyedstranger to false>> <<set $hostilestranger to false>> <<set $glossangel to false>> <<set $glosscelestial to false>> <<set $glosscalendar to false>> <<set $glossfirstlight to false>> <<set $glosshalo to false>> <<set $glossphantasm to false>> <<set $glossphantasmfull to false>> <<set $glosssoulmage to false>> <<set $glossvoid to false>>

At least, you //think// it is. The sounds are incomprehensible, like a language you could never hope to understand, and your mind swims when you try to focus on it, your thoughts slipping like water through your fingers. You cannot define where you are, cannot remember how you got here, and when you try to recall anything that could exist beyond this fathomless space, an utter void of memory greets you. Your terrifying sense of dread doubles in intensity, because that cannot be right, you must be able to remember //something//, anything. How could you remember absolutely //nothing//? You're beginning to panic, breaths coming in quick gasps and exhales as you attempt to thrash, but still your body ignores your commands. You need to try to calm down, think. Think //hard//. Your brow furrows in concentration, a sluggish movement that matches how your mind feels currently. Just one thing, you only need to remember one simple thing. Your name, that will do, so just //think//. What is your name? //What is your ''name?''// <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Input</div></div><div class="choicesinput"> <<textbox "$firstname" "" "Remembering">> </div><</nobr>>

''$firstname''... That's right, your name is //$firstname//! You remembered! Pure, aching relief spikes through you, and it's as if the dam breaks; countless memories flash through your mind, moments of your life trickling back into their places like sand running into the other half of an hourglass. Your name, your life, your //soul//, it is all yours once more, and you realize that that is what the darkness was trying to take from you. It needed it in order to control you, turn you into one of its puppets, but you are stronger than it expected, especially now that you've swiped your memories back from its clutches. "You are strong, child." A voice suddenly speaks gently into your ear, making you jump, and you realize the hold on your body is gone now. This voice is different from the ones whispering all around you, biding their time; this one is clear, coherent, and from something other than the darkness, or the twisted power lurking just out of sight. However, you don't have time to think on the source much longer, before it is speaking to you again. "There is great potential in you. It seems my lucky star has finally turned its gaze back upon me, in the end." It says, and you try to move your mouth to ask who, or what, it is, but your tongue will not form the words you command it to. "Be still, I will not harm you." It says softly, reassuring, and you can sense nothing beyond simple truth in its words, but then its voice turns sorrowful. "Yet, I fear I must ask you for a great favor… and for you to bear a grave burden." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[A burden? What burden?|Agony]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $glossangel to true>><<notify 5s>><div>You unlocked a new glossary entry: ''Angels''</div><</notify>>You inhale sharply as something inside of you suddenly begins to burn with light, the very same thing the dark force had tried to steal from you. It burns, like a furnace blazing at your center, and the pain only intensifies with time, growing and growing. It spreads like fire, down your arms and legs and into every part of you until you can do nothing but silently scream into the surrounding void. And yet, through the sheer agony of it, you can still hear the voice, clear as day. "I'm so sorry, child, but this is all that I can do to aid you. You must withstand the process." The voice tries to explain, clear sympathy in its tone, but you do not understand what it means, and your screams only grow. The blooming pain within you builds like a song rising to a crescendo, and just when you begin to think the sensation might just blot everything else out… it completely stops. You gasp for air, breaths ragged as relief floods through you… and something else, something different from before. A brilliant light bursts forth from your form then, like a blaze across your skin, and suddenly a magnificent pair of magic wings, //your// wings, fade into existence and unfurl on your back, their soft glow radiating through the space and causing the inky blackness around you to recoil to defend itself. Your halo follows, wisps of power forming a circle above your head, and soon it is burning with pure light, a beacon that shows what you are now, what you are newly capable of. "Take this power, newborn Child of the Stars." The voice gently urges you, its tone a mix of desperation and deep, deep sadness. "You are my final act in this world, my final wish." It says, and the void around begins to let out a strange sound, as if it is beginning to shriek, readying to strike at you. "You must go now, but please… please, stop him…" The voice implores you, its words becoming drawn out and harder to hear. Meanwhile, the darkness gathers, launching out at you and racing closer. You prepare to flinch away, but you are quickly being pulled somewhere, a beacon calling you back from this space. You can feel the twisted force in the darkness trying to reach out and grab you back, but it is not fast enough, and as you fade away, the last thing you hear the voice say is, "... my beloved…" <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You wake up.|Chapter One][$gamechapter to "01.", $magicpowers += 5]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $metmc to true>><<notify 5s>><div>You unlocked a new character: ''$firstname''</div><</notify>><<nobr>><div class="chaptertitle"> <div class="chapterbox">CHAPTER</div> <div class="titlebox">01. All</div> <div class="titlebox2">You've Known.</div> </div><</nobr>> You stir slowly, awareness gradually filtering into your mind as if you're rising to the surface of a lake, and you begin to regain your senses one at a time. You can feel soft blankets cocooned around your form, dappled sunlight warming your cheek from the open window nearby, and you hear the distant, muffled sounds of the tavern's customers filtering in from below. You don't have to open your eyes to place your surroundings; This is your room, //your// bed, and it feels like the safest place in the world, a feeling you sorely need after that dream. It takes a second, amidst the cozy atmosphere, but confusion suddenly lances through you, disturbing your peaceful moment. What do you mean, 'after that dream'? You don't remember any dream... You're quickly distracted from that realization, however, when everything hits you all at once; your head is //throbbing//, your stomach protesting from how hungry you are, and the blankets covering you are //definitely// getting way too hot to stay under for much longer. Letting out a groan at the sudden and utter agony, you bring up your hand to tenderly touch just above your eyebrow, and then after a moment, press your fingers towards your skull to massage the area, in a vain attempt to quell the painful sensation. It doesn't work. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Well, there goes that pleasant morning.|Suspicious]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="directorytitle"><div class="directorybox">DIRECTORY</div><div class="statusbox">Glossary.</div></div><</nobr>> <div class="glossarybox"><<if $glossangel is true>><<message "Angels" "angelsmessage">>People born with the innate ability to perform soul magic, angels are humans who awaken to powerful magic sometime in their late teens to early twenties. Sometimes this phenomena can be predicted by a child's unusual hair or eye color when they are born, but there have been cases where the angels coloring is perfectly ordinary, and only changes after their abilities manifest.<<if $glosscelestial is true>> Angels are also known as 'Children of the Stars', which stems from the theory that an angels' power is a blessing from the Celestials.<</if>><</message>><</if>><<if $glosscalendar is true>> <<message "Celestial Calendar" "calendarmessage">>How the kingdom of Calcherth separates the months of the year. In the Celestial calendar, there are ten months, each alternating between thirty-six or thirty-seven days total.<</message>><</if>><<if $glosscelestial is true>> <<message "Celestials" "celestialsmessage">>A sort of religious sentiment common in Calcherth's culture, it refers to otherworldly spirits that are believed to exist among the stars. A common phrase that partially refers to this term is 'by the stars'.<</message>><</if>><<if $glossfirstlight is true>> <<message "First-Light" "firstlightmessage">>The day on which a person was born, and the subsequent anniversary of it. Celebrations are typically held by those close to the person.<</message>><</if>><<if $glosshalo is true>> <<message "Halos" "halosmessage">>The form of currency in Calcherth, shaped like small rings. There are bronze, silver, and gold halos, each worth a different amount. Ten bronze halos equals one silver halo, and ten silver halos equals one gold halo.<</message>><</if>><<if $glossphantasm is true>> <<message "Phantasm" "phantasmmessage">>Strange, floating magic of some sort. Visually, they appear as a glowing orb that radiates dark, purplish smoke, with more solid tendrils of smoke billowing from the center, outward.<</message>><</if>><<if $glosssoulmage is true>> <<message "Soul Magic" "soulmagicmessage">>The ability to bend elements to a persons will, using the power of the human soul within them. Technically, any human has the potential to be a soul mage, though it typically takes a great deal of training and study. Because of this, there are soul magic academies in many kingdoms, including one in Calcherth's capital city, Gilramore.<</message>><</if>><<if $glossvoid is true>> <<message "Void" "voidmessage">>A reference to the dark space between stars, the term 'void' is used in a variety of curses such as 'void take you', or insults such as 'void-spawn', which implies someone is born from the void, instead of the stars, and therefore is unworthy, unremarkable, or below others.<</message>><</if>></div>

<<nobr>><div class="directorytitle"><div class="directorybox">DIRECTORY</div><div class="statusbox">Map.</div></div><</nobr>> <img src="media/map.png">

You figure you might as well get on with it, considering you're not going back to a comfortable sleep anytime soon. Not to mention that, judging from the amount of daylight streaming in your window, it seems like you've long past overslept this morning, if it even //is// morning still. Wait... daylight in the window? You instantly open your eyes, sitting up to get a better look at the wall next to you. Sure enough, the window shutters are open, and your brow furrows, a sudden unease coming over you as you try to remember if you opened them last night and simply forgot about doing so. You don't //think// you did, but they're definitely open now, slightly swinging on their hinges in the light breeze. Slowly, you start to get up and move over towards the opening, extracting yourself from your tangled sheets and sliding off your bed in order to make your way quietly across the wooden floor. When you reach it, you cautiously peek outside... but the only thing that greets you is the usual view. There's the small, mostly empty yard with the twisting tree towering nearby, more buildings beyond it, and past those you can see the edge of the massive lake, the Blackpool, in the distance. There's nothing out of the ordinary out there, and no one in sight, and you breathe a small sigh of relief, reaching out and pulling the shutters closed, latching them with a click... though you notice the latch is a little looser than normal. Odd. Perhaps that explains it; the shutters came open on their own, or from a strong wind. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Yes, that must have been it.|Pronouns]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

A reasonable explanation found, you shake yourself of your short-lived concern. You're up now, so you should really get ready for the day so you can go get some food and water into your wailing stomach. Turning to the rest of the room, you step across the wooden floor to a set of drawers, rummaging through them to select some fresh clothes for you to wear. Once you've grabbed something and pulled it out of the space, you begin to turn away, but you're quickly distracted by a sudden flash of your reflection in the corner of your eye. Turning your gaze, you see the little hand mirror that always rests on the top your dresser. It belonged to your mother; she passed away when you were just a baby, over twenty some years ago. Still, you pause for a moment, drawn out of your routine by an old hurt. Then, with careful hands, you pick up the small silver object, gazing at your image in the embedded disk. <<link 'You see the same face you always do.'>> <<pronouns>> <</link>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Staring right back at you.|Eyes]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

A tired looking ?woman stares back at you, one you've seen a million times before, apart from the slightly disheveled aspect. You gently place the mirror back down on the surface and reach over to the small bowl of water on the other half of the dresser, dipping your hands in and thoroughly wetting your face with them, before grabbing a nearby rag and patting yourself dry. Putting the now damp rag aside and checking your appearance the hand mirror once again, you can't tell if you really look any better after washing your face. There are dark circles under your eyes, and you don't think a little water is going to help those very much. You stare at the offending marks for a moment, but soon you find your gaze drifting upwards to your eyes, which are supposedly the same shade your mother's were... a <<cycle "$eyecolor" autoselect>> <<option "charming brown, the color of soft earth." "brown">> <<option "warm amber, similar to gold or copper." "amber">> <<option "beautiful hazel, like a sunburst of colors." "hazel">> <<option "brilliant green, almost like emeralds." "green">> <<option "soft blue, clear as the sky." "blue">> <<option "cool gray, like the steel of a sword." "gray">> <<option "striking black, deep as the night." "black">> <</cycle>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Or, so your father tells you. You cannot remember her face.|Complexion]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

You were barely a year or so old when she died from an illness, so it stands to reason that you wouldn't remember her very much, and yet, sometimes you wish... You shake yourself out of that line of thought. Lamenting on your lack of memory won't change it, but at least staring into your reflection always makes it feel a little like your mother is staring back at you. Supposedly, your <<cycle "$skintone" autoselect>> <<option "pale, ivory" "ivory">> <<option "sunkissed, fawn" "fawn">> <<option "warm, tawny" "tawny">> <<option "rich, olive" "olive">> <<option "tan, terra-cotta" "terra-cotta">> <<option "medium, russet" "russet">> <<option "dark, sepia" "sepia">> <<option "deep, umber" "umber">> <</cycle>> complexion is even the same as hers, almost like she's a ghost, haunting your appearance. Just another trait you share with a woman you've never known. Sometimes, you wonder how your father looks at you without being saddened by her memory, but you've never once noticed him do anything of the sort. You suppose you're lucky then, that you ended up with a father who looks back at memories of his long deceased wife with fondness, instead of pain. Though, all that aside, there's another part of your appearance you should really get around to attending to: your hair. As of late, it's <<cycle "$hairlength" autoselect>> <<option "shaved very short," "shaved">> <<option "cut rather short, above your ears," "short">> <<option "cut to fall near your chin," "chin-length">> <<option "cut to just brush your shoulders," "shoulder-length">> <<option "grown out to be long, falling past your shoulders," "long">> <</cycle>> though, regardless, it has pretty much always been <<cycle "$hairtexture" autoselect>> <<option "shaved" "shaved">> <<option "really straight" "straight">> <<option "rather wavy" "wavy">> <<option "very curly" "curly">> <<option "in coils" "coiled">> <<option "in tight braids" "tightly braided">> <<option "in locs" "loc'd">> <</cycle>> and <<cycle "$haircolor" autoselect>> <<option "ash blonde" "ash blonde">> <<option "light blonde" "light blonde">> <<option "dark blonde" "dark blonde">> <<option "strawberry blonde" "strawberry blonde">> <<option "light brown" "light brown">> <<option "dark brown" "dark brown">> <<option "warm auburn" "auburn">> <<option "fiery red" "red">> <<option "deep black" "black">> <<option "cool gray" "gray">> <<option "bone white" "white">> <</cycle>> in color. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You check on your potential bedhead.|Hair]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $hairlength is "shaved">>Right now your hair is so short you don't even need to worry about it being messy, so that's one less thing to be concerned about.<<elseif ($hairtexture is "straight") or ($hairtexture is "wavy") or ($hairtexture is "curly")>>Unfortunately for your hair, right now it's quite noticeably sticking up in a few places. You grab a brush from near the bowl of water and attempt to calm it down, which works… sort of? Maybe? <<else>>Unfortunately for your hair, right now it's slightly misshapen in a few places. You use your fingers to attempt to calm it down, which works… sort of? Maybe?<</if>> Regardless of your hair, you need to get dressed and go get something to eat, so you <<if $hairlength is "shaved">>put down the hand mirror, stepping<<elseif ($hairtexture is "straight") or ($hairtexture is "wavy") or ($hairtexture is "curly")>>put down the brush and the hand mirror, stepping<<else>>lower your arm and put down the hand mirror, stepping<</if>> away from the set of drawers and quickly beginning to discard your sleeping clothes. Then, when that's done, you pull on the fresh outfit you'd picked out, trying not to stumble around too much in your hurry. Finally, you are dressed, and once you've done one last once-over of yourself, you are ready to leave your room… except, there is one minor obstacle left in your path. The stairs down from this space are small and narrow, making only a little rectangular opening in the floor, something that's always struck you as something of a poor design choice. Your father thinks this room was created as an afterthought during the building's construction, but neither of you know for certain, as you have no idea who the original builders were in order to ask them. Regardless, knowing the why of it won't help you navigate them now, and you need to make your way down in order to start your day. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You pass through easily, due to your shorter height.|DownstairsShort][$height to "short", $cccomplete to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You duck slightly, due to your average height.|DownstairsAverage][$height to "average", $cccomplete to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You have to be careful as you pass, due to your taller height.|DownstairsTall][$height to "tall", $cccomplete to true]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="demotitle"> <div class="demobox">CHAPTER</div> <div class="demotitlebox">End of</div> <div class="demotitlebox2">Current Demo.</div> </div><</nobr>> (You have reached the end of the current demo! I hope you look forward to future updates, because there will be more.)

You pass through the space easily, due to your shorter height. Your father claims you're the lucky one, never having to worry about hitting your head on the wooden beams, unlike him. He's collided with them more times than you can remember while you were growing up, though at least now that you've been an adult for years, he has far fewer reasons to go up to your room anymore. Just as you finally reach the bottom of the awkward steps, you hear someone say your surname. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Input</div></div><div class="choicesinput"> <<textbox "$lastname" "" "Meeting Kaine">> </div><</nobr>>

You duck slightly as you pass through the space, due to your average height. Your father claims you're the luckier one, not having to worry about hitting your head on the wooden beams as much as him. He's collided with them more times than you can remember while you were growing up, though at least now that you've been an adult for years, he has far fewer reasons to go up to your room anymore. Just as you finally reach the bottom of the awkward steps, you hear someone say your surname. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Input</div></div><div class="choicesinput"> <<textbox "$lastname" "" "Meeting Kaine">> </div><</nobr>>

You have to be a little careful as you pass through the space, due to your taller height. Your father and you both share the concern of you hitting your head on the wooden beams, but there isn't really another spare room for you to take, other than this space. At least you're not as careless about it as your father; He's collided with the beams more times than you can remember while you were growing up, though at least now that you've been an adult for years, he has far fewer reasons to go up to your room anymore. Just as you finally reach the bottom of the awkward steps, you hear someone say your surname. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Input</div></div><div class="choicesinput"> <<textbox "$lastname" "" "Meeting Kaine">> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $metkaine to true>><<notify 5s>><div>You unlocked a new character: ''Kaine Breckem''</div><</notify>>"$lastname! About time you came down, it's almost noon." A familiar voice calls out, and you recognize it without a second thought. You should know it after all, having heard it for years, not to mention that there's only one person who calls you by your last name. Turning to the nearby hallway along the stairs, you <<if ($height is "short") or ($height is "average")>>look up to see<<else>>spy<</if>> a tall, slightly freckled man leaning on a broom and grinning at you. His wide shoulders and larger build are well suited to the manual labor you usually see him doing, strong muscles hidden under a softer appearance, but you know they are there. The flash of his teeth contrasts his tawny skin and black hair, the long strands of which are pulled back into a half-bun, showing a level of care the stubble dotting his jaw clearly isn't receiving. His deep brown eyes swirl with mischief as they stare at you from under dark brows and lashes, and his hands gripping the broom handle are criss-crossed with small, pale scars of varying lengths. This man before you is named Kaine, and you have known each other for most of your combined lives, considering you've both lived in the same town for as long as either of you can remember. While your father owns the tavern, Kaine is the son of the local blacksmith, and her former apprentice. That is, he //was// her son, until she threw him out and disowned him a few years ago. Your father, being the man that he is, quickly stepped in to give Kaine a place to stay and steady work at the tavern, and Kaine has been here ever since. As to why Kaine's mother did that to him, you have no idea. Kaine has never seemed willing to talk about it, not to you, nor anyone else. Your father probably knows, but you're not about to ask him about it; you know he'd just tell you it's not his place to share. You suppose the details don't particularly matter, as Kaine is here to stay regardless of them, and your feelings on that fact remain the same. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Kaine and you have been best friends since you were teenagers.|KaineBFF][$kainebff to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You have both always been friendly, but never particularly close.|KaineFriend][$kainefriend to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You have some trouble getting along with Kaine.|KaineStrained][$kainestrained to true]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

Kaine and you have been best friends since you were teenagers, long before your father hired him. The two of you have always been fond of each other, and there's more shared memories and jokes between the two of you than you could ever hope to count. You still remember the day his mother disowned him. The very first person he came to tell the news to was you, and you will never forget the look he had on his face then, like he was going to start crying and never stop, and he seemed //ashamed// of that. As long as you'd known him, Kaine was never one for neither tears nor embarrassment; he was always the one cheering up others, including you, and forthcoming to a fault. You've always wondered why he'd looked at you like that, why his mother did what she did, but Kaine hasn't told you, not at the time, nor since then. <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Not being told hurts; You care about Kaine a lot." + $flirtlabel|KaineCrush][$kaineRflag ++, $kainecrush to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[It bothers you, you have been worried about him ever since.|KaineSupportive][$emotional += 2, $pragmatic -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You do not mind not knowing; it is his choice to tell you or not.|KaineUnderstanding][$pragmatic += 2, $emotional -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>>

You've both been pretty amicable with each other, ever since your father took Kaine in, but you've never been particularly close, something neither of you has endeavored to change in all the years you've lived in the same place. Maybe someday that will be different. Or maybe it won't, and you'll both stay the same forever. Who can say? Surely not you. "So, what's the deal? I know it's your day off, but I never expected you'd sleep in //this// late, you slacker." Kaine asks teasingly, clear humor in his eyes. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Smile and say his teasing does not work on you.|KaineTeaseCons][$considerate += 5, $callous -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Jokingly ask him what he is doing then, wasting time on you.|KaineTeaseAmus][$amused += 5, $stoic -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Simply apologize.|KaineTeaseStoic][$stoic += 5, $amused -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Insist he knows better of you.|KaineTeaseCall][$callous += 5, $considerate -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

The way your father and Kaine get along so well has always made you jealous, which has made it hard for you to get along with Kaine, something you suspect he's noticed over the years. Regardless, he's always given you your space, seeming to respect your choice to remain distant despite however he may feel about the matter, himself. "So, are you alright? I know it's your day off, but I never expected you'd sleep in //this// late. Did something happen?" Kaine asks carefully, clear concern in his eyes. Concern for //you//. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Reassure him that you are fine; you simply overslept.|KaineStrCons][$considerate += 5, $callous -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Tease him about his concern.|KaineStrAmus][$amused += 5, $stoic -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[State the facts: you just have a headache.|KaineStrStoic][$stoic += 5, $amused -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Tell him he worries for nothing; you can take care of yourself.|KaineStrCall][$callous += 5, $considerate -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

It hurts that he hasn't told you. You care about Kaine a lot; more than you've ever expressed to him. It's never seemed like the right time to say so, even with all the years you've spent together, never quite gathering the courage for you to just //tell// him. And so your lives have gone on, with nothing ever changing between the two of you the way you wish it would. You suppose that's just how it's always going to be. Shaking off the memories, you focus on the present, and the Kaine standing in front of you there. "So, what's the deal? I know it's your day off, but I never expected you'd sleep in //this// late, you slacker." Kaine asks teasingly, clear humor and warmth in his eyes. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Laugh and remind him he encouraged this.|KaineTBFFCons][$considerate += 5, $callous -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Jokingly ask him what he is doing then, wasting time on you.|KaineTeaseAmus][$amused += 5, $stoic -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Simply apologize.|KaineTeaseStoic][$stoic += 5, $amused -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Roll your eyes, because he had insisted you take a break.|KaineTBFFCall][$callous += 5, $considerate -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

You can't say that doesn't bother you. You've been worried about him ever since that day, but he's seemed pretty happy in the years since your father gave him a job, and you've never had the courage to ask him about it. And so your lives have gone on, with you never knowing. You suppose that's just how it's always going to be. Shaking off the memories, you focus on the present, and the Kaine standing in front of you there. "So, what's the deal? I know it's your day off, but I never expected you'd sleep in //this// late, you slacker." Kaine asks teasingly, clear humor and warmth in his eyes. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Laugh and remind him he encouraged this.|KaineTBFFCons][$considerate += 5, $callous -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Jokingly ask him what he is doing then, wasting time on you.|KaineTeaseAmus][$amused += 5, $stoic -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Simply apologize.|KaineTeaseStoic][$stoic += 5, $amused -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Roll your eyes, because he had insisted you take a break.|KaineTBFFCall][$callous += 5, $considerate -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

You don't mind that he hasn't told you. It's his decision whether or not to share, not yours, and you aren't going to spend energy worrying about things you can't change. Shaking off the memories, you focus on the present, where Kaine is standing in front of you there. "So, what's the deal? I know it's your day off, but I never expected you'd sleep in //this// late, you slacker." Kaine asks teasingly, clear humor and warmth in his eyes. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Laugh and remind him he encouraged this.|KaineTBFFCons][$considerate += 5, $callous -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Jokingly ask him what he is doing then, wasting time on you.|KaineTeaseAmus][$amused += 5, $stoic -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Simply apologize.|KaineTeaseStoic][$stoic += 5, $amused -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Roll your eyes, because he had insisted you take a break.|KaineTBFFCall][$callous += 5, $considerate -= 5]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"I'm fine, just overslept is all." You reassure him, slightly surprised at his concern, but still touched by it, and you smile a little at him. You may not really be friends, but you do still feel bad making him worry. Kaine seems momentarily surprised by your response, but it quickly morphs into a kind smile of his own. "Ah, I'm glad then." He seems relieved, and continues, "Still, it's unlike you to sleep that long. Take care of yourself, alright?" "Alright." You promise, and your smile grows a tiny bit, causing Kaine's to do the same. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are soon interrupted, however.|ByeKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Aw, Kaine, are you worried about me?" You smile, raising an eyebrow in a teasing expression. Kaine's own brows raise for a second, but he's quickly recovering from his surprise, a grin curving his lips that makes him look like a cat that just caught a mouse. "Me? Worried about //you//? No, don't be ridiculous." He says sarcastically, surprising //you// now, and he's obviously trying to hold back a laugh. "That's absolutely //not// the reason I specifically asked you if you were okay. Not at all." Kaine continues, and his smile only widens when your expression turns to one of realization. Oh. He actually //is// worried about you. Well... shit. In that case, you should probably just let up and tell him what he wants to know. "I'm- I'm fine, Kaine." You say, thrown off your game. "Sorry. And thank you for asking." Is what you decide to awkwardly finish with, and Kaine's smirk turns to a much softer smile. "Anytime." He says, and you get the impression he fully means that. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are soon interrupted, however.|ByeKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Oh, I'm fine. Just woke up with a headache." You tell him plainly, because it's the truth. Kaine winces a little in sympathy. "Ouch, I hate headaches." He replies, a look of concern still on his face. "I think Driselda keeps something for that, if you want to ask her about it." He offers, and you nod to indicate that you just might follow his advice. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are soon interrupted, however.|ByeKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Nothing happened, Kaine. Even if it had, you know I can look after myself." You say, rolling your eyes at his fussing, because he doesn't need to worry about you. Kaine shakes his head with a laugh, and when his gaze lands onto you again, he's grinning in amusement. "Ah, cold as always, I see. Guess that means you really are fine." He teases, unmoved by you brushing him off, and you resist the urge to groan. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are soon interrupted, however.|ByeKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $glosscelestial to true>><<notify 5s>><div>You unlocked a new glossary entry: ''Celestials''</div><</notify>>It's right then that your stomach decides to loudly announce your hunger to the room, uncaring towards your immediate embarrassment. You place a hand over it, and shoot Kaine a <<if $considerate < 50>>mild glare for being between you and the kitchen.<<else>>guilty look, because you really need to head to the kitchen soon.<</if>> "Oh, that's right," Kaine says, eyebrows raised as he shifts the broom to his other hand, "they're serving lunch in the main hall now, so you should go eat. I think Martin is out there, if you want to talk to him." he explains. Martin is your father's first name, and what he'd insisted Kaine call him instead of 'Sir $lastname', which your father had said was '//far// too formal'. Kaine then looks like he's going to continue that thought, but he stops suddenly and quickly turns his eyes away from you, as if hesitating. It takes a moment before he looks back at you again, and you can guess what he's about to mention. "He... leaves tomorrow, doesn't he?" He asks carefully, eyeing you with concern. You take a breath, exhale slowly, and then give Kaine a small nod. Your father is leaving your hometown of Lest tomorrow morning, along with a small group of other residents. They are leaving to go to war. Well, it's not a war just //yet//, but that does not make you feel much better about it. The kingdom of Calcherth may not be //officially// hostile with it's neighboring kingdom of Luthea, but everyone can feel that it's simply the calm before the storm. Your father served as a respected knight in the Second King's army before you were born, and he plans to head to Gilramore, the capital, in order to offer whatever assistance he can give to them once more. Your torn up feelings about this decision of his is likely why your father gave you today to do as you pleased, to try to give you time to process it. You're not sure that it's helping very much. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Thank Kaine for the information.|ByeKaineCons][$considerate += 2, $callous -= 2, $checkhighstat to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Make a joke about your father and his habits.|ByeKaineAmus][$amused += 2, $stoic -= 2, $checkhighstat to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Say you will speak to your father.|ByeKaineStoic][$stoic += 2, $amused -= 2, $checkhighstat to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Reluctantly express gratitute.|ByeKaineCall][$callous += 2, $considerate -= 2, $checkhighstat to true]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $kainestrained is true>>You chuckle and roll your eyes, covering your feelings with humor. "Of course he's in the main hall. I bet you he'd sleep in there, if we let him." A surprised laugh bursts out of Kaine then, like he hadn't expected you to say that, but as soon as it dies down, he's grinning at you. "Celestials, he //absolutely// would." He breathes out a laugh again, shaking his head at the thought. Then, for a second, he looks at you with what appears to be a hesitant warmth, and the moment feels almost like two strangers sharing their first inside joke. On second thought, you suppose that's exactly what you're doing right now. It feels kind of... nice, actually, especially amidst all the painful feelings of the day.<<else>>You chuckle and roll your eyes, covering your feelings with humor. "Of course he's in the main hall. I bet you he'd sleep in there, if we let him." A surprised laugh bursts out of Kaine then, like he hadn't expected you to say that, but as soon as it dies down, he's grinning at you. "Celestials, he //absolutely// would." He breathes out a laugh again, shaking his head fondly at the thought. You're glad you could make him laugh, even with the heavy goodbye you'll both inevitably have to say to your father looming over both of your heads.<</if>> "Anyways..." Kaine says then, clearing his throat as if to clear the air, and pointing behind him with a thumb. "You should get going before all the food is gone. As for me..." He gestures with the broom he's still holding, indicating that he's still working. "I'm not quite done here yet, so I'll see you later?" He smiles warmly at you in goodbye, and you nod in response, making your way past him towards the door that divides the building between your home and the tavern areas. You suppose most anyone else would get a little lost in this structure, with half of it being a house that's generally closed off to guests, and the other being a decently sized tavern with a common room, main hall, kitchen, a few chambers for visitors, and a small set of stables. There's a great deal of doors leading to other rooms and hallways, but you know this place like the back of your hand, with many memories of dashing through its twisting paths as a small child. Because of this, it doesn't take you more than a minute to reach your destination. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You enter the main hall.|Main Hall]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Thank you for letting me know where he is, Kaine. I'm going to go talk to him." You give him a slightly brittle smile, which is unfortunately the best one you can muster. Kaine frowns slightly in return, worry in his features, likely caused by your expression. "I'm sorry, $lastname… I wish I could convince him to stay…" He looks genuinely sad as he gazes at you, a face you're not used to seeing him make. <<if $kainebff is true>> You probably should have expected it, however; you know Kaine cares deeply for both you and your father. This all must be hard for him, as well as you.<<else>> You suppose it makes sense, however; you know Kaine cares about your father, so you imagine this all must be hard for him, as well as you.<</if>> "Anyways..." Kaine says then, clearing his throat as if to clear the air, and pointing behind him with a thumb. "You should get going before all the food is gone. As for me..." He gestures with the broom he's still holding, indicating that he's still working. "I'm not quite done here yet, so I'll see you later?" He smiles warmly at you in goodbye, and you nod in response, making your way past him towards the door that divides the building between your home and the tavern areas. You suppose most anyone else would get a little lost in this structure, with half of it being a house that's generally closed off to guests, and the other being a decently sized tavern with a common room, main hall, kitchen, a few chambers for visitors, and a small set of stables. There's a great deal of doors leading to other rooms and hallways, but you know this place like the back of your hand, with many memories of dashing through its twisting paths as a small child. Because of this, it doesn't take you more than a minute to reach your destination. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You enter the main hall.|Main Hall]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"I'll make sure I talk to him. Thanks, Kaine." You nod at him, masking your turbulent emotions with a neutral expression. Kaine gives you a bitter smile, shaking his head slightly. "You know, you don't have to pretend you're fine. It's perfectly understandable if you're not." He says softly, his eyes gentle as he looks at you, and despite your best efforts, your mask cracks a little at his words. "...I'll keep that in mind." You manage to get out without your voice wavering too much, and Kaine nods at you, still with his sad smile. "Anyways..." Kaine says then, clearing his throat as if to clear the air, and pointing behind him with a thumb. "You should get going before all the food is gone. As for me..." He gestures with the broom he's still holding, indicating that he's still working. "I'm not quite done here yet, so I'll see you later?" He smiles warmly at you in goodbye, and you nod in response, making your way past him towards the door that divides the building between your home and the tavern areas. You suppose most anyone else would get a little lost in this structure, with half of it being a house that's generally closed off to guests, and the other being a decently sized tavern with a common room, main hall, kitchen, a few chambers for visitors, and a small set of stables. There's a great deal of doors leading to other rooms and hallways, but you know this place like the back of your hand, with many memories of dashing through its twisting paths as a small child. Because of this, it doesn't take you more than a minute to reach your destination. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You enter the main hall.|Main Hall]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"I suppose you saved me the trouble of tearing the place apart looking for him. I... appreciate it, Kaine." You force out the awkwardly expressed gratitude, the words embarrassing you before they're even off your tongue.<<if $kainebff is true>> Kaine simply chuckles at you. "Don't strain yourself there, $lastname." He teases, and you instantly level him your most withering glare, which only makes him laugh harder. Once he's composed himself, however, he straightens up and looks at you fondly, brown eyes full of warmth as he finally says, "You're very welcome." You squirm a little under his gaze, and the affection there. Why does he have to be so open with it?<<else>>Kaine looks borderline shocked at what you just said to him, but then he bursts out in a laugh, causing you to instantly level him your most withering glare. His initial mirth dies down a little, but he still continues to chuckle somewhat, wiping at his eye with his free hand. "I have to say, I didn't expect you to thank me." He admits, and you bristle, a harsh retort starting on your lips until Kaine continues, interrupting you. "But you're welcome, $lastname. It was no trouble." He offers, his genuine smile now infinitely kind, and your words immediately die in your mouth. … Looking at his expression, you suppose you can forgive him for laughing at you, just this once.<</if>> "Anyways..." Kaine says then, clearing his throat as if to clear the air, and pointing behind him with a thumb. "You should get going before all the food is gone. As for me..." He gestures with the broom he's still holding, indicating that he's still working. "I'm not quite done here yet, so I'll see you later?" He smiles warmly at you in goodbye, and you nod in response, making your way past him towards the door that divides the building between your home and the tavern areas. You suppose most anyone else would get a little lost in this structure, with half of it being a house that's generally closed off to guests, and the other being a decently sized tavern with a common room, main hall, kitchen, a few chambers for visitors, and a small set of stables. There's a great deal of doors leading to other rooms and hallways, but you know this place like the back of your hand, with many memories of dashing through its twisting paths as a small child. Because of this, it doesn't take you more than a minute to reach your destination. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You enter the main hall.|Main Hall]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

The large room is bustling with activity as you close the door behind you, with a good amount of people sitting at the eclectic mix of differently styled tables arranged around the space. Most of the patronage is simply other residents of Lest who come to eat their lunch here, as the cook, Driselda, is well known throughout the town for her excellent food. However, there are some who simply come for the company and atmosphere… or the decent ale. Sometimes, it's even all of those things. You spot your father chatting with his long-time friend Gregory, the baker and occasional medic, if the local doctor is busy. You've heard stories of their time serving in the Second King's army together, back when they were much younger, and before you were born. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are relieved they did not fight in many real battles back then.|FatherCons][$considerate += 2, $callous -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You find their tales quiet entertaining.|FatherAmus][$amused += 2, $stoic -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You consider it enjoyable to learn more of your father.|FatherStoic][$stoic += 2, $amused -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You would never admit to wanting to hear more of their adventures.|FatherCall][$callous += 2, $considerate -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Your teasing doesn't quite work when I //know// you're not the type to truly mean that, Kaine." You smile at him, breathing out a soft laugh. Kaine chuckles in return, and then puts his free hand over his heart in mock hurt. "Alas, I have been seen right through. Whatever could have given me away?" He says in a slightly over-dramatic tone, causing you to smile even wider and shake your head. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are soon interrupted, however.|ByeKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Hey, if //I'm// slacking, what are you doing right now talking to me?" You tease back, chuckling as you playfully raise an eyebrow. That gets a single, solid laugh out of him, and then he jokingly scoffs, grinning. "Well, I guess that just makes us //both// slackers." He remarks, but it's in good humor, and you grin in return. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are soon interrupted, however.|ByeKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Yeah, I shouldn't have wasted so much of the morning. Sorry you had to do all the work, Kaine." You say, regret in your words. Kaine quickly shrugs off your apology. "Nah, you have a free day today, so no harm done. Don't worry about it." He waves his empty hand in the air as if to dispel the issue. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are soon interrupted, however.|ByeKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"You of all people know I'm not a slacker." You huff, but there's no real anger behind the words, as you know Kaine is simply joking around with you. Kaine's smile only grows in response. "That is very true." He admits, conceding to your point. "Still, it's rare I get to tease you about your mistakes, so I have to take the few moments presented to me." A laugh leaves his lips, his eyes glinting with mischief, and you simply sigh in resignation to your fate. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are soon interrupted, however.|ByeKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"You know full well you pestered me about taking a free day until I finally caved." You roll your eyes, but there's an underlying affection to your irritation. Kaine's grin turns ever so slightly bashful, but it widens all the same when he looks at your accusing expression. "Yeah, well, you never take any time for yourself. Stars, you work so hard that sometimes I swear that even if the Celestials themselves told you to take a break, you'd just tell them off." Kaine laughs fondly, apparently finding these imaginary actions of yours amusing, and in response you pout slightly, because his little impression of you isn't entirely off the mark. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are soon interrupted, however.|ByeKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"You're one to talk, Kaine, considering you're the one who encouraged me to take the day off." You laugh, giving him an amused smile in return. Kaine's grin turns ever so slightly bashful, but it widens all the same as he flicks his gaze to the side. "Yeah, well, you deserve it and all that. Besides, it's not like I can't manage without you for a day." He pauses for a moment there, then looks at you again, letting out a breath of a laugh as he adds, "...Probably." Your laugh matches his own. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are soon interrupted, however.|ByeKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<if not tags().contains("noturn")>> <<if settings.audioEnabled>> <<audio "pageturn" play>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if ($considerate > $callous) and ($considerate > $amused) and ($considerate > $stoic)>> <<set $highstat to "considerate">> <<elseif ($callous > $considerate) and ($callous > $amused) and ($callous > $stoic)>> <<set $highstat to "callous">> <<elseif ($amused > $considerate) and ($amused > $callous) and ($amused > $stoic)>> <<set $highstat to "amused">> <<elseif ($stoic > $considerate) and ($stoic > $callous) and ($stoic > $amused)>> <<set $highstat to "stoic">> <<else>> <<set $highstat to "">> <</if>> <<if ($emotional > $pragmatic)>> <<set $emotionstat to "emotional">> <<elseif ($pragmatic > $emotional)>> <<set $emotionstat to "pragmatic">> <<else>> <<set $emotionstat to "balanced">> <</if>> <<if (previous() is "Title") and (settings.audioEnabled)>> <<audio "musicbox" stop>> <</if>>

Your father is a talented fighter, you know, but you're glad there were few battles fought in his time serving. The idea of him risking his life like that unsettles you… though you suppose he is going to re-enlist soon, and now there is a very real risk of combat. You swallow, clenching your fists at your sides to try to calm yourself from the self reminder of your father's uncertain future. Resolving yourself to go talk to the man himself, you begin your walk across the hall, weaving between tables and patrons seated on chairs, and dodging the occasional elbow or gesturing arm on the way. The smell of Driselda's cooking filling the space makes your empty stomach twist in agony, and your steps quicken towards the irresistible pull of a good meal awaiting you. "…most the others ready to head out in the morning?" You finally catch your father speaking to Gregory over the noisy atmosphere, and you stop once you've reached a respectable distance to wait for their conversation to end. "Most of them. A few are taking their sweet time, but I'll have them rounded up by dawn. Don't worry so much, Martin, or you'll finally go as gray as I have." Gregory assures your father with a good-natured smile, placing a hand on his friend's arm. Gregory is an older man, around the same age as your father but not quite as tall, and his remark about 'going gray' is accurate to his appearance; his formerly black hair and beard are almost entirely silver these days. Your father Martin, on the other hand, has somehow managed to keep most his fiery red hair, with only the occasional streak of gray in it. You've heard Gregory swear up and down that your father uses a secret magic spell to keep his original hair color, but his slightly fond smile under his beard always gives away the fact that he's just joking around. Your father laughs in return, loud and carefree, and shakes his head. "Who said I was worried? If they're not ready at dawn, I'll simply haul them over my shoulders and carry them the whole way to Gilramore!" He replies, laughing even more, and Gregory joins in with his own mirth, likely at the mental image of your father with two or more villagers slung over his back. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Now would probably be a good time to cut in.|ApproachFather]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

You swear your father has more crazy tales than he has hairs on his head, but they're typically pretty amusing in some form or another. The man has gotten into more wild antics that you might ever manage in your life, but you'll enjoy the journey of trying to catch up to him. Resolving yourself to go talk to the man himself, you begin your walk across the hall, weaving between tables and patrons seated on chairs, and dodging the occasional elbow or gesturing arm on the way. The smell of Driselda's cooking filling the space makes your empty stomach twist in agony, and your steps quicken towards the irresistible pull of a good meal awaiting you. "…most the others ready to head out in the morning?" You finally catch your father speaking to Gregory over the noisy atmosphere, and you stop once you've reached a respectable distance to wait for their conversation to end. "Most of them. A few are taking their sweet time, but I'll have them rounded up by dawn. Don't worry so much, Martin, or you'll finally go as gray as I have." Gregory assures your father with a good-natured smile, placing a hand on his friend's arm. Gregory is an older man, around the same age as your father but not quite as tall, and his remark about 'going gray' is accurate to his appearance; his formerly black hair and beard are almost entirely silver these days. Your father Martin, on the other hand, has somehow managed to keep most his fiery red hair, with only the occasional streak of gray in it. You've heard Gregory swear up and down that your father uses a secret magic spell to keep his original hair color, but his slightly fond smile under his beard always gives away the fact that he's just joking around. Your father laughs in return, loud and carefree, and shakes his head. "Who said I was worried? If they're not ready at dawn, I'll simply haul them over my shoulders and carry them the whole way to Gilramore!" He replies, laughing even more, and Gregory joins in with his own mirth, likely at the mental image of your father with two or more villagers slung over his back. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Now would probably be a good time to cut in.|ApproachFather]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

You don't particularly care what your father's stories are about, you simply enjoy listening to them, particularly around the fireplace in your home. Your father has a loud, boisterous laugh, the kind that makes everyone else want to join in and laugh with him, and you enjoy getting to hear it quite often when he details his past to you. Resolving yourself to go talk to the man himself, you begin your walk across the hall, weaving between tables and patrons seated on chairs, and dodging the occasional elbow or gesturing arm on the way. The smell of Driselda's cooking filling the space makes your empty stomach twist in agony, and your steps quicken towards the irresistible pull of a good meal awaiting you. "…most the others ready to head out in the morning?" You finally catch your father speaking to Gregory over the noisy atmosphere, and you stop once you've reached a respectable distance to wait for their conversation to end. "Most of them. A few are taking their sweet time, but I'll have them rounded up by dawn. Don't worry so much, Martin, or you'll finally go as gray as I have." Gregory assures your father with a good-natured smile, placing a hand on his friend's arm. Gregory is an older man, around the same age as your father but not quite as tall, and his remark about 'going gray' is accurate to his appearance; his formerly black hair and beard are almost entirely silver these days. Your father Martin, on the other hand, has somehow managed to keep most his fiery red hair, with only the occasional streak of gray in it. You've heard Gregory swear up and down that your father uses a secret magic spell to keep his original hair color, but his slightly fond smile under his beard always gives away the fact that he's just joking around. Your father laughs in return, loud and carefree, and shakes his head. "Who said I was worried? If they're not ready at dawn, I'll simply haul them over my shoulders and carry them the whole way to Gilramore!" He replies, laughing even more, and Gregory joins in with his own mirth, likely at the mental image of your father with two or more villagers slung over his back. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Now would probably be a good time to cut in.|ApproachFather]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

You greatly enjoy the time you spend with your father when he rambles on about his life, but you will never admit that to anyone; it'd be far too embarrassing. Still, despite acting disinterested, you always patiently listen as he regales his many adventures before he took over the tavern you call home. Resolving yourself to go talk to the man himself, you begin your walk across the hall, weaving between tables and patrons seated on chairs, and dodging the occasional elbow or gesturing arm on the way. The smell of Driselda's cooking filling the space makes your empty stomach twist in agony, and your steps quicken towards the irresistible pull of a good meal awaiting you. "…most the others ready to head out in the morning?" You finally catch your father speaking to Gregory over the noisy atmosphere, and you stop once you've reached a respectable distance to wait for their conversation to end. "Most of them. A few are taking their sweet time, but I'll have them rounded up by dawn. Don't worry so much, Martin, or you'll finally go as gray as I have." Gregory assures your father with a good-natured smile, placing a hand on his friend's arm. Gregory is an older man, around the same age as your father but not quite as tall, and his remark about 'going gray' is accurate to his appearance; his formerly black hair and beard are almost entirely silver these days. Your father Martin, on the other hand, has somehow managed to keep most his fiery red hair, with only the occasional streak of gray in it. You've heard Gregory swear up and down that your father uses a secret magic spell to keep his original hair color, but his slightly fond smile under his beard always gives away the fact that he's just joking around. Your father laughs in return, loud and carefree, and shakes his head. "Who said I was worried? If they're not ready at dawn, I'll simply haul them over my shoulders and carry them the whole way to Gilramore!" He replies, laughing even more, and Gregory joins in with his own mirth, likely at the mental image of your father with two or more villagers slung over his back. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Now would probably be a good time to cut in.|ApproachFather]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

You figure now would be a good time to make yourself known, so<<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>> you quietly clear your throat, causing the men's attention to fall on you standing nearby, and your father lets out a chuckle at the sight of you. "Gregory, isn't my ?daughter such a considerate young ?woman? ?She won't even interrupt ?her_ own father's ramblings." He jokes, lightly elbowing his friend's arm while his warm hazel eyes gaze at you fondly. "I'm only being polite!" You half-heartedly protest, and the two men laugh softly to themselves in response. Your father then steps towards you, wrapping you in a tight hug and<<if $height is "short">> practically lifting you off the ground, to your slight embarrassment.<<elseif $height is "average">> resting his chin on top of your head.<<else>> resting the side of his head against your own.<</if>> "I know, $firstname." He tells you gently, and then pulls back away after a moment. "And you have a good heart to mind such things." He says, eyes soft, and you know he means the words with everything he has, so you can't help but smile a little bashfully.<<elseif $highstat is "callous">> you clear your throat, trying not to tap your foot impatiently as you do so. This gets the attention of the two men, and your father shakes his head when he sees you, amusement in his hazel eyes. "I think my ?daughter is tired of listening to two old men prattling on." Martin says to Gregory, and the other man nods in agreement, a smile on his face. "I think you're quite right, Martin. Whatever shall we do? Prattling is the only thing we old men have left." Gregory jests, and the two men laugh together, making you roll your eyes in mild annoyance, wanting to get on with it.<<elseif $highstat is "amused">> you chuckle, causing the men's attention to turn in your direction, and you raise a brow at your father. "I think you might throw your back out trying that, old man." You say, getting further laughter out of the two of them, and your father claps a familiar hand on your upper arm. "I may be old, but I'm not //that// old!" He protests, and you can't help the big smile that graces your face as he wraps his arm fully around your shoulders and turns you both slightly, as if presenting you to Gregory. "My own ?daughter grew up to be such a funny young ?woman. I wonder where ?she got it from." Your father sarcastically wonders, and you jokingly roll your eyes. "The apple truly does not fall far from the tree." Gregory remarks with good humor, and Martin nods sagely in agreement as he releases you from his embrace.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">> you speak up. "Father, I think you'd hurt yourself trying that." You state plainly, successfully getting the two men's attention. Your father immediately smiles at the sight of you, shaking his head with a laugh and stepping over to clap a hand on your shoulder. "You are always so serious, my ?daughter! You need to learn to laugh more easily, makes life less trying." Martin tells you, and you raise a brow at him, skeptical. "I'm not sure ?she knows //how// to laugh anymore, Martin. Maybe we should give ?her lessons." Gregory teases, a mischevious glint in his eyes, and your father breaks out in a laugh of his own at the idea, while you give them both a mild glare. "That'd be a sight!" Martin says through his sporadic chuckling, and pats you on the should once more before stepping back.<</if>> "I digress, you want to speak to me, don't you, $firstname?" Your father says, uncannily perceptive as always. "Let's get your breakfast ordered, and then we can talk." He motions you to move ahead of him towards the counter, and you nod your goodbye to Gregory as you go. He smiles warmly at you in return. Reaching the main counter, you spot Driselda busy in the kitchen beyond it, and so you lean up against the wood, waiting for her to have a free moment to take your order. Your father soon comes up to stand beside you as well, and now that you're away from the others filling the room, a meaningful silence descends over the two of you like a blanket. Neither of you seems quite willing to disturb it just yet. Whatever you have to say to him, you will likely need to say it now. You may not have a chance tomorrow, when he departs. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Ask him if he really must go.|FConfrontCons][$considerate += 2, $callous -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Teasingly remark on how stubborn he is.|FConfrontAmus][$amused += 2, $stoic -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[State the obvious.|FConfrontStoic][$stoic += 2, $amused -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Express your distress through harshness.|FConfrontCall][$callous += 2, $considerate -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Father... do you have to go?" You ask quietly, sadness evident in your voice, because for all you know, this could be the last time you ever see him. Your father is over fifty; he is no longer the young soldier he once was, and you cannot know what use the Third King's army will have for him. The thought of losing the only family you have… it aches and burns in your chest. What are you supposed to do if he doesn't come back? You're dragged from your agonizing thoughts by a gentle hand on your cheek, and you look up to see your father gazing at you, his eyes unspeakably sad, and yet still overflowing with genuine warmth. "I do. I //must// go, even though I know you worry for me." He tells you, and you bite your lip hard to banish the stinging in your eyes, threatening to turn into tears. Your father smiles, and it's piercing. "You are such a kind-hearted ?woman, and I am so very proud of you." His eyes flick between your own and his thumb lightly strokes your cheek, until his hand reluctantly drops away. You already know what he's going to tell you now. "I must go, because I cannot bear the though of staying while others fight for our safety; for my //?daughter's// safety." Your father tells you, just like you expected him to, and after a moment, you just nod. This is something much bigger to him than simply what you want, no matter how much you wish it wasn't, and he will not be convinced otherwise by you, nor anyone else. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You respect him greatly for it, even as you resent the decision.|FoodsReady]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"There's truly no way to dissuade you from this foolish quest, is there, old man?" You sigh with a resigned half-smile, because you know your father; there is not. He may be over fifty, he may no longer be the young soldier he once was, but you know his heart could never let him be idle while others suffer. He wouldn't be being true to himself, otherwise. Still, you cannot know what use the Third King's army will have for him. His future is uncertain, and you cannot say that sits well with you. After all, what are you supposed to do if he doesn't come back? You're dragged from your twisting thoughts by a gentle hand on your cheek, and you look up to see your father gazing at you, his eyes unspeakably sad, and yet still overflowing with genuine warmth. "You know this 'old man' well; there is not." He tells you, and you clench your fists slightly to keep the mild smile on your face, to hold back the emotions you've been trying to suppress for days now. Your father smiles, and it's piercing. "You are such a light-hearted ?woman, and I am so very proud of you." His eyes flick between your own and his thumb lightly strokes your cheek, until his hand reluctantly drops away. You already know what he's going to tell you now. "I must go, because I cannot bear the though of staying while others fight for our safety; for my //?daughter's// safety." Your father tells you, just like you expected him to, and after a moment, you just nod. This is something much bigger to him than simply what you want, no matter how much you wish it wasn't, and he will not be convinced otherwise by you, nor anyone else. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You respect him greatly for it, even as you resent the decision.|FoodsReady]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"You're leaving." You simply state, doing your best to keep your expression in check, because you do not know how to feel. Your father is over fifty; he is no longer the young soldier he once was, and you cannot know what use the Third King's army will have for him. He is the only family you have, and his chosen future is as uncertain as your emotions. What are you supposed to do if he doesn't come back? You're dragged from your twisting thoughts by a gentle hand on your cheek, and you look up to see your father gazing at you, his eyes unspeakably sad, and yet still overflowing with genuine warmth. "Yes, I am. No matter how much I wish I could stay." He tells you, and you bite your lip hard to to hold back the emotions you've been trying to suppress for days now. All you can do is nod in return, and when your father smiles, it's piercing. "You have an indomitable heart, and I am so very proud of you." His eyes flick between your own and his thumb lightly strokes your cheek, until his hand reluctantly drops away. You already know what he's going to tell you now. "I must go, because I cannot bear the though of staying while others fight for our safety; for my //?daughter's// safety." Your father tells you, just like you expected him to, and after a moment, you just nod. This is something much bigger to him than simply what you want, no matter how much you wish it wasn't, and he will not be convinced otherwise by you, nor anyone else. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You respect him greatly for it, even as you resent the decision.|FoodsReady]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"So I'm to see you off with a smile, is that it?" You ask bitterly, a mix of anger and anguish in your heart, because this is foolish of him. Your father is over fifty; he is no longer the young soldier he once was, and you cannot know what use the Third King's army will have for him. You hate it, hate not knowing what will become of him, hate that he's choosing //this// instead of staying with you where he belongs. What are you supposed to do if he doesn't come back? You're dragged from your agonizing thoughts by a gentle hand on your cheek, and you look up to see your father gazing at you, his eyes unspeakably sad, and yet still overflowing with genuine warmth. "No, you stubborn, //stubborn// child. You are to see me off however you need to, so that you do not suffer any more than that which I am already causing you." He tells you, and you bite your lip hard to banish the stinging in your eyes, threatening to turn into tears. Your father smiles, and it's piercing. "You are such a strong-hearted ?woman, and I am so very proud of you." His eyes flick between your own and his thumb lightly strokes your cheek, until his hand reluctantly drops away. You already know what he's going to tell you now. "I must go, because I cannot bear the though of staying while others fight for our safety; for my //?daughter's// safety." Your father tells you, just like you expected him to, and after a moment, you just nod. This is something much bigger to him than simply what you want, no matter how much you wish it wasn't, and he will not be convinced otherwise by you, nor anyone else. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You respect him greatly for it, even as you resent the decision.|FoodsReady]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

Just then, you see someone approaching the counter from the opposite side, and you and your father both turn to see Driselda holding out a plate absolutely piled with various breakfast foods. When you don't immediately react, she gestures at you with the plate and rolls her eyes, smiling in good humor. "It's for you, $firstname. Figured you'd want breakfast when you finally showed up, so I've been keeping it warm." The older woman explains. <<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>>"Oh, that's so kind of you, Driselda! Thank you." You take the plate carefully, with a kind smile, grateful for the consideration. Driselda gives you a nod and a smile in return.<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>"You sure know the way to a ?woman's heart, Driselda." You chuckle, taking the plate with a hand, which gets a sharp laugh out of her. "So everyone tells me." She shakes her head at you with a smile.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>"I know that's not an easy task on top of all your work, Driselda; I appreciate it." You thank her, taking the plate gratefully. Driselda simply waves off your words. "No trouble at all, you work almost as hard as I do around here; you deserve a break." She tells you honestly, and all you can do is nod.<<elseif $highstat is "callous">>"Oh." You simply say, surprised. "I... thank you, Driselda." Is how your appreciation comes out, sounding rather clumsy as you hesitantly take the plate. Driselda's brows slowly raise, and she shoots your father a sly grin, and you know you're in for it when your father shakes his head in resignation. You wait for the teasing, the remarks about how rare 'thanks' is from you, but none come. Instead Driselda looks at you with a smile, an amused glint in her eye. You might have just made her day.<</if>> Someone calls out for your father then, and his head turns towards the sound, before looking at you again. "Alas, there are more preparations for dawn. You'd think these folks could manage without lil' old me." He remarks to you with a glint of humor in his eyes. "I'll see you later, $firstname." Comes his farewell, and he leaves your side to go speak to whoever needed his attention. Your breakfast cooling by the minute, you nod your own goodbye to Driselda and turn from the counter, searching for a place to sit. There's an empty table near the corner, so you make your way over to it, setting your plate down on the bare surface and taking a seat in one of the wooden chairs. Then, you dig in to your meal. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[The food is excellent.|Lunchtime]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

Driselda really knows how to make just about anything taste delicious, even the simple things that make up a standard fare breakfast. As you chew on your fried eggs, your gaze wanders across the room, observing the patrons of the Fool's March; your father's name for the tavern you call home. You recognize almost all of them as other residents of Lest, but there's a small few who are unfamiliar to you, who you only know from their lodgings here as they travel through the area. One stranger, however, stands out to you; it's a man of a larger build, a cloak pulled over his head as he hunches over a table all alone, nursing a single ale with the mug gripped tightly between his hands. Huh. You don't recognize him as someone staying at the tavern, or anyone from the area… not to mention that he's covered up in his traveling clothes while indoors, which is a little odd. Still, you figure it's really none of your business what a stranger is up to, so long as it doesn't involve you, so you turn back to your food, picking up a slice of buttered bread to take a bite of. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You do not even get it into your mouth before you are interrupted.|StrangerJumpscare]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"May I have a word?" Someone asks right next to you, seemingly out of nowhere, and you almost drop your bread in your surprise. Looking up, you're startled by the sight of the exact cloaked stranger you had been wondering about before, now looming ominously over your table, staring at you. How the stars did he get over here so quickly? You blink dumbly, still somewhat shocked by his appearance, and the stranger only waits for a moment before calmly moving to take a seat across from you, making himself comfortable even without an actual response to his request. Apparently, he's very set on speaking to you, if your potential rejection was of such little consequence to him. Now that he's facing you, you're able to clearly see his face under the hood, and you realize he's a blonde man, with lightly tanned skin from time spend under the sun. Also, likely somewhere in his late thirties if you had to guess. His beard is trimmed, and while it's slightly hidden by the fabric, you can tell his hair is kept short and shaved on the sides. He doesn't smile in greeting, only looks at you with what almost feels like dead eyes, and you're left feeling a little uneasy. "I've heard a great deal of things about this… kingdom of Calcherth, while traveling, but I've yet to see much of it with my own eyes." He starts, gesturing with a hand as he speaks, but he doesn't look away from you. "I would appreciate the opinion of a local on some subjects." His gaze remains in place, heavily implying that //you// are the local he wants the opinion of, for some reason. You look this stranger over for a moment, thinking. He might be new to the country, and that could be why he's curious. If that's the case, you suppose you can't really blame him; most people foreign to its borders find Calcherth a fascinating topic, with its odd history and dedication to the study of soul magic. Still, it seems odd that he'd single you out for questioning, of all people. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are willing to give him the benefit of the doubt and help him.|StrangerHelpful][$emotional += 2, $pragmatic -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You are wary of this man and his intentions.|StrangerWary][$strangerdanger to true, $pragmatic += 2, $emotional -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $glosssoulmage to true>><<notify 5s>><div>You unlocked a new glossary entry: ''Soul Magic''</div><</notify>>You have a bad feeling about this man and his sudden appearance, and decide to try to get out of this conversation as soon as possible. Unfortunately, as if unconcerned with your reluctance, the man begins speaking anyways. "Supposedly," He begins, drawing the word out, his heavy stare making you feel like you're being interrogated as he continues, "this country is known for its extensive advances in soul magic, yet I see none at work here, just a simple, standard fare town. Why is that?" The stranger asks, and behind the intense scrutiny he's subjecting you to, there seems to be hint of annoyance in his eyes for some reason. You bristle a little at him referring to your hometown as 'simple' and 'standard', but still, you suppose you need to answer him in at least //some// form. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Politely try to point him to someone else.|SWaryCons][$considerate += 2, $callous -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Joke about asking the king.|SWaryAmus][$amused += 2, $stoic -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Remind him that you are in the middle of your lunch.|SWaryStoic][$stoic += 2, $amused -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Tell him to go irritate someone other than you.|SWaryCall][$callous += 2, $considerate -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $glosssoulmage to true>><<notify 5s>><div>You unlocked a new glossary entry: ''Soul Magic''</div><</notify>>If he's asking for your insight, you suppose you're willing to help him by telling him what you know about Calcherth, even limited as it is by your lack of travel. You give the stranger a small nod, prompting him to speak. "Supposedly," He begins, drawing the word out, his heavy stare making you feel like you're being interrogated as he continues, "this country is known for its extensive advances in soul magic, yet I see none at work here, just a simple, standard fare town. Why is that?" The stranger asks, and behind the intense scrutiny he's subjecting you to, there seems to be hint of annoyance in his eyes for some reason. You bristle a little at him referring to your hometown as 'simple' and 'standard', but still, you suppose you need to answer him in at least //some// form. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Politely correct his information.|SHelpfulCons][$considerate += 2, $callous -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Joke about the remoteness of your hometown.|SHelpfulAmus][$amused += 2, $stoic -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Explain that you are not the best person to ask.|SHelpfulStoic][$stoic += 2, $amused -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Use his own rude remarks against him.|SHelpfulCall][$callous += 2, $considerate -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"That's not entirely true; the local doctor is actually a mage who studied at the Academy in Gilramore, and uses their healing abilities as a treatment method." You politely correct, trying to make sure his information is as accurate as possible. The man nods, slowly and deliberately, brows furrowing over cold blue eyes that seem to bore into your very soul, as he appears to consider your words very seriously for a moment, almost as if he's judging whether or not it was a lie. His gaze never leaves yours as he does this, and you wonder why he's staring at you like that, considering that the look on his face is bordering on a glare, and you //are// trying your best to answer his questions, after all. Finally, after what really begins to feel like some kind of bizarre staring match, he seems to settle on a response to what you said. "I suppose that makes sense." Is all that comes out of his mouth, and he finally, //finally// looks away from you, choosing to slowly shift his gaze over to stare into the dancing flames of the nearby hearth. Before you can speak on it further, however, he starts up once more, muttering under his breath. "It is of little consequence, I suspect, regardless…" The man states cryptically, as if forgetting you are there and simply speaking to himself. You hold your tongue a moment longer, searching his face while he's distracted and trying to decipher this strange man's behavior, but you don't get much longer to think on it before he seems to come back to himself, and quickly waves a hand to dismiss the moment as his eyes come back to land on you once more. "That is not the subject of debate that interests me most." He says, forcing the topic change with all the subtlety of a drunken thief. The, he leans slightly forwards over the table, clasping his hands in front of him, as if preparing to discuss something of great importance, and you <<if ($highstat is "callous") or ($highstat is "amused")>>raise an eyebrow at the move, bracing yourself.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>steel yourself for whatever else this man could possibly want to speak to you about.<<else>>find yourself leaning forwards a touch as well in return, simply out of reflex.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He continues to his next line of questioning.|WhatAreAngels]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Well, it seems our town might be a little too 'simple' to warrant that kind of interest from the capital. We don't really get a lot of fancy soul mages around here." You chuckle, because you're really not wrong; Lest is near the southernmost part of the kingdom, so you do get a decent amount of travelers passing through, but it's also out of the way enough that it's not, and likely never will be, more than a waypoint on a journey to Gilramore, the capital. The man nods, slowly and deliberately, brows furrowing over cold blue eyes that seem to bore into your very soul, as he appears to consider your words very seriously for a moment, almost as if he's judging whether or not it was a lie. His gaze never leaves yours as he does this, and you wonder why he's staring at you like that, considering that the look on his face is bordering on a glare, and you //are// trying your best to answer his questions, after all. Finally, after what really begins to feel like some kind of bizarre staring match, he seems to settle on a response to what you said. "I suppose that makes sense." Is all that comes out of his mouth, and he finally, //finally// looks away from you, choosing to slowly shift his gaze over to stare into the dancing flames of the nearby hearth. Before you can speak on it further, however, he starts up once more, muttering under his breath. "It is of little consequence, I suspect, regardless…" The man states cryptically, as if forgetting you are there and simply speaking to himself. You hold your tongue a moment longer, searching his face while he's distracted and trying to decipher this strange man's behavior, but you don't get much longer to think on it before he seems to come back to himself, and quickly waves a hand to dismiss the moment as his eyes come back to land on you once more. "That is not the subject of debate that interests me most." He says, forcing the topic change with all the subtlety of a drunken thief. The, he leans slightly forwards over the table, clasping his hands in front of him, as if preparing to discuss something of great importance, and you <<if ($highstat is "callous") or ($highstat is "amused")>>raise an eyebrow at the move, bracing yourself.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>steel yourself for whatever else this man could possibly want to speak to you about.<<else>>find yourself leaning forwards a touch as well in return, simply out of reflex.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He continues to his next line of questioning.|WhatAreAngels]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"I wouldn't really know first-hand; I've lived here my whole life, and have only seen a handful of soul mages before." You explain, trying to demonstrate that you're really not the best person to come to with these questions. The man nods, slowly and deliberately, brows furrowing over cold blue eyes that seem to bore into your very soul, as he appears to consider your words very seriously for a moment, almost as if he's judging whether or not it was a lie. His gaze never leaves yours as he does this, and you wonder why he's staring at you like that, considering that the look on his face is bordering on a glare, and you //are// trying your best to answer his questions, after all. Finally, after what really begins to feel like some kind of bizarre staring match, he seems to settle on a response to what you said. "I suppose that makes sense." Is all that comes out of his mouth, and he finally, //finally// looks away from you, choosing to slowly shift his gaze over to stare into the dancing flames of the nearby hearth. Before you can speak on it further, however, he starts up once more, muttering under his breath. "It is of little consequence, I suspect, regardless…" The man states cryptically, as if forgetting you are there and simply speaking to himself. You hold your tongue a moment longer, searching his face while he's distracted and trying to decipher this strange man's behavior, but you don't get much longer to think on it before he seems to come back to himself, and quickly waves a hand to dismiss the moment as his eyes come back to land on you once more. "That is not the subject of debate that interests me most." He says, forcing the topic change with all the subtlety of a drunken thief. The, he leans slightly forwards over the table, clasping his hands in front of him, as if preparing to discuss something of great importance, and you <<if ($highstat is "callous") or ($highstat is "amused")>>raise an eyebrow at the move, bracing yourself.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>steel yourself for whatever else this man could possibly want to speak to you about.<<else>>find yourself leaning forwards a touch as well in return, simply out of reflex.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He continues to his next line of questioning.|WhatAreAngels]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Clearly, most of those 'advances' are seen mainly in the capital, not in 'simple', 'standard' towns like this one." You retort, making a play on his insulting choice of words. Besides, you're not incorrect; from what you've heard of Gilramore, the people there have luxuries you could only dream of. The man nods, slowly and deliberately, brows furrowing over cold blue eyes that seem to bore into your very soul, as he appears to consider your words very seriously for a moment, almost as if he's judging whether or not it was a lie. His gaze never leaves yours as he does this, and you wonder why he's staring at you like that, considering that the look on his face is bordering on a glare, and you //are// trying your best to answer his questions, after all. Finally, after what really begins to feel like some kind of bizarre staring match, he seems to settle on a response to what you said. "I suppose that makes sense." Is all that comes out of his mouth, and he finally, //finally// looks away from you, choosing to slowly shift his gaze over to stare into the dancing flames of the nearby hearth. Before you can speak on it further, however, he starts up once more, muttering under his breath. "It is of little consequence, I suspect, regardless…" The man states cryptically, as if forgetting you are there and simply speaking to himself. You hold your tongue a moment longer, searching his face while he's distracted and trying to decipher this strange man's behavior, but you don't get much longer to think on it before he seems to come back to himself, and quickly waves a hand to dismiss the moment as his eyes come back to land on you once more. "That is not the subject of debate that interests me most." He says, forcing the topic change with all the subtlety of a drunken thief. The, he leans slightly forwards over the table, clasping his hands in front of him, as if preparing to discuss something of great importance, and you <<if ($highstat is "callous") or ($highstat is "amused")>>raise an eyebrow at the move, bracing yourself.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>steel yourself for whatever else this man could possibly want to speak to you about.<<else>>find yourself leaning forwards a touch as well in return, simply out of reflex.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He continues to his next line of questioning.|WhatAreAngels]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $annoyedstranger to true>>"I don't enjoy playing guessing games with strange men in taverns. Go bother someone else." You retort, wishing he would just leave you alone already. Unfortunately, instead of promptly leaving like you wished, the man stills in his seat, his expression quickly turning into a freezing glare, blonde brows furrowing over icy blue eyes that seem to bore into your very soul. His gaze remains on you for what feels like a solid minute, until finally he speaks in a very low tone. "I don't think you understand the situation you are in, void-spawn." He warns, the insult like pure venom as it meets your ears, and your eyes widen as you realize very rapidly that you might not be as safe right now as you thought you were, fear beginning to creep into your veins from the threat. "You would do well to cooperate." He says, and you find yourself quickly swallowing from nerves, because it's not a request. It's a demand. "Now, where were we? Ah, that's right." The man says dryly, folding his hands in front of him as if this is still just a friendly chat. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He continues to his next line of questioning.|WhatAreAngels]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $annoyedstranger to true>>"I recommend asking someone else; I'm in the middle of eating, actually." You say plainly. Unfortunately, your clear dismissal only causes the man's expression to quickly turn even colder, blonde brows furrowing over icy blue eyes that seem to bore into your very soul. His gaze remains on you for what feels like a solid minute, and he doesn't move, doesn't speak, and you match his stare best you can, despite the creeping feeling crawling up your spine that there's something increasingly wrong with this stranger. "You would do well to cooperate." He says, and you find yourself quickly swallowing from nerves, because it's not a request. It's a demand. "Now, where were we? Ah, that's right." The man says dryly, folding his hands in front of him as if this is still just a friendly chat. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He continues to his next line of questioning.|WhatAreAngels]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $annoyedstranger to true>>"That's actually a very good question! Maybe you should ask the Third King about it; I'm sure if you make an appointment he'd be happy to tell you." You jest, trying to get this man to leave you alone, because you clearly don't know the answer to something like that. As to be expected, the man's expression quickly turns into a fully angry glare, blonde brows furrowing over cold, blue eyes that seem to bore into your very soul. His gaze remains on you for what feels like a solid minute, and he doesn't move, doesn't speak, doesn't even seem to breathe, and you find yourself starting to become very uneasy in this man's presence, as he seems to almost radiate a steady rage. Did you push him a little too far? He's not… actually dangerous, is he? Are you playing with fire right now? Finally, after you're really starting to consider just getting out of your chair and booking it away from him, the man seems to finally wrangle his temper into a manageable state once more in order to actually speak. "You would do well to cooperate." He says, and you find yourself quickly swallowing from nerves, because it's not a request. It's a demand. "Now, where were we? Ah, that's right." The man says dryly, folding his hands in front of him as if this is still just a friendly chat. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He continues to his next line of questioning.|WhatAreAngels]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $annoyedstranger to true>>"I'm sorry, I'm not the best person to ask. Maybe someone else in town knows?" You say politely, careful in your attempt to try to direct his questions away from you. In return, the stranger gives you a cold, flat look, which is... not the response you were hoping for. He stares at you for a moment, his seemingly intentional silence painfully heavy in its weight, and you are becoming increasingly concerned about this interaction. Finally, //finally//, he opens his mouth to respond to what you'd said, and what comes out of it does not ease your worries. "You would do well to cooperate." He says, and you find yourself quickly swallowing from nerves, because it's not a request. It's a demand. "Now, where were we? Ah, that's right." The man says dryly, folding his hands in front of him as if this is still just a friendly chat. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He continues to his next line of questioning.|WhatAreAngels]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"These… so-called 'angels'," He begins, a seriousness in his expression and tone so grave that it causes you to instantly straighten a bit in your seat as he continues, "or the 'Children of the Stars', as I've heard some refer to them. I know they are born soul mages, ones of great power, in fact, but what confuses me is the… rumors, that I have overheard of their numbers dwindling in recent years. Do you know such a thing to be true?" He doesn't really ask the question, his tone tells you it's more a command to answer it than anything. His eyes are still locked onto your face, and you are beginning to feel as if this man is looking for something specific in your expression, and you are so far disappointing him.<<if $annoyedstranger is true>> Worse than that, you think you've pissed him off, and from what you've seen so far, he doesn't seem the type to manage his anger well. Maybe you should tread carefully…<</if>> Regardless, you have no idea what he's talking about. Angels decreasing in number? Have they been, in your lifetime? You don't remember ever hearing of such a thing, and you don't know why he expects you to have. Still, he's sitting across from you, waiting. You have to say //something//. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<if $strangerdanger isnot true>><<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Apologize for your lack of knowledge.|AStrangCons][$considerate += 2, $callous -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Try to lighten the mood.|AStrangAmus][$amused += 2, $stoic -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Say you just do not know.|AStrangStoic][$stoic += 2, $amused -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Snap at him in annoyance.|AStrangCall][$callous += 2, $considerate -= 2, $hostilestranger to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<else>><<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Nervously apologize for your lack of knowledge.|AStrangWaryCons][$considerate += 2, $callous -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Try to defuse the situation.|AStrangWaryAmus][$amused += 2, $stoic -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Say you just do not know.|AStrangWaryStoic][$stoic += 2, $amused -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Snap at him in annoyance.|AStrangWaryCall][$callous += 2, $considerate -= 2, $hostilestranger to true]]</div>'>><</link>><</if>> </div><</nobr>>

"I don't know anything about that, I'm afraid." You explain, apologetic, because you truly do not have the knowledge he asks for. You only know about angels from your father's stories; you've never even seen one yourself. The man raises a brow at you, in an expression that just screams judgmental disappointment, before opening his mouth to reply. "You don't know much about most anything, it seems to be." He huffs, words almost a mutter, but the insult is said so plainly you can tell he believes himself to be simply stating a fact.<<if ($highstat is "callous") and ($strangerdanger is false)>> Your temper flares, anger rising in your chest at his words. Were you //not// answering his irritating questions truthfully?<<elseif $highstat is "callous">> Your temper flares, anger rising in your chest at his words, and you can feel the venom building on your tongue.<</if>> Before you can manage a response, however, the man is sharply standing from his seat, his blue eyes still staring down at you, pinning you in place. "Your cooperation was… wise." He mutters, almost between gritted teeth, and you simply blink at him in confusion. Then, just as sharply as he stood up, he turns and marches away from you, taking heavy steps that lead him across the open room, weaving between tables and patrons until he's pushing his way out through the front set of doors, and he finally disappears from your line of sight. Well. Guess that's the end of… whatever that extremely strange interaction was. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You suppose that was his way of bidding you farewell.|KaineJumpscare]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"You //really// picked the worst person to ask about this, because the knowledge I have about that is pretty much nonexistent." You give him a half-smile, trying to lighten the mood in the air. From the look on the man's face, it doesn't work very well, as he seems unaffected by your attempt at humor. The man raises a brow at you, in an expression that just screams judgmental disappointment, before opening his mouth to reply. "You don't know much about most anything, it seems to be." He huffs, words almost a mutter, but the insult is said so plainly you can tell he believes himself to be simply stating a fact.<<if ($highstat is "callous") and ($strangerdanger is false)>> Your temper flares, anger rising in your chest at his words. Were you //not// answering his irritating questions truthfully?<<elseif $highstat is "callous">> Your temper flares, anger rising in your chest at his words, and you can feel the venom building on your tongue.<</if>> Before you can manage a response, however, the man is sharply standing from his seat, his blue eyes still staring down at you, pinning you in place. "Your cooperation was… wise." He mutters, almost between gritted teeth, and you simply blink at him in confusion. Then, just as sharply as he stood up, he turns and marches away from you, taking heavy steps that lead him across the open room, weaving between tables and patrons until he's pushing his way out through the front set of doors, and he finally disappears from your line of sight. Well. Guess that's the end of… whatever that extremely strange interaction was. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You suppose that was his way of bidding you farewell.|KaineJumpscare]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"I have no idea." You state plainly, because truly, it should be obvious that you don't know; You've never traveled much, or ever even seen an angel, so you only know what you've heard about them from your father, really. The man raises a brow at you, in an expression that just screams judgmental disappointment, before opening his mouth to reply. "You don't know much about most anything, it seems to be." He huffs, words almost a mutter, but the insult is said so plainly you can tell he believes himself to be simply stating a fact.<<if ($highstat is "callous") and ($strangerdanger is false)>> Your temper flares, anger rising in your chest at his words. Were you //not// answering his irritating questions truthfully?<<elseif $highstat is "callous">> Your temper flares, anger rising in your chest at his words, and you can feel the venom building on your tongue.<</if>> Before you can manage a response, however, the man is sharply standing from his seat, his blue eyes still staring down at you, pinning you in place. "Your cooperation was… wise." He mutters, almost between gritted teeth, and you simply blink at him in confusion. Then, just as sharply as he stood up, he turns and marches away from you, taking heavy steps that lead him across the open room, weaving between tables and patrons until he's pushing his way out through the front set of doors, and he finally disappears from your line of sight. Well. Guess that's the end of… whatever that extremely strange interaction was. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You suppose that was his way of bidding you farewell.|KaineJumpscare]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Why the stars would I know anything about that? Do I look like an angel to you?" You snap, annoyed, because this man has been trying your patience for a while now. You almost instantly come to regret the outburst, however, because suddenly all pretense of civility appears to vanish from the air around the table, and the jovial sounds of the surrounding tavern seem to fade away as the man narrows his eyes at you, pure disdain now obvious in his face. A spike of fear shoots through you instantly, the atmosphere now suffocating and cold, and you find yourself pinned to the spot, unable to will yourself to move, to even so much as leave the chair. What is happening? Is he going to attack you simply for your resistance, in a public place no less? No one would be foolish enough to try that, right? Faced with his piercing, pale blue eyes as he silently glares, you question that hope. "No, you don't look like any kind of angel to me." He finally says, the words slow, deliberate, and full of nothing but contempt. Then, abruptly, the stranger stands from his seat, almost making you jump out of your own skin in terror, but despite your worst fears he simply towers over the table between the two of you, staring with icy, dead eyes, his heavy jaw firmly clenched underneath his blonde beard. "Useless rot. I should have expected no different." He spits at you, voice low and so, so very angry that it feels like there is nothing in this man's heart but a deep, boiling rage. Then, once again without any warning, he sharply turns away, taking heavy, forceful steps that lead him away from you and across the open room, weaving between tables and patrons until he's shoving his way out through the front set of doors, and finally disappears from your line of sight. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[His presence, however, continues to linger.|KaineJumpscareDanger]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"I don't know anything about that, I'm afraid." You explain, apologetic and trying to stay calm, as you truly do not have the knowledge he asks for. You only know about angels from your father's stories; you've never even seen one yourself. The man raises a brow at you, in an expression that just screams judgmental disappointment, before opening his mouth to reply. "You don't know much about most anything, it seems to be." He huffs, words almost a mutter, but the insult is said so plainly you can tell he believes himself to be simply stating a fact.<<if $highstat is "callous">> Your temper flares, anger rising in your chest at his words, and you can feel the venom building on your tongue.<</if>> Before you can manage a response, however, the man is sharply standing from his seat, his blue eyes still staring down at you, pinning you in place. "Your cooperation was… wise." He mutters, almost between gritted teeth, and you simply blink at him in confusion. Then, just as sharply as he stood up, he turns and marches away from you, taking heavy steps that lead him across the open room, weaving between tables and patrons until he's pushing his way out through the front set of doors, and he finally disappears from your line of sight. Well. Guess that's the end of… whatever that extremely strange interaction was. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You suppose that was his way of bidding you farewell.|KaineJumpscare]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"You //really// picked the worst person to ask about this, because the knowledge I have about that is pretty much nonexistent." You give him a half-smile to defuse the situation, trying to lighten the mood in the air. From the look on the man's face, it doesn't work, at all. In fact, he narrows his eyes at you, and doesn't even respond. Then, abruptly, the stranger stands from his seat, almost making you jump out of your own skin in terror, but despite your worst fears he simply towers over the table between the two of you, staring with icy, dead eyes, his heavy jaw firmly clenched underneath his blonde beard. "Useless rot. I should have expected no different." He spits at you, voice low and so, so very angry that it feels like there is nothing in this man's heart but a deep, boiling rage. Then, once again without any warning, he sharply turns away, taking heavy, forceful steps that lead him away from you and across the open room, weaving between tables and patrons until he's shoving his way out through the front set of doors, and finally disappears from your line of sight. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[His presence, however, continues to linger.|KaineJumpscareDanger]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"I have no idea." You state plainly, playing it safe, because truly, it should be obvious that you don't know; You've never traveled much, or ever even seen an angel, so you only know what you've heard about them from your father, really. The man raises a brow at you, in an expression that just screams judgmental disappointment, before opening his mouth to reply. "You don't know much about most anything, it seems to be." He huffs, words almost a mutter, but the insult is said so plainly you can tell he believes himself to be simply stating a fact.<<if $highstat is "callous">> Your temper flares, anger rising in your chest at his words, and you can feel the venom building on your tongue.<</if>> Before you can manage a response, however, the man is sharply standing from his seat, his blue eyes still staring down at you, pinning you in place. "Your cooperation was… wise." He mutters, almost between gritted teeth, and you simply blink at him in confusion. Then, just as sharply as he stood up, he turns and marches away from you, taking heavy steps that lead him across the open room, weaving between tables and patrons until he's pushing his way out through the front set of doors, and he finally disappears from your line of sight. Well. Guess that's the end of… whatever that extremely strange interaction was. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You suppose that was his way of bidding you farewell.|KaineJumpscare]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Why the stars would I know anything about that? Do I look like an angel to you?" You snap, annoyed, despite the risk that this man seems to pose. You almost instantly come to regret the outburst, of course, because suddenly all remaining pretense of civility appears to vanish from the air around the table, and the jovial sounds of the surrounding tavern seem to fade away as the man narrows his eyes at you, pure disdain now obvious in his face. A spike of fear shoots through you instantly, the atmosphere now suffocating and cold, and you find yourself pinned to the spot, unable to will yourself to move, to even so much as leave the chair. What is happening? Is he going to attack you, in a public place no less? No one would be foolish enough to try that, right? Faced with his piercing, pale blue eyes as he silently glares, you question that hope. "No, you don't look like any kind of angel to me." He finally says, the words slow, deliberate, and full of nothing but contempt. Then, abruptly, the stranger stands from his seat, almost making you jump out of your own skin in terror, but despite your worst fears he simply towers over the table between the two of you, staring with icy, dead eyes, his heavy jaw firmly clenched underneath his blonde beard. "Useless rot. I should have expected no different." He spits at you, voice low and so, so very angry that it feels like there is nothing in this man's heart but a deep, boiling rage. Then, once again without any warning, he sharply turns away, taking heavy, forceful steps that lead him away from you and across the open room, weaving between tables and patrons until he's shoving his way out through the front set of doors, and finally disappears from your line of sight. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[His presence, however, continues to linger.|KaineJumpscareDanger]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

It takes you a second, after he's gone, for you to realize that you're still staring dumbly at the door he left through, and you blink, turning back to the table you're still seated at. Regardless of your physical shift away from the moment, your thoughts continue to linger on what just happened, like a child prodding at a new loose tooth. What the //stars// had that whole interaction been about? Why had that man approached you, of all people? You don't know, and it leaves you uneasy, with a bad taste in your mouth. <<if ($kainebff is true) or ($kainefriend is true)>>It's then that you feel a hand come to rest on your shoulder, the touch startlingly abrupt, and you almost fall out of your chair with how sharply you jolt in surprise. Whipping your head up to see who could have initiated the contact,<<else>>It's then that you hear your last name called over your shoulder, the sound startlingly close to you, and you almost fall out of your chair with how sharply you jolt in surprise. Whipping your head up to see the source of the address,<</if>> you find yourself staring wide-eyed up at none other than Kaine Breckem, his expression quickly matching your own. "$lastname?" He addresses you<<if $kainestrained is true>> again<</if>>, the surname coming out slightly surprised. "Oh, sorry, I didn't mean to scare you. I actually intended to come over sooner, but you seemed a bit... preoccupied." Inquisitive brown eyes scan over your face then, but soon shift to look over towards the door your previous conversation partner left through<<if $kainestrained isnot true>>, as his hand slips from your shoulder<</if>>. "I didn't recognize that man, what did he want?" Kaine asks, his gaze returning down to you as he raises a brow, leaning his hip up against the edge of the table and crossing his arms, settling in.<<if $kainebff isnot true>> "Unless it's none of my business, of course." He adds, giving you a slightly guilty smile, apparently realizing that he's prying.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Say he was looking for information.|KJCons][$considerate += 2, $callous -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Sarcastically express what transpired.|KJAmus][$amused += 2, $stoic -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[State that he interrupted you to ask questions.|KJStoic][$stoic += 2, $amused -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Vent your irritation about that whole interaction.|KJCall][$callous += 2, $considerate -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

It takes you a second, after he's gone, to realize that you're holding your breath, and you shakily pull air into your lungs, one of your hands gripped onto the edge of the table so hard your fingers are beginning to ache with the force. Your eyes are still fixed on the door he vanished behind, and you wonder what in the //stars// that was about, as the anxiety, the fear that man instilled in you, clings with icy fingers onto your heart. <<if ($kainebff is true) or ($kainefriend is true)>>It's then that you feel a hand come to rest on your shoulder, the touch startlingly abrupt, and you almost fall out of your chair with how sharply you jolt in surprise. Whipping your head up to see who could have initiated the contact,<<else>>It's then that you hear your last name called over your shoulder, the sound startlingly close to you, and you almost fall out of your chair with how sharply you jolt in surprise. Whipping your head up to see the source of the address,<</if>> you find yourself staring wide-eyed up at none other than Kaine Breckem, his expression concerned, and partially apologetic. "$lastname?" He addresses you again, the surname coming out gentle and soft, as if not to spook you further. "Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you, but are you… alright? I called to you a few times but you didn't answer…" Worried brown eyes scan over your face, over your death grip onto the table. "…and you look like you just saw a ghost." Kaine observes, and you swallow, trying to work some words back onto your tongue. <<nobr>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Say you are relieved that that man left.|KJWaryCons][$considerate += 2, $callous -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Try to laugh off your lingering fear.|KJWaryAmus][$amused += 2, $stoic -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Focus on what needs to be done about this.|KJWaryStoic][$stoic += 2, $amused -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Vent your emotions to him.|KJWaryCall][$callous += 2, $considerate -= 2]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Yes, well... That man I was sitting with was //very// hostile towards me." You sigh, relieved at the change in company. "But at least he's gone now." You're attempting to see the bright side of the encounter, but from how Kaine's eyes widen and his brow furrows in a heavy mix of surprise and anger, it might be a fruitless endeavor. "He was //what//?" Kaine asks lowly, enraged disbelief in his voice as his eyes jump towards the door the man left from. <<if $kainebff is true>>You've seen this look in Kaine's eye many a time before, a righteous, personal anger, when you were both young and another your age was unkind to you. But this is not then, and you get the feeling that that strange man is not simply a childish bully. Therefor, it does not surprise you when Kaine's hand drops from your shoulder, and he begins to step towards the direction of the door.<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>You've seen this look in Kaine's eye a few times before, a righteous anger from when someone was unkind to you. But this is not like those times, and you get the feeling that that strange man is not simply all talk. Therefor, it does not entirely surprise you when Kaine's hand drops from your shoulder, and he begins to step towards the direction of the door.<<else>>You don't recognize the look in Kaine's eye, so it takes you a confused moment to understand his reaction, but then it hits you: he's mad on your behalf. Why he would care so deeply about how you're treated, you don't know… but after all this time, you're beginning to suspect that might just be how Kaine is. He begins to step away from you, and that's when you realize: Kaine is going to go after the stranger, to give them a piece of his mind.<</if>> Every part of you screams that that is a wholly unwise course of action, and you should probably prevent it from happening. <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Grab his hand; You do not want him to leave." + $flirtlabel|RomStopKaine][$kaineRflag ++]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Stop him, because going after a dangerous man is not exactly wise.|StopKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>>

"You could say that... I'm pretty sure that man that just left wasn't a big fan of my charming personality. Felt like he was threatening me." You smile, a little shaky, but still trying to lighten up the situation, but from how Kaine's eyes widen and his brow furrows in a heavy mix of surprise and anger, it might be a fruitless endeavor. "He //threatened// you?" Kaine asks lowly, enraged disbelief in his voice as his eyes jump towards the door the man left from. <<if $kainebff is true>>You've seen this look in Kaine's eye many a time before, a righteous, personal anger, when you were both young and another your age was unkind to you. But this is not then, and you get the feeling that that strange man is not simply a childish bully. Therefor, it does not surprise you when Kaine's hand drops from your shoulder, and he begins to step towards the direction of the door.<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>You've seen this look in Kaine's eye a few times before, a righteous anger from when someone was unkind to you. But this is not like those times, and you get the feeling that that strange man is not simply all talk. Therefor, it does not entirely surprise you when Kaine's hand drops from your shoulder, and he begins to step towards the direction of the door.<<else>>You don't recognize the look in Kaine's eye, so it takes you a confused moment to understand his reaction, but then it hits you: he's mad on your behalf. Why he would care so deeply about how you're treated, you don't know… but after all this time, you're beginning to suspect that might just be how Kaine is. He begins to step away from you, and that's when you realize: Kaine is going to go after the stranger, to give them a piece of his mind.<</if>> Every part of you screams that that is a wholly unwise course of action, and you should probably prevent it from happening. <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Grab his hand; You do not want him to leave." + $flirtlabel|RomStopKaine][$kaineRflag ++]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Stop him, because going after a dangerous man is not exactly wise.|StopKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>>

"I'm... I'm fine. However, we should probably warn my father about the man I was just speaking with; I think he's likely dangerous." You explain, trying to calm yourself and stay focused on what is important. "You don't //look// fine, and—" Kaine starts, then blinks, eyes widening. "Wait, you think that guy is //what//?!" Doing a double-take at the door across the crowded room, Kaine looks back at you again, dark brows furrowing over angry brown eyes. "What did he say to you?!" <<if $kainebff is true>>Your childhood friend<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>Your friend<<else>>Kaine<</if>> asks lowly, but he doesn't actually wait for a reply before his eyes jump back towards the door the man left from. <<if $kainebff is true>>You've seen this look in Kaine's eye many a time before, a righteous, personal anger, when you were both young and another your age was unkind to you. But this is not then, and you get the feeling that that strange man is not simply a childish bully. Therefor, it does not surprise you when Kaine's hand drops from your shoulder, and he begins to step towards the direction of the door.<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>You've seen this look in Kaine's eye a few times before, a righteous anger from when someone was unkind to you. But this is not like those times, and you get the feeling that that strange man is not simply all talk. Therefor, it does not entirely surprise you when Kaine's hand drops from your shoulder, and he begins to step towards the direction of the door.<<else>>You don't recognize the look in Kaine's eye, so it takes you a confused moment to understand his reaction, but then it hits you: he's mad on your behalf. Why he would care so deeply about how you're treated, you don't know… but after all this time, you're beginning to suspect that might just be how Kaine is. He begins to step away from you, and that's when you realize: Kaine is going to go after the stranger, to give them a piece of his mind.<</if>> Every part of you screams that that is a wholly unwise course of action, and you should probably prevent it from happening. <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Grab his hand; You do not want him to leave." + $flirtlabel|RomStopKaine][$kaineRflag ++]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Stop him, because going after a dangerous man is not exactly wise.|StopKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>>

"Kaine, did you see what happened with the man who was sitting across from me? Who the stars does he think he is, insulting and trying to intimidate me?" You vent to Kaine. Your voice is low, full of indignation, but there's an unsteadiness to it as well; a tremor of fear that Kaine seems to pick up on, causing his eyes to widen and his brow to furrow in a heavy mix of surprise and anger. "He tried to //what//?" Kaine growls out, disbelief and rage in his voice as his eyes jump towards the door the man left from. <<if $kainebff is true>>You've seen this look in Kaine's eye many a time before, a righteous, personal anger, when you were both young and another your age was unkind to you. But this is not then, and you get the feeling that that strange man is not simply a childish bully. Therefor, it does not surprise you when Kaine's hand drops from your shoulder, and he begins to step towards the direction of the door.<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>You've seen this look in Kaine's eye a few times before, a righteous anger from when someone was unkind to you. But this is not like those times, and you get the feeling that that strange man is not simply all talk. Therefor, it does not entirely surprise you when Kaine's hand drops from your shoulder, and he begins to step towards the direction of the door.<<else>>You don't recognize the look in Kaine's eye, so it takes you a confused moment to understand his reaction, but then it hits you: he's mad on your behalf. Why he would care so deeply about how you're treated, you don't know… but after all this time, you're beginning to suspect that might just be how Kaine is. He begins to step away from you, and that's when you realize: Kaine is going to go after the stranger, to give them a piece of his mind.<</if>> Every part of you screams that that is a wholly unwise course of action, and you should probably prevent it from happening. <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Grab his hand; You do not want him to leave." + $flirtlabel|RomStopKaine][$kaineRflag ++]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Stop him, because going after a dangerous man is not exactly wise.|StopKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>>

You stand up in a flash, your hand reaching out and gripping Kaine's shoulder just hard enough to hopefully prevent him from getting too far from you. He stops instantly in his tracks, the angry energy surrounding him suddenly dissipating as his gaze turns back to your hand on him, eyebrows raised in surprise as his eyes then flick to your own. <<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>>"Kaine, it's okay. I'm fine… and I don't want you getting hurt for my sake." You tell him, imploring.<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>"Whoa, cool it there, Kaine. I'm fine, don't worry about that guy." You half laugh, but your grip on Kaine's shoulder doesn't loosen.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>"Kaine, I'm fine, but like I said, that man seems dangerous. I don't want you to get hurt." You try to explain.<<elseif $highstat is "callous">>"Kaine, don't be an idiot! That man could hurt you, and I… I don't want to see that." You awkwardly express, words annoyingly meaningful.<</if>> The last of Kaine's anger seems to vanish then, replaced with concern once again as his dark eyes look you over carefully, as if searching. "Are you sure?" He asks, voice soft, and you nod, inwardly thanking the Celestials you managed to cool his head before he did something foolish. Kaine's demeanor loosens a bit then, and he takes a slow breath in, letting it out in a long sigh before he continues. "Fine, I'll let it go this time. But if that guy comes around here again, it'll be a different story." Despite the vague threat, his voice comes out light and teasing, and you <<if $highstat is "callous">>roll your eyes at him, but still can't quite resist the slight smile quirking your lips.<<elseif $higstat is "stoic">>can't quite resist the slight smile quirking your lips.<<else>>can't keep yourself from softly laughing in response.<</if>> "So..." Kaine says a moment later, changing the subject and gesturing to your table. "Mind if I join you? I can promise I'm at //least// better company than the last guy was." He chuckles, apparently laughing at his own little joke. <<if $kainestrained is true>>You blink in response, suprised. Not at Kaine's friendliness, that's always been a constant, regardless of your clear hesitance towards him. But at the fact that, despite Kaine's relaxed, outgoing behavior, prior to this he's always seemed to respect the distance between the two of you; personal time is not something you've ever endeavored to spend together, save when your father first hired Kaine and he made a few attempts to befriend you. Back then, you had shown obvious disinterest, could even say obvious //dislike//, towards him, and you had thought he had given up on you long ago. You find yourself surprised to see that maybe, he has not. "Oh, um... I don't mind." You find yourself quietly answering, words<<if $highstat is "amused">> oddly<</if>> hesitant. Kaine seems a touch surprised at your acceptance, but within seconds his expression quickly turns into a brilliant smile.<<elseif $kainebff is true>>"You don't have to ask, Kaine." You <<if $highstat is "callous">>raise a brow at him,<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>say plainly,<<else>>laugh softly,<</if>> reminding him for the millionth time, and in response Kaine's expression quickly turns into a brilliant smile.<<else>>"You don't have to ask, Kaine." You <<if $highstat is "callous">>raise a brow,<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>say plainly,<<else>>laugh softly,<</if>> reminding him, and in response Kaine's expression quickly turns into a brilliant smile.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $kainestrained is true>><<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You return to your chair, and Kaine sits down across from you.|SitdownWithKaineNoVent]]</div>'>><</link>> <<else>><<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You return to your chair, and Kaine sits down across from you.|SitdownWithKaine]]</div>'>><</link>><</if>> </div><</nobr>>

You reach out in a flash, grasping Kaine's wrist lightly in your hand before he can get too far. He stops instantly in his tracks, the angry energy surrounding him suddenly dissipating as his gaze whips back to your hand on him, surprise evident on his face as his eyes then flick to your own. <<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>>"Kaine, it's okay. I'm fine… and I don't want you getting hurt for my sake." You tell him, imploring.<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>"Whoa, cool it there, Kaine. I'm fine, don't worry about that guy." You half laugh, but your grip on Kaine doesn't loosen.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>"Kaine, I'm fine, but like I said, that man seems dangerous. I don't want you to get hurt." You try to explain.<<elseif $highstat is "callous">>"Kaine, don't be an idiot! That man could hurt you, and I… I don't want to see that." You awkwardly express, words annoyingly meaningful.<</if>> The last of Kaine's anger seems to vanish then, replaced with concern once again as his dark eyes look you over carefully, as if searching. "Are you sure?" He asks, voice soft, and you nod, inwardly thanking the Celestials you managed to cool his head before he did something foolish.<<if $kainebff is true>> Then, to your surprise, Kaine shifts his arm so your hand slips down into his own, and he holds it warmly in his grasp as he smiles at you, clear fondness in his brown eyes.<<if $kainecrush is true>> You feel his scarred thumb rub lightly over the back of your hand, and his eyes suddenly dart away from you as you almost swear that there's a slight blush creeping over his tawny skin, but surely it could just be a trick of the light, right? Regardless, your heart rate picks up, and you hope to the stars Kaine doesn't notice.<<else>> You feel his scarred thumb rub lightly over the back of your hand, the action seemingly absentminded, but regardless your heart rate picks up, and you hope to the stars Kaine doesn't notice.<</if>> Finally, with a last comforting squeeze of your palm, Kaine releases your hand, and you pull it back to your side.<<else>> You both remain there for a moment, as if taking comfort in the other's mere presence, until realization seems to settle in that you're still holding Kaine's wrist in your hand. Embarrassment quickly clear on both of your faces, you release your grip, and your hand returns to your side. You do notice, however, that Kaine subtly flexes the hand you were almost holding, but you don't have too long to think on the action, as you soon notice he's beaming a genuine, somewhat boyish smile at you.<</if>> For a few seconds, neither of you seem to know what to do now. "So..." Kaine finally says a moment later, only slightly awkward as he clears his throat and changes the subject, gesturing to your table. "Mind if I join you? I can promise I'm at //least// better company than the last guy was." He chuckles, apparently laughing at his own little joke. <<if $kainestrained is true>>You blink in response, suprised. Not at Kaine's friendliness, that's always been a constant, regardless of your clear hesitance towards him. But at the fact that, despite Kaine's relaxed, outgoing behavior, prior to this he's always seemed to respect the distance between the two of you; personal time is not something you've ever endeavored to spend together, save when your father first hired Kaine and he made a few attempts to befriend you. Back then, you had shown obvious disinterest, could even say obvious //dislike//, towards him, and you had thought he had given up on you long ago. You find yourself unexpectedly hopeful to see that maybe, he has not. "Oh, um... I don't mind." You find yourself quietly answering, words unbidden, almost startlingly so. Even Kaine seems a touch surprised at your acceptance, but within seconds his expression quickly turns into a brilliant, borderline //handsome// smile, and you find yourself staring for a beat until realization snaps you out of it. Oh, stars, did you just think of Kaine as //handsome//? You don't have time to unpack that right now, unfortunately... or maybe fortunately?<<elseif ($kainebff is true) and ($kainecrush is false)>>"You don't have to ask, Kaine." You <<if $highstat is "callous">>raise a brow at him,<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>say plainly,<<else>>laugh softly,<</if>> reminding him for the millionth time, and in response Kaine's expression quickly turns into a brilliant, borderline //handsome// smile, and you find yourself staring for a beat until realization snaps you out of it. Oh, stars, did you just think of Kaine as //handsome//? You don't have time to unpack that right now, unfortunately... or maybe fortunately?<<elseif ($kainebff is true) and ($kainecrush is true)>>"You don't have to ask, Kaine." You <<if $highstat is "callous">>raise a brow at him,<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>say plainly,<<else>>laugh softly,<</if>> reminding him for the millionth time, and in response Kaine's expression quickly turns into a brilliant, painfully //handsome// smile, and you find yourself staring for a beat until realization snaps you out of it. Stars above, you'd think you'd have gotten used to the ache he leaves in your chest by now... Thankfully, you don't have time to dwell on it long.<<else>>"You don't have to ask, Kaine." You <<if $highstat is "callous">>raise a brow,<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>say plainly,<<else>>laugh softly,<</if>> reminding him, and in response Kaine's expression quickly turns into a brilliant, borderline //handsome// smile, and you find yourself staring for a beat until realization snaps you out of it. Oh, stars, did you just think of Kaine as //handsome//? You don't have time to unpack that right now, unfortunately... or maybe fortunately?<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $kainestrained is true>><<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Kaine sits down across from you.|SitdownWithKaineNoVent]]</div>'>><</link>> <<else>><<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Kaine sits down across from you.|SitdownWithKaine]]</div>'>><</link>><</if>> </div><</nobr>>

You turn back to your forgotten meal, picking at your now cold food as Kaine makes himself comfortable on the opposite side of the table. <<if $kainebff is true>>The silence streches out for a few moments, but it's a comfortable one; you and Kaine have long since grown used to each others quiet company.<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>The silence streches out for a few moments, but it's not an uncomfortable one; it's not the first time you and Kaine have spent time in each others quiet company.<<else>>The silence streches out for a few moments, slightly uncomfortable as it continues; you and Kaine have never really spent quiet time together, but you find that the situation is not unwelcome, despite that.<</if>> When you chance a glance towards him, you find him with his brows furrowed, staring thoughtfully at the patterns in the wooden table between you, and you begin to suspect Kaine has something on his mind. Figuring he'll bring it up when he's ready, you return your focus to eating your remaining fried egg. By the time you've swallowed the last of it, Kaine appears to finally have decided on how to voice his thoughts. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if ($kainestrained is true) and ($kstrainedvent is true)>><<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He speaks up with an inevitable question.|KaineAsksStrainedDidVent]]</div>'>><</link>> <<else>><<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He speaks up with an unsurprising question.|KaineAsksFather]]</div>'>><</link>><</if>> </div><</nobr>>

"Information... at least, I think that was it? He kept asking me about soul mages, and angels. Seemed a bit <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>> that I couldn't tell him much." You explain, still mulling through the interaction in your mind. <<if $highstat is "callous">>"He came to //you// of all people to ask questions?" Kaine raises a brow, a teasing grin pulling on his lips, and you make a face at him, ignoring the quip. "But wait- he got <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>>?" Kaine adds the question, his eyebrows rising.<<elseif $highstat is "considerate">>"Not entirely surprised he picked you to ask, you're generally pretty approachable." Kaine remarks, thoughtful. "But wait- he got <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>>?" Kaine adds the question, his eyebrows rising.<<else>>"He got <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>>?" Kaine asks, his eyebrows rising.<</if>> "Yeah. He thanked me for my 'cooperation', though, which was... odd." Comes your reply, and that makes Kaine's brow furrow this time. He seems to think to himself for a moment, head turning to look out over the rest of the main hall as he does, until he finally looks back down to you, a strange intensity to his gaze. "Do you want me to go have a word with him?" Kaine offers, tone serious as he regards you, and you blink. <<if $kainebff is true>>You've seen this look in his eyes many a time before, a protective nature of his that has come out when you were both young and another your age was unkind to you. But this is not then, and you get the odd feeling that that strange man is not simply a childish bully.<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>You've seen this look in his eyes a few times before, a protective nature of his that has come out when someone was unkind to you. But this is not like those times, and you get the odd feeling that that strange man is more than he seems.<<else>>You don't recognize the look in his eyes, so it takes you a confused moment to understand his reaction, but then it hits you: Kaine's trying to look out for you. Why he would care so much about how you're treated, you don't know... especially considering the fact that you have always tried to push him away. And yet...<</if>><<if $kainestrained is true>> Regardless, you need to respond to Kaine's question. <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Ask why he would do that for you." + $trustlabel|StrainAskKaine][$kaineTflag ++, $kstrainedvent to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Say you appreciate it, but to let it go.|AskKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>><<else>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You appreciate it, but Kaine should let it go.|AskKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><</if>>

"He invited himself over, and then asked me a bunch of questions about soul magic and angels, and was <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>> when I didn't know the answers. Interrupted my lunch, too." You try to say matter-of-factly, but you have to admit, you're still a little annoyed about your meal being intruded on. Apparently, that annoyance shows in your tone a bit more than you thought, because Kaine looks down at your neglected plate, and frowns. "I noticed that, but wait- he got <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>>?" Kaine asks, his eyebrows rising. "Yeah. He thanked me for my 'cooperation', though, which was... odd." Comes your reply, and that makes Kaine's brow furrow this time. He seems to think to himself for a moment, head turning to look out over the rest of the main hall as he does, until he finally looks back down to you, a strange intensity to his gaze. "Do you want me to go have a word with him?" Kaine offers, tone serious as he regards you, and you blink. <<if $kainebff is true>>You've seen this look in his eyes many a time before, a protective nature of his that has come out when you were both young and another your age was unkind to you. But this is not then, and you get the odd feeling that that strange man is not simply a childish bully.<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>You've seen this look in his eyes a few times before, a protective nature of his that has come out when someone was unkind to you. But this is not like those times, and you get the odd feeling that that strange man is more than he seems.<<else>>You don't recognize the look in his eyes, so it takes you a confused moment to understand his reaction, but then it hits you: Kaine's trying to look out for you. Why he would care so much about how you're treated, you don't know... especially considering the fact that you have always tried to push him away. And yet...<</if>><<if $kainestrained is true>> Regardless, you need to respond to Kaine's question. <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Ask why he would do that for you." + $trustlabel|StrainAskKaine][$kaineTflag ++, $kstrainedvent to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Say you appreciate it, but to let it go.|AskKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>><<else>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You appreciate it, but Kaine should let it go.|AskKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><</if>>

"To annoy me with questions about magic that I //clearly// don't know the answers to." You remark, rolling your eyes. "Bastard even had the nerve to get <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>> when I couldn't tell him much.<<if $annoyedstranger is false>> That's the //last// time I try to help someone who asks for it." Annoyance is clear in your tone as you groan. "I sure hope that doesn't apply to me, and the next time I need your help sweeping the place." Kaine says, breathing out a laugh. "But wait- he got irritated?" He adds the question, his eyebrows rising.<<else>>" <<if $highstat is "callous">>"He came to //you// of all people to ask questions?" Kaine raises a brow, a teasing grin pulling on his lips, and you make a face at him, ignoring the quip. "But wait- he got <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>>?" Kaine adds the question, his eyebrows rising.<<elseif $highstat is "considerate">>"Not entirely surprised he picked you to ask, you're generally pretty approachable." Kaine remarks, thoughtful. "But wait- he got <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>>?" Kaine adds the question, his eyebrows rising.<<else>>"He got <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>>?" Kaine asks, his eyebrows rising.<</if>><</if>> "Yeah. He thanked me for my 'cooperation', though, which was... odd." Comes your reply, and that makes Kaine's brow furrow this time. He seems to think to himself for a moment, head turning to look out over the rest of the main hall as he does, until he finally looks back down to you, a strange intensity to his gaze. "Do you want me to go have a word with him?" Kaine offers, tone serious as he regards you, and you blink. <<if $kainebff is true>>You've seen this look in his eyes many a time before, a protective nature of his that has come out when you were both young and another your age was unkind to you. But this is not then, and you get the odd feeling that that strange man is not simply a childish bully.<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>You've seen this look in his eyes a few times before, a protective nature of his that has come out when someone was unkind to you. But this is not like those times, and you get the odd feeling that that strange man is more than he seems.<<else>>You don't recognize the look in his eyes, so it takes you a confused moment to understand his reaction, but then it hits you: Kaine's trying to look out for you. Why he would care so much about how you're treated, you don't know... especially considering the fact that you have always tried to push him away. And yet...<</if>><<if $kainestrained is true>> Regardless, you need to respond to Kaine's question. <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Ask why he would do that for you." + $trustlabel|StrainAskKaine][$kaineTflag ++, $kstrainedvent to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Say you appreciate it, but to let it go.|AskKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>><<else>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You appreciate it, but Kaine should let it go.|AskKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><</if>>

"Oh, y'know, to ask me about all the kingdom's newest, hottest gossip. Like angels, and soul mages, and stuff I would absolutely know //lots// about. Was totally thrilled with my answers, too." You say, giving a half-grin as your voice absolutely drips with sarcasm. <<if $highstat is "callous">>"He came to //you// of all people to ask questions?" Kaine raises a brow, a teasing grin pulling on his lips, and you make a face at him, ignoring the quip. "But wait- he got <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>>?" Kaine adds the question, his eyebrows rising.<<elseif $highstat is "considerate">>"Not entirely surprised he picked you to ask, you're generally pretty approachable." Kaine remarks, thoughtful. "But wait- he got <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>>?" Kaine adds the question, his eyebrows rising.<<else>>"He got <<if $annoyedstranger is true>>angry<<else>>irritated<</if>>?" Kaine asks, his eyebrows rising.<</if>> "Yeah. He thanked me for my 'cooperation', though, which was... odd." Comes your reply, and that makes Kaine's brow furrow this time. He seems to think to himself for a moment, head turning to look out over the rest of the main hall as he does, until he finally looks back down to you, a strange intensity to his gaze. "Do you want me to go have a word with him?" Kaine offers, tone serious as he regards you, and you blink. <<if $kainebff is true>>You've seen this look in his eyes many a time before, a protective nature of his that has come out when you were both young and another your age was unkind to you. But this is not then, and you get the odd feeling that that strange man is not simply a childish bully.<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>You've seen this look in his eyes a few times before, a protective nature of his that has come out when someone was unkind to you. But this is not like those times, and you get the odd feeling that that strange man is more than he seems.<<else>>You don't recognize the look in his eyes, so it takes you a confused moment to understand his reaction, but then it hits you: Kaine's trying to look out for you. Why he would care so much about how you're treated, you don't know... especially considering the fact that you have always tried to push him away. And yet...<</if>><<if $kainestrained is true>> Regardless, you need to respond to Kaine's question. <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Ask why he would do that for you." + $trustlabel|StrainAskKaine][$kaineTflag ++, $kstrainedvent to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Say you appreciate it, but to let it go.|AskKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>><<else>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[You appreciate it, but Kaine should let it go.|AskKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>><</if>>

<<if $kainestrained is true>><<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>>You pause in suprise, because his concern for you is unexpected, but then you smile at Kaine, grateful that he'd offer. "Thank you, Kaine, but I don't think you need to do that. I got the feeling that, whoever he is, he's not staying in town long, anyways."<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>You pause, surprised at his concern for you, but then you break out in a laugh, imagining Kaine giving the stranger a stern talking-to for his behavior, and shake your head. "Yeah, I'm not sure that's a good idea. Not to mention that I honestly doubt that guy will be in town long. Still though, thank you for offering, it's sweet of you." You throw in a playful wink at the end, and Kaine just rolls his eyes at you.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>You pause, surprised at his concern, but then simply shake your head. "I appreciate the offer, Kaine, but I don't think that's entirely necessary. I doubt that, whoever he is, he's staying in town long, anyways."<<elseif $highstat is "callous">>You pause for a moment, his concern for you catching you off guard. Then, you find yourself quickly looking down at the table, already embarrassed just //thinking// of what you're about to have to say. "I can look after myself, but I... appreciate the thought, Kaine." The words have to be forced off of your tongue, but you //do// mean them. Then, attempting to shake off the awkward statement before he can respond, you look back at Kaine, raising your chin slightly in a mild show of bravado. "However, I doubt that'll be needed. The man looked like a traveler; he'll probably be leaving soon."<</if>><<else>><<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>>You smile at Kaine, grateful that he'd offer. "Thank you, Kaine, but I don't think you need to do that. I got the feeling that, whoever he is, he's not staying in town long, anyways."<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>You laugh, imagining Kaine giving the stranger a stern talking-to for his behavior, and shake your head. "Yeah, I'm not sure that's a good idea. Not to mention that I honestly doubt that guy will be in town long. Still though, thank you for offering, it's sweet of you." You throw in a playful wink at the end, and Kaine just rolls his eyes at you.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>You simply blink and shake your head. "I appreciate the offer, Kaine, but I don't think that's entirely necessary. I doubt that, whoever he is, he's staying in town long, anyways."<<elseif $highstat is "callous">>You find yourself quickly looking down at the table, already embarrassed just //thinking// of what you're about to say. "I can look after myself, but I... appreciate the thought, Kaine." The words have to be forced off of your tongue, but you //do// mean them. Then, attempting to shake off the awkward statement before he can respond, you look back at Kaine, raising your chin slightly in a mild show of bravado. "However, I doubt that'll be needed. The man looked like a traveler; he'll probably be leaving soon."<</if>><</if>> "That's a fair point." Kaine breathes out a laugh, conceding to your reasoning, and his demeanor lightens up a bit then as he continues. "Fine, I'll let it go this time. But if that guy comes around here again, it'll be a different story." Despite the vague threat, his voice comes out light and teasing, and you <<if $highstat is "callous">>roll your eyes at him, but still can't quite resist the slight smile quirking your lips.<<elseif $higstat is "stoic">>can't quite resist the slight smile quirking your lips.<<else>>can't keep yourself from softly laughing in response.<</if>> "So..." Kaine says a moment later, changing the subject and gesturing to your table. "Mind if I join you? I can promise I'm at //least// better company than the last guy was." He chuckles, apparently laughing at his own little joke.<<if $kainestrained is true>> You blink in response, suprised. Not at Kaine's friendliness, that's always been a constant, regardless of your clear hesitance towards him. But at the fact that, despite Kaine's relaxed, outgoing behavior, prior to this he's always seemed to respect the distance between the two of you; personal time is not something you've ever endeavored to spend together, save when your father first hired Kaine and he made a few attempts to befriend you. Back then, you had shown obvious disinterest, could even say obvious //dislike//, towards him, and you had thought he had given up on you long ago. You find yourself surprised to see that maybe, he has not. "Oh, um.. I don't mind." You find yourself quietly answering, words<<if $highstat is "amused">> oddly<</if>> hesitant. Kaine seems a touch surprised at your acceptance, but within seconds his expression quickly turns into a brilliant smile.<<elseif $kainebff is true>> "You don't have to ask, Kaine." You <<if $highstat is "callous">>raise a brow at him,<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>say plainly,<<else>>laugh softly,<</if>> reminding him for the millionth time, and in response Kaine's expression quickly turns into a brilliant smile.<<else>> "You don't have to ask, Kaine." You <<if $highstat is "callous">>raise a brow,<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>say plainly,<<else>>laugh softly,<</if>> reminding him, and in response Kaine's expression quickly turns into a brilliant smile.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Kaine sits down across from you.|SitdownWithKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"... Can I ask how you're doing? With Martin leaving, I mean." Kaine asks, and you look over at him again, having pretty much expected this question at some point. The reality is, there's a knot of grief and anxiety in your chest that makes itself painfully known every time the topic of your father's departure comes up, to the point where you'd almost rather avoid the subject altogether. However, Kaine's brown eyes are so deep with hesitant concern that they have you practically pinned to the spot with guilt, so you're going to have to say //something//. <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Answer truthfully." + $trustlabel|KAFathAnswer][$kaineTflag ++]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Avoid answering.|KAFathAvoid]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>>

You let out a long sigh, looking away from Kaine before finally turning back and facing the inevitable. "Honestly? I was jealous." You <<if $highstat is "callous">>admit, almost through gritted teeth, as there's a great deal of hesitance to it.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>state evenly enough, but there's still a hint of regret to it.<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>let out a pathetic huff of a laugh, but there's shame heavy in your words.<<else>>admit, shame heavy in your voice.<</if>> Kaine blinks, eyesbrows rising higher than you think you've ever seen them go. "Jealous? Of what?" He asks incredulously, sounding completely baffled. <<if $highstat is "callous">> You roll your eyes at his cluelessness, though the action is mostly just to make this easier to talk about.<</if>> "Of how my father took you in, and got along so well with you. It made me feel like I wasn't good enough family on my own, which made me dislike you." You drag the truth out of you, and it's embarrassing to acknowledge out loud. And yet... it feels a bit freeing to have your concerns be known, as well. "... Oh, //stars//, I hadn't thought about it like that." Kaine says quietly after a moment, looking slightly horrified to learn this. Then, he leans forwards, an apologetic expression taking over his face as he looks you in the eye. "I'm so sorry, I didn't intend to make you feel that way at all. Your father's extremely kind to me, but he //treasures// you. You know that, right?" He tells you, and you swallow. You know your father loves you, and he tells you often, but to be reassured of that by someone who knows both of you fairly well... it's oddly nice, you must admit. "I know..." You respond, becasause you do, and awkwardly poke some more at your abandoned meal. "In retrospect, I get that thinking like that was probably selfish of me, but still, that was the reason." The admittance causes Kaine to smile warmly at you, and you <<if $highstat is "callous">>make a face at him, causing him to break out in a soft laugh.<<else>>look back at him sheepishly.<</if>> "Thank you for telling me." Kaine says then, the words genuine. "I'd wondered about it for a very long time, so... it's good to finally know." He finishes, and you can only manage a nod in return. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[A familiar voice interrupts your discussion.|Interrupting Help]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

Your eyes slide away from Kaine's, landing somewhere near his shoulder. "I... don't want to say. Does it really matter?" <<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>>You say, words apologetic as guilt lances through you, but you try to play it off as trivial.<<elseif $highstat is "callous">>You say, tone slightly dismissive even as guilt pricks at you, but you try to play it off as trivial.<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>You laugh weakly, guilt lancing through you, but you try to play it off as trivial.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>You say, careful to keep your expression neutral even as guilt pricks at you, but you try to play it off as trivial.<</if>> Kaine pauses for a moment at your lack of a real answer, and you can feel his gaze on you, even as you avoid returning it. For an agonizing moment, you fear he's going to press you further on the topic, but then he simply lets out a sigh. "I suppose not, but..." Kaine trails off, and you finally look back at him to see that his face has clouded over, despondent, and the guilt spikes through your chest twice as painful. "...I just wanted to try to understand, is all." He continues, quickly mustering a smaller version of his usual smile and raising a hand to rub at the back of his neck, but the expression doesn't reach his eyes. You open your mouth to say... an excuse, an apology, //anything// to lessen the pang of remorse you feel at his reaction, but you don't get the chance. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[A familiar voice interrupts your discussion.|Interrupting Help]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

A long sigh leaves you, and you turn your head to try to find your father amidst the crowded hall. It only takes you a moment, spotting a very familiar gray-streaked head of red hair towering slightly above the rest. You can only see the side of his face from here, but you spy the edge of his typical wide grin beneath his short beard, and the sight both puts you at ease, and pricks at your heart. "I'm... //terrified// that this is the last time I'm ever going see him alive." You <<if ($highstat is "callous") or ($highstat is "stoic")>>reluctantly admit<<else>>quietly admit<</if>>, almost as if to yourself, letting the heavy weight of your worries fall over your shoulders as your eyes remain on your father's turned face. Maybe if you stare hard enough, you can burn this scene perfectly into your memory. Then, if he doesn't return, at least-- <<if ($kainebff is true) or ($kaineRflag gte 1)>>Something warm gently touches your hand then, quickly interrupting your spiraling thoughts, and in surprise you turn your head back to where your arm rests on the table, to find Kaine's scarred fingers resting on the back of your own. Your brow furrows in confusion, but when you pull your eyes up to Kaine's face, you find his brown eyes set with determination as he looks into your own. "$lastname... You know Martin better than anyone. Do you really think that if someone tried to prevent him from returning to you, he //wouldn't// do everything in his power to tell them to piss right off?" Kaine grins at you, a mischievious glint in his gaze, and you <<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>>can't help the smile that pulls on your lips in return, letting out a soft laugh<<elseif $highstat is "callous">>roll your eyes at his wording, but can't quite hold back the smile that creeps onto your lips<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>let out a sudden laugh, matching his expression and grinning yourself<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>shake your head at his wording, but can't quite stop the corner of your lips from twitching into a slight smile<</if>> at the amusing image he paints. Besides, he does have a point, actually; Your father would fight his way through the void if he thought you were on the other side.<<else>>"$lastname." Kaine's voice cuts through your spiraling thoughts, surprising you, and when you turn your head back to where he sits across the table, you find his brown eyes set with determination as he looks into your own. "You know Martin better than anyone. Do you really think that if someone tried to prevent him from returning to you, he //wouldn't// do everything in his power to tell them to piss right off?" Kaine grins, a mischievious glint in his gaze, and you <<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>>can't help the smile that pulls on your lips in return, letting out a soft laugh<<elseif $highstat is "callous">>roll your eyes at his wording, but can't quite hold back the slight smile that creeps onto your lips<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>let out a sudden laugh, matching his expression and grinning yourself<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>shake your head at his wording, but can't quite stop the corner of your lips from twitching into a slight smile<</if>> at the amusing image he paints. Besides, he does have a point, actually; your father would fight his way through the void if he thought you were on the other side.<</if>> Your eyes return to Kaine's then, taking in <<if $kainebff is true>>your closest friend's face for a moment. He's always been considerate like this; always taking time to cheer you up in moments such as this one. You're unsure what you would have done, growing up without him beside you; your life could have been so much lonelier without him in it. In return to your lingering stare, Kaine's grin morphs into a kind smile, brown eyes warm and full of affection... affection for //you//.<<if $kainecrush is true>> Your heart stutters in your chest at the sight, and against your will you feel your embarrassment begin to flare under his gaze, his reassuring touch. Quickly looking away and back down at the table, in hopes that you can keep Kaine from noticing your reaction, you clear your throat awkwardly and decide to pull your hand back... but before you can, Kaine's rough fingers curl fully around your own, holding your hand in place with a gentle but firm grip. Your heart feels like it leaps into your throat at the action, and when you dart your eyes back up to Kaine's face for an explanation for it, you're surprised to find him silently gazing down at your joined hands, an uncharacteristically unreadable expression on his face, that you swear looks almost... //conflicted//. Its only remains there for a moment, but it's just long enough for you to recognize it as something you've seen on Kaine before, in rare moments where you suspect he doesn't think you are looking. The sight of it always pierces you like a spear through your chest, because the Kaine you know, the one he shows you, never makes a face like that, never looks so... torn. Burdened. Heartbroken. Though, your mind always seems to remind you, the Kaine you know has //also// never told you what happened with his mother. A second later, and Kaine snaps out of whatever had taken hold of him, quickly seeming to realize what he's just done. Shooting you a sheepish, apologetic grin, he immediately releases your hand without comment, without an explanation, and brings his up to rub at his neck, looking away. He's not going to tell you why, and your heart stabs with the knowledge of that, because you wish he would. You wish it more than anything.<<elseif $kaineRflag gte 1>> You're surprised to feel your heart flutter slightly under his gaze, his reassuring touch, something that you are normally so accustomed to, and you swallow quickly, wondering what in the stars has come over you today. Kaine seems to sense the odd shift in the air around the two of you and blinks, looking just as surprised as you feel, and slowly pulls his hand back with an apologetic, embarrassed-looking grin... though, you note, he doesn't seem to be uncomfortable at all.<</if>><<elseif $kaineRflag gte 1>> You're surprised to feel your heart flutter slightly under his gaze, his friendly touch, something that you are typically fairly accustomed to, and you swallow quickly, wondering what in the stars has come over you today. Kaine seems to sense the odd shift in the air around the two of you and blinks, looking just as surprised as you feel, and slowly pulls his hand back with an apologetic, embarrassed-looking grin... though, you note, he doesn't seem to be uncomfortable at all.<<else>>your friend's face for a moment. He's always so considerate like this; always taking time to cheer people up in moments such as this one. You're grateful for it.<</if>> Neither of you seem to know what to say after that, but you don't have to worry about it for longer than a few seconds. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[A familiar voice interrupts your discussion.|Interrupting Help]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

Your eyes slide away from Kaine's piercing gaze, landing somewhere near his shoulder. "I'm trying not to think about it." <<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>>You say, shrugging and smiling slightly, trying to gracefully dodge the inquiry.<<elseif $highstat is "callous">>You say, tone slightly annoyed as you brush off the inquiry.<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>You laugh, but it's only a half-hearted attempt, just like your following smile.<<elseif $highstat is "stoic">>You say, careful to keep your expression neutral as you avoid the inquiry.<</if>> "I can relate to that." Kaine breathes out a laugh with the words, yet when you look back to his expression again, he has a faraway look in his eyes. He appears to quickly shake off whatever he was thinking of, however, and his sympathetic gaze returns to you, but his concern doesn't quite seem to fade. "But if you want to talk about it, you know I'm always around. We live under the same roof, after all." He chuckles, a grin gracing his expression at his little joke, but it doesn't fully reach his eyes. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[A familiar voice interrupts your discussion.|Interrupting Help]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $glossfirstlight to true>><<notify 5s>><div>You unlocked a new glossary entry: ''First-Light''</div><</notify>>"Kaine, $firstname." Someone interjects into your conversation, and you turn to see Gregory stepping up to your shared table, looking apologetic. "I'm sorry to ask you kids this, but we could use some extra hands for the rest of the preparations for dawn." "Kids?" Kaine shoots you a look before turning back to the older man, eyebrow raised as he smirks in amusement. "Gregory, I'm one first-light celebration away from being in my thirties." "Ah, true! My apologies, sometimes I still see <<if $kainebff is true>>the pair of you as those little troublemakers<<else>>the two of you as those little kids<</if>> that I used to bribe with my homemade jam cookies." Gregory chuckles, a mix of fondness and mischief in his eyes, and Kaine rolls his eyes in good humor. ... Damn. Now you wish a bribe of one of those cookies was still an option. You quickly down the last bits of your cold breakfast, and you and Kaine stand from the table, following Gregory out the front set of doors and handing your dishes off to Driselda as you pass the counter. The rest of the day is spent running around performing errands and relaying messages, and after dark, you fall heavily back into your bed, sleep coming to you easily after the long hours of work. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Your father departs the next morning, at dawn.|Goodbye Father]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

The morning fog clings to the ground like a shroud, putting a solemn air over the farewell wishes taking place on the edge of town. You've already said parting words to most who are leaving, so now you idly watch the dawn begin to break across the dim sky, the beauty of its washed out colors bringing you little comfort as you wait for your father to have a moment alone.<<if ($kainestrained isnot true and $kaineTflag gte 1) or ($kaineTflag gte 2)>> Kaine has remained at your side all morning. He's worried about you, <<if $kainebff is true>>you can tell<<elseif $kainefriend is true>>you're pretty sure<<else>>you think<</if>>, and his presence steadies you, something you appreciate at the moment.<</if>> However, it doesn't take long until the departing group has wrapped up the majority of their goodbyes, and your father finally approaches you<<if ($kainestrained isnot true and $kaineTflag gte 1) or ($kaineTflag gte 2)>> and Kaine<</if>> with heavy steps, a sad but determined look in his eyes. As he slows in front of you, you <<if $height is "short">>crane your neck to look up at the towering form<<elseif $height is "average">>look up at the tall form<<else>>meet the eyes<</if>> of the only family member you've ever known. Your whole life, he's always been close at hand, and despite how much you wish you weren't, you're hesitant to face future days with him so far away. "$firstname..." Your father says, words slightly rough and raw with emotion even as he offers you a sad smile. <<if ($highstat is "considerate") or ($highstat is "")>>The sound makes you swallow hard, trying desperately to keep your composure, so that the last moment your father has with you is not one of you in tears.<<elseif ($highstat is "callous") or ($highstat is "stoic")>>The sound makes you grit your teeth, trying desperately to keep your composure, so that the last moment your father has with you is not wasted.<<elseif $highstat is "amused">>The sound makes you swallow hard, trying desperately to keep yourself from deflecting with humor, so that the last moment your father has with you is not wasted.<</if>> You open your mouth to reply, but you can't think of what to say, can't think of what words could possibly make this moment more bearable for you both... but your father just pulls you into a crushing embrace, arms strong and warm around your frame. <<if $height is "short">>Practically lifting you off the ground to rest his head on your shoulder<<elseif $height is "average">>Pressing a soft kiss to the top of your head<<else>>Resting the side of his head against your own<</if>>, he holds you steady for a moment, and you do the same with him, hoping to the stars this won't be the last time. Eventually, you both seperate halfway, and your father looks at you with so much love that you feel like your heart might shatter right then and there, but it doesn't. You hold together, and your father speaks once more. "I will see you again, $firstname. Know this, and be well. Be //safe//." He tells you, implores you, and all you can manage is a nod in return. Seeming satisfied with even that tiny acknowledgement, Martin reluctantly pulls away, and with one last look over your face, turns and walks<<if ($kainestrained isnot true and $kaineTflag gte 1) or ($kaineTflag gte 2)>> to where Kaine has been silently standing nearby. They begin to say their own farewells, but you do not overhear, instead turning your eyes back to the brightening skyline as you linger where you are, wondering what the future holds for you all.<<else>> away from you and back to the crowd of travellers. He shouts something rousing to them, but you don't quite catch it, instead turning your eyes back to the brightening skyline as you linger where you are, wondering what the future holds for you all.<</if>> When the enlisting group finally departs, you<<if ($kainestrained isnot true and $kaineTflag gte 1) or ($kaineTflag gte 2)>> and Kaine<</if>> are the last remaining at the edge of town, staring into the horizon long after your father is out of sight. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[For now, you can only cling to the small hope that you will see them again, someday.|Demo End]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"Why?" You ask, the question falling from your lips before you even realize it. "... Why?" Kaine repeats after a moment, a confused look taking over his face as he blinks at you. "What do you mean, why?" He asks, sounding utterly lost as to your meaning. Some part of you recognizes your chance to take the question back, to never have to hear the reason, but it goes ignored; you need to know the answer this time. "Why would you do something like that for me? Why would you even care?" The words start spilling out of you, because you don't understand it; you don't understand //him//. "I've been nothing but indifferent to you for years. Stars, even back when we were //children// I ignored you. Yet you just... keep being //nice// to me." Kaine just stares at you, dumbstruck and unmoving, but you keep going, because you need to know why he cares; after all the spurned attempts at friendship, after all the distance you've forced between the two of you, why would he bother with you still? "Why? Why would you do that? I don't..." Your voice trails off, because you can't bring yourself to admit what you're thinking. That you don't //deserve// it. You look away from him, staring into the dancing flames of the nearby fireplace instead, because for some reason, you're afraid of what he will say in return. After an agonizing moment of nothing but ambient chatter from the rest of the hall, you're about to open your mouth to take it all back, say you don't need to know the reason, but Kaine beats you to it. "Hey, look at me." You hear him say, and the words are so soft and unexpected that it's your turn to blink in surprise. Slowly, agonizingly, you turn your eyes back to where Kaine is half-sitting on the table, and force yourself to look at him. The expression you find on his face is gentle, almost hesitant, and before you can fully process what it means, Kaine begins to speak further. "Listen, Martin and you, you're... just about the closest thing I have to a family, now." Your eyebrows fly upwards at his words, but Kaine continues whether he notices or not, the look in his eyes painfully honest. "And after what happened with my mother, I'm never going to forget what you've both done for me, taking me into your home and your lives like you did." His gaze darts away for a second at the mention of his mother, but returns to you just as quickly. Then, he lightly shrugs, a cheeky grin growing on his lips. "So, honestly, you can be as indifferent as you want, but I'm not going to stop caring about you, or trying to be your friend." An airy laugh leaves him then, while you stare, dumbfounded. "Better get used to it." Comes the end of his little speech, and you're left reeling, having never realized that that was how he felt about it. It takes a minute for you to realize you haven't responded, and then another to get your mind working with your mouth again, but you manage to force out an awkward acknowledgement. "Guess I'll have to, then." Is what you say, and it feels like an olive branch. Kaine beams in response, seeming to feel the same way. Silence rings between the two of you for beat afterwards, but it's filled with a tentative hope, and so you can't find it in you to break it... until Kaine does, first. "In that case..." He finally says a moment later, only slightly awkward as he changes the subject, gesturing to your table. "Mind if I join you? I can promise I'm at //least// better company than the last guy was." He chuckles, apparently laughing at his own little joke. "I don't mind." You find yourself quietly answering, words still<<if $highstat is "amused">> oddly<</if>> hesitant. Kaine looks very pleased at your acceptance, and quickly moves over to the other chair. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Kaine sits down across from you.|SitdownWithKaine]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

"... Can I ask //why// you've always avoided me?" Kaine asks, and honestly, you pretty much expected this question after your little outburst. He looks genuinely curious though, like he really does care about the answer... only problem is, you're now realizing that the reason for your behavior was childish, at best, and not to mention, embarrassing. Should you tell Kaine the truth, despite that? <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Tell him." + $trustlabel|KAStrainAnswer][$kaineTflag ++, $kstrainedconfided to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Avoid answering.|KAStrainAvoid][$kaineTflag --]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>>

You turn back to your forgotten meal, picking at your now cold food as Kaine makes himself comfortable on the opposite side of the table. The silence streches out for a few moments, slightly uncomfortable as it continues; you and Kaine have never really spent quiet time together, but you find that the situation is not unwelcome, despite that. When you chance a glance towards him, you see him staring thoughtfully at the patterns in the wooden table between you, seemingly unbothered by the awkwardness. You, however, find that your mind is churning with questions. Or, perhaps more accurately, a single question that has bothered you for a long time now: Why is Kaine always so kind to you? You have always tried to push him away, dodging his attempts to befriend you and avoiding time spend alone in his company where you could. And yet he respects your opinions, worries for you, even //defends// you. It makes no sense to you... but, perhaps you could just //ask// him why? Would it be that simple? Are you willing to, though? <<nobr>><<liveblock>><div class="choicetitle"><div class="choicetitlebox">Choice</div></div><div class="choicesmulti"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[["Ask Kaine why." + $trustlabel|SitdownStrainLateVent][$kaineTflag ++, $kstrainedvent to true]]</div>'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[Let it go.|Interrupting Help]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</liveblock>><</nobr>>

"Why?" You ask, the question falling from your lips before you even realize it. Kaine looks up from the table, looking surprised. "... Why?" He repeats after a moment, a confused look taking over his face as he blinks at you. "Why, what?" He asks, sounding utterly lost as to your meaning. Some part of you recognizes your chance to take the question back, to never have to hear the reason, but it goes ignored; you need to know the answer this time. "Why are you always so considerate of me? Why would you even care?" The words start spilling out of you, because you don't understand it; you don't understand //him//. "I've been nothing but indifferent to you for years. Stars, even back when we were //children// I ignored you. Yet you just... keep being //nice// to me." Kaine just stares at you, dumbstruck and unmoving, but you keep going, because you need to know why he cares; after all the spurned attempts at friendship, after all the distance you've forced between the two of you, why would he bother with you still? "Why? Why would you do that? I don't..." Your voice trails off, because you can't bring yourself to admit what you're thinking. That you don't //deserve// it. You look away from him, staring into the dancing flames of the nearby fireplace instead, because for some reason, you're afraid of what he will say in return. After an agonizing moment of nothing but ambient chatter from the rest of the hall, you're about to open your mouth to take it all back, say you don't need to know the reason, but Kaine beats you to it. "Hey, look at me." You hear him say, and the words are so soft and unexpected that it's your turn to blink in surprise. Slowly, agonizingly, you turn your eyes back to where Kaine is sittin across the table, and force yourself to look at him. The expression you find on his face is gentle, almost hesitant, and before you can fully process what it means, Kaine begins to speak further. "Listen, Martin and you, you're... just about the closest thing I have to a family, now." Your eyebrows fly upwards at his words, but Kaine continues whether he notices or not, the look in his eyes painfully honest. "And after what happened with my mother, I'm never going to forget what you've both done for me, taking me into your home and your lives like you did." His gaze darts away for a second at the mention of his mother, but returns to you just as quickly. Then, he lightly shrugs, a cheeky grin growing on his lips. "So, honestly, you can be as indifferent as you want, but I'm not going to stop caring about you, or trying to be your friend." An airy laugh leaves him then, while you stare, dumbfounded. "Better get used to it." Comes the end of his little speech, and you're left reeling, having never realized that that was how he felt about it. It takes a minute for you to realize you haven't responded, and then another to get your mind working with your mouth again, but you manage to force out an awkward acknowledgement. "Guess I'll have to, then." Is what you say, and it feels like an olive branch. Kaine beams in response, seeming to feel the same way. Silence rings between the two of you for beat afterwards, but it's filled with a tentative hope, and so you can't find it in you to break it... until Kaine does, first. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<link '<div class="choice-item">[[He speaks up with an inevitable question.|KaineAsksStrainedDidVent]]</div>'>><</link>> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="directorytitle"><div class="directorybox">DIRECTORY</div><div class="statusbox">Characters.</div></div><</nobr>> <div class="characterbox"><<if $metmc is true>> <<link '<div class="mcbox"><div class="carddiv"></div><div class="characterbiobox">$firstname</div></div>'>><<popover>><span style="font-size: 150%;letter-spacing: 0.1em;">''$firstname''<<if $lastname isnot "">> ''$lastname''<</if>></span><br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">The newfound mystery</span><br>You are the child of Martin<<if $lastname isnot "">> $lastname<</if>>, a retired knight of the kingdom of Calcherth, who traded in his sword for the deed to Lest's tavern, The Fool's March. The humble, but beloved tavern has been the center point of your entire life, and you have never strayed very far from it.<</popover>><</link>><</if>><<if $metkaine is true>> <<link '<div class="kainebox"><div class="carddiv"></div><div class="characterbiobox">Kaine</div></div>'>><<popover>><span style="font-size: 150%;letter-spacing: 0.1em;">''Kaine Breckem''</span><br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">The old acquaintance</span><br>The blacksmith’s former apprentice, who your father took in and hired at the tavern a few years ago. A kind, but mischievous individual, Kaine seems to care about others a great deal, but that doesn’t stop him from being full of snark. Oddly protective of you.<br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">''Trust:'' $kaineTflag | ''Romance:'' $kaineRflag</span><</popover>><</link>><</if>><<if $metmillie is true>> <<link '<div class="milliebox"><div class="carddiv"></div><div class="characterbiobox">Vermillion</div></div>'>><<popover>><span style="font-size: 150%;letter-spacing: 0.1em;">''Vermillion "Millie" Lousat''</span><br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">The spitfire noble</span><br>Descendant of a noble family, Millie has extensive education and combat training, and is also quite the social butterfly. If you want connections somewhere, Millie has them. Wears her heart on her sleeve and doesn’t seem to concern herself much with the consequences.<br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">''Trust:'' $millieTflag | ''Romance:'' $millieRflag</span><</popover>><</link>><</if>><<if $metleon is true>> <<link '<div class="leonbox"><div class="carddiv"></div><div class="characterbiobox">Leon</div></div>'>><<popover>><span style="font-size: 150%;letter-spacing: 0.1em;">''Leon Calcherth''</span><br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">The ousted prince</span><br>Technically royalty, Leon is the standoffish older brother of the Young King, but is no longer considered to be in line for the throne. Seems very close with his younger brother. While apparently perpetually annoyed and difficult to get close to, there are some hints to a softer side of him.<br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">''Trust:'' $leonTflag | ''Romance:'' $leonRflag</span><</popover>><</link>><</if>><<if $metmilo is true>> <<link '<div class="milobox"><div class="carddiv"></div><div class="characterbiobox">Milo</div></div>'>><<popover>><span style="font-size: 150%;letter-spacing: 0.1em;">''Milo Lance''</span><br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">The quiet commander</span><br>The leader of the Order of Light, and they absolutely live up to the position. Practically raised in Gilramore’s guard barracks, Milo’s tends to come across as stiff and to-the-point, but they seem to also be a truly gentle soul in a warrior’s suit of armor. Has a tendency to worry too much.<br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">''Trust:'' $miloTflag | ''Romance:'' $miloRflag</span><</popover>><</link>><</if>><<if $metcleme is true>> <<link '<div class="clemebox"><div class="carddiv"></div><div class="characterbiobox">Clementene</div></div>'>><<popover>><span style="font-size: 150%;letter-spacing: 0.1em;">''Clementene Fairwreight''</span><br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">The shy researcher</span><br>A talented and studied soul mage for the Order, but a scholar at her heart; field work isn’t particularly for Clementene. A slightly nervous disposition and bad eyesight really only add to her penchant to stay within Gilramore’s white stone walls. Will talk about her experiments for hours, if prompted.<br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">''Trust:'' $clemeTflag | ''Romance:'' $clemeRflag</span><</popover>><</link>><</if>> </div>

<<link '<div class="sidemenu-item"><b>✦</b> return</div>' $return>><<script>>Dialog.close()<</script>><</link>> <<if passage() isnot 'stats'>><<link '<div class="sidemenu-item"><b>✦✦</b> status</div>' 'stats'>><<script>>Dialog.close()<</script>><</link>><<else>><div class="sidemenu-false"><b>✦✦</b> status</div><</if>> <<if passage() isnot 'characters'>><<link '<div class="sidemenu-item"><b>✦✦✦</b> characters</div>' 'characters'>><<script>>Dialog.close()<</script>><</link>><<else>><div class="sidemenu-false"><b>✦✦✦</b> characters</div><</if>> <<if passage() isnot 'glossary'>><<link '<div class="sidemenu-item"><b>✦✦✦✦</b> glossary</div>' 'glossary'>><<script>>Dialog.close()<</script>><</link>><<else>><div class="sidemenu-false"><b>✦✦✦✦</b> glossary</div><</if>> <<if passage() isnot 'map'>><<link '<div class="sidemenu-item"><b>✦✦✦✦✦</b> map</div>' 'map'>><<script>>Dialog.close()<</script>><</link>><<else>><div class="sidemenu-false"><b>✦✦✦✦✦</b> map</div><</if>>

<<if settings.audioEnabled>><<audio "musicbox" play>><</if>><div class="titlebook">Those Long<br>Dead.<div class="titleinfo">An interactive fiction by Aevum Games</div></div> <<timed 50s>><<goto "Opening Movie">><</timed>>

<<link '<div class="title-item"><b>✦</b> new game</div>' 'Startup'>><</link>> <<link '<div class="title-item"><b>✦✦</b> load game</div>'>><<script>>UI.saves()<</script>><</link>> <<link '<div class="title-item"><b>✦✦✦</b> credits</div>'>><<popover>><span style="font-size: 150%;letter-spacing: 0.1em;">Credits & Thanks:</span><br><span style="font-size: 85%;text-transform: uppercase;letter-spacing: 0.3em;">Cerberus<br>Chapel<br>ZapSplat.com<br>Pixabay.com<br>My beloved friends, for listening to my rambling.</span><</popover>><</link>> <<link '<div class="title-item"><b>✦✦✦✦</b> settings</div>'>><<script>>UI.settings()<</script>><</link>>

<<link '<div class="beginlink">And so it begins...</div>' 'Title'>><</link>>