God Cursed Public Ch 1-5 Demo

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!Heading 1 !!Heading 1 !!!Heading 1 Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. //emphasised text//. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. ''strong text''. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. __underlined text__ Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. Normal text. ---- * List item 1 * List item 2 [[Firstname]] [[Link 2]] [[Link 3]] <<button "Button" "More Styles">><</button>>

<div id="sidebar"> <div class="sidebar-header">  <div></div>  <h1 class="story-title" data-passage="gameTitle"></h1>  <div class="sidebar-toggle"> </div> </div>   <div class="sidebar-history-nav"> </div> <div id="sidebar-body">  <div class="story-logo" data-passage="storyLogo"></div>  <h2 class="story-author" data-passage="storyAuthor"></h2> <nav class="sidebar-nav"> <ul class="story-tools"> <li> Restart </li> <li> Saves </li> <li> Settings </li> </ul> <ul class="story-menu" data-passage="storyMenu"> </ul> </nav> <nav id="social-media"> Social media <ul data-passage="socialMedia"> </ul> </nav> </div>  </div>  <div id="story" role="main"> <div id="passages"> <div id="passage-start" data-passage="start" class="passage"> </div> </div> </div>

<>  <li>[[Credits]]</li> <li>[[Player Stats]]</li> <li>[[World Codex]]</li> <li>[[Relationships]]</li> <li>[[Character Info]]</li> <>

<<set $hello = "hello">> [[Next|More Styles]]

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam maecenas. Sed egestas egestas fringilla phasellus faucibus scelerisque eleifend donec. Sed sed risus pretium quam. Aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing enim eu. Nulla posuere sollicitudin aliquam ultrices sagittis orci. Pharetra vel turpis nunc eget lorem dolor sed. Vel orci porta non pulvinar neque laoreet suspendisse interdum. Tempor orci dapibus ultrices in iaculis. Eu mi bibendum neque egestas congue quisque egestas. Ultrices in iaculis nunc sed augue lacus viverra vitae. Sit amet porttitor eget dolor morbi. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin. Leo vel fringilla est ullamcorper eget nulla facilisi etiam dignissim. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin sed. Aliquet nibh praesent tristique magna. Viverra accumsan in nisl nisi scelerisque. Nunc lobortis mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec. Nunc sed id semper risus in hendrerit. Non sodales neque sodales ut etiam sit amet nisl purus. Pellentesque elit eget gravida cum sociis. Consectetur purus ut faucibus pulvinar elementum. Ut faucibus pulvinar elementum integer enim neque volutpat ac. Sed blandit libero volutpat sed cras ornare. Nisi vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam. Eu sem integer vitae justo eget magna. Mauris cursus mattis molestie a iaculis at erat pellentesque adipiscing. Mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec feugiat. Vel quam elementum pulvinar etiam non quam lacus suspendisse faucibus. Id interdum velit laoreet id donec ultrices tincidunt arcu. Viverra aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing. Praesent elementum facilisis leo vel fringilla. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam maecenas. Sed egestas egestas fringilla phasellus faucibus scelerisque eleifend donec. Sed sed risus pretium quam. Aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing enim eu. Nulla posuere sollicitudin aliquam ultrices sagittis orci. Pharetra vel turpis nunc eget lorem dolor sed. Vel orci porta non pulvinar neque laoreet suspendisse interdum. Tempor orci dapibus ultrices in iaculis. Eu mi bibendum neque egestas congue quisque egestas. Ultrices in iaculis nunc sed augue lacus viverra vitae. Sit amet porttitor eget dolor morbi. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin. Leo vel fringilla est ullamcorper eget nulla facilisi etiam dignissim. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin sed. Aliquet nibh praesent tristique magna. Viverra accumsan in nisl nisi scelerisque. Nunc lobortis mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec. Nunc sed id semper risus in hendrerit. Non sodales neque sodales ut etiam sit amet nisl purus. Pellentesque elit eget gravida cum sociis. Consectetur purus ut faucibus pulvinar elementum. Ut faucibus pulvinar elementum integer enim neque volutpat ac. Sed blandit libero volutpat sed cras ornare. Nisi vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam. Eu sem integer vitae justo eget magna. Mauris cursus mattis molestie a iaculis at erat pellentesque adipiscing. Mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec feugiat. Vel quam elementum pulvinar etiam non quam lacus suspendisse faucibus. Id interdum velit laoreet id donec ultrices tincidunt arcu. Viverra aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing. Praesent elementum facilisis leo vel fringilla. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam maecenas. Sed egestas egestas fringilla phasellus faucibus scelerisque eleifend donec. Sed sed risus pretium quam. Aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing enim eu. Nulla posuere sollicitudin aliquam ultrices sagittis orci. Pharetra vel turpis nunc eget lorem dolor sed. Vel orci porta non pulvinar neque laoreet suspendisse interdum. Tempor orci dapibus ultrices in iaculis. Eu mi bibendum neque egestas congue quisque egestas. Ultrices in iaculis nunc sed augue lacus viverra vitae. Sit amet porttitor eget dolor morbi. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin. Leo vel fringilla est ullamcorper eget nulla facilisi etiam dignissim. Nec ultrices dui sapien eget mi proin sed. Aliquet nibh praesent tristique magna. Viverra accumsan in nisl nisi scelerisque. Nunc lobortis mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec. Nunc sed id semper risus in hendrerit. Non sodales neque sodales ut etiam sit amet nisl purus. Pellentesque elit eget gravida cum sociis. Consectetur purus ut faucibus pulvinar elementum. Ut faucibus pulvinar elementum integer enim neque volutpat ac. Sed blandit libero volutpat sed cras ornare. Nisi vitae suscipit tellus mauris a diam. Eu sem integer vitae justo eget magna. Mauris cursus mattis molestie a iaculis at erat pellentesque adipiscing. Mattis aliquam faucibus purus in massa tempor nec feugiat. Vel quam elementum pulvinar etiam non quam lacus suspendisse faucibus. Id interdum velit laoreet id donec ultrices tincidunt arcu. Viverra aliquet eget sit amet tellus cras adipiscing. Praesent elementum facilisis leo vel fringilla. <<button "Next" "More Styles">><</button>>

<<set $hello = "hello">> <<print $hello.toUpperFirst()>> <<= $hello.toUpperFirst()>> !!! Checkbox: <<checkbox "$checkboxVar1" false true autocheck>> Checkbox option 1 <<checkbox "$checkboxVar2" false true autocheck>> Checkbox option 2 <<checkbox "$checkboxVar3" false true autocheck>> Checkbox option 3 !!! Cycle: <<cycle "$cycleVar" autoselect>> <<option "Option 1">> <<option "Option 2">> <<option "Option 3">> <<option "Option 4">> <<option "Option 5">> <</cycle>> !!! Listbox: <<listbox "$listboxVar" autoselect>> <<option "Option 1">> <<option "Option 2">> <<option "Option 3">> <<option "Option 4">> <<option "Option 5">> <</listbox>> !!! Radiobutton: <<radiobutton "$radiobuttonVar" "option 1" autocheck>> Option 1 <<radiobutton "$radiobuttonVar" "option 2" autocheck>> Option 2 <<radiobutton "$radiobuttonVar" "option 3" autocheck>> Option 3 !!! Textarea: <<textarea "$textareaVar" "Type text here..">> !!! Textbox: <<textbox "$textboxVar" "Type answer here">>

God-Cursed

by <a href="https://www.tumblr.com/blog/wings-of-ink" target="_blank">Lunan</a>

<li><a href="https://www.tumblr.com/blog/wings-of-ink" target="_blank">Tumblr</a></li> * <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4YGEVpdvWQv7qimf6YnKJR?si=d00e062e4db34e96" target="_blank">Music</a></li> * <li><a href="https://forms.gle/mFcLZaPyQKHn4PLz7" target="_blank">Bug Report</a></li>

!Stat page <> <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">Character Information</div></h1> </body> </html> <div class="centered-image"> <<if $mark is 'tree'>><<include "treeimage">><<elseif $mark is 'sun'>><<include "sunmark">><<elseif $mark is 'storm'>><<include "stormmark">><<elseif $mark is 'plants'>><<include "plantmark">><<elseif $mark is 'night'>><<include "nightmark">><<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>><<include "mountmark">><</if>> </div> Your name is ''$mc Northbreaker''. <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:20px;"> Personality:</h1> </body> </html> <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 50>>You tend to be more socially ''reserved''. <<elseif $ReservedOutgoing < 50>>You take a more ''outgoing'' approach to social situations. <<else>>You tend to walk the middle-ground between being socially reserved and outgoing.<</if>> <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>You tend to be more ''gentle'' in your nature. <<elseif $GentleAssertive < 50>>You tend to have a more ''assertive'' nature. <<else>>You are neither especially gentle nor assertive.<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 50>>You tend to take things more ''seriously''. <<elseif $SeriousPlayful < 50>>You are a more ''playful'' sort of person. <<else>>You do not favor seriousness or playfulness.<</if>> <<if $RecklessCautious > 50>>Being ''reckless'' seems to be your go-to response. <<elseif $RecklessCautious < 50>>For you, being ''cautious'' is more important. <<else>>You are not especially reckless or cautious.<</if>> <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt > 60>>When it comes to matters of flirtation, you prefer to be ''clear'', leaving no questions about your intention. The allure of your boldness attracts a lot of attention. <<elseif $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Flirting for you is a little more ''subdued'', perhaps even awkward, but it is no less effective. Despite the nature of this shyness, your methods garner attention and adoration. <<else>>You keep a balance in your flirtatious endeavors, being neither exclusively bold nor shy.<</if>> <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:20px;"> Description and Background:</h1> </body> </html> You are a $manwoperson with $hairlength, $haircolor, $hairtexture hair and $eyecolor eyes. You usually wear your hair $hairstyle. You have a beautiful body that is $bodytype. <<if $tat1 is true>>You do not have any tattoos.<</if>> <<if $tat2 is true>>You have a tattoo of a waning crescent moon on your right arm.<</if>> <<if $tat3 is true>>You have a tattoo of a great bird, with wings spread, spanning your chest.<</if>> <<if $tat4 is true>>Your left arm has a tattoo of a coiled snake with great fangs.<</if>> <<if $tat5 is true>>The forearm on your left has a tattoo of a beautiful tree.<</if>> <<if $tat6 is true>>Both of your hands have patterns of geometric lines tattooed on them.<</if>> <<if $tat7 is true>>Your right shoulder-blade has a tattoo of a fierce wolf.<</if>> <<if $tat8 is true>>Your left shoulder-blade has a tattoo of a collection of flowers.<</if>> <<if $tat9 is true>>You have a left ankle cuff tattoo that is reminiscent of jewelry.<</if>> <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>As a child, you learned and gained a great deal of skill in logging. You have a special axe gifted to you by your papa, that you can wield with great confidence.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Beginning in your childhood, you learned carpentry from your papa. You know how to build almost anything, and your skills have made you deft with the fine tools gifted to you by your father.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You began learning swordsmanship in your early years, taught by your da. The sword you wield today was a gift from your da and you handle it with expertise and reverence.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>It is rare to see you without the trusty bow your parents made and gifted you. You've been honing your archery skills since childhood and are quite adept in your art.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You have a vested interest in the ways of healing, which you began learning from childhood. The knowledge of herbs and medicine have been ingrained in you and given you a good bit of renown.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Since you were a child, you have studied the art of trade and economy. You are a shrewd and clever merchandiser with a good following of happy cutsomers.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>There are not many who can tout the level of cooking skill you have acquired since childhood. From ground to table you can prepare about any meal, making your name whispered among commoners and nobility alike when good food is brought up.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'axescarbelowrightknee'>>You have a long scar below your right knee from where you accidentally struck yourself with your axe while splitting a log.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'treescrapeonleftshoulder'>>After a falling tree caught you by the left shoulder, tearing the skin badly, you were left with a unique scar.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'punctureinrightarm'>>You have a scar on your right arm from where the flesh was punctured by a sharp stick after a nasty fall down a hill. You're still a bit embarrassed by it.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'scaracrosshand'>>A slip of the hand while working with a sharp took, cut your hand open and left you a scar to prove that you put literal blood, sweat and tears into your craft.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'scaronbackofthigh'>>On of your thighs bears the scar from when you tested a piece of furniture, only to have it collapse, sending you to the ground and an iron nail into your thigh.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'lefttemplemark'>>Your left temple bears a partially obscured scar from when a board hit you directly in the head, knocking you out for a while and leaving you with a concussion for a while.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'backscar'>>An idiot kid who lost to you while sparring left you with a scar along your back when he took a cheap swipe at you. The tip of his blade cut from waist to shoulder.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'oswinscar'>>During a spar that became too heated, your childhood friend, Oswin, accidentally struck your right arm with too much fervor. He was very upset and never seemed to forgive himself for hurting you.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'swordbuttscar'>>You have dark scar running along the middle of your left buttock. You don't like talking about it.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'stringslap'>>There's a thin scar on your forearm from where you struck it quite badly with the string of your bow. You had forgetting to wear your guard while doing extra practice. It was the last time you forgot.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'frontshouldershotscar'>>A sitting champion at an archery competition took a cheap shot at you after you beat their decade-long streak, leaving you with a scar. A fellow competitor managed to disrupt the shot, so it only hit the meat of your right shoulder rather than your heart.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'arrowsrightbutt'>>You have three parallel scars in the center of your right buttock and you don't like talking about them.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'burnonleftlowleg'>>A large burn scar spans half of your left lower leg after a cauldron bubbled over and spewed, ironically, burn ointment on you. Thankfully you moved quick enough that only your leg was hit.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'bitemarkleftarm'>>You were bitten on the upper left arm by a patient experiencing an intense delirium. It was deep and you bled terribly, but you thankfully staved off infection. The scar is a very clear bite-mark.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'righthandpoison'>>After foraging for herbs to use in your medicines, you developed a horrible and painful rash. It swelled and caused teh skin to split open, leaving you with jagged pale lines across the back of your right hand.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'neckrash'>>A spooked donkey and a leather bag not only left you with a scar around your neck, but nearly killed you. The donkey bolted, snagging your bag in the reins and dragging you along by the neck until it, thankfully, broke, leaving you with a raw and bleeding neck wound.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'pinfinger'>>You lost at a game of pinfinger to a drunk woman who had been razzing you. You stabbed through your middle finger, but at least you still sold her something and received a marriage proposal to boot.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'eyebrowscar'>>Falling face-first into your wagon left you with a scar that splits your right eyebrow. It knocked you unconscious for a while and bled a lot, but you were otherwise okay. The scar on your pride will last longer than the one in your eyebrow.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'handknifescar'>>Every cook has cut themselves, and you're no different. You sliced your palm open while cutting bread as you were foolishly holding it in your hand. You always remembered to use a cutting board after that.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'leftarmburn'>>The panicked and foolish actions of an assistant cook, flared up a grease fire directly at you. You managed to block your face with your left arm, but that arm now bears the knotted scar from the ordeal.<</if>> <<if $interestwound is 'headwound'>>A pan fell on you. It scarred your forehead. You don't like talking about it.<</if>> <> <<if hasVisited("creation 5")>>Your preferred clothing style consists of <<if $clothing is "comfortable">>anything comfortable<<elseif $clothing is "regular">>any regular run-of-the-mill items<<elseif $clothing is "business">>professional, more austere items<<elseif $clothing is "color">>items of bold expressive color<<elseif $clothing is "revealing">>revealing articles<</if>> though you are sometimes limited by the whims of the season.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("creation 9")>>As of the morning of your 24th birthday, you had <<if $romance is 'nointerest'>>little to no interest in romance<<elseif $romance is 'experienced'>>experience with both romantic and physical relationships<<elseif $romance is 'onlyphysical'>>only experienced the physical aspects of relationships<<elseif $romance is 'feelingsnophys'>>experienced only romantic feelings towards others before<<elseif $romance is 'interestednoxp'>>interest in developing a romantic relationship but no experience<</if>>. As of now, you have<<if $virgin is false>> had sexual experience<<else>> had no sexual experience<</if>>.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("In the next step, you take each one for a ride.")>>Your fathers purchased a <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>beautiful mare for you. She is mostly a flaxen chestnut color with a much lighter shade of tan for her mane and tail. She has white stockings on her back legs, white tickling on her belly that travels up her back. You named her $mountname. She is quite gentle and loves to give you kisses. She can also be on the nervous side, and doesn't respond very well to perceived threats.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>beautiful stallion for you. He is almost all black except for a white snip on his nose. His build is stocky and powerful, but he is sweet-natured and brave. Though he is not nervous in the face of danger, he is strong-willed and does not always listen to you. You named him $mountname.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>gorgeous gelding for you. He is a mahogany bay color with black knees, mane and tail, but with white feathering over his hooves. He is very big and powerful but extremely calm. He readily follows commands even in the face of danger and is friendly to all. You named him $mountname.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>mule who is beautiful in your eyes. She is big by mule standards and grey with black mane and tail, but her feet are white. She is spunky with a personality as big as her ears. You find her to be unusually smart, highly independent, and a little weird. Cross her, and she will fight you. You named her $mountname.<</if>><</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.61")>>Your favorite hobby is $hobby and you are $hobbycomfort about it.<</if>> <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Your Home [[World]] [[Lore]] <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

In the depths of a cold spring night, two people – one man, one woman – tread along an old road through an ancient forest. Trees older than the gods themselves remain here as a testament to the fortitude of nature. Their giant roots have long since arisen from the ground, a sign of the difficult times they’ve weathered, which makes the trek through the dark all the more difficult. “There's so much blood,” the man says, as he follows his partner into the thick of the trees. “It's fine, dear, ignore it and focus on me. She went this way, at least the blood has left us a trail.” “Isn't it too early?” “It is, but that's the way these things go sometimes. It's the nature of it. Mind your step here and take it slow, there are plank roots everywhere,” the woman states as she lights the way with a small lantern, whose light is quickly fading from lack of oil. “It's been quite a while since I've seen trees like this...they're so beautiful. I’d like to see them with the dawn," the man says, trying to avoid looking at the blood trail. “Stay focused, my dear, we can admire the forest all you like once we've collected our dues.” It was business as always with her, a trait the man cannot help but adore. “Do you think the woman is okay?” “I don't know. We've seen a good amount of blood, but you know how blood is,” she says with a flippant mock to her tone. “The priest said she headed this way to see a special healer. I imagine she went further into the forest because it was too late.” “She must have been frightened…” A sour feeling settles in the man’s gut. “Worry not, dear, she's a strong woman and a devout one at that; that's why we chose her.” Her cold confidence made him shiver. “But, the oth-” “There.” The woman raises the lantern as they approach the base of one of the ancient trees, one with plank roots taller than most humans. Illuminated in the pale orange glow from the lamp, is the form of the woman they’ve been tracking. She’s huddled among the roots, blood soaking her clothing and staining the ground around her. She’s still. “We're too late – she's perished,” his partner says, peering over the corpse with a disenchanted sigh. “Wait...is she really...” His partner gently touches the dead woman. “Yes, she's a bit warm still, but there's no life left in her. But maybe not all is lost, look here,” she says, uncovering a bundle of cloth nestled in the arms of the dead. “She bore it? Has the babe met the same fate?” he asks, hopeful. “Indeed and the little tyke lives...and even suckles. Perhaps...let me see...” “Is it...” “Hmm...” Impatience creeps up on him at his partner’s tone. “What do you sense?” “I…” Frustration mars her beautiful voice. “Well?” “//Nothing//." The word comes forth like a growl. "The child is a failure, there's nothing within it.” She tuts, dropping the cloth that was covering the infant. “Failure? But, they live...I-” “We'll have to try again. Let us go, I received another lead anyway, we should-” “What of the babe?” It feels wrong to just leave the child, even if he knows they’re not what they came for. “Let it be, it will return to its mother soon. We've nothing to offer a child such as that, it's better off at rest.” “This is the only one who's-” “My dear, leave it. It's an abomination, and you know it. I'm going back.” She leaves him, taking the light with her as she goes. He watches it fade into the trees for a moment before turning back to the dead mother, clutching her baby. He knows that she’s right. They have nothing to offer an infant like this. He approaches, lifting the cloth to see the still-suckling child, noting how silent they have been. “I'm sorry, child, but she is right. Life would only be cruel for you...a curse. May Hayat and Casimir deliver you swiftly to your end... [[“I am sorry, my child...I am so sorry.”]]

*The following morning in the same forest... … … “Dov! Over here! I found something!” Kip cried out to his husband from the thick of the trees. They had found blood on the road, but did not see its source. Dov, becoming worried that an injured person or animal was suffering nearby, insisted on searching. Kip had assumed it was nothing more than an injured rabbit at first, but as the trail of blood grew thicker and thicker, it became clear that something more was at stake. The heavy footfalls of Kip's husband approached. “What did ya find?” he asked, his deep voice rumbling even though he was trying to speak quietly. “Come around the tree, I found...well, where the blood...you know.” Kip looked over the heap. It was clearly a person, bundled in clothing and draped in heavy, tattered cloaks. He worked up the nerve to shuffle the fabric around, being ginger and remained hopeful the person wasn’t already dead. Dread kicked in his gut, and he wrenched his hand away as if he’d been burned. Dead animals were one thing, but Kip couldn’t stomach this, it brought forth too many bad memories. Dov placed a comforting hand on his spouse’s shoulder and took over, lifting the hood of the person’s cloak to reveal their face. “Oh...oh no…” It was a woman, long dead, the color already drained from her face. Kip released a breath, not realizing he’d held it as he stared at the poor woman. As he took her in, though, something caught his eye. Subtle movements from under the fabric bundled around her. “Wait,” he said, reaching for the cloth and lifting it, forgetting his anxiety. “That's a babe!” Dov cried out, coming to Kip’s side. “Are they...” Kip felt the little one’s light breath against his fingers, slow and colder than it should be. “Breathing, barely.” Without thinking more of it, he scooped the child up, tucking the pile of torn fabric around them before nestling the infant against Dov. His husband exuded warmth, he could better keep the child warm. “Quick,” he said, “back to the horses; we'll find Kavi!” Kavi was a great healer, Kip knew he’d be able to help. “We've got ya, little one,” Dov said, cradling the babe close in his big arms, “We'll protect ya...” [[“You’re safe now.”]]

Months went by. Kip and Dov looked everywhere for any other parent or relative to the tiny child they found, but not a single lead was discovered. They’d sent letters to all the surrounding towns – to every official and healer they had ever heard of – searching for anyone that was missing this baby and the woman who bore them. They made a pyre and paid reverence to the departed mother, keeping her ashes for when her loved ones were finally found. There were no clues on her as to her identity or where she hailed from. Her clothing wasn’t unique, she had no money, no jewelry, and no unique markings. Kip was able to surmise that she may have had a small mount from the hoof prints further down the road, they were fresh, but stopped well before the location they found the mother at. They could not confirm if she lost the mount or not, and a stray animal was never found. The couple was unwilling to give up on the child. They were fighting hard to survive, despite the rough start. The town’s midwife and partner to Kavi, Betony, was able to save the child from freezing and starving. Her youngest child happened to be weaning, and she offered to nurse the baby herself, which saved them a great deal of worry in finding a wet-nurse. Goat’s milk helped since Betony could not be taxed with the task all the time. So far, the child was thriving and Kip and Dov had learned a great deal about caring for them. As time went by, these aspects of life were feeling more normal, more right. It was clear that something would need to be done soon, though. The child still did not have a name or known family. Despite the long nights and difficult start, both men were drawn to this little child... “Kip…” Dov began in a whisper. They’d tucked into bed nearly an hour ago, exhausted after trying to sooth the baby into slumber after a long day. Neither of them could sleep, so they laid together, Kip nestled within Dov’s large arms. “Yes, love?” “What do we do if the family never comes forward? It's been so long already.” Dov looked over to the little make-shift crib he built for the infant. “I don't know. The shop-keeps told me the orphanage in the city is actually quite nice, but...that idea doesn't set well with me.” “With me neither.” “Dov...my love…” Kip twisted to face his husband and stared into his eyes for a long moment. “Go on, speak yer heart.” Dov insisted, gently sweeping his thumb along Kip’s jaw. “What if we kept the child?” “…” He froze. Keep the child? That would mean raising them. That would make them fathers...Dov had wanted to discuss taking in a child when they were ready. Were they ready? Did it matter? It was true...he already loved the little babe. “Dov Northbreaker, even //your// beard can’t hide that smile.” Kip teased, cupping Dov’s face between his hands. “You'd want to raise 'em? With ''me''?” “Of course! You'd be an amazing father, and I would look great with a baby on my hip,” he quipped. “...” “Don't look at me like that, you know I'm right.” “Maybe.” He was right, and Dov did indeed know it. “We could do it...let's write your mother, she'll help. It’s not been easy, but we’re doing okay. The little one is fed and warm. It just...it just fits. We were lost and found each other, and now, it just feels meant to be.” “Alright. Yes, yes – let’s...I always wanted…” Dov’s emotions caught in his throat. The familiar well of tears hit his eyes as he gazed at his beloved, rendered speechless. “Yeah?” Kip smirked. “...A family with you.” [[5 years later]]

“Hey, Sprout, come on. It's well passed the time for you get out of bed.” You feel your hair being tussled as your da's voice gently prods you fully awake. “Come on, kid, your papa is going to lecture me if he finds out I let you sleep in.” He chuckles, and you feel the bed dip as he sits next to you. Blearily, you open your eyes and blink up at your da. Despite the blur of sleep, you can see 'how handsome he is,' as Papa always says about your da. He just looks like a father to you. He hasn't shaved for a few days it looks like, his cheeks and chin are prickly with dark stubble that pokes your face as he kisses your forehead. Hazel eyes turn up at the corners when he smiles at you. His face is sharper than Papa's and little wrinkles form at the corners of his eyes. And even though there's no one important visiting, and you aren't going anywhere special, Da's hair looks nice, gentle brown waves neatly tussled about his forehead and ears. “I won't tell Papa if you won't,” you say. [[“But only if you give me five more minutes.”][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 6, 0, 100)]] [[“As long as I can have sweet cakes for breakfast.”][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 6, 0, 100)]] [[“So I guess I'll get up.”][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 6, 0, 100)]]

Da rises from the bed and flips the blankets off you in a swift motion. “Nice try, kid, but you and I both know that'll end worse for you than me.” You grunt, struggling in vain to reach your blankets and pull them back up again as Da chuckles. You reluctantly swing your legs over the bed, watching them dangle over the edge as your father takes a seat next to you again. He gently pats your head. “I promise, you can sleep all you want on the next rest day; for now, go to the washroom and then head downstairs to get some food. Aster and Yarrow have already been here asking for your lazy bones to go play.” You perk up at the sound of the names of your closest friends. They're the sons of the town healers, Kavi and Betony Twinflower, and have been your playmates since you were a baby. “Can I go find them?” “Sure, //after// you draw some water for those demon-chickens your pa is so fond of. And remember, you're on evening chores today.” You groan at the thought of your chores, but it's at least a lighter day than most. “Okay, Dada.” “Don't go too far into the woods either. If Yarrow tries to goad you again, give him a swift kick.” “Yes, Da, I know.” Admittedly, you'd also never pass up a chance to kick Yarrow either, no matter how much you wanted to explore in the forest. “Oh, and...” You pout at your da. “Whaat?” you whine. He places a kiss on the top of your head. “I love you, Ravinder.” [[“I love you too, Da.”|Da Loves You][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 6, 0, 100)]] [[You giggle and playfully swat at him.|Da Loves You][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 6, 0, 100)]] [[You're a little overcome with feeling and can't think to respond.|Da Loves You][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 6, 0, 100)]]

Da taps the end of your nose with a finger. “You're going to turn into a sweet cake at this rate.” “Would you eat me if I did?” Da laughs. “Of course not! I'd keep you in the cupboard, even if you get moldy.” You giggle. “I'm not gonna be a moldy cake!” “In that case, I guess you'll have to settle for bread and fruit this morning.” You groan, but you can't help but grin. Da pats your leg and gets up from the bed. “Let's go, kid; go to the washroom and head downstairs and get your food. //No// cakes. Aster and Yarrow have already been here asking for your lazy bones to go play.” You perk up at the sound of the names of your closest friends. They're the sons of the town healers, Kavi and Betony Twinflower, and have been your playmates since you were a baby. “Can I go find them?” “Sure, //after// you draw some water for those demon-chickens your Pa is so fond of. And remember, you're on evening chores today.” You groan at the thought of your chores, but it's at least a lighter day than most. “Okay, Dada.” “Don't go too far into the woods either. If Yarrow tries to goad you again, give him a swift kick.” “Yes, Da, I know.” Admittedly, you'd also never pass up a chance to kick Yarrow either, no matter how much you wanted to explore in the forest. “Oh, and...” You pout at your da. “Whaat?” you whine. He places a kiss on the top of your head. “I love you, Ravinder.” [[“I love you too, Da.”|Da Loves You][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 6, 0, 100)]] [[You giggle and playfully swat at him.|Da Loves You][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 6, 0, 100)]] [[You're a little overcome with feeling and can't think to respond.|Da Loves You][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 6, 0, 100)]]

“Thank you, little one. Papa doesn't need to know everything, right?” He winks at you. You laugh, “You know how Papa is; he probably already knows.” “Oh, come now, I'm pretty sneaky.” You shake your head as you pull your legs from your covers and scoot to the edge of the bed next to Dada. “Papa likes to let you think you're sneaky.” Da's hand flies to his chest as he lets out a fake gasp. “I'll have you know that I am a master of sneaking.” You smile. “Maybe of sneaking sweet cakes when Papa isn't looking.” Da laughs and pats your leg as he gets up from the bed. “Alright, enough of that, let's go, kid; to the washroom with you first and then head downstairs to get some food. Aster and Yarrow have already been here asking for your lazy bones to go play.” You perk up at the sound of the names of your closest friends. They're the sons of the town healers, Kavi and Betony Twinflower, and have been your playmates since you were a baby. “Can I go find them?” “Sure, //after// you draw some water for those demon-chickens your Pa is so fond of. And remember, you're on evening chores today.” You groan at the thought of your chores, but it's at least a lighter day than most. “Okay, Dada.” “Don't go too far into the woods either. If Yarrow tries to goad you again, give him a swift kick.” “Yes, Da, I know.” Admittedly, you'd also never pass up a chance to kick Yarrow either, no matter how much you wanted to explore in the forest. “Oh, and...” You pout at your da. “Whaat?” you whine. He places a kiss on the top of your head. “I love you, Ravinder.” [[“I love you too, Da.”|Da Loves You][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 6, 0, 100)]] [[You giggle and playfully swat at him.|Da Loves You][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 6, 0, 100)]] [[You're a little overcome with feeling and can't think to respond.|Da Loves You][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 6, 0, 100)]]

After a sweet moment with your da, he leaves your room so you can have privacy as you dress for the day. You listen to his heavy footfalls against the wooden floors slowly recede down the hallway as you rub sleep from your eyes. You quickly put on something that will withstand both the chickens and Yarrow's roughhousing before you head to the washroom. You grab your stool so you can reach the hand pump to draw water into the basin before washing your face and completing your morning care. As long as you can remember, Da has insisted you do this. He's taught you how to care for yourself each morning and night. Papa cares less for such things, but he tries to keep clean. You like watching him wash his face since his beard traps all the water and he drips everywhere and Da always chides him for it. You smile at the thought as you look up into the mirror. Your eyes are a vibrant <<listbox "$eyecolor" autoselect>> <<option "brown">> <<option "black">> <<option "hazel">> <<option "green">> <<option "blue">> <<option "amber">> <<option "grey">> <<option "purple">> <</listbox>>. They are set off by the color of your skin, a beautiful ''shade of'' <<listbox "$skin" autoselect>> <<option "brown">> <<option "fawn">> <<option "black">> <<option "beige">> <<option "pink">> <<option "ochre">> <<option "umber">> <<option "white">> <</listbox>>. [[Next|Continue Custom 1]]

<<if $eyecolor is "purple">>Da says that purple eyes are very special. Not just here where you live, but all over the known world. Most, but not all, people with purple eyes have ties to magic, which may be why they’re so rare.<<elseif $eyecolor is "brown">>Your eyes look just like your papa's, and Da likes to say that the most loving people have brown eyes. You're not sure how true that is yet.<<elseif $eyecolor is "hazel">>You and Da have the same color in your eyes. He likes to tell you it's a color that will make anyone swoon. Papa just rolls own his eyes at that.<<elseif $eyecolor is "blue">>Da says that blue eyes are special. They’re not as common as some of the other colors and some regard them as having some affiliation with magic, like they do with purple eyes.<<elseif $eyecolor is "black">>Da says your eyes are the clearest and most beautiful that he's ever seen, with Papa's being a close second. He says they’re mysterious and will enchant anyone whom you look upon.<<elseif $eyecolor is "green">>Da tells you that your green eyes will draw people to you and paint you as a beautiful mystery to all whom you behold.<<elseif $eyecolor is "amber">>Da says that amber is the color of passion in the language of eyes – whatever that means. He tells you that they exude both fierceness and beauty.<<else>>Da says you have the eyes of a storm – they’re the color of wisdom and power that people will look to for guidance.<</if>> You continue your routine and fix the bed-head that ruffles your tresses; your hair is <<listbox "$haircolor" autoselect>> <<option "brown">> <<option "black">> <<option "blond">> <<option "red">> <<option "ginger">> <<option "auburn">> <<option "white">> <</listbox>>. You run your fingers through the <<listbox "$hairlength" autoselect>> <<option "very long">> <<option "long">> <<option "shoulder length">> <<option "chin length">> <<option "short">> <<option "very short">> <</listbox>> strands to tame them, though, you're sure it won't be long before it's mussed again. Da has helped you learn ways to manage your hair texture, which is mostly <<listbox "$hairtexture" autoselect>> <<option "tightly curled">> <<option "loosely curled">> <<option "wavy">> <<option "straight">> <<option "frizzy">> <</listbox>>. It's been fun to try different things, though you're not sure where Da got his fascination with hair care since it's mostly something people in the cities fuss over. [[You think about how to style your hair.|childhood hair style]]

<> <<if $pronouns is 'she'>> <<set $heshe to 'she'>> <<set $capitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $hisher to 'her'>> <<set $capitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $himher to 'her'>> <<set $capitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $hishers to 'hers'>> <<set $capitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $himselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $manwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $sondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <<elseif $pronouns is 'he'>> <<set $heshe to 'he'>> <<set $capitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $hisher to 'his'>> <<set $capitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $himher to 'him'>> <<set $capitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $hishers to 'his'>> <<set $capitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $himselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $manwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $sondtrchild to 'son'>> <<elseif $pronouns is 'they'>> <<set $heshe to 'they'>> <<set $capitalheshe to 'They'>> <<set $hisher to 'their'>> <<set $capitalhisher to 'Their'>> <<set $himher to 'them'>> <<set $capitalhimher to 'Them'>> <<set $hishers to 'theirs'>> <<set $capitalhishers to 'Theirs'>> <<set $himselfherself to 'themselves'>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Themselves'>> <<set $manwoperson to 'person'>> <<set $sondtrchild to 'child'>> <</if>> <> Staring into the big larder, you think about your options. You grab some bread and fruit, things your fathers prefer you eat to break your fast, but can't help but to also eye the sweet cakes. They're a little high up for you to reach on your own, though there's a crate you could stand on if you wanted to swipe one. You're well aware both Papa and Da wouldn't like you sneaking sweets. [[You grab the crate and stand on it to reach the cakes.][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You ignore the crate and leave with the food you already have.][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 3, 0, 100)]]

What's the harm, really? You still have to stand on your toes to reach the shelf the cakes are on and even then your fingers can barely touch your prize. You strain hard and consider doing a little hop to give you a boost just as you feel large hands grab you and hoist you up high. You startle at first, but settle once your treat is in your direct line of sight. You giggle and snatch the tasty cake. Papa flips you around and eyes you with his soft brown gaze. He's smiling, but you can barely see it through his thick reddish-brown beard. His brown hair is drawn back in a short ponytail. You can tell he's been hard at work all morning as there's bits of leaves and bark trapped in his tresses and sweat clings to his umber skin. You feel taller than ever being held up by Papa. He's the biggest person in the whole town both in height and shoulders. Some people get scared just by seeing him, but you know better. Your papa is soft-hearted and kind. He brings you close to him and you feel the rumble of his chuckle through his broad chest. Grabbing the sweet cake from your fingers with a huge hand, he asks, “What're ya up to, Sprout?” You bite your lower lip, trying to look innocent. “Nothin',” you say. “Mm-hmm.” You're clearly caught, but Papa seems to be feigning ignorance. “What's this here?” He waves the cake around. “Breakfast?” He chuckles again. “I seem to remember yer da sayin' no sweeties for breakfast.” “I think that was directed at you, Papa.” He scoffs playfully at that. “Well, I guess...this'll be our secret...” Papa puts the cake in his mouth and chomps half of it in one bite, holding the other half to you. You grab the cake and start stuffing it into your mouth. A wonderfully sweet, honey flavor makes you close your eyes as it draws equally sweet memories of baking cakes with Da while Papa snuck tastes of the batter. Da threatened him with a spoon. Papa squeezes you close, planting a kiss at the side of your head, before setting you down at the table to eat the rest of your breakfast. You watch as he tries to remove the evidence of crumbs from his beard before drawing water from the kitchen to drink. He guzzles it from a big tankard, droplets streaming down his beard and onto his tunic. As you eat, you notice his axe leaning against the front door to the cabin. He must be felling trees today. No wonder he's so thirsty. Papa even built your home with the help of his mother, your grandmother, using the trees he cut down. It's easily one of the best homes in your town, Stonebrook - nested right in the middle of the land of Iroda. It isn't the fanciest, but it's big and strong, like your parents. Both Papa and your grandmother are tall and broad, so all the doors had to be big as well, and the ceiling for both stories is taller than most other houses. It makes you feel even smaller sometimes. Every type of wood is in and around the cabin; you are always surprised at how many different colors it can be and it always smells nice. The exterior is clad in strong cedar, but the interior is full of walnut, birch, and oak. Papa comes from a long line of tree-cutters and woodworkers, so you guess it was natural for them to keep the cabin so rustic when other trends use stone and plaster to coat the walls. Though, Da has added soft and colorful fabrics and decorations throughout the entire house. Grandmother didn't care for anything 'frivolous,' but you think she secretly quite liked the things Da decorated with. You're even named after your grandmother, Ravinder Axemaiden. Papa and Da said they gave you that name because you were strong even as a baby, just like her. She still visits sometimes, but mostly she lives as a nomad and isn't comfortable being in a large community like yours for very long. Papa says that's why he has never met his own papa. He doesn't know where he lives, but does have his father's family name, Northbreaker. Da took that name too when he and Papa united. Grandmother didn't have a set family name of her own, but she was commonly known as Axemaiden in her travels. You suppose it was fair of her not to call her son by that after all. Your thoughts go back to Papa who has downed another tankard of water and is heading out again from the looks of it. He ruffles your hair and gives you a smile before quietly slipping back outside with axe in hand. [[You eat the rest of your breakfast quickly so you can also get outside.]]

You better not, Da has told you a few times now that you should get permission for sweets first and he especially doesn't want you to have them in the morning for some reason. You sigh and decide to return to the food you already picked out. Turning, you're startled by a giant figure looming over you, but quickly temper your surprise when you realize it's your papa. He scoops you up in his arms, raising you up high. He eyes you with his soft brown gaze. Though he's smiling, you can barely see it through his thick reddish-brown beard. His brown hair is drawn back in a short ponytail. You can tell he's been hard at work all morning as there's bits of leaves and bark trapped in his tresses and sweat clings to his umber skin. You feel taller than ever being held up by Papa. He's the biggest person in the whole town both in height and shoulders. Some people get scared just by seeing him, but you know better. Your papa is soft-hearted and kind. Cradling you with one arm, Papa uses the other to snatch a cake from the larder shelf you were just eyeing. You feel the rumble of his laugh through his chest. “Our secret,” he says before gobbling half the cake in one big bite before handing the other half to you. “Thanks, Papa!” “Yer welcome, Sprout. If Da finds out, though, I'm tellin' him it was yer idea.” You consider the risk for a moment before stuffing the cake into your mouth. A wonderfully sweet, honey flavor makes you close your eyes as it draws equally sweet memories of baking cakes with Da while Papa snuck tastes of the batter. Da threatened him with a spoon. It's worth being an accomplice to Papa's crime. Papa squeezes you close, planting a kiss at the side of your head, before setting you down at the table to eat the rest of your breakfast. You watch as he tries to remove the evidence of crumbs from his beard before drawing water from the kitchen to drink. He guzzles it from a big tankard, droplets streaming down his beard and onto his tunic. As you eat, you notice his axe leaning against the front door to the cabin. He must be felling trees today. No wonder he's so thirsty. Papa even built your home with the help of his mother, your grandmother, using the trees he cut down. It's easily one of the best homes in your town, Stonebrook. It isn't the fanciest, but it's big and strong, like your parents. Both Papa and your grandmother are tall and broad, so all the doors had to be big as well, and the ceiling for both stories is taller than most other houses. It makes you feel even smaller sometimes. Every type of wood is in and around the cabin; you are always surprised at how many different colors it can be and it always smells nice. The exterior is clad in strong cedar, but the interior is full of walnut, birch, and oak. Papa comes from a long line of tree-cutters and woodworkers, so you guess it was natural for them to keep the cabin so rustic when other trends use stone and plaster to coat the walls. Though, Da has added soft and colorful fabrics and decorations throughout the entire house. Grandmother didn't care for anything 'frivolous,' but you think she secretly quite liked the things Da decorated with. You're even named after your grandmother, Ravinder Axemaiden. Papa and Da said they gave you that name because you were strong even as a baby, just like her. She still visits sometimes, but mostly she lives as a nomad and isn't comfortable being in a large community like yours for very long. Papa says that's why he has never met his own papa. He doesn't know where he lives, but does have his father's family name, Northbreaker. Da took that name when he and Papa united. Grandmother didn't have a set family name of her own, but she was commonly known as Axemaiden in her travels. You suppose it was fair of her not to call her son by that after all. Your thoughts go back to Papa who has downed another tankard of water and is heading out again from the looks of it. He ruffles your hair and gives you a smile before quietly slipping back outside with axe in hand. [[You eat the rest of your breakfast quickly so you can also get outside.]]

After pulling the heavy front door open and then struggling to get it closed again, you take off at a run across the porch and down the steps to the yard, stirring up a couple of the dogs and more than a few birds who were just trying to enjoy the sunshine. Just like everything else in your parent's possession, the yard is big. and you have a little ways to run to get to your family's little farm. Luckily, the chicken coop is the closest out-building to the house. Snatching up a bucket, you quickly pump water from the well for Papa's chickens, even though you're anxious to go find Aster and Yarrow. The plump birds greet you with their garbled clucking and some rush to peck lightly at your legs as you approach. The chickens love Papa the most, but they're still fond of you. Da; however, gets scratched and chased when he comes near them. Despite being a hunter, Da seems a bit scared of them, especially the rooster who always struts about his flock like a guardian. You and Papa have fed him scraps so he's taken with the of both of you and never tries to scratch. Barely making sure the bucket is even put away properly, you start running down the lane to the dirt road into town where Aster and Yarrow reside. It's still early enough, they're probably home and waiting for you. You don't live too far from the healer's clinic, but your home is closer to the edge of town with a good bit of uninhabited land around it. Da calls it the 'best of two worlds.' You spot the hunched figure of Yarrow first, his mop of black hair hanging over his face as he tries to tug a stick away from his dog. The scroungy thing puts up a good fight, but ultimately loses his prize to Yarrow's superior strength, though his master gives it a good toss and the pup wastes no time in bounding after it. [[“Yarrow!” You call out.]]

He turns quickly towards your voice, smiles wide and waves. You nearly barrel into him, almost not stopping in time. His green eyes go wide, and he flinches slightly, but laughs. “Take it easy, Ravi, you'll hurt yourself running like that.” You pout a little as you look up at him. He's older than you by four years and sometimes tries to act like he's so much more mature, even though your da tells you that – for your age – you are very well-read and well-spoken. Sure, it's mostly true that Yarrow is pretty mature and sort of clever, but he doesn't have to act like it all the time. “Why do you call me that?” “Because your given name is as long as the road out of town.” You stick your tongue at him. “Then, I'll call you Yari.” Yarrow seems to consider it a moment. “It's not bad, but no.” “That's not fair.” “It's plenty fair. Don't fret over it, my Name Day will be here soon and I'll change it anyway.” You perk up with excitement. You just learnt about Name Days a while ago. Like every other kid, on your 14th cycle, You'll get the choice to keep the given name your parents provided you, or change it to what you feel fits you the most. Yarrow has been talking about his since he and Aster's twin sisters' Name Day a few weeks ago. They chose to keep their given names, Sage and Poppy. The two keep an eye on you and Aster sometimes when your parents aren't around, and you really thought the two would choose names more fitting to their temperaments. Something like “Torment” and “Strife” would have been more realistic than the gentleness of their given names. “So, did you already pick something?” You ask. “Not yet, just thought of some that I like. It'll be here before I know it, so I need to be prepared.” “Tell me! What do you like?” Yarrow shakes his head. “No, you'll find out on my Name Day just like everyone else.” You grumble, but decide it's better to change the subject than try to argue with him. “Where's Aster?” “Our da is making him drink some sort of tea again. He was short of breath after we returned from your house earlier.” You sink a little. Aster's health sometimes pivots. He's done well so far this season, but your parents say that he was always very sickly as a baby. He's only a year older than you, yet is smaller than you by quite a bit. His Ma told you once it was because his illness stunted his growth very young. He's sensitive to a lot of things, even when the weather changes with the seasons. It's been getting a little colder lately, and you wonder if his trouble stems from that. Yarrow smiles at you. “Don't worry, he's fine. Our parents just baby him; you know how tough he actually is.” You nod in agreement just as the door to their clinic opens and you see a familiar poof of frizzy dark-blond hair emerge from it. Aster sees and runs towards you, quickly taking your hand between both of his and squeezing as he smiles so wide that his brown eyes are practically forced to close. “Ravinder, I'm so happy to see you!” “Aster, I'm happy to see you too,” you reply. You see him most days as it is, but his excitement about it never wanes and is a bit contagious. From the door, You also see Betony appear, a colorful apron slung over her tunic and trousers. She looks like a grown version of Aster, though her curly blonde hair has been wrangled into a tight bun and her skin is brown like Yarrow's. She waves a long spoon at all of you. “Now, you three behave if you're going to be running around.” She glowers at Yarrow. “Keep them out of the woods this time, you hear?” “Yes, Ma.” Yarrow looks down at his shoes as he's chided. “Aster,” she continues, “if you have trouble, you come home. Ravinder can play in the house with you too, so no excuses if you don't feel well. And //all// of you stay away from the hives. The bees are getting ready to winter; I do not care how badly you want honey, you are ''not'' to bother them again.” You and Aster both break into a giggle. Betony's brow furrows in response, but you don't miss the little smirk she's fighting. She waves the spoon like a baton. “I'm serious. Unless you two want to be the ones pulling stingers from Yarrow's backside, I suggest you mind.” You and Aster break into full-blown laughter as Yarrow gives a menacing glare. He definitely took the brunt of your error in the honey heist last time. Maybe you shouldn't laugh, he did try to protect you and Aster from getting stung. [[You give him a warm smile in way of asking for forgiveness.|Sorry Yarrow]] [[You reach over and gently squeeze his hand.|Sorry Yarrow]] [[You gently nudge him with your shoulder.|Sorry Yarrow]]

Yarrow gives you a sweet smile in return, and once your warning from Betony is complete, you run off, steering clear of the bee hives and resisting the temptation to go deeper into the wood. Your favorite place to play is just down the road back towards your home. There's a clearing with a stream running through it if you leave the road and follow a dirt path a ways. It's a bit wooded but your parents have all deemed it close enough to town to be safe. You and your friends built a lean-to against the biggest tree there, one with roots that spring up from the ground, like the ones along the road outside of town. Papa has told you that trees like that are the oldest around in these woods and their roots grew like that at one time because the soil was doing poorly. Sure enough, almost every surrounding tree is a lot younger than this one and none of the roots spring from the ground. Your hut is nestled in the biggest section of roots, the walls of which are tall enough to almost fit your da. The roof was constructed out of sticks and leaves. It doesn't block rain very well, but it creates shade. You all have a box buried close to the tree trunk with the treasures you've found in the clearing. So far, you have a dangly silver earring, a couple pretty crystals that change color depending on how you turn them, the skull from a rat, a snail shell, and a strange looking metal piece that's colored blue. Your favorite is the... [[earring.]] [[crystals.]] [[rat skull.]] [[snail shell.]] [[blue metal.]]

<<set $favgift to 'earring'>> You often handle and stare into the little treasure. Sometimes you wonder if it still thrums with some sort of magic. Perhaps a mage lost it or even one of the old gods. Then again, it may have just belonged to one of the old widows that gather around town to gossip. Either way, it's beautiful to you - a long chain segmented by three jade baubles, though some of the links are broken as is the hook that holds it to an ear. Maybe on another day you can retrieve your prize and imagine who held it before you. Today though, Aster is already ankle deep in the stream, his pants rolled to his knees and shoes long forgotten. He waves you over while Yarrow goes to the hut where it looks like there is a hole in the roof. Aster smiles at you as you approach. “Do you want to get in? The water is cold, but it won't be long until the season changes and it's too cold to wade in.” [[You'd rather stay on the bank and support him from there.]] [[You hike up your clothes so you can join him.]]

<<set $favgift to 'crystals'>> You often handle and stare into the little treasures. Turning them in your fingers and holding them to the light to see how the colors dance within entrances you. It's hard telling what they were for or where they came from. Maybe they were a form of currency in the old world? They are small enough, you think. Or, maybe the little gems have the souls of demons trapped inside? Perhaps on another day you can retrieve your prize and imagine who held it before you and what may be contained within. Today though, Aster is already ankle deep in the stream, his pants rolled to his knees and shoes long forgotten. He waves you over while Yarrow goes to the hut where it looks like there is a hole in the roof. Aster smiles at you as you approach. “Do you want to get in? The water is cold, but it won't be long until the season changes and it's too cold to wade in.” [[You'd rather stay on the bank and support him from there.]] [[You hike up your clothes so you can join him.]]

<<set $favgift to 'rat'>> You often handle and stare into the little treasure. The bone is smooth aside from sharp teeth. It was mostly intact and clean when you found it and Yarrow knew how to treat it to preserve it. Sometimes you feel a little bad for the creature whose head you can now hold in your hand. Perhaps they were a pet to one of the forest spirits? Perhaps on another day you can retrieve your prize and look into its little eye sockets to try and glean more about the creature's origin. Today though, Aster is already ankle deep in the stream, his pants rolled to his knees and shoes long forgotten. He waves you over while Yarrow goes to the hut where it looks like there is a hole in the roof. Aster smiles at you as you approach. “Do you want to get in? The water is cold, but it won't be long until the season changes and it's too cold to wade in.” [[You'd rather stay on the bank and support him from there.]] [[You hike up your clothes so you can join him.]]

<<set $favgift to 'snail'>> You often handle and stare into the little treasure. The shell is perfectly smooth with a perfect spiral pattern in a reddish-brown with a darker cream color. You've always quite liked snails, the little creatures are charming in their own way. You felt a little bad collecting the shell, but were too entranced to leave it behind. It was empty when you found it, and you doubted the owner was going to come back and collect it. Perhaps on another day you can retrieve your prize and admire the craftsmanship. Today though, Aster is already ankle deep in the stream, his pants rolled to his knees and shoes long forgotten. He waves you over while Yarrow goes to the hut where it looks like there is a hole in the roof. Aster smiles at you as you approach. “Do you want to get in? The water is cold, but it won't be long until the season changes and it's too cold to wade in.” [[You'd rather stay on the bank and support him from there.]] [[You hike up your clothes so you can join him.]]

<<set $favgift to 'metal'>> You often handle and stare into the little treasure. There doesn't seem to be much metal, but it is quite heavy for its small size and it's a color blue that none of you have ever seen in metal before. It's the color of bluebells and very shiny. You had found it during your illicit trip into the woods at Yarrow's behest after slinking through a small cavern. It was the only thing interesting you had spotted all day and you much liked the feel of it between your fingers. Perhaps on another day you can retrieve your prize and admire it further. Today though, Aster is already ankle deep in the stream, his pants rolled to his knees and shoes long forgotten. He waves you over while Yarrow goes to the hut where it looks like there is a hole in the roof. Aster smiles at you as you approach. “Do you want to get in? The water is cold, but it won't be long until the season changes and it's too cold to wade in.” [[You'd rather stay on the bank and support him from there.]] [[You hike up your clothes so you can join him.]]

“I'll stay on the bank for now.” Aster nods. “Alright then. Could you hand me that piece of bark by your foot? I want to dig around for that crayfish that pinched me the other day.” You chuckle as you grab and hand him the bark. “Why do you want to find it so bad if it pinched you?” “It was pretty...and I kinda want revenge.” He smiles a bit sheepishly at you. You roll your eyes, knowing that Aster would never hurt a creature out of malice, so you can only wonder what he means by revenge, though you don't have to wonder long. “I'm going to give it a stern lecture.” “Should I go get your ma's spoon as well?” He laughs and the sound echos around you. “That's a good idea.” You watch as Aster stirs up mud and overturns rocks to find his prey. He digs up a few crayfish that are eager to pinch, but they're much smaller than the one he's looking for so he gently places them elsewhere. You try to spot the creature for him as you make idle chatter before you remember what Yarrow said earlier about his Name Day. “Aster?” “Yeah?” He answers without looking up from the stream, hair flopped over, concealing his face as he focuses. “Yarrow said he's thinking of taking a new name on his Name Day...Do you know what name he wants?” Aster shakes his head, “No, but that's so far away, at least...” He counts on his fingers. “At least five more cycles, almost six.” You grin. Aster and Yarrow are brothers, but they think and look completely opposite. Aster looks more like his mother - with his blond hair and brown eyes - and Yarrow takes after his father - having black hair and green eyes. Though, Aster inherited his father's lighter skin tone and Yarrow has brown skin like his mother. The twins look just like Kavi, but unlike Yarrow, their green eyes are menacing. “Well, your brother seems to feel like it's around the corner and he needs to be thinking of options already.” “Typical Yarrow.” “He wouldn't tell me the names he's thought of.” A giggle leaves Aster. “I hope that didn't surprise you.” “No...and I guess it may change by the time the day arrives.” “What about you?” “Hm? What about me?” Aster overturns another rock and begins sifting through mud. “It's really far away for us, but do you think you'll change your name as well?” You stop and think. You do like that your fathers put thought into what to call you. Your grandmother is respectable even if she is a bit distant, and you know you are quite dear to her as well. You also know that your parents and grandmother wouldn't mind if you change your name. When Da explained Name Day to you, he said that it was about people making the choice of who they want to be in the world. That parents can guide children and give them what they need, but the choice of who they want to be is up to them. That's what is in a name. Da even told you that he didn't keep his given name, though he wouldn't tell you it since 'that isn't who he is anymore.' He chose 'Kip' because he liked the sound of it and his favorite food is kippers. He also told you, 'life's too short to be too serious.' Papa kept his given name, though – Dov. When you asked him why, he sat and thought for a long while before he told you that it simply had always felt right to him. He explained that no one is certain where words and names first came from, that they were probably leftovers from the world that came before yours. There was still meaning and power behind a name, and even if you did not know how the name came to be, you can feel its nature when it's spoken. After some thought, you tell Aster... [[“Yes, I think I'd like to choose my own name.”]] [[“No, for right now, I like Ravinder.”]]

“Sure!” You say, already preparing to keep your clothing dry. You step in from the bank and get a light shiver of cold as you gently wade towards Aster who's focusing on something in the stream. You feel the smooth stones and squish of mud under your feet as water swirls around your calves. Aster nods. “Alright then. Could you help me look for that crayfish that pinched me the other day.” You chuckle, placing your hands on your hips as you stare back at him. “Why do you want to find it so bad if it pinched you?” “It was pretty...and I kinda want revenge.” He smiles a bit sheepishly at you. You roll your eyes, knowing that Aster would never hurt a creature out of malice, so you can only wonder what he means by revenge, though you don't have to wonder long. “I'm going to give it a stern lecture.” “Should I go get your ma's spoon as well?” He laughs and the sound echos around you. “That's a good idea.” You watch as Aster stirs up mud and overturns rocks to find his prey. You do the same, carefully poking around for the snappy creatures. You both dig up a few crayfish that are eager to pinch, but they're much smaller than the one Aster is looking for, so he gently places them elsewhere. You make idle chatter before you remember what Yarrow said earlier about his Name Day. “Aster?” “Yeah?” He answers without looking up from the stream, hair flopped over, concealing his face as he focuses. “Yarrow said he's thinking of taking a new name on his Name Day...Do you know what name he wants?” Aster shakes his head, “No, but that's so far away, at least...” He counts on his fingers. “At least five more cycles, almost six.” You grin. Aster and Yarrow are brothers, but they think and look completely opposite. Aster looks more like his mother – with his blond hair and brown eyes – and Yarrow takes after his father – having black hair and green eyes. Though, Aster inherited his father's lighter skin tone and Yarrow has brown skin like his mother. The twins look just like Kavi, but unlike Yarrow, their green eyes are menacing. “Well, your brother seems to feel like it's around the corner and he needs to be thinking of options already.” “Typical Yarrow.” “He wouldn't tell me the names he's thought of.” A giggle leaves Aster. “I hope that didn't surprise you.” “No...and I guess it may change by the time the day arrives.” “What about you?” “Hm? What about me?” Aster overturns another rock and begins sifting through mud. “It's really far away for us, but do you think you'll change your name as well?” You stop and think. You do like that your fathers put thought into what to call you. Your grandmother is respectable even if she is a bit distant, and you know you are quite dear to her as well. You also know that your parents and grandmother wouldn't mind if you change your name. When Da explained Name Day to you, he said that it was about people making the choice of who they want to be in the world. That parents can guide children and give them what they need, but the choice of who they want to be is up to them. That's what is in a name. Da even told you that he didn't keep his given name, though he wouldn't tell you it since 'that isn't who he is anymore.' He chose 'Kip' because he liked the sound of it and his favorite food is kippers. He also told you, 'Life's too short to be too serious.' Papa kept his given name, though – Dov. When you asked him why, he sat and thought for a long while before he told you that it simply had always felt right to him. He explained that no one is certain where words and names first came from, that they were probably leftovers from the world that came before yours. There was still meaning and power behind a name, and even if you did not know how the name came to be, you can feel its nature when it's spoken. After some thought, you tell Aster... [[“Yes, I think I'd like to choose my own name.”]] [[“No, for right now, I like Ravinder.”]]

“At least for right now, I think I want to choose my own some day. Maybe when I get older, I'll know what feels right for me.” Aster nods. “I think the same. I don't know what I'd pick...something pretty.” You chuckle. “Of course!” Before you can continue, Yarrow calls out, so you both head over to the hut. Aster is empty-handed, he'll have to lecture his crayfish on another day. As you approach, you see that Yarrow has fashioned a patch for the roof with some fronds woven with sticks, and he's made a vine into a rope. He gestures to Aster. “Could you help me put this on the roof? I can lift you on my shoulders and all you need to do is put it on and tie it in place. Ravi will catch you if you fall off.” Yarrow winks at you. You pout at him, but that just seems to make him smile. Truthfully, you don't know if you could hold a falling Aster, so you think what Yarrow is suggesting is that you simply break his fall should one occur. Aster readily agrees, and you help him crawl onto Yarrow's back until he's sitting on his brother's shoulders. You hand him the roof patch as Yarrow balances and leans against the plank root that creates the outer wall of your hut. All you can do is stand and watch, though you are mindful of staying close should Aster tumble. It takes a few tries, but Aster manages to tie the thatch in place and gives it a shake to ensure it's secure. You smirk while you think of a way to irritate Yarrow as Aster tries to clamor off his shoulders, kneeing his brother in the head twice. You open your mouth, poised to make a joke... [[but no words come out.]]

“Actually, I like Ravinder. At least for now." You may change your mind later. Aster nods. “I don't mind Aster, but I think I may change it. I don't know what I'd pick...something pretty.” You chuckle. “Of course!” Before you can continue, Yarrow calls out, and you both head over to the hut. Aster is empty-handed, he'll have to lecture his crayfish on another day. As you approach, you see that Yarrow has fashioned a patch for the roof with some fronds woven with sticks, and he's made a vine into a rope. He gestures to Aster. “Could you help me put his on the roof? I can lift you on my shoulders and all you need to do is put it on and tie it in place. Ravi will catch you if you fall off.” Yarrow winks at you. You pout at him, but that just seems to make him smile. Truthfully, you don't know if you could hold a falling Aster, so you think what Yarrow is suggesting is that you simply break his fall should one occur. Aster readily agrees, and you help him crawl onto Yarrow's back until he's sitting on his brother's shoulders. You hand him the roof patch as Yarrow balances and leans against the plank root that creates the outer wall of your hut. All you can do is stand and watch, though you are mindful of staying close should Aster tumble. It takes a few tries, but Aster manages to tie the thatch in place and gives it a shake to ensure it's secure. You smirk while you think of a way to irritate Yarrow as Aster tries to clamor off his shoulders, kneeing his brother in the head twice. You open your mouth, poised to make a joke... [[but no words come out.]]

This doesn't feel right. You //know// this isn't right. You're frozen, your mouth open to speak. Yarrow and Aster are looking at you expectantly for a moment before their expressions morph into confusion. Yarrow furrows his brow. “Quit that, you'll scare Aster.” He tries to laugh it off, but even you can hear the nerves behind it. You can't respond, can't ask for help, you can't even blink, and you wonder if they can see fear on your face or not. Aster is shaking his head. “Ravinder, that's not...funny.” You feel something building in your stomach. It's like a rolling fire, pure and intense heat gathering itself together, and your eyes are watering as it threatens to overtake you. A look of fear flashes on Yarrow's face as he reaches for you suddenly. Your vision is going fuzzy, and all you hear is Aster screaming, “$capitalhisher eyes!” An eruption of pain bursts through your belly and travels in a wave through your torso and limbs. You hit the the ground before Yarrow can reach you, and your vision is becomes darker and darker. The last thing you see is Yarrow's terrified face over you, tears in his eyes as he cradles your face in his hands. … [[You pray that you'll survive this before everything goes black and numb.|One unconscious 5 year old later]]

“...Sprout?” … //Was that your papa's voice?// … “Is Ravinder still sleeping?” … //Dada is here too.// Your mind is sluggish and you're not sure where you are. You will yourself to respond but nothing happens. …Why can't you answer? …Your eyes won't open either. //What's wrong with you?// You feel Papa's big hands stroking your hair. He's so warm, and it feels so comforting. The contrast makes you realize there is a stark chill emanating from within you. Something really isn't right. You're so tired. Numbness creeps along your limbs, but something within your core also pulses with pain. Papa's deep voice rumbles like a distant roar, the sound is distorted as if you're under water. “What're we gonna do, Kip?” The brokenness is evident in his voice. You've never heard him sound like that before. “I don't know, my love. Yarrow will be dropping off more herbs come sunrise; we'll try everything until something works.” Da sounds upset too. //What's wrong with you?// “It's been two days. I don't understand. Sprout wasn't even sick... How did this happen so quick? Ravinder's got to wake up...needs to eat.” It sounds like Papa is holding back tears. You feel your bed dip slightly next to you, and Da's cool hands along your cheek. “Do you remember when we found $himher, Dov?” “Aye, Sprout was barely the size of a rabbit.” It's quiet for a moment before Da speaks again. “We thought it was too late, you know.” “$capitalhisher mother was in such a state. I dunno how $heshe survived it.” You can hear footsteps going around your bed, and Papa's big hand grabs yours, completely dwarfing it. You never feel smaller or more protected than when Papa holds you, you wish you could will your fingers to hold him back. “$capitalheshe'll survive this too,” Da continues, “We'll figure this out, like we did then.” A sad-sounding chuckle escapes Papa, and you can hear the lilt in his voice. “Remember how hard we pushed the horses to get to town once we realized this beautiful babe was still alive?” His hand moves from your own to gently smooth through your hair again. “I could never forget; to this day, Milly still hates me for it.” Da chuckles. “Did you know she bit me after that?” You wish you could laugh. Da probably deserved it. “You probably deserved it.” Papa says, as if he could hear your thoughts. Da scoffs playfully, but it still sounds sullen. You can tell he's trying to help Papa, but he just can't muster his usual enthusiasm. He's unusually quiet, and the brightness he usually exudes is diminished. There's a pause in conversation for a long time, and you briefly wonder if you've either died or fallen asleep, but you can still sense them near you. Papa moves to hold your hand again, his thumb gently tracing a pattern over your skin. “I'd never held a babe before that. Never even seen one up close. Heard them plenty, hard not to. But, Ravinder was so...so silent. Looked so pale.” “It was a sad sight...all I could think about was we had to save $himher. Nothing else mattered, it was almost strange how quickly that notion took over us.” Da's voice waivers hard. “I feel that way now. Feels stronger. Ravinder is //our// child now. //Our// little Sprout. //Our// baby for the last five years. Ravinder has only seen five cycles yet, Kip.” Papa's voice finally cracks and he grips your hand more firmly. He sobs, and the sound wrenches at your heart, it's deep and the mournful sound fills the entire room. You'd give anything to will yourself to move or make a sound to make them feel okay again. Your body won't move, and you can't even grunt to signal that you can hear them. It's as if your consciousness is fighting against your own body to no avail. You can hear Da sniffling. “Sprout is strong, my love. $capitalheshe learned that from you and your ma. That's why we called $himher Ravinder. There's no one as strong as that old bat, so I know our Sprout can beat this.” He chuckles, but it's choked by tears. Papa hums softly. “I bet she'd know what to do. She'd knock my head in for doubtin' myself...” Your papa has always been quietly soft, his sensitivity a secret kept from all except those closest to him. He's a mountain of a man, always quiet and always strong. You've never heard him speak like this before, so openly afraid. Da wears his heart on his sleeve, but he's always so jovial about everything, the perfect balance to Papa. He's never been this somber. [[What's wrong with you?|in-between]]

Eventually, you recovered. Your fathers were able to wake you not long after the start of that following morning. You were still in pain and quite weak, but they poured broth and tea down your throat until you could move on your own and eat a proper meal. In just a couple more days, it was as if you hadn't even fallen ill. You were back to helping in the garden and playing with your friends like nothing had happened. You felt no residual pain or weakness. Yarrow and Aster treated you like thin glass for a long time after that. They told you that you had screamed when the illness took hold of you in the clearing, and it was unlike anything they had ever heard before. After you collapsed, Yarrow picked you up and ran all the way to your home while Aster ran to get their father. Aster admitted to having nightmares about the ordeal. Yarrow wouldn't admit to anything, but any time it was brought up, his expression soured and he'd begin to fidget. You felt bad for scaring them, but you had no control over what happened. Life carried on like normal after that. Papa and Da were anxious for a long time and they took you to Kavi regularly. You felt fine, and Kavi agreed that you were perfectly healthy – you didn't understand it – but at least you got to see your closest friends a lot. Aster stuck to you like glue and Yarrow seemed to...loom a bit more than he once did. You told your fathers how you had been able to hear them sometimes but couldn't respond. You kept thinking about what they had spoken about concerning the time they brought you into the family. So, you finally asked them more about how you came to be adopted. They had never hid that you were born to someone else. That fact, you had learned a lot about when you asked them to make you a sibling. Since Aster had so many, and he had told you that his parents made them all, you figured Dada and Papa could as well. You had never seen Papa's face so red before, but Da seemed to enjoy explaining why they couldn't do that, even if he was willing to //try// with Papa – mostly because it seemed to make him extra shy. What they told you was that it was clear that your mother died while birthing you. The details of how they knew were a little muddled, but you accepted what your fathers explained. They found her in the woods, a little ways off the road. No one else was around, nor did they find any signs of a horse or carriage she may have been traveling by. She was nestled against a giant tree, hidden among gnarled roots that she probably used to both hide and support herself while she gave birth. They said she might have been ill to have died that way and she may not have been healthy enough to carry a child. You didn't think much on it at that time. Your mother just must have been too sick...right? Once you were safe with Kavi and Betony - Betony being able to nurse you since Aster was being weened - your fathers had a funeral for your mother. They sent word to all the nearby villages and towns to find anyone that might know of her. No one ever responded. They interred her ashes at the base of the tree where you were born, and each year they take a gift to her grave on the anniversary of your birth and tell her about how you've grown. After learning a little more about the circumstances of your birth... [[You felt a great deal of remorse for your birth mother.]] [[A twist of anger formed within you. It was unfair.]] [[You were grateful to your birth mother and adoptive fathers.]] [[Guilt festered in your gut.]] [[You were at peace with it. It was all in the past.]]

You wait in Kavi's clinic, hoping to see Aster or Yarrow. You've been sitting here for nearly 20 minutes and are just about to leave when Kavi finally pops out from the storeroom. He greats you with a bright smile, coming to kneel by the chair you're sitting in. His green eyes are hooded, warm and bright just like Yarrow's, and his hair is so shiny and black that it's almost like ink. He smells like spring and wood-smoke. “Well, if it isn't little Ravinder. I hope you're not feeling unwell today.” You can see the concern in his eyes. Ever since you fell ill and Kavi could do nothing to help you, he has seemed to fret over you as much as your own parents. You shake your head. “I'm feeling fine; I just wanted to see if Yarrow and Aster could play. Betony said they were both here.” “Sorry, child; Aster wasn't feeling well, and I have him sleeping in the back for now so I can look after him. Yarrow's gone out to harvest some herbs for me too, and he'll be a while yet. How about you come back in a few hours. We'll have some tea and I bet we can find some sweeties to go with it.” You smile. “Sure, that sounds good. I saw some wild blackberries at the edge of the wood by my house, I'll bring some with me.” “That's kind of you. Yarrow will be pleased; he's the reason we can't keep any berry in our house for long. That boy's worse than a bear.” Kavi shakes his head, but he smiles wide. You scamper off back home, grabbing a basket and cloth to load up with berries. It isn't long after you begin to pick that you already have a substantial haul. The harvest for this year has been very good and the yields from foraging have been just as plentiful. You're sure to leave some for the birds and animals as you continue to pick, trying and failing to avoid all the thorns. A few more rips in your clothes are easily fixed and the berries are worth it. After a while, you notice strange noises coming from your family's barn. You don't think much of it at first, since you have several animals and know that Papa checks them a few times a day. But the noises don't stop after several minutes, and you're getting more curious and worried the longer it goes on. You decide to go look, wondering if you could chance upon one of your fathers on the way to investigate with you. You know the occasional fox or stray dog has gotten into the barn and stirred up the livestock before, but your own dogs usually keep them out. Wolves and bears are often too shy to come this close to town as well. As you head back towards home, you don't see Papa or Da anywhere, and after a few moments of hesitation, you get the attention of one of your dogs – a huge black mutt with jowls as long as her ears and paws as big as your head – named Rosy, and head towards the barn. Papa has told you how much you all rely on the animals, and even if they are livestock, you still care about them and want to keep them safe. You feel certain that Rosy could easily drive off a wolf and maybe even a bear all on her own - after all, you've seen her fend off the bull when it went after Da - but you still feel nerves rattle your gut, so you're sure to sneak carefully to the barn door. The noises are louder, and you can now tell it's one of the cows making the racket, but you also hear the voice of your Papa as soon as you get inside the door. Feeling more relaxed since Papa is already here, you turn Rosy loose; she exits the door and immediately plops herself in the dirt for a nap, unperturbed by the increasing ruckus. You go deeper into the barn to see what the commotion is about. [[You regret it.]] *[[To skip description of animal suffering/death click here.]]

You approach the very back of the barn, all of the other animals seem to have been turned out to the pasture, and the building feels eerily empty. Just under the familiar scent of hay and musk of animals, there is a metallic tinge to the air. You can hear a cow groaning in some sort of distress – her cries unusually high and long – and both Papa and Da are talking quickly to each other, sounding stressed. You quickly see why as you get closer. There's blood. There is so much blood. The cow is laying on her side, legs pawing at the air and then going stick-straight. She rests on the barn floor, bridled with a rope that Da has looped around a support column as he fights to keep the cow from getting to her feet by keeping her head down. She cries out again and again in clear pain and frustration. You recognize her markings and remember that she is the pregnant one. Da had to explain to you what the bull was doing with her at least two seasons ago. As is usual when he's shy or uncomfortable, Papa's face was completely red then, though he tried to explain it to you as truthfully as possible. His arms are completely red now. The floor is red too, the viscous substance seems to smear every surface around them, a stark contrast to the hues of brown that make up most of the barn. A calf hangs from the cow's backside, another rope tied around its legs, which Papa has leveraged on another post. The calf doesn't move or kick, and Papa is pulling on the rope, but it doesn't budge. He looks so distraught. “They're tangled together bad, Kip...I dunno if I can pull the other out before it's too late. Poor thing will suffocate if I can't.” Da shakes his head and paces, “Is the other really even alive still? She won't survive this… Maybe it would be merciful to...you know.” Papa strains as he tries to move the dead calf out further. “The other is alive; it's movin'. Cow's tryin' to push too, I need her help if I'm gonna have a chance to pull the other.” His voice is tinged with choked sadness, as if he is barely holding back tears. Just then, the cow ''screams'' and flails, her legs splay out to the side and she stretches her neck out as her body shivers violently. Da is yanked nearly off his feet as he struggles to keep her down. You feel tears prick your eyes. You didn't know cows //could// scream. Blood gushes so much that it sounds as if a bucket of water has been thrown on the floor, and Papa utters a prayer to Casimir for mercy – the goddess of destruction as you remember Da's history lessons. The cow isn't going to make it through this, and she is suffering. Papa finally seems to find the leverage he needs and pulls the dead calf from the cow by the rope. It drags lifelessly against the barn floor. Another pair of small hooves emerge, and Papa begins to work on getting the other calf out. The dead calf is small and bloody and even though it has fur, it looks pale. Completely still. You wonder for a moment, an invasive thought in the back of your mind, if that is what you looked like when you were first born. The mother cow is clearly exhausted, at her limit, she no longer fights Da to get up. She pants, blood now coating her mouth and her tongue lolling out, but she makes no more noise as her body begins to slacken. She's dying. This is what death truly looks like... You've seen dead animals before. <<if $favgift is 'rat'>>You even have the skull of such a creature tucked away among your treasures.<</if>>You have attended funeral ceremonies for departed townspeople as well. But you've never seen the moment of death. You've never known of a death preceded by such pain, nor have you ever witnessed such suffering. You'd never considered it before in your eight cycles in this world so far. The harsh realization begins to wash over you like a chilled wave. This is bloody. This is...//wrong//. It's not working the way things are meant to...like you. That's when you understand. Something like this went wrong for your mother. Another intrusive thought pummels you – maybe //you// went wrong. This must be what your fathers omitted from their explanation of how you came to be here. You can't look away even though your stomach is rolling and tears are washing down your face. Your Da turns as soon as your berry basket hits the floor, and his face is mortified once he realizes it's you. “Ravinder!” Da calls out as he runs to you. You're frozen in place, though now, Da blocks your view of the cow. [[He sweeps you up and runs from the barn.]]

Once you're out of the barn, Da has to stop as you begin to vomit. He holds you steady and Rosy gets up in a hurry to leave. You heave and heave, the image of the blood, and the sound of the scream replaying in your head over and over. Da whispers soothing words and then begins to hum a song - the lullaby he's sang to you as far back as you can remember. Once you are spent, Da picks you up again and takes you inside the house while he continues to hum. [[You're in shock and can't speak or react.]] [[You have nothing left in your stomach, but still cannot stop gagging.]] [[Your body shakes and your skin grows cold.]] [[Tears take over and your sobs echo all around you.]]

*Later that year... Your fathers have been encouraging you to try a few new things that they can teach you. Your da explained that he wanted you to find something you may have an interest in, and that way you can practice it now and perhaps develop a livelihood around it later. Though, Papa also insisted that you could just stay with them your entire adult life too and that would be fine. You weren't too sure about that. You're well into your eighth year and soon you will begin your ninth. Every cycle you have helped your fathers more and more on your little homestead, mostly with caring for the animals and with other small things that small hands can do. You run errands and do shopping – Da insists it's because the shopkeepers have an affinity for you, but really you know it's because Da doesn't get along with them. Though, one in particular has already offered a betrothal of her daughter to you. You turned it down quite fast, since the girl was known to eat the wood off her desk during school, and she had tried to bite you at least twice. Papa has been a wood-worker all his life and he loves it. He learned it from his mother, who learned it from her father, and you presume the chain continued from there. Though your grandmother mostly just cuts trees and lumber, your papa also went into making things from wood. He can build houses and furniture, boats and bridges. He uses every bit of a tree that falls by his axe, even the leaves, which he mulls up and uses to fertilize the soil in the garden. You've spent hours watching him whittle figurines and toys with small tools and a block of wood. Da, on the other hand, has a talent for hunting and fishing. He supplies a good portion of town with meat and furs. He's easily the best archer around, and you know he also can use a sword. On occasion, you have seen him spar with the village guardsmen, and recently, Yarrow has been coming by to learn the sword and bow from your da as well. Da fishes mostly with a net and a boat that Papa built. He's already taught you how to make and mend nets since it was an easy enough task for you. Da has told you a few times that the first fish he ever caught himself and ate was a kipper, and he loved it so much, he took the name Kip. You keep hoping he's joking. This year, you have put a lot of thought into what you'd like to start learning. You can pick about anything and can always change your mind if you don't like it, Papa says. Your parents also know quite a lot about other things too, so you're not stuck with woodworking and hunting. As for now, you are most drawn to... [[Chopping down trees with Papa.]] [[Woodworking with Papa.]] [[Learning swordplay from Da.]] [[Learning archery from Da.]] [[Medicine, and both your fathers know enough to get you started.]] [[Trade and business, and Da can help with that.]] [[Cooking and Papa can help you.]]

The more you thought about how you were growing and who you were becoming and what this day meant to you, the more certain you were that this needed to be a small celebration. The attention wasn't something you necessarily craved either. This day was about your first steps into adulthood and something intimate felt the most right to you. Lakota was very proud of your decision. You had initially worried that he and Oswin would be offended, but they both accepted your decision with respect and felt it suited you. Oswin seemed impressed that you didn't give into the pressure of having a large party and you got the sense that maybe he spoke from experience. Da remarked that maybe you were growing to be like Papa. There was a glint in his eyes and a big smile on his face. Papa blushed, of course. [[It would be a precious day to remember.]]

!Relationships -Under Construction- *Oswin: *Zahn: *Duri'naan: *Rūndis: <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Character Information [[Romanceable Characters]] -Under Construction- [[Family and Friends]] [[Others]] <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

<> <<set $ReservedOutgoing to 50>> <<set $GentleAssertive to 50>> <<set $SeriousPlayful to 50>> <<set $RecklessCautious to 50>> <<set $BoldflirtShyflirt to 50>> <<set $Oflirt to 0>> <<set $Zflirt to 0>> <<set $Dflirt to 0>> <<set $Rflirt to 0>> <<set $Aflirt to 0>> <<set $Aheart1 to 0>> <<set $Aheart2 to 0>> <<set $Dshy to 0>> <<set $Dbold to 0>> <<set $Rshy to 0>> <<set $Rbold to 0>> <<set $Zshy to 0>> <<set $Zbold to 0>> <<set $Ashy to 0>> <<set $Abold to 0>> <<set $merchantopinion to 5>> <<set $anx to 0>> <>

<> <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"><div style="text-align: center;">An unknown amount of time later...</h1></div> </body> </html> <> [[Sprout?]]

<> <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"><div style="text-align: center;">Over the next three years...</h1></div> </body> </html> <> [[Life goes on.]]

<<set $mommyissues to 'sad'>> Those final moments must have been so hard and so frightening. The thought of being in your mother's shoes – alone in the woods, nothing but ancient trees surrounding you – while being in labor. You often dwell on her suffering and you hope that she had any sort of comfort that made her passing easier. No matter how you felt about it, you knew that you probably didn't have the entire scope of the situation. There were too many unknowns, things even your fathers didn't know. You also had a feeling your pa and da left some details out, which sometimes made you curious. When you mentioned it once, your Da simply said that 'not every little detail was important,' and you already knew the important things. Then, he made some joke about being too old to remember anymore anyway. [[One day, you learned that the smallest of details can spark the most horror and may be better left unknown.]]

<<set $mommyissues to 'anger'>> Foul feelings around your mother's circumstances bubbled in your gut when you thought about it. //Why was she alone? Had someone hurt her? Abandoned her? Where was your second parent in all of this?// There were endless questions that weighed on your mind and the answers to most of them just fed the fire of anger. It felt as though a great injustice was done to your birth mother as well as yourself. No matter how you felt about it, you knew that you probably didn't have the entire scope of the situation. There were too many unknowns, things even your fathers didn't know. You also had a feeling your pa and Da left some details out, which sometimes made you curious. When you mentioned it once, your Da simply said that 'not every little detail was important,' and you already knew the important things. Then, he made some joke about being too old to remember anymore anyway. [[One day, you learned that the smallest of details can spark the most horror and may be better left unknown.]]

<<set $mommyissues to 'thankful'>> At least, even though the circumstances were horrible, your mother still birthed you and your fathers found you. It could have been worse. You could have died so easily had Pa and Da not found you when they did. And, they didn't have to take you in, many other people wouldn't have. You were glad to have this life despite the difficult start. No matter how you felt about it, you knew that you probably didn't have the entire scope of the situation. There were too many unknowns, things even your fathers didn't know. You also had a feeling your pa and Da left some details out, which sometimes made you curious. When you mentioned it once, your Da simply said that 'not every little detail was important,' and you already knew the important things. Then, he made some joke about being too old to remember anymore anyway. [[One day, you learned that the smallest of details can spark the most horror and may be better left unknown.]]

<<set $mommyissues to 'guilt'>> You sometimes felt like this was all your fault. Your fathers didn't know for certain why your mother didn't survive, but there was a niggling thought in the back of your mind that it was because of //you//. If you could speak with her departed spirit, would she blame you? Was her spirit even at rest? How much pain did you cause her? No matter how you felt about it, you knew that you probably didn't have the entire scope of the situation. There were too many unknowns, things even your fathers didn't know. You also had a feeling your pa and Da left some details out, which sometimes made you curious. When you mentioned it once, your Da simply said that 'not every little detail was important,' and you already knew the important things. Then, he made some joke about being too old to remember anymore anyway. [[One day, you learned that the smallest of details can spark the most horror and may be better left unknown.]]

<<set $mommyissues to 'okay'>> After a lot of thought and a lot of fluctuating emotions, you were okay. There was nothing you could have done to prevent it or change the circumstances around it. You were fortunate that your fathers rescued and that your life was peaceful for the most part. This wasn't something you wanted to dwell on if you couldn't change it. No matter how you felt about it, you knew that you probably didn't have the entire scope of the situation. There were too many unknowns, things even your fathers didn't know. You also had a feeling your pa and Da left some details out, which sometimes made you curious. When you mentioned it once, your Da simply said that 'not every little detail was important,' and you already knew the important things. Then, he made some joke about being too old to remember anymore anyway. [[One day, you learned that the smallest of details can spark the most horror and may be better left unknown.]]

Da starts talking to you, but you can't understand what he's saying. Everything has become sort of muffled and hazy. He sits you down on a chair and gently cups your face in his hands as he stoops down before you. His voice is soft and you finally notice there are tears in his eyes too; they make the blue hues within the hazel come out more. You finally break from your stupor as Da hugs you close, and rocks you side to side as he speaks softly. He's saying 'I'm sorry' over and over. It takes a while, but you finally relax. Da strokes your hair and continues to rock you until calm settles upon your mind and you finally feel in control of your own body. Out of reflex, you also say, “I'm sorry.” It just slips from your mouth. Da pulls away and looks you in the eye. “You have nothing to be sorry for, Sprout. Me and Papa are sorry; we didn't realize you were home. We should have checked. I'm so sorry, little one; you should never have had to see something like that.” “The cow died, didn't she.” Da nods. “Yes.” You sit quietly for a while and Da just watches you with sorrow in his eyes. He finally clears his throat and looks away for a moment. “We can talk about it if you want to. When I was around your age...I saw something a little similar. I might understand how you're feeling.” “Can we later?” You ask, feeling exhausted even though it's the middle of the day. Da nods. “Of course. How about you go wash your face; some cool water will help you feel better. I'll brew some tea and we can settle on the divan for a while.” You do as Da suggests. [[After your tea, you fall into a deep sleep, snuggled against your father.]]

You wake. You feel a little disoriented having slept so heavily in the afternoon. You hear Da singing from the kitchen and notice that Papa, who looks like he's had a bath, is sitting next to you. His big hand is against your back radiating a sweet warmth that eases your muscles and soothes your mind. Once you begin to stir, he looks down at you with a sad smile. “Sprout,” he says. “Papa,” you return. He gently grabs you to sit you up against him, placing a kiss on the top of your head. You take a deep breath. “I'm sor-” You're cut off as Papa taps the end of your nose lightly with his finger, breaking the path of thought. “You've nothin' to apologize for.” His deep voice, though a murmur, carries strongly all around you. You sit in silence again for a few moments before you can't help but to bring up the thought that still plagues your young mind, “The cow died.” The image is still firmly lodged in your memory despite your best hope it would vanish after the nap. “She did.” “The calves?” “The one lived.” You think for a long while, and Papa waits patiently. You note that his arms are obviously free from the coating of blood they had a while ago. He appears weary, but otherwise, you see no sign of the struggle he endured earlier. You have one more question at the forefront of my mind, and you're afraid to ask it. Finally, after a deep breath, you get it out. “Is that what I did to my own mother?” A strange expression passes over Papa's face. His eyes go big, and his mouth hangs open. He scoops you into his arms and brings you to his chest in an instant. His beard tickles, but you feel so safe as he holds you for a long time before setting you down to sit in his lap. He stays silent for a while, but you know he'll answer you. He is always the most silent when he has something important to say. Papa gently touches his fingers to your chin and raises your head to look into his brown eyes. They're watery. “Sprout,” he says and then pauses. “...Always remember that you didn't ever hurt yer momma. You didn't hurt anyone.” You nod, but you still feel unsure. “Things in nature don't always work the way we need them to. Sometimes that means people and animals may suffer for it. What happened to the cow wasn't the fault of the calves. What happened to yer birth mother wasn't the fault of you either. She tried hard for ya. She fought for ya, not in spite of ya.” “She did? How do you know?” “She found a safe place away from the road to bring ya into life. I won't hide it from you anymore, yer birth was probably very hard. She bled, she struggled. But, she didn't give up. She cleaned and swaddled you, tore her own clothes to keep ya warm as best she could, and even suckled you. You were latched when we found you, still tryin' to nurse despite everything. From that moment...” Papa stops talking but looks into your eyes. “Papa?” You nudge him. He gives you a soft smile and kisses the top of your head; his beard tickles again. “From that moment I had this feelin'...that you were mine. Mine and Da's.” The sour feelings about yourself start to ease. You still feel a pang of sympathy for your birth mother, her final moments were hard, but it was comforting knowing that she did her best to give you a shot at living. She wouldn't have done that if you didn't mean something to her, if she had only saw you as the cause of her pain. You hug your Papa tight, ever thankful that it was he and Da who found you and wanted you. After a bit, he speaks again, “Now, that calf needs a name; she's tough like her mama and we'll have to nurse her while. You can help, of course. So, what would ya name her, Sprout?” You're suddenly excited. It's a cow, and your parents don't usually name the livestock, just the horses and dogs get names, except one of the goats that Papa always curses at. It feels so special. “Bo,” you answer, the name coming to your lips as if drawn from the air. “Then Bo she is. Yer Da will teach ya how to feed her in the mornin'.” [[Time went by like normal again after that. You felt closer to your fathers too.]]

<<set $interest to 'choppin'>> It's most appealing to go to the source of Papa's work and the source of so many things in your life. You may not currently be strong enough to take down entire trees as fast as Papa can, but maybe one day you will be able to. Trees are a vital source for so many things in daily life, and it feels special to both rend and tend the forests that sustain human life. Papa's first lessons are about planting and growing rather than cutting and taking. He tells you that for every tree you take, plant two in its stead, so you've mostly been tending saplings and learning to germinate seeds. Your papa keeps a constant cycle of seedlings and saplings going in a special building, that is a mix between a barn and a greenhouse, which you've helped him with before. Today, as you are marveling at the tiny oak trees you have managed to sprout so far, your papa approaches with two axes in hand – one much smaller than his own. You can tell he's grinning at you, despite his big beard obscuring his lips. “I've somethin' for ya.” His big voice echos around you. A big smile crosses your lips. “My own axe?” He nods. “Yer own axe,” he says as he hands the smaller axe to you. Without delay, Papa leads you out to an area he's been working on your farm where he's clearing the land for another out-building. There are a few trees around that are very large, but several are younger, about as big around as you are. Perfect to practice on. Papa starts by testing your memory on what he's told you so far on how you should get started. You jump on the answer. “Check my surroundings in case the tree falls towards me!” You give a big smile to punctuate your accomplishment. Your father grins back at you and slowly shakes his head. The smile leaves your face in an instant and you look over your chosen tree with confusion. Papa shuffles, drawing your attention back to him. “Gloves,” he says, putting his own on. You roll your eyes, but reach for your gloves that are tucked into your belt. “You know, that could just as easily be step two.” Papa nods at you. “True, but yer more prone to forget if you wait.” Once the gloves are on, then you plan your exit and study the trees around the one that you will fell. It's a good one to start on, the surrounding trees won't snag yours too bad as it falls. Papa continues, “Now, where's yer first notch goin'?” You think a moment. “The side I want it to fall towards.” “Good.” Papa gestures towards you to begin. You line up your axe after triple checking the best direction for the tree to fall. After a deep breath and a few slow swings to confirm your target, you pull your axe back, ensure you have a firm grip, and unleash your might upon the tree trunk. The sound of the strike echos around you, and a few disgruntled birds chirp as they take off from the surrounding brush. Your axe-head didn't penetrate far, but you buried it enough that the tool takes some force to dislodge. Papa hums in approval. You pull back to strike again at the same spot and, to your delight, your strike is true; more bark splinters away to reveal the brighter color of the yellowy flesh of the tree. Before you can strike again, your papa clears his throat to draw your attention. He nods towards your cut. “Vary your strikes, Sprout.” It dawns on you that you need to angle some of your hits to create a wedge, and you nod to your papa before gauging your next hit. Once you have a good wedge cut in, you can switch to the other side and work on actually bringing the tree down. You're already sweating and you wonder how Papa has the strength to do this for a whole day. No wonder his back and shoulders are so huge. A warmth buzzes in your core as you line up the next strike, working out the angle to create the best pivot when the tree begins to fall. You get a very good downward hit at just the right spot, dislodging a small wedge above your first cuts. Papa grunts in approval as you gear up for another. The heat within you spikes, fluttering through you with a mix of excitement and warmth. It feels a bit odd, but this is your first //real// attempt at chopping a tree down. You're using muscles that aren't often used. You bring the axe back and eye your target. The heat ''erupts''. Your gut feels fire pierce through it. The axe drops from your hand as you stumble and double over. The inferno spreads to your back and limbs; you're suddenly boiling alive. A garbled scream leaves your throat as you thrash on the ground, hands tearing at the clothing around your torso as if they stand a chance at patting out the feeling of flame that has engulfed you. [[The last thing you recall is Papa yelling your name.|This isn't going away]]

<<set $interest to 'woodin'>> Felling the trees doesn't hold so much of an appeal to you right now as what you can do with them after. You've always admired Papa's skill and craftsmanship with wood. At least, this is where you'd like to start in your exploration; perhaps later, you can study more on planting and cutting trees. You're waiting for Papa in his shop that doubles as the tool-shed. So far, your lessons have been about the different tools and pre-treatments for the wood you'll be working with. You've cut some planks down to size already and are eagerly anticipating making a bench out of them. Papa recommended something easy to start with and your da requested a new seat for the porch anyway. When you've had some scraps of spare time, Papa has shown you how to whittle small figures. For a man with such large hands, you are amazed that he can create things that look so delicate and detailed. So far, your attempts have yielded things more amorphous in nature, but at they're least reminiscent of what you were aiming for. Your first try was at carving a little cow, modeled after Bo. It looked a bit //ill// with the udder so terribly large, but your da was still giddy over it when you presented the trinket to him. He placed it on the kitchen windowsill so he could see it frequently. It stands on its udder rather than its legs, but at least it stands. Your papa comes into the shop holding a large wooden chest. It appears to be made of pine, and as he gets closer, you can even smell the sweet and almost tangy aroma of the wood – definitely pine. Papa sets it down in front of you with a big smile that his beard cannot hide. The chest is beautifully carved with intricate little swirls at the corners. You look up at your papa who merely motions towards the box. Taking his cue, you find the chest filled with tools. New tools. Everything you'll need to hone your craft – a saw, hatchet, plane, and even a compass with a new set of chisels. “I been workin' on this for a bit here and there. Figured you should start out gettin' to know yer own tools.” You smile up at your papa, pure job heating you up from within as you gingerly pick each item up. “Papa, it's perfect; thank you.” He ruffles your hair. “Now, yer da is excited about this new bench...we better get it made.” You set about preparing your planks for the bench. Half of the material has been cut down and measured already and Papa begins by guiding you on planing them. The new plane is perfectly sharp, the oak of the planks yielding easily to it as the thin strips of wood curl up and slough away to smooth and shape the surface of the planks. Papa collects the shavings once you're done so they can be used as kindling later. He takes his time to instruct you on the little details you need to remember and shortcuts that will come in handy once you get to assembling the piece. “Now, Sprout...” Papa continues as he observes your progress, “Can ya tell me why we picked oak for the bench?” You think for a moment, back about two weeks when you and Papa began this project. “It's strong.” “Yer right, but be more specific. You need to know which types are better for each piece.” You stop planing as you rack your memory. “It'll be outside, so it needs to be able to withstand rainy days, and it's also easier to build with.” Papa nods. “Very good. Oak doesn't swell as bad as other woods. When the air turns balmy, it'll hold up better to the moisture.” After planing the wood until your arms are sore, your papa checks your work with a plumb rule to make sure each side you plane is even and as smooth as possible. Aside from a few parts that you were a bit over-zealous with, the grin on your father's face is evident enough that you have quite a knack for carpentry. To give your arms a break after hours of work, Papa brings out a cut-off cube that you can practicing whittling something on. He brings out his own and you both set to work, eager to try out your brand new chisels and whittling knives. Your father still doesn't say much, but his grin remains and there is joy in his eyes as you work together. You carve and shape your block, thinking about trying to make a little bear this time, the sight of Papa's beard and broad shoulders bringing the animal to mind. You think of the quiet time like this that you get to spend with your papa. Even if carpentry doesn't end up being what you want to pursue forever, at least you have these moments with him. Heat blooms around your stomach. The sensation draws your attention. It's like you just drank something hot, like the flavored milk Da loves to make in the cold season. It brings a smile to your face for a moment, before the feeling starts to grow. You stop working, about to mention it to your father, but then, the heat ''erupts'' from your core. All thoughts fade away as the feeling of fire pings from your core, taking the air from your lungs. You drop your tools and crumple to the ground, clawing at your gut as you choke to breathe. You feel as though you've been tossed into the hearth or even the blacksmith's forge. You're burning alive. [[The last thing you recall is Papa yelling your name.|This isn't going away]]

<<set $interest to 'swordin'>> Your da had never gone into much detail about how he learned to wield a sword, only that your late grandfather on his side of the family insisted that Da learn. Your father seemed to enjoy it, though he never had much call to use it unless the town guard sparred with him. He often was asked to teach lessons about it as well. Da had a very nice sword that he never used as well, kept in your parent's bedroom, above their door. 'Decoration' is what your da called it, though you could tell the edges of the weapon were sharpened and Da kept the sword in good condition. As much as you were hopeful of obtaining your own shiny metal sword, your fathers dashed your hopes almost immediately. Your training began with Da making you //run// – of all things. And when he wasn't making you run, he was making you walk along narrow planks to hone your balance – though they were low to the ground and posed no real danger to you. When Da was bored of you running and balancing in the first couple weeks, he then presented you with a long stick – laughing at how your face had scrunched when he revealed it after building up the suspense of a surprise. The first temptation was to poke him with it, but you resisted – barely. Though the stick wasn't nearly as much fun as a real blade, it at least meant that you were making progress. Da began teaching you stances and how to move when swinging the 'blade.' He even wielded his own stick to demonstrate the moves an opponent may make. Now, you find yourself waiting for your da to begin your lesson. He's not the most punctual, but you've been waiting in the clearing behind your house for a long time. Long enough, that Bo has found her way from the barnyard to come see you – ever since you first nursed her by hand, she seeks you out. Finally, your da approaches you, wearing the same grin he had when he gave you your stick and holding his hands behind his back. Your mind reels as you ponder the ridiculous things he may be holding, likely, another stick. Rolling your eyes, you stand and meet him half-way. You huff. “What do you have this time, Da? Another stick? Or maybe a rock this time?” Da laughs. “You catch on quick! I have a surprise for you, indeed. Two, in fact. Pick a hand, Sprout.” You roll your eyes. “Left.” Your father beams a smile at you and moves his hand from his back to reveal...a training sword. A real training sword. Sure, the blade is still wooden, but it has a hilt and leather grip even. You take it gingerly in your grasp and find that the weight is much like the short swords you've lifted before. A few quick swipes show how much it feels and even sounds like a real weapon. You gawk at your father. His smile turns a bit smug. “Got you again, I see. Your papa made that for you. It was a compromise between us. You'll practice with this for a while first.” “A while?” you ask, swinging the wooden blade again, marveling at it. “Mm-hmm. Hold your hand out and close your eyes.” You do as you're told, though you feel a punch-line coming. Even so, you trust your da enough that you know he won't put anything unpleasant in your hand. Though now that your eyes are closed, you recall a similar prank from years ago where he placed a handful of sticky sap in your palm. But, instead of something unpleasantly sticky, you feel something cold. Once Da releases his grasp, your hand dips with the sudden weight. Your eyes open to find a hunk of metal in your hand. Steel. It's a steel ingot. Again, you gawk at it, your mouth open. Your father laughs. “Got you yet again. Too easy, Sprout.” He ruffles your hair. You can't even be cross about it. You know what this means. “It may not be sword-shaped yet, but once we feel like you have a handle on the practice sword, we'll have that made into a real one. Then, the real fun begins.” Da winks. “Thank you, Da; thank you so much!” You can barely contain yourself. You're holding a real practice sword //and// the material that will become your future weapon – something that can be all your own. Da kisses the top of your head. “Alright then, enough waiting; let's see how that wooden sword compares to my stick!” You and Da square up in the center of the clearing with an audience of chickens and a single cow. You go through the stances that you've already been taught while your da appraises and corrects your posture. He has you go through a few practice swings. The wooden sword feels great in your hands. It is just a bit heavy for you at this age, but realistic enough that you find you don't really miss the ting of metal. It is clear your papa crafted the piece and detailed it to look as accurate as possible to Da's 'decorative' sword in their bedroom. You think there must be a metal core within to make it feel heavier. After some warming up, Da approaches with stick in hand. A big grin is plastered on his face, giving him that over-confident air that you've grown to know is quintessentially //Da//. You cross your weapons between you and begin to swing and parry in mock-movements that are slower than the real thing, but only for now. The quicker you master the movements, the quicker Da will agree to put the pressure on and get to the fun part of swordplay. Several minutes pass and you are sweating. Da is pushing you a bit more than usual and seems just as excited as you about practice. Warmth floods your torso, the exertion giving you ripples of pride and fervor. You successfully parry your father and his face flashes with genuine surprise. Heat flashes in your gut, a strange wave of a feeling that is equal parts emotion and sensation that you take for a mix of muscle strain and satisfaction at your progress. You try to shake it off, raising your sword to continue. You choke. Air is taken from you as the feeling of fire ''erupts'' in your stomach and radiates through your body. Falling to your knees, you succumb to the heat, clawing at your chest, patting out invisible flames as you struggle for air. [[The last thing you recall is Da yelling your name.|This isn't going away]]

<<set $interest to 'archin'>> Da's best known skill is in archery. He's made a good living using it to hunt and tells you that in the years before you came to be, he had even won tournaments in three different cities for his skill with the bow. You've grown up watching him shoot targets and hunt with what looked to be effortless grace and strength. Archery is always what made Da's arms so strong. He may not be big and broad like Papa, but he is solid and powerful in equal measure to his dexterity. You want to be as good as your father even if you don't shoot for hunting. Your da has told you that a lot of money can be won at archery tournaments and some archers find work as entertainers, doing trick shots and other feats requiring expert aim. Your start into archery has been less aiming and shooting and more crafting. Da decided that you should learn to make arrows to start and has taught you how to make blunted ones for hunting small game for pelts and sharp ones for targets and large game. You were a little surprised to learn that your da was quite good at crafting arrows; he doesn't really know how to craft anything else though. Currently, you are working on a new batch of shafts and have about perfected the right amount of taper to get the most distance. The local geese haven't been very generous with their feathers, but you've managed to rummage around and collect enough to make some good fletchings, but you've settled for chicken feathers for most of your practice arrows. Most of your arrowheads have been crafted from rock and bones, though Da uses nice metal ones for his own arrows. You've chiseled so many at this point that you could almost do it in your sleep. Da was very impressed at how fine and sharp you managed to get them for only having learned in the last few weeks, though some of them ended up too brittle to stand up to targets. Your da let you study his bow and test the string. It's a beautiful piece, colored a sort of creamy yellow with a dark handle. Papa explained that it's made from a rare tree called a yew and the wood is just as strong as it is flexible, but Da claimed to not know much about it, only that he got it because he liked the color. You're pretty sure he wasn't being serious. Right above the grip there is an emblem you don't recognize burnt and sealed into the wood and Papa explained that it was probably the mark of the craftsman. Testing the pull of the string was a lesson in futility. You could barely draw it back at all. Da laughed pretty hard while watching you try to nock an arrow and pull the string back – the arrow flopped to the ground unceremoniously. You're currently struggling to string Da's bow as he observes. You've been sneaking glances at him for several minutes as you wrestle the weapon to attached the top loop to the bow, and he quickly schools his smile each time. You're suspicious that he's having fun, but he keeps correcting your hold and where you place your feet. You simply lack the strength to bend the bow to meet the string. Your shoulders ache and now you're unabashedly glaring at your father as he fails to suppress his chuckling. “I won't be able to do this, will I...” You state as you catch on to your da's antics. He breaks into a laugh for a brief moment. “No, my Sprout, though I am very impressed with how close you got and how ridiculously long you tried.” He crosses his arms and smiles at you, eyes filled with more pride than mirth. “Had I been in your shoes, I would have quit ages ago.” You grumble, but it's hard to resist the compliment. You hand the bow back to Da, who strings it without seeming to even think about it. “Maybe my bow is still a bit big for you now, but it won't always be...” He walks over to a bench placed against the back of the house that is stacked with a few tanned animal hides. “Perhaps, if you had something a bit more...you-sized?” He smirks as he flips a couple of the hides away to reveal a small bow underneath. You gawk. It's much smaller than Da's and it's a different color, a lot darker than the yew wood. Your da picks it up, un-strings it, and hands it to you. “Go on then,” he says, the smile on his lips and the pride in his eyes never faltering. Excitement takes over and you grab the short bow with reverence and immediately try to string it. “The draw-strength for that one will be much more suited to you.” Your da remarks. Sure enough, but still with a good amount of effort, you string your bow on your own. You can't help but run your hand along the wood and feel how perfectly smooth it is. The craftsmanship is remarkable for a first bow. “It's beautiful, Da,” you say. “I may have been a bit over-zealous for your first one, but I couldn't help myself. Now, enough gawking, let's see what you can do with it!” Da ushers you to the clearing where you practice – a place far enough away from the farm animals to be safe for everyone. Straw targets are set up across from you a ways, but not too far. You've taken a few shots before with other practice bows, but nothing as finely made as this one. After some coaching on drawing the string and nocking the arrow correctly, you take a few shots while Da watches and helps you with your stance. You keep getting good distance, but your aim is all over everywhere, except for on the actual target. At one point, you nearly knacker a passing squirrel, who chatters very angrily at you as it skitters all the way up a tree. Frustration blooms like fire in your gut and you huff as the feeling courses through you, but your da cools it by ruffling your hair and giving your shoulders a squeeze. “Cool heads prevail,” he remarks. Taking a deep breath, you take aim again, going through each step your da has taught you. Heat still bubbles in your torso, but your mind is clear and your eyes are focused. You take your time and line up the shot, paying attention to the light breeze that flutters the surrounding foliage. You shoot. You hit. Just to the left of the center of the target, sticks your arrow with chicken feather fletching. It doesn't even waver and is firmly rooted in the target. Shock and joy render you speechless and your father has much the same reaction, his mouth falling open as he gazes at you with wide eyes. You both cheer and celebrate with a hug, but it's short-lived. The heat you felt never abated. The sensation of burning suddenly ''erupts'' from your stomach and you drop your bow and fall to your knees. You managed a scream just before you find yourself clawing for breath. [[The last thing you recall is Da yelling your name.|This isn't going away]]

<<set $interest to 'healin'>> Perhaps you may have felt inspired by your own health problems or Aster's, but you've found yourself with an interest in medicine and healing. Caring for and compassion for others comes naturally to you, so this feels like the most natural place to start. Thankfully, your fathers know a good deal just from what they have picked up from their younger, more adventurous years. Should you take a liking to the field, it is possible that Kavi or Betony would gladly tutor you on more advanced healing and medicine. Your papa and da are more adept at wound treatment and very common medicines that most households can make for themselves, but learning these can solidify your interest. Since your papa is more knowledge about about plants and herbs, he started you out in the first weeks with what ailments can be treated with the things growing around you. He tested your identification skills so you don't confuse a poisonous plant with a medicinal one and then taught you how to make salves and tinctures out of them. Your least favorite part of learning, is tasting – at least for the edible parts. Papa insists that it helps you get acquainted with the plants you'll be using and understanding what those you treat with them will experience. Most things are bitter, some are a bit tingly, but your least favorite so far is willow bark. It's good for pain, though you're unsure if the torture of chewing it would be a boon to any situation in which you'd need it. Before long, you have made a myriad of salves containing anything from lavender and sage to charcoal and mint. You still have a way to go in committing it all to memory and understanding how to prepare each ingredient, but Papa agrees you have a knack for it. At your lesson today, Papa and Da began by presenting you with a beautifully crafted satchel containing a myriad of vials, sachets for herbs, and rolled bandages. Everything you need to store and port your materials. They even included a quality journal on medicine, most of which is a little too advanced for you right now, but it contains space for your notes and drawings with information on helpful plants. With the bare basics out of the way, you're now beginning to learn simple wound care using your concoctions. And, as your da is playing both instructor and test subject currently, you're also learning a lesson in patience. He's been playing the role of an unruly injured person, mocking loud cries at every touch and every action you try to take. He's pinched you at least three times, and Papa is struggling to keep a straight face at your dismay as he assists. Da is playing the role of injured, inconsolable child as if it was the one single thing he was meant to do in this life. Your goal is to treat various cuts and scrapes with the right products in the right order and then bandage each wound. Wounds that Papa has painted on Da using what looks and smells like mushed red berries. After the forth time your da has dodged you and pulled his arm from your attempts, you finally give up on being nice. You dip your hand in the bucket of water you drew to clean the pretend wounds and then flick it at him. “Da, I have never seen any child act like that at Kavi's; you're being dramatic.” Da bursts into laughter and Papa follows suit. Papa shakes his head. “Sprout has gotta point, Kip.” Your da ruffles your hair and shoots you a sweet grin. “Yeah, I guess we can work on bedside-manner later on. Seeing how scrunched your cute little face gets was too much fun to pass up.” You scrunch it at him again, looking as mean as possible. Both your fathers laugh, so you dump your water on the fake wounds to 'clean' them, being sure to 'accidentally' spill a good bit along Da's shirt and trousers. “You deserved that,” Papa quips. You snicker as you set about picking a salve for the fake scrapes, settling on a lavender balm that you made in your first week of lessons. Papa smiles and nods at you. While you apply the balm, gently, since your da has probably learned his lesson by now, Papa quizzes you. “Lavender's a good pick, but what else have ya made that is good for a scrape?” You think while you apply the fragrant paste. “Mm, I think...the calendula one?” “Very good, Sprout.” Papa nods. Da chimes in, “What if I had fallen and also sprained my wrist?” You grin. “Easy, Kavi's favorite, comfrey leaves.” You roll your eyes. As long as you've known him, Kavi has touted comfrey leaf for any ache or muscle strain and even makes bone-knit from it. You have no fondness for the plant beyond its use since the leaves are prickly. As you continue to work and gently wrap each fake wound your fathers hum in approval and make comments and adjustments to your methods. Papa grins big as he watches you. “Won't be long and we can teach ya bone-settin'.” Da shakes his head. “My love, I think you'd make a marvelous subject for that lesson.” Papa rolls his eyes. “Yer the one for hollerin' and carryin' on like a mad-man, I think yer better suited.” You watch as a mischievous grin spreads on your da's lips as he keeps Papa's eye. “My dear, it's not usually like you to ''complain'' about my //hollerin' and carryin' on//...” You raise an eyebrow and your papa flushes red, sputtering a floundering rebuttal but then falling quiet as he fixes Da with a stern look. You shrug your shoulders and tie off the bandage. They're always so strange. “Excellent work, little healer!” Your da praises, “I feel better already.” “Smell better too,” Papa snarks with a smile, much to your surprise. You can't help but grin at your parents as they banter with one another. Warmth blossoms in your torso, the feeling a bit sudden and strange at first. But, you shake it off since it has been a long day and you've been inhaling all manner of vapors. As you set about unwrapping the bandages so you can clean and use them again, the heat within you rises again. It's hotter this time and gives you pause. You're about to say something just as the heat erupts into an inferno exploding from your core. A scream gets caught in your throat as you double over in extreme pain, clawing at your shirt as you try to catch even a scrap of air. [[The last thing you recall is your fathers yelling your name.|This isn't going away]]

<<set $interest to 'tradin'>> You've watched your da barter, haggle, and trade with your neighbors and other townsfolk over the years and it seems to have called to you as well. Da is known for being fun-loving and charismatic, so maybe business dealings come naturally to him. Though, his personal relationships with some of the local business owners isn't the best, they don't seem to let it damper their business relations. Who knows if your own nature will shape to be like his, but Da is certain that you can become an excellent tradesperson if you want to. Though Da has a good deal of experience, he's told you that if you want to own a shop or even become a traveling merchant, you may need to find someone to apprentice under when you're older. In Stonebrook, there is a tavern that has a few rooms to rent to travelers that would be a good fit if that were a route you'd like to take. There are, of course, a few stores to choose from that may need an apprentice. There are a few regular merchants in town such as the general goods market and the grocer that would probably take you on. Or, if you'd like to go into a more specialized market, there's a bakery and even a smith you could learn from. Your fathers have good business and personal relationships with most of them, so you feel confident that finding a good fit won't be a problem if you wish to stay on this path. Until then, Da is making you do a great deal of figures and numbers. You were hoping to join him when he goes to barter with some of the game he's recently hunted since you've not often seen him in action when it comes to that part of his dealings. Instead, you've been doing math problems at the dining table for a week. Your parents have been diligent about your education already, and you've known your numbers and what feels like all you'd ever need to know about addition and subtraction, but that hasn't stopped your da. Papa explained that it will help you be quicker and more shrewd in any deals you make, you don't want to be taken for a fool. 'Know your worths,' as Da keeps saying, 'You wouldn't trade a gold ring for a carrot.' Of course, Papa then posed that a carrot was worth more to a starving person than the ring, and that lesson got off track very fast. You sigh as you finish your fifth calculation on the price of furs. At this point, you're sure you have done all these problems before and your da just keeps rearranging a few things each time he presents one of these papers to you. You begrudgingly realize though, that your ability to work out the math in your mind has improved. The door to your home swings open, and you turn to watch as Da hustles in with a big smile on his face. He's holding a bundle wrapped in cloth. He treads over to you and sets the bundle down, taking a moment to tussle your hair and plant a kiss on the top of your head. “I grabbed a little something for you, Sprout,” he says. You eye the package and smile as you pull it towards you and unwrap the layers of cloth. Inside is a stack of books with a leather pouch on top. You start with the pouch, unrolling it to reveal a fine fountain pen complete with everything you need to mix up the ink and refill the reservoir. It's a beautiful piece that looks more like art rather than a writing utensil. There are also charcoal pencils in the pouch as well. You go through the books next, finding that they all seem to be about business practices. There's information on the seasonal values of nearly every product you can think of, details on how trade varies throughout the known world, and even advice about managing stock and adjusting prices based on how old things get. You did not even know such books existed. The final volume is a thick leather-bound tome with fine silver-edged paper. You unwrap the binding string only to flip it open and find it blank. It's a journal. Your da pats the journal with his hand. “Maybe you won't need this for a while, but now you'll have something to write down your ideas or ledgers in, if you need. The paper can be removed from the binding as well so you can refill it.” “Thank you, Da.” “You're welcome. Now, I think that is quite enough numbers for today. You ought to come help me offload some of these hides. Maybe we can use that adorable face of yours to get a good deal, yeah?” You roll your eyes, but struggle to hide your excitement. After loading a small cart with a stack of hides, fur, and dried meat that Da has diligently prepared, you set off down the road into the center of town. Stonebrook isn't a large place, but it houses a few hundred people, enough that commerce flows fairly easy and you can get to know each other easily. Your little homestead is just a little ways from the town proper, though – due to the surrounding trees and brush – it feels like a whole forest separates it from home. You pass Kavi's clinic on the way and wave to Betony as she strings up linens to dry in the sun. A smile sets on your face. This would be nice. Traveling, seeing familiar faces, maybe making a name for yourself. It is quite exciting when traveling merchants visit on their way to the cities. Maybe you could be that interesting figure that pops into town with the unusual foods and bobbles from across the land? Da makes his rounds, dropping off orders that were arranged prior before you visit the blacksmith and general store to see what deals you can make. Da tells you that this is his favorite part, just working with friends and other common folk, rather than the 'uptight' ones that run some of the stores. He may have a point; they seem more excited to see you and do business – you even earn a few copper pieces by helping unload the purchases. Sure enough, both the blacksmith and general goods owner give Da a hard time, but it's interesting to watch them haggle with each other. It looks a lot like arguing, but you do notice that Da is quite good at diffusing offended shop-keeps. He still smiles and makes comments that get them to laugh no matter how irritated they seem to get at his prices. In the end, your da makes reasonable adjustments to his requests, and you walk away with a fair price for most of your goods, plus a few sundries in lieu of gold – including a bag of sweets that the general store keep gave you. You have a feeling that it may just be a bribe to marry her daughter. As you travel back, Da sets you on the donkey that pulls the cart while he walks beside you. “This was more fun with you, Sprout,” he says. “I had fun too. I think I understand why the blacksmith doesn't like you now.” You smirk as your father gaffaws back at you, a surprised look on his face, though he tries to school it into indignation. “Well, we'll see how you feel when I make you deal with them in my stead.” “Easy.” “Easy?” “Yeah, easy. I'll just bring them a gift. The smithy is a repeat customer, and they bought a lot from you, even though they hate your jokes. You should do something nice for them.” Da thinks for a moment. “Oh....Well, shoot, you are good at this.” You both share a laugh and a well of warmth fills your stomach. It takes you aback for a moment as it feels different, as if you just drank tea straight from a hot kettle. You shake it off, but then the sensation comes right back. But, it doesn't just swell and fade like before. It grows. And then it ''erupts''. You gasp for air and claw at your clothes, burning from the inside. You fall from your perch. [[The last thing you recall is Da yelling your name.|This isn't going away]]

<<set $interest to 'cookin'>> Both your parents can cook, but Papa's cooking is by far the best. Basic cooking is a common skill everywhere you go, but cooking that stands out from the rest will earn you coin and a place in the hearts of countless customers. Da has even told you that in some wealthy families, special cooks will reside with them and may even be treated like friends or family since meals are a special time for most people. Every inn and tavern needs a good cook to keep patrons happy and fed. With some extra learning, you could even run your own, and also grow your own food. And then, there are big meals for special occasions and feasts. Though the gods peeled back their influence hundreds of years ago, celebrations in their honor did not stop. Many churches still thrive and rely on cooks to help them prepare for the holidays as do many families that celebrate privately. Every person needs to eat, and the allure of eating well is a powerful calling as is simply having someone do the work for you. A great deal of joy can be imparted by making and serving something delicious, especially if you get to share that with those you cherish the most. Cooking is a skill you can use in your own personal life or as a means to market yourself. You can't go wrong. Papa has set about teaching you a good foundation for cooking. You've watched him and your da for years already and have picked up quite a lot. But Papa can also teach you about seasonings – herbs and special dried and ground foods – that can make your meals special and desirable to a paying customer. Not only this, but he knows a lot on how to prepare food for cooking – the best ways to cut particular meats, how long to pickle vegetables or cure meat. You're surprised at how much thought must go into food preservation in order to get into how to best use it. Your papa also explains that food preservation may work differently depending on where you may be. In the far north, where his father is from, they have lots of natural cold storage for most of the year, but here in the central region, you can really only use such methods for maybe a couple seasons. In the southern most regions, some food is buried to preserve it or it may be fermented. For the first weeks of your lessons, you have done a lot of chopping, grinding, pickling, and – your favorite – sampling. Papa encourages taking frequent tastes of seasonings to see how you think they would pair with other things. You've mixed several herbs with different butters and oils to try on pieces of bread while Papa tests what you think would also go with the flavors – what meats or vegetables could work together to make a delicious dish. He also teaches you about textures and how they should mix and compliment each other, and to try to keep in mind that many people may be adverse to certain ones. There's a lot to be mindful of if you're going to be cooking for many different types of people. You're currently sorting through herbs as you string them up to dry in the pantry. Papa has a special rack for it, which has significantly expanded since you began experimenting with flavors. Even if you can't use them all soon, they won't go to waste and will keep for a long time. “Sprout?” Papa calls you from the kitchen, so you set down your herbs and plod out to greet him. He smiles at you, if the movement of his beard is any indication. He's carrying a rolled up leather satchel and gestures for you to join him at the dining table. As you take a seat with him, you also notice a new mortar and pestle sitting in the middle of the table – big and beautiful, appearing to be made out of a rich black stone, perhaps granite. Papa slides them over towards you. “These are for you.” You gawk. The tools are common and often cheap, like the one Papa keeps in his own kitchen, but this is one of significant quality that you may only see in a city kitchen that caters to the wealthy. You reach out and caress the glossy exterior; it's cold and perfectly smooth. Both have a good amount heft to them – if cooking doesn't work out, you could about fashion them into weapons. “These too.” Your papa says, setting the leather bundle down on the table in front of you. “You must promise ta be careful with them.” “Of course, Papa,” you say as you begin unrolling the package, revealing something else shiny. Metal glints back at you, sharp metal. A set of pristine cooking knives. You are so giddy that you cannot speak and warmth floods your torso as you run your hand along the handles. Your mind fills with how many things you can chop and carve through with these. The blades look sharper than Da's sword. Papa reaches under the table and grabs a small sack, holding it up. “Shall we test 'em?” He asks as he pulls out a large tomato from it. You nod eagerly and rise so you can gather your tools and take them to the chopping block. Papa sets out a few of the plump fruits out for you, explaining that they'll be eaten with tonight's dinner, so you can chop them anyway you like. Setting to work, you test your blade on the tender tomato flesh and it yields as if it were air. You slice the first tomato with a few quick motions. Papa gawks as well, but also samples a slice, touting that it tastes better for having been cut by you. You just roll your eyes and continue to slice and chop. It does not matter how thick or thin, your knives cut right through like magic, and you begin to wonder if the blades are enchanted. After you have satisfied your itch to try out your knives, Papa sets to work on a stew and has you grind his seasonings and peel a slew of vegetables. He eyes you closely the whole time, and you know that he frets about you cutting yourself. He corrects your grip a couple times and chides you for cutting something while its in your hand. Once the ingredients are in the pot, stewing together, your papa sits you down again and kneels in front of your chair. He's so big that he still towers over you. “I used to cook with my momma. She taught me all I know. Wouldn't trade that for anything. Even if you don't want to do it for a livin', I hope you like doin' this with me.” “Of course I do, Papa.” You reach your small arms around Papa's neck and hug him close. There's a shine in his eyes as you part and he looks at you. “Yer da is goin' to be so spoiled.” He shakes his head. You laugh. “He already is.” Heat blossoms in your torso as you enjoy the moment with your papa. It's a funny feeling, a bit like what you felt earlier, but stronger. Shaking it off, you take a breath to ask your papa about making a sweetie for tonight. The words never leave you, as the heat suddenly turns into a fire that sweeps the air right from you lungs. It ''erupts'' and you choke on your words instead, doubling over as it consumes you as you claw at your chest for some sort of relief. [[The last thing you recall is Da yelling your name.|This isn't going away]]

Just like the very first time the illness took you, it was sudden and violent. You felt like ages had passed since the first occurrence and had long dismissed it as a one-time fluke. You were very wrong. You recall the feeling of fire in your chest and stomach, screaming, and grasping furiously for breath. You remember your name being called with fear and desperation. You remained completely unconscious for a time, but similar to the last time, your mind became aware long before your body did. You found yourself at Kavi's clinic with his wife, Betony. You could smell some sort of herb burning while Da spoke gently to you as he smeared a salve over your neck and chest. The burning sensation was still present within you, and with every breath you nearly choked. You remember Papa repeating the same thing over and over. “Not again. Please, not again.” Unfortunately, your mind ended up conscious for most of that bout. Trapped in your own thoughts with eyes and mouth that would not obey your will. The pain was constant, the struggle for air was constant. It felt similar to how thin the air feels just above the surface of water. You won't quite drown or suffocate, but the threat is a steadfast feeling. The physical symptoms were much worse this time. Your limbs twitched on their own and ached. Your fathers attended to you day and night, even holding you for hours on end when you felt shivering cold despite the feeling of heat from within. You gradually regained the ability to at least open your eyes and mouth, but could not speak or move on your own power. Papa coated you in salves for relief, burnt sage and other herbs around you while Da slowly fed you broths and teas infused with medicines. It was four terrible days that time, which felt like months to you, but just like the last – the symptoms abated as quickly as they had set in. No residual aches or soreness, no evidence that you were ever so ill that you were bedridden. The healers were perplexed. Betony checked at least a dozen tomes, books, and scrolls for anything resembling whatever you had experienced, but found nothing conclusive. Kavi had never seen anything similar in all his years as a healer, and he had come from a long line of medicine men and women. The best determination he could make was that it was a sickness you inherited from your birth parents. Kavi posited that it could have been why your mother did not make it through childbirth or maybe why your second parent could never be found. He had knowledge of other family illnesses, but none whose symptoms set in so suddenly and violently. Most had mild but more constant symptoms - and none of them abated with no trace left behind. From there, Kavi offered to study you closely and keep notes, thinking you may even have a previously unknown condition. [[The Twinflower clinic quickly became a second home to you.]]

At least you got to see your closest friends a lot. Aster still had a lot of health issues too, but his were more understood than whatever was happening to you, and he was growing out of them as he got older. You played together often, and your parents made you both drink disgusting teas all the time. Yarrow liked to pester you about it, but you could always see the concern in his eyes and worry in his tone. He snuck honey to you to ease the bitterness. Kavi and Betony examined you often over the next several years. They looked inside your mouth and ears, touched your throat, listened to your heart and even took your blood and urine – you weren't exactly thrilled about either of those things, and you certainly did not care to see how they used them. Aster and Yarrow were really supportive, and after a while, they stopped treating you as if you were made of glass, much to your relief. The feeling of normalcy was a boon to your peace of mind. Your parents never wanted you to be alone if they could help it, so if you weren't with your papa or Da, you were with at least one of the Twinflowers, even the oldest sisters – twin hellions – Sage and Poppy. The illness came for you more often after the second occurrence. It wasn't always as severe either, which only raised more questions. Often, it felt as mild as any regular malaise, but during other bouts, you were bedridden. The worst were the episodes of extreme pain. They would burst through you in sudden waves and could rack you for days. It would feel like burning at first, just like in the beginning, but sometimes it would feel as if your bones were splitting apart. During the most severe bouts, your body would convulse violently. As you got older, you were awake for longer during each event, much to your chagrin. Your parents tried every remedy they could find. Da took you on long trips to neighboring towns to see every healer that could be found. He would bring Kavi's notes along, with every detail they had since you were five years old. People did rituals over you, smacked you with all manner of plants, placed heated stones over your skin, and had you drink things that made you gag. Nothing helped, and the illness always came back eventually. Though the gods had pulled back their influence over humans hundreds of years prior – closing their churches and sending followers home – Papa and you met with a few lingering sects. Da seemed hesitant to allow it at first. Papa still liked to pray sometimes, though he knew his words went unheard. He said there was still comfort in it for him. The city closest to you, Lale, still had a temple to Hayat that seemed to have a rather large congregation. Though Hayat – being catalyst for life – was related, but not the best fit for your situation, your fathers didn't see the harm in asking sect for help. They were a very kind group as well. Da feared they may be like the god-zealots that you had heard rumors of – groups that did not take the parting of the gods well and still made efforts to bring back their influence. These cults tended to twist and manipulate the teachings of their gods into things that were often abysmal. As hundreds of years had passed, they had fallen far from their original purposes. This remnant of Hayat's church was nothing like that. They sought to help all people with all manner of things, just like the god had when he walked among his people. Some of them even still wielded the old magic, but even with it, they could not understand your condition. As you aged, it was a great mercy that the frequency of the attacks lessened. Intense bouts were much rarer, and you weren't sure if it was due to you growing older and stronger, or if it had something to do with part of the treatments you tried through the years. Treatment that was mostly luck and guess-work, and Kavi was not convinced it was actually what was helping. The best, and perhaps the only treatment that made a definite difference ended up being a tea that Aster had come up with when he began to study medicine with his father. It actually provided relief from your symptoms, particularly the pain, during severe attacks. It was a plant he found out in the woods, something widely regarded as useless by other healers, with a purple flower and leaves that opened up like fans. Aster was drawn to it perhaps because it was about the only growing thing that had not been tried yet, but when you drank it while ill, the pain actually eased. It felt like a miracle after so many failed medicines. You wept. Nothing had given you one bit of relief before. You began drinking the tea every day. Flares of your illness had no pattern, so Kavi agreed that it was best to try ingesting it each day with the hopes that it would prevent symptoms. The plant was common, invasive even, according to Papa. You collected and dried mountains of it. You drank tea with it twice per day to start, and your lapses into misery eased even more. Though it did not solve your problem, you were ready to take any iota of reprieve, especially during the most painful episodes. Also, it didn't taste too bad, especially with honey - something Yarrow was happy to supply you with. [[Life was easier for all of you after that.]]

You focused on growing into the $manwoperson you wanted to be. Papa continued his logging and building without being too paranoid to venture far from home. Da kept up hunting and fishing to sell meat and skins to the townspeople. And you kept up with <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>learning logging with your papa, keeping good care of your trusty axe, though as you got bigger, you were able to fit a full-sized handle to it.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>working on your carpentry skills. The tools your papa gave you saw frequent use, especially during days you were stuck in bed, but able to use your hands.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>learning swordplay from your da. You held a great love for your wooden practice sword, even after your parents saw fit to make you the real one. It hangs as a testament to your hard work in your bedroom.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>learning archery from your da. The bow has served you well through the years, and you're now known around town for your almost frighteningly precise aim.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>your studies in medicine. It didn't take too long for your fathers to exhaust their knowledge on the subject, unfortunately. Though, they did eventually find you books to use to learn more until you began working with Kavi and Aster. You are sure to take your medicine bag with you everywhere just in case.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>your studies on trade and merchandising. You quickly filled your first journal with advice collected from your da and the shopkeepers you encountered. It did not take many years for some of Da's more cantankerous customers to take to you to do business, not that Da was terribly upset by it.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>learning to cook. You and Papa shared a lot of good moments together, testing old recipes and making new ones. You only set the kitchen ablaze twice, but both times your food still turned out great. You found yourself getting frequent requests for your dishes.<</if>> Aster was still your closest friend, and he never even bragged about finding your miracle plant. Though, he called it Creeping Sprout to subtly tease you about the pet-name your fathers called you. He stayed with you a great deal when you took ill. It helped having someone around that understood a bit what it was like. Yarrow was still around as well, though he was no longer Yarrow. On his Name Day, after years of taunting you about his secret chosen name, he took on the name Oswin. It took a while to get accustomed to calling him that, but after a time you knew it as well as you had his birth name. Oswin's name day had stirred up you and Aster, and you thought harder about your own names. Aster was not as good as his brother at keeping his options a secret from you, though. Once he had an idea for one, it was only a matter of time before he could no longer keep it from you. Not that chosen names should remain secret, but the surprise was sort of fun. His name day arrived just a few years after Oswin's, and he called himself, Lakota. He smiled so much that day that his cheeks stayed pink into the night. It made you feel that there really was something magical about it. [[You only had a year, almost to the date, to wait until your own name day.]]

The day has finally arrived; it is the ninth day of the Spring season. You're at the dawn of your fourteenth cycle; the day you will take on your true name and head into your first steps towards adulthood. Traditionally, a household would invite every family member and friend they could think of and all guests would bring gifts, food, and sometimes written blessings and speeches to honor the special day. Da has been more than excited to plan something as extravagant as you can afford and Papa has been less enthusiastic about that but supportive. Your grandmother wrote to you months back saying she would visit. Given how seldom you hear from her, you were a little surprised that she remembered your birth season, let alone the day. When asked what type of celebration you preferred, you chose... [[a large party, inviting absolutely everyone you could think of.][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 10, 0, 100)]] [[something extremely small – just Papa, Da, and Grandmother.][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 8, 0, 100)]] [[something in the middle – your family and the Twinflower family – even the actual twins.]]

After 14 years of waiting, everyone was going to be required to celebrate your next step into life. The whole town heard of the event. You invited the whole Twinflower family, even Sage and Poppy, who seemed surprised and delighted with a familiar glint of mischief in their eyes. Growing up in tandem had made you all close (whether you liked it or not) and you could never leave them out – Lakota and Oswin always had your back. Kavi gave his all to doctor you, Betony even nursed you as a baby, and the twins – as you found out by accident recently – had been secretly and aggressively protective of you and Lakota when you were small. Papa and Da's business partners and friends were invited, the shop-keeps, all the children you attended lessons and played with over the years, even the desk-eating girl, everyone was fair game. The townspeople seemed to light up at your enthusiasm, even if they had to decline. The group of gossiping widows were thrilled and gushed about the food they would bring. [[It would be a precious day to remember.]]

The Twinflowers had become an extension of your own family over the years, so you wanted to invite them. Even though Sage and Poppy could be insufferable pests, they were oddly protective of you in their own way. Through the years, other children who thought it fun to harass you and Lakota ended up with mysterious and itchy rashes, or a bed full of lizards, and in one particularly worrying case – a close call with a pair of throwing knives. Lakota and Oswin had been your closest friends for years and you spent nearly everyday with Lakota, and his own mother had nursed you as a baby since he was nearly weened at the time. That was an interesting revelation. Oswin was becoming a busy adult, though he was still important to you. And you could never forget Kavi's determination to heal and comfort you. Naturally, you needed them with you for this next step and they were pleased to join you. [[It would be a precious day to remember.]]

You began your party by preparing and pampering yourself. Your parents had provided all that you needed to look and feel the way you wanted to today. A long bath relaxed and refreshed you. Da gifted you your favorite soaps and oils so that you could be as spoiled as possible. You're pretty sure they cost a good bit of gold, but your da did have a love for some extravagant things, even Papa couldn't always rein him in. As the last weeks of the cold season began to drift off, your parents also had special clothing of your taste made, along with a few items of jewelry. Papa roasted meat for anyone who wanted it. Da prepared a huge vegetable stew. Grandmother made bread with you the day before – you knew she could cook, but you didn't know she was so adept at bread-making – though, she insisted on using her axe handle to help knead the dough and the blade to divide the loaves. The look on Da's face was hilarious. [[The celebration was wonderful.]]

Grandmother even seemed happy and sociable, though she did keep her axe with her the entire visit, but then, that's what she was always known for. Stories about you were traded all day. You learned a great deal about what you meant to everyone. Things you never knew before. There were tears of joy and of sorrow whenever your illness was brought up. It struck a cord with you that even your stoic and strong grandmother shared her regrets that she was never around much when you took sick. You always knew that the threat of death loomed over you during those times, but you did not know the depth of the grief it caused your loved ones. The fear of loss was profound, but the joy that you were still fighting and living was stronger. Even though you may not have been born as part of this family or part of this town, you belonged. This is where your start in life was. You would still learn and grow, but now you could begin to choose //how// from here on out. You spent the first full 13 years as Ravinder Northbreaker, and you were here to pronounce who you would be for the next 13 and more, whether you would continue to carry your grandmother's namesake, or another. The first thing to do on your new journey was to speak your true name to those who loved you first. As evening settled and the conversation and laughter died down, you presented yourself in front of everyone and said, “I am, <<textbox "$mc" "Your first name" "Northbreaker.">>Northbreaker.” <<link "Click to show suggestion list.">><<reveal "r1" "Choose Wisely" "Name Bank">><</link>> [[Everyone cheered.|Northbreaker.]]

<> <<if $mc is 'Ravinder'>>Your grandmother took you aside that night, when the party was over and all was quiet. You sat outside for a long time listening to the few nocturnal insects that had shaken off cold season and the wind rustling through the trees. It was chilly, but grandmother's presence beside you was a warm comfort. You knew she had something to say. Just like Papa, it just took her a while to find the right words. "Yer a fine $manwoperson already, Ravinder." She smirked. "So I guess I can agree the name suits ya." You laughed and rolled your eyes. "You're more like Da than you'd ever care to admit, aren't you." She scoffed, elbowing you. "Don't ya dare tell 'im. I'll skin ya both." She tapped her axe handle against the floor, the swirling patterns in the blade catching the light of the moon. "Though, yer da would snip that I d'n do it right." You couldn't help but laugh at that. Da and your grandmother had such an unusual relationship. They both seemed to mask how much respect and admiration they had for each other. "Ya d'nt have t'carry m'name, but I'd be lyin' if I pretended I didn't feel honored - no matter yer reasonin'. On my own Name Day, I ne'er thought I'd see real love. Ne'er thought I'd bear a child. Ne'er thought that child would bring me a gran'child..." <<else>> Your grandmother took you aside that night, when the party was over and all was quiet. You sat outside for a long time listening to the few nocturnal insects that had shaken off cold season and the wind rustling through the trees. It was chilly, but grandmother's presence beside you was a warm comfort. You knew she had something to say. Just like Papa, it just took her a while to find the right words. "Yer a fine $manwoperson already, $mc." She smirked. "...and I suppose yer not half bad at pickin' names.<<if $mc is 'Noodles'>> Pasta will never let ya down. That son'a mine mus'nt feed ya enough.<</if>>" You laughed and rolled your eyes. "You're more like Da than you'd ever care to admit, aren't you." She scoffed, elbowing you. "Don't ya dare tell 'im. I'll skin ya both." She tapped her axe handle against the floor, the swirling patterns in the blade catching the light of the moon. "Though, yer da would snip that I didn't do it right." You couldn't help but laugh at that. Da and your grandmother had such an unusual relationship. They both seemed to mask how much respect and admiration they had for each other. "I'm proud of ya. Yer makin' a name for yerself and comin' into yer own on yer own terms...When I chose my own name, I ne'er thought I'd see real love. Ne'er thought I'd bear a child. Ne'er thought that child would bring me a gran'child..." <</if>> <> "Grandmother..." You start, though you aren't sure what else to say. "I know, I've been absent...and I'm gonna change that soon. I need ta see yer next 13 years. Need ta be here if yer sick, or te scare that Oswin 'way from ya - don't like the look in that one's eyes." "Oh, Oswin is fine, he's just moody." "His heart is fickle. Boy like that's trouble." Your grandmother had always kept a distance before. You were never quite sure why as she didn't speak on it much. Papa had told you when you were young that she was one of the last of a tribe of nomads that roamed all over Iroda before it was divided into provinces. When he was young, they always traveled. Grandmother kept the same route, taking her high into the mountains of the north and to the coast in the south. He believed that she kept the same path each year. Perhaps she would finally retire from the old ways and settle down. It was quiet for a long while after that and you simply enjoyed the sounds of the night together until grandmother spoke one more time. "There's a long road ahead, child, and it won't be easy fer ya. Ya won't know what's comin' both good 'n' bad. Keep yer axe sharp and yer mind sharper." [[For the first time in your life, your grandmother placed a kiss on your head.]]

*Over the next 10 years... After your Name Day, a lot changed. It was slow at first and some years were faster and more fraught than others. You continued to grow and transform, but so did everyone else. Lakota remained your faithful friend. You were together nearly every day still, causing fun bits of chaos on occasion and always supporting one another on misadventures. Health improved for both of you, but that didn't mean you were ever far from the Twinflower Clinic. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>Both you and Lakota studied herbalism under Kavi and Betony, though Lakota was their full apprentice as he aspired to take over the clinic for them. They were still very attentive to your studies and it was helpful to have Lakota at your side to learn with. The town of Stonebrook had grown over the years and you and Lakota often found yourselves tending to some of the more minor illnesses and injuries of the townspeople. During severe bouts of your illness that took you out of the field, Lakota cared for you almost exclusively, even staying at your bedside all night when your fathers needed respite. Lakota mentioned aspirations of running the clinic alongside you, but you were undecided as to what the future would hold. <<else>> Lakota was still studying herbalism under his parents and he showed great promise as a healer. During severe bouts of your illness, Lakota cared for you almost exclusively, even staying at your bedside all night when your fathers needed respite.<</if>> Oswin changed too. The few days after your Name Day were probably the last that you saw him happy with you. You don't know what happened to this day. You knew that even before your Name Day that Oswin was maturing and could sometimes be short with you, but it became worse. He slowly began showing aggravation towards you. If he and Lakota were spending time together, and you joined just like you always had before, his hackles would go up. It was strange; he seemed shifty and uncomfortable with your presence and it worsened until you felt you were almost strangers. You never knew if you'd done anything wrong, and Lakota didn't have any answers either. Perhaps your grandmother was right about him being fickle. Although, you could never totally believe that Oswin had abandoned your friendship or hated you. A particularly horrible flair of your illness during your 18th year saw to that. Your parents described it as being one of the worst they remembered, but you had very little recollection of it yourself. You screamed a great deal, and your body convulsed off and on for days. Everyone was terrified that the illness would finally kill you after being controlled for so long. You were bedridden and mostly unconscious for a long time. When you finally awoke and began to get your bearings, you realized that Oswin was at your bedside. As your awareness increased, you realized he was holding your hand and weeping with his face pressed down in your bed as he mumbled something. You realized as you listened, that it was a prayer to Hayat – the god of life – the same god who repealed the intercession of gods in human lives. Oswin had never professed any faith before, quite the opposite. Though the gods had left humans to their own nearly a thousand years ago, Oswin would grumble if they were ever mentioned, as if they had wronged him personally. But, you found him praying for your life to be spared. It was then that you knew he never hated you. You managed to speak his name, and his head shot up with the strangest tangle of emotions on his face. You'll never forget the tears in his eyes, but he refused to ever speak to you about that moment. Even with Oswin's strange behavior, you never wanted for friendship, there were others in the town around your age, and eventually Lakota and you became quite close with a sweet girl named Willow Arbore, the daughter of one of your papa's business associates. She and Lakota connected well, as she aspired to be a midwife.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> Though your interests also aligned, Willow was never quite as taken with you as she was Lakota. You did learn a great deal from each other and how your chosen fields intersected. She was especially gifted when it came to infants and children and had a great love for them.<</if>> They often studied together and in just a couple years, you could see something extra special bloom between them. [[The years were not always kind to you, though.]]

You grieved for your grandmother. What happened to her remained a mystery; though she lived as a traveler, she always contacted you and your fathers each time she relocated without fail, and never went longer than half a cycle without at least a letter, if not a visit. More often, you saw her once per season. After the second year of no contact, Papa finally concluded that the worst must have happened. As far as any of you knew, she was in good health – though on in years – she was no where near what you'd call too old to travel. He and Da had written as many contacts as they could find across her usual routes, and no one had even heard rumors of her. She was a bit famous to the areas she frequented, and if she were alive, someone would have heard of it. Papa took it very hard. Though he and grandmother were quiet people, they had a deep bond. She had raised Papa on her own and taught him everything she knew, though she always said that his gentle nature was inherited from his father. You were deeply saddened that your grandmother was lost to you. You always remembered the promise that she made to be closer. You knew she had some business to take care of, things that she wouldn't say, in order to make that happen, but you never imagined it would claim her life and keep her from you forever.<<if $player_name is 'Ravinder'>> You were more determined than ever to carry on the legacy of Ravinder Axemaiden. Her name was a source of pride and strength that you would call upon for the rest of your days.<</if>> [[It's time to start your next journey.]]

It is the dawn of the first day of your 24th year, your birthday. As you gaze into the mirror, what do you see? Body Type: <<listbox "$bodytype" autoselect>> <<option "broad and sturdy">> <<option "athletic and agile">> <<option "curvy">> <<option "toned and lean">> <<option "slender">> <<option "voluptuous">> <</listbox>> Hair length: <<listbox "$hairlength" autoselect>> <<option "very long">> <<option "long">> <<option "shoulder length">> <<option "chin length">> <<option "short">> <<option "very short">> <</listbox>> Hair texture: <<listbox "$hairtexture" autoselect>> <<option "tightly curled">> <<option "loosely curled">> <<option "wavy">> <<option "straight">> <<option "frizzy">> <</listbox>> <<set $bits to false>> [[Next|creation part 2]]

<> <<if $hairlength is 'very long'>>How do you usually style your hair: <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "tied up in a tail">> <<option "bound in a braid">> <<option "bound in multiple braids">> <<option "loose">> <<option "half tied in a tail">> <<option "in a tight bun">> <<option "in a messy bun">> <</listbox>> <</if>> <<if $hairlength is 'long'>>How do you usually style your hair: <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "tied up in a tail">> <<option "bound in a braid">> <<option "bound in multiple braids">> <<option "loose">> <<option "half tied in a tail">> <<option "in a tight bun">> <<option "in a messy bun">> <</listbox>> <</if>> <<if $hairlength is 'shoulder length'>>How do you usually style your hair: <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "tied up in a tail">> <<option "bound in a braid">> <<option "bound in multiple braids">> <<option "loose">> <<option "half tied in a tail">> <<option "in a tight bun">> <<option "in a messy bun">> <</listbox>> <</if>> <<if $hairlength is 'chin length'>>How do you usually style your hair: <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "in braids">> <<option "loose">> <<option "half tied in a tail">> <</listbox>> <</if>> <<if $hairlength is 'short'>>How do you usually style your hair: <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "in tight braids">> <<option "loose">> <<option "swept to one side">> <</listbox>> <</if>> <<if $hairlength is 'very short'>>How do you usually style your hair: <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "as it is naturally">> <<option "pushed back">> <<option "spiked up">> <</listbox>> <</if>> <> [[Your hair started going grey prematurely|1.greyhair]] [[No other changes to your hair. Continue.|creation part 3]]

<> <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You've kept an interest in logging with your papa over the years. Much to his pride, you're quite good at it. Your axe has become an extension of yourself, though your efforts were not without the occasional error. You bear a mark from such an occurrence.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Over the years, your interest in carpentry and fine woodworking has grown, as has your skill. Your papa beams with pride with each on of your creations. You know your tools as well as you know yourself, though in your learning, your execution was not always flawless. You bear the mark of one such slip.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>The years have made you adept at wielding a sword. In fact, you now give your da a run for his gold each time you spar. You've also drawn the attention of others with the interest in sparring with or learning from you. Your experiences haven't left you unscathed though.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You are now almost as renowned with a bow as your da. You've won a few smaller tournaments with your skill, and managed to place fourth in the city of Lale's tourney last year against some very seasoned archers – the sort that are employed by the monarchy. Though, your efforts haven't left you unmarked.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Your determination has already made you a fine healer. You've studied hard and had to do a great deal of self-study to get where you are. People from all over Stonebrook have sought you for help with all manner of ails. Some of your medicines even rival Lakota's. Though, your quests to work with medicine have not always gone smoothly.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Much to your da's relief, you have developed great skill in trade and bartering. Most townsfolk and merchants enjoy working with you, and you find yourself cutting deals with ease. You've managed to secure a good deal in savings just in working with the locals and assisting your parents with the business portion of their crafts. However, business isn't without its risks and you've the marks to prove it.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You've become known as the master of any kitchen. Your fathers both think that any day now, the three emperors will be clamoring for your services. Each holiday, you get a pile of requests for your food, and were even specifically requested to prepare a feast for a governing official in Lale. Despite your skill, mishaps are common in the kitchen, and you bear the marks to prove it.<</if>> <> *You must select one: <> <<if $interest is 'choppin'>> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "axescarbelowrightknee" autocheck>> Just a couple years into logging with Papa, you found yourself a bit careless – maybe over-confident – and missed your mark while splitting a log. You managed to bring your newly-sharpened axe-head directly into your right leg. Thankfully, it did not get embedded, but you ended up with a nasty cut that Kavi had to sew shut. The mark is faded a bit with age, but runs nearly half way down your leg below the knee. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "treescrapeonleftshoulder" autocheck>> You ended up with a nasty tear in your left shoulder blade one day while felling a tree. Ironically, it wasn't the tree you were cutting that ended up giving you the wound. An adjacent tree was weak from a recent storm and fell along with yours, but its trajectory was towards you. You barely manged to avoid being crushed but took a nasty hit to your shoulder as the tree scraped you. At least, in the end, you were able to use both trees. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "punctureinrightarm" autocheck>> Embarrassingly, you manged to injure yourself by sheer clumsiness. While felling trees, you caught your shoe on a root and managed to tumble down what felt like the biggest hill in the known world. You rolled and rolled, smacking every rock and stick there was to be found. You were unconscious for a bit after, but your papa roused you and got you back home. You had cuts and bruises everywhere, but the worst was that a thin sharp stick had managed to deeply puncture your right arm. It bled a lot, but you were otherwise fine. <</if>> <<if $interest is 'woodin'>> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "scaracrosshand" autocheck>> You discovered early on in your experiences with carpentry, that sometimes the smallest tools can do the most damage. While etching an intricate pattern into a table leg, your blade slipped and ripped through your opposite hand that you had mistakenly placed in the direction you were cutting. It bled a great deal and had to be sewn shut. You now have a dark scar across the top of one hand. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "scaronbackofthigh" autocheck>> You bear a scar on the back of one thigh from a tragic sitting accident. As you were testing a chair you had designed, feeling perhaps a bit over-confident that the structure was sound, the piece gave way. It collapsed in spectacular fashion and you with it, sending one of the iron nails you had used directly under the flesh of your thigh. You very quietly treated your wound, and ended up with a scar that few would see. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "lefttemplemark" autocheck>> A benign-looking mark sits just at your left temple, partially skewed by your hairline. It is barely noticeable now, though the experience that led to it was a bit frightening. As you were measuring and cutting logs into planks for a big project, a large board you had propped up and turned your back on lost its balance. You heard a noise, so you turned to look in time as the board came down – striking you right in the head. It hit you very hard and you were unconscious for quite a while before you were found. The scrape healed fine, but you were concussed and plagued by headaches, nausea, and confusion for several days. You feared your mind would never be the same, but recovered well after some time. <</if>> <<if $interest is 'swordin'>> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "backscar" autocheck>> It goes without saying that injuries and scars are more likely when learning such a skill as swordsmanship. You've inherited a number of nicks and bruises, but the worse thus far is a long scar running nearly half of your back. You won a – what was supposed to be friendly – spar with another kid when you were still in the early stages of learning with a real sword. Your opponent did not take it well, and as soon as your back was turned, he took a cheap swipe at you. His intent, he claimed, was just to give you a slight prick with the tip of his blade. He misjudge his distance, and cut you from waist to shoulder – deep enough that the wound had to be packed and sewn. You had never seen your da so feral before, and the kid kept his distance from then on. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "oswinscar" autocheck>> Because you were learning the sword from your da, you ran into Oswin on several occasions as he was intent on training for the guard, and Da had worked with him a great deal already. Though he had been standoffish and strange over the years with you, he was civil during training and seemed to enjoy sparring with you, though the moment you caught a glimpse of your former closeness, he rolled himself back again. During such a training, you'd both been running a little hot with aggravation, sparring like your lives were actually at risk. Oswin was trouncing you handily, and in his fervor, accidentally injured you, his blade ripping through your armor and through the top of your right arm. Oswin was immensely remorseful and cared for your wound himself. You don't think he ever quite forgave himself. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "swordbuttscar" autocheck>> You have dark scar running along the middle of your left buttock. You don't like talking about it. <</if>> <<if $interest is 'archin'>> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "stringslap" autocheck>> Learning archery from your da always left you in wonder. He was so masterful in the art, that at times it could be a little discouraging when you didn't feel like you could be as good as him. He had to remind you a lot that he had many years of practice on you and that there was no rush. You did some extra practice sometimes to work on your aim. Though, one time, your thoughts were so clouded by the pressure to improve that you forgot to wear your arm-guard. Your bowstring struck your forearm so hard that it split the skin wide open. It was bruised and tender for a long time and left you with a thin scar. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "frontshouldershotscar" autocheck>> You'd worked very hard with your da to improve your archery skills enough to compete. The surrounding local villages held small tournaments each year around the time of other festivals and celebrations, so you were never left wanting for a place to test your skill. During one such competition, you not only placed, but you took first, unseating a reigning champion that had taken the title every year for over a decade. They did not take it well, and to show their displeasure, shot you. Thankfully, a fellow competitor was able to disrupt the shot – skewing the aim and strength of the blow. The arrow still pierced the meat of your right shoulder, but did not lodge fully. Papa wrangled the perpetrator himself when the local guard failed to; you'd never seen him quite so angry. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "arrowsrightbutt" autocheck>> You have three parallel scars in the center of your right buttock and you don't like talking about them. <</if>> <<if $interest is 'healin'>> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "burnonleftlowleg" autocheck>> You wouldn't think that a field centered around healing and care could ever result in much injury. For the most part, it is quite safe for the practitioner; however, against all odds, you've managed to gain a large scar that spans half of your lower leg below your left knee. While boiling a concoction to use in burn ointment, something in your pot reacted poorly. The cauldron boiled over and erupted, spewing the hot and – unfortunately – sticky brew at you. As you were not able to dodge fast enough, your leg, and thankfully only your leg, was coated and burned. Lakota and Willow assisted you in mending the flesh after. Ironically, your concoction made a fantastic ointment after it had cooled, and it aided your recovery. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "bitemarkleftarm" autocheck>> While assisting Kavi and Lakota with a patient who was suffering from a bout of delirium, you were bitten. Unfortunately, at the time, you were alone with the woman who was supposed to be asleep after Kavi gave her a dose of a sleeping tonic. She woke suddenly, became frightened and clamped down on your upper left arm hard enough that she drew blood – lots of it. It was horribly painful, and the patient refused to let go, being to out of mind to think rationally. You did not want to injure her since you knew she was not hurting you intentionally. Lakota heard the commotion and came to your rescue, getting her to release you by throwing a powder made from hot pepper seeds at her. She let go, but the powder also made your wound burn. It wasn't a great day and you still have a bite-shaped scar to remind you. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "righthandpoison" autocheck>> Early on in your learning, you had taken to rummaging through parts of the woods that people did not often frequent in search of herbs and useful plants to use in your craft. You'd been very fortunate in your findings and found a particularly nice area with all manner of valuable plants – willow trees, mushrooms, goatweed – all for you to harvest. After a visit, you found that your hands became quite itchy, which wasn't uncommon when foraging, so you thought nothing of it. Later in the night, you awoke to a burning pain on your skin. The flesh of your hands was extremely irritated, raised, and beginning to split. You'd obviously found something poisonous, though you never recalled coming across anything you could not identify. Kavi was not sure what it was either, but he had creams to help soothe it. It took days for the pain and swelling to subside, and it brought on a fever as well. Though both hands were affected, only your right scarred, leaving a dark patch below your thumb with jagged pale lines that ran across the back of your hand. <</if>> <<if $interest is 'tradin'>> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "neckrash" autocheck>> One would not think trading and merchandising would lead to many physical wounds – unless you were robbed – but you have found that it is not a job that will leave you unscathed. Though, most bumps and bruises have been caused by small accidents and occasional clumsiness and nothing too serious. One such occasion, though, did turn serious and left you with a scar that spans your neck. As you were porting a small cart of furs for your father to a neighbor that lives a little ways out of town, your donkey became spooked. She could not be soothed, and one more sudden noise from the woods caused her to bolt. You had a leather bag slung over your shoulder that caught on the reins as the donkey ran. The strap tightened around your neck and you were dragged along the road until it finally gave way. It left a rash of torn skin with a very bad memory and sore neck. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "pinfinger" autocheck>> Your work isn't inherently too dangerous, especially as you stick very close to town and to the occasional visit to nearby villages. Though you are known to be a shrewd business dealer, you may not always take the wisest of actions. During a visit to a neighboring tavern, an unruly and very drunk patron challenged you to a game of pinfinger. You promptly ignored her and continued about your business as she carried on, trying to get your attention. She finally threw down a large sack of gold in front of you, saying that she would buy everything you had in your cart if you'd play her game. It felt like easy money. The woman was piss drunk. The sack of gold she offered for your wares would put you ahead by leaps and bounds. So, you accepted. The first one to nick themselves would lose. You were certain that she'd cut a finger in the first set. She did not. It turned out, she was quite good at the game, even while drunk. Though, you were also quite good – being sober – and lasted quite a while. Your knife came down hard on your middle finger, slicing it to the bone. Papa always made sure your knives were razor sharp. The plus to that, was that it cut through so easily that you barely felt it at first. The red blood was unmistakable though. The woman cheered for her win and for your performance, and also helped you treat the wound. She still bought a good deal of your stock and then made you a marriage proposal which you promptly turned down. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "eyebrowscar" autocheck>> While returning from a trip across town to buy some supplies from a fellow merchant, you tripped and fell face-first into your wagon, giving you a nasty black eye and a split eyebrow on the right side of your face. You hit so hard that you fell unconscious and awoke to your donkey licking your ear and nuzzling you. You hadn't even realized the damage done to your face until you arrived back home and your papa practically bowled all the furniture over to get to you. Your split brow had bled enough to coat most of your face in red. You healed but your brow was never the same. Da tells you that it makes you look tough though. <</if>> <<if $interest is 'cookin'>> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "handknifescar" autocheck>> There can be many dangers in the kitchen, though for the most part it's a safe endeavor as long as your wits are about you. Unfortunately, though, even you have bad days. On one such day, you were lost in thought as you were cutting bread rolls in half. All manner of safe knife-handling that Papa had taught you was far from your mind at the time, and you were holding each roll, cutting them in your hand. At about the fifth roll, you discovered the error of your ways and sliced directly into your hand. You were unable to use your hand for several days afterwards and got a lecture from Papa. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "leftarmburn" autocheck>> Unfortunately, as you began doing bigger jobs when you became known for your food, you also had to work with other aspiring cooks. Not all of these people had the skill and wherewithal that you did, which led to some mishaps. One such mishap, gave you a bad burn on your left upper arm. An assistant, working with you at a holiday banquet for a wealthy family, caused a grease fire in the small kitchen you were crammed into. The boy panicked and immediately threw a bucket of water at the flames while you were in the line of fire. The water and grease splashed up and you barely raised your arm in time to protect the side of your face. Some of the skin on your arm was left gnarled, but thankfully nothing else on you was injured. The assistant was fired and the home owner compensated you a great deal for the trouble. <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "headwound" autocheck>> A pan fell on you. It scarred your forehead. You don't like talking about it. <</if>> <> [[Continue|creation part 4]]

Though you didn't have much of an option in taking on that scar, you did have the choice of getting a permanent mark that you actually wanted. Stonebrook didn't have as many services as a city, but the leader of the town guard was an experienced tattooer and offered such services when she wasn't on duty. <<checkbox "$tat1" false true autocheck>> So far, you hadn't taken her up on that offer. (If selected, skip to bottom and click 'Continue') <<checkbox "$tat2" false true autocheck>> You had a waning crescent moon on your right arm. <<checkbox "$tat3" false true autocheck>> A great bird, with wings spread, spanned your chest. <<checkbox "$tat4" false true autocheck>> Your left arm depicted a coiled snake with great fangs. <<checkbox "$tat5" false true autocheck>> The forearm on your left displayed a beautiful tree. <<checkbox "$tat6" false true autocheck>> Both hands, with fingers included, were marked with patterns of geometric lines. <<checkbox "$tat7" false true autocheck>> Your right shoulder-blade bore a fierce wolf. <<checkbox "$tat8" false true autocheck>> Your left shoulder-blade displayed a collection of flowers. <<checkbox "$tat9" false true autocheck>> You had a cuff tattooed around your left ankle, reminiscent of jewelry. [[Continue|creation 5]]

<> <<if $tat2 is true and $tat3 is true and $tat4 is true and $tat5 is true and $tat6 is true and $tat7 is true and $tat8 is true>> You REALLY loved tattoos. They provided a deep expression of yourself that you could wear for all time to just enjoy for your own sake or share with others if you wanted to. <</if>> <<if $tat1 is true>>At least for where you were in life thus far, tattoos just weren't for you. Maybe in the future you'd change your mind though.<</if>> <> No matter your current stance on tattoos, one thing you could not go without – at least in public – was clothing. Being a small town meant limited options, but you made the most with what you could find. Traveling merchants had made finding items you liked a bit easier in recent years, even if prices were a bit higher than average. *You must choose one: <<radiobutton "$clothing" "comfortable" autocheck>> You typically wore clothing that was comfortable and easy to maneuver in. <<radiobutton "$clothing" "regular" autocheck>> You weren't very particular. Simple items made from sturdy materials were good enough and easy to find. <<radiobutton "$clothing" "business" autocheck>> Your style was a bit more austere. You preferred durable and functional clothing for whatever you were doing. Nothing too garish or colorful. <<radiobutton "$clothing" "color" autocheck>> Clothing for you meant a chance to express yourself. Materials that were colorful and unique with special details were a must. <<radiobutton "$clothing" "revealing" autocheck>> Since //no clothing// wasn't always an option, the next best thing was to wear things that revealed more of your skin. [[Continue|creation 6]]

Jewelry was another option for expressing yourself... <<checkbox "$nojewel" false true autocheck>> You usually did not opt to wear such things. (If selected, skip to bottom and click 'Continue') <<checkbox "$earrings" false true autocheck>> You liked to wear earrings. <<checkbox "$necklace" false true autocheck>> You liked to wear necklaces. <<checkbox "$piercings" false true autocheck>> You had some facial piercings. <<checkbox "$lets" false true autocheck>> It was not uncommon for you to wear bracelets and/or anklets. <<checkbox "$cuff" false true autocheck>> You wore a cuff around one arm. [[Continue|creation 7]]

Are you looking upon any other distinguishing features as you gaze at the mirror? <<checkbox "$nomore" false true autocheck>> No. (If selected, skip to bottom and click 'Continue') <<checkbox "$freckles" false true autocheck>> A smattering of delightful freckles. <<checkbox "$moles" false true autocheck>> A few moles about your person. <<checkbox "$patches" false true autocheck>> Patches of skin that vary in tone. <<checkbox "$fullbeard" false true autocheck>> A big full beard. <<checkbox "$mustache" false true autocheck>> A mustache. <<checkbox "$trimbeard" false true autocheck>> A short trimmed beard. <<checkbox "$stubble" false true autocheck>> Facial hair stubble. [[Continue|creation 8]]

After reflecting for so long on how your appearance has developed, your thoughts naturally drift to who you've become as an adult. Life has not been easy for you. You suppose it could have been worse and perhaps even better, but there is no sense on dwelling on either of those options when there's only 'what if' questions you could ask. Papa and Da have provided for your needs and have tried very hard to make your life comfortable. They may not have always made the best choices for you or said the right words, but one thing you are certain of is that they have tried their best and love you dearly. As much as you may hate it, the illness has played a role in your life that is bigger than what is fair. To this day, at age 24 you still feel dependent on the care of your parents. It's not uncommon for children to dwell with their parents, sometimes for life, but you've had a niggling sense of dependence beyond your wishes. Even if your symptomatic episodes are fewer and farther between, they are still an ever-present threat to your life. One that renders you helpless and at the mercy of others. You cannot travel far on your own, someone must always know where you are or will be, and if you are a moment late, someone must come looking. It's a constant rope around your neck no matter the comforts of home. Like it or not, it has influenced who you've become. [[It's made you more withdrawn and shy][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 6, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more bold and outspoken][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 6, 0, 100)]] [[It's made you take a step back and just relax][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 6, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a touch more aggressive.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 6, 0, 100)]] [[You sometimes find it difficult to take things lightly.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 6, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more adventurous and fun-seeking][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 6, 0, 100)]] [[Your behavior can only be described as reckless.][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 6, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a bit more cautious about things.][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 6, 0, 100)]]

*Chapter One <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">Growing Pains</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[Start]]

<<set $romance to 'nointerest'>> Thankfully, you haven't felt pressure from those you love to get involved with such things. Right now it just isn't something you're going to dwell on. The beauty about life is that you can always change. Should you desire a relationship of some sort later, you can put yourself out there and find one. [[Anyway...|creation 10]] <<set $virgin to true>>

<<set $romance to 'experienced'>> They didn't last for one reason or another. You're glad for some experience and they were nice. Maybe something will stick one of these days. [[Anyway...|creation 10]] <<set $virgin to false>>

<<set $romance to 'onlyphysical'>> It wasn't always easy to get some privacy to explore these relationships, but you've managed. Bringing your partner home wasn't always an option, but you have noticed that Da was pretty good at reading you and getting Papa out of the house to give you some space. [[You'd never found a steady partner, but found a variety in town with the occasional traveler to join you.]] [[A brunette woman with soft gray eyes was a regular companion for you.]] [[A brunette man with soft gray eyes was a regular companion for you.]] <<set $virgin to false>>

<<set $romance to 'feelingsnophys'>> Relationships just haven't progressed farther than that for one reason or another for you. Your parents and friends have been encouraging, but try not to put any pressure on your about it. [[Anyway...|creation 10]] <<set $virgin to true>>

<<set $romance to 'interestednoxp'>> Relationships just haven't progressed for one reason or another for you. Your parents and friends have been encouraging, but try not to put any pressure on your about it. [[Anyway...|creation 10]] <<set $virgin to true>>

<<set $xxxpartner to 'randos'>> Stonebrook was just a big enough place that new people were through regularly and there were trustworthy residence that sought the same physical relationships as you. Maybe you could find a partner for today...it was your birthday after all... [[Anyway...|creation 10]]

<<set $xxxpartner to 'Fkanta'>> Kanta was a very friendly soul that you had known for several years. Like you, she wasn't one to seek a steady relationship and wanted someone she could safely explore physical relations with. Lucky for you, she lived in a small cabin on her own, so privacy wasn't much of an issue. Perhaps you could pay her a visit...it was your birthday after all... [[Anyway...|creation 10]]

<<set $xxxpartner to 'Mkanta'>> Kanta was a very friendly soul that you had known for several years. Like you, he wasn't one to seek a steady relationship and wanted someone he could safely explore physical relations with. Lucky for you, he lived in a small cabin on his own, so privacy wasn't much of an issue. Perhaps you could pay him a visit...it was your birthday after all... [[Anyway...|creation 10]]

When you take it all into consideration...Where you've come from and what your future looks like, at least from your limited perspective. You find yourself... [[taking it in stride.|time to move on][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 7, 0, 100)]] [[becoming aggravated.|time to move on][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 7, 0, 100)]] [[cracking jokes.|time to move on][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 7, 0, 100)]] [[humbled and sober.|time to move on][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 7, 0, 100)]] [[wanting to withdraw.|time to move on][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 7, 0, 100)]] [[jumping on every opportunity to socialize.|time to move on][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 7, 0, 100)]]

In addition, you also find that... [[It's made you take a step back and just relax|creation 9][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a touch more aggressive.|creation 9][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[Your behavior can only be described as reckless.|creation 9][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a bit more cautious about things.|creation 9][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You sometimes find it difficult to take things lightly.|creation 9][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more adventurous and fun-seeking|creation 9][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]]

In addition, you also find that... [[You've become more bold and outspoken|creation 9][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]] [[It's made you take a step back and just relax|creation 9][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a touch more aggressive.|creation 9][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[Your behavior can only be described as reckless.|creation 9][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a bit more cautious about things.|creation 9][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You sometimes find it difficult to take things lightly.|creation 9][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more adventurous and fun-seeking|creation 9][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]]

In addition, you also find that... [[It's made you more withdrawn and shy|creation 9][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more bold and outspoken|creation 9][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]] [[Your behavior can only be described as reckless.|creation 9][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a bit more cautious about things.|creation 9][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You sometimes find it difficult to take things lightly.|creation 9][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more adventurous and fun-seeking|creation 9][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]]

In addition, you also find that... [[It's made you more withdrawn and shy|creation 9][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more bold and outspoken|creation 9][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]] [[It's made you take a step back and just relax|creation 9][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a touch more aggressive.|creation 9][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[Your behavior can only be described as reckless.|creation 9][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a bit more cautious about things.|creation 9][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]]

Regardless of how it has influenced you, that's not all there is to you, even if sometimes that's hard to hold on to. Your fathers try to give you independence and privacy as much as possible, but sometimes a sense of guilt may nibble at you over it. It's hard not to compare yourself to Lakota at times. He and Willow united in marriage years ago and have been steadily growing the Twinflower family with two small children and another on the way already (likely even twins). Poor Willow has been pregnant more often than not, though she and Lakota have been beyond thrilled each time. And it isn't like they lack for contraceptive herbs either, they just want a huge family and want it as soon as possible. Little Lakota Twinflower was perhaps the last person you'd think of when it came to virility with how sickly he used to be, but you're happy as long as he is. To each their own. They had to build an addition on Kavi and Betony's home, which your papa oversaw, but everyone wanted to stay together so it was the best option. They got to //choose// that though. Either if you'd want to remain with your parents or start your own home, the //choice// is automatically taken from you. If you decide to share your life with someone long term, they would also be signing on to take care of you at times, and you're not always sure if you'd want to put that on them. As far as romantic relationships go... [[you haven't found much interest so far in your life. Maybe that will change, maybe it won't.]] [[you've had one or two shorter-term relationships that were both romantic and physical in the past.]] [[you've only tested the physical aspects so far.]] [[you've had...stirrings of feelings before, but nothing physical.]] [[you have interest, but...it just hasn't happened yet.]]

*Chapter Two <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">Where the Journey Begins</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[Start|Ch2]]

You’ve had quite enough observation and introspection for one day, perhaps enough to last until your next birthday, so you head out from your room. You’ve got the entire day to yourself, courtesy of your papa being insistent that the day should be spent at your leisure. Before you leave the house, though, you want to check in on your da. Just down the hall from your own bedroom is your parents' room, complete with an extra large door to accommodate Papa's height and breadth. Da has been laid up for a couple weeks already and will be for nearly the whole season due to a broken leg. A run-in with an angry stag and some ice made for a bad fall when he was last out hunting. Thankfully, Kavi<<if $interest is 'healin'>> - with your aid - <</if>> was able to set it and wrap it up easily, but Da is not one to take to sitting. He’s been insufferably bored and Papa has all but tied him down to get him to rest. You’ve caught him out of bed a time or two, so you may as well check before you leave. You knock on the door and your da answers a moment after. When you enter the room, you see him propped on a plush chair with his legs on a footstool, the broken one bound in a wooden cradle and wrapped in gauze and linen. You can still smell the comfrey in the knitbone salve used on his leg. Your house usually has an earthy and woody scent, but the comfrey gives off a nice grassy aroma, making it feel more like spring. He smiles big at you, crows feet at his eyes springing to life. “Hey, it’s my favorite kid!” You try not to roll your eyes. “Da, I’m your only kid.” “So what!? It’s still true!” He laughs. “Don’t tell me you’re going to waste your free day with your lame old man.” Gesturing to his legs, Da pouts. You shrug. “I wanted to see how you were doing...and make sure you hadn’t escaped again.” “I would never!” You glare. “I’d never...again. Besides, the warden put the damn dogs at the doors and windows, so I can’t even get out without them raising a fuss.” He huffs, crossing his arms. “You need to rest. The more you rest, the better and faster it heals. And //then// you can be up and about.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> I’ve made up more knitbone and we’ll switch the wrap soon and check the swelling.<</if>>” “Yes, yes, my dutiful $sondtrchild – no fun for me. If I’m to be confined here for long, could you at least do your poor da a favor?” You place a hand on your hip, wondering if this is something that will get you in trouble with Papa. “Depends…” “Nothing blackmail-worthy, I’m afraid. Boring stuff. Your Papa said the traveling merchant that you’re friendly with was seen in town. Do you mind checking if he has any books or maybe some magical spare parts I can swap my leg out for?” You chuckle. “Sure, Da; I can do that.” [[You bid your father goodbye and head out into town.]]

Sure enough, as soon as you are out the door, Papa’s old red hound, Mim, begins to bay. Or, at least, the poor thing tries to - the sound carries - but is cracked with strain. She’s about as old as you are and blind as a mole, but nothing gets past her. Once Mim sniffs out who you are, you give her a good snuggle and leave her to guard the porch again, noticing that Papa has peeked out from the barn to make sure his husband is not hobbling his way towards freedom. You exchange a wave and move on. Sad to say, you have the day to yourself, but haven’t really made any plans on how to spend it. Normally you’d <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>be planting a few seedlings and tending saplings with spring on the rise.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>be finishing some orders for furniture that you got weeks ago.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>be out patrolling with the guard and maybe having a friendly spar.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>be making arrows and sharpening arrow heads...maybe goading Oswin into a competition.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>be helping Lakota and Kavi at the clinic, especially since Willow is so heavy with child now.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>be going through your ledgers and making some plans for your leftover winter stock.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>be securing some early orders for food with the spring festival coming up.<</if>> Da did give you an errand at least, and the path to the merchant will take you through town. Lakota will be busy during the day, but you might still be able to say hello. And Oswin has been a little warmer lately, especially since Da’s injury, maybe he’s around - maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to run into him as well. [[Visit Lakota]] [[Find Oswin]] [[Head towards the merchant]]

<<set $visitlakota to true>> As usual, Lakota is hard at work when you arrive at the clinic. His (current) youngest child, Cephas, is strapped to his chest in a sling, the little boy sleeping soundly as Lakota goes about his business getting the patch of land for his herbs ready for planting. The little one looks just like Lakota - wild, blond, and frizzy curls crown his head, and – when he’s awake – big brown eyes manipulate about anyone into doing his bidding. He’s growing so fast, just over a year old and he takes up most of Lakota’s chest, though, Lakota has always been on the small side - a trait which followed him readily into adulthood. Even if his frame is small, he is no less spry. He quickly grew in skill as a healer, and most know him just as well as his parents for his knowledge and ability. He also adapted to fatherhood quite fast, marrying Willow just four years ago, their first child – a girl named Yan – was born a year after. You were a little surprised that they wanted another given what a force of nature Yan turned out to be, at just three years old, it is evident she will be an incredibly strong-willed person. “Lakota!” You call out as you approach. You don't mind your volume, Cephas sleeps through anything, a skill his sister lacks. He turns quickly, already smiling. “$mc!<<if $mc is 'Noodles'>> My starchy friend!<</if>>” “I’m sure that you’re busy, but I wanted to say hello.” “Oh, you know you’re welcome anytime. We’re practically family. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>But, you know, it might be good for you to not let this place take up all your time. The work will wait. You should rest today.<</if>> Are you feeling alright?” Lakota gently bounces his sleeping son as he subtly inquires about your health, the tell-tale look of concern in his eyes. “Yes, yes; I’m fine.” You can’t suppress the eye roll. Lakota dotes on you about as much as your own fathers. Before you can quip about his mother-henning, the door to the clinic bursts open and out runs little Yan – shrieking with delight – as she heads right for you. [[Nope, you do not do children.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You crouch down, with arms wide open][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You give your own shriek and run towards the little girl][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]]

<<set $findoswin to true>> Oswin proves to be a bit difficult to locate. You check first with the town guard, who are based out of a glorified shack in the middle of town. Oswin works with them on occasion, though the town is small enough that it cannot afford to pay much in way of a proper squad. Citizens that can use a weapon and are approved by the town council are paid a small stipend for helping keep order. <<if $interest is 'swordin'>>That includes you as well. It didn't take long for the town to recognize you skill and offer you a job. <</if>><<if $interest is 'archin'>>That includes you as well. It didn't take long for the town to recognize you skill and offer you a job. <</if>>Though, not much happens in Stonebrook other than spats between neighbors, the occasional tavern brawl, and the odd aggressive animal wandering in from the wood. Mostly, Oswin works as a blade-for-hire, escorting merchants or some of the wealthier people to and from the city of Lale. He also serves as a local guide in and around the deep wood that surrounds the area. He's well-known as a very adept swordsman and hunter, and it doesn't hurt that most regard him as having grown into quite a handsome sight. You can't help but think back on your relationship with Oswin over the years as you continue your search through the spots he frequents. It's been nearly a decade since you could call yourself the boon companions that you once were. Maybe because Oswin is a few years older than you and he just grew too far ahead. He just became a bit strange. One moment he would be the warm kid you knew as a child and then the next he was snipping at you over menial things. When he began working, he suddenly got colder. He didn't laugh as much, and you didn't see him ever //not// working. If he spoke to you, it was never casually, it was just work or some errand. He did visit your da still; they'd go to the woods and spar for a while usually. The one time you interrupted them, Oswin wouldn't face you, and Da sent you on your way promptly. You are pretty sure Oswin was hiding something. <<if $interest is 'swordin'>> Even during the times you were honing your own skills with the sword and encountered him, he was also so unreadable and stoic. He was civil, but it was all business. You never even got a good look at him when you were together, he'd turn away from you unless you were sparring.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>> Even during the times you were honing your own skills with a bow and encountered him, he was also so unreadable and stoic. He was civil, but it was all business. You never even got a good look at him when you were together, he kept his back to you mostly.<</if>> [[You were quite upset at the loss of connection, and you worried for him.|curious oswin][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You tried not to feel much of anything about it.|curious oswin]] $flirt_label [[It was a shame, he is indeed a handsome man, and his coldness did not stop you from appreciating that.|curious oswin][$Oflirt += 3]] [[The change just made it easier to irritate him and you rather enjoyed getting under his skin.|curious oswin][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]]

<<set $headtomerchant to true>> You figure that you ought to take care of the errand your da asked of you and head into the town proper. Stonebrook sees a few traveling merchants fairly regularly, but about two years ago a new one appeared that stood out from the rest; a man named Nathanael. He caused quite a stir during his first trip, and you remember Oswin's irritation with it fondly. Nathanael, it turns out, is a rather successful but eccentric tradesman. When his cart arrived, some of the townspeople panicked as it was being pulled by a rather large elk, easily larger than the draft horses of the North, complete with massive antlers. Oswin was called upon to put down 'a monstrous deer' only to find the beast quietly resting in the shade while children played upon its back, even hanging from it’s rack without so much as an irritated glance from the beast. Elk, especially of the giant variety, were very uncommon in your region of the central province, as they lived much further north in Norwood Province. Your papa was quite familiar with giant elk and happy to see the creature since he had spent many of his young years traveling in the North. When you went to see it for yourself, you met Nathanael. He looked rather dashing with a lean, strong build and tussled waves of black hair peppered with white, that barely reached his ears. His short beard matched the colors of his hair, and soft hazel eyes looked upon everyone with gentleness and mirth. He always wore long lavish robes with ornate patterns and colors, often with multiple layers, even during the hot season. His cart was painted similarly with shades of blue and green in interesting patterns. He deals in no particular good and is known for selling and trading curiosities and some rarer items along with ordinary products. Books are a specialty for him as are odd magical trinkets, most of which are more for looks than use. He is friendly to all, but there were a few, including yourself and Oswin, that he seems to speak more genially to - at the very least you were favored for discounts. Oswin does not care for him, but that just seems to spur the merchant into trying to befriend him even more. As you approach his usual station at the edge of town, the only place where the elk can stretch out without knocking something over with his antlers, you find the man deep in conversation with his cat. The small gray creature looks unimpressed, with green eyes narrowed at Nathanael, who seems to be arguing something... [["Nathanael?"]]

Yan has a strange fascination with you and has not quite understood that not everyone wants to receive her enthusiastic greetings. You’re beginning to wonder if the obsession is just to spite you. She’s three though, she couldn’t possibly be doing it intentionally...right? Thankfully, Lakota steps in front of you, grabbing Yan by the arms and giving her a little whirl in a circle before setting her back down. “Now, Yan, we’ve talked about this.” Yan giggles with delight and bounces on her toes, brown hair kicking up along with her energy. “But $mc is here!” “Mmhmm, $mc lives just down the road<<if $interest is 'healin'>> and works with your papa,<</if>> of course $heshe would be here. Now, do you remember what Mama said about running up to $himher?” Yan nods and then looks at you. She is so tiny, but there is a fierceness in her eyes. “Hi!” You smile back. “Hello, Yan.” “Um, Un’el Oz said it’s your birdday.” You glance at Lakota, who translates. “That’s what she calls Oswin now, and //th// sounds have been a challenge.” You nod at Yan. “It is my bir//th//day.” “Yay!” She calls, jumping more. “Happy birdthday!” “Thank you, Yan.” Satisfied, the little girl runs back into the clinic, flinging the door open with such force that it slams against the side of the wall. Lakota flinches and then sighs. Cephas sleeps as if nothing even happened. "Well," you say, "I shouldn't keep you." Lakota nods. "Alright, I do have a lot to get done today...but, I'll see you tonight to celebrate." "Of course, you better not miss a feast in my honor!" You laugh and Lakota gestures rudely at you before returning to his garden, throwing you a smile. <<if not hasVisited("Visit Lakota")>>[[Visit Lakota]]<<else>>Visit Lakota<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Find Oswin")>>[[Find Oswin]]<<else>>Find Oswin<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Head towards the merchant")>>[[Head towards the merchant]] <<else>>Head towards the merchant<</if>> <<if $visitlakota is true and $findoswin is true and $headtomerchant is true>>[[You go home to relax before the feast.]]<</if>>

Yan has a strange fascination with you and tends to be a little over-excited when you're around. Perhaps because you can't help but encourage it a little, much to Lakota's chagrin. You catch the bounding little brown-haired girl in your arms, lifting her up and hugging her as you spin in a circle. Yan giggles with delight. "$mc is here!” She yells. You laugh. "I //am// here!" Lakota sighs but smiles affectionately, “Mmhmm, $mc lives just down the road<<if $interest is 'healin'>> and works with your papa,<</if>> of course $heshe would be here. Now, do you remember what Mama said about running up to $himher?” Yan shakes her head and then looks at you with a wicked smile. She is so tiny, but there is a fierceness in those brown eyes. You smile back and give her a wink before setting her down. Lakota glowers at you but laughs. Yan taps you on the leg. “Um, Un’el Oz said it’s your birdday.” You glance at Lakota, who translates. “That’s what she calls Oswin now, and //th// sounds have been a challenge.” You nod at Yan. “It is my bir//th//day!” “Yay!” She calls, jumping more. “Happy birdthday!” “Thank you, Yan.” You ruffle the tyke’s hair; it's already messy and you're pretty sure there's at least one stick caught in it. Satisfied, the little girl runs back into the clinic, flinging the door open with such force that it slams against the side of the wall. Lakota flinches and then sighs. Cephas sleeps as if nothing even happened. "Well," you say, "I shouldn't keep you. And I've successfully riled up your daughter, so you'll have your hands full." You smirk. Lakota nods and places his hands on his hips. "Alright, //trouble//, I do have a lot to get done today, and you're clearly not helping...but, I'll see you tonight to celebrate." "Of course, you better not miss a feast in my honor!" You laugh and Lakota gestures rudely at you before returning to his garden, throwing you a smile. <<if not hasVisited("Visit Lakota")>>[[Visit Lakota]]<<else>>Visit Lakota<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Find Oswin")>>[[Find Oswin]]<<else>>Find Oswin<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Head towards the merchant")>>[[Head towards the merchant]] <<else>>Head towards the merchant<</if>> <<if $visitlakota is true and $findoswin is true and $headtomerchant is true>>[[You go home to relax before the feast.]]<</if>>

Yan has a strange fascination with you and tends to be a little over-excited when you're around. Perhaps because you can't help but encourage it a little, much to Lakota's chagrin. In a few short strides, you catch the bounding little brown-haired girl in your arms, lifting her up and hugging her as you spin in a circle, using the momentum to give her quite the ride. Yan giggles and squeals with delight. "$mc is here!” She yells, clinging tightly to you. You laugh. "I //am// here!" Lakota sighs but smiles affectionately, “Mmhmm, $mc lives just down the road<<if $interest is 'healin'>> and works with your papa,<</if>> of course $heshe would be here. Now, do you remember what Mama said about running up to $himher?” Yan shakes her head and then looks at you with a wicked smile. She is so tiny, but there is a fierceness in those brown eyes. You smile back and give her a wink before setting her down, she staggers trying to find her balance through the dizziness. Lakota glowers at you but laughs. Yan taps you on the leg. “Um, Un’el Oz said it’s your birdday.” You glance at Lakota, who translates. “That’s what she calls Oswin now, and //th// sounds have been a challenge.” You nod at Yan. “It is my bir//th//day!” “Yay!” She calls, jumping more. “Happy birdthday!” “Thank you, Yan.” You ruffle the tyke’s hair; it's already messy and you're pretty sure there's at least one stick caught in it. Satisfied, the little girl runs back into the clinic, flinging the door open with such force that it slams against the side of the wall. Lakota flinches and then sighs. Cephas sleeps as if nothing even happened. "Well," you say, "I shouldn't keep you. And I've successfully riled up your daughter, so you'll have your hands full." You smirk. Lakota nods and places his hands on his hips. "Alright, //trouble//, I do have a lot to get done today, and you're clearly not helping...but, I'll see you tonight to celebrate." "Of course, you better not miss a feast in my honor!" You laugh and Lakota gestures rudely at you before returning to his garden, throwing you a smile. <<if not hasVisited("Visit Lakota")>>[[Visit Lakota]]<<else>>Visit Lakota<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Find Oswin")>>[[Find Oswin]]<<else>>Find Oswin<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Head towards the merchant")>>[[Head towards the merchant]] <<else>>Head towards the merchant<</if>> <<if $visitlakota is true and $findoswin is true and $headtomerchant is true>>[[You go home to relax before the feast.]]<</if>>

The merchant turns quickly, long green robe swaying wide as he does so. "My, my! I am blessed by the stars today! You look ravishing as always, my dear!" Nathanael bows slightly as you approach. An uncommon gesture around here, but he's clearly not from this region if the giant elk and extravagant clothing are anything to go by. "Were you just arguing with your cat?" The creature in question turns his sour gaze towards you. Nathanael waves his hands. "No, no, merely giving the //beast// a lecture. He bit me! Can you believe the gall? I feed him from my own table, and the rascal bites me!" You shake your head. "Well, what did you do?" He scoffs. "Do you presume that //I// did anything to warrent such mistreatment?" "Yes." Nathanael pouts. "It's neither here nor there, come look at this grievous wound!" You lean in as the merchant shows you his hand, three large and glittering rings decorating his elegant fingers. There are two tiny teeth marks on the side of his palm, and no sign of any broken skin. You glance back at Nathanael making your face as incredulous as possible. "Oh dear, looks like you may just lose your hand.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> I can amputate this for you right away, I'll go grab my saws.<</if>>" Nathanael retracts his hand. "No, no, I think not; I like my hand just where it is, thank you. Anyway, my dear, what brings you to me today? Have I left you swooning yet? Shall I whisk you away in my cart?" He gives you a brilliant smile as he proudly pats the side of the colorful caravan. [[You fluster][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 4, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You scoff][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 4, 0, 100)]] [[You chuckle and flirt right back][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 4, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You don't encourage him][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 4, 0, 100)]]

<<set $merchantopinion += 3>> Your eyes go wide at the sudden flirtation and you stammer on a response, but ultimately come up empty. It's not an unusual type of communication from Nathanael, and it isn't that you haven't been flirted with before, but he's managed to catch you off guard. A predatory smile slowly graces Nathanael's lips as he watches you squirm. After a moment, he schools his expression into something more friendly. "Apologies, my dear, but I just could not help myself. Now, what is it that I can do for you?" He clasps his hands together and leans forward expectantly. "Well, I'd like to see if you had any books today. My da broke his leg and will be bedridden for a while. He needs something to do." "Oh, I am quite sorry to hear that. He does not seem the sitting type." "You'd be correct, we need to keep him still for a while yet." The merchant gently pats his chin with a finger while his hazel eyes glaze over in thought. "I might have just the thing. Wait a moment for me." He turns back to his cart and throws open a small door at the back, struggling to drag his long robes with him through it. You hear a mess of clattering and grumbling for a few minutes, the cart bouncing and shaking on occasion before the large shutter over the side is flung open. "Ah-ha!" Nathanael cries, motioning for you to come closer. He props the shutter open and hands you a large book through the window. It's more of a large tome and it appears to be very old. The cover is a dirty yellow, but may have been more of a gold in its younger days. The title reads, 'The Folly of Gods.' "I'm not sure if Da will like this, he's not keen on things concerning gods." You say, flipping through a few of the thick pages. "Oh yes, I've discussed such things with him before; it's something we...can agree on even. This book is more fun than it is a religious script. It chronicles some stories, maybe myths, on specific deities – some really juicy tales on Dragomir and Erdem too. Sure, there is some history to it, but most of it is comical in nature. Though, if the gods were here, I'm sure they'd argue against that. There's a plethora of material." You nod. "I guess I'll take it then. How much?<<if $interest is 'tradin'>> If gold doesn't sate you for it, I have several fine furs that would suit your refined tastes.<</if>>" Nathanael waves a hand. "Consider it a gift. Though, I mean it more for you than your da." "A gift?" He nods. "It is your birthday, is it not?" You jerk your head to meet his eyes. "How did you know that?" Nathanael laughs. "Dov told me, of course. Oh! I shan't forget to tell you the news!<<if $interest is 'tradin'>> As a fellow merchant, I'm sure you will appreciate this, even if it means competition.<</if>>" He scuttles out of his cart and you here a small crash before the back hatch bursts open and Nathanael tumbles out rather inelegantly. Straightening his robes, he approaches you again, still smiling. "My little cart here is expanding!" He declares with a flourish of his hands. Sunlight catches one of his rings and beams right into your eyes. As you blink away the spots in your vision, you ask, "You're getting a bigger cart?" "No, no, my dear! I'm expanding. Before long, you'll see my cart all over the Mahdeh Province. I've decided that I quite like these smaller places, so if you're out and about traveling, just look for my cart." With a flourish, the merchant unbinds a rolled banner attached to the roof of the caravan. It unrolls - reluctantly - to reveal the store name, 'Nathanael's Whimsy and Want' written in an embellished script. You chuckle, the garish carts will be tough to miss, no doubt they'll get attention. It's a bit unusual for a merchant to begin a chain of traveling stores, but Nathanael is known for such things. "I don't think I'll be doing much traveling, but I'll see you when you're in town for sure." You nod, keeping your expression schooled. He tilts his head to one side, but doesn't stop smiling, he looks as though he's expecting something. His expression and mood seem to change, though he keeps a placid smile. "I meant to ask...do you...//feel// okay, $mc?" You start a bit. Nathanael rarely uses your name – anyone's for that matter. "Of course." It is the truth, you have felt fine for a while now. Symptoms of your illness have been much better in recent years; it's still a risk, but you really have been well. You don't doubt that a good deal of gossip goes around town about you. Some of your lapses have been in public, and certain types seem to bask in such misfortune. With how chatty the merchant can be, you're sure he's heard all manner of things about your illness. He shakes his head. "Apologies, I just...you felt a bit different to me today is all. Perhaps it's just the birthday. I've had a few myself and some just feel..." "Different," you say. "Different." Nathanael nods. "Well...in any case, every day should be a good one, but I hope today is especially wonderful for you, my good $manwoperson." He bows slightly towards you. [[You consider the man for a moment and decide to invite him to your family celebration tonight. He's good company and kind.][$merchantopinion += 5]] [[He's a handsome man and fun, perhaps he'd share your bed tonight...][$merchantopinion += 3]] [[You wish him well and carry on with your day.]]

You roll your eyes and fold your arms for good measure, quirking up one brow. "And what is that supposed to mean, Nathanael?" The merchant settles his expression into something a bit more innocent. "Nothing my dear, perhaps I was just proffering a ride should you need one." "Mmhmm, I'm sure that is all you were doing." "Apologies, my dear, but I just could not help myself. Now, what is it I can do for you?" He clasps his hands together and leans forward expectantly. "Well, I'd like to see if you had any books today. My da broke his leg and will be bedridden for a while. He needs something to do." "Oh, I am quite sorry to hear that. He does not seem the sitting type." "You'd be correct, we need to keep him still for a while yet." The merchant gently pats his chin with a finger while his hazel eyes glaze over in thought. "I might have just the thing. Wait a moment for me." He turns back to his cart and throws open a small door at the back, struggling to drag his long robes with him through it. You hear a mess of clattering and grumbling for a few minutes, the cart bouncing and shaking on occasion before the large shutter over the side is flung open. "Ah-ha!" Nathanael cries, motioning for you to come closer. He props the shutter open and hands you a large book through the window. It's more of a large tome and it appears to be very old. The cover is a dirty yellow, but may have been more of a gold in its younger days. The title reads, 'The Folly of Gods.' "I'm not sure if Da will like this, he's not keen on things concerning gods." You say, flipping through a few of the thick pages. "Oh yes, I've discussed such things with him before; it's something we...can agree on even. This book is more fun than it is a religious script. It chronicles some stories, maybe myths, on specific deities – some really juicy tales on Dragomir and Erdem too. Sure, there is some history to it, but most of it is comical in nature. Though, if the gods were here, I'm sure they'd argue against that. There's a plethora of material." You nod. "I guess I'll take it then. How much?<<if $interest is 'tradin'>> If gold doesn't sate you for it, I have several fine furs that would suit your refined tastes.<</if>>" Nathanael waves a hand. "Consider it a gift. Though, I mean it more for you than your da." "A gift?" He nods. "It is your birthday, is it not?" You jerk your head to meet his eyes. "How did you know that?" Nathanael laughs. "Dov told me, of course. Oh! That reminds me! I shan't forget to tell you the news!<<if $interest is 'tradin'>> As a fellow merchant, I'm sure you will appreciate this, even if it means competition.<</if>>" He scuttles out of his cart and you here a small crash before the back hatch bursts open and Nathanael tumbles out rather inelegantly. Straightening his robes, he approaches you again, still smiling. "My little cart here is expanding!" He declares with a flourish of his hands. Sunlight catches one of his rings and beams right into your eyes. As you blink away the spots in your vision, you ask, "You're getting a bigger cart?" "No, no, my dear! I'm expanding. Before long, you'll see my cart all over the Mahdeh Province. I've decided that I quite like these smaller places, so if you're out and about traveling, just look for my cart." With a flourish, the merchant unbinds a rolled banner attached to the roof of the caravan. It unrolls - reluctantly - to reveal the store name, 'Nathanael's Whimsy and Want' written in an embellished script. You chuckle, the garish carts will be tough to miss, no doubt they'll get attention. It's a bit unusual for a merchant to begin a chain of traveling stores, but Nathanael is known for such things. "I don't think I'll be doing much traveling, but I'll see you when you're in town for sure." You nod, keeping your expression schooled. He tilts his head to one side, but doesn't stop smiling, he looks as though he's expecting something. His expression and mood seem to change, though he keeps a placid smile. "I meant to ask...do you...//feel// okay, $mc?" You start a bit. Nathanael rarely uses your name – anyone's for that matter. "Of course." It is the truth, you have felt fine for a while now. Symptoms of your illness have been much better in recent years; it's still a risk, but you really have been well. You don't doubt that a good deal of gossip goes around town about you. Some of your lapses have been in public, and certain types seem to bask in such misfortune. With how chatty the merchant can be, you're sure he's heard all manner of things about your illness. He shakes his head. "Apologies, I just...you felt a bit different to me today is all. Perhaps it's just the birthday. I've had a few myself and some just feel..." "Different," you say. "Different." Nathanael nods. "Well...in any case, every day should be a good one, but I hope today is especially wonderful for you, my good $manwoperson." He bows slightly towards you. [[You consider the man for a moment and decide to invite him to your family celebration tonight. He's good company and kind.][$merchantopinion += 5]] [[He's a handsome man and fun, perhaps he'd share your bed tonight...][$merchantopinion += 3]] [[You wish him well and carry on with your day.]]

You will not give him the satisfaction of getting a reaction from you. It is just what he wants, so you ignore the blatant advance. You pause a moment to let your silence sink in. The merchant cools his demeanor into something more polite once he realizes you won't be moved by his amorous words. "Are you quite finished?" You ask. Nathanael smiles wide. "Quite. Anyway, what is it I can do for you?" He clasps his hands together and leans forward expectantly. "Well, I'd like to see if you had any books today. My da broke his leg and will be bedridden for a while. He needs something to do." "Oh, I am quite sorry to hear that. He does not seem the sitting type." "You'd be correct, we need to keep him still for a while yet." The merchant gently pats his chin with a finger while his hazel eyes glaze over in thought. "I might have just the thing. Wait a moment for me." He turns back to his cart and throws open a small door at the back, struggling to drag his long robes with him through it. You hear a mess of clattering and grumbling for a few minutes, the cart bouncing and shaking on occasion before the large shutter over the side is flung open. "Ah-ha!" Nathanael cries, motioning for you to come closer. He props the shutter open and hands you a large book through the window. It's more of a large tome and it appears to be very old. The cover is a dirty yellow, but may have been more of a gold in its younger days. The title reads, 'The Folly of Gods.' "I'm not sure if Da will like this, he's not keen on things concerning gods." You say, flipping through a few of the thick pages. "Oh yes, I've discussed such things with him before; it's something we...can agree on even. This book is more fun than it is a religious script. It chronicles some stories, maybe myths, on specific deities – some really juicy tales on Dragomir and Erdem too. Sure, there is some history to it, but most of it is comical in nature. Though, if the gods were here, I'm sure they'd argue against that. There's a plethora of material." You nod. "I guess I'll take it then. How much?<<if $interest is 'tradin'>> If gold doesn't sate you for it, I have several fine furs that would suit your refined tastes.<</if>>" Nathanael waves a hand. "Consider it a gift. Though, I mean it more for you than your da." "A gift?" He nods. "It is your birthday, is it not?" You jerk your head to meet his eyes. "How did you know that?" Nathanael laughs. "Dov told me, of course. Oh! I shan't forget to tell you the news!<<if $interest is 'tradin'>> As a fellow merchant, I'm sure you will appreciate this, even if it means competition.<</if>>" He scuttles out of his cart and you here a small crash before the back hatch bursts open and Nathanael tumbles out rather inelegantly. Straightening his robes, he approaches you again, still smiling. "My little cart here is expanding!" He declares with a flourish of his hands. Sunlight catches one of his rings and beams right into your eyes. As you blink away the spots in your vision, you ask, "You're getting a bigger cart?" "No, no, my dear! I'm expanding. Before long, you'll see my cart all over the Mahdeh Province. I've decided that I quite like these smaller places, so if you're out and about traveling, just look for my cart." With a flourish, the merchant unbinds a rolled banner attached to the roof of the caravan. It unrolls - reluctantly - to reveal the store name, 'Nathanael's Whimsy and Want' written in an embellished script. You chuckle, the garish carts will be tough to miss, no doubt they'll get attention. It's a bit unusual for a merchant to begin a chain of traveling stores, but Nathanael is known for such things. "I don't think I'll be doing much traveling, but I'll see you when you're in town for sure." You nod, keeping your expression schooled. He tilts his head to one side, but doesn't stop smiling, he looks as though he's expecting something. His expression and mood seem to change, though he keeps a placid smile. "I meant to ask...do you...//feel// okay, $mc?" You start a bit. Nathanael rarely uses your name – anyone's for that matter. "Of course." It is the truth, you have felt fine for a while now. Symptoms of your illness have been much better in recent years; it's still a risk, but you really have been well. You don't doubt that a good deal of gossip goes around town about you. Some of your lapses have been in public, and certain types seem to bask in such misfortune. With how chatty the merchant can be, you're sure he's heard all manner of things about your illness. He shakes his head. "Apologies, I just...you felt a bit different to me today is all. Perhaps it's just the birthday. I've had a few myself and some just feel..." "Different," you say. "Different." Nathanael nods. "Well...in any case, every day should be a good one, but I hope today is especially wonderful for you, my good $manwoperson." He bows slightly towards you. [[You consider the man for a moment and decide to invite him to your family celebration tonight. He's good company and kind.][$merchantopinion += 5]] [[He's a handsome man and fun, perhaps he'd share your bed tonight...][$merchantopinion += 3]] [[You wish him well and carry on with your day.]]

<<set $merchantopinion += 3>> Folding your arms casually, you take a step forward and match his gaze. "Perhaps you have, my //dear// merchant. You've left me unsteady on my very own feet. Whatever shall we do?" A predatory smile slowly graces Nathanael's lips as he watches you play along. "Ah, then perhaps I can show you to the back of my //cart// then, or the front if you prefer. The ride is quite nice either way." Your face heats a bit as your heartbeat quickens and you find yourself leaning just a tad closer, enough that you notice the dusting of freckles upon his nose and cheeks before you compose yourself and take a step back. After a moment, Nathanael schools his own heat back and clears his throat. "Now, what //else// can do for you today?" He clasps his hands together and leans forward expectantly. "Well, I'd like to see if you had any books today. My da broke his leg and will be bedridden for a while. He needs something to do." "Oh, I am quite sorry to hear that. He does not seem the sitting type." "You'd be correct, we need to keep him still for a while yet." The merchant gently pats his chin with a finger while his eyes glaze over in thought. "I might have just the thing. Wait a moment for me." He turns back to his cart and throws open a small door at the back, struggling to drag his robes with him through it. You hear a mess of clattering and grumbling for a few minutes, the cart bouncing and shaking on occasion before the large shutter over the side is flung open. "Ah-ha!" Nathanael cries, motioning for you to come closer. He props the shutter open and hands you a large book through the window. It's more of a large tome and it appears to be very old. The cover is a dirty yellow, but may have been more of a gold in its younger days. The title reads, 'The Folly of Gods.' "I'm not sure if Da will like this, he's not keen on things concerning gods." You say, flipping through a few of the thick pages. "Oh yes, I've discussed such things with him before; it's something we...can agree on even. This book is more fun than it is a religious script. It chronicles some stories, maybe myths, on specific deities – some really juicy tales on Dragomir and Erdem too. Sure, there is some history to it, but most of it is comical in nature. Though, if the gods were here, I'm sure they'd argue against that. There's a plethora of material." You nod. "I guess I'll take it then. How much?<<if $interest is 'tradin'>> If gold doesn't sate you for it, I have several fine furs that would suit your refined tastes.<</if>>" Nathanael waves a hand. "Consider it a gift. Though, I mean it more for you than your da." "A gift?" He nods. "It is your birthday, is it not?" You jerk your head to meet his eyes. "How did you know that?" Nathanael laughs. "Dov told me, of course. Oh! I shan't forget to tell you the news!<<if $interest is 'tradin'>> As a fellow merchant, I'm sure you will appreciate this, even if it means competition.<</if>>" He scuttles out of his cart and you here a small crash before the back hatch bursts open and Nathanael tumbles out rather inelegantly. Straightening his robes, he approaches you again, still smiling. "My little cart here is expanding!" He declares with a flourish of his hands. Sunlight catches one of his rings and beams right into your eyes. As you blink away the spots in your vision, you ask, "You're getting a bigger cart?" "No, no, my dear! I'm expanding. Before long, you'll see my cart all over Central Province. I've decided that I quite like these smaller places, so if you're out and about traveling, just look for my cart." You chuckle, the garish carts will be tough to miss, no doubt they'll get attention. It's a bit unusual for a merchant to begin a chain of traveling stores, but Nathanael is known for such things. "I don't think I'll be doing much traveling, but I'll see you when you're in town for sure." You nod, keeping your expression schooled. He tilts his head to one side, but doesn't stop smiling, he looks as though he's expecting something. "I meant to ask...do you...//feel// okay, $mc?" You start a bit. Nathanael rarely uses your name – anyone's for that matter – <<if $mc is 'Noodles'>>In fact, once he learned of your true name, he could not hide the repulsion from his expression. In the end, he was supportive and even tried to say it suited you. The longer you've known him, the more okay with it he seems, though he goes through efforts to not use it much.<</if>>. "Of course." It is the truth, you have felt fine for a while now. Symptoms of your illness have been much better in recent years; it's still a risk, but you really have been well. You don't doubt that a good deal of gossip goes around town about you. Some of your lapses have been in public, and certain types seem to bask in such misfortune. With how chatty the merchant can be, you're sure he's heard all manner of things about your illness. He shakes his head. "Apologies, I just...you felt a bit different to me today is all. Perhaps it's just the birthday. I've had a few myself and some just feel..." "Different," you say. "Different." Nathanael nods. "Well...in any case, every day should be a good one, but I hope today is especially wonderful for you, my good $manwoperson." He bows slightly towards you. [[You consider the man for a moment and decide to invite him to your family celebration tonight. He's good company and kind.][$merchantopinion += 5]] [[He's a handsome man and fun, perhaps he'd share your bed tonight...][$merchantopinion += 3]] [[You wish him well and carry on with your day.][$merchantopinion += 2]]

*A note on some story mechanics for God-Cursed... In GC, your character’s traits, actions, and decisions will be tracked to a certain extent. These things will have influences over parts of your story as it takes shape, but none of them will lead your character to a dead end. You are free to be who you wish within the limits written here. Likewise, flirtations with other characters are tallied, but there is no need to flirt with a romanceable character in order to "unlock" their route/relationship. Your MC will directly choose how they feel about certain characters at certain times. This will occur most often at the end of chapters or after special/significant moments. Your MC may even choose responses with the $flirt_label without that direct intention of flirting – but these instances are tracked so that interactions from the parties who have been flirted with can be tailored to the MC’s choices (so they can flirt back or simply reference the earlier interaction). Seeing two $flirt_label $flirt_label will indicate physical aspects of an interaction that will likely have sexual implications to them. In addition, your character – should it be in their nature – can flirt with even non-romanceable characters. Flirting is seen more as just a normal aspect of socializing in this world. Characters, even those passively observing, may or may not react to it as well (but they’re not necessarily going to hold it against your MC). For example, if your MC chooses to flirt with an old fart at an inn to save few gold on a room, a RO may roll their eyes and grumble, or even join in to ramp up the interaction, but it will not negatively change how they feel about the MC. Likewise, a couple of the ROs may experience some discomfort if the MC has flirtatious interactions with the others, but they will not hold that against the MC. Jealousy will not play a huge factor in the romance aspect of this story, but some characters may get jealous and react accordingly. Your character will also have the option of flirting with world characters as a means to an end as hinted above. For some, this may mean flattering a merchant to get a discount or a special gift (with the potential for a steamy encounter later on...); it may also mean flirting with patrons at a tavern for information. But, these actions will not always be well-received, some characters will not appreciate your flirting. <<link "Info about sexual encounters.">><<reveal "r1" " " "Sexual Encounters">><</link>> *Author’s note: I am new at this and am learning as I go, so I would appreciate kindness should you want to report errors. There is a link in the menu to a Google form if you find bugs or other errors within the story. I adore interactive fiction of all types, so this is very much a passion project. I have been writing casually for many years, but have never publicly shared anything I have written until this project. I will be continually editing and updating and likely changing things as I go and learn more about Twine/HTML/CSS. Updates may be slow at times, but I will be active on Tumblr to give updates and anticipated release times. I hope this story interests you and you have a good time reading it. I am determined to see it to completion and have done a great deal of world-building and outlining for it already, so trust that it is not something I take lightly. *Old saves are not guaranteed to work as this is a work in progress that will be continually changing/improving as it is developed. When possible, I will create a way to skip chapters. This will likely come out prior to chapter 6 so that all ROs will be introduced in the story line first. Also note that font changes are likely broken, and I am working on a fix. [[Trigger Warnings/Areas of Sensitivity]]

*Some content warnings you should know about… This game is for those age 18 and up ONLY. GC will occasionally dip into some dark spaces, and it is at your discretion should you choose to read on. Below is a list of possibly triggering things, or subjects you may find uncomfortable: ** Swearing and other adult language ** Violence ** Blood, possible gore ** Injury, sometimes severe/life-threatening to the MC ** Animal death (natural) and in reference to self-defense and food ** Animals fighting each other for defense/protection ** Optional sexual content (explicitly detailed) ** Nudity ** Touching (non-sexual) without specific consent (this work is not written with specific touch-aversions in mind) ** Chronic illness with severe symptomatic episodes ** Childbirth with complications resulting in death and allusions thereof ** References to pregnancy for side-characters and MC’s birth mother ** Death (human: unnatural and accidental) ** Abduction of MC (possible feelings of helplessness and fear) ** Harassment of MC (unwanted romantic suggestions) ** Religious trauma ** Cults ** Depression/Anxiety/Panic ** Nightmares ** Disparaging thoughts ** Substance use and references/use of alcohol ** Canines, some aggressive ** AND MORE! This list will be updated as I identify subjects of sensitivity and will include as many as can be identified even if they only occur briefly through the story. If you have suggestions for this list, please use the “Bug Report” Google Form in the menu to let me know. Be advised that some triggers may be missed (but never intentionally), and if you read ahead, you do so with this acknowledgment. [[It begins...]]

"You know, my family is having a small gathering for by birthday celebration. Just my fathers and a few of my companions. Would you like to join us for dinner?" Nathanael's eyes turn up as a bright smile blooms on his face. "Oh, my dear, you've made my day, nay, my season for thinking of me to celebrate with you. Sadly, I must decline. I do have a pressing schedule to adhere to, and I was actually packing my things in preparation to leave this afternoon. I've already stayed a day longer than intended." He shakes his head, looking genuinely sullen. "I understand. Perhaps next time you are in town, we can have a belated celebration together." "Oh, I would quite like that. I will find a fine wine for you, and we'll dine like gods." He winks, gesturing to the large tome in your hands. "Until next time, Nathanael; thank you again for the book." "My pleasure, $mc, do take care of yourself." You reluctantly leave the pleasant company of the merchant, looking back after you are well into town to find that he is still watching you from his cart, the stones of his rings still throwing sunlight hither and yon. <<if not hasVisited("Visit Lakota")>>[[Visit Lakota]]<<else>>Visit Lakota<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Find Oswin")>>[[Find Oswin]]<<else>>Find Oswin<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Head towards the merchant")>>[[Head towards the merchant]]<<else>>Head towards the merchant<</if>> <<if $visitlakota is true and $findoswin is true and $headtomerchant is true>>[[You go home to relax before the feast.]]<</if>>

"You know, my family is having a small gathering for by birthday celebration...perhaps you could join us." You smirk and angle your body a bit closer, drawing attention to your lips by tracing a thumb along them as you meet Nathanael's eyes. He grins. "Hmm, tempting." You move just a bit closer, well into his personal space. "And...it still gets pretty cold at night. Perhaps you could help keep me warm tonight." You hear Nathanael's breath hitch. "//Very// tempting." He lets loose a heavy sigh, "You're making this quite hard for me in more ways than one, my dear. You've made my day, nay, my season for thinking of me to //celebrate// with you. Sadly, I must decline, at least for tonight. I do have a pressing schedule to adhere to and I was actually packing my things in preparation to leave this afternoon. I've already stayed a day longer than intended." He shakes his head, looking genuinely sullen. <<if $mc is 'Noodles'>>"I must say, I prefer the idea of being the sauce to your Noodles," he adds with a wink.<</if>> "I understand. Perhaps next time you are in town, we can have a belated celebration together." "Oh, I would quite like that. I will find a fine wine for you, and we'll dine like gods." He winks. "I imagine it will still be quite cold when next I am in town." "Indeed, I imagine it will be. Until next time, Nathanael; thank you again for the book." "My pleasure, $mc, do take care of yourself. And do try to stay warm, thinking of me may help." You reluctantly leave the pleasant company of the merchant, looking back after you are well into town to find that he is still watching you from his cart, the stones of his rings still throwing sunlight hither and yon. <<if not hasVisited("Visit Lakota")>>[[Visit Lakota]]<<else>>Visit Lakota<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Find Oswin")>>[[Find Oswin]]<<else>>Find Oswin<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Head towards the merchant")>>[[Head towards the merchant]] <<else>>Head towards the merchant<</if>> <<if $visitlakota is true and $findoswin is true and $headtomerchant is true>>[[You go home to relax before the feast.]]<</if>>

"It was a pleasure talking with you today. Will you be around for long?" "Not this time; I've already overstayed. I need to set out today if I have any hope of salvaging my schedule, I'm afriad. Though, it was a joy to see you as always." "Until next time, Nathanael; thank you again for the book." "My pleasure, $mc, do take care of yourself." You leave the pleasant company of the merchant, looking back after you are well into town to find that he is still watching you from his cart, the stones of his rings still throwing sunlight hither and yon. <<if not hasVisited("Visit Lakota")>>[[Visit Lakota]]<<else>>Visit Lakota<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Find Oswin")>>[[Find Oswin]]<<else>>Find Oswin<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Head towards the merchant")>>[[Head towards the merchant]] <<else>>Head towards the merchant<</if>> <<if $visitlakota is true and $findoswin is true and $headtomerchant is true>>[[You go home to relax before the feast.]]<</if>>

After searching for a long time, you are beginning to think that he may have left town again. You're not sure if you're disappointed or not. Part of you has wanted to return to that connection you had as kids, another whispers that it's over. Oswin is not Yarrow any longer, the sweet and carefree boy of your youth. Maybe when he changed his name, it changed //him// too. Perhaps he was 'Oswin' all along and 'Yarrow' was the false one. Either way, it feels like a loss to you, perhaps it's due to childhood nostalgia that you feel it as such. At least Lakota did not change in such an extreme way. Even if he is very busy these days, you know he is still your closest friend. Lost in your thoughts, your feet carry you to an old and familiar clearing. All your memories of childhood, must have pulled you in. It's the spot where you, Oswin, and Lakota used to play. It's where your little hideout is, where you share so many memories, and the place where your illness first seized you. As you scan the area and take in the smell of early blooms and the stream rushing with snowmelt, you are taken back to the time when you were little Ravinder. A bittersweet feeling settles over you and you turn to see your old hideout, only to find a familiar figure sitting atop one of the giant plank roots that spring from the ground next to the old tree. Oswin. He's not in armor today, and it may be the first time in a whole cycle that you've seen him out of it. His back is to you as he watches the swollen stream rush by. He looks more at peace and just as you debate leaving him be, he turns and spots you. Freezing for a moment, you wait to see what he does. Surprisingly, he waves at you, so you approach and he hops off his perch. When you meet, it stays awkwardly quiet. Oswin looks anywhere but at you. This is the closest you've been to him physically in a long time, and you take a moment to really see what he looks like these days. He looks older, more so than you remember. His hair is still black, neatly trimmed with the strands tussled just to the tops of his ears. The deep green of his hooded eyes is ever-present, making his gaze alluring, though the dark shadows under them make him look very tired. Scruff covers his cheeks and chin and you think that might be what's aging him a bit. Were his shoulders always so broad? You don't remember him looking so...capable and muscled. How long have you been staring at him? "Happy birthday, $mc." You snap to awareness at hearing your name. "Oh, thank you, Oswin..." He clears his throat and looks to the sky for a moment before looking back at you. "You've grown...grown up." His voice is deeper than you remember, it's smoother too. His lips are a bit thin, but his jaw is rugged and square, giving him a commanding presence as he speaks. "So have you. Looks like you need a shave." You smirk. He rolls his eyes, but you notice that he does not snark back. "Did I interrupt anything?" You ask. Oswin shakes his head. "No, just thinking." "A lot happened in this little field." "Yeah...um, how has...how has that..." He sighs and motions in a circle with his hand, looking distressed. "Oh, the sickness..." He nods. "It's been better. Every year seems to get a bit easier. Haven't had any major episodes for a long time." A small smile curls on Oswin's lips. "Good. I'm glad for that. I...maybe you won't believe me...I do worry about you...it...for you." An involuntary snort escapes you. "Truly?" "Truly." "I guess I'm more surprised than anything." He nods. "I...that is a fair way to be. I wanted to ask...um, are you celebrating tonight?" "Yes." "I don't deserve it, but could I ask for a bit of your time tonight. It would be late, after your feast, of course." "My time?" "Yes, I have something to say. Several things, in fact. And, I do have a gift for you as well." You're taken aback. Oswin wants to both speak with you and give you something? "Well, we're speaking now. I have time." He shakes his head. "I'm not...I can't say it now. And I don't have your gift with me...Please, I am aware that I do not deserve your time, but please." Oswin meets your eyes, his face furrowed with complicated emotions. You nod. "Okay, I'll meet you tonight then." "I'll come to you once Lakota returns home, so I won't disrupt your feast." [[Accept the arrangement.]] $flirt_label [[Invite him to your celebration.][$Oflirt += 5]]

You nod. "That's agreeable with me." "Thank you, I'll be timely." You chuckle. "How very astute of you." Oswin throws you a withered look at that. You're not quite sure what else to say. It's been so long since the two of you just spoke to each other like this. Oswin clearly feels awkward about it, which isn't making it any easier. You're not quite sure how to feel about it. In your other, albeit, minimal interactions in recent years, Oswin has been a bit snippy with you – as if you had wronged him at some point. Did you, though? Surely, you'd remember if you had. "I should get going and leave you to your day." You say after a moment. "Right. I have work to do. I'll see you tonight, $mc. Thank you, again." [[You say goodbye and take your leave.|until tonight][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 2, 0, 100)]] [[You want to reach out, but hesitate - not wanting to make Oswin uncomfortable - and then leave.|until tonight][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 2, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You gently place your hand on his shoulder and squeeze.|until tonight][$Oflirt += 2]]

"Just come to celebrate with us then. There's plenty of food. You're still welcome in my home." Oswin's jaw goes slack as he stares at you, absorbing everything you've said. His eyes shift back and forth a few times as if he's looking for an escape route. "Oswin?" "Yes, I apologize; I wasn't expecting that." "It's okay" "But...I can't, I won't be free again until well after sunset. Had I thought...had I known..." He sighs. "We'll talk later, it was just an idea since you were going to meet me anyway. I'll save you some honeycakes." A small smile curls on his lips. "You remembered..." "I remember you gorging yourself on my papa's cakes; that's an image you just don't forget." You say, trying to add some levity to Oswin's dourness. He guffaws. "They were my favorite and //you// offered." "Excuses." "Still impossible, aren't you." Oswin's smile grows until you can actually see the glimmer of his teeth. "I should get going and leave you to your day." "Right. I have work to do. I'll see you tonight, $mc." [[You say goodbye and take your leave.|until tonight][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 2, 0, 100)]] [[You want to reach out, but hesitate - not wanting to make Oswin uncomfortable - and then leave.|until tonight][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 2, 0, 100)]] [[You gently place your hand on his shoulder and squeeze.|until tonight][$Oflirt += 2]] $flirt_label

As you meander back to town, you can't help but feel a little unsure of where you stand with Oswin. There's a complicated mix of feelings. He's a stranger now almost, but he's not really. The pull of familiarity is powerful, but so is the push of estrangement – the way you feel when you first meet someone and aren't quite sure if they're friend, foe, or just another person that will fade away. What could Oswin need to say to you so badly and why couldn't he have just spat it out while you were already together? And, the gift...is it just a simple gesture for your birthday? Now that you think on it, you're pretty sure the gift means you haven't angered him in some fashion at least. You suppose you will find out later. <<if not hasVisited("Visit Lakota")>>[[Visit Lakota]]<<else>>Visit Lakota<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Find Oswin")>>[[Find Oswin]]<<else>>Find Oswin<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Head towards the merchant")>>[[Head towards the merchant]] <<else>>Head towards the merchant<</if>> <<if $visitlakota is true and $findoswin is true and $headtomerchant is true>>[[You go home to relax before the feast.]]<</if>>

On the way home, you happen across your parents. Your da is carefully nestled into a small cart, pulled by your trusty donkey. Despite the meager carriage, Da looks quite proud and pleased. Papa does not. You can't help but to laugh at the sight as your papa explains that he is taking your da out this way to keep him from doing something foolish. After you exchange a few words, you part. Once at home, you prepare yourself some of the ‘creeping sprout’ tea and settle down in the den at a small table next to a window. The only sound around you in the big house is the filtering-in of birdsong from outside and the occasional loud bee that trundles by. There’s not much to do other than relax, so you decide to pull out the book Nathanael gave you for your da. If Papa is entertaining him, he won’t need it for a while. Like everyone else, you’d heard some stories of the old gods through the years. Mostly, about how they were no longer your gods, but with the practice of their worship dwindling to almost nothing, you never really heard specific tales. Papa prays sometimes, though he also says that he knows they no longer listen, but he just wants something to hope on. Da is vehemently opposed to acknowledging them; they ‘abandoned’ us, he says. Though, he does not mind if others hold reverence for them. It was nearly 1000 years ago that the gods stepped back, after a horrible war, nicknamed ‘The God Wars,’ that came between them all. The first two gods in the pantheon, siblings Hayat and Casimir – life and destruction, respectively – decreed that gods should no longer control or guide humans. They pronounced that we were of an age in time that we should govern ourselves, the age of gods was at an end. At that time, gods were numerous, demigods too. Magic was everywhere thanks to them, and most humans could use it, whereas only a few today can harness it. Gods were accustomed to power and worship and many rallied against the Hayat and Casimir. Ultimately, a great number of gods and demigods perished, and those that remained helped humans establish a way to govern themselves. The calendar year was reset to 1 - starting over the count of seasonal cycles in recorded history - and then the gods weaned us from their support. Hayat placed a mighty curse on all gods to keep them in line, and then faded away. You’re now in year – cycle – 873, and now gods are just a whisper of tales and hearsay. As far as you know, the ones that survived the war still live. Most retired to the Isle of the Gods, the place of their origin, that is not possible to access without powerful magic. There are still churches and cults around even after all this time. It is said that some gods lead them in secret, and that is why they still persist to this day. You suppose that just knowing the gods really are still out there is enough to draw people together in these churches still. As you thumb through the book, you find that it is mostly filled with anecdotes about specific gods. You find a few details about heroic things they’ve done, such as preventing disasters, curing illness, and casting out evil spirits from the world. However, there are also details about gods using and abusing humans in all manner of ways – some turn your stomach. Nathanael neglected to tell you that bit, perhaps he forgot. Even if only some of this is true, it is abundantly clear that being a god did not mean they were all good. They lived extravagant lives, doing little but wielding their power to make humans subservient. Some other stories are more lighthearted and embarrassing, some are tales of depravity between the gods themselves. It’s a little eye-opening when you glean just how many children some of these gods had, most outside of their respective romantic partnerships. If these are even a little bit true, the war makes more sense. One that surprises you, is that the father of Hayat and Casimir – who you notice is not named – had an affair, which resulted in the god of water, Vande. Shocking, considering he was wed to the goddess of love herself, Asta – known even to you for her great nature and beauty. True to her character, though, she forgave and continued to love him – at least as far as this story tells. You also read about how Dragomir, the goddess of the earth, came to marry Erdem, the god of knowledge. Their story warms your heart as you read about the long-lasting and deep friendship that blossomed into love. Dragomir was apparently not one for marriage, but Erdem always loved her, deeply longing to wed. He remained patiently at her side as a boon companion for many years before they married. The book declares that on the day, ‘The ground sang with joy.’ The prospect sounds more frightening than joyous. There’s also a few delightful narratives on how the god of the herd, Dren, frequently angered Valko, the god of the hunt. It seems, he had a penchant for humiliating a number of the more uptight gods. As you read and connect more of the knowledge of the gods, you cannot help but wonder what the world would be like if they hadn’t left. [[Perhaps things would be better for humans if they were still around.]] [[It’s a good thing they left; humans are in a good place and thriving.]] [[You see both sides. Some gods were good for humans, some clearly abused their power.]] [[It’s neither here nor there, there’s no sense in speculating.]]

<<set $godopinion to 'in favor'>> Regardless of your thoughts, you keep reading and enjoying some of the beautiful illustrations within the pages. No where can you find the author to the work, but it is clear they took a great deal of time in making it. Age has faded some pages, but it is all mostly legible and sturdy, aside from the odd missing or torn page. You sip your tea to the sounds of birdsong still coming through the window. The extra honey you allowed yourself leaves a sweet and comforting feeling upon your lips. The wind picks up outside and suddenly you smell the freshness of spring in the air. The crisp ting of winter is but a shadow on the breeze now and all manner of fresh things mingle around you. It is cool, but not cold, though you know this evening you’ll need to light the hearths. A new season, a new cycle upon you. Your gaze leaves the book as you begin to wonder what the new year will bring. There’s a reason humans decided to begin the cycle with spring, the season for planting. New life, new growth – it’s the season for awakenings. What do you want out of the coming year? [[You want to find love. Perhaps just for a season, perhaps to last a lifetime.]] [[Friendship. You’d really like to find some new friends this year.]] [[You want to really hone your craft.]] [[You want to find answers about your affliction. You need closure.]] [[You want to find ways to be more independent of your fathers.]]

<<set $godopinion to 'against'>> Regardless of your thoughts, you keep reading and enjoying some of the beautiful illustrations within the pages. No where can you find the author to the work, but it is clear they took a great deal of time in making it. Age has faded some pages, but it is all mostly legible and sturdy, aside from the odd missing or torn page here and there. You sip your tea to the sounds of birdsong still coming through the window. The extra honey you allowed yourself leaves a sweet and comforting feeling upon your lips. The wind picks up outside and suddenly you smell the freshness of spring in the air. The crisp ting of winter is but a shadow on the breeze now and all manner of fresh things mingle around you. It is cool, but not cold, though you know this evening you’ll need to light the hearths. A new season, a new cycle upon you. Your gaze leaves the book as you begin to wonder what the new year will bring. There’s a reason humans decided to begin the cycle with spring, the season for planting. New life, new growth – it’s the season for awakenings. What do you want out of the coming year? [[You want to find love. Perhaps just for a season, perhaps to last a lifetime.]] [[Friendship. You’d really like to find some new friends this year.]] [[You want to really hone your craft.]] [[You want to find answers about your affliction. You need closure.]] [[You want to find ways to be more independent of your fathers.]]

<<set $godopinion to 'neutral'>> Regardless of your thoughts, you keep reading and enjoying some of the beautiful illustrations within the pages. No where can you find the author to the work, but it is clear they took a great deal of time in making it. Age has faded some pages, but it is all mostly legible and sturdy, aside from the odd missing or torn page here and there. You sip your tea to the sounds of birdsong still coming through the window. The extra honey you allowed yourself leaves a sweet and comforting feeling upon your lips. The wind picks up outside and suddenly you smell the freshness of spring in the air. The crisp ting of winter is but a shadow on the breeze now and all manner of fresh things mingle around you. It is cool, but not cold, though you know this evening you’ll need to light the hearths. A new season, a new cycle upon you. Your gaze leaves the book as you begin to wonder what the new year will bring. There’s a reason humans decided to begin the cycle with spring, the season for planting. New life, new growth – it’s the season for awakenings. What do you want out of the coming year? [[You want to find love. Perhaps just for a season, perhaps to last a lifetime.]] [[Friendship. You’d really like to find some new friends this year.]] [[You want to really hone your craft.]] [[You want to find answers about your affliction. You need closure.]] [[You want to find ways to be more independent of your fathers.]]

<<set $godopinion to 'realistic'>> Regardless of your thoughts, you keep reading and enjoying some of the beautiful illustrations within the pages. No where can you find the author to the work, but it is clear they took a great deal of time in making it. Age has faded some pages, but it is all mostly legible and sturdy, aside from the odd missing or torn page here and there. You sip your tea to the sounds of birdsong still coming through the window. The extra honey you allowed yourself leaves a sweet and comforting feeling upon your lips. The wind picks up outside and suddenly you smell the freshness of spring in the air. The crisp ting of winter is but a shadow on the breeze now and all manner of fresh things mingle around you. It is cool, but not cold, though you know this evening you’ll need to light the hearths. A new season, a new cycle upon you. Your gaze leaves the book as you begin to wonder what the new year will bring. There’s a reason humans decided to begin the cycle with spring, the season for planting. New life, new growth – it’s the season for awakenings. What do you want out of the coming year? [[You want to find love. Perhaps just for a season, perhaps to last a lifetime.]] [[Friendship. You’d really like to find some new friends this year.]] [[You want to really hone your craft.]] [[You want to find answers about your affliction. You need closure.]] [[You want to find ways to be more independent of your fathers.]]

<<set $goal to 'love'>> You’ll work hard this year to get what you desire most. You smile, inexplicably. A niggling of hope settles upon you. You feel resolute, excited even. The prickle of these feelings turns into a torrent. Elation fills you from the inside out, bubbling up into laughter. You set your teacup down with a clatter and rise to your feet. You’re so excited that you can’t bear to sit any longer, but you’re not sure what to do with yourself. This whole year is yours for the taking, you’ll make it your own and you can do anything with it. You laugh again, almost doubling over from the flow of joy. A fleeting thought runs through your mind that this is odd, but it’s soon replaced by more fits of laughter. You giggle and carry on until the muscles in your stomach are tense and there are tears in your eyes. You’ve spun yourself out into the middle of the den in a dance of laughter, and you still do not know what to do with yourself. Looking up and taking a deep breath through your smile, you bask in the warmth of your home. You glance out the window once more and let quiet settle upon you once more. The birds have stopped. [[Why have the birds stopped singing?]]

<<set $goal to 'craft'>> You’ll work hard this year to get what you desire most. You smile, inexplicably. A niggling of hope settles upon you. You feel resolute, excited even. The prickle of these feelings turns into a torrent. Elation fills you from the inside out, bubbling up into laughter. You set your teacup down with a clatter and rise to your feet. You’re so excited that you can’t bear to sit any longer, but you’re not sure what to do with yourself. This whole year is yours for the taking, you’ll make it your own and you can do anything with it. You laugh again, almost doubling over from the flow of joy. A fleeting thought runs through your mind that this is odd, but it’s soon replaced by more fits of laughter. You giggle and carry on until the muscles in your stomach are tense and there are tears in your eyes. You’ve spun yourself out into the middle of the den in a dance of laughter, and you still do not know what to do with yourself. Looking up and taking a deep breath through your smile, you bask in the warmth of your home. You glance out the window once more and let quiet settle upon you once more. The birds have stopped. [[Why have the birds stopped singing?]]

<<set $goal to 'answers'>> You’ll work hard this year to get what you desire most. You smile, inexplicably. A niggling of hope settles upon you. You feel resolute, excited even. The prickle of these feelings turns into a torrent. Elation fills you from the inside out, bubbling up into laughter. You set your teacup down with a clatter and rise to your feet. You’re so excited that you can’t bear to sit any longer, but you’re not sure what to do with yourself. This whole year is yours for the taking, you’ll make it your own and you can do anything with it. You laugh again, almost doubling over from the flow of joy. A fleeting thought runs through your mind that this is odd, but it’s soon replaced by more fits of laughter. You giggle and carry on until the muscles in your stomach are tense and there are tears in your eyes. You’ve spun yourself out into the middle of the den in a dance of laughter, and you still do not know what to do with yourself. Looking up and taking a deep breath through your smile, you bask in the warmth of your home. You glance out the window once more and let quiet settle upon you once more. The birds have stopped. [[Why have the birds stopped singing?]]

<<set $goal to 'independence'>> You’ll work hard this year to get what you desire most. You smile, inexplicably. A niggling of hope settles upon you. You feel resolute, excited even. The prickle of these feelings turns into a torrent. Elation fills you from the inside out, bubbling up into laughter. You set your teacup down with a clatter and rise to your feet. You’re so excited that you can’t bear to sit any longer, but you’re not sure what to do with yourself. This whole year is yours for the taking, you’ll make it your own and you can do anything with it. You laugh again, almost doubling over from the flow of joy. A fleeting thought runs through your mind that this is odd, but it’s soon replaced by more fits of laughter. You giggle and carry on until the muscles in your stomach are tense and there are tears in your eyes. You’ve spun yourself out into the middle of the den in a dance of laughter, and you still do not know what to do with yourself. Looking up and taking a deep breath through your smile, you bask in the warmth of your home. You glance out the window once more and let quiet settle upon you once more. The birds have stopped. [[Why have the birds stopped singing?]]

<<set $goal to 'friendship'>> You’ll work hard this year to get what you desire most. You smile, inexplicably. A niggling of hope settles upon you. You feel resolute, excited even. The prickle of these feelings turns into a torrent. Elation fills you from the inside out, bubbling up into laughter. You set your teacup down with a clatter and rise to your feet. You’re so excited that you can’t bear to sit any longer, but you’re not sure what to do with yourself. This whole year is yours for the taking, you’ll make it your own and you can do anything with it. You laugh again, almost doubling over from the flow of joy. A fleeting thought runs through your mind that this is odd, but it’s soon replaced by more fits of laughter. You giggle and carry on until the muscles in your stomach are tense and there are tears in your eyes. You’ve spun yourself out into the middle of the den in a dance of laughter, and you still do not know what to do with yourself. Looking up and taking a deep breath through your smile, you bask in the warmth of your home. You glance out the window once more and let quiet settle upon you once more. The birds have stopped. [[Why have the birds stopped singing?]]

Your legs give out and your knees slam into the wooden floor. You cannot call for help. You cannot move of your own volition. It has taken you again. [[This feels different.]]

Whereas before the tell-tale heat from within would swell and render you prone. Now, a numbness crawls up your limbs - numb, but also like a fog - creeping as it devours every part of you. There is a weight holding you to the floor on your knees, and it gradually applies more and more pressure. Even the floorboards creak. You try desperately to choke out any words, any noise that could get you noticed. It’s as if your throat closes around them. Hot tears roll down your face as you struggle, hearing your own gargled voice straining against the quiet of the house. Strange things flit in and out of the corners of your vision – black figures closing in and then fading away. Fear grips your heart as it beats with wild abandon. Your mind is screaming. //What are they? This hasn’t happened before!// A tremor begins in your thighs. You are not sure if it is the illness or if your muscles are exhausted from the strain of holding you against the floor. It spreads to your back and arms. All your muscles cramp and convulse at once, shooting excruciating pain through you. You still cannot scream. The inability to express your pain is itself, painful. The best you managed is a whimper as your body collapses, face first to the floor. You flop like a fish out of water as your muscles seize. You’re pretty sure you’ve vomited, but your mind is stretched too many places to understand everything that you are feeling and doing. Pain. Pain is the constant and it demands all of your attention. It will demand your life if this does not stop soon. [[You do not know for how long you convulse.]]

You are not even sure if you are alive when you finally realize the thrashing has stopped. Did you lose consciousness? How long has it been? You’re still alone. You’ve never been alone for this long before. Someone has always found you and tended to you. Is this how you die? Will you choke on your own vomit and perish unceremoniously? A heap of flesh to be discovered by your poor fathers? You realize that you’re not breathing. When did you stop? You feel your heartbeat echoing in your ears. It starts frantic and with each breath you do not take, it slows. Tears still fill your unblinking eyes. Your muscles still twitch as they try to recover from the seizure. It means nothing if you do not breathe soon. Your heart continues to slow as you hear yourself begin to struggle for air. You try to will yourself over and over to move. Your body does not heed you. Your vision is going dark and the pace of your heart has notable gaps. [[You hear yelling.]]

Everything is fading and you can only pick up small pieces of what is happening around you. You are sure Papa is here, the roar of his voice is hard to miss even as you lay dying. Another is with him, but it’s not Da. If you are lucky, it is Lakota or Kavi. Historically, though, you aren’t typically lucky. “-not breathing!” You hear. “-help!” The other voice answers. They’re moving you and you think now that your eyes might be closed finally. Time falls away from you. Awareness slips even further and you’re vaguely cognizant of your papa pleading with you to ‘just breathe.’ [[So, you do.]]

Air comes with short, hard-won gasps. Your lungs are burning, muscles straining to do the most basic facet of human existence. The heartbeat that resonates is increasing, but still slow. You taste blood and cough. It continues like this for minutes or hours, you are not sure. You gasp for life and cough in rebuttal. Papa speaks to you, the boom of his voice is the one comfort you can sense. You cannot move or speak. At least your eyes finally shut. You know you’ve been moved around and someone has poked and prodded at you a few times. It must be one of the Twinflower family. At least you have enough awareness again to fear death, though you are unsure if that is a comfort or not. You hear Da’s voice now too. He’s crying. In-between the broken sobs of both of your fathers, you hear, “Please, please don’t take my $sondtrchild!” You realize that Da is praying for your salvation. [[Your eyes open.]]

The doleful brown eyes of your papa meet your gaze, with Da’s hazel orbs meeting soon after. They call your name at the same time, touching your face gently and smoothing your hair. Trying to speak, you realize how dry your mouth and throat are. It is ultimately fruitless, you cannot usher the words forth. “Quickly, some water,” your da says. You hear shuffling and feel Papa’s strong arms around you and you realize he’s leaned you up on his chest. He’s so warm. You didn’t even realize how cold you felt. Papa helps you drink water, drop by drop. It soothes you and calms the acrid burn in your throat. All the while, you are trying hard to ignore the swelling of heat that has formed in your gut. It’s your familiar enemy, the one that usually is the harbinger of the illness. Why is it here now? Is this really not over yet? Will it start all over again in earnest this time? You want to tell your parents so badly that it’s not done yet, it can’t be. You know this feeling intimately. You manage a whimper as Papa holds you, whispering comforts in your ear. “I have you, $mc. We’ll take care of you.” You push to formulate the word, sputtering through the resistance of the joints and tendons to move your mouth. “Nnnn.” “It’s okay, love.” Da says. “Nnnnoooot. Nnnot.” Your parents go silent. “D- d- d- Done.” You eek out. “Not...done?” Da repeats. “Not done...it’s not done…” “Kavi!” Papa bellows. There’s a commotion as the weight of heat in your stomach shifts and swirls. You know what is about to happen. Tears slip from your eyes once more. Can you really do this again? The eruption crashes upon you like never before. Fire. Agony. [[You scream.]]

It rips you apart from the inside. Fire is the only way you can describe it, it burns, it tingles sharply, it snaps, it pushes, it pulls. You know you are screaming and thrashing. You know your papa is holding on to you, keeping your own hands from tearing at the skin of your abdomen to try to put out the invisible flames. “It burns! It burns!” You scream; your voice comes easily now. “Keep holding $himher!” Kavi commands. As Kavi examines you through your writhing, you hear rushed conversation, asking questions about your past episodes. All you can say is “It burns,” over and over. It has always felt like heat within you trying to escape, clawing at you from the inside, finding fissures in bone and muscle to travel through – a feral beast in a fragile cage. It feels like it’s breaking through now. You feel it just below the surface of your flesh, which is quickly giving way. Your mouth gapes in a silent and terrible cry and your body is rendered still as the shock takes over. You’re being seared alive. After all of Kavi’s administrations, he finally tears your clothing to reveal your torso. He gasps. “What...what is this…” Da’s breath stutters. “Kavi...what is happening to our Sprout? What is this?” He sounds angry and confused. "Did someone //do// this to $himher!?" Kavi answers, "No...no, it's coming from within. The mark is being made as we speak. This. This is no illness." What do they see? You wonder, realizing the burning is fizzling away. You feel the traces on the surface of your skin. Perhaps you really did burn from the inside out. Your consciousness ebbs away again as Papa grips you harder, stifling his crying in your shoulder. [[Your consciousness comes and goes as time passes.]]

You awake. At least, you think you do. Everything remains hazy in your awareness. You are so exhausted that your eyes cannot open. You lay on your back, a blanket pulled up to your neck. Once you try to open your mouth to speak, you find it too difficult. You rest and focus on what is around you. You hear footsteps and voices. Papa and Da, you are certain. You concentrate. They’re speaking heatedly in low voices, which is unusual even when they have spats. What is more bizarre is how stern and absolute Papa’s tone is. You listen carefully. “''No'', Kip; it’s too risky,” Papa declares. “See reason, love, I beg you. We must figure out what has happened to $mc, and this could be the only way. You know I hate all this...mystical drivel, I would not suggest it if I did not think it would yield results.” “I’ll not stand by and lose both my $sondtrchild and husband!” Papa never raises his voice in anger, especially toward you or Da. “You won’t lose me, Ansar can be trusted with this, I’m sure of it. Even so, if it meant that $mc lives, I will give myself up a thousand times over.” “What if they take the both of you?” Papa’s voice lowers and is clearly stricken with sorrow. "You don't know for certain he will honor the deal." “Dov, my love. It will be okay. How many years has it been now, hm? At best we find a solution for our Sprout, at worst we will have to search for another avenue. You have to agree that contacting Ansar is the only lead we have right now. This is not...normal, whatever it is. The mark proves that much.” Papa is silent for a long time, and you hear him pace the room many times. Da waits and does not say a word, until finally Papa takes a deep breath. “Okay, my love, we'll send for him." He sounds defeated. “We’ll use the twins; they guarantee the message can go directly to him. This time of year, he always made a trip to Lale to see his sisters. Once he receives the message, he’ll be here in no time, I’m sure of it.” “I trust you, but I don't trust him. I’m sharpenin’ my axe just in case.” “I understand how you feel, but remember, he’s a mage and not just one of the ones who can only make little sparks fly from their fingertips.” “And I’mma Northbreaker; I won’t fear a mage if my family’s in danger, and you know it.” You've not heard your Papa's voice so resolute and stern in many years. Da is quiet for a moment before he continues, in a softer tone. “You’ll need to take me to them; I don’t understand how it works, but they said I’d have to be there. Oswin offered to stay with $mc.” “The boy’s outside still. I’ll take ya now.” You hear a low grunt from Papa and then a single set of footsteps before the door closes and all goes silent. Your mind is left spinning with questions. Who is Ansar and why is your papa so against him? How does your da even know a mage? What mark were they speaking of? Your head is still going in circles, but you realize that you’re actually feeling quite dizzy. Tiredness is seeping through you, pulling you down once more. Just as your awareness is beginning to fade, you hear the door again and slow, light footsteps approaching you. You’re slipping under when cool fingers gently sweep through your hair, moving it away from your face. [[Sleep holds you gently for a long time.]]

Your recovery is slow. Sleep drags you under for long periods of time, your body and mind feeling perpetually heavy. Your senses remain sluggish – hearing and sight are filtered, touch is numb, and you smell almost nothing. This slow fade in and out lasts for a six days. On the seventh, you are able to stand with assistance and take your first uneasy steps since you were struck down. Soreness is ever-present. There isn't a muscle in your body that didn't cramp and seize that day. Each day, you are slathered in salves and oils and fed pastes made from nuts and herbs to help you recover. Someone walks with you every couple hours to work your muscles and keep your blood from pooling. It is slow, and even the small shuffling footsteps you take wind you. Both your fathers, Kavi, Betony, and even Oswin Twinflower see to your care. Oswin, though awkward still, walks with you and tells you stories from the town guard. Lakota only briefly visits you a couple times as well, and only in the first days of recovery, which is unusual. It is still hard to speak and your voice is raw from screaming, but the discomfort subsides by the ninth day. You are still weak, but you are able to walk short distances on your own. On the tenth day, you do find that you feel more rested. You shuffle into the washroom and glance at the mirror, taken aback by the person you see. Your $haircolor hair is completely limp and has no luster. The $hairtexture strands <<if $hairtexture is "tightly curled">>are matted and frayed.<<elseif $hairtexture is "loosely curled">>are matted and frayed.<<elseif $hairtexture is "wavy">>are flat, frayed and lifeless.<<elseif $hairtexture is "straight">>are oily and tangled.<<elseif $hairtexture is "frizzy">>are flat and tangled.<</if>> Your $eyecolor eyes are marred with red lines, and deep dark circles have formed under them. You realize that your cheekbones and jawline protrude much further than they did before. You try to pump water for a bath, but lack the strength. Thankfully, Papa checks on you and happily draws the water. He requests that you rest a while so he can heat the water as well. You do not argue. Once Papa is sure that you are fine on your own, you strip off your clothing and make your way to the tub which has a little steam coming from the top of it. You have never been more thankful that your da insisted on a bathtub in the house. You carefully sink into the water. The heat sends a calming sensation through your limbs and chest. You lay back and breathe deep as you stare at the ceiling. The memories, many spotty, from the last ten days flood your mind. [[You cry. You cry and cry.|it's over][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You bite your washcloth and scream.|it's over][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[A song comes from your lips; though your voice is weak, you do not care who hears the ballad of woe.|it's over][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You try your best to not react because you are afraid someone will hear you.|it's over][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You inhale deeply, let it fill your lungs and then exhale slowly.|it's over][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]]

<<if $haircolor is "white">>Both Da and Papa were perplexed by your hair as it grew out white and never darkened even to blond. They were worried at first, but Kavi reassured them that, though it is a bit rare, it is an attribute that can be passed down in a family. Even Betony had a similar trait from her own mother, splashes of fawn color against her brown skin on some areas of her body. She told you that it was the same reason her hair wasn't dark like her siblings. She encouraged you, that your white hair was something to be delighted by and never ashamed.<</if>> Your father has also helped you try different ways of wearing your hair.<> <<if $hairlength is 'very long'>> Right now, you usually wear it <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "tied up in a tail">> <<option "bound in a braid">> <<option "bound in multiple braids">> <<option "loose">> <<option "half tied in a tail">> <<option "in a tight bun">> <<option "in a messy bun">> <</listbox>>. <</if>> <<if $hairlength is 'long'>> Right now, you usually wear it <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "tied up in a tail">> <<option "bound in a braid">> <<option "bound in multiple braids">> <<option "loose">> <<option "half tied in a tail">> <<option "in a tight bun">> <<option "in a messy bun">> <</listbox>>. <</if>> <<if $hairlength is 'shoulder length'>> Right now, you usually wear it <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "tied up in a tail">> <<option "bound in a braid">> <<option "bound in multiple braids">> <<option "loose">> <<option "half tied in a tail">> <<option "in a tight bun">> <<option "in a messy bun">> <</listbox>>. <</if>> <<if $hairlength is 'chin length'>> Right now, you usually wear it <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "in braids">> <<option "loose">> <<option "half tied in a tail">> <</listbox>>. <</if>> <<if $hairlength is 'short'>> Right now, you usually wear it <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "in tight braids">> <<option "loose">> <<option "swept to one side">> <</listbox>>. <</if>> <<if $hairlength is 'very short'>> Right now, you usually wear it <<listbox "$hairstyle" autoselect>> <<option "as it is naturally">> <<option "pushed back">> <<option "spiked up">> <</listbox>>. <</if>> <> Giving yourself one last look, and you think about how the little group of old people that gather around Kavi's clinic to trade gossip and herbal remedies. They always seem to inspect you when you cross paths, whispering about you once they think you're gone - saying, "<<listbox "$pronouns">> <<option 'she'>> <<option 'he'>> <<option 'they'>> <</listbox>> will make a 'fine specimen' one day." You're not sure you know what that means, and Da says you will once you're older. [[You shrug at the thought and run downstairs to the larder to grab something to eat.]]

[[Iroda]] [[Map]] [[Government]] [[Current Emperors]] [[Calendar]] [[Culture and Holidays]] <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

[[Pantheon]] [[Creation]] -Under Construction- <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Oswin Twinflower !Zahn !Duri'naan !Rūndis Lyreheart <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

*The entire known world is called Iroda. No one knows just how the world came to be, but it is almost a certainty that Iroda and its people are not the first humans upon the world. It wasn’t documented how this is known as it was many, many years ago and has been passed by word-of-mouth. The people that walk the land today are descended from those from the “Old World” (aka "The World that Came Before") that managed to survive. The Old World was destroyed, but no one knows how. It has been passed down from generation to generation that the land, skies, and waters rebelled against human existence and rose up to destroy them. Humans barely survived until the world cooled its anger and became hospitable once again. With help from the magic of gods and the formation of the new world, the human lifespan increased a great deal. At its peak, humans regularly saw 200 years of age, but this has decreased and leveled off to around 160 (assuming one could survive) and continues to very slowly decline each generation. Iroda is one giant landmass with one outlier just beyond its borders, The Isle of the Gods – so called because it is the known birthplace of the first nine gods in the pantheon, and eventually the twenty “lesser” gods that came after them. The sea that stretches beyond its borders is called The Derin Sea. A great river traverses all of Iroda from North to South, called Udo. When the gods departed from human society, they helped them to establish boundaries and structure to their lives. A system of land and government was made as Iroda was too massive a place to be guided with just one entity. The land was divided into three segments, provinces, that already naturally occurred: the North – called Norwood, the Central – called Mahdeh, and the South – called Auster. Norwood (capital: Burkhard) is most known for its much colder environment and the multiple mountain ranges that can be seen even a great ways into the central region of Iroda. The people there become hardier than most and are widely known for their kindness that juxtaposes the harsh conditions that the North can bring. The people there will tell you that they are kind because it is the warmth that is needed to keep winter at bay. Though Iroda acknowledges four distinct seasons, winter last much longer in Norwood. The area still experiences a mild spring/planting season during which hardy plants can be grown in most of the province. There is not much of a summer in way of weather, but there usually are around 15 days that are much warmer than the others. Autumn is quite beautiful in Norwood and in the southern-most areas, can last quite a while before winter takes hold again. Mahdeh (capital: Tallulah), as it spans the middle of Iroda, is a bit of a mix of Northern and Southern characteristics. There are some low mountains and hills, deep and vast forests for which it is mostly known, and even expanses of plains. Mahdeh experiences all four seasons in their truest forms, and is the primary reason that all four were acknowledged on the official calendar. The region is also home to a significant landmark called, “The Fields of Desolation.” It is a massive area that was once lush forest, but was devastated by the god, Hayat – the god of life, who dwelt there as he mourned the death of his wife, Takumi – the goddess of grief. His own grief was so profound that it took all life from the area. The longer he mourned, the bigger the area grew. No one knows how long he was there, but even hundreds of years later, no life can be sustained there, and it is a haven for the few evil spirits and demons that remain in Iroda. It is said that even Hayat did not know how to bring life back to the fields. Auster (capital: Hodan), being the southern-most province, is the warmest of the three. Winter in Auster is very short and it is extremely rare that they see snow, while summers are long and fruitful. The southern province is a great source of food for all of Iroda as crops can grow there year-round. This province is easily the wealthiest of all and has a greater number of citizens who are abundantly prosperous, and some of the largest cities in the known world are located here. As Auster has the largest amount of accessible coastline, they have the most ships and sailors in use, which transport goods around to the other provinces. They are also skilled in traversing the Udo River against its current and areas of hazerdous water. Fishing is popular here and the land is home to many still-active churches and cults. The Derin Sea is mostly peaceful, but once it is traversed quite a ways from land by ship in any direction, sailors come across a massive expanse of turbulent waters, known as “the storm currents,” or formally, “Llyr’s Wrath,” after the god of the sea. The expanse is so far from land that few ships can make it safely or store enough provisions in order to survive the trip. Those that have tried to cross Llyr’s Wrath have never returned, and often, pieces of their ships are discovered later. The sea has been explored a great deal up to the storm currents, but no one is certain what lays beyond it. It is rumored that there must be other civilizations across the expanse as sailors have found all manner of mysterious items in their travels – peculiar metals and trinkets that no one can seem to find a use for. Sometimes things wash up on the shores of Iroda with writing on them that no one can decipher. The only solution is that there must be more people out there. Some have dedicated their lives to discovering ways to safely cross Llyr’s Wrath, or to even send messages to the other side in hopes that whomever is out there can reach back. The Udo River spans all three provinces, flowing down from the mountainous northern region. In places, the current becomes quite rough and during flooding, is extremely dangerous. Seasonal snow and ice-melt make the river swell regularly. The Isle of the Gods, is, as the name suggests, an island where all gods originated from. No one knows how gods came to be – even the gods do not understand it – but it is known that it happened here and then gods were able to beget more gods as they had children. The island is home to a strange single mountain. The remaining landmass is mostly flat, making the presence of the mountain a bit odd. No one currently knows for sure what is all on the island. A fog obscures it from view and the waters are so unfriendly that is impossible to get close for anyone but gods. When gods parted ways from humans, it is said that most returned to the island to live out the rest of eternity among their own kind. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

The gods, before they parted, assisted in establishing a system that humans could govern themselves by. It was a long process, and one that Hayat & Casimir were determined to make as corruption-free as possible. Each province is represented by an Emperor (title used for all genders). It was important that each region with its unique strengths and weaknesses be representative as fairly as possible. Though each would have its own emperor, Iroda was no-less a unified entity; the three rule in tandem and cooperation for the success of all. Emperors are required to lead modest lives and their wealth is strictly regulated. However, due to the demands of their job, they do live in good comfort with their families and are allowed a few luxuries. They are often chosen “from the ground up,” elevated by the below councils. Even a commoner can find themselves in the running for emperor if they prove to be an exemplary person. Descendants of emperors //can// be selected as new emperors, but it is not easy as the Council of Monarchs, detailed below, must agree unanimously that the heir is the best fit for the position, and any other candidate must be deemed insufficient. The descendant must have proved their worth outside of simply being the child of the emperor. It has been historically very rare for the children of emperors to take up the mantle. The title of emperor is also age-restricted. They must be a minimum of 20 years of age and, generally, a maximum of 100 years of age. It has been rare for someone as young as 20 to take the throne. Should an emperor reach age 100 and no heir has been established, their rule can be extended up to another 25 years for the purpose of finding or training-up an heir. It is restricted in such a way as to ensure that the position will not be held by someone too “out-of-touch” with the world that the younger generation is being brought up in, as most decisions made will be on their shoulders for many more years to come. To keep emperors in line, several units of leadership were established below them consisting of all walks of human life, from wealthy nobles to common citizens. Each region has the following: 1. A monarchy of seven—a group of kings, queens, and monarchs that total no more or less than seven in the region, spread as equally as possible throughout the province. They oversee the economy and taxation of their location and report on specific issues that concern their lands. Monarchs are never allowed to become emperors, though their own crowns can be passed to their children if the below councils agree that the young majesties are fit to lead. Monarchs act as advisors as well as power-balance to their emperors. They tend to live wealthier, given the nature of their positions. Because of their proximity to civilians, they and their families also tend to become “celebrities.” They may be the center of gossip and infatuation. Though the role has more corruption at its heel, it is usually well-regulated by the below councils. 2. The Council of Thanes, also called Governors. Thanes, totaling 15 for each province, provide even more localized leadership. They keep the monarchy abreast of information and concerns for their locations. They meet frequently with the next two councils. These meetings are where much of the information that will get passed up to the emperors stems from. It requires a great deal of accurate documentation to ensure the message does not become skewed. 3. The Council of Ministers: totaling 31 people who function as a sort of mayor from cities and towns throughout the province. They resolve small local disputes and relay information to the Thanes. They are generally in charge of ensuring regions have adequate guards to keep peace among citizens, though they are not allowed to control the guard, which is done by each town's own governing council. 4. The Common Council: comprised of 63 citizens of varying backgrounds, usually of low to average wealth. It is rare to have any very wealthy members in order to keep a balance of representation in government. Many emperors have had their start in this council, being able to display their dedication to Iroda’s people. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

*Norwood Province: Leon DeNorthwood —A very popular and powerful leader, she is most known for being an incredibly rare mage. Her specialty is using magic to amplify her natural strength and grace. She has a fierce presence, a strong build, and a large crown of black curly hair that falls to her mid-back. It is rumored that her eyes shine like gold. Despite how commanding she presents herself, she is known to be more kind and open, though in the face of corruption or stupidity, she freely unleashes her temper. She maintains a deep, platonic love with a person she regards like a spouse, though they have not officially wed. They have adopted several orphaned children together. When she is not carrying out empire-business or tending her family, you can find her in the mountains with her pack of giant snow-cats. *Mahdeh Province: Gallus of Windsor —Being of very modest origins, Gallus does not have a surname so he is simply referred to by the town he is from, Windsor. Being of moderate build with short brown hair and eyes, he does not stand out much in a crowd. He is currently one of the newest emperors in Iroda, being appointed in Cycle 858 to replace Sybella Maya who stepped down for personal reasons. He is the youngest of the three current emperors. He was quickly elevated to the running for position for demonstrating exceptional wisdom for his age. He is known as a quiet, serious, and dutiful leader, though he demonstrated some reluctance in assuming the job. His mannerisms make him appear very meek, but he becomes fired up at the first sign of an injustice. He is known for being quite humble and preferring simple things, though he has a love of fine clothing, which he tries to keep secret (and fails, because everyone knows). He’s currently single, and his shy, elusive nature has given him quite the fan-base. *Auster Province: Notus Strand —A woman of noble birth, who is known for remaining quite humble despite her origins. A voluptuous build with short, wavy blond tresses and green eyes tends to disarm those that approach her; however she is shrewd and clever. She favors reason and logic and is known to be an excellent listener as well as brutally honest. Her favorite pastimes include irritating the monarchy and fishing. She frequently escapes her royal home in favor of casting a line from the docks or patching nets with local sailors. She is married to a famous seafarer with whom she has three children, only one of which is still young enough to remain at home with her. It is well-known that she still worships Llyr. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

A year in Iroda is also called a “cycle,” in reference to the completion of the four named seasons that repeat year after year. Humans and gods also designed the calendar after the war, most of which was based off of the cycle of weather in the central province since the best representation for all was found there. A cycle consists of 400 days and each season is assigned 100 days each. There is some overlap of weather in the beginnings and endings of seasons, but not enough to make a significant difference for which season is present. Seasons are referred to as: 1. Spring/Planting Season 2. Summer/Growing Season 3. Autumn/Harvest Season 4. Winter/Quiet Season (occasionally called simply “the cold season” or “rest season”) There are no named days of the week or months. Dates are denoted by the current year, the season, and the number of the day within that season. For example, Ravinder was born in Cycle 849 on the 9th day of Spring (849, 9-Spring). Weeks and (more loosely) months are still regarded as simple measurements of time. Depending on the person, a week may reference five to ten days, and a month could be 20-40 days. They are more just rough estimates of time since it is simpler to say "1 week or 2 months." More often, if one needs to be specific in regard to the season, the number of days is used in reference of how much time something takes, such as for travel, growing crops, or until one's birthday. Both the Northern and Southern Provinces follow the same calendar and seasons as the Middle Province, though their weather differs a great deal. Winter in the South is not very quiet or restful, Summer in the North is more of a short stint of time that you don't need a cloak to get by. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Dov Northbreaker Your loving papa is a mighty woodsman with an even mightier heart. The typical gentle giant, Dov has raised you with love and care since you were a babe. He’s deadly with an axe, though he only uses them on trees. Dov is soft-spoken, very introverted, and shy. He has an affinity for animals and carpentry. He loves to create and fix anything and everything especially for his child or husband. Dov is also a very deep feeler and, though the quiet type, wears his heart on his sleeve – easily tearing up when moved. Your papa is extremely tall and has very wide shoulders with massive muscles built by chopping trees down by hand for many years. His skin is tan, his eyes are brown, as is his shaggy hair, but his beard has patches with dark auburn running through it. !Kip Northbreaker Your fiery da and spouse to your papa, he’s as quick to sass you as he is to shoot a bow. This lovable clown understood absolutely nothing about children, but adopted you regardless when you needed a home. He loves you with his whole being, even if he never lets you win at darts. He works as a huntsman and fisherman, and though his skill is unmatched, his looks and demeanor never seemed to fit his choice in work. Kip may be the compete opposite of his husband, being extroverted and, often, loud. He tends to be the life of a party, and seeks to make everyone laugh. You grew up with him pranking you as often as possible without doing too much psychological damage. Your da is above average in height and has an agile build with a good amount of muscle from wielding a bow regularly. He has fawn colored skin, short and wispy brown hair, and hazel eyes. He keeps his beard cropped short and always seems to be smiling. He has a love for expensive clothing and pops of bold color. !Ravinder Axemaiden Your grandmother on your papa's side is a solemn woman, whom you know little about considering she's your grandmother. She is very quiet and private, one of the last in a long line of nomads that once roamed all of Iroda. Though her only child took to settling down in one place, she continues to live as a nomad, traveling the same route her ancestors had for many generations. As her adopted surname suggests, she is known for wielding an axe, and not just against trees. She is known as a fierce warrior among many, always with her trusty weapon on hand. Though she comes off as unfriendly, she loves her family dearly in her own way and raised Dov by herself, teaching him all she knew. Though she does not openly express her emotions, she could not help the tears of joy when she first held you as a baby – her precious grandchild. Ravinder is tall and muscular, even in her advanced age, she is still very able-bodied. Her long hair is completely grey, as are her eyes, though Papa has told you she once had flowing red hair. Her face has notable scars along the left side, and she typically dresses in sleeveless tunics and simple trousers, with the occasional fur trim when it gets cold. !Lakota (Aster) Twinflower Your best friend since childhood, Lakota is an affectionate soul who would never hurt a fly – though he’d give it a stern talking-to. Being sickly as a child, you were brought together a great deal, especially since his parents are the town healers. You were practically joined at the hip, enough that people believed you were siblings. Lakota is sweet and gentle all around. Taking after his father, he loves to help others and is skilled in medicine. He’s a soft sort and a little bit gullible, which his sisters frequently took advantage of growing up. He was always closest with his big brother, Oswin, and you. He takes what he perceives as failure very hard, so he strives to do things perfectly. Your friend is fair-skinned, with wild curly blond hair that reaches his shoulders. Being average in height, his frame is quite lean and wiry from his years as a sickly kid. He has deep brown eyes, cannot grow a beard for anything, though he has tried about every tonic combination to encourage one. !Kavi Twinflower Stonebrook’s famous healer and father to your friends Lakota and Oswin, Kavi is a kind and diligent soul. He’s spent years researching your illness, never giving up and taking very thorough notes. He has a youthful persona, though he’s starting to get age-lines around his face. Kavi is fair-skinned with bright green eyes, his hair was once jet black, but is steadily greying. Even his well-trimmed beard is mostly grey. !Betony Twinflower Stonebrook’s other famous healer and midwife, Betony is a motherly force in every sense, and not just to Lakota and Oswin. She cared for you like her own child, ensuring you were always fed and warm during your most difficult times. She is stern but fair and deadly with a spoon. Betony has brown skin with patches of ivory along her face, neck and shoulders. She has long golden curly hair, and brown eyes with a perpetual bright smile. !Sage & Poppy Twinflower Oswin and Lakota’s...creepy twin sisters. They’re never apart and always – always – appear to be up to something. They watched over you, Lakota, and Oswin when you were children – why they ever seemed trustworthy to your parents is a mystery you’ve yet to solve. Though, you’ve heard whispers about strange misfortunes befalling the other children whom caused you grief…The two are identical and like to lean into it, having tan skin, extremely long black hair, and bright green eyes, they also dress alike. You are never quite sure what they do every day. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

!Nathanael An eccentric merchant who’s always looking for the next big thing. Nathanael enjoys irritating those that are too serious, and enjoying all of life’s little pleasures. Traveling to sell his wares from a big colorful cart pulled by a great elk, his best friend is a cat who appears rather nonplussed. He’s taken a shine to you and might offer steep discounts if you flatter him. Nathanael is a bit tall and somehow both foppish and clumsy. His hair and beard are black and are showing a good deal of white these days. He has bright hazel eyes that shine with a slight blue hue. He appreciates elegant clothing in bright colors – anything that has a nice drape to it. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

<> <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">The First Gods</div></h1> </body> </html> <> As they are commonly called and as this name suggests, these nine deities are the first known and acknowledged by the world. They were also all familially related to each other in some way. Not much is known about their origins and it is uncertain if the information has been lost to time or if the gods themselves have kept silent about it. What is certain, is that more gods came after them, but none were as prolific and powerful as the original nine. It is said that humans who have dwelt closely to all gods, but especially these nine, lived hundreds of years beyond their normal lifespan. Most believe this is the reason today why human lives still reach the span they do, but as magic dwindles more and more, so do the years of human life. All gods have a domain of sorts. It is a catalyst of the powers they are most adept with. Though they are all powerful in many areas, they typically only //draw// power from their catalyst. The greater the catalyst, the more powerful the god. !Hayat The god of life and growth. Known to be kind and loving, and very nurturing. Historically he was known to be very soft-natured and determined. Plants, animals, and people naturally flourish around him and he is credited for being the foundation of all human existence. Despite his nature, he is the originator of the God Wars which killed many gods and dismantled their hold over humans. As the war was against the very fabric of his life and power, it caused him immeasurable pain and grief. After losing his beloved wife in the midst of the fighting, he grieved for many years in a forest in northwest Mahdeh, in an area now known as The Fields of Desolation. During his time of grief, his power devoured all of the life within the land, rendering the forest devoid of all life for hundreds of years since. No one is certain what pulled Hayat from his grief to stop the destruction, but it is rumored that his sister, one of his daughters, and a devoted human friend helped pull him from his misery. The fields are inhospitable to anyone and the negative power there attracts demons in droves. Rumors of an artifact left there by Hayat still draw brave and foolish adventurers to the Fields. Most never return. !Casimir The goddess of destruction. Sister and boon companion to Hayat, she was known to be quiet and kind, but also direct and realistic. She had an intimate understanding of how destruction – the breakdown of everything – is a part of life, and through it, new life can begin. She was in every way Hayat’s counterpart, and they were known to be extremely close and supportive of each other. Much of her personal life remains a mystery. She kept to herself and took her duties seriously. Like, Hayat, she had a large hand in helping humans find their footing in the world. It was thought that drawing her favor during battles would guarantee success, and today she is still worshiped and favored by guards, mercenaries, and even bandits. She is widely known as the reason for Hayat’s success in The God Wars. Many troublesome gods perished by her hands – work that Hayat could not bring himself to do. While her brother grieved his wife and the war, she took over the efforts to see their plans come to fruition. She believed firmly that humans should determine their own destiny and was disgusted by their mistreatment by cruel gods. It is said that she still walks Iroda, administering her judgment, and enforcing Hayat’s curse on the gods by keeping them in line. !Aigar The goddess of time. Many believe that Aigar was the first of the first gods, given that she drew power from time itself. Feelings about her were historically mixed as she was loved for being a diligent leader and teacher, but could be hated when humans felt robbed of time. Those who loved her, loved her very deeply as she was an ever-present force of protection, wisdom, and guidance. It is said that her love for guiding and protecting humans was what ultimately drove her against Hayat and Casimir. She grieved the loss of the gods that were slaughtered by Casimir and took up arms against them, which is said to have pained her a great deal as she loved them too. Ultimately she lost the final battle, surrendering before more blood would be spilled. !Din The god of faith and religion. He was the last of the first nine gods to appear, as he is the child of another god, Dragomir. Din played a pivotal part in the formation of churches and the worship of gods as human society grew. Humans became so numerous that many gods struggled to find ways to help them or understand their needs. Din provided the connection needed between gods and humans at large. Through him, prayers could reach the gods no matter where they were. His power flowed uniquely through all of Iroda and connected to humans who reached out in faith to their gods. It is said that he was kind and often soft-spoken. He sided against Hayat and Casimir during the war, but his role in any battles is unknown. It is rumored that he did not want to fight against them, so he stayed with his people to assure their safety. !Dragomir The goddess of earth and stone. Specific details about her life and characteristics are coveted secrets held by her remaining followers. It is known that she was the mother of Din and had a strong allegiance to Hayat and Casimir during the war. She was known to wield great power. She was married to the lesser god, Erdem, whom fathered Din. !Shyama The deity of darkness. They are a sibling of Aigar’s, but they were known to not get along. Shyama is said to have loved her sister dearly, but their opposing views on the war drove them apart. Much of their characteristics are unknown as they were mysterious by nature. They taught their followers of the philosophy of darkness. That it was both a time of rest and restlessness, a natural pause for some, but a beginning for others. Shyama favored human partners and was known to love them deeply and to never have forgotten a single one. !Or The god of light. Or is also a brother to Aigar and twin to Shyama. He was known as being very quiet and there are not many known records of him left. He was close with both siblings, but tried to remain impartial between them. It is unknown if he took a side in the war. !Vande The deity of water. Little is remembered about Vande, except for what some would rather forget. They were born of an affair and are half-sibling to Hayat, Casimir, Aigar, Shyama, //and// Or. Despite their origin causing a rift between the gods, they were known to be very deeply loved by all their siblings and are, perhaps, the only deity to achieve such a feat. !Asta The goddess of love. Known the most for being the beloved mother of Hayat and Casimir. She is also the sister-in-law to Erdem and Dragomir. The records of her spouse’s name have been stricken from known history for his betrayal of her. She was well-known for her deeply caring and loving nature. Her husband fathered Vande with the mother of Shyama, Or, and Aigar. It is said that despite this, she forgave him with great mercy, however her children did not. [[The "Lesser" Pantheon]] <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

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!Irodian Culture *''Language'' The people of Iroda actually do not know where their language originated from. It was written and spoken well before the time of the current age. It is known that it would have stemmed from language in the Old World. *''Name Day'' One of the most important days in the life of the Irodian people is their Name Day. On everyone’s 14th birthday, they may choose to keep their birth name, or choose another that better emulates who they are becoming as they grow. It is just as important as any official holiday and can be celebrated in quiet contemplation or with a feast, depending on preference. Before the night ends, the celebrant stands before their party and introduces themselves with the name they have chosen. Regular birthdays are also celebrated each year as well, usually with a feast. *''Marriage/Partnership'' Marriages and relationships in general in Iroda do not have set formal traditions. Often, those who wish to be committed to each other simply do so without much fanfare. Many partners end up dwelling together and having families without any sort of formal proposals or ceremonies. They just dedicate themselves to each other and live accordingly. It’s up to those in the relationship as to how much formality they want to apply if any – things like asking each other’s parents, having a formal ceremony and feast, and/or exchanging tokens (like rings, but some may get tattoos or even exchange other forms of jewelry). Some partnerships may even live apart with their respective families or choose to move in with one family. More uncommonly, but not unheard of, there are groups who live together for the purpose of having and raising children as a type of large family unit where there is no specific marriage or partnership to each other – only bonds of friendship. They take partners with this understanding, and have little or nothing to do with them after, or they adopt orphaned children. !Major Holidays *''Feast of Seasons'' Every season has a feast or festival to celebrate the season itself, beginning on the 90th day of that season. Observers take a day or two to rest and enjoy the things that the season has brought them. The celebrations are mostly spent amount family members, lounging and eating. Some wealthy families may even celebrate for the last ten entire days of the season. *''The Remembrance of Llyr'' This time set on the 50th day of summer is set aside to remember the late goddess of the sea, Llyr. This is mostly celebrated only in the Auster province, though coastal towns all over Iroda may participate as well. A feast is held for the entire day in her memory. At night, adults are welcomed into the streets for drunken revelry as she was known to relax by becoming drunk with sailors and townsfolk. It was known to be dangerous to drink with her, as it takes a great deal more to make a goddess drunk than it does an ordinary human. It is said that some fools even died trying to keep up with her. *''Festival of Devotion'' A holiday dedicated to connections between people be it family, lovers, or friends held the 55th day of autumn, before most of the harvest and the Harvest Festival at the end of the season. There are no set traditions, but small tokens of affection are often exchanged and towns host games, entertainment, and feasts. Groups most often celebrate together, but it is also known as a time for young lovers to bond or dedicate themselves to each other. *''The Days of Coupling'' A celebration of sex beginning the 38th day of Summer and lasting three days. Though physical relationships can and should be celebrated whenever people want, this celebration began in the northern province and made its way into popularity across the world in short time. Northerners chose this time as it created a natural gap in farming duties brought on by late spring and early summer. It occurs after plants have good roots and need less care but before busy harvest times. It was originally used to time births for spring to help ensure infants had a better chance at surviving. Winters in the north can be very harsh, so this was especially important. Celebrants prepare provisions for three days, and children or other dependents are sent off to be cared for by friends and family who are not participating. At times, gifts are exchanged between those who spend the coupling days together. *''Winter Solstice'' This tradition lasting seven days, beginning on the 43rd of winter, was originally set as a time for those who worshiped gods to remember, thank them, and ask for their support to get through the winter. This tradition was held for hundreds of years, so even after the gods ceased their leadership of humans, it was continued. Instead of thanking and honoring gods, loved ones thank and honor each other for everything they do. Homemade or store-bought gifts may be exchanged as well according to specific traditions in ones family. If provisions allow, some have large dinners and sometimes celebrate with friends. The whole seven days are not always observed, but many use it as a time to simply relax or even enjoy winter activities. A few households still use the time to honor their chosen gods. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

In a haze you begin to scrub yourself clean. Papa has left your favorite scented soaps and oils for you. They smell like <<listbox "$favsmell" autoselect>> <<option "citrus">> <<option "vanilla with warm spices">> <<option "the forest">> <<option "sweet candies">> <<option "herbs">> <<option "flowers">> <</listbox>>. It helps to relax you more and you contemplate asking your fathers to light a fire under the tub and let you become soup. The more you relax, the more your mind finally clears as you bathe. [[And that is when you notice it.]]

Between your sternum and navel...there is a mark. At a glance it appears as a tattoo. You stand as fast as you can from the tub on wobbly legs to examine it, not caring of the water that sloshes about. The image is upside down from your perspective, so you carefully but quickly, leave the bath, grabbing a towel as you hustle back to your bedroom where you are fortunate enough to have a tall mirror. Weakness from your ordeal has made you out of breath already in the short stint to the room, leaving you panting as you stand in front of the mirror and open the towel to reveal your torso. You stare at the image. Everything else fades away, from the smell of $favsmell to the sensation of the water dripping from your hair and along your back. The mark...It looks like... <<include "treeimage">> [[a mighty tree.|tree]] <<include "sunmark">> [[a rising sun.|sun]] <<include "stormmark">> [[a building storm.|storm]] <<include "plantmark">> [[encroaching vines.|everythingissofuckinggreen]] <<include "nightmark">> [[nightfall.|night]] <<include "mountmark">> [[a mountain.|mountain]]

<<set $mark to 'tree'>> It is, unmistakably, the image of a tree. The branches spread just below your chest, the roots to your navel. You run your fingers over the black marks. They feel no different from the normal texture of your skin, but...it’s warmer. A gentle heat radiates from the mark, clearly above the temperature of your other flesh, even after sitting in the bath. You trace the pattern absently with your fingers. The memories from your episode flicker through your mind. //What...what is this…// //...what is happening to our Sprout?// //Did someone do this to $himher!?// //...it's coming from within. The mark is being made as we speak.// This is what they were talking about in that moment. This was the cause of the explosive heat you’ve felt in your torso for all these years? What does it mean, then? No normal illness does this. Your mind races and steeps in the confusion this mark creates. [[Your breathing picks up, and before you know it, panic overtakes you.]] [[There’s a hitch in your breath that breaks into a sob as tears begin to roll down your face.]] [[You yell, wail, scream. In frustration, in confusion, in anger, you just call out with all you’ve got.]] [[Laughter takes you over. This is absurd. This is absolutely absurd.]] [[You fall quiet and still, taking all this in.]]

<<set $mark to 'sun'>> It is the only way you can think to describe the mark. You run your fingers along it...a sun flanked by two dark orbs. The detail is finer than any tattoo you have ever seen. A gentle heat radiates from the mark, clearly above the temperature of your other flesh, even after sitting in the bath. You trace the pattern absently with your fingers. The memories from your episode flicker through your mind. //What...what is this…// //...what is happening to our Sprout?// //Did someone do this to $himher!?// //...it's coming from within. The mark is being made as we speak.// This is what they were talking about in that moment. This was the cause of the explosive heat you’ve felt in your torso for all these years? What does it mean, then? No normal illness does this. Your mind races and steeps in the confusion this mark creates. [[Your breathing picks up, and before you know it, panic overtakes you.]] [[There’s a hitch in your breath that breaks into a sob as tears begin to roll down your face.]] [[You yell, wail, scream. In frustration, in confusion, in anger, you just call out with all you’ve got.]] [[Laughter takes you over. This is absurd. This is absolutely absurd.]] [[You fall quiet and still, taking all this in.]]

<<set $mark to 'storm'>> It seems to be a clear representation of a bolt of lightening. It’s not a common symbol in Mahdeh, but you’ve seen some travelers from the south with tattoos of something similar. The storms there can get particularly violent. You trace the strange mark with your fingers. A gentle heat radiates from the mark, clearly above the temperature of your other flesh, even after sitting in the bath. You trace the pattern absently with your fingers. The memories from your episode flicker through your mind. //What...what is this…// //...what is happening to our Sprout?// //Did someone do this to $himher!?// //...it's coming from within. The mark is being made as we speak.// This is what they were talking about in that moment. This was the cause of the explosive heat you’ve felt in your torso for all these years? What does it mean, then? No normal illness does this. Your mind races and steeps in the confusion this mark creates. [[Your breathing picks up, and before you know it, panic overtakes you.]] [[There’s a hitch in your breath that breaks into a sob as tears begin to roll down your face.]] [[You yell, wail, scream. In frustration, in confusion, in anger, you just call out with all you’ve got.]] [[Laughter takes you over. This is absurd. This is absolutely absurd.]] [[You fall quiet and still, taking all this in.]]

<<set $mark to 'plants'>> You trace the strange mark with your fingers. The insignia of vines and leaves is very apparent, but you do not recognize the underlying sigil beneath them. Perhaps it is merely a trellis for the foliage. It appears gentle, save for the thorns hidden among the vines. A gentle heat radiates from the mark, clearly above the temperature of your other flesh, even after sitting in the bath. You trace the pattern absently with your fingers. The memories from your episode flicker through your mind. //What...what is this…// //...what is happening to our Sprout?// //Did someone do this to $himher!?// //...it's coming from within. The mark is being made as we speak.// This is what they were talking about in that moment. This was the cause of the explosive heat you’ve felt in your torso for all these years? What does it mean, then? No normal illness does this. Your mind races and steeps in the confusion this mark creates. [[Your breathing picks up, and before you know it, panic overtakes you.]] [[There’s a hitch in your breath that breaks into a sob as tears begin to roll down your face.]] [[You yell, wail, scream. In frustration, in confusion, in anger, you just call out with all you’ve got.]] [[Laughter takes you over. This is absurd. This is absolutely absurd.]] [[You fall quiet and still, taking all this in.]]

<<set $mark to 'night'>> You’re not entirely sure if that’s the right word, but it is the one that springs to mind when you look upon the mark. You trace your fingers along the four-pointed stars and then along the crescent moon shapes. Perhaps your assessment is incorrect, but you get a strange feeling that you’re right. A gentle heat radiates from the mark, clearly above the temperature of your other flesh, even after sitting in the bath. You trace the pattern absently with your fingers. The memories from your episode flicker through your mind. //What...what is this…// //...what is happening to our Sprout?// //Did someone do this to $himher!?// //...it's coming from within. The mark is being made as we speak.// This is what they were talking about in that moment. This was the cause of the explosive heat you’ve felt in your torso for all these years? What does it mean, then? No normal illness does this. Your mind races and steeps in the confusion this mark creates. [[Your breathing picks up, and before you know it, panic overtakes you.]] [[There’s a hitch in your breath that breaks into a sob as tears begin to roll down your face.]] [[You yell, wail, scream. In frustration, in confusion, in anger, you just call out with all you’ve got.]] [[Laughter takes you over. This is absurd. This is absolutely absurd.]] [[You fall quiet and still, taking all this in.]]

<<set $mark to 'mountain'>> The mark is bold and fairly large. Mountain was merely the first word that sprang to your mind, but you aren’t quite sure what the true assessment of it is. You run your fingers along the defined shapes pondering if your assessment is even correct. You feel strangely certain, though you cannot say why. A gentle heat radiates from the mark, clearly above the temperature of your other flesh, even after sitting in the bath. You trace the pattern absently with your fingers. The memories from your episode flicker through your mind. //What...what is this…// //...what is happening to our Sprout?// //Did someone do this to $himher!?// //...it's coming from within. The mark is being made as we speak.// This is what they were talking about in that moment. This was the cause of the explosive heat you’ve felt in your torso for all these years? What does it mean, then? No normal illness does this. Your mind races and steeps in the confusion this mark creates. [[Your breathing picks up, and before you know it, panic overtakes you.]] [[There’s a hitch in your breath that breaks into a sob as tears begin to roll down your face.]] [[You yell, wail, scream. In frustration, in confusion, in anger, you just call out with all you’ve got.]] [[Laughter takes you over. This is absurd. This is absolutely absurd.]] [[You fall quiet and still, taking all this in.]]

You wheeze and gasp, clutching the towel around you as you lose all sense of your bearings. All you have is fear and questions. Your life is always slipping through your fingers. Is this the end for you? The beginning of the end? How long will you suffer? How much? <> <<if $goal is 'love'>>This. This is it for you. There is no love in your future. No warmth of hearth and home. No games of romance and wanting. Who were you trying to fool? Who would love you like this? There is no lover out there who will stand by your side as you are consumed by whatever horror has attached itself to you. Be it for a night or a lifetime, you will always sleep alone. Even if there was such a person to stand by your side, could you subject them to such cruelty? To caring for you and waiting for the day that you finally succumb.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'friendship'>>You were a fool to think you could go out and make a friend of anyone as you are. Who needs a broken friend? One that is thrown so easily into a sick-bed. It’s only from a sense of pity that anyone calls you friend. Your company is undesirable. Even your closest friend only stuck with you because you relied on his family to survive.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'craft'>>What a fool you were to believe you’d excel at anything. Did you really think you could hone your skills into something worthwhile being as broken as you are? You will always be held back. Your potential may as well be described as hopeless now. This thing, whatever it is, rules your life.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'answers'>>Your quest for answers will be cut short. At this rate, you will never get them and it is hopeless to try. The world brought you up just to squash you without cause. The only response to your questions will be more pain and more mysteries that just raise more questions. Life will be comprised of your outer suffering and the inner turmoil of never knowing why.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'independence'>>Not only will you remain a burden on your parents and all those you love, but you will never get to taste true adulthood. Eventually your fathers will resent you. You’ve taken their best years already, and now you will take the rest. Independence and even privacy are fallacies for you, always within reach but never touchable.<</if>> <> You stagger as your vision begins to blur. Despite your hard breathing, you feel as though you are asphyxiating. The beats of your heart are like that of a rabbit kicking to flee a predator. Your legs give and your knees slam hard into the floor. The walls are closing in. This is your tomb. The door suddenly swings open with a resounding bang. Strong hands grip your shoulders to support you. Through blurry vision, you see that it’s Oswin who has come to your aid. His expression is panicked as he takes your face in his hands, sweeping the wet strands of hair from your forehead. “$mc! $mc! Can you hear me?” There’s panic in his voice, pure and desperate. A strangled sob is your answer. “Slow your breath. Purse your lips and breathe through them. It’s okay, I’m here. I’m here.” Oswin hugs you close. His leather armor presses into your skin, the uncomfortable poke seems to bring your presence of mind forward. “Focus on me and let yourself slow down.” He rocks you gently. “Focus on me.” After minutes of trying to breathe through pursed lips, your heart begins to slow, and you begin to feel that you are getting enough air. Oswin continues to rock you until you pull away. Once you have taken some slow, deep breaths and gain your bearings fully, you absorb the situation. Oswin still looks worried, his green eyes are wide, and he keeps his hands poised up, as if he’s ready to catch you. Looking down, you realize that, though you grip the ends of your towel in each hand, your front is partially exposed. Perhaps Oswin doesn’t realize, as his eyes do not so much as blink away from your $eyecolor gaze. [[You manage a small smile in silent thanks as you close the towel around yourself, trying to not draw his attention to it.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You quickly tighten the towel around you and give him a stiff nod.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You grip your towel and stand as quick as possible. “Thank you,” you say, hurrying away.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[A grin spreads across your lips. “I commend you for being able to resist looking down.”][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Your face flushes first before the heat of embarrassment spreads through your whole body and you quickly fumble to draw the towel closed.][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Shaking the haze of the situation away, you manage a sly smile and a wink, not bothering to cover yourself. You’ll test his resolve.][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

You cry out in anguish and confusion, hot tears streaking your face as you clutch the towel, losing all sense of your bearings. All you have is fear and questions. Your life is always slipping through your fingers. Is this the end for you? The beginning of the end? How long will you suffer? How much? <> <<if $goal is 'love'>>This. This is it for you. There is no love in your future. No warmth of hearth and home. No games of romance and wanting. Who were you trying to fool? Who would love you like this? There is no lover out there who will stand by your side as you are consumed by whatever horror has attached itself to you. Be it for a night or a lifetime, you will always sleep alone. Even if there was such a person to stand by your side, could you subject them to such cruelty? To caring for you and waiting for the day that you finally succumb.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'friendship'>>You were a fool to think you could go out and make a friend of anyone as you are. Who needs a broken friend? One that is thrown so easily into a sick-bed. It’s only from a sense of pity that anyone calls you friend. Your company is undesirable. Even your closest friend only stuck with you because you relied on his family to survive.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'craft'>>What a fool you were to believe you’d excel at anything. Did you really think you could hone your skills into something worthwhile being as broken as you are? You will always be held back. Your potential may as well be described as hopeless now. This thing, whatever it is, rules your life.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'answers'>>Your quest for answers will be cut short. At this rate, you will never get them and it is hopeless to try. The world brought you up just to squash you without cause. The only response to your questions will be more pain and more mysteries that just raise more questions. Life will be comprised of your outer suffering and the inner turmoil of never knowing why.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'independence'>>Not only will you remain a burden on your parents and all those you love, but you will never get to taste true adulthood. Eventually your fathers will resent you. You’ve taken their best years already, and now you will take the rest. Independence and even privacy are fallacies for you, always within reach but never touchable.<</if>> <> You cry so hard that you practically choke on ever breath. With eyes burning and throat raw and tired, you begin to heave as you mourn. Your legs give and your knees slam hard into the floor. Your head starts to pound from the strain and you briefly wonder if the grief you feel will do you in. The door suddenly swings open with a resounding bang. Strong hands grip your shoulders to support you. Through watery vision, you see that it’s Oswin who has come to your aid. His expression is panicked as he takes your face in his hands, sweeping tears from your cheeks. “$mc...It’s okay, now.” There’s worry in his voice, pure and desperate. A strangled sob is your answer. “It’s okay, I’m here. I’m here.” Oswin hugs you close. His leather armor presses into your skin, the uncomfortable poke seems to bring your presence of mind forward. “Focus on me and let yourself slow down.” He rocks you gently. “Focus on me. Take some deep, slow breaths. Feel how cool the air is.” After minutes of trying to breathe and focus on something else, your tears begins to slow, and you begin to feel the heavy exhaustion that comes after sorrow. Oswin continues to rock you gently until you pull away. Once you have taken some slow, deep breaths and gain your bearings fully, you absorb the situation. Oswin still looks worried, his green eyes are wide, and he keeps his hands poised up, as if he’s ready to catch you. Looking down, you realize that, though you grip the ends of your towel in each hand, your front is partially exposed. Perhaps Oswin doesn’t realize, as his eyes do not so much as blink away from your $eyecolor gaze. [[You manage a small smile in silent thanks as you close the towel around yourself, trying to not draw his attention to it.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You quickly tighten the towel around you and give him a stiff nod.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You grip your towel and stand as quick as possible. “Thank you,” you say, hurrying away.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[A grin spreads across your lips. “I commend you for being able to resist looking down.”][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Your face flushes first before the heat of embarrassment spreads through your whole body and you quickly fumble to draw the towel closed.][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Shaking the haze of the situation away, you manage a sly smile and a wink, not bothering to cover yourself. You’ll test his resolve.][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

You roar with all that is within you, from the depths of all the turmoil within. Your face heats as you clutch the towel, losing all sense of your bearings. All you have is defeat and questions. Your life is always slipping through your fingers. Is this the end for you? The beginning of the end? How long will you suffer? How much? <> <<if $goal is 'love'>>This. This is it for you. There is no love in your future. No warmth of hearth and home. No games of romance and wanting. Who were you trying to fool? Who would love you like this? There is no lover out there who will stand by your side as you are consumed by whatever horror has attached itself to you. Be it for a night or a lifetime, you will always sleep alone. Even if there was such a person to stand by your side, could you subject them to such cruelty? To caring for you and waiting for the day that you finally succumb.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'friendship'>>You were a fool to think you could go out and make a friend of anyone as you are. Who needs a broken friend? One that is thrown so easily into a sick-bed. It’s only from a sense of pity that anyone calls you friend. Your company is undesirable. Even your closest friend only stuck with you because you relied on his family to survive.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'craft'>>What a fool you were to believe you’d excel at anything. Did you really think you could hone your skills into something worthwhile being as broken as you are? You will always be held back. Your potential may as well be described as hopeless now. This thing, whatever it is, rules your life.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'answers'>>Your quest for answers will be cut short. At this rate, you will never get them and it is hopeless to try. The world brought you up just to squash you without cause. The only response to your questions will be more pain and more mysteries that just raise more questions. Life will be comprised of your outer suffering and the inner turmoil of never knowing why.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'independence'>>Not only will you remain a burden on your parents and all those you love, but you will never get to taste true adulthood. Eventually your fathers will resent you. You’ve taken their best years already, and now you will take the rest. Independence and even privacy are fallacies for you, always within reach but never touchable.<</if>> <> Your voice and throat become raw and pained, but you cannot stop screaming. Your legs give and your knees slam hard into the floor. You desperately slam your fist into the floor, needing something – anything – to take this out on. The door suddenly swings open with a resounding bang. Strong hands grip your shoulders before you can lay another punch down. Through the anger in your vision, you see that it’s Oswin who has come to your aid. His expression is panicked as he places one hand to the side of your face, and the other gingerly holds the fist you drove into the floor. “$mc...It’s okay.” There’s softness in his voice, pure and kind. A strangled howl is your answer. “It’s okay, it’s okay to be angry. I’m here.” Oswin hugs you close. His leather armor presses into your skin, the uncomfortable poke seems to bring your presence of mind forward. “Focus on me and let yourself slow down.” He rocks you gently. “Focus on me, don’t hurt yourself. Deep, slow breaths.” After minutes of trying to breathe and focus on something else, your anger begins to subside, and the rush to fight, to act out, fades away. Oswin continues to rock you gently until you pull away. Once you have taken some slow, deep breaths and gain your bearings fully, you absorb the situation. Oswin still looks worried, his green eyes are wide, and he keeps his hands poised up, as if he’s ready to catch you. Looking down, you realize that, though you grip the ends of your towel in each hand, your front is partially exposed. Perhaps Oswin doesn’t realize, as his eyes do not so much as blink away from your $eyecolor gaze. [[You manage a small smile in silent thanks as you close the towel around yourself, trying to not draw his attention to it.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You quickly tighten the towel around you and give him a stiff nod.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You grip your towel and stand as quick as possible. “Thank you,” you say, hurrying away.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[A grin spreads across your lips. “I commend you for being able to resist looking down.”][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Your face flushes first before the heat of embarrassment spreads through your whole body and you quickly fumble to draw the towel closed.][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Shaking the haze of the situation away, you manage a sly smile and a wink, not bothering to cover yourself. You’ll test his resolve.][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

The irony is almost too cruel to not be funny. Of course this wouldn’t be a reoccurring illness, that would be far too simple. There’s too much hope to be had with a condition you could possibly understand. All you have is frustration and questions. Your life is always slipping through your fingers. Is this the end for you? The beginning of the end? How long will you suffer? How much? <> <<if $goal is 'love'>>This. This is it for you. There is no love in your future. No warmth of hearth and home. No games of romance and wanting. Who were you trying to fool? Who would love you like this? There is no lover out there who will stand by your side as you are consumed by whatever horror has attached itself to you. Be it for a night or a lifetime, you will always sleep alone. Even if there was such a person to stand by your side, could you subject them to such cruelty? To caring for you and waiting for the day that you finally succumb.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'friendship'>>You were a fool to think you could go out and make a friend of anyone as you are. Who needs a broken friend? One that is thrown so easily into a sick-bed. It’s only from a sense of pity that anyone calls you friend. Your company is undesirable. Even your closest friend only stuck with you because you relied on his family to survive.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'craft'>>What a fool you were to believe you’d excel at anything. Did you really think you could hone your skills into something worthwhile being as broken as you are? You will always be held back. Your potential may as well be described as hopeless now. This thing, whatever it is, rules your life.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'answers'>>Your quest for answers will be cut short. At this rate, you will never get them and it is hopeless to try. The world brought you up just to squash you without cause. The only response to your questions will be more pain and more mysteries that just raise more questions. Life will be comprised of your outer suffering and the inner turmoil of never knowing why.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'independence'>>Not only will you remain a burden on your parents and all those you love, but you will never get to taste true adulthood. Eventually your fathers will resent you. You’ve taken their best years already, and now you will take the rest. Independence and even privacy are fallacies for you, always within reach but never touchable.<</if>> <> The savage mirth racks you with pain in your throat and stomach, but you cannot stop. Tears prick in the corner of your eyes as the sound of your laughter begins to morph closely to that of cries. Your legs give and your knees slam hard into the floor. You desperately clutch your arms around your torso as you strain from the fit. The door suddenly swings open with a resounding bang. Strong hands grip your shoulders before you can lay another punch down. Through the anger in your vision, you see that it’s Oswin who has come to your aid. His expression is panicked as he places one hand to the side of your face, and the other gingerly holds the fist you drove into the floor. “$mc! $mc, it’s okay.” There’s urgency in his voice, pure and worried. A stifled laugh that morphs into a sob is your answer. “I’m here.” Oswin hugs you close. His leather armor presses into your skin, the uncomfortable poke seems to bring your presence of mind forward. “Focus on me and let yourself relax.” He rocks you gently. “Focus on me, don’t lose yourself in it. Deep, slow breaths.” After minutes of trying to breathe and focus on something else, your dark glee begins to subside, and the compulsive laughter diminishes, allowing your body to decompress. Oswin continues to rock you gently until you pull away. Once you have taken some slow, deep breaths and gain your bearings fully, you absorb the situation. Oswin still looks worried, his green eyes are wide, and he keeps his hands poised up, as if he’s ready to catch you. Looking down, you realize that, though you grip the ends of your towel in each hand, your front is partially exposed. Perhaps Oswin doesn’t realize, as his eyes do not so much as blink away from your $eyecolor gaze. [[You manage a small smile in silent thanks as you close the towel around yourself, trying to not draw his attention to it.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You quickly tighten the towel around you and give him a stiff nod.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You grip your towel and stand as quick as possible. “Thank you,” you say, hurrying away.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[A grin spreads across your lips. “I commend you for being able to resist looking down.”][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Your face flushes first before the heat of embarrassment spreads through your whole body and you quickly fumble to draw the towel closed.][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Shaking the haze of the situation away, you manage a sly smile and a wink, not bothering to cover yourself. You’ll test his resolve.][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

Resignation consumes you as you take in this new development. The quiet of the house settles around you. The birds are chirping again and the breeze outside lightly howls against your windows. What can you possibly do or think now? All you have is questions. Your life is always slipping through your fingers. Is this the end for you? The beginning of the end? How long will you suffer? How much? <> <<if $goal is 'love'>>This. This is it for you. There is no love in your future. No warmth of hearth and home. No games of romance and wanting. Who were you trying to fool? Who would love you like this? There is no lover out there who will stand by your side as you are consumed by whatever horror has attached itself to you. Be it for a night or a lifetime, you will always sleep alone. Even if there was such a person to stand by your side, could you subject them to such cruelty? To caring for you and waiting for the day that you finally succumb.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'friendship'>>You were a fool to think you could go out and make a friend of anyone as you are. Who needs a broken friend? One that is thrown so easily into a sick-bed. It’s only from a sense of pity that anyone calls you friend. Your company is undesirable. Even your closest friend only stuck with you because you relied on his family to survive.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'craft'>>What a fool you were to believe you’d excel at anything. Did you really think you could hone your skills into something worthwhile being as broken as you are? You will always be held back. Your potential may as well be described as hopeless now. This thing, whatever it is, rules your life.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'answers'>>Your quest for answers will be cut short. At this rate, you will never get them and it is hopeless to try. The world brought you up just to squash you without cause. The only response to your questions will be more pain and more mysteries that just raise more questions. Life will be comprised of your outer suffering and the inner turmoil of never knowing why.<</if>> <<if $goal is 'independence'>>Not only will you remain a burden on your parents and all those you love, but you will never get to taste true adulthood. Eventually your fathers will resent you. You’ve taken their best years already, and now you will take the rest. Independence and even privacy are fallacies for you, always within reach but never touchable.<</if>> <> Thoughts and questions devour you, rendering you even weaker than before. Something in your spirit breaks. Your legs give and your knees slam hard into the floor. You freeze in despair, eyes glazing over at the ceiling at your surrender. The door suddenly swings open with a resounding bang. Strong hands grip your shoulders snapping your attention away from the despair. You see that it’s Oswin who has come to your aid. His expression is worried as he places both hands on your cheeks, his green eyes boring into your $eyecolor ones. “It’s okay, $mc. It’s okay.” There’s care in his voice, pure and simple. You have no words and you can only stare as resignation settles on your shoulders. “I’m here.” Oswin hugs you close. His leather armor presses into your skin, the uncomfortable poke seems to bring your presence of mind forward. “Focus on me and let yourself rise out of it.” He rocks you gently. “Focus on me, don’t lose yourself to it. Slow breaths.” After minutes of trying to breathe and focus on something else, your listlessness begins to subside, and the fog of feelings diminishes, allowing your body to regain composure. Oswin continues to rock you gently until you pull away. Once you have taken some slow, deep breaths and gain your bearings fully, you absorb the situation. Oswin still looks worried, his green eyes are wide, and he keeps his hands poised up, as if he’s ready to catch you. Looking down, you realize that, though you grip the ends of your towel in each hand, your front is partially exposed. Perhaps Oswin doesn’t realize, as his eyes do not so much as blink away from your gaze. [[You manage a small smile in silent thanks as you close the towel around yourself, trying to not draw his attention to it.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You quickly tighten the towel around you and give him a stiff nod.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You grip your towel and stand as quick as possible. “Thank you,” you say, hurrying away.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[A grin spreads across your lips. “I commend you for being able to resist looking down.”][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Your face flushes first before the heat of embarrassment spreads through your whole body and you quickly fumble to draw the towel closed.][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Shaking the haze of the situation away, you manage a sly smile and a wink, not bothering to cover yourself. You’ll test his resolve.][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

In addition, you also find that... [[It's made you more withdrawn and shy|creation 9][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more bold and outspoken|creation 9][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]] [[It's made you take a step back and just relax|creation 9][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a touch more aggressive.|creation 9][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[Your behavior can only be described as reckless.|creation 9][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a bit more cautious about things.|creation 9][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]]

In addition, you also find that... [[It's made you more withdrawn and shy|creation 9][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more bold and outspoken|creation 9][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]] [[It's made you take a step back and just relax|creation 9][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a touch more aggressive.|creation 9][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You sometimes find it difficult to take things lightly.|creation 9][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more adventurous and fun-seeking|creation 9][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]]

You keep eyes locked on Oswin’s, noting that awareness seems to flicker in his gaze, but he does not look away as you tuck the towel securely. “Thank you, Oswin,” you whisper. He breaks his gaze from yours to aim his eyes anywhere but at your face. His mouth twists into a grimace and then he stands abruptly. You watch him for a moment as he moves to turn away but then stalls, acting as if he has something to say. Finally, he speaks. “You shouldn’t be out of bed.” Oswin declares and then turns, hurrying to the door. “And get your clothes on.” He barks, crossing the threshold and stomping away from your room. You blink. //What just happened?// A heavy sigh escapes you. So much for thinking Oswin was finished with whatever phase he’d begun when he came of age. Though, how did he come to your aid and your fathers didn’t? He didn’t call for them and enough time has passed that you’re certain they must not be home. So is Oswin lingering about though you are recovering? It takes you a couple moments to stand. Trying not to think of the bizarre mark on your abdomen, you finish cleaning up, dawning fresh clothes before returning to bed. [[Just a couple days later, you have company.]]

At your sudden movement, Oswin’s stare breaks from your eyes and quickly drifts down. His face colors as he gasps and looks away with the realization that you were mostly nude. You suppose he was so quick to your side that he did not notice the lack of clothing. Even though our towel is secured around you, he remains turned away. You roll your eyes. “It’s not like we haven’t seen each other naked before,” you mention. As children, it wasn’t uncommon to swim nude or bathe together, at least until you all became closer to an age of awareness. Oswin meets your eyes again and his brow is furrowed. He looks angry. He breaks his gaze from yours to aim his eyes anywhere but at your face. His mouth twists into a grimace and then he stands abruptly. You watch him for a moment as he moves to turn away but then stalls, acting as if he has something to say. Finally, he speaks. “You shouldn’t be out of bed.” Oswin declares and then turns, hurrying to the door. “And get your clothes on.” He barks, crossing the threshold and stomping away from your room. You blink. //What just happened?// A heavy sigh escapes you. So much for thinking Oswin was finished with whatever phase he’d begun when he came of age. Though, how did he come to your aid and your fathers didn’t? He didn’t call for them and enough time has passed that you’re certain they must not be home. So is Oswin lingering about though you are recovering? It takes you a couple moments to stand. Trying not to think of the bizarre mark on your abdomen, you finish cleaning up, dawning fresh clothes before returning to bed. [[Just a couple days later, you have company.]]

At your sudden movement, Oswin also rushes to stand, reaching out briefly to catch your elbow as your movement becomes unbalanced. You freeze and look back to notice that his face has colored red. You suppose he was so quick to your side that he did not notice the lack of clothing. Even though our towel is secured around you, he will not look at you and quickly removes his hand once you maintain balance. “It’s okay,” you say, trying to lessen the awkward tension. Oswin meets your eyes again and his brow is furrowed. He looks conflicted. He breaks his gaze from yours to aim his eyes anywhere but at your face. His mouth twists into a grimace and then he stands abruptly. You watch him for a moment as he moves to turn away but then stalls, acting as if he has something to say. Finally, he speaks. “You shouldn’t be out of bed.” Oswin declares and then turns, hurrying to the door, nearly clipping you as he passes. “And get your clothes on.” He barks, crossing the threshold and stomping away from your room. You blink. //What just happened?// A heavy sigh escapes you. So much for thinking Oswin was finished with whatever phase he’d begun when he came of age. Though, how did he come to your aid and your fathers didn’t? He didn’t call for them and enough time has passed that you’re certain they must not be home. So is Oswin lingering about though you are recovering? It takes you a couple moments to steady your legs. Trying not to think of the bizarre mark on your abdomen, you finish cleaning up, dawning fresh clothes before returning to bed. [[Just a couple days later, you have company.]]

At your word, realization colors Oswin’s face a deep red as his eyes reflexively dip down to see that you are uncovered. He struggles to regain composure, looking away in an exaggerated fashion as he stammers to express his shock. You can’t help but spread your grin into a full smile as you slowly tighten the towel around to cover your body, especially at the noticeable hitch in Oswin’s breathing. He rushes to stand, keeping his head turned away from you even though he must know that you are covered by now. “You’re taking this much too seriously,” you say, trying to lessen the tension. “It’s been a few years, but our parents once had us bathe with each other.” Oswin meets your eyes again and his brow is furrowed. He looks angry, but then his face has always looked deceptively severe. He breaks his gaze from yours to aim his eyes anywhere but at your face once again. His mouth twists into a grimace and then he stands abruptly. You watch him for a moment as he moves to turn away but then stalls, acting as if he has something to say. Finally, he speaks. “You shouldn’t be out of bed.” Oswin declares and then turns, hurrying to the door, nearly clipping you as he passes. “And get your clothes on.” He barks, crossing the threshold and stomping away from your room. You blink. //What just happened?// A heavy sigh escapes you. So much for thinking Oswin was finished with whatever phase he’d begun when he came of age. Though, how did he come to your aid and your fathers didn’t? He didn’t call for them and enough time has passed that you’re certain they must not be home. So is Oswin lingering about though you are recovering? It takes you a couple moments to stand. Trying not to think of the bizarre mark on your abdomen, you finish cleaning up, dawning fresh clothes before returning to bed. [[Just a couple days later, you have company.]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> At your action, realization colors Oswin’s face a deep red as his eyes reflexively dip down to see that you are uncovered. He struggles to regain composure, looking away in an exaggerated fashion as he stammers to express his shock. Your grin turns a bit wicked at his response, especially at the noticeable hitch in Oswin’s breathing. “It doesn’t bother me if you look, Oswin. Consider it my thanks for rushing to help me, if you want to.” Briefly his eyes travel back, glancing over you once again. It’s quick, but you can’t help but be a little pleased for it. His face colors even darker and he rushes to stand, keeping his head turned away from you, despite your clear invitation. “Relax, I truly mean that I don’t mind. I may even quite like it,” you say to lessen the tension as you try to coax Oswin into flirting back. “A bit different now that we’re older now, eh?” Oswin meets your eyes again and his brow is deeply furrowed. He looks confused. He breaks his gaze from yours to aim his eyes anywhere but at your face once again. His mouth twists into a grimace and then he stands abruptly. You watch him for a moment as he moves to turn away but then stalls, acting as if he has something to say. Finally, he speaks. “You shouldn’t be out of bed.” Oswin declares and then turns, hurrying to the door, nearly clipping you as he passes. “And get your clothes on.” He barks, crossing the threshold and stomping away from your room. You blink. //What just happened?// A heavy sigh escapes you. So much for thinking Oswin was finished with whatever phase he’d begun when he came of age. Though, how did he come to your aid and your fathers didn’t? He didn’t call for them and enough time has passed that you’re certain they must not be home. So is Oswin lingering about though you are recovering? It takes you a couple moments to stand. Trying not to think of the bizarre mark on your abdomen, you finish cleaning up, dawning fresh clothes before returning to bed. [[Just a couple days later, you have company.]]

Though you are still feeling weak, you are fairing much better when your da introduces you to a so-called ‘old acquaintance’ of his, Ansar. With the exception of sharp blue eyes that are unnaturally bright, the mage appears harmless as he sits across from you on the divan in the den. He exudes wealth in his fine colorful clothing and jewelry, with soft features and pale-ginger hair that disarm the shrewdness of his eyes. Da has pulled up a seat to join the discussion his broken leg wrapped and a wooden splint keeping it steady, but Papa lingers silently by the window, sharpened axe at his side. Da has just explained your accounts of the illness, shared the information that Kavi and your parents have written about each bout and how the creeping sprout seemed to reduce its onslaught. All leading up to your most recent attack and the mysterious mark that burned itself into your flesh. Though several days have passed, the mark remains. You had thought and hoped that it may diminish as you recovered, but it remains an ever-present reminder of the ordeal. Every time you see it, it reminds you that it has control. Ansar listens very patiently, asking the occasional question for clarification as he slowly sips tea, throwing you a curious glance here and there. Other than a greeting, he has not said anything directly to you. When he first arrived, Da asked that you stay in your bedroom while they spoke. You tried to listen and you did pick up your da’s raised voice at times, but you could not make much of the conversation out. Papa seems reluctant to speak at all and has watched Ansar as if the man is posturing to bite. Once Da concludes the story, he takes a deep breath and looks at you with tired eyes. Deep and dark circles under them are impossible to miss. Both your parents have lost sleep fretting over you and caring for you. On more than one occasion you have overheard one or both of them quietly sobbing. You knew you were loved, but it wasn’t until this last relapse that you truly began to feel just how much. If anything, you need to get better for their sake. You are not aware of what risk, if any, this mage poses to your da, though you cannot forget the conversation he had with Papa about it. You do not know much about Da’s family, but you’ve at least pieced together that this man knew them. Ansar appears to be about the same age as your father, so you wonder if they could have been friends in childhood. Once Ansar hears the details, he pauses, only staring at you as he sips tea. He purses his lips and then sets his cup down. “First off,” he begins, “I am still shocked that //you//, of all Mahdeh, even have a spawn at all, Al-” “Kip,” your da interrupts. Ansar huffs. “//Kip//.” Da smiles. “What can I say, maybe I’ve finally grown up.” You look between them. What was Ansar about to call your da? Perhaps his birth name? Da has never told it to you before and if Ansar knows it, they must have been friends in childhood. So, how would Da know that this mage could help you if they only knew each other so young? The mage pushes his long sleeves to the crook of his elbow, his many bracelets jingling as he leans towards you. “I will need to take a look at this mark if I am to see if I can provide help.” He holds a hand up towards your da. “The sketch you provided was very droll, but the nature of this is clearly magical, and I will need to see the source.” His icy eyes glare at you. “I understand this may provide some discomfort given the location. I assure you that it will not take long, but I may need to touch the area or at least hover my hand close to it to feel any magic that is lingering about. I myself do not like to be touched, so I do understand this imposition.” [[You agree to Ansar both looking and touching the mark freely.]] [[You agree to a bare-minimum examination and no touching.]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> Your sudden motion causes Oswin to glance down out of reflex. You see as the realization dawns on him and his face flushes red as he quickly turns away. You suppose he was so quick to your side that he did not notice the lack of clothing. Even though our towel is secured around you now, both of you linger in awkward silence, unmoving and red-faced. Oswin’s expression, from what you can see of it, keeps morphing. His eyes begin to shift to yours but then dart away just as fast. You clutch the towel and cast your eyes to the floor. “It’s...it’s okay,” you say in a small voice, trying to lessen the awkward tension so you can both move on from the moment. Oswin meets your eyes finally and his brow is furrowed. He looks conflicted. He breaks his gaze from yours to aim his eyes anywhere but at your face. His mouth twists into a grimace and then he stands abruptly. You watch him for a moment as he moves to turn away but then stalls, acting as if he has something to say. Finally, he speaks. “You shouldn’t be out of bed.” Oswin declares and then turns, hurrying to the door, nearly clipping you as he passes. “And get your clothes on.” He barks, crossing the threshold and stomping away from your room. You blink. //What just happened?// A heavy sigh escapes you. So much for thinking Oswin was finished with whatever phase he’d begun when he came of age. Though, how did he come to your aid and your fathers didn’t? He didn’t call for them and enough time has passed that you’re certain they must not be home. So is Oswin lingering about though you are recovering? It takes you a couple moments to steady your legs. Trying not to think of the bizarre mark on your abdomen, you finish cleaning up, dawning fresh clothes before returning to bed. [[Just a couple days later, you have company.]]

You nod. “You can see it and touch it if you need to.” Papa cuts in with a stern warning, "Nothin' funny." He taps his axe against the floor. Ansar smiles, though it seems like an action done out of strained platitude rather than genuineness. He gestures at you to lift you clothing and your parents turn away to give you a small element of privacy out of respect. Though, you can easily keep your chest covered if you want to, it still may be a bit awkward. You gather your clothing as much as you are comfortable, and allow Ansar to study the mark. He gets a bit close, and his eyes almost appears sharper, nearly glowing. He tilts his head one way and then the other as he studies, mumbling something to himself, though you catch the word ‘beautiful’ more than once in regard to the mark. “I will touch you now,” he warns, bringing his hand towards you and hovering for a moment to give you the chance to refuse. When you make no move against him, he places cold fingers to the skin that bears the mark and instantly recoils. He freezes for a moment as he meets your eyes before he touches again, tracing the black lines of the $mark. The mage breathes deeply and his furrowed brow mars his smooth skin and he shakes his head. You cannot tell if it is disbelief or understanding that is making his reactions. He continues to mumble as he touches. Finally he pulls away and stares at you. “Once more, and this may tingle.” He smirks and flicks his wrist, his whole hand alighting in a blue glow. Magic. Pure magic. You have never seen it in its raw form before. Most mages you’ve ever happened upon were only capable of small parlor tricks. Ansar can command the essence right into his palm. He hovers it right over the mark and the colors dance and change, flickering from blue to green to black and then white as it seems to react to whatever is within the mark. You noticed a steady tingle from Ansar’s hand, but also the heat from your abdomen seems to flicker in response. The mage leans back and the light form his palm fizzles out. You draw your clothing back together and your fathers turn around to face you, looking anxious. “Well?” Your da asks, hope and worry battling in his eyes. Ansar takes a deep breath. “You were right to call for me.” [[You lean forward, eager to hear what the mage has to say.]]

“As long as you do not touch me.” Papa cuts in with a stern warning, "Nothin' funny." He taps his axe against the floor. Ansar smiles, though it seems like an action done out of strained platitude rather than genuineness. He gestures at you to lift you clothing and your parents turn away to give you a small element of privacy out of respect. Though, you can easily keep your chest covered if you want to, it still may be a bit awkward. You gather your clothing as much as you are comfortable and allow Ansar to study the mark. He gets a bit close and his eyes almost appear sharper, nearly glowing. He tilts his head one way and then the other as he studies, mumbling something to himself, though you catch the word ‘beautiful’ more than once in regard to the mark. “I will hover my hand above the mark now,” he warns, bringing his hand towards you keeping it back for a moment to give you the chance to refuse. When you make no move against him, he places his hand above the skin that bears the mark and, after a moment of concentration, recoils. He freezes for a moment as he meets your eyes before he reaches for the mark again, hovering along the black lines of the $mark. The mage breathes deeply and his furrowed brow mars his smooth skin as he shakes his head. You cannot tell if it is disbelief or understanding that is making his reactions. He continues to mumble as he focuses. Finally he pulls away and stares at you. “Once more, and this may tingle, though my hand will not touch you.” He smirks and flicks his wrist, his whole hand alighting in a blue glow. Magic. Pure magic. You have never seen it in its raw form before. Most mages you’ve ever happened upon were only capable of small parlor tricks. Ansar can command the essence right into his palm. He hovers it right over the mark and the colors dance and change, flickering from blue to green to black and then white as it seems to react to whatever is within the mark. You notice a steady tingle from Ansar’s magic, but also the heat from your abdomen seems to flicker in response. The mage leans back and the light form his palm fizzles out. You draw your clothing back together and your fathers turn around to face you, looking anxious. “Well?” Your da asks, hope and worry battling in his eyes. Ansar takes a deep breath. “You were right to call for me.” [[You lean forward, eager to hear what the mage has to say.]]

“Your child is cursed.” You blink. You wait. Ansar says nothing else, though you catch a little bit of pity in his eyes. Papa approaches and his expression of shock matches Da's. You stare at the mage. “What do you mean //cursed//?” Da backs you up. “That isn’t possible. There are no spirits around anymore, there is nothing to lay a curse, there hasn’t been for centuries.” Ansar shakes his head. “It wasn’t a spirit that laid this curse.” Papa bellows, “Speak, mage! That’s enough drama from you!” The mage rolls his eyes, but does as commanded. “You are correct, to an extent, //Kip//. Spirits still linger in Iroda, but they are uncommon and there are few strong enough to fund the magic needed for such a curse. Your $sondtrchild’s affliction was not created by a spirit, demon, or even a human mage.” “Then who...or what?” you plead. “You’ve been cursed by a god.” Ansar smirks. He actually //smirks// as he relays the information. Da rises from his chair so fast that it tips and falls, despite the broken leg he is no less spry, though he'd ought not move around. “That is not possible, Ansar. Stop fucking around! You owe me, and I know that you understand what is happening here!” Ansar rises from his seat, though he is much more petite than Da, he shows no fear even if he keeps a leery eye on Papa who has raised his axe. “Make no mistake, //Kip//, I see that my dues are paid. I tell you no lies. The mark your child bears is the burden placed by a god. I would know this magic anywhere.” Da shakes his head. “The gods left 900 years ago!” The mage throws his hands up. “You idiot! You know not from where this child came. The mother was dead, the father a mystery. The curse is likely placed on the family, not $mc specifically. <<if $mc is 'Noodles'>>Besides, any person who willfully calls themselves after pasta practically deserves to be cursed. Perhaps a god with foresight laid the curse for such a reason.<</if>>” Papa lowers the axe. “Would a god actually...they’d curse an entire family?” Ansar nods as all three men seem to gradually cool off and relax. “You are a bit ignorant of your history if you believe for a moment they were all benevolent. There was a reason behind the God Wars. Now, I cannot attest to knowing the exact nature, but I can say for certain that it is a curse of divine origin. Those that I have read about, could be passed from generation to generation – others may only affect a certain gender or particular descendant. Only the god would know the specific rules of it.” You are stunned to silence and can only watch as Ansar continues his lecture. Your parents are similarly mute. Ansar looks at you. “Truths are difficult, young $manwoperson, but in all likelihood, it’s a strong possibility that one or both of your birth parents knew you were cursed, and that is why no one claimed you. If it is generational, there are many factors that could have been at play, the curse may have killed your parents.” Da shakes his head. “How do we fix this? Curses can be broken, at least I know that much.” Papa rights Da’s chair and eases him back into it, looking close to tears. Ansar sighs. “I am sorry. I do not have easy solutions to this. You will need to act, I can tell you this much for certain. There is death lingering within the power of that mark. It is a power that is growing...if it appeared on the anniversary of your birth, it is likely the harbinger of the end. I would, optimistically, guess that you had a year left. Gods that laid curses were often poetic like that.” Da buries his face in his hands and sobs. Papa kneels next to you and takes your hands in his own. He’s shaking. [[You remain quietly in thought. You’d rather talk to your parents once Ansar is gone.][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[Having been quiet long enough, you urge Ansar to continue the conversation.][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You gently try to soothe your parents.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You rally your fathers.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You buckle down your feelings.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You attempt a bit of levity.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]]

You sit in deep thought for a long time. Everyone has gone quiet. Ansar has returned to sipping his tea and even he appears to be considering something. You hadn’t known to what to expect out of this conversation, but it certainly wasn’t that you were cursed and by a god of all things. //Cursed.// You dwell in your thoughts, recounting all the times you were ill and in pain. Cursed does feel appropriate, you suppose. The only thing you know about curses is what you hear in tall tales shared around dinner or evenings at the tavern. Your parents have told you plenty, but nothing you’ve heard quite matches up to your own experience. Papa continues to hold your hand and appears to be deep in thought as well. He seems to realize that you’re watching him and he forces a very small grin before bringing a big hand to the side of your face in a warm caress. “Curses can be broken,” he utters. Ansar nods. “Yes, but it may be quite the feat.” Papa sighs. “How might we go about it?” The mage thinks for a moment. “I can see a few ways you can start. The curses I have read about would sometimes have obscure conditions, an indication that the god was playing a game. One that stands out to me was a tale of a woman who refused a god’s marriage proposal. To get back at her, the god made her infertile except for one day a year and even then, if she wanted children, she would only conceive at the peek of the highest mountain in the North. To break the curse, which she did, she had to conceive. I like that particular story, not only did she break the curse, but she wed someone she dearly loved and they had a big family together.” Ansar smiles, appearing wistful. You find it odd that someone who seems to take a bit of joy in the suffering of others would feel sentimental about such a tale. “So, what about my curse?” You ask, “Do you have any guesses on the condition?” “Nothing that specific. I can only sense that death is awaiting you to fulfill the curse. If the punishment is death, and I am correct that the curse has passed down from your bloodline, it is likely that you have an ancestor that greatly offended a god. Depending on where you hail from, there may even be a deity in your family tree. <<if $eyecolor is "purple">>Your eye color is a strong indicator that a god or a demigod is in your family line. The only documented source for such a color came from gods who were most attuned to magic. <</if>><<if $eyecolor is "blue">>Your eye color might be an indicator that a mage, god or demigod is in your family line. Though blue was found in human lines, it still has a strong association with magic. There is even a god far back in my own ancestry. <</if>>If that is the case, and since curses that result in death are usually placed due to a death, your ancestor may have killed a god – or someone important to a god if they were not deific.” Da interjects, “So since the consequence to the curse is...um, severe; does that mean the terms to break it will also be...” “Possibly, though it could be as simple as, say, an apology. It depends on the god, which is why it is very important to try to discover which one is responsible.” Da leans forward. “You must have more insight, Ansar. We have to at least try.” The mage finishes off the last of his tea and then leans back on the divan, spreading his arms along the backrest as he gets comfortable. “The parameters for such may be unknowable, but you may be able to find someone who can provide more insight.” Papa settles, turning to face Ansar and looking at him with more respect that he had before. “Please, tell us all yer thougths.” Ansar grins. “I do quite like lectures, so I will oblige.” Da rolls his eyes. “You haven’t changed at all.” [[Ansar rises from his seat and begins to pace as he speaks.]]

“Tell me, what sort of conditions could the curse have?” You ask. The mage thinks for a moment. “It could be a number of things. The ones I have read about would sometimes have obscure conditions, an indication that the god was playing a game. One that stands out to me was a tale of a woman who refused a god’s marriage proposal. To get back at her, the god made her infertile except for one day a year and even then, if she wanted children, she would only conceive at the peek of the highest mountain in the North. To break the curse, which she did, she had to conceive. I like that particular story, not only did she break the curse, but she wed someone she dearly loved and they had a big family together.” Ansar smiles, appearing wistful. You find it odd that someone who seems to take a bit of joy in the suffering of others would feel sentimental about such a tale. “So, what about my curse? Do you have any guesses on the condition?” “Nothing that specific. I can only sense that death is awaiting you to fulfill the curse. If the punishment is death, and I am correct that the curse has passed down from your bloodline, it is likely that you have an ancestor that greatly offended a god. Depending on where you hail from, there may even be a deity in your ancestors. <<if $eyecolor is "purple">>Your eye color is a strong indicator that a god or a demigod is in your family line. The only documented source for such a color came from gods who were most attuned to magic. <</if>><<if $eyecolor is "blue">>Your eye color might be an indicator that a mage, god or demigod is in your family line. Though blue was found in human lines, it still has a strong association with magic. There is even a god far back in my own ancestry. <</if>> If that is the case, and since curses that result in death are usually placed due to a death, your ancestor may have killed a god – or someone important to a god if they were not deific.” “So since the punishment is severe, the conditions to break it will be...difficult.” “Possibly, though it could be as simple as, say, an apology. It depends on the god, which is why it is very important to try to discover which one is responsible.” You sit and mull over what you’ve learned. Ansar returns to sipping his tea and even appears to be considering something. You hadn’t known what to expect out of this conversation, but it certainly wasn’t that you were cursed and by a god of all things. //Cursed.// You dwell in your thoughts, recounting all the times you were ill and in pain. Cursed does feel appropriate, you suppose. The only thing you know about curses is what you hear in tall tales shared around dinner or evenings at the tavern. Your parents have told you plenty, but nothing you’ve heard quite matches up to your own experience. Papa continues to hold your hand and appears to be deep in thought. He seems to realize that you’re watching him and he forces a very small grin before bringing a big hand to the side of your face in a warm caress. “This curse can be broken,” he utters. Ansar nods. “Yes, but it may be quite the feat.” Da leans forward. “You must have some more insight, Ansar. We have to at least try.” The mage finishes off the last of his tea and then leans back on the divan, spreading his arms along the backrest as he gets comfortable. “The parameters for such may be unknowable, but you may be able to find someone who can provide more insight.” Papa settles, turning to face Ansar and looking at him with more respect that he had before. “Please, tell us all yer thoughts.” Ansar grins. “I do quite like lectures, so I will oblige.” Da rolls his eyes. “You haven’t changed at all.” [[Ansar rises from his seat and begins to pace as he speaks.]]

“Papa...Da…” You begin. They lift their gazes to you and you can see conflicting emotions in their faces. You squeeze Papa’s hands as you continue. “We can work through this, we know more than we did and we’ve made it this far already. We just need to take a breath and think through this, right? That’s what you’ve always told me. You’ve helped me survive this long.” Da smiles and Papa ruffles pats your head, making you feel like a tiny child once again. “I know yer right,” Papa says. “I suppose now isn’t a good time to stew.” Da rubs the back of his neck. “We should get to work instead...Ansar, can you offer us more insight?” The mage thinks for a moment. “Hm, well if you’re ready to take this on, you’ll need to figure out the terms of the curse. The ones I have read about would sometimes have obscure conditions, an indication that the god was playing a game. One that stands out to me was a tale of a woman who refused a god’s marriage proposal. To get back at her, the god made her infertile except for one day a year and even then, if she wanted children, she would only conceive at the peek of the highest mountain in the North. To break the curse, which she did, she had to conceive. I like that particular story, not only did she break the curse, but she wed someone she dearly loved and they had a big family together.” Ansar smiles, appearing wistful. You find it odd that someone who seems to take a bit of joy in the suffering of others would feel sentimental about such a tale. You add to Da’s line of questioning. “So, what about my curse? Do you have any guesses on the condition?” “Nothing that specific. I can only sense that death is awaiting you to fulfill the curse. If the punishment is death, and I am correct that the curse has passed down from your bloodline, it is likely that you have an ancestor that greatly offended a god. Depending on where you hail from, there may even be a deity in your family tree.<<if $eyecolor is "purple">> Your eye color is a strong indicator that a god or a demigod is in your family line. The only documented source for such a color came from gods who were most attuned to magic. <</if>><<if $eyecolor is "blue">>Your eye color might be an indicator that a mage, god or demigod is in your family line. Though blue was found in human lines, it still has a strong association with magic. There is even a god far back in my own ancestry. <</if>> If that is the case, and since curses that result in death are usually placed due to a death, your ancestor may have killed a god – or someone important to a god if they were not deific.” Papa continues, “Since the punishment’s severe, breakin’ it will be...difficult.” “Possibly, though it could be as simple as, say, an apology. It depends on the god, which is why it is very important to try to discover which one is responsible.” You sit and mull over what you’ve learned. Ansar returns to sipping his tea and even appears to be considering something. You hadn’t known what to expect out of this conversation, but it certainly wasn’t that you were cursed and by a god of all things. //Cursed.// You dwell in your thoughts, recounting all the times you were ill and in pain. Cursed does feel appropriate, you suppose. The only thing you know about curses is what you hear in tall tales shared around dinner or evenings at the tavern. Your parents have told you plenty, but nothing you’ve heard quite matches up to your own experience. Papa continues to hold your hand and appears to be deep in thought. He seems to realize that you’re watching him and he forces a very small grin before bringing a big hand to the side of your face in a warm caress. “This curse can be broken,” he utters. Ansar nods. “Yes, but it may be quite the feat.” Da leans forward. “You must have some more insight, Ansar, anything else you can think of.” The mage finishes off the last of his tea and then leans back on the divan, spreading his arms along the backrest as he gets comfortable. “The parameters for this curse may be unknowable, but you may be able to find someone who can provide more insight.” Papa settles, turning to face Ansar and looking at him with more respect that he had before. “Please, tell us all yer thoughts.” Ansar grins. “I do quite like lectures, so I will oblige.” Da rolls his eyes. “You haven’t changed at all.” [[Ansar rises from his seat and begins to pace as he speaks.]]

You stand, gathering the attention of your fathers and the mage. “Papa, Da – we’ll solve this. Don’t give yourself over to grief just yet. This means I still have a chance. I’m not dead yet and I’ll fight this until I’ve won.” You smile pride in their eyes as their smiles you know so well return. You sit back down and Papa grabs your hands again and gives them a gentle squeeze. You continue. “Let’s hear anything else Ansar has to say and then we’ll make a plan.” Da smiles and Papa pats your head, making you feel like a tiny child once again. “I know yer right,” Papa says. “I suppose now isn’t a good time to stew.” Da rubs the back of his neck. “We should get to work instead...Ansar, can you offer us more insight?” The mage thinks for a moment. “Hm, well if you’re ready to take this on, you’ll need to figure out the terms of the curse. The ones I have read about would sometimes have obscure conditions, an indication that the god was playing a game. One that stands out to me was a tale of a woman who refused a god’s marriage proposal. To get back at her, the god made her infertile except for one day a year and even then, if she wanted children, she would only conceive at the peek of the highest mountain in the North. To break the curse, which she did, she had to conceive. I like that particular story, not only did she break the curse, but she wed someone she dearly loved and they had a big family together.” Ansar smiles, appearing wistful. You find it odd that someone who seems to take a bit of joy in the suffering of others would feel sentimental about such a tale. You add to Da’s line of questioning. “So, what about my curse? Do you have any guesses on the condition?” “Nothing that specific. I can only sense that death is awaiting you to fulfill the curse. If the punishment is death, and I am correct that the curse has passed down from your bloodline, it is likely that you have an ancestor that greatly offended a god. Depending on where you hail from, there may even be a deity in your family tree.<<if $eyecolor is "purple">> Your eye color is a strong indicator that a god or a demigod is in your family line. The only documented source for such a color came from gods who were most attuned to magic. <</if>><<if $eyecolor is "blue">> Your eye color might be an indicator that a mage, god or demigod is in your family line. Though blue was found in human lines, it still has a strong association with magic. There is even a god far back in my own ancestry. <</if>> If that is the case, and since curses that result in death are usually placed due to a death, your ancestor may have killed a god – or someone important to a god if they were not deific.” Papa continues, “Since the punishment’s severe, breakin’ it will be...difficult.” “Possibly, though it could be as simple as, say, an apology. It depends on the god, which is why it is very important to try to discover which one is responsible.” You sit and mull over what you’ve learned. Ansar returns to sipping his tea and even appears to be considering something. You hadn’t known what to expect out of this conversation, but it certainly wasn’t that you were cursed and by a god of all things. //Cursed.// You dwell in your thoughts, recounting all the times you were ill and in pain. Cursed does feel appropriate, you suppose. The only thing you know about curses is what you hear in tall tales shared around dinner or evenings at the tavern. Your parents have told you plenty, but nothing you’ve heard quite matches up to your own experience. Papa continues to hold your hand and appears to be deep in thought. He seems to realize that you’re watching him and he forces a very small grin before bringing a big hand to the side of your face in a warm caress. “This curse can be broken,” he utters. Ansar nods. “Yes, but it may be quite the feat.” Da leans forward. “You must have some more insight, Ansar, anything else you can think of.” The mage finishes off the last of his tea and then leans back on the divan, spreading his arms along the backrest as he gets comfortable. “The parameters for such a curse may be unknowable, but you may be able to find someone who can provide more insight.” Papa settles, turning to face Ansar and looking at him with more respect that he had before. “Please, tell us all yer thoughts.” Ansar grins. “I do quite like lectures, so I will oblige.” Da rolls his eyes. “You haven’t changed at all.” [[Ansar rises from his seat and begins to pace as he speaks.]]

Now isn’t the time to fall apart, now is the time to gather information and make a plan. If you give in now, the curse and the god who placed it wins. You’ve done nothing wrong and it’s time to get to work to reclaim your life. You sit in deep thought for a long time. Everyone has gone quiet. Ansar has returned to sipping his tea and even he appears to be considering something. You hadn’t known to what to expect out of this conversation, but it certainly wasn’t that you were cursed and by a god of all things. It doesn’t change your situation though, you still know more now than you did, which means you can fix this... //Cursed.// You dwell in your thoughts further, recounting all the times you were ill and in pain. Cursed does feel appropriate, you suppose. The only thing you know about curses is what you hear in tall tales shared around dinner or evenings at the tavern. Your parents have told you plenty, but nothing you’ve heard quite matches up to your own experience. Papa continues to hold your hand and appears to be deep in thought. He seems to realize that you’re watching him and he forces a very small grin before bringing a big hand to the side of your face in a warm caress. “Curses can be broken,” he utters. Ansar nods. “Yes, but it may be quite the feat.” Da leans forward. “You must have some insight, Ansar. We have to at least try.” The mage finishes off the last of his tea and then leans back on the divan, spreading his arms along the backrest as he gets comfortable. “The parameters for such may be unknowable, but you may be able to find someone who can provide more insight.” Papa settles, turning to face Ansar and looking at him with more respect that he had before. “Please, tell us all yer thougths.” Ansar grins. “I do quite like lectures, so I will oblige.” Da rolls his eyes. “You haven’t changed at all.” [[Ansar rises from his seat and begins to pace as he speaks.]]

“Come, come now; I’m not dead yet, dear fathers. You can’t get rid of me that easy.” You chuckle. They lift their gazes to you and you can see conflicting emotions in their faces, though Da is fighting a smirk. You squeeze Papa’s hands as you continue. “You’ve kept me alive this long. This isn’t as bleak as you might think. We’ll figure this out and then I’ll be around to tease Da about his graying hair.” Da finally laughs, and Papa ruffles pats your head, making you feel like a tiny child once again. “I know yer right,” Papa says. “I suppose now isn’t a good time to stew, but I’ll have you know I am decades away from gray hair. We should get to work instead...Ansar, can you offer us more insight?” The mage thinks for a moment. “Hm, well if you’re ready to take this on, you’ll need to figure out the terms of the curse. The ones I have read about would sometimes have obscure conditions, an indication that the god was playing a game. One that stands out to me was a tale of a woman who refused a god’s marriage proposal. To get back at her, the god made her infertile except for one day a year and even then, if she wanted children, she would only conceive at the peek of the highest mountain in the North. To break the curse, which she did, she had to conceive. I like that particular story, not only did she break the curse, but she wed someone she dearly loved and they had a big family together.” Ansar smiles, appearing wistful. You find it odd that someone who seems to take a bit of joy in the suffering of others would feel sentimental about such a tale. You add to Da’s line of questioning. “So, what about my curse? Do you have any guesses on the condition?” “Nothing that specific. I can only sense that death is awaiting you to fulfill the curse. If the punishment is death, and I am correct that the curse has passed down from your bloodline, it is likely that you have an ancestor that greatly offended a god. Depending on where you hail from, there may even be a deity in your family tree. <<if $eyecolor is "purple">>Your eye color is a strong indicator that a god or a demigod is in your family line. The only documented source for such a color came from gods who were most attuned to magic. <</if>><<if $eyecolor is "blue">>Your eye color might be an indicator that a mage, god or demigod is in your family line. Though blue was found in human lines, it still has a strong association with magic. There is even a god far back in my own ancestry. <</if>> If that is the case, and since curses that result in death are usually placed due to a death, your ancestor may have killed a god or someone important to a god if they were not deific.” Papa continues, “Since the punishment’s severe, breakin’ it will be...difficult.” “Possibly, though it could be as simple as, say, an apology. It depends on the god, which is why it is very important to try to discover which one is responsible.” You sit and mull over what you’ve learned. Ansar returns to sipping his tea and even appears to be considering something. You hadn’t known what to expect out of this conversation, but it certainly wasn’t that you were cursed and by a god of all things. //Cursed.// You dwell in your thoughts, recounting all the times you were ill and in pain. Cursed does feel appropriate, you suppose. The only thing you know about curses is what you hear in tall tales shared around dinner or evenings at the tavern. Your parents have told you plenty, but nothing you’ve heard quite matches up to your own experience. Papa continues to hold your hand and appears to be deep in thought. He seems to realize that you’re watching him and he forces a very small grin before bringing a big hand to the side of your face in a warm caress. “This curse can be broken,” he utters. Ansar nods. “Yes, but it may be quite the feat.” Da leans forward. “You must have some more insight, Ansar, anything else you can think of.” The mage finishes off the last of his tea and then leans back on the divan, spreading his arms along the backrest as he gets comfortable. “The parameters for such a curse may be unknowable, but you may be able to find someone who can provide more insight.” Papa settles, turning to face Ansar and looking at him with more respect that he had before. “Please, tell us all yer thoughts.” Ansar grins. “I do quite like lectures, so I will oblige.” Da rolls his eyes. “You haven’t changed at all.” [[Ansar rises from his seat and begins to pace as he speaks.]]

“Now, I cannot attest to anything more than conjecture and educated guesswork. I’ve studied magic and religion since I was a child, and I may be able to provide some guidance. You must understand that what I tell you is just that – guidance and guesswork. There is nothing certain about your situation.” Ansar turns to face Da. “But with this, my debt to you is paid in full.” “Agreed.” Da gives an affirmative nod. You wonder if your da will tell you how such a man fell into his debt in the first place. Ansar continues. “So, we know that the mark has deific origins. It is clear to me that the form the mark has taken will be significant to you. I presume it will be the sigil of the god whom placed the original curse; however, it is not one I recognize, and many of the gods – especially the ones that would engage in curse-laying – died in the war.” You interject, “If the god is dead, wouldn’t the curse be broken?” “That depends on the rules of the curse. If the god was powerful enough, as I suspect they were, the magic may have a contingency within it to continue despite the god’s death – though that would mean it is breakable without requiring the god themselves. Once you satisfy the condition of the curse, the magic will simply abate.” Ansar takes out the sketch your da made of your mark and unrolls it. “Gods were terribly poetic in their dealings and often liked to ‘sign’ their work as it were. We can start by studying our main clue. <<if $mark is 'tree'>>Now, the tree emblem is curious. Most gods did not have such obvious sigils, but what we can glean from this is that the deity likely used trees or forests as a catalyst for their power. The tree may also symbolize something else more abstract as they can also be associated with life, growth, spring, and so on.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>The sun is an interesting choice, but you’ll note that it is not just a sun here. The emblem for Hayat was similar in that it appeared to be a rising sun and was the inverse of his sister’s. Given the similarity, the god in question could be an unknown descendant of Hayat. Whereas Hayat’s catalyst was life itself, this may be simply light or other celestial bodies, perhaps dawn itself. <<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>This mark, the storm as you call it, is odd to me. That I know of, there was not a god of storms. There was one for lightning, wind, and rain though. But again, the knowledge I have had access to is incomplete. You may be looking for a god that was stricken from written history, at least the one that I have access to. Gods like that often kept cults rather than large churches. The benefit in that is their records were often more accurate.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>The foliage on your mark is clear, but the biggest mystery may be the symbol they’re wrapped around. I do not know if it is significant or not. They could be related to Dragomir, though her domain was earth itself and not necessarily plant life. The accounts written of her would strongly support that she would not lay a curse. Though, the plants may be symbolic and you’ll note there are clear thorns amount the vines in the pattern. It could indicate a god of plant-life or even specifically brambles.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>I believe your assessment of the mark being the essence of night is correct as the magic within has made a connection to you; however, I do not know of any god who adopted it as their catalyst. There was a god of darkness and even several gods for stars, but not of night. Shyama was the deity of darkness, and their benevolence is well-documented. Though, they are also one of the gods that did not return to the Isle after the war.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>You interpretation of the mark representing a mountain is curious to me, but I do see how you came to such a conclusion, and the magic within it will have a deep connection that may foster your understanding. The closest god to mountains would have to be Dragomir, but her catalyst was earth itself. There are stories about the god of a particular mountain in the North, but I believe they are just stories, though I also agree all tales will have an element of truth.<</if>>” You shake your head. “So how does this help? It sounds like no matter what we won’t be able to identify which god it is by the mark alone.” “That is partially true, but you can glean characteristics of their catalyst through it. Not every god had a known emblem that they used. The ones we still know today are from the main pantheon. Given that your mark is unknown to me, it seems more likely that the curse is from one of the more minor gods, perhaps a child from the second generation of the pantheon. They were often less known and worshiped and many were mischievous.” Da huffs. “Even if we can understand this so-called ‘catalyst’ for the god, how do we actually break the curse with this information?” Ansar places his hands on his hips. “You’ll have to go looking for that information, I am merely guiding the direction of your search. Breaking the curse will require something on $mc’s end. Depending on when and why the curse was laid, it may be as simple as prostrating to the god or even a relative of that god. It may mean a blood sacrifice too.” He shrugs. “The best course of action is to find someone who can better recognize the mark or knows of gods that may be related to it. If you are very fortunate, you may do well to find a god who is powerful enough to break the curse for you.” You recall your reading from the books Nathanael gave you. “But the gods are not to interfere with human lives anymore. Why would a god break this curse for me? Can it even still be broken?” “Given that the curse was placed by a god tampering with human life, even if it occurred before the war, I believe it will be permissible for a god to interfere to ‘right’ the wrong created by the curse-layer. If you were able to appeal to Hayat himself, I feel certain that he would help and he’s the one who laid his own curse on the gods after the war. From my understanding of him, he would view your curse as one of the misdeeds that lead to his war.” “Wait,” Da says. “The god of //life// put a curse on other gods?” Papa answers, “It’s a curse to keep gods from meddlin’. Causes death.” Ansar grins. “Oh, so you are not completely ignorant. That is correct, Dov; Hayat cursed the gods in such a way that it eliminated the possibility for the creation of new gods, which indirectly caused the war, and to prevent ‘meddlin’’ as you call it.” You sigh. “So, I need to find a god? How am I supposed to do that, most of them returned to the Isle of the Gods and humans can’t access it.” [[Ansar turns his grin to you, and you’re not entirely sure that it’s a well-meaning smile.]]

“My opinion is that finding a god is the best course of action, and there are a few that still dwell on Iroda. Not too far from here is an old shrine to Valko at the foot of the Mahdeh Mountains near Codrin, and he is one of the gods that still lingers here, though he was known to prefer Norwood Province.” Da chimes in, “Who was Valko?” Ansar turns his predatory smile to your da, no doubt an intentional jab. “Why, the god of the hunt, //Kip//, shouldn’t you know that? Or, I guess I should say he is the last of the gods of the hunt. His six siblings whom shared the title, perished in the war. He is not known for kindness, but he was known as one of the strongest gods. Several accounts of the war attribute Hayat’s success to Casimir and Valko’s tenacity in battle.” You gulp. One of the stories you read was about how Valko achieved revenge for the death of his wife by ripping another god, Ola the deity for commerce, apart piece by piece. His temper was noted frequently in ‘The Folly of Gods,’ mentioned most often when the god, Dren, sought to irritate Valko. It’s quiet for a moment as your fathers stew about this information. Ansar appears to enjoy it before continuing with his lecture. “Now, if that does not help, you may simply be able to find solutions in the right church or cult.” “No,” Da interjects, “We tried multiple churches around Lale, none knew the nature of what was happening to $mc.” Ansar holds up a finger to rudely silence your father. “It stands to reason that they could not have detected that it was a curse. They presumed it was an illness and if no one detected magic before now, it would not have been possible to know. Religious groups still hoard a wealth of knowledge concerning gods that they will not easily part with if you are not members.” Ansar glowers and you are certain that he has had dealings with such a group before. “Regardless, you would do well to seek out a group or two. They will probably leap at the chance to study the mark. You may even find yourself worshiped a bit.” The mage chuckles. “And if that doesn’t work?” your papa asks. The mage finally sits and relaxes once more. He places a hand to his chin and tilts his head in thought. “I suppose you could find a witch or two, the more powerful the better. There is a coven close to the Fields of Desolation that captures and uses the demons there for gods know what. As far as I know, they keep to themselves and those with magical aptitude are welcome to join them. Every city generally has at least one or two mages or witches you could easily find.” “What’s the difference?” You ask. “Between a mage and a witch?” You nod. “Not much, depending on who you ask. Mages tend to prefer scholastic practices and most are under the employ of the Monarchy, witches practice all aspects of magic indiscriminately and are not loyal to any particular entity. They tend to group together as well. Should you find a cult to assist you, there will likely be a strong magic user among them that will identify as a witch.” Da clears his throat and addresses you. “The, uh, twins say they are witches actually.” Your jaw drops. Sage and Poppy have known you all your life and you were never aware they could even perform magic. You suppose though that some of their odd behaviors seem more understandable now if they've kept that detail private. “It’s not common knowledge, so keep it to yourself, Sprout. They helped me contact Ansar in secret using their abilities.” Ansar raises an eyebrow. “//Sprout//? How quaint, //Kip//.” He chuckles. Papa bristles. “Have ya said all you intend to, //mage//?” Ansar straightens his robes. “I suppose we have probably had enough of one another, yes.” Papa briskly walks back to his station by the window. His face bears a scowl that is not typical for him. At least Da appears more genial towards Ansar. “It is late, would you like to bed here-” “Not at all.” Ansar cuts in. “No insult to your home or //family//, but I want to be on my way back to Lale now.” “I understand.” “Al-...//Kip//, I don’t believe you do. It is not that I am not glad to see you...to see that you are okay after all these years, but you know where my loyalty lies. You did not just abandon your family when you left.” Da nods and he goes still. What is Ansar talking about? Your da told you that his family was all gone. “I am a bit shocked that //this// is what you’ve done with your life. You’ve always had such potential. Even if you were always quite...” He waves his hand in a circle as if trying to pull the right word from the air. "...wanton." You can’t help but grimace at that and if Da’s face is anything to go by, he feels the same. “Ansar, I am sorry for abandoning you, but you knew I was set in my decision. I did not realize that the chance was coming when it did, and I could not risk saying goodbye. I know all this must feel so ‘//quaint//’ to you, but this is the life I always wanted. I have a husband who loves me dearly and a kid. //Me// with a kid! $mc is the best thing that ever happened to us, and I would never give this life up for anything.” [[The mage goes quiet.]]

“I suppose I should be thankful that you’ve finally matured.” Ansar rolls his eyes. After that, the mage departs without much fanfare, exchanging a few private words with Da before slipping out the door. At least you have some answers, though now you have even more questions about your situation and about your da. For a while it seems as though none of you know what to say. It’s clear that your fathers are mulling over the situation. You take in everything in the quiet home you grew up in. Looking around, you recognize nearly every plank of wood, every hewn log that was used to make this house. Oak, some details in birch, walnut – it all made a shelter for you in the 24 years of your life. You’re only 24. You’re supposed to have many years left and you just learned that death is already sneaking up on you. Placing a hand to your stomach, feeling the warmth of the mark emanating. It feels oddly comforting, benign even. What’s next? Ansar estimated a year before the magic within the mark, this curse, kills you. What if it’s less than that? You watch your fathers a moment. Papa is sitting on the divan, holding Da’s hand. They whisper to each other and you can feel that they’re barely keeping their emotions in check. Your eyes scan every inch of your home. The home that was never intended to be yours. You’ve lived well, had parents that loved and cared for you, and you’ve never gone hungry. For being cursed, you’ve had it pretty good, better than many. You look up at the high ceiling, the stone fireplace that cooked countless meals for you and kept you warm. As a kid, you knocked your head against those gray stones a time or two and it’s a wonder you didn’t do any permanent damage to your skull. You smile as you spy a gouge low on the support beam that stands in the middle of the house, dividing the den from the other half of the house. You were, maybe seven years old, and had managed to nab Papa’s axe. You gave it a few swings and managed to drive it into the beam somehow before Papa caught you. He tried to be mad about it, but he just couldn’t. You were pretending to be like him after all. Your eyes move to the floor and the happy memories are interrupted. There’s a stain, one you’d easily miss if you did not know better, but it mars the dark hue of the floor just enough that you can’t //not// see it. Blood. Yours. During your episode, the convulsions were so violent that you vomited blood. You don’t remember any of that, but your parents definitely do. Since your awareness returned, they have been anxious. You are never alone for longer than a few minutes it seems and you discovered that they’ve stationed Oswin at the house should the need to be out for any length of time. [[You have to fix this.]]

Will you really need to go in search of a god? You shiver as you think about the possibility of meeting one, especially Valko. His reputation comprised a lot of...aggression, but as far as you know, most of it was directed towards other gods, and he seemed to favor human spouses, so perhaps he would be kind to you. He is the closest lead that you have, and you don’t have the luxury of being picky. Plus, the area is close to a city that may house a magic user or a religious group that could help. The journey to the shrine could take a week or so, assuming you could take a good horse and move without interruption. You peer at Da, looking over his splinted leg. He’s not fit to travel. You were told that Kavi had to re-set the break after your ordeal, even without that, it would not have been good for him to travel. You are unsure what transpired, but Da’s urgency to help you unset the bone so he likely tried to walk on it. You’re well-aware that if he does not take it easy to let it heal, it may never mend correctly, and he’ll end up crippled for the remainder of his life. Kavi is already worried about long-term problems from the second break. You can’t put that sort of pressure on Da, though you know he would want to be with you. And Papa needs to care for him, there’s no question in your mind there. You know they will both fight you on that. They’ll both insist that at least Papa should take you to the shrine and beyond if there are no answers there. You may be gone several weeks, the whole season even depending on what you can or can’t discover. The Twinflowers will be too busy to care for your da full time, they were already spread thin in their visits to you, which is common for Spring with the increase in children being born, seasonal illness, and injuries as the townspeople become more active. Not to mention, it will be impossible for the farm to manage without at least one able-bodied person with the time to tend it. The livestock need to be cared for, the garden will need planted soon and has already been delayed. Your family relies on these things to survive. There’s no going around it; you’ll need to go by yourself and hope that you do not fall to another episode along the way. [[There’s a knock on the door.]]

You motion to your papa to stay where he is and make your way to the door, unlatching and pulling it open to reveal the brooding figure of Oswin on the other side. When he notices you, he shifts uneasily. You usher him inside and close the door. He’s still wearing his leather armor, his green tunic peeking out from under it, and a sword strapped to his hip. He must have been patrolling. His short black hair is more disheveled than usual and his deep green eyes look tired. Oswin clears his throat. “So...how did...did you learn anything from the mage?” [[“If we did, why do you care?”]] [[“Why do you want to know?”]] [[“I’m not sure if I want to talk about it right now.”]] [[“Not much.”]] [[“That I need to act and fast.”]] $flirt_label [[“Awe, you worried you won’t get to see me naked again?”][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[“Are...are you worried for me?”][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]]

Oswin spins to face you, brow furrowed, making his eyes look fierce. You notice the beginnings of a dark beard where he’s usually clean shaven or, at most, there is only stubble. His mouth presses into a thin line and his eyes meet yours directly. Though you know he wouldn’t harm you, there’s an instinctual pull within you, like a warning that you are very much the prey in this situation. The intensity in his eyes withers and is replaced by something you can’t identify. <> <<if $mc is 'Ravi'>>“Who says I do care, Ravi?” Oswin’s voice quivers over your name as he tries and fails to sound stoic. You’ve been curious as to how he felt when you took his childhood pet-name for you as your own. He’s never mentioned it, not that you’ve had many opportunities to talk about it. Despite his attempt at acting prickly, the way he flounders over your name is telling. “Considering you can’t say my name with a straight face, no one even needs to say.” A self-satisfied smirk briefly shows on your lips. <<else>> “Who says I do care, Ravi?” Oswin quips, but he can’t hide the way his voice shakes over your name. You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little.” As children, Oswin always called you Ravi, claiming your given name was too long. Yet, he never addressed you like that to anyone else – he’d always use ‘Ravinder’ instead. It was only to your ears that he used the nickname, and always with playful affection.<</if>> <> Oswin appears to shirk back a little, his eyes going wide, seemingly in surprise of his own word choice. “I apologize,” he says, “I just...you-. Never mind, forget I asked.” He waves a hand at you before turning around in a huff and walking towards your fathers. [[It’s probably time for dinner anyway.]]

Oswin spins to face you, brow furrowed, making his eyes look fierce. You notice the beginnings of a dark beard where he’s usually clean shaven or, at most, there is only stubble. <> <<if $mc is 'Ravi'>> “Why do you think, Ravi…. //Ravi//?” As Oswin repeats your name, his voice shakes, though he tries to hide it. You’ve been curious as to how he felt when you took his childhood pet-name for you as your own. He’s never mentioned it, not that you’ve had many opportunities to talk about it. Despite his attempt at acting prickly, the way he flounders over your name is telling. “Maybe you should tell me.” There’s a tinge of defiance in your tone. <<else>> “Why do you think, Ravi...$mc,” he says, eyes darting away once he corrects your name. You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little.” As children, Oswin always called you Ravi, claiming your given name was too long. Yet, he never addressed you like that to anyone else – he’d always use ‘Ravinder’ instead. It was only to your ears that he used the nickname, and always with playful affection.<</if>> <> “I apologize. I just...it’s nothing. Never mind, forget I asked.” He waves a hand at you before turning around in a huff and walking towards your fathers. [[It’s probably time for dinner anyway.]]

Oswin spins to face you, brow furrowed, making his eyes look fierce. You finally notice the beginnings of a dark beard where he’s usually clean shaven. <<if $mc is 'Ravi'>> He starts to speak a couple times and then stops and just stares at you for a moment before clearing his throat. “//Ravi//.” His voice shakes over your name. You’ve been curious as to how he felt when you took his childhood pet-name for you as your own. He’s never mentioned it, not that you’ve had many opportunities to talk about it. Despite his attempt at acting prickly, the way he flounders over your name is telling. You take a deep breath. “Just don’t worry about it right now.” He nods. “I apologize,” he says solemnly before abruptly turning and walking away. <<else>> He starts to speak a couple times and then stops and just stares at you for a moment before clearing his throat. “I know it’s probably a raw subject. I’m sorry, Ravi-$mc….Forget I asked.” You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little.” As children, Oswin always called you Ravi, claiming your given name was too long. Yet, he never addressed you like that to anyone else – he’d always use ‘Ravinder’ instead. It was only to your ears that he used the nickname, and always with playful affection. “It was just a slip…” Oswin turns and begins to walk towards your fathers, putting an end to the subject.<</if>> [[It’s probably time for dinner anyway.]]

Oswin spins to face you, brow furrowed, making his eyes look fierce. You notice the beginnings of a dark beard where he’s usually clean shaven or, at most, there is only stubble. “That’s...worrisome,” he says. You simply shrug at him, making his face scrunch up even more as he watches you. <> <<if $mc is 'Ravi'>> He folds his arms. "//Ravi//...don't lie to me." The way Oswin's voice quivers over your name is almost alarming. You’ve been curious as to how he felt when you took his childhood pet-name for you as your own. He’s never mentioned it, not that you’ve had many opportunities to talk about it. Despite his attempt at acting prickly, the way he flounders over your name is telling. "Let's not talk about it right now." Oswin nods. "I apologize; I should have been more mindful of how you might be feeling." He turns sharply and stalks off toward your fathers. <<else>> He folds his arms. “You’re lying, Ravi...$mc.” You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little.” As children, Oswin always called you Ravi, claiming your given name was too long. Yet, he never addressed you like that to anyone else – he’d always use ‘Ravinder’ instead. It was only to your ears that he used the nickname, and always with playful affection. “It was just a slip…I’m sorry.” Oswin turns and begins to walk towards your fathers, putting an end to the subject. <</if>> <> [[It’s probably time for dinner anyway.]]

Oswin spins to face you, brow furrowed, making his eyes look fierce. You notice the beginnings of a dark beard where he’s usually clean shaven or, at most, there is only stubble. <> <<if $mc is 'Ravi'>> He steps closer, and now you can easily see how tired his eyes are. He holds your gaze for a long moment. "Is it bad, Ravi?" You stare back for a moment, more stunned at his intensity than anything. "//Ravi//," he repeats, voice wavering, your name bringing in a flood of memories. You’ve been curious as to how he felt when you took his childhood pet-name for you as your own. He’s never mentioned it, not that you’ve had many opportunities to talk about it. Despite his attempt at acting prickly, the way he flounders over your name is telling. "We should speak on it later." Oswin suddenly takes a step away from you, schooling his expression before grunting an agreement of sorts and briskly walking away. <<else>> He steps closer, and now you can easily see how tired his eyes are. “Is it bad, Ravi?” The confusion on his face is replaced with concern. So much so, that he doesn’t seem to realize he called you by the wrong name. You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little.” As children, Oswin always called you Ravi, claiming your given name was too long. Yet, he never addressed you like that to anyone else – he’d always use ‘Ravinder’ instead. It was only to your ears that he used the nickname, and always with playful affection. He steps back and stammers a moment. “I apologize, $mc, it...it slipped. I don’t…” “It’s fine.” You try to reassure him. “It was just a slip…” Oswin turns and begins to walk towards your fathers, putting an end to the subject. <</if>> <> [[It’s probably time for dinner anyway.]]

<<set $Oflirt to +3>> Oswin spins to face you, brow furrowed, making his eyes look fierce. You finally notice the beginnings of a dark beard where he’s usually clean shaven, and a touch of color coming to his cheeks and ears as he gawks at you. You hear one of your fathers cough sharply. Oswin spends a moment looking like he may combust into flames before he stumbles around a response. “Wha- No! I would...That was an acc- It wasn’t intentional!” His eyes nervously shift towards the den, which is obscured partially by the fireplace, but not so much that your parents would be unaware of your conversation. A wicked smile plays on your lips as Oswin squirms. No matter your thoughts on the previous encounter, this definitely makes it all the more worth it. <> <<if $mc is 'Ravi'>> “I was merely...concerned about you, Ravi,” he concludes, his face morphing through a myriad of emotions. "//Ravi//," he says your name again, and this time there's something vulnerable in his tone. You’ve been curious as to how he felt when you took his childhood pet-name for you as your own. He’s never mentioned it, not that you’ve had many opportunities to talk about it. Despite his attempt at acting prickly, the way he flounders over your name is telling. "Not exactly the tone I'd like to hear my name in from your lips, Oswin." You grin. He steps back away from you. “I apologize, $mc, I don’t know where that came from.” Oswin turns and begins to walk towards your fathers, who are not hiding their curiosity as they lean in with interest, and the subject is put to an end. <<else>> “I was merely...concerned about you, //Ravi//,” he concludes, though there's something vulnerable in his tone and in the way it craddles his old nickname for you. You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little, and I can't say as though that's the tone I'd like to hear from you when addressing me.” You smirk. He steps back away from you. “I apologize, $mc, I don’t know where that came from.” Oswin turns and begins to walk towards your fathers, who are not hiding their curiosity as they lean in with interest, and the subject is put to an end. <</if>> <> [[It’s probably time for dinner anyway.]]

<<set $Oflirt to +3>> Oswin spins to face you, brow furrowed, making his eyes look fierce. You notice the beginnings of a dark beard where he’s usually clean shaven or, at most, there is only stubble. He steps closer, and now you can easily see how tired his eyes are, but they’re also fraught with something more that you can’t quite place. “Of course...of course I’d be worried for you.” You watch him carefully and shift uneasily, unsure of what to do. Your face feels warm. <> <<if $mc is 'Ravi'>> He sighs. “I’ll always fret over you, //Ravi//.” Oswin's lips curl around your name with a sudden heaviness. It makes memories of your early years flood you. You’ve been curious as to how he felt when you took his childhood pet-name for you as your own. He’s never mentioned it, not that you’ve had many opportunities to talk about it. Despite his attempt at acting prickly, the way he flounders over your name is telling. You're left speechless as your heart hammers in your chest. You barely register that you've been silently staring into Oswin's eyes. He straightens suddenly, mumbling an apology of some sort before stalking off towards your fathers. You notice Da leaning far enough out of his chair to get a look at you that Papa has to steady him from falling out. <<else>> He sighs. “I’ll always fret over you, Ravi.” You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little.” As children, Oswin always called you Ravi, claiming your given name was too long. Yet, he never addressed you like that to anyone else – he’d always use ‘Ravinder’ instead. It was only to your ears that he used the nickname, and always with playful affection. He steps back and stammers a moment. “I apologize, $mc, it...it slipped. I don’t…” “It’s fine.” You try to reassure him. "There's good memories attached to it." “Sorry…” Oswin turns and begins to walk towards your fathers, putting an end to the subject. You notice Da leaning far enough out of his chair to get a look at you that Papa has to steady him from falling out. <</if>> <> [[It’s probably time for dinner anyway.]]

At the insistence of your fathers, Oswin joins you all for dinner. He is a bit awkward, as usual, but acts especially warm towards your da. They've had a connection in recent years akin to old friends. The longer you are all at the table together, the easier it is for conversation to flow. Oswin seems to relax, and you are able to forget the pressure of your curse for a little while. Stories from your childhood are shared. You see Oswin laugh, genuinely, for the first time in, possibly, years. Peeling back time to look at the years when you were small and didn’t have cares about much else than playing, leaves you with a sense of longing. The days when the worst things you’d dread were chores seem so long ago. You watch Oswin as he engages in a story your da is telling and probably exaggerating. His eyes light up like they did as a child, when he would joke with you, tug you along to the little clearing to pass the day, or tease you about something. Maybe that’s why <<if $mc is 'Ravi'>>he said your name with such heaviness earlier<<else>>he called you Ravi earlier<</if>>, something had sparked the memories of his youth. You are not sure what happened to Oswin Twinflower that caused him to turn away from the mirthful young boy he once was to the sometimes sour and always awkward mercenary he is today. The thought gives you pause. Will this change you? Will the curse alter you somehow, assuming you live long enough to find out? Da slaps the table as he laughs at whatever punchline he’s reached in his tale. Oswin rolls his eyes until they land on yours. You expect him to shift his gaze elsewhere, but he doesn’t. His green eyes, like those of cats, meet your $eyecolor gaze. And, he smiles, he actually smiles. It’s tired one, but it’s happy. No matter how you really feel about each other, it makes you feel that the connection between you may not be lost if it's something you still want to reach for. [[You want to rekindle your friendship.]] [[Perhaps it’s better to keep the distance.]] [[You’ll have to wait and see where this relationship goes.]] $flirt_label [[Your feelings are changing to more than just the desire for friendship…]] $flirt_label [[Your heart flutters. Maybe these feelings you’ve harbored for so long will have a chance to flourish after all...|ch2Ofeelings]]

<<set $Ostat to 'friend'>> You smile back, keeping his eyes locked with yours a moment, before rolling them with a gesture towards your da who is still laughing as Papa quietly takes his tankard of wine away. As Da settles, Papa clears the table with help from Oswin. You can feel the shift as their mood changes. They escaped the looming thoughts about your curse for a while, but it has inevitably returned. Oswin picks up on the shift and seems to straighten in his seat, glancing at you. He looks resistant to leave, but seems to be weighing what is proper for him do. You know that he is eager to hear what you learned about your mark. There’s a fleeting thought that maybe Oswin could help you on the next step of your journey. He is, technically, a mercenary. Though, he prefers ‘hired hand.’ When he isn’t working with the Stonebrook guard, he provides protection for travelers – usually merchants – along the road to Lale. Could you ask him to help you as well? Would he even want to? He has his own responsibilities and he’s already dedicated a lot of time in assisting your fathers while you’ve been recovering. Da’s voice cuts through your thoughts. “We should probably talk.” [[No matter your thoughts on Oswin, he’s part of the conversation now.]]

<<set $Ostat to 'distant'>> You give him a hard nod back, averting your eyes towards your da who is still laughing as Papa quietly takes his tankard of wine away. Oswin clears his throat and looks away. As Da settles, Papa clears the table with help from Oswin. You can feel the shift as their mood changes. They escaped the looming thoughts about your curse for a while, but it has inevitably returned. Oswin picks up on the shift and makes to stand, glancing at you for a queue to leave. He looks resistant, but seems to be weighing what is proper for him do. You know that he is eager to hear what you learned about your mark, but in the way he looks at you it seems he’s looking for approval. There’s a fleeting thought that maybe Oswin could assist you on the next step of your journey. He is, technically, a mercenary. Though, he prefers ‘hired hand.’ When he isn’t working with the Stonebrook guard, he provides protection for travelers – usually merchants – along the road to Lale. Could you hire him to help you as well? Would he even be agreeable to working with you? He has his own responsibilities and he’s already dedicated a lot of time in assisting your fathers while you’ve been recovering. Da’s voice cuts through your thoughts. “We should probably talk.” [[No matter your thoughts on Oswin, he’s part of the conversation now.]]

<<set $Ostat to 'neutral'>> You give him a respectful nod back, before rolling your eyes with a gesture towards your da who is still laughing as Papa quietly takes his tankard of wine away. As Da settles, Papa clears the table with help from Oswin. You can feel the shift as their mood changes. They escaped the looming thoughts about your curse for a while, but it has inevitably returned. Oswin picks up on the shift and makes to stand, glancing at you for a queue to leave. He looks resistant, but seems to be weighing what is proper for him do. You know that he is eager to hear what you learned about your mark, but in the way he looks at you it seems he’s looking for permission. There’s a fleeting thought that maybe Oswin could help you on the next step of your journey. He is, technically, a mercenary. Though, he prefers ‘hired hand.’ When he isn’t working with the Stonebrook guard, he provides protection for travelers – usually merchants – along the road to Lale. Could you hire him to help you as well? Would he even be agreeable to working with you? He has his own responsibilities and he’s already dedicated a lot of time in assisting your fathers while you’ve been recovering. Da’s voice cuts through your thoughts. “We should probably talk.” [[No matter your thoughts on Oswin, he’s part of the conversation now.]]

<<set $Ostat to 'crush'>> You smile back and your face fills with heat. You’re probably grinning more than you should, so after holding his gaze for a moment, you gesture towards your da who is still laughing as Papa quietly takes his tankard of wine away. Oswin and you both chuckle, and then his eyes fall back to yours. He looks like he wants to say something. As Da settles, Papa clears the table with help from Oswin. You can feel the shift as their mood changes. They escaped the looming thoughts about your curse for a while, but it has inevitably returned. Oswin picks up on the shift and seems to straighten in his seat, glancing at you. He looks resistant to leave, but seems to be weighing what is proper for him do. You know that he is eager to hear what you learned about your mark. There’s a fleeting thought that maybe Oswin could take you on the next step of your journey. He is, technically, a mercenary. Though, he prefers ‘hired hand.’ When he isn’t working with the Stonebrook guard, he provides protection for travelers – usually merchants – along the road to Lale. Could you ask him to help you as well? Would he even want to? He has his own responsibilities and he’s already dedicated a lot of time in assisting your fathers while you’ve been recovering, even if he merely lingers on the porch or in the den just in case you find yourself in distress. Da’s voice cuts through your thoughts. “We should probably talk.” [[No matter your thoughts on Oswin, he’s part of the conversation now.]]

Your fathers, after insisting that Oswin stay, do you the favor of explaining what you learned from Ansar. As soon as the word ‘curse’ pops into the conversation, your stomach sinks, and Oswin’s face flits through a myriad of emotions. He grips the table as if it is trying to get away from him, and becomes especially tense when the mention of Valko’s shrine enters the story. At the conclusion of Da’s summary, Papa places his hand on your shoulder. “The shrine is closest. Soon as Sprout is able, I’ll be takin’ $himher there. I’d like to hire you to look in on Kip.” “No.” The word slips from your lips before you can wrap your mind around it. Oswin shrinks in on himself for a moment before scowling at you. “I’m perfectly capable-” “No, not that,” you say as you turn to your fathers, “Papa, you need to stay with Da. It’s planting season and we’re already behind because of me.” Papa shakes his head. “Sprout...$mc, we’ll be okay.” Da reaches across the table to pat your hand. “I’ll be fine. Your pa can get some of the seeds sown before you set out and we’ll find someone to help with the livestock-” You shake your head. “No, I understand why you want to do this, but I’m not a child anymore. I’m not ignorant to what this costs you, what it has already cost you. And I’m well aware, Da, that you will not sit still and let your leg heal.” Da sighs. “We’ll survive; we always have. I have some gold tucked away, it will keep us fed until we can recover next year.” Papa shifts. “Kip...if we can’t break the curse at the shrine, Sprout may need the gold to keep searchin’.” “There’s enough,” Da insists, “we’ll get by. Dov, I //need// you to take our $sondtrchild and see this through. I do not care what it costs.” “''No'',” you reiterate, “listen-” “I’ll take $mc,” Oswin cuts in. You and your parents turn to look at him, seeming to have forgot that he was also sitting in on the discussion. He continues. “It makes more sense for me to take $mc to the shrine. I can keep $himher safe. If the shrine holds no answers, I’ll get $himher to the next stage until we can find a way to break the curse.” “...Oswin,” you utter in shock. [[You do not like this idea.]] [[This could work.]]

You know that it sounds logical, but you are not keen on the idea. Is it a matter of trust or of comfort? Would you rather try this on your own? Maybe you are tired of needing help, of everyone making accommodations and sacrifices for you. Why would Oswin offer? Doubt creeps in, you are not sure about doing this journey with him. <> <<if hasVisited("ch2Ofeelings")>>You can’t deny that the thought of being on the road with Oswin makes your heart flutter a bit. You've held on to these feelings for so long while the distance has been so great between you. But, because you care for him, you do not want to be his burden either.<</if>><<if hasVisited("You want to rekindle your friendship.")>>Perhaps this could be a way to rekindle the friendship you once had with Oswin, but you’re unsure. Do you really want to place him head-first into this mess?<</if>><<if hasVisited("Your feelings are changing to more than just the desire for friendship…")>>You can’t deny that the thought of being on the road with Oswin makes your heart flutter a bit, but there is a nagging feeling that you shouldn’t be dragging him down with you. Maybe it would make your relationship worse. You cast him an unsure smile and after a brief look of surprise, he returns it with great gentleness.<</if>> <> Papa is nodding, though. “This could work, Kip.” Your da watches you for a moment and you see his cheeks go a bit red as he turns to look at Papa. “Of the people I know, I’d trust Oswin the most with our Sprout...but the journey, optimistically, is maybe nine days, probably closer to twelve. I’m embarrassed to say that we’d not be able to afford Oswin’s fee without incurring a large debt. It’s a debt I’m willing to take on, but we’ll need to agree on a collateral-” “I don’t want payment,” Oswin says, folding his arms and leaning back in his chair. He almost looks offended. “Oswin,” your da starts, “that’s too-” “I will //not// accept payment from you, Northbreakers. Kip, you know damn well this is the least I could do for you after all you...you’ve always been there for me.” Surprise twists your face. You knew Oswin trained with your father a great deal, but what does he mean? Oswin looks at you. “$mc, I know that I’m not the same. I know we may not be friends anymore, but let me do this for you. It’s the best way to help you and to keep your household running at the same time. I know I can keep you safe.” You shake your head. “I don’t know; I still think it’s better if I go on my own.” “You are not goin’ on yer own,” Papa declares, “I know yer grown, but it’s either me or Oswin. Someone has to see that you make it.” You meet the eyes of both your parents and then turn to Oswin who looks rather determined. [[Reluctantly, you agree.|Oswin will keep you safe]]

This maybe the best of both worlds. You know that your parents will still be anxious, but it would provide relief to you knowing they’ll be able to keep the homestead running. You are all too aware at what the financial burden of your condition has been like. Even with steep discounts from Kavi, the time and money it has taken to care for you has taken a toll. Your family is even one of the more well-off in Stonebrook. You’ve had lean years before, but if Papa isn’t here to make sure Da heals and the gardens get planted, the coming cycle will be dangerous to you all. <> <<if hasVisited("ch2Ofeelings")>>You can’t deny that the thought of being on the road with Oswin makes your heart flutter a bit. You've held on to these feelings for so long while the distance has been so great between you. Being near him for this is is the balm your heart needs.<</if>><<if hasVisited("You want to rekindle your friendship.")>>Maybe this can be the pathway to rekindle the friendship you once had with Oswin. You cast him a slight smile and after a brief look of surprise, he returns it.<</if>><<if hasVisited("Your feelings are changing to more than just the desire for friendship…")>>You can’t deny that the thought of being on the road with Oswin makes your heart flutter a bit. Maybe this would be a chance to rekindle a relationship with him. You cast him a slight smile and after a brief look of surprise, he returns it with great warmth.<</if>> <> Papa is nodding, though. “This could work, Kip.” Your da watches you for a moment and you see his cheeks go a bit red as he turns to look at Papa. “Of the people I know, I’d trust Oswin the most with our Sprout...but the journey, optimistically, is maybe nine days, probably closer to twelve. I’m embarrassed to say that we’d not be able to afford Oswin’s fee without incurring a large debt. It’s a debt I’m willing to take on, but we’ll need to collect a collateral-” “I don’t want payment,” Oswin says, folding his arms and leaning back in his chair. He almost looks offended. “Oswin,” your da starts, “that’s too-” “I will //not// accept payment from you, Northbreakers. Kip, you know damn well this is the least I could do for you after all you...you’ve always been there for me.” Surprise twists your face. You knew Oswin trained with your father a great deal, but what does he mean? Oswin looks at you. “$mc, I know that I’m not the same. I know we may not be friends anymore, but let me do this for you. It’s the best way to help you and to keep your household running at the same time. I know I can keep you safe.” Hope swells within you. “You’d really do this just for me? For no pay?” “Of course. If you...if nothing else, consider it an apology for all the times I’ve…” He appears to deflate, not wanting to say the words. “I’ve not been easy to get along with, you deserve better from me.<<if $interestwound is 'oswinscar'>> If nothing else, take it as compensation for that scar I gave you.<</if>>” “This may be the best way,” Papa agrees, “I’ll be anxious not knowin’ how ya are, but I trust Twinflower and someone has to see that you make it.” You meet the eyes of both your parents and then turn to Oswin who looks rather determined. You smile. [[Readily, you agree.|Oswin will keep you safe]]

The coming days are fraught with preparation – at least by everyone but you. Your fathers have all but confined you to your bedroom, insisting that you rest and only rest until the day you are ready to leave. At most, you are allowed strolls each day to improve your strength, which has quickly recovered. Oswin and Papa have been charged with collecting provisions for the journey, including selling off a collection of hides that Da had and some furniture that your papa made, for extra gold should you need it. The most eventful excursion you get is when Papa takes you to the opposite side of town to purchase a sturdy horse. The horses you have on the farm are good for shorter trips and light work, but this journey may require a steed that is accustomed to hard travel over a long period of time. The farm on the opposite end of Stonebrook from your family’s is the only one who breeds and sells such horses in an area. The family, the Stonebrooks, were said to be the first to settle the area – though, the surname is - oddly - unrelated, as they did not name the town nor did they take their name from it. You arrived a while ago, the head of the family, a young woman a ways older than you, named Faris heard your papa’s explanation of your needs and left you to find suitable selections to choose from. As you wait in a large stable that is easily twice the length of the barn you have at home. You and Papa are entertained by a large litter of kittens – colored either in orange stripes or pure black – who seem to be just at the age for mischief. They carry on pouncing on anything and everything, including your papa’s boots. It doesn’t take long before he has five of the kittens crawling up his trousers and tunic as if he is a mountain to be conquered. Papa chuckles and allows them to do as they please, cooing at them. Eventually two make it to his shoulders, and you end up prying the other three off from his back as they mew for help. Faris jogs in, long blond hair gathered in a braid that wraps around the top of her head, tall boots tapping on the wood floor. “Sorry that took s’long!” Her breathing is a bit winded as she slows her approach. “I turned the horses out to pasture a while ago and one of the ones I had in mind for you was all the way on the other side.” “That’s okay,” you say, “Your kittens have been great hosts.” Faris chuckles, her brown eyes shining with warmth. “Feel free to take one with your purchase. They’ll be great mousers. The momma brings home rabbits sometimes even.” You glance at the fierce hunters perched on your papa’s shoulders, one black the other orange, both trying to groom his hair. [[Maybe a kitten is just what your fathers need while you’re gone.]]

Faris leads you out from the stable and into the surrounding fenced pasture where there are a few posts set up and four equines tethered, saddled, and ready for your inspection. The horse master stands in front of them. “For your purposes, I think these four will be the best I have to offer you. They all have great drive to please their rider and the legs to back it up.” She walks to the first and untethers the beast, who complies readily, walking around to prance in front of you. The tall and elegant creature before you knows that she’s beautiful. She is flaxen chestnut in color, mane and tail in a lighter shade, with white tickling that runs all across her belly and up to her back. She has white stockings on both back legs and a matching white blaze down her face. The horse carries her tail high and proud as her elegant muscles flex with every motion. While she shows off, Faris continues the introduction. “This mare has been with us for about a year. She was in sorry shape when we took her in; her previous owner wore her quite thin. But she’s a loving little lady and very patient. Gets a little nervous around rowdy critters, so you may want to get her used to any rambunctious dogs you got. Kinda mouthy too, so I hope you don’t mind some horse-kisses.” Faris giggles as the mare tries to mouth at her braid. “We’ve been calling her Chessy because of her color, which is usually how we refer to them since most people like to rename them.” Chessy returns to her post and the second contender is brought out. This one is shorter and a bit stockier than the first, but is entirely black aside from a white star on his forehead. He trots out before you with power in his gait and confidence in his posture. As you size him up, he does the same to you. As you study him, he faces you and paws in your direction with a hoof. “This is Eb, now he’s young and still intact if you’d like to breed him. We’ve used him to stud a few times.” Faris pats the stallion’s thick neck and chuckles, “Much to his delight. He was born and raised here and we didn’t intend to breed him, but he’s had such a good temperament for a stallion that we decided to leave him be. He’s tough and will make a strong, fearless companion for you. We haven’t found much that unnerves him either. He won’t be as fast as Chessy, but he’ll make up for it with grit.” Once Eb has returned to his station, Chessy leaning over to mouth at him, the third contender is brought out. He’s big, much bigger than the others with an unhurried pace that shows off pure power. He’s mahogany bay in color along the body, with black mane and tail. His legs transition from bay to black at the knees and then white just above the hooves, which are covered with white feathering. A white stripe sits proudly down the length of his face. Faris flashes you a wide smile. “This big guy is a gelding we’ve been calling Bay-Bay. He’s a recent addition to our herd, but we’ve had him long enough to know he’d be a good pick. Now, a big cart-horse may not be what you think you need, but I promise you what he lacks in speed and agility, he makes up for in endurance and temperament. We’ve taken him on treks to Codrin already and nothing phases him. On our last trip, we encountered a damn bear and Bay-Bay didn’t flinch. He can pull a cart on his own, and he loves taking a rider. He has the sweetest nature of all my picks. I may be just a touch biased, we’ve bonded a lot, and I’d only sell him to someone I know I could trust.” As if to prove the point, the massive animal approaches Papa and noses one of the kittens which are still perched on his shoulders before he’s guided back to his post. The last of the selection trots out before you. To your surprise – it’s a mule. A big one, but a mule nonetheless. She comes out before you with a surprising amount of grace, showing off her gray coat, black mane and tail, and white feet. She comes right up to you, her giant ears are almost comical as they perk right up when she studies you. Faris tugs her away and walks her in front of you. “This girl is a real treat – we call her Mule since we already have a horse named Gray. As you can tell, she is not shy at all. She is only stubborn if you use force with her, but if you ask nicely, she will take you anywhere. She’s quick, and of the four, she’s best suited for rocks and hills. The area around Codrin can get a bit tricky, but with the way she handles herself, you’d think she was part goat rather than half horse. She’ll keep you out of trouble too, she’s smart. When you get home, put her out with your sheep and she’ll guard them just as well as any dog.” Mule seems to agree as she lets out a shrill whinny that ends in a bray. As she’s returned to her post, she makes another move to check you out with her nose. [[In the next step, you take each one for a ride.]]

Each equine happily accepts you on their back with ease. Chessy kisses you first, of course. Riding with her is easy and smooth. She goes at a moderate pace and is responsive to commands. When one of Faris’s dogs passes by, she does get a touch nervous, but as soon as you encourage her, she settles. Her focus is quite good and she can exert a great deal of effort without even needing to catch her breath. Eb is very confident in his stride, but the ride is not as smooth as it is with Chessy. His focus is not as good, but he never veers off course – he merely likes to have a look around. Though the dogs are out in the pasture, they do not deter him. He’s immediately responsive when you stir him on, enjoying when he gets to pick up speed and show off for you. You have more difficulty mounting Bay-Bay due to his size, but the view is that much more remarkable. He’s slower to respond than the others, but easy-going and gentle. The ride is smooth, he stays completely focused and isn’t deterred even when a dog runs to greet Faris with excitement. When you dismount, he nuzzles you with his whole head. Papa takes a shine to him, probably since it’s actually a horse that would be sized for him. Mule proves to be a fun ride. She is very smart and seems to predict your commands before they happen. She has a quick and peppy step that is as smooth as it is proud. When the dogs take notice of her, they hustle from the pasture altogether – you guess they’ve had some experience that has taught them that she won’t suffer fools. She stays alert and when on a path, she will not veer even when you release the reins. She the type of mount you could probably trust to take a nap on, but still arrive at your destination. All that is left is to choose your mount and new animal companion. [[Chessy]] [[Eb]] [[Bay-Bay]] [[Mule]]

<<set $mount to 'chessy'>> Faris beams at you as she hands over Chessy’s lead into your hands. The horse seems pleased too and immediately thinks you need a kiss right away. She dutifully follows you through the stables as Papa settles the payment with saddle and reins included. You ride her home to test her among the throngs of residents in the center of town. She performs very well and attracts a lot of attention from your neighbors. They gawk and wave as you pass by. You also notice that Papa has taken not one but both kittens with him. They remain on his shoulders, occasionally trying to bite his ears or each other. When you arrive home, Da and Oswin are on the porch with a couple crates in front of them. You bring Chessy towards them so Da can have a look without needing to leave his perch. He is giddy at how beautiful she is and Oswin gives her an approving nod after looking her up and down and running his hands along her strong muscles. As she mouths at your da, he asks while dodging the long lips of the mare, “What will you call her?” You think for a moment. “I’ll call her...<<textbox "$mountname" "Type mount name here">>” [[It’s almost time to set out.]]

<<set $mount to 'eb'>> Faris beams at you as she hands over Eb’s lead into your hands. The horse seems excited and immediately prances around you, letting out a couple happy snorts. He readily follows you through the stables as Papa settles the payment with saddle and reins included. You ride Eb home to test him among the throngs of residents in the center of town. He performs very well and attracts a lot of attention from your neighbors. They gawk and wave as you pass by. You also notice that Papa has taken not one but both kittens with him. They remain on his shoulders, occasionally trying to bite his ears or each other. When you arrive home, Da and Oswin are on the porch with a couple crates in front of them. You bring Eb towards them so Da can have a look without needing to leave his perch. He is giddy at how beautiful the horse is and Oswin gives an approving nod after looking Eb up and down and running his hands along his strong muscles. As he brings his head to Da to allow for some petting, he asks, “What will you call him?” You think for a moment. “I’ll call him...<<textbox "$mountname" "Type mount name here">>” [[It’s almost time to set out.]]

<<set $mount to 'bay'>> Faris beams at you as she hands over Bay-Bay’s lead into your hands. The horse seems pleased too and immediately thinks you need to be nuzzled. He dutifully follows you through the stables as Papa settles the payment with saddle and reins included. You ride Bay-Bay home to test him among the throngs of residents in the center of town. He performs very well and attracts a lot of attention from your neighbors, some backing away in fright of his size. They gawk and wave as you pass by. You also notice that Papa has taken not one but both kittens with him. They remain on his shoulders, occasionally trying to bite his ears or each other. When you arrive home, Da and Oswin are on the porch with a couple crates in front of them. You bring Bay-Bay towards them so Da can have a look without needing to leave his perch. He is giddy at how beautiful and huge the horse is and Oswin gives an approving nod after looking the horse up and down and running his hands along his strong muscles. Da craddles Bay-Bay’s massive head as the affectionate giant nuzzles him, “What will you call him?” You think for a moment. “I’ll call him...<<textbox "$mountname" "Type mount name here">>” [[It’s almost time to set out.]]

<<set $mount to 'mule'>> Faris beams at you as she hands over Mule’s lead into your hands. The equine seems pleased and immediately begins to examine you again. She dutifully follows you through the stables, while sniffing you over, as Papa settles the payment with saddle and reins included. You ride her home to test her among the throngs of residents in the center of town. She performs very well and attracts a lot of attention from your neighbors. They gawk and wave as you pass by, a few snickering at her giant ears. You also notice that Papa has taken not one but both kittens with him. They remain on his shoulders, occasionally trying to bite his ears or each other. When you arrive home, Da and Oswin are on the porch with a couple crates in front of them. You bring Mule towards them so Da can have a look without needing to leave his perch. He is giddy and giggly at how beautiful she is and Oswin gives you an irritated look before looking her up and down and running his hands along her strong muscles. When Mule decides he’s looked long enough, she pushes him away and brays. Oswin smiles and gives her an approving nod. As Mule sniffs and studies everyone, Da asks, “What will you call her?” You think for a moment. “I’ll call her...<<textbox "$mountname" "Type mount name here">>” [[It’s almost time to set out.]]

<> <<if $mountname is "Epona">>The name just feels right to you. It's almost...musical<</if>> <<if $mountname is "Oswin">>Your parents and Oswin all give you a strange look at your choice. Oswin seems pleased for a moment, and then you see the realization of you riding around on a horse with his namesake come over him. It's entertaining.<</if>> <<if $mountname is "Oz">>Oswin peers at you. His eyes shift around and then his brow furrows. Whether you intended the likeness or not, Oswin seems to have made a connection to your name choice and realized you'll be riding on the back of a mount that shares his namesake.<</if>> <<if $mountname is "Yarrow">>Your parents and Oswin all give you a strange look at your choice. Oswin seems pleased for a moment but then confused the next.<</if>> <<if $mountname is "Dov">>Papa gives you a wide grin at your choice.<</if>> <<if $mountname is "Kip">>Da gives you a big smile at your choice.<</if>> <<if $mountname is "Noodles">>Da asks you if you're hungry and shakes his head, eyeing the poor beast with sympathy.<</if>> <<if $mountname is "Horse">>Oswin calls you a lazy asshole and rolls his eyes.<</if>> <<if $mountname is "Old Gregg">>Your parents and Oswin silently stare at you for a long time.<</if>> <<if $mountname is "Gambit">>Your parents and Oswin all nod approvingly at you. Da insists that it's the best name he's heard for a mount.<</if>> <> Now that you are healed up enough to convince your fathers that you are suitable to travel, your mount has been secured, and provisions have been purchased and packed, you find yourself with a little bit of free time before you set out. You think of a list of everything that you could do if you wanted or at least should do while you still can... [[You spend some time with Da.]] [[You spend some time with Papa.]] [[You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.]] $flirt_label $flirt_label <<if hasVisited("You'd never found a steady partner, but found a variety in town with the occasional traveler to join you.")>>[[You can seek out a romantic encounter at the tavern.]] <<elseif hasVisited("A brunette woman with soft gray eyes was a regular companion for you.")>>[[You can go find Kanta, she’ll happily send you off in the best way.]] <<elseif hasVisited("A brunette man with soft gray eyes was a regular companion for you.")>>[[You can go find Kanta, he’ll happily send you off in the best way.]] <<else>>[[This may be your last chance for a while to have some romantic company; you’ll seek a partner out.]]<</if>>

<<set $datime to 'true'>> In an effort to keep your da occupied and distract him from the anxieties your predicament has brought, you spend a few hours playing games with him. It does seem to lighten his load for a while and you enjoy seeing him getting worked up and competitive. Ever since you were small, Da has had a strictly “no mercy” rule when it came to games. Other parents, including Papa, throw the odd game to let a child have the satisfaction and pride of winning. Not Da. He was never abashed upon defeating you in anything and then bragging about it – good-naturedly, of course. You did manage to catch a win here and there, even when you were a kid. It made the victory all the more sweet. [[You tend to be competitive like Da.]] [[You don’t care for competition, like Papa.]]

<<set $papatime to 'true'>> Since Da has been laid up, all of the chores fall to you and Papa. Your papa usually takes care of most of the animals and such, but it being the planting season means he’s spread thin. Putting your own routine off, you’ve been hard at work assisting with sewing seeds and tending livestock. Though Da has no talent for dealing with animals, he’s rather good at gardening, which is his usual task each cycle before he begins the spring hunt. Every season, you are expected to help with a little bit of everything to help keep the household running and stocked up. Given how busy Papa will be once you set out on your quest, you’ve gone a long way in helping get the garden going. As long as the seeds get in the ground, it will be a boon even if Papa doesn’t have much time to tend it. Though, the group of widows and widowers have offered to help pull weeds. You suspect that they have ulterior motives as they also like watching your papa work, a thought that sends an ill shudder through your bones. With assistance from Lakota and - a very quiet - Oswin, you managed to get the seeds planted in great timing. Good enough that you even end up with more free time than expected. Naturally, your fathers will not let you do much more than that, insisting you rest and utilize your time how you wish before you leave. You've noticed that your papa has been extra quiet lately. You're not ignorant of how all this has weighed on him, but part of you anticipated that he'd relax after a couple days. He's done anything but. You hear him pace at night, sometimes being awoken by his failed attempts at muffling his steps. Sneaking around to watch him, you only see that he walks circles around the den - sometimes running a hand along his beard or mumbling. You've decided that it's best to spend a bit of time with him. Even if things are too hard to talk about, just being with him will be enough. [[You find him in the barn.]]

<<set $latime to 'true'>> You find Lakota as you often do in the first days of the spring season, tending his herb garden. It’s a sprawling area of land that will be full of all manner of healing herbs in just a matter of days. Already you see the sprouts of green breaching the soil. Your friend always did have a great deal of talent for growing and tending things. While you recovered, Lakota did not visit as often as usual and the time or two that he did, he didn’t linger long. You assume with how busy spring is for his family and with how often Oswin was helping your fathers that it kept him away. It also may have just been easier for him. Whenever you became ill in the past, you could see how he would fret. With his wife so heavily pregnant and two other children to care for, he can’t afford another weight on his shoulders. Lakota struggles with a weed as you come up behind him, finally pulling it free by the root as you wait. “Now, don’t come back,” he chides the plant, tossing it to a pile at the edge of the garden. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 50>>You gently clear your throat to get Lakota's attention without spooking him, preserving some of his dignity by not acknowledging that he just lectured a plant. <<elseif $ReservedOutgoing < 50>>You can't help but laugh. After all these years he still talks to all manner of things as if they will listen. <<else>>You can't keep the smile off your face as you clear your throat to draw his attention.<</if>> Lakota whips around, his frizzy curls scattering with the wind as he faces you. Pink colors his cheeks as he looks over at the pile of weeds. You don't doubt that he had a speech for each one. "$mc!" He smiles. "It's so good to see you up and about again. I was getting a little worried." <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>You shake your head. "I'm much better now...I know you must be quite busy, but you're always welcome to my home, even if only to ease your worries." <<elseif $GentleAssertive < 50>>You shake your head. "I am much better now, but I was surprised when you didn't visit like you usually do. If you were worried, you could have checked in." <<else>>You shrug. "If it burdened you, you should have visited to ease your worries.<</if>> Lakota looks at you, his brows crooked and furrowed. "I...I didn't come much because I didn't want to bother you." "When have I ever thought you were a bother?" He wipes his hands on his apron as he comes out of the garden to stand next to you. "Oswin said you desired privacy and so my father wouldn't tell me much either." He goes quiet. "I never said such a thing. Most of the time I was unable to speak." You ponder for a moment, unsure of why Oswin would try to keep Lakota away or if it was some kind of miscommunication. Maybe Oswin thought since he was helping your family that Lakota needed to be home to take care of theirs. "$mc, I've had the feeling...you know how Oswin can be. With this episode, he's been odd - more than usual. Every time I would ask about you or mention that it seemed you were taking longer to recover, he became evasive and kept asking me to stay out of it. He canceled all his jobs and always seemed to be at your home." "He what?" Lakota nods. "He was supposed to meet a caravan in Lale to take them to the Auster Province. It was a big job, he was specifically requested...I thought he'd...he was supposed to tell you. He thought it might lead to a permanent employ with one of the monarchy." You freeze and you cannot hide your shock from your face. Oswin denied a job that would change his entire life to help you and your family, and for almost no coin except for what Da forced him to take? Why would he do that? You've been at odds for years – at times hostile, at others awkward – a job such as that would set him up for a life of comfort and adventure, so why would he abandon that? "Perhaps we should sit." Lakota motions to a bench a short ways away and you both make your way to it to sit. "Now, I think I need to hear from you what happened. I have the feeling that whatever it was, wasn't...normal for you. The times I visited, didn't help me understand." Shaking your head, a bitter laugh escapes your throat. "You could say that." "Please, tell me." "Lakota, this was different and I think...I think it very nearly killed me this time." Your friend's eyes go wide and his face falls. "A lot of it is a blur to me, like usual, but there's parts I can't forget. It was painful...so much that I thought that alone would end me. I stopped breathing...my fathers said that I...my body seized for a long time, and then I couldn't wake up. And the..." You stop, considering how the rest may impact your old friend. "Please, it's okay, you can tell me anything. I just want to be here for you," he encourages. Everything that happened and everything you've learned flies through your mind. Placing a hand over the mark you sigh. "A mark appeared on my abdomen..." "A mark? Like a scar?" "It's more akin to a tattoo, it was obviously magic in nature. My da had an old acquaintance that was a mage and he determined that...I uh...I'm cursed." It was strange to say it out loud. "Cursed? What do you mean cursed? That's not possible, $mc, I think that mage was scamming you. Demons haven't had that sort of power for centuries." He tries to smile at you and the denial on his face is clear. "He didn't take any money or anything. He was certain that it was placed by a god, not a demon. He is sure that...that it will kill me if I can't break it." Lakota swallows hard. His sweet brown eyes are wide and lost, welling with tears. He shakes his head. "No, no, no; that's not...that can't be! Why would a god curse you, they aren't even..." "The mage thinks my birth family has a curse, something that is passed down to each generation or some variation of that." The tears spill from his eyes. "Then how do we break it? We can do something, every story about curses says you can do something to get out from it." You nod. "I have a few options, and that's why I'm here. Oswin is going to take me to an old shrine to Valko around Codrin." "//Valko//? Did he place the curse?" "I don't think so, but he's the closest connection to the gods I have. We were told that he never left Iroda, and he may be able to just break through the curse for me." Lakota wipes his eyes and sniffles, trying to hold himself together. "The mage couldn't do that?" "No, but he said there could be a witch or another mage may be able to. I could also try to find out the conditions of the curse. If I can appease it, I'll be okay. The only way to find it though is to seek out answers elsewhere." "Do you know...um, how much time..." "The mage estimated a year." At that Lakota breaks into a sob, placing his head into his hands. <> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 50>>"I'll find a way to beat this, Lakota, I promise." <<elseif $SeriousPlayful < 50>>"Don't get your hopes up, you won't be rid of me so easily, my friend." <<else>>"We'll get it figured out, we always do."<</if>> <> [[You give your friend some time to compose himself.]]

There wasn’t much time to waste if you wanted to find someone to connect with before you headed out. The tavern had not failed you yet as a place to meet with both townspeople and travelers. There were a few regulars who visited for the purpose of finding company for a night or two, others came just to flirt or talk. You order your favorite drink and settle in at a table with a good view of the lounge. There’s a couple groups milling about and several people that are drinking or eating alone. It isn’t long before someone catches your eye just as you catch theirs. [[It’s a beautiful woman.|female Kanta encounter]] [[It’s a beautiful man.|male Kanta encounter]]

<<set $kanta to 'female'>> Kanta is a familiar partner to you, and you know you can trust her – and she trusts you. You met by chance in the very tavern you are headed to find her. She is someone that you know will not cross lines, but you can still maintain a friendly relationship with. Kanta is well-spoken and educated, with aspirations to improve life for citizens in small villages. Though you’ve had serious conversations before, Kanta usually prefers a pattern of light banter prior to your excursions. A dance you know well. Once you cross the threshold into the tavern it does not take long for your $eyecolor eyes meet a pair of soft gray ones as Kanta sends you a sly smile. You return the gesture and waste no time in joining her table. A passing barkeep nods at you, already knowing your usual order. Kanta is a vision, dressed in a fine silver and gold dress, long brown hair cascading down her back and shoulders. She sets her drink down on the table and her grin doesn’t falter. Though her expression is playful and knowing, her features are sweet and soft. “Are you searching for company tonight, $mc?” She asks, playing with the ends of her hair. “Why else would I be here, Kanta?” you jest, “Stonebrook Tavern serves little more than swill.” She laughs, “Perhaps one day you’ll seek me out for my wit instead. I can only hope.” “Hmm.” You pretend to consider something a moment. “Perhaps you should dream of it, but don’t get your hopes up.” Kanta slaps the table as she laughs. “I suppose you’re what we get for allowing Kip Northbreaker to raise a child.” She playfully rolls her eyes. The barkeep quickly passes by and sets your drink down without another word, quickly setting off to take care of another table. Kanta takes a drink. “I have to admit, I was hoping to run into you soon.” “Things are that bad for you then?” She scoffs. “I’ve always appreciated how willing you are to insult yourself and act as if it should wound me.” You suppose she has a point, but it’s good for a laugh. “Lucky for you, I was thinking of spending a bit of time with you. I’m leaving town for a bit.” “Ah, I see,” she says, “taking <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>your axe on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>your chisels on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>your sword on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>your bow on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>your herbs on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>taking your business on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>taking your delicious food on the road?<</if>>” You shake your head. “More of a personal journey, should only take a fortnight or so.” “So, perhaps, since you’ll be gone and – no doubt – lonely for a bit, I can send you off with a reason to come back?” A feeling of delight settles over you as you grin at Kanta. With delicate fingers, she traces patterns in the wood of the table, dragging her teeth over her lower lip when you meet her gaze awaiting your response. $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You accept the invitation. (Explicit Scene)]] $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You accept the invitation. (Fade to Black)]] [[You change your mind on having a romantic encounter.]]

<<set $kanta to 'male'>> Kanta is a familiar partner to you, and you know you can trust him – and he trusts you. You met by chance in the very tavern you are headed to find him. He is someone that you know will not cross lines, but you can still maintain a friendly relationship with. Kanta is well-spoken and educated, with aspirations to improve life for citizens in small villages. Though you’ve had serious conversations before, Kanta usually prefers a pattern of light banter prior to your excursions. A dance you know well. Once you cross the threshold into the tavern it does not take long for your $eyecolor eyes meet a pair of soft gray ones as Kanta sends you a sly smile. You return the gesture and waste no time in joining his table. A passing barkeep nods at you, already knowing your usual order. Kanta is a vision, dressed in a fine silver and gold robe over a plain tunic, long brown hair cascading down his back and shoulders. He sets his drink down on the table, and his grin doesn’t falter. Though his expression is playful and knowing, his features are sweet and soft. “Are you searching for company tonight, $mc?” He asks, playing with the ends of his hair. “Why else would I be here, Kanta?” you jest, “Stonebrook Tavern serves little more than swill.” He laughs, “Perhaps one day you’ll seek me out for my wit instead. I can only hope.” “Hmm.” You pretend to consider it a moment. “Perhaps you should dream of it, but don’t get your hopes up.” Kanta slaps the table as he laughs. “I suppose you’re what we get for allowing Kip Northbreaker to raise a child.” He playfully rolls his eyes. The barkeep quickly passes by and sets your drink down without another word, quickly setting off to take care of another table. Kanta takes a drink. “I have to admit, I was hoping to run into you soon.” “Things are that bad for you then?” He scoffs. “I’ve always appreciated how willing you are to insult yourself and act as if it should wound me.” You suppose he has a point, but it’s good for a laugh. “Lucky for you, I was thinking of spending a bit of time with you. I’m leaving town for a bit.” “Ah, I see,” he says, “taking <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>your axe on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>your chisels on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>your sword on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>your bow on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>your herbs on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>taking your business on the road?<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>taking your delicious food on the road?<</if>>” You shake your head. “More of a personal journey, should only take a fortnight or so.” “So, perhaps, since you’ll be gone and – no doubt – lonely for a bit, I can send you off with a reason to come back?” A feeling of delight settles over you as you grin at Kanta. With delicate fingers, he traces patterns in the wood of the table, dragging his teeth over her lower lip when you meet his gaze awaiting your response. $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You accept the invitation. (Explicit Scene)|Kanta male explicit scene]] $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You accept the invitation. (Fade to Black)|Kanta male fade to black]] [[You change your mind on having a romantic encounter.]]

There wasn’t much time to waste if you wanted to find someone to connect with before you headed out. The tavern seems like a good place to seek out some company. <<if $romance is 'nointerest'>>In the past, you’ve not had much interest in this sort of thing. Perhaps the pressure of being under a curse has adjusted your thinking on things. <<elseif $romance is 'experienced'>>You’ve had experience with relationships in the past. Perhaps you won’t be spurring anyone into a committed courtship with you right this moment, but you’re certain you can find a partner for an evening.<<elseif $romance is 'onlyphysical'>>You’re no stranger to seeking partnership with another and you’re confident you can find someone to join you for a while.<<elseif $romance is 'feelingsnophys'>>Feelings for others have happened for you before. You’d like to spend some time with another and seek some romantic comfort whether it is physical or not.<<elseif $romance is 'interestednoxp'>>You’ve had interests in relations before, but you’ve just not experienced it yet. You’d like to before you set out.<</if>> You order your favorite drink and settle in at a table with a good view of the lounge. There’s a couple groups milling about and several people that are drinking or eating alone. It isn’t long before someone catches your eye just as you catch theirs. [[It’s a beautiful woman.|female Kanta encounter]] [[It’s a beautiful man.|male Kanta encounter]]

After as much rest and preparation as you can muster, the day finally arrives. There is no avoiding this or delaying. Your fathers have prepared several provisions for you and Oswin – dried foods that will keep for the duration of your journey, a few water skins – though with the snowmelt running through the waters of the province, you will have no shortage of it – and as much gold as they can spare. $mountname is saddled and packed to carry your things. Likewise, Oswin’s mount, a strong mare he calls Flit is packed and ready to go. She’s lovely, if a bit unusual looking compared to other horses you’ve seen, and this may be the first time you’ve gotten a good look at her. Mostly white with splashes and spots of reddish brown, her coat pattern stands out. Her whole face is white, but both ears are brown, her mane is a mix of both colors, but her tail is all in the brown hue. Her most striking feature, though, is her blue eyes – a color that is not common in horses as far as you know. As you stand and stare at Flit while you gently pet $mountname on the nose, looking at the saddlebags and your Papa checking the fit of the saddle for the forth time, you begin to realize that this is really happening. [[You’re ready. Curse or no curse, this is an adventure.]] $flirt_label [[You’re mostly excited to spend time with Oswin or maybe even meet some new people.]] [[You dread this. Nerves are eating away at you.]] [[You know it must be done, that is all.]]

<<set $kanta to 'female'>> When your eyes meet for a moment but do not glance away, she sends you a sly smile. You return the gesture and before you can get up to approach her, she is already walking towards you with drink in hand. She’s a vision, dressed in a fine white blouse, decorated with gold embroidery and a few pieces of jewelry, though she also wears plain pants. She sets her drink down on your table and her grin doesn’t falter. Her eyes are a soft gray and her brown hair falls in long loose waves to the middle of her back. Though her expression is playful and knowing, her features are sweet and soft. “Are you searching for company, friend?” She asks, playing with the ends of her hair in her free hand. “I am, actually,” you say. She sits down, across the table form you. “Perhaps we are of the same mind then?” “I think we just might be.” You smile at her. “My name is Kanta.” “$mc.” She chuckles. “I have to admit that I already know of you.<<if $mc is 'Noodles'>> With a name like yours, it would be impossible to not hear of you. Though, I think you look as delicious as your name sounds.<</if>>” “You do?” Kanta nods and a slight blush appears on her face. “I’ve seen you in here a couple times and around town. You caught my eye, and I asked around about you.” “Did you learn anything interesting?” You can’t help but chuckle a little, a little pleased by Kanta’s admission. “Only your name, that you have a few admirers around town, and that you’re amazing <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>with an axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>with a chisel<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>with a sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>with a bow<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>with medicine<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>with gold<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>in the kitchen<</if>>.” A feeling of delight settles over you as you grin at Kanta. Her mannerisms exude interest. Her eyes flutter at you and she never loses the coy grin from her lips. With delicate fingers, she traces patterns in the wood of the table, dragging her teeth over her lower lip when you meet her gaze. [[You encourage the moment and stay with the enchanting Kanta.]] [[You steer the encounter to just chat and get to know a new friend.]] [[You change your mind on having a romantic encounter.]]

<<set $kanta to 'male'>> When your eyes meet for a moment but do not glance away, he sends you a sly smile. You return the gesture, and before you can get up to approach him, he is already walking towards you with drink in hand. He’s a vision, dressed in a fine tunic, set off by a flowing cloak, though he wears plain pants. He sets his drink down on your table and his grin doesn’t falter. His eyes are a soft gray and his brown hair falls in long loose waves to the middle of his back. Though his expression is playful and knowing, his features are sweet and soft. “Are you searching for company, friend?” He asks, playing with the ends of his hair in his free hand. “I am, actually,” you say. He sits down, across the table from you. “Perhaps we are of the same mind then?” “I think we just might be.” You smile at him. “My name is Kanta.” “$mc.” He chuckles. “I have to admit that I already know of you.<<if $mc is 'Noodles'>> With a name like yours, it would be impossible to not hear of you. Though, I think you look as delicious as your name sounds.<</if>>” “You do?” Kanta nods and a slight blush appears on his face. “I’ve seen you in here a couple times and around town. You caught my eye, and I asked around about you.” “Did you learn anything interesting?” You can’t help but chuckle, a little pleased by Kanta’s admission. “Only your name, that you have a few admirers around town, and that you’re amazing <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>with an axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>with a chisel<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>with a sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>with a bow<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>with medicine<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>with gold<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>in the kitchen<</if>>.” A feeling of delight settles over you as you grin at Kanta. His mannerisms exude interest. His eyes flutter at you and he never loses the coy grin from his lips. With delicate fingers, he traces patterns in the wood of the table, dragging his teeth over his lower lip when you meet his gaze. [[You encourage the moment and stay with the enchanting Kanta.|male Kanta fun]] [[You steer the encounter to just chat and get to know a new friend.]] [[You change your mind on having a romantic encounter.]]

Kanta spends a while in your company, simply chatting and getting to know you a little better. She tells you about her aspirations to join the Common Council of Mahdeh with hopes of bettering the representation for small communities such as Stonebrook. She recently returned from a series of meetings in the Capitol. She is well-spoken and open with you, eventually stating her intention is merely to bed you, if you are agreeable. Her company is pleasant and her earnest decorum refreshing. After some time, she invites you to her private dwelling. $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You accept the invitation. (Explicit Scene)]] $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You accept the invitation. (Fade to Black)]] [[You decline the invitation.]]

You've decided against romance for the time being, So you think of what else you have time to do... <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Da.")>>[[You spend some time with Da.]]<<else>>You spend some time with Da.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Papa.")>>[[You spend some time with Papa.]]<<else>>You spend some time with Papa.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You find Lakota, needing to explain you situation and spend some time with him.")>>[[You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.]]<<else>>You find Lakota, needing to explain you situation and spend some time with him.<</if>> <<if $papatime is 'true' and $datime is 'true' and $latime is 'true'>>[[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]<</if>>

After some consideration, you decide that you'd rather spend your time doing something else... <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Da.")>>[[You spend some time with Da.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Da.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Papa.")>>[[You spend some time with Papa.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Papa.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You find Lakota, needing to explain you situation and spend some time with him.")>>[[You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.]]<<else>>You spent time with Lakota.<</if>> <<if $papatime is 'true' and $datime is 'true' and $latime is 'true'>>[[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]<</if>>

Enter some information to guide your experience with Kanta. Note that Kanta will desire penetration if your MC has a penis. You have: <<listbox "$chest" autoselect>> <<option "breasts">> <<option "pecs">> <</listbox>> You have a: <<listbox "$vp" autoselect>> <<option "vagina">> <<option "penis">> <</listbox>> Is kissing on the lips/mouth between Kanta and $mc okay? (If no, there will still be other types of kisses to be had.) <<listbox "$kiss" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> Is $mc comfortable with anal play in this situation (fingering)? <<listbox "$anal" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> [[Continue to Kanta’s bed…]] [[Change your mind and go home.|You decline the invitation.]]

You spend several hours at Kanta’s home, filling it with the sweet sounds of pleasure as you play with one another. She makes for an enthusiastic partner and enjoys pleading for your attention and your ministrations. After you are both sated, you simply relax together as you come down from your respective highs. [[She leaves you with an open-ended offer for company should you want her in the future.|post Kanta fun]]

<<set $bits to true>> Kanta does not mince words when you arrive at her cabin. You barely take in the quaint and simple décor and furnishings before she is coaxing you to her bed. Gentle hands take yours and guide you to the bedroom. Kanta eagerly runs her slim fingers over your chest, slowly caressing your $chest over your clothing before continuing up to your neck. You feel the gentle scrape of her nails along the back of your neck before she makes her way into your hair, massaging as she looks into your eyes and smiles. <<if $kiss is 'yes'>>At her signal, your mouth meets hers with soft experimental kisses, gradually testing each others fervency. Kanta's lips are soft and pliant against yours. You can feel a slight smile between your lips as she hums her approval at your technique. It doesn't take long before your tongues meet. You press into her, holding the side of her face as you each taste each other's hunger.<<else>>You wrap your arms around her and bring her close. She presses her lips to your jaw and hums in satisfaction. Bringing your lips to her neck, she leans her head to give you access, so you kiss and nibble at the tender flesh until she is breathing heavy and rubbing against you.<</if>> You undress each other in a deft dance, undoing laces and buttons and untangling cloth before you make it to the bed, facing each other as you lay side by side. Once you are skin to skin, Kanta takes her time to look you over as she glides delicate fingers along every inch of you. Her eyes light up with want, and she chews her lower lip while she tries to hide a perverse smile. As she admires you, you return the favor. A pink flush has appeared on her cheeks, even her neck and shoulders have a tinge of extra color. Her breasts are perfect perky handfuls with rosy-colored nipples that harden at your touch. She returns your touch in kind, running the tips of her fingers along the nipples of your $chest before she lightly pinches and pulls them. A shiver flutters down your spine right to your loins. <<if $vp is 'penis'>>Your member is quickly swelling, encouraged each time Kanta's hips press against your own.<<else>>Your sex is quickly becoming wet, encouraged each time Kanta's hips press against your own.<</if>> She trails her hands down to your hips before sliding them to gently tease your loins, barely applying any pressure before she grazes your thighs. Kanta sends you a mischievous look before sitting up and encouraging you to lay on your back and moving between you legs. "I think you could do with some...focused attention," she says, running her hands along your abdomen, up to your chest and back down, tracing the mark on your stomach as she moves to your pelvis. "What did you have in mind?" You ask, with a smirk of your own for her. Kanta leans back, bringing her hand to her own sex and begins to rub along herself. You watch with wrapped attention. She parts the lips of her vulva, lifting up on her knees so you can see. She moans as she rubs along the slick folds before bringing her fingers to her entrance and slipping them inside. <<if $vp is 'penis'>>Your cock throbs to full attention and you cannot look away from the ministrations of her hand. Your loins are tingling and your testes ache for a release. <<else>>Your tunnel throbs with desire, your muscles involuntarily clenching. You cannot look away form the ministrations of her hand, as you feel torn between envy and pleasure.<</if>> Once Kanta is ready, she pitches forward, encouraging your knees to part further as she kneels over your lower body. <<if $anal is 'Yes'>>With wetted fingers, she parts the cleft of your haunches and slips inside your ass gently with a small finger. You jerk in response, but quickly lose yourself to the gentle prodding.<</if>> She brings her mouth to your sex and runs her tongue <<if $vp is 'penis'>>along your balls to the tip of your dick and then all the way back down before gently sucking your sac and kissing her way to your tip.<<else>>along your entrance, through your folds and up and around your clit and then back down again. She repeats the motion, this time taking your clit with her lips and tugging gently.<</if>> [[A long groan escapes your lips.]]

<> Kanta continues the work of her lips and tongue as you writhe under her<<if $anal is 'Yes'>> all while she delves her finger into your backside, swirling around and tapping the sensitive zone to add to your pleasure<</if>>. She moans against your skin, occasionally breaking from your loins to pepper kisses along your inner thighs. <<if $vp is 'penis'>>You watch as your entire length slips in and out of Kanta's warm mouth. She drags her tongue along the underside before swirling it at the head. Every few passes, she locks on to your gaze; the contrast of her innocent gray eyes and her mouth full of your cock draws long moans from your throat. Your tip trickles with delight, eager to enter another part of your partner's beautiful body.<<else>>You watch as Kanta holds nothing back, delving into your opening with her tongue, swirling and tasting your nectar before her mouth moves to suckle your sensitive bud. Every few passes, she locks on to your gaze; the contrast of her innocent gray eyes and her tongue buried inside your pussy draws long moans from your throat. You ache for more.<</if>> Kanta is panting and her face is completely flushed. She looks up from her station and meets your eyes. "I want you so bad..." "I want you too...lay back and I can return-" Kanta shakes her head. "Maybe later, I need <<if $vp is 'penis'>>you inside me.<<else>>to feel you against me.<</if>>" At her words, there is a carnal stirring inside of you. You move to accommodate Kanta's desire. <<if $vp is 'penis'>>Rising up from the bed, you descend upon Kanta, bringing your lips to her neck to kiss and suck at the tender flesh as you position yourself atop her and she lowers her back to the bed. You kiss down to her breasts and take her nipples between your lips and then run your tongue along them. She arches her back and lets out a long moan, spreading her legs wider. "Please..." She whimpers, "I //need// it." Your breathing is already ragged when you glide your member along her slit, but once you feel how wet she is, you are panting. You watch as the light pink of her womanhood blooms as you spread her, coating your length with her essence. You feel the tease of her entrance with each pass enticing you inside. You are so ready, it is pleasantly painful. Lining up the head of your cock with her entrance, you tease her and yourself. Dipping the tip of your member inside and then dragging it up to circle her clit. Kanta is clearly torn between the pleasure and the need to filled. She moves her hips to guide you back to her opening. Finally succumbing to desire, you line your cock up and slowly push in, watching as your tip is slowly engulfed and then each inch of your shaft is swallowed. Both of you groan in ecstasy as you enter. The tender flesh parts for you, but squeezes as you bury your entire member within until you hilt inside of her. Kanta moans, her hands gripping the bedding as her legs instinctively lift and spread. She's wet, she is so wet for you that when you withdraw and re-enter, the sound resonates through the entire room and your cock glistens. You pick up speed until your flesh meets with harsh slaps. Kanta whimpers and moans and you note that the harder you thrust, the greater her reactions, and the more she pushes against you. If she likes to be //fucked// then, you will fuck her. Grabbing her ankles, you push her legs back, presenting better access to her nether regions, and then, you drive into her hard and fast. Her moans turn to loud cries of passion and you join the chorus with your own grunts and growls. You are close, and it appears your partner is as well. Kanta moves her hand to her clit and gives it a few strokes before her mouth opens and her eyes squeeze shut. Her back arches and you feel all her muscles clench around your dick as she climaxes. She cries out your name as you continue to hammer into her, your sac slapping into her back side. You're nearly there. "Kanta...I'm...close," you warn. Her eyes are focused on yours, and she's clearly still rolling from her orgasm. "Withdraw, I want to feel your heat cover me," she pleads. You thrust again and again, watching her breasts bounce from each impact. You bite your lip as she suddenly grips you with her cunt, the building sensation of orgasm ignites from a spark to an inferno. Your cock pulses, and you withdraw, barely in time as you ejaculate in several thick bursts. Your seed coats Kanta's thighs, with a large spurt hitting her navel. Using your hand you continue to lightly pump and milk your cock, sure to paint Kanta with it as she wanted, until it begins to soften. You are both left panting and satisfied. All you do is breathe together as the high settles. Your hands absently rub along Kanta's legs as she watches you with a sleepy smile. <<else>> A wicked grin spreads along your lips. You'll give her what she wants in the end, but you want to drag this out a bit longer. Kanta lays on her back as you encroach on her and nestle between her legs, as you lay atop her. You enjoy the sensation of her heat and the feel of the mounds of her chest against your $chest. You nuzzle against her neck, peppering kisses before you drag your tongue up along to her jaw before running it along her ear. She whimpers and squirms under you, pushing up with her hips to grind your sexes together. Kanta pinches at your nipples and bucks into your pelvis<<if $kiss is 'Yes'>> as your mouths meet in a ferocious kiss<</if>>. As you continue the ministrations of your mouth, you glide a hand down her torso, slowly tickling all the sensitive muscle until you reach the cleft of her womanhood. Kanta grunts and moans, wriggling to encourage your hand to dip lower. You tease her for a moment before dipping your hand down and parting her lips with your fingers. Her hands clutch the bedding and a long moan escapes her lips. You play along her slick folds, taking her clit between two fingers and massaging. You find a rhythm that makes her muscles quake before you dip your fingers down to her opening and thrust inside. She cries out and begs for more. She is soaked and easily accommodates three fingers as you use your thumb to rub against her bud. The region between your legs pulses with desire, though the longer you watch and hear Kanta in the throws of pleasure, you begin to wonder if you'll climax just from the view. Kanta whimpers your name. "Please, I want to feel yours against mine...I'm so close, please." You gladly oblige, flipping your body back to lock your legs with her own. She meets you with gusto, grabbing one of your legs to give her leverage to press into you. You slide together in a divine dance, the soft and tender flesh meets and stimulates, reveling in your combined slickness. The room fills with the sounds of your moans and whines as you grind together. Kanta's back suddenly arches and she cries out. "I'm cumming, $mc!" You grind harder in response and watch as Kanta tumbles over the edge of pleasure, her entire body shakes with euphoria as she calls out over and over. You follow swiftly after, the sensation of Kanta's quivering muscles sending you over. Tingles rock your body emanating from your pelvis and up your back, the muscles within your sex contracting with pleasure. All you do is breathe together as the high settles. Your hands absently rub along Kanta's legs as she watches you with a sleepy smile. <</if>> Once you have both caught you breath and your bearings, you help each other clean up before reclining on the bed to rest for a while. Kanta asks that you hold her against your chest as she continues to settle from the event. She mumbles sweet words against your skin offset by small pecks from her lips. After a while she lets you decide if you'd like to play again or simply relax. <> You spend a good while with Kanta for before returning home. [[She leaves you with an open-ended offer for company should you want her in the future.|post Kanta fun]]

When you depart after you've been thoroughly sated with Kanta, you consider if you have time or want to do anything more with your time before you must depart. <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Da.")>>[[You spend some time with Da.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Da.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Papa.")>>[[You spend some time with Papa.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Papa.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.")>>[[You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Lakota.<</if>> <<if $papatime is 'true' and $datime is 'true' and $latime is 'true'>>[[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]<</if>> <<set $virgin to false>>

Kanta spends a while in your company, simply chatting and getting to know you a little better. He tells you about his aspirations to join the Common Council of Mahdeh with hopes of bettering the representation for small communities such as Stonebrook. He recently returned from a series of meetings in the Capitol. He is well-spoken and open with you, eventually stating his intention is merely to bed you, if you are agreeable. His company is pleasant and his earnest decorum refreshing. After some time, he invites you to his private dwelling. $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You accept the invitation. (Explicit Scene)|Kanta male explicit scene]] $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You accept the invitation. (Fade to Black)|Kanta male fade to black]] [[You decline the invitation.]]

Enter some information to guide your experience with Kanta. Note, if Kanta leads the moment, he will penetrate the MC in some fashion depending on your choices. If the MC leads the moment, Kanta will expect penetration depending on your choices. You have: <<listbox "$chest" autoselect>> <<option "breasts">> <<option "pecs">> <</listbox>> You have a: <<listbox "$vp" autoselect>> <<option "vagina">> <<option "penis">> <</listbox>> Is kissing on the lips/mouth between Kanta and $mc okay? (If no, there will still be other types of kisses to be had.) <<listbox "$kiss" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> [[You head to Kanta's bed, intending to lead the moment]] [[You head to Kanta's bed, expecting him to lead the moment]] [[Change your mind and go home.|You decline the invitation.]]

You spend several hours at Kanta’s home, filling it with the sweet sounds of pleasure as you play with one another. He makes for an enthusiastic partner and enjoys pleading for your attention and your ministrations. After you are both sated, you simply relax together as you come down from your respective highs. [[He leaves you with an open-ended offer for company should you want him in the future.|post Kanta fun]]

<<set $bits to true>> Kanta does not mince words when you arrive at his cabin. You barely take in the quaint and simple décor and furnishings before he is coaxing you to his bed, quickling gathering a phial of oil should you need it. Gentle hands take yours and guide you to the bedroom. Kanta eagerly runs his slim fingers over your chest, slowly caressing your $chest over your clothing before continuing up to your neck. You feel the gentle tickle of the tips of his fingers along the back of your neck before he makes his way into your hair, massaging while he looks into your eyes and smiles. <<if $kiss is 'yes'>>At his signal, your mouth meets Kanta's with soft experimental kisses, gradual as you test each others fervency. His lips are soft and pliant against yours. You can feel a slight smile between you as he hums his approval at your technique. It doesn't take long before your tongues meet. You press into him, holding the side of his face as you each taste the other's hunger.<<else>>You wrap your arms around him and bring him close. He presses his lips to your jaw and hums in satisfaction. Bringing your lips to his neck, he leans his head to give you access, so you kiss and nibble at the tender flesh until he is breathing heavy and rubbing against you.<</if>> You undress each other in a deft dance, undoing laces and buttons and untangling cloth before you make it to the bed, facing each other as you lay side by side. Once you are skin to skin, Kanta takes his time to look you over as he glides delicate fingers along every inch of your skin. His eyes light up with want, and he chews his lower lip while he tries to hide a perverse smile. As he admires you, you return the favor. A pink flush has appeared on his cheeks, even his neck and shoulders have a tinge of extra color. His pecs are perfect firm mounds with rosy-colored nipples that harden at your touch. He returns your touch in kind, running the tips of his fingers along the nipples of your $chest before he lightly pinches and pulls them. A shiver flutters down your spine right to your loins. <<if $vp is 'penis'>>Your member is quickly swelling, encouraged each time Kanta's hips press against your own.<<else>>Your sex is quickly becoming wet, encouraged each time Kanta's hips press against your own.<</if>> He trails his hands down to your hips before sliding them to gently tease your loins, barely applying any pressure before he grazes your thighs. Kanta sends you a mischievous look. "It appears as though I could do with some attention." "Perhaps," you say, a shiver running down your back as your partner lightly traces the outline of the mark against your stomach. You can't keep the wicked grin from your face as you think of what to do to him. With a teasing touch to his loins, you sit up and throw yourself over him. Kanta smirks up at you, turning on his back as he submits to your endeavor. Your first attack goes to his neck where you kiss and suck your way down to this chest, taking a nipple between your lips. He groans and wriggles beneath you, holding on to your biceps as you work him. Kanta's dick becomes engorged, poking against your thigh, as you continue your way down with kisses and laps from your tongue. He whimpers with anticipation the closer you get. Once you reach his pelvic mound, you barely graze your lips along it and the top of his member. He grunts his frustration, staring at you with a challenge in his gray eyes. To add to his frustration, you work your lips around his sex, tasting his thighs, briefly running your tongue along his sac, before going back up to his pelvis. His cock twitches and he mumbles your name with a quiet plea for stimulation. You finally oblige, opening your mouth and sinking it right on to his throbbing dick until you can go no further. Kanta gasps and his hips buck from reflex. You suck him and wiggle your tongue along the throbbing member for a few moments, before slipping your mouth up and releasing him with a light pop as the suction breaks. He quakes. <> <<if $vp is 'penis'>> Remembering the phial he gave you, you pause a moment to uncork it, soaking your fingers with the slippery contents. You gently prod his legs to spread further as you gingerly touch a digit to his hole. He groans as you continue to prod until you slip inside of him. His muscles clench around your finger briefly before they relax. You wiggle into him gently, until your entire finger is craddled within him. Only then do you return to pleasing him with your mouth. While your tongue works his cock into a frenzy, your finger spurs him to stretch and open for you. Kanta runs his fingers into your hair, following every motion of your head as you go down on him. Once your finger rubs his sweet spot, he cries out, trying to grind further on to your hand. You give him another finger slicked with more oil as his opening stretches for you. You begin to taste that Kanta is ready, his cock is now so engorged that it is nearly blushed red, he's so hard that it may even be painful to endure. His ass is nearly ready, three of your fingers can nestle inside and thrust into the tight hole. His wimpering for you increases, your name dibbling from his lips on repeat. <<else>> You kneel in a position to give yourself full rein over Kanta's body. He dutifully submits to your every touch. You focus on his cock, thick and wanting, swirling your tongue at his tip as if there were something sweet inside you desired to lap up. You cradle his balls in one hand, massaging and tugging as your mouth and tongue work him, while your other hand pinches and rubs at his nipples. Kanta's hips buck and you allow him to thrust into your mouth for a moment before pinning his hips down and letting him stew with frustration once again. You barely craze his cock with your lips, sliding it between them back and forth until he begs you to continue. You reward him by dragging your tongue from his testicles to his tip before taking him fully in your mouth once more, bobbing your head quickly. His cock reaches into your throat, and he writhes under you. Your sex drips with anticipation, aching to be as filled as your mouth. You begin to taste that Kanta is ready and you wonder if you've taken him too far, his cock is now so engorged that it is nearly blushed red, he's so hard that it may even be painful to endure. You sit up and watch him for a moment, running your fingers along your vulva, feeling that you are slick and ready to receive him. You allow him to calm a moment, watching him pant and struggle to not touch his own sex. His wimpering for you increases, your name dibbling from his lips on repeat. <</if>> <> [[You prepare yourself.]]

<<set $bits to true>> Kanta does not mince words when you arrive at his cabin. You barely take in the quaint and simple décor and furnishings before he is coaxing you to the bed. Gentle hands take yours and guide you to the bedroom. Kanta eagerly runs his slim fingers over your chest, slowly caressing your $chest over your clothing before continuing up to your neck. You feel the soft caress of the tips of his fingers along the back of your neck before he makes his way into your hair, massaging as he looks into your eyes and smiles. <<if $kiss is 'yes'>>At his signal, your mouth meets Kanta's with soft experimental kisses, gradually testing each others fervency. His lips are soft and pliant against yours. You can feel a slight smile between you as he hums his approval at your technique. It doesn't take long before your tongues meet. You press into him, holding the side of his face as you each taste each other's hunger.<<else>>You wrap your arms around him and bring him close. He presses his lips to your jaw and hums in satisfaction. Bringing your lips to his neck, he leans his head to give you access, so you kiss and nibble at the tender flesh until he is breathing heavy and rubbing against you.<</if>> You undress each other in a deft dance, undoing laces and buttons and untangling cloth before you make it to the bed, facing each other as you lay side by side. Once you are skin to skin, Kanta takes his time to look you over as he glides delicate fingers along every inch of you. His eyes light up with want, and he chews his lower lip while he tries to hide a perverse smile. As he admires you, you return the favor. A pink flush has appeared on his cheeks, even his neck and shoulders have a tinge of extra color. His pecs are perfect firm mounds with rosy-colored nipples that harden at your touch. He returns your touch in kind, running the tips of his fingers along the nipples of your $chest before he lightly pinches and pulls them. A shiver flutters down your spine right to your loins. <<if $vp is 'penis'>>Your member is quickly swelling, encouraged each time Kanta's hips press against your own.<<else>>Your sex is quickly becoming wet, encouraged each time Kanta's hips press against your own.<</if>> He trails his hands down to your hips before sliding them to gently tease your loins, barely applying any pressure before he grazes your thighs. Kanta sends you a mischievous look. "It appears as though you could do with some attention." "Perhaps," you say, a shiver running down your back as your partner lightly traces the outline of the mark against your stomach. Kanta raises to lean over you, pinning you with his hands at either side of your head before he lowers himself to begin kissing and sucking at the flesh of your neck and shoulders. <<if $kiss is 'yes'>>He kisses his way to your lips, lifting a hand to gently pull your chin so you open your mouth, and his tongue delves inside. A moan escapes you and you can feel him smile against your lips.<<else>>His teeth lightly nibble against you as he makes his way to your jaw and then up to your ears, dragging his tongue along the edge to make you moan.<</if>> <> <<if $vp is 'penis'>> Kanta sends you a smile and then begins to kiss you downward, peppering your $chest with light kisses, swirling his tongue about your nipples, dragging his lips along your abs, until he is met with your hard dick. He teases it, barely touching it against his lips before he redirects to kiss your inner thighs. Kanta shuffles around, sitting up more, and you hear the small squeak of a cork. A moment later, you feel the sensation of oil against your ass as long fingers rub and push against you. Your cock hangs in the air, twitching for attention. Another moment passes and Kanta meets your eye as he gently dips his finger inside of your hole. Your muscles jerk in response, but quickly settle down. Kanta is gentle and persistent and once his entire finger is inside you, he lowers himself to get comfortable on the bed and brings his mouth to your dick. He teases with his wet tongue, gliding it up and down your shaft as he prods into your ass with smooth slick motions. A long moan bursts from you as he takes your entire shaft into his mouth and you feel the back of his throat. Kanta continues to work you up, pushing into your hole to relax the muscle as he pleasures you with his mouth. He swirls his tongue around your tip and then runs his lips up and down the shaft before taking your balls in to suck them. He adds a second finger once your entrance will accommodate it and the need to be filled makes you groan. Your dick pulses and leaks and the haze of desire and pleasure wash over you. Kanta inserts a third finger and you gasp. You're aching for more than just his fingers, and as he curls them to hit the sweet spot within you, you let out a long whine, making him chuckle in a low voice. He sits up, and abandons his ministrations to your cock. You see his own member dangling and ready for you as it rubs against your thigh; Kanta plunges his fingers inside you a few more times before he withdraws. "I need you, $mc," he says, uncorking his phial and pouring the contents on his dick, smoothing it over with his other hand. He strokes it slowly as he locks eyes with you. <<else>> Kanta sends you a smile and then begins to kiss you downward, peppering your $chest with light kisses, swirling his tongue about your nipples, dragging his lips along your abs, until he is met with your wet cunt. He teases it, barely touching it against his lips before he redirects to kiss your inner thighs. He continues like this, kissing all around your sex, nibbling the area, dragging his tongue everywhere but where you need him to. You wriggle and whimper with anticipation, and when he finally puts his whole mouth on you, you nearly come undone. He drinks of you deeply, jutting his tongue inside your entrance and swirling it before tracing along your divide up to your clit. He sucks it and then flips the tip of his tongue against it like a snake tasting the air. He repeats the pattern, changing the way his tongue works with each pass. All you can do is let him have his way as you are lost to the pleasure, moans dribbling from your lips and fingers in his hair as he works. The muscles in your insides clench and pull, demanding to be filled, longing for company. You are so wet, that you briefly wonder if Kanta will drown in you. He revels in it, moaning against your pliant flesh, one hand reaching up to play with your $chest. Suddenly you feel the fingers of his other hand playing at your entrance. They swirl your wetness about and tease penetration. Kanta does not play with you long before he pushes the digits inside of you, stretching you and pleasing you while he continues to lap at your clit. Kanta curls his fingers inside you a surge of delight ripples up your spine. He sits up, and abandons his ministrations to your clit. You see his member dangling and ready for you as it rubs against your thigh; Kanta plunges his fingers inside you a few more times before he withdraws, dragging his wet fingers to coat his shaft. "I need you, $mc," he says, continuing to pump his cock as he meets your eyes. <</if>> <> [[You spread your legs.]]

<> <<if $vp is 'penis'>> Hunger takes over Kanta's expression as he watches you open up for him, placing your hands behind your knees so you can pull them up. His breathing stutters a moment, and he begins to rub his cock against yours, sharing the oil to make you both slick. One of your hands moves to join his as you both rub against each other. His cock pulses when you touch it. He moves, angling so that his member presses against your entrance. His eyes meet yours and he presses slowly. You watch as his chest rises and falls, panting with need. You feel Kanta breach your ass, the sensation of your body opening to him finally hitting you. He presses in slowly, careful as he stretches you. He ads the last of the oil part way though, and then slides the rest of the way inside with an easy thrust. You moan at the sensation, of being filled, of Kanta's raw physical desire. He takes a moment to breath once he's hilted inside, gingerly rubbing your legs with his hands. "You feel magnificent...Are you okay?" You nod and your dick twitches, the tip beginning to drip with the need to ejaculate. You //need// him, and buck your hips to encourage him to move. Kanta gives you a sly smile, challenging you with his eyes. He withdraws from you almost entirely, places his hands behind your knees and then thrusts //hard//. Your body involuntarily quivers and a groan gets caught in your throat. He hilts into you again and stays there a moment before withdrawing again slowly and repeating the hard thrust. His dick grazes the sensitive part of your ass and you gasp. He continues at a painfully slow pace, seeming to goad you for your impatience, each time smacking the same spot to make you moan and twitch. Kanta moves his hands to your hips, pulling you up to meet with his thrusts as he quickens his pace. You're both sweating and breathing hard as he drives hard and harder into you. Ripples of pleasure tear up and down your spine and your cock is painfully hard, so you grab it with a hand and begin to pump. Kanta's breath shudders as he watches you stimulate yourself. He lurches forward, bringing his lips to your neck to gently bite and kiss at the tender flesh as he pounds in to your backside faster and faster. His new position focuses his cock right against the good spot inside you, the pleasure rocks you in building waves, and your head feels dizzy with arousal. He brings his lips to your ear and against your own moaning you hear him whisper. "Come for me, $mc..." You shiver and grip your member tighter, the feeling of climax spurs from your testicles and shoots up to the tip of your cock. You give in and come fast and hard as Kanta continues to thrust hard into you. You coat the both of you in your seed in several shivering bursts. You cry out, gripping onto Kanta with your free hand. <<else>> Hunger takes over Kanta's expression as he watches you open up for him, placing your hands behind your knees so you can pull them up. His breathing stutters a moment, and he begins to rub his cock against your wet folds, continuing to coat himself and press against your clit. One of your hands moves to press the tip against your divide as you rub him. His cock pulses as you touch it. He moves, angling so that his member presses against your entrance. His eyes meet yours and he pushes slowly. You watch as his chest rises and falls, panting with need. You feel Kanta breach your cunt, the sensation of your body opening to him finally hitting you. He presses in slowly, careful as he stretches you. He thumbs your clit as he slides the rest of the way inside with an easy thrust. You moan at the sensation, of being filled, of Kanta's raw physical desire. He takes a moment to breathe once he's hilted inside, gingerly rubbing your legs with his hands. "You feel magnificent...Are you okay?" You nod and your pussy twitches, the urge to climax has surged into an ache within you. You //need// him, and buck your hips to encourage him to move. Kanta gives you a sly smile, challenging you with his eyes. He withdraws from you almost entirely, places his hands behind your knees and then thrusts //hard//. Your body involuntarily quivers and a groan gets caught in your throat. He hilts into you again and stays there a moment before withdrawing again slowly and repeating the hard thrust. His dick grazes the sensitive part of your tunnel and you gasp. He continues at a painfully slow pace, seeming to goad you for your impatience, each time smacking the same spot to make you moan and twitch. Kanta moves his hands to your hips, pulling you up to meet with his thrusts as he quickens his pace. You're both sweating and breathing hard as he drives hard and harder into you. Ripples of pleasure tear up and down your spine and your clit is swollen and wanting, so you bring your fingers to it and begin to rub. Kanta's breath shudders as he watches you stimulate yourself. He lurches forward, bringing his lips to your neck to gently bite and kiss at the tender flesh as he pounds into you faster and faster. His new position focuses his cock right against the good spot inside you, the pleasure rocks you in building waves, and your head feels dizzy with arousal. He brings his lips to your ear and against your own moaning you hear him whisper. "Come for me, $mc..." You shiver and clutch your legs around Kanta, the feeling of climax spiraling from your pelvis. You give in and come fast and hard as Kanta continues to thrust into you. Your muscles convulse and clench as shivers erupt through your whole body until your legs are left shaking and you are crying Kanta's name. <</if>> He groans. "$mc...I'm coming; what should I do?" <> [[You want him to finish inside of you.]] [[You want him to pull out.]]

"//Inside//," you whine. Kanta gasps, sitting up as he holds your legs and pounds his cock into you. He throws his head back and calls your name, stilling for a moment while he is fully engulfed before pulling out and pushing back in. His muscles twitch and you feel his dick jerk within as his cum fills you. When he winds down, his motions become more gentle, but he continues to moan, pulling in and out of you until his member softens enough that it slips from your hole on its own. He pants and releases your legs, sitting back to catch his breath. You also breathe deep and regain your bearings. You gasp lightly as you feel a rush of warm cum gush out of your body. You feel your face heat. Once you have both caught your air and your bearings, you help each other clean up before reclining on the bed to rest for a while. Kanta asks that you hold him against your chest as he comes down from his high. He mumbles sweet words against your skin offset by small pecks from his lips. After a while he lets you decide if you'd like to play again or simply relax. [[You spend a good while with Kanta for before returning home.|post Kanta fun]]

"Pull out, I want to //feel// it on me," you whine. Kanta gasps, sitting up as he holds your legs and pounds his cock into you. He throws his head back and calls your name, withdrawing at the last moment shooting his seed along your thighs and pelvis. Hot spurts hit and drip across your skin over and over. He coats you thoroughly, pumping his member with his hands until he is spent and soft. He pants and releases you, sitting back to catch his breath. You also heave to catch your breath as regain your bearings. You gasp lightly as you feel a rush of warm cum drip down your thighs, following the line of your pelvis close to your sex. You feel your face heat as it pools beneath you. Once you have both caught you breath and your bearings, you help each other clean up before reclining on the bed to rest for a while. Kanta asks that you hold him against your chest as he comes down from his high. He mumbles sweet words against your skin offset by small pecks from his lips. After a while he lets you decide if you'd like to play again or simply relax. [[You spend a good while with Kanta for before returning home.|post Kanta fun]]

<> <<if $vp is 'penis'>> You rub your cock with oil, thoroughly coating it before you push back Kanta's legs to expose everything to you. His hands meet yours and assist by holding his limbs back. Supporting your dick, you get closer and press your tip to Kanta's entrance, rubbing it around the area with slight pressure, causing him to moan. Your loins twitch and urge you forward, desiring to be lost in the flesh of another. So, you press in, breaching the rim of his ass and sliding in with just enough resistance to feel bliss. Both of you moan in pleasure and relief. He swallows you inch by inch, tight and wet with oil, it feels as though he is sucking you. Once your member is engulfed, you pause a moment to be sure Kanta is doing okay, he signals you that he is by grinding into your cock and biting his lower lip. Stepping up to his challenge, you seize him by the ankles, lifting and spreading his legs as you begin your attack. You pull all the way out and then thrust back in, an audible smack sounding between you. Kanta gasps, his ass tightening nicely for you as you withdraw to repeat the motion. After slamming your cock into Kanta, you notice his panting and writhing have increased. He clenches at the bedding with one hand as the other smooths over his own dick, which is leaking, preparing to come. The sight sends a delightful shiver through your back and out to your loins, right to the tip of your dick. You decide to stop playing slow and hard, and begin to thrust in earnest, the slaps of your flesh echoing through the room. Kanta's ass grips you, coaxing you to plunge deeper and faster each time your flesh meets. His cries are contant and he's now jerking his cock hard, timing it with your thrusting. With a shudder he comes, calling your name and coating his stomach and chest with seed. The sensation builds, starting in your balls. You're nearly there as well. "I'm coming," you breathe, trying to give warning before you erupt. "Withdraw," Kanta pants, still pumping his cock, "I want to feel your heat cover me." [[You pull out]] <<else>> You sit up and allow Kanta to watch, his breathing hitching, as you run your fingers through your wet folds, coating your fingers in your essense before sliding them inside your entrance. He watches the motions with hunger in his eyes. His cock jerks from where it stands at attention, the muscles calling out for release. Smirking, you move to straddle him, letting his cock rest against the front of your pelvis, barely touching your divide. You lean back and raise your hips to rub along Kanta's dick as he tries to lower his own in order to enter you, but you do not allow him. He groans in frustration. Once you've decided that you have teased him enough, you lean up and allow him to steady his cock under your hole before slowly lowering yourself on to it. The initial penetration makes you both moan in delight. He slides in easily, your channel stretching to accommodate him. Kanta pants, looking at your connection before tossing his head back to the bed. "You're so //wet//, $mc." You chuckle, his girth is also not doing you any favors as far as stretching your playtime out. He hits in all the right places. You begin your jaunt, pushing your hips down to fully seat him inside. He grabs your hips and grunts each time you thrust. Grabbing Kanta's hands from your hips to help you balance, you begin to ride him furiously, grinding him down into the bed, getting him as deep as possible. It doesn't take long for you to come undone, and you sense that your pleasure will erupt soon. Kanta takes a hand back and uses it to rub against your clit. You lean back to allow him better access. You lose yourself. The dick inside you fills while the hand at your sex sends electric ripples through your entire body. Within moments your muscles tense and your climax decends. You cry out over and over, shaking as you come. Kanta takes over thrusting, letting you stay lost in bliss. He whispers curses as he watches you. Once you are no longer shaking and in the haze of pleasure, you limply try to continue your onslaught on Kanta's cock. You can tell by his moaning that he's close. "$mc..." he says, "I'm so close...where...where..." Kanta's head tips back and you need to react now. [[You allow him to cum inside of you.]] [[You pull yourself off to have him finish outside of you.]] <</if>> <>

You lean into Kanta as he begins to rut. He grips your hips as he pushes inside rapidly several times before stilling, holding you on his dick as deep as he can get. A long strained groan leaves his throat and he loosens his grip enough for you to continue thrusting down onto him. You feel his dick twiching as it releases its load inside. After a few moments, Kanta falls back to the bed and begins to relax, still pushing up into you gently as the orgasm ebbs and he comes down. He storkes your hips with gentle swipes of his finger tips. You are still coming down from your own, but find extra pleasure in watching the man writhe under you. His chest rises and falls deeply as he tries to catch his wind again. He's puddy beneath you, spent. His member softens and slips out from your entrance, followed by a rush of warm cum that spills out from your loins and onto Kanta's. Your legs wobble as you dismount from him and recline on the mattress. Once you have both caught you breath and your bearings, you help each other clean up before reclining on the bed to rest for a while. Kanta asks that you hold him against your chest as he comes down from his high. He mumbles sweet words against your skin offset by small pecks from his lips. After a while, he lets you decide if you'd like to play again or simply relax. [[You spend a good while with Kanta for before returning home.|post Kanta fun]]

You thrust a few more time, watching Kanta milk his softened member, covered with his own seed. You bite your lip as he suddenly grips you with his ass, the building sensation of orgasm ignites from a spark to an inferno. Your cock pulses, and you withdraw, barely in time as you ejaculate in several thick bursts. Your cum coats Kanta's thighs, with a large spurt hitting his navel, mixing with his own seed. Using your hand you continue to lightly pump and milk your cock, sure to paint Kanta with it as he wanted, until it begins to soften. You are both left panting and satisfied. Once you have both caught you breath and your bearings, you help each other clean up before reclining on the bed to rest for a while. Kanta asks that you hold him against your chest as he comes down from his high. He mumbles sweet words against your skin, offset by small pecks from his lips. After a while, he lets you decide if you'd like to play again or simply relax. [[You spend a good while with Kanta for before returning home.|post Kanta fun]]

You pull your hips away so Kanta slips out from your sex, grabbing his wet member as he begins to rut. He grips the bedding as he pushes inside your fists rapidly several times before stilling as an eruption of thick cum springs from his tip. A long strained groan leaves his throat as he continues thrusting into your grip, spurting more each time until your hands are covered. You feel his dick twiching as it finishes releasing its load. After a few moments, Kanta falls back to the bed and begins to relax, still pushing up into you gently as the orgasm ebbs and he comes down. His dick continues to weep as you pump the slick flesh. You are still coming down from your own climax, but find extra pleasure in watching the man writhe under you. His chest rises and falls deeply as he tries to catch his wind again. He's puddy beneath you, spent. His member softens and slips from your fingers. Your legs wobble as you carefully dismount from him to recline on the mattress, and Kanta hands you a cloth to wipe your hands. Once you have both caught you breath and your bearings, you help each other clean up before reclining on the bed to rest for a while. Kanta asks that you hold him against your chest as he comes down from his high. He mumbles sweet words against your skin offset by small pecks from his lips. After a while, he lets you decide if you'd like to play again or simply relax. [[You spend a good while with Kanta for before returning home.|post Kanta fun]]

<> <<if $kanta is 'male'>> Kanta spends a while in your company, simply chatting and getting to know you a little better. He tells you about his aspirations to join the Common Council of Mahdeh with hopes of bettering the representation for small communities such as Stonebrook. He recently returned from a series of meetings in the Capitol. He is well-spoken and open and the longer you speak with him the more you feel like he really is a good fit for the Council. You entertain a game of cards and a few drinks in his company, but after a while, Kanta retires. Before he leaves, he gives you an open-ended invitation to his bed. <</if>> <<if $kanta is 'female'>> Kanta spends a while in your company, simply chatting and getting to know you a little better. She tells you about her aspirations to join the Common Council of Mahdeh with hopes of bettering the representation for small communities such as Stonebrook. She recently returned from a series of meetings in the Capitol. She is well-spoken and open and the longer you speak with her the more you feel like she really is a good fit for the Council. You entertain a game of cards and a few drinks in her company, but after a while, Kanta retires. Before she leaves, she gives you an open-ended invitation to her bed. No matter what you think about that, you consider what you should do with the remainder of your time. <</if>> <> <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Da.")>>[[You spend some time with Da.]]<<else>>You spend some time with Da.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Papa.")>>[[You spend some time with Papa.]]<<else>>You spend some time with Papa.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You find Lakota, needing to explain you situation and spend some time with him.")>>[[You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.]]<<else>>You find Lakota, needing to explain you situation and spend some time with him.<</if>> <<if $papatime is 'true' and $datime is 'true' and $latime is 'true'>>[[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]<</if>>

"Sorry, $mc. I shouldn't be blubbering when you're the one..." Lakota growls in frustration. "All these years! I thought- I was stupid enough to believe that I had actually helped you. Maybe it was wishful thinking that I could ease your burdens with a tea made from a weed. I was so foolish to have-" "No one could have predicted this. Even da's friend said as much. There's magic in it that may not have surfaced until now. How many doctors and churches did I visit as a kid? No one could tell." Lakota sighs. "I know, I guess. I just hate it. I hate feeling helpless; I've felt that way most of my life. I just want you to be okay. You're the one person that I...I have always looked up to you <<if $SeriousPlayful < 50>>- don't you dare make fun -<</if>> and I think a silly part of me just desperately wants to do for you what you've done for me." "Which is?" "To just be there. To support you. To help you. Give you someone to count on - someone that has answers, solutions. You were my friend when we were kids even when I was sick. No one else except Oswin had the patience for that and he was stuck being my brother." He gives you a rueful smile. "We were //both// sick." "You still stuck around with me. Gave me someone to irritate Oswin with." His smile turns a bit more nostalgic. "Remember all the bee stings he got?" You laugh. "Can't forget; he whined about it for days afterwards." "He really...I know things are odd. //He's// odd." Lakota goes quiet for a while. "I think...I think you two need to talk, but I'll just say that I know he's always cared. Even when he acts like an ass..." You roll your eyes. You'll have plenty of time to mull that one over soon. As a lull falls over you and your friend, you see two figures wearing flowing green dresses in the distance walking along the tree-line that borders the Twinflower land. It's Sage and Poppy. They wave at you and whisper to each other, even though you are far enough away you could not hear them. They laugh and send you a sinister smile. You sigh and look at Lakota. "I'm not sure how I never realized they were witches before..." Lakota laughs. "Me either. Half the town knows even though they don't announce it. They just look and act the part and everyone is afraid to speak of it." "//Hey//, are you calling me stupid?" "...Unobservant maybe, never stupid." Lakota ducks as you take a swipe at him. You stay a while, explaining a few more of the details about your situation to your friend. He tries to feign courage, but you know him too well and see through it. Before you depart, he turns over a pack of supplies to help you on the journey. <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Da.")>>[[You spend some time with Da.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Da.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Papa.")>>[[You spend some time with Papa.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Papa.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You had a romantic encounter.<</if>> <<if $papatime is 'true' and $datime is 'true' and $latime is 'true'>>[[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]<</if>>

<<set $comp to "competitive">> It may or may not have been Da that shaped you this way, but you play to win regardless. A few evenings have ended in you two exchanging heated jibes – some playful, some definitely less so. At times, it has gotten too much for Papa, and he either will leave the room or get involved to end the banter. He’s been known to pull a game out from under both you and Da just to prove a point. Unfortunately, Da has cleaned house. Out of your last five rounds of darts, he’s clinched three victories over you. He’s still gloating about it, but not as much as he normally would – especially since being bound to a chair should put him at a disadvantage. At least with all that’s happened, he’s still not about to show you any pity. Da takes his darts back after you’ve dug them all from the target. He gingerly adjusts the small fletchings and examines the tips. “I’d ask for another few rounds, but I’d like to leave //some// of your pride intact.” He winks. You roll your eyes. “I nearly had you, don’t gloat. Besides, I’m taking pity on you because you broke your leg //twice//.” He snorts. “Perhaps we should break out the old naughts and crosses, then? Something a bit easier for you…” <<if $RecklessCautious > 50>>Rising to his challenge, and confident in your aim, you fling one of your darts, lodging it in the wall behind and to the side of your da – far enough that it’s clear you mean no ill towards your poor father. “Perhaps you need to be taught a lesson, old man.” You laugh. Da turns to look at the dart and smiles. “You are so much like me that I do not know whether to be proud or frightened.” “Both?” “Both,” he agrees. <<else>>You smirk at Da and then raise one of your darts to act as if you are aiming it towards him. He looks surprised for a moment before you set it down. “You’re lucky I care about you so much, old man; one of these days I might just teach you a lesson.” You chuckle. Da laughs. “I am lucky, indeed. Lucky that you are taking more after your papa than me – maybe just lucky that you’re my $sondtrchild…” “Both?” “Both,” he agrees. <</if>> You settle into an easy conversation after that as you fix your darts and put them away. Da shares some of his tips for aiming while sitting. It is still clear that heaviness weighs on his mind. Your da always has a talent for making any room he’s in feel lighter than it is. He brings smiles and laughter everywhere he goes, so the heaviness is telling. Though the mood is a bit sullen, it may also be because of the question that’s been circling your head since Ansar visited. [[You decided that you need to ask while you have the chance.]]

<<set $comp to "not competitive">> Try as Da might, you have taken after Papa in this regard. It may or may not have been his direct influence, but you generally don’t become too worked up over most competitions. You simply enjoy the game at hand and let that be enough. Not that you haven’t been spurred for a victory a time or two, especially as a child. Papa enjoys watching Da try and fail to rile you up. It makes both your victories and losses taste sweeter since you take both with equal amounts of grace, which drives Da crazy. Da takes his darts back after you’ve dug them all from the target. He gingerly adjusts the small fletchings and examines the tips. “I’d ask for another few rounds, but I’d like to leave //some// of your pride intact.” He winks. You roll your eyes and smile. “I’m just glad that your //twice// broken leg hasn’t extinguished that competitive spirit of yours, Da.” He guffaws. “Oh you are impossible! How is it that you are my child!?” <<if $RecklessCautious > 50>>In order to humor him, with confidence in your aim, you fling one of your darts, lodging it in the wall behind and to the side of your da – far enough that it’s clear you mean no ill towards your poor father. “Perhaps it’s to teach you a lesson, old man.” You laugh. Da turns to look at the dart and smiles. “At least in some ways you are so much like me that I do not know whether to be proud or frightened.” “Both?” “Both,” he agrees. <<else>>In order to humor him, you smirk at Da and then raise one of your darts to act as if you are aiming it towards him. He looks surprised for a moment before you set it down. “Perhaps it’s to teach you a lesson, old man. You might be luckier than you think.” You chuckle. Da laughs. “I am lucky, indeed. Lucky that you are taking more after your papa than me – maybe just lucky that you’re my $sondtrchild…” “Both?” “Both,” he agrees. <</if>> You settle into an easy conversation after that as you fix your darts and put them away. Da shares some of his tips for aiming while sitting. It is still clear that heaviness weighs on his mind. Your da always has a talent for making any room he’s in feel lighter than it is. He brings smiles and laughter everywhere he goes, so the heaviness is telling. Though the mood is a bit sullen, it may also be because of the question that’s been circling your head since Ansar visited. [[You decided that you need to ask while you have the chance.]]

<<if $SeriousPlayful > 50>>You allow the quiet to settle over the both of you, getting a strange sense that Da knows what’s coming. You clear your throat after a while, catching your father’s hazel gaze in your $eyecolor. He has more crows-feet these days, but then he’s always been one to laugh – always. “Da…” You take a deep breath. <<else>>“So,” you begin, catching your father’s hazel gaze in your $eyecolor. He has more crows-feet these days, but then he’s always been one to laugh – always, maybe that’s where you get it from. “Maybe it’s time to break out some family secrets, eh?” You try to chuckle for some levity.<</if>> You father gives you a weak smile and nods. “Go on, I know you have some questions. I want you to ask, but...but just know I can’t give you all the answers.” “Can’t or won’t?” You ask, sincerely. “Won’t.” The honesty stings. The secrets already sting, but your da telling you that there are things he refuses to reveal stings more. You swallow hard.<<if $GentleAssertive > 50>> “I understand.”<<else>> “That isn’t fair.”<</if>> “I know. I’m sorry, but it’s the way it needs to be – for now. It’s a matter of your safety as well, Sprout. Not knowing keeps you safe.” You steel yourself. “What name did Ansar keep trying to call you. It was second nature to him to call you something else. You’ve never told me what your birth name was.” Da nods. “I...still can’t tell you.” You sigh. “I’m sorry. I did have another name. On my name day, I declared that my birth name was my true name. It was a lie, I never wanted it that way. It’s a unique name around here, it would be recognized should you ever repeat it.” “What of your birth family, then?” “They are out there. Still alive.” “We have more family and...why can’t we see them? Why can’t I know them?” He shakes his head. “Most of them aren’t good people, $mc. Mostly, my father...your grandfather...is a very horrible person. Your grandmother lost herself a long time ago; I believe she is more...spiritually dead, though she lives.” “Why are they bad people?” “Why else?” He scoffs. “Greed.” “Who was Ansar to you, then?” The picture they painted was a strange one. They seemed to be friends, but at the same time the mage was treated as a threat by both your parents. “He was once a true friend. For me, I could still call him that, but I don’t know…” “If he can be fully trusted?” You finish for him. Da nods. “He owes my father a deep debt, a life debt – one that he is bound with old magic to abide. We became friends, almost brothers – grew up together. We both wanted out for a time, but I think he grew to- No, he was manipulated into my father’s right hand. Our relationship became tense. I had a lover, in my 17th cycle, another man that worked for my father. Ansar told him.” Da’s face flits through various emotions, sadness chief among them. “What happened? Why was that so bad?” “He wanted grandchildren out of me – from my loins. He was not aware of my preferences until then. My lover disappeared – I never found out what became of him.” Tears prick his eyes and he struggles to keep them in check. You know your da would hold out hope that his old lover is still out there, so again you feel as though you are not being told the whole story. “Da…” “I had an older brother.” He nods, his eyes raising to yours and tears fall. “//Had.//” Da’s voice cracks and his lower lip quivers. You watch as Da struggles to compose himself. He doesn’t need to for your sake, but it has always been difficult for him to cry. It comes easy to Papa and sometimes you think he may cry for both of them. When Da is able to take a deep breath, he continues. “Your papa rescued me. I had taken a fancy to him.” He smirks. “It was hard not to. He was so shy, I could not resist flirting with him. He turned so red! I was scared of what would happen and he could see I was unhappy, so, he whisked me away. Grandmother Ravinder caused a distraction, your papa hid me in a logging cart and save my life...my future.” “You told me you met in a tavern!” “//Technically//, we did – there was just more to it.” You sit and think a while. Curiosity and perhaps a bit of anger wants you to beg for the identity of your sordid grandfather, but Da has been through enough. “Sprout, when you come back to me - once you break that damned curse and are safe at home - I will tell you everything. If I told you now while you were out there...if anything so much as slipped from your lips, even what I have said may be too much, you must never repeat it to anyone.” “I understand, Da.” Da stills for a while, staring at the table. He tries to speak a few times, but never finishes. Finally, he reaches into his pocket and takes something, setting it to the table, still clutched and hidden within his hand. “I shouldn’t...but this...this is something that could keep you safe. Make no mistake, it could put you in danger as well, but should you be in dire trouble – I mean life or death, $mc – you may be able to use this.” Reluctantly, Da drops what he’s holding. It’s a ring. A big one – a large black gem set within an ornate gold band. You pick it up – it’s quite heavy for a ring – and study it further. The gem is clutched within the gold talons of an eagle. Your father continues, “Only if it is dire, do you show this to anyone. It will buy you time, it may even buy you a way to break the curse. Should someone discover it by accident, tell them you found it in the Udo River.” “It looks valuable, but how does it help me but also put me in danger?” “It’s a family ring, like a crest. My brother’s – a great many people around Mahdeh Province will recognize it. It may grant you mercy or favor, but if someone in my family sees it or hears of it surfacing, it will cause trouble. Do not use it flippantly or show it off. Life or death. Promise me.” “I promise.” Da is very quiet after your exchange, though as time passes, be begins to thaw and return to his normal self. When you return to your games, he has lost his edge – or perhaps, just this once, he lets you win. <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Papa.")>>[[You spend some time with Papa.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Papa.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You find Lakota, needing to explain you situation and spend some time with him.")>>[[You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.]]<<else>>You spent time with Lakota.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You had a romantic encounter.<</if>> <<if $papatime is 'true' and $datime is 'true' and $latime is 'true'>>[[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]<</if>>

Your time is a bit short, but you won't need much for what you have in mind... $flirt_label <<if hasVisited("You'd never found a steady partner, but found a variety in town with the occasional traveler to join you.")>>[[You can seek out a romantic encounter at the tavern.]] <<elseif hasVisited("A brunette woman with soft gray eyes was a regular companion for you.")>>[[You can go find Kanta, she’ll happily send you off in the best way.]] <<elseif hasVisited("A brunette man with soft gray eyes was a regular companion for you.")>>[[You can go find Kanta, he’ll happily send you off in the best way.]] <<else>>[[This may be your last chance for a while to have some romantic company; you’ll seek a partner out.]]<</if>>

His back is to you as you approach, sitting on an overturned water trough. You see his shoulders move, but you cannot see what he is doing. Taking a look around, you can't help but recall memories from this barn - not all of them good - but many of them are of Papa. He taught you how to handle animals, befriend and nurture them, care for them. This is the place where he showed you calves, puppies, kids and lambs. This is where you bottle-fed Bo and played in the hay while Papa worked. You snap from your reverie when you hear Papa hiss sharply. He shakes his hand and puts a finger to his lips for a moment before reaching to pick up one of the kittens in his huge hand. It's the black one who reaches to paw at Papa's face, not looking the least bit sorry. You step forward and your father finally hears you. "$mc? What brings you here? Yer chores are done." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 50>>"I've come to sit with you a while."<<else>>"To be a thorn in your side, of course."<</if>> Papa pats the spot next to him where there is just enough room for you to squeeze in, though you will likely bump shoulders with your father. He sets the kitten down, who immediately pounces on his brother - the orange tabby. Papa chuckles and you both watch the small creatures for a while in silence. "You've been a bit quiet, Papa," you finally say. He takes a deep breath. "Been thinkin' a lot." <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>You place a hand on Papa's shoulder. "I know this has been very hard on you. We can talk about it, if you'd like."<<else>>You look at your father meaningfully. "I know it's difficult, but we need to talk about it if it's troubling you."<</if>> Nodding, Papa strokes his beard. He thinks for a long time, but you've known him long enough to understand that he just needs some time to organize his thoughts. "I've never felt so useless and stupid." <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>"You are anything but that, Papa. We couldn't have been prepared for all of this, I don't want you to feel any less over it."<<else>>"That's absurd. You've done nothing to warrant such feelings."<</if>> "I know yer right. Yer da says the same. But, I want to do more for ya. I can't even take you to a damn shrine." He grumbles, but softens when the kittens begin an attack on one of his boots. "I know you would if it were possible. I'm grown now, though, and you've done all you can to prepare me." [[Papa nods.]]

And then you hear his breath stutter. Try as he might, Papa can't keep tears at bay for long. The kittens are a helpful distraction at least. "I'm not good with words," he says. "That's okay." "Never thought I would be a father...wanted to." "Yeah?" you ask as the kittens turn their attack on your boots. "It's the best thing I've ever been." "Truly?" "Truly. All I want is for ya to be well and happy. Live yer own way. When //it// was illness, I could care for you. No matter how bad, I would see you well again. This curse business makes me feel powerless." He stares at his hands, big and calloused from years of hard word. "I never found somethin' we couldn't fix in some way... We hadn't a home - we built one. When the fence broke - I mended it. When that bear tore into the chicken house - I drove it off. When you were a babe - I held, fed, clothed ya. We doctored you when sick...but I can't...all these years talkin' to gods that wouldn't listen..." The kittens mew at you as you try to think on how to respond. You're aware that you may not be able to make your father feel much better, but you want to try. [[Some affection and encouraging words will help.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 7, 0, 100)]] [[You can do this, and you need to affirm that with him.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 7, 0, 100)]] [[You think it's best to be serious about this.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 7, 0, 100)]] [[Levity will lift your father's spirit.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 7, 0, 100)]]

You gently place a hand on your papa’s back. You feel the solid muscle underneath. Papa has always been rock-solid – not just in his body, but in his spirit. He lifts everything and everyone up on his shoulders, you chief among them (and sometimes literally). But, he’s soft inside – full of love and caring. “Papa...I know I can’t convince you not to worry, but don’t be so hard on yourself. You’ve done a lot for me. I am only here now because of you and Da. Because of you, I have what I need to do this myself. You’ve always dropped everything for me, and I can’t have you do that right now. Not when Da is injured and needs you too. Not when…” You pick up the kittens. “There are other little ones that need you too.” Papa rolls his eyes affectionately. The kittens struggle from your hands to reach his shoulders and climb on. They immediately begin playing with his shaggy hair. “Yer more important than that, but I understand.” “It will be okay. I’ll make sure it is. I’ll be back in a fortnight, and we can celebrate my success.” You’re not sure of success yet, but it doesn’t hurt to keep that to yourself for now. He nods, the orange kitten nearly losing purchase when he does. “I need to have more faith in my $sondtrchild is what yer sayin’.” “Yup.” You consider your father and the kittens a moment. “Did you name them yet?” “Mmhmm.” He plucks the black one and hands her to you. “Pep.” Plucking the orange one from his tangled hair, he says, “Peeks.” You spend the next while watching Pep and Peeks wrestle and you finally see your papa smiling again like always. You regard what else you have time for before you set out. <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Da.")>>[[You spend some time with Da.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Da.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.")>>[[You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Lakota.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You had a romantic encounter.<</if>> <<if $papatime is 'true' and $datime is 'true' and $latime is 'true'>>[[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]<</if>>

You gently place a hand on your papa’s back. You feel the solid muscle underneath. Papa has always been rock-solid – not just in his body, but in his spirit. He lifts everything and everyone up on his shoulders, you chief among them (and sometimes literally). But, he’s soft inside – full of love and caring. “Papa, I can do this. I need you to believe that I can. You didn’t raise a fool, after all, and it’s only because of you and Da that I have made it this far. It’s time for me to walk on my own. Under other circumstances, I would love to have you with me, but you’re needed here more. Da needs you, your animals need you. I’m capable.” Papa turns is big brown eyes to you and they shine with pride. “I know you are. Yer the most capable person I know.” You wrangle the kittens into your arms, setting them on your father’s big shoulders, but they immediately make to play in his shaggy hair. “It will be okay, Papa. I’ll make sure it is. I’ll be back in a fortnight, and we can celebrate my success.” You’re not sure of success yet, but it doesn’t hurt to keep that to yourself for now. He nods, the orange kitten nearly losing purchase when he does. “Yer right, I need to have more faith in my $sondtrchild.” “Yes, that’s all I ask.” You consider your father and the kittens a moment. “Did you name them yet?” “Mmhmm.” He plucks the black one and hands her to you. “Pep.” Plucking the orange one from his tangled hair, he says, “Peeks.” You spend the next while watching Pep and Peeks wrestle and you finally see your papa smiling again like always. You regard what else you have time for before you set out. <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Da.")>>[[You spend some time with Da.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Da.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.")>>[[You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Lakota.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You had a romantic encounter.<</if>> <<if $papatime is 'true' and $datime is 'true' and $latime is 'true'>>[[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]<</if>>

You gently place a hand on your papa’s back. You feel the solid muscle underneath. Papa has always been rock-solid – not just in his body, but in his spirit. He lifts everything and everyone up on his shoulders, you chief among them (and sometimes literally). But, he’s soft inside – full of love and caring. “Papa, I know I can do this. I’m also not ignorant of the risks, but the risk is greater if I wait, and I refuse to allow you and Da’s needs to fall by the wayside. You have always dropped everything for me, and I am only here now because of you as it is. Given all of this...maybe I just need to do this without you too. I understand what I’m getting into.” Papa turns is big brown eyes to you and they shine with pride. “I know you are. Yer the most capable person I know.” You wrangle the kittens into your arms, setting them on your father’s big shoulders, but they immediately make to play in his shaggy hair. “I’ll makes sure I get through this and come back to you one way or another, and then we can celebrate my success.” You’re not sure of success yet, but it doesn’t hurt to keep that to yourself for now. He nods, the orange kitten nearly losing purchase when he does. “Yer right, I need to have more faith in my $sondtrchild.” “Yes, that’s all I ask.” You consider your father and the kittens a moment. “Did you name them yet?” “Mmhmm.” He plucks the black one and hands her to you. “Pep.” Plucking the orange one from his tangled hair, he says, “Peeks.” You spend the next while watching Pep and Peeks wrestle and you finally see your papa smiling again like always. You regard what else you have time for before you set out. <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Da.")>>[[You spend some time with Da.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Da.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.")>>[[You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Lakota.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You had a romantic encounter.<</if>> <<if $papatime is 'true' and $datime is 'true' and $latime is 'true'>>[[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]<</if>>

You gently place a hand on your papa’s back. You feel the solid muscle underneath. Papa has always been rock-solid – not just in his body, but in his spirit. He lifts everything and everyone up on his shoulders, you chief among them (and sometimes literally). But, he’s soft inside – full of love and caring. “You know, Papa, there’s all sorts of things I can get up to by going without you.” You begin holding up fingers as you list things. “I’ve never seen a brothel before, maybe I could find one, I could sneak into a grand ball, try out an opium den, commit a murder or two – the possibilities are endless!” You laugh. “But, it just wouldn’t be the same if I was dragging my father around for it all, you know? And especially not when…” You pick up the kittens. “...there are other little ones that need you too.” Papa rolls his eyes affectionately and he is struggling to not laugh. The kittens wiggle from your hands to reach his shoulders and climb on. They immediately begin playing with his shaggy hair. “You’ve been hangin’ around yer da too much...” You give him a winning smile. “It will be okay, Papa. I’ll make sure it is. I’ll be back in a fortnight, and we can celebrate my success.” You’re not sure of success yet, but it doesn’t hurt to keep that to yourself for now. He nods, the orange kitten nearly losing purchase when he does. “I need to have more faith in my $sondtrchild is what yer sayin’.” “Even if it’s risky.” You consider your father and the kittens a moment. “Did you name them yet?” “Mmhmm.” He plucks the black one and hands her to you. “Pep.” Plucking the orange one from his tangled hair, he says, “Peeks.” You spend the next while watching Pep and Peeks wrestle and you finally see your papa smiling again like always. You regard what else you have time for before you set out. <<if not hasVisited("You spend some time with Da.")>>[[You spend some time with Da.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Da.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.")>>[[You find Lakota, needing to explain your situation and spend some time with him.]]<<else>>You spent some time with Lakota.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You had a romantic encounter.<</if>> <<if $papatime is 'true' and $datime is 'true' and $latime is 'true'>>[[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]<</if>>

<<set $journey to 'adventure'>> You can’t help but be excited. The gravity of your mission, the reason for this journey, seems to almost pale in comparison. Your first real adventure awaits. There is so much you’ve never seen or done. Once you’ve removed the curse, more opportunities for adventure will open to you. How far could you travel from home? All the way through the north or south? Perhaps you can go see the coast after this. Papa and your grandmother lived as nomads, who’s to say you couldn’t try that as well? Endless possibilities run through your mind and a little smile creeps up on your lips with each one. This is where your journey starts – packing up your mounts and watching your parents trying to keep their emotions together. It’s a surreal feeling. The farthest you’ve ever been from home was Lale and the surrounding smaller towns, usually no more than three to four days ride from Stonebrook. You’ve met every healer in the area at least once in your 24 years. Even if your end goal is the shrine to Valko, you will likely need to stay in Codrin or at least visit for supplies, especially if the shrine doesn’t yield results. It almost doesn’t feel real to you, if not for the subtle warmth that emanates from your core. You turn to see Lakota approach with a burlap sack clutched in his hands. Tears streak his face and his brown eyes are marred with red. You walk to meet him and he just looks at you, lower lip quivering. [[You make a joke to get him to relax.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You comfort him.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You accept the gravity of how he feels.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You affirm that it will be okay.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]]

<> <<set $Oflirt +=3>> <<set $journey to 'relationships'>> <> Your eyes inadvertently move to the man in question as he approaches Flit. He cradles the horse’s head in his hands as she nuzzles him. You can’t stop the small smile that twitches upon your lips as you hear him whisper something to the horse. The sweet boy you knew as a child is still in there somewhere, you think. And, he’s now grown into a rather handsome man. Perhaps you’ll come to understand Oswin a bit more on this journey. Your trance is broken the moment Oswin’s eyes match your gaze. He startles a moment before quickly turning and heading towards your da. This is where your journey starts – packing up your mounts and watching your parents trying to keep their emotions together. It’s a surreal feeling. The farthest you’ve ever been from home was Lale and the surrounding smaller towns, usually no more than three to four days ride from Stonebrook. You’ve met every healer in the area at least once in your 24 years. Even if your end goal is the shrine to Valko, you will likely need to stay in Codrin or at least visit for supplies, especially if the shrine doesn’t yield results. It almost doesn’t feel real to you, if not for the subtle warmth that emanates from your core. You turn to see Lakota approach with a burlap sack clutched in his hands. Tears streak his face and his brown eyes are marred with red. You walk to meet him and he just looks at you, lower lip quivering. [[You make a joke to get him to relax.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You comfort him.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You accept the gravity of how he feels.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You affirm that it will be okay.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]]

<<set $journey to 'nervous'>> It is almost too much. You’ve never been far from home before and never without your fathers close by. The curse rests heavy in your gut, and now the weight of this journey sits painfully on your shoulders. Can you carry all this? Sure, you are not going alone, but this is all so new. You’ve never traveled so long and far before. And what if Valko is a cruel god? What if you don’t find answers or solutions? What if you don’t even make it to the shrine? Your heart races and you feel like a hunted rabbit. The wolves will eat you... This is where your journey starts – packing up your mounts and watching your parents trying to keep their emotions together. It’s a surreal feeling. The farthest you’ve ever been from home was Lale and the surrounding smaller towns, usually no more than three to four days ride from Stonebrook. You’ve met every healer in the area at least once in your 24 years. Even if your end goal is the shrine to Valko, you will likely need to stay in Codrin or at least visit for supplies, especially if the shrine doesn’t yield results. It almost doesn’t feel real to you, if not for the subtle warmth that emanates from your core. You turn to see Lakota approach with a burlap sack clutched in his hands. Tears streak his face and his brown eyes are marred with red. You walk to meet him and he just looks at you, lower lip quivering. [[You make a joke to get him to relax.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You comfort him.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You accept the gravity of how he feels.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You affirm that it will be okay.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]]

<<set $journey to 'duty'>> To have a shot at a life beyond 25 years, you’ve got to do this. If the result of inaction is death, then you have literally nothing else to lose. This is just like seeking a cure for any other ailment, just with a few more steps – an errand. There is no sense in getting worked up with nerves or excitement, you just need to ensure you do this and succeed, that way you will have the remainder of your life to get worked up over better things. This is where your journey starts – packing up your mounts and watching your parents trying to keep their emotions together. It’s a surreal feeling. The farthest you’ve ever been from home was Lale and the surrounding smaller towns, usually no more than three to four days ride from Stonebrook. You’ve met every healer in the area at least once in your 24 years. Even if your end goal is the shrine to Valko, you will likely need to stay in Codrin or at least visit for supplies, especially if the shrine doesn’t yield results. It almost doesn’t feel real to you, if not for the subtle warmth that emanates from your core. You turn to see Lakota approach with a burlap sack clutched in his hands. Tears streak his face and his brown eyes are marred with red. You walk to meet him and he just looks at you, lower lip quivering. [[You make a joke to get him to relax.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You comfort him.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You accept the gravity of how he feels.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You affirm that it will be okay.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]]

*Summary of skipped passage: Ravinder discovers the source of the commotion is one of their family's cows struggling to give birth to twin calves. One calf was already passed, but the other was alive, and Ravinder's fathers were struggling to save the life of the second calf with the knowledge that there was no saving the mother cow. It was gross and traumatizing for the young mind of Ravinder, and as young minds tend to do, they incorrectly make the connection between their own mother's death and this one. They mistakenly think that they caused the same problem for their mother, making her suffer. Kip discovers that his child is witnessing all of this and... [[He sweeps you up and runs from the barn.]]

You put on a big smile to try and sway his tears. “Look on the bright side; you’ve finally gotten rid of me!<<if hasVisited("You give your own shriek and run towards the little girl")>> And now I won’t be able to stir up your children, so you’ll have some peace for once!”<</if>> Lakota stands in front of you and heaves a sigh before casting an annoyed look at you. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 50>>“Not that I don’t appreciate the attempt at levity, but your execution needs work.”<<elseif $SeriousPlayful < 50>>“Is this your way of coping or trying to make me think it’s really okay?”<<else>>“A fair attempt, but are you trying to make yourself feel better or me?”<</if>> “Well, your eyes just looked so sad; I had to try.” Those sad brown eyes look back into your gaze. “I know you have to do this, I just wish you didn’t. Oswin will keep you safe, and if he fails to, I’ll kill him myself.” Lakota sets his sight on Oswin, who is pretending that neither of you are within hearing range. Lakota lowers his voice to a whisper. “There was so much he never told me. I love my brother, but he’s an idiot. If he gives you grief, you have my permission to deck him.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>“Now, I’m sure it probably won’t come to that. He’s been better lately.”<<else>>“With pleasure.”<</if>> “Here,” he says, handing you the burlap sack. “I put together all I could spare for you and my brother. Everything is labeled with instructions.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 50>>”This will go a long way towards helping us.”<<else>>”Kind of you to label them, but you know as well as I do that neither of us can read.” You notice Oswin shift a stern gaze towards you, which only makes you smile more.<</if>> A long-suffering sigh escapes Lakota. “It’s the least I could do for you. I wish I could help more...go with you.” You nod. “You are needed here. Willow needs you and so do your parents.” He nods, and a small smile graces his lips. “My mother is certain that Willow is carrying twins. Can you imagine? She’s...having a hard time lately, but she’s being so strong. When you get back...you’ll get to meet them.” The mental image of both Lakota and Willow’s arms full of children crosses your mind. The potential noise makes you shudder, but you know they will be very happy. Lakota sneaks a look over to Oswin. “Maybe...since you’re getting out of Stonebrook, you’ll meet someone special. A new friend or...something more? If you do, you should bring them by to visit. Sorry, my thoughts are rambling. Just...no matter what, come back. Be careful.” Tears begin to trickle from your friend’s eyes. [[You hug him.|Lakota send off]] [[You clap your hand to his shoulder in support.|Lakota send off]] [[You give him a comforting smile.|Lakota send off]]

You put on a kind smile to try and sway his tears. “My friend, it will be okay, I promise.” Lakota stands in front of you and heaves a sigh before casting an annoyed look at you. <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>“I know you’re just trying to make me feel better, you always do, but I don’t know if I can right now.”<<else>>“I appreciate you being gentle for my sake, but you don’t have to.”<</if>> “Well, your eyes just looked so sad; I had to try.” Those sad brown eyes look back into your gaze. “I know you have to do this, I just wish you didn’t. Oswin will keep you safe, and if he fails to, I’ll kill him myself.” Lakota sets his sight on Oswin, who is pretending that neither of you are within hearing range. Lakota lowers his voice to a whisper. “There was so much he never told me. I love my brother, but he’s an idiot. If he gives you grief, you have my permission to deck him.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>“Now, I’m sure it probably won’t come to that. He’s been better lately.”<<else>>“With pleasure.”<</if>> “Here,” he says, handing you the burlap sack. “I put together all I could spare for you and my brother. Everything is labeled with instructions.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 50>>"This will go a long way towards helping us.”<<else>>”Kind of you to label them, but you know as well as I do that neither of us can read.” You notice Oswin shift a stern gaze towards you, which only makes you smile more.<</if>> A long-suffering sigh escapes Lakota. “It’s the least I could do for you. I wish I could help more...go with you.” You nod. “You are needed here. Willow needs you and so do your parents.” He nods, and a small smile graces his lips. “My mother is certain that Willow is carrying twins. Can you imagine? She’s...having a hard time lately, but she’s being so strong. When you get back...you’ll get to meet them.” The mental image of both Lakota and Willow’s arms full of children crosses your mind. The potential noise makes you shudder, but you know they will be very happy. Lakota sneaks a look over to Oswin. “Maybe...since you’re getting out of Stonebrook, you’ll meet someone special. A new friend or...something more? If you do, you should bring them by to visit. Sorry, my thoughts are rambling. Just...no matter what, come back. Be careful.” Tears begin to trickle from your friend’s eyes. [[You hug him.|Lakota send off]] [[You clap your hand to his shoulder in support.|Lakota send off]] [[You give him a comforting smile.|Lakota send off]]

Your brow furrows involuntarily as you give Lakota a solemn look and a nod. He stands in front of you and heaves a sigh before casting an annoyed look at you. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“Oh, I’ve seen that expression before. I must look terrible...”<<else>>“I told myself that I’d prefer it if you didn’t crack jokes, but now I’m second-guessing that...”<</if>> “Well, your eyes just looked so sad; I had to try.” Those sad brown eyes look back into your gaze. “I know you have to do this, I just wish you didn’t. Oswin will keep you safe, and if he fails to, I’ll kill him myself.” Lakota sets his sight on Oswin, who is pretending that neither of you are within hearing range. Lakota lowers his voice to a whisper. “There was so much he never told me. I love my brother, but he’s an idiot. If he gives you grief, you have my permission to deck him.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>“Now, I’m sure it probably won’t come to that. He’s been better lately.”<<else>>“With pleasure.”<</if>> “Here,” he says, handing you the burlap sack. “I put together all I could spare for you and my brother. Everything is labeled with instructions.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 50>>”This will go a long way towards helping us.”<<else>>”Kind of you to label them, but you know as well as I do that neither of us can read.” You notice Oswin shift a stern gaze towards you, which only makes you smile more.<</if>> A long-suffering sigh escapes Lakota. “It’s the least I could do for you. I wish I could help more...go with you.” You nod. “You are needed here. Willow needs you and so do your parents.” He nods, and a small smile graces his lips. “My mother is certain that Willow is carrying twins. Can you imagine? She’s...having a hard time lately, but she’s being so strong. When you get back...you’ll get to meet them.” The mental image of both Lakota and Willow’s arms full of children crosses your mind. The potential noise makes you shudder, but you know they will be very happy. Lakota sneaks a look over to Oswin. “Maybe...since you’re getting out of Stonebrook, you’ll meet someone special. A new friend or...something more? If you do, you should bring them by to visit. Sorry, my thoughts are rambling. Just...no matter what, come back. Be careful.” Tears begin to trickle from your friend’s eyes. [[You hug him.|Lakota send off]] [[You clap your hand to his shoulder in support.|Lakota send off]] [[You give him a comforting smile.|Lakota send off]]

You put on a firm smile. “I know that right now it doesn’t feel like it, but everything will be okay. You’ve got enough to worry about, so just leave it to me.” Lakota stands in front of you and heaves a sigh before casting an annoyed look at you. <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>“You being firm is a new one on me, though...I can’t deny I’m a little grateful.”<<else>>“I appreciate you being strong for my sake, but you don’t have to.”<</if>> “Well, your eyes just looked so sad; I had to try.” Those sad brown eyes look back into your gaze. “I know you have to do this, I just wish you didn’t. Oswin will keep you safe, and if he fails to, I’ll kill him myself.” Lakota sets his sight on Oswin, who is pretending that neither of you are within hearing range. Lakota lowers his voice to a whisper. “There was so much he never told me. I love my brother, but he’s an idiot. If he gives you grief, you have my permission to deck him.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 50>>“Now, I’m sure it probably won’t come to that. He’s been better lately.”<<else>>“With pleasure.”<</if>> “Here,” he says, handing you the burlap sack. “I put together all I could spare for you and my brother. Everything is labeled with instructions.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 50>>”This will go a long way towards helping us.”<<else>>”Kind of you to label them, but you know as well as I do that neither of us can read.” You notice Oswin shift a stern gaze towards you, which only makes you smile more.<</if>> A long-suffering sigh escapes Lakota. “It’s the least I could do for you. I wish I could help more...go with you.” You nod. “You are needed here. Willow needs you and so do your parents.” He nods, and a small smile graces his lips. “My mother is certain that Willow is carrying twins. Can you imagine? She’s...having a hard time lately, but she’s being so strong. When you get back...you’ll get to meet them.” The mental image of both Lakota and Willow’s arms full of children crosses your mind. The potential noise makes you shudder, but you know they will be very happy. Lakota sneaks a look over to Oswin. “Maybe...since you’re getting out of Stonebrook, you’ll meet someone special. A new friend or...something more? If you do, you should bring them by to visit. Sorry, my thoughts are rambling. Just...no matter what, come back. Be careful.” Tears begin to trickle from your friend’s eyes. [[You hug him.|Lakota send off]] [[You clap your hand to his shoulder in support.|Lakota send off]] [[You give him a comforting smile.|Lakota send off]]

Though Lakota cannot stop his tears, he bids you farewell before also embracing his older brother in a long hug. You watch as Oswin, much taller and broader, gently holds him as he has done countless times before. Memories of Oswin comforting his frail brother when ill or after scraped knees and sudden falls. As far back as you can remember Oswin doted on him. You suppose, as you think back, at times he also doted on you. He saved you from angry bees once. Every time he found something tasty to eat, he would rush to share it with you. He carried you when you first fell ill. Fear stayed in his eyes for a long time after that whenever he looked at you. Oswin’s eyes catch your stare. You startle a moment as the vivid green pierces your $eyecolor eyes. He flinches and looks away quickly, but then slowly brings his eyes back to yours. [[You give him a gentle grin.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You give him a determined nod.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You stick your tongue out at him.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You nod your head subtly and then look away.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Your face heats, and you look to the ground...and then back up again, and then down...and then back up.|bashful bee boy][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You tilt your head to the side, and give him a wide smile.|bashful bee boy][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 5, 0, 100)]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> Oswin’s mouth drops as he watches you. His eyes are wide and shifty and you think you see a tinge of extra color along the tops of his cheeks. His attention shifts back to Lakota as he starts to usher his brother away, but you note that his eyes keep drifting back to you and the furrow of his brow deepens. Once the moment is broken, you finish up your preparations and approach your fathers, interrupting their seventh or eighth inventory of all your provisions. Normally, you’d expect a shine in your papa’s eyes, but rather you see a firm determination in them. Da does not seem to be fairing as well as usual, and you imagine they may have swapped roles for the day. Your da has been fidgeting from the confines of a chair, babbling and joking as he tries to stay busy. The frustration of being bound to a seat is obvious. Papa has repeatedly brought him the saddlebags so that Da can count and recount the supplies. You know that it’s time to leave. There is only so many times you can say goodbye and check the supplies. [[It’s time to say goodbye.]]

Oswin’s eyes shift around a bit, but he meagerly tries to return your smile before distracting himself with sending Lakota off. Once the moment is broken, you finish up your preparations and approach your fathers, interrupting their seventh or eighth inventory of all your provisions. Normally, you’d expect a shine in your papa’s eyes, but rather you see a firm determination in them. Da does not seem to be fairing as well as usual, and you imagine they may have swapped roles for the day. Your da has been fidgeting from the confines of a chair, babbling and joking as he tries to stay busy. The frustration of being bound to a seat is obvious. Papa has repeatedly brought him the saddlebags so that Da can count and recount the supplies. You know that it’s time to leave. There is only so many times you can say goodbye and check the supplies. [[It’s time to say goodbye.]]

Oswin’s eyes firmly meet yours as he returns the gesture, before distracting himself with sending Lakota off. Once the moment is broken, you finish up your preparations and approach your fathers, interrupting their seventh or eighth inventory of all your provisions. Normally, you’d expect a shine in your papa’s eyes, but rather you see a firm determination in them. Da does not seem to be fairing as well as usual, and you imagine they may have swapped roles for the day. Your da has been fidgeting from the confines of a chair, babbling and joking as he tries to stay busy. The frustration of being bound to a seat is obvious. Papa has repeatedly brought him the saddlebags so that Da can count and recount the supplies. You know that it’s time to leave. There is only so many times you can say goodbye and check the supplies. [[It’s time to say goodbye.]]

Oswin’s eyes go wide for a moment before he furrows his brow at you and huffs, before distracting himself with sending Lakota off. The response sends a slightly wicked smile to your lips. Once the moment is broken, you finish up your preparations and approach your fathers, interrupting their seventh or eighth inventory of all your provisions. Normally, you’d expect a shine in your papa’s eyes, but rather you see a firm determination in them. Da does not seem to be fairing as well as usual, and you imagine they may have swapped roles for the day. Your da has been fidgeting from the confines of a chair, babbling and joking as he tries to stay busy. The frustration of being bound to a seat is obvious. Papa has repeatedly brought him the saddlebags so that Da can count and recount the supplies. You know that it’s time to leave. There is only so many times you can say goodbye and check the supplies. [[It’s time to say goodbye.]]

You notice Oswin mimic your response, almost in unison with you, before distracting himself with sending Lakota off. Once the moment is broken, you finish up your preparations and approach your fathers, interrupting their seventh or eighth inventory of all your provisions. Normally, you’d expect a shine in your papa’s eyes, but rather you see a firm determination in them. Da does not seem to be fairing as well as usual, and you imagine they may have swapped roles for the day. Your da has been fidgeting from the confines of a chair, babbling and joking as he tries to stay busy. The frustration of being bound to a seat is obvious. Papa has repeatedly brought him the saddlebags so that Da can count and recount the supplies. You know that it’s time to leave. There is only so many times you can say goodbye and check the supplies. [[It’s time to say goodbye.]]

You and Oswin approach your fathers, who grow suddenly quiet as they look at you. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“I know you are still distressed,” you start, “but it’s going to be okay. I have help, and the shrine isn’t that far. I will return before you know it.”<<else>>“Come now,” you start, “I just got this from Lakota and you’ve been distraught all week. It will be fine; //I// will be fine – I can take care of myself – and you need to let me.”<</if>> Da sighs. “You’re right. We know that...we raised you after all. Let’s not draw this out. We’ve cried our tears and gave our speeches; it’s time to let you venture out.” Papa agrees with a strong nod. “We trust you – the both of you.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“I swear that I’ll take this seriously; I’ll come back successful. Count on me, don’t wallow in my absence.” Da smiles, and the tears he’s been holding back breech. “I’m so proud of you, $mc. I know you will. I’ll miss you, but I have faith in you.” He clasps your hands in his own in a firm hold. Papa places a hand to your shoulder. “Enjoy this as much as you can when yer able. After you come back, we’ll celebrate and you can tell us everything.” His beard curls up as a smile lights up his face. <<else>> “Just think of all the things you can get up to now that I’ll be out of the house for a while – once Da’s leg heals especially.” Surprisingly, Da is the one that blushes and Papa laughs, slapping a hand to your shoulder. “With a crass tongue like that, I know you’ll be okay. Just like yer da.” Da gingerly grips your hands in his. A stray tear escapes his eye as he looks at you. “I’m proud of you, $mc. You’re stronger than me. Know that I will miss you, but I have faith in you.” <</if>> Once your goodbyes are exchanged, you and Oswin mount your steeds. Your ever-stoic guide urges Flit onto the road as you trail behind, waving at your parents. <> <<if $RecklessCautious > 55>>As you face the road ahead of you, an inkling trickles into your mind. This is your road now and you can take it however you wish. A smile hits your lips as you think no more on it and stir up $mountname into a gallop. Your friend eagerly responds with a grunt, kicking up the dust of the road as you both overtake Oswin and Flit. You hear your guide curse and yell your name as you pass, but you don’t look back. This road is ''yours'', at least in this moment, and you will take it however you wish. <<else>> As you face the road ahead of you, a feeling of trepidation washes over you. The weight of what you must do presses on your shoulders. This is your road now and you can take it however you wish. The sense of cautious hope stirs your heart, and you gently rouse $mountname to catch up to your guide. As you take stride next to Oswin and Flit, you look out over the long path ahead. There’s no going back for now. ...But this road is ''yours'', at least in this moment, and you can take it //however// ''you'' //wish//.<</if>> <> [[Chapter 3]]

*Chapter Three <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">The Path to Everywhere</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[Start|Ch3]]

<div class="centered-image"> <<include "map pic">> </div> <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

<> <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">Credits and Shout-Outs</div></h1> </body> </html> <> Without the resources and people listed below, I would be totally lost. !Twine Template: Vahnya Twine Template ~ Vahnya's template taught me quite a lot as a complete Twine newbie and it has been a joy to work with. https://vahnya.itch.io/ !Twine Dialog Tag Template: a.w. morgan Twine/Sugarcube 2 Template https://awmorgan.itch.io/ !Looking Macros: Mistyrious https://mistyriousness.itch.io/ !Map Maker: https://inkarnate.com !Graphics: designed with https://www.canva.com/ (one day, I will try the pro version and remove the watermarks) !Song Lyrics: Joreph https://linktr.ee/Joreph89 *Endless encouragement, friendship, and the one who introduced me to all this: Syryh *Inspiration, support, and a great ass: My Husband <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

Perhaps you weren’t sure of what to expect during your first real expedition away from home without your fathers, but riding in near complete silence for the first three days wasn’t it. Oswin has been exceptionally quiet, only speaking to ask you questions on how you feel and what you need, and to answer your questions on occasion. He rides Flit just a few paces in front of you, sometimes turning to make sure you are close by. If you and $mountname lose pace, he’s quick to chide you before reverting back to silence. It’s clear that he feels uneasy, but it is difficult to tell why. You’ve never traveled with him before to know if this is just how he is or not. When you camp at night, Oswin diligently tends your mounts while you prepare a fire and get out the essentials for camp. He never seems to know what to say or where to look, but keeps busy up until it is time to sleep. He’s always awake at first light and wakes you gently when it’s time to go. The pace is constant, not enough to exhaust you or the mounts, but no moment is spared to relax. After the fourth night, you are well on your way down the road that seems to be getting more and more narrow as the surrounding forest gets even thicker. The path is getting rockier with the occasional steep hill. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname handles the terrain with steady determination, slowing down and picking through the roughest parts with caution, listening closely to your guidance.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname handles the changing terrain with grit, picking up pace as the hills get steeper to power over them. He huffs a bit when you guide him over rough patches, mostly listening to commands, but occasionally going his own way.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname is undeterred by the changes in the path. He plods along steady, but a bit slower, when challenges appear. He has good instincts on how to handle rough patches and you barely have to guide him.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname takes little instruction from you over rough patches, but handles the hills and rough terrain with gusto. She doesn’t lose pace at all, frequently trying to slip ahead of Flit and Oswin. Every incline seems to excite her.<</if>> As you travel down the dark road – though the sun is high, the trees blot out much of the light – it dawns on you that this must be the farthest you’ve been from home. You’ve been to Lale and all the surrounding villages within a four days ride. Your fathers were always leery of taking you any further lest you become too ill. Four days of near silence. Four days without your parents. Four days without your closest friend. Four days away from the familiarity of home… [[You are excited and prodding Oswin with every question you think of.|3.1a]] [[You are leery and staying quiet.|3.1b]] $flirt_label [[You’ve been staring at Oswin so much, you’ve barely noticed much else.|3.1c]] [[You are not doing okay and have been struggling to control your panic since you broke camp this morning.|3.1d]] [[You are taking it in stride, mostly unbothered.|3.1e]]

“Oswin, why does the road keep narrowing?” You see Oswin’s shoulders lift as he takes a deep breath and sighs. You try again. “The forest is so thick through here, does no one maintain the road?” Silence. “How long-” “$mc…” Oswin glares at you. He has stopped his mount and your own to get your full attention. “What?” you ask. “You have pestered me with questions for days.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“I realize that, but all for good reason. I’ve never done this before or gone this route, it’s only prudent that I try to learn as I go. You’ve been so quiet, how else will I learn?”<<else>>“You can’t blame me for that, I’m naturally curious – it adds to my charm. And someone needs to make some noise, you’ve been so quiet that I keep wondering if I’ve suddenly lost my hearing.”<</if>> “I am here to guide you and see you to the shrine safely, not teach you how roads work.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You nod and tilt your head as you meet his gaze. “I understand that, but I can’t help but be curious. I don’t mean to be a bother and I guess it would just be nice to talk.”<<else>>Your brows furrow and you straighten your posture as you stare back at him. “I would argue that you being a guide would at least endear me to having a few harmless questions answered. There’s no reason for us to travel in complete silence for the next fortnight.”<</if>> “I am trying to protect you as well, and your incessant chatter is only serving to be a distraction. There are animals, predators, still recovering from winter, that I need to watch for. $mc, there are people that could…” He stops himself and simply stares at you for a moment, his lips quiver ever so slightly before his volume lowers. “There are bad people in this world who could hurt you, and I need to ensure that you are safe from them.” You give him a nod to acknowledge his argument while you take a moment to think. [[You tend to not socialize, but you’d still like to talk a bit.|3.2a][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You will simply wither away if you can’t socialize at least a little.|3.2b][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You understand his worry and reassure him.|3.2c][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[Reasonable or not, he’s being an ass.|3.2d][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[He’s made a good point, and you’ll concede to that.|3.2e][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[He’s making it too tempting and too easy to get under his skin. Resisting teasing him might be impossible for you.|3.2f][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[He’s extra handsome when he’s protecting you…You should point that out.|3.2g][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[His consideration is making your heart race.|3.2h][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 5, 0, 100)]]

<<set $anx += 3>> Trepidation simmers within you. Though you are silent, there is a great deal going on in your mind. The days are mostly uneventful, but you can’t seem to get them out of your head. The strange new pattern for your days is already becoming routine, with many more similar days ahead. You wake, break camp, pack, and ride. The two of you travel until sunset again, taking only a couple breaks to water the mounts and eat a little. Oswin’s silence adds to the tension you keep sensing. Sometimes you think you should speak or ask a question, but each time you end up thinking it’s better to remain quiet. “$mc?” You snap to attention as Oswin softly calls your name. He has slowed Flit to match pace with $mountname. “Yes?” You answer in a rush. “Are you well?” Oswin looks over you, his brow furrowed and his eyes gentle. “I am.” “If you’re not, it is okay to tell me. We can take a break; <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>I know you’re not always talkative, but you’ve very silent, and you’ve looked very worried about something. <<else>>it’s unlike you to be so quiet for so long...you look worried.<</if>>” You nod. “I might be a little anxious lately.” “That’s okay. I’ll keep you safe.” Oswin looks to the road ahead for a moment before turning back to you. “Let’s speak of it more once we make camp this evening. I know I’ve kept quiet as well, but I think a chat would do you some good.” A smile finds it’s way to your lips. “I agree. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> Perhaps it has been quiet or even a bit boring and a mite unnerving, but you can’t complain about the view. This is the longest consecutive amount of time in years that you have been with Oswin. You think back to the last days in which you frequented each other’s company; it must have been when you were around 15 seasons, a budding adult. Oswin of course, being older, already had a heap of responsibilities at that point. He was always working or training for something. That’s about the time that his awkwardness around you morphed into irritation. Back then, he looked as awkward as he acted. He hadn’t filled out yet, his face was still a bit round from youth, and he was all limbs and no trunk. His black hair was often disheveled too, and the scruff of his budding beard was patchy and struggling. His attitude barely fit into his body. Now, looking at him, at the dawn of his 28th season, he's changed a great deal. Oswin looks every bit the way he did when he was a child, but at the same time, not. His trunk filled in and it filled in quite well. He’s solid and broad-shouldered with arms and legs that match in muscle. The way sunlight shines against his skin makes you think of the deep amber glow from thick honey, and you briefly catch yourself wondering if it would taste similar. He keeps himself well-ordered now – his hair is kept no longer than the tips of his ears, thick and shiny – the black strands demand to have your hands in them. Oswin’s face has become as sculpted as the rest of him too. His face developed strong angles, especially his jaw, where his scruff is no longer patchy even if he keeps it trimmed. The serious expression he always has just makes him more attractive. And those eyes.... Gems of the brightest green peering at you from heavy lids framed in dark lashes – sensual and mysterious and staring at you...right now. “$mc?” Oswin has stopped both of the mounts and is looking at you with worry and perplexity evident on his face. “Yes? Sorry, I must have been lost in thought.” Getting lost in those eyes more so, but you don’t have to tell him that. “Apparently so; I was worried that you were ill.” $flirt_label [[You make an idiotic joke to flirt.|3.3a][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Your face feels like fire.|3.3b][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You play off the situation and divert attention away from your ogling.|3.3c][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You pay him a genuine compliment on how handsome he’s become.|3.3d][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]]

<<set $anx += 10>> You’re not sure if you could speak if you tried at this point. All the realizations you’ve had since your first steps on the road are crashing down on you. Looking around in any direction, all you see is an unfamiliar forest. Trees crowd the road, choking it out until it barely accommodates the mounts. You’re farther from home than you’ve ever been. You are farther from your parents than you have ever been in your entire life. You can’t just turn back and quickly return to them, to home, and be comforted. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname seems to sense your unease. She is sticking close to Flit and Oswin, searching for the guidance and reassurance that you are unable to give at the moment. Her ears keep twitching towards you as if she is trying to see if you’re okay. Occasionally, she snorts nervously and bucks her head.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname is clearly becoming restless. As your anxiety builds, so does his. He’s been looking all over, searching for whatever danger is causing fear to radiate from you. He pulls at the reins and swats his tail in irritation.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname remains steady, his head trying to turn so he can look at you. He grunts softly as you shake with anxiety and easily follows Flit without needing any input from you. He seems to know that you’re not well enough to give instruction. He is trying to model calmness to you.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname is clearly irritated or frustrated. Her tall ears are turned back towards you constantly. She snorts loudly each time you shift or shiver with anxiety. You’ve had to mumble apologies to Oswin a dozen times as she tries to butt-up right against him and Flit, having even nabbed Oswin’s cloak with her teeth and tugged. You think for a moment that she is trying to speak up for you since you won’t do it yourself.<</if>> How many more days can you do this? Will you even survive the trip? Is it worth it? Is this silence a balm or a poison? Breathing is becoming difficult. The beams of sunlight coming through the canopy of trees is hypnotic. You try to focus on it, hear the birds singing around you, and the crunch of debris under the hooves of your mount. But the fear is clearer, louder. It’s consuming you. Eating you alive. A burst of cold settles over your shoulders and into your chest, robbing you of breath. $mountname neighs sharp and brisk, with the same anxiety. Oswin turns suddenly, eyes searching for danger. You grab your chest as the air seems to thin and slump over in your saddle. You pant and pant, fingers digging into your clothing, trying to claw a path into your flesh for air to get in. You’re vaguely aware of your name being called, but you can’t respond. The light has been blotted out from your vision and you’re suddenly falling. You hear $mountname give a shrill cry, echoing the torrent of panic that has grabbed your heart with unforgiving claws. Though you fall, you are not met with the harsh ground. Oswin has caught you. He’s holding you close, tight to his chest, whispering words of comfort that you can’t decipher in a warm voice. Everything happened in such a blur it takes you several moments to even realize he had dismounted in order to catch you. He rocks you and runs a hand through your $haircolor hair. He came for you when you panicked after the first time you found the mark on your body, and he came for you again. And again he tells you, “Focus on me and let yourself slow down...you’ve made it through this before, you can do it. I’ll help you, I’m here. You are not alone in this.” Clarity returns to you as your breathing stabilizes. [[You give a Oswin a gentle pat and pull away, truly touched by his gesture.|3.4a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You quietly pull away from his grasp.|3.4b][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You feel the need to both thank him and apologize.|3.4c][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You try to play it off with a joke.|3.4d][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You embrace Oswin with affection and thanks, tucking your face into the crook of his neck.|3.4e]] $flirt_label [[You sit up, taking Oswin’s face into your hands to look meaningfully into his eyes.|3.4f]]

You’re not sure if you should be surprised or not with how well you’ve felt so far. It may be the weight of the journey hasn’t yet fully set in, or maybe you were meant for such travels. It’s a little adventure, it may be the first of many. There's probably no set way to feel about how your days on the road have gone. Maybe reality hasn't hit you yet or you just need more time to make up your mind. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>This trip may be easier since Oswin is at your side. Even if he has been quiet, he’s at least a steady presence. It’s easy to feel safe and prepared with him leading you. You want to at least be friends again by the end of this journey, maybe sooner. If nothing else, it’s a chance to understand him as the man he’s become.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>This trip may be easier since Oswin is at your side. Even if he has been quiet, he’s at least a steady presence. It’s easy to feel safe and prepared with him leading you. And, if you’re honest with the feelings that have begun to bloom, you’re feeling more than just safe with him. You need to know the man he’s become and perhaps you can figure out if you want your feelings to bloom further or not.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>Even despite the distance between you two, Oswin has been a steady and reassuring presence. You can’t know yet how this trip will influence your feelings towards the man, if at all.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>Even despite the inert feelings you have about him, Oswin has been a steady and reassuring presence. You can’t know yet how this trip will influence your feelings towards the man, if at all.<</if>> As your mind continues to wonder, a thought trickles through the back of your head. [[You truly are okay right now, content with how things are.|3.5a]] [[You are hiding your fear behind a stoic mask.|3.5b]] [[Even though you are facing death if you fail, this journey is beginning to excite you.|3.5c]] [[Your feelings are too obscured to actually define right now.|3.5d]]

You give Oswin a sincere nod and he seems to relax a little more. “I understand what you’re trying to do, and I apologize if I’ve not been accommodating towards your goal, but I really would appreciate just a little conversation. Even just at camp.” Oswin’s eyes shy away from yours, the gem-like orbs seem lost suddenly. “I suppose…” “We can’t possibly need total silence at all times. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. I’d like to...get there again, but you need to at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I really would like for us to connect, and this is the perfect chance. Even if we can’t be like we once were, please at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>I’ll keep it easy and simple, I promise.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>I think it will help us both relax a little bit. And if you’re a bit more relaxed, I think that will serve you better as we travel.<</if>>” He nods. “Yes...that sounds like a fine compromise. I will try, I promise.” “Thank you.” You manage to give him a small grin, and much to your surprise, Oswin’s own lips twitch into what could pass for smirk. He takes a deep breath. “I am sorry.” “Huh?” “To answer your question, the path is this way because this road wasn’t made for commerce. It is more or less a glorified shortcut to Codrin made by locals. The land becomes rocky and with how thick the trees are, the roots prevent the road from being very accommodating.” “Oh...thanks for answering.” “Now, save the rest of your questions until camp. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

You cast a pleading look at him. “Please, Oswin, you know how I am. If the curse doesn’t kill me, the silence will. You’ve got to talk to me. I’ll keep my mouth shut as much as I can, at least entertain a conversation with me when we camp at night. $mountname isn’t the most chatty either…” Oswin’s eyes shy away from yours, the gem-like orbs seem lost suddenly. “I suppose…” “We can’t possibly need total silence at all times. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. I’d like to...get there again, but you need to at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I really would like for us to connect, and this is the perfect chance. Even if we can’t be like we once were, please at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>I’ll keep it easy and simple, I promise.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>I think it will help us both relax a little bit. And if you’re a bit more relaxed, I think that will serve you better as we travel.<</if>>” He nods. “Yes...that sounds like a fine compromise. I will try, I promise.” “Thank you.” You manage to give him a small grin, and much to your surprise, Oswin’s own lips twitch into what could pass for smirk. He takes a deep breath. “I am sorry.” “Huh?” “To answer your question, the path is this way because this road wasn’t made for commerce. It is more or less a glorified shortcut to Codrin made by locals. The land becomes rocky and with how thick the trees are, the roots prevent the road from being very accommodating.” “Oh...thanks for answering.” “Now, save the rest of your questions until camp. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

You cast a gentle look at him. “Oswin, I understand why you’re concerned. I appreciate that you are taking my safety so seriously. Neither of us know what might come from our trip, but I don’t want fear to be the only thing we share on this road. Even if it’s just when we bed down at night, I’d really like to talk a bit.” Oswin’s eyes shy away from yours, the gem-like orbs seem lost suddenly. “I suppose…” “We can’t possibly need total silence at all times. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. I’d like to...get there again, but you need to at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I really would like for us to connect, and this is the perfect chance. Even if we can’t be like we once were, please at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>I’ll keep it easy and simple, I promise.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>I think it will help us both relax a little bit. And if you’re a bit more relaxed, I think that will serve you better as we travel.<</if>>” He nods. “Yes...that sounds like a fine compromise. I will try, I promise.” “Thank you.” You manage to give him a small grin, and much to your surprise, Oswin’s own lips twitch into what could pass for smirk. He takes a deep breath. “I am sorry.” “Huh?” “To answer your question, the path is this way because this road wasn’t made for commerce. It is more or less a glorified shortcut to Codrin made by locals. The land becomes rocky and with how thick the trees are, the roots prevent the road from being very accommodating.” “Oh...thanks for answering.” “Now, save the rest of your questions until camp. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

“You’re being an ass about it.” <<if $mount is 'mule'>>Your mount suddenly raises her head and gives a sharp bray. You reach down and pat her neck. “No offense, $mountname.” She grunts back at you.<</if>> “If me being an ass gets us to our destination and back in one piece, then by all means, I’ll remain an ass.<<if $mount is 'mule'>> I mean nothing by that, $mountname.<</if>>” “I understand your point. There’s no need for you to be this way. Just...let’s at least have a chat when we camp. It’s awkward enough without sitting in silence all night.” Oswin’s eyes shy away from yours, the gem-like orbs seem lost suddenly. “I suppose…” “We can’t possibly need total silence at all times. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. I’d like to...get there again, but you need to at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I really would like for us to connect, and this is the perfect chance. Even if we can’t be like we once were, please at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>I’ll keep it easy and simple, I promise.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>I think it will help us both relax a little bit. And if you’re a bit more relaxed, I think that will serve you better as we travel.<</if>>” He nods. “Yes...that sounds like a fine compromise. I will try, I promise.” “Thank you.” You manage to give him a small grin, and much to your surprise, Oswin’s own lips twitch into what could pass for smirk. He takes a deep breath. “I am sorry.” “Huh?” “To answer your question, the path is this way because this road wasn’t made for commerce. It is more or less a glorified shortcut to Codrin made by locals. The land becomes rocky and with how thick the trees are, the roots prevent the road from being very accommodating.” “Oh...thanks for answering.” “Now, save the rest of your questions until camp. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

You sigh. “You have a point, I did not take that into enough consideration.” Oswin’s eyes shy away from yours, the gem-like orbs seem lost suddenly. “I suppose…if you’d like to ask your questions when we settle for the night, that would be okay.” You think for a moment and nod in agreement. “That sounds fair as well as safe. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>I’ll keep it easy and simple, I promise.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>I think it will help us both relax a little bit. And if you’re a bit more relaxed, I think that will serve you better as we travel.<</if>>” He nods. “Yes...this sounds like a fine compromise.” “Thank you.” You manage to give him a small grin, and much to your surprise, Oswin’s own lips twitch into what could pass for smirk. He takes a deep breath. “I am sorry.” “Huh?” “To answer your question, the path is this way because this road wasn’t made for commerce. It is more or less a glorified shortcut to Codrin made by locals. The land becomes rocky and with how thick the trees are, the roots prevent the road from being very accommodating.” “Oh...thanks for answering.” “Now, we’ll keep quiet until camp. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

You smirk at him. “Oh yes, since we have encountered just so many dangers these past few days. The squirrels are looking particularly crazed this spring, they may just carry me away into the trees.” You are met with a glower from Oswin. “I’m sure they have quite enough //nuts// left over from their winter stores, I do not think they’d bother with the clutter.” You’re a little taken aback. A rebuttal was expected, but you did not think he would jest in return. “I disagree, I believe the squirrels would welcome me, and I bet they’d even answer my questions.” “Perhaps you can become their monarch.” He smirks. You both chuckle, and while Oswin seems to be in a good humor you bring the issue up again. “Do you think we could at least chat when we camp? Getting on your nerves is fun, but most of the time just for me.” Oswin’s eyes shy away from yours, the gem-like orbs seem lost suddenly. “I suppose…” “We can’t possibly need total silence at all times. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. I’d like to...get there again, but you need to at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I really would like for us to connect, and this is the perfect chance. Even if we can’t be like we once were, please at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>I’ll keep it easy and simple, I promise.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>I think it will help us both relax a little bit. And if you’re a bit more relaxed, I think that will serve you better as we travel.<</if>>” He nods. “Yes...that sounds like a fine compromise. I will try, I promise.” “Thank you.” You manage to give him a small grin, and much to your surprise, Oswin’s own lips twitch into what could pass for smirk. He takes a deep breath. “I am sorry.” “Huh?” “To answer your question, the path is this way because this road wasn’t made for commerce. It is more or less a glorified shortcut to Codrin made by locals. The land becomes rocky and with how thick the trees are, the roots prevent the road from being very accommodating.” “Oh...thanks for answering.” “Now, save the rest of your questions until camp. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> A wide smile slowly spreads along your lips, almost involuntarily. “I have to say, Oswin, you are exceedingly handsome when you’re concerned for my safety.” His eyes bug. Rarely have you ever seen them so wide as they often hide under his furrowed brow. “You...why...are...Don’t mess around, $mc, be serious about this.” “I am quite serious. I don’t get to see you work usually; I feel like I’ve missed out.” You believe the color around Oswin’s face is becoming tinged with red. Hopefully it isn’t anger, but it appears that you’ve stunned him to silence and may have even flattered him. While Oswin seems to be in a stupor you bring the issue up again. “Do you think we could at least chat when we camp? Getting you flustered was fun, but talking a bit would be nice.” Oswin’s eyes shy away from yours, the gem-like orbs seem lost suddenly. “I suppose…” “We can’t possibly need total silence at all times. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. I’d like to...get there again, but you need to at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I really would like for us to connect, and this is the perfect chance. Even if we can’t be like we once were, please at least talk to me.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>I’ll keep it easy and simple, I promise.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>I think it will help us both relax a little bit. And if you’re a bit more relaxed, I think that will serve you better as we travel.<</if>>” He nods. “Yes...that sounds like a fine compromise. I will try, I promise.” “Thank you.” You manage to give him a small grin, and much to your surprise, Oswin’s own lips twitch into what could pass for smirk. He takes a deep breath. “I am sorry.” “Huh?” “To answer your question, the path is this way because this road wasn’t made for commerce. It is more or less a glorified shortcut to Codrin made by locals. The land becomes rocky and with how thick the trees are, the roots prevent the road from being very accommodating.” “Oh...thanks for answering.” “Now, save the rest of your questions until camp. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> You find yourself gawking at him. The thump of your heart picking up noticeably. Your ears are suddenly feeling hot and words have failed you. “Are you okay?” he asks. “Um, yeah. Yes...sorry," you mumble. “I hope I haven’t upset you badly.” Sincerity is plain on his face. “No, quite the opposite. I appreciate...your consideration to our safety.” He nods. Oswin’s eyes shy away from yours, the gem-like orbs seem lost suddenly. “I suppose…if you’d like to ask your questions when we settle for the night, that would be okay.” You think for a moment and nod in agreement. “That sounds fair as well as safe. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>I’ll keep it easy and simple, I promise.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>I think it will help us both relax a little bit. And if you’re a bit more relaxed, I think that will serve you better as we travel.<</if>>” He nods. “Yes...that sounds like a fine compromise. I will try, I promise.” “Thank you.” You manage to give him a small grin, and much to your surprise, Oswin’s own lips twitch into what could pass for smirk. He takes a deep breath. “I am sorry.” “Huh?” “To answer your question, the path is this way because this road wasn’t made for commerce. It is more or less a glorified shortcut to Codrin made by locals. The land becomes rocky and with how thick the trees are, the roots prevent the road from being very accommodating.” “Oh...thanks for answering.” “Now, save the rest of your questions until camp. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

True to his word, Oswin has a nice long conversation with you when you break for camp. You both agree to check in during camp each night, but talk minimally when on the road. As you rest and eat from your rations, Oswin gives you the opportunity to ask any questions that may be on your mind. You ponder for a moment as to what you’re curious about and what you feel you should know more about going forward. [[“Why do we need to be so careful as we travel?”|3.6a]] [[“Should we keep watch in shifts at night?”|3.6b]] [[“What should I expect the closer we get to the shrine?”|3.6c]] [[“What is Codrin like? Have you been there before?”|3.6d]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> "You thought me ill?" you posit. "I could never get sick of looking at you though." Oswin’s expression goes completely flat. You grin. He grimaces. The angrier he looks the more your smile grows. To anyone else his face might be intimidating. Oswin finally sighs and looks away from you, but you note the tips of ears have a tinge more color. There’s still a chill in the air these days, but you’re not quite sure if that would cause him to flush. He finally turns back to you. “I suppose if you can crack horrible jokes, you must be okay. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>I am a bit shocked to hear such a thing from you, but I suppose being a child of Kip Northbreaker will do that even despite your papa’s influence.<<else>>Typical. Your da is having a terrible influence over your character; perhaps you should spend more time with Dov.<</if>>" You shrug. “I don’t know, I think you enjoy me the way I am. You’re certainly stuck with me for a while – may as well try.” “Perhaps on our trip, we’ll find hope for you… Anyway, what I was trying to suggest when you were staring into the void, was having a talk when we camp. I realize...I’m not the best traveling partner, and I am sure you have questions or worries.” A smile finds it’s way to your lips. “I’d like that. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> The sudden realization that you were just staring so deeply at your childhood friend strikes you like lightning. And, you were caught in the act. Deep embarrassment radiates from your face and you feel the sensation of the blood coloring your cheeks, neck, and ears spreads fast. You are mortified and Oswin is staring back at you with only concern for your well-being with no idea that you were ogling him. “$mc, please, are you really well?” Oswin says removing his right glove before he reaches out to you, gently placing the back of his hand to your forehead. His proximity is doing you no favors. “You feel warm,” he says. “You should rest. We’ll stop.” “No!...Uh, no; I’m fine. I promise, I’m just…. My mind is elsewhere today.” You gingerly move his hand from your face. “Still, if you are getting a fever-” “I don’t think I am; I am just feeling a bit hot. I’d feel a chill if a fever was setting in.” Oswin nods. “Okay, but if it continues, we’ll have to rest. I’ll not take chances with your health.” “I appreciate that.” “I realized...perhaps I was also lost in thought since we started the journey. I wanted to ask if you’d like to have a chat when we camp tonight. If you have questions, I’d like you to feel free to ask. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You’re usually more meek in nature, and I haven’t really given you the opportunity to feel comfortable. Of course if you prefer to not speak, I’ll accept that, but I owe it to you to be approachable.<<else>>I know you usually prefer to socialize, and I haven’t been accommodating for that. If you would like, I am willing to try for your sake.<</if>> A smile finds it’s way to your lips. “I’d like that. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

“I assure you, I am fine. How many more days do you think it will take to get to the shrine?” You think it’s best to simply distract Oswin. You try to keep composure and a nonchalant expression. Oswin considers you with a curious look but seems to shake out of out. “We’re making excellent time, the weather has been agreeable, and you’re also adapting well all things considered. At this rate, Codrin would be about ten days out, but the shrine is at the base of the mountain range and closer to this path than the city. I would guess eight days.” “You’ve traveled to Codrin before?” He nods. “I...I can tell you about it. If you like.” “Really?” “Understand, that we should try to stay focused when we travel, but…” Oswin trails off, his eyes searching yours for a moment. “Yes?” “I realized...perhaps I have been lost in thought since we started the journey. I wanted to ask if you’d like to have a chat when we camp tonight. If you have questions, I’d like you to feel free to ask. I’d like to tell you about Codrin too. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You’re usually more quiet in nature, and I haven’t really given you the opportunity to feel comfortable. Of course if you prefer to not speak, I’ll accept that, but I owe it to you to be approachable.<<else>>I know you usually prefer to socialize, and I haven’t been accommodating for that. If you would like, I am willing to try for your sake.<</if>> A smile finds it’s way to your lips. “I’d like that. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

You cast a warm smile at him. “Actually, I was just considering how well you’ve grown since we were kids. I never would have guess that you’d end up so handsome.” Oswin’s expression goes completely flat for a moment. His lips part is silent shock, and then his eyes begin to dart around as if he’s not sure where to look. Blood rushes to his face, making his cheeks and neck noticeably red. You grin. He grimaces and then begins to flounder to respond. After several sputters and false starts, he find his voice. “Are you taking this trip seriously at all? Why would you occupy your thoughts with such things?” “It was just a thought that occurred to me,” you say, as you think that he doesn’t need to know that the thought lasted several minutes. “It’s been so quiet that it’s been easy for my mind to wander. He straightens up, looking a bit more cross than before. “I suppose if you can spout such nonsense, you must be okay. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>Though...I thank you for the...for the compliment. It’s not something I’ve taken into consideration before, but such kindness seems to flow easily from you.<<else>>I should thank you though...for the...for the compliment. I know you wouldn’t say such things just to pander to me.<</if>>” “You’re welcome.” “Anyway, what I have been thinking on is…. I realize, I’m not the best traveling partner, and I am sure you have questions or worries. Perhaps we should try to talk when we camp at night.” A smile finds it’s way to your lips. “I’d like that. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

As you relax, you finally notice how hard your heart has been pounding. It’s almost painful in your chest, but you continue to breathe and settle with Oswin’s kind gemstone eyes watching over you. After a few moments, you’re able to smile at him just a little bit. Quietly, you manage to speak. “Thank you, Oswin.” “Think nothing of it.” You consider him for a moment. “I can’t do that. It’s the second time you’ve pulled me from...well, myself.” “If you need it, I will again,” he says. You exchange smiles and he gently helps you to your feet. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname turns to nuzzle you as you find your footing, before she attempts to mouth you in one of her trademark kisses.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>As you stand, $mountname flicks his tail and swats you before he turns to face you, nudging your shoulder with his nose.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname turns so he can press his entire head into your chest, pressing lightly as he makes little grunts.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname brays, kicking her head up and down as she stamps her back hooves. When you pat her shoulder, she turns her nose to gently kiss against your face.<</if>> Oswin smiles as he watches the exchange. “Perhaps you should find employ with the Stonebrooks once we return home? I’m impressed with how quickly you’ve bonded with $mountname.” “Perhaps I should.” You chuckle. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with lumber working other than using them to haul.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with carpentry, but maybe there’s a way.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with swordsmanship, other than learning to fight from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with archery, other than shooting from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with medicine, but maybe there’s a way. Animals need physicians as well after all.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Your skills in commerce could actually lend itself to horse mastery, perhaps it’s an idea to follow.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You’d rather not think of how to combine your skills in cooking with horses. Unless you’re traveling for a catering job, your equine friends will stay out of your business.<</if>> “Anyway...$mc, I think…. I have been thinking that I’ve been much too cold to you since we headed out. I think it’s clear that my being that way is making this trip harder on you than it should be. I’d like to sit and have a conversation when we camp, at least. I think we should still be cautious on the road, but please, if you need help – if you’re scared especially – please tell me. //Please//.” Oswin looks at you as if he were a kicked puppy. “I will...and, I’d like that. If we could talk, just a bit. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea at the very least.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

As you relax, you finally notice how hard your heart has been pounding. It’s almost painful in your chest, but you continue to breathe and settle with Oswin’s kind gemstone eyes watching over you. After a few moments, you’re able to smile at him just a little bit. Quietly, you manage to speak. “Thank you, Oswin.” “Think nothing of it.” You consider him for a moment. “I can’t do that. It’s the second time you’ve pulled me from...well, myself.” “If you need it, I will again,” he says. You exchange smiles and he gently helps you to your feet. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname turns to nuzzle you as you find your footing, before she attempts to mouth you in one of her trademark kisses.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>As you stand, $mountname flicks his tail and swats you before he turns to face you, nudging your shoulder with his nose.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname turns so he can press his entire head into your chest, pressing lightly as he makes little grunts.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname brays, kicking her head up and down as she stamps her back hooves. When you pat her shoulder, she turns her nose to gently kiss against your face.<</if>> Oswin smiles as he watches the exchange. “Perhaps you should find employ with the Stonebrooks once we return home? I’m impressed with how quickly you’ve bonded with $mountname.” “Perhaps I should.” You chuckle. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with lumber working other than using them to haul.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with carpentry, but maybe there’s a way.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with swordsmanship, other than learning to fight from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with archery, other than shooting from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with medicine, but maybe there’s a way. Animals need physicians as well after all.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Your skills in commerce could actually lend itself to horse mastery, perhaps it’s an idea to follow.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You’d rather not think of how to combine your skills in cooking with horses. Unless you’re traveling for a catering job, your equine friends will stay out of your business.<</if>> “Anyway...$mc, I think…. I have been thinking that I’ve been much to cold to you since we headed out. I think it’s clear that my being that way is making this trip harder on you than it should be. I’d like to sit and have a conversation when we camp, at least. I think we should still be cautious on the road, but please, if you need help – if you’re scared especially – please tell me. //Please//.” Oswin looks at you as if he were a kicked puppy. “I will...and, I’d like that. If we could talk, just a bit. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea at the very least.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

“I apologize...I shouldn’t have let that get the better of me. I should have been more aware; that was so stu-.” “Stop that,” Oswin says firmly, but without harshness. “But-” He shakes his head. “There is nothing to be sorry for. You’re having a difficult time. That’s okay. It’s normal.” “Can I at least thank you?” Oswin’s eyes shift away a moment but he nods at you. “Give yourself some time to relax, $mc, that’s how you can thank me if you insist on doing so.” As you decompress, you finally notice how hard your heart has been pounding. It’s almost painful in your chest, but you continue to breathe and settle with Oswin’s kind gemstone eyes watching over you. After a few moments, you’re able to smile at him just a little bit. Quietly, you manage to speak. “Thank you, Oswin.” “Think nothing of it.” You consider him for a moment. “I can’t do that. It’s the second time you’ve pulled me from...well, myself.” “If you need it, I will again,” he says. You exchange smiles and he gently helps you to your feet. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname turns to nuzzle you as you find your footing, before she attempts to mouth you in one of her trademark kisses.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>As you stand, $mountname flicks his tail and swats you before he turns to face you, nudging your shoulder with his nose.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname turns so he can press his entire head into your chest, pressing lightly as he makes little grunts.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname brays, kicking her head up and down as she stamps her back hooves. When you pat her shoulder, she turns her nose to gently kiss against your face.<</if>> Oswin smiles as he watches the exchange. “Perhaps you should find employ with the Stonebrooks once we return home? I’m impressed with how quickly you’ve bonded with $mountname.” “Perhaps I should.” You chuckle. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with lumber working other than using them to haul.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with carpentry, but maybe there’s a way.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with swordsmanship, other than learning to fight from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with archery, other than shooting from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with medicine, but maybe there’s a way. Animals need physicians as well after all.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Your skills in commerce could actually lend itself to horse mastery, perhaps it’s an idea to follow.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You’d rather not think of how to combine your skills in cooking with horses. Unless you’re traveling for a catering job, your equine friends will stay out of your business.<</if>> “Anyway...$mc, I think…. I have been thinking that I’ve been much to cold to you since we headed out. I think it’s clear that my being that way is making this trip harder on you than it should be. I’d like to sit and have a conversation when we camp, at least. I think we should still be cautious on the road, but please, if you need help – if you’re scared especially – please tell me. //Please//.” Oswin looks at you as if he were a kicked puppy. “I will...and, I’d like that. If we could talk, just a bit. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea at the very least.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

“<<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You know, they say to watch out for the quiet ones...you just never know the lengths we’ll go for some attention as long as it doesn’t require actually asking for it.<<else>>I know I’m not one to shy away, but this was obnoxious even for me. Perhaps Da was right, I may have a knack for theater.<</if>>” Oswin pats your shoulder. “It’s okay. You don’t have to try to laugh it away here with me. How you’ve been feeling is normal; I’m not going to judge you for it or hold it against you.” You manage a small smirk. “Yes, but you’ll hold me against you?” Oswin scoffs and tries to look miffed, but he’s clearly fighting a little grin from showing. “I cannot take you anywhere…” You laugh. “No, you can’t, I keep breaking down.” He slaps a hand to his face and drags it down with a defeated groan. “Can I at least thank you?” Oswin snaps his attention back to you, but his eyes shift away a moment before he nods. “Give yourself some time to relax, $mc, that’s how you can thank me if you insist on doing so. Stop with the jokes, and just take in the calm.” As you decompress, you finally notice how hard your heart has been pounding. It’s almost painful in your chest, but you continue to breathe and settle with Oswin’s kind gemstone eyes watching over you. After a few moments, you’re able to smile at him just a little bit. Quietly, you manage to speak. “Thank you, Oswin.” “Think nothing of it.” You consider him for a moment. “I can’t do that. It’s the second time you’ve pulled me from...well, myself.” “If you need it, I will again,” he says. You exchange smiles and he gently helps you to your feet. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname turns to nuzzle you as you find your footing, before she attempts to mouth you in one of her trademark kisses.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>As you stand, $mountname flicks his tail and swats you before he turns to face you, nudging your shoulder with his nose.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname turns so he can press his entire head into your chest, pressing lightly as he makes little grunts.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname brays, kicking her head up and down as she stamps her back hooves. When you pat her shoulder, she turns her nose to gently kiss against your face.<</if>> Oswin smiles as he watches the exchange. “Perhaps you should find employ with the Stonebrooks once we return home? I’m impressed with how quickly you’ve bonded with $mountname.” “Perhaps I should.” You chuckle. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with lumber working other than using them to haul.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with carpentry, but maybe there’s a way.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with swordsmanship, other than learning to fight from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with archery, other than shooting from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with medicine, but maybe there’s a way. Animals need physicians as well after all.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Your skills in commerce could actually lend itself to horse mastery, perhaps it’s an idea to follow.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You’d rather not think of how to combine your skills in cooking with horses. Unless you’re traveling for a catering job, your equine friends will stay out of your business.<</if>> “Anyway...$mc, I think…. I have been thinking that I’ve been much to cold to you since we headed out. I think it’s clear that my being that way is making this trip harder on you than it should be. I’d like to sit and have a conversation when we camp, at least. I think we should still be cautious on the road, but please, if you need help – if you’re scared especially – please tell me. //Please//.” Oswin looks at you as if he were a kicked puppy. “I will...and, I’d like that. If we could talk, just a bit. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea at the very least.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> The closeness is doing wicked things to your heart. You pull him closer and tighter and he gladly gives into your touch, though as your face presses to the side of his throat you hear his breath hitch. He smells of home. The essence of smoke is caught in his hair, his skin has an earthy pine-like smell to it, and you briefly pick up the scent of his sword oil. Oswin is warmth and comfort, balm for the burn upon your soul. He will keep you steady. No words are needed, you simply hold each other for a long moment. As you relax, you finally notice how hard your heart has been pounding. It’s almost painful in your chest, but you continue to breathe and settle with Oswin’s strong and kind arms around you. After a few moments, you’re able to pull away and smile at him just a little bit. Quietly, you manage to speak. “Thank you, Oswin.” “Think nothing of it.” You consider him for a moment. “I can’t do that. It’s the second time you’ve pulled me from...well, myself.” “If you need it, I will again,” he says. You exchange smiles and he gently helps you to your feet. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname turns to nuzzle you as you find your footing, before she attempts to mouth you in one of her trademark kisses.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>As you stand, $mountname flicks his tail and swats you before he turns to face you, nudging your shoulder with his nose.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname turns so he can press his entire head into your chest, pressing lightly as he makes little grunts.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname brays, kicking her head up and down as she stamps her back hooves. When you pat her shoulder, she turns her nose to gently kiss against your face.<</if>> Oswin smiles as he watches the exchange. “Perhaps you should find employ with the Stonebrooks once we return home? I’m impressed with how quickly you’ve bonded with $mountname.” “Perhaps I should.” You chuckle. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with lumber working other than using them to haul.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with carpentry, but maybe there’s a way.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with swordsmanship, other than learning to fight from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with archery, other than shooting from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with medicine, but maybe there’s a way. Animals need physicians as well after all.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Your skills in commerce could actually lend itself to horse mastery, perhaps it’s an idea to follow.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You’d rather not think of how to combine your skills in cooking with horses. Unless you’re traveling for a catering job, your equine friends will stay out of your business.<</if>> “Anyway...$mc, I think…. I have been thinking that I’ve been much to cold to you since we headed out. I think it’s clear that my being that way is making this trip harder on you than it should be. I’d like to sit and have a conversation when we camp, at least. I think we should still be cautious on the road, but please, if you need help – if you’re scared especially – please tell me. //Please//.” Oswin looks at you as if he were a kicked puppy. “I will...and, I’d like that. If we could talk, just a bit. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea at the very least.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> The closeness is doing wicked things to your heart. You right yourself as Oswin reluctantly lets you go, but instead of fully pulling away, you cup his face in your hands. His eyes are wide open in shock and they dart away from your stare every which way, only briefly meeting your gaze here and there. When you do not falter, the green orbs finally rest on your $eyecolor ones. You’re so close to his face that you notice he has tiny spots of brown freckling each of his irises, but all the color is becoming obscured with the way his pupils expand the longer you gaze. Perhaps neither of you truly know what you’re looking at, but there is a strange feeling traveling through your stares. There’s a radiance there that you hadn’t felt before. As you finally relax, you finally notice how hard your heart has been pounding. It’s almost painful in your chest, but you continue to breathe and settle with Oswin’s comforting eyes on you. After a few moments, you’re able to pull away and smile at him just a little bit. Quietly, you manage to speak. “Thank you, Oswin.” “Think nothing of it.” You consider him for a moment. “I can’t do that. It’s the second time you’ve pulled me from...well, myself.” “If you need it, I will again,” he says. You exchange smiles and he gently helps you to your feet. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname turns to nuzzle you as you find your footing, before she attempts to mouth you in one of her trademark kisses.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>As you stand, $mountname flicks his tail and swats you before he turns to face you, nudging your shoulder with his nose.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname turns so he can press his entire head into your chest, pressing lightly as he makes little grunts.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname brays, kicking her head up and down as she stamps her back hooves. When you pat her shoulder, she turns her nose to gently kiss against your face.<</if>> Oswin smiles as he watches the exchange. “Perhaps you should find employ with the Stonebrooks once we return home? I’m impressed with how quickly you’ve bonded with $mountname.” “Perhaps I should.” You chuckle. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with lumber working other than using them to haul.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with carpentry, but maybe there’s a way.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with swordsmanship, other than learning to fight from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with archery, other than shooting from the saddle, but maybe there’s other ways.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You’re unsure how to incorporate horse mastery with medicine, but maybe there’s a way. Animals need physicians as well after all.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Your skills in commerce could actually lend itself to horse mastery, perhaps it’s an idea to follow.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You’d rather not think of how to combine your skills in cooking with horses. Unless you’re traveling for a catering job, your equine friends will stay out of your business.<</if>> “Anyway...$mc, I think…. I have been thinking that I’ve been much to cold to you since we headed out. I think it’s clear that my being that way is making this trip harder on you than it should be. I’d like to sit and have a conversation when we camp, at least. I think we should still be cautious on the road, but please, if you need help – if you’re scared especially – please tell me. //Please//.” Oswin looks at you as if he were a kicked puppy. “I will...and, I’d like that. If we could talk, just a bit. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea at the very least.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

You have no complaints right now. You may as well enjoy the road ahead. A faithful guide is keeping you safe, a sturdy mount who’s already grown quite attached to you is dutifully carrying you, there’s a crisp coolness to the air, and the smell of trees all around you. There are many things around that are a boon to your contentment. You suddenly realize that Oswin has slowed Flit to a stop and $mountname has followed suit. “Are you doing okay?” Oswin asks. “Oh yes, I’m fine.” “You’ve had a thoughtful look on your face for a while, I was worried if you were having a hard time coping.” “For now, I am doing well, I assure you.” Oswin grants you a tiny smile. “I am glad to hear it. You’ve done well so far, but if you are ever unsure, please let me know. We have a ways to go yet and traveling like this can wear one very thin.” “Of course,” you say. “Speaking of, how many more days do you think it will take to get to the shrine?” Oswin thinks for a moment before answering. “We’re making excellent time, the weather has been agreeable, and you’re doing well. At this rate, Codrin would be about ten days out, but the shrine is at the base of the mountain range and closer to this path than the city. I would guess eight days, but I haven’t been there personally.” “You’ve traveled to Codrin before though?” He nods. “I...I can tell you about it. If you like.” “Really?” “Understand, that we should try to stay focused when we travel, but…” Oswin trails off, his eyes searching yours for a moment. “Yes?” “I realized...perhaps I have been lost in thought since we started the journey. I wanted to ask if you’d like to have a chat when we camp tonight. If you have questions, I’d like you to feel free to ask. I’d like to tell you about Codrin too. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You’re usually more quiet in nature, and I haven’t really given you the opportunity to feel comfortable. Of course if you prefer to not speak, I’ll accept that, but I owe it to you to be approachable.<<else>>I know you usually prefer to socialize, and I haven’t been accommodating for that. If you would like, I am willing to try for your sake.<</if>> A smile finds it’s way to your lips. “I’d like that. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

<<set $anx += 5>> You should have no complaints right now. You ought to enjoy the road ahead. A faithful guide is keeping you safe, a sturdy mount who’s already grown quite attached to you is dutifully carrying you, there’s a crisp coolness to the air, and the smell of trees all around you. There are many things around that should be a boon to your contentment. But still, you are shoving fear down with these things, keeping it bottled tightly lest it get loose and hurt you. How long can you continue this? How long can you hide it from yourself? You suddenly realize that Oswin has slowed Flit to a stop and $mountname has followed suit. “Are you doing okay?” Oswin asks. “Oh yes, I’m fine.” You //are// fine. You are. “You’ve had an odd look on your face for a while, I was worried if you were having a hard time coping.” “For now, I am doing well, I assure you.” You are fine. //You are fine//. Oswin grants you a tiny smile. “I am glad to hear it. You’ve done well so far, but if you are ever unsure, please let me know. We have a ways to go yet and traveling like this can wear one very thin.” “Of course,” you say, though you are fine. “Speaking of, how many more days do you think it will take to get to the shrine?” Oswin thinks for a moment before answering. “We’re making excellent time, the weather has been agreeable, and you’re doing well. At this rate, Codrin would be about ten days out, but the shrine is at the base of the mountain range and closer to this path than the city. I would guess eight days, but I haven’t been there personally.” “You’ve traveled to Codrin before though?” He nods. “I...I can tell you about it. If you like.” “Really?” “Understand, that we should try to stay focused when we travel, but…” Oswin trails off, his eyes searching yours for a moment. “Yes?” “I realized...perhaps I have been lost in thought since we started the journey. I wanted to ask if you’d like to have a chat when we camp tonight. If you have questions, I’d like you to feel free to ask. I’d like to tell you about Codrin too. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You’re usually more quiet in nature, and I haven’t really given you the opportunity to feel comfortable. Of course if you prefer to not speak, I’ll accept that, but I owe it to you to be approachable.<<else>>I know you usually prefer to socialize, and I haven’t been accommodating for that. If you would like, I am willing to try for your sake.<</if>> A smile finds it’s way to your lips. “I’d like that. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. At least you’re doing fine. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

The whole world has really opened up to you. You spent the first 24 years of your life in the same small area, and now you can finally stretch your legs and see more of the world. Despite the looming threat to your life, this still feels like an adventure. You are going to enjoy the road ahead. A faithful guide is keeping you safe, a sturdy mount who’s already grown quite attached to you is dutifully carrying you, there’s a crisp coolness to the air, and the smell of trees all around you. There are many things around that are soothing and wondrous, and all of them are leading you to new experiences. You suddenly realize that Oswin has slowed Flit to a stop and $mountname has followed suit. “Are you doing okay?” Oswin asks. “Oh yes, I’m fine.” You smile. “You’ve had a strange grin on your face for a while, I wasn’t sure if I should be worried about that or not...sometimes travel can do odd things to the mind.” “I assure you, I’m doing well. I’m actually a bit excited to be out of Stonebrook.” Oswin grants you a tiny smile. “I am glad to hear it. You’ve done well so far, but if you are ever unsure, please let me know. We have a ways to go yet and traveling like this can wear one very thin even if you enjoy it.” “Of course,” you say. “Speaking of, how many more days do you think it will take to get to the shrine?” Oswin thinks for a moment before answering. “We’re making excellent time, the weather has been agreeable, and you’re doing well. At this rate, Codrin would be about ten days out, but the shrine is at the base of the mountain range and closer to this path than the city. I would guess eight days, but I haven’t been there personally.” “You’ve traveled to Codrin before though?” He nods. “I...I can tell you about it. If you like.” “Really?” “Understand, that we should try to stay focused when we travel, but…” Oswin trails off, his eyes searching yours for a moment. “Yes?” “I realized...perhaps I have been lost in thought since we started the journey. I wanted to ask if you’d like to have a chat when we camp tonight. If you have questions, I’d like you to feel free to ask. I’d like to tell you about Codrin too. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You’re usually more quiet in nature, and I haven’t really given you the opportunity to feel comfortable. Of course if you prefer to not speak, I’ll accept that, but I owe it to you to be approachable.<<else>>I know you usually prefer to socialize, and I haven’t been accommodating for that. If you would like, I am willing to try for your sake.<</if>> A smile finds it’s way to your lips. “I’d like that. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

You have no complaints right now. But maybe you do. Though, you’re perhaps a bit excited too. And scared. You’re not sure. It’s all a lot at once. So much of your life changed in just one day and more seems to be changing and new to you with each sunrise. It will take some time for you to sort out how it all impacts you. In the meantime, you decide to try and enjoy the road ahead. A faithful guide is keeping you safe, a sturdy mount who’s already grown quite attached to you is dutifully carrying you, there’s a crisp coolness to the air, and the smell of trees all around you. There are many things around that are a boon, and at the very least feel more tangible to you right now. You suddenly realize that Oswin has slowed Flit to a stop and $mountname has followed suit. “Are you doing okay?” Oswin asks. “Oh yes, I’m fine. I think...” “You think? You’ve had a strange look on your face for a while, I was worried if you were having a hard time coping.” “I’m not totally sure how I feel, really, but I think I’m okay.” Oswin grants you a tiny smile. “I am glad to hear it. You’ve done well so far, but if you are ever unsure, please let me know. We have a ways to go yet and traveling like this can wear one very thin.” “Of course,” you say. “Speaking of, how many more days do you think it will take to get to the shrine?” Oswin thinks for a moment before answering. “We’re making excellent time, the weather has been agreeable, and you’re doing well. At this rate, Codrin would be about ten days out, but the shrine is at the base of the mountain range and closer to this path than the city. I would guess eight days, but I haven’t been there personally.” “You’ve traveled to Codrin before though?” He nods. “I...I can tell you about it. If you like.” “Really?” “Understand, that we should try to stay focused when we travel, but…” Oswin trails off, his eyes searching yours for a moment. “Yes?” “I realized...perhaps I have been lost in thought since we started the journey. I wanted to ask if you’d like to have a chat when we camp tonight. If you have questions, I’d like you to feel free to ask. I’d like to tell you about Codrin too. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You’re usually more quiet in nature, and I haven’t really given you the opportunity to feel comfortable. Of course if you prefer to not speak, I’ll accept that, but I owe it to you to be approachable.<<else>>I know you usually prefer to socialize, and I haven’t been accommodating for that. If you would like, I am willing to try for your sake.<</if>> A smile finds it’s way to your lips. “I’d like that. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>We were friends once, you know. It will be nice to connect again, even just a little.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I would really like for us to connect, so that would be wonderful.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>That’s not a bad idea.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It can’t hurt, if nothing else.<</if>>” “It won’t be long now. I-” Oswin suddenly stops and scans the path behind you. “Oswin?” He holds his hand up without so much as a glance back to you as he peers through the surrounding trees. His eyes are wide and his brow is furrowed as he focuses. You briefly consider if he’s putting on a show to prove his point from earlier, but the way his face twists makes your gut sink. You look around but see nothing and hear nothing. Hearing nothing in a forest is very suspicious. After a few moments, Oswin relaxes, and you notice birdsong return as if the forest is alive once more. Your guide ushers you forward, keeping your mounts as close as possible. [[You stay silent and vigilant until you make camp.]]

<<set $campcareful to true>> Oswin thinks for a moment before nodding his head, almost seeming to agree with his own thoughts on something. “My main concern is bandits.” “Would they really be that much of a problem on a road like this?” You gesture to the surrounding wilderness. It is hard to believe there is even a road from where you have camped, a short trek away. “I know it may look unlikely, but since this road is less traveled, it is also un-patrolled by any guard. Desperate bandits may see an opportunity in snagging someone on a path like this.” You pat your clothes and nearby saddle bags. “What would they stand to gain from //us//?” He smirks, but not with mirth. “You do not want to know the things desperate and evil people will seek to steal from you, $mc. I’ve met some that would want nothing monetary, they’d seek to hurt you for the fun of it. Most are not like that, but it is better to not take a chance on anyone. Even if we only lost our mounts, we could find ourselves in danger. I thought I might spare you some of the details when we headed out, I don’t wish to instill only fear, but I realize now I shouldn’t hide these things from you.” “You’ve actually met people like that? Evil people?” He nods and his eyes turn to the fire in front of you. “I’ve seen the devastation they can leave. I...crossed swords with a particularly vile person a few years ago.” You go silent as you absorb what Oswin has said. “Now, anything else you wish to ask before we bed down?” <<if not hasVisited("3.6b")>>[[“Should we keep watch in shifts at night?”|3.6b]]<<else>>You asked about night watches.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.6c")>>[[“What should I expect the closer we get to the shrine?”|3.6c]]<<else>>You asked about what to expect as you approach the shrine.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.6d")>>[[“What is Codrin like? Have you been there before?”|3.6d]]<<else>>You asked about Codrin and if Oswin had been there before.<</if>> <<if $campcareful is true and $campwatch is true and $campshrine is true and $campcodrin is true>>[[“I have no more questions.”|3.6e]]<</if>>

<<set $campwatch to true>> Oswin shakes his head. “When we get closer to the region, perhaps. Right now, I feel confident in detecting anything approaching at night. Flit is also quite alert and knows to warn me of disruptions, and I sleep quite...lightly.” “Do you really?” He nods. “Acquired skill, I suppose you could say. I sleep deeper at home at least.” “When we were kids, you slept like the dead.” He scoffs. “I did no such thing. It was you and Lakota that could sleep through everything and //I// could never sleep through your incessant snoring.” “I never snored!” He laughs, but quickly stifles the sound. “You did so. Do you remember the time I painted on both of your faces?” The memory pops into your mind. You and Lakota had stained faces for days afterward. You cross your arms and give Oswin a stern look. He smirks as he stokes the fire. “I couldn’t sleep that night because both of you were snoring so damn loud. I had to do something to entertain myself.” “That was the week of a wedding too, our fathers made us hide in the back of the gathering. Da laughed at me for days!” <<if $mustache is true>>"I think I was right in assuming the mustache suited you, and it appears that you agree with me." Oswin gestures towards your face. You rolls your eyes.<<elseif $fullbeard is true>>"I think I was on to something giving you facial hair a bit early. Just look at you now." Oswin gestures to your face and you roll your eyes at him.<<else>>"I saw no harm in seeing what you might look like with facial hair. Most thought it was quite charming on you." Oswin smiles at you and you roll your eyes.<</if>> “Do you have more questions?” <<if not hasVisited("3.6a")>>[[“Why do we need to be so careful as we travel?”|3.6a]]<<else>>You asked why you needed to be so careful.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.6c")>>[[“What should I expect the closer we get to the shrine?”|3.6c]]<<else>>You asked about what to expect as you approach the shrine.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.6d")>>[[“What is Codrin like? Have you been there before?”|3.6d]]<<else>>You asked about Codrin and if Oswin had been there before.<</if>> <<if $campcareful is true and $campwatch is true and $campshrine is true and $campcodrin is true>>[[“I have no more questions.”|3.6e]]<</if>>

<<set $campshrine to true>> “It may be hard to believe if you look around you, but the woods will get thicker. We’ll want to pay closer attention to the wildlife. Bears and wolves become much more common around there. Winter was a bit difficult, so we’ll be leery of any animals that may pose a danger. For the most part, they should leave us alone.” You sigh. “There is the occasional wildcat as well; they are more dangerous, but more unusual to see. They prefer the mountains.” “I’ve never seen a wildcat before.” “There are two types around the Mahdeh mountains, mountain panthers and lynx.” “Are they quite big?” “Panthers can be. Lynx are smaller, but they are incredibly spry. Both are quite beautiful. I don’t think we’ll see one, but if there’s a way to find one safely, I’ll try to show you.” “Let’s hope we don’t meet any we don’t intend to.” “Of course. So, anymore questions?” <<if not hasVisited("3.6a")>>[[“Why do we need to be so careful as we travel?”|3.6a]]<<else>>You asked why you needed to be so careful.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.6b")>>[[“Should we keep watch in shifts at night?”|3.6b]]<<else>>You asked about night watches.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.6d")>>[[“What is Codrin like? Have you been there before?”|3.6d]]<<else>>You asked about Codrin and if Oswin had been there before.<</if>> <<if $campcareful is true and $campwatch is true and $campshrine is true and $campcodrin is true>>[[“I have no more questions.”|3.6e]]<</if>>

<<set $campcodrin to true>> “It’s a very large city. I’m not sure how much bigger than Lale...perhaps twice the size, maybe more.” “But Lale is huge!” Oswin chuckles. “You think that because it’s huge compared to Stonebrook. Codrin is massive in comparison. There are many thousands of people. One of the seven in the monarchy lives there, so commerce has naturally been a boon to them.” “So, are there many shops?” “Oh yes, maybe thousands. You could buy about anything you can think of and many things that you’d never need. They have famous inns and taverns and...uh, never mind.” He shakes his head. “What? Tell me. I’ll find out eventually.” He clears his throat. “Brothels,” he says quietly, “They have a couple famous brothels.” “Seriously? Have you been?” Oswin’s eyes go wide. “//No//, of course not. Well, not as a customer.” You tilt your head. “So...as an employee?” “Yes – no! Not like that; I was hired to help guard a caravan for some courtesan. I don’t remember their name, they were kind though. Offered me a permanent job, but it wasn’t for me.” “What was the place called? Maybe we can visit.” You are pretty sure Oswin’s eye twitches. “The Snake and Lily,” he says in a small voice. You raise an eyebrow. He clears his throat. “Anyway, do you have more questions?” <<if not hasVisited("3.6a")>>[[“Why do we need to be so careful as we travel?”|3.6a]]<<else>>You asked why you needed to be so careful.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.6b")>>[[“Should we keep watch in shifts at night?”|3.6b]]<<else>>You asked about night watches.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.6c")>>[[“What should I expect the closer we get to the shrine?”|3.6c]]<<else>>You asked about what to expect as you approach the shrine.<</if>> <<if $campcareful is true and $campwatch is true and $campshrine is true and $campcodrin is true>>[[“I have no more questions.”|3.6e]]<</if>>

Oswin stands from his seat. “Well, how about we split an apple before we sleep?” You chuckle. “One of the ones your sisters gave us? Last time I asked for one, you acted like I wanted to eat your arm or something.” “They’re my favorite. Sage and Poppy enchanted them last autumn, and I’ve been savoring them. The magic makes them taste better too.” Oswin begins digging through one of the sacks strapped to Flit’s saddle. “Are you sure they didn’t poison them?” He chuckles. “They couldn’t know which ones you would eat, so no, they’re not poisoned. Also, they'd never want you to believe it, but they care a great deal for you.” You scoff. Oswin flips the sack around and brings a few apples out with a strange look on his face. “$mc, did you eat one of these?” “No, you wouldn’t let me.” “You didn’t grab one to spite me?” “No, I swear it. Did $mountname somehow get into the bag?” Oswin thinks for a moment. “That may be. The flap on the bag was down, but not buckled. Really, either of them could have gotten into it. Flit is well-behaved, but she quite likes fruit.” He shakes his head. You split the apple, which is sweeter than most apples you’ve tried before. Oswin shares a piece with Flit and you do likewise for $mountname, even if one of them is guilty of thieving, they've still earned a treat. As you bed down on your meager bedroll you think about all you’ve learned… [[You can’t stop thinking about the things that could go wrong.|3.7a]] [[You’re a little more worried now.|3.7b]] [[You feel no different.|3.7c]] [[You feel more confident now.|3.7d]]

<<set $anx += 5>> The next few days on the road do nothing to ease your mind. Oswin, after just finally feeling more at ease and opening up to you, seems to slam shut. He’s clearly becoming more paranoid each day, frequently checking around you several times during your travels, saying that he feels eyes on you both. Neither of you actually see or hear anything amiss, and the mounts do not appear to be alarmed. You are never allowed to stray far from Oswin. At night, he keeps his bedroll close to yours, during the day, you ride side by side whenever the road allows, and when it is narrow, there is barely a gap between Flit and $mountname. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Oswin insists that your axe be close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, you must defend yourself if he cannot get to you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times, insisting that your carving knife will not protect you enough if you need it to.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Oswin insists that your sword be close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, to not hesitate to put your training into action.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Oswin insists that your bow close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, you must defend yourself if he cannot get to you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times along with your medicine kit, so you can defend yourself and treat any wounds if he is unable to help you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times, insisting that you try your best to avoid a fight, but if the need arose, to not hesitate to use it.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Oswin asks that you keep one of your cooking knives in easy reach should you get attacked and to not hesitate to defend yourself.<</if>> Strangely, Oswin becomes more calm at night. He doesn’t feel or hear any disturbances when you camp. Part of you wonders if Oswin really is just paranoid when you’re out on the road. Either way, you’re finding it… [[Very difficult to sleep at night. You are awake nearly the entire time you are supposed to be resting.|3.8a]] [[More difficult to sleep at night. You are awake nearly half of the night.|3.8b]] [[About the same as you were before when you sleep at night.|3.8c]]

<<set $anx += 3>> The next few days on the road do nothing to ease your mind. Oswin, after just finally feeling more at ease and opening up to you, seems to slam shut. He’s clearly becoming more paranoid each day, frequently checking around you several times during your travels, saying that he feels eyes on you both. Neither of you actually see or hear anything amiss, and the mounts do not appear to be alarmed. You are never allowed to stray far from Oswin. At night, he keeps his bedroll close to yours, during the day, you ride side by side whenever the road allows, and when it is narrow, there is barely a gap between Flit and $mountname. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Oswin insists that your axe be close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, you must defend yourself if he cannot get to you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times, insisting that your carving knife will not protect you enough if you need it to.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Oswin insists that your sword be close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, to not hesitate to put your training into action.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Oswin insists that your bow close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, you must defend yourself if he cannot get to you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times along with your medicine kit, so you can defend yourself and treat any wounds if he is unable to help you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times, insisting that you try your best to avoid a fight, but if the need arose, to not hesitate to use it.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Oswin asks that you keep one of your cooking knives in easy reach should you get attacked and to not hesitate to defend yourself.<</if>> Strangely, Oswin becomes more calm at night. He doesn’t feel or hear any disturbances when you camp. Part of you wonders if Oswin really is just paranoid when you’re out on the road. Either way, you’re finding it… [[Very difficult to sleep at night. You are awake nearly the entire time you are supposed to be resting.|3.8a]] [[More difficult to sleep at night. You are awake nearly half of the night.|3.8b]] [[About the same as you were before when you sleep at night.|3.8c]]

Though, you feel more or less fine, it is clear that your travel guide does not share your feelings. Oswin, after just finally feeling more at ease and opening up to you, seems to slam shut. He’s clearly becoming more paranoid each day, frequently checking around you several times during your travels, saying that he feels eyes on you both. Neither of you actually see or hear anything amiss, and the mounts do not appear to be alarmed. You are never allowed to stray far from Oswin. At night, he keeps his bedroll close to yours, during the day, you ride side by side whenever the road allows, and when it is narrow, there is barely a gap between Flit and $mountname. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Oswin insists that your axe be close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, you must defend yourself if he cannot get to you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times, insisting that your carving knife will not protect you enough if you need it to.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Oswin insists that your sword be close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, to not hesitate to put your training into action.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Oswin insists that your bow close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, you must defend yourself if he cannot get to you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times along with your medicine kit, so you can defend yourself and treat any wounds if he is unable to help you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times, insisting that you try your best to avoid a fight, but if the need arose, to not hesitate to use it.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Oswin asks that you keep one of your cooking knives in easy reach should you get attacked and to not hesitate to defend yourself.<</if>> Strangely, Oswin becomes more calm at night. He doesn’t feel or hear any disturbances when you camp. Part of you wonders if Oswin really is just paranoid when you’re out on the road. Either way, you’re finding it… [[Very difficult to sleep at night. You are awake nearly the entire time you are supposed to be resting.|3.8a]] [[More difficult to sleep at night. You are awake nearly half of the night.|3.8b]] [[About the same as you were before when you sleep at night.|3.8c]]

<<set $anx - 3>> Though, you are fine, it is clear that your travel guide does not share your feelings. Oswin, after just finally feeling more at ease and opening up to you, seems to slam shut. He’s clearly becoming more paranoid each day, frequently checking around you several times during your travels, saying that he feels eyes on you both. Neither of you actually see or hear anything amiss, and the mounts do not appear to be alarmed. You are never allowed to stray far from Oswin. At night, he keeps his bedroll close to yours, during the day, you ride side by side whenever the road allows, and when it is narrow, there is barely a gap between Flit and $mountname. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Oswin insists that your axe be close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, you must defend yourself if he cannot get to you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times, insisting that your carving knife will not protect you enough if you need it to.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Oswin insists that your sword be close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, to not hesitate to put your training into action.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Oswin insists that your bow close by at all times, telling you that if you’re approached, you must defend yourself if he cannot get to you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times along with your medicine kit, so you can defend yourself and treat any wounds if he is unable to help you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Oswin gives you a knife to keep on you at all times, insisting that you try your best to avoid a fight, but if the need arose, to not hesitate to use it.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Oswin asks that you keep one of your cooking knives in easy reach should you get attacked and to not hesitate to defend yourself.<</if>> Strangely, Oswin becomes more calm at night. He doesn’t feel or hear any disturbances when you camp. Part of you wonders if Oswin really is just paranoid when you’re out on the road. Either way, you’re finding it… [[Very difficult to sleep at night. You are awake nearly the entire time you are supposed to be resting.|3.8a]] [[More difficult to sleep at night. You are awake nearly half of the night.|3.8b]] [[About the same as you were before when you sleep at night.|3.8c]]

<<set $anx += 7>> <<set $insomnia to 'true'>> It doesn’t not take long for a profound tiredness to encompass you. Each night of little sleep adds weight to your shoulders. $mountname tries to soothe you, sensing something amiss, snuggling up to you, nudging you, anything to bring you comfort. Oswin remains paranoid, more so when you both notice little provisions going missing. First it was the apple, then a small heel of bread, and then a bit of dried meat. It fuels your own anxiety and the more tired you become, the less sane you feel. Neither of you have noticed anyone or anything getting remotely close to you. It seems impossible that your rations are being stolen. You begin to consider that it could be either Oswin or yourself at this point. Perhaps it is even a delusion. After the second night of this, Oswin institutes nightly watches. It’s not a problem for you since, you aren’t exactly sleeping anyway. You rotate about every two hours, bedding down a bit earlier than usual and breaking camp later in the morning than you have been. It cuts into your travel time, but helps give you both a little extra rest. After the third night of nearly no sleep, your eyes feel like boulders in their sockets. Your mind is sluggish, and your arms and legs feel foreign. An ache has crept in your skull and is radiating pain, making it hard to bear sunlight or move suddenly. You fall twice while trying to mount $mountname as you get ready to set out. Oswin regards you with a worried look as he offers to help you. [[You confess about not sleeping|3.9a]] [[You keep your troubles quiet, you don’t want to add to his worries.|3.9b]]

<<set $anx += 4>> <<set $insomnia to 'true'>> It doesn’t not take long for a profound tiredness to encompass you. Each night of little sleep adds weight to your shoulders. $mountname tries to soothe you, sensing something amiss, snuggling up to you, nudging you, anything to bring you comfort. Oswin remains paranoid, more so when you both notice little provisions going missing. First it was the apple, then a small heel of bread, and then a bit of dried meat. It fuels your own anxiety and the more tired you become, the less sane you feel. Neither of you have noticed anyone or anything getting remotely close to you. It seems impossible that your rations are being stolen. You begin to consider that it could be either Oswin or yourself at this point. Perhaps it is even a delusion. After the second night of this, Oswin institutes nightly watches. It’s not a problem for you since, you aren’t sleeping the whole night anyway. You rotate about every two hours, bedding down a bit earlier than usual and breaking camp later in the morning than you have been. It cuts into your travel time, but helps give you both a little extra rest. At first, you think it will not make much of a difference, but you keep finding it difficult to sleep even after your two-hour watch. After the third night of poor sleep, your eyes feel heavy in their sockets. Your mind is a little slow, and your arms and legs take some convincing to do you bidding. An ache has crept in your skull and is radiating pain, making light and movement a little harsh. You stumble while trying to mount $mountname as you get ready to set out. Oswin regards you with a worried look as he offers to help you. [[You confess about not sleeping much.|3.9a]] [[You keep your troubles quiet, you don’t want to add to his worries.|3.9b]]

<<set $headache to 'true'>> The journey carries on like normal for you, despite a bit of fatigue and saddle-soreness. Oswin remains paranoid, more so when you both notice little provisions going missing. First it was the apple, then a small heel of bread, and then a bit of dried meat. Neither of you have noticed anyone or anything getting remotely close to you. It seems impossible that your rations are being stolen. You begin to consider that it could be either Oswin or yourself at this point. Perhaps it is even a delusion. After the second night of this, Oswin institutes nightly watches. You rotate about every two hours, bedding down a bit earlier than usual and breaking camp later in the morning than you have been. It cuts into your travel time, but helps give you both a little extra rest. It cuts into your sleep, but you make the most of your time after each shift ends. After a couple nights of the watch, you find that an ache has crept into your skull and is radiating pain, making you a bit dizzy and nauseated. You mount up, only to wobble with vertigo once you are on the saddle, clutching your head. You try to suppress that it feels similar to the pains you get from your illness...well, curse. Oswin regards you with a worried look. [[You tell him about your headache.|3.9c]] [[You keep your troubles quiet, you don’t want to add to his worries.|3.9b2]]

<<set $tellOsleep to 'true'>> He steadies you, fixing you with an expression full of worry. “Your eyes are bloodshot…” You nod, it makes you dizzy. “I’m...Oswin, I haven’t slept well...or much at all I guess in three days.” “You //what//?” “I can’t sleep at night. I’m on edge and nothing helps.” Oswin drags his hand down his face. “You should have told me sooner,” he says sternly. “I didn’t think it would keep happening, and things have been stressful for you already.” He groans. “I’m sor-” “Don’t.” Oswin stomps off, mumbling to himself. You’re taken aback. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>A sting of pain radiates in your chest. You just confided in him. There was no ideal time to say something, and you couldn’t have known this would keep up this long. There’s also a lot of pressure for you to keep going.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>A sting of pain radiates in your chest. You just confided in him. There was no ideal time to say something, and you couldn’t have known this would keep up this long. There’s also a lot of pressure for you to keep going.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>Not that you expected him to be full of sunshine at the news, but you assumed he would have a bit of sympathy or concern.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>You weren’t sure what to expect out of him at the news, but stomping off without a word about it wasn’t even an option to you.<</if>> Perhaps he is quite mad, either at you or at the situation. “Hey,” Oswin says. Your attention is broken from your inner turmoil. Your guide is holding a cloth bag towards you and urging you to take it. “What’s this?” “Something to get you through the day. It’s a medicine, but sort of like a sweet – a hardened syrup infused with peppermint leaves, willow bark, and a few spices. It will help keep you awake and ease discomfort.” You briefly recall the scent of mint when Oswin took watch at night. “The mint and sugar help cover the bark taste.” He nods at you. “Are you angry?” “Well, I’m not happy, but I am not angry. Do you think you can push through today?” You nod, taking out one of the candies and putting it in your mouth. There’s a definite bitter, medicinal quality, but the mint and sugar really do ease it. “There is a good place that we can rest you for a couple days, but it is still a ways off. If we make decent time today, we can relax until you’ve slept a while. It might be a bit of a push, but I will stay close to you.” [[Before you know it, you are on the road again.|3.10]]

<<set $tellOsleep to 'false'>> You give him a small, apologetic smile and shake your head. “I’m fine, just a bit sleep-drunk this morning." Oswin’s brow wrinkles with obvious doubt. “Okay, but if you need something, speak up.” “Sure,” you say, though it feels like a lie. You need to keep pressing onward. Oswin probably doesn’t need another reason to be more anxious anyway. [[Before you know it, you are on the road again.|3.10]]

<<set $tellOhead to 'true'>> He fixes you with an expression full of worry. “Your eyes are a bit red…” You nod, and your forehead throbs. “I’ve developed a bit of a headache is all. It’s made me a bit dizzy.” Oswin stares at you a moment. “You don’t...you don’t feel that burning from the mark again do you?” “No, nothing like that; I think I am just feeling a bit road-weary. The pain is a bit similar, bu there is no burn.” “We can’t have you falling ill on the road like this…. I’ll grab you some medicine.” “I’m sorry, I know this may just serve to stress you.” He shakes his head. “Don’t concern yourself with that. You’re not accustomed to traveling like this, it’s normal.” His face twists and you’re not quite sure if he’s grumpy or just thinking. “Are you angry?” “Of course not. Do you think you can push through today?” You nod, and then cease the movement as your head throbs. “There is a good place that we can rest you for a couple days, but it is still a ways off. If we make decent time today, we can relax until we’re sure you are okay. It might be a bit of a push, but I will stay close to you.” [[Before you know it, you are on the road again.|3.10]]

<> The journey is not easy. <<if $headache is 'true'>>The pain in your head grows. It spreads down your spine, along your shoulders, and down your face. Dread begins to settle into your mind as you realize that this may be a sign your mark, your curse, is about to flair. In years past, your milder outbreaks would begin like any other illness, often leading to migraines, the intensity of which varied a great deal. Always before, the burning sensation in your abdomen was the true herald, but now that the mark has surfaced, you suppose that will no longer be the case.<<elseif $insomnia is 'true'>>You are exhausted. Every minute leaves you more weary. The ache in your eyes spreads into your skull, and before long you realize that a migraine is settling in. Dread begins to creep into your mind as you realize that this may be a sign your mark, your curse, is about to flair. In years past, your milder outbreaks would begin like any other illness, often leading to migraines, the intensity of which varied a great deal. Always before, the burning sensation in your abdomen was the true herald, but now that the mark has surfaced, you suppose that will no longer be the case. The compounding of exhaustion will do you no favors and you ride on in a haze of pain and disorientation.<</if>> <<if $tellOsleep is 'true'>>The medicine-candies Oswin gave you are helping. They give just enough relief to keep you upright and mostly aware of your surroundings. True to his word, Oswin stays as close as the road allows. Flit and $mountname are practically touching as they move along the road. They don't seem to mind, the two are getting along famously.<</if>> <<if $tellOhead is 'true'>>The pain medicine Oswin gave you is staving off the worst of the migraine. At the very least, it's pushing off most of the dizziness, helping you stay seated on $mountname. Oswin stays as close as the road allows. Flit and $mountname are practically touching as they move along the road. They don't seem to mind, the two are getting along famously.<</if>> <<if $tellOhead is 'false'>>You become more road-weary as the hours pass. You are thankful that the trees provide shade as sunlight burns your eyes, creating halos in your vision. Dizzy spells increase in frequency, and you try your best to keep up appearances and not alert Oswin to your state. Nausea sets in and every sway of your mount makes your stomach roll.<</if>> <<if $tellOsleep is 'false'>>It gets too difficult to stay upright in your saddle as the hours pass. Your eyes shut and are difficult to open again, and even when they are open, your vision is blurred. The building head pain shows no mercy. You feel weak and feverish.<</if>> <> You spend hours in a haze, at least it feels that way. It is impossible to tell how much time is slipping by. The air around you has heated considerably despite the shade of of the forest. You're sweating, so you try to unfasten your cloak to at least get it off your back and shoulders. You think you hear your name for a moment, and as you turn your head to respond, everything around you spins. The trees twist and obscure in your vision, your sense of up and down skews, and the din of the forest transforms into a shrill ring in your ears. [[You fall|3.11]]

You’re vaguely aware of the shrill cry from your surprised mount as you slump and slide out from the saddle, the stirrup of which catches you, slowing your fall for only a brief moment. <<if $tellOsleep is 'false'>>You begin crashing to the road, unable to even put your arms out to help break the fall. Your head dashes hard against something on the path, perhaps a root or stone. $mountname continues to whinnie in panic, and you are finally certain you hear Oswin yelling for you.<</if>><<if $tellOhead is 'false'>>You begin crashing to the road, unable to even put your arms out to help break the fall. Your head dashes hard against something in the road, perhaps a root or stone, and it compounds your already splitting headache. $mountname continues to whinnie in panic, and you are finally certain you hear Oswin yelling for you.<</if>> <<if $tellOsleep is 'true'>>You begin crashing to the road, unable to even put your arms out to help break the fall. Your body jerks suddenly, and you feel yourself being wrenched up by your clothes. Oswin is yelling. You have no strength and little awareness. You are a doll, boneless and lifeless. You feel your face press into $mountname's mane, feeling the warmth of the animal under your face. Moments later, you're being pulled from your perch. You can't see anything or do anthing, as you feel yourself being carried.<</if>><<if $tellOhead is 'true'>>You begin crashing to the road, unable to even put your arms out to help break the fall. Your body jerks suddenly, and you feel yourself being wrenched up by your clothes. Oswin is yelling. You have no strength and little awareness. You are a doll, boneless and lifeless. You feel your face press into $mountname's mane, feeling the warmth of the animal under your face. Moments later, you're being pulled from your perch. You can't see anything or do anthing, as you feel yourself being carried.<</if>> [[Everything goes dark.|3.12]]

Consciousness nods in and out for you. Every so often you recognize the sensation of being pulled or carried. Sometimes you sense drops of cold water on your lips and tongue, and through the haze of your being, pick up the sound of Oswin’s voice. You startle every so often, alertness suddenly coming to you and then promptly fading away, as you hear Oswin tell you to go back to sleep. You hadn’t realized you were sleeping to start with. You awaken after untold hours or days of this fade. It’s dark. You hear the occasional tweet from a bird in the trees. There’s the remnants of a dying fire nearby, the orange glow pulsing as bits of wood pop and crack. Groggily, you look around and take stock of your situation. You’re nestled on your right side on your bedroll, no two bedrolls, draped in your blanket and what appears to be both your own cloak and Oswin’s. You feel a nudge against your back and realize that $mountname is nuzzling you, snorting happily. You’re also laying at the base of a tree, which a sleeping Oswin is propped up against. Once you make to sit up, you realize how weak you feel. You cannot get up on your own, so you continue to look around. You’re clearly still in the forest, and it must be the middle of the night given how dark it is. In the glow of the embers of the campfire, you see one of Oswin’s tunics strung up in a tree, appearing as though it has been set out to dry. How long have you been here that he’s been doing laundry? You turn your eyes to Oswin. His brow is rumpled even in his sleep, and his sword is in his lap, his hand clutching the grip, ready to use it at a moment’s notice. Slowly, you remember what lead you here. The snippets of awareness flood in all at once. You fell. <<if $tellOsleep is 'true'>>Oswin caught you; he must have.<</if>><<if $tellOhead is 'true'>>Oswin caught you; he must have.<</if>><<if $tellOsleep is 'false'>>You hit your head...you reach up and feel bandages wrapped around the crown of your head. The left half of your skull is tender to the touch.<</if>><<if $tellOhead is 'false'>>You hit your head...you reach up and feel bandages wrapped around the crown of your head. The left half of your skull is tender to the touch.<</if>> Oddly, you feel poorly but better. The headache is still present and you are quite lethargic, but at the moment, it is tolerable. You try to sit up again, only to flinch with pain, gasping as it keeps you pinned to the bedroll. Oswin springs awake, sword ready. Once he gathers his senses and realizes there is no danger, he leans over you at once. “$mc, you’re awake.” <<if $tellOsleep is 'true'>>“I think so,” you say, voice gravelly and weak. “I feel horrible, I can’t sit up.” You suddenly realize how dry your throat is.<</if>><<if $tellOhead is 'true'>>“I think so,” you say, voice gravelly and weak. “I feel horrible, I can’t sit up.” You suddenly realize how dry your throat is.<</if>> <<if $tellOsleep is 'false'>>You try to speak, but are unable to make any sound. Your throat is dry, and there feels to be a disconnect between your thoughts and mouth. It ends up more of a groan.<</if>><<if $tellOhead is 'false'>>You try to speak, but are unable to make any sound. Your throat is dry, and there feels to be a disconnect between your thoughts and mouth. It ends up more of a groan.<</if>> “Here,” he says, “let me help you sit up. You need to drink.” Oswin rummages in a bag and pulls something out, holding it to your lips. “Open, it’s medicine, to keep you from getting nauseated as you sit up.” You obediently take his offering, the sense of peppermint and ginger hitting in a wave. The taste is not great, too powerful, but you know it will help ease your stomach. Oswin gently lifts and drags you to rest your back against the tree you’ve been sleeping under. Sure enough, a wave of nausea sloshes into your gut. The medicine keeps it from boiling over. You grunt your thanks. Oswin gets out a water skin and once the medicine dissolves, slowly trickles the cool sustenance into your mouth. [[He patiently helps you until you have drank your fill.|3.13]]

After a while, it becomes easier to speak. Oswin tells you that after you fell from your mount, he took you off the road to find this camp and has been nursing you ever since. You’ve slept the better part of two days. Apparently, you vomited all over him as well, a fact that he doesn’t seem as phased about as you. When asked why he didn’t completely wash the mess from one of his few items of clothing for journey, he tells you that you don’t have enough fresh water to waste on laundry, and there's no water source close by. A fact which alarms you for a moment. “So, will we need to head out soon?” you ask. “There must be a stream nearby; I’m going to set out soon to find it since you’re awake.” “Wait, you’re going alone?” “Yes, you are not well enough to travel. It won’t take long, there is bound to be a water source around here. The area I was trying to get you to, has a large stream, but we are still hours away. We’ll make due until you are able to travel.” <<if $anx > 16>>Your lungs suddenly constrict within your chest and your heart pulses hard. He’s going to leave you here //alone//. Out here in the middle of the woods in a world hitherto unknown. He can’t do this to you, he wouldn’t. Would he? What if something happens? What if someone tries to take you or kill you? What of the wild animals? Will you be eaten? You gasp, air suddenly thin, as you begin panting for it, tears gathering at the corners of your eyes. “Easy, easy; it’s okay.” Oswin leans over, trying to soothe you. “I’ll be fast, I can ride quicker without the supplies. I don’t like it either, but you need water and we are almost out.” Your worries are not eased, all you can hear is //I’m leaving you. You’ll be alone. Fend for yourself//. A sob escapes you as fear controls your mind. Oswin cups your face in his hands, forcing you to meet his eyes. There’s a spark when you gaze into them. “I wouldn’t do this unless I truly believed it’s in your best interest. I am not leaving you here, I swear on my life, may the gods strike me down if I’m lying. I need you to take up just a bit of courage for me. I know this is new to you, I know it’s asking too much too soon, but for your own sake, I need to leave you just for a bit. No more than an hour or two at the worst. I need you to stay grounded. Focus on $mountname, poor thing has been beside itself waiting for you to come around. Can you do this for me, $mc?” You bite back another sob and nod your head.<</if>> <<if $anx < 16>>Concern bubbles up within you, but you see the reason in what Oswin is saying. You will slow him down. If you have another attack of some kind whether from pain or exhaustion or the curse, you may doom yourself further. The area around you is peaceful and hidden from the road. Madeh has no shortage of streams and other water sources, Oswin probably wouldn’t be gone long. You nod. “I am sorry, but know that I wouldn’t even consider it unless your well-being was at stake. I don’t imagine it will take but an hour or two. We’ll be able to travel quickly, just Flit and I. I’ll make sure she gets a good long drink and I will bring back a pail for $mountname too.” “I understand, I’ll try my best to remain calm.”<</if>> “I do ask that you try to stay awake. This area is pretty placid, and we are far enough from the road, no travelers would easily spot you without a fire going. It’s nearly first light, so I’ll head out soon. Stay bundled up, try not to move from this spot unless you absolutely have to. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Keep your axe by your side,<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Keep your knife at hand,<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Keep your sword by your side,<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Keep your bow at hand,<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Keep your knife at hand,<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Keep your knife at hand,<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Keep your knives at hand,<</if>> but if you hear anything, mount up and get out. You won’t last in a fight, use all your strength to escape instead.” It’s clearly difficult for Oswin to leave you. Before he does, he gives you the little water that is left, food, and your weapon. He saddles $mountname as well. Once he readies Flit, he sets off, just as the sun begins to peek through the trees. You feel the cold of the morning seep in as the quiet of being alone does as well. Your mount is a reassuring presence, towering over you, occasionally nosing you sweetly. Leaning back against the tree, you get comfortable. You are at least feeling better, but the headache is still nagging at you<<if $anx > 16>>, and fear still shakes your heart, though you are trying your damnedest to keep it at bay<</if>>. [[You hope that Oswin’s return is swift.|3.14]]

It is hard for you to tell how much time passes. Once the sun is up, the trees still cover it’s position in the sky. It’s getting quite warm at least, and you are able to shrug off a couple layers, which is when you realize, Oswin left his cloak on you. You wonder if he was cold on his ride out. You wonder how soon he will return. Despite the bit of sunlight that reaches through the trees and the chimes of birdsong all around you, you are beginning to get sleepy, head snapping up as you keep catching yourself nearly dozing. Your mount is content resting next to you, seeming to be at complete peace. You suppose that is a good sign, but you know you shouldn’t shut your eyes. You drink a little and eat what you can, glad that your appetite seems okay. Oswin left you one of his special apples, which makes you smile. $mountname takes a piece as well as you savor the extra sweet fruit. It tastes just as it would right from the tree at peak ripeness, a marvel for this province at the beginning of spring. You imagine the southern region has apples all year round, and you wonder if they taste this good. A twig snaps in the distance. You go completely silent and stop all your movement, holding your last bit of apple in your hand as you listen. $mountname’s ears are perked in attention and they’re clearly a bit startled. You wait for a few minutes but hear nothing else. You still hear birds, which you take for a good sign and relax again. As you heave a sigh and rest your head against the tree, you try to relax and settle again. You hear something thump. The apple falls from your hand. The birds go quiet. You clutch your weapon. The crunch of a footstep echos around you. <<if $anx >= 12>>[[Terror takes over your mind, and you bolt into the woods.|3.15a]]<</if>> <<if $anx <= 11>>[[You decide to flee and find Oswin.|3.15b]]<</if>> <<if $anx <= 11>>[[You ready your weapon and rise to the challenge.|3.15c]]<</if>>

You just run. You are not even sure where the strength came from, but you are up and running through the trees in a blink. Panic has made you dumb as you leave $mountname behind - the one creature that could actually help you right now; there is no thought left in your mind, rationality is gone. Like a spooked deer, you bolt into the unknown, stumbling over your own feet, catching your shoulder on trees and brush as you escape from your unknown assailant. You think you hear it giving chase, but it is hard to tell over the sound of your own breathing. Racing over hills and struggling over rough terrain, you run until your heart and lungs feel like they will burst. The adrenaline that brought you here is beginning to dwindle, and your muscles are screaming for you to stop. You frantically look for a place to hide. You trip. That figures. You are running for your life, after all; that’s how every scary story Da ever told you goes. The protagonist trips and falls into certain doom. Papa always made sure that Da ended those stories with a hero coming to save them. Will there be one for you too? Will Oswin come and save you? Will Papa make sure you have a happy ending this time as well? But you fall to the ground and crash against a tree – head first – naturally. The pain racks down your spine and you struggle to turn and put your back to the tree and await your pursuer. You stay stock-still and watch for the enemy, your vision briefly doubles and fades in and out, but you force yourself to focus, realizing your weapon is still in your hand. Despite your expectations, you are still a bit stunned when something...someone appears from beyond the trees. You hold your weapon up and press your back against the tree. The person steps into view, golden hair, wearing a torn blue cloak, but you can’t see their face well. [[It appears to be a man.|3.16a]] [[It appears to be a woman.|3.16b]]

You have only a split second to decide, and you know that you need Oswin. No matter what is lingering in the woods, you may not be a match for it in the state you’re in. In your haste, you spook $mountname. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>She rears away from you and then backs away at your sudden move towards her.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>He bellows as he rears and then bolts just out of reach.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>He whinnies with discomfort and begins turning every which way to find the danger that has you on edge.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>She brays and begins to kick furiously, bearing her teeth, ready to fight.<</if>> So, you just turn and run, time may be a precious resource that you do not have. You are not even sure where the strength came from, but you are bolting through the trees in a blink. Your heart still clenches with worry for your mount, but you’re in no shape to handle this, and $mountname is in much better fighting condition than you. Like a spooked deer, you run into the unknown, stumbling over your own feet, catching your shoulder on trees and brush as you escape from your mysterious assailant. You think you hear it giving chase, but it is hard to tell over the sound of your own breathing. Racing over hills and struggling over rough terrain, you run until your heart and lungs feel like they will burst. The adrenaline that brought you here is beginning to dwindle, and your muscles are screaming for you to stop. The pulse in your skull makes you feel as though it will erupt. You frantically look for a place to hide. You trip. That figures. You are running for your life, after all; that’s how every scary story Da ever told you goes. The protagonist trips and falls into certain doom. Papa always made sure that Da ended those stories with a hero coming to save them. Will there be one for you too? Will Oswin come and save you? Will Papa make sure you have a happy ending this time as well? But you fall to the ground and crash against a tree – head first – naturally. The pain racks down your spine and you struggle to turn and put your back to the tree to await your pursuer. You stay stock-still and watch for the enemy, your vision briefly doubles and fades in and out, but you force yourself to focus, realizing your weapon is still in your hand. Despite your expectations, you are still a bit stunned when something...someone appears from beyond the trees. You hold your weapon up and press your back against the tree. The person steps into view, golden hair, wearing a torn blue cloak, but you can’t see their face well. [[It appears to be a man.|3.16a]] [[It appears to be a woman.|3.16b]]

You stand, a bit shaky but resolute, <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>gripping your axe firmly<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>gripping your knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>readying your sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>readying your bow and snatching your quiver<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>readying your knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>gripping your knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>readying your knives<</if>> and taking a stance. $mountname senses the shift in you, and nervously trots away, only then do you realize they’ve not been tethered this whole time. You brace as you face the direction you heard the noises come from, adrenaline surging as your nerves prickle. Hot pain blooms behind your eyes and travels to the base of your skull and down your back. You can’t let that phase you. A few birds cry out in alarm as they rapidly flutter away. You wait. The grip on your weapon makes your hand ache. You wait… And wait… Nothing comes. You stand quietly and listen. Nothing. Nothing but the wind fluttering things about, and $mountname pawing the ground at the edge of camp across from you. You release a heavy breath, relaxing your arms, and easing the tension that has ripped through you. It was nothing. You’re hearing noises and getting spooked needlessly. You’re almost thankful that Oswin wasn’t around to see your performance. You need rest. After another long look into the treeline, you decide it’s best if you grab your mount and settle down again. Just as you’re about to move, you hear the tell-tale sound of a bowstring being drawn, and you freeze. “Don’t move.” A voice instructs from behind you, soft like the spring breeze, but absolutely firm. [[You think it sounds more like a man.|3.21a]] [[You think it sounds more like a woman.|3.21b]]

<<set $Zgen to 'male'>> At least, you are pretty certain, despite your vision which still is doubling here and there. He approaches slowly, but you take note that there is a bow in his hand. Though, you suppose, if his intent was to kill you, he’d have drawn it by now. You clutch your own weapon to the point your knuckles have turned white. Your hands are clearly shaking as you stare the man down. The man stops and draws back a step. “Don’t move.” His voice has a soft quality, but the command is firm. He takes and arrow from the quiver at his hip and nocks it. You freeze. This is it, you think; Oswin was right. You’re in no position and no condition to fight back, and this man could easily kill or at least incapacitate you from a distance. You’ll never be able to bolt away in time or charge them. [[You try to plead.|3.17a]] [[You try to reason.|3.17b]] [[Against your better judgment, you attempt a joke.|3.17c]]

<<set $Zgen to 'female'>> At least, you are pretty certain, despite your vision which still is doubling here and there. She approaches slowly, but you take note that there is a bow in her hand. Though, you suppose, if her intent was to kill you, she’d have drawn it by now. You clutch your own weapon to the point your knuckles have turned white. Your hands are clearly shaking as you stare the woman down. The woman stops and draws back a step. “Don’t move.” Her voice has a soft quality, but the command is firm. She takes and arrow from the quiver at her hip and nocks it. You freeze. This is it, you think; Oswin was right. You’re in no position and no condition to fight back, and this woman could easily kill or at least incapacitate you from a distance. You’ll never be able to bolt away in time or charge them. [[You try to plead.|3.17a]] [[You try to reason.|3.17b]] [[Against your better judgment, you attempt a joke.|3.17c]]

<> <<if $Zgen is 'female'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'she'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'hers'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <<elseif $Zgen is 'male'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'he'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'him'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'son'>> <</if>> <> Your mind goes through a hundred things to say, anything that may get you out of this. You see the sunlight glint off the tip of your captor’s arrow. “I’m...I’m not really worth the trouble. I’m just trying to survive.” That’s it. That’s all you’ve got. You feel a glimmer of hope as the $Zmanwoperson’s eyes widen. They’re blue – big and round, kind-looking even from the distance between you. But, then $Zheshe draws the bow. Now the arrow is pointed right towards you. Perhaps $Zheshe took you a bit too literally when you said you weren’t worth it. The $Zmanwoperson smiles. [[You brace, squeezing your eyes shut.|3.18]]

<> <<if $Zgen is 'female'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'she'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'hers'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <<elseif $Zgen is 'male'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'he'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'him'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'son'>> <</if>> <> Your mind goes through a hundred things to say, anything that may get you out of this. You see the sunlight glint off the tip of your captor’s arrow. “Please...I’m far too gorgeous to meet such a fate.” That’s it. That’s all you’ve got. You feel a glimmer of hope as the $Zmanwoperson’s eyes widen. They’re blue – big and round, kind-looking even from the distance between you. But, then $Zheshe draws the bow. Now the arrow is pointed right towards you. Perhaps $Zheshe doesn’t find you very funny. The $Zmanwoperson smiles. [[You brace, squeezing your eyes shut.|3.18]]

<> <<if $Zgen is 'female'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'she'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'hers'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <<elseif $Zgen is 'male'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'he'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'him'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'son'>> <</if>> <> Your mind goes through a hundred things to say, anything that may spare you. You see the sunlight glint off the tip of your captor’s arrow. “Please.” It’s the only word that leaves your lips. You feel a glimmer of hope as the $Zmanwoperson’s eyes widen. They’re blue – big and round, kind-looking even from the distance between you. But, then $Zheshe draws the bow. Now the arrow is pointed right towards you. Perhaps $Zhisher version of mercy is a bit different from what you were expecting. The $Zmanwoperson smiles. [[You brace, squeezing your eyes shut.|3.18]]

The last thing you hear is the subtle twang of the bowstring. …. But, the pain never comes. //Did $Zheshe miss//? Or did you just die instantly? You slowly open your eyes. Your assailant is still in the same spot, bow in hand, but down at their side. They’re still smiling – brightly. The wind tussles their gentle blond waves. “That was a close call!” $Zheshe calls out in a chipper tone. You look around to either side of you. Nothing to your right, and on your left...an arrow, an arrow through the head of a snake. It’s a viper, likely venomous. You turn your gaze to your...savior? “Hi!” $Zcapitalheshe waves. “Sorry, I think I scared you. But, to be fair, you scared me shitless when you ran by in a panic!” Shifting away from the dead snake, you struggle to get to your feet, unsure if words will actually come to your mouth. The stranger seems unperturbed as $Zheshe approaches. You finally get a good look at $Zhimher. A bit on the small side, ordinary height, fawn skin with what appears to be a bit of sun or wind burn along $Zhisher cheeks hiding a dappling of freckles. There are dark shadows under $Zhisher eyes, and you wonder if the two of you match in that regard. You realize that $Zheshe is wearing at least three cloaks, the outer one being a faded blue in color, frayed at the ends. $Zcapitalhisher tunic is a plain grey and you spot patches of different colors. The same goes for $Zhisher pants, they’re a dull brown and appear to be barely stitched together. Suddenly, those big blue eyes are close to your face. “Hey, you okay, friend? There’s blood on your forehead. You really biffed hard into that tree. Did you not see it? Are you hard of sight? Why were you running?” $Zcapitalheshe gets closer as questions rattle forward, and then $Zheshe gently places a cloth to the wound on your head. “Hey, it’s okay – you’re okay now – you can talk to me.” That warm smile appears again, and your realize how close $Zheshe is to you. The gentle hand nursing your wound, a soft smile on pink lips, big concerned eyes framed with light lashes, hair like sunlight and honey… [[you can’t help but pull away and clear your throat.|3.19a]] <<link `"you can't help but lean in, comforted by the presence of " + $Zhimher` "3.19b">><</link>> $flirt_label [[you can’t help but fluster.|3.19c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label <<link `"you are compelled to compliment " + $Zhimher` "3.19d">><</link>>

You politely extricate yourself from $Zhisher proximity. $Zcapitalheshe seems unfazed, and $Zhisher smile remains unmoved. In a flourish, $Zheshe bows, flipping $Zhisher cloaks to the side like some performer. “I am Zahn, a pilgrim of the True Church of Din. I’m so glad to meet you! Though, I am sorry you hit your head.” Zahn pouts as $Zheshe stares at your head wound. You wave it away. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“It will heal, think nothing of it,”<<else>>“I have a habit of making dramatic entrances,”<</if>> you say. Zahn grins. “Of course. Can I have your name?” “$mc, $mc Northbreaker.” “Ooh, are you one of those noble rich people from Codrin? <<if $mc is 'Noodles'>>Your name is as delicious as you appear!<</if>>” “Um, no, I’m not a noble at all. Why would you think that?” “You have a last name, and it sounds like something a big noble family would have.” $Zcapitalheshe shrugs. “I’m just from Stonebrook. I don’t think there’s anyone there that could be considered nobility. The name came from my grandfather, but I never met him, and Papa never said if he was rich.” “So, what are you doing all the way out here? Why were you running?” Your face heats. Should you really tell this stranger that you were scared out of your mind, thinking you were being chased? Was anything even really perusing you this whole time, or was your mind playing tricks? [[Tell Zahn the truth.|3.20a]] [[Play it down.|3.20b]]

A weary sigh finds it’s way through your lips before you can even think to stop it. After the terror that you just went through, a friendly person is soothing. $Zcapitalheshe continues to gently tend the bleeding knot on your head, growing quiet as you lean closer. “It’s not too bad,” the stranger says quietly. “Guess you’re just a bleeder.” $Zcapitalheshe snickers. You murmur an agreement, not really paying much attention to $Zhisher words as you soak up the warmth of $Zhisher kindness. “I’m Zahn, by the way.” $Zcapitalheshe steps back from you, flipping $Zhisher cloaks to the side like some performer. “I’m a pilgrim of the True Church of Din, and I’m so glad to meet you! Though, I am sorry you hit your head.” Zahn pouts as $Zheshe stares at your head wound. You wave it away. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“It will heal, think nothing of it,”<<else>>“I have a habit of making dramatic entrances,”<</if>> you say. Zahn grins. “Of course. Can I have your name?” “$mc, $mc Northbreaker.” “Ooh, are you one of those noble rich people from Codrin?<<if $mc is 'Noodles'>> Your name is as delicious as you appear!<</if>>” “Um, no, I’m not a noble at all. Why would you think that?” “You have a last name, and it sounds like something a big noble family would have.” $Zcapitalheshe shrugs. “I’m just from Stonebrook. I don’t think there’s anyone there that could be considered nobility. The name came from my grandfather, but I never met him, and Papa never said if he was rich.” “So, what are you doing all the way out here? Why were you running?” Your face heats. Should you really tell this stranger that you were scared out of your mind, thinking you were being chased? Was anything even really perusing you this whole time, or was your mind playing tricks? [[Tell Zahn the truth.|3.20a]] [[Play it down.|3.20b]]

Something in the back of your brain buzzes as the stranger gently dabs the blood from your wound. Perhaps it’s just a symptom of one of the three possible concussions you might have, or perhaps their proximity has left you a bit nervous. There’s a fluttery sensation in your gut as you eye the way $Zhisher lips subtly part as $Zheshe focuses, being so careful as to not hurt you. Comfort washes over you, and despite the warmth of your face, you begin to feel better. “It’s not too bad,” the stranger says quietly. “Guess you’re just a bleeder.” $Zcapitalheshe giggles. You murmur an agreement, not really paying much attention to $Zhisher words as you soak up the warmth of $Zhisher kindness. “I’m Zahn, by the way.” $Zcapitalheshe steps back from you, flipping $Zhisher cloaks to the side like some performer. “I’m a pilgrim of the True Church of Din, and I’m so glad to meet you! Though, I am sorry you hit your head.” Zahn pouts as $Zheshe stares at your head wound. You wave it away. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“It will heal, think nothing of it,”<<else>>“I have a habit of making dramatic entrances,”<</if>> you say. Zahn grins. “Of course. Can I have your name?” “$mc, $mc Northbreaker.” “Ooh, are you one of those noble rich people from Codrin?” “Um, no, I’m not a noble at all. Why would you think that?” “You have a last name, and it sounds like something a big noble family would have.” $Zheshe shrugs. “I’m just from Stonebrook. I don’t think there’s anyone there that could be considered nobility. The name came from my grandfather, but I never met him, and Papa never said if he was rich.” “So, what are you doing all the way out here? Why were you running?” Your face heats. Should you really tell this stranger that you were scared out of your mind, thinking you were being chased? Was anything even really perusing you this whole time, or was your mind playing tricks? [[Tell Zahn the truth.|3.20a]] [[Play it down.|3.20b]]

“I, uh, thought I was being chased…” Zahn nods, and looks around. “Well, I think you’re safe now. I can help you, if you’re in trouble. Were you on the road before or camping?” “Camping.” You’re struck with the realization that Zahn will likely find your camp now, and you’re not sure if you should be worried or not. <<if $anx > 22>>Your heart begins to thump as all the risks flood to your mind.<</if>> “I just broke camp a while ago to forage, and I got lost trying to find the road again. Do you want to travel together? Are you going to Codrin?” “I’m traveling with...a frien-guide...a friend-guide.” You shift, unsure of how honest you should be. “He’s sort of a mercenary...I should get back to him, he’ll be waiting for me.” Maybe the word //mercenary// will help stave off any untoward intentions of your new acquaintance, if there are any. Zahn’s brow scrunches, making $Zhimher look concerned and a bit sad. “Hey, it’s okay. I’m sorry for making you uncomfortable. I’ve been told that I’m a little much, but you don’t look like you’re doing okay, so I want to help. But, it’s okay to tell me no, I’ll leave you alone.” Sincerity drips from $Zhisher words. If you’re honest with yourself, it is a comfort having another person there, a friendly person at that. One that had the chance to kill you or capture you, and then raid your camp uninterrupted, but chose to save you from a nasty and potentially fatal encounter with a snake. You’re also not completely certain if you could find your way back to camp easily, and you don’t want to get lost. There’s a purity about $Zhimher, and you find that you feel safe. “It’s okay,” you say, “I’ve honestly been a bit ill lately, and am a bit...out of sorts.” “Well, I can help you find your friend. They’re probably worried about you.” You nod. “I’d appreciate that.” “Oh, one more thing.” Zahn points towards to the tree. “Can I eat that?” You realize that $Zheshe means the snake. “Um, go ahead.” $Zcapitalheshe smiles big at you, and you notice a slight gap in $Zhisher front teeth. [[It’s rather cute.|3.20c]]

“Well...I was...it’s part of a training regiment. I merely lost my footing.” Zahn nods, and looks around. “It looked intense. Judging by how hard you fell into the tree, it seems like you need some training.” $Zcapitalheshe smirks. “Well, that’s obvious.” “What are you training for?” Zahn asks. “I’m considering mercenary work. My friend recommended it.” The grin on Zahn’s face is growing and you get the distinct feeling that $Zheshe knows you’re covering something up. “So, what sort of mercenary work requires frantic running through dense forest? I may be interested as well…” $Zcapitalhisher bright blue eyes match your gaze, a playful challenge dancing along $Zhisher words. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“Fine, I was running because I thought I heard something chasing me.” You try not to pout, but it is proving difficult.<<else>>“Okay, perhaps my display of profound elegance wasn’t exercise. I got spooked and thought something was after me.”<</if>> Zahn nods, and looks around. “Well, I think you’re safe now. I can help you, if you’re in trouble. Were you on the road before or camping?” “Camping.” You’re struck with the realization that Zahn will likely find your camp now, and you’re not sure if you should be worried or not. <<if $anx > 22>>Your heart begins to thump as all the risks flood to your mind.<</if>> “I just broke camp a while ago and got lost trying to find the road again. Do you want to travel together? Are you going to Codrin?” “I’m traveling with...a frien-guide...a friend-guide.” You shift, unsure of how honest you should be. “He’s sort of a mercenary...I should get back to him, he’ll be waiting for me.” Maybe the word //mercenary// will help stave off any untoward intentions of your new acquaintance, if there are any. Zahn’s brow scrunches, making $Zhimher look concerned and a bit sad. “Hey, it’s okay. I’m sorry for making you uncomfortable. I’ve been told that I’m a little much, but you don’t look like you’re doing okay, so I want to help. But, it’s okay to tell me no, I’ll leave you alone.” Sincerity drips from $Zhisher words. If you’re honest with yourself, it is a comfort having another person there, a friendly person at that. One that had the chance to kill you or capture you, and then raid your camp uninterrupted, but chose to save you from a nasty and potentially fatal encounter with a snake. You’re also not completely certain if you could find your way back to camp easily, and you don’t want to get lost. There’s a purity about $Zhimher, and you find that you feel safe. “It’s okay,” you say, “I’ve honestly been a bit ill lately, and am a bit...out of sorts.” “Well, I can help you find your friend. They’re probably worried about you.” You nod. “I’d appreciate that.” “Oh, one more thing.” Zahn points towards to the tree. “Can I eat that?” You realize that $Zheshe means the snake. “Um, go ahead.” $Zcapitalheshe smiles big at you, and you notice a slight gap in $Zhisher front teeth. [[It’s rather cute.|3.20c]]

“Wow,” you say as you meet the eyes of the stranger. They are so bright, and the same color as the afternoon sky after a storm has passed. “Wow?” The stranger parrots as $Zheshe focuses on your wound. “You are quite striking.” $Zcapitalheshe stops and looks at you with one eyebrow cocked. “Was that an archery pun?” “Wha- no, it was a compliment,” you say. “No one’s ever told me something like that before. Thank you. I was actually thinking the same about you.” $Zcapitalheshe smiles as $Zheshe continues to clean your wound. “It doesn’t look too bad,” the stranger continues quietly. “Guess you’re just a bleeder.” You murmur a thanks, not really paying much attention to $Zhisher words as you soak up the warmth of $Zhisher kindness. “I’m Zahn, by the way.” $Zcapitalheshe steps back from you, flipping $Zhisher cloaks to the side like some performer. “I’m a pilgrim of the True Church of Din, and I’m so glad to meet you! Though, I am sorry you hit your head.” Zahn pouts as $Zheshe stares at your head wound. You wave it away. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“It will heal, think nothing of it,”<<else>>“I have a habit of making dramatic entrances,”<</if>> you say. Zahn grins. “Of course. Can I have your name?” “$mc, $mc Northbreaker.” “Ooh, are you one of those noble rich people from Codrin?<<if $mc is 'Noodles'>> Your name is as delicious as you appear!<</if>>” “Um, no, I’m not a noble at all. Why would you think that?” “You have a last name, and it sounds like something a big noble family would have.” $Zcapitalheshe shrugs. “I’m just from Stonebrook. I don’t think there’s anyone there that could be considered nobility. The name came from my grandfather, but I never met him, and Papa never said if he was rich.” “So, what are you doing all the way out here? Why were you running?” Your face heats. Should you really tell this stranger that you were scared out of your mind, thinking you were being chased? Was anything even really perusing you this whole time, or was your mind playing tricks? [[Tell Zahn the truth.|3.20a]] [[Play it down.|3.20b]]

<<set $Zgen to 'male'>> You clutch your own weapon to the point your knuckles have turned white, but you are stuck, if this person has their bow trained on you already, your only hope is to be obedient. You don’t move, but you can at least try to talk them down. Your first response is to… [[Plead.|3.22a]] [[Reason.|3.22b]] [[Joke.|3.22c]]

<<set $Zgen to 'female'>> You clutch your own weapon to the point your knuckles have turned white, but you are stuck, if this person has their bow trained on you already, your only hope is to be obedient. You don’t move, but you can at least try to talk them down. Your first response is to… [[Plead.|3.22a]] [[Reason.|3.22b]] [[Joke.|3.22c]]

<> <<if $Zgen is 'female'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'she'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'hers'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <<elseif $Zgen is 'male'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'he'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'him'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'son'>> <</if>> <> Your mind goes through a hundred things to say, anything that may spare you, but you come up empty. “Please.” It’s the only word that can leave your lips. They only chuckle. [[The last thing you hear is the subtle twang of the bowstring.|3.23]]

<> <<if $Zgen is 'female'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'she'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'hers'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <<elseif $Zgen is 'male'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'he'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'him'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'son'>> <</if>> <> Your mind goes through a hundred things to say, anything that may spare you, but you come up empty. “I’m...I’m not really worth the trouble. I’m just trying to survive.” That’s it. That’s all you’ve got. They only chuckle. [[The last thing you hear is the subtle twang of the bowstring.|3.23]]

<> <<if $Zgen is 'female'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'she'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'her'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'hers'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <<elseif $Zgen is 'male'>> <<set $Zheshe to 'he'>> <<set $Zcapitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $Zhisher to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimher to 'him'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $Zhishers to 'his'>> <<set $Zcapitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $Zhimselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $Zcapitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $Zmanwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $Zsondtrchild to 'son'>> <</if>> <> Your mind goes through a hundred things to say, anything that may spare you, but you come up empty. “Please...I’m far too gorgeous to meet such a fate.” That’s it. That’s all you’ve got. They only chuckle. [[The last thing you hear is the subtle twang of the bowstring.|3.23]]

…. But, pain never comes. //Did $Zheshe miss//? Or did you just die instantly? You’re uncertain if you should move or not. “That was a close call!” $Zheshe calls out in a chipper tone. It startles you. Slowly, you turn to face your potential-assailant. Not far behind you stands a $Zmanwoperson, a bow held loosely at $Zhisher side. The stranger seems unperturbed as $Zheshe approaches. You finally get a good look at $Zhimher. A bit on the small side, ordinary height, fawn skin with what appears to be a bit of sun or wind burn along $Zhisher cheeks hiding a dappling of freckles. There are dark shadows under $Zhisher eyes, and you wonder if the two of you match in that regard. You realize that $Zheshe is wearing at least three cloaks, the outer one being a faded blue in color, frayed at the ends. $Zcapitalhishers tunic is a plain grey and you spot patches of different colors. The same goes for $Zhisher pants, they’re a dull brown and appear to be barely stitched together. $Zcapitalheshe seems to be waiting for you to speak, looking at you expectantly. “Close one?” you ask. “Yeah.” $Zcapitalheshe points down at your feet, a big grin on pale pink lips. You glance down and see an arrow, an arrow through the head of a snake, just an arm’s length away from your feet. It’s a viper, likely venomous, and a large one at that. You turn your gaze to your...savior? “Um, sorry I didn’t say hello or anything; I was scared you’d get bitten if you moved before I could shoot it. Vipers are always extra cranky in early spring. Too chilly. I’m Zahn, by the way.” While you’re floundering to say anything in response, Zahn makes a show of flourishing out $Zhisher cloak like a performer. Belatedly, you realize that you are still holding your weapon. Zahn seems completely unphased, though you had definitely been preparing yourself to use it on someone or something just moments ago. You eye the dead viper again. It has the tell-tale pattern of the venomous ones your fathers taught you to avoid, a brown-grey body with black points along it’s back. You should probably thank this person. “I'm...$mc, $mc Northbreaker. Thank you...for getting the snake before it got me.” A big smile lights up Zahn’s face, and you briefly spot a slight gap in $Zhisher front teeth. “You’re welcome. You might have been okay, but I didn’t want to take that chance.<<if $mc is 'Noodles'>> Your name is as delicious as you appear!<</if>>” [[Just as you’re about to speak again, you hear a sharp whoosh.|3.24]]

Zahn cries out as $Zheshe drops $Zhisher bow, stumbling away from you in surprise. $Zcapitalhisher hand oozes blood, and you realize another arrow has lodged close to your feet. Panic nearly takes you before you hear a familiar voice. “Step away, stranger, the next is aimed at your heart!” Oswin commands from the tree line. You hadn’t even heard him approach. Zahn whirls around, clutching $Zhisher hand close to $Zhisher chest, as the other reaches for a small dagger. Oswin makes no effort to remain quiet any longer as he charges towards you in an instant, grabbing Zahn in a swift move you didn’t even know he was capable of. Zahn is rendered helpless in an instant, the dagger tossed away, as Oswin restrains $Zhimher. But Zahn is slippery and wriggles away. You jump back as a scuffle ensues, Zahn evading capture only for Oswin to get at $Zhimher again and again. It happens so fast that you don’t get much time to react. [[Beg them to stop, before they get hurt.|3.25a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[Laugh. This is hilarious.|3.25b][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]] [[Command them to stop being ridiculous.|3.25c][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[Get in the middle of it to put a stop to it.|3.25d][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 6, 0, 100)]] [[Let Oswin handle it.|3.25e][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 6, 0, 100)]]

Despite the disparity in their sizes, and that Zahn seems to be some sort of religious pilgrim, they seem to be a decent match with each other. You take note that Oswin seems determined to capture and not necessarily harm the newcomer, at least you think. Still, they’ve taken to scuffling on the ground, knocking their way through the remnants of the campfire, agitating $mountname, and scattering supplies they run into. “Stop!” you cry out, keeping slightly away so you don’t get caught up in their commotion. “Please! This will only serve to get you both hurt!” Zahn chimes in, voice going high, “I also agree we should stop!” You get the sense that Oswin doesn’t agree with the assessment as he launches himself at Zahn, more aggressively than before. Zahn yipes as $Zheshe is taken to the ground again on their stomach, Oswin pinning $Zhimher definitively, yanking Zahn’s arms behind $Zhisher back. The pilgrim is caught completely with Oswin on $Zhisher back and arms out of commission. “Cut it out, Oswin!” you scold. “You’re going to hurt $Zhimher!” “Have you gone mad?” Oswin replies, “Do you not remember what I told you? They were armed, you were in danger!” “$Zcapitalheshe just saved my life! Zahn shot a venomous snake that could have bitten me. We were just getting introduced, $Zcapitalheshe didn’t mean me any harm!” You try to gently pull Oswin from Zahn’s back, but he doesn’t budge. “It’s true,” Zahn squeaks. “I just stumbled on your camp while foraging. I was trying to make sure //you// weren’t dangerous, and then I saw $mc with a viper at their feet! Please, believe me, I swear on Faith, I mean no harm!” Zahn seems to run out of air, Oswin’s greater size putting too much pressure for $Zhimher to continue. [[You tug at Oswin again.|3.26]]

Despite the disparity in their sizes, and that Zahn seems to be some sort of religious pilgrim, they seem to be a decent match with each other. You take note that Oswin seems determined to capture and not necessarily harm the newcomer, at least you think. Still, they’ve taken to scuffling on the ground, knocking their way through the remnants of the campfire, agitating $mountname, and scattering supplies they run into. You watch in amusement as, after each grab or tackle from Oswin, Zahn manages to squirrel away and dance out of reach. $Zcapitalheshe seems to know as well as you do, that if Oswin manages to get a good hold, there will be no escaping. Zahn tosses a small handful of dirt at Oswin, who narrowly avoids getting it in his eyes. In return, Oswin catches the end of Zahn’s cloak and yanks $Zhimher back, dropping $Zhimher to the ground with a yelp. A chuckle bubbles up from within you. It boils over until you are trying to stifle hysterical laughter as Oswin attempts to untangle his bracers from Zahn’s ratty cloak and get to the wily newcomer. Eventually Zahn abandons the cloak completely, only to reveal more cloaks underneath. Your laughter is no longer contained, and you clutch your side as Zahn runs away again. “I don’t find this very funny, $mc!” Zahn cries as Oswin catches up. “Your friend is very strong and very cranky! A little help would be appreciated.” This makes you laugh more. “Have you gone mad?” Oswin shouts in question, “They were armed, you were in danger! Why in blazes are you //laughing//!?” Suddenly, you find yourself between them, Zahn using you as a shield as the two circle each other. “I swear,” Zahn pleads, “I meant no harm. I just stumbled on your camp while foraging.” Zahn dodges a grab from Oswin. “I was trying to make sure //you// weren’t dangerous, and then I saw $mc with a viper at $hisher feet! Please, believe me, I swear to it on Faith!” Despite Zahn’s speech, Oswin feints to one side and then catches Zahn who has fallen for the trick. The two are on the ground with Oswin completely pinning and roughly restraining $Zhisher arms. Your chuckling subsides. “Oswin, that’s enough, it’s true. Zahn got the snake before it could get me. I hadn’t even seen it. Just leave $Zhimher be. As fun as it is to see you two stumble about one another, you should both just settle down.” [[You tug on Oswin’s shoulder.|3.26]]

Despite the disparity in their sizes and that Zahn seems to be some sort of religious pilgrim, they seem to be a decent match with each other. You take note that Oswin seems determined to capture and not necessarily harm the newcomer, at least you think. Still, they’ve taken to scuffling on the ground, knocking their way through the remnants of the campfire, agitating $mountname, and scattering supplies they run into. “Stop!” you demand, staying just out of the commotion, but providing a presence to help deter them. “You are being ridiculous, let’s just speak on this!” Zahn chimes in, “I also agree we should stop!” You get the sense that Oswin doesn’t agree with the assessment as he launches himself at Zahn, more aggressively than before. Zahn yipes as $Zheshe is taken to the ground again on their stomach, Oswin pinning $Zhimher definitively, yanking Zahn’s arms behind $Zhisher back. The pilgrim is caught completely with Oswin on $Zhisher back and arms out of commission. “Cut it out, Oswin!” you scold. “You are acting like a child!” “Have you gone mad?” Oswin replies, “Do you not remember what I told you? They were armed, you were in danger!” “$Zcapitalheshe just saved my life! Zahn just shot a venomous snake that could have bitten me. We were just getting introduced, $Zheshe didn’t mean me any harm!” You try to pull Oswin from Zahn’s back, but he doesn’t budge, even when you give him a hearty yank. “It’s true,” Zahn squeaks. “I just stumbled on your camp while foraging. I was trying to make sure //you// weren’t dangerous, and then I saw $mc with a viper at their feet! Please, believe me, I swear on Faith, I mean no harm!” Zahn seems to run out of air, Oswin’s greater size putting too much pressure for $Zhimher to continue. [[You tug at Oswin again.|3.26]]

Despite the disparity in their sizes and that Zahn seems to be some sort of religious pilgrim, they seem to be a decent match with each other. You take note that Oswin seems determined to capture and not necessarily harm the newcomer, at least you think. Still, they’ve taken to scuffling on the ground, knocking their way through the remnants of the campfire, agitating $mountname, and scattering supplies they run into. On impulse, you try to get in the middle of the two. They dodge around you, Zahn running in a circle to use you as a shield as Oswin tries to avoid getting to close. You grab Oswin by the shoulders, but he pulls free and takes after Zahn. “Help me, $mc!” Zahn cries as Oswin pulls $Zhimher back by the cloak. You storm over to them and yank the cloak from Oswin’s grasp, and then push him back. He looks exceedingly grumpy about it. Zahn sticks $Zhisher tongue out to mock your guide, so you wrap your knuckles against $Zhisher forehead. “Both of you will stop this instant. You are tearing up the camp, spooking my poor <<if $mount is 'mule'>>mule<<else>>horse<</if>>, and giving me a worse headache than I already have.” Zahn crosses $Zhisher arms. “I will gladly if this brute will settle down, though, if he’s as dumb as he looks, I like my chances.” $Zheshe smirks, becoming over-confident that you appear to be on $Zhisher side. Oswin breaks free in a flash, bypassing you with ease and tackling Zahn to the ground. The pilgrim squeals in alarm and tries to scurry away, but $Zheshe is pinned with arms behind $Zhisher back and a triumphant Oswin sitting atop $Zhimher. “Have you gone mad? Why in blazes would you try to defend this person?” Oswin barks at you. “Do you not remember what I told you? They were armed, you were in danger!” “$Zcapitalheshe just saved my life! Zahn just shot a venomous snake that could have bitten me. We were just getting introduced, $Zheshe didn’t mean me any harm!” You try to pull Oswin from Zahn’s back, but he doesn’t budge, even when you give him a hearty yank. “It’s true,” Zahn squeaks. “I just stumbled on your camp while foraging. I was trying to make sure //you// weren’t dangerous, and then I saw $mc with a viper at their feet! Please, believe me, I swear on Faith, I mean no harm!” Zahn seems to run out of air, Oswin’s greater size putting too much pressure for $Zhimher to continue. [[You tug at Oswin’s shoulder.|3.26]]

Oswin finally sighs and slowly gets up, watching Zahn’s movements like a hawk eyeing a mouse. Zahn remains frozen, not even moving $Zhisher hands from $Zhisher back. Once Oswin is a few paces back, next to you, Zahn relaxes, but remains laying on the ground. Before you can move or say anything else, Oswin is checking you over, keeping Zahn within his line of sight. He fusses over your face, your hands, and even your clothes before he’s satisfied that you’re mostly in one piece . “What in blazes are you doing out of bed?” he asks, not noting the fact that your bedroll and supplies were caught up in the tussle. Had you still been in bed, they’d have crushed you. As pain blooms in your head again, you are harshly reminded why you were in bed to begin with. In all the chaos, your adrenaline had made you forget about the ache and fog on your mind. At least the distractions were a reprieve from your current condition. <<if $tellOsleep is 'false'>>A wave of dizziness crashes over you, and Oswin steadies you with strong hands on your shoulders. Nausea ripples in your gut and exhaustion threatens to drag you down.<</if>><<if $tellOhead is 'false'>>A wave of dizziness crashes over you, and Oswin steadies you with strong hands on your shoulders. Nausea ripples in your gut.<</if>><<if $tellOsleep is 'true'>>Your head spins a bit, making you close your eyes for a moment, making you realize how tired you still are.<</if>><<if $tellOhead is 'true'>>A small wave of nausea stirs your gut a moment before you shake it off.<</if>> Oswin removes a glove and presses the back of his hand to your forehead and then your cheek. “You don’t feel quite feverish, but you should lay down, just in case. Me and your new //friend// will clean this up while you relax, and then we’ll have a talk.” Oswin’s expression morphs from concern to disdain as he watches Zahn. Feeling a little more comfortable, Zahn shuffles away and picks up the dead viper by the arrow protruding through it, holding it up. “Do either of you mind if I eat this?” [[Oswin sighs again.|3.27]]

Oswin and Zahn make short work of putting the camp back together. You sit up on your bedroll, leaning against the tree for support as $mountname noses over you, seeming to check your well-being. After Oswin barks at Zahn a few times to stop touching things, $Zheshe sticks to rebuilding the campfire and prepping the viper. You suppose $Zheshe really plans to eat it. “Is a venomous snake even safe to eat?” you ask. Zahn nods. “Yeah, the venom is only around the head. The meat is still good. Actually tastes pretty great, I think. Not that I’m glad you were in danger, but I am really happy for the meal – I’m so hungry!” Zahn’s eyes light up as $Zheshe eyes the poor dead creature. “I’ll share with you, of course!” You shake your head. “I’m good, thanks.” Zahn shrugs and then sets about dressing the snake to cook. Once $Zhisher knife comes out, Oswin is quick to stay near you and watch $Zhimher closely. Once he’s satisfied that Zahn won’t try anything untoward, he fusses over you – giving you herbs and water and checking you again for any sign of fever. You’re feeling quite run-down, but admittedly better than you did a couple days ago. You get the sense that you’ll want to retire soon and sleep as long as possible. Once all of you are settled, fed and medicated, you all decide to talk. You rehash the story of what happened. Oswin doesn’t discount that you heard something in the woods, and Zahn tries to support your claim. “I’ve been hearing strange things here and there,” Zahn says. “Though I didn’t hear what $mc did, I’ve heard odd things the last couple days at least. It seems almost like normal sounds you’d hear in the wood, but something about it...feels wrong. And, then my food went missing last night while I slept.” You and Oswin share a look. An uncomfortable feeling settles in your gut. Oswin’s paranoia about being watched coupled with your own missing supplies seems too clear a sign to ignore. Zahn’s brow pinches. “I’m sorry if I’ve only alarmed you further. It may be something completely harmless still. If not harmless, at least not...as menacing?” $Zcapitalheshe rubs their hands together, looking apologetic. “It’s a bit far from their territory, but I suppose it could have been a boar. They can be smart, even sneaky. $mc, if you were anxious, it may have just been a deer.” Oswin says. “You’ve been through a lot; I don’t doubt you heard things and I don’t doubt Zahn’s account either, but perhaps our minds are playing into paranoia. I speak from experience.” Zahn nods vigorously. “I’ve been there too. It was like that for me when I started this pilgrimage. I’ve traveled on my own a lot, but I’ve never been this far from a city before.” “What church do you hale from?” Oswin asks. “The True Church of Din, my sect resides within Lale for the time being.” “I’ve heard of the ‘//True Church//’ before, seemed like zealots to me. You don’t seem quite as mad, I’ll give you that.” Zahn chuckles, and you think it sounds a bit nervous. “It’s true, some of our members are a bit too...passionate, but there’s lots of other fine people.” You chime in, “So, who was Din?” “Oh, this is perfect! That’s why I’m on this journey; I’m supposed to find people and answer that question.” Zahn sits up, straightening $Zhisher posture, eyes drifting over in thought. “So, Din //is// the god of Faith, and is even called...well, he even //is// the God of gods in our beliefs.” Oswin grumbles. “Memorized like a true $Zmanwoperson of conviction.” You nudge Oswin with a fist and give him a withering look. Zahn seems unphased. “Without Din, the connection between all other gods and humans as it was, would not have been possible. He was the reason that prayers could be heard from any distance, through him, all churches for all gods were able to get a foothold. It’s our hope that our faith will help quell Hayat and Casimir’s ire, and they’ll return the gods to their full power.” Oswin grimaces. “Why would that matter now? The gods have been silent for, what, 900 years? Humanity has done fine.” “Doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be thankful still.” Zahn says. “What does Din possibly do for you today that you’re so thankful for.” “//Oswin//,” you chide. Zahn shifts uncomfortably. “Well...I have a home because of him. It’s not perfect, but I’m fed and have shelter. Well, when I’m not pilgrimming!” Zahn chuckles. [[Oswin’s shouders sag.|3.28]]

Despite the disparity in their sizes and that Zahn seems to be some sort of religious pilgrim, they seem to be a decent match with each other. You take note that Oswin seems determined to capture and not necessarily harm the newcomer, at least you think. Still, they’ve taken to scuffling on the ground, knocking their way through the remnants of the campfire, agitating $mountname, and scattering supplies they run into. A multitude of thoughts get caught in your head. Should you intervene? Oswin is much more experienced than you, though. Surely, he’s doing the right thing, right? What would you even do or say? Is it your place? You also don’t want to get hurt nor do you want either of them injured. You back away a bit and watch on, unsure. Thankfully, neither of them seem keen to escalate into a bigger fight, but Oswin is very clearly determined to see Zahn restrained. What if he hurts $Zhimher once Zahn is captured? Oswin wouldn’t do that, right? While your turmoil flares, Zahn begs Oswin to be reasonable. “Really, I meant no harm. I just stumbled on your camp while foraging.” Zahn dodges a grab from Oswin. “I was trying to make sure whoever was here wasn’t dangerous, and then I saw $mc with a viper at $hisher feet! Please, believe me, I swear to it on Faith!” Oswin sneers. “I’ve heard all that before, stranger. It’s exactly the bullshit thieves and traffickers would say to gain trust.” “I’m not those things!” Zahn cries, narrowly missing a lunge from Oswin. “I’m on a pilgrimage for my church!” “And you think a church means you’re incapable of doing horrendous things!?” You hear real venom in Oswin’s tone, it makes you shift uncomfortably. “Then I suppose we’re on the same playing field, you thug!” Zahn clips back. The tension is easily tenfold what it was before. In a flash, Oswin feints and tricks Zahn to misdirect $Zhimher. The two are on the ground with Oswin completely pinning and roughly restraining $Zhisher arms. You can’t hang back anymore. Cautiously, you approach, not knowing what to do, so you just say Oswin’s name. “Oswin…” He stills, his ear turning towards you. “Oswin….” [[You gently pull Oswin’s shoulder.|3.26]]

After a brief apology, Oswin continues to ask Zahn questions. You learn that $Zheshe is also planning on going to Codrin, and has no mount as part of the rules for the pilgrimage. As a follower of Din, Zahn is required to travel on $Zhisher own ability and faith, relying on the kindness of others if possible. You also quickly figure out that Zahn doesn’t have the greatest sense of direction, at least across large expanses. $Zcapitalheshe split off from a road a long time ago, traveled through wilderness, missed Stonebrook completely, and only recently rediscovered the road. $Zcapitalheshe has only met a couple hunters along the way and hasn’t seen anyone else. As you listen, your eyes start to get heavy and their voices being to muddle in your ears. Your headache returns with a fiery anger, and soon Oswin is helping ease you down to lay on your back. After that, your awareness drifts in an out. Oswin occasionally helps you sip fresh water and you hear Zahn fuss over how warm you are. In the last sliver of consciousness you have, blue eyes are gazing into yours and a cool hand gently touches your forehead. [[You hear soft humming.|3.29]]

You sleep for most of that day and into the evening. Oswin rouses you long enough to eat something and drink. You’re barely awake even then, and you note Zahn trying to keep you conscious long enough to get the sustenance down. At least they haven’t tried to kill each other while you slept. When you awake the next day, it is already nearly noon. Zahn brings you a water skin and insists that you drink as much as possible, while Oswin presents small slices of fruit and bread for you to eat. Though groggy, you manage to eat and drink your fill. Thankfully, your headache has greatly lessened. You notice that your camp appears to have been packed and tidied and Oswin has gathered the mounts. Both Oswin and Zahn sit next to you, and $mountname leers as close as their tether will allow. Oswin clears his throat. “So, $mc, now that you have rested a bit – I think we should press on to the camp I told you about before. If we leave soon, we can make it there before evening and settle in. I’d like to gauge how well you can travel as-is so we can determine how many days you should relax once we’re there.” Zahn is smiling from ear to ear, rocking side to side. “I’m coming too!” $Zheshe excitedly blurts. Oswin rolls his eyes. Your brow quirks. “Really? You actually got Oswin to agree to this?” Perhaps Zahn’s sweet nature has rubbed off on the mercenary while you were sleeping. “It took a long time, but he agreed to let me tag along. He also threatened me a lot, but I suppose that’s fair.” “Don’t think you’re the one that convinced me; I’m trying to do what’s best for $mc. Having another set of hands and eyes will help ensure $heshe stays safe and well. I will have my eyes on you the entire time - if you even think about crossing us-” Zahn chuckles. “I beat him at a little shooting competition we had while you were passed out.” “You did not //beat// me, we tied.” Oswin barks, which only makes Zahn laugh more. “I split your arrow,” $Zheshe goads. Oswin grits his teeth. “You merely nicked the fletching!” The pilgrim leans back on $Zhisher hands, smirking at you. “Looked split from where I was standing.” Oswin gets up abruptly. “Yes, well, that would only lend you credence if your eyes weren’t so crooked,” he snaps before hustling off to tend to Flit. You take a good look at Zahn’s very much not-crooked eyes. They shine with pure mirth. “I think we’ll have fun, $mc, especially if he’s //that// easy to rile. I hope you don’t mind, but I used some magic to try to help you feel a little better. I’m not good at recovery or healing, at least on others, but I tried. Oh, and I didn’t touch you or anything while you were sleeping. I’m not...I wouldn’t do that.” [[“Thanks, all the same; I appreciate it.”|3.30a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[“You didn’t have to do that.”|3.30b][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[“I probably wouldn’t mind you touching me.”|3.30c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You flush at the thought of Zahn’s touch.|3.30d][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]]

You and your new acquaintance trek back through the forest to your camp. Zahn has to point you back to the direction you ran from, proving $Zhisher helpfulness right away as you were set on the complete opposite path. The area doesn’t look completely familiar, but you do spot some specific trees and large rotted logs that you remember dodging in your panic. “So, you said you’ve been ill?” Zahn asks. “Yes, <<if $tellOsleep is 'true'>>I’ve had a great deal of trouble sleeping. I came down with a horrible headache as well, and I’m not sure if it’s from sleeplessness or if...if I’ve fallen ill.<</if>><<if $tellOhead is 'true'>>I suddenly came down with a severe headache a couple days ago. I ended up blacking out.<</if>><<if $tellOsleep is 'false'>>I’ve had a great deal of trouble sleeping. I blacked out while we were traveling and hit my head.” You touch the still-tender spot. “I still have a pretty bad headache from it all.<</if>><<if $tellOhead is 'false'>>I came down with a pretty severe headache. I blacked out, fell off my mount and dashed my head on something. Needless to say, it did not help my condition.<</if>> “That’s dreadful. I may be able to help, just a little.” “Are you gifted in medicine?” $Zcapitalheshe shakes $Zhisher head. “No, but I can manipulate magic a bit. Healing is not something I’m gifted in, but I could alleviate a bit of pain and help you recover a bit faster.” Zahn waves the arrow with the dead snake attached as $Zheshe gestures while talking. “I’ve used it on myself plenty; I might be able to help you sleep too if you need. Oh, and I have tried to use it on a couple sect members too. One had a cold, the other...was having some other troubles. I wasn’t able to help him.” “What other troubles?” You’re not sure if you should ask, but your curiosity is piqued. “Like...you know…” Zahn points down. “No, I don’t know...what does that-” you gesture down, “mean?” Zahn lowers $Zhisher voice to a whisper, though there is nothing but forest around you. “My church doesn’t like it when I say these things, so I don’t know if I should.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You sigh. “If you are not comfortable, that is fine, but I cannot understand what you are hinting at. Speak freely.”<<else>>You chuckle. “I might know what you’re getting at, feel free to say it.”<</if>> Zahn straightens and gives you a crooked smile. “His cock wouldn’t get up.” $Zcapitalheshe says with a layer of pride and mischief to $Zhisher face before breaking out into a giggle. You shake your head and grin, just a bit. Zahn’s presence does make you feel a bit better. Even if $Zheshe seems a bit silly. [[Before you know it, you’re back at camp.|3.20c1]]

Aside from $mountname looking a bit cranky, the camp looks fine. There’s no sign of Oswin, though. Zahn pokes around a bit after tossing the dead snake close to the remnants of the campfire, unshouldering $Zhisher bow as you make to return to your bedroll. The peace is immediately shattered as a figure suddenly rushes Zahn, knocking the bow from $Zhisher hand and sending $Zhimher crashing to the ground with a cry. You yelp in alarm before you even realize that it is Oswin. Zahn manages to slip away and stand up to face $Zhisher attacker, reaching for a dagger. Oswin quickly disarms $Zhimher by flicking his own knife, striking Zahn right in the hand so the dagger falls to the wayside. “Wait!” you cry out. But they don’t, and a chase ensues. Despite the disparity in their sizes, and that Zahn seems to be some sort of religious pilgrim, they seem to be a decent match with each other. You take note that Oswin seems determined to capture and not necessarily harm the newcomer, at least you think. Still, they’ve taken to scuffling on the ground, knocking their way through the remnants of the campfire, agitating $mountname, and scattering supplies they run into. A multitude of thoughts get caught in your head. Should you intervene? Oswin is much more experienced than you, though. Surely, he’s doing the right thing, right? What would you even do or say? Is it your place? You also don’t want to get hurt nor do you want either of them injured. You back away a bit and watch on, unsure. Thankfully, neither of them seem keen to escalate into a bigger fight, but Oswin is very clearly determined to see Zahn restrained. What if he hurts $Zhimher once Zahn is captured? Oswin wouldn’t do that, right? The stranger has been so nice to you, should you help $Zhimher? While your turmoil flares, Zahn begs Oswin to be reasonable. “Really, I mean no harm. We stumbled across one another in the woods.” Zahn dodges a grab from Oswin. “I was trying to make sure $mc was okay, and then I saw a viper at $hisher feet! I was only helping, so I could be sure $heshe got back safely. Please, believe me, I swear to it on Faith!” Oswin sneers. “I’ve heard all that before, stranger. It’s exactly the bullshit thieves and traffickers would say to gain trust.” “I’m not those things!” Zahn cries, narrowly missing a lunge from Oswin. “I’m on a pilgrimage for my church!” “And you think a church means you’re incapable of doing horrendous things!?” You hear real venom in Oswin’s tone, it makes you shift uncomfortably. “Then I suppose we’re on the same playing field, you thug!” Zahn clips back. The tension is easily tenfold what it was before. In a flash, Oswin feints and tricks Zahn to misdirect $Zhimher. The two are on the ground with Oswin completely pinning and roughly restraining $Zhisher arms. You can’t hang back anymore. Cautiously, you approach, not knowing what to do, so you just say Oswin’s name. “Oswin…” He stills, his ear turning towards you. “Oswin….” [[You gently pull Oswin’s shoulder.|3.26]]

“You’re welcome, my new friend. Oh, we can be friends right? Or, become friends. We don’t have to be friends right now – today – or even tomorrow, but later. We’ll work on that, yeah?” You snort. “Yeah, we’ll see where things go.” “It’ll be so nice not to travel alone for a change.” Zahn sighs, looking upward. “The pilgrimage stuff has been lonely work. I’m supposed to help people when I can, but I’ve hardly seen anyone and the ones I have seen don’t want my help.” “How long are you supposed to travel?” you ask. “Until the cold starts to set in before winter. If I return, the Acceptor that leads our sect will elevate me from Acolyte to Upholder. If I’ve managed to do something, um...noteworthy – I guess, he’ll elevate me further.” “So you have ranks in your order?” “Sort of. There’s some perks that come with being elevated, but...well, I don’t really care about that. To stay in the church, I have to at least do this journey, and a few other things the Acceptor orders – oh, and pay penance when I mess up – but as long as I have a home to go back to, I don’t really care what my rank is.” Zahn looks down and begins poking through the dirt. “Penance?” “Yeah, when you do something bad or against Din, you have to be set right again. The Acceptor has helped me a lot with that.” Zahn smiles, but it doesn’t look genuine or even amused. Suspicion tugs at the back of your mind. “Is that okay? Do you really believe in this god to that extent?” “Well, I do, of course. I think I’d like to meet him in person one day. They say that if you’re a dedicated member for a long time, he will actually talk to you. I owe him a lot too, probably my life.” [[It’s not really your business, maybe you should change the subject.|3.31a]] [[You put a supportive hand on Zahn’s shoulder|3.31b]] [[This church doesn’t seem good for Zahn, and you say as much.|3.31c]] $flirt_label [[You shyly reach out and touch the back of Zahn’s hand to show your concern.|3.31d]] $flirt_label [[Suggest Zahn could come stay with you.|3.31e]]

Zahn chuckles. “I //wanted// to. I only wish I could have gotten your permission directly, but Oswin watched me like a warden with a vendetta. He was resistant at first, but I think his concern for you won out. He really frets over you, you know.” “I’ve noticed. He takes his job seriously, I suppose I can respect that.” “We should be friends like that, yeah? I’m happy to worry over you.” Zahn leans forward with a big grin. “If you want, I want that, but you can take some time and see how you feel about it, yeah?” You snort. “Yeah, we’ll see where things go.” “It’ll be so nice not to travel alone for a change.” Zahn sighs, looking upward. “The pilgrimage stuff has been lonely work. I’m supposed to help people when I can, but I’ve hardly seen anyone and the ones I have seen don’t want my help.” “How long are you supposed to travel?” you ask. “Until the cold starts to set in before winter. If I return, the Acceptor that leads our sect will elevate me from Acolyte to Upholder. If I’ve managed to do something, um...noteworthy – I guess, he’ll elevate me further.” “So you have ranks in your order?” “Sort of. There’s some perks that come with being elevated, but...well, I don’t really care about that. To stay in the church, I have to at least do this journey, and a few other things the Acceptor orders – oh, and pay penance when I mess up – but as long as I have a home to go back to, I don’t really care what my rank is.” Zahn looks down and begins poking through the dirt. “Penance?” “Yeah, when you do something bad or against Din, you have to be set right again. The Acceptor has helped me a lot with that.” Zahn smiles, but it doesn’t look genuine or even amused. Suspicion tugs at the back of your mind. “Is that okay? Do you really believe in this god to that extent?” “Well, I do, of course. I think I’d like to meet him in person one day. They say that if you’re a dedicated member for a long time, he will actually talk to you. I owe him a lot too, probably my life.” [[It’s not really your business, maybe you should change the subject.|3.31a]] [[You put a supportive hand on Zahn’s shoulder|3.31b]] [[This church doesn’t seem good for Zahn, and you say as much.|3.31c]] $flirt_label [[You shyly reach out and touch the back of Zahn’s hand to show your concern.|3.31d]] $flirt_label [[Suggest Zahn could come stay with you.|3.31e]]

<<set $Zflirt +=3>> Zahn immediately sits up straight and gawks at you. You notice $Zhisher already-colored cheeks flushing deeper as $Zheshe smiles. “You should be careful with an invitation like that, $mc; you’ll give me all sorts of hopes and ideas.” Smirking, you say, “Maybe that’s my intention,” as you give $Zhimher your best suggestive look. An excited laugh bursts from Zahn as $Zheshe clasps $Zhisher hands together with a resounding smack. “Ooh, that gave me a shiver! No one as gorgeous as you has ever looked at me like //that//. Please say we can become friends!” You snort. “Yeah, we’ll see where things go.” “It’ll be so nice not to travel alone for a change.” Zahn sighs, looking upward. “The pilgrimage stuff has been lonely work. I’m supposed to help people when I can, but I’ve hardly seen anyone and the ones I have seen don’t want my help.” “How long are you supposed to travel?” you ask. “Until the cold starts to set in before winter. If I return, the Acceptor that leads our sect will elevate me from Acolyte to Upholder. If I’ve managed to do something, um...noteworthy – I guess, he’ll elevate me further.” “So you have ranks in your order?” “Sort of. There’s some perks that come with being elevated, but...well, I don’t really care about that. To stay in the church, I have to at least do this journey, and a few other things the Acceptor orders – oh, and pay penance when I mess up – but as long as I have a home to go back to, I don’t really care what my rank is.” Zahn looks down and begins poking through the dirt. “Penance?” “Yeah, when you do something bad or against Din, you have to be set right again. The Acceptor has helped me a lot with that.” Zahn smiles, but it doesn’t look genuine or even amused. Suspicion tugs at the back of your mind. “Is that okay? Do you really believe in this god to that extent?” “Well, I do, of course. I think I’d like to meet him in person one day. They say that if you’re a dedicated member for a long time, he will actually talk to you. I owe him a lot too, probably my life.” [[It’s not really your business, maybe you should change the subject.|3.31a]] [[You put a supportive hand on Zahn’s shoulder|3.31b]] [[This church doesn’t seem good for Zahn, and you say as much.|3.31c]] $flirt_label [[You shyly reach out and touch the back of Zahn’s hand to show your concern.|3.31d]] $flirt_label [[Suggest Zahn could come stay with you.|3.31e]]

<<set $Zflirt +=3>> Zahn immediately leans closer towards you, an almost-wicked grin spreading across $Zhisher lips. “What’s this about, $mc? Do you like that? The idea that I might touch you?” “//No//!” you insist, with a little too much passion. “That beautiful shade of red in your cheeks says otherwise,” $Zheshe taunts. “I’m happy to touch you in any way you like, of course.” You try to stammer a response, but your mind scrambles over everything you think of. Zahn presses closer, lips close to your ear as $Zheshe whispers, “I think I’d really like it if you’d touch me too. We should be friends…” Zahn pulls away, batting $Zhisher eyes at you. You clear your throat. “Yeah, we’ll see where things go.” “It’ll be so nice not to travel alone for a change.” Zahn sighs, looking upward. “The pilgrimage stuff has been lonely work. I’m supposed to help people when I can, but I’ve hardly seen anyone and the ones I have seen don’t want my help.” “How long are you supposed to travel?” you ask. “Until the cold starts to set in before winter. If I return, the Acceptor that leads our sect will elevate me from Acolyte to Upholder. If I’ve managed to do something, um...noteworthy – I guess, he’ll elevate me further.” “So you have ranks in your order?” “Sort of. There’s some perks that come with being elevated, but...well, I don’t really care about that. To stay in the church, I have to at least do this journey, and a few other things the Acceptor orders – oh, and pay penance when I mess up – but as long as I have a home to go back to, I don’t really care what my rank is.” Zahn looks down and begins poking through the dirt. “Penance?” “Yeah, when you do something bad or against Din, you have to be set right again. The Acceptor has helped me a lot with that.” Zahn smiles, but it doesn’t look genuine or even amused. Suspicion tugs at the back of your mind. “Is that okay? Do you really believe in this god to that extent?” “Well, I do, of course. I think I’d like to meet him in person one day. They say that if you’re a dedicated member for a long time, he will actually talk to you. I owe him a lot too, probably my life.” [[It’s not really your business, maybe you should change the subject.|3.31a]] [[You put a supportive hand on Zahn’s shoulder|3.31b]] [[This church doesn’t seem good for Zahn, and you say as much.|3.31c]] $flirt_label [[You shyly reach out and touch the back of Zahn’s hand to show your concern.|3.31d]] $flirt_label [[Suggest Zahn could come stay with you.|3.31e]]

You nod. Perhaps you’ll learn more later, but for right now you don’t need to air your opinions at Zahn or dig deeper than you should. Though you didn’t grow up around any religious people, you know it’s still important to some even if the gods abandoned power long ago. Oswin rouses you to get yourself up and moving for a bit before you ride out. He and Zahn pack up what’s left of your things and prepare the mounts. You stretch your legs and find that it feels nice to walk. Your head is more clear and you finally feel rested. $mountname snorts as you approach, <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>floppy muzzle immediately reaching to mouth at you in a sloppy kiss. She mouths at your hands, attempts a kiss on your cheek, and then nibbles your hair. You stroke her forehead and under her jaw as she grunts happily.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>bobbing his head as if to nod at you. He snuggles right up to you, wanting his chest and neck rubbed and scratched. He sniffs you up and down as if checking that you’re okay.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>and he gurnts happily when you are near enough to touch. His huge head nestles into your chest, pushing gently to snuggle. You wool him over, scratching his neck and behind his ears. He noses your forehead, huffing a relieved breath.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>and then works up into a high pitched bray, lips curling back to reveal her large crooked teeth. She settles once you get close enough to touch, her little grunts softening as she checks you from head to toe. You pat her nose and stroke her big cheeks and jaw as she closes her eyes and basks in your attention. As you turn to leave, she lightly bumps your rear with her nose.<</if>> “Alright, you two!” Oswin calls. “We’re ready to head out.” You and Zahn gather around Oswin, close to Flit and $mountname. Zahn is eyeing the creatures with a bit of wonder and an edge of trepidation. You expect if $Zheshe is going with you, $Zheshe probably won’t be walking. Oswin faces you. “I’d like you to decide how we ride. It will be a few hours before we get to the clearing. I must ride Flit; you can either sit behind me, or with Zahn. You're clearly still recovering, so I can't have you ride alone. If you fall...” A sour look comes over Oswin's face. “Um,” Zahn chimes. “I think my preference is $mc. No offense, of course, but $heshe seems more fun and certainly more pleasant to look at.” Oswin’s eyes suddenly narrow in a way you haven’t really seen before. <<if $Zflirt gte 3>>“Plus, I think $mc would like to spend some quality time with me.” Zahn winks at you.<<else>>“Plus, I really think $mc could use the proximity to see how charming I am.” Zahn winks at you.<</if>> An exhausted sigh is all you hear from Oswin, you suppose the choice is yours now. [[You will ride behind Oswin atop Flit.|3.32a]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated in front of you.|3.32c]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated behind you.|3.32d]] [[You, mostly playfully, suggest dragging Zahn behind the mounts with a bit of rope.|3.32e][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 2, 0, 100)]]

You may not be sure how to feel about Zahn’s origins. $Zcapitalheshe is clearly leaving something out, likely some of their true feelings about this organization. Zahn seems loyal and dedicated to them at least, and your understanding of those who still observe religion is limited, so maybe it’s not necessarily a bad thing. Either way, you want the newcomer to feel that you’re there for $Zhimher. You give Zahn’s shoulder a gentle squeeze, feeling a surprisingly firm muscle under the layers of cloaks. $Zcapitalheshe smiles at you, a bit of shine to $Zhisher eyes. Oswin rouses you to get yourself up and moving for a bit before you ride out. He and Zahn pack up what’s left of your things and prepare the mounts. You stretch your legs and find that it feels nice to walk. Your head is more clear and you finally feel rested. $mountname snorts as you approach, <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>floppy muzzle immediately reaching to mouth at you in a sloppy kiss. She mouths at your hands, attempts a kiss on your cheek, and then nibbles your hair. You stroke her forehead and under her jaw as she grunts happily.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>bobbing his head as if to nod at you. He snuggles right up to you, wanting his chest and neck rubbed and scratched. He sniffs you up and down as if checking that you’re okay.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>and he gurnts happily when you are near enough to touch. His huge head nestles into your chest, pushing gently to snuggle. You wool him over, scratching his neck and behind his ears. He noses your forehead, huffing a relieved breath.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>and then works up into a high pitched bray, lips curling back to reveal her large crooked teeth. She settles once you get close enough to touch, her little grunts softening as she checks you from head to toe. You pat her nose and stroke her big cheeks and jaw as she closes her eyes and basks in your attention. As you turn to leave, she lightly bumps your rear with her nose.<</if>> “Alright, you two!” Oswin calls. “We’re ready to head out.” You and Zahn gather around Oswin, close to Flit and $mountname. Zahn is eyeing the creatures with a bit of wonder and an edge of trepidation. You expect if $Zheshe is going with you, $Zheshe probably won’t be walking. Oswin faces you. “I’d like you to decide how we ride. It will be a few hours before we get to the clearing. I must ride Flit; you can either sit behind me, or with Zahn. You're clearly still recovering, so I can't have you ride alone. If you fall...” A sour look comes over Oswin's face. “Um,” Zahn chimes. “I think my preference is $mc. No offense, of course, but $heshe seems more fun and certainly more pleasant to look at.” Oswin’s eyes suddenly narrow in a way you haven’t really seen before. <<if $Zflirt gte 3>>“Plus, I think $mc would like to spend some quality time with me.” Zahn winks at you.<<else>>“Plus, I really think $mc could use the proximity to see how charming I am.” Zahn winks at you.<</if>> An exhausted sigh is all you hear from Oswin, you suppose the choice is yours now. [[You will ride behind Oswin atop Flit.|3.32a]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated in front of you.|3.32c]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated behind you.|3.32d]] [[You, mostly playfully, suggest dragging Zahn behind the mounts with a bit of rope.|3.32e][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 2, 0, 100)]]

“Zahn, I fully realize that I don’t know you very well or understand your sect, but that doesn’t sound very good for you.” Zahn nods. “It’s not for everyone. I understand the feeling.” “//Penance//? Doesn’t that seem a bit...archaic? Unfair even? And these ranks and assignments seem like their taking advantage.” “It’s easy to feel that way when you haven’t been in my shoes. In fact, I didn’t even have shoes before I found Din’s church. I think you’re speaking out of kindness, and I hope that’s right, but I can’t accept your feelings as to if it’s good for me or not.” “Would you have joined if you had...found shoes elsewhere?” You give Zahn a look that you hope conveys gentleness and not accusation. Zahn takes your question in stride and thinks for a moment. “I...I don’t know. Honestly, I hadn’t thought on that before.” “If you want to talk, I’ll listen – you can help me understand what I don’t see.” A smile peeks upon Zahn’s lips. You’re a bit surprised that such a carefree soul could have such a conversation with such ease. Perhaps $Zheshe is more mature than it would appear. Oswin rouses you to get yourself up and moving for a bit before you ride out. He and Zahn pack up what’s left of your things and prepare the mounts. You stretch your legs and find that it feels nice to walk. Your head is more clear and you finally feel rested. $mountname snorts as you approach, <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>floppy muzzle immediately reaching to mouth at you in a sloppy kiss. She mouths at your hands, attempts a kiss on your cheek, and then nibbles your hair. You stroke her forehead and under her jaw as she grunts happily.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>bobbing his head as if to nod at you. He snuggles right up to you, wanting his chest and neck rubbed and scratched. He sniffs you up and down as if checking that you’re okay.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>and he gurnts happily when you are near enough to touch. His huge head nestles into your chest, pushing gently to snuggle. You wool him over, scratching his neck and behind his ears. He noses your forehead, huffing a relieved breath.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>and then works up into a high pitched bray, lips curling back to reveal her large crooked teeth. She settles once you get close enough to touch, her little grunts softening as she checks you from head to toe. You pat her nose and stroke her big cheeks and jaw as she closes her eyes and basks in your attention. As you turn to leave, she lightly bumps your rear with her nose.<</if>> “Alright, you two!” Oswin calls. “We’re ready to head out.” You and Zahn gather around Oswin, close to Flit and $mountname. Zahn is eyeing the creatures with a bit of wonder and an edge of trepidation. You expect if $Zheshe is going with you, $Zheshe probably won’t be walking. Oswin faces you. “I’d like you to decide how we ride. It will be a few hours before we get to the clearing. I must ride Flit; you can either sit behind me, or with Zahn. You're clearly still recovering, so I can't have you ride alone. If you fall...” A sour look comes over Oswin's face. “Um,” Zahn chimes. “I think my preference is $mc. No offense, of course, but $heshe seems more fun and certainly more pleasant to look at.” Oswin’s eyes suddenly narrow in a way you haven’t really seen before. <<if $Zflirt gte 3>>“Plus, I think $mc would like to spend some quality time with me.” Zahn winks at you.<<else>>“Plus, I really think $mc could use the proximity to see how charming I am.” Zahn winks at you.<</if>> An exhausted sigh is all you hear from Oswin, you suppose the choice is yours now. [[You will ride behind Oswin atop Flit.|3.32a]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated in front of you.|3.32c]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated behind you.|3.32d]] [[You, mostly playfully, suggest dragging Zahn behind the mounts with a bit of rope.|3.32e][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 2, 0, 100)]]

<<set $Zflirt +=3>> Zahn’s hand fiddles with the frays around a patch on the knees of $Zhisher trousers. You gently place your hand atop $Zhishers, noticing that it’s just a bit chilled, so you gently caress to warm it. It appears as though Zahn is struggling to not show how giddy $Zheshe is by the affection. The corners of $Zhisher lips pull taught, but the corners of $Zhisher eyes pull up. “Is the rest of you so warm?” Zahn asks. You chuckle. “Maybe.” “I like the way you show kindness, $mc. You’re quite sweet, I think.” Your face heats a bit. Zahn gives your hand a soft squeeze. Oswin rouses you to get yourself up and moving for a bit before you ride out. He and Zahn pack up what’s left of your things and prepare the mounts. You stretch your legs and find that it feels nice to walk. Your head is more clear and you finally feel rested. $mountname snorts as you approach, <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>floppy muzzle immediately reaching to mouth at you in a sloppy kiss. She mouths at your hands, attempts a kiss on your cheek, and then nibbles your hair. You stroke her forehead and under her jaw as she grunts happily.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>bobbing his head as if to nod at you. He snuggles right up to you, wanting his chest and neck rubbed and scratched. He sniffs you up and down as if checking that you’re okay.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>and he gurnts happily when you are near enough to touch. His huge head nestles into your chest, pushing gently to snuggle. You wool him over, scratching his neck and behind his ears. He noses your forehead, huffing a relieved breath.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>and then works up into a high pitched bray, lips curling back to reveal her large crooked teeth. She settles once you get close enough to touch, her little grunts softening as she checks you from head to toe. You pat her nose and stroke her big cheeks and jaw as she closes her eyes and basks in your attention. As you turn to leave, she lightly bumps your rear with her nose.<</if>> “Alright, you two!” Oswin calls. “We’re ready to head out.” You and Zahn gather around Oswin, close to Flit and $mountname. Zahn is eyeing the creatures with a bit of wonder and an edge of trepidation. You expect if $Zheshe is going with you, $Zheshe probably won’t be walking. Oswin faces you. “I’d like you to decide how we ride. It will be a few hours before we get to the clearing. I must ride Flit; you can either sit behind me, or with Zahn. You're clearly still recovering, so I can't have you ride alone. If you fall...” A sour look comes over Oswin's face. “Um,” Zahn chimes. “I think my preference is $mc. No offense, of course, but $heshe seems more fun and certainly more pleasant to look at.” Oswin’s eyes suddenly narrow in a way you haven’t really seen before. <<if $Zflirt gte 3>>“Plus, I think $mc would like to spend some quality time with me.” Zahn winks at you.<<else>>“Plus, I really think $mc could use the proximity to see how charming I am.” Zahn winks at you.<</if>> An exhausted sigh is all you hear from Oswin, you suppose the choice is yours now. [[You will ride behind Oswin atop Flit.|3.32a]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated in front of you.|3.32c]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated behind you.|3.32d]] [[You, mostly playfully, suggest dragging Zahn behind the mounts with a bit of rope.|3.32e][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 2, 0, 100)]]

<<set $Zflirt +=3>> “You know…” Zahn lifts $Zhisher head to meet your eye. “My family has a pretty big house.” “Yeah?” Zahn’s big blue eyes peer curiously at you to try to figure out why you’re telling $Zhimher this. “If a home is all you need to give your devotion, I’m quite tempted to give you mine.” You smile suggestively. Zahn laughs in a loud burst, quickly cupping a hand to $Zhisher mouth to stifle the sound. “Shall I pray to you nightly, $mc?” $Zheshe asks, giggling. “I’d certainly let you worship at my altar.” You nudge Zahn’s shoulder, noticing $Zhisher face has gone a bit pink. “I’ll keep that in mind.” Oswin rouses you to get yourself up and moving for a bit before you ride out. He and Zahn pack up what’s left of your things and prepare the mounts. You stretch your legs and find that it feels nice to walk. Your head is more clear and you finally feel rested. $mountname snorts as you approach, <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>floppy muzzle immediately reaching to mouth at you in a sloppy kiss. She mouths at your hands, attempts a kiss on your cheek, and then nibbles your hair. You stroke her forehead and under her jaw as she grunts happily.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>bobbing his head as if to nod at you. He snuggles right up to you, wanting his chest and neck rubbed and scratched. He sniffs you up and down as if checking that you’re okay.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>and he gurnts happily when you are near enough to touch. His huge head nestles into your chest, pushing gently to snuggle. You wool him over, scratching his neck and behind his ears. He noses your forehead, huffing a relieved breath.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>and then works up into a high pitched bray, lips curling back to reveal her large crooked teeth. She settles once you get close enough to touch, her little grunts softening as she checks you from head to toe. You pat her nose and stroke her big cheeks and jaw as she closes her eyes and basks in your attention. As you turn to leave, she lightly bumps your rear with her nose.<</if>> “Alright, you two!” Oswin calls. “We’re ready to head out.” You and Zahn gather around Oswin, close to Flit and $mountname. Zahn is eyeing the creatures with a bit of wonder and an edge of trepidation. You expect if $Zheshe is going with you, $Zheshe probably won’t be walking. Oswin faces you. “I’d like you to decide how we ride. It will be a few hours before we get to the clearing. I must ride Flit; you can either sit behind me, or with Zahn. You're clearly still recovering, so I can't have you ride alone. If you fall...” A sour look comes over Oswin's face. “Um,” Zahn chimes. “I think my preference is $mc. No offense, of course, but $heshe seems more fun and certainly more pleasant to look at.” Oswin’s eyes suddenly narrow in a way you haven’t really seen before. <<if $Zflirt gte 3>>“Plus, I think $mc would like to spend some quality time with me.” Zahn winks at you.<<else>>“Plus, I really think $mc could use the proximity to see how charming I am.” Zahn winks at you.<</if>> An exhausted sigh is all you hear from Oswin, you suppose the choice is yours now. [[You will ride behind Oswin atop Flit.|3.32a]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated in front of you.|3.32c]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated behind you.|3.32d]] [[You, mostly playfully, suggest dragging Zahn behind the mounts with a bit of rope.|3.32e][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 2, 0, 100)]]

“I’ll ride with you, Oswin,” you say. “Very well.” He nods back at you, and you can’t help but think his expression looks a little extra pleased. Zahn pats you on the shoulder. “I promise to take good care of $mountname. At least this way, it’s easier for you to see my lovely face.” $Zcapitalheshe smiles big at you, wrinkling $Zhisher nose at the jest. You quickly settle on your respective mounts, Oswin assisting you in taking a seat behind him. Zahn has some trouble getting into your saddle, and thankfully $mountname expresses some extra patience for the multiple failed attempts. Oswin merely watches on, amused, until the acolyte is finally seated. Once you start moving, the reality of how close you are to Oswin floods your attention. He’s a fairly tall man, around your da’s height now, you realize. He’s grown so much over the years. [[You’re looming over him a bit.|3.33a]] [[You reach about shoulder to shoulder with him.|3.33b]] [[You can barely peek your eyes over his shoulders.|3.33c]] [[Hopefully, you enjoy your view of the middle of Oswin’s back for the next few hours.|3.33d]]

You turn to face Zahn, who tilts $Zhisher head awaiting your preference. “You can ride with me, I’ll put you in front. Is that okay?” “Yes!” Zahn yips. “That sounds great. You can make sure I don’t fall – I haven’t ridden horses or anything much before. Maybe only twice. I’ll probably be fine, I have amazing balance.” $mountname snorts, making Zahn startle. As Oswin tries to stifle his laughter, you mount up. Zahn sizes up the steed and flails a couple times as $Zheshe tries to get in the saddle with you. You end up assisting and half-dragging Zahn into position. <<if $Zflirt gte 3>>You grin as you see how excited Zahn appears to be. “I suppose we’ll see if you were right about spending //quality// time together.”<<else>>“So, when do you start showing me how charming you are?”<</if>> Zahn turns to face you, wind-burnt cheeks turning darker. “I guess we’ll have to wait and see.” You chuckle as both of you settle in and get as comfortable as possible, you take stock of how Zahn slots in in front of you. [[You’re looming over Zahn a good deal.|3.36a]] [[You peek above Zahn a bit.|3.36b]] [[You reach about shoulder to shoulder with Zahn.|3.36c]] [[You can barely peek your eyes over Zahn’s shoulders.|3.36d]]

You turn to face Zahn, who tilts $Zhisher head awaiting your preference. “You can ride with me, I’ll put you in back. Is that okay?” “Yes!” Zahn yips. “That sounds great. You can make sure I don’t fall – I haven’t ridden horses or anything much before. Maybe only twice. I’ll probably be fine, I have amazing balance.” $mountname snorts, making Zahn startle. As Oswin tries to stifle his laughter, you mount up. Zahn sizes up the steed and flails a couple times as $Zheshe tries to get in the saddle with you. You end up assisting and half-dragging Zahn into position. <<if $Zflirt gte 3>>You grin as you see how excited Zahn appears to be. “I suppose we’ll see if you were right about spending //quality// time together.”<<else>>“So, when do you start showing me how charming you are?”<</if>> Zahn turns to face you, wind-burnt cheeks turning darker. “I guess we’ll have to wait and see.” You chuckle as both of you settle in and get as comfortable as possible, you take stock of how Zahn slots in behind you. [[You’re looming above Zahn a good deal.|3.39a]] [[You peek above Zahn a bit.|3.39b]] [[You reach about shoulder to shoulder with Zahn.|3.39c]] [[You have to look up over your shoulder to see Zahn.|3.39d]]

Oswin's eyes bulge briefly from the canopy of his brow as he covers his mouth to stifle a laugh, struggling to school his face into his usual firm professionalism. Zahn sighs. "Well, honestly, it's not the worst way I've traveled before." With a hand on $Zhisher hip, Zahn smirks at you with a mock glare. Though you can’t help but wonder if Zahn is joking or not (and you suppose $Zheshe may be wondering the same of you), the decision still needs to be made on the matter. [[You will ride behind Oswin atop Flit.|3.32a]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated in front of you.|3.32c]] [[You will let Zahn ride with you, seated behind you.|3.32d]]

<<set $height to 'verytall'>> You have managed to outgrow Oswin somehow. Da’s cooking and Papa’s nursing skills must have aided in your success, though Oswin’s attitude may still be able to cast a shadow over you. The journey starts off quiet, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice him lifting his head into the breeze when it billows by. It’s almost odd how much he looks like the little boy, Yarrow, that you grew up with. His face has become more angular, his jaw set firmly and cheekbones that you could cut a finger on. His eyes look how you remember, but they don’t curl up at the corners as much anymore, same as his lips. Oswin is just a sharper version of Yarrow, you suppose. You’ve been seeing glimpses of a different man since you started traveling. He’s been a bit prickly still, but you’ve actually heard him laugh a few times. He’s even sassed you, mostly good-naturedly. You consider why you chose to ride with him… [[He’s simply more familiar to you than Zahn.|3.34a]] [[You find his presence comforting and safe.|3.34b]] $flirt_label [[It gave you a chance to be close in a way you normally wouldn’t be able.|3.34c]] ? $flirt_label ? [[From this proximity, it will be even easier to find ways to irritate him.|3.34d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.34e]]

<<set $height to 'tall'>> You have managed to match Oswin somehow. Da’s cooking and Papa’s nursing skills must have aided in your success, though Oswin’s attitude may still be able to cast a shadow over you. The journey is quiet so far, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice him lifting his head into the breeze when it billows by. It’s almost odd how much he looks like the little boy, Yarrow, that you grew up with. His face has become more angular, his jaw set firmly and cheekbones that you could cut a finger on. His eyes look how you remember, but they don’t curl up at the corners as much anymore, same as his lips. Oswin is just a sharper version of Yarrow, you suppose. You’ve been seeing glimpses of a different man since you started traveling. He’s been a bit prickly still, but you’ve actually heard him laugh a few times. He’s even sassed you, mostly good-naturedly. You consider why you chose to ride with him… [[He’s simply more familiar to you than Zahn.|3.34a]] [[You find his presence comforting and safe.|3.34b]] $flirt_label [[It gave you a chance to be close in a way you normally wouldn’t be able.|3.34c]] ? $flirt_label ? [[From this proximity, it will be even easier to find ways to irritate him.|3.34d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.34e]]

<<set $height to 'average'>> As always, Oswin looms over you. He is older than you, maybe you’ll eek up a bit more, but you’re likely always going to be shorter than him. Perhaps it’s not so bad, he makes a good wind-block. The journey is quiet so far, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice him lifting his head into the breeze when it billows by. It’s almost odd how much he looks like the little boy, Yarrow, that you grew up with. His face has become more angular, his jaw set firmly and cheekbones that you could cut a finger on. His eyes look how you remember, but they don’t curl up at the corners as much anymore, same as his lips. Oswin is just a sharper version of Yarrow, you suppose. You’ve been seeing glimpses of a different man since you started traveling. He’s been a bit prickly still, but you’ve actually heard him laugh a few times. He’s even sassed you, mostly good-naturedly. You consider why you chose to ride with him… [[He’s simply more familiar to you than Zahn.|3.34a]] [[You find his presence comforting and safe.|3.34b]] $flirt_label [[It gave you a chance to be close in a way you normally wouldn’t be able.|3.34c]] ? $flirt_label ? [[From this proximity, it will be even easier to find ways to irritate him.|3.34d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.34e]]

<<set $height to 'short'>> As always, Oswin looms over you, many people do. He is older than you, maybe you’ll eek up a bit more, but you’re always going to be shorter than him. Perhaps it’s not so bad, he makes a good wind-block. The journey is quiet so far, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice him lifting his head into the breeze when it billows by. It’s almost odd how much he looks like the little boy, Yarrow, that you grew up with. His face has become more angular, his jaw set firmly and cheekbones that you could cut a finger on. His eyes look how you remember, but they don’t curl up at the corners as much anymore, same as his lips. Oswin is just a sharper version of Yarrow, you suppose. You’ve been seeing glimpses of a different man since you started traveling. He’s been a bit prickly still, but you’ve actually heard him laugh a few times. He’s even sassed you, mostly good-naturedly. You consider why you chose to ride with him… [[He’s simply more familiar to you than Zahn.|3.34a]] [[You find his presence comforting and safe.|3.34b]] $flirt_label [[It gave you a chance to be close in a way you normally wouldn’t be able.|3.34c]] ? $flirt_label ? [[From this proximity, it will be even easier to find ways to irritate him.|3.34d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.34e]]

It’s simply easier to stick to the familiar, and Zahn doesn’t seem bothered by it. Perhaps you’ll get to know $Zhimher a little better later though, and you’ll be more comfortable. The weather is beautiful, and everyone seems at ease. A wave of tiredness falls over you with just a tinge of a headache. You hope that whatever has been keeping you down isn’t making a resurgence as you begin to nod off. [[Before you know it, you’re falling asleep against Oswin’s warm back.|3.35a]] [[You want to sleep, but not against Oswin.|3.35b]] $flirt_label +O [[Your heart flutters against the warmth of Oswin’s back as you drift off to sleep.|3.35c]] $flirt_label +Z [[Your gaze travels to watch Zahn as you begin to fall asleep.|3.35d]]

You’ve known Oswin all your life. Regardless of distance that formed over your friendship, you still find him more trustworthy and comforting. He is a constant, reassuring force, and you want to stick with him. The weather is beautiful, and everyone seems at ease. A wave of tiredness falls over you with just a tinge of a headache. You hope that whatever has been keeping you down isn’t making a resurgence as you begin to nod off. [[Before you know it, you’re falling asleep against Oswin’s warm back.|3.35a]] [[You want to sleep, but not against Oswin.|3.35b]] $flirt_label +O [[Your heart flutters against the warmth of Oswin’s back as you drift off to sleep.|3.35c]] $flirt_label +Z [[Your gaze travels to watch Zahn as you begin to fall asleep.|3.35d]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> You’ve known Oswin all your life. Regardless of distance that formed over your friendship, you still want to be close at least for now. You haven’t engaged in touch with him since you were children. Even if you are only sharing a saddle for a few hours, you desire the contact, and you hope that it’s okay for you to feel this way. The weather is beautiful, and everyone seems at ease. A wave of tiredness falls over you with just a tinge of a headache. You hope that whatever has been keeping you down isn’t making a resurgence as you begin to nod off. [[Before you know it, you’re falling asleep against Oswin’s warm back.|3.35a]] [[You want to sleep, but not against Oswin.|3.35b]] $flirt_label +O [[Your heart flutters against the warmth of Oswin’s back as you drift off to sleep.|3.35c]] $flirt_label +Z [[Your gaze travels to watch Zahn as you begin to fall asleep.|3.35d]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> You can barely keep a wicked grin from your face when you think of all the ways you could tease Oswin. From your position, you could tickle his ears with stray leaves and sticks, ‘accidentally’ tug his cloak back, or gradually wiggle your way up to take more room on the cramped saddle until he snaps at you. You yawn as you scheme. The weather is beautiful, and everyone seems at ease. A wave of tiredness falls over you with just a tinge of a headache. You hope that whatever has been keeping you down isn’t making a resurgence as you begin to nod off. [[Before you know it, you’re falling asleep against Oswin’s warm back.|3.35a]] [[You want to sleep, but not against Oswin.|3.35b]] $flirt_label +O [[Your heart flutters against the warmth of Oswin’s back as you drift off to sleep.|3.35c]] $flirt_label +Z [[Your gaze travels to watch Zahn as you begin to fall asleep.|3.35d]]

It’s simply easier, and Zahn doesn’t seem bothered by it. The weather is beautiful, and everyone seems at ease. A wave of tiredness falls over you with just a tinge of a headache. You hope that whatever has been keeping you down isn’t making a resurgence as you begin to nod off. [[Before you know it, you’re falling asleep against Oswin’s warm back.|3.35a]] [[You want to sleep, but not against Oswin.|3.35b]] $flirt_label +O [[Your heart flutters against the warmth of Oswin’s back as you drift off to sleep.|3.35c]] $flirt_label +Z [[Your gaze travels to watch Zahn as you begin to fall asleep.|3.35d]]

Your chest presses into him more firmly and you can barely resist the oncoming sleep. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>As your head touches Oswin’s shoulder, <<elseif $height is 'tall'>>As your head presses into Oswin’s upper back, <<elseif $height is 'average'>>As your head touches Oswin’s back, <<else>>As your head touches Oswin’s middle back, <</if>> you feel him tense in surprise for a moment before relaxing. You hear an affectionate sigh and a light chuckle. “Sleep well, $mc,” says a gentle voice. [[You’re asleep for the entire journey.|3.40]]

As you begin to fall asleep you’re beginning to drift and lean every which way. “$mc?” Oswin asks. You grunt. You hear an affectionate sigh and a light chuckle as you sense Oswin moving around. After you feel a tug at your waist, you realize there’s a rope around you, but your mind is too hazy to care. “Sleep well, $mc,” says a gentle voice. [[You’re asleep for the entire journey.|3.40]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> Your chest presses into him more firmly and you can barely resist the on coming sleep despite how fast your heart is beating. He’s so warm and comforting to be close to that you briefly wonder what it would be like to wrap your arms around him too. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>As your head touches Oswin’s shoulder, <<elseif $height is 'tall'>>As your head presses into Oswin’s upper back, <<elseif $height is 'average'>>As your head touches Oswin’s back, <<else>>As your head touches Oswin’s middle back, <</if>> you feel him tense in surprise for a moment before relaxing. You hear an affectionate sigh and a light chuckle. “Sleep well, $mc,” says a gentle voice. [[You’re asleep for the entire journey.|3.40]]

As you begin to fall asleep you’re starting to drift and lean, but you keep your focus on Zahn. $Zcapitalheshe has a very elegant profile, set off by the sunlight. It makes a pretty halo around $Zhisher blond hair “$mc?” Oswin asks. You grunt, and notice Zahn’s blue eyes focusing on you, though yours are getting bleary. You sense Oswin moving around. After you feel a tug at your waist, you realize there’s a rope around you, but your mind is too hazy to care. You think Zahn may be grinning at you now. “Sleep well, $mc,” says a gentle voice. [[You’re asleep for the entire journey.|3.40]]

<<set $height to 'verytall'>> Zahn nestles easily in front of you. $Zcapitalheshe tips $Zhisher head back to smile at you once you’re both settled. You suppose you should thank Da’s cooking and Papa’s diligent nursing for the height you’ve obtained that’s even a cut above Oswin’s. The journey starts off quiet, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice a subtle smile here and there. Zahn seems at ease, exuding a strange serenity. Perhaps it hails with being from a religious group? $Zcapitalheshe reminds you of water, a quick stream filled with small falls and smooth stones. The perfect source too cool yourself on a hot summer day and rest along the sounds of the babbling flow of water. The air around $Zhimher even feels cool. You know that spring is still in the early stages, but your proximity should feel warm, hot even. But it doesn’t, nor is it too cold. You wonder if it has something to do with Zahn’s magic. It’s a shame you weren’t conscious to experience it. You’re curious to know if it felt the same as Ansar’s magic. So far, Zahn seems friendly and perhaps a bit lonely, given how excited $Zheshe seems to be by your company. You consider why you chose to ride with $Zhimher…. [[It’s a chance to gain some familiarity with Zahn|3.37a]] [[You find Zahn’s presence comforting and safe|3.37b]] $flirt_label [[You just wanted to get a little closer to Zahn.|3.37c]] $flirt_label [[Zahn is clearly open to flirting, and so are you.|3.37d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.37e]]

<<set $height to 'tall'>> Zahn nestles easily in front of you. $Zcapitalheshe tips $Zhisher head back to smile at you once you’re both settled. You suppose you should thank Da’s cooking and Papa’s diligent nursing for the height you’ve obtained that’s even a match to Oswin’s. The journey starts off quiet, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice a subtle smile here and there. Zahn seems at ease, exuding a strange serenity. Perhaps it hails with being from a religious group? $Zcapitalheshe reminds you of water, a quick stream filled with small falls and smooth stones. The perfect source too cool yourself on a hot summer day and rest along the sounds of the babbling flow of water. The air around $Zhimher even feels cool. You know that spring is still in the early stages, but your proximity should feel warm, hot even. But it doesn’t, nor is it too cold. You wonder if it has something to do with Zahn’s magic. It’s a shame you weren’t conscious to experience it. You’re curious to know if it felt the same as Ansar’s magic. So far, Zahn seems friendly and perhaps a bit lonely, given how excited $Zheshe seems to be by your company. You consider why you chose to ride with $Zhimher…. [[It’s a chance to gain some familiarity with Zahn|3.37a]] [[You find Zahn’s presence comforting and safe|3.37b]] $flirt_label [[You just wanted to get a little closer to Zahn.|3.37c]] $flirt_label [[Zahn is clearly open to flirting, and so are you.|3.37d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.37e]]

<<set $height to 'average'>> Zahn nestles perfectly in front of you. $Zcapitalheshe twists around to smile at you once you’re both settled. It is rather nice to have a companion that about matches your own height, especially since Lakota isn’t with you. You suppose Oswin will always loom over you as he does his little brother. The journey starts off quiet, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice a subtle smile here and there. Zahn seems at ease, exuding a strange serenity. Perhaps it hails with being from a religious group? $Zcapitalheshe reminds you of water, a quick stream filled with small falls and smooth stones. The perfect source too cool yourself on a hot summer day and rest along the sounds of the babbling flow of water. The air around $Zhimher even feels cool. You know that spring is still in the early stages, but your proximity should feel warm, hot even. But it doesn’t, nor is it too cold. You wonder if it has something to do with Zahn’s magic. It’s a shame you weren’t conscious to experience it. You’re curious to know if it felt the same as Ansar’s magic. So far, Zahn seems friendly and perhaps a bit lonely, given how excited $Zheshe seems to be by your company. You consider why you chose to ride with $Zhimher…. [[It’s a chance to gain some familiarity with Zahn|3.37a]] [[You find Zahn’s presence comforting and safe|3.37b]] $flirt_label [[You just wanted to get a little closer to Zahn.|3.37c]] $flirt_label [[Zahn is clearly open to flirting, and so are you.|3.37d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.37e]]

<<set $height to 'short'>> You nestle in comfortably at Zahn’s back. $Zcapitalheshe turns to smile down at you once you’re both settled, looking ridiculously pleased. You suppose your lot in this journey will be to look up at everyone around you. At least you’re easy to travel with. Papa sometimes calls you pocket-sized with great affection. He seems to adore that you are the complete opposite of his tremendous size. The journey starts off quiet, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice a subtle smile here and there. Zahn seems at ease, exuding a strange serenity. Perhaps it hails with being from a religious group? $Zcapitalheshe reminds you of water, a quick stream filled with small falls and smooth stones. The perfect source too cool yourself on a hot summer day and rest along the sounds of the babbling flow of water. The air around $Zhimher even feels cool. You know that spring is still in the early stages, but your proximity should feel warm, hot even. But it doesn’t, nor is it too cold. You wonder if it has something to do with Zahn’s magic. It’s a shame you weren’t conscious to experience it. You’re curious to know if it felt the same as Ansar’s magic. So far, Zahn seems friendly and perhaps a bit lonely, given how excited $Zheshe seems to be by your company. You consider why you chose to ride with $Zhimher…. [[It’s a chance to gain some familiarity with Zahn|3.37a]] [[You find Zahn’s presence comforting and safe|3.37b]] $flirt_label [[You just wanted to get a little closer to Zahn.|3.37c]] $flirt_label [[Zahn is clearly open to flirting, and so are you.|3.37d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.37e]]

So far, Zahn is largely an unknown to you. Oswin has demonstrated at least some trust in $Zhimher and seen the value of keeping $Zhimher around. It’s hard not to be curiously drawn to Zahn, in any case. You’ve needed a bit of levity for some time and you’ve never really made friends with anyone outside of Stonebrook before. Other than the Twinflower family, you never got especially close to others – they were all fairly surface-level relationships. Being a sheltered, sickly kid saw to that. This is a chance to get to know someone who appears to be about your age. A person outside of the limited bubble you’ve known for 24 cycles. The thought sparks a bit of joy. The weather is beautiful, and everyone seems at ease. A wave of tiredness falls over you with just a tinge of a headache. You hope that whatever has been keeping you down isn’t making a resurgence as you begin to nod off. [[Before you realize it, you’re pressed against Zahn, falling asleep.|3.38a]] [[You manage to keep yourself upright as you fall asleep.|3.38b]] $flirt_label +Z [[Your heart flutters against the warmth of Zahn’s body as you drift off to sleep.|3.38c]] $flirt_label +O [[Your gaze travels to watch Oswin as you begin to fall asleep.|3.38d]]

So far, Zahn is largely an unknown to you. Oswin has demonstrated at least some trust in $Zhimher and seen the value of keeping $Zhimher around. It’s hard not to be warmed by $Zhisher presence, in any case. Zahn exudes peace. $Zcapitalheshe could have fully taken advantage of you or even killed you, stole your things and got away with it easily. $Zcapitalheshe maybe even feels like the type of person you’ve been hoping to meet. This is a chance to get to know someone who appears to be about your age, that you can put your trust in. A person outside of the limited bubble you’ve known for 24 cycles. The thought sparks a bit of joy. The weather is beautiful, and everyone seems at ease. A wave of tiredness falls over you with just a tinge of a headache. You hope that whatever has been keeping you down isn’t making a resurgence as you begin to nod off. [[Before you realize it, you’re pressed against Zahn, falling asleep.|3.38a]] [[You manage to keep yourself upright as you fall asleep.|3.38b]] $flirt_label +Z [[Your heart flutters against the warmth of Zahn’s body as you drift off to sleep.|3.38c]] $flirt_label +O [[Your gaze travels to watch Oswin as you begin to fall asleep.|3.38d]]

<<set $Zflirt +=4>> So far, Zahn is largely an unknown to you. Oswin has demonstrated at least some trust in $Zhimher and seen the value of keeping $Zhimher around. It’s hard not to be curiously drawn to Zahn. You get a warm feeling from $Zhimher, and $Zheshe seems to like you to some degree as well. There’s a lightness about $Zhimher. It’s in $Zhisher smile, the brightness of $Zhisher eyes and the way they look back at you. You can see that just as much as you desire to get closer, Zahn wants the same with you. <<if $virgin is true>>You’ve never explored the physical aspects of relationships before, but that avenue may be one you could take with Zahn. <</if>><<if $romance is 'nointerest'>>You’ve never even had much interest in romance before. It may be that you hadn’t met anyone that could stir the feelings for you like like this.<<elseif $romance is 'experienced'>>You’ve been through this dance before, experienced the flow of flirtations and delicate looks. Zahn seems to stir you up and you believe you do the same to $Zhimher.<<elseif $romance is 'onlyphysical'>>You’ve only ever explored the physical pleasures of relationships before. Zahn catches your attention, for sure. But how exactly? You think $Zheshe seems to reciprocate your interest.<<elseif $romance is 'feelingsnophys'>>The stirrings of a romance is something a bit familiar, but you may not be sure yet. Even if you can’t say with certainty that you understand your feelings, the flicker of interest is there.<<elseif $romance is 'interestednoxp'>>You’ve been curious about relationships for a while now. Maybe you won’t truly be the most confident in such things, but Zahn seems open to you. But how would you know if $Zheshe likes you one way or another? Should you look for some sort of sign?<</if>> This is a chance to get to know someone who appears to be about your age, that you can put your trust in, however your relationship pans out. A person outside of the limited bubble you’ve known for 24 cycles. The thought sparks a bit of joy. The weather is beautiful, and everyone seems at ease. A wave of tiredness falls over you with just a tinge of a headache. You hope that whatever has been keeping you down isn’t making a resurgence as you begin to nod off. [[Before you realize it, you’re pressed against Zahn, falling asleep.|3.38a]] [[You manage to keep yourself upright as you fall asleep.|3.38b]] $flirt_label +Z [[Your heart flutters against the warmth of Zahn’s body as you drift off to sleep.|3.38c]] $flirt_label +O [[Your gaze travels to watch Oswin as you begin to fall asleep.|3.38d]]

<<set $Zflirt +=4>> So far, Zahn is largely an unknown to you. Oswin has demonstrated at least some trust in $Zhimher and seen the value of keeping $Zhimher around. It’s hard not to be curiously drawn to Zahn, to engage in banter and wanting looks. You feel with some certainty that $Zheshe seems to like you to some degree as well. There’s a lightness about $Zhimher. It’s in $Zhisher smile, the brightness of $Zhisher eyes – the way they look when Zahn speaks to you. This could be just fun, a way to feel each other out without actually touching, or perhaps it could grow into a different type of fun, a unique connection between the two of you. <<if $virgin is true>>You’ve never explored the physical aspects of relationships before, but that avenue may be one you could take with Zahn. <</if>><<if $romance is 'nointerest'>>You’ve never even had much interest in romance before. It may be that you hadn’t met anyone that could stir the feelings for you like like this.<<elseif $romance is 'experienced'>>You’ve been through this dance before, experienced the flow of flirtations and delicate looks. Zahn seems to stir you up and you believe you do the same to $Zhimher.<<elseif $romance is 'onlyphysical'>>You’ve only ever explored the physical pleasures of relationships before. Zahn catches your attention, for sure. But how exactly? You think $Zheshe seems to reciprocate your interest.<<elseif $romance is 'feelingsnophys'>>The stirrings of a romance is something a bit familiar, but you may not be sure yet. Even if you can’t say with certainty that you understand your feelings, the flicker of interest is there.<<elseif $romance is 'interestednoxp'>>You’ve been curious about relationships for a while now. Maybe you won’t truly be the most confident in such things, but Zahn seems open to you. But how would you know if $Zheshe likes you one way or another? Should you look for some sort of sign?<</if>> This is a chance to get to know someone who appears to be about your age, that you can put your trust in, however your relationship pans out. A person outside of the limited bubble you’ve known for 24 cycles. The thought sparks a bit of joy. The weather is beautiful, and everyone seems at ease. A wave of tiredness falls over you with just a tinge of a headache. You hope that whatever has been keeping you down isn’t making a resurgence as you begin to nod off. [[Before you realize it, you’re pressed against Zahn, falling asleep.|3.38a]] [[You manage to keep yourself upright as you fall asleep.|3.38b]] $flirt_label +Z [[Your heart flutters against the warmth of Zahn’s body as you drift off to sleep.|3.38c]] $flirt_label +O [[Your gaze travels to watch Oswin as you begin to fall asleep.|3.38d]]

You can’t really form many opinions on Zahn right now as it is. $Zcapitalheshe isn’t a danger to you and has been friendly. Oswin has demonstrated at least some trust in $Zhimher and seen the value of keeping $Zhimher around, so you suppose that will work for you for the time being. This is a chance, if you want it, to get to know someone who appears to be about your age, that you may even be able to friend some day. A person outside of the limited bubble you’ve known for 24 cycles. It’s an interesting thought, you suppose. The weather is beautiful, and everyone seems at ease. A wave of tiredness falls over you with just a tinge of a headache. You hope that whatever has been keeping you down isn’t making a resurgence as you begin to nod off. [[Before you realize it, you’re pressed against Zahn, falling asleep.|3.38a]] [[You manage to keep yourself upright as you fall asleep.|3.38b]] $flirt_label +Z [[Your heart flutters against the warmth of Zahn’s body as you drift off to sleep.|3.38c]] $flirt_label +O [[Your gaze travels to watch Oswin as you begin to fall asleep.|3.38d]]

Your body melts into $Zhishers, a sense of ease fluttering through all of your muscles, and you can barely resist the oncoming sleep. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Despite your height difference, Zahn doesn’t flinch and holds fast as $Zheshe supports you.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Despite your height difference, Zahn doesn’t flinch and holds fast as $Zheshe supports you.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>You perfectly lean together with Zahn, creating a bridge of effortless support and comfort between you.<<else>>You easily lean into Zahn, perfectly nestled, supported, and protected by $Zhisher body.<</if>> In the last fragments of awareness, you hear an airy chuckle. “Sleep well, $mc,” says a gentle voice. [[You’re asleep for the entire journey.|3.40]]

As you begin to fall asleep you’re beginning to drift and lean every which way. “$mc?” Zahn asks. You grunt. You hear an affectionate sigh and a light chuckle. “Here,” Oswin says, and you sense Zahn moving around. After you feel a tug at your waist, you realize there’s a rope around you, but your mind is too hazy to care. “Sleep well, $mc,” says a gentle voice. [[You’re asleep for the entire journey.|3.40]]

Your body melts into $Zhishers, a sense of ease and a touch of something more fluttering through all of your muscles, and you can barely resist the oncoming sleep. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Despite your height difference, Zahn doesn’t flinch and holds fast as $Zheshe supports you.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Despite your height difference, Zahn doesn’t flinch and holds fast as $Zheshe supports you.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>You perfectly lean together with Zahn, creating a bridge of effortless support and comfort between you.<<else>>You easily lean into Zahn, perfectly nestled, supported, and protected by $Zhisher body.<</if>> In the last fragments of awareness, you hear an airy chuckle. “Sleep well, $mc,” says a gentle voice. [[You’re asleep for the entire journey.|3.40]]

As you begin to fall asleep you’re starting to drift and lean, but you keep your focus on Oswin. He looks almost regal, set off by the sunlight, his back straight in perfect posture upon his steed. He’s equal parts fierce and elegant, you think as your vision begins to blur. “$mc?” Zahn asks. You grunt, and notice Oswin’s green eyes focusing on you, though yours are getting heavier with each passing second. You think you see him hand something to Zahn and after you feel a tug at your waist, you realize there’s a rope around you, but your mind is too hazy to care. You think Oswin may be grinning at you now. “Sleep well, $mc,” says a gentle voice. [[You’re asleep for the entire journey.|3.40]]

<<set $height to 'verytall'>> Zahn nestles easily in behind you. $Zcapitalheshe leans to the side to smile at you once you’re both ready to go. You suppose you should thank Da’s cooking and Papa’s diligent nursing for the height you’ve obtained that’s even a cut above Oswin’s. The journey starts off quiet, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice a subtle smile here and there. Zahn seems at ease, exuding a strange serenity. Perhaps it hails with being from a religious group? $Zcapitalheshe reminds you of water, a quick stream filled with small falls and smooth stones. The perfect source too cool yourself on a hot summer day and rest along the sounds of the babbling flow of water. The air around $Zhimher even feels cool. You know that spring is still in the early stages, but your proximity should feel warm, hot even. But it doesn’t, nor is it too cold. You wonder if it has something to do with Zahn’s magic. It’s a shame you weren’t conscious to experience it. You’re curious to know if it felt the same as Ansar’s. So far, Zahn seems friendly and perhaps a bit lonely, given how excited $Zheshe seems to be by your company. You consider why you chose to ride with $Zhimher…. [[It’s a chance to gain some familiarity with Zahn|3.37a]] [[You find Zahn’s presence comforting and safe|3.37b]] $flirt_label [[You just wanted to get a little closer to Zahn.|3.37c]] $flirt_label [[Zahn is clearly open to flirting, and so are you.|3.37d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.37e]]

Zahn nestles easily in behind you. $Zcapitalheshe leans to the side to smile at you once you’re both ready to go. You suppose you should thank Da’s cooking and Papa’s diligent nursing for the height you’ve obtained that’s even a match to Oswin’s. The journey starts off quiet, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice a subtle smile here and there. Zahn seems at ease, exuding a strange serenity. Perhaps it hails with being from a religious group? $Zcapitalheshe reminds you of water, a quick stream filled with small falls and smooth stones. The perfect source too cool yourself on a hot summer day and rest along the sounds of the babbling flow of water. The air around $Zhimher even feels cool. You know that spring is still in the early stages, but your proximity should feel warm, hot even. But it doesn’t, nor is it too cold. You wonder if it has something to do with Zahn’s magic. It’s a shame you weren’t conscious to experience it. You’re curious to know if it felt the same as Ansar’s magic. So far, Zahn seems friendly and perhaps a bit lonely, given how excited $Zheshe seems to be by your company. You consider why you chose to ride with $Zhimher…. [[It’s a chance to gain some familiarity with Zahn|3.37a]] [[You find Zahn’s presence comforting and safe|3.37b]] $flirt_label [[You just wanted to get a little closer to Zahn.|3.37c]] $flirt_label [[Zahn is clearly open to flirting, and so are you.|3.37d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.37e]]

<<set $height to 'average'>> Zahn nestles perfectly behind you. You twist around to see Zahn smiling you once you’re both settled. It is rather nice to have a companion that about matches your own height, especially since Lakota isn’t with you. You suppose Oswin will always loom over you as he does his little brother. The journey starts off quiet, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice a subtle smile here and there. Zahn seems at ease, exuding a strange serenity. Perhaps it hails with being from a religious group? $Zcapitalheshe reminds you of water, a quick stream filled with small falls and smooth stones. The perfect source too cool yourself on a hot summer day and rest along the sounds of the babbling flow of water. The air around $Zhimher even feels cool. You know that spring is still in the early stages, but your proximity should feel warm, hot even. But it doesn’t, nor is it too cold. You wonder if it has something to do with Zahn’s magic. It’s a shame you weren’t conscious to experience it. You’re curious to know if it felt the same as Ansar’s magic. So far, Zahn seems friendly and perhaps a bit lonely, given how excited $Zheshe seems to be by your company. You consider why you chose to ride with $Zhimher…. [[It’s a chance to gain some familiarity with Zahn|3.37a]] [[You find Zahn’s presence comforting and safe|3.37b]] $flirt_label [[You just wanted to get a little closer to Zahn.|3.37c]] $flirt_label [[Zahn is clearly open to flirting, and so are you.|3.37d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.37e]]

<<set $height to 'short'>> Zahn nestles in comfortably at your back. $Zcapitalheshe leans over and smiles down at you once you’re both settled, looking ridiculously pleased. You suppose your lot in this journey will be to look up at everyone around you. At least you’re easy to travel with. Papa sometimes calls you pocket-sized with great affection. He seems to adore that you are the complete opposite of his tremendous size. The journey starts off quiet, everyone seems to be relaxed and enjoying the warmth of spring day and smell of sweet air. Oswin still seems on-guard, but you notice a subtle smile here and there. Zahn seems at ease, exuding a strange serenity. Perhaps it hails with being from a religious group? $Zcapitalheshe reminds you of water, a quick stream filled with small falls and smooth stones. The perfect source too cool yourself on a hot summer day and rest along the sounds of the babbling flow of water. The air around $Zhimher even feels cool. You know that spring is still in the early stages, but your proximity should feel warm, hot even. But it doesn’t, nor is it too cold. You wonder if it has something to do with Zahn’s magic. It’s a shame you weren’t conscious to experience it. You’re curious to know if it felt the same as Ansar’s magic. So far, Zahn seems friendly and perhaps a bit lonely, given how excited $Zheshe seems to be by your company. You consider why you chose to ride with $Zhimher…. [[It’s a chance to gain some familiarity with Zahn|3.37a]] [[You find Zahn’s presence comforting and safe|3.37b]] $flirt_label [[You just wanted to get a little closer to Zahn.|3.37c]] $flirt_label [[Zahn is clearly open to flirting, and so are you.|3.37d]] [[No particular reason, really.|3.37e]]

You only begin stirring as you hear Oswin and Zahn speaking about something. <<if hasVisited("3.32c")>>Zahn sits in front of you, and $Zhisher voice is oddly stern as $Zheshe gestures while speaking to Oswin.<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.32d")>>Zahn sits behind you still, and $Zhisher voice is oddly stern as $Zheshe gestures while speaking to Oswin<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.32a")>>Oswin is in front, and the rumble of his voice is still loud enough to rouse you from sleep.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.38a")>>Your body is completely absorbed into Zahn’s as $Zheshe fully supports and balances you.<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.38c")>>Your body is completely absorbed into Zahn’s as $Zheshe fully supports and balances you.<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.38b")>>You realize that there is still a rope around you, holding you up on your mount, wrapped around Zahn as if you were a string puppet.<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.38d")>>You realize that there is still a rope around you, holding you up on your mount, wrapped around Zahn as if you were a string puppet.<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.35d")>>You realize that there is still a rope around you, holding you up on Flit, wrapped around Oswin as if you were a string puppet.<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.35b")>>You realize that there is still a rope around you, holding you up on Flit, wrapped around Oswin as if you were a string puppet.<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.35a")>>Your body is completely absorbed into Oswin’s as he fully supports and balances you.<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.35c")>>Your body is completely absorbed into Oswin’s as he fully supports and balances you.<</if>> It’s hard to tell if the two are arguing or not. Their voices are hushed, but raised in clear aggravation. You straighten up and rub the sleep from your eyes. Zahn snips at Oswin, “Well now you’ve done it, poor $mc woke up.” “You idiot,” Oswin chides, “you started the whole discussion that lead to this.” “Only because you won’t listen to reason!” It’s then you notice that the mounts are no longer moving, and though you’ve clearly awoken, your two guides are still only talking in angry whispers. “What’s going on?” you ask, mimicking their hushed tone. Oswin tries to speak, but Zahn quickly interrupts. “The clearing is just a little ways up, but I keep telling the big bad mercenary that something feels weird about it.” “Feels weird?” Oswin scoffs. Zahn, very maturely, sticks $Zhisher tongue out at Oswin. “It’s not //bad// just odd. It doesn’t feel like the forest or the river; it’s just not normal. My gut is always right about these things, and I think the big guy with the big sword should go check it out before we get ambushed.” You sigh and stare at Oswin, who appears to be burning to gripe to you about his side of things. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>A smirk nearly breaches your lips as you’re reminded of how he and Lakota used to argue as children. Oswin can be oddly patient, even if he puffs his cheeks out and pouts about it.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>A smirk nearly breaches your lips as you’re reminded of how he and Lakota used to argue as children. Oswin can be oddly patient, even if he puffs his cheeks out and pouts about it. It’s kind of cute to see him look like a put-off squirrel.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>An eye roll hits you before you can calm your reaction. Oswin has such a bad habit of letting his pride take over. Even as kids, he tended to act like he was inherently right about things.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>This is taking you back to your childhood. Watching Lakota and Oswin argue was daunting. Oswin can be patient to listen, but still stubborn in his opinions during spats.<</if>> You sense that you’ll be called on to mediate without being given the chance to full awaken. “$mc, I have been in this forest several times. I use this clearing for camp every time I’ve been through. I have not heard a thing or seen a thing that would make me feel that there is any danger here. The //little pilgrim// is beginning to make me think that $Zheshe is up to something.” Zahn groans. “Fine, then this //little pilgrim// will scout ahead!” With a simple fluid motion, Zahn is up and off of $mountname, which is impressive as it is surprising. [[You try to kindly mediate between them.|3.41a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You put a decisive end to their bickering.|3.41b][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[They’re both being stubborn and need to take this seriously, and if they won’t, you will.|3.41c][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You subtly reach for a snack as you keep watch on with wicked amusement|3.41d][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] [[This is ridiculous, you’ll scout ahead yourself and put a stop to this.|3.41e][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You play it safe and let them figure it out.|3.41f][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 3, 0, 100)]]

Before you can say a word or do anything, Oswin is also off his horse, going after Zahn. They immediately begin a hushed argument about which of them will scout the area ahead and the clearing. You groan and dismount, approaching them with hands raised. “You two, settle down – please,” you begin, keeping your voice calm and soothing. You feel a bit like you’re mitigating between two angry goats that are ready to lock horns. Oswin eyes you and relaxes his shoulders a bit. Zahn backs off and smiles at you, placing $Zhisher hands on the back of $Zhisher head in a casual posture. “Oswin, we all realize that you’re leading this excursion, but you agreed to travel together and even wanted Zahn’s help. $Zcapitalheshe is trying to provide that help, and you need to be a bit more open to receiving that.” Zahn smiles wide, aiming mischievous eyes towards Oswin, puffing $Zhisher chest out. “Zahn,” you start, firm but kind. $Zcapitalheshe deflates a bit, eyes turning towards you sheepishly. “...you had ought to show Oswin a bit more respect. He’s a seasoned traveler and knows the area, so if you feel that something is off, bring it up with a bit more humility, yeah?” Zahn lowers $Zhisher hands and nods. Oswin sighs heavily, but also nods in agreement. “I suppose that is fair.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“Now,” you state, “if you are quite through with your fits, we should all go have a look before we let our guard down.”<<else>>“Now,” you state, “as hilarious as it is to watch the two of you puff your cheeks out like petulant brats, we should probably all go have a look before we get comfortable.”<</if>> [[Oswin grumbles what probably passes as an agreement.|3.42]]

Before you can say a word or do anything, Oswin is also off his horse, going after Zahn. They immediately begin a hushed argument about which of them will scout the area ahead and the clearing. You slide off your steed and approach them a scowl that could rival Betony Twinflower’s when her children are up to no good. You just need her wooden spoon to wave at them and then perhaps they’d see reason. “That’s ''enough'', you two,” you say in a firm tone, sure to keep your volume a bit low. Zahn immediately pouts at you, looking like a scolded puppy. Oswin resembles a rather nonplussed owl. With their full attention, you continue. “This is an absurd thing for you to waste time arguing about.” Oswin grumbles. “But $Zheshe-” “Nope,” you cut in. “I do not care. Oswin, you agreed to bring Zahn on the road with us. That means $Zhisher voice matters, $Zhisher opinions and advice should be taken into consideration.” Zahn crosses $Zhisher arms and nods with a shit-eating smirk directed at Oswin. But, you’re not done. “Wipe that smile off your face, Zahn – I haven’t started on you yet.” $Zcapitalhisher shoulders and face immediately drop. “Oswin is an experienced traveler. He’s our guide and our main source of protection, even if he’s being stubborn, you ought to address him with a bit of respect. Both of you need to listen to each other. If I can’t even sleep without waking up to you two being petty, I’ll just take off on my own.” Zahn gives Oswin an apologetic smile and nods. Oswin sighs heavily, but also nods in agreement. “I suppose that is fair. I apologize, to both of you.” “I’m sorry too,” Zahn adds. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“Now,” you state, “if you are quite through with your fits, we should all go have a look before we let our guard down.”<<else>>“Now,” you state, “as hilarious as it is to watch the two of you puff your cheeks out like petulant brats, we should probably all go have a look before we get comfortable.”<</if>> [[Oswin grumbles what probably passes as an agreement.|3.42]]

Before you can say a word or do anything, Oswin is also off his horse, going after Zahn. They immediately begin a hushed argument about which of them will scout the area ahead and the clearing. You huff as you dismount, approaching them with arms folded as you look to the path beyond them. “Stop it, both of you!” You barely raise your voice, but keep your tone knife-sharp. Zahn immediately jerks to attention and pouts at you, looking like a scolded puppy. Oswin resembles a rather nonplussed owl. With their full attention, you continue. “What kind of fools are you if you think having a pissing contest at this moment is the best course of action?” Oswin presses his lips into a thin line. Zahn takes a breath to speak. “Nope,” you cut in. “This is not the time. Oswin, you agreed to bring Zahn on the road with us. That means $Zhisher voice matters, $Zhisher opinions and advice should be taken into consideration. If $Zheshe says something doesn’t feel right, we ought to heed that and not take stupid chances for the sake of ego.” Zahn crosses $Zhisher arms and nods with a shit-eating smirk directed at Oswin. But, you’re not done. “Wipe that smile off your face, Zahn – I haven’t started on you yet.” $Zcapitalhisher shoulders and face immediately drop. “Oswin is an experienced traveler. He’s our guide and our first line of protection, even if he’s being stubborn, you ought to address him with respect. Both of you need to listen to each other. If I can’t even sleep without waking up to you two being petty, I’ll just handle this on my own.” Zahn gives Oswin an apologetic smile and nods. Oswin sighs heavily, but also nods in agreement. “I suppose that is fair. I apologize, to both of you.” “I’m sorry too,” Zahn adds. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Now, let’s all take a deep breath, regroup, and handle this with a bit more grace.” Surprisingly, both of them follow your lead, taking some calming breaths. “Alright, let’s get going,” you conclude.<<else>>“It’s time to shape-up you two. Get it together and let’s handle this.” You lead the charge as the others snap to attention.<</if>> [[Oswin grumbles what probably passes as an agreement.|3.42]]

Oswin doesn't miss a beat and is off of Flit in seconds. You also dismount, not taking your eyes off the two bickering in hushed tones, so you don’t miss a thing. You root around in one of your saddlebags until you find a sack of dried fruit that you’ve been saving for a special occasion. With a treat secured, you quietly approach and lean against a small tree that butts up against the road. It’s comical watching them hiss at each other – both trying to remain cautiously quiet, but still raising their hackles. Though Zahn is much shorter than Oswin, $Zheshe holds $Zhisher own, hands on hips and determination etched in $Zhisher brow. Oswin has his arms crossed over his chest, heavy brow looming above his eyes and casting an intimidating shadow over his face. Surprisingly, they at least let each other say their piece. Oswin makes a show of throwing his hands up and rolling his eyes. “You can’t just say you feel weird and expect me to understand what that means.” “I didn’t say that //I// feel weird, 'something' feels weird.” Zahn rebuttals. “How in the heavens does that clarify anything!?” Oswin replies, clearly struggling to keep his voice down. You shove some of your snack into your mouth and chew with glee as you notice the tips of Oswin’s ears going red. Zahn stamps a foot, balling $Zhisher hands into fists. “You //asked// me to help you. This is me helping. Something in the air doesn’t feel right – so I told you. Your ears are so far up your own ass that you can’t hear anything else!” You fail to hide your smile and a snicker almost bubbles out of you. Digging in your bag, you pull out more dried fruit. “Well, perhaps if you should stop speaking out of ''yours'', I could actually understand you,” Oswin says through gritted teeth, ears and neck blooming in red. “You start chiding me and spitting out nonsense randomly after hours of peace and quiet, what else did you expect? Talking in circles as if I should simply just know what you mean and should dance to your tune. I made it abundantly clear that I will not give you my full trust-” You chuck a dried berry and smack Oswin right in the forehead, stopping him immediately. Zahn turns towards you, only to be struck in the cheek with shriveled date. The two silently stare at you as you pop more fruit in your mouth and watch them in turn. “You done?” you ask. Oswin and Zahn look at each other and then turn back at you. “Okay then,” you continue. “Oswin – you asked Zahn to come along, you need to value $Zhisher input. Zahn – Oswin is our guide and is experienced, speak to him with respect. Both of you give the other a moment to understand what the other is saying.” You toss another date and Oswin snatches it out of the air before it can smack either of them. A smile lights up your face. “Good, now let’s go check things out.” [[Oswin grumbles what probably passes as an agreement.|3.42]]

The two go about arguing in hushed tones, each chiding each other for this slight or that. Is this it? Will you trust your safety to a pair of bickering idiots? You roll your eyes at the spectacle. You know damn well that Oswin is just too busy feeling undermined and Zahn is being too immature to come to their senses. You’ll just take this into your own hands, check the path ahead and the clearing and hopefully by the time you get back, they’ll have stopped fighting. Trudging past them, you don’t even spare a glance, and they don’t seem to notice you. After you are down the road a ways, you tuck in close to the tree line to remain as hidden as possible, staying low to the ground. You’re about halfway to the where the road opens up when you feel hands on both your shoulders. Oswin and Zahn drag you back. Figures they manage to work cooperatively for //this// but can’t have a civil conversation. In rebellion, you let your legs go limp so they are forced to half-drag you back to where the mounts patiently wait. Oswin lights into you first. “What in the stars was that about, $mc? Are you trying to get yourself killed!?” “Yeah,” Zahn eagerly agrees. “We don’t know what might be ahead, going alone is too dangerous.” You roll your eyes and straighten your clothing. “Well, it was better than watching you two have some stupid spat over your wounded pride. At the rate you’re going, if there is something amiss, it will find us long before we find it!” Zahn immediately looks ashamed and fight leaves Oswin’s expression. “How am I supposed to trust either of you on this trip if you can’t even make one decision without finding something to argue about?” You fold your arms and the pair shirk back as they listen. “Oswin – it is no longer the two of us. You agreed to have Zahn come along, and $Zheshe is due some consideration. Zahn – you need to keep in mind that Oswin is seasoned at this and to speak to him with a bit of respect.” In unison they respond. “Yes, $mc.” Oswin sighs heavily. “I suppose that is fair. I apologize, to both of you.” “I’m sorry too,” Zahn adds. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“Now,” you state, “if you are quite through with your fits, we should all go have a look before we let our guard down.”<<else>>“Now, as long as you two can remain agreeable, I mostly promise to not run off again. So, let’s go have a look.”<</if>> [[Oswin grumbles what probably passes as an agreement.|3.42]]

Oswin effortlessly hops off of flit and the two are locking figurative horns within moments. You realize that this could take a while and also dismount, going to each steed to give them some pats and scratches around their ears. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname gently mouths at your shoulders and face as if to thank you for the attention. She looks at you softly and you see her lower lip droop as she relaxes in your company.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname bobs his head up and down to demand more attention once you stop patting him. He grunts happily the moment your hand is on his nose again.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname presses his massive head into your chest ever so gently, so that you can hug him. His eyes close and his ears flop as he rests into you.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>After petting $mountname, she raises and flaps her upper lip right in your face to show of large and yellowing teeth. You expect her to bray, but all she does is try to nibble your hair.<</if>> <<if $mount is 'mule'>>Your tall and feisty mule<<else>>Your faithful horse<</if>> has been a welcome reprieve from the hushed argument happening behind you. You dig out a few snacks for both $mountname and Flit that they gobble happily, and you decide to brush and untangle their manes while your traveling companions bicker. Bits of their conversation start to drift towards you as their hushed tones raise inadvertently here and there. “I didn’t say that //I// feel weird, 'something' feels weird.” Zahn gripes. “How in the heavens does that clarify anything!?” Oswin replies, clearly struggling to keep his voice down. You gently untangle $mountname’s mane, starting with your fingers as you consider braiding it when you get the chance. Zahn stamps a foot, and you glance back to see $Zhimher balling $Zhisher hands into fists. “You //asked// me to help you.” A sigh escapes you as you bring the brush to the ends of $mountname’s hair and gently begin working it along. Oswin’s voice is strained. “You start chiding me and spitting out nonsense randomly after hours of peace and quiet, what else did you expect?” <<if $anx > 19>>You feel your heart begin to beat hard with each harshly-toned word they say to each other. $mountname senses your distress and turns to try and nuzzle you. <</if>>You keep working quietly, hoping they will have their differences resolved soon and peacefully. You’re not sure if you should interrupt or even what you would say if you did and you’re soon washed away in thought. You feel a hand to your shoulder and jump, $mountname’s head also jerking in surprise. “$mc?” Oswin asks. “Yeah?” “I’m sorry, are you okay?” Both he and Zahn are looking at you, looking remorseful. You nod, actually a bit unsure. “Yeah, I think so. Did you two work something out?” Zahn smiles. “Well, yeah, we’re both kinda dumb it turns out.” A huff escapes Oswin. “Some of us more than others,” he mumbles. Unphased, Zahn continues. “This isn’t about us right now, and we misunderstood each other I think. Sorry for making you wait.” “So, are we taking a look around the area first?” $Zcapitalheshe grabs $Zhisher bow. “We sure are.” [[Oswin grumbles what probably passes as an agreement.|3.42]]

The three of you collect yourselves and guide the mounts to the side of the road and loosely tether them so they don’t wander off but are accessible for a quick getaway. The clearing is a ways ahead, a fairly easy trek up a slight hill. Oswin preemptively unsheathes his sword, and Zahn strings $Zhisher bow. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You take your axe from its holster that’s strapped to your saddlebags. The blade glints in the bits of sunlight that streams through the canopy of trees that hang over the road. You sharpened it before you departed home, and it feels like a shame to use it on anything but it’s intended purpose. At least you have a solid weapon to protect yourself.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You prepare a large hunting knife from Oswin’s collection. Your carving tools might be good for threatening a tree or two, but not for self-defense. The newly-sharpened blade glints in the sparkles of sunlight filtering through the tree canopy above you, and you can plainly see that it’s well cared for. It barely makes a sound when slashed through the air.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You retrieve you own sword, which has been kept safe in a holster attached to your saddlebags. After dawning your leather scabbard at your hip, you feel complete. The blade within has served you well even if you’ve only use it in practices and civil duels. You draw the weapon and prepare for whatever lies ahead.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You prepare a large hunting knife from Oswin’s collection. Your potions and balms will be handy for later if a fight does ensue, and if you had time, you could easily fashion a poison; but that won’t serve you as well as a knife right now. You’re a healer, by nature that calls more to you than doing any harm even in the name of self-defense, but you can’t be caught unprepared.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>You prepare a large hunting knife from Oswin’s collection. Your pens might be good for threatening a fellow tradesperson as you write up a bill but not for self-defense. The newly-sharpened blade glints in the sparkles of sunlight filtering through the tree canopy above you, and you can plainly see that it’s well cared for. It barely makes a sound when slashed through the air.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Though you are loathe to use your good knives in a case of self-defense, you unroll your collection and select your favorites from the bunch. You could opt to borrow a hunting knife from Oswin, but you know your own knives too well. They are perfectly balanced in your hands and sharp enough to frighten the skin right off of a potato or fillet a fish with the flick of your wrist.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You unholster your bow from your saddle, stringing it in a fluid motion. Even if you’ve been tired and unwell, the movement is still so natural to you as if the bow bends to your command. You spot Zahn’s eyes go wide as $Zheshe realizes that you’re also an archer. The spark in $Zhisher eyes tells you that a friendly competition will be requested of you soon. You’re confident, your aim rivals your da’s after all and you can often out-shoot Oswin.<</if>> After you are all fully prepared, you begin to creep up the road. It is still quiet and, to you, nothing seems amiss. Zahn peers around a bit nervously and $Zheshe appears to be searching for any source for the strange feelings $Zheshe has had. Zahn is clearly on edge. Oswin is pure focus. You’re not sure how he could look even sharper than he usually does, but it is as if the man is possessed with pure determination. The poise he exudes is flawless, and you doubt anything will escape his notice. You are near the clearing and can see that the trees are thinning and opening up. The sound of water rushing is becoming more obvious as well, and you can even smell it – fresh cool water spurred on by melting snow from the mountains. Ironically, it makes your mouth water. You all slow for a moment and look at each other. Zahn nods, still looking fraught with worry. It’s clear that whatever it is they sense is definitely ahead. Your heart begins to thrum harder in your chest and it’s hard to tell if it’s excitement or anxiety. [[A deep bellow echos from the clearing.|3.43]]

Your eyes go wide, though you see nothing as the call carries all around you, long and low, until it is punctuated by a piercing cry. Every hair on your body stands. Oswin turns to look at you, jerking his head to signal you, and you sneak closer. He whispers. “Stay here with Zahn. I will sneak up and take a look to see what we’re dealing with. I will signal you to move up, or I will make my way back if we need to leave the area.” [[You huff. You’re ready for this, he’s being too cautious.|3.44a][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You nod. You would rather play this safe.|3.44b][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]]

Oswin glowers. “$mc, know that I do this not because I think you incapable, but because your well-being, your life, is the most important thing to me...right now.” You nod. It’s a bit hard to argue that at this moment when silence is necessary and time may be of the essence. $flirt_label [[Your face is definitely feeling hotter all of the sudden.|3.45a]] [[For now, you’ll just have to let Oswin do his thing.|3.45b]]

Oswin brow furrows. “$mc, know that I will do everything within my power to always keep you safe. Your well-being, your life, is the most important thing to me….right now.” You nod. It’s almost difficult to not feel a confidence boost after words like that. $flirt_label [[Your face is definitely feeling hotter all of the sudden.|3.45a]] [[You’ll trust Oswin do his thing.|3.45b]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> Something about his tone floods you in warmth. Your eyes only met for a second, but there was such intensity with just a glance. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>You can’t help but ask yourself if feeling such things is okay. You’d determined to make Oswin into a friend again. Is this flow of warmth merely friendship? Does he feel it too or is it...is it just you?<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>This flood is carrying your heart away and fast. Your feelings are already well into something beyond friendship, and this isn’t helping matters. His words replay in your head, ‘//your// well-being,’ ‘//your// life.’ The connotation goes without saying, ''you'' are most important to him. At least for right now. //Just// right now?<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>You can’t help but ask yourself if feeling such things is okay. You’d determined to keep Oswin at a distance. How is it that you are flowing with warmth at his words? Are your feelings changing? Is the gap between you actually being bridged?<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>You can’t help but ask yourself if feeling such things is okay. You’d resolved that your feelings about Oswin would remain neutral. How is it that you are flowing with warmth at his words? Are your feelings changing? Is your middle-ground wavering now?<</if>> Another shrill cry cuts right through your thoughts. The same deep bellow resonates along with it once again. It seems unnatural, unlike anything you’ve ever heard before. Oswin and Zahn tense as the call holds for several seconds. And just at the end of it, at the height of the sharp sound, you all hear another. The distinct outcry of a voice, a human voice that is clearly distressed. Someone is up there. Someone who clearly needs help. Oswin bolts the moment he hears the person, he’s nearly to the opening in the treeline by the time you realize. Zahn looks conflicted in the split second you have to decide what to do, an arrow prepared and legs ready to run. It’s clear that you have to choose. [[You have to help. Help Oswin. Help whoever it is in the clearing.|3.46a][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[Adventure calls, and you heed it. You rush to the clearing.|3.46b][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[Oswin told you to stay back; you must stay back.|3.46c][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Oswin trusted you to stay back. It wrenches your heart, but you must.|3.46d][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Your heart clenches in fear for Oswin’s safety, before you can think, you are already running to him.|3.46e][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You can’t help it, you’ve got to be there for Oswin|3.46a][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You need to stay back, for Zahn’s sake|3.46f][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You think Zahn wants to help, and you do as well.|3.46g][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]]

You have to trust that Oswin knows what he’s doing. And, you listening to his requests are part of that. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>He’s your friend, at least that’s what you’re building towards. You need to have faith in him.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>You care a great deal for him. You worry for his safety as well, but you know that you can trust him too.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>Despite the distance between you two, you know you need to heed his wishes and play this safe. His genuine care for your safety is evident and you can’t help but have a little respect for his determination.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>Despite the neutrality you feel concerning Oswin, you know you need to heed his wishes and play this safe. His genuine care for your safety is evident and you can’t help but have a respect for his determination.<</if>> Another shrill cry cuts right through your thoughts. The same deep bellow resonates along with it once again. It seems unnatural, unlike anything you’ve ever heard before. Oswin and Zahn tense as the call holds for several seconds. And just at the end of it, at the height of the sharp sound, you all hear another. The distinct outcry of a voice, a human voice that is clearly distressed. Someone is up there. Someone who clearly needs help. Oswin bolts the moment he hears the person, he’s nearly to the opening in the treeline by the time you realize. Zahn looks conflicted in the split second you have to decide what to do, an arrow prepared and legs ready to run. It’s clear that you have to choose. [[You have to help. Help Oswin. Help whoever it is in the clearing.|3.46a][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[Adventure calls, and you heed it. You rush to the clearing.|3.46b][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[Oswin told you to stay back; you must stay back.|3.46c][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Oswin trusted you to stay back. It wrenches your heart, but you must.|3.46d][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Your heart clenches in fear for Oswin’s safety, before you can think, you are already running to him.|3.46e][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You can’t help it, you’ve got to be there for Oswin|3.46a][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]]

You’ve got to help, you cannot just stand around. It’s not the type of person you are. You know you will get a lecture later for it, but you’d rather be there to help ensure that there is someone to share those stern words with you after. With a firm grip on your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knives<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>bow<</if>>, you take off. Zahn follows close at your heels, ready to launch an arrow within a moment’s notice. The bellow sounds again along with the piercing call, you swear that it almost makes the ground below your feet vibrate. The strained yell of the person, just barely audible under the thunderous noise, spurs you to move faster. [[You see Oswin reach the clearing, brandishing his sword.|3.47a]]

You’ve got to be there, you cannot just stand around. You’ve been shut-in practically your entire life within the confines of a small and sleepy town. You //need// to see something, experience //something//. You know you will get a lecture later for it, but you cannot miss this chance. With a firm grip on your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knives<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>bow<</if>>, you take off. Zahn follows close at your heels, ready to launch an arrow within a moment’s notice. The bellow sounds again along with the piercing call, you swear that it almost makes the ground below your feet vibrate. The strained yell of the person, just barely audible under the thunderous noise, spurs you to move faster. [[You see Oswin reach the clearing, brandishing his sword.|3.47a]]

He practically begged you to stay away from danger, and you must. That doesn’t stop you from gripping your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knives<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>bow<</if>> like a lifeline though. It doesn’t stop you from fretting either. There’s a conflicting push and pull within you as you watch Oswin’s back disappear. Zahn takes a protective stance next to you with bow at the ready. The bellow sounds again along with the piercing call, you swear that it almost makes the ground below your feet vibrate. The strained yell of the person, just barely audible under the thunderous noise, spurs your heart to race. [[You see Oswin reach the clearing, brandishing his sword.|3.47b]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> He practically begged you to stay away from danger, and you must. You cannot betray that trust even if it burns you from within. He //needs// you to stay safe, stay out of the way. He //needs// you to wait for him, to give him a reason to fight hard and return. He must return to you. He must. Your hands grip tightly upon your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knives<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>bow<</if>> like a lifeline. You fret. There’s a conflicting push and pull within you as you watch Oswin’s back disappear, almost like you could reel him back if you willed hard enough. Zahn takes a protective stance next to you with bow at the ready. The bellow sounds again along with the piercing call, you swear that it almost makes the ground below your feet vibrate. The strained yell of the person, just barely audible under the thunderous noise, spurs your heart to race. [[You see Oswin reach the clearing, brandishing his sword.|3.47b]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> You’ve got to help, you cannot just stand around. It’s not the type of person you are. You know you will get a lecture later for it, but you’d rather be there to help ensure that there is someone to share those stern words with you after. With a firm grip on your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knives<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>bow<</if>>, you take off. Zahn follows close at your heels, ready to launch an arrow within a moment’s notice. The bellow sounds again along with the piercing call, you swear that it almost makes the ground below your feet vibrate. The strained yell of the person, just barely audible under the thunderous noise, spurs you to move faster. [[You see Oswin reach the clearing, brandishing his sword.|3.47a]]

<<set $Zflirt +=3>> You see the conflict in $Zhisher face as well. Oswin firmly insisted that you stay back and that Zahn remain with you. In the short time you’ve known $Zhimher, $Zheshe has grown on you and you feel the prickle of desire to also keep Zahn safe. $Zcapitalheshe was told to stay with you. So, if you put yourself in danger, Zahn likely will too. That makes you just as responsible for what may happen to $Zhimher as it does for yourself. If Oswin can’t handle this himself, you know he will come back to you and all of you can make a retreat to the horses and flee the area. You can’t put Zahn’s life on the line even if you feel conflicted about Oswin’s actions. Your hands grip tightly upon your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knives<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>bow<</if>> like a lifeline. You fret. There’s a conflicting push and pull within you as you watch Oswin’s back disappear, but Zahn remains steadfast at your side with bow at the ready. The bellow sounds again along with the piercing call, you swear that it almost makes the ground below your feet vibrate. The strained yell of the person, just barely audible under the thunderous noise, spurs your heart to race. [[You see Oswin reach the clearing, brandishing his sword.|3.47b]]

<<set $Zflirt +=3>> You’ve got to help too, you cannot just stand around. Zahn is keen and $Zhisher attitude is contagious. You know you will get a lecture later for it, but you’d rather be there to help ensure that there is someone to share those stern words with you after. With a firm grip on your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>hunting knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knives<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>bow<</if>>, you take off. You follow close to Zahn’s side as $Zheshe grips their bow, ready to launch an arrow at a moment’s notice. The bellow sounds again along with the piercing call, you swear that it almost makes the ground below your feet vibrate. The strained yell of the person, just barely audible under the thunderous noise, spurs you to move faster. [[You see Oswin reach the clearing, brandishing his sword.|3.47a]]

The rumble of the bellow hits again just as Oswin fully disappears from sight. Your heart gets caught in your throat as your mind flips through what monster could possibly make such a noise. Zahn looks conflicted and tense, but remains on guard by your side. The sound of shouting reaches your ears, a mixture of the stranger's voice and Oswin’s. You see him back up to the road once more, barely visible except for his head and sword raised high as he shouts. What is he doing? Could he luring a beast towards him? Zahn looks at you and then back to Oswin, worrying $Zhisher lip before taking off towards the clearing in a flash. Your legs move to follow of their own volition, your instinct either telling you that remaining alone is too dangerous or that you need to be there for your companions. With weapon tight in your grip, you reach the clearing. [[This is it.|3.48]]

The rumble of the bellow hits again just as Oswin fully disappears from sight. You’ve nearly caught up, and you pick up your pace. The cry from the person reaches your ears easily now; they’re yelling something. It must be a call for help. Zahn is quick and surpasses you just before you reach the tree line. $Zheshe drops to one knee and draws $Zhisher bow. You see Oswin fumble backwards back into your line of sight, sword raised high – he’s yelling something. You burst into the clearing, weapon ready, heart racing. [[This is it.|3.48]]

Your head buzzes with anticipation as you breach into the action, pure adrenaline commands you. Is it a demon? A troll? Are griffins real? …. …. <<link "It’s a monst-">><<glance "g1" "It’s a monst-" "It’s a giant elk...">><</link>> …. …. [[What is going on here!?|3.49]]

Oswin tosses his sword down as you all take in the spectacle. The elk calls out again, that strange twist between a shrill cry and a roar, as it rears up. The antlers on it’s right side are gone and dangling from the remaining set on the left, is a familiar tall gentleman, dressed down in simple linens. Nathanael. The elk shakes its head and groans. The merchant sways with every motion of it’s giant head, yelping as he struggles to hang on. He’s pleading for assistance, but Oswin seems unmoved. “Please, a hand if you would, mighty warrior!” Nathanael calls, one arm flailing about. You’re too shocked to speak as you continue to gawk. Zahn seems similarly taken. It’s hard to gauge what exactly is happening here or why he of all people would be on this road in the first place. You notice a colorful long robe neatly draped over a low branch to the side. At least it’s not all strange, seeing Nathanael only wearing white linen may be the most shocking thing about this scene. He must have removed the robe before doing...whatever this is. After some choice grumbling, Oswin stomps over to the poor merchant, dodging an accidental kick from the man as he struggles to keep hold. Though the elk is quite tall, much more than your own mount even, you’re not quite sure why Nathanael doesn’t just let go. It would be a tumble, but it isn’t like it would be that detrimental to his health. Surprisingly, Oswin avoids Nathanael all together and goes right up to the elk, reaching up to its giant head. It snorts and lowers its nose, affectionately nuzzling Oswin’s face as he sets about petting it’s forehead. It’s head keeps lowering until Nathanael unhooks his tunic from one of the points of the antler and his feet touch the ground once more. Once the extra weight is off, the elk raises it’s head again and stretches, turning towards the surrounding trees and brush to rake the antler against the foliage. Every tree in the area shakes as branches and leaves pop off in droves. With a big thud, the last of the elk’s rack falls to the ground, and it lifts it’s head to bellow once more in celebration. You nearly have to cover your ears, and you get chills at the strange mix of low and high pitches in the call. Without much fanfare, the elk folds its legs and plops down with a contented groan. Nathanael throws his hands in the air. “Well, you could’ve lead with that, you buffoon!” [[This trip just got weirder….|3.50]]

As the rush of danger leaves your body, exhaustion takes its place. At least, in this place, you can be at ease. You jump at the sensation of something touching your legs, and find Nathanael’s cat rubbing against you. His beautiful grey fur looks incredibly soft, and as he gets up on his back legs to reach up to you, patting you on the hip, you are compelled to abandon your weapon and pick him up. He’s already purring. Green eyes look at you with a mixture of softness and superiority. You notice that even his little nose and whiskers are grey. “My dear, how pleased and amazed I am that you should be among those that found me today.” Nathanael says as he saunters up to you. His purple robe is draped over one arm now. He looks a little less put-together than you’ve seen him before. His black-peppered hair is mussed and his beard could use a brush, not to think again of him being in just his underclothes. They show off his lithe figure, and you spot that the exposed skin of his arms is weathered and completely covered in strange small tattoos. He has always worn long sleeves when you’ve seen him and never struck you as the type to have such markings. None of them are recognizable to you at a glance either. <<if hasVisited("He's a handsome man and fun, perhaps he'd share your bed tonight...")>>As you take in his appearance, you’re reminded that you invited him to bed on your birthday. Now probably isn’t the time to be thinking of such things, though.<</if>> Snapping from your reverie, you find Nathanael smirking at you as he awaits a response. “Apologies, the whole ordeal has left me a bit hazy. I was lost in thought,” you say, <<if $height is 'verytall'>>tilting your head down to address him.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>meeting his hazel eyes.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>turning your gaze up to meet his hazel eyes.<<else>>tilting your head back so you can look at his hazel eyes.<</if>> “Quite alright, my dear, as long as you are well. I see Shadow is taken with you.” Nathanael reaches out and strokes the cat’s back, making his purrs run louder. “He wanted to be held, and I don’t think I could have refused...I didn’t know his name was Shadow. How appropriate.” You feel a cold nose press into your neck as little paws gently knead your shoulder. “My, but he likes you… He is my little shadow, that is for sure. He’s impossible to see at night, and I swear by the stars he can magically warp himself anywhere he wills to. One moment he’s across town charming fishermen, the next he’s under my feet as I walk. And for all the irritation he can bring me, I’d be lost without him.” Shadow seems swayed by the kind words and abruptly catapults himself from your arms onto Nathanael’s shoulders, curling his tail immediately against Nathanael’s mouth. The merchant sputters and furiously wipes his lips. [[You can’t help but laugh.|3.51]]

<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“So,” you begin, “do I dare ask why you were dangling from the antlers of your elk-friend? Let alone, why you are here of all places. This is far from a trade route fit for a merchant.” You fold your arms.<<else>>“Never have I seen such a magnificent spectacle,” you begin. “A grown man, in his underthings, dangling from the antlers of an elk. If the gods were still here, they’d be ashamed.” With a hand to your hip, you give him a smirk.<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Nathanael smiles, and you think you see a tinge of pink on the tops of his cheeks. “What can I say, perhaps I just like being a spectacle.” He smiles and winks at you.<<else>>Nathanael looks down his front and then does a little spin. “My dear, if the gods were here, I think they’d be more aroused than ashamed – personally.” He smiles and winks at you.<</if>> You’re about to finish your thought, when Oswin treads up to you both, seeming to have collected himself. Zahn scurries after him, leaving the elk behind to rest. “Please do enlighten us,” Oswin says. “Last I had heard, you were going back to Lale in preparation for a journey to Tallulah. So, I’d love to know what brings you to the middle of the back-roads, many days travel away from your destinations.” Oswin’s tone seems unusually irritated, bordering on suspicious. Nathanael waves his hands to try and placate Oswin. “Now, now, do not fear – I am not up to anything nefarious. First, introductions! You have a brought a new face in my midst, a rather sweet one at that, and I would much like to know their name.” Oswin looks like he’s about to bite, but Zahn chimes in. “Hello! My name is Zahn!” Nathanael bows. “A pleasure and an honor to meet you, Zahn. I am Nathanael of ‘Nathanael’s Whimsy and Want – trades and curiosities,’ but you may call me Nathan. That goes for you as well, $mc.” Zahn smiles, looking rather charmed. “You must be the weird thing I kept feeling.” Nathan coughs. “Excuse me?” “It must be magic – I didn’t feel anything from the deer-thing.” “Oh, you are an astute one. You’re a mage, are you?” Nathan’s brow quirks up. “Not really. I can use magic – do a little bit of healing, but mostly enhance my body, and sense other magic of course. Yours isn’t like anything I’ve felt before.” Nathan nods. “What a rare gift, young $Zmanwoperson, very similar to the Emperor of the North. I do a bit of magic here and there, but I think what you sense must be some of the artifacts in my cart. I’m quite fond of old magical bobbles and I have several.” [[Oswin folds his arms and looks just short of strangling Nathan.|3.52]]

Clearing his throat, Nathan suddenly appears sheepish. “Perhaps I should explain now.” “Please do,” Oswin says. “Well, it’s quite simple, really,” Nathan begins. “As you say, my plans were to meet with some contacts in Lale before moving on to Tallulah. Once I arrived and took care of my dealings, I caught a whisper about an old magical trinket that had surfaced around Codrin. Rumors say it holds a good deal of magic and no one is certain how it works.” You nod. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“I can see how that might interest you more than your travels,” you state.<<else>>“Can’t imagine why you’d be so interested in that,” you jest.<</if>> Nathan smirks. “I am rather prone to flights of fancy. Anyway, by the time I reached Codrin, I was too late, and the item was gifted to the royal family – which, as you know, wouldn’t stop me from trying to at least see it. But, what’s more, is that it was also rumored to have been recently stolen.” Oswin rolls his eyes. “Figures.” “Well.” Nathan holds his hand up to his mouth as if telling a secret – as if you aren’t the only people in a massive forest. “The gossip about the city was that the bobble was stolen from the monarch’s own treasury only to be found later in the royal quarters, tucked in a lock-box that only their majesty has a key to.” Zahn’s eyes squint and $Zhisher brow furrows. “So...//it wasn’t// stolen?” “Oh no, it very much was. I have a reliable source who told me it was stolen //again// right after it was found. As far as I know, it hasn’t surfaced.” You look in time to see Oswin’s right eye actually twitch. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>It’s easy to sense that he is very close to losing his patience.<<else>>It’s hard not to grin at his irritation. Nathan makes it too easy.<</if>> “Anyway,” Nathan continues, “I had searched the city high and low and spoke to all of my contacts about it before I gave up. Now, I managed to procure a little phial of-” “Nathanael,” Oswin says, his voice grumbles with irritation. “Get to it already.” “I am trying, my dear swordsman; backstory is important – you should know that.” The way Nathan grins at Oswin seems odd to you, like there is some unspoken joke between them. Oswin doesn’t seem to react though. Nathan clears his throat, and begins orchestrating his story with his hands. “I obtained a mysterious phial of powder that had clear magical origins – much to my relief since I feared I’d wasted the trip. My associates could not identify what it was for and were too leery of it to test it on themselves. It...uh, it turns out, it is a rather powerful sedative.” “And, you know that how exactly?” you ask. “While on the road out, I was examining it and may have accidentally spilled some. I was fine for a bit, thought it was a dud...and then, then I was asleep. I didn’t awaken until Dainn,” he motions to the elk, “had pulled me half way through the woods. It seems that when I fell asleep, he diverted course and found a path wide enough through the trees to pull us through. I decided to just keep going until we found the road here. Turning around would have been an ordeal. By then, Dainn’s antlers were shedding. I was trying to help, but he got very fussy with me.” Zahn’s mouth drops. “You mean, they’re supposed to do that!? They just fall off?” Nathan clasps his hands and you see his face light up at Zahn’s curiosity. “Have you never seen a great elk before? They’re similar to deer, just much bigger. The antlers grow back each year on the stags. They show off for the lady elk, and-” [[Oswin clears his throat.|3.53]]

Glaring at Nathan, Oswin cuts in. “If you’d kindly save your lesson on animal courtship, we need to get our mounts and make camp. $mc needs to rest – now.” He nods at you and stomps off, brow creased and casting a shadow over his eyes. Zahn looks at you and then Nathan, and then at you again before hustling to help Oswin. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“Well…” you begin, “I should probably do as he says.”<<else>>“Wow, I think you’re really growing on him.”<</if>> Nathan looks a little bewildered. “Quite...so, well, how about you take a seat over at my little camp while you wait. It has a great view of the whole glade.” Taking the merchant up on his offer, you make your way to where his wagon and Dainn the elk rest. The giant beast blinks at you when you approach but otherwise remains at ease. Nathan has a sackcloth blanket of sorts stretched out next to the cart, so you take a seat on it and fully realize that you are quite tired after all. While Nathan dawns his robe and begins to feed and brush Dainn, you take in the entire clearing for the first time. It’s like something out of a painting, and you’d never imagine that such a break in the trees would be here. They form a natural border for the expanse, with only a few stumps here and there from previous travelers clearing them. <div class="centered-image"> <<include "clearing">> </div> A wide stream runs through, fed by a slight waterfall just beyond some trees on the west side of the area. You hear the slight tumble and churning of the water. It is clear that the waterway is fat with the snow melt coming from the northern mountains. A rough wooden bridge stands across it, just barely lifting the path from the flow. Nathan has settled his cart close to the path into the east of the forest. It appears just wide enough for a giant elk with only half of a rack of antlers to pass through. The ground is rough from other travelers, so you imagine it must be a route that is frequented but isn't a proper road. The remnants of a frequently used campfire area are clear as well, though it appears to be long cold. The air coming from the stream is cool and smells fresh and crisp, making your mouth water for a drink – a taste of mountain snowfall. It’s a ways beyond midday and you can already hear the chorus of frogs coming form their burrows to chirp to one another. You wonder if you’ll hear any crickets, it’s still a bit early yet, but maybe you’ll be so lucky. Dainn raises up on his giant legs as Oswin and Zahn come from the road with the mounts in tow. [[You’re pretty sure they’ll get along, at least you hope.|3.54]]

Flit is unperturbed and ignores the giant animal. Meanwhile, $mountname<<if $mount is 'chessy'>> stares at the elk with wide eyes, clearly not happy. She grunts and yanks the reins, and Zahn is quick to soothe her and lead her a ways off.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>> snorts and folds his ears back. Zahn chirps at him in a soothing voice and leads him a bit away from the elk.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>> pays him no mind like flit. Maybe being so large himself, he feels a comfortable kinship.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>’s ears perk to their full height. You worry that her attitude will be poor, but instead, she pulls Zahn over to inspect the creature. Dainn politely accepts some nuzzling from the mule. It seems your mount has a crush.<</if>> Oswin spurs Zahn to help him with the mounts, handing $Zhimher Flits reins as he stomps over to you. Motioning for you to come near, you close the distance so he can whisper. "Tell nothing of the reason for our journey to these two. Zahn seems harmless enough, but we do not know $Zhimher. I do not trust Nathanael. I told Zahn you were simply ill and seeking special medicine in the city. Nathanael will likely buy this as an excuse." You nod. He touches your shoulder gently. "I ''beg'' you, keep it secret as best you can." Oswin's eyes shine with sincerity. "I will," you promise, and he quickly parts to take care of the mounts leaving you with more questions. Nathan finally returns holding a crate, outfitted fully in his purple robe and glittering rings. “$mc, would you care to join me at the campfire. It’s prudent that we get one going. I have plenty of fresh food that I will happily share. You nod and make to join him, noticing Oswin giving you a stern look. You call back to him, <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Don’t fret, I’m still taking it easy!”<<else>>“Don’t give me that look, I know my own limits!”<</if>> Nathan has a large grin when you settle by the campfire, quickly setting to work by stacking some nearby logs within the circle of stones. “I’m afraid I’ve made him rather cross.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“He’ll come around, he’s just been tense lately. I might have something to do with that more than you.” You sigh.<<else>>“You seem to be a bit of a thorn in his side, but this time it might be more me than you.” You shake your head.<</if>> “I wish he’d like my company. I don’t imagine he cares much for my antics,” Nathan says as he begins to back bits of tinder under the wood. You start looking through the crate of goods he brought with him and begin sorting the various vegetables you find. While you work, you spy one of the small tattoos again, close to his wrist. [[You ask him about the tattoos.|3.55a]] [[You keep the subject on Oswin and ask why they don’t get along|3.55b]] $flirt_label [[You’re alone now, and you might not be later...perhaps you can flirt a little and cheer him up.|3.55c]]

“Nathan?” “Yes, my dear?” “I never realized that you had tattoos before,” you begin. Nathan fumbles the log he’s adjusting and it thuds into the dirt. He snaps his eyes to yours – hazel on $eyecolor – as it takes him a moment to realize what he’s doing. Taking the log back up, he shakes his head. “Oh, those are from when I was a young man. Young and silly – as you can imagine.” He winks at you, the surprise having been cleared from his face. The shift in his mood is evident, even if he’s hid it from his expression. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>> “Apologies, I should have kept the question to myself,” you rush out.<<else>>“Sorry, I just didn’t take you for the sort that would have them. What with all this grey in your hair, I assumed you’d be more old fashioned.” You smirk.<</if>> His eyes turn back up as he grins. “No harm done, but maybe you should give those vegetables a wash. I’ll incur Oswin’s wrath for making you work so hard, I promise.” “Fine, fine.” You lift the crate and make to head towards the stream. “Before you go…” You turn. Nathan has a mischievous smile. “Want to see something wonderful?” His tone is suggestive. <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>You nod, curiosity getting the better of you.<<else>>You eye him skeptically, unsure if you should agree or not.<</if>> Holding his hand to the tinder, Nathan snaps his fingers… [[And the campfire goes up immediately into flame.|3.56]]

“Nathan?” “Yes, my dear?” “Why //don’t// you two get along? Did something happen or do you just clash that much?” Nathan chuckles. “Well, I suppose the most logical explanation is that he takes life too seriously, and I do not take it seriously enough.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You nod. “I suppose that could be, but that wouldn’t totally explain it either. He’s good friends with my da who doesn’t take anything seriously either...”<<else>>You chuckle. “I don’t know if I can believe that; if that were the case, I am pretty sure he would have run me through already and left me for dead.”<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>The merchant’s smile turns rueful. “Your da only //acts// like he takes nothing seriously.”<<else>>The merchant shakes his head. “But I am not //you//.”<</if>> That doesn’t clear much up for you, so you meet his eyes with an unwavering and curious stare. He challenges them for a moment – hazel on $eyecolor – until he gives. Nathan mumbles something. “What?” you ask. He mumbles again. “Nathanael…” “I said, I thought he was 'drawn' to me. When we first met, I believed he was rather adorable being so...stern, so I picked on him. He became flustered, and I mistook it for...longing. He was actually just angry.” <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>A laugh bursts from your lips in a poorly-restrained sputter.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Your heart sinks for a small moment, wondering if there really could have been something between them.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>You think you feel your eyebrows touch your hair line.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>You shake your head.<</if>> “I pushed and pushed and flirted – I said very unseemly things to him – for weeks! I was so caught up in it...ugh!” Nathan tosses a log into the pile. “When I finally understood, I was so disgusted with myself. I tried apologizing over and over. He said he forgave the slight at least, but I think I had already ruined any sense of friendship. I hadn't any romantic pull to him even, I thought we were just having fun.” “Is that why you still try to irritate him sometimes? That seems...counterproductive.” “I can’t help it, I feel like it’s our thing now.” He shrugs. “To irritate each other?” Nathan laughs. “Yes. I might like it, despite all the things I could kick myself for – even if he disagrees, it still feels a bit like a friendship to me. Anyway, enough of that, maybe you should give those vegetables a wash. I’ll incur Oswin’s wrath for making you work so hard, I promise.” “Fine, fine.” You lift the crate and make to head towards the stream. “Before you go…” You turn. Nathan has a mischievous smile. “Want to see something wonderful?” His tone is suggestive. <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>You nod, the impulse of curiosity getting the better of you.<<else>>You eye him skeptically, unsure if you should agree or not.<</if>> Holding his hand to the tinder, Nathan snaps his fingers… [[And the campfire goes up immediately into flame.|3.56]]

<<set $merchantopinion +=5>> “Nathan?” “Yes, my dear?” <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Your heartbeat suddenly spikes. You clear your throat as you feel heat encroaching up your neck. There’s a flutter in your stomach. “I wanted to say…” You have Nathan’s full attention by now. He’s patiently kneeling by the campfire, but his hazel eyes are fixed firmly on your face. A tiny grin has formed on his lips. “I thought I should say, that I think your robes are quite fetching on you. Flattering.” You nod and muster a little smile, meeting his eye just for a moment before glancing away. <<else>>Excitement beats through your heart. Your mouth naturally slips into a half-smile and your eyes narrow into a come-hither gaze. “Since we find ourselves alone for the moment, I thought I shouldn’t waste the opportunity. You have Nathan’s full attention by now. He’s patiently kneeling by the campfire, but his hazel eyes are fixed firmly on your face. A tiny grin has formed on his lips. “Your robes are quite fine, they suit you – flatter your figure...but I have to say I may like your choice in under-clothing a bit better.” <</if>> Nathan stands and gets close. He smiles, his eyes morphing into something that almost strikes you as predatory. “And //I// quite like the way your mouth moves around my name.” <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You blanch.<<else>>Your smile matches his.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("He's a handsome man and fun, perhaps he'd share your bed tonight...")>>He places a finger under your chin, making sure your eyes do not stray from his. “I seem to recall an invitation of sorts from a while ago...It’s a shame we have such decent company around, you might get cold tonight, but I would require the utmost privacy for the ways I would warm you up, $mc.”<<else>>He keeps his eyes locked into your gaze as he stands even closer, keeping just far enough away as to not touch you. “It’s risky to ring such flattery into my ears while we’re in the midst of polite company. I’m sorely tempted to see what other lovely things I could draw out from your tongue.”<</if>> You swallow with great difficulty. This was supposed to be you flirting with him. Somewhere it seems, he took control. Nathan chuckles and steps back. “Another time, perhaps. Anyway, would you be so kind as to give those vegetables a wash. I’ll incur Oswin’s wrath for making you work so hard, I promise.” You blink at him for a moment, the shift in mood hitting like a whirlwind. “Fine, fine.” You lift the crate and make to head towards the stream. “Before you go…” You turn. Nathan has a mischievous smile. “Want to see something wonderful?” His tone is suggestive as he gets to his knees next to the campfire. <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>You nod, curiosity getting the better of you.<<else>>You eye him skeptically, unsure if you should agree or not.<</if>> Holding his hand to the tinder, Nathan snaps his fingers… [[And the campfire goes up immediately into flame.|3.56]]

Nathan makes no more show of the spectacle as you gawk for a moment. You suppose now that you are away from the prying eyes of the town, he feels more comfortable showing off what he can do. Though, he is normally the type to bask in attention and magic is certainly a way to get lots of that. He’s a peculiar man. You wash the produce, noticing Oswin giving you a rather grumpy look before he comes to help you and carries the crate back to the fire. Everyone helps to prepare a simple stew. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You assist in splitting more wood to keep the fire going, but not without a great deal of grumbling from Oswin. Though you are doing much better, you do feel more weakness in your swing, but manage to set enough wood aside for the night and tomorrow morning.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You help collect wood for the fire and use some of the tools you brought to make shavings that will make excellent kindling. Oswin grumbles at you for working, and you note that you do feel weaker but still have the strength to help a good deal.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>With nothing to fight, you set your sword aside and borrow an axe to cut some wood – not the downward swing you are accustomed to, but you’re not bad at it. Oswin grumbles at you, but you’re able to help prepare enough wood to last a bit.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You set aside your bow in favor of collecting wood and anything dry you can use for kindling. The surrounding forest is generous, though Oswin gripes at you to rest. You do feel like you have less stamina, but are still able to collect a good deal of supplies.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You set aside your medicine bag in favor of collecting wood and anything dry you can use for kindling, while keeping an eye out for precious herbs. The surrounding forest is generous, though Oswin gripes at you to rest. You do feel like you have less stamina, but are still able to collect a good deal of supplies.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>You get to work collecting wood and anything dry you can use for kindling, also managing to strike a deal with Nathanael to offer up some extra food he’d had tucked away. The surrounding forest is generous as well, though Oswin grumbles at you to rest. You do feel like you have less stamina, but are still able to collect a good deal of supplies and make Nathanael part with some meat and bread.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You end up fending the others off with your knives as you set to work. Food and fire are your domain and you don’t want any of them under foot while you work. In no time you have peeled, chopped, seasoned, and stewed all of the ingredient – tapping into some of the precious spices you managed to bring with you as well.<</if>> You all eat together, everyone so hungry that hardly a word is said. Zahn eats like $Zheshe is starved, licking $Zhisher bowl and then diving in for more. Oswin relaxes – you see the moment it happens as he tastes the food, his shoulders ease and he sighs with contentment. Nathanael picks at his food slowly, but you notice him close his eyes with each bite and you imagine he must not cook for himself that often. After eating trail rations and the odd bits you could forage while on the road, the simple stew feels more like a feast. There’s likely fish in the stream, and Nathan has already offered an overabundance of vegetables he had on hand. <<if $interest is 'cookin'>>Perhaps Nathanael would have other ingredients you could use to make something special tomorrow as well.<</if>> After the heavy meal, everyone simply relaxes. The sun has already dwindled below the trees and though it would normally be hours until you would sleep for the night, your eyes are heavy. Zahn begins to quietly sing a song that you’ve never heard before, $Zhisher voice is sweet and mellow. Frogs sing from the stream as it babbles along, and the fire gently cracks. You sway from your seat. [[You snap yourself awake at the last second and decide to bed down for the night.|3.57a]] [[Oswin catches you before you tumble over.|3.57b]] [[Zahn sits you up before you fall over.|3.57c]] [[Nathanael manages to save you from plunging into the dirt.|3.57d]]

You save yourself just in time and notice all three of the people in your company have risen from their own seats and are reaching out to you, all prepared to keep you from falling. You manage a chuckle and give them a wave as you make to find your bedroll and spot to sleep in. Nathan has already told everyone that he sleeps inside his caravan. Oswin has informed you that his bedroll will be within a ‘reasonable distance’ from yours, and Zahn wants to be close to the fire. It doesn’t feel too cold tonight, but you opt for a soft place in proximity of the campfire area. The others bid you goodnight as you nestle in, covering yourself with your cloak and your trail blanket. Within moments, the night sounds are lulling you again. You look up to see how beautiful the night sky is, the moon is close to full, and spindly clouds slowly flow by, blotting out the light intermittently. <<if $mark is 'night'>>You feel a tingling shiver up and down your spine. The sensation almost makes you smile as you’re lulled further.<</if>> Your eyes slip closed just as the clouds clear and you are bathed in moonlight. [[You have the best night of sleep since your journey began.|3.58]]

He grabs you by the shoulders and sits you back up. Kneeling in front of you and looking into your eyes, he gently touches the back of his hand to your cheek. “Do you feel okay?” he asks. His voice is almost a whisper. You nod. “Yes, just falling asleep.” Guiding you by the arm, he makes sure you’re steady enough to get yourself situated before hesitantly letting you go. He stands by and watches you a moment to ensure you are okay, turning to leave a time or two as if he’s unsure when he should leave you before finally settling himself back down. Nathan has already told everyone that he sleeps inside his caravan. Oswin informed you earlier that his bedroll will be within a ‘reasonable distance’ from yours, and Zahn wants to be close to the fire. It doesn’t feel too cold tonight, but you opt for a soft place in proximity of the campfire area. The others bid you goodnight as you nestle in, covering yourself with your cloak and your trail blanket. Within moments, the night sounds are lulling you again. You look up to see how beautiful the night sky is, the moon is close to full, and spindly clouds slowly flow by, blotting out the light intermittently. <<if $mark is 'night'>>You feel a tingling shiver up and down your spine. The sensation almost makes you smile as you’re lulled further.<</if>> Your eyes slip closed just as the clouds clear and you are bathed in moonlight. [[You have the best night of sleep since your journey began.|3.58]]

You feel a gentle pull on one shoulder as $Zheshe rights you on your perch. Once you’re steady, they sit close to you, arms ready to help you again. “$mc, you must be really tired still,” $Zheshe says in a low and gentle voice. “Can I help you get your bedroll out?” Your heavy eyes meet Zahn’s and you nod. $Zcapitalheshe grins back at you, looking amused, before jogging over to your things and retrieving your bedroll. Nathan has already told everyone that he sleeps inside his caravan. Oswin informed you earlier that his bedroll will be within a ‘reasonable distance’ from yours, and Zahn tells you that $Zheshe wants to be close to the fire. It doesn’t feel too cold tonight, but you also opt for a soft place in proximity of the campfire area. With Zahn’s help, you get your bedding down and snuggle in. The others bid you goodnight as you get comfortable, covering yourself with your cloak and your trail blanket. Within moments, the night sounds are lulling you again. You look up to see how beautiful the night sky is, the moon is close to full, and spindly clouds slowly flow by, blotting out the light intermittently. <<if $mark is 'night'>>You feel a tingling shiver up and down your spine. The sensation almost makes you smile as you’re lulled further.<</if>> Your eyes slip closed just as the clouds clear and you are bathed in moonlight. [[You have the best night of sleep since your journey began.|3.58]]

Just as your eyes involuntarily shut head droops, he gently shocks you awake by catching your forehead as you begin to tumble forward. You gaze up and see his amused smile and gently bat his hand away. He removes it only to pat you gently on the head. “My dear, you’ve been blinking one eye at a time for quite a while now, perhaps your bed calls to you?” he asks. You’re too tired to argue and make to stand so you can prepare to bed down. You stumble, and Nathan snatches you to his side to keep you from falling. You notice Oswin flinch and grab his sword out of reflex. Odd. Once you are balanced, Nathanael gently <<if $height is 'verytall'>>turns your head with two fingers and meets your eyes.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>lifts your head with two fingers under your chin and looks into your eyes.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>lifts your head with two fingers under your chin and looks into your eyes.<<else>>lifts your head with two fingers under your chin and bends down to look into your eyes.<</if>> “Now, now – don’t go falling for me just yet.” You roll your eyes and swat him away so you can collect your things. Nathan informs everyone that he will sleep inside his caravan. Oswin informed you earlier that his bedroll will be within a ‘reasonable distance’ from yours, and Zahn wants to be close to the fire. It doesn’t feel too cold tonight, but you opt for a soft place in proximity of the campfire area. The others bid you goodnight as you nestle in, covering yourself with your cloak and your trail blanket. Within moments, the night sounds are lulling you again. You look up to see how beautiful the night sky is, the moon is close to full, and spindly clouds slowly flow by, blotting out the light intermittently. <<if $mark is 'night'>>You feel a tingling shiver up and down your spine. The sensation almost makes you smile as you’re lulled further.<</if>> Your eyes slip closed just as the clouds clear and you are bathed in moonlight. [[You have the best night of sleep since your journey began.|3.58]]

The warmth of the sun greets you as you begin to stir from your slumber. You’re flat on your back as if you didn’t once move from when you first laid down. You hear all manner of birds and smell crisp fresh air rolling in the breeze. <<if $mark is 'sun'>>You feel a tingling shiver up and down your spine. The sensation almost makes you smile as you’re roused further into wakefulness.<</if>> As you become more aware, you realize that there is a pressure on your torso. You blink. The pressure is warm. You tilt your head up and are met with a pair of narrowed green eyes set against a lump of grey fur. Shadow. You sigh and flop back down onto your bedroll as you feel the sensation of rumbling purrs vibrating your gut. [[Pet the cat|3.59a]] [[Shoo the cat|3.59b]] [[Snuggle the cat|3.59c]]

* -''Layla'': “night” -''Chan'': “moon” -''Dorchae'': “dark” -''Katar'': “summit” -''Arwa'': “mountain goat” -''Volkan'': “volcano” -''Rotem'': “desert plant, or ‘to bind’” -''Neta'': “plant” -''Carmi'': “vine” -''Elowen'': “elm tree” -''Mu'': “tree, wood” -''Sylvan'': “wood, forest” -''Boran'': “thunderstorm” -''Raiden'': "thunder/lightning" -''Audra'': “storm” -''Ra'': “sun, day” -''Sole'': “sun” -''Danica'': “morning star” -''Noodles'': “Noodles”

You almost feel compelled by an invisible force. You stroke Shadow’s fur along his head, neck, and back as he begins to knead his paws. He subtly scoots himself until he’s to your chest and brings his nose to poke your chin. He rasps a little meow at you. “You’re cute,” you tell the furball. “I don’t see why Nathanael has any trouble with you. You’d never bite someone who didn’t deserve it, would you.” Shadow meows an agreement and purrs louder. After he’s had enough, he hops down from you and trots along the campground in search of something to pounce. [[You’re now covered in grey fur.|3.60]]

You lean your body over to dislodge the cat, but he rides it out. So, you roll all the way over to your stomach, but the stubborn animal steadily shifts until he sits upon your back instead. You sigh, and notice that he’s still purring. “Away with you, cat,” you say, rocking your body to one side. He meows at you. You contemplate just laying face down until he gets bored and leaves, when he suddenly jolts from your back in a great leap, off to scout the campground for something to pounce. You roll over and sit up with a sigh. [[There’s a dusting of fur on your clothes.|3.60]]

You almost feel compelled by an invisible force. You stroke Shadow’s fur along his head, neck, and back as he begins to knead his paws. He subtly scoots himself until he’s to your chest and brings his nose to poke your chin. He rasps a little meow at you. Taking your opportunity, you wrap your arms around him and sit up, burying your face into his soft fur. He meows at you again, sounding a bit more annoyed than before. “You’re so cute,” you tell the furball. “I don’t see why Nathanael has any trouble with you. You’d never bite someone who didn’t deserve it, would you.” Shadow huffs, but you notice that he purrs louder as well. After he’s had enough, he wiggles from your grasp and hops down to trot along the campground in search of something to pounce. [[You’re now covered in grey fur.|3.60]]

As you continue to blink sleep from your eyes, you take stock of your surroundings. It is well beyond dawn at this point, later into the morning you wager. You’ve been able to sleep for several hours and feel quite refreshed – perhaps you’ll be able to set out again before too long. You’ll have to discuss that with Oswin. The clearing is even more beautiful in the morning light. The whole area simply breathes. You spot Nathan in a striking azure robe decorated with silver embroidery. He’s speaking with Zahn and the two seem to be getting along just fine. You don’t spot Oswin anywhere in sight. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname is enjoying her freedom with Flit. Both the horses are untacked save for a very long lead on each to keep them in the clearing. They still stand together, close to the stream nibbling at the tall grass.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname is enjoying his freedom with Flit. Both the horses are untacked save for a very long lead on each to keep them in the clearing. They still stand together, close to the stream. $mountname gently nuzzles Flit’s neck, which she allows, returning his affection here and there.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname is enjoying his freedom. Both the horses are untacked save for a very long lead on each to keep them in the clearing. Flit stands close to the stream nibbling at the tall grass while $mountname rests next to Dainn. The two seem to have struck a kinship, perhaps due to their similar sizes, though Dainn is still a ways larger.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname is enjoying her freedom to the fullest. Both the mounts are untacked save for a very long lead on each to keep them in the clearing. Flit stands close to the stream nibbling at the tall grass while $mountname stands in the shadow of Dainn. She makes sure to lean against the giant elk, which he tolerates, and you imagine he’s given up arguing with her about it. It figures that your mule would fall in love with an elk at least three times her size.<</if>> You get up and stretch before making your way to Nathan and Zahn who greet you with big smiles as you pad over. “Good morning,” you say. Nathan bows his head and Zahn grins at you. “Morning?” Zahn chides, “It’s closer to midday, $mc.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“You know very well that I was in need of a good long rest. Especially considering the volume you and Oswin argue in…And it’s not as if I have more pressing things to do at present.” You fold your arms and give $Zhimher your most challenging stare.<<else>>“All of you are so incredibly boring, what else am I going to do around here? Count the leaves of the trees, the blades of grass? Perhaps make friends with some fish - they’d be infinitely better company.” You smirk.<</if>> Zahn puts $Zhisher hands up in a gesture to make peace. “Point taken, but I’ll have you know there is plenty around here you could be doing.” Nathan shakes his head, fiddling with some loose threads on his robe. “Oswin saved you back something to eat, it’s in the pot by the fire. He’s wandered off through the trees to swing his sword about.” Zahn snickers. “Zahn and I have been getting acquainted, but either of us would be happy to entertain you,” Nathan continues. “It’s a bit cold, but if your trek has been as difficult and weary as you’ve implied, the pool just beyond the falls would make for a nice bath, but you may want to be mindful your traveling companions before you do.” You squint at Nathan, unsure if he’s implying anything untoward. “I should worry about them and //not// you?” “Oh, stars no, $mc – I bathed last night.” He grins at you, leaving you with a slightly uncomfortable sense that he’s implying something. It also strikes you as strange that if the water is cold during the day, that he would bathe in it at night when it’s much colder. Zahn chimes in. “I don’t mind bathing together. We do that all the time in my congregation.” Nathan scoffs, but it resolves into a laugh. “Let me know if you decide to do that, Oswin will have a fit and I’d love to witness it.” You leave them to it and make your way over to the campfire to find your food – some sort of porridge it appears, with bits of apple mixed in. [[As you eat, you consider all you could do during your stay here.|3.61]]

You agree that a bath is probably necessary, and you won’t know how long it will be until you find another place to get a good one. So far, you’ve had to make due with cleaning up at tiny streams, using rags and cloth to scrub your skin and hope for the best. You have a nice soap given to you by your da for just such an occasion. There’s no denying that spending some time with your camp-mates may be interesting, even a bit fun. Oswin is probably relaxed here, especially with having a sense of security with two other people. You and Zahn are still getting a feel for each other as well, and you’ve never spent much personal time with Nathanael either. If nothing else, you may have questions for each of them. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>It would also be helpful to chop more firewood for everyone. It //is// one of your specialties after all. Oswin will fuss, but you’re feeling well enough. You’d rather not just sit around either.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Though there isn’t any furniture or gadgets to make, you do have some of your tools with you. It may be nice to pass the time by carving a special something.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Oswin may have the right idea by going through some drills with his sword. You ought to do the same and be sure to keep up. Maybe he would spar with you? It may take some convincing.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You may take a note from Oswin’s book and practice with your bow. You could make some arrows as well. Zahn may be up for some competition, which could be fun.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>It would not hurt to pick some herbs that may be handy in the coming days. Nathan may even have some items you can barter for. You should probably also give yourself a good tending-to.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>You barely have any wares on you, but you wonder if you could see what Nathan has in stock. If you can get a deal, you may be able to make a bit of gold on it in Codrin later.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Nathan seems to have quite a bit of food in his caravan. You could make something interesting to eat or even make a treat for someone else. If nothing else, it would be wise to make sure your knives stay sharp.<</if>> Or, perhaps it’s better to spend time away from your normal routine. This is supposed to be a rest for you. Not to mention, you’d have plenty of time to spend on $mountname as well, and in a way that doesn’t require the poor animal to carry you. Another option is to take part in a hobby that you’ve picked up in your adult years… [[Singing.|3.62a]] [[Drawing/Painting.|3.62b]] [[Sculpting.|3.62c]] [[Storytelling.|3.62d]] [[Whittling.|3.62e]] [[Needlework.|3.62f]]

<<set $hobby to 'singing'>> It started as you simply humming tunes as you worked or went about your business around town. You hear music all around you and grew up to your fathers belting out old songs from their youth, so it felt natural. Eventually, you came up with your own songs, and those that hear you end up drawn in. You sometimes get requests for your songs, especially from the owner of the tavern in town. It was hard to keep from being overheard eventually and gossip spreads easily through Stonebrook. Songs would often find you while you were working. And sometimes you wouldn't even realize that you were doing it. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>While felling trees with your papa one day, you attracted a group that had been foraging. The fools were so distracted that they nearly got hit by falling branches.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>While working in your shop making furniture and the like to fill requests, you would sometimes find customers or your own parents sneakily listening to you.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>While patrolling and sparring with the local guard, there were times others were more interested in hearing your voice than they were anything else. Your partners would often challenge you to a duel and request a song if they won.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You inadvertently impressed judges at an archery tournament by singing as you easily trounced all the other competitors. The tune in your heart seemed to carry the arrows to the targets.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Your talent for singing has soothed many of your patients. Children and those who are quite ill find great peace and calm as you sing while you work. You were even well-paid by a resident with a baby stricken with colic to visit several times over an entire season. When the baby was fussy, she would only fall sleep to the sound of your voice.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Singing has even helped you cut deals with other merchants. Some were simply enchanted while you flitted through a few notes as you perused wares. Others even offered you discounts and bargains on trades as long as you performed a song for them.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You often have a good deal of time to yourself while you cook and many of the kitchens you have worked in carry your voice eloquently. During a very large banquet for a group of very wealthy patrons, your voice had carried out from the kitchen and into the banquet hall. Your employers were so impressed and enjoyed it so much that they paid you extra and requested that you sing and cook for them again soon.<</if>> It was encouraging that something you enjoyed so much was held in such regard by others. [[It still made you feel pretty shy about it.|3.62aa][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You embraced the attention pretty well.|3.62ab][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]]

<<set $hobby to 'sculpting'>> You’re not completely sure where your love for sculpting began, but it may have had something to do with the bits of dough your fathers would give you when you were small. If they ever had a bit left over from making bread, they would hand it to you to play with. You enjoyed it so much, that Da came up with a simple recipe to make you a hardy but still pliable dough to work with. You even colored it using flowers and husks from fruits and vegetables. As you grew up, you started making your own clay or trading for it when you could find it. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Your skills as a sculptor have gone a bit unappreciated in your daily work but it hasn’t gone unnoticed. You love for it is such that, even when it is just mud at the bank of a stream, you can shape it into something beautiful. Those that have passed by have marveled at your little creations, and for a while, several locals thought some sort of magical presence was the one leaving the beautiful little works of art behind.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Your sculpting really began being noticed when you had order come in for furniture or tools. It started with a patron noticing a lovely clay cup you were drinking from. Eventually orders came in for tables and chairs with extra paid for a set of dishes, or an vase to display flowers. Your ability to carve has also added some beautiful fine details to your finished pieces.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>As adept as you are with a sword, you are equally skilled at shaping clay. Those that you work and train with would hardly believe it, if they had not seen your work for themselves. You once apprehended a drunk woman from the Stonebrook Tavern that had been causing a scene. You watched over her while she sobered up and provided her a meal and water with dishes you had made yourself. She admired them greatly and was so awed by the design that she had to ask where they came from. The woman ended up being a very wealthy merchant from Lale. To this day she pays a high price for your art.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>As adept as you are with a bow, you are equally skilled at shaping clay. Those that you work and train with would hardly believe it, if they had not seen your work for themselves. You once apprehended a drunk woman from the Stonebrook Tavern that had been causing a scene when filling in with the local guard. You watched over her while she sobered up and provided her a meal and water with dishes you had made yourself. She admired them greatly and was so awed by the design that she had to ask where they came from. The woman ended up being a very wealthy merchant from Lale. To this day she pays a high price for your art.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Sculpting has proven to be quite handy in your work as a healer. Instead of paying high prices for philes and containers for your medicines and salves, you can simply make them yourself. You can refine your pots well enough that they do not break as easily as glass, and they are quite lovely to look at too. You receive many compliments from those you help as well, and you’ve given little sculptures to them to cheer them up as they heal.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Your skill for sculpting has been easily cultivated along with your knack for money and trade. You make money hand over fist for your beautiful and unique designs as well. When selling or trading for other things, you often tease your art as a bonus to convince some of the more shrewd business-people to work with you and give you better deals. It’s almost too easy and gives you much more time to enjoy your hobby.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Sculpting has giving you the ability to not only cook delicious food, but also present it in a breathtaking and memorable way. Not only have you made bowls and platters to display your food, but grand sculpted centerpieces that your customers gladly show off at their grand dinners. A wealthy benefactor once paid you triple your fee as long as you left all of your dishes and centerpieces for them – you didn’t even have to wash the dishes either.<</if>> It was encouraging that something you enjoyed so much was held in such regard by others. [[It still made you feel pretty shy about it.|3.62ca][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You embraced the attention pretty well.|3.62cb][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]]

<<set $hobby to 'storytelling'>> Your fathers told you many stories as you grew up, so maybe it was natural for you to gravitate to it. They always made sure you had access to as many books as they could find, and when traveling storytellers were around, they took you to listen to them. As you grew older, your love for this didn’t fade, and you now write and tell your own tales. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Your work in logging has given you a great deal of time to run stories through your mind. When you’re alone, you can practice telling them to the trees, and sometimes Papa listens in if you want him to. You’ve even drawn some inspiration as you work as being out in the forest brings many unusual and beautiful things to your eyes. The most memorable being when you spotted a pure white stag watching you carefully while you took a break to drink. You told it part of your story, and it seemed to listen for a while before simply wandering away. You wove the creature into a few of your own tales.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Your work in carpentry has given you a great deal of time to run stories through your mind. When you’re alone, you can practice telling them to your tools and the pieces you make. Sometimes, Papa listens in if you want him to. Some of the items you have crafted have been carved with subjects from your stories as well, bringing new life to the wood. Your customer deeply admire the extra work and always want to know the tale behind the carvings. It’s made you often think that every item seems to hold a story, and it grows and grows the older it gets and the more its used. The thought has brought you a lot of inspiration.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>For as long as you have trained in the sword, you have spun tales in your mind’s eye. Your own experiences while dueling others have easily fueled your stories and helped you come up with valiant heroes to be admired. Your da has used your love for story to help you train, even. He has you come up with a tale or add to existing ones as you practice with him, to hone your skills while you may be distracted to sharpen your instincts. It has made for quite the spectacle as well since you and Da have been able to tell a story together that coincides with your dual. Papa frets over it, but is always enraptured when you do it.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>For as long as you have trained in the bow, you have spun tales in your mind’s eye. Your own experiences while shooting and competing have easily fueled your stories and helped you come up with valiant heroes to be admired. Your da has used your love for story to help you train, even. He has you come up with a tale or add to existing ones as you practice with him, to hone your skills while you may be distracted to sharpen your instincts. It has made your aim incredible even when it appears you aren't looking.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Being both a healer and a storyteller has made the people you’ve help very happy. As you make your medicines and prepare treatments, you come up with tales to tell your patients as you treat them. It helps ease their mind from their ails with the added benefit of stilling them so you can do your job effectively. Children and adults alike fall under your spell as you weave tales of adventure and intrigue for them. They often feel better physically and mentally when you are done.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>As you do your ledgers while you work, you often get ideas for tales and scrawl them into the margins of your books. At times, you get so invested into your ideas that your financial ledgers are full of story instead. Trading has made it easy to find books to read and journals to fill with your tales. There’s also been no shortage of captive audiences if you needed any. Other merchants also appreciate a story they can pass along to customers. It’s not unusual for one of your narratives to get passed along trade routes for a long time before making it back to your ears, often with some twisted and altered parts of the plot.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>During some of the more monotonous parts of your job, such as when you chop vegetables or knead dough for what feels like hours, you can spin tales within your mind. You know so much of your trade by heart that your mind can drift freely even as you expertly wield your knives. Your notes for your recipes contain little scrawls of details for your characters and their adventures. A small wealthy family once noticed these and requested that you tell them a tale over dinner with them. They were so enraptured, that they began hiring you for their special dinners and paying you a good deal extra if you told them a story.<</if>> It was encouraging that something you enjoyed so much was held in such regard by others. [[It still made you feel pretty shy about it.|3.62da][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You embraced the attention pretty well.|3.62db][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]]

<<set $hobby to 'whittling'>> Much like your papa, you took to whittling wood in your downtime. It began with you picking up cast-off pieces from him and simply fiddling with them with no particular end result in mind. It was something you could set your hands to that relaxed and entertained your mind. Before long, the mindless fiddling turned into actual objects, little works of art. You kept at it when you noticed that you had a knack for making some semblance of what you intended, and before long they were almost masterful. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>In your work as a logger, you’ve had no shortage of materials to work with, and have a good pile of interesting-shaped wood pieces to work with at home. The shape of the wood often calls to mind a particular image, oftentimes animals, and your hands almost work on their own. You see it as it takes shape, knowing almost by instinct what you need to do to carve the piece you want. Many people who purchase lumber from you, often also request any little items you’ve whittled. They make you a fair bit of extra gold.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>It was especially natural for you with your skills as a carpenter to latch on to whittling. You never tire of how endlessly usable and shape-able wood really is. You even whittle things like animals into the furniture you make to give it more personality. Some of your whittled works sell on their own for a fair bit of coin, and the other items you carve figures into, always fetch more gold compared to the plain ones.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Since you wield a sword like your da, it may have been natural for you to pick up on something from Papa as well. Perhaps it is you love of blades that encouraged you too. Even after long days of training, or patrolling with the town guard, it was always nice to sit and make something come to life out of a block of wood. Fellow guards and townspeople would often stop and watch you as well, and eventually you received offers of gold for your beautiful pieces.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Since you wield a bow much like your da, it may have been natural for you to pick up on something from Papa as well. Even after long days of training, or filling in with the town guard, or when you had archery competitions, it was always nice to sit and make something come to life out of a block of wood. Townspeople would often stop and watch you as well, and eventually you received offers of gold for your beautiful pieces.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Whittling was something you did for yourself for a long time, but you soon found an application for it in your daily work as a healer. While treating an injured child, they were completely inconsolable. Herbs to treat pain and calm them did not have as great as an effect as normal. You feared their injuries would worsen if they did not settle. As a last resort, you offered them a little wooden dog you had recently whittled. It worked. They were enamored with the happy face of the pooch. You let the child keep it once you were done with the treatment, they named it and to this day can often be seen carrying it with them. You found that adults as well appreciate the beautiful pieces or simply enjoy watching you make them.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Whether you intended it or not, the market for your whittled pieces can be outrageous at times. They’ve made you a good bit of gold, which just means you can keep making more in your downtime. Despite trade being your expertise, you hadn’t really imagined that you hobby would net you much of an income. The traveling traders that go all over Iroda often request anything you’ve made as they sell quite well. One such trader has sworn to you that the Northern Emperor purchased a simple wooden cat you made, wanting to put it on her mantle.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>When you have no orders for food or special feasts to prepare and cook for, you have found a lot of company in whittling. It’s been quite handy in also carving some small bowls and tools for you to use as well. It wasn’t long until your skills were noticed by those that paid for your services. Not only have you made bowls and tools, but you’ve whittled several small pieces that combined into centerpieces that your customers gladly showed off at their grand dinners. A wealthy benefactor once paid you triple your fee as long as you left all of your dishes and centerpieces for them – you didn’t even have to wash the dishes either.<</if>> It was encouraging that something you enjoyed so much was held in such regard by others. [[It still made you feel pretty shy about it.|3.62ea][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You embraced the attention pretty well.|3.62eb][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]]

<<set $hobby to 'needlework'>> It started as simply patching clothing for yourself and your fathers. Your stitches were rough at first, but smoothed with practice. Then, you wondered what else you could do with a needle and thread. You’ve tried it all at this point. Your skill has grown from simply patching clothing to making clothes yourself. You embroider, sew, patch, knit, and everything in between. Your fathers have been very helpful – Da happily models for you and Papa has made you mannequins that you can pin your creations on. Papa has been especially encouraging as he no longer struggles to find tunics to fit his huge form since you can make them for him. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Your line of work often leaves your clothing in disrepair, and your skills have been a boon at both repairing your clothing and making outfits that are hardy and durable enough to accommodate you. Many ask you about your clothing and are shocked to learn that you wield both an axe and a needle with equal precision.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Your line of work often leaves your clothing in disrepair. You couldn’t count the number of times you have snagged your clothes on a rough bit of wood, and your skills have been a boon at both repairing your clothing and making outfits that are hardy and durable enough to accommodate you. Many ask you about your clothing and are shocked to learn that you wield a needle as well as you shape planks into furniture.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Your line of work often leaves your clothing in disrepair, and your skills have been a boon at both repairing your clothing and making outfits that are hardy and durable enough to accommodate you, even some padded and leather armor. Many ask you about your clothing and are shocked to learn that you wield both a sword and a needle with equal precision.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Though not too hard on your clothing, your archery is made easier by having garments that accommodate your flexibility without catching in your arrows or on your bowstring. You’ve made all your own outfits that are as flattering as they are functional. Many ask you about your clothing and are shocked to learn that you wield both a bow and a needle with equal precision.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>At first, you just made your own outfits to work in as a healer. You made aprons and all manner of smocks with plentiful pockets to aid you as you worked or picked herbs. Eventually, you also designed several items to assist your patients, such as special slings and braces they could wear when injured. The application has been a boon to you and Kavi has purchased many such items for his own use. Not to mention that you are heavily preferred over anyone else to stitch up wounds. Recipients of such treatment always report that the wound looks and feels better much sooner, and the scars are not as prominent.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>If there is one thing you have learned in your time as a trader, it’s that looking your best draws customers and helps get them to listen to you. You have clothing for every audience. The more your appearance reflects the person you are trading and selling with, the more apt they are to be comfortabale with you. You even have the added benefit of selling some of the items you’ve made.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Knowing your way around a needle has helped you a great deal with your clientele. Most of the people who purchase your services have some level of wealth. Even if they barely see you, looking your best lends itself to your credibility and professionalism. You have the nicest aprons of any other cook as well, which gets noticed a great deal. The staff that regularly work for your patrons often request that you make and sell them aprons and work uniforms as well. Not to mention that a wealthy noble commissioned robes from you for an important meeting. Afterwards, they gave you a very high quality swath of fabric and requested a grand embroidered cloak from it. You were paid enormously for the finished product, but the noble asked that you keep it a secret. Before you went on your way, one of their hired hands whispered to you that the cloak was requested by the Emperor of Madeh himself. You’ve never been able to validate the claim, but a feeling in your gut says it’s true.<</if>> It was encouraging that something you enjoyed so much was held in such regard by others. [[It still made you feel pretty shy about it.|3.62fa][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You embraced the attention pretty well.|3.62fb][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]]

The attention your hobby has drawn, hasn’t been your favorite part of it. You still enjoy singing, but try to keep the moments where you let yourself sink into it as private. The clearing is large enough and there are likely private pockets within the surrounding trees you could sing in privately. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'shy'>>

The attention you got from your hobby was never something that bothered you that much. You may even enjoy it. There are plenty of areas you could sing in, and you imagine your voice may carry well in a couple. There’s a captive audience of three that you could entertain as well. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'bold'>>

<<set $hobby to 'drawing'>> There weren't many children around you that didn't draw or paint to some extent growing up, but you found that the appeal to you didn't waver as you grew older. It was an artistic medium that called out to you. You practiced a great deal, and over the years you became quite the artist. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Perhaps in your everyday profession, your artistry didn't find as much purchase, but it did bring you a never-ending supply of surfaces to work your art upon. You liked the way charcoal looked when applied to the rich yellow of wood. You even painted upon large slices that were cast off from trunks. Papa and Da liked to hang those in your house. Being outdoors also gave you a greater chance of finding things to make your pigments with.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Your customers adore the way your pieces reflect your artistry. The way you carve your drawn designs into furniture and tools turns them into something special. The splashes of color bring new life to wood and metal to create something people can admire for many years to come.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>People are often surprised when they learn that you are also an artist. You may like subverting their expectations of you made simply because you can wield a sword. The captain of the guard in Stonebrook shares a bit of that with you as she is also the main tattooist in the area. She pays you for designs as well.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>People are often surprised when they learn that you are also an artist. You may like subverting their expectations of you made simply because you can wield a bow. Your bow, which displays some of your artwork, with small painted designs.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>There are many things that you work with in your profession as a healer that you found you could also use in your art. From the same plants you can make pigment and medicine. You can use charcoal to treat a variety of things and also use it to draw. The people you've helped have loved it when you shared your work with them. It raises their spirits and helps them feel better and more at ease.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>You can't possibly count all the drawings that are in the margins of your ledgers at this point. You've filled entire journals with them. As you've worked with other merchants and traders, your skill hasn't gone unnoticed either. You've been asked to sketch and paint designs for store signs and even entire walls. One such old traveling trader gave you a sack of gold for doing a sketch of his late wife when his only remaining one was deteriorating.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Naturally, as a cook, you have taken many notes over the years and a log of all your recipes, complete with illustrations. Those you've cooked for that have seen your book rave about both your food and drawings. A rich family that you did a banquet for paid you a great deal extra for making them a family portrait in addition to the feast.<</if>> It was encouraging that something you enjoyed so much was held in such regard by others. [[It still made you feel pretty shy about it.|3.62ba][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You embraced the attention pretty well.|3.62bb][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]]

The attention your hobby has drawn, hasn’t been your favorite part of it. You still enjoy drawing and painting, but try to keep the moments where you let yourself sink into it as private. The clearing is large enough and there are likely private pockets within the surrounding trees you could find time away from any prying eyes to enjoy it. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'shy'>>

The attention you got from your hobby was never something that bothered you that much. You may even enjoy it. There are plenty of areas with great lighting that you could plop down and draw. Maybe you’ll show the others what you’re working on as well. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'bold'>>

The attention your hobby has drawn, hasn’t been your favorite part of it. You still enjoy sculpting but try to keep the moments where you let yourself sink into it as private. The clearing is large enough and there are likely quiet pockets within the surrounding trees you could find time away from any prying eyes to enjoy it. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'shy'>>

The attention you got from your hobby was never something that bothered you that much. You may even enjoy it. There are plenty of areas that you could plop down and sculpt today. By the stream seems to be the best area since you can easily find material to work with. Maybe you’ll show the others what you’re working on as well. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'bold'>>

The attention your hobby has drawn, hasn’t been your favorite part of it. You still enjoy storytelling but try to keep the moments where you let yourself sink into it as private, and do most of it through writing. The clearing is large enough and there are likely quiet pockets within the surrounding trees you could find time away from any prying eyes to enjoy it. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'shy'>>

The attention you got from your hobby was never something that bothered you that much. You may even enjoy it. You could easily work on a story or two today, and you have no shortage of people to bounce your ideas off of or even perform a tale for them. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'bold'>>

The attention your hobby has drawn, hasn’t been your favorite part of it. You still enjoy whittling but try to keep the moments where you let yourself sink into it as private. The clearing is large enough and there are likely quiet pockets within the surrounding trees you could find time away from any prying eyes to enjoy it. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'shy'>>

The attention you got from your hobby was never something that bothered you that much. You may even enjoy it. There are plenty of areas that you could plop down and whittle today. The campfire area seems like it may make a good place for it, that way your wood shavings can be tossed in for kindling. Maybe you’ll show the others what you’re working on as well. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'bold'>>

The attention your hobby has drawn, hasn’t been your favorite part of it. You still enjoy your needlework but try to keep the moments where you let yourself sink into it as private, though your clothing often attracts attention to an extent. The clearing is large enough and there are likely quiet pockets within the surrounding trees you could find time away from any prying eyes to enjoy it. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'shy'>>

The attention you got from your hobby was never something that bothered you that much. You may even enjoy it. Wearing your own clothing often brought attention to it. There are plenty of areas that you could plop down and work on something today. The campfire area seems like it may make a good place for it or perhaps next to the stream. Maybe you’ll show the others what you’re working on as well. [[It’s time to start your day|3.63]] <<set $hobbycomfort to 'bold'>>

<<if not hasVisited("3.64")>>[[You make your way to the stream for a bath.|3.64]]<<else>>You already had your bath.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.65")>>[[You find a spot to entertain yourself and work on a project.|3.65]]<<else>>You've enjoyed your hobby.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.66")>>[[You go in search of Oswin to spend some time with him.|3.66]]<<else>>You visited Oswin.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.67")>>[[You go to find Zahn to spend some time with them.|3.67]]<<else>>You visited Zahn.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.68")>>[[Nathanael is around somewhere, you may as well check in with him.|3.68]]<<else>>You visited Nathan.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.69")>>[[You spend some time with your mount.|3.69]]<<else>>You visited your mount.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.74")>>[[You go ask Oswin to spar with you.|3.74]]<<else>>You sparred with Oswin.<</if>> Not Finished: <<if not hasVisited("3.75")>>[[You seek out Zahn for a friendly archery contest.|3.75]]<<else>>You tested your archery skills against Zahn.<</if>> Not Finished: <<if not hasVisited("3.76")>>[[You are curious what Nathanael is up to...|3.76]]<<else>>You feel robbed.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("3.77")>>[[You want to do something nice for one of your companions.|3.77]]<<else>>You made a sweet gesture.<</if>> <<if $ch3bath is 'true' and $ch3hobby is 'true' and $ch3oswin is 'true' and $ch3zahn is 'true' and $ch3nathan is 'true' and $ch3mount is 'true'>>[[It’s time to wrap up the day|3.70]]<</if>>

<<set $ch3bath to 'true'>> After fishing through your packs and saddle bags, you manage to find some mostly clean clothes and your soaps, also making a mental note to wash all your linens before you continue the journey. You wrestle all your things into a controlled packaged and remember to grab the sad bolt of sackcloth you’ve been calling a towel. You spot your three companions gathered at Nathan’s cart. Oswin is drinking furiously from a water skin and his hair is clearly damp. Nathanael is holding a bit of fruit well above Zahn’s head as $Zheshe struggles to jump and reach it. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You roll your eyes as you watch the display.<<else>>You smile and watch them for a moment.<</if>> A thought comes to mind. It’s not odd for people even in your village to bathe together. Whole groups often go together for company and protection. Your home has the luxury of an indoor bath, so it hasn’t really come up for you before. You could ask someone to join you either as just company or to actually bathe with you. [[Ask Oswin to join you|3.64a]] [[Ask Zahn to join you|3.64b]] [[It may be awkward with the others, but you don’t want to be alone...you’d rather see if Nathanael will keep you company|3.64c]] [[You go bathe alone|3.64d]]

<<set $ch3hobby to 'true'>> <<if $hobby is 'singing'>>Since you don’t really need anything to enjoy yourself, you just need to decide where you’d like to sing. There’s several places around camp. Or, if you prefer to be alone, you could venture out just a bit and find a place on your own.<<elseif $hobby is 'drawing'>>You fish around in your supplies and find your pencils and sketch journal. Now you just need to find a spot you can draw. You can stay in camp or find a secluded spot for yourself.<<elseif $hobby is 'sculpting'>>Thankfully, you have a lump of clay tucked safely away in your saddlebags for just such an occasion. With a bit of water it will be fine for some roadside sculpting. Now you just need to find a spot you can sculpt. You can stay in camp or find a secluded spot for yourself.<<elseif $hobby is 'storytelling'>>You fish around in your supplies and find your pencils and journal. Even if you decide not to recite a story, you can always work on writing one. Now you just need to find a spot you can draw. You can stay in camp or find a secluded spot for yourself.<<elseif $hobby is 'whittling'>>You fish around in your supplies and find your knife and a bit of wood you’ve already started on. Now you just need to find a spot you can work. You can stay in camp or find a secluded spot for yourself.<<elseif $hobby is 'needlework'>>You dig out a piece of embroidery you’ve been working on since before you left home, making sure you have your needles and threads. Now you just need to find a spot you can work. You can stay in camp or find a secluded spot for yourself.<</if>> [[You decide to stick close to camp.|3.65a]] [[You venture out just a little ways to find a private spot.|3.65b]]

<<set $ch3oswin to 'true'>> It takes you a bit of time, but you eventually discover Oswin’s location. He’s made his way through the trees a bit, not far from the waterfall, where there is a gap in the folliage, just big enough that the canopy doesn’t hide the sun. You quietly approach, dodging the new growth from a batch of thistles, and hear the sounds of him straining and the wisp of his blade through the air. When you breach the trees enough to finally spot him, you find that he’s removed his tunic, though you'd think it a bit too chill to do so. But it’s clear that he’s been practicing for a good long while. His hair is dripping wet from, you think sweat, though he may have doused himself with water. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>Beads of moisture trickle down the lines of the muscles in his back. The sun shines off his sword, making him look quite picturesquely noble – considering he's half-naked in a glen swinging a sword.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Beads of moisture trickle down the lines of the muscles in his back, perfectly outlining how taut and honed they are. The rich brown of his skin is well-highlighted, the sun bringing out the bronze tones. He's panting….<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>Leave it to Oswin to work himself to exhaustion even on a break.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>He makes an interesting visage, basked in sunlight. Odd that he would work himself so hard while you are supposed to all be taking a break.<</if>> The way he moves through his drills reminds you of flowing water. He transitions through stances with profound grace, barely rustling the grass at his feet. As he lifts his arms, you spy a tattoo over his ribs on the left side and an old scar on his right shoulder blade. With a sharp grunt, Oswin swings his sword and turns in your direction. He startles, fumbling back but keeping a grip on the sword. “$mc! You scared the piss out of me!” You morph your face into something a bit more apologetic. “Sorry, I just got here and was surprised to see you still training.” His face deepens in color, and you finally notice his chest. [[You look upon him as you would anyone else. You observe, but do not gawk.|3.66a]] [[You gawk.|3.66b]]

<<set $ch3zahn to 'true'>> You find Zhan settled down on a log near the campfire, where only a few warm embers remain. $Zcapitalheshe has no less than three cloaks spread out before $Zhimher. Zahn seems to be patching them, $Zhisher tongue poking out as $Zheshe focuses on getting the weak needle through the thick material. $Zcapitalhisher petite build is more evident without all the layers of cloaks, only a rough sackcloth tunic covers Zahn’s torso. <<if hasVisited("3.64b")>>You saw a good bit of $Zhisher form during your bath together, but you didn’t necessarily get to look for a good long while. It would have been quite rude to gawk.<</if>> You hadn’t realized how elegant $Zhisher features are – slim neck and shoulders, toned arms, and fine long fingers. It surprises you that $Zheshe prefers to wield a bow, even if it is with the aid of magic. “Mind if I join you?” you ask. Zahn bites $Zhisher lip as $Zhisher needle pops through the cloak and patch, but doesn’t divert attention to you. “I’d love your company, $mc.” “Your cloaks are looking a bit rough. <<if $hobby is 'needlework'>>You know, I could do this for you, I know a fair bit of sewing, and I patch clothing for my fathers a great deal.<<else>>Is there anything I could do to help?<</if>>” $Zcapitalheshe raises $Zhisher head finally to smile at you. “Nah, as long as my needle doesn’t break, I’m good. It doesn’t need to look nice as long as it keeps me warm.” Zahn returns to the work at hand. “Do you get cold easily? You wear three cloaks.” Zahn nods. “I do a bit, but it’s easier to wear them all than wear one and pack two. A couple are pretty thin so...it just works. Using magic sometimes gives me a chill too.” “Really?” Zahn nods, and then winces after sticking $Zhisher finger with the needle. Kissing the wounded finger to $Zhisher lips, Zahn pulls the thinnest and most tattered cloak out and hands it to you. “This one is my favorite. It helps me sleep.” You take the cloak. It is so thin that it could barely be called a cloak. The ends are shredded, there are patches of all different colors, similar to the rest of Zahn’s clothing. It appears to have been a sort of red color at one point, but it is faded to a very dusky pink now. “This must be quite old. Does your church have much in way of cloaks for you to use on your pilgrimage?” “They gave me some money and a pack, but part of it is just using my own things. That cloak was my mothers, so I keep it for her memory.” Suddenly the thin cloth in your hands feels much heavier. <<if $mommyissues is 'sad'>>The sting of sadness hits your gut as you are reminded of your own poor birth mother.<<elseif $mommyissues is 'anger'>>The sting of anger hits your chest as you think of your own poor birth mother.<<elseif $mommyissues is 'thankful'>>A swell of gratitude stirs your heart as you think of your own birth mother.<<elseif $mommyissues is 'guilt'>>The sting of guilt hits your gut as you are reminded of your own poor birth mother.<<elseif $mommyissues is 'okay'>>You’re reminded of your birth mother and all she went through.<</if>> You wonder if this is a sore subject for Zahn, but $Zheshe so easily handed this to you, maybe this is a good time to get to know Zahn a little more…. <<if hasVisited("3.21a")>>[[You ask Zahn to tell you about himself.|3.67a]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.16a")>>[[You ask Zahn to tell you about himself.|3.67a]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.16b")>>[[You ask Zahn to tell you about herself.|3.67a]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.21b")>>[[You ask Zahn to tell you about herself.|3.67a]]<</if>>

<<set $ch3nathan to 'true'>> As you wander about camp, you spot Nathanael sitting under the shade of his caravan atop a blanket. Not far off is Dainn, laying off to one side, nibbling from a bucket of feed Nathan has put down for him. It’s odd how such a giant animal can appear so peaceful. You see a shimmer of grey fur from under the caravan watching over the other two – you almost didn’t see the cat at all as he blended into shadows, true to his namesake. Heading over, you wave a greeting to Nathan. He motions you over and pats a spot across from him on the blanket. You sit. “How do you fare young Northbreaker?<<if hasVisited("3.64c")>> Perhaps much cleaner than when I last saw you – more clothing as well?<</if>>” Nathan says as he reaches for a pouch on his belt that is every bit as embroidered and bespeckled as his robe. “I am doing well<<if hasVisited("3.64c")>> and indeed I am much cleaner<</if>>. I felt quite rested after last night.” Nathan pulls out a pipe from the pouch and begins to pack it the contents of yet another bag. You’re not sure what it is, but most of it resembles tobacco. It has a very sweet but musky smell. “At the volume you were snoring at, I have no doubt you slept peacefully.” You glower at him. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“I don’t believe I snore.”<<else>>“I do //not// snore.”<</if>> Nathan chuckles and then puts the pipe to his lips. He has no flint, but you remember his trick from earlier, but rather than putting on a magic show for you, the pipe simply lights and begins to smoke. You gawk. After taking a few quick puffs, Nathan smiles through a cloud of smoke, handing you the device. “One of my favorite magical curios – self-igniting pipe.” You grab it and take a good look. It appears as a normal pipe, very similar to the one your papa sneaks when Da isnt looking – though, you’re not supposed to know about that either. “It doesn’t look terribly special. This is magical?” “Tis,” Nathan says. “Most magical items do look positively ordinary – that’s because they are, or were, when they were created. When someone of immense magical strength handles such things, items simply become imbued with the power. Go on, take a puff if you’d like.” You stare at the pipe… [[You’ve smoked before, you take a couple puffs.|3.68a]] [[You’ve never smoked before, but want to try it.|3.68b]] [[You’ve never smoked and never will, you pass it back.|3.68c]] [[You smoke sometimes, but don’t want to now.|3.68c]] [[You’ve tried it and never cared for it, you pass it back.|3.68c]] [[You’re not sure you trust a pipe from Nathan, you don’t even know what he’s smoking.|3.68c]]

<<set $ch3mount to 'true'>> You make the trek across the campground towards the treeline, swiping an apple and carrot as you pass the crate of supplies Nathan offered. You and Oswin’s mounts have been tethered on long leads close to the water so they can drink. They seem to be enjoying each other’s company, basking in the sun near the stream. $mountname <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>stands very close to Flit, practically pressing into the other mare. They could almost pass for sisters, even though their patterns are so different, and seem to have bonded likewise. $mountname is by no means too skittish, but Flit seems to have a calming presence that works well with your horse’s personality.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>seems very enamored with Flit. He nuzzles her and mouths at her, which she tolerates with profound grace. You’ve witnessed her swatting him with her tail a time or two when he’s gotten too fresh, but she’s quick to forgive.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>looms over Flit, which doesn’t seem to bother the mare in the slightest. He stays close, but gives her space to stretch. The two are a good match in how calm they are, like they haven’t a care in the world.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>gets along well with Flit, but you think that is more the horse’s doing than your mule’s. $mountname gets pesty when she’s bored, and you’ve spotted her trying to get the horse to roughhouse, but Flit doesn’t care to.<</if>> <> <<if $mount is 'chessy'>><<link "You wave your treat to get your mount’s attention.">><<reveal "r1" " " "3.chessy">><</link>><</if>> <<if $mount is 'eb'>><<link "You wave your treat to get your mount’s attention.">><<reveal "r1" " " "3.eb">><</link>><</if>> <<if $mount is 'bay'>><<link "You wave your treat to get your mount’s attention.">><<reveal "r1" " " "3.bay">><</link>><</if>> <<if $mount is 'mule'>><<link "You wave your treat to get your mount’s attention.">><<reveal "r1" " " "3.mule">><</link>><</if>> <>

After a very full day, you settle down with the others. Zahn and Nathan are bickering over a large pot of, what you believe to be, a type of stew. Oswin is sitting on one of the logs near the fire with his arms folded, watching the display. Darkness is falling quickly, and you are struck with the realization that your time at this camp is drawing short. You’ll be on the road again soon. You’re close. Closer at least than you were, and your condition has improved a great deal. Despite how busy the day was, you still feel rested. The terrain will get rougher as you move ahead as the area becomes much more mountainous, but right now that doesn’t feel as daunting as it did even a day ago. Right now feels like a good time for one final step to the day. You need to discuss the journey ahead, and you think it might be best to do so away from Nathanael, if nothing else, to put Oswin at ease to speak freely. The more you’ve thought on it, the more bringing Zahn to the shrine makes sense. You take a quick moment to secretly tell each of your traveling companions that you should chat after Nathan turns in for the night. They agree. The evening continues with a tasty dinner – everyone concurs that Zahn was right and it needed more herbs and potatoes, which Nathan sneers at. Thankfully, he turns in early, and you wait until he manages to pull his robes through the back hatch of his caravan before turning towards your companions. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You begin. “So, I thought we should talk a bit about our trip coming up. Oswin, I understand you had a plan, but I’d really like to discuss some amendments to it.”<<else>>You begin. “We need to talk about our travel plan. I have an idea that I think we need to implement.”<</if>> Oswin folds his arms. “What is it that you want to change?” He eyes Zahn, and you know his thoughts are ramping up. “Oswin, I was informed that you told Zahn we would split off here.” He glowers. Zahn sits very quietly, tucking $Zhimselfherself in to look smaller. “Before you take offense, Zahn already knows where we’re headed. $Zcapitalheshe knows that I’m trying to find something to help my illness.” You look at him pointedly. Oswin nods. “And?” “If Valko really has abandoned his shrine, there may be something magical I can use there still. Nathanael seemed to suggest it was likely as well.” A long groan escapes Oswin. “Did you tell //everyone// what we’re doing?” You sigh. “I get the feeling he already knew…” Zahn chuckles. “Doesn’t take that much to put it together when you think about it. Even I-” Oswin shuts $Zhimher up with a look. You have a feeling Oswin knows that the secret wouldn’t keep, but he’ll dig his heels in to defend it. “Listen,” you say. “If either of us found anything magical at the shrine, we’ll probably have no idea. Zahn can sense magic.” There’s a noticeable change in Oswin’s expression as he realizes the truth in that statement. He sighs heavily. It seems you’ve already won. That was...much easier than expected. You give him a moment to think and respond. After a moment, he finally does. “The logic is there. Lest we bring back every bobble we find, we’ll never be able to tell the difference. I doubt gods clearly labeled their magical paperweights…” A big smile is plastered on Zahn’s face, but before $Zheshe can say anything, again Oswin interrupts. “Zahn, I’ll accept this arrangement – but know that I will not trust you fully. I can’t allow myself to right now. It is nothing personal, $mc is my priority.” The pilgrim nods. “Then, we’re of the same mind.” You look between them. Zahn continues. “I don’t know either of you that well either. Frankly, I especially distrust you, Oswin. Don’t forget that there are two of you, and I am great with a bow, but only if I can shoot before I’m run through. I’d like us to be friends, and I understand if that takes time for either of you. I really do just want to help $mc. It's my duty as a follower of Faith.” You wait to see if Oswin will budge or apologize. He seems to soften at Zahn’s words, but he doesn’t give. “Then, it’s settled,” Oswin declares. “Zahn, we will appreciate your service, and I promise to try and be an amiable traveling companion to the both of you.” “Excellent,” you say, pleased that there was at least no yelling. “While we are on the subject…” Oswin starts. [[It looks like you’re not done for the day yet.|3.71]]

You approach Oswin, but he doesn’t seem to notice you among the commotion from the other two. He takes another long drink from his waterskin and you can see that he must be really working hard on his training exercises. You lightly touch his arm and say his name. <<if $Ostat is 'crush'>>He immediately chokes, water spraying from his lips. He coughs a few times, bringing the back of his hand to wipe away the droplets coating his chin. Zahn and Nathan turn and stare for a moment before quietly chuckling to themselves and sharing a look. Oswin clears his throat and turns to you.<<else>>He stops drinking with what appears to be a small amount of difficulty. Water spills a little down his chin, and he clears his throat as he wipes away the drops with the back of one hand. Oswin clears his throat and turns to you.<</if>> “$mc...do you need anything?” <<if $Ostat is 'crush'>>“You not drowning in your waterskin would be a boon.” You smirk. He sighs. “Quite.”<</if>> “Actually, I was just going to get a bath, but I don’t want to go alone. Would you come with me?” He freezes and stares at you, his brow completely shadowing his eyes. “Come with you?” You nod. “You can take one too, or just keep me company if you wouldn’t mind.” Nathan speaks up with a mischievous shine to his eyes. “If you won’t I-” “No need.” Oswin holds a hand up to Nathan. <<if hasVisited('“Awe, you worried you won’t get to see me naked again?”')>>“So eager, Oswin...maybe you really //do// want to see me naked again.” His face flushes through a gradient of reds. “I told you that was never my intention. I’d never- Do you really think- ...You will never allow me to forget, will you….” He sighs. “Nope.”<</if>> He stares at your for a moment. “I’ll accompany you, so you feel at ease, but I’ll stay on the bank. Afterwards, I’ll finish my drills. You go on ahead and I will join you once you are...settled.” [[You nod as you head off following the stream.|3.64aa]]

You approach Zahn, who very nearly manages to snatch $Zhisher treat from Nathanael’s hands. The merchant laughs manically as Zahn’s spirit isn’t dampened in the slightest. You stand and continue to watch and by now even Oswin is glowering at the two. <> <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You saunter up as if you are merely passing by and then snatch the fruit from Nathan’s grasp. It’s a very succulent-looking orange, which must have come from the Auster province. Even if purchased from Codrin, it was probably not cheap. The merchant laughs. “I suppose I had that coming. You’ve won the prize, $mc, it is yours to do with as you wish.” He gives a wink to Zahn.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>You saunter up as if you are merely passing by and then snatch the fruit from Nathan’s grasp. It’s a very succulent-looking orange, which must have come from the Auster province. Even if purchased from Codrin, it was probably not cheap. The merchant laughs. “I suppose I had that coming. You’ve won the prize, $mc, it is yours to do with as you wish.” He gives a wink to Zahn.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>You walk up to the two and place one hand on your hip as you outstretch the other towards Nathan, motioning for him to hand it over. He pauses for a moment and gives you a quizzical look. He finally laughs and plops the fruit into your awaiting hand. “Fine, fine, $mc – I have had my fun. You win. The prize is yours to do with as you will.” Nathan winks at Zahn. <<else>>You walk up to the two and place one hand on your hip as you outstretch the other towards Nathan, motioning for him to hand it over. He pauses for a moment and gives you a quizzical look. He finally laughs and plops the fruit into your awaiting hand. “Fine, fine, $mc – I have had my fun. You win. The prize is yours to do with as you will.” Nathan winks at Zahn.<</if>> <> You hand the fruit to Zahn’s eager hands. “Thank you, $mc!” $Zheshe cries, bringing the orange to $Zhisher nose to sniff. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You sigh and roll your eyes.<<else>>You chuckle.<</if>> “If you two are finished with whatever that was, Zahn, I was wondering if you’d like to join me for a bath?” Oswin chokes on his water. You turn to look and find his face is a bit pink and he’s wiping water from his chin and neck. He waves a hand as if to say that he’s fine. Zahn’s smile lights up $Zhisher face. “That sounds like fun! I’ll get my things and meet you there in a moment.” You nod and make to move towards the stream. Oswin gently touches your shoulder to stop you as you pass. He whispers. “Do not let $Zhimher see the mark. It may look like any other tattoo to some, but it may only provoke questions. Do not risk it.” “Fine, I’ll keep my back to $Zhimher,” you promise. Oswin clears his throat. “...And, be careful. If you get uncomfortable, shout for me. I mean that, please. I...I can’t feel at ease with Zahn just yet.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You gently pat his hand. “I’ll be okay and I will call for you if that’s not the case.”<<else>>“I am capable of taking care of myself for a bath, but I will call for you if something happens.”<</if>> He nods his assent and lets you carry on. [[You head off following the stream.|3.64ba]]

You approach Nathan, who barely manages to lift his treat from Zahn’s speedy hands. The merchant laughs manically as Zahn’s spirit isn’t dampened in the slightest. You stand and continue to watch and, by now, even Oswin is glowering at the two. <> <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You saunter up as if you are merely passing by and then snatch the fruit from Nathan’s grasp. It’s a very succulent-looking orange, which must have come from the Auster province. Even if purchased from Codrin, it was probably not cheap. The merchant laughs. “I suppose I had that coming. You’ve won the prize, $mc, it is yours to do with as you wish.” He gives a wink to Zahn.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>You saunter up as if you are merely passing by and then snatch the fruit from Nathan’s grasp. It’s a very succulent-looking orange, which must have come from the Auster province. Even if purchased from Codrin, it was probably not cheap. The merchant laughs. “I suppose I had that coming. You’ve won the prize, $mc, it is yours to do with as you wish.” He gives a wink to Zahn.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>You walk up to the two and place one hand on your hip as you outstretch the other towards Nathan, motioning for him to hand it over. He pauses for a moment and gives you a quizzical look. He finally laughs and plops the fruit into your awaiting hand. “Fine, fine, $mc – I have had my fun. You win. The prize is yours to do with as you will.” Nathan winks at Zahn. <<else>>You walk up to the two and place one hand on your hip as you outstretch the other towards Nathan, motioning for him to hand it over. He pauses for a moment and gives you a quizzical look. He finally laughs and plops the fruit into your awaiting hand. “Fine, fine, $mc – I have had my fun. You win. The prize is yours to do with as you will.” Nathan winks at Zahn.<</if>> <> You hand the fruit to Zahn’s eager hands. “Thank you, $mc!” $Zheshe cries, bringing the orange to $Zhisher nose to sniff. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You sigh and roll your eyes.<<else>>You chuckle.<</if>> “If you two are finished with whatever that was, Nathan, I was wondering if you’d like to join me for a bath?” Oswin chokes on his water. You turn to look and find his face is a bit pink and he’s wiping water from his chin and neck. He waves a hand as if to say that he’s fine. Nathan’s brows lift in surprise. “Oh, that would be delightful. I can keep you company from the bank. We can...chat.” A smirk graces his lips, but you notice that his eyes rove towards Oswin. “Go get settled and I’ll join in a few moments.” You nod and make to move towards the stream. Oswin gently touches your shoulder to stop you as you pass. He whispers. “Do not let him see the mark. It may look like any other tattoo to some, but it may only provoke questions. Do not risk it.” “Fine, I’ll keep my back to him,” you promise. Oswin clears his throat. “...And, be careful. If you get uncomfortable, shout for me. I mean that, please. I...I can’t, I don’t feel at ease about Nathanael.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You gently pat his hand. “I’ll be okay and I will call for you if I am troubled.”<<else>>“I am capable of taking care of myself for a bath, but I will call for you if something happens.”<</if>> He nods his assent and lets you carry on. [[You head off following the stream.|3.64c1]]

You approach the group, just as Nathan barely manages to lift his treat from Zahn’s speedy hands. The merchant laughs manically as Zahn’s spirit isn’t dampened in the slightest. You stand and continue to watch and, by now, even Oswin is glowering at the two. <> <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You saunter up as if you are merely passing by and then snatch the fruit from Nathan’s grasp. It’s a very succulent-looking orange, which must have come from the Auster province. Even if purchased from Codrin, it was probably not cheap. The merchant laughs. “I suppose I had that coming. You’ve won the prize, $mc, it is yours to do with as you wish.” He gives a wink to Zahn.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>You saunter up as if you are merely passing by and then snatch the fruit from Nathan’s grasp. It’s a very succulent-looking orange, which must have come from the Auster province. Even if purchased from Codrin, it was probably not cheap. The merchant laughs. “I suppose I had that coming. You’ve won the prize, $mc, it is yours to do with as you wish.” He gives a wink to Zahn.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>You walk up to the two and place one hand on your hip as you outstretch the other towards Nathan, motioning for him to hand it over. He pauses for a moment and gives you a quizzical look. He finally laughs and plops the fruit into your awaiting hand. “Fine, fine, $mc – I have had my fun. You win. The prize is yours to do with as you will.” Nathan winks at Zahn. <<else>>You walk up to the two and place one hand on your hip as you outstretch the other towards Nathan, motioning for him to hand it over. He pauses for a moment and gives you a quizzical look. He finally laughs and plops the fruit into your awaiting hand. “Fine, fine, $mc – I have had my fun. You win. The prize is yours to do with as you will.” Nathan winks at Zahn.<</if>> <> You hand the fruit to Zahn’s eager hands. “Thank you, $mc!” $Zheshe cries, bringing the orange to $Zhisher nose to sniff. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You sigh and roll your eyes.<<else>>You chuckle.<</if>> “If you two are finished with whatever that was, I am off to take a bath, just to give you all fair warning.” They all nod. Oswin steps toward you. “We’ll all stay clear of the pool.” He glares at the other two. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“I will be fine, don’t worry.”<<else>>“I can take care of myself for a bath.”<</if>> He nods. “You’re right. Even so, if you are troubled or feel unwell, you can call for me.” [[You head off following the stream.|3.64d1]]

Not too far from a bridge that spans the width of the stream, the shore curves. The stream is so swollen that it has created a large private pool to one side, secluded by the surrounding trees. It doesn’t appear very deep and the water is very clear, enough that you see small fish easily darting about. You can still hear the waterfall from the pool, but the surrounding foliage helps block much of the noise. You settle your things on a large flat rock next to the waterline and begin to undress. Thankfully the sun is high enough to warm you and the water, but it is still just a little cool. Spring is still waking, and it will be several days before the days are comfortably warm. It feels wonderful to strip out of your old dirty clothes. <<if $clothing is 'comfortable'>>Your already very comfortable wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your normal clothes were sufficient, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to replace all the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'regular'>>Your regular wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your normal clothes were sufficient and durable enough, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to replace some of the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'business'>>Your already very functional wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your regular clothes were sufficient, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to repair some of the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'color'>>Your fathers and Oswin insisted that you take some of your most drab articles of clothing. You miss the vibrant colors of your wardrobe, but you suppose many of your items would be ruined by the time you are back home.<<elseif $clothing is 'revealing'>>Your fathers insisted that you at least pack some articles of clothing that would cover you more fully. You saw the benefit in it within just the first days, but your skin longs to breathe. At least you found comfortable items to wear, and your normal wardrobe is so light weight, that you were able to slip some of your favorite articles in as well.<</if>> You take a look at yourself before wading into the water. You are dirty, no doubt about it. At least you can’t smell yourself, though you’d rather not chance it. There’s dirt clinging to every crease in your skin. After taking some soothing breaths of fresh air, you brace yourself for the cold water and begin to wade in. A chill hits your feet and you stop for a moment to adjust. It actually isn’t as bad as you feared, and is close to the same temperature as the water from the well back home. You continue to walk in and let yourself adjust. The pool only hits at about your ribs. [[You settle in and wait for Oswin|3.64ab]]

After a few minutes, enough time for you to adjust to the temperature of the water, you hear Oswin approach the pool. You can hear the sound of his boots, and make sure you’ve dipped into the water enough for him to not see all of you. He calls your name. “It’s okay, Oswin!” you call back. He slowly trudges into view, still mostly looking up and away from where you are. <<if hasVisited("3.66")>>You see that he’s put a rough-hewn beige tunic on. It’s a bit sloppy on him, but looks quite comfortable and matches his dark brown trousers quite well.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.66bz")>>For both your sakes, you decide to ignore your previous interaction. Oswin seems like he's reached a sense of calm about it, and you don't wish to ruin that for him. It's better to just keep the peace for now.<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“You don’t have to look away that much, I’m covered,” you say.<<else>>“If you keep walking like that, you’ll end up falling in the water with me. I’m covered, so don’t fret.”<</if>> Oswin finally moves his gazes to a more normal point, but he still shies away from your precise location. He finds the rock you used as a shelf and seats himself with his back to you. You shake your head. [[“You know, I really don’t mind if you see me naked. It’s just skin.”|3.64ab1]] [[“We’ve known each other for years, I trust you to see me nude.”|3.64ab1]] [[“I appreciate you trying to keep my privacy sacred.”|3.64ab2]] [[“I really am thankful that you respect me this way.”|3.64ab2]]

You can tell that Oswin nods at you, but otherwise cannot read him. "I'm glad you trust me so, $mc," he finally says. "It's no big deal, if you want to get your bath with me. You, me, and Lakota always bathed together as kids. We even swam naked in the summer." "I understand your reasoning, but we're adults now...and I'm not...I'm not ignoring the fact that I estranged myself from you either. I don't think it's right to pretend that it didn't happen, that I was never- never an ass and things are the same as when we were children." You see his shoulders lift and settle as he takes a deep breath. You move to grab your special soap that smells of $favsmell and your wash cloth as you think about what Oswin has said. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>"I've made peace with that, Oswin. I want us to be friends again."<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>"I've made peace with that, Oswin. I want us to be...friends again, at least that."<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>"I suppose you speak sense..."<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>"I suppose you speak sense, though I also think I've made my peace with that."<</if>> As you begin to lather and scrub your body, your mind drifts a bit, to the unavoidable subject of your relationship with Oswin and how it's changed. He's been fussy here and there, but really, he's been pleasant to be around these days. You can tell he’s at least making an effort and he’s definitely trying hard to see you through this journey. [[You ask him to wash your hair.|3.64ab1a]] [[You ask him to wash your back.|3.64ab1b]] [[You let him alone for now, and continue your bath.|3.64ab1c]]

You can tell that Oswin nods at you, but otherwise cannot read him. "I'm glad you trust me so, $mc," he finally says. “And that you would still let me close to you.” "Of course. I know we’re grown now, but you really are trustworthy. You, me, and Lakota always bathed together as kids and we swam naked in the summer. Despite that, you still honor my privacy." "I want you to know that I don’t...I don’t ignore the fact that I estranged myself from you. I don't think it's right to pretend that it didn't happen, that I was never...never an ass and things are the same as when we were children." You see his shoulders lift and settle as he takes a deep breath. You move to grab your special soap that smells of $favsmell and your washcloth as you think about what Oswin has said. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>"I've made peace with that, Oswin. I want us to be friends again."<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>"I've made peace with that, Oswin. I want us to be...friends again, at least that."<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>"It’s in the past; it’s okay to move on from it."<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>"I think I've already made my peace with that, I won’t hold it against you."<</if>> As you begin to lather and scrub your body, your mind drifts a bit, to the unavoidable subject of your relationship with Oswin and how it's changed. He's been fussy here and there, but really, he's been pleasant to be around these days. You can tell he’s at least making an effort and he’s definitely trying hard to see you through this journey. [[You ask him to wash your hair.|3.64ab1a]] [[You ask him to wash your back.|3.64ab1b]] [[You let him alone for now, and continue your bath.|3.64ab1c]]

You break the long silence that has settled between you both. “I know you’re all about respecting my privacy and all, but would you mind washing my hair? I’ll stay in the water.” Oswin’s shoulders go stiff, and he stays quiet. His foot begins to tap in place. “Please.” He bows his head for a moment and you see that his eyes are closed, but he gives a subtle nod. “Thank you,” you say, moving a little closer to the shore. Oswin waits until you settled, covered enough by the water to maintain some privacy, though you also know the water is clear. You hear him approach behind you and turn your head to look. He’s rolled his trousers up a ways and taken off his boots. The thick muscles of his calves are very evident. He squats and takes the soap from you. “Tell me if I pull your hair too hard,” he murmurs. Oswin gently touches your $haircolor locks. <<if $hairlength is 'very long'>>He gingerly works out the great length of your hair, careful to untangle the strands as he goes.<<elseif $hairlength is 'long'>>He gingerly works out the long length of your hair, careful to untangle the strands as he goes.<<elseif $hairlength is 'shoulder length'>>He gingerly works out the length of your hair, careful to untangle the strands as he goes.<<elseif $hairlength is 'chin length'>>He gingerly works out the few tangles in your hair. Keeping it to your chin has made his task a bit easier.<<elseif $hairlength is 'short'>>He gingerly works his hands through your short hair, loosing a tangle or two.<<elseif $hairlength is 'very short'>>He gingerly works his hands through your hair, which feels like a soothing massage against your scalp.<</if>> Taking the soap from you, he lathers it and begins to work through your hair. He remains gentle and careful, murmuring little apologies for tugging or hitting a snag here and there. It’s quiet between you, but the sound of birdsong echos around. It’s peaceful. <> <<if $interestwound is 'backscar'>>A troubled sigh funnels form Oswin’s lips, and you wonder if he’s uncomfortable with helping you after all. “What’s wrong?” you ask. You feel a gentle touch along the scar on your back. “This.” You shrug. “It’s healed. Last time I got a good look at it in the mirror, it was pretty faded.” “Yes, but it shouldn’t- You shouldn’t have had to endure it in the first place.” “So...how did you know about it? <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>I don’t recall showing you my back after all these years...<<else>>You haven’t taken to watching my backside without me knowing, I hope.”<</if>> He huffs. “Your da told me about it. He was furious. That //child// who did this to you was under the same instructor – the one I started with from Lale. He always had a problem with pride.” “Whatever happened to him?” Your curiosity pokes at you. “If you’re wondering if he received any scars of his own, the answer is yes...and – you’re welcome.” He chuckles. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You sit up, a bit shocked. “Oswin, did you hurt him?”<<else>>You chuckle. “Gave him a run for his money, did you?”<</if>> “I didn’t intentionally wound him. Our instructor was...brutal. He often pitted us against each other. I cared not for their approval, I was there to learn, the //child// was fond of licking our teacher’s boots. We were made to face each other as a right of passage. Winner continued their course, the other had to find a new teacher. I won, he came after me much in the way he did you, I...won again.” “The fool didn’t learn his lesson after Da nearly killed him…” “Last I heard, he still managed a position with a guild of proper mercenaries.” You scoff and Oswin chuckles as he continues to work the fragrant soap through your hair. <</if>> <> <<if $tat7 is true>>Oswin hums thoughtfully. “This tattoo suits you.” He taps your right shoulder blade, where your wolf is proudly depicted. “You think?” “Wolves are as wondrous as they are fierce and sometimes misunderstood. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You’re a genuine sort, and I think – in their own way – wolves are too.”<<else>>You have a fun spirit that stands out; when wolves are at ease, they often have a playful nature as well.”<</if>> You shake your head. “I suppose I should thank you for the compliment then...” <</if>> <<if $tat8 is true>>Oswin lightly touches your left shoulder. “I am partial to your flowers here. It reminds me of my own tattoo…” “Thank you,” you say, trying to rein in your grin. You get the sense that Oswin is feeling a little compelled to talk, so you patiently wait to see if he will continue. <</if>> Oswin chuckles. “This smell always makes me think of you,” he finally says as he massages your scalp. Your eyes drift closed as your muscles relax. “It does?” you ask. “Of course. When I come to your house, I...well, I can tell when you’ve been about sometimes. It carries.” “I didn’t realize. I must be used to it.” He pauses for a moment, be fore his ministrations continue. “Do you remember that time when my ma was making soap…” You snicker. “And your pa thought it was soup?” Both of you laugh. Oswin struggles to rein in his, very child-like, giggles. “You know, we could have told him.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You shake your head. “We should have. What were we thinking? Poor man.”<<else>>You guffaw. “Well, if we had, we wouldn’t have anything to laugh about right now.”<</if>> “To this day he can’t eat soup without confirming with us that it is, in fact, soup. I still remember how horrified his face was.” “Did you ever get in trouble for that?” “Ma made me finish the batch of soap up – but I know I saw her laugh about it. I couldn’t blame my father for thinking it was soup, the herbs in it made it smell delicious.” You tilt your head back to look at him. There’s mirth in his eyes. “If you want to take a bite out of mine to see what it’s like…” One of his eyebrows goes up. “I’m not hungry...and you clearly need it more than me.” Your head snaps back up. “//Hey//!” He laughs. “You’re good to rinse off. Before your soap becomes to tantalizing, I’m going back to my drills.” He runs a hand through your hair one last time. “Thank you, Oswin.” He’s quiet, and you hear his footsteps come to a stop. “Thank //you//, $mc,” he says softly. [[“You needn’t thank me, I haven’t done anything.” You turn your head to look at him.|3.64ab1aa][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[“You’re quiet welcome to bask in my company any time.” You turn your head to wink at him.|3.64ab1aa][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[“Next time, you’re welcome to join me.” You turn your head to give him a coy grin.|3.64ab1aa][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You look behind you, meeting his green eyes, as your face fills with heat.|3.64ab1aa][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]]

You break the long silence that has settled between you both. “I know you’re all about respecting my privacy and all, but would you mind washing my back? I’ll stay facing away in the water.” Oswin’s shoulders go stiff, and he stays quiet. His foot begins to tap in place. “Please.” He bows his head for a moment and you see that his eyes are closed, but he gives a subtle nod. “Thank you,” you say, moving a little closer to the shore, so your back isn’t submerged. You lean forward a bit to help Oswin feel more comfortable. He waits until you’ve settled, covered enough by the water to maintain some privacy, though you also know the water is clear. You hear him approach behind you and turn your head to look. He’s rolled his trousers up a ways and taken off his boots. The thick muscles of his calves are very evident. He squats and takes the soap and washcloth from you. “Tell me if I scrub too hard,” he murmurs. Oswin gently touches your back with the lathered cloth, first moving in slow and soft circles along your skin. After covering the expanse of your back, he rinses the cloth and you before re-lathering. He gets the back of your neck and along your shoulders, scrubbing a bit harder. It feels wonderful, and you feel a bit like Papa when Da goes up to him to scratch his back. Oswin remains gentle and careful, murmuring little apologies when he thinks he’s rubbed too hard, and the time or two he manages to find a ticklish spot close to your side. It’s quiet between you, but the sound of birdsong echos around. It’s peaceful. <> <<if $interestwound is 'backscar'>>A troubled sigh funnels form Oswin’s lips, and you wonder if he’s uncomfortable with helping you after all. “What’s wrong?” you ask. You feel a gentle touch along the scar on your back. “This.” You shrug. “It’s healed. Last time I got a good look at it in the mirror, it was pretty faded.” “Yes, but it shouldn’t- You shouldn’t have had to endure it in the first place.” “So...how did you know about it? <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>I don’t recall showing you my back after all these years...<<else>>You haven’t taken to watching my backside without me knowing, I hope.”<</if>> He huffs. “Your da told me about it. He was furious. That //child// who did this to you was under the same instructor – the one I started with from Lale. He always had a problem with pride.” “Whatever happened to him?” Your curiosity pokes at you. “If you’re wondering if he received any scars of his own, the answer is yes...and – you’re welcome.” He chuckles. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You sit up, a bit shocked. “Oswin, did you hurt him?”<<else>>You chuckle. “Gave him a run for his money, did you?”<</if>> “I didn’t intentionally wound him. Our instructor was...brutal. He often pitted us against each other. I cared not for their approval, I was there to learn, the //child// was fond of licking our teacher’s boots. We were made to face each other as a right of passage. Winner continued their course, the other had to find a new teacher. I won, he came after me much in the way he did you, I...won again.” “The fool didn’t learn his lesson after Da nearly killed him…” “Last I heard, he still managed a position with a guild of proper mercenaries.” You scoff and Oswin sighs as he continues to work the fragrant soap along your back. <</if>> <<if $tat7 is true>>Oswin hums thoughtfully. “This tattoo suits you.” He taps your right shoulder blade, where your wolf is proudly depicted. “You think?” “Wolves are as wondrous as they are fierce and sometimes misunderstood. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You’re a genuine sort, and I think – in their own way – wolves are too.”<<else>>You have a fun spirit that stands out; when wolves are at ease, they often have a playful nature as well.”<</if>> You shake your head. “I suppose I should thank you for the compliment then...” <</if>> <<if $tat8 is true>>Oswin lightly touches your left shoulder. “I am partial to your flowers here. It reminds me of my own tattoo…” “Thank you,” you say, trying to rein in your grin. You get the sense that Oswin is feeling a little compelled to talk, so you patiently wait to see if he will continue. <</if>> <> Oswin chuckles. “This smell always makes me think of you,” he says as he sets the cloth aside and begins to massage your tense shoulders. Your eyes drift closed as your muscles relax. “It does?” you ask. “Of course. When I come to your house, I...well, I can tell when you’ve been about sometimes. It carries.” “I didn’t realize. I must be used to it.” He pauses for a moment, before his ministrations continue. “Do you remember that time when my ma was making soap…” You snicker. “And your pa thought it was soup?” Both of you laugh. Oswin struggles to rein in his, very child-like, giggles. “You know, we could have told him.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You shake your head. “We should have. What were we thinking? Poor man.”<<else>>You guffaw. “Well, if we had, we wouldn’t have anything to laugh about right now.”<</if>> “To this day he can’t eat soup without confirming with us that it is, in fact, soup. I still remember how horrified his face was.” “Did you ever get in trouble for that?” “Ma made me finish the batch of soap up – but I know I saw her laugh about it. I couldn’t blame my father for thinking it was soup, the herbs in it made it smell delicious.” You tilt your head back to look at him. There’s mirth in his eyes. “If you want to take a bite out of mine to see what it’s like…” One of his eyebrows goes up. “I’m not hungry...and you clearly need it more than me.” Your head snaps back up. “//Hey//!” He laughs. “You’re good to rinse off. Before your soap becomes too tantalizing, I’m going back to my drills.” He pats you gently on the shoulder. “Thank you, Oswin.” He’s quiet, and you hear his footsteps come to a stop. “Thank //you//, $mc,” he says softly. [[“You needn’t thank me, I haven’t done anything.” You turn your head to look at him.|3.64ab1aa][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[“You’re quiet welcome to bask in my company any time.” You turn your head to wink at him.|3.64ab1aa][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[“Next time, you’re welcome to join me.” You turn your head to give him a coy grin.|3.64ab1aa][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You look behind you, meeting his green eyes, as your face fills with heat.|3.64ab1aa][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]]

You break the long silence that has settled between you both. “I know you’re all about respecting my privacy and all, so I do appreciate you keeping me company.” Oswin’s shoulders go stiff, and he stays quiet. His foot begins to tap in place. “Really. I know it makes you feel a bit awkward.” He bows his head for a moment and you see that his eyes are closed, but he gives a subtle nod. “You’re welcome. I just want you to feel safe away from home.” “I know you do.” You continue your bath, peeking at Oswin every so often. He stays stoically turned away from you, but you can see that he keeps an ear turned towards you. It’s quiet between you, but the sound of birdsong echos around accompanied by the occasional splash of the water around you. It’s peaceful. Oswin chuckles, bringing your attention back to him. “The smell of your soap always makes me think of you,” he says, turning his head a little more towards you. You look at your soap. “It does?” you ask. “Of course. When I come to your house, I...well, I can tell when you’ve been about sometimes. It carries.” “I didn’t realize. I must be used to it.” He pauses for a moment. “Do you remember that time when my ma was making soap…” You snicker. “And your pa thought it was soup?” Both of you laugh. Oswin struggles to rein in his, very child-like, giggles. “You know, we could have told him.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You shake your head. “We should have. What were we thinking? Poor man.”<<else>>You guffaw. “Well, if we had, we wouldn’t have anything to laugh about right now.”<</if>> “To this day he can’t eat soup without confirming with us that it is, in fact, soup. I still remember how horrified his face was.” “Did you ever get in trouble for that?” “Ma made me finish the batch of soap up – but I know I saw her laugh about it. I couldn’t blame my father for thinking it was soup, the herbs in it made it smell delicious.” You turn your head to look at him. There’s mirth in his eyes. “If you want to take a bite out of mine to see what it’s like…” The corner of the eye that you can see curls up. “I’m not hungry...and you clearly need it more than me.” You splash a bit of water at him. “//Hey//!” He laughs. “If you’re about done, I’ll go before your soap becomes too tantalizing, I should get back to my drills.” “Thank you, Oswin.” He’s quiet, frozen where he stands for a moment. “Thank //you//, $mc,” he says softly. [[“You needn’t thank me, I haven’t done anything.”.|3.64ab1aa][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[“You’re quiet welcome to bask in my company any time.” You wink at him.|3.64ab1aa][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[“Next time, you’re welcome to join me.” You give him a coy grin.|3.64ab1aa][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You meet his green eyes as your face fills with heat.|3.64ab1aa][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]]

Oswin matches your gaze and holds it for a moment. He gives you a half-smirk and then simply walks away through the trees. You turn back to finish your bath, feeling that you’ve uncovered a glimpse of the Oswin you knew as a child. His laugh is the same, just deeper now. And that smirk...his boyish charm is still beneath whatever austere wall he thinks he’s built around himself. Shaking your head, you rise from the waters to dry yourself and put on fresh clothes. You feel refreshed and perhaps a bit cold now, but like a new person. You smell great too. [[You continue about your day.|3.63]]

He's matured a great deal. You had noticed before, of course, but not how muscular he’d become. He isn’t bulky like some mercenaries and guardsmen get, he still has a refined gracefulness about his figure. You recall what Lakota told you of his tattoo – a bouquet of plants and flowers – sage leaves, poppy blooms, aster flowers, and clusters of yarrow. His siblings forever etched into his side. As you move to meet his gaze, something on his chest takes your attention. Upon it rests a hunk of metal right over his heart. Your eyes bounce to his and then back to the object. It’s a necklace made from a long leather cord with a very old key attached. One that you recognize. “$mc? Are you okay?” Oswin asks, snapping you from your haze. “Oh! Yes, sorry – I was…” Your voice stammers. Oswin’s brow ruffles deeply, and he tosses down his sword before approaching you. “You had a strange look on your face. Are you feeling well? <<if hasVisited("3.64")>>Did your bath leave you too chilled? I can start a fire right away.”<</if>> “No, I just…” You wave his hand away as he makes to feel for a fever. “That key…” [[Oswin’s hand immediately flies to his chest to cover it.|3.66ba]]

Your gaze takes him in, the sight enters your eyes and sends a shiver down your back. His square jaw is now prickled with thick stubble. His neck is strong and defined, also glistening from sweat. It drips down and traces his collar bones before reaching his strong chest, which is coated in a light layer of black hair. The lines of his torso are even more magnificent than his back. Oswin’s abdomen is carved with muscle from years of hard work and toiling with the sword. He’s not become bulky with muscle like you’ve seen in other mercenaries and guardsmen, he’s remained almost graceful in his figure. Your eyes quickly cascade down, spotting how his trousers sit, slightly fallen below the line of his hips. Struggling to lift your eyes back up, they take a scenic route from the dip of his navel, to the left side of his ribs which are adorned with the beautiful tattoo of various plants and flowers. Your eyes go back to his chest where there sits a key atop his heart. Your eyes bounce to his and then back to the key. It’s a necklace made from a long leather cord with the very old piece of metal attached - one that you recognize. “$mc? Are you okay?” Oswin asks, snapping you from your haze. “Yes!” you unintentionally yip. Oswin’s brow ruffles deeply, and he tosses down his sword before approaching you. “You had a strange look on your face. Are you feeling well? <<if hasVisited("3.64")>>Did your bath leave you too chilled? I can start a fire right away.”<</if>> “No, I just…” You wave his hand away as he makes to feel for a fever. “That key…” [[Oswin’s hand immediately flies to his chest to cover it.|3.66ba]]

Your interest only rises. You know that hunk of metal. You’d know it anywhere... * It had been a gift. An olive branch to connect you back to Oswin, one that you were reluctant to part with – a piece of yourself and, with it, your raw vulnerability as a child. After the curse first took you and you recovered, you had to practically beg Oswin and Lakota to play with you as they did before. Lakota was more easily swayed, but not Oswin. He’d barely let you into the clearing, let alone the surrounding woods. He’d fuss if you were in the stream too long, or if you didn’t eat at certain times. After a long time of proving you would not simply dissolve in front of him, you went out into the forest together for the first time in ages. It filled your young heart with so much joy. Things finally felt normal again. It was just you and Oswin, rummaging in the woods and looking for treasures to add to your box of keepsakes. You finally heard him laugh around you like he used to, like he didn’t have any worries. Together, you found a strange grotto that you’d never seen before – and also never found again. It had been dry that season and it was clear that a great deal of water had drained from the underground nook. Caught in the mud, was a metal key, the bit of which was an unusual shape. It was the only thing you found, but it was still so exciting. All the way back home you dreamed up together what the key could be to. Was it from the world that came before? Did it unlock treasure? Was it to a grand castle? If it was, did finding the key make it yours? You laughed and dreamed about it all evening, and at the end of the night, Oswin curled it into your palm. He said, "If anyone deserves a great treasure or castle, I can think of no one more deserving than you." You clung to that key and those words for years. When Oswin reached his 17th year, there was a celebration. He had successfully completed his first cycle as an apprentice with a swordmaster from Lale. His attitude by then had been quite sour for a while. You were nearly 14 at the time, and wanted to return the key to him as a gesture – a bridge – between the two of you. You had waited with Lakota, huddled together outside, in the clearing after having left a note for Oswin to come find you. Your best friend was so cold that you practically had to wrap yourself around him to keep him from shivering. You felt bad that you were the one keeping him out. He had also written and left the note for Oswin since you knew he would probably only come if Lakota asked him. You remember the sound of the brook. It was engorged with recent rainfall and was running fast. You remember the flash of anger in Oswin’s eyes as he approached you and Lakota with the note in hand. Even his own brother seemed a little afraid, huddling closer into you, pulling the cloak tighter around. You gave the cloak to Lakota as you waved your hands in a gesture of peace. Oswin seemed placated and listened to you. You presented him with your gift, wrapped in a nice cloth and tied with a ribbon. “For your birthday...and to congratulate you. I know we haven’t spoken much…” You looked back to Lakota for a bolster of courage. “But I wanted...I want to be friends again. Like we were.” His green eyes were so vivid and so unsure as he opened the package. So, you kept talking, Lakota creeping up next to you to huddle for warmth again. “I want it to be me, you, and Lakota again." Oswin stared at the key in silence. Lakota hung on your arm and waited with baited breath along with you. Oswin turned his eyes to the two of you. He wasn’t smiling. He looked confused, then sad, then angry. You tried. “Don’t you...don’t you remember? We found that-” “I remember.” He said. His voice was cold. You hadn’t shivered until that moment. “I thought you’d like it for old times sake. To remember...the treasure...the castle.” “There is no treasure. No castle. I’m not a child any longer, Ravi-//Ravinder//. I can’t play your stupid games any longer. There’s nothing magical about this – it’s an old useless dumb key. It doesn’t //go// to anything anymore.” Lakota stood straight, putting his hands on his hips – looking very much like his mother. “Oswin! That is uncalled-” “Do you think I can’t make friends without you!?” Oswin yelled. “What, am I your pathetic big brother – useless without the sweet soft baby brother?” “No!” “I don’t need your help, and I don’t need this stupid key!” Oswin clutched the key in his hand, wound his arm back and threw it. You heard it splash into the brook as the water continued to rush by. It was gone. There was no saving it. *You snap back from the memory with a jolt… [[Tears are running down your face.|3.66ba1]] [[Your face twists in anger.|3.66ba2]] [[You sigh.|3.66ba3]] [[You manage a chuckle.|3.66ba4]]

It had been so long since you remembered that memory. So long, but it still burns. When he had yelled at you and tossed the key away, it felt very much like you were the one tossed in the stream to be forgotten. That night felt like the beginning of the end between you. Those angry words, cutting up your fond memories. His tone, his face – now those are what remains of what was once a happy moment between you. But...why does he have it? Where did he get it? “$mc…” Oswin speaks softly. A gentle, but calloused hand whisks your tears away. “I am so sorry.” More tears come. “Had I...I forgot to...I usually keep it on, so I didn’t think-” You sniff. “You keep it on?” Oswin nods, and his face goes a bit red. “Here...let’s...I should, we should talk.” He gently guides you by the elbow to a soft patch with new grass, taking his discarded cloak and folding it up to make a seat for you. He sits in front of you and takes the necklace off, handing it over. You would know this little trinket anywhere. You remember the weight of it even after more than 10 years, the dark color, the way the bit comes out in three jagged points. You always thought it may have been broken, but you never minded. It’s warm from being against his chest. “Explain,” you say. Oswin takes a deep breath. “I was- I didn’t- It never-” He growls in frustration, placing his hands over his face. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Try to breathe and take your time, there’s no rush.”<<else>>“I understand that this is difficult, but I need you to focus, because it was very difficult for me as well.”<</if>> Oswin’s green eyes search your $eyecolor gaze. “That night – I have always regretted what I said and what I did. I was frustrated and lost, and I took it out on you. When I saw…” His voice begins to break. “When I saw that key, there was so much going through my heart.” “You looked angry. Even Lakota was frightened.” He nods. “I don’t want to be that way. I never did, it just...came out of me. I was really touched that you would give this to me...and it was like all those feelings and thoughts got tangled up. Before I knew it, I was yelling and throwing away your gift in the most pathetic way possible.” “You could have just said you were sorry.” “I was going to. So many times, I went to your door. Your da talked to me about it, I failed him too. I never found the courage, and then I had to go back to Lale to continue my training.” You sigh. “But how did you get this?” You wave the key at him. “The next morning, I searched the stream…” “You found it the next day?” He shakes his head. “I...went back a few times. The stream was rushing too much to get a good look. It calmed after maybe five or six days. I looked everyday until my last day in town. Found it washed way down into the woods, buried in the shoreline. I was too much of a coward, I wanted to bring it back to you with my apology. I put it on a chord and wore it to remind me. Seasons came and went, and I never found the courage to face you.” “Why?” The question slips from your lips. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>The gentle inclinations of your nature have shown through time and again, it’s not as if you were known to be cruel.<<else>>You’re known to be more assertive, but it is not as if you are cruel or would immediately reject a genuine apology just because of that.<</if>> “What I did was unforgivable and it was- My words and actions before and even after were foolish. I told you that night I wasn’t a child, but the truth is that I very much was. I was a child screaming inside who could not...I didn’t want to be this way. I didn’t want...to grow up. Part of me thought that if I apologized to you then, and you rejected it – that everything about our friendship, our childhood together, would be lost. If I held back on that apology – kept it and this key – then I always had something I owed you – a connection, no matter how sullied.” You spot stray tears running down his cheeks. [[Wipe his tears. You forgive him.|3.66ba1a]] [[He’s still being silly. It was a long time ago, you can put it behind you.|3.66ba1b]] [[You huff. There’s nothing to forgive.|3.66ba1c]] [[You’re still hurt, and you’re not ready to forgive.|3.66ba1d]]

It had been so long since you remembered that memory. So long, but it still burns. When he had yelled at you and tossed the key away, it felt very much like you were the one tossed in the stream to be forgotten. That night felt like the beginning of the end between you. Those angry words, cutting up your fond memories. His tone, his face – now those are what remains of what was once a happy moment between you. But...why does he have it? Where did he get it? “$mc…” Oswin speaks softly. He reaches out, but you swat his hand away. “I am so sorry.” Heat rises to your face as you glower at him. “Had I...I forgot to...I usually keep it on, so I didn’t think-” You scoff. “What do you mean, you keep it on?” Oswin nods, and his face goes a bit red. “Here...let’s...I should, we should talk.” He gently guides you by the elbow, until you pull it away from him, to a soft patch with new grass, taking his discarded cloak and folding it up to make a seat for you. He sits in front of you and takes the necklace off, handing it over. You would know this little trinket anywhere. You remember the weight of it even after more than 10 years, the dark color, the way the bit comes out in three jagged points. You always thought it may have been broken, but you never minded. It’s warm from being against his chest. “Explain,” you say. Oswin takes a deep breath. “I was- I didn’t- It never-” He growls in frustration, placing his hands over his face. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Try to breathe and focus.”<<else>>“I understand that this is difficult, but I need you to focus, because it was very difficult for me as well.”<</if>> Oswin’s green eyes search your $eyecolor gaze. “That night – I have always regretted what I said and what I did. I was frustrated and lost, and I took it out on you. When I saw…” His voice begins to break. “When I saw that key, there was so much going through my heart.” “You looked angry. Even Lakota was frightened.” He nods. “I don’t want to be that way. I never did, it just...came out of me. I was really touched that you would give this to me...and it was like all those feelings and thoughts got tangled up. Before I knew it, I was yelling and throwing away your gift in the most pathetic way possible.” “You could have just said you were sorry.” “I was going to. So many times, I went to our door. Your da talked to me about it, I failed him too. I never found the courage, and then I had to go back to Lale to continue my training.” You sigh. “But how did you get this?” You wave the key at him. “The next morning, I searched the stream…” “You found it the next day?” He shakes his head. “I...went back a few times. The stream was rushing too much to get a good look. It calmed after maybe five or six days. I looked everyday until my last day in town. Found it washed way down into the woods, buried in the shoreline. I was too much of a coward, I wanted to bring it back to you with my apology. I put it on a chord and wore it to remind me. Seasons came and went, and I never found the courage to face you.” “Why?” The question slips from your lips. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>The gentle inclinations of your nature have shown through time and again, it’s not as if you were known to be cruel.<<else>>You’re known to be more assertive, but it is not as if you are cruel or would immediately reject a genuine apology just because of that.<</if>> “What I did was unforgivable and it was- My words and actions before and even after were foolish. I told you that night I wasn’t a child, but the truth is that I very much was. I was a child screaming inside who could not...I didn’t want to be this way. I didn’t want...to grow up. Part of me thought that if I apologized to you then, and you rejected it – that everything about our friendship, our childhood together, would be lost. If I held back on that apology – kept it and this key – then I always had something I owed you – a connection, no matter how sullied.” You spot stray tears running down his cheeks. [[Wipe his tears. You forgive him.|3.66ba1a]] [[He’s still being silly. It was a long time ago, you can put it behind you.|3.66ba1b]] [[You huff. There’s nothing to forgive.|3.66ba1c]] [[You’re still hurt, and you’re not ready to forgive.|3.66ba1d]]

It had been so long since you remembered that memory. So long, but it still reminds you of the hurt you endured. When he had yelled at you and tossed the key away, it felt very much like you were the one tossed in the stream to be forgotten. That night felt like the beginning of the end between you. Those angry words, cutting up your fond memories. His tone, his face – now those are what remains of what was once a happy moment between you. But...why does he have it? Where did he get it? “$mc…” Oswin speaks softly. He reaches out, but retracts his hand at the last moment. “I am so sorry.” You stare at him, your feelings mixing between indifference, confusion, sadness, and resignation. “Had I...I forgot to...I usually keep it on, so I didn’t think-” You raise an eyebrow. “What do you mean, you keep it on?” Oswin nods, and his face goes a bit red. “Here...let’s...I should, we should talk.” He gently guides you by the elbow, and you follow him to a soft patch with new grass. Taking his discarded cloak and folding it up, he makes a seat for you. He sits in front of you and takes the necklace off, handing it over. You would know this little trinket anywhere. You remember the weight of it even after more than 10 years, the dark color, the way the bit comes out in three jagged points. You always thought it may have been broken, but you never minded. It’s warm from being against his chest. “Explain,” you say. Oswin takes a deep breath. “I was- I didn’t- It never-” He growls in frustration, placing his hands over his face. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Try to breathe and focus.”<<else>>“I understand that this is difficult, but I need you to focus.”<</if>> Oswin’s green eyes search your $eyecolor gaze. “That night – I have always regretted what I said and what I did. I was frustrated and lost, and I took it out on you. When I saw…” His voice begins to break. “When I saw that key, there was so much going through my heart.” “You looked angry. Even Lakota was frightened.” He nods. “I don’t want to be that way. I never did, it just...came out of me. I was really touched that you would give this to me...and it was like all those feelings and thoughts got tangled up. Before I knew it, I was yelling and throwing away your gift in the most pathetic way possible.” “You could have just said you were sorry.” “I was going to. So many times, I went to our door. Your da talked to me about it, I failed him too. I never found the courage, and then I had to go back to Lale to continue my training.” You sigh. “But how did you get this?” You wave the key at him. “The next morning, I searched the stream…” “You found it the next day?” He shakes his head. “I...went back a few times. The stream was rushing too much to get a good look. It calmed after maybe five or six days. I looked everyday until my last day in town. Found it washed way down into the woods, buried in the shoreline. I was too much of a coward, I wanted to bring it back to you with my apology. I put it on a chord and wore it to remind me. Seasons came and went, and I never found the courage to face you.” “Why?” The question slips from your lips. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>The gentle inclinations of your nature have shown through time and again, it’s not as if you were known to be cruel.<<else>>You’re known to be more assertive, but it is not as if you are cruel or would immediately reject a genuine apology just because of that.<</if>> “What I did was unforgivable and it was- My words and actions before and even after were foolish. I told you that night I wasn’t a child, but the truth is that I very much was. I was a child screaming inside who could not...I didn’t want to be this way. I didn’t want...to grow up. Part of me thought that if I apologized to you then, and you rejected it – that everything about our friendship, our childhood together, would be lost. If I held back on that apology – kept it and this key – then I always had something I owed you – a connection, no matter how sullied.” You spot stray tears running down his cheeks. [[Wipe his tears. You forgive him.|3.66ba1a]] [[He’s still being silly. It was a long time ago, you can put it behind you.|3.66ba1b]] [[You huff. There’s nothing to forgive.|3.66ba1c]] [[You’re still hurt, and you’re not ready to forgive.|3.66ba1d]]

“How strange to see such an old memento,” you muse. It had been so long since you remembered that memory. So long, but it still but it still reminds you of the hurt you endured. When he had yelled at you and tossed the key away, it felt very much like you were the one tossed in the stream to be forgotten. That night felt like the beginning of the end between you. Those angry words, cutting up your fond memories. His tone, his face – now those are what remains of what was once a happy moment between you. But...why does he have it? Where did he get it? “$mc…” Oswin speaks softly. He reaches out, but retracts his hand at the last moment. “I am so sorry.” You stare at him, your feelings mixing. “Had I...I forgot to...I usually keep it on, so I didn’t think-” You raise an eyebrow. “What do you mean, you keep it on?” Oswin nods, and his face goes a bit red. “Here...let’s...I should, we should talk.” He gently guides you by the elbow, and you follow him to a soft patch with new grass. Taking his discarded cloak and folding it up, he makes a seat for you. He sits in front of you and takes the necklace off, handing it over. You would know this little trinket anywhere. You remember the weight of it even after more than 10 years, the dark color, the way the bit comes out in three jagged points. You always thought it may have been broken, but you never minded. It’s warm from being against his chest. “Explain,” you say. Oswin takes a deep breath. “I was- I didn’t- It never-” He growls in frustration, placing his hands over his face. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Try to breathe and focus. It’s okay”<<else>>“I understand that this is difficult, try to focus.”<</if>> Oswin’s green eyes search your $eyecolor gaze. “That night – I have always regretted what I said and what I did. I was frustrated and lost, and I took it out on you. When I saw…” His voice begins to break. “When I saw that key, there was so much going through my heart.” “You looked angry. Even Lakota was frightened.” He nods. “I don’t want to be that way. I never did, it just...came out of me. I was really touched that you would give this to me...and it was like all those feelings and thoughts got tangled up. Before I knew it, I was yelling and throwing away your gift in the most pathetic way possible.” “You could have just said you were sorry.” “I was going to. So many times, I went to our door. Your da talked to me about it, I failed him too. I never found the courage, and then I had to go back to Lale to continue my training.” You sigh. “But how did you get this?” You wave the key at him. “The next morning, I searched the stream…” “You found it the next day?” He shakes his head. “I...went back a few times. The stream was rushing too much to get a good look. It calmed after maybe five or six days. I looked everyday until my last day in town. Found it washed way down into the woods, buried in the shoreline. I was too much of a coward, I wanted to bring it back to you with my apology. I put it on a chord and wore it to remind me. Seasons came and went, and I never found the courage to face you.” “Why?” The question slips from your lips. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>The gentle inclinations of your nature have shown through time and again, it’s not as if you were known to be cruel.<<else>>You’re known to be more assertive, but it is not as if you are cruel or would immediately reject a genuine apology just because of that.<</if>> “What I did was unforgivable and it was- My words and actions before and even after were foolish. I told you that night I wasn’t a child, but the truth is that I very much was. I was a child screaming inside who could not...I didn’t want to be this way. I didn’t want...to grow up. Part of me thought that if I apologized to you then, and you rejected it – that everything about our friendship, our childhood together, would be lost. If I held back on that apology – kept it and this key – then I always had something I owed you – a connection, no matter how sullied.” You spot stray tears running down his cheeks. [[Wipe his tears. You forgive him.|3.66ba1a]] [[He’s still being silly. It was a long time ago, you can put it behind you.|3.66ba1b]] [[You huff. There’s nothing to forgive.|3.66ba1c]] [[You’re still hurt, and you’re not ready to forgive.|3.66ba1d]]

You gently swipe the back of one hand along his cheeks and jaw, drying the stream of tears that have formed down his face. The green of his eyes shine like beautiful gems, but they look so sad. Seeing Oswin’s face so torn with emotion – regret and sadness – how his tall form sits in front of you, hunched as if he were weak, you can’t help but be moved. “Oswin,” you say, “It’s okay. I forgive you.” His breath stutters. “Truly?” “Yes. I know this hurt me when it happened.” You wave the key in the air. “You’re clearly genuine with your regrets, and I can put it behind me.” You offer him a smile, catching another stray tear as it falls from his eye. He catches your hand and holds it to his cheek for a moment. Oddly, he doesn’t look as relieved as you’d expect. If this had weighed on him so much through the years, wouldn’t he at least smile? “I’m not worthy of your grace, $mc,” he says, releasing your hand. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You give him a gentle smile. “I think you are.”<<else>>You tilt your head thoughtfully. “Isn’t that for me to decide?”<</if>> His mournful expression does not change. “Oswin...what else are you hiding?” The question tumbles from your lips at its own behest. It came alive in your gut and instinct brought it forward. His face finally changes to one of shock before he schools it into one of cold indifference. “There’s nothing more- Now isn’t the time.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Oswin, you’re clearly hurting, let me help.”<<else>>“So, there is something else you’re hiding.”<</if>> “I need to focus on what is more important right now than my quibbles. We get your cur- sickness resolved and get you home safe.” He stands abruptly, turning from you as he clearly tries to hide as he wipes his eyes. You stand as well and place a hand to his back. “When you’re ready.” [[This wasn’t the visit you imagined, perhaps you should carry on with your day.|3.63]]

You give him a cheerful smile, though your brow furrows with concern. The green of his eyes shine like beautiful gems, but they look so sad. Seeing Oswin’s face so torn with emotion – regret and sadness – how his tall form sits in front of you, hunched as if he were weak, you can’t help but be moved. “Oswin,” you say, “It’s okay. We can put this behind us – it’s forgotten.” His breath stutters. “Truly?” “Yes. I know this hurt me when it happened.” You wave the key in the air. “You’re clearly genuine with your regrets, and I can put it behind me.” You offer him another smile, spotting a stray tear as it falls from his eye. He catches your hand and holds it close to his face for a moment. Oddly, he doesn’t look as relieved as you’d expect. If this had weighed on him so much through the years, wouldn’t he at least smile? “I’m not worthy of your grace, $mc,” he says, releasing your hand. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You give him a gentle push against his shoulder. “I think you are.”<<else>>You tilt your head thoughtfully. “Isn’t that for me to decide?”<</if>> His mournful expression does not change. “Oswin...what else are you hiding?” The question tumbles from your lips at its own behest. It came alive in your gut and instinct brought it forward. His face finally changes to one of shock before he schools it into one of cold indifference. “There’s nothing more- Now isn’t the time.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Oswin, you’re clearly hurting, let me help.”<<else>>“So, there //is// something else you’re hiding.”<</if>> “I need to focus on what is more important right now than my quibbles. We get your cur- sickness resolved and get you home safe.” He stands abruptly, turning from you as he clearly tries to hide as he wipes his eyes. You stand as well and place a hand to his back. “When you’re ready.” [[This wasn’t the visit you imagined, perhaps you should carry on with your day.|3.63]]

You shake your head, though your brow furrows with concern. The green of his eyes shine like beautiful gems, but they look so sad. Seeing Oswin’s face so torn with emotion – regret and sadness – how his tall form sits in front of you, hunched as if he were weak, you can’t help but be moved, even if he is being ridiculous. “Oswin,” you say, “It’s okay. There’s nothing to forgive. We were children, we had a spat. It’s over.” His breath stutters. “Truly?” “Yes. I know this hurt me when it happened.” You wave the key in the air. “You’re clearly genuine with your regrets, and I have put it behind me.” You offer him a smile, spotting a stray tear as it falls from his eye. He catches your hand and holds it close to his face for a moment. Oddly, he doesn’t look as relieved as you’d expect. If this had weighed on him so much through the years, wouldn’t he at least smile? “I’m not worthy of your grace, $mc,” he says, releasing your hand. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You give him a gentle push against his shoulder. “I said there is nothing to forgive.”<<else>>You tilt your head thoughtfully. “Isn’t that for me to decide?”<</if>> His mournful expression does not change. “Oswin...what else are you hiding?” The question tumbles from your lips at its own behest. It came alive in your gut and instinct brought it forward. His face finally changes to one of shock before he schools it into one of cold indifference. “There’s nothing more- Now isn’t the time.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Oswin, you’re clearly hurting, let me help.”<<else>>“So, there //is// something else you’re hiding.”<</if>> “I need to focus on what is more important right now than my quibbles. We get your cur- sickness resolved and get you home safe.” He stands abruptly, turning from you as he clearly tries to hide as he wipes his eyes. You stand as well and place a hand to his back. “When you’re ready.” [[This wasn’t the visit you imagined, perhaps you should carry on with your day.|3.63]]

You shake your head. This was an impactful moment in your young life. To see that he’s held on so selfishly to an apology will take you a while to process. Perhaps in time you will find the ability to forgive him, but it will not be right now. He had his time holding on to this, you are allowed yours to process how you feel. The green of his eyes shine like gems, but they look very sad. Seeing Oswin’s face so torn with emotion – regret and sadness – how his tall form sits in front of you, hunched as if he were weak, you can’t help but be a little moved, even if you’ve yet to determine your own feelings. “Oswin,” you say, “I need some time to think this through.” His breath stutters. “I completely understand that. That you’re even considering taking the time is more than enough for me.” “This hurt me when it happened.” You wave the key in the air. “You’re clearly genuine with your regrets, but you held on to something as simple as a ‘sorry’ for years, that I just want the time to think it over.” You offer him a nod, spotting a stray tear as it falls from his eye. He catches your hand and holds it close to his face for a moment. Oddly, he doesn’t look as relieved as you’d expect from his words. If this had weighed on him so much through the years, wouldn’t he at least look a little relieved? “I’m not worthy of your time, $mc,” he says, releasing your hand. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You give him a gentle push against his shoulder. “Let me be the judge of that.”<<else>>You tilt your head thoughtfully. “Isn’t that for me to decide?”<</if>> His mournful expression does not change. “Oswin...what else are you hiding?” The question tumbles from your lips at its own behest. It came alive in your gut and instinct brought it forward. His face finally changes to one of shock before he schools it into one of cold indifference. “There’s nothing more- Now isn’t the time.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Oswin, you’re clearly hurting, and your habit of holding on to these things obviously helps no one.”<<else>>“So, there //is// something else you’re hiding.”<</if>> “I need to focus on what is more important right now than my quibbles. We get your cur- sickness resolved and get you home safe.” He stands abruptly, turning from you as he clearly tries to hide as he wipes his eyes. You stand as well and place a hand to his shoulder. “When you’re ready.” [[This wasn’t the visit you imagined, perhaps you should carry on with your day.|3.63]]

Not too far from a bridge that spans the width of the stream, the shore curves. The stream is so swollen that it has created a large private pool to one side, secluded by the surrounding trees. It doesn’t appear very deep and the water is very clear, enough that you see small fish easily darting about. You can still hear the waterfall from the pool, but the surrounding foliage helps block much of the noise. You settle your things on a large flat rock next to the waterline and begin to undress. Thankfully the sun is high enough to warm you and the water, but it is still just a little cool. Spring is still waking, and it will be several days before it is comfortably warm. It feels wonderful to strip out of your old dirty clothes. <<if $clothing is 'comfortable'>>Your already very comfortable wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your normal clothes were sufficient, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to replace all the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'regular'>>Your regular wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your normal clothes were sufficient and durable enough, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to replace some of the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'business'>>Your already very functional wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your regular clothes were sufficient, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to repair some of the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'color'>>Your fathers and Oswin insisted that you take some of your most drab articles of clothing. You miss the vibrant colors of your wardrobe, but you suppose many of your items would be ruined by the time you are back home.<<elseif $clothing is 'revealing'>>Your fathers insisted that you at least pack some articles of clothing that would cover you more fully. You saw the benefit in it within just the first days, but your skin longs to breathe. At least you found comfortable items to wear, and your normal wardrobe is so light weight, that you were able to slip some of your favorite articles in as well.<</if>> You take a look at yourself before wading into the water. You are dirty, no doubt about it. At least you can’t smell yourself, though you’d rather not chance it. There’s dirt clinging to every crease in your skin. After taking some soothing breaths of fresh air, you brace yourself for the cold water and begin to wade in. A chill hits your feet and you stop for a moment to adjust. It actually isn’t as bad as you feared, and is close to the same temperature as the water from the well back home. You continue to walk in and let yourself adjust. The pool only hits at about your ribs. [[You settle in and wait for Zahn.|3.64bb]]

You kneel down in the water to begin soaking. Not but a few moments later you hear Zahn trundling through the low shrubs that crowd the path to the pool, sounding very much like $Zheshe is tripping over each one. The happy acolyte burst into view, already shedding layers of clothing. You remember your promise to Oswin and turn your front away from Zahn, tilting your head around to greet $Zhimher with a smile. “I’ll be right in, $mc. Oswin was glaring at me, so I promised to be good.” You chuckle. “I’m going to keep my back to you anyway, Zahn.” “That’s okay, you have a very nice back anyway. Joke's on Oswin!” $Zcapitalheshe laughs. You hear a splash and then a yip from the acolyte. “That’s cold!” The water ripples as Zahn gets in, and you see a small school of minnows dart away. Once it sounds like Zahn is in the water, you turn your head and meet $Zhisher eyes. $Zcapitalheshe is submerged to $Zhisher neck, blond hair plastered down from being damp. You note $Zhisher bony shoulders and that $Zhisher neck is very slim and elegant. You imagine Zahn’s travels have been a little rough if they’re this slim. “Thank you for inviting me. This is fun! It’s just a bath but it’s kinda nice to do some of that mundane stuff with another person.” You nod. “I thought it might be nice too. My home has a bathtub inside, so I haven’t really done this before.” “Wow, //inside//? I’ve never seen a bath like that. I’ve heard of them. Is it cold like this?” “If you just use the water pumped from the well. My Papa put a special stove in the washroom so you can boil two big buckets of water at once. If you do that and add two buckets from the well, it makes a warm bath.” “A warm bath sounds so wonderful…” $Zcapitalheshe says dreamily. You realize then that you’ve left your soap and washcloth on the rock at the edge of the pool. You also consider that Zahn may be kind enough to help you bathe if you wanted... [[You ask Zahn to wash your hair.|3.64bb1]] [[You ask Zahn to wash your back.|3.64bb2]] [[You ask Zahn to hand you your soap and cloth to continue your bath.|3.64bb3]]

“Zahn, my soap and cloth are on the rock next to you, would you mind grabbing them?” “Sure!” Zahn makes haste, making the water ripple again. Once $Zheshe has reached you, you ask, “Would you mind washing my hair for me?” “Really? I’d love to.” You feel a tentative touch against your hair, it strikes you as a bit timid. After some gentle tousling, Zahn begins <<if $hairlength is 'very long'>>gingerly working through the great length of your hair, careful to untangle the strands as $Zheshe goes.<<elseif $hairlength is 'long'>>gingerly working though the long length of your hair, careful to untangle the strands as $Zheshe goes.<<elseif $hairlength is 'shoulder length'>>gingerly working through the length of your hair, careful to untangle the strands as $Zheshe goes.<<elseif $hairlength is 'chin length'>>gingerly working out the few tangles in your hair. Keeping it to your chin has made $Zhisher task a bit easier.<<elseif $hairlength is 'short'>>gingerly working $Zhisher hands through your short hair, loosing a tangle or two.<<elseif $hairlength is 'very short'>>gingerly working $Zhisher hands through your hair, which feels like a soothing massage against your scalp.<</if>> The smell of $favsmell begins to waft around you both. It soothes your mind and fills you with thoughts of home. “$mc,” Zahn says. “you have such lovely hair.” “You think?” “I do. This soap smells really nice too, it suits you.” You chuckle. “Thank you. My da makes the soap, he made sure to use my favorite scent.” Zahn hums thoughtfully. It’s quiet for a while as $Zheshe continues to wash your hair and massages your scalp. <> <<if $interestwound is 'backscar'>>Finally, Zahn breaks the silence. “It’s fine if you don’t want to tell me, but the scar on your back...looks like you had a bad experience. Sorry for staring, but I can’t help but be curious.” “Oh, I got that a long time ago when I was beginning my sword training.” “You trained like Oswin does?” “Mostly. Oswin probably takes things a bit too seriously since he’s more of a mercenary now, but I learned under my da. I do some guard work in our village, not much happens, but I’ve trained to be prepared for about anything.” “Did something happen when you got this then?" “That was when I was younger, another kid who was learning like me wanted to spar. We had a match, and I won. I don’t think he took losing very well even though it was just a friendly match. He claims he only meant to barely poke me, but he swung his sword as my back was turned. Healer had to pack and sew the wound shut.” “Blessed be, $mc, that is awful. What a little piss – can’t take one loss, how pathetic.” Zahn grumbles, which sounds more cute than aggravated.<</if>> <<if $tat7 is true and $tat8 is true>>Zhan taps your right shoulder. “I like both of your tattoos as well. I’ve always wanted one, but they cost too much money.”<<elseif $tat7 is true>>Zahn taps your right shoulder. “I like your tattoo as well. I’ve always wanted one, but they cost too much money.<<elseif $tat8 is true>>Zahn taps your left shoulder. “I like your tattoo as well. I’ve always wanted one, but they cost too much money. “Well, thank you again, Zahn. If you do end up in Stonebrook sometime our guard captain is the one that does most of our tattoos. She’s quite good and her prices are very reasonable. I think she just enjoys it, so she mainly charges to cover her supplies.” “Oh, I would love that! Seems like a good reason to make sure my pilgrimage takes me there.” <</if>> <> A contented sigh escapes you. Zahn has definitely been working on your hair longer than $Zheshe needed to, but you can’t say as thought it hasn’t felt wonderful. A sense of relaxation flits through your body. You suddenly realize that the sensation is more than just your muscles relaxing and your back stiffens. Zahn stops. “I’m sorry, that was unintentional!” “What was that?” You’re trying to put your finger on the sensation. It was pleasant, tingly, cool but also warm. “Magic.” $Zhisher voice sounds sheepish. “I’m so sorry, I was just kinda in the moment and relaxed a bit too much. It almost has a mind of its own sometimes. I won’t do it again, I promise.” Zahn begins to almost sound frantic. “It’s fine, I’m fine – I just realized the feeling was unusual.” “Phew, I’m so glad. I was thinking that I really hoped I was helping you to feel good since you’ve had such a rough...time with your illness, and oh...oh, I mean, sorry – I shouldn’t have said that. Um, I’m so sorry. I don’t mean to make you think of it, it’s hard enough I bet...Ah, //shit//.” You turn your head and see Zahn tapping $Zhisher fist against $Zhisher forehead, face all scrunched up with worry. [[You tell Zahn that it’s okay.|3.64bb1a][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You decide to mess with Zahn a little.|3.64bb1b][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]]

“Zahn, my soap and cloth are on the rock next to you, would you mind grabbing them?” “Sure!” Zahn makes haste, making the water ripple again. Once $Zheshe has reached you, you ask, “Would you mind washing my back for me?” “Really? I’d love to.” You feel a tentative touch against your back, it strikes you as a bit timid. After some gentle motions, Zahn begins. The smell of $favsmell begins to waft around you both. It soothes your mind and fills you with thoughts of home. “$mc,” Zahn says. “you have such lovely skin.” “You think?” “I do. This soap smells really nice too, it suits you.” You chuckle. “Thank you. My da makes the soap, he made sure to use my favorite scent.” Zahn hums thoughtfully. It’s quiet for a while as $Zheshe continues to wash your back and massage your shoulders a bit. <> <<if $interestwound is 'backscar'>>Finally, Zahn breaks the silence. “It’s fine if you don’t want to tell me, but the scar on your back...looks like you had a bad experience. Sorry for staring, but I can’t help but be curious.” “Oh, I got that a long time ago when I was beginning my sword training.” “You trained like Oswin does?” “Mostly. Oswin probably takes things a bit too seriously since he’s more of a mercenary now, but I learned under my da. I do some guard work in our village, not much happens, but I’ve trained to be prepared for about anything.” “Did something happen when you got this then?” “That was when I was younger, another kid who was learning like me wanted to spar. We had a match, and I won. I don’t think he took losing very well even though it was just a friendly match. He claims he only meant to barely poke me, but he swung his sword as my back was turned. Healer had to pack and sew the wound shut.” “Blessed be, $mc, that is awful. What a little piss – can’t take one loss, how pathetic.” Zahn grumbles, which sounds more cute than aggravated.<</if>> <<if $tat7 is true and $tat8 is true>>Zhan taps your right shoulder. “I like both of your tattoos as well. I’ve always wanted one, but they cost too much money.”<<elseif $tat7 is true>>Zahn taps your right shoulder. “I like your tattoo as well. I’ve always wanted one, but they cost too much money.<<elseif $tat8 is true>>Zahn taps your left shoulder. “I like your tattoo as well. I’ve always wanted one, but they cost too much money. “Well, thank you again, Zahn. If you do end up in Stonebrook sometime our guard captain is the one that does most of our tattoos. She’s quite good and her prices are very reasonable. I think she just enjoys it, so she mainly charges to cover her supplies.” “Oh, I would love that! Seems like a good reason to make sure my pilgrimage takes me there.” <</if>> <> A contented sigh escapes you. Zahn has definitely been working on your back longer than $Zheshe needed to, but you can’t say as thought it hasn’t felt wonderful. A sense of relaxation flits through your body. You suddenly realize that the sensation is more than just your muscles relaxing and your back stiffens. Zahn stops. “I’m sorry, that was unintentional!” “What was that?” You’re trying to put your finger on the sensation. It was pleasant, tingly, cool but also warm. “Magic.” $Zhisher voice sounds sheepish. “I’m so sorry, I was just kinda in the moment and relaxed a bit too much. It almost has a mind of its own sometimes. I won’t do it again, I promise.” Zahn begins to almost sound frantic. “It’s fine, I’m fine – I just realized the feeling was unusual.” “Phew, I’m so glad. I was thinking that I really hoped I was helping you to feel good since you’ve had such a rough...time with your illness, and oh...oh, I mean, sorry – I shouldn’t have said that. Um, I’m so sorry. I don’t mean to make you think of it, it’s hard enough I bet...Ah, //shit//.” You turn your head and see Zahn tapping $Zhisher fist against $Zhisher forehead, face all scrunched up with worry. [[You tell Zahn that it’s okay.|3.64bb1a][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You decide to mess with Zahn a little.|3.64bb1b][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]]

“Zahn, my soap and cloth are on the rock next to you, would you mind grabbing them?” “Sure!” Zahn makes haste, making the water ripple again. $Zcapitalheshe taps you on the back and hands you your things so you can set about getting washed up. The smell of $favsmell begins to waft around you both. It soothes your mind and fills you with thoughts of home. “$mc,” Zahn says. “I hope you don’t mind, but I wanted to say that you’re gorgeous.” Pausing for a moment, you absorb the compliment. “You think?” “I do. Your soap smells really nice too, it suits you.” You chuckle at $Zhisher directness. “Thank you. My da makes the soap, he made sure to use my favorite scent.” Scrubbing the dirt from your rough journey away is invigorating. Even if the water is a bit chilled still, you already feel so much better. Zahn makes for good and sweet company, and you almost feel like a new $manwoperson. A quiet peace falls between the two of you, with only the sounds of the surrounding water filling the space. <> <<if $interestwound is 'backscar'>>Finally, Zahn breaks the stillness of the moment. “It’s fine if you don’t want to tell me, but the scar on your back...looks like you had a bad experience. Sorry for staring, but I can’t help but be curious.” “Oh, I got that a long time ago when I was beginning my sword training.” “You trained like Oswin does?” “Mostly. Oswin probably takes things a bit too seriously since he’s more of a mercenary now, but I learned under my da. I do some guard work in our village, not much happens, but I’ve trained to be prepared for about anything.” “Did something happen when you got this then?” “That was when I was younger, another kid who was learning like me wanted to spar. We had a match, and I won. I don’t think he took losing very well even though it was just a friendly match. He claims he only meant to barely poke me, but he swung his sword as my back was turned. Healer had to pack and sew the wound shut.” “Blessed be, $mc, that is awful. What a little piss – can’t take one loss, how pathetic.” Zahn grumbles, which sounds more cute than aggravated.<</if>> <<if $tat7 is true and $tat8 is true>>Zahn shifts behind you. “I like both of your tattoos as well. I’ve always wanted one, but they cost too much money.”<<elseif $tat7 is true>>Zahn shifts behind you. “I like your tattoo as well. I’ve always wanted one, but they cost too much money.<<elseif $tat8 is true>>Zahn shifts behind you. “I like your tattoo as well. I’ve always wanted one, but they cost too much money. “Well, thank you again, Zahn. If you do end up in Stonebrook sometime our guard captain is the one that does most of our tattoos. She’s quite good and her prices are very reasonable. I think she just enjoys it, so she mainly charges to cover her supplies.” “Oh, I would love that! Seems like a good reason to make sure my pilgrimage takes me there.” <</if>> <> After a while, you notice the atmosphere feels a bit odd. Zahn has been moving around more and has gotten a bit closer. Twice you’ve heard $Zhimher start to say something and then stop and clear $Zhisher throat. You decide to prompt, since it seems $Zheshe has something to say. “Zahn, are you okay?” “Oh! Yes!” $Zheshe yips. “Well, no...well, yes – I’m fine. I was just wondering if //you// were fine. You know, I can help relax you a bit more if you want. If I stand close or if I touch you I mean.” “I-” “I don’t mean that in a weird way! I’m not trying to touch you in a forward way, unless you wanted me to, I suppose. But, no, that’s...I was thinking that I really hoped you were feeling good since you’ve had such a rough...time with your illness, and oh...oh, I mean, sorry – I shouldn’t have said that. Um, I’m so sorry. I don’t mean to make you think of it, it’s hard enough I bet...Ah, //shit//.” You turn your head and see Zahn tapping $Zhisher fist against $Zhisher forehead, face all scrunched up with worry. [[You tell Zahn that it’s okay.|3.64bb1a][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You decide to mess with Zahn a little.|3.64bb1b][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]]

You decide to take pity on $Zhimher, especially since you’re not technically currently sick, and $Zheshe has been trying to comfort you this whole time. “Zahn, it’s fine, you can relax.” $Zcapitalheshe groans. “Sorry, I always screw stuff up. I really didn’t want to ask or say anything. I tried really hard, it just started to slip.” You shrug, taking your soap and rag back and continuing your bath. “I’m feeling okay right now. So, don’t worry about it.” Zahn sighs. “Okay, tell me if I can do anything to make it up to you.” “It’s dangerous to promise //anything//.” You say as you dunk yourself under the water to rinse. The brisk coldness catches you a bit by surprise, but as you breach the surface again, you feel invigorated. “You know, $mc, if it’s you, I am starting to think that //anything// really would be okay.” You snort a laugh. “You’ve been pretty direct since we met…” “Yeah, sorry about that. I’m not like that with just everyone. I get feelings about people, and then I can’t help myself when I get a really good feeling about someone.” [[Invite Zahn to “get a good feeling.”|3.64bb1a1]] (Mildly Explicit) [[Divert the subject.|3.64bb1a2]]

“I don’t know, Zahn, I think that crossed a line.” Zahn gasps. “Oh no, I am so, so sorry. I’ll leave. I’ll make it up to you. I- I- I-” “I think I’ll call for Oswin,” you say, turning to hide your smirk. A strange and stifled alarmed noise escapes $Zhisher mouth and the water around you both begins to slosh. You can no longer hide your laughter. You glance behind you and see the realization gradually shift Zahn’s expression from worry to a sort of playful irritation. $Zcapitalheshe folds $Zhisher arms and glowers at you, though a smirk forms upon Zahn’s lips as well. “No fair, you really had me!” Zahn pouts, making you laugh harder. You try to school your glee. “Zahn, it’s fine, you can relax. I’m sorry, you just set yourself up for that so perfectly. It’s really fine.” $Zcapitalheshe groans. “Sorry, I always screw stuff up. I really didn’t want to ask or say anything about your...problem. I tried really hard, it just started to slip, and I thought you’d be really angry.” You shrug, taking your soap and rag back and continuing your bath. “I’m feeling okay right now. So, don’t worry about it.” Zahn sighs. “Okay, tell me if I can do anything to make it up to you.” “It’s dangerous to promise //anything//.” You say as you dunk yourself under the water to rinse. The brisk coldness catches you a bit by surprise, but as you breach the surface again, you feel invigorated. “You know, $mc, if it’s you, I am starting to think that //anything// really would be okay.” You snort a laugh. “You’ve been pretty direct since we met…” “Yeah, sorry about that. I’m not like that with just everyone. I get feelings about people, and then I can’t help myself when I get a really good feeling about someone.” [[Invite Zahn to “get a good feeling.”|3.64bb1a1]] (Mildly Explicit) [[Divert the subject.|3.64bb1a2]]

“Zahn...would you like to get a good feel for me right now?” You look over your shoulder, meeting $Zhisher bright blue eyes with a sultry $eyecolor gaze of your own. Zahn appears struck as if by lightning, but you see a very slight nod and a nervous smile form on $Zhisher lips. $Zcapitalheshe slowly closes the distance between you, getting close enough that you feel the change in temperature at your back. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You can really sense the difference in height between you like this as you tower over Zahn.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>You can really sense the difference in height between you like this, as you still loom over Zahn a bit..<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Zahn is close to your height, and it feels nice to share $Zhisher heat over the whole expanse of your back.<<else>>It makes you feel a bit tingly to have Zahn standing over you. It makes you wonder just how much $Zheshe can see.<</if>> Zahn’s breath hitches slightly. “$mc, I hope this isn’t too much, but I adore your body. <<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>>You’re so broad and strong, I want to feel your muscles so bad.<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>>You’re so strong and graceful, I want to feel the power in your muscles.<<elseif $bodytype is 'curvy'>>Your curves are so perfect that I can barely keep my hands away.<<elseif $bodytype is 'toned and lean'>>You’re so lean and graceful, I want to feel all your dips and angles.<<elseif $bodytype is 'slender'>>You’re so slender and agile, I want to explore every part of you.<<elseif $bodytype is 'voluptuous'>>You are so sexy and luscious, I want to hold on to you so badly.<</if>> “Then, what are you waiting for?” you invite. You feel very warm hands touch your shoulder and slide down your back. Zahn glides $Zhisher hands along your spine and sides, up to your shoulders, across and down both your arms. It’s almost as if $Zheshe is mapping your body. As Zahn’s hands skirt down your naked sides once more, $Zheshe dips them lower to your hips. You hear a sharp inhale, and then a muttered, “//Gods...//” You smile. “Try the front. You can’t look...but you can touch.” Zahn’s breathing hitches again as $Zhisher hands slide from your hips to your pelvis, just above your sex, and then up. $Zcapitalheshe dances along your abdomen and traces your navel up and down, before tickling along your pelvis again. $Zcapitalheshe presses a bit closer, $Zhisher front pushing into your back. “Your chest?” Zahn asks. You nod. Without hesitation, Zahn traces the lines of your torso to your chest, gliding $Zhisher hands along it, focusing around your nipples for a moment before retreating back down. <<if $Zgen is 'male'>>You feel the press of something against your backside and you gather that Zahn is quite taken by being able to touch you. He’s clearly trying to keep it from touching you, but is failing.>><<elseif $Zgen is 'female'>>You feel the press of Zahn’s breasts against your backside. They’ve become so perky that you sense how hard her nipples have become just by touching you.<</if>> Zahn takes a step back and breathes deeply. You take a moment for yourself as well and collect your thoughts, thinking it may be best to carry on before you two get carried away. [[Now you divert the subject.|3.64bb1a2]]

Since Zahn has been kind enough to accompany you for a bath, it’s generally polite to at least offer $Zhimher a helping hand, at least from what you’ve picked up on etiquette from the townspeople back home. Zahn hasn’t seemed overly shy about doing this either, or you turning your head to look at $Zhimher. “Do you want me to help with your hair or back?” you ask as you peek back. Zahn stops working $Zhisher soap along $Zhisher arms and pauses awkwardly for a moment. “Um, no, that’s fine. Maybe next time. Thank you, though!” You settle down in the pool to relax for a bit as Zahn continues scrubbing. You notice that $Zheshe’s singing something very quietly under $Zhisher breath. It dawns on you that it feels sort of natural to be around Zahn, and you’ve learned a little but not a ton about $Zhimher. “So, you take baths like this with your friends in your church?” “Yes, well, not anymore.” “Why not?” “Well, I got into some trouble actually,” Zahn says, and then clearly forces a chuckle. “Do I dare ask you what you did to lose group bath privileges while we’re currently in a bath together?” You hear a little splash and see Zahn’s wavy blond hair disappear below the surface of the water for a moment. After popping back up, $Zheshe shakes the water from $Zhisher face and then sighs. “Well, I had a //friend// in my fold that, well, we helped each other.” “Helped?” The wheels in your head turn. “Yeah, you know, sex and stuff like that. Neither of us had a lover and we were pretty comfortable with one another.” “Oh, does your faith not allow for things like that?” You’ve heard of some restrictions in some beliefs, but mostly this was unfamiliar to you. “Nothing like that. Din encourages any relationship that we want. Our leader, the Acceptor, is also our matchmaker. He didn’t approve of me doing that with my friend.” There’s a pull in your gut. That strikes you as a bit odd. “Did he say why?” “I’m not good enough is all. It made sense, my friend has elevated to what we call an Order – they’re just a couple steps below the Acceptor. But the Acceptor forgave me after I did my penance.” You nearly choke on your own breath. “How is it for this Acceptor to decide if you’re not good enough?” “That’s just the way it is. They became Acceptor for a reason, his wisdom and insight are really profound.” “What did your friend say?” “She accepted it too, though she didn’t have to do any penance because of her rank. We’re still friends, though we just don’t do the other stuff. It’s not much different I guess.” [[This leaves a gross taste in your mouth, but it’s not your place yet to say anything.|3.64bb1a3]] [[You don’t like this, and you can’t just remain silent about it.|3.64bb1a4]]

You sigh unconsciously. “Don’t worry, if you are worried that is,” $Zheshe says. “And if I am?” “It’s the way I’ve chosen to live, and I trust the Acceptor’s judgment.” Zahn voice is flat, lacking it’s usually enthusiasm. It sounds more like resignation to you. It’s not really your business. The feeling that there is something strange about this is ever-present, and you barely know this person still. “Alright,” you say. Zahn clears $Zhisher throat. “If you’d like to get out first, I think I’m going to soak just a bit longer. I won’t look or anything.” “What if I didn’t care if you did?” You chuckle, trying to bring a bit of levity back into the atmosphere. “Not that I wouldn’t love that, but I don’t need any more temptation.” Zahn laughs. You feel the water ripple, and see over your shoulder that Zahn has sunk down to $Zhisher chin and closed $Zhisher eyes, looking rather comfortable. You decide to take the opportunity to get out of the water, the air sending shivers through your body. While you dry yourself and dress, Zahn remains blissful in the water, eyes still closed and face tilted towards the sun. The pilgrim is sweet and soft, but still a mystery to you. You suppose that will change with time. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

“Zahn, that’s-” “It’s okay.” $Zcapitalheshe interrupts. You shake your head. “Is it?” “It’s the way I’ve chosen to live, and I trust the Acceptor’s judgment.” Zahn voice is flat, lacking it’s usually enthusiasm. It sounds more like resignation to you. It’s not for you to keep pressing. Maybe in time you can speak more candidly to Zahn about it once you’ve known each other longer. You sigh almost unconsciously. “Alright.” Zahn clears $Zhisher throat. “If you’d like to get out first, I think I’m going to soak just a bit longer. I won’t look or anything.” “What if I didn’t care if you did?” You chuckle, trying to bring a bit of levity back into the atmosphere. “Not that I wouldn’t love that, but I don’t need any more temptation.” Zahn laughs. You feel the water ripple, and see over your shoulder that Zahn has sunk down to $Zhisher chin and closed $Zhisher eyes, looking rather comfortable. You decide to take the opportunity to get out of the water, the air sending shivers through your body. While you dry yourself and dress, Zahn remains blissful in the water, eyes still closed and face tilted towards the sun. The pilgrim is sweet and soft, but still a mystery to you. You suppose that will change with time. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Not too far from a bridge that spans the width of the stream, the shore curves. The stream is so swollen that it has created a large private pool to one side, secluded by the surrounding trees. It doesn’t appear very deep and the water is very clear, enough that you see small fish easily darting about. You can still hear the waterfall from the pool, but the surrounding foliage helps block much of the noise. You settle your things on a large flat rock next to the waterline and begin to undress. Thankfully the sun is high enough to warm you and the water, but it is still just a little cool. Spring is still waking, and it will be several days before it is comfortably warm. It feels wonderful to strip out of your old dirty clothes. <<if $clothing is 'comfortable'>>Your already very comfortable wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your normal clothes were sufficient, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to replace all the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'regular'>>Your regular wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your normal clothes were sufficient and durable enough, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to replace some of the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'business'>>Your already very functional wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your regular clothes were sufficient, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to repair some of the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'color'>>Your fathers and Oswin insisted that you take some of your most drab articles of clothing. You miss the vibrant colors of your wardrobe, but you suppose many of your items would be ruined by the time you are back home.<<elseif $clothing is 'revealing'>>Your fathers insisted that you at least pack some articles of clothing that would cover you more fully. You saw the benefit in it within just the first days, but your skin longs to breathe. At least you found comfortable items to wear, and your normal wardrobe is so light weight, that you were able to slip some of your favorite articles in as well.<</if>> You take a look at yourself before wading into the water. You are dirty, no doubt about it. At least you can’t smell yourself, though you’d rather not chance it. There’s dirt clinging to every crease in your skin. After taking some soothing breaths of fresh air, you brace yourself for the cold water and begin to wade in. A chill hits your feet and you stop for a moment to adjust. It actually isn’t as bad as you feared, and is close to the same temperature as the water from the well back home. You continue to walk in and let yourself adjust. The pool only hits at about your ribs. [[You settle in and wait for Nathan.|3.64c2]]

You soak in the water, kneeling a bit so you are fully submerged to your neck and can lift your face towards the sun. There’s a deep element of peace around you as the birds sing and din of the waterfall echos slightly around you. A frog begins to croak, almost startling you. “Careful, you’ll charm the sun down with such a look.” Nathanael’s voice startles you into sitting up. “Stars above!” you curse. “And stars below.” He chuckles. You turn your head to look and catch him smiling at you, looking entirely too pleased. His long blue robe billows a bit with the breeze. It strikes you as odd for him to wear such an elaborate and, no doubt, expensive item while traveling. Though, the luxury of having a large cart would make a difference. He sits on the large stone you placed your things on and you notice a small leather-bound book in his hand. “You’re reading?” Nathan nods. “A bit. I imagine you won’t want to chat the whole time. And this way, I won’t be as tempted to simply stare at you the entire time you are bathing.” <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You feel your face heat. <<else>>You roll your eyes. <</if>><<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“Would you be so kind then as to toss me my soap and cloth?” you ask.<<else>>“Could you make yourself useful and toss me my soap and cloth?” you ask.<</if>> A second later, your soap splashes right in front of you, spraying you a bit in the face. You have to hurry to snatch it from getting lost in the stream. You turn your head to give Nathan a dirty look and your, now wet, wash cloth splays right into your face. The look you give the merchant would rival Oswin’s glower. Nathan dries his hands on his robe and then picks his book back up with a smug grin. “You are welcome.” “I suppose should have known the risks of inviting you along,” you murmur, as you stand and begin to lather your soap. “True, true,” Nathan says. “Why //did// you invite me along, $mc? I may get the wrong idea with you asking me to be so close when you are in such a state. Just so we are clear, are you perhaps attempting to seduce me?” $flirt_label [[You answer honestly, that is what you had in mind.|3.64c2a][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Your face is on fire and you stammer a response. You’re not opposed, but to address it so directly is a bit much.|3.64c2b][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You clarify that is not the case, you are not seducing him.|3.64c2c][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[That isn’t what you intended, which is best expressed by a slightly insulting joke.|3.64c2d][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You keep it vague. Maybe you are, maybe you aren’t, maybe you’re not sure.|3.64c2e]]

<<set $merchantopinion +=5>> “That was my intention, actually.” You pass him a smile as you continue to scrub. Nathan glances up from above his book. He’s hiding his mouth, but you can tell by the corner of his right eye that he is grinning. “I am flattered, my dear. <<if hasVisited("He's a handsome man and fun, perhaps he'd share your bed tonight...")>>And I do believe this is your second attempt at luring me to bed… <</if>>I admit, it is tempting, and I find you charming.” “But?” He sighs. “But, it’s something I would need to think longer about. I’m not a stranger to the odd bed here and there, but it’s been quite some time and I’ve grown rather content with just flirting with ideas rather than practicing with them. Not to mention, a rendezvous during a bizarre chance encounter in the middle of a forest with your //guardian// ready to bite my ankles is less appealing.” “That’s an understandable assessment.<<if hasVisited("3.55c")>>Though, if you’ll recall, you seemed very receptive to the idea earlier, but <</if>>I don’t suppose your caravan is comfortable for such things.” “No.” He laughs. “There is barely room for myself to sleep. I suppose there is plenty of forest around...but that really isn’t my preference either. <<if hasVisited("3.55c")>>I ask your forgiveness for being forward and suggestive, such things become a bit of a game for me – just good fun. <</if>>Maybe one day, $mc, we can see where our flirtations go. Stonebrook has proved profitable for these last two years, I will be around for a while. I’ll think on it, and perhaps I can entertain you some evening.” “Until then, I suppose.” “If it soothes you at all, should you peruse my wares, I’ll give you – and only you – a fair discount. Consider it a thanks for playing this game with me and an apology for turning down your offer, at least for now.” “I appreciate the offer,” you say, perhaps a little disappointed that you’ve been turned down in the interim, but pleased that Nathan will consider it in the future. And that discount may come in handy before you depart again. [[You continue your bath.|3.64c2aa]]

<<set $merchantopinion +=6>> You suddenly very thankful that you stand a ways away from Nathanael and are turned away. You know color must be rising to your cheeks. Your tongue trips on itself trying to either deny your underlying thoughts or divert attention from them. Your mind is blank. Nathan interests you and you may not be able to directly admit it, but there is a stirring inside when you think about the implications. “My, my – did you know your neck and shoulders blush, $mc?” You freeze. “I can see how red you are from here. Is the water quite warm? Have you found a secret hot spring in the pool?” He chuckles. You give him a slightly sour look from over your shoulder. Nathan glances up from above his book, leading you to wonder if you really are turning red or if he is teasing you. He’s hiding his mouth, but you can tell by the corner of his right eye that he is grinning. “I am flattered, my dear. <<if hasVisited("He's a handsome man and fun, perhaps he'd share your bed tonight...")>>And I do believe this is your second attempt at luring me to bed… <</if>>I admit, it is tempting, and I find you charming, and see you a blushing and stuttering mess makes me...uh, let’s say stirred up.” Curiosity tugs at you. You haven’t admitted anything, but it seems like your private thoughts have been picked up on anyway. “But?” He sighs. “But, it’s something I would need to think longer about. I’m not a stranger to the odd bed here and there, but it’s been quite some time and I’ve grown rather content with just flirting with ideas rather than practicing with them. Not to mention, a rendezvous during a bizarre chance encounter in the middle of a forest with your //guardian// ready to bite my ankles is less appealing.” “That’s an understandable assessment.<<if hasVisited("3.55c")>>Though, if you’ll recall, you seemed very receptive to the idea earlier, but <</if>>I don’t suppose your caravan is comfortable for such things.” “No.” He laughs. “There is barely room for myself to sleep. I suppose there is plenty of forest around...but that really isn’t my preference either. <<if hasVisited("3.55c")>>I ask your forgiveness for being forward and suggestive, such things become a bit of a game for me – just good fun. <</if>>Maybe one day, $mc, we can see where our flirtations go. Stonebrook has proved profitable for these last two years, I will be around for a while. I’ll think on it, and perhaps I can entertain you some evening.” You nod. “If it soothes you at all, should you peruse my wares, I’ll give you – and only you – a fair discount. Consider it a thanks for playing this game with me and an apology for turning down your offer, at least for now.” “I appreciate the offer,” you say, perhaps a little disappointed that you’ve been turned down in the interim, but pleased that Nathan will consider it in the future. And that discount may come in handy before you depart again. [[You continue your bath.|3.64c2aa]]

“Apologies if that is what you were hoping for, but that is not the case. I’ve no interest in seducing you, I merely appreciated your company.” “Well, that is quite flattering in its own right, $mc. I do appreciate you thinking of me. I’d have thought you’d prefer Oswin’s company to mine. Zahn, I suppose I could understand if you’re still becoming acquainted.” You nod. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>“I do consider Oswin a friend, though I guess you could say that we are rebuilding to that point. He seemed to be keeping busy and I just wasn’t sure about asking him. I didn’t want to bother him and I wasn’t sure if it would be strange for him.”<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>“No, no – I couldn’t possibly...I wouldn’t want to bother him or anything. It may just be strange between the two of us.”<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>“We’ve grown apart and I’m not sure if there is going to be much we can do about that now. It didn’t feel right to ask him, and honestly I’m not sure if I’d want to.”<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>“Perhaps I could have invited Oswin. He seemed a bit busy anyway. I don’t have anything against him, I just preferred to ask you in the moment.”<</if>> <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>“It is a good thing to build up a friendship such as that. You were close as children if I recall what I’ve heard. I suppose jumping right into, ‘join me for a bath,’ could feel a bit odd in your circumstance,” Nathan says in a thoughtful tone.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>“What is this I detect in your tone? Perchance do you harbor some feelings for the green-eyed grump?” Nathan asks, his own tone lilting playfully.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>“That seems a shame to me, but I do not know your history. You could reconnect, if you’d like, maybe not over a bath just yet I suppose,” Nathan says in a thoughtful tone.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>“Hm, I see what you mean. He tends to keep busy, I’ve noticed. It looks a bit unnecessary to me, though,” Nathan says in a thoughtful tone.<</if>> <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>“Precisely,” you agree. “He’s been better, but still a little awkward.”<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>“That’s not important right now, or your business,” you gently chide.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>“Perhaps, but that is my business alone,” you state.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>“It does to me as well, but I’m not sure if that’s really our business,” you state.<</if>> Nathan hums. “He seems troubled by something regardless. Perhaps you can draw that out of him if you were so inclined. My furry little companion must be rubbing off on me, I am quite curious as to what the thorn in his side is.” Though you have an idea that your predicament is that thorn, you keep it to yourself and simply nod in agreement. [[You continue your bath.|3.64c2aa]]

You smirk. “Not to be trite, but you’re a bit old for me, aren’t you?” Nathan scoffs in a loud voice filled with mock indignation. “How could you, $mc, striking a man where he is most vulnerable!<<if $greyokay is true>> Especially when you are sporting your own fair share of grey hairs.>><</if>>” You chuckle. “<<if $greyokay is true>>Oh no, I make the grey look good - youthful even. >><</if>>The grey and white in your hair and beard are louder than your robes, Nathanael.” “I’ll have you know that I take after my mother and am simply greying a bit early. It has nothing to do with my age. Other than that, I hardly look that much older than yourself.” Now it is your turn to scoff, as you did deeper into your joke. “Please, when was your nameday, hm? Say, 40 years or so ago?” A roar of laughter comes from Nathan. You turn to see him cupping a hand over his mount and his eyes turned up in mirth. “//Forty//!? By grace, you pull no punches. My nameday was only…” He counts, tilting his head to the side in thought as if he’s calculating a trade discount. “Only 23 – no – 24 years ago!” You shake your head. “My you have aged poorly,” you say before cracking into a laugh. The merchant is trying to disguise his own laughter, but is failing. “You’ve spent too much time with your da.<<if $greyokay is false>> But I must say, I am proud of you for making such a jab. I've noticed that you do not care for the grey that has taken over own hair, but trust me when I say that you really are quite fetching with it. If joking with me about it will help you make peace, then I will happily oblige.<</if>>" <<if $greyokay is false>>"I suppose it is nice to be able to laugh about it with someone. Maybe one day really will find some sort of peace with it...until then, I'd rather just keep teasing you." Nathan laughs. "Fine by me."<</if>> As the laughter fades, you decide to extend a bit of grace to the man. “Apologies if that is what you were hoping for, but that is not the case. I’ve no interest in seducing you, I merely appreciated your company and that you can take a joke.” “Well, that is quite flattering in its own right, $mc. I do appreciate you thinking of me. I’d have thought you’d prefer Oswin’s company to mine. Zahn, I suppose I could understand if you’re still becoming acquainted.” “For today, I suppose I’m stuck with you, old man,” you quip. Nathan huffs. “//Anyway//, Oswin seems troubled by something. Perhaps you can draw that out of him if you were so inclined. My furry little companion must be rubbing off on me, I am quite curious as to what the thorn in his side is.” Though you have an idea that your predicament is that thorn, you keep it to yourself and simply nod in agreement. [[You continue your bath.|3.64c2aa]]

You shrug. “Perhaps I am, perhaps I am not. Maybe I don’t even know the correct answer to that.” “Well, either way, I am still flattered, $mc. I appreciate you thinking of me. I’d have thought you’d prefer Oswin’s company to mine. Zahn, I suppose I could understand if you’re still becoming acquainted.” You nod. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>“I do consider Oswin a friend, though I guess you could say that we are rebuilding to that point. He seemed to be keeping busy and I just wasn’t sure about asking him. I didn’t want to bother him and I wasn’t sure if it would be strange for him.”<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>“No, no – I couldn’t possibly...I wouldn’t want to bother him or anything. It may just be strange between the two of us.”<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>“We’ve grown apart and I’m not sure if there is going to be much we can do about that now. It didn’t feel right to ask him, and honestly I’m not sure if I’d want to.”<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>“Perhaps I could have invited Oswin. He seemed a bit busy anyway. I don’t have anything against him, I just preferred to ask you in the moment.”<</if>> <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>“It is a good thing to build up a friendship such as that. You were close as children if I recall what I’ve heard. I suppose jumping right into, ‘join me for a bath,’ could feel a bit odd in your circumstance,” Nathan says in a thoughtful tone.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>“What is this I detect in your tone? Perchance do you harbor some feelings for the green-eyed grump?” Nathan asks, his own tone lilting playfully.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>“That seems a shame to me, but I do not know your history. You could reconnect, if you’d like, maybe not over a bath just yet I suppose,” Nathan says in a thoughtful tone.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>“Hm, I see what you mean. He tends to keep busy, I’ve noticed. It looks a bit unnecessary to me, though,” Nathan says in a thoughtful tone.<</if>> <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>“Precisely,” you agree. “He’s been better, but still a little awkward.”<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>“That’s not important right now, or your business,” you gently chide.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>“Perhaps, but that is my business alone,” you state.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>“It does to me as well, but I’m not sure if that’s really our business,” you state.<</if>> Nathan hums. “He seems troubled by something regardless. Perhaps you can draw that out of him if you were so inclined. My furry little companion must be rubbing off on me, I am quite curious as to what the thorn in his side is.” Though you have an idea that your predicament is that thorn, you keep it to yourself and simply nod in agreement. [[You continue your bath.|3.64c2aa]]

You enjoy the rest of your time in the pool in peace. Nathan makes idle chatter with you, but otherwise says focused on his book. He makes you curious, though you feel at ease around him. You’re not quite sure what Oswin would have against him or why he’d distrust him so much. Is there something about the merchant that you don’t see? Or, is Oswin being paranoid? Despite touting that he doesn’t trust him, you have seen them talk casually in the years since Nathan came around. They do business together and you recall Oswin even being hired by him a time or two when bandits were on the road to Lale. You push these things from your mind. You have enough floating in your head as it is, and you are owed a quiet and relaxing bath. Nathan excuses himself before you finish up, and you are able to float around for a bit and bask in both water and sun. You dry yourself and re-dress, feeling refreshed and clean – any maybe a bit chilled. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Not too far from a bridge that spans the width of the stream, the shore curves. The stream is so swollen that it has created a large private pool to one side, secluded by the surrounding trees. It doesn’t appear very deep and the water is very clear, enough that you see small fish easily darting about. You can still hear the waterfall from the pool, but the surrounding foliage helps block much of the noise. You settle your things on a large flat rock next to the waterline and begin to undress. Thankfully the sun is high enough to warm you and the water, but it is still just a little cool. Spring is still waking, and it will be several days before it is comfortably warm. It feels wonderful to strip out of your old dirty clothes. <<if $clothing is 'comfortable'>>Your already very comfortable wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your normal clothes were sufficient, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to replace all the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'regular'>>Your regular wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your normal clothes were sufficient and durable enough, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to replace some of the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'business'>>Your already very functional wardrobe was a boon as you were packing for the trip. With limited space, you could only take what was essential and would wear well on the road. You are so thankful that your regular clothes were sufficient, though you fear once this trip is over, you’ll have to repair some of the items you packed.<<elseif $clothing is 'color'>>Your fathers and Oswin insisted that you take some of your most drab articles of clothing. You miss the vibrant colors of your wardrobe, but you suppose many of your items would be ruined by the time you are back home.<<elseif $clothing is 'revealing'>>Your fathers insisted that you at least pack some articles of clothing that would cover you more fully. You saw the benefit in it within just the first days, but your skin longs to breathe. At least you found comfortable items to wear, and your normal wardrobe is so light weight, that you were able to slip some of your favorite articles in as well.<</if>> You take a look at yourself before wading into the water. You are dirty, no doubt about it. At least you can’t smell yourself, though you’d rather not chance it. There’s dirt clinging to every crease in your skin. After taking some soothing breaths of fresh air, you brace yourself for the cold water and begin to wade in. A chill hits your feet and you stop for a moment to adjust. It actually isn’t as bad as you feared, and is close to the same temperature as the water from the well back home. You continue to walk in and let yourself adjust. The pool only hits at about your ribs. [[You settle in to enjoy your hard-earned bath.|3.64d2]]

Before you commence to scrubbing the dirt from the road off of you, you sink down to your neck and simply soak. The sun is coming through the trees enough to warm your face. You bask. You focus on the din of the waterfall, the song of birds, and the croaking of a few brave frogs around you. It feels a bit like home, at least it sounds like it. Your thoughts drift to your parents and how they are doing. You hope that Da’s leg is finally healing and that Papa is keeping up with planting and caring for the animals. Even if you wish it not so, you know that they are worrying for you as they always have. At the end of this road, you hope to find your answers. If you do, that means you and your fathers won’t have to worry so much at all, probably for the rest of your lives. You can finally put it all behind you. You think about your new companion, Zahn. A person you’d never meet unless you headed out on the road. You’ve met people from outside Stonebrook before, several times, but there is something about coming across a new person on your own that has a unique charm to it. $Zcapitalheshe is sweet and interesting and seems genuinely devoted to the god $Zheshe serves. It makes you a bit curious about their church and what it’s like. You think Papa would be interested in chatting with $Zhimher. <<if $journey is 'adventure'>>You did want some adventure out of this trek, and it appears you’ve already had some. It dawns on you that you’ll have a couple interesting stories to tell already. That makes you smile. It makes you wonder what else may happen on the road. This stop feels so much like a restart to your trip, to undo the stress and anxiety of getting it started.<<elseif $journey is 'duty'>>At the beginning of this road, all you knew was that this trip needed to be done. Even if it has been difficult, even if you have struggled, it still needs to be done. You have everything to lose if you do not find a solution to your plight. This stop feels so much like a restart to your trip, to undo the stress and anxiety of getting it started.<<elseif $journey is 'nervous'>>The start of this journey only served to fuel your anxieties. It hasn’t been an entirely pleasant trip, either. You feel at ease in the clearing at least, but you know you will have to complete the next part of your mission soon, and you’re not sure how to feel about that just yet. This stop feels so much like a restart to your trip, to undo the stress and anxiety of getting it started.<<elseif $journey is 'relationships'>>At the start of your journey, your main thought was on the relationships this journey could provide you. You’ve spent more time with Oswin than you had in years prior, and he’s not been all bad at least. You sense that he’s working through some of his issues. You’ve already met a new person and even run into a known acquaintance by chance. This stop feels so much like a restart to your trip, to undo the stress and anxiety of getting it started.<</if>> You realize with a start that you’ve been sitting in your bath lost in thought for a long while. You break from your introspection and grab your soap. As you scrub, the smell of $favsmell begins to waft around you. It soothes your mind and fills you with pleasant thoughts of home. Once you are clean and refreshed, you dry yourself thoroughly and re-dress. If possible, even the air feels lighter and cleaner around you. However long this little reprieve will last, you are determined to enjoy it. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>Generally, you’d prefer from privacy, and you’re certain the others will leave you alone if you want them to, but it’s probably better to stick close to camp.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>It’s never really bothered you to share your hobby with others and sticking close to camp can’t hurt. If you desire an audience, you are certain that you can flag one down.<</if>> You take a look at your options for a location. The serenity that the flow of the spring brings lures you to its shore. There’s a spot with lush grass close to the water. You pile down, taking in the warming sun and babbling of the water against stones lining the water’s edge. It smells pleasantly fresh and almost makes you thirsty. After enjoying the scenery for a moment… <> <<if hasVisited("3.62a")>>[[You think of a song.|3.65a1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.62b")>>[[You draw.|3.65a2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.62c")>>[[You knead your clay.|3.65a3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.62d")>>[[You put your pen to the pages.|3.65a4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.62e")>>[[You whittle.|3.65a5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.62f")>>[[You prepare your thread.|3.65a6]]<</if>> <>

<<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>Generally, you prefer privacy when you work on your hobby, and you’ll stay close enough to camp that it will be safe.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>Generally, you usually don’t mind if your hobby entertains others, but right now you’re feeling the need for privacy. You’ll be close enough to camp that it will still be safe.<</if>> Your head towards the campfire area, bypassing it as you find a way through the trees. It doesn’t take long for you to find a small gap in the foliage with a large stone in the middle. It’s flat enough on top to make a decent seat for you. You hop up on it and settle in. After getting comfortable…. <<if hasVisited("3.62a")>>[[You think of a song.|3.65b1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.62b")>>[[You draw.|3.65b2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.62c")>>[[You knead your clay.|3.65b3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.62d")>>[[You put your pen to the pages.|3.65b4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.62e")>>[[You whittle.|3.65b5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.62f")>>[[You prepare your thread.|3.65b6]]<</if>>

<> <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">The Lesser Gods</div></h1> </body> </html> <> Despite the colloquial title, the lesser gods were not always lesser in power or following, they simply came from a different generation of gods, the first of which were children of or otherwise related to the first nine gods. The origins or parentage of most of this branch of the pantheon is unknown to written history. Through their creation, it became known that some element of godhood was hereditary and it is assumed it has something to do with how magic tends to follow a bloodline. This was the largest group of gods, the numbers they reached are unknown to history and a great many died during the war. A majority of the lesser gods were against Hayat and Casimir during the war, wanting to maintain leadership over humans. It is from this generation of gods that most demigods sprung and the one laden with a great deal of abuse of the power they held over humans. The list below is not exhaustive, but contains the most well-known of this branch of the pantheon. !Valko The god of the hunt and predators. This role was originally held by Valko with his six siblings; however, all his siblings died in the war – specifically murdered by the god, Ola. It is said that because Valko and his siblings sided with Casimir, that the war was won. Valko is a fierce warrior whose power is akin to Casimir's. He is a terrifying force on and off the battlefield. He has had many spouses over his long life, most of which have been human followers. !Ola The god of commerce, who still has many followers despite his reputation being very poor. Known as a very shrewd and cunning man, he established an economy and trade routes for humans. He is credited for connecting the most distant regions with each other. His widely-known cruelty to humans was a driving force in Hayat’s decision to put a stop to the influence of gods. He was brutally killed by Valko as revenge for his murdered family. Most stories about this say that Valko tortured and dismembered Ola with his bare hands. !Theresa The goddess of the harvest. Well-loved for her lively and bold spirit, she remains a favored goddess even today. She was opposed to the war, but took a stance against Hayat and Casimir. It is unknown if she ever participated in the effort to stop Hayat. She was Valko’s first wife and they had three children together, only one of which remains today, Sollemne. No one knows what became of her after the war. !Sollemne The goddess of celebration, also called Sol. Much like her mother, Sollemne remains highly regarded. She is still known to be fun-loving, bold, sometimes very drunk. She is one of few gods that people today know for sure roams Iroda as she does not bother to hide who or what she is. She was a powerful force in the war and fought side by side with Valko. It is rumored that she battled with her mother as well. It is known for sure that she often fights with Valko due to family disputes. !Dren The god of the herd and prey animals and counterpart to Valko. Not much is widely known about the kind of person Dren was other than being noted as clever and mischievous. Most of what is written about him today is that he was frequently a thorn in Valko’s side. His part in the war is unknown, and it is rumored that he also still wanders Iroda, often seen with Sollemne. !Erdem The god of knowledge. He was known for keeping to himself and being the husband of Dragomir and father of Din. He stayed completely neutral during the god wars, but it has been rumored that he was relieved when Hayat and Casimir won as he was eager to retire from his duties. !The Goddesses of Seasons Quadruplet sisters who inherited the catalysts of spring (Bahar), summer (Vera), autumn (Aki), and winter (Talvi). They are closely related to Theresa, but most texts do not directly address how. The war divided the once-close siblings as Bahar and Talvi took sides with Hayat, and Vera and Aki sided against. !The Deities of the Stars A group of found-family that are the only known deities to require others to form what is essentially a single, but very powerful, god. Their origins are unclear and rumors say that they were all rejected children from other gods as there was no magic within them individually. When they began to find each other, power between them suddenly grew and they formed deep emotional bonds. They took no sides in the war as they were unwilling to ever part from each other, though one of them was killed regardless. It is said that their grief was so profound over the loss of one of their own that they out-shined the sun and moon for five days. Not all their names are known and it is also unknown just how many they number. Those named in manuscripts are: Huang, Bituin, Najm, Argus, Stelara, Izar, Gerelt, Hoshi, Dara, and Asterius. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center> (Note: if “Return to Game” Link does not return you to your page, you may need to use the back arrow at the top of the menu to click all the way back through until you find your last page. If this does not work either, please submit a bug report.)

You mull over some of the songs you’ve picked up through the years. One has been floating in the back in your mind since you set out on this trip. You caught wind of it at the Stonebrook Tavern when your da had taken you there for a late dinner. A stranger was in town who had caught a lot of attention for getting a little drunk and crooning songs into the night. The night you listened, he sang a sad song that told a story, one that you still wonder was about him… You lift your voice. <> <html> <body> <div style="text-align: center;">"Once upon a time I traveled across the endless sea. I walked away from all the gallows, despite the pain in me. There I climbed the tallest mountain, as far as eyes could see. Where I listened to the quiet, the winds they sang to me... I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone...." </div> </body> </html> <> You jolt as you hear the crunch of footsteps behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65a1a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65a1b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65a1c]]

You mull over some of the songs you’ve picked up through the years. One has been floating in the back in your mind since you set out on this trip. You caught wind of it at the Stonebrook Tavern when your da had taken you there for a late dinner. A stranger was in town who had caught a lot of attention for getting a little drunk and crooning songs into the night. The night you listened, he sang a sad song that told as story, one that you still wonder was about him… You lift your voice. <> <html> <body> <div style="text-align: center;">"Once upon a time I traveled across the endless sea. I walked away from all the gallows, despite the pain in me. There I climbed the tallest mountain, as far as eyes could see. Where I listened to the quiet, the winds they sang to me... I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone...." </div> </body> </html> <> You jolt as you hear the rustle of leaves behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65b1a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65b1b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65b1c]]

You organize your various charcoals and chalks and start a fresh page in your journal. You have a couple drawings in progress already, but as you have no good surface (unless you lay on your stomach against the uncomfortable stone) to ensure they’ll remain neat, you settle for finding a new subject. There’s ample beauty around you. The trees arise around you, the wind bringing sound and movement to them. Birds and hares carry on searching for food and mates. Sunlight shines through the gap in the canopy, enveloping you in warmth and serenity. But what calls to you right at this moment? What makes your hand twitch for your chalk and coal? You jolt as you hear the rustle of leaves behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65b2a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65b2b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65b2c]]

You don’t have much to work with, since bringing more clay would make traveling more difficult. You at least have a solid handful and a few tools to help you shape and carve into it your piece. You notice it’s a bit dry, so you sit closer to the stream and wet your clay to make it more agreeable to your plying. Now, with your conduit ready, what shall you make from it? There’s ample beauty around you. The trees arise around you, the wind bringing sound and movement to them. Birds and hares carry on searching for food and mates. Sunlight shines through the gap in the canopy, enveloping you in warmth and serenity. But what calls to you right at this moment? What makes your hand twitch to shape your art? You jolt as you hear the rustle of leaves behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65b3a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65b3b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65b3c]]

For now, you think it would be best to work on a new tale. You consider cataloging your own journey, or finding some inspiration to come up with a new one inspired by what you’ve experienced. You tap your pen against your little jar of ink as you think and look around. There’s ample beauty around you. The trees arise about you, the wind bringing sound and movement to them. Birds and hares carry on searching for food and mates. Sunlight shines through the gap in the canopy, enveloping you in warmth and serenity. But what calls to you right at this moment? What makes your hand twitch to begin writing? You jolt as you hear the rustle of leaves behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65b4a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65b4b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65b4c]]

You have block of wood that you’ve already worked on a bit. You’ve had nothing in mind for it really, but have chipped away the rough spots and jagged edges to give yourself a blank and smooth piece to work from. You sit close to the bank of the stream with it in hand and procure your knife from it’s holster. Turning the piece in your hand you try to think of what it could become. Right now, it sort of just looks like a potato. There’s ample beauty around you. The trees arise about you, the wind bringing sound and movement to them. Birds and hares carry on searching for food and mates. Sunlight shines through the gap in the canopy, enveloping you in warmth and serenity. But what calls to you right at this moment? What makes your hand twitch to begin scraping away at the wood? You jolt as you hear the rustle of leaves behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65b5a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65b5b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65b5c]]

You have a piece of cloth with no specific use that you’ve been testing patterns for embroidery. Though it has become a hodgepodge of colors and patterns, it’s become quite beautiful in its own right. Da has requested it once you’re done so he can fashion some sort of pillow from it. It still needs a little something to make it special and add some character. You’d like to come up with a new sort of stitch or pattern while you’re at it. But what to do, and what colors to do it in? There’s ample beauty around you. The trees arise about you, the wind bringing sound and movement to them. Birds and hares carry on searching for food and mates. Sunlight shines through the gap in the canopy, enveloping you in warmth and serenity. But what calls to you right at this moment? What makes your hand twitch to begin working your needle? You jolt as you hear the crunch of footsteps behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65b6a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65b6b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65b6c]]

You organize your various charcoals and chalks and start a fresh page in your journal. You have a couple drawings in progress already, but as you have no good surface to ensure they’ll remain neat, you settle for finding a new subject. There’s ample beauty around you. The water flows and babbles at you. Grass sways in a light breeze. The bridge across the stream is a bit rough-hewn but is quaint in its own way. There’s also the small waterfall just a ways upstream, and you can see it from where you sit. But what calls to you right at this moment? What makes your hand twitch for your chalk and coal? You jolt as you hear the crunch of footsteps behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65a2a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65a2b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65a2c]]

You don’t have much to work with, since bringing more clay would make traveling more difficult. You at least have a solid handful and a few tools to help you shape and carve into it your piece. You notice it’s a bit dry, so you sit closer to the stream and wet your clay to make it more agreeable to your plying. Now, with your conduit ready, what shall you make from it? There’s ample beauty around to inspire you. The water flows and babbles at you. Grass sways in a light breeze. The bridge across the stream is a bit rough hewn but is quaint in its own way. There’s also the small waterfall just a ways upstream, and you can see it from where you sit. But what calls to you right at this moment? What makes your hand twitch to shape your art? You jolt as you hear the crunch of footsteps behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65a3a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65a3b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65a3c]]

For now, you think it would be best to work on a new tale. You consider cataloging your own journey, or finding some inspiration to come up with a new one inspired by what you’ve experienced. You tap your pen against your little jar of ink as you think and look around. There’s ample beauty around to inspire you. The water flows and babbles at you. Grass sways in a light breeze. The bridge across the stream is a bit rough hewn but is quaint in its own way. There’s also the small waterfall just a ways upstream, and you can see it from where you sit. But what calls to you right at this moment? What makes your hand twitch to begin writing? You jolt as you hear the crunch of footsteps behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65a4a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65a4b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65a4c]]

You have block of wood that you’ve already worked on a bit. You’ve had nothing in mind for it really, but have chipped away the rough spots and jagged edges to give yourself a blank and smooth piece to work from. You sit close to the bank of the stream with it in hand and procure your knife from it’s holster. Turning the piece in your hand you try to think of what it could become. Right now, it sort of just looks like a potato. There’s ample beauty around to inspire you. The water flows and babbles at you. Grass sways in a light breeze. The bridge across the stream is a bit rough hewn but is quaint in its own way. There’s also the small waterfall just a ways upstream, and you can see it from where you sit. But what calls to you right at this moment? What makes your hand twitch to begin scraping away at the wood? You jolt as you hear the crunch of footsteps behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65a5a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65a5b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65a5c]]

You have a piece of cloth with no specific use that you’ve been testing patterns for embroidery. Though it has become a hodgepodge of colors and patterns, it’s become quite beautiful in its own right. Da has requested it once you’re done so he can fashion some sort of pillow from it. It still needs a little something to make it special and add some character. You’d like to come up with a new sort of stitch or pattern while you’re at it. But what to do, and what colors to do it in? There’s ample beauty around to inspire you. The water flows and babbles at you. Grass sways in a light breeze. The bridge across the stream is a bit rough hewn but is quaint in its own way. There’s also the small waterfall just a ways upstream, and you can see it from where you sit. But what calls to you right at this moment? What makes your hand twitch to begin working your needle? You jolt as you hear the crunch of footsteps behind you. [[You’re relieved to find that it’s only Shadow, the cat.|3.65a6a]] [[It’s Zahn coming to join you.|3.65a6b]] [[It’s Oswin coming to join you.|3.65a6c]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. Shadow takes this as an invitation and invades your lap, curling into a tight ball after making several circles. While he purrs with contentment, you continue your song. <> <html> <body> <div style="text-align: center;">"Five years passed and still I traveled; I stumbled on a town. I walked into the nearest tavern, so many looked around. There I met a gold-haired lady who seemed so fair and spry. Our eyes met and that bore sorrow, and so she began to cry. I asked her what had been the matter, but she looked away. As I turned to leave the tavern, I swear I heard her say... I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone...." </div> </body> </html> <> You sing for a while until you voice tires, Shadow keeps you company, kneading against your legs and purring. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe plops down next to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. Your voice pulled me in and I couldn’t help myself. You sing so pretty!<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together. I just love music and you sound so amazing...<</if>>” You chuckle. “I’ve always enjoyed singing. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about going a little ways into the wood, but I thought I should stay in camp...<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You're just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>" Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I love to sing, but I don’t think I’m as good as you. I’d be fine to listen of course…” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. “It’s fine. I’ll teach you my song. Well, it’s not mine, just one I heard at a tavern.” You teach Zahn the lyrics to the song. $Zcapitalheshe catches on quick. You sing the first verse again with Zahn accompanying you. You are delighted to find that $Zheshe has a beautiful voice. It’s bright – clear, shining with Zahn’s personality, and it flows harmoniously with yours. You bring in the second verse together, Zahn’s voice wavering slightly as $Zheshe fights of a pleased grin. <> <html> <body> <div style="text-align: center;">"Five years passed and still I traveled; I stumbled on a town. I walked into the nearest tavern, so many looked around. There I met a gold-haired lady who seemed so fair and spry. Our eyes met and that bore sorrow, and so she began to cry. I asked her what had been the matter, but she looked away. As I turned to leave the tavern, I swear I heard her say... I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone...." </div> </body> </html> <> Zahn stays close and sings with you until your voices tire. $Zcapitalheshe teaches you a couple songs $Zheshe knows as well. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I heard you...I enjoy hearing you sing. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to listen in, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I listened a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone might be lured in. I thought for a moment about going just beyond the treeline instead-” “Oh, no...um, no; I think it’s best that you stay at camp. Where I- we can hear- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly sits next to you and looks out over the stream, turning to give you a quick look and a shy smile. You take a deep breath and continue your song. <> <html> <body> <div style="text-align: center;">"Five years passed and still I traveled; I stumbled on a town. I walked into the nearest tavern, so many looked around. There I met a gold-haired lady who seemed so fair and spry. Our eyes met and that bore sorrow, and so she began to cry. I asked her what had been the matter, but she looked away. As I turned to leave the tavern, I swear I heard her say... I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone...." </div> </body> </html> <> Oswin keeps his gaze out over the water as you sing. It takes a while, but he finally relaxes, reclining back on his elbows with his eyes closed. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. He rubs your hand with affectionate ferocity, ending with a light nibble on the side of your hand. You admire him for a moment as he struts in front of you. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. Shadow watches you as he slowly lowers himself to the small swatch of dry land before the water’s edge. Unceremoniously he plops the rest of the way and rolls to his back. He’s perfect. The fur-ball is even about the same color as your charcoal pencils. You begin to outline in your journal. He stays still for you as if he is posing. You must look odd to Shadow, being upside down and frantically sketching his outline lest he move suddenly. His front feet stay neatly folded to his chest and his back feet sploot off to the side. He’s clearly done this before. Shadow makes for a perfect drawing subject. After he tires of watch you, he closes his eyes and falls asleep on his back, and you’re able to draw him until your hand aches. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe steps up to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. I noticed you had come over here with a book and was curious.<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together.<</if>>” You chuckle. “It’s my sketchbook. I was planning on drawing. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about going a little ways into the wood, but I thought I should stay in camp...<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You are just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>” Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I’ll stay quiet, I don’t know how to draw, but I think it’s amazing. It’s amazing that you can do it, I’d love to see!” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. Even if you want to, you can’t say no. “Fine, come sit. I could give you some paper-” “Oh no, you don’t want me to do that. Last time I drew anything, I was put on kitchen duty for a whole season.” “Do I want to know?” You tilt your head. “Yeah.” Zahn nods and grins wide. “I’ll tell you some other time." Shaking your head, you consider Zahn as $Zheshe sits across from you. $Zcapitalhisher blond waves are light and airy, fluttering in the breeze. When the sun hits them they glow almost gold. Zahn’s eyes are bright and clear, a deep blue you usually only see in water. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. For a good while, you draw Zahn and $Zheshe watches you. Once $Zheshe realizes that $Zheshe is the subject of your work, Zahn gets noticeably bashful. $Zcapitalheshe moves around a lot, but you manage to get a great outline done before your hand tires too much to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I saw you head over with your sketchbook. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to watch you, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I watched for a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone might be curious. I thought for a moment about going just beyond the treeline instead-” “Oh, no...um, no; I think it’s best that you stay at camp. Where I- we can watch- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly sits on a spot just ahead of you, closer to the water. He doesn’t face you, and you think it might be to give your creative process a bit of privacy. You notice how strong his profile looks at this angle. The way he sits bring attention to the elegant slope of his back...and how strong his thighs are. The sharpness of his jawline calls to you, and when he turns his head to stare curiously back, his eyes are like green fire. Your hand twitches. This is your subject. For a long while, you sketch Oswin’s form. You embellish a bit, placing his sword in the drawing as well, but mostly just capture how beautiful he appears just relaxing next to a stream. He glances at you from time to time, but you don’t think he realizes that he’s the one being etched into your page. You work until your hand is too exhausted. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. He rubs your hand with affectionate ferocity, ending with a light nibble on the side of your hand. You admire him for a moment as he struts in front of you. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. Shadow watches you as he slowly lowers himself to the small swatch of dry land before the water’s edge. Unceremoniously he plops the rest of the way and rolls to his back. He’s perfect. The fur-ball is even about the same color as your plain grey clay. You begin to shape the lump into the form of the other lump in front of you. You must look odd to Shadow, being upside down while you roll fancy mud between your fingers to his likeness. His front feet stay neatly folded to his chest and his back feet sploot off to the side. He’s clearly done this before. You get your tools to begin shaping and pressing the details in. Shadow makes for a perfect sculpting subject. After he tires of watch you, he closes his eyes and falls asleep on his back, and you’re able to shape his image until your hand aches. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe steps up to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. I noticed you had come over her with a rock and I got curious.<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together.<</if>>” You chuckle. “It’s clay. I was planning on sculpting. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about going a little ways into the wood, but I thought I should stay in camp...<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You’re just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>” Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I’ll stay quiet, I don’t know how to sculpt, but I bet it’s amazing. It’s amazing that you can do it, I’d love to see!” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. Even if you want to, you can’t say no. “Fine, come sit. I could give you some of my-” “Oh no, you don’t want me to do that. I can do a lot of things with my hands, but art or pottery isn’t one of them. Last time I tried...I got into some serious trouble.” “Do I want to know?” You tilt your head. “Yeah.” Zahn nods and grins wide. “I’ll tell you some other time." Shaking your head, you consider Zahn as $Zheshe sits across from you. $Zcapitalhisher blond waves are light and airy, fluttering in the breeze. When the sun hits them they glow almost gold. Zahn’s eyes are bright and clear, a deep blue you usually only see in water. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. For a good while, you sculpt Zahn’s face and $Zheshe watches you. Once $Zheshe realizes that $Zheshe is the subject of your work, Zahn gets noticeably bashful. $Zcapitalheshe moves around a lot, but you manage to get a good bit of detail into the piece before your hand tires too much to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I saw you head over with your clay. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to watch you, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I watched for a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone might be curious. I thought for a moment about going just beyond the treeline instead-” “Oh, no...um, no; I think it’s best that you stay at camp. Where I- we can watch- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly sits on a spot just ahead of you, closer to the water. He doesn’t face you, and you think it might be to give your creative process a bit of privacy. You notice how strong his profile looks at this angle. The way he sits bring attention to the elegant slope of his back...and how strong his thighs are. The sharpness of his jawline calls to you, and when he turns his head to stare curiously back, his eyes are like green fire. Your hand twitches. This is your subject. For a long while, you sculpt Oswin’s form. You don’t worry about doing too much fine detail, relying on capturing how beautiful his shape is alone. He glances at you from time to time, but you don’t think he realizes that he’s the one being molded into your work. You work until your hands are too exhausted. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. He rubs your hand with affectionate ferocity, ending with a light nibble on the side of your hand. You admire him for a moment as he struts in front of you. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. The character to inspire a tale...or tail in this case. Shadow watches you as he slowly lowers himself to the small swatch of dry land before the water’s edge. Unceremoniously he plops the rest of the way and rolls to his back. He’s perfect. His grumpy expression and indifferent attitude bring a new character to life on your page. You must look odd to Shadow, being upside down while you frantically scrawl about a hero in his likeness in your book. His front feet stay neatly folded to his chest and his back feet sploot off to the side. He’s clearly done this before, remaining a still muse while you work. Shadow makes for an amusing caricature. After he tires of watching you come up with comical twists in a tale of adventure, he closes his eyes and falls asleep on his back, and you’re able to enjoy his presence until your hand aches. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe steps up to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. I noticed you had come over here with a book and was curious.<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together.<</if>>” You chuckle. “It’s my journal. I was planning on writing something. I do storytelling sometimes. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about going a little ways into the wood, but I thought I should stay in camp...<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You are just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>” Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I’ll stay quiet, I don’t know how to write – well how to make a story – but I think it’s amazing. It’s amazing that you can do it, I’d love to see!” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. Even if you want to, you can’t say no. “Fine, come sit. I could give you some paper-” “Oh no, you don’t want me to do that. Last time I tried to write anything like that, I was put on kitchen duty for a whole season.” “Do I want to know?” You tilt your head. “Yeah.” Zahn nods and grins wide. “I’ll tell you some other time." Shaking your head, you consider Zahn as $Zheshe sits across from you. $Zcapitalhisher blond waves are light and airy, fluttering in the breeze. When the sun hits them they glow almost gold. Zahn’s eyes are bright and clear, a deep blue you usually only see in water. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject, your new hero. For a good while, you think up a character based on Zahn and $Zheshe watches you, catching only bits of what you write. Once $Zheshe realizes that $Zheshe is the subject of your work, Zahn gets noticeably bashful. $Zcapitalheshe moves around a lot, trying to peek at your writing while you artfully lean away, before your hand tires too much to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I saw you head over with your journal. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to watch you, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I watched for a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone might be curious. I thought for a moment about going just beyond the treeline instead-” “Oh, no...um, no; I think it’s best that you stay at camp. Where I- we can watch- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly sits on a spot just ahead of you, closer to the water. He doesn’t face you, and you think it might be to give your creative process a bit of privacy. You notice how strong his profile looks at this angle. The way he sits bring attention to the elegant slope of his back...and how strong his thighs are. The sharpness of his jawline calls to you, and when he turns his head to stare curiously back, his eyes are like green fire. Your hand twitches. This is your subject, the new hero you need for your pages. For a long while, you write up a character based steeped in Oswin’s likeness. You embellish a bit, but mostly just capture how beautiful he appears and how great his acts of fictional heroism are. He glances at you from time to time, but you don’t think he realizes that he’s the one being written into your page. You work until your hand is too exhausted to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. He rubs your hand with affectionate ferocity, ending with a light nibble on the side of your hand. You admire him for a moment as he struts in front of you. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. Shadow watches you as he slowly lowers himself to the small swatch of dry land before the water’s edge. Unceremoniously he plops the rest of the way and rolls to his back. He’s perfect and potato-adjacent. Your work is half done already. You begin to shape the lump into the form of the other lump in front of you. You must look odd to Shadow, being upside down while you chip away at a block of wood with a small knife. His front feet stay neatly folded to his chest and his back feet sploot off to the side. He’s clearly done this before. You easily carve his details in, managing to even get a good semblance of fur into the wood. Shadow makes for a perfect whittling subject. After he tires of watch you, he closes his eyes and falls asleep on his back, and you’re able to shape his image until your hand aches. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe steps up to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. I noticed you had come over here with a potato and I got curious, and hungry.<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together.<</if>>” You chuckle. “It’s wood, so I don’t recommend having a bite. I was planning on whittling something. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about going a little ways into the wood, but I thought I should stay in camp...<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You’re just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>” Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I’ll stay quiet, I don’t know how to whittle, but I bet it’s amazing. It’s amazing that you can do it, I’d love to see!” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. Even if you want to, you can’t say no. “Fine, come sit. I could prepare you a-” “Oh no, you don’t want me to do that. I can do a lot of things with my hands, but whittling isn’t one of them. I tried once...got into some trouble.” “Do I want to know?” You tilt your head. “Yeah.” Zahn nods and grins wide. “I’ll tell you some other time." Shaking your head, you consider Zahn as $Zheshe sits across from you. $Zcapitalhisher blond waves are light and airy, fluttering in the breeze. When the sun hits them they glow almost gold. Zahn’s eyes are bright and clear, a deep blue you usually only see in water. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. For a good while, you carve Zahn’s face and $Zheshe watches you. Once $Zheshe realizes that $Zheshe is the subject of your work, Zahn gets noticeably bashful. $Zcapitalheshe moves around a lot, but you manage to get a good bit of detail into the piece before your hand tires too much to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I saw you head over to whittle. At first, I thought you were eating a potato... <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to watch you, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I watched for a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone might be curious. I thought for a moment about going just beyond the treeline instead-” “Oh, no...um, no; I think it’s best that you stay at camp. Where I- we can watch- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly sits on a spot just ahead of you, closer to the water. He doesn’t face you, and you think it might be to give your creative process a bit of privacy. You notice how strong his profile looks at this angle. The way he sits bring attention to the elegant slope of his back...and how strong his thighs are. The sharpness of his jawline calls to you, and when he turns his head to stare curiously back, his eyes are like green fire. Your hand twitches. This is your subject. For a long while, you carve Oswin’s form. You don’t worry about doing too much fine detail, relying on capturing how beautiful his shape is alone. He glances at you from time to time, but you don’t think he realizes that he’s the one being molded into your work. You work until your hands are too exhausted. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. He rubs your hand with affectionate ferocity, ending with a light nibble on the side of your hand. You admire him for a moment as he struts in front of you. Your hand twitches. Here is your inspiration. You recall a crochet stitch favored by some of the townspeople for blankets – the cat stitch. You look at your threads and find a grey and a green, perfect for some Shadow-inspired embroidery. Shadow watches you as he slowly lowers himself to the small swatch of dry land before the water’s edge. Unceremoniously he plops the rest of the way and rolls to his back. The fur-ball is even about the same color as the threads you’ve chosen. You fiddle around with a few designs until you find one you like. He stays still for you as if he is posing, watching intently. You must look odd to Shadow, being upside down while you sew. His front feet stay neatly folded to his chest and his back feet sploot off to the side. He’s clearly a professional muse. Shadow makes for a perfect needlework companion, for a while at least. After becoming bored, your threads become too tempting, and then you begin playing keep-away while trying to finish your piece. You stitch and play with him until your hand aches. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe steps up to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. I noticed you had come over here with a bundle of cloth and I got curious.<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together.<</if>>” You chuckle. “It’s just some embroidery supplies. I was planning on finishing a project I’ve been working on. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about going a little ways into the wood, but I thought I should stay in camp...<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You’re just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>” Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I’ll stay quiet, I don’t know how to sew, but I bet it’s amazing. It’s amazing that you can do it, I’d love to see!” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. Even if you want to, you can’t say no. “Fine, come sit. I could prepare you a-” “Oh no, you don’t want me to do that. I can do a lot of things with my hands, but needlepoint isn’t one of them. I tried once...got into some trouble.” “Do I want to know?” You tilt your head. “Yeah.” Zahn nods and grins wide. “I’ll tell you some other time." Shaking your head, you consider Zahn as $Zheshe sits across from you. $Zcapitalhisher blond waves are light and airy, fluttering in the breeze. When the sun hits them they glow almost gold. Zahn’s eyes are bright and clear, a deep blue you usually only see in water. Your hand twitches. Here is your inspiration. For a good while, you use blue and gold thread to stitch a whimsical pattern into the cloth. Once Zahn realizes that $Zheshe is likely the subject of your work, $Zheshe gets noticeably bashful. $Zcapitalheshe moves around a lot to watch you closer, but you manage to get a good bit of detail into the piece before your hand tires too much to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I saw you head over to sew... <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to watch you, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I watched for a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone might be curious. I thought for a moment about going just beyond the treeline instead-” “Oh, no...um, no; I think it’s best that you stay at camp. Where I- we can watch- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly sits on a spot just ahead of you, closer to the water. He doesn’t face you, and you think it might be to give your creative process a bit of privacy. You notice how strong his profile looks at this angle. The way he sits bring attention to the elegant slope of his back...and how strong his thighs are. The sharpness of his jawline calls to you, and when he turns his head to stare curiously back, his eyes are like green fire and his black hair is tousled by the wind. Your hand twitches. This is your inspiration. For a good while, you use green and black thread to stitch a bold pattern into the cloth. He glances at you from time to time, but you don’t think he realizes that he’s the one being woven into your piece. You work until your hands are too exhausted. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, hopping onto the stone perch with ease, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. Shadow takes this as an invitation and invades your lap, curling into a tight ball after making several circles. While he purrs with contentment, you continue your song. <> <html> <body> <div style="text-align: center;">"Five years passed and still I traveled; I stumbled on a town. I walked into the nearest tavern, so many looked around. There I met a gold-haired lady who seemed so fair and spry. Our eyes met and that bore sorrow, and so she began to cry. I asked her what had been the matter, but she looked away. As I turned to leave the tavern, I swear I heard her say... I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone...." </div> </body> </html> <> You sing for a while until you voice tires, Shadow keeps you company, kneading against your legs and purring. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe skitters up on the stone to sit next to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. Your voice pulled me in and I couldn’t help myself. You sing so pretty!<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together. I just love music and you sound so amazing.<</if>>” You chuckle. “I’ve always enjoyed singing. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about staying in camp, I just felt odd about it.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You're just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>" Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I love to sing, but I don’t think I’m as good as you. I’d be fine to listen of course…” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. “It’s fine. I’ll teach you my song. Well, it’s not mine, just one I heard at a tavern.” You teaching Zahn the lyrics to the song. $Zcapitalheshe catches on quick. You sing the first verse again with Zahn accompanying you. You are delighted to find that $Zheshe has a beautiful voice. It’s bright – clear, shining with Zahn’s personality, and it flows harmoniously with yours. You bring in the second verse together, Zahn’s voice wavering slightly as $Zheshe fights of a pleased grin. <> <html> <body> <div style="text-align: center;">"Five years passed and still I traveled; I stumbled on a town. I walked into the nearest tavern, so many looked around. There I met a gold-haired lady who seemed so fair and spry. Our eyes met and that bore sorrow, and so she began to cry. I asked her what had been the matter, but she looked away. As I turned to leave the tavern, I swear I heard her say... I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone...." </div> </body> </html> <> Zahn stays close and sings with you until your voices tire. $Zcapitalheshe teaches you a couple songs $Zheshe knows as well. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I heard you...I enjoy hearing you sing. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to listen in, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I listened a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone would hear me from here. I thought for a moment about staying at camp, but-” “It’s okay. Well, I do prefer that you stay in camp, but this isn’t far. It’s just better for you to stay where I- we can hear- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly lifts himself onto the stone a bit in front of you, turning to give you a quick look and a shy smile. You take a deep breath and continue your song. <> <html> <body> <div style="text-align: center;">"Five years passed and still I traveled; I stumbled on a town. I walked into the nearest tavern, so many looked around. There I met a gold-haired lady who seemed so fair and spry. Our eyes met and that bore sorrow, and so she began to cry. I asked her what had been the matter, but she looked away. As I turned to leave the tavern, I swear I heard her say... I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone. I'm alone...." </div> </body> </html> <> Oswin keeps his gaze out over the forest as you sing. It takes a while, but he finally relaxes, reclining back on his elbows with his eyes closed. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, hopping onto the stone perch with ease, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. He rubs your hand with affectionate ferocity, ending with a light nibble on the side of your hand. You admire him for a moment as he struts in front of you. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. Shadow watches you as he slowly lowers himself to the small dip in the stone just large enough for his body. Unceremoniously he plops the rest of the way and rolls to his back. He’s perfect. The fur-ball is even about the same color as your charcoal pencils. You begin to outline in your journal. He stays still for you as if he is posing. You must look odd to Shadow, being upside down and frantically sketching his outline lest he move suddenly. His front feet stay neatly folded to his chest and his back feet sploot off to the side. He’s clearly done this before. Shadow makes for a perfect drawing subject. After he tires of watch you, he closes his eyes and falls asleep on his back, and you’re able to draw him until your hand aches. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe skitters up on the stone to sit next to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. I noticed you had come in here with a book and was curious.<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together.<</if>>” You chuckle. “It’s my sketchbook. I was planning on drawing. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about staying in camp, but it didn’t feel right.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You are just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>” Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I’ll stay quiet, I don’t know how to draw, but I think it’s amazing. It’s amazing that you can do it, I’d love to see!” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. Even if you want to, you can’t say no. “Fine, come closer. I could give you some paper-” “Oh no, you don’t want me to do that. Last time I drew anything, I was put on kitchen duty for a whole season.” “Do I want to know?” You tilt your head. “Yeah.” Zahn nods and grins wide. “I’ll tell you some other time." Shaking your head, you consider Zahn as $Zheshe scoots across from you. $Zcapitalhisher blond waves are light and airy, fluttering in the breeze. When the sun hits them they glow almost gold. Zahn’s eyes are bright and clear, a deep blue you usually only see in water. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. For a good while, you draw Zahn and $Zheshe watches you. Once $Zheshe realizes that $Zheshe is the subject of your work, Zahn gets noticeably bashful. $Zcapitalheshe moves around a lot, but you manage to get a great outline done before your hand tires too much to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I saw you head over with your sketchbook. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to watch you, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I watched for a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone would spot me coming in here. I thought for a moment about staying at camp, but-” “It’s okay. Well, I do prefer that you stay in camp, but this isn’t far. It’s just better for you to stay where I- we can watch- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly lifts himself onto the stone a bit in front of you, turning to give you a quick look and a shy smile. He doesn’t face you, and you think it might be to give your creative process a bit of privacy. You notice how strong his profile looks at this angle. The way he sits bring attention to the elegant slope of his back...and how strong his thighs are. The sharpness of his jawline calls to you, and when he turns his head to stare curiously back, his eyes are like green fire. Your hand twitches. This is your subject. For a long while, you sketch Oswin’s form. You embellish a bit, placing his sword in the drawing as well, but mostly just capture how beautiful he appears just relaxing atop a stone in the sunshine. He glances at you from time to time, but you don’t think he realizes that he’s the one being etched into your page. You work until your hand is too exhausted. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, hopping onto the stone perch with ease, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. He rubs your hand with affectionate ferocity, ending with a light nibble on the side of your hand. You admire him for a moment as he struts in front of you. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. Shadow watches you as he slowly lowers himself to the small dip in the stone just large enough for his body. Unceremoniously he plops the rest of the way and rolls to his back. He’s perfect. The fur-ball is even about the same color as your plain grey clay. You begin to shape the lump into the form of the other lump in front of you. You must look odd to Shadow, being upside down while you roll fancy mud between your fingers to his likeness. His front feet stay neatly folded to his chest and his back feet sploot off to the side. He’s clearly done this before. You get your tools to begin shaping and pressing the details in. Shadow makes for a perfect sculpting subject. After he tires of watch you, he closes his eyes and falls asleep on his back, and you’re able to shape his image until your hand aches. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe skitters up on the stone to sit next to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. I noticed you had come over her with a rock and I got curious.<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together.<</if>>” You chuckle. “It’s clay. I was planning on sculpting. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about staying in camp, but it didn’t feel right.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You are just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>” Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I’ll stay quiet, I don’t know how to sculpt, but I bet it’s amazing. It’s amazing that you can do it, I’d love to see!” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. Even if you want to, you can’t say no. “Fine, come closer. I could give you some of my-” “Oh no, you don’t want me to do that. I can do a lot of things with my hands, but art or pottery isn’t one of them. Last time I tried...I got into some serious trouble.” “Do I want to know?” You tilt your head. “Yeah.” Zahn nods and grins wide. “I’ll tell you some other time." Shaking your head, you consider Zahn as $Zheshe sits across from you. $Zcapitalhisher blond waves are light and airy, fluttering in the breeze. When the sun hits them they glow almost gold. Zahn’s eyes are bright and clear, a deep blue you usually only see in water. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. For a good while, you sculpt Zahn’s face and $Zheshe watches you. Once $Zheshe realizes that $Zheshe is the subject of your work, Zahn gets noticeably bashful. $Zcapitalheshe moves around a lot, but you manage to get a good bit of detail into the piece before your hand tires too much to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I saw you head over with your clay. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to watch you, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I watched for a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone would spot me coming in here. I thought for a moment about staying at camp, but-” “It’s okay. Well, I do prefer that you stay in camp, but this isn’t far. It’s just better for you to stay where I- we can watch- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly lifts himself onto the stone a bit in front of you, turning to give you a quick look and a shy smile. He doesn’t face you, and you think it might be to give your creative process a bit of privacy. You notice how strong his profile looks at this angle. The way he sits bring attention to the elegant slope of his back...and how strong his thighs are. The sharpness of his jawline calls to you, and when he turns his head to stare curiously back, his eyes are like green fire. Your hand twitches. This is your subject. For a long while, you sculpt Oswin’s form. You don’t worry about doing too much fine detail, relying on capturing how beautiful his shape is alone. He glances at you from time to time, but you don’t think he realizes that he’s the one being molded into your work. You work until your hands are too exhausted. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, hopping onto the stone perch with ease, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. He rubs your hand with affectionate ferocity, ending with a light nibble on the side of your hand. You admire him for a moment as he struts in front of you. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. The character to inspire a tale...or tail in this case. Shadow watches you as he slowly lowers himself to the small dip in the stone just large enough for his body. Unceremoniously he plops the rest of the way and rolls to his back. He’s perfect. His grumpy expression and indifferent attitude bring a new character to life on your page. You must look odd to Shadow, being upside down while you frantically scrawl about a hero in his likeness in your book. His front feet stay neatly folded to his chest and his back feet sploot off to the side. He’s clearly done this before, remaining a still muse while you work. Shadow makes for an amusing caricature. After he tires of watching you come up with comical twists in a tale of adventure, he closes his eyes and falls asleep on his back, and you’re able to enjoy his presence until your hand aches. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe skitters up on the stone to sit next to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. I noticed you had come over here with a book and was curious.<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together.<</if>>” You chuckle. “It’s my journal. I was planning on writing something. I do storytelling sometimes. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about staying in camp, but it didn’t feel right.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You are just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>” Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I’ll stay quiet, I don’t know how to write – well how to make a story – but I think it’s amazing. It’s amazing that you can do it, I’d love to see!” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. Even if you want to, you can’t say no. “Fine, come closer. I could give you some paper-” “Oh no, you don’t want me to do that. Last time I tried to write anything like that, I was put on kitchen duty for a whole season.” “Do I want to know?” You tilt your head. “Yeah.” Zahn nods and grins wide. “I’ll tell you some other time." Shaking your head, you consider Zahn as $Zheshe sits across from you. $Zcapitalhisher blond waves are light and airy, fluttering in the breeze. When the sun hits them they glow almost gold. Zahn’s eyes are bright and clear, a deep blue you usually only see in water. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject, your new hero. For a good while, you think up a character based on Zahn and $Zheshe watches you, catching only bits of what you write. Once $Zheshe realizes that $Zheshe is the subject of your work, Zahn gets noticeably bashful. $Zcapitalheshe moves around a lot, trying to peek at your writing while you artfully lean away, before your hand tires too much to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I saw you head over with your journal. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to watch you, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I watched for a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone would spot me coming in here. I thought for a moment about staying at camp, but-” “It’s okay. Well, I do prefer that you stay in camp, but this isn’t far. It’s just better for you to stay where I- we can watch- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly lifts himself onto the stone a bit in front of you, turning to give you a quick look and a shy smile. He doesn’t face you, and you think it might be to give your creative process a bit of privacy. You notice how strong his profile looks at this angle. The way he sits bring attention to the elegant slope of his back...and how strong his thighs are. The sharpness of his jawline calls to you, and when he turns his head to stare curiously back, his eyes are like green fire. Your hand twitches. This is your subject, the new hero you need for your pages. For a long while, you write up a character based steeped in Oswin’s likeness. You embellish a bit, but mostly just capture how beautiful he appears and how great his acts of fictional heroism are. He glances at you from time to time, but you don’t think he realizes that he’s the one being written into your page. You work until your hand is too exhausted to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, hopping onto the stone perch with ease, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. He rubs your hand with affectionate ferocity, ending with a light nibble on the side of your hand. You admire him for a moment as he struts in front of you. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. Shadow watches you as he slowly lowers himself to the small dip in the stone just large enough for his body. Unceremoniously he plops the rest of the way and rolls to his back. He’s perfect and potato-adjacent. Your work is half done already. You begin to shape the lump into the form of the other lump in front of you. You must look odd to Shadow, being upside down while you chip away at a block of wood with a small knife. His front feet stay neatly folded to his chest and his back feet sploot off to the side. He’s clearly done this before. You easily carve his details in, managing to even get a good semblance of fur into the wood. Shadow makes for a perfect whittling subject. After he tires of watch you, he closes his eyes and falls asleep on his back, and you’re able to shape his image until your hand aches. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe skitters up on the stone to sit next to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. I noticed you had come over here with a potato and I got curious, and hungry.<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together.<</if>>” You chuckle. “It’s wood, so I don’t recommend having a bite. I was planning on whittling something. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about staying in camp, but it didn’t feel right.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You are just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>” Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I’ll stay quiet, I don’t know how to whittle, but I bet it’s amazing. It’s amazing that you can do it, I’d love to see!” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. Even if you want to, you can’t say no. “Fine, come closer. I could prepare you a-” “Oh no, you don’t want me to do that. I can do a lot of things with my hands, but whittling isn’t one of them. I tried once...got into some trouble.” “Do I want to know?” You tilt your head. “Yeah.” Zahn nods and grins wide. “I’ll tell you some other time." Shaking your head, you consider Zahn as $Zheshe sits across from you. $Zcapitalhisher blond waves are light and airy, fluttering in the breeze. When the sun hits them they glow almost gold. Zahn’s eyes are bright and clear, a deep blue you usually only see in water. Your hand twitches. Here is your subject. For a good while, you carve Zahn’s face and $Zheshe watches you. Once $Zheshe realizes that $Zheshe is the subject of your work, Zahn gets noticeably bashful. $Zcapitalheshe moves around a lot, but you manage to get a good bit of detail into the piece before your hand tires too much to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I saw you head over to whittle. At first, I thought you were eating a potato... <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to watch you, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I watched for a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone would spot me coming in here. I thought for a moment about staying at camp, but-” “It’s okay. Well, I do prefer that you stay in camp, but this isn’t far. It’s just better for you to stay where I- we can watch- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly lifts himself onto the stone a bit in front of you, turning to give you a quick look and a shy smile. He doesn’t face you, and you think it might be to give your creative process a bit of privacy. You notice how strong his profile looks at this angle. The way he sits bring attention to the elegant slope of his back...and how strong his thighs are. The sharpness of his jawline calls to you, and when he turns his head to stare curiously back, his eyes are like green fire. Your hand twitches. This is your subject. For a long while, you carve Oswin’s form. You don’t worry about doing too much fine detail, relying on capturing how beautiful his shape is alone. He glances at you from time to time, but you don’t think he realizes that he’s the one being molded into your work. You work until your hands are too exhausted. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Your heart settles a bit as the grey poof with sour expression saunters up to you, hopping onto the stone perch with ease, tail raised high. He trills at you, sounding happy despite his grumpy look. He rubs against your arm, which is sweet up until you feel his teeth slide against your skin, leaving a wet trail. You rub your arm against your clothing and gently pat him on the head. He rubs your hand with affectionate ferocity, ending with a light nibble on the side of your hand. You admire him for a moment as he struts in front of you. Your hand twitches. Here is your inspiration. You recall a crochet stitch favored by some of the townspeople for blankets – the cat stitch. You look at your threads and find a grey and a green, perfect for some Shadow-inspired embroidery. Shadow watches you as he slowly lowers himself to the small dip in the stone just large enough for his body. Unceremoniously he plops the rest of the way and rolls to his back. The fur-ball is even about the same color as the threads you’ve chosen. You fiddle around with a few designs until you find one you like. He stays still for you as if he is posing, watching intently. You must look odd to Shadow, being upside down while you sew. His front feet stay neatly folded to his chest and his back feet sploot off to the side. He’s clearly a professional muse. Shadow makes for a perfect needlework companion, for a while at least. After becoming bored, your threads become too tempting, and then you begin playing keep-away while trying to finish your piece. You stitch and play with him until your hand aches. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You receive a big toothy grin from Zahn, $Zhisher eyes light up as $Zheshe skitters up on the stone to sit next to you. “I’m sorry to interrupt you. I noticed you had come over here with a bundle of cloth and I got curious.<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>> I promise that I’m not being weird or following you just because we had a bath together.<</if>>” You chuckle. “It’s just some embroidery supplies. I was planning on finishing a project I’ve been working on. <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I...I usually just keep it to myself. I thought about staying in camp, but it didn’t feel right.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>You are just in time, too, I was feeling lonesome without an audience.<</if>>” Zahn scoots closer. “Would I be able to join you? Would that be okay? I’ll stay quiet, I don’t know how to sew, but I bet it’s amazing. It’s amazing that you can do it, I’d love to see!” $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with big sad eyes, the blue shines vibrantly and you swear they start to water. Even if you want to, you can’t say no. “Fine, come closer. I could prepare you a-” “Oh no, you don’t want me to do that. I can do a lot of things with my hands, but needlepoint isn’t one of them. I tried once...got into some trouble.” “Do I want to know?” You tilt your head. “Yeah.” Zahn nods and grins wide. “I’ll tell you some other time." Shaking your head, you consider Zahn as $Zheshe sits across from you. $Zcapitalhisher blond waves are light and airy, fluttering in the breeze. When the sun hits them they glow almost gold. Zahn’s eyes are bright and clear, a deep blue you usually only see in water. Your hand twitches. Here is your inspiration. For a good while, you use blue and gold thread to stitch a whimsical pattern into the cloth. Once Zahn realizes that $Zheshe is likely the subject of your work, $Zheshe gets noticeably bashful. $Zcapitalheshe moves around a lot to watch you closer, but you manage to get a good bit of detail into the piece before your hand tires too much to continue. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Oswin nods at you and then rubs the back of his head like he’s unsure. You motion him over. “Sorry to bother you, $mc. I saw you head over to sew... <<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I know you don’t usually like for people to watch you, but maybe you’d make an exception?<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>I’m afraid I pale in comparison to your usual audience, but would you mind if I watched for a while?<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64a")>> It’s okay to say no if you’re sick of me, I know we already...while you bathed...<</if>>” “Yes, that’s fine. I wondered if someone would spot me coming in here. I thought for a moment about staying at camp, but-” “It’s okay. Well, I do prefer that you stay in camp, but this isn’t far. It’s just better for you to stay where I- we can watch- //see// you.” Oswin’s face flits through about a dozen expressions before he calms it into something suspiciously neutral. “For safety.” You watch him a moment and then nod. “For safety.” Oswin slowly lifts himself onto the stone a bit in front of you, turning to give you a quick look and a shy smile. He doesn’t face you, and you think it might be to give your creative process a bit of privacy. You notice how strong his profile looks at this angle. The way he sits bring attention to the elegant slope of his back...and how strong his thighs are. The sharpness of his jawline calls to you, and when he turns his head to stare curiously back, his eyes are like green fire and his black hair is tousled by the wind. Your hand twitches. This is your inspiration. For a good while, you use green and black thread to stitch a bold pattern into the cloth. He glances at you from time to time, but you don’t think he realizes that he’s the one being woven into your piece. You work until your hands are too exhausted. A job well done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $Ostat to 'crush'>> <<set $Obigfeels to true>> You smile back and your face fills with heat. You don’t know just how long you’ve had this flame for him burning in your soul. At some point you just knew that your feelings went beyond friendship, despite the rockiness in the past. You hold and cherish that little fire, no matter how much it has waned and flickered, you keep it safe. You’re probably grinning more than you should, so after holding his gaze for a moment, you gesture towards your da who is still laughing as Papa quietly takes his tankard of wine away. Oswin and you both chuckle, and then his eyes fall back to yours. He looks like he wants to say something. As Da settles, Papa clears the table with help from Oswin. You can feel the shift as their mood changes. They escaped the looming thoughts about your curse for a while, but it has inevitably returned. Oswin picks up on the shift and seems to straighten in his seat, glancing at you. He looks resistant to leave, but seems to be weighing what is proper for him do. You know that he is eager to hear what you learned about your mark. There’s a fleeting thought that maybe Oswin could take you on the next step of your journey. He is, technically, a mercenary. Though, he prefers ‘hired hand.’ When he isn’t working with the Stonebrook guard, he provides protection for travelers – usually merchants – along the road to Lale. Could you ask him to help you as well? Would he even want to? He has his own responsibilities and he’s already dedicated a lot of time in assisting your fathers while you’ve been recovering, even if he merely lingers on the porch or in the den just in case you find yourself in distress. Da’s voice cuts through your thoughts. “We should probably talk.” [[No matter your thoughts on Oswin, he’s part of the conversation now.]]

You begin with an air of sensitivity. “So, in her memory?” Zahn nods. “She, uh, passed on many years ago. I don’t remember a lot about her or my da. I remember the cloak around her, and sort of what she looked like. I kinda look like her – at least as far as I know, but I remember her eyes were brown for sure.” <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>“If you’d like to tell me more about you, I’ll listen. If it’s hard for you, we can drop it.”<<else>>“I’d like to know more if you feel like sharing.”<</if>> “Yeah, I don’t mind. I miss my ma, but I think I grieved a long time ago, so it doesn’t hurt as much. I...don’t remember feeling much for my da, actually.” “So they’ve both passed on?” Zahn ties off the thread $Zheshe’s been working on to complete the patch. “Yeah, I think they were sick. I was young, maybe just five cycles, or six. It’s all sort of blurry.” “What did you do then?” “Well, we were living in Tallulah, it’s a really big city so it wasn’t as hard as it could have been for me to survive. There were some people that let me stay in their cellar…” You’re immediately appalled. “//Cellar//?” “Yeah, it wasn’t bad. It was easy to nab a bit of food from them, and they were right near the market so I could usually swipe food if I needed to.” Zahn continues to thread $Zhisher needle again to do another patch. You take a moment to process what Zahn is saying. $Zcapitalheshe seems unphased as if this is completely normal. “You were five or six years?” “Yeah, but I only had to live that way for a few years. The church found me just before my ninth birthday. There was so many things I had been doing wrong, without them, I’d never have found out that I was hurting people.” “Hurting who?” “I was stealing – a lot. By then I was really good at it. I could pick locks and take food and even jewelery from people. I was a horrible person.” Zahn shakes their head and you see a deep furrow etched in $Zhisher brow. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“You were an orphan trying to //survive//. No one took care of you….You didn’t do anything wrong.” You fold your hands and look firmly with at Zahn.<<else>>“That doesn’t sound like you – I can’t see you getting //that// good at stealing.” You chuckle, but it sounds forced even to you. “Besides, it wouldn’t be wrong – you were just trying to live.”<</if>> Zahn fumbles $Zhisher needle, and it slips from the thread to the ground. “Wrong is //wrong// though. That’s what the Acceptor taught us.” You’re caught in an awkward spot. The Acceptor is simply ''wrong,'' you know that, but Zahn probably won’t believe you. It’s not your place to tread over $Zhisher faith, but at the same time - $Zheshe is human and deserves better. What do you say or do? <<if hasVisited("3.64bb1a4")>>You tried to tell Zahn earlier in the bath that the church didn’t seem good for $Zhimher, but your words were shot down before they could even make their way out.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.21c")>>When you mentioned that the penance Zahn told you about seemed bad for them, $Zheshe politely told you that it wasn’t your place, but also seemed conflicted about it all.<</if>> Perhaps you don’t know better, and Zahn has clearly been through a lot, and you’re not seeing the sect for what it truly is. Though, you also recall Oswin saying they seemed like zealots to him. No matter how you feel about Zahn at this point, it feels aggravating for the simple fact that $Zheshe is a human being that should be treated as such. [[As frustrating as it feels, you don’t think it’s your place to say anything.|3.67a1]] [[You gently address it with Zahn.|3.67a2][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 4, 0, 100)]] [[You firmly but respectfully tell Zahn what you think of this treatment.|3.67a3][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 4, 0, 100)]] [[You lay out the facts for Zahn.|3.67a4][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 4, 0, 100)]] [[You try to ease your opinions in with some humor.|3.67a5][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 4, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You passionately declare that Zahn is a sweet soul and deserves better.|3.67a6][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 4, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Sometimes actions are better than words.|3.67a7][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 4, 0, 100)]]

<<if hasVisited("3.31a")>>You still feel the same as you did after Zahn mentioned penance his church implemented. You can’t say as thought you feel much different even if you know each other just a little better now. <</if>>It is simply not your place. It doesn’t stop it from pulling against your instincts that something feels wrong about this, but you also respect Zahn’s choices. And, frankly, this just seems too soon to be poking around in such things. It isn’t really your business, you may not even have a legitimate reason to care. $Zcapitalheshe picks up the thread again and begins to work on another patch. You realized you’ve been silent for a few moments, long enough that it may have slipped the conversation into an awkward phase. Zahn seems unperturbed as $Zheshe smiles at you. “So...can I ask you something now? I want to know more about you, $mc.” You suppose it’s fair, so you agree. “What are your parents like? Your home? What was it like for you as a kid?” Zahn pauses a moment. “Sorry, that’s three questions, but they’re all kinda related.” [[You grin and tell Zahn about your home.|3.67b]]

You rub your forehead, which grabs Zahn’s attention. “Listen if you would, please,” you start. “I know this isn’t my place. There is so much about your life I know nothing about. I don’t know what your church is actually like aside from all this...penance stuff.” Zahn puts the needle and thread aside and leans forward. “I’ll listen.” “You’re just a human being who was put in a really impossible situation from the sounds of it. Maybe your church thinks it’s wrong to steal, and it would be if you had a choice – but you didn’t.” “But maybe I did...maybe there was something I should have done different...There’s other ways to make money even for kids.” Bile rises in your throat. “Kids shouldn’t have to. If there is one thing I have learned from my own fathers it’s that people need to take care of each other. You should have never been put in a situation where you had to steal to survive, but just because you did doesn’t mean it was wrong.” “I took money and belongings too.” Zahn looks down at $Zhisher hands. “What did you do with it?” you ask. “...Traded for food.” Your heart wrenches. You think back to Zahn eating the snake that nearly bit you. //No wonder//, you think, //no wonder $Zheshe seems to want to eat everything//. In your most gentle tone you ask, “Do you still think what you did was truly wrong?” Zahn looks away, blue eyes shifting back and forth. “I don’t think I want to talk about it anymore – for now. Sorry.” You sigh, but nod. “If you do later, I’ll be here.” $Zcapitalheshe picks up the thread again and begins to work on another patch. You wonder for a moment if Zahn is upset or angry, but then $Zheshe smiles at you again. “So...can I ask you something now? I want to know more about you, $mc.” You suppose it’s fair, so you agree. “What are your parents like? Your home? What was it like for you as a kid?” Zahn pauses a moment. “Sorry, that’s three questions, but they’re all kinda related.” [[You grin and tell Zahn about your home.|3.67b]]

“I say this because I care, Zahn – the way your church has treated you does not sit well with me, and I do not think they have your best interests at heart. You’ve spoke of some sort of penance before, and //this//...you didn’t even do anything wrong.” You expect some defensiveness from Zahn, and $Zheshe shifts uncomfortably in $Zhisher seat, but doesn’t appear angry. After thinking for a moment, Zahn finally responds. “I know it’s different from how others usually live...and maybe those things aren’t wrong from how you grew up, but they are according to Din and his church.” You sigh and search for the best words to use. “This isn’t my place, I know that. There is so much about your life I know nothing about. I don’t know what your church is actually like aside from the inside.” Zahn fiddles with the needle and thread, and keeps $Zhisher eyes turned down. “Tell me how you think, then...why do you feel this way?” “You’re just a human being who was put in a really impossible situation. Maybe your church thinks it’s wrong to steal, and it would be if you had a choice – but you didn’t.” “Maybe I did...maybe there was something I should have done different...There’s other ways to make money even for kids.” Bile rises in your throat. “Kids shouldn’t have to. If there is one thing I have learned from my own fathers it’s that people need to take care of each other. You should have never been put in a situation where you had to steal to survive, but just because you did doesn’t mean it was wrong.” “I took money and belongings too.” Zahn looks down at $Zhisher hands. “What did you do with it?” you ask. “...Traded for food.” You feel your blood rush. You think back to Zahn eating the snake that nearly bit you. //No wonder//, you think, //no wonder $Zheshe seems to want to eat everything//. You keep your expression as neutral as possible, waiting until Zahn finally looks at you to ask, “Why would that be wrong?” Zahn looks away, blue eyes shifting back and forth. “I don’t think I want to talk about it anymore – for now. Sorry.” You sigh, but nod. “Don’t be sorry, I pushed you. If you want to talk later, I’ll be here.” $Zcapitalheshe picks up the thread again and begins to work on another patch. You wonder for a moment if Zahn is upset or angry, but then $Zheshe smiles at you again. “So...can I ask you something now? I want to know more about you, $mc.” You suppose it’s fair, so you agree. “What are your parents like? Your home? What was it like for you as a kid?” Zahn pauses a moment. “Sorry, that’s three questions, but they’re all kinda related.” [[You grin and tell Zahn about your home.|3.67b]]

“Zahn – you did not do anything wrong. There is no way you have done anything deserving whatever obscure penance they have put you through. You were a hungry child. You were alone. People, adults that should have cared, failed //you// not the other way around.” You expect some defensiveness from Zahn, and $Zheshe shifts uncomfortably in $Zhisher seat, but doesn’t appear angry. After thinking for a moment, Zahn finally responds. “But maybe there was something I should have done different...There’s other ways to make money even for kids.” “What could you have done that wouldn’t involve hurting you in some way?” Zahn is silent. “I have never lived in a city, but I have heard stories from travelers in my village. I have heard about horrible things done to people just trying to make a living.” “The Acceptor says that suffering helps us rely on the gods and it teaches us to be better people,” Zahn says, but $Zhisher voice lacks any drive as if $Zheshe is only repeating the words without believing in them. You push further. “Well, he’s wrong. The gods aren’t here right now, and suffering is just suffering.” Zahn fiddles with the needle and thread, and keeps $Zhisher eyes turned down. “Tell me why you feel this way?” “You’re just a human being who was put in a really impossible situation. Maybe your church thinks it’s wrong to steal, and it would be if you had a choice – but you didn’t.” Bile rises in your throat. “Kids shouldn’t have to. If there is one thing I have learned from my own fathers it’s that people need to take care of each other. You should have never been put in a situation where you had to steal to survive, but just because you did doesn’t mean it was wrong.” “I took money and belongings too.” Zahn looks down at $Zhisher hands. “What did you do with it?” you ask. “...Traded for food.” You feel your blood rush. You think back to Zahn eating the snake that nearly bit you. //No wonder//, you think, //no wonder $Zheshe seems to want to eat everything//. You keep your expression as neutral as possible, waiting until Zahn finally looks at you to ask, “Why would that be wrong?” Zahn looks away, blue eyes shifting back and forth. “I don’t think I want to talk about it anymore – for now. Sorry.” You sigh, but nod. “Don’t be sorry, I pushed you. If you want to talk later, I’ll be here.” $Zcapitalheshe picks up the thread again and begins to work on another patch. You wonder for a moment if Zahn is upset or angry, but then $Zheshe smiles at you again. “So...can I ask you something now? I want to know more about you, $mc.” You suppose it’s fair, so you agree. “What are your parents like? Your home? What was it like for you as a kid?” Zahn pauses a moment. “Sorry, that’s three questions, but they’re all kinda related.” [[You grin and tell Zahn about your home.|3.67b]]

“I really can’t see that as //wrong// though, Zahn. I mean //wrong// is my da’s love for fermented fish. //Wrong// is how I didn’t lose all my first teeth until after my name day. //Wrong// is joining in marriage with a rich widower to take the inheritance of his children…” Zahn chuckles and shakes $Zhisher head. “Wrong isn’t a hungry kid nabbing some bread to ease their suffering. When it is that or death – it isn’t //wrong//.” “I took money and belongings too.” Zahn looks down at $Zhisher hands. “What did you do with it?” you ask. $Zcapitalheshe sighs heavily. “...Traded for food.” Your heart wrenches. You think back to Zahn eating the snake that nearly bit you. //No wonder//, you think, //no wonder $Zheshe seems to want to eat everything//. “Well, my friend, if you were already sinning so much, you should have at least made it worth your while. No offense, but you should have taken enough food to get nice and plump, if you were just going to be punished for it later. If the price is the same, you may as well take as much as you can eat, right?” A laugh escapes Zahn so quickly that $Zheshe snorts. “Maybe I should have, and then I wouldn’t have such a small rear.” You lean forward, and in your most gentle tone you ask, “Do you truly still think what you did was wrong? You’re just a human being who was put in a really hard situation. I won’t pretend to know what it all was like for you. Maybe your church thinks it’s wrong to steal, and maybe it would be if you had a choice – but you didn’t.” “But maybe I did...maybe there was something I should have done different...There’s other ways to make money even for kids.” “What then? For you to become the means of the sins of another?” Bile rises in your throat at the thought. “If there is one thing I have learned from my own fathers it’s that people need to take care of each other. You should have never been put in a situation where you had to steal to survive, but just because you did doesn’t mean it was wrong.” Zahn looks away, blue eyes shifting back and forth. “I don’t think I want to talk about it anymore – for now. Sorry.” You sigh, but nod. “If you do later, I’ll be here.” $Zcapitalheshe picks up the thread again and begins to work on another patch. You wonder for a moment if Zahn is upset or angry, but then $Zheshe smiles at you again. “So...can I ask you something now? I want to know more about you, $mc.” You suppose it’s fair, so you agree. “What are your parents like? Your home? What was it like for you as a kid?” Zahn pauses a moment. “Sorry, that’s three questions, but they’re all kinda related.” [[You grin and tell Zahn about your home.|3.67b]]

<<set $Zflirt +=4>> All the words Zahn has said jumble and mix and repeat inside your head. You’re offended for $Zhimher, and it makes you sick to think anyone has taught $Zhimher that $Zheshe has done anything wrong by just fighting to survive. Zahn has been nothing but a kind and helpful soul $Zcapitalheshe is sweet and probably has never done anything to hurt anyone. All your thoughts rush and bumble into each other and before you know it, your knees have hit the ground at Zahn’s feet. Zahn’s blue eyes are wide with shock. $Zcapitalheshe looks one-part scared and one-part confused. You cup Zahn’s hands with your own, needle and thread long forgotten. Staring deeply into $Zhisher eyes, you hope that your $eyecolor gaze conveys all the truth and affection you have. “Don’t ever, ever feel like you did something wrong by doing what you needed to survive. I know this probably isn’t my place. There is so much about your life I don’t know yet…” “Um…” Zahn looks around, before sheepishly meeting your eyes again. “I can tell that you’re not a bad person.” You see Zahn’s pink lips turn down as $Zhisher face scrunches with what appears to be sadness. You see the shimmer of tears forming at the corners of $Zhisher eyes. Zahn shakes $Zhisher head as if finding disagreement with your words. You press further, determined for Zahn to believe you. “You’re just a human being who was put in a really impossible situation. Maybe your church thinks it’s wrong to steal, and it would be if you had a choice – but you didn’t.” “But maybe I did...maybe there was something I should have done different...There’s other ways to make money even for kids. I’m...I’m not a good person, $mc.” Bile rises in your throat. “Well, I believe your are...and children shouldn’t have to do those things. If there is one thing I have learned from my own fathers it’s that people need to take care of each other. You should have never been put in a situation where you had to steal to survive, but just because you did doesn’t mean it was wrong.” “I took money and belongings too.” Zahn looks down at your joined hands. “What did you do with it?” you ask. “...Traded for food.” Your heart wrenches. You think back to Zahn eating the snake that nearly bit you. //No wonder//, you think, //no wonder $Zheshe seems to want to eat everything//. In your most gentle tone you ask, “Do you still think what you did was truly wrong?” Zahn looks away, blue eyes shifting back and forth, stray tears finally escaping. “I don’t think I want to talk about it anymore – for now. Sorry.” You sigh, but nod and release $Zhisher hands. “If you do later, I’ll be here.” Zahn picks up the thread again and begins to work on another patch, and you take your seat again. You wonder for a moment if Zahn is upset or angry, but then $Zheshe smiles at you. “So...can I ask you something now? I want to know more about you, $mc.” You suppose it’s fair, so you agree. “What are your parents like? Your home? What was it like for you as a kid?” Zahn pauses a moment. “Sorry, that’s three questions, but they’re all kinda related.” [[You grin and tell Zahn about your home.|3.67b]]

<<set $Zflirt +=4>> All the words Zahn has said jumble and mix and repeat inside your head. You’re offended for $Zhimher, and it makes you sick to think anyone has taught $Zhimher that $Zheshe has done anything wrong by just fighting to survive. Zahn has been nothing but a kind and helpful soul $Zcapitalheshe is sweet and probably has never done anything to hurt anyone. All your thoughts rush and bumble into each other and before you know it, your knees have hit the ground at Zahn’s feet. Zahn’s blue eyes are wide with shock. $Zcapitalheshe looks one-part scared and one-part confused. You gently gather the needle, thread, and cloth to place them off to the side. With Zahn’s full attention on you, you take each of $Zhisher hands in each one of your own and simply look deeply into $Zhisher eyes. Sometimes a look conveys a thousand words, and judging by Zahn’s face, yours is doing just that. You hope that your $eyecolor gaze conveys all the truth and affection you have. “You are not a bad person,” you mummer. Zahn gripes your hands tightly, and $Zhisher lips quiver. You rise up and gather $Zhimher into an easy embrace, letting Zahn dictate how tightly you can hold $Zhimher. “I can tell that you’re not a bad person,” you whisper again. You feel a quiver run through Zahn’s torso. You press further, determined for Zahn to believe you. “You’re just a human being who was put in a really impossible situation. Maybe your church thinks it’s wrong to steal, and it would be if you had a choice – but you didn’t.” Zahn replies in a quiet voice. “But maybe I did...maybe there was something I should have done different...There’s other ways to make money even for kids. I’m...I’m not a good person, $mc. I’m really not.” Bile rises in your throat. “Well, I believe your are...and children shouldn’t have to do those things. If there is one thing I have learned from my own fathers it’s that people need to take care of each other. You should have never been put in a situation where you had to steal to survive, but just because you did doesn’t mean it was wrong.” “I took money and belongings too.” Zahn looks down at your joined hands. “What did you do with it?” you ask. “...Traded for food.” Your heart wrenches. You think back to Zahn eating the snake that nearly bit you. //No wonder//, you think, //no wonder $Zheshe seems to want to eat everything//. In your most gentle tone you ask, “Do you still think what you did was truly wrong?” Zahn pulls back and looks away, blue eyes shifting back and forth, stray tears escaping. “I don’t think I want to talk about it anymore – for now. Sorry.” You sigh, but nod and retreat back to your seat. “If you do later, I’ll be here.” Zahn picks up the thread again and begins to work on another patch. You wonder for a moment if Zahn is upset or angry, but then $Zheshe smiles at you. “So...can I ask you something now? I want to know more about you, $mc.” You suppose it’s fair, so you agree. “What are your parents like? Your home? What was it like for you as a kid?” Zahn pauses a moment. “Sorry, that’s three questions, but they’re all kinda related.” [[You grin and tell Zahn about your home.|3.67b]]

A myriad of memories flit through your mind. Some good some not. Where to start though? “Well,” you begin, “I was adopted by my papa and da because my mama died.” Zahn’s eyebrows go up. “So, we’re alike in a way?” You nod. “I didn’t know my ma, she passed during my birth.” “What are your fathers like? I hope they aren’t like Oswin.” Zahn chuckles. “I don’t think anyone is quite like Oswin…. My papa is a really big man and works as a woodsman and carpenter. He’s shy and really sweet. Da fishes and hunts – he’s great with a bow, I think you’d like him. He’s usually causing some sort of trouble. His leg is broken right now, though.” Worry rattles your gut. “Oh, so that’s why...Oswin is here instead?” You nod. “Sorry...um, tell me about your home, your village instead.” Zahn smiles encouragingly. “Stonebrook is small, but we get a lot of travelers. There’s an archery tournament every summer, like most towns I suppose.” Zahn sits up straight. “Really? I’ve done tournaments before, I should enter! Once we’re done in Codrin, do you think we could make it back in time?” “Definitely, I don’t think we’ll take long and it’s not until midsummer. It takes place after Lale has theirs.” You snicker a bit, Oswin will fuss after hearing Zahn plans to invite $Zhimselfherself to town. Looks like $Zheshe will be traveling with you for a bit longer. “What do you get up to?” “<<if $interest is 'choppin'>>I mostly work lumber like my papa.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>I work in carpentry like my papa.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>I do rounds with the town guard and sparring with other swordsmen.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>I do rounds with the town guard, and I do archery tournaments as well in the surrounding towns.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>I keep pretty busy as as an herbalist. I help the official healers. They have the market cornered, but are always too busy to handle it all themselves.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>I work in trade mostly. My parents often go with me to some of the surrounding villages; I have to stay fairly close to home, but I make a fair bit of coin still.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>I work as a cook. I’m the busiest around feasts, but I get hired for a lot of dinners for fancy nobles in Lale.<</if>> Otherwise, <<if $hobby is 'singing'>>I work on my singing and song-writing.<<elseif $hobby is 'drawing'>>I often draw or paint.<<elseif $hobby is 'sculpting'>>I like to keep busy with my sculpting.<<elseif $hobby is 'storytelling'>>I’m usually coming up with or telling my stories.<<elseif $hobby is 'whittling'>>I’m often whittling something.<<elseif $hobby is 'needlework'>>I’m usually sewing and making clothing.<</if>> If he’s free, my closest friend, Lakota, visits with me. He’s been so busy in the last few years though, but he tries really hard to see me when he can.” Zahn tugs $Zhisher thread through a particularly thick spot in the patch as $Zheshe mulls over what you said. “So, Lakota is Oswin’s brother? I remember him saying something about it.” “Yeah. You two would get along. Lakota is a very kind soul – a bit gullible, which I have a feeling you would appreciate.” “Why is he so busy? Do you need a new best friend, $mc? I have an opening for one.” A big toothy smile spreads across the pilgrim’s lips. You scoff. “He’s got a family. Two already born, and his partner is likely going to have twins very soon.” Zahn’s eyes go wide. “Little ones? If I visit, could I play with them? I help with the children in my sect – they’re so much fun. A lot of work though, so I’m sort of glad they’re not mine.” “Probably. His oldest, Yan, would love you….” You sit and tell Zahn more about Stonebrook and what it was like growing up there. $Zcapitalheshe can barely believe that there was a time that Oswin was a relaxed and playful sort. You fill in with some anecdotes from your childhood. A while later after the conversation eases into a lull and Zahn has finished all the patches $Zheshe wanted to do, $Zheshe flounders into another question. “So….I shouldn’t ask this. It’s rude – I know it would be rude. But, I’m also worried and, admittedly, curious...The only way I’ll know if it’s okay though is if I ask it…. You tilt you head. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“So, are you going to get around to doing that or are you going to keep with the long lead-up?”<<else>>“Is dragging it out your way of lulling me into a false sense of security about it?”<</if>> Zahn rubs the back of $Zhisher neck. “It’s about your sickness….I was concerned about what it was and why you needed to go all the way around to Codrin for it? The trade route the other way would have been easier...Sorry, it just seemed odd.” Zahn lowers $Zhisher voice, peeking around before whispering. “I know Oswin is a decent person, but I also wondered if you were completely safe. He’s a little, well you know.” [[You were told not to share much about your reasons for traveling, so you think you should stick to that.|3.67b1]] [[You really want to talk about it, you could do so without giving too much away.|3.67b2]] [[Zahn is just worried, you trust that telling them some things would be okay.|3.67b2]] [[You can’t help but feel suspicious that Zahn is asking about it.|3.67b3]]

With a heavy sigh, you give Zahn a sorry look, whether or not it is genuine is up for debate. “Apologies, Zahn, but I don’t think I’m really ready or comfortable going into it.” A sympathetic look etches into Zahn’s face. “I understand. Oswin wouldn’t tell me much other than it has been quite hard and unpredictable for you. I don’t want to stir up your feelings about it just for my own curiosity...but I am actually worried too, so please don’t think of me as heartless.” “I won’t, it’s natural to be curious about it.” “But...you’re going to Valko’s shrine aren’t you? Oswin told me I could split off for Codrin once we rested here for a couple days and that you two would leave later.” You’re taken aback. “Why do you think that?” “There’s no other reason to take this road from Stonebrook, it cuts directly into the forest to the north of Codrin. The road splits eventually, and the only choices are to go to the old shrine or to the city. If your goal was the city, you’d never taken this route – not if your illness….um, anyway.” Zahn folds $Zhisher hands together and averts $Zhisher eyes from you. Zahn is clearly more astute than you thought, and from the sounds of it, there’s no hiding your true destination. “Yes, we are trying...to see if a god would be willing to help me. We’ve tried everything, and I’ve seen so many healers since I was a child. No one has solutions.” “Valko is an odd choice, but he is very powerful.” Zahn scoots closer, looking like $Zheshe is resisting reaching out to you. “He’s the closest we know of, and the other idea was that even if he isn’t there or won’t help me, there may be something else we can find that will.” Zahn lights up. “Oh! Yes, there is still magic in the places the gods dwelt even from so many years ago. Lots of them left items that had absorbed their power. My sect has an earring of Din’s. The Acceptor wears it, and can tap into the magic within.” “Really?” Hope stirs within you. Maybe you won’t need the god himself after all. “Yes, some are really powerful, but of course the bigger churches have the really powerful ones.” “And you can sense magic, right?” An idea blooms in your mind. You can’t feel magic and neither can Oswin, you’d never know what item – if any – would contain any power. “Yeah!” Zahn’s grin has bloomed full-tilt and you sense that $Zheshe understands what you’re thinking. Oswin is going to be irritated about it, but you know he’d see reason. If a magical object could help you though, you have to take this chance. Even if you could find one yourself, could you even use a magical artifact without any magic of your own? There may be no way of knowing unless it was too late… “Zahn, I may need your help further...I know Oswin wants to try to divide us up here, but if you could help me find something that might...heal me…” Zahn jumps up. “I’ll do it! I’ll help you! I can help!” $Zcapitalhisher face goes bright red with glee as $Zheshe jumps in place. “I’ll show you, I won’t let you down.” You can’t fight the smirk on your lips at the enthusiastic response. Now, all that’s left is to bide your time and bring this up to Oswin. He’s going to glare at you, but you’re confident that he won’t be able to deny your reasoning. You take a deep, resolute breath. Once Zahn settles, you sit and chat a while longer about mundane things before deciding to move on. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You take a look around to be sure no swordsmen or merchants are lingering within earshot. <<if hasVisited("3.68a")>>Though, you suppose it is useless to hide this conversation from the merchant. You’ve already told him too much. <</if>><<if hasVisited("3.68b")>>Though, you suppose it is useless to hide this conversation from the merchant. You’ve already told him too much. <</if>><<if hasVisited("3.68c")>>Though, you suppose it is useless to hide this conversation from the merchant given what you spoke of with him earlier. <</if>>“Truth be told, I’d like to talk about it a little…” Zahn scoots closer to you. “I’m here, I’ll listen. I can do that really well, I’ll focus on keeping my mouth shut.” $Zcapitalheshe smiles. You roll your eyes and shake your head. “Well...for starters, I’ll clarify that I’m as safe as I could be with Oswin. My parents trusted him to see me this far. Despite how fussy he can get, I’m at least not in any danger. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>I trust him as my friend.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>I trust him...deeply.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>We've had our differences, but he is a man of integrity.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>He's not a bad person, and he's taking my safety seriously.<</if>>” “Good, that makes me feel better. I did consider for a moment that maybe you were abducted, he seems a little...possessive.” Zhan wrinkles $Zhisher nose. “Anyway, I’ll shut up.” You move back to the the topic at hand. “I got sick when I was very little. It was sudden – it showed no signs until it was just //there//. It did a lot to me, like making me seize, giving me fevers, stifling my breath…” You leave out the burning sensations that lead to the mark and decide to keep this as true to a physical illness as you can. “The symptoms have come and gone over the years with little predictability, and they often leave me helpless for several days at a time. Our healers are stumped, I’ve visited countless others and no one is sure. The...leading theory is that it is something inherited from my birth parents.” “So why are you just now seeking help from Codrin?” “My fathers were always too worried I would collapse when we traveled, if I got sick on the road and they couldn’t get me back home or to safety in time, they feared I would die. We had seen so many healers and even churches that they never thought it would do much better. Our healers are already quite famous for being some of the best in the province already.” You shrug. Zahn tilts $Zhisher head. “So something changed?” You nod, and lower your voice though the others are no where around. “I had a severe episode on my 24th birthday. I very nearly died, it was the worst yet. It’s made us all a bit desperate...um, we’re not actually going to Codrin, not right away at least.” “You’re going to Valko’s shrine, aren’t you?” Your eyes jerk to Zahn’s. “Yes.” “That makes sense. Oswin told me I could split off for Codrin once we rested here for a couple days and that you two would leave later. I thought that was a little suspicious, well, a few things about your traveling has been a bit suspicious I guess.” You’re taken aback. “Why do you think that?” “There’s no other reason to take this road from Stonebrook, it cuts directly into the forest to the north of Codrin. The road splits eventually, and the only choices are to go to the old shrine or to the city. If your goal was the city, you’d never taken this route – not if your illness….um, anyway.” Zahn folds $Zhisher hands together and averts $Zhisher eyes from you. Zahn is clearly more astute than you thought, and from the sounds of it, there would be no hiding your true destination even if you hadn’t said anything about it. “Yes, we are trying...to see if a god would be willing to help me. No one has solutions.” “Valko is an odd choice, but he is very powerful.” Zahn scoots even closer, looking like $Zheshe is resisting reaching out to you. “He’s the closest we know of, and the other idea was that even if he isn’t there or won’t help me, there may be something else we can find that will.” Zahn lights up. “Oh! Yes, there is still magic in the places the gods dwelt even from so many years ago. Lots of them left items that had absorbed their power. My sect has an earring of Din’s. The Acceptor wears it, and can tap into the magic within.” “Really?” Hope stirs within you. Maybe you won’t need the god himself after all. “Yes, some are really powerful, but of course the bigger churches have the really powerful ones.” “And you can sense magic, right?” An idea blooms in your mind. You can’t feel magic and neither can Oswin, you’d never know what item – if any – would contain any power. “Yeah!” Zahn’s grin has bloomed full-tilt and you sense that $Zheshe understands what you’re thinking. Oswin is going to be irritated about it, but you know he’d see reason. If a magical object could help you though, you have to take this chance. Even if you could find one yourself, could you even use a magical artifact without any magic of your own? There may be no way of knowing unless it was too late… “Zahn, I may need your help further...I know Oswin wants to try to divide us up here, but if you could help me find something that might...heal me…” Zahn jumps up. “I’ll do it! I’ll help you! I can help!” $Zcapitalhisher face goes bright red with glee as $Zheshe jumps in place. “I’ll show you, I won’t let you down.” You can’t fight the smirk on your lips at the enthusiastic response. Now, all that’s left is to bide your time and bring this up to Oswin. He’s going to glare at you, but you’re confident that he won’t be able to deny your reasoning. You take a deep, resolute breath. Once Zahn settles, you sit and chat a while longer about mundane things before deciding to move on. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Though you know it might be natural for one to be curious about what others are doing, Zahn’s questioning leaves you with a strange apprehension. If it’s founded or not, you can’t exactly confirm right now. Perhaps you are like Oswin in this respect or perhaps he’s just rubbed off on you. The distrust you feel makes you waver and go silent as you consider Zahn. A sympathetic look etches into Zahn’s face. “I apologize, I knew I was over-stepping. It’s just that Oswin wouldn’t tell me much other than it has been quite hard and unpredictable for you. I don’t want to stir up your feelings about it just for my own curiosity...but I am actually worried too, so pleased don’t think of me as heartless.” “It’s natural to be curious about it, I suppose..” “But...I wanted to ask since I think you’re going to Valko’s shrine, aren’t you? Oswin told me I could split off for Codrin once we rested here for a couple days and that you two would leave later.” You’re taken aback. “Why do you think that?” “There’s no other reason to take this road from Stonebrook, it cuts directly into the forest to the north of Codrin. The road splits eventually, and the only choices are to go to the old shrine or to the city. If your goal was the city, you’d never taken this route – not if your illness….um, anyway.” Zahn folds $Zhisher hands together and averts $Zhisher eyes from you. Zahn is clearly more astute than you thought, and from the sounds of it, there’s no hiding your true destination. “Yes, we are trying...to see if a god would be willing to help me. We’ve tried everything, and I’ve seen so many healers since I was a child. No one has solutions.” “Valko is an odd choice, but he is very powerful.” Zahn scoots closer, looking like $Zheshe is resisting reaching out to you. “He’s the closest we know of, and the other idea was that even if he isn’t there or won’t help me, there may be something else we can find that will.” Zahn lights up. “Oh! Yes, there is still magic in the places the gods dwelt even from so many years ago. Lots of them left items that had absorbed their power. My sect has an earring of Din’s. The Acceptor wears it, and can tap into the magic within.” “Really?” Hope stirs within you. Maybe you won’t need the god himself after all and maybe Zahn really does simply care. “Yes, some are really powerful, but of course the bigger churches have the really powerful ones.” “And you can sense magic, right?” An idea blooms in your mind. You can’t feel magic and neither can Oswin, you’d never know what item – if any – would contain any power. “Yeah!” Zahn’s grin has bloomed full-tilt and you sense that $Zheshe understands what you’re thinking. Oswin is going to be irritated about it, but you know he’d see reason. You don’t fully shake your suspicion of Zahn, but if $Zheshe can be useful, it may be worth any risk. If a magical object could help you though, you have to take this chance. Even if you could find one yourself, could you even use a magical artifact without any magic of your own? There may be no way of knowing unless it was too late… “Zahn, I may need your help further...I know Oswin wants to try to divide us up here, but if you could help me find something that might...heal me…” Zahn jumps up. “I’ll do it! I’ll help you! I can help!” $Zcapitalhisher face goes bright red with glee as $Zheshe jumps in place. “I’ll show you, I won’t let you down.” You can’t fight the smirk on your lips at the enthusiastic response. Now, all that’s left is to bide your time and bring this up to Oswin. He’s going to glare at you, but you’re confident that he won’t be able to deny your reasoning. You take a deep, resolute breath. Once Zahn settles, you sit and chat a while longer about mundane things before deciding to move on. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $merchantopinion +=3>> You bring the pipe to your lips and puff on it a few times. The tobacco is very smooth and clearly of a high quality. You can’t quite identify what is all mixed in, but it seems to be a few things. There is a citrus-like essence to it, and the hint of something else that is familiar to you, but you can’t pinpoint. You spot a wide smile on Nathan’s face, he seems pleased about your choice. Handing the pipe back you clear your throat, wondering if you should ask what you just smoked. “You may feel a bit relaxed, so don’t be alarmed if things go a little...soft around you,” Nathan remarks. “It’s my own secret blend, but I’ll happily indulge with you anytime.” You probably should have asked more questions before smoking that…. For now, you feel normal, though, and you wonder if he’s pulling your leg. “You’re not going to tell me what all is in that?” The merchant shakes his head. “I just told you – secret.” He takes a few long puffs and grins. “Anyway, my dear, since you’re here – can I ask you something?” “Sure,” you say without thinking. “How was your birthday?” An involuntary shiver hits your spine. “Oh…” Nathan leans forward. “An odd look for a benign question. Are you okay?” “Yes…” You sit and think for a moment to collect yourself, but the tension you feel is short lived. “I- It wasn’t the best. I took ill.” His face falls. “Oh, my apologies. Your, uh, chronic ailment I take it?” You nod. “<<if hasVisited("You consider the man for a moment and decide to invite him to your family celebration tonight. He's good company and kind.")>>Goodness, now I am unsure...I deeply regretted not being able to accept your invitation, but I suppose you would have appreciated some privacy as it turned out. <</if>>Perhaps...well, please do not think me rude or looking for gossip – but is this relapse of your affliction the reason we have crossed paths here of all places?” You shift in your seat uncomfortably, but the answer still slips through your lips easily. “Yes. This occurrence was pretty severe.” “Ah, and dear Kip is laid up with a broken leg...hence your grumpy swordsman. I see.” Nathan puffs and appears to be lost in thought for a moment. You take a look at the blanket you’re sitting on. It looks very soft, so you decide to lay on your side while you rest with Nathanel. He offers you the pipe again with a smile. [[You accept it and smoke.|3.68a1]] <<link "You decline.">><<glance "g1" "You decline." "[[You accept it and smoke.|3.68a1]]">><</link>>

<<set $merchantopinion +=3>> You bring the pipe to your lips and puff on it once as you watched Nathan just do. You pause and consider the pipe again, taking a heartier puff as you inhale. You choke and cough, it burns your throat. Nathan chuckles. “Take it easy, lightly puff on it, don’t inhale too deeply. Hold it in a bit for the high to settle in better.” You do as instructed, taking a few small puffs and holding each. The tobacco is very smooth and clearly of a great quality. You can’t quite identify what is all mixed in, but it seems to be a few things. There is a citrus-like essence to it, and the hint of something else that is familiar to you, but you can’t pinpoint. You spot a wide smile on Nathan’s face, he seems pleased about your choice. Handing the pipe back you clear your throat, wondering if you should ask what you just smoked. “You may feel a bit relaxed, so don’t be alarmed if things go a little...soft around you,” Nathan remarks. “It’s my own secret blend, but I’ll happily indulge with you anytime.” You probably should have asked more questions before smoking that…. For now, you feel normal, though, and you wonder if he’s pulling your leg. “You’re not going to tell me what all is in that?” The merchant shakes his head. “I just told you – secret.” He takes a few long puffs and grins. “Anyway, my dear, since you’re here – can I ask you something?” “Sure,” you say without thinking. “How was your birthday?” An involuntary shiver hits your spine. “Oh…” Nathan leans forward. “An odd look for a benign question. Are you okay?” “Yes…” You sit and think for a moment to collect yourself, the tension leaving you quickly as it’s replaced with a sense of calm washing over you. “I- It wasn’t the best. I took ill.” His face falls. “Oh, my apologies. Your, uh, chronic ailment I take it?” You nod. “<<if hasVisited("You consider the man for a moment and decide to invite him to your family celebration tonight. He's good company and kind.")>>Goodness, now I am unsure...I deeply regretted not being able to accept your invitation, but I suppose you would have appreciated some privacy as it turned out. <</if>>Perhaps...well, please do not think me rude or looking for gossip – but is this relapse of your affliction the reason we have crossed paths here of all places?” The answer still slips through your lips easily. “Yes. This occurrence was pretty severe.” “Ah, and dear Kip is laid up with a broken leg...hence your grumpy swordsman. I see.” Nathan puffs and appears to be lost in thought for a moment. You take a look at the blanket you’re sitting on. It looks very soft, so you plop down to lay on your side while you rest with Nathan. He offers you the pipe again with a smile. [[You accept it and smoke.|3.68a1]] <<link "You decline.">><<glance "g1" "You decline." "[[You accept it and smoke.|3.68a1]]">><</link>>

You hand the pipe back to Nathan. “No thank you.” He smiles and nods at you. “If you change your mind, let me know,” he says before popping the pipe back into his mouth. The smoke smells nice and you can tell that it must be a high quality tobacco. Nathan remarks. “It’s my own secret blend, your darling papa buys a bit from me on occasion.” You shake your head. “Papa doesn’t have many vices, but he does like his pipe now and then. Da hates smoking, though.” “Speaking of your family...I meant to ask you, how was your birthday?” An involuntary shiver hits your spine. “Oh…” Nathan leans forward. “An odd look for a benign question. Are you okay?” You school your face into something more neutral and give him a polite smile. “Yes, I’m fine, just a chill.” [[Tell him your birthday was fine.|3.68c1]] [[Tell him you fell very ill on your birthday.|3.68c2]]

Taking the pipe, you bring it to your lips and take a few more long puffs. It’s quite good. You feel great. “Easy there,” Nathanael says. “It’s easy to overdo, so I’m cutting you off there.” He takes the pipe back from you, but you notice he wears a huge smile. He looks pleased with your indulgence. Shadow approaches to nuzzle you. You pet his back. His fur is so soft. The cat hops up onto your side and curls up on top of your hip. You hear Dainn snort as he rises up on his huge legs. The giant elk stretches his neck before sauntering towards the stream. Such an unusual and majestic animal. You remember Papa saying they are from the very north of the northern province. You wonder why Nathan has one. More still, you just wonder about Nathan. This is a perfect chance to ask him a couple questions. “Do you mind if I ask you a couple questions?” You ask, using your arms to support your head as you lay. “I’d love that. Perhaps curiosity has gotten the better of you? Do you find me mysterious and alluring?” You chuckle. “I’m more interested in the giant elk.” “Oh.” Nathan scrunches his nose. “Where did you find such a beast? Why not use horses?” “Oh, my dear, Dainn is hardly a beast. Well, he is, but he’s also a dear companion to me. I found him, oh my, several years back...I don’t recall now how many. Anyway, up in the northern mountains. He was a small creature then, and I believe his mother was lost to him. I never found a suitable herd to return him to, so I simply took him with me. We bonded. He was free to roam, but still he followed wherever I went. At that time, I did use horses to travel – but I didn’t travel as much as I do today. Dainn obliged whenever I set out to sell my wares a few years ago.” “So that’s why you don’t tie him up or anything?” “Correct. He’s free to go whenever he wants. I return him to the north every couple years to...uh, how should I say this, sow his oats.” You stare at him. “I am 24 years old, you can say what it is.” “Well Shadow might take offense, and I can’t have that.” Nathan chuckles, taking long drags from his pipe. “So, what about you?” “Me? I have no interest in oats or sowing.” You scoff, which turns into a rolling laugh. Before long, the wind has left you and you are struggling to regain composure. The merchant shakes his head. “I should not have let you smoke this.” He chuckles. “Where are you //from//?” “Oh, I see. Like Dainn, I am also from the north originally, but I spent many years in the south as well. I took a shine to their unique flair for fashion and culture. The weather never sat well with me. I prefer a bit of a chill. So, Mahdeh is where I stay, it has the best of all worlds here.” You’re a bit disappointed that he leaves details out. Most people would expound a little bit at least on their origins. “What of your family?” He shrugs. “Not much to say, we’re estranged. There are some I dearly miss, some I mourn, and more still that I’d rather...forget. I prefer to focus on the relationships I have currently.” Taking a long few puffs of his pipe, Nathan relaxes his back against his caravan, effectively ending his answer to the questions. You decide to shift to something a little lighter, slowly rolling onto your back as the cat rides out the transition so he can continue laying on your legs. “So, where are you headed after this? Back to Codrin?” “No, I’ve decided to head towards Stonebrook and get back on track. I’ll restock there, say hi to my regulars, and then finally get going to Tallulah. You should take a look at my stock before we part ways, I have a few things you may need.” Suddenly you realize something. If Nathan is heading to Stonebrook, you could send a message to your parents. “Would you do me a favor? Or perhaps, this is a service I should pay you for…” Nathan chokes on his pipe, smoke flits from his lips and nose with each cough. “Careful, $mc, you’ll get me worked up.” “What? No, I need to get a message to my fathers.” “Oh, of course. No charge, I’d like to check in on Kip anyway and maybe see if he’s read that book.” Nathan finds you some parchment and provides you with a quill and ink. You spend the remainder of your time jotting down a letter to your papa and da, without giving any details about the mark or curse. [[You write everything, including the times that were rough.|3.68d1]] [[You mostly summarize, glazing over the rough patches.|3.68d2]] [[You focus only on the more positive details, eliminating anything that will worry them.|3.68d3]]

<<set $ch3letter to 'everything'>> After filling out your letter and securely folding it, Nathan provides you with a rich $eyecolor colored wax and a seal depicting a bird with wings spread. It’s curious as to why he cares enough to have you seal it, but the extra measure of privacy is appreciated. At least your fathers would know if the letter had been opened previously. Once your business is concluded, Nathan invites you to nap with him, but you decline and leave him to it. As you rise up, Shadow scurries to where Nathan is laying down, pipe now finished, cleaned and put away. The grey feline jumps to the merchant's chest and piles down. You can hear purring from where you stand. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $ch3letter to 'summary'>> After filling out your letter and securely folding it, Nathan provides you with a rich $eyecolor colored wax and a seal depicting a bird with wings spread. It’s curious as to why he cares enough to have you seal it, but the extra measure of privacy is appreciated. At least your fathers would know if the letter had been opened previously. Once your business is concluded, Nathan invites you to nap with him, but you decline and leave him to it. As you rise up, Shadow scurries to where Nathan is laying down, pipe now finished, cleaned and put away. The grey feline jumps to the merchant's chest and piles down. You can hear purring from where you stand. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $ch3letter to 'positive'>> After filling out your letter and securely folding it, Nathan provides you with a rich $eyecolor colored wax and a seal depicting a bird with wings spread. It’s curious as to why he cares enough to have you seal it, but the extra measure of privacy is appreciated. At least your fathers would know if the letter had been opened previously. Once your business is concluded, Nathan invites you to nap with him, but you decline and leave him to it. As you rise up, Shadow scurries to where Nathan is laying down, pipe now finished, cleaned and put away. The grey feline jumps to the merchant's chest and piles down. You can hear purring from where you stand. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

“Oh, it was fine. A pretty normal birthday.” The mistruth slips from your tongue easily. For your own reasons, you’d rather keep the details of that day to yourself. “Marvelous,” he says in return. “<<if hasVisited("You consider the man for a moment and decide to invite him to your family celebration tonight. He's good company and kind.")>>I deeply regretted not being able to accept your invitation, but I am pleased to see that you were able to have a good time without me. Shame really, I was hoping to be missed. <</if>>In any case, birthdays should be that and more. I hope your next is even more special, my dear.” Nathan raises his pipe as if to solute you. You nod, but you can’t help the fleeting thought that you are unsure if you will see the next one or not. Nathan looks at you thoughtfully. “So, if you’ll entertain another question...Oswin was not very forthright. But, to what do I owe this chance meeting? From what I know of you, you are not one to wander far from home.” He drags from his pipe, his hazel eyes studying you from behind the smoke. [[Tell him you’re looking for help with your illness.|3.68c1a]] [[Tell him it is simple wanderlust since you’ve been confined to home for so long.|3.68c1b]]

His face falls. “Oh, my apologies. Your, uh, chronic ailment I take it?” You nod. “<<if hasVisited("You consider the man for a moment and decide to invite him to your family celebration tonight. He's good company and kind.")>>Goodness, now I am unsure...I deeply regretted not being able to accept your invitation, but I suppose you would have appreciated some privacy as it turned out. <</if>>Perhaps...well, please do not think me rude or looking for gossip – but is this relapse of your affliction the reason we have crossed paths here of all places?” [[Yes.|3.68c2a]] [[No.|3.68c2b]]

"Actually, my parents and I thought it was a good time for me to look for help with my illness.” You don’t see much harm in sharing this, at least. Nathan has heard of your ailment before. Both your parents have asked him about cures or if he had encountered such an illness in his travels across Iroda. He provided a couple potions to try, but they did not help. Plus, by now, all of Stonebrook has heard of your plight. Nathan nods. “That is understandable. You’ve been fairly well since I’ve known you. Do you have relapses still?” “Not often anymore, and most are mild by comparison to what I once went through.” At least that part was true up until your last birthday. “Such an odd malady. Ever since your fathers asked, I have kept an ear open for others in a similar predicament and have never heard anything close.” “Same for us; venturing out too far was always a bit risky. So, now is the time I suppose.” You give Nathan a polite nod, hoping to end the line of questioning there. “Quite,” he remarks, chewing the end of his pipe. “So….your destination is?” [[Tell him that you’re going to Valko’s shrine.|3.68c1aa]] [[Tell him that you’re going to Codrin.|3.68c1ab]]

“As you know, I was sickly as a child. I never had the chance to stray far from home especially without at least one of my fathers.” Nathan nods as he takes a few quick puffs from his pipe. “Quite so.” “Oswin found himself freed up, <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>and we’re friends<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>and we’re, uh, good friends<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>and we’ve been a bit distant, but have a history as friends<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>and we have a history of friendship<</if>>, so it sort of fell into place that maybe I could see a bit of the world with his help.” A big smile spreads on the merchant’s lips. “That is marvelous. I am quite pleased for you and proud as well, if I may say so.” “You are?” Your brow ticks up. “Of course, you are spreading your wings despite the cage. Not that there is anything wrong with staying where you find comfort, but I am glad to see you doing something so bold for yourself. Cheers to you, my dear.” Nathan raises his pipe and bows his head slightly. You consider if you should feel a little badly for navigating around the direct truth, but you really don’t. You simply nod your head in thanks to Nathan’s kind gesture. “<<if $journey is 'adventure'>>I was hoping for a bit of adventure while I’m out here. I’ve had only a taste so far, but I think there is more in store to sate me.<<elseif $journey is 'relationships'>>I am hoping to build up some relationships along this path. So far, I would say that I may be doing just that.<<elseif $journey is 'nervous'>>Truth be told, I was quite nervous when I set out, but I’m trying to not let that deter me.<<else>>Perhaps it’s strange, but I feel as if I have a duty to do this. Both for myself and for my fathers.<</if>>” “Marvelous. Inspirational even.” Nathan’s eyes turn up at the corners. You’re not sure if he is truly pleased with your attitude or if he is simply high. “Might I make a recommendation since you are so close to The Shaw already?” You cock your head to one side. “The Shaw?” “Ah, it is a local name for the forest north of Codrin. It is a beautiful place – a bit dangerous, but all the most wonderful things are.” “Oh, I see. So, your recommendation?” “A shrine is nestled at the very northern border of the forest, tucked at the base of the mountains and surrounded by the most ancient trees. I have not been myself, but I have heard tales that it is beautiful, and magic steal beats like a heart there.” You feign ignorance. “Really? Magic would be there after all this time? Is the god still there?” “Oh no, Valko is long gone. These days, when a god’s presence has been felt, word spreads faster than a lightening strike. The last rumor I heard was that he was entertaining admirers in some orgy in the mountains.” He chuckles, “I jest, of course – at least about the orgy.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You roll your eyes.<<else>>You chuckle. “What a shame.”<</if>> “Quite, anyway...it is an interesting piece of history and if you are this close as it is, it would only cost you a few extra days to see it. Though, Oswin is fully vested in his mercenary mindset, so he may take some convincing. Your new little friend may help you convince him.” You grin. “Thanks, Nathan, I think I’ll do just that.” You’re not entirely sure what to feel about this whole conversation, but you think that it may be time to push it in a new direction. Since Nathanael has seemed to enjoy trying to draw information from you, it’s only fair that he also tell you a bit more about himself. [[“I’d like to ask you a couple questions, if you don’t mind.”|3.68c1aaa]]

“We’re going to try to find something at Valko’s shrine that might help.” You shift a bit, wondering if this is too much information to give. Though, it could also be seen as reasonable to seek an ancient source of divine power in a predicament such as yours. Nathan chuckles. “I wondered. I’ve never been there myself, but I heard it’s quite beautiful and still houses immense magical power.” “Really? After so long?” He nods. “The stories of Valko are interesting. He was known to be brutish, even with his family, but he wasn’t without mercy. He had a very large following, my understanding is that this shrine housed hundreds of priests and priestesses that served him and did his bidding. They were all connected to his power, and so that magic still remains in the land itself.” You can’t hide your hopeful smile. “Though, the area itself may prove dangerous. The Shaw is a treacherous place – it’s good you brought your swordsman.” “The Shaw?” “Oh, it’s a common name for the Codrin Forest, especially as deep into it as the shrine, the area is quite wild. That magic untamed magic without a master for all these years, makes the wilderness and its inhabitants a bit...restless. Just be on your guard, my dear.” You’re not entirely sure what to feel about that information, but you think that it may be time to push the conversation in a new direction. Since Nathanael has seemed to enjoy trying to draw information from you, it’s only fair that he also tell you a bit more about himself. [[“I’d like to ask you a couple questions, if you don’t mind.”|3.68c1aaa]]

“Codrin, of course. It was always too far to travel without bring worried I may get sick.” Nathan nods. “I see. Perhaps a city so big will have an answer or two for you.” “That is the hope.” “Marvelous. I hope you find what you need, my dear.” Nathan’s eyes turn up at the corners. You’re not sure if he is truly pleased with your attitude or if he is simply high. “Might I make a recommendation since you are so close to The Shaw already?” You cock your head to one side. “The Shaw?” “Ah, it is a local name for the forest north of Codrin. It is a beautiful place – a bit dangerous, but all the most wonderful things are.” “Oh, I see. So, your recommendation?” “A shrine is nestled at the very northern border of the forest, tucked at the base of the mountains and surrounded by the most ancient trees. I have not been myself, but I have heard tales that it is beautiful, and magic steal beats like a heart there.” You feign ignorance. “Really? Magic would be there after all this time? Is the god still there?” “Oh no, Valko is long gone. These days, when a god’s presence has been felt, word spreads faster than a lightening strike. The last rumor I heard was that he was entertaining admirers in some orgy in the mountains.” He chuckles, “I jest, of course – at least about the orgy.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You roll your eyes.<<else>>You chuckle. “What a shame.”<</if>> “Quite, anyway...it is an interesting piece of history and if you are this close as it is, it would only cost you a few extra days to see it and find anything that could be of use to your plight. Though, Oswin is fully vested in his mercenary mindset, so he may take some convincing. You new little friend may help you convince him.” Something tells you that Nathan has seen through your veiled truth. “Thanks, Nathan, I think I’ll do just that.” You clear your throat and nod as a cloud of smoke washes over you. You’re not entirely sure what to feel about all of this, but you think that it may be time to push the conversation in a new direction. Since Nathanael has seemed to enjoy trying to draw information from you, it’s only fair that he also tell you a bit more about himself. [[“I’d like to ask you a couple questions, if you don’t mind.”|3.68c1aaa]]

You nod. “Unfortunately, yes. Not that we weren’t glad for the happenstance,” you say as a polite addendum. “This last occurrence was pretty severe.” “Ah, and dear Kip is laid up with a broken leg...hence your grumpy swordsman. I see.” Nathan puffs and appears to be lost in thought for a moment. You continue. “I’m hoping to maybe find some answers by venturing out a little further from home.” Nathan nods. “That is understandable. You’ve been fairly well since I’ve known you at least. A severe relapse must be daunting. I am terribly sorry. It is such an odd malady. Ever since your fathers asked, I have kept an ear open for others in a similar predicament and have never heard anything close.” “Same for us; venturing out too far was always a bit risky. So, now is the time I suppose.” You give Nathan a polite nod, hoping to end the line of questioning there. “Quite,” he remarks, chewing the end of his pipe. “So….your exact destination is?” [[Tell him that you’re going to Valko’s shrine.|3.68c1aa]] [[Tell him that you’re going to Codrin.|3.68c1ab]]

You stammer unexpectedly. “Um, no actually. I just...maybe it is a motivation, but I simply wanted to be away from home for a while.” Through a cloud of smoke, you see Nathan nod. “I understand that call. Blessed wanderlust. It calls to me deeply, as you can see.” He taps the side of the caravan. “Exactly. I’ve been to Lale several times, and all the surrounding neighborhoods from Stonebrook, but never this far. It’s nice to see how the land changes. Plus, I’ve already met someone completely new.” You continue as you try to divert attention away from Nathan’s prodding. The merchant shifts, leaning forward towards you. The scent of sweet tobacco drifts between you. “As you are sight-seeing, and you are all the way over here on the back road – I take it you are wanting to see the shrine of one of the old gods? Valko?” You open your mouth to respond, but Nathan interrupts you. “$mc, it’s a bit clear to me that you are looking for help with your affliction. You need not stammer over yourself to hide it. ” [[Confess that you’re going to Valko’s shrine.|3.68c1aa]]

Just as the questions leaves you, Dainn snorts as he rises up on his huge legs. The giant elk stretches his neck before sauntering towards the stream. Such an unusual and majestic animal. You remember Papa saying they are from the very north of the northern province. It makes you all the more curious about your current host. Nathan watches Dainn lumber by. “Hm, I suppose you probably have one or two things about me to be curious about. Fair is fair. Go on then.” He nods at you, poking his cheek with the mouthpiece of his pipe before giving you a cheeky smile. “Could it be that you find me mysterious and alluring?” You chuckle. “I’m more interested in the giant elk.” “Oh.” Nathan scrunches his nose. “No fun.” “Where did you find such a beast? Why not use horses?” “Oh, my dear, Dainn is hardly a beast. Well, he is, but he’s also a dear companion to me. I found him, oh my, several years back...I don’t recall now how many. Anyway, up in the northern mountains. He was a small creature then, and I believe his mother was lost to him. I never found a suitable herd to return him to, so I simply took him with me. We bonded. He was free to roam, but still he followed wherever I went. At that time, I did use horses to travel – but I didn’t travel as much as I do today. Dainn obliged whenever I set out to sell my wares a few years ago.” “So that’s why you don’t tie him up or anything?” “Correct. He’s free to go whenever he wants. I return with him to the north every couple years to...uh, how should I say this, sow his oats.” You stare at him. “I am 24 years old, you can say what it is.” “Well Shadow might take offense, and I can’t have that.” Nathan chuckles, taking long drags from his pipe. You see the cat in question peer from under the caravan – his eyes are the only part you can see and it’s a bit eerie. “So, what about you?” “Me? I have no interest in oats or sowing.” You snort. “Funny. Where are you //from//?” “Oh, I see. Like Dainn, I am also from the north originally, but I spent many years in the south as well. I took a shine to their unique flair for fashion and culture. The weather never sat well with me. I prefer a bit of a chill. So, Mahdeh is where I stay, it has the best of all worlds here.” You’re a bit disappointed that he leaves details out. Most people would expound a little bit at least on their origins. “What of your family?” He shrugs. “Not much to say, we’re estranged. There are some I dearly miss, some I mourn, and more still that I’d rather...forget. I prefer to focus on the relationships I have currently.” Taking a long few puffs of his pipe, Nathan relaxes his back against his caravan, effectively ending his answer to the questions. You decide to shift to something a little lighter, adjusting into a more comfortable position. “So, where are you headed after this? Back to Codrin?” “No, I’ve decided to head towards Stonebrook and get back on track. I’ll restock there, say hi to my regulars, and then finally get going to Tallulah. You should take a look at my stock before we part ways, I have a few things you may need.” Suddenly you realize something. If Nathan is heading to Stonebrook, you could send a message to your parents. “Would you do me a favor? Or perhaps, this is a service I should pay you for…” Nathan chokes on his pipe, smoke flits from his lips and nose with each cough. “Careful, $mc, you’ll get me worked up.” “What? No, I need to get a message to my fathers.” “Oh, of course. No charge, I’d like to check in on Kip anyway and maybe see if he’s read that book.” Nathan finds you some parchment and provides you with a quill and ink. You spend the remainder of your time jotting down a letter to your papa and da, without giving any details about the mark or curse. [[You write everything, including the times that were rough.|3.68d1]] [[You mostly summarize, glazing over the rough patches.|3.68d2]] [[You focus only on the more positive details, eliminating anything that will worry them.|3.68d3]]

$mountname perks up and eagerly approaches you, her ears perk up and forward as she elegantly trots towards you. Instead of going right for your offered food, she makes to nuzzle you against the cheek. You allow her to get a good snuggle in, but once she begins flapping her lips at your face you distract her with the carrot. Despite the carrot being very large, her strong teeth snap it like a twig. It’s a good thing she prefers kissing to biting, you think. Your horse seems to be fairly happy for the break. This is the longest she’s been untacked and mostly free. At the very least, you need to walk with her a bit and brush her – those are two things your horse both will need and love. Though, you can think of a couple other ways to spend just a little extra time on her. You stow away the other half of the carrot and find the bag that Oswin has hung on a nearby tree that contains supplies for the horses. You dig out the brush, while $mountname sneaks up behind you to try and grab the rest of her carrot. Grabbing her lead, you begin walking with her around the campground, though you spot her looking at the brush eagerly. She follows you closely, preferring you as her subject of interest, rather than all the passing sights and smells. You avoid the area near the caravan where the giant elk stands, gazing out over the stream. $mountname still gets a little spooked when you walk by, lowering her head close to yours as if you will protect her from the beast that is easily ten times your size. After a few laps, you reward her with the other bit of carrot. By now you suspect she may also know you are hiding an apple on your person. At a sunny spot in the middle of the camp, you take the brush out and begin to work on $mountname’s coat, mane, and tail. You marvel at how beautiful her markings are, the white dappling coming up around her stomach and sides is unique on it’s own, but how shiny her hair is is truly amazing. She is so elegant and sweet-tempered that you can easily see her belonging to a rich noble or diplomat. You think back to what the horsemaster, Faris had said – she was in bad shape before. You wonder what she went through. $mountname patiently allows you to work the knots out of her tail and mane, and you reward her with the apple. Your horse is plenty pleased and happy. [[You talk to her a little.|3.chessytalk]] [[You braid flowers into her mane.|3.chessyflowers]] [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

$mountname perks up and eagerly approaches you, his ears perk up and forward as he lumbers towards you. He goes right for your offered food, but makes to push his head against your chest as he eats. You allow him to get a good snuggle in, but once he demands more carrot, you have to hide it and chide him gently. Despite the carrot being very large, his strong teeth crunch into it like it’s nothing. It’s a good thing he isn’t one to bite, you think. Your horse seems to be fairly happy for the break. This is the longest he’s been untacked and mostly free. At the very least, you need to walk with him a bit and brush him – those are two things your horse both will need and love. Though, you can think of a couple other ways to spend just a little extra time on him. You find the bag that Oswin has hung on a nearby tree that contains supplies for the horses. You dig out the brush, while $mountname sneaks up behind you to try and grab the rest of his carrot. Grabbing the lead, you begin walking with him around the campground, though you spot him looking for a chance to get at his treat again. He follows you at your side, stopping here and there to sniff or taste something that interests him. You have to wrestle a large bit of wood out of his mouth. You are extra careful around the area near the caravan where the giant elk stands, gazing out over the stream. $mountname still seems put-off by Dainn, his ears go back bit, but he also seems curious. You’d rather avoid any drama, so you don’t encourage his interest. After a few laps, you reward him with the other bit of carrot. By now you suspect he may also know you are hiding an apple on you person. At a sunny spot in the middle of the camp, you take the brush out and begin to work on $mountname’s coat, mane, and tail. You marvel at how beautiful his black hair is. It shines marvelously and is such a deep and rich black, that you’re unsure if you’ve ever really seen a true black horse before. It’s a good thing you’re not riding at night. If you were unseated, you’re not sure if you’d ever be able to see him in the dark. He’s proved to be a fairly brave mount, as well, though he is still gentle-natured. $mountname patiently allows you to work the knots out of his tail and mane, only swatting you with his tail once, and you reward him with the apple. Your horse is plenty pleased and happy. [[You talk to him a little.|3.ebtalk]] [[You braid flowers into her mane.|3.ebflowers]] [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

$mountname perks up and lazily approaches you, his ears relax to the sides as he lumbers towards you. He goes right to sniff at your hair, giving you a chill as he breathes right into your ear. You shake your head – such an odd horse. He makes for your offered food, which you intend to only give half of for now. $mountname has other ideas and the very large carrot is gone in one quick motion. You stare as the gelding crunches down on the entire carrot as if were a twig. So much for spacing out the treats. It’s a good thing he isn’t one to bite, you think. Your horse seems to be fairly happy for the break. This is the longest he’s been untacked and mostly free. At the very least, you need to walk with him a bit and brush him – those are two things your horse both will need and love. Though, you can think of a couple other ways to spend just a little extra time on him. You find the bag that Oswin has hung on a nearby tree that contains supplies for the horses. You dig out the brush, while $mountname looms over you, his giant head peeking curiously over your shoulder. Grabbing the lead, you begin walking with him around the campground. The draft horse is in no hurry and follows at his own pace. He stays just a step behind you, attentive to your motions so he doesn’t hit you. He stops here and there to sniff around him, plucking at different areas of grass. You think he means to taste test the entire area. You take him around Nathan’s caravan to greet Dainn. The giant elk stands, gazing out over the stream. $mountname greets him with a grunt and Dainn responds in kind, connecting noses with your horse for a moment. $mountname is so placid that you feel truly blessed. Nothing seems to bother him, and perhaps it is his size that causes him not to worry about much. After a few laps, you reward him with a scratch around his jaw. By now you suspect he may also know you are hiding an apple on you person. At a sunny spot in the middle of the camp, you take the brush out and begin to work on $mountname’s coat, mane, and tail. You marvel at how beautiful his hair is. It shines marvelously and is such a deep and rich mahogany. His stature and coloring make him appear very noble and almost mystical, you think. He’s quite soft as well, especially the feathering around his hooves. You are fortunate to have such an easy and gentle-natured mount. $mountname patiently allows you to work the knots out of his tail and mane, and you reward him with the apple. Your horse is plenty pleased and happy. [[You talk to him a little.|3.baytalk]] [[You braid flowers into her mane.|3.bayflowers]] [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

$mountname perks up and eagerly approaches you, her huge ears prick up and forward as she clamors towards you, bumping into poor Flit. She goes right for your offered food, very nearly tugging the carrot away from you. You wrestle for a moment until her massive teeth snap it in half. Before she even chews, she goes right for the other half of the carrot and you have to turn your body away to hide it for later. Despite the carrot being very large, her strong teeth chew it like it’s a twig. You are thankful that she isn’t prone to biting. Your mule seems to be fairly happy for the break. This is the longest she’s been untacked and mostly free. At the very least, you need to walk with her a bit and brush her – those are two things your mount both will need and love. Though, you can think of a couple other ways to spend just a little extra time on her. You find the bag that Oswin has hung on a nearby tree that contains supplies for the horses. You dig out the brush, while $mountname sneaks up behind you to try and grab the rest of her carrot, pulling at your clothing, where she can smell it. Grabbing her lead, you begin walking with her around the campground, though you spot her looking for a way to get the treats from you. She follows you haphazardly, sometimes ahead, sometimes at your side, sometimes stopping entirely to to watch bugs and frogs. Once she spots the area around the caravan and the giant elk, she pulls you over. Dainn is simply looking out over the water of the stream, his moment of calm interrupted when the mule pushes against him with her head. He doesn’t seem to mind, and affectionately noses her. You shake your head. This figures. Your mule has fallen deeply in love with an animal at least three times her size who's also a completely different species. Once you try to leave, she refuses, leaning against Dainn. The elk does you a favor though, and begins to follow along with you. You finish your laps with both a mule and a giant elk at either side, drawing stares from your fellow campers. You reward $mountname with the rest of her carrot, breaking off a piece for Dainn as well. By now you suspect she may also know you are hiding an apple on your person. At a sunny spot in the middle of the camp, you take the brush out and begin to work on $mountname’s coat, mane, and tail. Her hair is fairly course and stiff, but you find yourself thinking she’s quite pretty compared to most mules you’ve seen. She’s also quite large for a mule, even her ears seem about twice as tall as they should be. She’s certainly unique and has been a feisty, bold friend for you on this journey. $mountname patiently allows you to work the knots out of her tail and mane, and you reward her with the apple. Your mule is plenty pleased and happy. [[You talk to her a little.|3.muletalk]] [[You braid flowers into her mane.|3.muleflowers]] [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

It seems the illness took an enormous toll on your body. You aren’t certain if it was the bouts of sickness or the stress they put on you mentally and emotionally, but you began noticing grey hairs much sooner than what is normal. Your fathers reassured you at first – it was only a few odd hairs – it would pass – it wasn’t //that// unusual. It became very evident that these niceties were in vain when bigger and bigger streaks of grey took over your once completely $haircolor tresses. <<if $haircolor is "white">>This was especially odd considering that your natural color was already nearly colorless. White hair is already a very rare trait, and it is unheard of for those who have it to then turn grey as well.<</if>> [[Your hair is now completely grey.]] [[Your hair is only streaked with grey.]]

<<set $allgreyhair to true>> The grey did not stop at just popping up here and there. The spots cropped up in patches, the edges of your hairline going first and the rest eventually filled in. You now sport a mane that looks silver when the light hits hit right. [[You hate it.|hategrey]] [[You are fine with it.|finegrey]]

<<set $greystreaks to true>> The grey is most noticeable along your hair line, but is also mottled throughout – peppering other segments of your locks. [[You hate it.|hategrey]] [[You are fine with it.|finegrey]]

<<set $greyokay to false>> You despise that the rich color of your hair has washed out. All it does is remind you of your condition. It’s yet another thing you’ve had no choice or power over. [[Continue.|creation part 3]]

<<set $greyokay to true>> It’s just hair, and you may even sort of like it. It makes you very unique if nothing else. You actually get compliments on it at times. [[Continue.|creation part 3]]

Some conversation might help you as well as $mountname. You lead her back close to Flit where you both have some privacy. You start by telling her how pretty and sweet she is. The mare responds readily, ears alert as she dips her head closer to yours. After compliments, you simply talk to her as if she is a person, like she can understand you. And, she listens, as if she knows every word. It’s nice to have a friend here that won’t tell your secrets or share the quiet things that burden you. You unload and speak of your worries and the triumphs so far in the journey. You also make a point to thank her for carrying you so far. Naturally, you get a kiss once you’re finished. [[You continue your day.|3.63]] <<if not hasVisited("3.chessyflowers")>>[[You braid flowers into her mane.|3.chessyflowers]]<<else>>Your horse has a beautiful mane laden with flowers.<</if>>

There are several early spring blooms at the edge of the camp where the horses are being kept. Some of them you can’t quite identify, but you find a myriad of pansies, cornflowers, and petunias to use. You suspect that these plants may have been left here to grow by other travelers. You set to work, finding the most choice blooms for your mare. You don’t know if she understands or cares about the gesture, but she seems intrigued and really enjoys the attention. Flit also takes an interest in what you are doing and joins you, so you take a few moments to make sure she gets a few flowers as well. After you are done, the two lovely mares look gorgeous, and you get the sense that they feel gorgeous as well. $mountname has another kiss for you before you go. [[You continue your day.|3.63]] <<if not hasVisited("3.chessytalk")>>[[You talk to her a little.|3.chessytalk]]<<else>>Your horse knows all your secrets.<</if>>

Some conversation might help you as well as $mountname. You lead him back close to Flit where you both have some privacy. You start by telling him how pretty and strong he is. The stallion responds readily, ears alert as he dips her head closer to yours. After compliments, you simply talk to him as if he is a person, like he can understand you. And, he listens, as if he knows every word. It’s nice to have a friend here that won’t tell your secrets or share the quiet things that burden you. You unload and speak of your worries and the triumphs so far in the journey. You also make a point to thank him for carrying you so far. $mountname paws the ground and seems to nod at you once you are done. [[You continue your day.|3.63]] <<if not hasVisited("3.ebflowers")>>[[You braid flowers into his mane.|3.ebflowers]]<<else>>Your horse has a beautiful mane laden with flowers.<</if>>

There are several early spring blooms at the edge of the camp where the horses are being kept. Some of them you can’t quite identify, but you find a myriad of pansies, cornflowers, and petunias to use. You suspect that these plants may have been left here to grow by other travelers. You set to work, finding the most choice blooms for your stallion. You don’t know if he understands or cares about the gesture, but he seems intrigued and really enjoys the attention. Flit also takes an interest in what you are doing and joins you, so you take a few moments to make sure she gets a few flowers as well. $mountname has already been enamored by Flit, and it appears the flowers in her hair draw him in even more. After you are done, the two lovely horses look gorgeous, and you get the sense that they feel gorgeous as well. $mountname gently knocks his head against your shoulder. [[You continue your day.|3.63]] <<if not hasVisited("3.ebtalk")>>[[You talk to him a little.|3.ebtalk]]<<else>>Your horse knows all your secrets.<</if>>

Some conversation might help you as well as $mountname. You lead him back close to Flit where you both have some privacy. You start by telling him how pretty and strong he is. The gelding responds readily, dropping his massive head against your chest and grunting occasionally at your sweet tone. After compliments, you simply talk to him as if he is a person, like he can understand you. And, he listens, as if he knows every word. It’s nice to have a friend here that won’t tell your secrets or share the quiet things that burden you. You unload and speak of your worries and the triumphs so far in the journey. You also make a point to thank him for carrying you so far. $mountname presses his nose into your hands and closes his eyes for a moment. [[You continue your day.|3.63]] <<if not hasVisited("3.bayflowers")>>[[You braid flowers into his mane.|3.bayflowers]]<<else>>Your horse has a beautiful mane laden with flowers.<</if>>

There are several early spring blooms at the edge of the camp where the horses are being kept. Some of them you can’t quite identify, but you find a myriad of pansies, cornflowers, and petunias to use. You suspect that these plants may have been left here to grow by other travelers. You set to work, finding the most choice blooms for your gelding. You don’t know if he understands or cares about the gesture, but he seems intrigued and really enjoys the attention. Flit also takes an interest in what you are doing and joins you, so you take a few moments to make sure she gets a few flowers as well. After you are done, the two lovely horses look gorgeous, and you get the sense that they feel gorgeous as well. $mountname gently rests his head against your shoulder. [[You continue your day.|3.63]] <<if not hasVisited("3.baytalk")>>[[You talk to him a little.|3.baytalk]]<<else>>Your horse knows all your secrets.<</if>>

Some conversation might help you as well as $mountname. You lead her back close to Flit where you both have some privacy. You start by telling her how pretty and unique she is. The mule responds readily, ears alert as she dips her head closer to yours. She places her nose right in your face, and you ponder if you’re supposed to feel threatened. After compliments, you simply talk to her as if she is a person, like she can understand you. And, she listens, as if she knows every word. It’s nice to have a friend here that won’t tell your secrets or share the quiet things that burden you. You unload and speak of your worries and the triumphs so far in the journey. You also make a point to thank her for carrying you so far. Naturally, she also tells you what she thinks by braying loudly. [[You continue your day.|3.63]] <<if not hasVisited("3.muleflowers")>>[[You braid flowers into her mane.|3.muleflowers]]<<else>>Your mule has a beautiful mane laden with flowers.<</if>>

There are several early spring blooms at the edge of the camp where the mounts are being kept. Some of them you can’t quite identify, but you find a myriad of pansies, cornflowers, and petunias to use. You suspect that these plants may have been left here to grow by other travelers. You set to work, finding the most choice blooms for your mule. You don’t know if she understands or cares about the gesture, but she seems intrigued and really enjoys the attention. Flit also takes an interest in what you are doing and joins you, so you take a few moments to make sure she gets a few flowers as well. After you are done, the two lovely mounts look gorgeous, and you get the sense that they feel gorgeous as well. $mountname brays and nods her head up and down, dislodging some of your work, but you still take it as thanks. [[You continue your day.|3.63]] <<if not hasVisited("3.muletalk")>>[[You talk to her a little.|3.muletalk]]<<else>>Your mule knows all your secrets.<</if>>

“The path ahead may be more dangerous than anticipated.” Oswin finishes, running a hand through his hair. “How so?” you ask. “I spoke at length, unfortunately, with Nathanael. Though he took a different path here, he told me that all of Codrin has been buzzing with rumors about the Codrin Forest – or 'The Shaw,' as they call it.” Zahn scoots closer. “What are they saying?” “The forest has been restless. They’ve received torrential rains since spring began, the Udo river has flooded in places, and the locals believe this may have stirred some unsavory things up in the forest. The road is muddy and difficult, and the animals are said to be acting a bit odd, as if they're agitated.” “What animals?” you ask. Oswin taps his foot. “Nathanael said that strange howling has been heard coming from the forest. And Some people have disappeared after entering.” “//Shit//.” Zahn mutters. You and Oswin stare at $Zhimher. $Zcapitalheshe shakes $Zhisher head. “I hate wolves. They’re scary!” Oswin rolls his eyes. “Wolves are not the mindless beasts that tales make them out to be. It is spring, there is game; wolves will leave humans be unless they are crazed or starved – they will not be a hindrance to us.” You shift. There are some wolves that have wondered into town before, a couple onto your family’s homestead. The dogs and your fathers have chased them all off before they could do much damage. They never seemed keen to fight, they mostly wanted Papa’s chickens or a goat. Zahn asks, “So what happens if wolves //do// become a hindrance?” “Don’t run,” Oswin answers immediately. “The moment your back is turned, you are likely already dead. Face them directly, look them in the eyes…” He turns to you. “And don’t back down.” [[The words leave you with a strange feeling.|3.72]]

After Oswin’s less-than-uplifting words, you wrap up your meeting and part ways to bed down for the night. You lay back on your bedroll and stare up into the night sky. So much happened today. So much has happened since your birthday in general. It doesn’t matter much if you are ready for this or not, you have to keep pressing on. You think about your companions. Zahn is now at least a semi-permanent addition to your adventure. $Zcapitalheshe adds some brightness compared to Oswin… [[You’re indifferent to Zahn so far.|3.72a]] [[You’d like to be friends with Zahn.|3.72b]] [[You are having romantic feelings towards Zahn.|3.72c]] [[You are physically attracted to and feel friendly towards Zahn.|3.72d]] [[You distrust Zahn so far.|3.72e]] (Friendly or romantic feelings towards Zahn are required for optional sexual encounters, but a committed/locked-in relationship will not be needed.)

<<set $Zstat to 'neutral'>> <<set $Zphys to false>> So far, you have no strong feelings one way or the other for Zahn. Perhaps with time your feelings will change. While you’re on this train of thought, you can’t help but consider Oswin as well. You’ve learned a bit more about him during the whole journey so far, but especially today. All these years he regretted what he did, that he threw away your gift – the olive branch – you tried to hand him. That moment broke a part of your heart as a child. It truly felt like your friendship was severed at that point. Would things have been different had he found the courage to apologize? It wasn’t as if it was the first time he had been needlessly harsh with you either…. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>You decided when this all began that you would rekindle your friendship with Oswin.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Your feeling so far towards Oswin have been romantic.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>This whole time you’ve felt distant from Oswin.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>So far you’ve felt mostly neutral towards Oswin.<</if>>… [[You think being friends with Oswin is most important right now.|3.72aa]] [[You have romantic feelings towards Oswin.|3.72ab]] [[After all this, you feel a distance between yourself and Oswin.|3.72ac]] [[You can’t help but feel neutral towards Oswin.|3.72ad]]

<<set $Zstat to 'friends'>> <<set $Zphys to true>> So far, you have warm feelings towards Zahn. Perhaps with time your feelings will change, but right now $Zheshe has caught your attention as being a solid and faithful companion. While you’re on this train of thought, you can’t help but consider Oswin as well. You’ve learned a bit more about him during the whole journey so far, but especially today. All these years he regretted what he did, that he threw away your gift – the olive branch – you tried to hand him. That moment broke a part of your heart as a child. It truly felt like your friendship was severed at that point. Would things have been different had he found the courage to apologize? It wasn’t as if it was the first time he had been needlessly harsh with you either…. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>You decided when this all began that you would rekindle your friendship with Oswin.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Your feeling so far towards Oswin have been romantic.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>This whole time you’ve felt distant from Oswin.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>So far you’ve felt mostly neutral towards Oswin.<</if>>… [[You think being friends with Oswin is most important right now.|3.72aa]] [[You have romantic feelings towards Oswin.|3.72ab]] [[After all this, you feel a distance between yourself and Oswin.|3.72ac]] [[You can’t help but feel neutral towards Oswin.|3.72ad]]

<<set $Zstat to 'romantic'>> <<set $Zphys to true>> So far, you have very warm feelings towards Zahn. Perhaps with time your feelings will change, but right now $Zheshe has caught your attention and your heart as being a solid and faithful companion. While you’re on this train of thought, you can’t help but consider Oswin as well. You’ve learned a bit more about him during the whole journey so far, but especially today. All these years he regretted what he did, that he threw away your gift – the olive branch – you tried to hand him. That moment broke a part of your heart as a child. It truly felt like your friendship was severed at that point. Would things have been different had he found the courage to apologize? It wasn’t as if it was the first time he had been needlessly harsh with you either…. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>You decided when this all began that you would rekindle your friendship with Oswin.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Your feeling so far towards Oswin have been romantic.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>This whole time you’ve felt distant from Oswin.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>So far you’ve felt mostly neutral towards Oswin.<</if>>… [[You think being friends with Oswin is most important right now.|3.72aa]] [[You have romantic feelings towards Oswin.|3.72ab]] [[After all this, you feel a distance between yourself and Oswin.|3.72ac]] [[You can’t help but feel neutral towards Oswin.|3.72ad]]

<<set $Zstat to 'physical'>> <<set $Zphys to true>> So far, you have warm feelings towards Zahn. Perhaps with time your feelings will change, but right now $Zheshe has caught your attention and your longing. $Zcapitalhisher flirtations and suggestions have been pretty clear. You think as Zhan warms to you, you’ll be able to explore this mutual attraction. While you’re on this train of thought, you can’t help but consider Oswin as well. You’ve learned a bit more about him during the whole journey so far, but especially today. All these years he regretted what he did, that he threw away your gift – the olive branch – you tried to hand him. That moment broke a part of your heart as a child. It truly felt like your friendship was severed at that point. Would things have been different had he found the courage to apologize? It wasn’t as if it was the first time he had been needlessly harsh with you either…. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>You decided when this all began that you would rekindle your friendship with Oswin.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Your feeling so far towards Oswin have been romantic.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>This whole time you’ve felt distant from Oswin.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>So far you’ve felt mostly neutral towards Oswin.<</if>>… [[You think being friends with Oswin is most important right now.|3.72aa]] [[You have romantic feelings towards Oswin.|3.72ab]] [[After all this, you feel a distance between yourself and Oswin.|3.72ac]] [[You can’t help but feel neutral towards Oswin.|3.72ad]]

<<set $Zstat to 'sus'>> <<set $Zphys to false>> There’s something about Zahn that you’re not sure about. $Zcapitalheshe seems likable enough, but you can’t bring yourself to trust $Zhimher enough to let $Zhimher in. Perhaps you’ve been trapped in your little town for too long, or is there something your instincts are trying to tell you? While you’re on this train of thought, you can’t help but consider Oswin as well. You’ve learned a bit more about him during the whole journey so far, but especially today. All these years he regretted what he did, that he threw away your gift – the olive branch – you tried to hand him. That moment broke a part of your heart as a child. It truly felt like your friendship was severed at that point. Would things have been different had he found the courage to apologize? It wasn’t as if it was the first time he had been needlessly harsh with you either…. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>You decided when this all began that you would rekindle your friendship with Oswin.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Your feeling so far towards Oswin have been romantic.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>This whole time you’ve felt distant from Oswin.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>So far you’ve felt mostly neutral towards Oswin.<</if>>… [[You think being friends with Oswin is most important right now.|3.72aa]] [[You have romantic feelings towards Oswin.|3.72ab]] [[After all this, you feel a distance between yourself and Oswin.|3.72ac]] [[You can’t help but feel neutral towards Oswin.|3.72ad]]

<<set $Ostat2 to 'friends'>> <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>Friends still feels right to you. You've maintained that stance since you first considered where your relationship was going. The same kinship is there, you feel it, and you're getting closer to it. You feel like Oswin is reaching out in the same way.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>You thought your feelings for Oswin were more than friendship. After the journey so far, and after wrestling with all you know and have seen, you're not so sure anymore if that is the case.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>At the start, you wanted to keep a distance between the two of you. He'd hurt you in the past and maybe you didn't want him to do that again, or maybe it felt like starting over as strangers. Either way, you feel the tug of friendship on your heart.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>The last time you considered your feelings about Oswin, you couldn't decide exactly how you felt - warm or cold, friends or not. But now, you feel a pull towards friendship.<</if>> [[With those last fleeting thoughts, your eyes begin to get heavy.|3.73]]

<<set $Ostat2 to 'romantic'>> <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>You can’t say that your feels still rest in the realm of friendship. There’s something more beneath the surface. You feel a pull in your heart when you look at him, and you can’t help but wonder – what if?<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Your initial feelings about Oswin have not faltered. If anything, they’re growing. There’s a grip on your heart that this man has, and you’re not even sure if he’s aware of it.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>At the start, you wanted to keep a distance between the two of you. He'd hurt you in the past and maybe you didn't want him to do that again, or maybe it felt like starting over as strangers. Either way, your feelings have quickly transformed into something else.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>The last time you considered your feelings about Oswin, you couldn't decide exactly how you felt – warm or cold, friends or not. But now, you feel a pull towards romance.<</if>> [[With those last fleeting thoughts, your eyes begin to get heavy.|3.73]]

<<set $Ostat2 to 'distant'>> <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>It seems you’ve slipped even further away from each other. You had hopes of bonding in a friendship, but now you’re just not sure you can do that. Maybe he’s not who you thought anymore.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>It seems you’ve slipped further away from each other, and you’d be lying if you said your heart didn’t hurt over it. You had hopes of bonding at least in friendship if not more. But now, you’re just not sure you can do that. Maybe he’s not who you thought anymore.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>At the start, you wanted to keep a distance between the two of you. He'd hurt you in the past and maybe you didn't want him to do that again, or maybe it felt like starting over as strangers. Either way, your feelings remain unchanged.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>The last time you considered your feelings about Oswin, you couldn't decide exactly how you felt – warm or cold, friends or not. You still can’t place your finger on any feeling in particular. It may take you longer and you feel you may need to learn more about him and the secrets he’s kept from you.<</if>> [[With those last fleeting thoughts, your eyes begin to get heavy.|3.73]]

<<set $Ostat2 to 'neutral'>> <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>It seems you’ve slipped even further away from each other. You had hopes of bonding in a friendship, but now you’re just not sure you can do that. Maybe he’s not who you thought anymore. You need to take a step back and see him from an objective lens.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>It seems you might be slipping further away from each other, and you’d be lying if you said your heart didn’t ache over it. You had hopes of bonding at least in friendship if not more. But now, you’re just not sure you can do that. Maybe he’s not who you thought anymore. You need to take a step back and see him from an objective lens.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>At the start, you wanted to keep a distance between the two of you. He'd hurt you in the past and maybe you didn't want him to do that again, or maybe it felt like starting over as strangers. Either way, your feelings have warmed from your previous stance, but you still feel the need to see him through a more objective lens.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>The last time you considered your feelings about Oswin, you couldn't decide exactly how you felt – warm or cold, friends or not. You still can’t place your finger on any feeling in particular. It may take you longer and you feel you may need to learn more about him and the secrets he’s kept from you.<</if>> [[With those last fleeting thoughts, your eyes begin to get heavy.|3.73]]

You’re not sure what the days to come will bring or if you’re even prepared for any of it. There’s a mixture of feelings as you look ahead. It’s clear there is going to be more risk than you first thought, not to mention that you have no idea what to expect when you make it to the shrine….or should you say //if//? You don’t have much left to lose, right? [[Chapter 4]]

GC not only gives you four main romantic partners to choose from, but there will also be casual encounters that //can be// sexual in nature, with both some of the main cast and some random characters you meet in the wild if your character is fine with aromantic/purely physical interactions. Obviously, you will never be forced to choose a sexual option, but they will be there if it's your type of fun. Be advised that when choosing the explicit scene options, they will be ''graphically'' detailed. They will not only be flowery or metaphorical wording – explicit language will be used, explicit terms, and references to bodily functions/fluids will occur. There will always be a “fade to black” option where the encounter will be briefly summarized with non-graphic text. Choices denoted with $flirt_label $flirt_label will lead to amorous physical encounters for either explicit or fade-to-black options. Your MC will always be given the choice, sometimes multiple times, to change their mind about the encounter. There is always the back button in the menu should you need or want to leave the encounter.

**New warnings added for Chapter 5 content [[Click to jump to the story.|It begins...]] [[All Game Information and Warnings.|FYI]] [[Jump to Trigger Warnings.|Trigger Warnings/Areas of Sensitivity]]

<<set $tellOhead to 'false'>> You give him a small, apologetic smile and shake your head. “I’m fine, just a bit sleep-drunk this morning." Oswin’s brow wrinkles with obvious doubt. “Okay, but if you need something, speak up.” “Sure,” you say, though it feels like a lie. You need to keep pressing onward. Oswin probably doesn’t need another reason to be more anxious anyway. [[Before you know it, you are on the road again.|3.10]]

*Chapter Four <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">Into the Shaw</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[Start|Ch4]]

You only get one more full day in the clearing before you and Oswin decide that you're well enough to move on. Part of you wants to stay for another day, but since your tumble from your mount, four days of travel have been lost to your recovery. The trip is already taking much longer than intended, and there will be at least four more full days of travel until you find the path to Valko's shrine. Zahn has been a source of energy for everyone. $Zcapitalheshe is excited to keep traveling with you and at the prospect of going to the shrine, which $Zheshe had let slip no less than five times within your final day at camp. Much to Oswin's disdain, even if Nathanael was not certain of your travel plans before, he certainly knew now. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>Otherwise, $Zheshe is pleasant company. Zahn is social and never leaves a conversation with an awkward pause. Nathan seems to be thankful for $Zhisher company, especially company that is very easily amazed.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>Otherwise, Zahn has been great company to you, never passing up a chance to sit and chat or have a laugh. $Zcapitalheshe shares easy smiles with you, and makes you feel as if you aren't currently burdened with a curse.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Otherwise, Zahn has been great company to you, never passing up a chance to sit and chat or have a laugh. $Zcapitalheshe shares easy smiles with you, and makes you feel as if you aren't currently burdened with a curse. Zahn seems to have a draw to you, and you've caught $Zhimher watching you from time to time, giving you a happy little wave when you catch $Zhimher.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>Otherwise, Zahn has been great company to you, never passing up a chance to sit and chat or have a laugh. $Zcapitalheshe shares easy smiles with you, and makes you feel as if you aren't currently burdened with a curse. You notice Zahn's lingering looks at times, both your gazes occasionally getting caught in an orbit all their own. More than once, Zahn has made a point to be unnecessarily close to you - not that you mind at all.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>Otherwise, $Zheshe appears to be pleasant company. Zahn is social and never leaves a conversation with an awkward pause. Nathan seems to be thankful for $Zhisher company, especially company that is very easily amazed. You watch for it, but you don't really catch anything odd about $Zhisher behavior, but still, you remain careful.<</if>> Oswin, on the other hand, is getting more tense and irritable again just since the previous evening. You have spotted Nathan urging him to partake of his pipe a few times to help settle his nerves. Yet, Oswin has been insisting that he is not nervous or in need of calming. He's been quiet though, when normally, he might take to snapping orders. Over the course of your final day, you spot him standing on the bridge multiple times, watching the water rush as he takes deep breaths. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You know how he feels the pressure of your safety and future in his hands. As his friend, you also care about how he's coping, but he has a hard time letting you do anything for him. You understand enough about him that you are certain he isn't usually like this when he's on a job. It's distressing for you to see him like this.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>You know how he feels the pressure of your safety and future in his hands. As his friend, you also care about how he's coping, but he has a hard time letting you do anything for him. You understand enough about him that you are certain he isn't usually like this when he's on a job. It's distressing for you to see him like this, and you want him to just let you comfort him. You've managed to find small ways to show him you care - handing him something he needs, making sure he receives hot food at meal times, and sending a small smile his way.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>You know he feels the pressure of your safety and future in his hands, so you've given him space to do what he needs to.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>You know he feels the pressure of your safety and future in his hands, so you've remained amiable and given him the space he needs. As long as you can take care of yourself, it should keep some of the pressure off his shoulders.<</if>> Nathanael prepared to leave for Stonebrook right as the sun peeked through the sky. He readied everything the night before and said his goodbyes in case he was off before you were all awake. Naturally, Oswin made it a point to wake you just as early, keen on hitting the road once the sun fully rose. Again, Shadow was curled up on you through the night and reluctantly hopped off as you woke, though he chattered at you sweetly and gave your chin a ferocious rub against his own plump little cheeks. <<if $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname is so taken with Dainn, that you ended up moving her closer to Nathanael's caravan so she could be in his company during the final day. The gentle giant seemed stoic about her affection at first, but shared his oats and some affectionate nuzzles with her in the end. Had Oswin not awoken you first, her distressed braying as Dainn was hitched up to the caravan would have. Nathan had a few words with her and gave her a tasty apple in apology.<</if>> When the merchant said his goodbyes to you, he promised to get your letter to your fathers. <<if hasVisited("3.64c2a")>>You were very pleased to also purchase several items for the road at a steep discount. You received food and medical supplies for much less than a fair market value. You'd be surprised if Nathanael even broke even, though he insisted, and you got the sense that he didn't necessarily want your money for the items anyway.<<elseif hasVisited("3.64c2b")>>You were very pleased to also purchase several items for the road at a steep discount. You received food and medical supplies for much less than a fair market value. You'd be surprised if Nathanael even broke even, though he insisted, and you got the sense that he didn't necessarily want your money for the items anyway.<<else>>You and Oswin pooled your money together to buy a few items from Nathanael. He provided a discount, so you both at least have enough left to resupply once you get to Codrin. Purchasing food and medical supplies came first, though buying one of his trinkets to entertain you was also tempting.<</if>> Zahn was able to resupply as most of $Zhisher rations were taken on the road either by an animal or human thief none of you were ever able to catch. Nathan took some pity on $Zhisher coin purse as well. He didn't say much when he left, but looked a little forlorn - perhaps just tired. Now, you are staring out at the road ahead, as the sun is just crowing the trees and the birds are waking up. $mountname is packed and ready to go while Oswin snips at Zahn to hurry. You chuckle and shake your head as you think. [[You'll have Zahn ride with you.|4a]] [[You'll have Zahn ride with Oswin.|4b]]

<<if $interest is 'swordin'>>It has been a while since you’ve had the chance to let loose with your sword. You cannot afford to get out of practice, and you know the exercise will do you a world of good. It’s hard to recall when you last sparred with Oswin.<<if $interestwound is 'oswinscar'>> Ever since Oswin accidentally wounded and scarred your arm, it was hard for him to cross swords with you. You’ve been able to get him to practice on rare occasion, but it proves difficult to pull much fervency out of him.<</if>> You grab your sword with it’s sheath and holster as well as some of your armor and head towards Oswin. <<if hasVisited("3.66")>>Though you recently saw him, and the moment was a bit emotional, you hope he will put that aside and simply practice with you.<</if>> You trounce through the wood to find the area Oswin has secluded himself in for nearly the whole day. You hear the tell-tale scraping sound of a blade against a whetstone. Sure enough, as you enter the little gap in the trees, Oswin is focused on sharpening the blade of his sword. <<if hasVisited("3.66")>>It looks as though he took a break after your talk. He’s much less sweaty, though his hair is a bit of a mess and his tunic will definitely need a wash.<<else>>His hair is a bit messy and it appears that his tunic has become stained with sweat.<</if>> You hope that he hasn’t exhausted himself too much to spar with you a bit. He notices you right away as he’s facing the direction you came from. Oswin straightens up and gives you a very small smile and a polite nod. “$mc, what can I do for you?<<if hasVisited("3.66")>> I thought you might want some space after...um, well… Never mind.<</if>>” “I was wondering if you would spar with me a little.” You can see his attitude shift immediately. He takes a deep breath and you can already hear the lecture incoming. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You raise your hands in a placating gesture. “Before you start, Oswin, I understand what I’m asking for. I know you want me to rest, and I promise I do feel rested. I just can’t sit and sleep all day. Please.”<<else>>You hold a definitive hand up to stop him. “Oswin, I am perfectly capable of deciding if I am ready and able for this. I don’t want to sit around all damn day. Please.”<</if>> He sighs, his shoulders deflate. “I am sorry if I have hen-pecked you...well, not //if//. I //have// been hen-pecking you. And frankly, I know I will continue to do so. But I can at least be agreeable to your request.” “That’s great.” You smile and move to strap on your sword to your hip. “On one condition.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“I suppose I should have known there was a catch,” you say.<<else>>“Shall we do this blindfolded? Oh! Perhaps light the blades on fire?” you jest.<</if>> “No blades. I’ve just sharpened mine and you did yours just before we left home. For simplicity – and safety’s – sake, let’s not use them.” <<if $interestwound is 'oswinscar'>>You pout – just a little. “Are you worried you will cut me again? Because, that was an accident, I know that.”<<else>>You pout – just a little. “Are you worried about either of us getting hurt?”<</if>> He nods. “I do worry about that, I admit. But that isn’t my only worry. The road ahead may be troublesome, and I’d like ever advantage – including two perfectly sharp blades and fewer risks of wounds.” “If that’s the only way I can get a match out of you, I’ll consent.” You set down your sword and armor to the side by a tree. “Excellent. It’ll be good to practice with you again…” Oswin says as he begins poking around the ground along the line of trees. “I saw just the thing earlier for this…” He bends and grabs two long and sturdy sticks from the ground. He holds one out to you. “Just like when we were kids.” You smirk. “Does this mean you will cheat like you did back then?” Oswin gapes at you. “I //never// cheated.” He’s fighting a smile. You both meet in the middle of the small clearing and take positions. “You used your little brother as a shield!” Your wooden ‘swords’ cross. “It’s not cheating to use the tools at your disposal.” He says as his eyes cool into honed and focused green gems. A fierceness takes over his expression. He is no longer Oswin your childhood friend and travel guide, but Oswin the mercenary. You also square yourself up. You’re no pushover either, and he knows it. Even using blunted sticks won’t save either of you from bruises. Even if the weapon in your hand isn’t your trusted sword, just holding it makes you feel like a caged beast set free. Oswin better show no mercy, for his own safety. <<else>> You may not be vested in swordsmanship, but Da hasn’t let you go without a few lessons, and you’ve watched others plenty through the years. You head over to where the supplies for the horses are being kept and grab Oswin’s spare sword. It’s a much older blade, but like his favored one, he keeps it in pristine condition. <<if hasVisited("3.66")>>Though you recently saw him, and the moment was a bit emotional, you hope he will put that aside and simply practice with you.<</if>> You trounce through the wood to find the area Oswin has secluded himself in for nearly the whole day. You hear the tell-tale scraping sound of a blade against a whetstone. Sure enough, as you enter the little gap in the trees, Oswin is focused on sharpening the blade of his sword. <<if hasVisited("3.66")>>It looks as though he took a break after your talk. He’s much less sweaty, though his hair is a bit of a mess and his tunic will definitely need a wash.<<else>>His hair is a bit messy and it appears that his tunic has become stained with sweat.<</if>> You hope that he hasn’t exhausted himself too much to spar with you a bit. He notices you right away as he’s facing the direction you came from. Oswin straightens up and gives you a very small smile and a polite nod before his face morphs into confusion at the sight of his extra sword. “$mc, what can I do for you?<<if hasVisited("3.66")>> I thought you might want some space after...um, well… Never mind.<</if>>” “I was wondering if you would spar with me a little.” You can see his attitude shift immediately. He takes a deep breath and you can already hear the lecture incoming. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You raise your hands in a placating gesture. “Before you start, Oswin, I understand what I’m asking for. I know you want me to rest, and I promise I do feel rested. I just can’t sit and sleep all day. Please. I might be able to learn something useful in any case.”<<else>>You hold a definitive hand up to stop him. “Oswin, I am perfectly capable of deciding if I am ready and able for this. I don’t want to sit around all damn day. Please. I need to //do// something, //learn// something.”<</if>> He sighs, his shoulders deflate. “I am sorry if I have hen-pecked you...well, not //if//. I //have// been hen-pecking you. And frankly, I know I will continue to do so. But I can at least be agreeable to your request.” “That’s great.” You smile and move to strap on your borrowed sword to your hip. “On one condition.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“I suppose I should have known there was a catch,” you say.<<else>>“Shall we do this blindfolded? Oh! Perhaps light the blades on fire?” you jest.<</if>> “No blades. I’ve just sharpened mine, and you are not practiced enough for me to feel certain that you can defend against me. For simplicity – and safety’s – sake, let’s not use them.” You pout – just a little. “If that’s the only way I can get to practice with you, I’ll consent.” You set down blade along the treeline. “Thank you, $mc. I am happy that you’d like to spar a bit. Picking up some practice with a blade could save your life one day,” Oswin says as he begins poking around the ground along the line of trees. “I saw just the thing for this earlier…” He bends and grabs two long and sturdy sticks from the ground. He holds one out to you. “Just like when we were kids.” You smirk. “Does this mean you will cheat like you did back then?” Oswin gapes at you. “I //never// cheated.” He’s fighting a smile. You both meet in the middle of the small clearing and take positions. You think back to the times you watched your da teach Oswin. “You used your little brother as a shield!” Your wooden ‘swords’ cross, but you fumble your footing a bit. “It’s not cheating to use the tools at your disposal.” He says as his eyes cool into honed and focused green gems. A fierceness takes over his expression. He is no longer Oswin your childhood friend and travel guide, but Oswin the mercenary who’s intent on teaching you the meaning of swordsmanship. You square yourself up as much as possible. You're no pushover either even if you haven’t trained much in the sword. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>How many trees have fallen to your axe over the years? You know the sort of power you bring to this match even if you don’t have the same finesse as Oswin.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You’re no stranger to blades of all shapes and sizes be they axes, saws, or even chisels. Perhaps you can’t match Oswin’s power, but your finesse is nothing to laugh at.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Wielding a bow has left your arms and shoulders as powerful forces to not be trifled with. Not to mention your natural deftness for aim an accuracy. Both of which make you a force of your own.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>Being a healer means that this is generally the exact opposite of what you’re usually busy doing. Long hours on your feet and wrestling patients haven’t made you weak by any stretch. You’re not a swordsman, but you’re strong in your own right.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>Specializing in trade means that you aren’t as accustomed to this sort of thing. But long hours on your feet making deliveries and haggling deals haven’t made you weak by any stretch. You’re not a swordsman, but you’re strong in your own right.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>If this was a knife-fight, you’d win handily. You’ve met few who could match your skills with small blades. Being a cook by profession has made your arms strong. You’ve kneaded dough that was tougher than Oswin Twinflower. You can handle this.<</if>> <</if>> [[You clash.|3.74a]]

Lounging by the campfire, you try to think of what might be a nice gesture. Everyone has had some rough patches on their path here, and you think you have time to do a little something to make one person's day a little better. Options are severely limited given the time and materials you have to work with, but anything extra you can do will be appreciated. You give it some serious thought, picking through all the gestures you could do. You think about wrangling some fish from the stream…but you've already collected what you need from it. You wonder about gathering flowers as a simple gift, but it's still early enough in the growing season that you don't want to rid the area of blooms for the busy insects…like bees. Bees. //Honey//. Honey cakes. Your family's long-standing favorite. [[Baking something simple and sweet would be a charming gesture.|3.77a]]

<<if $interest is 'swordin'>>Your mock-battle starts as a dance. Though most of Oswin’s training began from an expert out of Lale, his style is much more like your da’s. This means, of course, that it is also much like your own. You can read each other well and many of your motions are synchronized as if you had choreographed them beforehand. The clunk of your respective branches is a sad substitute for the ting of actual steel, but it will have to suffice. Once you are home again, you can try to goad Oswin into a real match. Oswin is pressing you hard, showing no mercy. <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>But you won’t be backed into a corner, you press hard right back meeting his strikes full force and pushing towards him so he hasn’t a moment to breathe. You’ll exhaust him quickly and take the win as he fumbles.<<else>>So you keep to the fringes, making him approach so you can read his movement easily and respond in kind. Each time you duck away, it aggravates him, which you can use against him. You have the endurance and aptitude to play the long game and tire him out.<</if>> He charges suddenly, his wooden ‘sword’ sliding against yours until your hands nearly meet. You’re backed into the trees at the edge of the clearing and Oswin’s face is close to your own. <<if $Ostat is 'crush'>>Your heart quickens as you feel just how strong he’s pushing into you. The muscles of his arms ripple and flex and you nearly lose your focus.<<else>>You struggle to hold out and push back against his raw strength.<</if>> One wrong move now and he’ll topple you over and take the win. You are tiring faster than normal, and it’s a hard realization that your incident on the road has left you a bit weak. Oswin is using so much force...you can turn it against him. You shift your weight suddenly, sending Oswin forward with a jerk. Before he can right himself, you hook your leg and knock him in the back of the knee with your heel. His leg buckles, his balance is lost. [[Finish him.|3.74b]] <<else>> Your mock-battle starts as a dance, though it’s a bit crude on your part, you’re keeping up at the very least. Though most of Oswin’s training began from an expert out of Lale, his style is much more like your da’s. You know your father’s style, and you can imitate it to an extent. Best of all, though, is that you have watched him enough to still read Oswin’s movements. Your motions are almost synchronized as if you had choreographed them beforehand. The clunk of your respective branches is almost comical and you can see Oswin fighting a smile when bits of bark fly, but it will have to suffice. Oswin is pressing you hard, showing no mercy. <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>But you won’t be backed into a corner, you press hard right back meeting his strikes full force and pushing towards him so he hasn’t a moment to breathe. You’ll exhaust him quickly and take the win as he fumbles.<<else>>So you keep to the fringes, making him approach so you can read his movement easily and respond in kind. Each time you duck away, it aggravates him, which you can use against him. You have the endurance and aptitude to play the long game and tire him out.<</if>> He charges suddenly, his wooden ‘sword’ sliding against yours until your hands nearly meet. You’re backed into the trees at the edge of the clearing and Oswin’s face is close to your own. He does it so easily that you wonder if he’s been playing you this whole time. <<if $Ostat is 'crush'>>Your heart quickens as you feel just how strong he’s pushing into you. The muscles of his arms ripple and flex and you stumble back against a tree as you lose focus.<<else>>You struggle to hold out and push back against his raw strength.<</if>> One wrong move now and he’ll force you down and take the win. You are tiring fast, and it’s a hard realization that your incident on the road has left you a bit weak. Oswin is using so much force...maybe you can turn it against him in time to regain some ground. You shift your weight suddenly, but Oswin figures out your move a split second before you make it. He keeps his balance as you strike at his knee. Your plan is thoroughly dashed, and Oswin immediately turns it against you. You flounder to regain your footing as Oswin makes to disarm you. You put up one last bout of resistance, forcing him close. [[He topples you over onto the ground.|3.74c]] <</if>>

Quickly you disarm him, knocking the mock-sword from his grip as he falls. He reaches for yours as he stumbles to regain footing. You manage to keep it away from him as you forcefully push into him chest-first, looping your leg around his own to trip him once more. You both tumble to the ground in an inelegant pile. Your stick is lost in the fall, and to keep Oswin from reaching it, you pin him below you, your hands locking firmly against his wrists. You are both panting – heaving – from the burst of exercise, but you’re also both smiling. Oswin is prone under you, catching his breath as he fights off a laugh. His hair is sprawled everywhere and you know you probably look a right mess as well. As the adrenaline wears off, you become more aware of your position on top of him – straddling him. [[You stand and give Oswin a hand up.|3.74b1]] [[You’re a little embarrassed and apologize as you scramble off him.|3.74b2]] $flirt_label [[You quite like him underneath you…|3.74b3]] $flirt_label [[Your feelings on it are a jumbled mess, and you are frozen in this unfamiliar position.|3.74b4]]

You try to reach for your weapon, but Oswin seizes your wrists – tossing his own weapon aside to do so. It is clear that you are down for good. Your opponent is atop you, pining your arms down above your head as he sits upon your legs…. [[You’ve definitively lost.|3.74c1]] $flirt_label [[You have never felt so happy to have lost.|3.74c2][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 4, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You are equal parts embarrassed, excited, shocked, and bashful.|3.74c3][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 4, 0, 100)]]

It seems that victory is yours. You’re both slipping into a laugh as you pull away from him. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>This feels like old times – sparring with sticks, falling down, and succumbing to a fit of giggles afterward. The rush of exercise and the excitement rolling through your veins as that special type of exhaustion settles in – the type that satisfies your soul.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>You cannot deny the tingle of excitement of being so close to Oswin. You suppose you could have dragged the contact out a bit longer, but maybe now isn’t the best time. Still, your heart feels a bit fluttery in your chest.<<else>>The match was good, and it was satisfying for the both of you it appears. A rush of contentment fills you. The exertion feels good for a change after days of long travel and feeling unwell.<</if>> Once you are on your feet, you hold out a hand to Oswin and he grips it with a firm smack. After he is upright, he briefly pats the dirt and foliage from his clothes. “That was wonderful, $mc,” Oswin starts. “I’m impressed, and I’m glad that you are obviously recovering well after all you’ve been through in recent days.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“Thank you. I have felt much better today, and I really don’t want to get rusty. It’s been too long since I’ve practiced.” “I assure you, your instincts are as sharp as every. As long as you keep rested and well, I don’t see a reason why we can’t do this regularly, right?” You spot a very small grin on Oswin’s lips, one that looks a little hopeful. “Sure, I think that would be a good idea for us both.” “Um…” Oswin begins as you make to turn away. “When we get home too...maybe we can do this again, but properly. Once all this is settled, anytime you want, I’ll...I’ll be there.” <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>A big smile instantly fills your face. “I’d like that. I’ll hold you to it.”<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>A shiver runs over your spine as you see the sincerity in his eyes. You’re shocked for a moment, but give him a tiny nod. “I’d like that.”<<else>>You could be open to this arrangement. As long as Oswin remains amiable it would be a good idea for the both of you. “Sure, I’ll let you know.” You give him a nod.<</if>> <<else>>“Maybe it’s not me recovering, maybe you’re just losing your touch? Getting too old to hold your sword to a sick person, Twinflower?” You smirk. He shakes his head, turning away from you to hide a smile. “I should have known you would be graceless in accepting a compliment. I suppose you’re just too young to have the decorum for such a thing.” You chuckle. “Get off your high horse. You always did love flaunting your measly little four years over me.” “Someone needed to be in charge, and I used my superior experience to share wisdom with you and Lakota. You should be grateful.” “Sure, sure – I’ll add gratefulness and decorum to my shopping list.” You barely resist sticking your tongue out at him. “Um…” Oswin begins as you make to turn away. “We should do this more often, if you like. It would be good for us, I think.” <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>A big smile instantly fills your face. “I’d like that. I’ll hold you to it.”<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>A shiver runs over your spine as you see the sincerity in his eyes. You’re shocked for a moment, but give him a tiny nod. “I’d like that.”<<else>>You could be open to this arrangement. As long as Oswin remains amiable it would be a good idea for the both of you. “Sure, I’ll let you know.” You give him a nod.<</if>> <</if>> A tingle of pride rushes through you as you prepare to leave. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

The dismount is inelegant compared to the take-down you just pulled. You murmur a ‘sorry’ as you scuttle, accidentally elbowing Oswin in the gut as you do so. He grunts, but otherwise waves off your apology. It seems that victory is yours. You’re both slipping into a laugh as Oswin holds his gut for a moment and you find your balance. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>This feels like old times – sparring with sticks, falling down, and succumbing to a fit of giggles afterward. The rush of exercise and the excitement rolling through your veins as that special type of exhaustion settles in – the type that satisfies your soul.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>You cannot deny the tingle of excitement of being so close to Oswin. You suppose you could have dragged the contact out a bit longer, but maybe now isn’t the best time. Still, your heart feels a bit fluttery in your chest.<<else>>The match was good, and it was satisfying for the both of you it appears. A rush of contentment fills you. The exertion feels good for a change after days of long travel and feeling unwell.<</if>> Once you are steady on your feet, you hold out a hand to Oswin and he grips it with a firm smack. After he is upright, he briefly pats the dirt and foliage from his clothes. “That was wonderful, $mc,” Oswin starts. “I’m impressed, and I’m glad that you are obviously recovering well after all you’ve been through in recent days.” <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>“Thank you. I have felt much better today, and I really don’t want to get rusty. It’s been too long since I’ve practiced.” “I assure you, your instincts are as sharp as every. As long as you keep rested and well, I don’t see a reason why we can’t do this regularly, right?” You spot a very small grin on Oswin’s lips, one that looks a little hopeful. “Sure, I think that would be a good idea for us both.” “Um…” Oswin begins as you make to turn away. “When we get home too...maybe we can do this again, but properly. Once all this is settled, anytime you want, I’ll...I’ll be there.” <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>A big smile instantly fills your face. “I’d like that. I’ll hold you to it.”<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>A shiver runs over your spine as you see the sincerity in his eyes. You’re shocked for a moment, but give him a tiny nod. “I’d like that.”<<else>>You could be open to this arrangement. As long as Oswin remains amiable it would be a good idea for the both of you. “Sure, I’ll let you know.” You give him a nod.<</if>> <<else>>“Maybe it’s not me recovering, maybe you’re just losing your touch? Getting too old to hold your sword to a sick person, Twinflower?” You smirk. He shakes his head, turning away from you to hide a smile. “I should have known you would be graceless in accepting a compliment. I suppose you’re just too young to have the decorum for such a thing.” You chuckle. “Get off your high horse. You always did love flaunting your measly little four years over me.” “Someone needed to be in charge, and I used my superior experience to share wisdom with you and Lakota. You should be grateful.” “Sure, sure – I’ll add gratefulness and decorum to my shopping list.” You barely resist sticking your tongue out at him. “Um…” Oswin begins as you make to turn away. “We should do this more often, if you like. It would be good for us, I think.” <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>A big smile instantly fills your face. “I’d like that. I’ll hold you to it.”<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>A shiver runs over your spine as you see the sincerity in his eyes. You’re shocked for a moment, but give him a tiny nod. “I’d like that.”<<else>>You could be open to this arrangement. As long as Oswin remains amiable it would be a good idea for the both of you. “Sure, I’ll let you know.” You give him a nod.<</if>> <</if>> A tingle of pride rushes through you as you prepare to leave. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> Your mind dips into more sensual places. You like the look of him under you – pinned and panting. The way his clothing sticks to his skin, how sweat drips down his throat, how leaves litter his thick black hair. Oswin is vulnerable under you right now, and your mind is reeling over it. You catch yourself wondering what it would be like to make him submit to you even further. Your eyes narrow into a haze of desire. “$mc?” Your thoughts snap back at your name. Oswin is still under you and his face is clearly red and his eyes are wide. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 55>>“I’m so sorry, Oswin – I was in a daze...adrenaline I think…” “It’s okay, it happens to the best of us. You fought hard. Sometimes the mind goes a little funny after...um, maybe you should get off – up – now, yes?” <<else>>“Sorry, Oswin...you just…it feels kinda right like this, don’t you think?” You smirk at him. “What?” he asks, the color of his cheeks darkening by the second. “This.” You shift so he feels your weight against his arms and hips. His breathing hiccups, and he turns his face away from you. “You mean your win? I suppose. Of course that would feel...right...to you. Winning...winning is like that. You did well, you...maybe should get off – UP – now. //Please//.” <</if>> “Oh, yes, sorry.” You stand, reaching out to give Oswin a hand up. You notice that his ears are bright red. Oswin clears his throat and turns away from you as he brushes down his clothing, fussing over the front of his tunic for an unusually long moment. When he turns to you, he is smiling a bit at least. “You did very well, $mc. It probably would be good for us to keep you in practice. I insist that you take time to sit and rest yourself though. Don’t overdo it.” He clears his throat again, and you note his eyes dodging away from yours. “I would like that. I don’t think I’m doing so bad if I can best you with a stick.” You can’t help but feel the smallest amount of smug about it. Oswin flips his hands through his hair, dislodging a couple leaves and twigs. “Before you get too cocky, remember that I’ve been doing drills for the last four hours at least. If you’d like to try again tomorrow morning, I’ll be sure to make it quick.” The smugness immediately leaves your body. “Point taken.” He smiles and places a hand to your shoulder. “I say that because I can’t help but be an ass about it, I hope you know. You really did perform wonderfully, and you genuinely outwitted me.” A tingle of pride rushes through you. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> It is difficult for you to comprehend what just transpired. The smile quickly disappears from your face, and now you’re not certain what expression you must be making. Your heart is racing, more so than it did during the spar. You can’t look away from Oswin’s gaze. What do you do now? Heat ripples across the surface of your skin, traveling from your chest to your neck and down your arms. Thought is robbed from you as Oswin shifts suddenly, flinging one leg out and around as he rolls the two of you over. His arms easily break free of your grip, and you find your own wrists have been seized into his grasp. Now you are flat on your back with Oswin looming over you. The intensity in his face is like nothing you’ve ever seen. His entire face is shadowed with only a sliver of his eyes visible, but his stare is completely focused on your face. You are caught. You are prey. The wolf will devour you...but you are inclined to let him. He’s so close to your face. The feeling of his weight against you is toying with your instincts. “Don’t get distracted, $mc.” Oswin says with his voice rough and low. “Clinch your victory...lest it be wrenched from you in a moment.” You nod, unable to look away from his eyes. He stays upon you a moment longer, just looking at you before his eyes go wide and he scrambles off. Oswin tugs you to your feet before turning away and dusting off his clothing. He fusses over his tunic for an awkward amount of time before turning back to you. “You did very well. It probably would be good for us to keep you in practice. I insist that you take time to sit and rest yourself though. Don’t overdo it.” He clears his throat again, and you note his eyes dodging away from yours. “I would like that. I don’t think I’m doing so bad if I can best you with a stick.” You can’t help but feel the smallest amount of smug about it. Oswin flips his hands through his hair, dislodging a couple leaves and twigs. “Before you get too cocky, remember that I’ve been doing drills for the last four hours at least. If you’d like to try again tomorrow morning, I’ll be sure to make it quick.” The smugness immediately leaves your body. “Point taken.” He smiles and places a hand to your shoulder. “I say that because I can’t help but be an ass about it, I hope you know. You really did perform wonderfully, and you genuinely outwitted me. In a real fight, be sure to never lose your focus, even if victory seems sure.” A tingle of pride rushes through you, as does a flutter of embarrassment. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You chuckle and drop your head to the ground. It was a good match. At least it felt that way to you. Victory had flitted right before your eyes, you’re sure of it. Perhaps if you do this again, it will come to you. Oswin stays upon you a moment longer, just looking at you before his eyes go wide and he scrambles off. He tugs you to your feet before dusting off his clothing. “You did very well. It probably would be good for us to keep you in practice. I insist that you take time to sit and rest yourself though. Don’t overdo it.” He clears his throat again, and you note his eyes dodging away from yours. “That may be a good idea. Maybe we can find some nice sticks to keep with us.” You smile. Oswin matchies your grin before looking away and then rubbing the back of his head. “<<if $interest is 'choppin'>>I wanted to say...your strength deeply impressed me. Considering all you’ve been through and that you don’t train in the sword as much...I was truly worried you’d cut me down – stick or no stick.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>I wanted to say...your guile is something else. I’m ashamed to say that I did not expect such finesse. I truly thought you were going to out-maneuver me.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>I wanted to say...your deftness impressed me, and I felt real power in your swing. Considering all you’ve been through and that you don’t train in the sword as much...I was truly worried you’d cut me down – stick or no stick.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>I wanted to say...your grit is something else. I’m ashamed to say that I did not expect such tenacity. I truly thought you were going to out-smart me.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>I wanted to say...your cleverness is something else. I’m ashamed to say that I did not expect such tenacity. I truly thought you were going to out-smart me.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>I wanted to say...your strength deeply impressed me – maybe even scared me a moment. Considering all you’ve been through and that you don’t train in the sword as much...I was truly worried you’d cut me down – stick or no stick.<</if>>” You are shocked. Oswin, a grumpy swordsman of over a decade was impressed by your skill. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>This is something to be proud of. You share a smile with him, and make plans to brag about this to your da.<<else>>You are definitely going to tease him about this for years to come. You smirk at him, and he immediately looks as if he regrets everything.<</if>> Oswin pats some dirt off the knees of his trousers. “Not to dash your pride, but remember that I’ve been doing drills for the last four hours at least. If you’d like to try again tomorrow morning, I’ll be sure to make it even quicker.” Any remaining smugness immediately leaves your body. “Point taken.” He smiles and places a hand to your shoulder. “I say that because I can’t help but be an ass about it, I hope you know. You really did perform wonderfully.” [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> The intensity in his face is like nothing you’ve ever seen. His entire face is shadowed with only a sliver of his eyes visible, but his stare is completely focused on your face. You are caught. You are prey. The wolf will devour you...but should you just let him? Your emotions are a mess. The whole moment has made your heart race, your face heats, and sent tingles all across your body. You have never wanted to both hide and lay yourself bare in the same moment. What is Oswin thinking right now? Is he feeling the same heat as you? It is difficult for you to comprehend what just lead you both to this point. You’re not certain what expression you must be making. You can’t look away from Oswin’s gaze. What do you do now? The heat rippling across your face, travels to your chest and neck and down your arms. <<if $virgin is false>> This position is doing you no favors, and you’re not even sure if Oswin realizes what it looks like...what it feels like. The sensation of his weight against you is toying with your instincts. <</if>> <<if $virgin is true>>The sensation of his weight against you is toying with your heart and body in ways that you aren’t sure you fully understand.<</if>> He stays upon you a moment longer, just looking at you before his eyes go wide and he scrambles off. Oswin tugs you to your feet before turning away and dusting off his clothing. He fusses over his tunic for an awkward amount of time before turning back to you. “You did very well. It probably would be good for us to keep you in practice. I insist that you take time to sit and rest yourself though. Don’t overdo it.” He clears his throat again, and you note his eyes dodging away from yours. “That may be a good idea. Maybe we can find some nice sticks to keep with us.” You smile. Oswin matchies your grin before looking away and then rubbing the back of his head. “<<if $interest is 'choppin'>>I wanted to say...your strength deeply impressed me. Considering all you’ve been through and that you don’t train in the sword as much...I was truly worried you’d cut me down – stick or no stick.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>I wanted to say...your guile is something else. I’m ashamed to say that I did not expect such finesse. I truly thought you were going to out-maneuver me.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>I wanted to say...your deftness impressed me, and I felt real power in your swing. Considering all you’ve been through and that you don’t train in the sword as much...I was truly worried you’d cut me down – stick or no stick.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>I wanted to say...your grit is something else. I’m ashamed to say that I did not expect such tenacity. I truly thought you were going to out-smart me.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>I wanted to say...your cleverness is something else. I’m ashamed to say that I did not expect such tenacity. I truly thought you were going to out-smart me.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>I wanted to say...your strength deeply impressed me – maybe even scared me a moment. Considering all you’ve been through and that you don’t train in the sword as much...I was truly worried you’d cut me down – stick or no stick.<</if>>” You are shocked. Oswin, a grumpy swordsman of over a decade was impressed by your skill. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>This is something to be proud of. You share a smile with him, and make plans to brag about this to your da.<<else>>You are definitely going to tease him about this for years to come. You smirk at him, and he immediately looks as if he regrets everything.<</if>> [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $Oflirt +=3>> The intensity in his face is like nothing you’ve ever seen. His entire face is shadowed with only a sliver of his eyes visible, but his stare is completely focused on your face. You are caught. You are prey. The wolf will devour you...but you are inclined to let him. Your mind dips into more sensual places. You like the look of him above you – having dominion over your body. You can see the way his clothing sticks to his skin, how sweat drips down his throat and disappears down his tunic. You’re vulnerable under him, and your mind is reeling over it. You catch yourself wondering what it would be like to submit even further. Your heart thumps noticeably within your chest. He’s so close to you. <<if $virgin is false>> This position is doing you no favors, and you’re not even sure if Oswin realizes what it looks like...what it feels like. The sensation of his weight against you is toying with your instincts. <</if>>It is difficult for you to comprehend what just transpired to land you in this position. You thought you had him, but he caught on to you so quickly that it is like he read your mind. You’re not certain what expression you must be making now, but you can’t look away from Oswin’s gaze. What do you do now? Heat ripples across the surface of your skin, traveling from your chest to your neck and down your arms. What does he want to do? He stays upon you a moment longer, just looking at you before his eyes go wide and he scrambles off. Oswin tugs you to your feet before turning away and dusting off his clothing. He fusses over his tunic for an awkward amount of time before turning back to you. “You did very well. It probably would be good for me to give you some lessons going forward, but I insist that you take time to sit and rest yourself for now. Don’t overdo it.” He clears his throat again, and you note his eyes dodging away from yours. “That may be a good idea. Maybe we can find some nice sticks to keep with us.” You smile. Oswin matchies your grin before looking away and then rubbing the back of his head. “<<if $interest is 'choppin'>>I wanted to say...your strength deeply impressed me. Considering all you’ve been through and that you don’t train in the sword as much...I was truly worried you’d cut me down – stick or no stick.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>I wanted to say...your guile is something else. I’m ashamed to say that I did not expect such finesse. I truly thought you were going to out-maneuver me.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>I wanted to say...your deftness impressed me, and I felt real power in your swing. Considering all you’ve been through and that you don’t train in the sword as much...I was truly worried you’d cut me down – stick or no stick.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>I wanted to say...your grit is something else. I’m ashamed to say that I did not expect such tenacity. I truly thought you were going to out-smart me.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>I wanted to say...your cleverness is something else. I’m ashamed to say that I did not expect such tenacity. I truly thought you were going to out-smart me.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>I wanted to say...your strength deeply impressed me – maybe even scared me a moment. Considering all you’ve been through and that you don’t train in the sword as much...I was truly worried you’d cut me down – stick or no stick.<</if>>” You are shocked. Oswin, a grumpy swordsman of over a decade was impressed by your skill. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>This is something to be proud of. You share a smile with him, and make plans to brag about this to your da.<<else>>You are definitely going to tease him about this for years to come. You smirk at him, and he immediately looks as if he regrets everything.<</if>> [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

As Zahn speed-walks to strap $Zhisher pack to Flit's saddle, you approach. "Zahn, would you like to ride with me?" $Zcapitalheshe perks up, forgetting that Oswin is scowling in $Zhisher direction. "I'd love to!" You're just about to discuss $Zhisher preference for the front or back of the saddle, when Oswin cuts in. "If that is how you want to ride, I insist that Zahn sit behind you." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You raise a brow at Oswin. "Do you mind telling me why you prefer that? We haven't even discussed it yet."<<else>>You turn to face him with a hand on your hip. "Oswin, we're perfectly capable of making this decision. My preference should matter here."<</if>> Oswin pats Flits shoulder as she noses at him in return. "$mountname is yours, and you are feeling well - you should be in control. And if your condition degrades and Zahn is behind you, $Zheshe will be in a position to better support you. I'd rather avoid tying you to the saddle or to Zahn to keep you upright." Zahn perks up. "I mean, I'm okay with that!" $Zcapitalheshe fiddles with a rope looped on your saddlebags. "Fine," you say. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"That sounds logical, I have to admit. Perhaps on the way home, we can change up how we ride if we want."<<else>>"It makes sense - for now - but on the way home, I'll decide how I want to ride."<</if>> "Fine by me - as long as you are well." Oswin nods. Zahn interjects again. "I //am// going home with you too?" You hadn't confirmed that yet. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>There's probably no harm in taking Zahn home, $Zheshe is on some sort of pilgrimage, so it would make sense that $Zheshe would want to travel to multiple towns.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>It could be great fun to take Zahn and show $Zhimher your home. You're certain that Papa and Da would be happy to meet a friend you made while on your first (almost) solo adventure.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>It would be great fun to take Zahn and show $Zhimher your home. You're certain that Papa and Da would be happy to meet such a special friend you made while on your first (almost) solo adventure. Plus, that means you'd get to spend a lot more time with $Zhimher.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>It would be great fun to take Zahn and show $Zhimher your home. You're certain that Papa and Da would be happy to meet such a special friend you made while on your first (almost) solo adventure. Plus, that means you'd get to spend a lot more time with $Zhimher and maybe you can get even //closer//.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>Could there be harm in taking Zahn home with you? $Zcapitalheshe says $Zheshe is on some sort of pilgrimage, so it would make sense that $Zheshe would want to travel to multiple towns. Only time will tell if you and Oswin will feel safe enough to bring Zahn with you to Stonebrook.<</if>> "We'll see." Oswin shakes you from your thoughts. "Both of you get comfortable and we'll be on our way. The road from here is much rougher and steeper. It's more uneven and will slow the mounts, so we'll let them set the pace. There are lots of streams in this area, so we will travel as much as possible each day and can make camp wherever we're at. At night, we will each take shifts on watch and stay close together. If the rains have been heavy, the road will be slick, just be prepared." Oswin stamps off without another word and hops into Flit's saddle. Zahn looks at you and is quiet for a moment. "Well…that was…really soldiery." $Zcapitalheshe laughs. You chuckle as you give $mountname a pat on the neck. "Guess we should do as we've been ordered then." <<set $Zahn4ride to true>> [[It's time to set off.|4.1]]

As Zahn speed-walks to strap $Zhisher pack to Flit's saddle, you approach. "Zahn, would you be okay riding with Oswin?" "Sure!" $Zcapitalheshe gives you a big grin, not minding that Oswin is scowling in $Zhisher direction. "I don't mind! As long as we can talk a little.<<if $Zstat is 'physical'>> Don't get me wrong, I would like to be close to you too, but maybe when Oswin isn't watching.<</if>>" <<if $Zstat is 'physical'>>You chuckle. "I guess I'll remember that."<</if>> You make to recheck that $mountname's tack is secure. "Think we should check with Oswin first?" Zahn shakes $Zhisher head. "I don't think he'll mind. I don't feel like he thinks I'm trustworthy yet, and he'd rather deal with me than put you in any possible harm." You blink at Zahn. "But I don't mind! I understand. I feel good about you both I think now. I like Nathan too; I want to see him again. Trust just takes time, and it's okay if you or Oswin still feel tense." $Zcapitalheshe fidgets, rubbing $Zhisher hands together. "<<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>That's understandable. It just takes time to adjust, especially for Oswin. We'll have some time still to get to know each other though.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>I understand that. I feel like we're friends now, or the beginning of friends if you prefer. Oswin will take more time, he's just like that.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>I understand that. I feel like we're friends now, or the beginning of friends if you prefer. Oswin will take more time, he's just like that. But as for me, I do trust you.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>I understand that. I feel like we're friends now, or the beginning of friends if you prefer. Oswin will take more time, he's just like that. But as for me, I do trust you.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>That's understandable. It just takes time to adjust, especially for us. We'll have some time still to get to know each other though.<</if>>" You give Zahn a friendly nod. "That's true," $Zheshe says, "we have time." Oswin interrupts. "Time for what?" Zahn jumps and yips in fright. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You shake your head.<<else>>You snicker.<</if>> "We were discussing riding arrangements. I thought Zahn should ride with you." Oswin's brow quirks up. "And you need time for that?" "I was saying, we still have time to get to know and trust each other." He nods, but doesn't look convinced. "The riding arrangements are fine by me, since you are feeling well, you should do what you feel comfortable with." "On the way home, we can change up how we ride if we want." "Fine by me - as long as you are well." Oswin nods. Zahn interjects. "I'm going home with you too?" You hadn't thought about that yet. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>There's probably no harm in taking Zahn home, $Zheshe is on some sort of pilgrimage, so it would make sense that $Zheshe would want to travel to multiple towns.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>It could be great fun to take Zahn and show $Zhimher your home. You're certain that Papa and Da would be happy to meet a friend you made while on your first solo adventure.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>It would be great fun to take Zahn and show $Zhimher your home. You're certain that Papa and Da would be happy to meet such a special friend you made while on your first solo adventure. Plus, that means you'd get to spend a lot more time with $Zhimher.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>It would be great fun to take Zahn and show $Zhimher your home. You're certain that Papa and Da would be happy to meet such a special friend you made while on your first solo adventure. Plus, that means you'd get to spend a lot more time with $Zhimher and maybe you can get even //closer//.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>Could there be harm in taking Zahn home with you? $Zcapitalheshe says $Zheshe is on some sort of pilgrimage, so it would make sense that $Zheshe would want to travel to multiple towns. Only time will tell if you and Oswin will feel safe enough to bring Zahn with you to Stonebrook.<</if>> "We'll see." Oswin shakes you from your thoughts. "Both of you get comfortable and we'll be on our way. The road from here is much rougher and steeper. It's more uneven and will slow the mounts, so we'll let them set the pace. There are lots of streams in this area, so we will travel as much as possible each day and can make camp wherever we're at. At night, we will each take shifts on watch and stay close together. If the rains have been heavy, the road will be slick, just be prepared." Oswin stamps off without another word and hops into Flit's saddle. Zahn looks at you and is quiet for a moment. "Well…that was…really soldiery." $Zcapitalheshe laughs. You chuckle as you give $mountname a pat on the neck. "Guess we should do as we've been ordered then." <<set $Zahn4ride to false>> [[It's time to set off.|4.1]]

A half-day's journey is all it takes to notice a significant change in the terrain. Just as you were warned, the land is slick with mud, the road narrows even more and much of it sets at an incline for several paces before leveling out again. Flit leads carefully, Oswin trusting her instincts completely. The way she navigates makes you wonder if there is a goat somewhere in her lineage. $mountname is <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>diligent, following Flit's steps almost exactly as she keeps a bit away to watch her carefully. She doesn't seem to like the mud very much and snorts each time she hits an especially soft spot in the road.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>muscling through. He doesn't always follow Flit's lead, but makes his own path, keeping close enough he could nose Flit's rear if he wanted. You have a feeling that's intentional. He's steady and determined, so you're allowing him to set his pace.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>handling the road with surprising grace considering his size. He's steady and careful, seeming to understand how he needs to move considering how large he is. Some rough patches, he can simply step over when other horses would have to wade through. You dread cleaning the mud from the feathering around his hooves.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>determined as ever. Oswin had to insist early on that you make sure your spunky mule stays behind Flit as she has seemed eager to overtake the poor horse. It has also become very clear that she //loves// mud. She tackles the road with relative ease and seems to intentionally plod through puddles. Her hooves will be a nightmare to clean.<</if>> Everyone was quiet when you first set out, even Zahn. As the day has worn on, Zahn's resolve to be silent flounders. You can tell $Zheshe is trying to be quiet for Oswin's sake, and you think $Zhimher making it half the first day without speaking much is a wild success. "Should we play a game?" Zahn chirps. "No," Oswin says, his voice flat. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"What would we even play?" you ask.<<else>>"Oh, come on, Oswin - it's isn't like we have other pressing things to do."<</if>> He huffs. "Do what you want, as long as the road remains uneventful." Zahn stifles a chuckle <<if $Zahn4ride is true>>and nudges against your back gently<<else>>and turns in $Zhisher seat to send you a warm smile<</if>>. "Since we can't play cards or anything, let's play a guessing game!" $mountname seems to groan, and it seems like too much of a coincidence to you. Just how smart is your <<if $mount is 'mule'>>mule<<else>>horse<</if>>? Zahn continues with enthusiasm. "So, I will think of something - it just has to be a person, place, or a thing. You two ask me questions until you can figure out what it is." $Zcapitalheshe smiles triumphantly. "I'm ready when you are - start asking!" As you're thinking for a moment on how to direct your line of questioning, Oswin interrupts, much to your surprise. "Is it a food?" He turns and gives you a coy grin. Zahn groans. "Yes," $Zheshe says sheepishly. [[This will be a short game…|4.2]]

To no one's surprise, Zahn's first four items in the game are food related. Oswin entertains a couple rounds with you, stumping you and the pilgrim on the word 'air' for nearly half of an hour. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>The game is a bit silly, but it does pass the time in an easy way.<<else>>The game was just what you needed to pass the time.<</if>> You all got a couple laughs, mostly out of poor Zahn's lack of imagination and predictability. The remainder of the first day is otherwise boring. You watch as the terrain continues to change. The trees get larger and thicker. You begin to feel less of the sun and more of a chill through the shaded road, and you spot the eyes of little animals watching you cautiously from the edge of the road. They are so unused to people, that some don't know to be leery - and others overreact in their haste to escape.<<if $mark is 'tree'>> You feel an energetic shiver up and down your spine at times as you stare out into the trees. You've never seen a forest quite this lush before. The sensation almost makes you smile.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>> You feel an energetic shiver up and down your spine at times as you stare out into the thicket. You've never seen a forest quite this lush before. The sensation almost makes you smile.<</if>> Everything goes easy and before you know it, you're at camp. It's tight - a small patch of ground nestled among trees and brush - but it's a big enough area for a small fire and three bedrolls. True to what Oswin had said, there is a stream close by. Yet again - even making camp goes easy. The horses are cared for and everyone sits down to have a simple meal…. And then you hear thunder. It sounds as if something enormous has fallen from the sky onto the forest. It rolls and rolls as you feel the ground beneath you quake.<<if $mark is 'storm'>> You feel an energetic shiver up and down your spine as the power of the storm to come makes its presence known. Oddly, the sensation almost makes you smile.<</if>> A storm may make camping a little less easy if the rains or winds are rough. The trees will provide some shelter, but you'll all be stuck wearing your cloaks and hoods. [[As long as you stay dry, it shouldn't be too bad just for the night.|4.3]]

But it wasn't just for one night. It stormed and rained into the next day. Travel was even slower and very uncomfortable. The second evening held a reprieve from the rain, though thick mud made everything more difficult. Thankfully, you and Oswin had thick cloaks to shed the moisture, but Zahn only had cloth ones, so Oswin parted with an extra felted-wool blanket he had packed. You were all very thankful for a rain free night the second day, but it rained again while you were on the road the next. The mounts were getting more fussy and restless the further into the Shaw you traveled, and you wondered if they were feeding off of Oswin's sour mood. He was eager to get you to the shrine in good time since you'd already been delayed, but the rain was easily adding on another day or even two for the journey. The only fortunate thing was that travel, though cumbersome, was uneventful. Wild animals kept clear from you - the rain probably playing a part in that - and the mounts were doing their best even if they were a bit stressed. Zahn tried hard to lift everyone's spirits. $Zcapitalheshe attempted more guessing games and conversation, and was always equipped with an easy smile. <<if $Zstat is 'romantic'>>It was plain to see that Zahn favored you - sitting close and wanting $Zhisher bedroll next to yours. $Zcapitalheshe would try to let you rest longer before waking you for a nightwatch shift as well.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>It was plain to see that Zahn favored you - sitting close and wanting $Zhisher bedroll next to yours. $Zcapitalheshe would try to let you rest longer before waking you for a nightwatch shift as well.<</if>><<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>> Oswin fussed over you more than his usual amount, which some might say is already excessive. He made sure you were fed first at meals, even if you tried to dodge him. He checked how you were feeling regularly - touching your forehead at each break and at camp to see if you had any fever.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>> Oswin fussed over you more than his usual amount, which some might say is already excessive. He made sure you were fed first at meals, even if you tried to dodge him. He checked how you were feeling regularly - touching your forehead at each break and at camp to see if you had any fever. More than a few instances, he had held your face gently and looked closely into your eyes to check them for redness. Each time, you caught Zahn trying to hide a grin.<</if>> Despite being a little damp, a little tired, and a little bored - things weren't bad, not as much as they could be… [[A comforting thought as you venture into the third night.|4.4]]

You and your traveling companions sit around a small fire, during a reprieve from the rains. The sun set a while ago, and you've all just eaten your fill of the trail stew that you are growing very tired of. Thankfully, you happened upon some wild onions while searching for a campsite, which helped the flavor immensely. <<if $interest is 'cookin'>>You miss all your herbs, spices, and cookware back home. You brought what you could, but your skills (and supplies) as a cook have felt mostly wasted on this trip. <</if>>Despite the delay, Oswin estimates that your rationed food will last until you can get to the city. Zahn has proven to be an expert shot with $Zhisher bow, and has been able to obtain the odd fish or hare for your meals if anyone desired fresh meat. You yawn, <<if $hobby is 'singing'>>the song you were humming getting lost to the air.<<elseif $hobby is 'drawing'>>your eyes going watery until you can no longer see what you are sketching.<<elseif $hobby is 'sculpting'>>fumbling the little bit of clay you've been playing with.<<elseif $hobby is 'storytelling'>>your eyes watering until you can no longer make out the words you've written in journal.<<elseif $hobby is 'whittling'>>setting your whittling knife to the side so you don't ruin your project.<<elseif $hobby is 'needlework'>>setting your needle aside so you don't prick your finger.<</if>> Oswin's tired green eyes blink at you slowly; you're not even sure if he really sees you at his point. The bags under them make him look so much older. You eye Zahn studying him too, brow wrinkled in worry. "Hey Ozy." Zahn starts. You wince, waiting for the backlash. Oswin only sighs. "Wow, you must be exhausted," Zahn says. "Last time I called you that, you threw a rock at my head." "I've only got a stick with me, and it's quite small," Oswin remarks. "What do you need, Zahn?" "Well, nothing. It's what you need. Me and $mc will take the first watches tonight. You need to try to get more sleep." Zahn puffs up $Zhisher chest, deepening $Zhisher voice. "And I'm not taking no for an answer." $Zcapitalheshe waves an arrow around as if it's a sword. You wince again waiting for Oswin's rebuttal. But it never comes. He nods. He actually agrees, and without much more than a grunted 'thank you,' he plops on his bedroll next to you. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You gingerly reach out and pat his shoulder, pulling up his blanket to his chest as he gives you a small smile.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>You gingerly reach out and pat his shoulder, pulling up his blanket to his chest as he gives you a small smile. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Ever so slightly, you graze his jaw with the back of your hand, gently tucking his hair away from his face.<<else>>You slowly run your fingers through his bangs, gently pushing the hair away from his face.<</if>> His eyes close, and you think you see a tinge of red upon his cheeks in the firelight.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>You mumble a quick 'goodnight' to him as he covers up with a blanket.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>You tell him 'goodnight' as he covers up with his blanket.<</if>> Flit plods the short distance over, and sniffs at him, seeming to check on his condition before returning to her position next to $mountname. You watch Zahn for a moment before $Zheshe starts mouthing words to you. With the words come wild hand gestures that make zero sense at first. $Zcapitalheshe clearly doesn't want Oswin to hear this message, so you sit and watch for a while, slowly piecing it all together. Very slowly. Zahn wants you both to take watch for the whole night and leave Oswin to sleep. You agree, knowing that he needs extra rest more than either of you right now. Zahn gestures that $Zheshe will take the first watch, so you get comfortable on your bedroll, hoping that the rains stay away for the entire night. You relax and breathe, already being whisked away by the quiet sound of Zahn's humming. You vaguely hear the hoot of an owl in the distance as your eyes close and your mind shuts off for a quiet night. [[Until you hear a howl.|4.5]]

Your eyes snap open and you sit up. Zahn's eyes are huge, looking in the direction of the sound. It's distant, you're at least sure of that. The solemn sound drifts off into the wind and dissipates. You and Zahn look at each other, but Oswin doesn't even stir. In heavy silence you wait, but no other calls sound. Zahn sighs and nods at you. You make to lay back down when another howl rings out - still distant, but from a another direction. Zahn's worried expression intensifies. You whisper, "I'm sure it's fine. They're far away." Just as Zahn seems to concede with a nod, a cacophony of howls begin to echo around you from all directions. Most of them are distant - but chillingly - some are much closer to your camp than the others. Oswin sits up as the howls begin to fade out, punctuated with a few yips drifting in through the trees. He looks to both of you before simply yawning and lying back down. Zahn looks like $Zheshe is about to scream, so you raise a hand to placate $Zhimher and make to rouse Oswin. "Oswin? Did you not hear that?" He doesn't even open his eyes. "Yes, it's just wolves, $mc. The Shaw is home to many." "Aren't you worried about that!?" Zahn's voice raises in pitch, but $Zheshe keeps the volume low. There is clear panic etched in $Zhisher face. "No," he responds flatly. "Why not?" Zahn insists. Oswin finally sits up. "Wolves do not hunt humans. We don't look like food to them, it's spring and they have plenty to hunt. They're just calling to each other." Zahn shakes $Zhisher head vigorously. "Calling? More like planning. They caught wind of three tasty morsels just sitting here and-" "They're looking for mates, eating you is the last thing on their minds right now. Why would they announce it by crying to the moon?" Oswin plops back down and covers up as a few more distant howls ring out. He mumbles, "You'd be too stringy to eat anyway." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"It's okay, Zahn. He knows what he's talking about." You give $Zhimher a gentle smile.<<else>>"He's right, you would be a bit stringy." You give $Zhimher a playful smile.<</if>> "Would it make you feel better if I took first watch?" Zahn's blue eyes shine pitifully at you. "Yes. If you don't mind." "It's fine. I can handle it." [[You hope for an uneventful night.|4.6]]

The howls carried on for nearly an hour into your watch and then tapered off. You found it surprising that Flit and $mountname didn't stir much, they merely looked up and around while the howling carried on, but otherwise paid no mind. Thankfully, Zahn managed to sleep through most of it, and was decently rested when you awoke $Zhimher for $Zhisher shift. Oswin slept peacefully through the exchange and Zahn seemed relieved of $Zhisher anxieties about the wolves. You also slept well for the rest of that night, and Oswin griped at you for not rousing him for his shift on watch. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You simply smiled back.<<else>>You simply stuck your tongue out at him.<</if>> He was irritated - or pretended to be - until he thanked both you and Zahn with red cheeks. The road on the next day was blissfully free of rain until the afternoon. You swear that your mounts both groaned as soon as the drops of water began to pelt them. <<if $Zahn4ride is true>>You also heard Zahn grumble from behind you,<<if $Zstat is 'friends'>> gently leaning against you in search of comfort<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>> gently leaning against you in search of comfort as $Zhisher hands gripped your cloak<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>> gently leaning against you in search of comfort as $Zhisher hands gripped your cloak<<else>> spitting curses at the weather<</if>>.<</if>> It rained the entire night as well, and just like before, the howls began just as you were bedding down. They felt closer still. Zahn was rattled, and this time the mounts seemed disquieted, even Flit began to groan anxiously when the chorus of wolves became loud and almost constant. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname also seemed to fret, stomping her feet as she looked around for threats. She pressed close to Flit and the two seemed to try and comfort each other.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname was on high alert but otherwise seemed okay. He turned to face Flit, locking his head in with hers in a supportive hug.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname appeared unbothered, and began to gently nibble and nuzzle Flit until she felt a little less worried.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname appeared ready for action, pulling at the end of her lead, as if she was ready to take on a pack of wolves herself.<</if>> Oswin reassured you, Zahn, and the mounts that it was fine. [[It rained heavily the entire next day as well.|4.7]]

Finally. Finally, it is the fifth night since you left the clearing and you are so close to your goal that you can taste it. Oswin estimates that you are a day or day and a half away. If only the rain would give you a break now. You are exhausted as you sit around the fire which is struggling to stay alight. None of you have much of an appetite as it is, so you make due with dried fruits, bits of jerky, and the last of the fresh fruit you received from Nathan. Oswin sits next to you, holding out his hand. You open yours and he sets a piece of hard candy in it. A honey drop. Now where has he been hiding these? You pop the sweet treat in your mouth and Oswin does the same. He whispers, "Don't tell Zahn." "Don't tell me what?" Zahn pipes up and then laughs, turning $Zhisher attention back to the mounts. "Little shit." Oswin grumbles. You chuckle. "Thanks for the treat in any case." "You're welcome. I thought you could use just something. We probably all could, but we're almost there, $mc. This is almost over, I feel it. I read that shrines often had little villages attached, so there's likely buildings we can stay in when we get there. I don't think there will be people living in it. But, we can dry everything out, get a good hot fire going and eat a decent meal at the very least." "That sounds good to me. Especially the dry part." You sigh. "Even for spring, this amount of rainfall is unusual. I wonder if Stonebrook is getting any of it?" You smile. "I hope our garden is doing okay. Papa doesn't have Da's gift for planting, but I'm sure he got the seeds in. All the rows will be crooked, but they'll still grow." Oswin chuckles. "Your da is something else. I've never known a man who could be so particular about how lined up his vegetables were growing…Did I ever tell you that I caught him replanting half of your tomatoes last cycle?" You shake your head and snort. "No! When did that happen?" "It was late in the season, I was returning a sword I had sharpened for him. It had to have been close to sunset, and I found him shifting several of the plants over just a hair to one side to line them up with the others more." He laughs, the sound deep and joyful. "You'd think he was a thief with how he was moving and looking over his shoulder. Scared him shitless when he saw me." You laugh<<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>, leaning into Oswin as the mirth escapes you<</if>>. "<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>He is so silly sometimes.<<else>>I cannot wait to tease him about that.<</if>>" Oswin chuckles and then quiet slowly creeps in between you both. "I...uh…$mc, I never gave you your gift for your birthday." "Bit of a shift there, yeah?" He nods. "Apparently it's a bad habit of mine to hold things back. Your da tells me that often. I've been…um, reflecting on it, and I want to be better. I want to be better when it comes to //you// especially.<<if $Ostat2 is 'distant'>> You don't have to reciprocate, I understand. But, I feel like I owe you…I feel like I've disrespected you, and I caused this gap between us. I don't expect anything I do to make you want to close that gap and that's okay.<</if>> I just feel that it's the right thing to do. I need to stop…" He sighs. "Stop getting so lost in my head." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"I understand," you say. "I'll support you in that endeavor, I promise."<<else>>"I respect that," you say. "If you're an ass though, I reserve the right to tell you so without you wagging a finger at me."<</if>> <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"Thank you for your kindness, $mc; I do not deserve it. I won't let you down. I may need time, but I promise, I'll press on. For you."<<else>>Oswin chuckles, and proceeds to wiggle all his fingers at you. "You may need to be more specific. Which one?"<</if>> You share a smile together, before you ask the pressing question. "So, did you want to give me this thing now or is it back home?" Oswin shifts around. "I have it. I think…when we get to the shrine. I'll tell you what I was supposed to say that night and I'll give you your gift." [["It's a deal."|4.8]]

As a lull once again settles over your conversation, the wolf chorus that has been haunting your nights begins again. You watch Zahn freeze up as $Zheshe is brushing Flit. Though your nights have been free of wolves, $Zheshe still seems quite scared of them. The cries this time do not seem as numerous as the previous night, nor do they seem as close. Zahn still seems frozen. Oswin speaks up. "Zahn, you're safe. They're not going to come after us." "What if they do? Maybe they're not hunting us, but what if one checks out the camp or something?" $Zcapitalheshe says, voice pitching higher. "If a wolf approaches you - don't move." "//What!?//" Zahn squeaks. "Just wait for it to kill me?" Oswin groans. "You hold your ground. If you run, it will trigger them to chase you. Make yourself look and sound mean, just don't take your eyes off them." Zahn lets out a long groan and then snickers. "Is that why they leave you alone? Because you look and sound so mean?" You stifle a chuckle, and suddenly realize that the rain has finally stopped. With a smile, you make to share your realization with the other two who are about to butt heads yet again… [[Only to be interrupted.|4.9]]

A resonant howl pierces the night, louder than any other you've heard. You all freeze. The sound sits heavy all around you, the song much longer and lower in tone than any of the other howls you've heard. Every other creature around you stills. The owls cease their hooting, frogs hold their croaking, and even the insects stop chirping. The mounts even freeze with ears laid completely flat, and their breathing becoming quick... The howl carries a long time, and you're increasingly aware of your own heartbeat until it fades out. Oswin gives you a bewildered look and Zahn drops to $Zhisher knees. You take a breath to speak when the chorus answers the mysterious call. It sounds as if hundreds of wolves cry back to whatever creature made such a frightful noise. They yip and holler and howl in a cacophony of what may either be a cry of celebration or war. One thing becomes abundantly clear. They are much closer to you than you realized before. Suddenly, Flit grunts and screams in a fit of uncharacteristic nerves. Zahn stands to try and calm her, but her eyes are wild and she begins to buck. Oswin scurries to his feet to soothe her, but she will not listen. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname immediately panics as well, feeding off of Flit's nervous energy. They both pull their leads and knock into each other, searching for predators or a means of escape. Oswin barely grabs Zahn in time to avoid a deadly kick from the mares. In a matter of moments, the two horses take off through the forest, easily snapping their leads from the branches they were tethered to.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname tries to stay calm, attempting to soothe Flit by pressing against her. The mare riles him and before you know it, they're both bucking and knocking into each other, searching for predators or a means of escape. Oswin barely grabs Zahn in time to avoid a deadly kick from $mountname. In a matter of moments, the two horses take off through the forest, easily snapping their leads from the branches they were tethered to.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname tries to stay calm, resisting the influence of the panicked mare and backing away from her. The mare spins and runs into him, getting tangled in the reins and tack until they are effectively hooked together. Flit pulls $mountname along and he allows her to lead without much choice. Oswin barely grabs Zahn in time to avoid a deadly kick from Flit. In a matter of moments, Flit takes off through the forest, dragging your horse with her, easily snapping their leads from the branches they were tethered to.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname looks ready for a fight. She lets Flit panic while she keeps her ears flat and brays out a challenge to all the wolves who are calling out. The spooked horse spins and runs into the mule, getting tangled in the reins and tack until they are effectively hooked together. Flit pulls $mountname along and she allows her to lead the charge. Oswin barely grabs Zahn in time to avoid being trampled. In a matter of moments, Flit takes off through the forest with $mountname in tow, easily snapping their leads from the branches they were tethered to.<</if>> [[You've just lost your mounts.|4.10]]

"//Fuck//," says Oswin. You take a ragged breath. It was just a matter of moments. How did it escalate that fast? The howls slow, but still continue all around you. Zahn looks completely shaken. "What was that? That wasn't a wolf. There is no way that was a wolf! Why are they all howling like that now?" [[You comfort Zahn.|4.10a]] [[Oswin handles Zahn.|4.10b]]

<<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>You gently grab Zahn by the shoulders and get $Zhimher to look you in the eye. "Take it easy, Zahn, we'll figure it out, okay? Just breathe.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>You gently grab Zahn by the shoulders and get $Zhimher to look you in the eye. "It's okay, it's okay. We're safe right now, Zahn. We're going to figure it out, just try to keep a clear head while we do. Breathe."<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>You gently turn Zahn towards you by the shoulders and cup $Zhisher face in your hands so your eyes lock. "It's okay, it's okay. We're safe right now, Zahn. We're going to figure it out, just try to keep a clear head while we do. Breathe."<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>You gently turn Zahn towards you by the shoulders and cup $Zhisher face in your hands so your eyes lock. "It's okay, it's okay. We're safe right now, Zahn. We're going to figure it out, just try to keep a clear head while we do. Breathe."<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>You gently grab Zahn by the shoulders and get $Zhimher to look you in the eye. "Take it easy, Zahn, we'll figure it out, okay? Just breathe.<</if>> Zahn nods, swallowing back whimpers. "I'm scared of wolves…" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I know you are, but trust that Oswin knows what he's talking about, okay?"<<else>>"I think you've made that pretty clear by now, so let's trust that Oswin knows what he's talking about, okay?"<</if>> $Zcapitalheshe takes a few deep breaths, closing $Zhisher eyes. As Zahn breathes, the cries from the wolves die down to just a few distant yips before they all go silent. The sounds of the other night creatures return, and it's as if the howling never happened. Oswin looks into the trees for the mounts, whistling for Flit with no response. After several minutes, he approaches you and Zahn and sighs heavily. "We need to go get them. We can't afford to be caught out here without them, and if they're left out overnight there's no telling what may happen." "I thought you said the wolves won't bother us though," Zahn says, looking worried again. "They won't bother us, but horses look a lot more like food to them than we do. I'm not as worried about the wolves finding them as I am worried about them breaking a leg. The terrain away from the road is much worse; if they're panicked, they may fall." <<if $anx > 18>>A familiar sense of dread washes over you. <</if>>"Should we go together then?" Oswin nods. "Yes, I don't think we should separate, and if one or both of them are scared, I don't think I can get them back on my own." Everyone agrees with various levels of enthusiasm, and you gather your weapons to set out into the forest. [[You all journey out into the night.|4.11]]

Oswin plods over to Zahn and places a reassuring hand on $Zhisher back. You're a little struck by his display of gentleness considering his distrust and occasional annoyance of the pilgrim. "It's okay, I promise you, they're not bad creatures. They're not out to get us. Something has stirred them up, but the howling isn't a violent behavior." "It's not?" Zahn asks. Oswin shakes his head. "They do it to talk to each other, to tell their family where they are at or to tell other packs to stay away." "What about when they hunt?" "Maybe that too, but I think it's more about knowing where their loved ones are." You chime in. "How do you know all this about wolves, Oswin? He shrugs. "I've read a bunch of books about them and I've come across several when I've traveled…I like them…a lot." You grin. Oswin has a favorite animal and he's bashful about that. You'll keep that in mind for later. Zahn nods, swallowing back whimpers. "Okay, that's cute and all, but…I'm scared of wolves…" You try to support Oswin in calming your companion. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I know you are, but trust that Oswin knows what he's talking about, okay?"<<else>>"I think you've made that pretty clear by now, so let's trust that Oswin knows what he's talking about, okay?"<</if>> $Zcapitalheshe takes a few deep breaths, closing $Zhisher eyes. As Zahn breathes, the cries from the wolves die down to just a few distant yips before they all go silent. The sounds of the other night creatures return, and it's as if the howling never happened. Oswin goes to the camp perimeter and looks into the trees for the mounts, whistling for Flit with no response. After several minutes, he approaches you and Zahn and sighs heavily. "We need to go get them. We can't afford to be caught out here without them and if they're left out overnight there's no telling what may happen." "I thought you said the wolves won't bother us though," Zahn says, looking worried again. "They won't bother us, but horses look a lot more like food to them than we do. I'm not as worried about the wolves finding them as I am worried about them breaking a leg. The terrain away from the road is much worse; if they're panicked, they may fall." <<if $anx > 18>>A familiar sense of dread washes over you. <</if>>"Should we go together then?" Oswin nods. "Yes, I don't think we should separate, and if one or both of them are scared, I don't think I can get them back on my own." Everyone agrees with various levels of enthusiasm, and you gather your weapons to set out into the forest. [[You all journey out into the night.|4.11]]

The ground is treacherous. It feels as though the entire forest is on a slant, and that slant is slathered in mud. You had no idea how both mounts managed to run off through this. Some areas are so steep that you all must move from tree to tree to keep balance. Even though you have two lanterns and the moon is bright, the night is as dark as pitch. You've been searching for nearly an hour, following smeared hoofprints in the mud. Thankfully, you haven't heard any howling since you were at camp. Zahn seems to have forgotten all about it and is back to $Zhisher chipper self. $Zcapitalheshe proves to be quite spry, maneuvering the hills and slick terrain with more ease than you and Oswin. You keep a tight hold of your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>bow<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knives<</if>> and try to mimic Oswin's steps so you don't fall. He's not as fast as Zahn, but makes good judgements for his path. You are all panting and struggling by the time you come across a split in the trail. One set of hoof prints go up a steep embankment, another goes down the opposite way. The tracks are so smeared that it's impossible to tell which prints belong to which mount. "//Shit//," Oswin grumbles. "I had hoped they'd stick together. They can't be much farther, they're bound to be getting tired from panic and all this climbing." He stills and thinks for a few moments looking to where both sets of tracks lead. Zahn sighs. "You're thinking something, aren't you?" Oswin nods. "I think we should split up. It's not ideal, but the longer we tarry the chances of us completely losing track of them increase. If worse comes to worse, we can make due with one mount, but we need to find at least one alive and uninjured." In the lantern light you see Oswin's face scrunched with concern. He doesn't look as frustrated as he does sad. "Are you okay, Oswin?" His green eyes meet your gaze, sullen and dull. "I'm worried that one or both of them will end up breaking a leg. If I have to…to put either of them…" He takes a deep breath. "You //just// got your mount, and I already see your bond…I've had Flit since she was born…" A sheen appears in his eyes. You realize what he's saying. There would be no helping your hooved friends if they get seriously injured out here. They'd have to be put out of their misery. Your heart lurches. $mountname is already important to you, you don't want to say goodbye so soon. You nod "We need to find them then." "$mc, since there's three of us, you stick with either of us so you're not alone." Oswin instructs. Zahn puts $Zhisher hands on $Zhisher hips. "That leaves one of //us// alone then." "Yes, clearly. You've already handled traveling on your own just fine and so have I. $mc is my priority, I'm here to ensure $hisher safety above all else. It's your pick, $mc." Oswin gives you a solid nod. [[You ask to go with Oswin.|4.11a]] [[You ask to go with Zahn.|4.11b]]

<<set $ch4split to 'Oswin'>> "I'll stick with you, Oswin." He gives you a relieved smile. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>Since the wolves stopped, Zahn seems fine with going out on $Zhisher own.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>You hate to leave your new friend high and dry, but $Zheshe has seemed much more at ease since the wolves stopped.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>You hate to leave your new friend high and dry, but $Zheshe has seemed much more at ease since the wolves stopped.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>You hate to leave your new friend high and dry, but $Zheshe has seemed much more at ease since the wolves stopped.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>You're not quite sure about being that alone with Zahn just yet. $Zcapitalheshe seems fine, so you have no qualms making your choice on the safer bet.<</if>> <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>At least this way you can support Oswin. He looks like he could use a friend right now.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>At least this way you can support Oswin. He looks like he could use a friend right now. Plus, you can't lie to yourself that being alone with him would be sort of nice - despite the circumstance.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Oswin seems like a more reliable choice for this situation.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Oswin seems like a more reliable choice for this situation.<</if>> Zahn nods. "First one back to camp gets an extra helping at breakfast." $Zcapitalheshe gives you and Oswin a challenging smirk. Oswin snorts a laugh. "You know what? Deal. Let's see how quick you are, little pilgrim." $Zcapitalheshe beams a wide smile at you. "Keep him in line, $mc…and be safe, okay? Let him do all the hard stuff." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You chuckle gently. "I will be okay, I'm not so fragile."<<else>>You roll your eyes, but your lips edge into a grin. "I'll be fine, I don't need both of you fussing after me."<</if>> Zahn turns to start heading down the slope. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>$Zcapitalheshe gives a wave. "Can't wait to enjoy my big breakfast!" $Zheshe calls.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>$Zcapitalheshe gives a wave. "Can't wait to enjoy my big breakfast!" $Zheshe calls.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>$Zcapitalheshe stops suddenly. "Ah shit…" Zhan turns to you. "Why did I wish for more breakfast when I could have asked for a kiss!?" $Zcapitalheshe throws $Zhisher hands in the air before stomping off. You chuckle and Oswin rolls his eyes.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>$Zcapitalheshe stops suddenly. "Ah shit…" Zhan turns to you. "Why did I wish for more breakfast when I could have asked for a kiss!?" $Zcapitalheshe throws $Zhisher hands in the air before stomping off. You chuckle and Oswin rolls his eyes.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>$Zcapitalheshe gives a wave. "Can't wait to enjoy my big breakfast!" $Zheshe calls.<</if>> You turn back to Oswin. "Shall we?" He nods and gives you a small smile. [[Together, you press on.|4.11a1]]

<<set $ch4split to 'Zahn'>> "I'll stick with Zahn." Oswin sighs, but nods his agreement. Zahn looks elated. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>Since the wolves stopped, Zahn seems back to $Zhisher regular self. $Zcapitalheshe will be a good companion to search with.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>What better way to solidify your friendship than searching for spooked horses in the dark on a mountainside?<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Your pull to Zahn is becoming such that you are loathe to leave $Zhimher at the mercy of the forest alone. You'll find strength together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>What better way to solidify your friendship than searching for spooked horses in the dark on a mountainside?<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>You've felt suspicious of Zahn for a bit, and maybe that's why you don't want to leave $Zhimher alone…but maybe you also are just a bit concerned for $Zhimher.<</if>> <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You are well-aware of how capable Oswin is. Of the three of you, he may handle this alone better.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>You'd go with both of them if you could, but you know and trust how capable and strong Oswin is. You know he can handle himself. You trust in that.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Oswin is perfectly capable of handling this on his own.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Oswin is perfectly capable of handling this on his own.<</if>> Zahn rushes to your side, nearly losing $Zhisher footing twice before reaching you. "First ones back to camp get an extra helping at breakfast." $Zcapitalheshe gives Oswin a challenging smirk. Oswin snorts a laugh. "You know what? Deal. Let's see how quick you two are. Keep each other safe above all, you hear?" You snicker. "You sound so much like your mother that I'm tempted to call you Betony." With a hand on his hip, Oswin gives you an annoyed scowl. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Point taken," you say in appeasement.<<else>>"Look like her too," you say to rile him further.<</if>> Oswin ignores you and turns his attention to Zahn. "If $mc gets hurt, I'll hold you responsible." Zahn looks offended, but is fighting a smile. "What if I get hurt!?" "I'm not worried; I'm sure we could find a ravine to throw you into," he replies with a mischievous smile. Zahn stands with $Zhisher mouth agape. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You gently clear your throat. "That's quite enough. Oswin, I will be okay, I'm not so fragile."<<else>>You roll your eyes, but your lips edge into a grin. "That's quite enough. I'll be fine, I don't need you fussing after me."<</if>> You turn to Zahn then. "I suppose we should set off." "$mc…" Oswin addresses you. "Please be very careful. The mounts are important, but remember that you are more so. If we weren't in dire straits, I'd never entertain splitting from you…" You make to respond, but Zahn beats you to it. "No worries! I'll watch $hisher back! I promise, I truly promise that I will take care of $mc. Count on me." He nods and gives you both a small smile. [[Together, you and Zahn press on.|4.11b1]]

You trudge on in relative silence, trying to keep each other from slipping into the mud. Oswin takes charge of the lantern so he can light the way, though he only stays a step ahead of you. You both whistle for the mounts every few minutes and then listen for any signs of them. The prints in the mud become less and less smeared as you go and Oswin identifies that it is Flit whose trail you are on. It's a good sign that she has slowed down and is hopefully less frightened. "I think she'll be okay, Oswin," you say quietly. He hums an agreement. "I hate that we've had to venture out this far to find her, but I think you're right. If she stopped running, she's probably calmed down a bit. It was so odd of her to run…I can't understand it. She's never bolted before - ever." "Really?" "She has come face to face with bears and wildcats and remained steady at my commands. She isn't fearless, she just trusts me enough that when I am steadfast, she is as well. Flit has never run off without me…" Oswin's voice sounds almost hurt. He's clearly very close with his horse. "There were possibly several dozen wolves howling all around. And that…big one…whatever it was. I can't blame her for being unnerved." He nods. "The Shaw is quite wild. I've seen many wolves when I've been in it before, some of them were large…perhaps it was just a big one? The sound could have carried strangely if it was tucked just right in a cave…" "Maybe we could find a pup to bring home with us…" You posit, only partly sure you're kidding, but you gauge Oswin's reaction to be sure it's not an option. He snorts. "Not a chance. One way to make a pack of wolves actually angry is to mess with the pups…probably should have told Zahn that." He purses his lips in thought. "I'm sure $Zheshe will be fine." You stifle a laugh. "You sure? Just one?" Oswin stops to look at you. "I'll tell you what…I know a person in Codrin who takes in lost creatures from the forest and tames them - wolves, foxes, raccoons - we'll go talk to them before we go home. If they have one and we can secure enough food for it on the way back - you have yourself a deal." Your eyes go wide. "You're serious?" "First thing's first - we find the mounts, but yes. You deserve a puppy for all you've put up with." He smiles, his green eyes curling up, revealing the beginnings of little laugh lines. You smile at each other, and the forest is already feeling much lighter and brighter. [[Until you hear a large POP echoing around you.|4.11a2]]

You freeze. "What was that?" Oswin shakes his head. "It sounded like…perhaps wood splitting?" He puffs a breath into the surrounding air, little flickers of steam appearing. "Oh, I see…it's gotten colder. We probably just didn't realize since we've been moving." Another crack resounds, followed by several smaller pops. "I see," you say. "The trees are adjusting to the shift?" "Yes, I think so. Let's keep on. We'll relight the fire when we get back and sleep into the morning if we feel the need." You agree and head out, the occasional pops and cracks from the surrounding wood echoing through the night. You wonder if Zahn has made good on $Zhisher promise to find your mount and return first. Several more minutes roll by, and you still do not see or hear Flit. Her tracks have leveled out and it is clear that she is only walking. She can't be too much farther. Oswin calls for her, but you don't get a response. You come upon some rough terrain that is jagged with rocks and full of thick brush, where you find a leather strap from her harness, but lose her tracks. You circle the area to find them again, Oswin giving you the lantern so he can hop up on a stoney outcrop that sits just a bit higher than the rest of the area. The popping and cracking of the trees has become so regular that you barely notice it anymore, but the cold has really seeped in and is harder to not take any mind of. You both travel a ways on your respective perches to find a sign of which direction the horse went. After a few moments, you finally find a light impression of a hoof. "Oswin! I found a print!" you call. Oswin traipes over to you, looking down slightly from the outcrop of stone. "Excellent, which direction…" You look down, studying the mark. "Heading south, it's faint but-" [[''Don't move.''|4.11a3]]

You freeze at Oswin's urgent command, your head still locked to the ground. "$mc, don't move yet. Do exactly as I say." Oswin's voice is hard and serious, and you're not sure you've ever heard this tone from him before. Your breath catches. Why would he want you to freeze? You hear the sound of his sword being slowly drawn and your heart races as trees pop and crack around you again. Oswin begins instructing you firmly. "''Don't'' run. ''Don't'' flinch. Okay? I need you to do exactly as I say. Stand up fully." You stand. "Push your shoulders back, tilt your head up." You adjust your posture and find yourself looking up at him. Oswin's face is scrunched. He looks undeniably stressed…but he's not looking back at you. He's looking //behind// you. Your breathing picks up. "$mc…this is the hard part. Turn around slowly, keep your head up and stare back. Don't run, please don't run. Please." The final word from his mouth sounds as if he's about to cry. You do as he says, slowly turning, not knowing what it is you'll see behind you. //POP!// //CRACK!// The trees continue to groan. You blink. And you are met with two giant, yellow, glowing eyes. [[In the lantern-light, you see it.|4.11a4]]

You choke on your breath and do your best to not run. You try so hard to not run, not flinch, not move a muscle. 'Don't run,' he said. //Don't run.// In front of you, peeking out from the brush, barely visible in the orange glow of the light is the massive head of a wolf. A wolf that stands taller than your mount or any horse you've ever seen - large white and grey face, almond shaped eyes honed in on yours, and a long snout hiding sharp teeth. Steam flits about its nose with every breath as it stares up at Oswin. It's yellow gaze shifts, locking with your $eyecolor eyes. //Don't run.// "$mc, just hold your ground. If you turn or run, it may be compelled to go after you. I'll try to get it distracted from you…" You couldn't respond even if you had something to say. Your body remains frozen in terror as you stare into the eyes of the beast. //POP! CRACK!// The trees continue to strain more and more. The snaps do little to comfort or distract you. The wolf just stares. It doesn't growl or show its teeth, it just watches, perhaps trying to understand if you are food or a threat. You hear movement behind you, and you know Oswin is up to something. Finally, the wolf's gaze flickers away towards Oswin, but only in a moment of distraction. //POP!// //CRACK!// //POP, POP, POP!// //CRACK!// The forest is ''screaming''. Cold air clogs your throat. Your heart races. The wolf finally turns its full attention to Oswin, and you see a flash of fangs. Whatever he has done, has gotten the beast's ire. A low growl rumbles from its throat, intense enough that you feel it in your own chest. //POP! CRACK! CRACK!// //''SNAP!''// [[......|4.11a5]]

<html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">BOOM</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[The ground shifts.|4.11a6]]

You barely register what is happening at first. In an instant, you are falling as the ground beneath you suddenly lurches. The trees and brush continue to crack and snap apart. Your back hits the ground as Oswin screams your name and you realize that the trees around you are //moving//. Even the giant wolf seems taken by surprise, knocked off its feet and sliding close to you. A giant paw digs into the dirt close to your head as it tries to regain balance. The earth is being whisked away, and Oswin's frantic screaming is growing more distant by the moment. Your lantern is lost to you, but even in the shadow of the night you can tell what is happening - you are caught in a landslide. The trees, brush, and the very ground beneath you has given way. You hear the crashing of timber all around you as you feel yourself getting pulled into the mud as it begins its rush to lower ground. The giant animal struggles beside you, but regains footing on the shaky ground. Your eyes meet again, the yellow glow piercing your soul. [[It lunges at you.|4.a7]]

[[Dodge left.]] [[Lurch forward.]] <<timed 4s>><<goto "Dodge left.">><</timed>>

You fling your body to the side as the beast's huge jaws audibly snap at the air where you just were. The wolf is thrown off balance again as the forest floor begins to gain speed. It flounders, but manages to gain some control of its movement, its eyes honing in on yours as it immediately makes for you once again. The beast must be angry and confused in all the chaos, you must avoid it at all costs and keep your head above the rush of mud that keeps trying to pull you under. An entire tree - roots and all - tumbles past you, a wanton branch slapping across your cheek. Rocks and clods of mud smack into you as you grab onto anything that could pull you out of this or keep you from sinking. All you can do is flail and kick to latch on to bits of wood and debris that rush next to you before it's sucked under. You struggle to keep an eye on how close the wolf is and on what may hit you next. In the moonlight, you can see the outline of extremely large trees careening towards you fast, but there's nothing for you to grab on to, everything around you is moving too much. Panic begins to set in, but you almost don't have the wherewithal to comprehend it. The wolf reaches for you again, taking advantage of your distracted state. It narrowly misses you before getting sucked further into the mud and taking a brutal smack from a falling log. That may have been the very last of your luck. When you hear a roar coming from in front of you, you know it to be true. [[Everything stops sliding…and begins falling.|4.a8]]

You fling your body forward, getting a mouthful of dirt, but avoiding the beast's huge jaws as they audibly snap at the air where you just were. The wolf is thrown off balance again as the forest floor begins to gain speed. It flounders, but manages to gain some control of its movement, its eyes honing in on yours as it immediately makes for you once again. The beast must be angry and confused in all the chaos, you must avoid it at all costs and keep your head above the rush of mud that keeps trying to pull you under. An entire tree - roots and all - tumbles past you, a wanton branch slapping across your cheek. Rocks and clods of mud smack into you as you grab onto anything that could pull you out of this or keep you from sinking. All you can do is flail and kick to latch on to bits of wood and debris that rush next to you before it's sucked under. You struggle to keep an eye on how close the wolf is and on what may hit you next. In the moonlight, you can see the outline of extremely large trees careening towards you fast, but there's nothing for you to grab on to, everything around you is moving too much. Panic begins to set in, but you almost don't have the wherewithal to comprehend it. The wolf reaches for you again, taking advantage of your distracted state. It narrowly misses you before getting sucked further into the mud and taking a brutal smack from a falling log. That may have been the very last of your luck. When you hear a roar coming from in front of you, you know it to be true. [[Everything stops sliding…and begins falling.|4.a8]]

Suddenly you feel the absence of mud below your body and sense more air. You are struck by something and are sent careening into the midst of all the trees and rocks that are now falling into what you can only gather is a chasm. The sound is deafening and you are pelted mercilessly by endless bits of rubble. How will you survive this? You catch sight of one of the massive trees from before hurtling towards you. It may hit within seconds. You are right in its path. There's a chance you could latch onto another falling tree and be pulled to safety, or you can take your chances that the one rushing towards you won't stay its course. [[You must act fast if you want to survive.|4.a9]]

[[Grab onto another tree.]] [[Stay where you are.]] <<timed 3s>><<goto "Stay where you are.">><</timed>>

<<set $shoulderdislocate to true>> <<set $shoulderpuncture to false>> You make a desperate lunge and barely make it in time to clutch to a tree careening past you. You feel the skin on your palms tear as you desperately cling. Your right hand loses grip almost immediately. Your left hand holds fast for dear life as your saving grace yanks you along. Sharp agony ripples through your left shoulder as you hear it pop. The pain radiates down your arm so intensely that darkness begins to cloud your mind and you barely keep yourself conscious. The massive tree hurdles next to you. Your split second decision was a success, but it has cost you. You are still floundering in a veritable waterfall of mud, trees, and rock and have no idea what to do or how long you will fall. Everything has happened in just seconds, but it feels like hours. Unable to keep struggling with one arm to keep your head above the debris, you sink. This is the end. Your quest to save your life ends in your death - a broken arm and a lungful of mud - buried under a mountain. How poetic. Your vision waivers as you see a flash of white fur reflecting the moonlight. You suppose you'll add 'eaten by a monster' to your list. [[Everything goes dark.|4.a10]]

<<set $shoulderdislocate to false>> <<set $shoulderpuncture to true>> You'll know within seconds if your gamble has turned out in your favor. You brace. The tree huddles towards you until something knocks it off-kilter, sending it spinning. It's impossible to tell if this is better as it tumbles end over end towards you. Your chances of dodging out of the way are now gone. With terror in your heart you watch the tree… And it snaps apart. Most of it goes careening into the air, totally clear of you. The rest, a tangle of wood splinters and branches continues its rush directly to your location. Before you can process it, you are hit. Speared. Sharp agony ripples through your left shoulder as you hear the flesh and muscle tear. The pain radiates down your back so intensely that darkness begins to cloud your mind and you barely keep yourself conscious. Your breath is taken away. A large splinter of wood has run through your shoulder and is pushing you along in its descent in the landslide, and actually keeping you from getting sucked into the mud. Your split second decision was technically a success, but it has cost you. You are still floundering in the veritable waterfall of rock, trees, and earth and have no idea what to do or how long you will fall. Everything has happened in just seconds, but it feels like hours. But now you are pinned, skewered and bleeding, as you hurtle towards the ground at alarming speed. This is the end. Your quest to save your life ends in your death - a torn arm and a lungful of mud - buried under a mountain. How poetic. Your vision waivers as you see a flash of white fur reflecting the moonlight. You suppose you'll add 'eaten by a monster' to your list. [[Everything goes dark.|4.a10]]

All you smell is dirt. It isn't inherently a bad smell, but it's not generally to, under normal circumstances, //only// smell dirt. You feel…warm. You're warm, wrapped like you used to be as a child after a bath. Da and Papa used the softest things to keep you warm. Why would you smell dirt and feel so warm? ''Agony.'' Pain criss-crosses through every part of your body in a sudden wave. Your breath catches as you process the feeling. Why does everything hurt? //Where are you? What happened?// You hear water. Rushing water, you think. It's a babbling, happy sound compared to how you feel right now. You see… Nothing. Your eyes are still closed. It's a fight to open them, you will your mind to fully awaken. The pain makes it both easier and harder. As they flutter open, everything is blurry and your vision is sensitive. You sense sunlight and it makes you wince. You blink slowly to clear your sight. Your face is resting against the ground. You suppose you have found the source of the dirt smell. You continue to blink. Your eyes focus. You see something close to your face that isn't dirt. Something white and large. Something with claws. Your breath hitches again as you realize why you are so warm. A giant paw rests next to your head. Panic scurries up and down your spine. As you focus, you sense warmth on your back as well, and realize that you are very likely between the paws of the giant wolf you saw before the landslide. The memory comes rushing back to you. The menacing yellow glow of its eyes, the fall that knocked you around for who knows how long, getting your shoulder <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>dislocated<<else>>run through<</if>>. You finally understand where most of your pain is coming from. Now, the next concern you have is as to if the wolf is still alive. Was it some sort of luck that it kept you warm until now, or are you to function as a snack to help it recover from the tumble down the hillside. Do you even want to know? As you weigh the risks, the beast stirs, answering one of your questions. You keep your face to the ground as you sense it stand up. You'd swallow had you any saliva. The paw you see is just so massive that you can't believe it's real - white with big black claws - easily bigger than your entire head. Then, you feel it. The mouth of the beast presses close to the back of your neck. You feel the heat of its breath and your hair tussles as it sniffs at you. The fangs on this creature must be terrifying. You try not to think about it. If you managed to live through the landslide, you've got to fight to survive this as well. Trying not to dwell on your pain, you scuttle forward as quickly as you can manage, crawling with your one good arm as the other drags. You fall and turn on your back, using your legs to help push you further away. The pain makes you nearly faint again. [[The great wolf stands before you.|4.a11]]

Your muscles quiver from both fear and strain. The beast is just as large as you thought it was in the dark. It stands at least taller than your mount, but looks about like any other wolf you've seen. It's face, back, and tail are dappled with hues of grey and bits of brown, while its neck, legs and belly are mostly white. You see now that the eyes only looked yellow as they glowed in the dark, but are actually more akin to gold. It tilts its head at you curiously, but doesn't lunge to eat you as you imagined it might, though it licks its chops. You notice that there is dried blood marring the white fur around its legs and neck and you have a feeling at least some of it is yours.<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>> Given the state of your shoulder, it may all be from you. <</if>>It's fur is also fairly dirty, smeared with mud and leaves, but not caked in it like you'd imagine after such an event. That's when you notice you are also mostly free of mud. That doesn't make much sense. You were buried in it, you felt it cake your hair and skin. You look to the water. It's too big to be a steam, but it may be a small river. Did you land in it? How did you get out if you did? You look to the wolf as it still only stares at you. Would the beast have pulled you out? Did it intend to eat you and then fall asleep? That's when you notice the rest of your surroundings. At least you can see the wide open sky well above you; it appears to be early morning. You are deep in what may have been a colossal chasm, perhaps part of a cave system. The debris from the landslide is all around you, trees and huge walls of dirt and rock. You look up from where the land came down and find nothing but destruction. Where the hill was green and full of trees, it's is now just brown earth. It is painfully clear that you have fallen a very long way from where you started. Logs and whole trees jut out at every angle, some are in the river, which you now think may have been previously underground. The only way out is by the river or by scaling the walls and debris. With your injured shoulder, you are in no condition for swimming or climbing. [[You're trapped|4.a12]]

The beast huffs and then turns, beginning a trek up along the landslide. You watch as it navigates the fallen trees and rocks to find a secure way out, even climbing almost vertically in a way you never thought possible for a canine. And then, you're alone. It's hard to tell if this is better. The wolf had no interest in eating you - at least you think. What will you do now? You look at the river again. You need water. <<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>You should also wash your wound if you are able.<</if>> So, you make the agonizing trip to the river, quickly learning that your legs are very weak, so you must scoot slowly until you reach the water. You drink what you can, which helps steady the nausea that has slowly bubbled up since you awoke. <<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>You clean your wound as best you can, only to find there is still a large piece of wood all the way through your shoulder. The shock ripples through you as you feel it, nearly making you gag. If you can't get it out soon, it will get infected, if it isn't already.<<else>>You do your best to make a sling from the scraps of cloth you can tear from your clothing. Your cloak is long gone, probably buried. Making the sling with one arm is a challenge, but you manage with the help of your teeth. Getting your arm in it is excruciating. Your anguished cries bounce off the walls of the cavern and back at you.<</if>> You wheeze you as you breathe.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> You know that you have a broken rib or two, if you are lucky, they are only dislocated.<</if>> Bruises litter your entire body. Not a single muscle on you is without soreness. Before you can start making any plans or even consider how you feel… [[You spot the wolf again.|4.a13]]

It's coming back into the chasm the way it left, but it has something large in its mouth. It looks like brush. You scoff, but immediately regret it as the action shoots pain through you. Perhaps the beast has brought a salad to pair with its meal? Much to your alarm, it does approach you, and you see that the tangle of brush in its mouth is a bush. An entire bush, roots and all. You use what strength you still have in your legs to push yourself up a slight hill created by the landslide mud, frantically trying to keep a distance from the beast as it nears you. It stands away as it watches you before breaching the gap. Though you managed to wiggle quite a ways up the slope, you are not out of reach. In fact, you have only succeeded in putting yourself level with its mouth. Holding your breath, you lock eyes with the wolf, seeing variations of gold colors flecked within the irises. The pupils dilate, and you nearly see your reflection within them. Just when you fear that you are indeed the main course for a meal, it sets the bush down and backs away, retreating to the river and taking a seat. You can't help the confused sneer that takes over your face. Looking down at the bush, you realize that it is full of young berries. You study the fruit, they're oblong in shape and blue, but they're not blueberries.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> You would recognize honeyberries anywhere. You use them in your own work to help patients with chronic pain. They grow easily and are ready very early in the season.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>> You would recognize honeyberries anywhere. You use them in your own work as it is a local favorite for pies. They grow easily and are ready very early in the season.<</if>> You've seen your da use these to make jam before. They taste wonderful as well, similar to other berries but slightly more tart. They are still early in development, but they appear ripe enough to eat at least. Taking a few of the ripest berries, you eye the wolf. It tilts its head and thumps its tail once against the ground. Once you pop the berries in your mouth, its tail thumps a few more times. Did this beast actually just feed you? <<if $interest is 'healin'>>Could it know that these may help alleviate some of your pain? Surely not…<</if>> You continue picking through the bush. Once your stomach receives the food, it demands even more. Despite how much pain you're in, you need the energy badly and can't afford to not eat your fill. The wolf watches you, and you briefly catch yourself wondering if it is stuffing you like one would a pastry before eating. [[Keep a wary eye on the beast.|4.a13a]] [[Toss a few berries and see if it eats them.|4.a13b]]

The fact that you are eating berries given to you by a wolf of giant proportions is miracle enough, you do not need to tempt fate any further. You eat in silence, keeping an eye on the beast. It waits in equal silence, watching you back. It tips its head side to side on occasion and stretches out its neck to sniff at the air, but makes no movements toward you. After some time, the wolf relaxes and lays down, turning its head to watch the river instead. Perhaps you've reached an understanding? You relax as well after your meal, feeling the pull of sleep and the weight of pain settle in. You look around you in the hopes that you will spot an easy way out or even one of your traveling companions looking down on you. You don't even know where to begin. You look at the wolf again. It still appears content to just lay by the river. You need to do //something// to get out of this. The longer you wait, the weaker you will become. If you can at least get an idea of how you can get out, you should get to it soon. The wolf then rolls onto its back and looks at you upside down while its tail wags. It reminds you of the dogs back home, until the wolf's jowls flop out, and you can see its tremendously long fangs. [[Jokingly ask the wolf if it knows a way out for you.|4.a13a1]] [[Get down and start searching for a way out.|4.a13a2]]

Using your good arm, you pluck a few berries and make eye contact with the wolf. It tilts its head. As you wind-up your arm to throw, it stands, tail beginning to wag. You toss the berries with all the might you can muster and the wolf bounds forward to catch them. Is it tame? It licks its chops and stares at you, front two paws prancing - so you toss a few more - which it catches easily again. The wolf gets closer. You toss a few berries. It creeps even closer until...it is eating from your hand. It's tame. There's no other explanation you can think of. It stares at you and its tail wags. [[Pet it.|4.13b1]] [[Leave it be and don't press your luck.|4.13b2]]

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. It's so fuzzy and it seems friendly. At least, it hasn't eaten you yet. You nearly died, and you may still… You've got to try to pet this creature. You reach a hand out slowly. The beast watches your eyes instead of the hand for a moment. You try to not dwell on just how large its fangs are. You freeze your hand a small ways from its snout. It turns to study it before pressing a cold wet nose against your palm. You gasp. Slowly working your hand up the ridge of its snout, you feel the soft fur. The wolf gets closer so you can dig your fingers into the plushness of its head, ears, and neck. It doesn't push hard and seems to be careful to not hurt you. You pet it and admire its coat for a bit, noticing that it has a gold ring through part of its right ear, hidden in plush fur - almost like jewelry. "You must be someone's pet," you rasp, shocked by how weak your voice is. The wolf grunts. [[Such a pretty and sweet creature deserves some praise.|4.13b1a]] [[You simply thank the wolf.|4.13b1b]]

You might be getting just a little too friendly with the creature. It seems tame enough, and may even be someone's pet. But, if nothing else, it isn't //your// pet. You've made friendly for now, but you shouldn't keep pushing. The wolf whines at you, so you throw it another berry. Its jaws snap around it, showing off tremendous fangs. It was an impulse to feed it again, one that you probably should have ignored. The wolf noses at you again, nuzzling your leg. "You know," you begin and then need to clear your throat. Your voice is croaky and weak. "You know, you brought me these. If you wanted some, you should have eaten first. You pop a berry into your own mouth. The wolf watches intently with perky ears. "I guess I should be thankful that you're not eating me instead…" The creature grunts at you and wags its tail. [[You thank the wolf.|4.13b1b]]

"Thank you, my gorgeous friend," you croak out. "Guess I should thank you for not eating me as well." You scratch behind one of its huge ears. The wolf seems to groan at the touch, leaning forward. "You are so soft…and sweet. My papa would love you. He's big, like you, bigger than most people. And he's kind, also like you." You nearly choke up. "My da would have a fit if I brought you home, but he'd feed you good food. And…he'd tell me no, we can't keep you, and then in just a night or two…you'd be curled up with us by the fire after dinner." You take a deep breath, flinching as pain lances up your sides. The wolf whines and gently licks your arm with the tip of its tongue. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I don't suppose you know a way I can get out of here with only one arm, do you?"<<else>>"How keen are you on keeping me as a pet for a while? You can bring me berries each day until I heal up enough to get out of here."<</if>> The wolf snorts, moving out of reach, before turning so you are facing its side and looking down on its back, and then it leans against your hilly perch. You stare. Does it want you to scratch its back now? It grunts, tail wagging quickly as it pushes closer to you. It dawns on you. This creature is incredibly smart. It brought you food already and is very friendly, and now it's showing you its back... [[It wants you to hop on.|4.14]]

You smile at the huge beast. "Thank you," you croak out. "You've helped me a lot." The wolf snorts and its tail wags. "You are so sweet. My papa would love you. He's big, like you, bigger than most people. And he's kind, also like you." You nearly choke up. "My da would have a fit if I brought you home, but he'd feed you good food. And…he'd tell me no, we can't keep you, and then in just a night or two…you'd be curled up with us by the fire after dinner." You take a deep breath, flinching as pain lances up your sides. The wolf whines and gently licks your leg with the tip of its tongue. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I don't suppose you know a way I can get out of here with only one arm, do you?"<<else>>"How keen are you on keeping me as a pet for a while? You can bring me berries each day until I heal up enough to get out of here."<</if>> The wolf snorts, moving out of reach, before turning so you are facing its side and looking down on its back, and then it leans against your hilly perch. You stare. Does it want you to scratch its back? It grunts, tail wagging quickly as it pushes closer to you. It dawns on you. This creature is incredibly smart. It brought you food already and is very friendly and now it's showing you its back. [[It wants you to hop on.|4.14]]

You suppose this isn't the strangest thing that has happened to you in the last day…or maybe it is. This creature is almost frighteningly smart, and you are certain that someone or //something// must keep it as a companion. You think of Nathan and Dainn. The giant elk is pretty intelligent as well, maybe it's a running theme with abnormally large animals? This may be your only chance to get out of this ravine. The wolf has made it as easy as possible for you, though this will not feel pleasant. You will have to jostle yourself onto its back with one very painful arm out of commission. You begin by sliding closer, putting the brunt of strain onto your legs. Everything hurts, but when your shoulder is moved the slightest bit, pain erupts. You grit your teeth as you shimmy carefully to the wolf's back. You're breathing hard from strain and the tenderness that was pummeled into your body. Once your legs have nearly straddled your ride, you have no choice but to use your body weight to lurch yourself the rest of the way. You thump against the wolf's plush fur and immediately cry out. Your eyes water and you feel nauseated. The pulse in your wounded shoulder thumps angrily. You hold on tightly with your good hand as the pain slowly fades, cursing under your breath as much as you can. The beast stays still until you've calmed. The wolf stands very slowly. You try to sit up, but your muscles quake.<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>> Fresh blood has spattered upon the fur of the wolf where you landed.<</if>> You simply won't be able to. The pain and weakness are too great. You carefully lay yourself down, gripping with your right hand and burying your chest and head against the back of the beast. It slowly makes a path up the landslide. [[The journey brings you more pain.|4.15]]

"I don't suppose you can get me out of here, yeah?" Your voice is croaky and weak, but the wolf's ears perk and it flips around at the sound. "Perhaps a hidden staircase? Better yet a ramp. Maybe a pulley system…" The wolf snorts. And then begins to approach you. "Easy…whoa, whoa - I was just kidding." You try to scoot further back on your little hill, but your legs are very weak. It gets close, its face coming right to your knees. You hold your breath. All it does is gently nose at your leg. With a grunt, it turns to show you its side and back and leans on the hill. "What?" The wolf whines, pressing further into the dirt next to your feet as its tail wags furiously. It dawns on you. This creature is incredibly smart. It brought you food already and is displaying very friendly behavior, and now it's showing you its back. [[It wants you to hop on.|4.14]]

As long as the giant creature keeps away from you, as it seems want to do, you feel that you can start looking around. You take a moment to work up the nerve to leave your perch. Between the possible threat of the giant predator in front of you and the extreme pain racking your body, it's not easy. You begin a slow shuffle only to slide a little too fast and howl in pain. From the wolf also comes a quiet little howl in response. You'd find it almost cute if you weren't suffering so. You try to cradle your arm, but that just sends more pain through you. You freeze in your spot and try to breathe through it. The wolf hops up and approaches. You struggle to regain the ground you lost in your slide, wincing as pain demands that you stop moving. It gets close, its face coming right to your knees. You hold your breath. All it does is gently nose at your leg. With a grunt, it turns to show you its side and back and leans on the hill. The wolf whines, pressing further into the dirt next to your feet as its tail wags furiously. It dawns on you. This creature is incredibly smart. It brought you food already and is displaying very friendly behavior, and now it's showing you its back. [[It wants you to hop on.|4.14]]

Even with the slow and careful steps from the wolf, your shoulder is jostled. You are no longer surprised at how intelligent the creature is by now, but it is still impressive how it seems to pick through the rubble to find the most gentle path. When it had left before to bring you food, it had trod up quickly and easily, making great leaps with impressive speed. Now, it plods along, keeping its back straight and still for you. The pain still takes your breath away. When it becomes intense and you call out, the wolf halts. You hear a low whine come from its throat at times. Perhaps it has taken you as one of its pups and feels empathetic. Each time, after giving you a moment to recover, it begins the trek again very slowly. The journey up the ravine feels longer than the many days you have spent on the road thus far. At the top, when you see forest once again, you are spent. You feel as though you were the one hiking and navigating the steep slope. Your skin feels clammy, and you are definitely nauseated. <<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>More blood coats your clothing and the wolf's fur. The pain from the wound radiates down the arm and up into your neck and down your back. You think you can feel individual splinters of wood inside the muscle.<<else>>Your arm is painfully useless. Any movement, no matter how small, is excruciating. The sling helps immobilize to a degree as does supporting it between your torso and the wolf's back, but your arm is still almost lifeless. You try not to dwell on how ragged and loose the appendage feels.<</if>> And you try your best to not vomit over your savior's beautiful coat. You can't even try to sit up again. As the ground levels out much more, you rest and just let the wolf take you wherever it wants. You are so tired and in so much pain, that if it decided to eat you now, you're not sure if you'd even fight it. [[You rest.|4.16]]

You may have lost consciousness at some point, but it's hard to tell. Awareness is intermittent and you ponder if you are so exhausted that you are falling asleep despite the pain. The wolf still walks slowly, still plotting a course that avoids steep angles. You feel your mount moving, but you're not sure at any moment if you're awake or dreaming. After battling the exhaustion you begin willing yourself to stay alert. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>Little encouragements run through your mind. You think of small comforts, and remind yourself that you are not done yet and it will get better.<<else>>You bolster your resolve by telling yourself these things are temporary. You just have to keep going. You'll survive this, you have already come through the impossible and survived.<</if>> You //will// get through this. You suddenly realize that you can hear voices. You consider a moment that you have lost your mind to the pain, but these voices sound distinctly like Oswin and Zahn - arguing. It's definitely them. Unsure as to if the wolf is intending to return you or not, you try to tell it that they are your friends, but you only succeed in groaning. The wolf wimpers back. Maybe your groans have translated. You try to listen to the argument, and suddenly realize just how silent the wolf's steps are. Now that you think about it, you don't recall much noise at all from the giant beast as it moves. No wonder it went unnoticed before. Panic nearly sets in as you realize both Zahn and Oswin will likely have their bows out after what transpired. "Wait…" Your voice is a wheeze. "Wait, Wolfy - hey!" You tap its shoulder with your good hand. "Stop." It stops. "My friends are armed…let me down so they don't hurt you. Can you understand me?" You try to sit up, but the wolf grunts and keeps walking. "Can you understand?" You groan. "Why am I asking you? Do I really expect you to talk back to me or something? I've lost it…" You pause for a moment and listen. Part of you, as you admit it to yourself, really does want the wolf to speak back to you. It doesn't. A disappointed sigh escapes you. The voices get louder for a time and then suddenly stop. They've spotted the wolf. You try to wave with your good hand, but you have little leverage since you can't sit up. Your voice is still very weak. "Shit! Shit!" Zahn yells. "Will you calm yourself!" Oswin calls back. "Draw on it, but don't make any more damn noise, you idiot!" You weakly call Oswin's name, but you have no way of knowing if he hears you. The wolf stops. "Why is it just standing there!?" Zahn again. $Zcapitalheshe is panicked. "Oh sweet Faith...did it…" $Zcapitalheshe sounds choked up. "Oswin, did it eat, $mc?<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>> There's blood on its fur!<</if>>" "Shut up and hold your arrow unless I say. It approached calmly, I don't think it will attack." You hear the ting of Oswin's blade. The wolf's muscles go taut, but it doesn't back down. After a moment, it begins to walk forward again, very slowly. Your heart is beating hard as you continue to try and wave at your companions. "Oh //shit//," Oswin says. You get the sense that you've been spotted. You try to call hello, but your voice seizes. Your throat is incredibly dry. You hear steps quickly approaching, but the wolf emits a long and low growl. It is so intense that you feel it throughout your body. "It's okay," Oswin says. "I understand…" Zahn's panicked voice sounds next. "What in the name of the Stars are you doing? What if it attacks you!? Oswin! //Oswin//!" You hear the blade hit the ground, and the wolf relaxes. "It's okay. I'm sorry. Can I have my friend back, please?" You hear a shuffling step. The wolf huffs and begins to move. Very slowly, it lays down. [[You've been safely delivered back to your friends.|4.17]]

"$mc?" Oswin's shaky voice calls to you. You move your head towards his voice and wave your hand. "Oh gods, you're alive." You hear his steps quicken but the wolf snaps in response. "It's okay," you soothe. Oswin reaches you with slower steps. "$mc…$mc. I'm so…" He takes a deep, stuttering breath. "Oswin, my left shoulder is badly hurt," you say as you sense his hands trying to find the most gentle way to pull you from your mount. "Brace yourself. I will pull you off and set you on the ground so we can look at it." Oswin gets a firm but gentle hold of you. Using your good arm, you try to support your wounded one. You feel him tug and your vision goes black. "It's okay, it's okay - it'll be over soon. Stay with me!" Oswin calls. You're screaming before you can even fully process the pain. The sound is cracked and raw, but it is all you can do. Your eyes water. Once you are settled on the ground for a few moments, the intensity of the pain begins to lessen. "I've got you," Zahn says. You feel a tingle up and down your back - it's soothing. You nearly weep in relief. "I can ebb the pain with my magic." $Zcapitalheshe meets your eyes. "Just give it a few moments and it will all settle. We'll fix you up." Sure enough, in a matter of minutes the pain is tolerable, and you can even sit up. Your vision clears. The wolf is still close, but standing now. It seems to be hovering protectively close to you, and your companions seem nervous about it. "What about the wolf, Oswin?" Zahn whispers. "I don't know. I've never seen such a beast. It doesn't seem to mean any harm, but I think we should get $mc out of here and away from it." Zahn shakes $Zhisher head. "$mc needs treatment //now//. It will only get worse if we wait." "Aren't you the one who is terrified of wolves? If that creature turns on us, we are all dead." "Did it just deliver our missing friend to complete the set before it had a snack? You thick-headed bull!" Oswin growls, sounding remarkably similar to the wolf. "I am ''not'' getting into this with you now. You've been nothing but difficult since last night." "I wanted $mc back, and now we have $himher. I'm sorry for being…upset, but I think this is best - we treat the wound now. $mc is already in so much pain, we can't keep jostling $himher around." You grumble. "The wolf has been taking care of me, we're safe." Oswin guffaws. "This isn't a normal wolf, I am not hanging around it any longer than we have to. You are clearly delirious." You swat his hand as he tries to feel your forehead. "I have been through death and back - do //not// even begin to tell me what I am or am not right now, Oswin Twinflower." He sighs and then goes silent for a moment. "I'm sorry. That was wrong of me, but I insist. Zahn will support you with magic, and I will lift you." Zahn stomps a foot. "We treat $himher //here//." [[The slow buildup of laughter sounds behind you.|4.18]]

You all freeze. The laugh is low and unnatural. A shiver travels up your spine as you realize that it's coming from the wolf. It plods slowly into view, the growl-like laugh picking up as it faces you all. Oswin frantically reaches for his sword, only to discover that it still lays upon the ground a ways away. Likewise, Zahn has set $Zhisher bow just out of reach. "Wolfy?" You try. "Can you actually understand us?" The creature is your friend, right? The wolf's lips curl up, but it doesn't seem to be a snarl. It's a smile. The gold eyes of the wolf begin to glow. Tendrils of light flow from them and travel all across the body of the wolf in wanton lines that wrap all around it. The light is bright enough that you flinch away for a moment. When you look back, the wolf is gone… In its stead is… [[A man.|4.19a]] [[A woman.|4.19b]]

<> <<set $Dgen to 'male'>> <<set $Dheshe to 'he'>> <<set $Dcapitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $Dhisher to 'his'>> <<set $Dcapitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $Dhimher to 'him'>> <<set $Dcapitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $Dhishers to 'his'>> <<set $Dcapitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $Dhimselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $Dcapitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $Dmanwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $Dsondtrchild to 'son'>> <> A completely naked man. He smiles cheekily at you and cocks his head to one side. "I can, little <<if $mark is 'tree'>>sapling.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>sunbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>rain-cloud.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>bramble.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>moonbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>stone.<</if>>" That's when you suddenly realize that not all of his wolfish features have gone. At the sides of his head are two fuzzy prick ears. His smile is framed by fangs too long to be fully human. A fluffy tail twitches from behind him, and his long delicate fingers end in short black claws. As he walks closer, his long grey hair cascades over his shoulders to the middle of his abdomen, offset by his warm beige complexion. You notice that the gold and glowing eyes of the wolf have shifted into a sweet honey-brown. His ears twitch as you stare - as //all// of you stare. And you finally notice that the right ear has a gold earring close to its point, but the other is missing the flesh where the matching earring would go. Both Zahn and Oswin are at a loss for words. He runs his sharp claws through his hair, highlighting how the silky strands slip easily through his fingers. "I'd still be happy to carry you on my back…Though, I'd be agreeable should you like to cling to my front instead." He drags his hands down his torso, stroking his toned chest and abdomen as they migrate further below. [[You keep your eyes on his.|4.19a1][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You resist looking where he wants you to (even though you're interested)|4.19a2][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[If he's offering, you're looking.|4.19a3][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You smart off.|4.19a4][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]]

<> <<set $Dgen to 'female'>> <<set $Dheshe to 'she'>> <<set $Dcapitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $Dhisher to 'her'>> <<set $Dcapitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $Dhimher to 'her'>> <<set $Dcapitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $Dhishers to 'hers'>> <<set $Dcapitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $Dhimselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $Dcapitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $Dmanwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $Dsondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <> A completely naked woman. She smiles cheekily at you and cocks her head to one side. "I can, little <<if $mark is 'tree'>>sapling.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>sunbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>rain-cloud.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>bramble.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>moonbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>stone.<</if>>" That's when you suddenly realize that not all of her wolfish features have gone. At the sides of her head are two fuzzy prick ears. Her smile is framed by fangs too long to be fully human. A fluffy tail twitches from behind her, and her long delicate fingers end in short black claws. As she walks closer, her long grey hair cascades over her shoulders to the middle of her abdomen, offset by her warm beige complexion. You notice that the gold and glowing eyes of the wolf have shifted into a sweet honey-brown. Her ears twitch as you stare - as //all// of you stare. And you finally notice that one ear has a gold earring close to its point, but the other is missing the flesh where the matching earring would go. Both Zahn and Oswin are at a loss for words. She runs her sharp claws through her hair, highlighting how the silky strands slip easily through her fingers. "I'd still be happy to carry you on my back…Though, I'd be agreeable should you like to cling to my front instead." She drags her hands down her abdomen, stroking her plump chest and toned abdomen as they migrate further below. [[You keep your eyes on hers.|4.19b1][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You resist looking where she wants you to (even though you're interested).|4.19b2][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[If she's offering, you're looking.|4.19b3][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You smart off.|4.19b4][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]]

You've been through quite enough in less than a day, and you're not going to play this game with a forward stranger. Even if that stranger fed you berries and gave you a ride back to your friends. And is also a wolf. Your heart suddenly flickers. What //is// he then? You get a wolfish grin in return, and Oswin moves in front of you with a dagger in hand. "Get back, beast!" Oswin bellows. The wolf-person gives an exaggerated gasp. "//Beast//!?" Oswin holds the knife up. The stranger doesn't seem worried in the slightest. "Now, your little friend behind you is very alluring, but I quite like your pretty eyes and grumpy face too. Ooh, and look at //you//." The man turns towards Zahn. "Very cute. I feel like I have truly been blessed with a bountiful harvest." "Harvest?" you murmur. "Yes," the stranger replies. "A feast for my eyes." He winks at you. Oswin doesn't relent or move. "I know what you are, and you can't interfere with us - be on your way." "Can't I?" the wolf asks in challenge. "Sweet pup, I already have." "Oswin?" you ask. "What do you mean?" "It's okay, $mc…He's…a god, he can't hurt us...I'm pretty sure." Zahn kneels next to you, and you feel a swell of $Zhisher magic providing you more relief. "I don't care what you are, but our friend is hurt - can you help?" Oswin groans. "Absolutely not, I don't trust this creature - it's up to something." The wolf sighs. "I'm not up to anything - in fact I'm quite bored. All the poachers are too scared of me to come into the forest and play anymore. And - I'm not an //it// you dense twit - nor am I a //creature//. My name is Duri'naan, but please call me Duri. I am a demigod, if it pleases you, but please hold your worship even if it may be difficult." Zahn chimes, "It's nice to meet you Duri! I'm Zahn!" "Enchanted, Zahn - glad one of you cute things has some manners. Now, I caught $mc's name earlier and yours as well, Oswin. Let's all play nice. I swear that I will not harm you without reason. Play nice with me, and I will not bite unless you request." Oswin drops his knife and groans. "Why in blazes would anyone ask you to bite them?" Duri raises an eyebrow. "Oh sweet mother, you are adorable." He chuckles. "Now! We really should help your friend, poor $mc has been through a lot." Dropping to your side, Oswin peers over your shoulder. "<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>We need to pull the debris from the wound and get you cleaned up.<<else>>We need to reset your shoulder and get your arm in a proper sling.<</if>> It won't be pleasant, but the sooner we take care of it the better." Zahn scoots closer. "I can help manage the pain for you, but I'm not strong enough to take it away completely." "I can help with that." Duri chimes in. You and Zahn give him your attention as Oswin sneers. "My magic, as you can clearly see, is a bit different from most. But since our pretty blue-eyed friend here seems to be gifted in manipulating magic - I can give $Zhimher a boost. I lend you raw power and you direct it where it needs to be - simple yeah?" Duri nods triumphantly. Oswin makes to interject when Duri interrupts. "Before you shit your pants about it, I won't need to touch your precious cargo, swordsman - only Zahn. Don't get all prickly - if I wanted to hurt any of you - I would." [[With a heavy sigh, Oswin relents.|4.20]]

<<set $Dflirt +=5>> Your eyes nearly tick down to take in the rest of the beautiful stranger, wavering from his gaze for a moment. You get the sense that he knows that you're tempted as his almond-shaped eyes narrow in delight. Perhaps it is unwise to accept such a clear invitation from a stranger. Even if that stranger fed you berries and gave you a ride back to your friends. And is also a wolf. Your heart suddenly flickers. What //is// he then? You get a wolfish grin in return, and Oswin moves in front of you with a dagger in hand. "Get back, beast!" Oswin bellows. The wolf-person gives an exaggerated gasp. "//Beast//!?" Oswin holds the knife up. The stranger doesn't seem worried in the slightest. "Now, your little friend behind you is very alluring, but I quite like your pretty eyes and grumpy face too. Ooh, and look at //you//." The man turns towards Zahn. "Very cute. I feel like I have truly been blessed with a bountiful harvest." "Harvest?" you murmur. "Yes," the stranger replies. "A feast for my eyes." He winks at you. Oswin doesn't relent or move. "I know what you are, and you can't interfere with us - be on your way." "Can't I?" the wolf asks in challenge. "Sweet pup, I already have." "Oswin?" you ask. "What do you mean?" "It's okay, $mc…He's…a god, he can't hurt us...I'm pretty sure." Zahn kneels next to you, and you feel a swell of $Zhisher magic providing you more relief. "I don't care what you are, but our friend is hurt - can you help?" Oswin groans. "Absolutely not, I don't trust this creature - it's up to something." The wolf sighs. "I'm not up to anything - in fact I'm quite bored. All the poachers are too scared of me to come into the forest and play anymore. And - I'm not an //it// you dense twit - nor am I a //creature//. My name is Duri'naan, but please call me Duri. I am a demigod, if it pleases you, but please hold your worship even if may be difficult." Zahn chimes, "It's nice to meet you Duri! I'm Zahn!" "Enchanted, Zahn - glad one of you cute things has some manners. Now, I caught $mc's name earlier and yours as well, Oswin. Let's all play nice. I swear that I will not harm you without reason. Play nice with me, and I will not bite unless you request." Oswin drops his knife and groans. "Why in blazes would anyone ask you to bite them?" Duri raises an eyebrow. "Oh sweet mother, you are adorable." He chuckles. "Now! We really should help your friend, poor $mc has been through a lot." Dropping to your side, Oswin peers over your shoulder. "<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>We need to pull the debris from the wound and get you cleaned up.<<else>>We need to reset your shoulder and get your arm in a proper sling.<</if>> It won't be pleasant, but the sooner we take care of it the better." Zahn scoots closer. "I can help manage the pain for you, but I'm not strong enough to take it away completely." "I can help with that." Duri chimes in. You and Zahn give him your attention as Oswin sneers. "My magic, as you can clearly see, is a bit different from most. But since our pretty blue-eyed friend here seems to be gifted in manipulating magic - I can give $Zhimher a boost. I lend you raw power and you direct it where it needs to be - simple yeah?" Duri nods triumphantly. Oswin makes to interject when Duri interrupts. "Before you shit your pants about it, I won't need to touch your precious cargo, swordsman - only Zahn. Don't get all prickly - if I wanted to hurt any of you - I would." [[With a heavy sigh, Oswin relents.|4.20]]

<<set $Dflirt +=5>> He wants you to look? Fine. You follow his hands as they work across his pelvis and down his hips to the tops of his thighs. A trail of thin dark grey hair leads to and outlines his member. You suddenly realize why he seems so proud of it. Considering that it's flaccid, it's quite…striking, which isn't a term you ever thought you'd use for a penis. With hands back at the top of his hips, he sways slightly. You feel your face heat watching the impressive package begin to move. His sac is quite…proportional. He clears his throat and you snap your gaze away to stare at the ground, wondering if you should worry if the other two noticed your staring. You try to keep your gaze turned away, but inevitably look up to see your savior looking at you, his tongue - unusually long - darts out to wet his lips. Perhaps it is unwise to accept such a clear invitation from a stranger. Even if that stranger fed you berries and gave you a ride back to your friends. And is also a wolf. Your heart suddenly flickers. What //is// he then? You get a wolfish grin in return, and Oswin moves in front of you with a dagger in hand. "Get back, beast!" Oswin bellows. The wolf-person gives an exaggerated gasp. "//Beast//!?" Oswin holds the knife up. The stranger doesn't seem worried in the slightest. "Now, your little friend behind you is very alluring, but I quite like your pretty eyes and grumpy face too. Ooh, and look at //you//." The man turns towards Zahn. "Very cute. I feel like I have truly been blessed with a bountiful harvest." "Harvest?" you murmur. "Yes," the stranger replies. "A feast for my eyes." He winks at you. Oswin doesn't relent or move. "I know what you are, and you can't interfere with us - be on your way." "Can't I?" the wolf asks in challenge. "Sweet pup, I already have." "Oswin?" you ask. "What do you mean?" "It's okay, $mc…He's…a god, he can't hurt us...I'm pretty sure." Zahn kneels next to you, and you feel a swell of $Zhisher magic providing you more relief. "I don't care what you are, but our friend is hurt - can you help?" Oswin groans. "Absolutely not, I don't trust this creature - it's up to something." The wolf sighs. "I'm not up to anything - in fact I'm quite bored. All the poachers are too scared of me to come into the forest and play anymore. And - I'm not an //it// you dense twit - nor am I a //creature//. My name is Duri'naan, but please call me Duri. I am a demigod, if it pleases you, but please hold your worship even if may be difficult." Zahn chimes, "It's nice to meet you Duri! I'm Zahn!" "Enchanted, Zahn - glad one of you cute things has some manners. Now, I caught $mc's name earlier and yours as well, Oswin. Let's all play nice. I swear that I will not harm you without reason. Play nice with me, and I will not bite unless you request." Oswin drops his knife and groans. "Why in blazes would anyone ask you to bite them?" Duri raises an eyebrow. "Oh sweet mother, you are adorable." He chuckles. "Now! We really should help your friend, poor $mc has been through a lot." Dropping to your side, Oswin peers over your shoulder. "<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>We need to pull the debris from the wound and get you cleaned up.<<else>>We need to reset your shoulder and get your arm in a proper sling.<</if>> It won't be pleasant, but the sooner we take care of it the better." Zahn scoots closer. "I can help manage the pain for you, but I'm not strong enough to take it away completely." "I can help with that." Duri chimes in. You and Zahn give him your attention as Oswin sneers. "My magic, as you can clearly see, is a bit different from most. But since our pretty blue-eyed friend here seems to be gifted in manipulating magic - I can give $Zhimher a boost. I lend you raw power and you direct it where it needs to be - simple yeah?" Duri nods triumphantly. Oswin makes to interject when Duri interrupts. "Before you shit your pants about it, I won't need to touch your precious cargo, swordsman - only Zahn. Don't get all prickly - if I wanted to hurt any of you - I would." [[With a heavy sigh, Oswin relents.|4.20]]

"Trust me, I've seen better," you spit, rolling your eyes for good measure. The look of pure shock is almost enough to let you smile through the pain in your shoulder. But, much to your chagrin, his face lights up with mirth right after. He turns his gaze to Oswin. "Was it his?" Oswin chokes. The stranger smiles and nods excitedly. "Yeah, he looks like he'd have a great-" You groan loudly. <<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>"Hmm…maybe…do you two have a thing? Are you lovers?" The man rubs his hands together as if getting in on a juicy secret.<</if>> "That is quite enough!" Oswin yells. "$mc has been through enough." He is more than right, you've been through it all in less than a day, and you're not going to play this game with a forward stranger. Even if that stranger fed you berries and gave you a ride back to your friends. And is also a wolf. Your heart suddenly flickers. What //is// he then? You get a wolfish grin in return, and Oswin moves in front of you with a dagger in hand. "Get back, beast!" Oswin bellows. The wolf-person gives an exaggerated gasp. "//Beast//!? After I tried to compliment your-" Oswin holds the knife up. The stranger doesn't seem worried in the slightest. "Now, your little friend behind you is very alluring, but I quite like your pretty eyes and grumpy face too. Ooh, and look at //you//." The man turns towards Zahn. "Very cute. I feel like I have truly been blessed with a bountiful harvest." "Harvest?" you murmur. "Yes," the stranger replies. "A feast for my eyes." He winks at you. Oswin doesn't relent or move. "I know what you are, and you can't interfere with us - be on your way." "Can't I?" the wolf asks in challenge. "Sweet pup, I already have." "Oswin?" you ask. "What do you mean?" "It's okay, $mc…He's…a god, he can't hurt us...I'm pretty sure." Zahn kneels next to you, and you feel a swell of $Zhisher magic providing you more relief. "I don't care what you are, but our friend is hurt - can you help?" Oswin groans. "Absolutely not, I don't trust this creature - it's up to something." The wolf sighs. "I'm not up to anything - in fact I'm quite bored. All the poachers are too scared of me to come into the forest and play anymore. And - I'm not an //it// you dense twit - nor am I a //creature//. My name is Duri'naan, but please call me Duri. I am a demigod, if it pleases you, but please hold your worship even if it may be difficult." Zahn chimes, "It's nice to meet you Duri! I'm Zahn!" "Enchanted, Zahn - glad one of you cute things has some manners. Now, I caught $mc's name earlier and yours as well, Oswin. Let's all play nice. I swear that I will not harm you without reason. Play nice with me, and I will not bite unless you request." Oswin drops his knife and groans. "Why in blazes would anyone ask you to bite them?" Duri raises an eyebrow. "Oh sweet mother, you are adorable." He chuckles. "Now! We really should help your friend, poor $mc has been through a lot." You roll your eyes. Demigod or no, this person may need a good bap on the nose. Dropping to your side, Oswin peers over your shoulder. "<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>We need to pull the debris from the wound and get you cleaned up.<<else>>We need to reset your shoulder and get your arm in a proper sling.<</if>> It won't be pleasant, but the sooner we take care of it the better." Zahn scoots closer. "I can help manage the pain for you, but I'm not strong enough to take it away completely." "I can help with that." Duri chimes in. You and Zahn give him your attention as Oswin sneers. "My magic, as you can clearly see, is a bit different from most. But since our pretty blue-eyed friend here seems to be gifted in manipulating magic - I can give $Zhimher a boost. I lend you raw power and you direct it where it needs to be - simple yeah?" Duri nods triumphantly. Oswin makes to interject when Duri interrupts. "Before you shit your pants about it, I won't need to touch your precious cargo, swordsman - only Zahn. Don't get all prickly - if I wanted to hurt any of you - I would.<<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>> The most you'll need to worry about is me stealing $hisher heart.<</if>>" You have a feeling your eyes are going to get stuck with how often you'll be rolling them. [[With a heavy sigh and a grumble, Oswin relents.|4.20]]

You've been through quite enough in less than a day, and you're not going to play this game with a forward stranger. Even if that stranger fed you berries and gave you a ride back to your friends. And is also a wolf. Your heart suddenly flickers. What //is// she then? You get a wolfish grin in return, and Oswin moves in front of you with a dagger in hand. "Get back, beast!" Oswin bellows. The wolf-person gives an exaggerated gasp. "//Beast//!?" Oswin holds the knife up. The stranger doesn't seem worried in the slightest. "Now, your little friend behind you is very alluring, but I quite like your pretty eyes and grumpy face too. Ooh, and look at //you//." The woman turns towards Zahn. "Very cute. I feel like I have truly been blessed with a bountiful harvest." "Harvest?" you murmur. "Yes," the stranger replies. "A feast for my eyes." She winks at you. Oswin doesn't relent or move. "I know what you are, and you can't interfere with us - be on your way." "Can't I?" the wolf asks in challenge. "Sweet pup, I already have." "Oswin?" you ask. "What do you mean?" "It's okay, $mc…She's…a god, she can't hurt us...I'm pretty sure." Zahn kneels next to you, and you feel a swell of $Zhisher magic providing you more relief. "I don't care what you are, but our friend is hurt - can you help?" Oswin groans. "Absolutely not, I don't trust this creature - it's up to something." The wolf sighs. "I'm not up to anything - in fact I'm quite bored. All the poachers are too scared of me to come into the forest and play anymore. And - I'm not an //it// you dense twit - nor am I a //creature//. My name is Duri'naan, but please call me Duri. I am a demigod, if it pleases you, but please hold your worship even if it may be difficult." Zahn chimes, "It's nice to meet you Duri! I'm Zahn!" "Enchanted, Zahn - glad one of you cute things has some manners. Now, I caught $mc's name earlier and yours as well, Oswin. Let's all play nice. I swear that I will not harm you without reason. Play nice with me, and I will not bite unless you request." Oswin drops his knife and groans. "Why in blazes would anyone ask you to bite them?" Duri raises an eyebrow. "Oh sweet mother, you are adorable." She chuckles. "Now! We really should help your friend, poor $mc has been through a lot." Dropping to your side, Oswin peers over your shoulder. "<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>We need to pull the debris from the wound and get you cleaned up.<<else>>We need to reset your shoulder and get your arm in a proper sling.<</if>> It won't be pleasant, but the sooner we take care of it the better." Zahn scoots closer. "I can help manage the pain for you, but I'm not strong enough to take it away completely." "I can help with that." Duri chimes in. You and Zahn give him your attention as Oswin sneers. "My magic, as you can clearly see, is a bit different from most. But since our pretty blue-eyed friend here seems to be gifted in manipulating magic - I can give $Zhimher a boost. I lend you raw power and you direct it where it needs to be - simple yeah?" Duri nods triumphantly. Oswin makes to interject when Duri interrupts. "Before you shit your pants about it, I won't need to touch your precious cargo, swordsman - only Zahn. Don't get all prickly - if I wanted to hurt any of you - I would." [[With a heavy sigh, Oswin relents.|4.20]]

Your eyes nearly tick down to take in the rest of the beautiful stranger, wavering from her gaze for a moment. You get the sense that she knows that you're tempted as her almond-shaped eyes narrow in delight. Perhaps it is unwise to accept such a clear invitation from a stranger. Even if that stranger fed you berries and gave you a ride back to your friends. And is also a wolf. Your heart suddenly flickers. What //is// she then? You get a wolfish grin in return, and Oswin moves in front of you with a dagger in hand. "Get back, beast!" Oswin bellows. The wolf-person gives an exaggerated gasp. "//Beast//!?" Oswin holds the knife up. The stranger doesn't seem worried in the slightest. "Now, your little friend behind you is very alluring, but I quite like your pretty eyes and grumpy face too. Ooh, and look at //you//." The woman turns towards Zahn. "Very cute. I feel like I have truly been blessed with a bountiful harvest." "Harvest?" you murmur. "Yes," the stranger replies. "A feast for my eyes." She winks at you. Oswin doesn't relent or move. "I know what you are, and you can't interfere with us - be on your way." "Can't I?" the wolf asks in challenge. "Sweet pup, I already have." "Oswin?" you ask. "What do you mean?" "It's okay, $mc…She's…a god, she can't hurt us...I'm pretty sure." Zahn kneels next to you, and you feel a swell of $Zhisher magic providing you more relief. "I don't care what you are, but our friend is hurt - can you help?" Oswin groans. "Absolutely not, I don't trust this creature - it's up to something." The wolf sighs. "I'm not up to anything - in fact I'm quite bored. All the poachers are too scared of me to come into the forest and play anymore. And - I'm not an //it// you dense twit - nor am I a //creature//. My name is Duri'naan, but please call me Duri. I am a demigod, if it pleases you, but please hold your worship even if it may be difficult." Zahn chimes, "It's nice to meet you Duri! I'm Zahn!" "Enchanted, Zahn - glad one of you cute things has some manners. Now, I caught $mc's name earlier and yours as well, Oswin. Let's all play nice. I swear that I will not harm you without reason. Play nice with me, and I will not bite unless you request." Oswin drops his knife and groans. "Why in blazes would anyone ask you to bite them?" Duri raises an eyebrow. "Oh sweet mother, you are adorable." She chuckles. "Now! We really should help your friend, poor $mc has been through a lot." Dropping to your side, Oswin peers over your shoulder. "<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>We need to pull the debris from the wound and get you cleaned up.<<else>>We need to reset your shoulder and get your arm in a proper sling.<</if>> It won't be pleasant, but the sooner we take care of it the better." Zahn scoots closer. "I can help manage the pain for you, but I'm not strong enough to take it away completely." "I can help with that." Duri chimes in. You and Zahn give him your attention as Oswin sneers. "My magic, as you can clearly see, is a bit different from most. But since our pretty blue-eyed friend here seems to be gifted in manipulating magic - I can give $Zhimher a boost. I lend you raw power and you direct it where it needs to be - simple yeah?" Duri nods triumphantly. Oswin makes to interject when Duri interrupts. "Before you shit your pants about it, I won't need to touch your precious cargo, swordsman - only Zahn. Don't get all prickly - if I wanted to hurt any of you - I would." [[With a heavy sigh, Oswin relents.|4.20]]

<<set $Dflirt +=5>> She wants you to look? Fine. You follow her hands as they work across her pelvis and down her hips to the tops of her thighs. A trail of thin dark grey hair leads to and outlines her vulva. You suddenly realize why she seems so proud of it. Considering she is only standing before you, it's quite…alluring the way she presents herself. Just below the slight plump of her pubic mound is a perfect inverted triangle, with two tempting lips at the point. With hands back at the top of her hips, she adjusts her stance to part her legs slightly. You feel your face heat watching the tempting display. She clears her throat and you snap your gaze away to stare at the ground, wondering if you should worry if the other two noticed your staring. You try to keep your gaze turned away, but inevitably look up to see your savior looking at you, her tongue - unusually long - darts out to wet her lips. Perhaps it is unwise to accept such a clear invitation from a stranger. Even if that stranger fed you berries and gave you a ride back to your friends. And is also a wolf. Your heart suddenly flickers. What //is// she then? You get a wolfish grin in return, and Oswin moves in front of you with a dagger in hand. "Get back, beast!" Oswin bellows. The wolf-person gives an exaggerated gasp. "//Beast//!?" Oswin holds the knife up. The stranger doesn't seem worried in the slightest. "Now, your little friend behind you is very alluring, but I quite like your pretty eyes and grumpy face too. Ooh, and look at //you//." The woman turns towards Zahn. "Very cute. I feel like I have truly been blessed with a bountiful harvest." "Harvest?" you murmur. "Yes," the stranger replies. "A feast for my eyes." She winks at you. Oswin doesn't relent or move. "I know what you are, and you can't interfere with us - be on your way." "Can't I?" the wolf asks in challenge. "Sweet pup, I already have." "Oswin?" you ask. "What do you mean?" "It's okay, $mc…She's…a god, she can't hurt us...I'm pretty sure." Zahn kneels next to you, and you feel a swell of $Zhisher magic providing you more relief. "I don't care what you are, but our friend is hurt - can you help?" Oswin groans. "Absolutely not, I don't trust this creature - it's up to something." The wolf sighs. "I'm not up to anything - in fact I'm quite bored. All the poachers are too scared of me to come into the forest and play anymore. And - I'm not an //it// you dense twit - nor am I a //creature//. My name is Duri'naan, but please call me Duri. I am a demigod, if it pleases you, but please hold your worship even if it may be difficult." Zahn chimes, "It's nice to meet you Duri! I'm Zahn!" "Enchanted, Zahn - glad one of you cute things has some manners. Now, I caught $mc's name earlier and yours as well, Oswin. Let's all play nice. I swear that I will not harm you without reason. Play nice with me, and I will not bite unless you request." Oswin drops his knife and groans. "Why in blazes would anyone ask you to bite them?" Duri raises an eyebrow. "Oh sweet mother, you are adorable." She chuckles. "Now! We really should help your friend, poor $mc has been through a lot." Dropping to your side, Oswin peers over your shoulder. "<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>We need to pull the debris from the wound and get you cleaned up.<<else>>We need to reset your shoulder and get your arm in a proper sling.<</if>> It won't be pleasant, but the sooner we take care of it the better." Zahn scoots closer. "I can help manage the pain for you, but I'm not strong enough to take it away completely." "I can help with that." Duri chimes in. You and Zahn give him your attention as Oswin sneers. "My magic, as you can clearly see, is a bit different from most. But since our pretty blue-eyed friend here seems to be gifted in manipulating magic - I can give $Zhimher a boost. I lend you raw power and you direct it where it needs to be - simple yeah?" Duri nods triumphantly. Oswin makes to interject when Duri interrupts. "Before you shit your pants about it, I won't need to touch your precious cargo, swordsman - only Zahn. Don't get all prickly - if I wanted to hurt any of you - I would." [[With a heavy sigh, Oswin relents.|4.20]]

"Trust me, I've seen better," you spit, rolling your eyes for good measure. The look of pure shock is almost enough to let you smile through the pain in your shoulder. But, much to your chagrin, her face lights up with mirth right after. She turns her gaze to Oswin. "Was it his?" Oswin chokes. The stranger smiles and nods excitedly. "Yeah, he looks like he'd have a great-" You groan loudly. <<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>"Hmm…maybe…do you two have a thing? Are you lovers?" The woman rubs her hands together as if getting in on a juicy secret.<</if>> "That is quite enough!" Oswin yells. "$mc has been through enough." He is more than right, you've been through it all in less than a day, and you're not going to play this game with a forward stranger. Even if that stranger fed you berries and gave you a ride back to your friends. And is also a wolf. Your heart suddenly flickers. What //is// she then? You get a wolfish grin in return, and Oswin moves in front of you with a dagger in hand. "Get back, beast!" Oswin bellows. The wolf-person gives an exaggerated gasp. "//Beast//!? After I tried to compliment your-" Oswin holds the knife up. The stranger doesn't seem worried in the slightest. "Now, your little friend behind you is very alluring, but I quite like your pretty eyes and grumpy face too. Ooh, and look at //you//." The woman turns towards Zahn. "Very cute. I feel like I have truly been blessed with a bountiful harvest." "Harvest?" you murmur. "Yes," the stranger replies. "A feast for my eyes." She winks at you. Oswin doesn't relent or move. "I know what you are, and you can't interfere with us - be on your way." "Can't I?" the wolf asks in challenge. "Sweet pup, I already have." "Oswin?" you ask. "What do you mean?" "It's okay, $mc…She's…a god, she can't hurt us...I'm pretty sure." Zahn kneels next to you, and you feel a swell of $Zhisher magic providing you more relief. "I don't care what you are, but our friend is hurt - can you help?" Oswin groans. "Absolutely not, I don't trust this creature - it's up to something." The wolf sighs. "I'm not up to anything - in fact I'm quite bored. All the poachers are too scared of me to come into the forest and play anymore. And - I'm not an //it// you dense twit - nor am I a //creature//. My name is Duri'naan, but please call me Duri. I am a demigod, if it pleases you, but please hold your worship even if it may be difficult." Zahn chimes, "It's nice to meet you Duri! I'm Zahn!" "Enchanted, Zahn - glad one of you cute things has some manners. Now, I caught $mc's name earlier and yours as well, Oswin. Let's all play nice. I swear that I will not harm you without reason. Play nice with me, and I will not bite unless you request." Oswin drops his knife and groans. "Why in blazes would anyone ask you to bite them?" Duri raises an eyebrow. "Oh sweet mother, you are adorable." She chuckles. "Now! We really should help your friend, poor $mc has been through a lot." You roll your eyes. Demigod or no, this person may need a good bap on the nose. Dropping to your side, Oswin peers over your shoulder. "<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>We need to pull the debris from the wound and get you cleaned up.<<else>>We need to reset your shoulder and get your arm in a proper sling.<</if>> It won't be pleasant, but the sooner we take care of it the better." Zahn scoots closer. "I can help manage the pain for you, but I'm not strong enough to take it away completely." "I can help with that." Duri chimes in. You and Zahn give her your attention as Oswin sneers. "My magic, as you can clearly see, is a bit different from most. But since our pretty blue-eyed friend here seems to be gifted in manipulating magic - I can give $Zhimher a boost. I lend you raw power and you direct it where it needs to be - simple yeah?" Duri nods triumphantly. Oswin makes to interject when Duri interrupts. "Before you shit your pants about it, I won't need to touch your precious cargo, swordsman - only Zahn. Don't get all prickly - if I wanted to hurt any of you - I would.<<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>> The most you'll need to worry about is me stealing $hisher heart.<</if>>" You have a feeling your eyes are going to get stuck with how often you'll be rolling them. [[With a heavy sigh and a grumble, Oswin relents.|4.20]]

The other three get into position around you. Zahn apologizes for any discomfort as $Zheshe kneels behind you and places a hand against the right side of your back, explaining that the best way to lessen your pain and transfer the magic from Duri is through touch. Duri plops $Dhimselfherself down next to Zahn, giving you a wink and a smile as $Dheshe grips Zahn's upper arm. You note that $Dheshe seems mindful of $Dhisher claws. Oswin is in front of you, his face looking sullen. "I'm going to make this as quick as I can, but it will //not// be easy." Duri leans over. "Don't expect this to be pain-free. Healing is not my specialty, and after our slide down the mountain last night - I'm a bit tuckered out…but I'm going to give you all I got, okay?" You nod. <<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>Oswin looks over your wound, biting his lip. Taking his knife, he cuts away strips of fabric to reveal more of it. It is much worse than you thought. The wood pierces all the way through to your back. <<if $interestwound is 'treescrapeonleftshoulder'>>You suppose there's no harm in adding one more scar to that shoulder anyway. <</if>>Thankfully, the branch that punctured you was tapered, so it is thinner and comes to a point at your back. <<if $tat8 is true>>You are certain that your flower tattoo is now ruined.<</if>> You see then, that the supplies Lakota gave you are in a bag at Oswin's hip. That's a relief, at least. "$mc," he says. "I can't just yank this out. I will go as fast as I can, but I need to try to not leave splinters behind. I will pull from the front since it's wider at this end. Then, we'll clean it up the best we can. I've got medicine from Lakota that we'll pour on it, and then we will get you to a proper healer." "Okay. I'm ready…I think." "You'll have to be. I don't want to scare you, but I think infection is already starting - but it's early - we can fix it." You take a few deep breaths as Oswin prepares himself. The branch has broken off quite a bit, so there isn't much purchase for him to grab it. Pain radiates up and down your back as he finds a spot in the wood that he can grip. You close your eyes and breathe, your heart rate raises despite the soothing touch of the magic entering through your back. "I'm sorry, $mc…" He pulls. Your breath is taken away in a sharp gasp. He stops for a moment, placing his free hand to flank the area he's pulling from to not rip the skin further. He pulls. You choke on a scream. Your body trembles involuntarily. Zahn helps to right your posture and support you. He angles the branch up and pulls again. Black spots drift into your vision, and your hands absently claw at anything around you until they dig into something soft. He pulls. Tears stream down your face. Your throat clenches as you roar in agony. "Nearly there." Oswin says and then pulls again. You go limp, in shock, and Zahn holds you up. Your mouth gapes open like a fish on land. "Stop, stop, stop…" You sob. "Please…" He pulls, finally freeing the debris from your shoulder. You're dizzy, nauseated, and exhausted. The others are talking but you can't understand them. <<else>> Oswin carefully cuts away the sling and then the fabric of your clothing around your shoulder and upper arm. Your clothes are ruined anyway, so it matters little. He frowns and shakes his head at the sight. "It's completely out…and swollen. I'll have to line it back up, which will take a few moments before I can get it back into place. Once I have it lined up, it will be over fast, but it is mangled and I have to be sure I line it up right." "Okay. I'm ready…I think." "You'll have to be. I don't want to scare you, but if we don't do something now, you could have permanent damage to the arm. A proper healer can tell us more when we find one." You take a few deep breaths as Oswin prepares himself. Oswin nods at the other two and you feel a swell of magic, which sends a dragging feeling into your muscles, forcing them to relax. He carefully grabs your arm and begins to move it. You gasp, and nearly begin to struggle out of instinct. Zahn stills you, murmuring reassurances. He shifts again. You gnash your teeth as tears prick your eyes. "It feels as though the tendons are…tangled, but it's close," he says. "Okay…" He shifts it again, and this time it isn't quick. You scream and wail until your throat feels so raw that it could bleed. Your vision is filled with starbursts of white and your ears ring with a high-pitched whine. Though he has only been moving your arm, your gut rolls, threatening to empty what little there is left in you. "There," Oswin says, a sharp jerk nearly sending you down. You hear - or maybe feel - a hard pop. For a fraction of a moment you feel no pain, and then it erupts in a sharp wave. It takes the breath from you, making you quiver, and gasp like a fish out of water. Your stomach churns. <</if>> [[You pass out.|4.20a]] [[You vomit.|4.20b]] [[You cry out for your fathers.|4.20c]]

Your body quakes. All of your muscles are exhausted. You go limp, but someone catches you. "$mc? Stay with us - hey," someone says. Your vision swims in a tangle of green and blue colors before it fades to black. [[You're not sure how long you are unconscious.|4.21]]

The rolling in your stomach is too great. You fall forward, caught by your companions and propped up. You begin to heave. <<if $hairlength is "very long">>You feel someone gather your hair as your other companions support your body.<<elseif $hairlength is "long">>You feel someone gather your hair as your other companions support your body.<<elseif $hairlength is "shoulder length">>You feel someone gather your hair as your other companions support your body.<<elseif $hairlength is "chin length">>You feel someone push the hair from your face as your other companions support your body.<<elseif $hairlength is "short">>You feel your companions move to support your body.<<elseif $hairlength is "very short">>You feel your companions move to support your body.<</if>> You retch. Little but bile exits your gut, spilling to the forest floor - traces of berries and little else. There isn't anything to vomit, but your body tries again. And again. And again. You heave until you collapse, held up only by the strength of your friends. You feel boneless, letting darkness cloud your vision until you feel nothing at all. [[Sleep takes you.|4.21]]

You let your body go limp as your companions support you to keep you from falling. A weak sob wrenches from your lips, a combination of torment and relief. "Papa…Da!" You cry. Tears stream down your cheeks as you think of the comfort of home and the love of your parents. How they always have been there to take care of you - treating every wound and soothing it with love. "It's okay, $mc - it'll be better from here," someone says. Your vision is fuzzy and your hearing is filled with a shrill ring. "I want my da, I want my da…please." You sob. "I want to go home. I want Papa to hold me." Your voice drifts as you continue to mumble in between agonized sobs, images of your fathers floating in your mind. [[You're not sure when you fall asleep.|4.21]]

You feel something move against your lips… Soft and pliant, gently kissing you awake with soft ministrations. You're incredibly groggy, barely making sense of where you are or what is going on. One of your traveling companions wouldn't be kissing you without you knowing, right?<<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>> Oswin wouldn't…he'd never!<</if>> <<if $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Surely, Zhan would have some restraint…<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>Surely, Zhan would have some restraint…<</if>> Even if they were…why are their lips so…huge!? You snap fully awake to find the perpetrator - $mountname - standing over you, dragging <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> flopping lips across your mouth. You turn your face and begin to spit. "$mountname!" You hear Zahn call. "Stop that, I told you to quit that at least four times already." $Zcapitalheshe hustles over and grabs <<if $mount is 'mule'>>the mule's<<else>>the horse's<</if>> reins to guide them away. Returning to you, you see a halo of golden hair backlit by the sun and happy blue eyes staring down at you. Zahn places the back of $Zhisher hand to your forehead. "How do you feel?" You think for a moment, still gathering your bearings. You're no longer in extreme pain, but you still feel exhausted. "Like shit." Zahn smiles. "We'll work on that. You've been asleep for a couple hours. We got you bandaged up and everything while you were out. Your shoulder looks a lot better, but Oswin wants to get you to Codrin right away." "Oh! My new friend<<if $allgreyhair is true>> - with matching hair - <</if>>is awake, I see!" You hear Duri's voice yell from somewhere. You try to get up, but Zahn stops you with an apologetic look. "You need to take it very slow." "Let me!" Duri calls, coming to a sudden stop on $Dhisher knees by your side. You gaze up in bewilderment. $Dcapitalhisher ears…are gone. Well, not gone - $Dheshe still has ears, but they look like //human// ears. Your brow furrows. "You noticed right away." Duri smiles wide at you - $Dhisher fangs are also gone, though one is still a bit too long to be human and is a bit crooked. "You wore me out, $mc." $Dcapitalheshe wiggles very human ears at you. "I'm too tired to shift." Duri gently cradles your good shoulder and follows your cues to sit up. You're dizzy for a couple minutes, so you simply sit and try to absorb what's around you. You're still in the wood, at a camp. Both mounts are here and Oswin is sitting a ways from you hunched over a map. Handing you a waterskin, Duri sits in front of you, and you suddenly realize that $Dheshe is wearing a strange robe of some kind, though no shoes. "Glad you're awake. Oswin is //mean//." You scoff - it hurts. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>"Just give him some time, he's a good friend,"<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>"Just give him some time, he's a good person…a really good person,"<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>"He is definitely prickly at the best of times,"<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>"He can be a bit prickly, give him some time to warm up,"<</if>> you say. "I'm sure I can thaw some of that ice around him. I already found out how much he //loooves// wolves and dogs - it'll be too easy." "Just because you are one, doesn't mean he will like you." Zahn chirps. Duri's eyes glow a dull gold for a few seconds as $Dheshe sends you a wicked smile. [[A chorus of howls begins lifting from the surrounding forest.|4.22]]

"My friends will help," Duri says with pure mischief in $Dhisher eyes. You gasp. "You…you really are a god…" "Demigod," $Dheshe corrects. Zahn leans in to smile at you. "Maybe Duri can help you…" "With what?" the demigod asks. "''Nothing''." Oswin snaps back, approaching with haste. "Back off, and give $mc some air." Duri rolls $Dhisher eyes, but scoots away from you. "Do you want me to bring the pups back so you can relax?" $Dcapitalheshe quickly whispers to you. "My friends brought my clothes to me and he //crooned// over them." Duri snickers. Oswin grumbles and ignores $Dhimher as he kneels next to you. "How is your level of pain? Lakota had some tonics in the supplies he gave us, we have a bit more left if you need them now." "Manageable," you reply. "If you're able, I know this is sudden, but I'd like your account of what happened last night and this morning. Our new pest here is insisting that you are in $Dhisher debt." A very cross look shadows Oswin's face. "$Dcapitalheshe refuses to leave us be, even though $Dheshe caused the mounts to bolt in the first place with all that-" "Beautiful singing." Duri interrupts, wrinkling $Dhisher nose at Oswin. "I was calling to the packs because some of their pups were missing. Not that I need any reason to howl. Remember, swordsman, you are in //my// house right now. //You// are the guests, and //you// would do well to remember your manners." After an oddly serious look, Duri reverts back to a smile. "Now, I apologize for frightening you last night, but I believed you to be poachers. There was a rash of them over the winter, ''skinning'' my family, so you can imagine how I might be upset to find three more intruders on my land." A horrified look comes over Zahn's face. "Skinning? Your family!?" Duri's lips quiver just for a moment. "The pack - all the wolves, foxes, raccoons…a weasel or two - they're my family and my friends. I hadn't found hunters since mid winter, but I needed to be sure of what you were doing. The landslide caught us all by surprise." You nod. "Surprise is right." You think about your spill down the mountainside. "You came at me a couple times though…" You definitely remember flashes of fangs. "I was trying to grab you and get you out of it. I didn't want to see you die needlessly either. Especially since it looked like you weren't doing anything wrong…" [[You praise Duri for the act of kindness.|4.22a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You commend Duri for trying to save you.|4.22b][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You suggestively ask what would have happened if Duri had caught you.|4.22c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You blush, taken aback that Duri tried to rescue you.|4.33d][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]]

You give Duri a warm smile, gently touching $Dhisher arm to get $Dhimher to look at you. "Thank you, Duri. That was kind of you to try - truly. I know it was a little frightful in the moment, but I understand now that you weren't trying to hurt me." Duri's honey-brown eyes go a little wide, and $Dheshe looks around, avoiding your eyes. $Dcapitalheshe nods finally. "I wish I could have caught you… Well, caught you sooner - before you got hurt." "You caught me?" "Yeah, I managed to divert you to the river at least, before I lost my grip. We both got a bath, but at least you didn't splatter!" You snort a laugh, jerking as pain lances through your chest. "So when I woke up and you were right there…" Duri scratches behind one ear and looks away again. "I didn't want you to get cold." "So…you're a total softy." Duri guffaws. "Am not! I thought about eating you as well, but after that fall you were way too tenderized." $Dcapitalheshe laughs and smiles at you. "And you are much too cute to be eaten." You smirk and roll your eyes. "Though…" Duri reaches towards your good arm, requesting your hand. "Maybe you'd let me have a taste?" $Dcapitalhisher eyes subtly glow as they meet your own. $flirt_label [[Allow this "taste."|4.22a1]] $flirt_label [[Go along, but pull back to tease Duri.|4.22a2]] $flirt_label [[Turn this around, and take a taste of your own.|4.22a5]] [[Bonk Duri on the nose.|4.22a3]] [[Turn Duri down.|4.22a4]]

<<set $Dflirt +=3>> <<set $Dbold +=3>> You give $Dhimher your best smoldering look, which immediately gives you $Dhisher full attention. "So…say the big terrible wolf snatched me up before I got very acquainted with that tree…what would you have done with me?" Though Duri's tail is no longer flopping about, you get the sense that it would be wagging at your question. $Dcapitalheshe leans forward, peering back at you through a half-lidded gaze. "I suppose…I'd have dragged you back to my den…licked your wounds ''thoroughly''. It would only be polite after all." You bite your lip. "Shame you didn't catch me." Duri snorts a laugh. "Well, I did; I was just too late for the whole 'dragging you to my den' stuff. By the time I caught up, your shoulder was already fucked." "So, you did catch me though?" "Yeah, I managed to divert you to the river at least, before I lost my grip. We both got a bath, but at least you didn't splatter!" You stifle a laugh, jerking as pain lances through your chest. "So when I woke up and you were right there…" Duri scratches behind one ear and looks away again. "I didn't want you to get cold." "So…you're a total bleeding heart." Duri guffaws. "Am not! I thought about eating you as well, but after that fall you were way too tenderized." $Dcapitalheshe laughs and smiles at you. "And you are much too cute to be eaten." You smirk and roll your eyes. "Though…" Duri reaches towards your good arm, requesting your hand. "Maybe you'd let me have a taste?" $Dcapitalhisher eyes subtly glow as they meet your own. $flirt_label [[Allow this "taste."|4.22a1]] $flirt_label [[Go along, but pull back to tease Duri.|4.22a2]] $flirt_label [[Turn this around, and take a taste of your own.|4.22a5]] [[Bonk Duri on the nose.|4.22a3]] [[Turn Duri down.|4.22a4]]

<<set $Dflirt +=3>> <<set $Dshy +=3>> Your face fills with heat and you're not entirely sure as to why. The charming and attractive demigod in front of you could have just left you to the whims of the mountain, but chose not to at risk to $Dhimselfherself. Your ears feel very hot all of the sudden and Duri looks at your curiously. "My, but your heart is beating awful fast, little lamb." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a wolfish grin - appropriate. You clear your throat. "I just…appreciate that you tried to help me is all." Duri cocks $Dhisher head. "Does your heart always race when you appreciate something? Because if so…I have a myriad of ways to make you appreciate me." Your tongue is useless to reply and you only stammer in return, which seems to only fuel Duri's interest. $Dcapitalheshe shows you mercy and backs off. "I wish I could have caught you… Well, caught you sooner - before you got hurt." "You caught me?" "Yeah, I managed to divert you to the river at least, before I lost my grip. We both got a bath, but at least you didn't splatter!" You stifle a chuckle, jerking as pain lances through your chest. "So when I woke up and you were right there…" Duri scratches behind one ear and looks away again. "I didn't want you to get cold." "So…you're a total sweetheart." Duri guffaws. "Am not! I thought about eating you as well, but after that fall you were way too tenderized." $Dcapitalheshe laughs and smiles at you. "And you are much too cute to be eaten." You smirk and roll your eyes. "Though…" Duri reaches towards your good arm, requesting your hand. "Maybe you'd let me have a taste?" $Dcapitalhisher eyes subtly glow as they meet your own. $flirt_label [[Allow this "taste."|4.22a1]] $flirt_label [[Go along, but pull back to tease Duri.|4.22a2]] $flirt_label [[Turn this around, and take a taste of your own.|4.22a5]] [[Bonk Duri on the nose.|4.22a3]] [[Turn Duri down.|4.22a4]]

<<set $Dflirt +=4>> You give a small nod at Duri, and $Dheshe takes your hand very gently into $Dhishers. Watching you closely, $Dheshe brings it towards $Dhisher lips. You shiver as your gazes meet again. [[A flurry of nerves gets the better of you.|4.22a1a][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 4, 0, 100)]] [[You manage to keep composed, even offering a relaxed smile.|4.22a1b][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 4, 0, 100)]]

<<set $Dbold +=3>> <<set $Dflirt +=4>> You hold out your hand towards Duri to give your consent, barely able to conceal the mischievous smirk growing on your lips. Duri leans in closer, eyes locked on yours. $Dcapitalhisher pupils dialate the moment $Dheshe picks up on your anticipation. You get a devilish smile for your eager heart, as Duri brings $Dhisher lips to your hand…and you pull away. $Dcapitalheshe narrows $Dhisher eyes at you with a coy smile as $Dheshe tries again. Just before Duri's lips press to your hand, you pull back. A predatory look comes over Duri's face and $Dhisher eyes glow bright. $Dcapitalhisher smile borders on menacing and you swear $Dhisher fangs have grown slightly. "You know, $mc, the moment you run from a wolf - you become prey." You give a smug smile in return. "Maybe I like to be chased…" Duri lunges, but you don't budge as $Dheshe stops just an arm's length from your face. $Dcapitalhisher pupils are so wide that the glow of gold is only a halo around them. $Dcapitalheshe gently holds your hand, planting a long kiss atop it before lightly grazing the skin with a fang. Chills course through your body as Duri's eyes look to your throat and $Dheshe surges forward once more. <<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Suddenly, a large hand lands on Duri's head, gripping tightly and pulling $Dhimher away from you. Oswin forces Duri to look at him. He looks livid, and you shrink back in surprise. Oswin's lips curl up and the shadows under his eyes reach a level of malice you've never seen before. "Keep it up, and you'll find that your godhood means very little in a contest with me in your current state. You had your fun, now back off." Oswin release's Duri's head with a slight shove and then stomps away without another word. Duri looks back at you with wide eyes before squeezing your hand gently and letting go. "Wow…that was incredibly sexy. You're lucky, $mc." You're not sure what $Dheshe means by that… <<else>> $Dcapitalheshe is interrupted by a shout. "Cut it out //dog//!" Oswin commands, approaching swiftly. "$mc needs rest!" Duri pouts, reluctantly pulling away from your arm, which still tingles from $Dhisher touch. "Fine, fine. Since your //guard dog// is all in a huff." Oswin towers over Duri, one hand on the hilt of his sword. "Keep it up, and you'll find that your godhood means very little in a contest with me in your current state. You had your fun, now back off." With a sneer, Oswin turns on his heel and stomps away. Duri shakes $Dhisher head. "Kinda cute when he's testy." Zahn snorts. "So…all the time?" <</if>> You take a deep breath, immediately regretting it as you wince in pain. [[That could have gone a bit better…|4.23]]

<<set $Dbold +=3>> <<set $Dflirt +=4>> You give a small nod at Duri, and $Dheshe takes your hand very gently into $Dhishers. Watching you closely, $Dheshe brings it towards $Dhisher lips. You shiver as your gazes meet again, but cannot conceal your smirk. A sensual thrill shivers up your body, and thankfully, it's the one motion you've made that doesn't riddle you with pain. Your smirk only grows as you watch the demigod at your fingertips. Duri leans in even closer, eyes locked on yours. $Dcapitalhisher pupils dialate the moment $Dheshe picks up on your anticipation. You get a devilish smile for your eager heart, and then Duri's lips press into the top of your hand. Allowing yourself a moment to enjoy $Dhisher lips on your skin, you regain your wits and gently flip the hold so that Duri's hand is gripped in yours. Sweet honey-eyes go wide and jump to your face in surprise. The look of shock alone is worth it, but Duri quickly settles into something much more demure as $Dheshe watches you closely, eyes alight with a gold shimmer. Realizing that leaning forward is enough to cause you pain, you gently tug Duri's hand to encourage $Dhimher to move closer. You place a lingering kiss upon $Dhisher knuckles before giving Duri's elegant hand a gentle nibble as well. $Dcapitalhisher pupils are so wide that the glow of gold is only a halo around them. Duri smirks at you. "Mouthy one are you? Guess we have that in common." Just as $Dheshe begins to move forward, reclaiming your hand, you're interrupted by the stomp of boots. <<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Suddenly, seizes Duri's head, gripping tightly and pulling $Dhimher away from you. Oswin forces Duri to look at him. He looks livid, and you shrink back in surprise. Oswin's lips curl up and the shadows under his eyes reach a level of malice you've never seen before. "Keep it up, and you'll find that your godhood means very little in a contest with me in your current state. You had your fun, now back off." Oswin release's Duri's head with a slight shove and then stomps away without another word. Duri looks back at you with wide eyes before squeezing your hand gently and letting go. "Wow…that was incredibly sexy. You're lucky, $mc." You're not sure what $Dheshe means by that… <<else>> A shout rings out. "Cut it out //dog//!" Oswin commands, approaching swiftly. "$mc needs rest!" Duri pouts, reluctantly pulling away from your arm, which still tingles from $Dhisher touch. "Fine, fine. Since your //guard dog// is all in a huff." Oswin towers over Duri, one hand on the hilt of his sword. "Keep it up, and you'll find that your godhood means very little in a contest with me in your current state. You had your fun, now back off." With a sneer, Oswin turns on his heel and stomps away. Duri shakes $Dhisher head. "Kinda cute when he's testy." Zahn snorts. "So…all the time?" <</if>> You take a deep breath, immediately regretting it as you wince in pain. [[That could have gone a bit better…|4.23]]

You tilt your head as you observe Duri and $Dhisher very forward way of flirting and you think about what your grandmother did when an animal got too fresh with her…and you bonk Duri right on the nose with a light wave of your hand. Duri's hand drops and $Dheshe sits up in shock, wide-eyed and staring at you. $Dcapitalheshe touches $Dhisher hand to the tip of $Dhisher nose. $Dcapitalhisher eyes dart from you to Zahn and back to you in disbelief, and then $Dheshe reaches for your hand again. You bonk Duri again, this time just a bit more firmly. $Dcapitalheshe looks shocked and also somehow pleased. "Did you really just bap //me// - a demigod - on the nose!?" You nod, resolute. "And if my grandmother were still here, she'd bap you with the blunt side of her axe. Now, behave yourself." Obediently, Duri sits back with a pout and Zahn snickers. You cast a look towards Oswin who is staring back at you with a proud smile. [[You just bonked a demigod on the nose and lived to tell the tale.|4.23]]

You shake your head and keep your hands to yourself. "No thank you." Duri smiles, retracting $Dhisher hand. "Fair enough…perhaps a little sniff instead?" You narrow your eyes and furrow your brow. Holding hands up in surrender Duri chuckles. "Kidding, kidding - just some wolf humor. I'll be good if you want me to - for now." Zahn snickers. You cast a look towards Oswin who is staring back at you with a proud smile. [[More compliant than you imagined for a demigod...|4.23]]

<<set $Dshy +=3>> Suddenly, you can no longer hold any composure. Your heart kicks up into a whirlwind of beats as Duri's lips approach. Your face feels unbearably hot and your hand begins to tremble slightly. Duri leans in closer, eyes still locked on yours. $Dcapitalhisher pupils dialate the moment $Dheshe picks up on your nervousness. You get a wicked smile for your troubled heart, and then Duri's lips press into the top of your hand. You look away, barely containing a whimper, only to realize that Zahn is still sitting close by watching this entire display. Your face heats yet again, but Zahn's grin is wide and joyful. And then, Duri's lips begin to move up your arm. You flip your attention back to $Dhimher and stare with wide eyes as $Dheshe gives small kisses moving upwards. Duri's eyes glow slightly as $Dheshe stares back at you, ensuring you watch as $Dheshe flicks a wet tongue along a short length of your arm. There's a buzzing in your ears. The moment is broken within a split second. <<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>A large hand lands on Duri's head, gripping tightly and pulling $Dhimher away from you. Oswin forces Duri to look at him. He looks livid, and you shrink back in surprise. Oswin's lips curl up and the shadows under his eyes reach a level of malice you've never seen before. "Keep it up, and you'll find that your godhood means very little in a contest with me in your current state. You had your fun, now back off." Oswin release's Duri's head with a slight shove and then stomps away without another word. Duri looks back at you with wide eyes before squeezing your hand gently and letting go. "Wow…that was incredibly sexy. You're lucky, $mc." You're not sure what $Dheshe means by that… <<else>> "Cut it out //dog//!" Oswin commands, approaching swiftly. "$mc needs rest!" Duri pouts, reluctantly pulling away from your arm, which still tingles from $Dhisher touch. "Fine, fine. Since your //guard dog// is all in a huff." Oswin towers over Duri, one hand on the hilt of his sword. "Keep it up, and you'll find that your godhood means very little in a contest with me in your current state. You had your fun, now back off." With a sneer, Oswin turns on his heel and stomps away. Duri shakes $Dhisher head. "Kinda cute when he's testy." Zahn snorts. "So…all the time?" <</if>> You take a deep breath, immediately regretting it as you wince in pain. [[That could have gone a bit better…|4.23]]

<<set $Dbold +=3>> A sensual thrill shivers up your body, and thankfully, it's the one motion you've made that doesn't riddle you with pain. You smirk as you watch the demigod at your fingertips. Duri leans in closer, eyes locked on yours. $Dcapitalhisher pupils dialate the moment $Dheshe picks up on your anticipation. You get a devilish smile for your eager heart, and then Duri's lips press into the top of your hand. You bite your lip, barely containing a moan, only to realize that Zahn is still sitting close by watching this entire display. Zahn's grin is wide and joyful at the flirting, so you wrinkle your nose at $Zhimher and refocus on the pleasant feel of lips on your skin. And then, Duri's mouth begins to move up your arm. You stare with wide eyes as $Dheshe gives small kisses and the faintest of nibbles moving upwards. Duri's eyes glow slightly as $Dheshe stares back at you, ensuring you watch as $Dheshe flicks a wet tongue along a short length of your arm. There's a buzzing in your ears. The moment is broken within a split second. <<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>A large hand lands on Duri's head, gripping tightly and pulling $Dhimher away from you. Oswin forces Duri to look at him. He looks livid, and you shrink back in surprise. Oswin's lips curl up and the shadows under his eyes reach a level of malice you've never seen before. "Keep it up, and you'll find that your godhood means very little in a contest with me in your current state. You had your fun, now back off." Oswin release's Duri's head with a slight shove and then stomps away without another word. Duri looks back at you with wide eyes before squeezing your hand gently and letting go. "Wow…that was incredibly sexy. You're lucky, $mc." You're not sure what $Dheshe means by that… <<else>> "Cut it out //dog//!" Oswin commands, approaching swiftly. "$mc needs rest!" Duri pouts, reluctantly pulling away from your arm, which still tingles from $Dhisher touch. "Fine, fine. Since your //guard dog// is all in a huff." Oswin towers over Duri, one hand on the hilt of his sword. "Keep it up, and you'll find that your godhood means very little in a contest with me in your current state. You had your fun, now back off." With a sneer, Oswin turns on his heel and stomps away. Duri shakes $Dhisher head. "Kinda cute when he's testy." Zahn snorts. "So…all the time?" <</if>> You take a deep breath, immediately regretting it as you wince in pain. [[That could have gone a bit better…|4.23]]

You know your da's honey cake recipe by heart after all the years of making it with him.<<if $interest is 'cookin'>> It didn't take you long to come up with your own rendition of his recipe. Both your fathers agree that your technique is superior. Ever since, you've been in charge of your family's honey cake needs.<</if>> The only hang up is ingredients. You can make due with the limited tools, and you have most of the dry ingredients to make one individual cake without using up too much of your supplies. The main problem…is honey. You know Oswin has a small supply on him - as always - but you aren't sure about asking him to use that up for your gesture. The area around you has flowers, if you did some searching, you may be able to find a beehive and carefully retrieve enough honey for a cake. The alternative is asking Nathanael, though if you want him to receive the cake or //not// get pestered about what you're doing, maybe bees are the better option. [[Take a chance with the merchant.|3.77a1]] [[Take a chance with the bees.|3.77a2]]

You approach Nathan, trying to appear as casual as you can. He's leaning against his caravan with a book in his hand, and Shadow nestled betwixt his legs.<<if hasVisited("3.68")>> You can still smell the remnants of smoke from his mystery-tobacco and his eyes are slightly rimmed with red. He seems very relaxed.<</if>> As you approach, he drops his book and smiles at you. "Hello, my dear. What brings you to my humble cart?" Shadow perks up a moment with a mew, stretching out all his legs wide so that he spans nearly the whole length of Nathan's legs. "Well," you start. "I was hoping you could made a trade with me - if you have some honey, that is." He tilts his head for a moment. "I do believe I have some, actually. I picked it up in Stonebrook." "Good, what's your price?" He smirks. //Crap//. "Hm, maybe - information in lieu of coin." He leans forward, running his slender fingers along Shadow's fur. "What do you need honey for in the middle of a forest all of the sudden?" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Can I not just pay you like a normal exchange? I just want it."<<else>>"What else? I'm going to coat myself in it to attract flies."<</if>> Nathan snorts a laugh. "Has anyone told you lately how adorable you can be?" You resist rolling your eyes - barely. He stands, Shadow grunting at the loss of his resting spot. "I'll tell you what, I'll give it to you now." "You'll just give it to me for free?" "Mostly. Next time we cross paths, tell me something interesting as payment." You give him a confused look. "Something interesting?" "Yes - gossip, a story from your trip, how raisins are made - whatever you like." "Raisins?" He goes to the back of his cart and opens the hatch, arm flailing around inside for a moment. You hear the clinking of a few bits of glass or pottery before he brings out a small tan crock. "Here you are." The little pot fits right inside your hand, you pop the lid open and see beautiful amber honey inside. "This is perfect." He grins. "I know." [[With honey acquired, you gather your other supplies and get started.|3.77ab]]

You grab a small empty crock that was left at the campfire and a couple tools before making your way through the trees. You've seen some honey bees trundle by, so you feel sure there is a hive close by, especially with a plethora of flowers around. A smirk crosses your lips as a memory pops in your mind. This feels similar to when you were a kid and Oswin had the brilliant idea to get honey from his family's hives without permission. It turned out that none of you had the patience or grace it takes to not piss off three bee colonies at the same time. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Oswin tried very hard to keep you all safe, though.<<else>>You wonder if Oswin still has scars from the stingers on his ass.<</if>> Now that you know more of what you're doing, you're not too worried about it. You may feel just a bit bad taking honey so early in the season, but you are only borrowing enough for one cake. If spring has been kind enough that flowers are in full bloom, you feel pretty confident that it won't hurt the hive. You finally come upon the buzz of many bees, and see them fly in and out of a large and hollowed-out log upon the ground. It's a big log and appears to support a very large colony. You carefully approach and watch the black and yellow insects go about their business. They don't seem agitated and completely ignore you. The key is to move slowly and not hurt any of the bees. You kneel next to the hive, the buzzing becoming a pleasant hum. A couple bees buzz around you, testing your sweetness before carrying on to the next flower. You find a spot towards the end of the log and gently poke around for a place to open it. A chunk of the wood is already cracked, and with some coaxing, it pops up to reveal the comb within. Your instincts were spot-on, and this hive is delightfully honey-rich even with how early into spring you are. They must have had a great store for the winter. Taking great care to not do too much damage, you gather some of the liquid gold - no more than what you need for the cake and a small drizzle on top. Another happy bee checks your progress, tasting the honey from one of your hands before heading back to work. You secure the wood and bark back to the log, taking some mud nearby to press into the creases and seal the hive up again. [[With honey acquired, you gather your other supplies and get started.|3.77ab]]

<<if $interest is 'cookin'>>With practiced ease, you whip together the cake batter. You are quite lucky that Nathan offered up eggs to the communal food box you put together after arriving. You just need one, but you will have to beat it well to ensure a decent rise for the cake. Not having your normal tools puts you at a disadvantage, but doesn't make you any less clever. You fashion a whisk from birch sticks, and after a great deal of time whipping eggs into a froth, you have a beautiful batter.<<else>>You fumble around the recipe a bit, but you recall your da's methods clearly. Imitating them is another story, but you feel like you're managing. Da always made a big deal about how the eggs were beaten. You have few cooking implements, so a wooden fork will have to suffice. You try your best to make it look how it does when Da does it, but your arm is aching before long, though the batter still looks a lot like your da's.<</if>> Everyone is out and about doing their own things, so you have no issue building a makeshift oven over the campfire from some stones you cleaned. It almost looks like a little house for your cake. You are careful not to make the fire too hot as the stones heat. After pouring the small amount of batter into a tin, you slide it in and hope for the best. While your cake bakes, you find a few choice flowers to top your treat with, picking ones you know can be eaten. A couple bees investigate you again, and you have a feeling you should probably thank them for their hard work. The coast is still clear as everyone is a ways away from the fire, but you notice the telltale smell of the cake in the air. Your mouth waters a bit. You keep a close eye on the treat until it looks perfectly golden. You carefully extract it and set it aside to cool for a while until the honey can be poured on top and the flowers added to the center. You take a look at your work and swell with pride. Considering you were at a disadvantage, the cake looks no worse for wear. It is almost as good as if you had a kitchen at your disposal. The rise is a bit weaker, but it's hardly noticeable. It smells divine. Now… Who gets to receive your tasty cake? [[Oswin.|3.77ab1]] [[Zahn.|3.77ab2]] [[Nathan.|3.77ab3]]

You collect the beautiful cake and head off to find Oswin. You spot him kneeling next to the stream, splashing water over his face and neck. He must be on a break, and you quietly hope he isn't planning on exhausting himself. You look at your pretty cake - the happy little flowers adding a beautiful pop of color to the golden morsel. You suppress a slight grin as you know how much Oswin will like it. He hears your approach and sits up quickly, nearly losing his footing. "$mc!" You must have startled him. "Sorry to surprise you." "It's fine, I was just thinking is all." Drips of water are soaking into his tunic, but he seems unperturbed by it. "I brought you something." You lift the little tin as you walk to him. His head cocks slightly to one side as he eyes the treat, his mouth dropping open slightly as he realizes what he's looking at. His eyes go wide as they move from the cake to you. "For…me? Really? You…" His brows scrunch and raise, lifting the shadow from gaze. "You love honey and I remember how much you adore my da's honey cake…" <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Your heart skitters in your chest.<<else>>Your heart swells with pride.<</if>> Oswin carefully takes the tin from your hands and looks at the morsel with reverence. You've never seen anyone look at a cake quite like that before. "I don't…um…" He swallows hard.<<if hasVisited("3.66ba")>> "After…I don't feel like I deserve this, not after all we talked about." He pats the spot over his heart where the key hangs.<</if>> "Would you share it with me?" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Sure, I suppose I wouldn't mind a taste. I'd like to be sure it came out well."<<else>>"I'd like that, but you take first bite to make sure it's actually edible."<</if>> He grins at you, and suddenly it's like you are back in time where he was a boy without a care in the world. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>It feels like you have your friend back - that easy connection that made life so wonderful in your early years.<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>It does no favors for the fervor in your heart for him. The longing you feel hits hard, nearly making you gasp.<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>It feels good. It actually feels good. The distance doesn't seem so impossible in this moment, maybe you can bridge it? With cake of all things.<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>It feels good to breach out of the warm but simple neutrality you've had. The distance doesn't seem so odd in this moment, maybe you can bridge it? With cake of all things.<</if>> [[Enjoy the cake together.|3.77ab1a]] $flirt_label $flirt_label [[Feed Oswin the cake.|3.77ab1b]]

You go in search of the pilgrim with cake in hand. You're honestly a bit surprised that the smell didn't lure $Zhimher in. Perhaps you're just lucky since now it will be a nice surprise. You span the clearing and do not catch sight of $Zhimher. You move closer to the treeline wondering if Zahn has wandered off into the forest a ways. As you near the side of the stream with the waterfall you hear $Zhisher voice. Pausing for a moment, you try to figure out if Zahn is speaking to someone and if you should leave, but you can't understand what is being said. It sounds like Zahn is whispering. It strikes you as odd, so you press forward until you see $Zhimher sitting next to the water. Perhaps Zahn is just speaking to $Zhimselfherself? Should you interrupt? As you stand there and debate, you hear…a quack. "Zahn?" you ask. Zahn spins around and upon seeing you, smiles wide. "$mc! Look!" $Zcapitalheshe turns back to grab something, holding it up for you to see. "I found a duck!" The duck quacks, webbed feet flopped out to the side, brown feathers lightly ruffled, and little yellow eyes staring at you. This may have been the last thing you expected. The duck quacks again, feet beginning to kick. Zahn sets it down, but it doesn't scurry off like you'd expect. Do you dare ask? "Where did you get a duck?" "She landed in the stream. I may have given her a little bit of fruit and she stuck around. We've been chatting, you should join us." "Chatting with a duck?" Zahn shrugs. "She's a good listener." You can't help but smile, $Zheshe is certainly an interesting character. You take a seat next to Zahn, minding that your cake doesn't get spotted. "So, does your new friend have a name?" "Miss Quackers," Zahn replies without missing a beat. "Odd to see a duck alone. Is she hurt?" "No, that's what I thought, but she let me check her over and she's fine. I wonder if her flock lost her. Maybe they're migrating?" You nod. "That could be. Some of them might be a bit late returning…. So, what is it that you talk about with a duck?" Zahn gives you an odd look. "$mc…she can't //really// understand us." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You stare back flatly. "Walked right into that one, didn't I…" "You did." Zahn chuckles. <<else>>You gently poke at Zahn's side, eliciting a snicker from $Zhimher. "You think you're so clever." "I'm very clever, actually." Zhan nods resolutely. <</if>> You bring out the cake nonchalantly. "To think…I made this cake for you too…" $Zcapitalheshe turns to face you, blue eyes wide with a put-on innocence. "For me? Did you say //for// me?" [[You smirk and nod, showing off the beautiful cake.|3.77ab2a]]

For whatever reason, you think of the merchant as the recipient of your treat. You've known him for years, and this is the longest amount of time you've been around him in one sitting. You've socialized several times and even sat together for a drink at the tavern, but being at this camp has bridged some sort of unspoken social gap. Even if he can be a bit strange and seems to have a wall up at times, he's always been kind in his own way. Perhaps a little gift will help you get to know him a bit more. You approach his caravan,<<if hasVisited("3.77a1")>> right where you left him earlier,<</if>> he sits with a book open and cat on his lap. He smiles up at you as you approach, a great deal of warmth in his hazel eyes. "$mc!<<if hasVisited("3.77a1")>> Back again so soon?<</if>> To what do I owe the pleasure?" You kneel down close to him, and he seems a bit surprised at how near to him you are at first. Shadow trills at you as he rouses from slumber, reaching a paw up to your cake tin. You pull the cake away from the little begging claws. "I brought you something." Nathanael sits up, eyeing the cake and smirking. "Do tell." "Well," you begin. "I just thought it might be nice to make a little something for someone…and that someone is you." <<if hasVisited("3.77a1")>>"Oh, I see now, this is why you were after my honey. How sly - maybe I should feel cheated as well as pleased?" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You hum in reply. "I traded for that honey fair and square, and I'll remind you that you set the price. Perhaps Oswin or Zahn will appreciate it more…"<<else>>You hum in reply. "Well…if it's sullied now, and you don't want it after all…"<</if>> Nathan's voice stammers. "No, no, no - I didn't mean anything by that. Don't be so hasty now. Is this the same recipe that your da makes?" "It is. Mostly - I suppose; the best I could do with what we have on hand." <<else>>"Oh, what a delight. Is this your family's honeycake recipe? Wherever did you find the supplies?" "It is. I did the best I could with what we have on hand and with a little help from a bee hive I found in the woods." Nathan's jaw drops for a moment as he stares back at you. He snaps out of it with a chuckle. "I hope you at least asked nicely." "They didn't seem like they would miss it much." He gives you a cheeky look. "It's only proper to send a thank you note, Northbreaker." "Are you implying that bees can read?" You try not to laugh. Nathan covers his mouth with a ring-clad hand as he chuckles. "It's the thought that counts, I'm sure they'll appreciate the gesture."<</if>> With a smile, you get comfortable, handing the cake tin to the merchant who eyes it with palpable desire. Again, Shadow reaches up, batting in the direction of the cake. Nathan rolls his eyes good-naturedly and brings the treat to the cat's snout. You watch as Shadow's little grey nose twitches over the food for a moment before he loses interest, almost appearing offended. Nathanael shrugs. "He means no offense, he's just very particular. I've spoiled him, and now he hardly eats scraps like any other cat would. Silly creature even prefers his fish cooked now." Nathan gives the cat an affectionate look before turning attention back to the cake. "Now, I think it's only fair that you also get a taste of your hard work, my dear." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"That's kind of you to think of me, but it's not necessary."<<else>>"I did make that for you, you know."<</if>> "Quite, quite. Perhaps I should say that I'd rather not eat alone?" He leans closer and you notice a very faint dusting of freckles upon the tops of his cheeks and the bridge of his defined nose. His smile is demure, and his eyes are bright and warm. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Oddly, you feel your face warm slightly, and merely nod in assent.<<else>>"Sure, if you insist," you reply.<</if>> "How would you like it?" Nathan's cocks his head slightly, one dark eyebrow creeping up suggestively as he holds the tin towards you. You have a feeling that he's making an offer to either take turns or…help each other out. [[You each take your own half of the cake.|3.77ab3a]] $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You feed each other the cake.|3.77ab3b]]

You both take a seat on the soft grass near the bank. Carefully, you split the cake apart, getting your fingers sticky. Thankfully, the inside looks just as perfect as the outside. It's still slightly warm and the crumb is perfect - soft and airy. You hand half the cake to Oswin, noting his pleased expression. As soon as he's popped half the morsel in his mouth, he groans with delight. You begin nibbling on your part as you watch him with intrigue. Oswin closes his eyes and chews slowly. It's almost as if he's eating his last meal, you think. You have to agree that it tastes quite good for what is essentially a road-side cake, but he acts as if it's the best thing he's ever eaten. Oswin treats the second half like the first, a little smile on his lips, eyes closed, and a moan of delight that would make your papa blush. Finishing your own cake, you set the tin aside as you wait for Oswin. "$mc," he says suddenly. "…I can't tell you how much I appreciate you thinking about me." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Think nothing of it. I just thought you needed a little something to help you enjoy our time here," you say.<<else>>"Perhaps you should wait to thank me until you've determined if it's digestible," you jest.<</if>> He smiles and shakes his head. "Maybe you think it's a small thing. But you spent your time, time you should be resting, to make something to give away. A delicious something…that reminds me of home, of our childhood…it means a great deal. And I just want to say…I admire you," he finishes and then goes silent. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>Hope flutters in your spirit. "Truly?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Hope flutters in your heart. "You mean that?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>You raise a brow. "You really think that?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>You're a little shocked. "Really?"<</if>> He nods. "I…always have. You push on despite everything, and then you do something…like this. Something kind for //me// of all people. After I've been…" He ruffles his hair in mild aggravation. "So, yes, I admire you." Oswin gives you a sheepish grin. You enjoy a few more minutes together before you part ways. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $Oflirt +=5>> You both take a seat on the soft grass near the bank. Carefully, you split the cake apart, getting your fingers sticky. Thankfully, the inside looks just as perfect as the outside. It's still slightly warm and the crumb is perfect - soft and airy. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Heat crawls up the back of your neck and onto your face. You know exactly what you want to do, but it almost feels like too much. You can't help it, just looking at his lips makes you lose all sense. Lips…that maybe you can touch. You bypass his own outstretched hand and bring the morsel directly to his mouth. His eyes go round as they skirt from the cake to your $eyecolor gaze. You know your whole face must be red by now, but you give him a meek smile as you stay firm in your offer. Your hand trembles slightly. Oswin looks perplexed and then anxious and then…you're not sure. His expression turns odd - a little sad and a little curious, but with a strange longing? He lifts his hand and gently holds your wrist with the tips of his fingers. The tops of his ears are dark red, the color quickly traveling to his cheeks. His lips part and you gently feed him his half of the small cake. It's a large mouthful, but he takes it happily. Your heart jumps as your fingers lightly touch his lips before you take your hand back. He politely covers his mouth with one hand while he chews, trying to wrangle the large bite around. His eyes close as he stops a moment, and you can tell that he's savoring the flavor. You still feel the touch of his lips against your fingers. While he's absorbed in his snack, you lightly touch them to your own lips, savoring it in a similar fashion. A groan snaps you from your reverie and you look back to Oswin. "This is so good…" He mumbles as he chews. He swallows and then sighs, finally opening his eyes. Your pulse is as high as it has ever been, and you are certain you must be totally flushed in red by now. You quietly break off a small bite of cake and pop it into your mouth. It is quite good, he's right about that. With a smile, you hand him the remaining portion of yours. Oswin takes it with a look of pure gratitude, but he doesn't eat it. He stares at it for a moment and then back at you, appearing to struggle in thought. He breaks the piece in half and holds out a bite to you, but not quite close enough to your lips - just far enough away that you could take it with your hand or your mouth… <<else>>You give him an impish smile. You may as well take advantage of this little situation. You're not sure how else you might have him at the tips of your fingers like this. You bypass his own outstretched hand and bring the morsel directly to his mouth. His eyes go round as they skirt from the cake to your $eyecolor gaze. You bite your lower lip as you stare back, trying to contain a giddy laugh. Oswin looks perplexed and then anxious and then…you're not sure. His expression turns odd - a little sad and a little curious, but with a strange longing? He lifts his hand and gently holds your wrist with the tips of his fingers. The tops of his ears are dark red, the color quickly traveling to his cheeks. His lips part and you gently feed him his half of the small cake. It's a large mouthful, but he takes it happily. Your heart jumps as your fingers lightly touch his lips. Not willing to waste the opportunity, you gently run the bad of your thumb over his bottom lip with the guise that you are merely whisking away crumbs. He freezes and simply holds the large mouthful of cake as he stares at you. He looks a bit like a chipmunk that was caught stealing. You manage to keep your cool and act nonchalant as he struggles, it's adorable. He politely covers his mouth with one hand once manages to start chewing and trying to wrangle the large bite around. His eyes close as he stops again, and you can tell that he's savoring the flavor. You still feel the touch of his lips against your fingers. While he's absorbed in his snack, you lightly touch them to your own lips, savoring it in a similar fashion. A groan snaps you from your reverie and you look back to Oswin. "This is so good…" He mumbles as he chews. He swallows and then sighs, finally opening his eyes. You're well-pleased at how your little moment has turned out, your heart patters with lingering excitement. You quietly break off a small bite of cake and pop it into your mouth. It is quite good, he's right about that. With a smile, you hand him the remaining portion of yours. Oswin takes it with a look of pure gratitude, but he doesn't eat it. He stares at it for a moment and then back at you, appearing to struggle in thought. He breaks the piece in half and holds out a bite to you, but not quite close enough to your lips - just far enough away that you could take it with your hand or your mouth… <</if>> [[You take it with your hand.|3.77ab1b1]] [[You take it gently with your mouth.|3.77ab1b2]] [[You take the cake and his fingers with your mouth.|3.77ab1b3]]

You smile and shake your head as you take the offered bite of cake in your hand. Oswin wastes no time and popping the last bit into his own mouth, again closing his eyes and moaning. You'd say your kind gesture was a success. "$mc…I can't tell you how much I appreciate you thinking about me." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Think nothing of it. I just thought you needed a little something to help you enjoy our time here," you say.<<else>>"Perhaps you should wait to thank me until you've determined if it's digestible," you jest.<</if>> He smiles and shakes his head. "I admire you," he suddenly says and then goes silent. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>Hope flutters in your spirit. "Truly?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Hope flutters in your heart. "You mean that?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>You raise a brow. "You really think that?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>You're a little shocked. "Really?"<</if>> He nods. "I…always have. You push on despite everything and then you do something…like this. Something kind for //me// of all people. After I've been…" He ruffles his hair in mild aggravation. "So, yes, I admire you." Oswin gives you a sheepish grin. You enjoy a few more minutes together before you part ways. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You smile and lean forward slowly. Oswin watches you, his mouth dropping open ever so slightly as if he's amazed. As soon as the moist cake hits your tongue, he looks reluctant to pull away. You feel the light press of his fingers to your lips for a moment before he retracts them slowly. Oswin turns his gaze away to focus on the last bit of cake, taking it with the same fingers to bring it to his mouth. He cleans the tips of his fingers off with his tongue appearing a little lost in thought. You'd say your kind gesture was a success. After a long silence he speaks. "$mc…I can't tell you how much I appreciate you thinking about me." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Think nothing of it. I just thought you needed a little something to help you enjoy our time here," you say.<<else>>"Perhaps you should wait to thank me until you've determined if it's digestible," you jest.<</if>> He smiles and shakes his head. "I admire you," he suddenly says and then goes silent. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>Hope flutters in your spirit. "Truly?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Hope flutters in your heart. "You mean that?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>You raise a brow. "You really think that?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>You're a little shocked. "Really?"<</if>> He nods. "I…always have. You push on despite everything and then you do something…like this. Something kind for //me// of all people. After I've been…" He ruffles his hair in mild aggravation. "So, yes, I admire you." Oswin gives you a sheepish grin. You enjoy a few more minutes together before you part ways. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You smile and lean forward slowly. Oswin watches you, his mouth dropping open ever so slightly as if he's amazed. You are sure to lean forward a little more than necessary and quickly envelope his fingers along with the cake in your mouth. His breath immediately stammers. Closing your lips snug around his fingers to hold them in place, you lick the sticky honey from them as you pull back. He doesn't even drop his hand once you withdraw. You barely taste the cake, more focused on how his fingers felt against your tongue. Oswin retracts his hand in a stiff motion, quickly taking the last bit of cake and putting it in his mouth, looking everywhere but at you as his fingers linger just a little longer than necessary. He shifts in his seat awkwardly and you see that his neck is deep red as he draws his knees up. You're not sure if you've ever seen him sit like that before and you wonder why. Oswin focuses on the last bit of cake, finally seeming to settle down and appreciate the flavor. You'd say your kind gesture was a success. After a long silence he speaks. "$mc…I can't tell you how much I appreciate you thinking about me." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Think nothing of it. I just thought you needed a little something to help you enjoy our time here," you say.<<else>>"Perhaps you should wait to thank me until you've determined if it's digestible," you jest.<</if>> He smiles and shakes his head. "I admire you," he suddenly says and then goes silent. <<if $Ostat is 'friend'>>Hope flutters in your spirit. "Truly?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'crush'>>Hope flutters in your heart. "You mean that?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'distant'>>You raise a brow. "You really think that?"<<elseif $Ostat is 'neutral'>>You're a little shocked. "Really?"<</if>> He nods. "I…always have. You push on despite everything and then you do something…like this. Something kind for //me// of all people. After I've been…" He ruffles his hair in mild aggravation. "So, yes, I admire you." Oswin gives you a sheepish grin. You enjoy a few more minutes together before you part ways. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

"Then, I'll have to beg your forgiveness, won't I?" Zahn shuffles closer to you, Miss Quackers still content to go along with $Zhimher. "As much as I'd like to see that, just this once I'll let it slide." You hold the tin of cake to Zahn. $Zcapitalheshe lights up, setting Miss Quackers aside. She wiggles her tail feathers in simple protest but moves on rather quickly, also spotting your tasty cake. The duck waddles to you, staring at you with expectant eyes. "Oh…" Zahn says, holding $Zhisher hands up. "Hold that thought, my hands are kinda ducky - I should wash…or you could feed it to me." A cheeky grin spreads across Zahn's pale pink lips. "That could be risky though…I might get carried away and try to eat your fingers too…" It seems you have an offer… [[You tell Zahn to go ahead and wash up.|3.77ab2a1]] $flirt_label $flirt_label [[Feed Zahn and risk your fingers.|3.77ab2a2]]

<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You smile. "Now, now - don't get too excited. Go wash the duck off your hands and then you can have your cake."<<else>>You snort. "I think you best get to washing your hands, but nice try."<</if>> Zahn puts on a pout - it's convincing, but clearly a ruse. "Fine, but if you change your mind, remember that I don't need the promise of cake as a pretense." $Zcapitalheshe winks at you and then moves to the water's edge. You finally notice that Zahn must have been washing some laundry as $Zheshe grabs a rough bar of soap and works it into $Zhisher hands. The linens are all pretty tattered and threadbare and you wonder how old they might be. Seeing the meager articles of clothing leaves a pull in your gut. Miss Quackers eyes you curiously, wiggling her tail feathers again. Once Zahn has finished up, $Zheshe plops beside you with a big smile. You present the cake to $Zhimher and somehow the smile manages to grow wider. "Oh, $mc! This looks and smells divine. Thank you so much. I…" Zahn studies the cake for a moment. "...The flowers are pretty too…um, can Miss Quackers have them?" You chuckle. "Sure." Zahn picks the little blossoms off and sets them down for the duck, who eats them up as if they were as tasty as your cake. Zahn tears out a chunk of moist cake, studying it for a moment and sniffing it before shoving it into $Zhisher mouth. Closing $Zhisher eyes, Zahn tilts $Zhisher head up to the sky and moans. The sound almost startles you with how…sensual it is, but as you look at Zahn, it doesn't seem to be a flirtation or joke. $Zcapitalheshe just seems to be loving your cake. Tearing off another chunk, Zahn goes through the same motions, but you notice $Zheshe chews slowly, savoring the flavors. Zahn takes a deep breath, looking over the cake again with a strange expression. "You really made this for me?" "Yeah, I had enough to make a little something and I thought it would be a nice gesture." "Why me? Oswin is your guide, and you even know the merchant more than me…" [["I just wanted to," you reply.|3.77ab2a1a]]

<<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You smile, heat entering your cheeks at the thought.<<else>>You smirk and chew your lower lip in anticipation.<</if>> Gesturing to Zahn with a nod, $Zheshe lights up, eyes wide in surprise as understanding dawns. $Zcapitalheshe scoots close to you, and Miss Quackers squawks in brief protest. You break off a bite of cake and slowly bring it towards Zahn's mouth. $Zcapitalheshe parts $Zhisher lips, and then sticks out $Zhisher tongue while meeting your eyes. You nearly choke as it makes your blood rush. You can't look away <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>no matter how self-conscious you feel<<else>>not that you would even want to<</if>>. The look $Zheshe is giving you is tastier than any cake. Gently setting the morsel on Zahn's tongue, you watch eagerly as $Zheshe slowly retracts it into $Zhisher mouth. Zahn's eyes flutter shut as $Zheshe chews and lets out a moan. You swallow hard. $Zcapitalhisher shoulders slump as $Zheshe enjoys the taste. "It's so good!" Zahn swears and moans again. //Is $Zheshe doing this on purpose?// Once $Zheshe has swallowed, Zahn sticks $Zhisher tongue out for another bite, and you oblige with a grin. After hand-feeding you pilgrim-friend, $Zheshe finally stops you, giving you a mischievous smile. "$mc, your fingers look sticky…I can help." <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Your heart rate surges.<<else>>It's all you can do contain your excitement.<</if>> You nod and bring your index and middle fingers to Zahn's mouth once more, this time without the pretense of cake delivery. $Zcapitalheshe parts $Zhisher lips to welcome your fingers, soft wet tongue dragging the honey from them. Zahn's sweet blue eyes meet your own smoldering $eyecolor gaze as $Zheshe wraps $Zhisher lips firmly around your fingers and begins to suck. A tremor of arousal ripples through you. Zahn gently grabs your wrist in $Zhisher hand to give $Zhimher control. $Zcapitalheshe drags your fingers out and sucks them back in before sliding $Zhisher tongue in-between them, flicking the crook between them with the tip. Your breathing catches and you nearly groan. Zahn slowly withdraws your fingers with a slight moan, and after one final lick, gives you a smile. "Delicious." After collecting yourself for a moment, and drying off your fingers which are perfectly clear of any trace of honey or cake, you both sit in comfortable silence. Zahn takes sighs with contentment, looking over the cake tin with a strange expression. "You really made that for me?" "Yeah, I had enough to make a little something and I thought it would be a nice gesture." "Why me? Oswin is your guide, and you even know the merchant more than me…" [["I just wanted to," you reply.|3.77ab2a2a]]

You reach out for the tin. "It would be a shame to dirty your fingers again," <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>you say, feeling you cheeks burn a bit.<<else>>you say, trying to suppress your growing smirk.<</if>> Zahn smiles warmly and hands you the cake. "Worth the risk for lips like yours…but I apologize for being forward. I couldn't resist that perfect set-up…or you." $Zcapitalheshe ruffles $Zhisher hair with $Zhisher clean hand, and you see a tinge of pink upon Zahn's cheeks. You break off a piece of cake and pop it into your mouth. The familiar flavor of home cooking fills your senses, along with memories of your da chasing Papa from the kitchen for sneaking tastes of batter and honey. "It tastes like home," Zahn suddenly says. You stare back for a moment, curious how $Zheshe would know. You nod as you finish chewing. Zahn goes quiet and stares out over the water. "That's how I imagined it might taste I guess. Warm and sweet…I'd like to see it sometime - your hometown. I bet it's nice." "Your home doesn't have a familiar taste or smell?" you ask, handing the tin back to $Zhimher. "Mm…not really. I mean, yeah, in a way - like incense makes me think of it…and porridge. It just doesn't feel like this." Zahn holds the cake up. "There's something different about how eating this…feels. Like, coming home to someone you love." You're not quite sure what to say to that, but you get the sick feeling that Zahn doesn't know what it's like to have someone waiting for $Zhimher…wanting $Zhimher home. This church is //not// good for Zahn, it can't be. "Everyone…should have that." $Zcapitalheshe nods, mouthful of cake, as $Zheshe welcomes Miss Quackers into $Zhisher lap. She settles in happily. "Miss Quackers will stick with me, she needs a home too." The duck quacks happily, making you both smile, until you realize you can hear even more quacking from elsewhere. You look up to see another duck flying in and gracefully landing in the water. Miss Quackers flutters her wings as the quacking between the two intensifies. The new duck is black and white with a tuft of feathers sticking out from the top of its head, and the same piercing yellow eyes. Miss Quackers hustles from Zahn's lap, gliding into the water to greet the newcomer. They circle each other and nuzzle their beaks into each other's feathers. After swimming about for a few minutes, they paddle off together. Zahn sighs, which ends in a chuckle. The irony is not lost on you, and you feel a pang of sympathy. [[You make a joke to help cheer Zahn up.|3.77ab2a1a1a]] [[You give Zahn a comforting side-hug.|3.77ab2a1a1b]] $flirt_label [[A little kiss on the cheek will help Zahn forget all about it.|3.77ab2a1a1c]]

<<set $Zflirt +=5>> <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You swallow the lump in your throat and bite your lower lip unconsciously. "Well…you //did// just wash your hands…and I don't want mine to get sticky, so…"<<else>>You smirk, leaning a bit closer. "Your hands do appear to be impeccably clean…and it might be a shame if mine got all sticky with honey…"<</if>> Zahn's smile is as mischievous as it is excited. "I couldn't agree more…but..really, you should get a good taste of the honey syrup you poured on first." You raise a brow as Zahn holds out two fingers close to your mouth. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You feel heat bubbling up from your chest as you part your lips slightly and close your eyes. "Little more, $mc…" You open your mouth a bit wider and feel the tips of $Zhisher fingers touch your lips as they begin to slide inside your mouth. You meet them with your tongue, hearing Zahn's breath catch at the feeling. The sweetness of honey spreads through your mouth, making you salivate. Zahn works $Zhisher fingers in and out from your lips, caressing your tongue and enjoying the heat of your mouth. Long after all traces of honey are gone, Zahn pulls $Zhisher fingers out entirely. You finally open your eyes and become aware of just how hard you're breathing. Zahn is not immune to the heat between you, and $Zhisher face is red. Gingerly taking a piece of the cake, Zahn brings it to your mouth. You had already forgotten about it. Opening up once more, Zahn pops the morsel into your mouth, pressing the two fingers to your lips with an affectionate and final tap. <<else>>Excitement floods up through your whole body as you eagerly part your lips. You keep Zahn's gaze as $Zheshe closes the distance between $Zhisher fingers and your mouth and you accept them inside. Zhan's breath catches as you wrap your tongue along $Zhisher fingers and tighten your lips. The sweetness of the honey makes your mouth water, and the sight of Zahn's hungry eyes nearly makes you drool. Zahn works $Zhisher sweet fingers in and out of your mouth as you play along them with your tongue. Long after all traces of honey are gone, you release Zahn with a playful bite. Both of you are breathing heavily and Zahn is flushed red. Gingerly taking a piece of the cake, Zahn brings it to your mouth. You had already forgotten about it. Opening up once more, Zahn pops the morsel into your mouth, pressing the two fingers to your lips with an affectionate and final tap.<</if>> The familiar flavor of home cooking fills your senses, along with memories of your da chasing Papa from the kitchen for sneaking tastes of batter and honey. "It tastes like home," Zahn suddenly says. You stare back for a moment, curious how $Zheshe would know. You nod as you finish chewing. Zahn goes quiet and stares out over the water. "That's how I imagined it might taste I guess. Warm and sweet…I'd like to see it sometime - your hometown. I bet it's nice." "Your home doesn't have a familiar taste or smell?" you ask, handing the tin back to $Zhimher. "Mm…not really. I mean, yeah, in a way - like incense makes me think of it…and porridge. It just doesn't feel like this." Zahn holds the cake up. "There's something different about how eating this…feels. Like, coming home to someone you love." You're not quite sure what to say to that, but you get the sick feeling that Zahn doesn't know what it's like to have someone waiting for $Zhimher…wanting $Zhimher home. This church is //not// good for Zahn, it can't be. "Everyone…should have that." $Zcapitalheshe nods, mouthful of cake, as $Zheshe welcomes Miss Quackers into $Zhisher lap. She settles in happily. "Miss Quackers will stick with me, she needs a home too." The duck quacks happily, making you both smile, until you realize you can hear even more quacking from elsewhere. You look up to see another duck flying in and gracefully landing in the water. Miss Quackers flutters her wings as the quacking between the two intensifies. The new duck is black and white with a tuft of feathers sticking out from the top of its head, and the same piercing yellow eyes. Miss Quackers hustles from Zahn's lap, gliding into the water to greet the newcomer. They circle each other and nuzzle their beaks into each other's feathers. After swimming about for a few minutes, they paddle off together. Zahn sighs, which ends in a chuckle. The irony is not lost on you, and you feel a pang of sympathy. [[You make a joke to help cheer Zahn up.|3.77ab2a1a1a]] [[You give Zahn a comforting side-hug.|3.77ab2a1a1b]] $flirt_label [[A little kiss on the cheek will help Zahn forget all about it.|3.77ab2a1a1c]]

"At least you have thumbs…" Zahn snorts. "He can never give her thumbs, just remember that." Zahn erupts into laughter, covering $Zhisher face with a hand until $Zheshe can settle down. "I suppose you're right, $mc…It's better this way, Oswin would have probably wanted to eat her or something." A comfortable silence settles over you both as you look out to the water and Zahn finishes munching the cake. Zhan eyes the cake tin. "Thank you for that. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it…maybe I could show you sometime, but I just don't have enough words." $Zcapitalheshe gives you a big grin. You shrug. "I was happy to, you don't have to repay me or anything." After fidgeting with the tattered ends of $Zhisher cloak, Zahn nudges you. "Want to skip stones with me?" "Sure," you say. "As long as we're not aiming for any waterfowl…" Zahn snickers and you both begin looking for a few stones to pass some time…. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

You lean over and hover your arm over Zahn, catching $Zhisher gaze to silently ask for permission. $Zcapitalheshe nods at you, so you pull Zahn in with your arm for a squeeze, and $Zheshe wraps an arm across your back in turn. Zahn leans into you and gives a contented sigh and a murmured word of affection that you can't quite make out, but you pick up the words 'sweet' and 'kind.' A comfortable silence settles over you both as you look out to the water and Zahn finishes munching the cake. Zhan gestures at the cake tin. "Thank you for that. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it…maybe I could show you sometime, but I just don't have enough words." $Zcapitalheshe gives you a big grin. You shrug. "I was happy to, you don't have to repay me or anything." After fidgeting with the tattered ends of $Zhisher cloak, Zahn nudges you. "Want to skip stones with me?" "Sure," you say. "As long as we're not aiming for any waterfowl…" Zahn snickers and you both begin looking for a few stones to pass some time…. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $Zflirt +=5>> You turn to face Zahn more comfortably. $Zcapitalheshe looks at you with eyes that are just a bit sad. Gently placing your hand under $Zhisher chin, you bring your face closer and wait a moment for Zahn to understand your intent. $Zcapitalheshe nods, lips forming into a smile. You bring your own lips to $Zhisher cheek and give a small but lingering kiss. When you pull away, Zahn's neck is flushing with color that's creeping higher onto $Zhisher face. The small smile has turned into a wide one, and $Zheshe bashfully glances away for a moment before meeting your eye once more. Zahn gingerly touches the cheek you kissed. A comfortable silence settles over you both as you look out to the water and Zahn finishes munching the cake. Zhan gestures to the cake tin. "Thank you for that. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it…maybe I could show you sometime, but I just don't have enough words." $Zcapitalheshe gives you a big grin. You shrug. "I was happy to, you don't have to repay me or anything." After fidgeting with the tattered ends of $Zhisher cloak, Zahn nudges you. "Want to skip stones with me?" "Sure," you say. "As long as we're not aiming for any waterfowl…" Zahn snickers and you both begin looking for a few stones to pass some time…. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Over the next hour while everyone settles to plan the next move, you begin feeling progressively worse. You realize with no small amount of disparity that the only reason you were able to sit up in the first place was because of Lakota's tonics. As they wear off, you mainly sense pain and exhaustion. Breathing hurts, and you are more certain than ever that you have internal injuries, hopefully ''only'' a broken or dislocated rib. It's impossible to get comfortable - sitting or laying down in any position feels the same, making the hour feel like an entire day. Oswin is insisting that you be taken directly to Codrin to see a healer. Zahn is more concerned about taking you to the shrine. $Zcapitalheshe doesn't say as much because Duri is listening, but you know $Zheshe is worried about your illness. Zahn brings a good point in the discussion that the shrine may have something to help your injuries… Despite their debate, each has made it clear that the choice is yours, and they merely want you to take all facts into consideration before choosing. Though despite that, Oswin has been very pushy, which provokes Zahn to retaliate. Even if it is your choice, this hasn't stopped either of them from posturing who has the better ideas. You've listened in on the chatter and observed Duri's reaction to it - or lack thereof. $Dcapitalheshe doesn't say anything or weigh in with $Dhisher own opinion. But, you've been thinking. Duri is a demigod in a forest with a history linked to an old god - $Dheshe should know //something// about the strine - so why does $Dheshe stay silent? Since Zahn and Oswin are going to continue arguing in circles, you know you need to try to get more information. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"Duri, can I ask you a few questions, please?"<<else>>"Hey, Duri, I'm going to need some information if we're going to get anywhere with this."<</if>> Duri breaks attention away from the other two and stares at you. "You already owe me, lambchop, are you sure you want to keep digging deeper into my debt?" Oswin grumbles, but lets you handle it. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Considering I still received grievous injuries on your watch, how about you answer some questions and we consider it a part of the original debt?"<<else>>"Come on, we're buds now. Besides, if I kill over, how am I going to pay that debt?<</if>> Duri folds $Dhisher arms and closes $Dhisher eyes while thinking it over for a moment. "Sure, but it's not like I have anything that interesting to share - this choice is yours alone." [[You take a moment to choose your questions carefully.|4.24]]

You bow your head slightly to Duri. "Thank you, that was rather admirable for you to come to my rescue. I know it was a little frightful in the moment, but I understand now that you weren't trying to hurt me." Duri's honey-brown eyes go a little wide, and $Dheshe looks around, avoiding your eyes. $Dcapitalheshe nods finally. "I wish I could have caught you… Well, caught you sooner - before you got hurt." "You caught me?" "Yeah, I managed to divert you to the river at least, before I lost my grip. We both got a bath, but at least you didn't splatter!" You snort a laugh, jerking as pain lances through your chest. "So when I woke up and you were right there…" Duri scratches behind one ear and looks away again. "I didn't want you to get cold." "So…you're a total bleeding heart." Duri guffaws. "Am not! I thought about eating you as well, but after that fall you were way too tenderized." $Dcapitalheshe laughs and smiles at you. "And you are much too cute to be eaten." You smirk and roll your eyes. "Though…" Duri reaches towards your good arm, requesting your hand. "Maybe you'd let me have a taste?" $Dcapitalhisher eyes subtly glow as they meet your own. $flirt_label [[Allow this "taste."|4.22a1]] $flirt_label [[Go along, but pull back to tease Duri.|4.22a2]] $flirt_label [[Turn this around, and take a taste of your own.|4.22a5]] [[Bonk Duri on the nose.|4.22a3]] [[Turn Duri down.|4.22a4]]

Duri patiently waits for your questions.... <<if not hasVisited("4.24a")>>[[“I assume you know of Valko's shrine?”|4.24a]]<<else>>You asked if Duri knew about Valko's shrine.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("4.24b")>>[[Ask Duri's age.|4.24b]]<<else>>Duri is almost 900 years old.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("4.24c")>>[[“Will you guide us through the forest?”|4.24c]]<<else>>Duri will guide you wherever you go.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("4.24d")>>[[Ask about your "debt."|4.24d]]<<else>>You asked about your debt to Duri.<</if>> <<if $ch4q1 is true and $ch4q2 is true and $ch4q3 is true and $ch4q4 is true>>[[You have a choice to make.|4.25]]<</if>>

Duri laughs. "Well yeah, I live there." You jerk back in surprise and immediately regret it. After taking a moment to relax again, you continue. "You live there?" "Did you not piece it together yet? You're clever - you tell me." <<set $ch4q1 to true>> [["Are you actually Valko?"|4.24a1]] [["Did you get rid of Valko?"|4.24a2]] [["Are you related to Valko?"|4.24a3]]

Duri bursts into laughter. Apparently $Dheshe is not… <<if not hasVisited("4.24a2")>>[["Did you get rid of Valko?"|4.24a2]]<<else>>You asked if Duri killed Valko.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("4.24a3")>>[["Are you related to Valko?"|4.24a3]]<</if>>

Duri tsks. "I wish, but no." <<if not hasVisited("4.24a1")>>[["Are you actually Valko?"|4.24a1]]<<else>>You asked if Duri was actually Valko.<</if>> <<if not hasVisited("4.24a3")>>[["Are you related to Valko?"|4.24a3]]<</if>>

Duri nods. "Yes, unfortunately." You wait for more clarification, but are met with silence. Zahn chimes in. "Well…are you gonna actually tell us how?" Duri grumbles. "Yeah, I guess…it doesn't matter. I'm his kid - his youngest $Dsondtrchild." "So…is he around then?" "No, last I knew he was in the mountains, but we haven't spoken…in a long time, and I prefer to keep it that way. I don't know what business you have with him, but I recommend not seeking him out." "Is there anything at his shrine-" "It's not his!" Duri interjects. Oswin softly adds, "At your shrine then…" "Not mine either." Duri says quietly, looking down at $Dhisher lap. You make eye contact with the other two, unsure if you should keep going. They both nod at you. "Is there anything there that might help me - medicine or magical artifacts?" Duri raises an eyebrow and finally looks into your eyes. "You're magic hunters?" $Dcapitalheshe appears to bristle a bit. You shake your head. "I just need something to heal me up so we can continue our journey, magic would be…the quickest way." The demigod seems satisfied with that answer and shrugs. "There's some magic stuff there, and some old potions, but I don't know what any of it does. The land itself is charged with magic still, but it…sort of just does its own thing." "Potions?" Oswin asks. Duri nods. "The priests and priestesses were physicians back in the days the shrine was active. They'd make medicine and infuse it with their power - it amplifies the properties a great deal." Your face lights up with a smile. "That sounds like what I'd need." "Don't get too excited," Duri says. "No one has worked the shrine since…well, the whole war thing. Those tinctures are over 800 years old at least; I have no idea if they would do anything for you." You deflate a bit. [["Anything else?" Duri asks.|4.24]]

"So…" you begin carefully. "If you're a demigod, you'd have to be pretty old, right?" Duri covers a smile with a hand for a moment. "You worried I'm not young enough for you?" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"No," you reply flatly.<<else>>"Not at all, I already know you're too old for me," you reply through a restrained chuckle.<</if>> You get a brief pout from Duri, but $Dheshe shrugs $Dhisher shoulders and sighs. "Yes, I was born during the war actually. They called me the last demigod." Duri wiggles $Dhisher fingers at you and rolls $Dhisher eyes. Zahn leans forward. "That means, you'd be almost 900 years old!" You take a good look at Duri. $Dcapitalheshe doesn't look remotely old, in fact, $Dheshe barely looks your own age. Other than the long grey hair, Duri hardly even appears to be anything other than human to you - aside from when $Dheshe makes $Dhisher eyes glow… Duri shifts, looking a bit uncomfortable. "I haven't…really been around for that long." "Care to elaborate?" you ask carefully. "I've been asleep for most of that time, I think. I don't actually know how long. My…um, uncle put me into a slumber using magic and I only woke up recently." "How recent?" Oswin asks, impatience in his tone. Duri shrugs. "Take it easy - it's not like I keep track of the dates like you humans do. I only catch some details like that when I go into the city. I think it's been around 30 years." <<set $ch4q2 to true>> [[Ask why Duri was sleeping for so long.|4.24b1]] [[Move on.|4.24]]

You take a breath to ask your question, and Duri waves a hand at you. "Not your business." $Dcapitalheshe says with a shocking amount of seriousness. $Dcapitalheshe doesn't look angry at least, but there's a vacant look on $Dhisher face. [[Move on.|4.24]]

Duri smiles wide. "Of course." "That easy?" you ask. $Dcapitalheshe leans back, still grinning. "Well, I'm hardly going to let three armed and beautiful strangers wander around in my house alone now am I? Plus, you owe me, and I'd quite like to keep track of you." Duri winks. "I don't know what else I expected," you huff. <<set $ch4q3 to true>> [[Move on.|4.24]]

"So…" you begin. "You've mentioned that I'm in your debt a couple times…what do you mean by that?" Duri leans towards you and you see Oswin's hand move to his sword. "Maybe you still got hurt, little lamb, but I did save you from splattering into a rock. I even rinsed the mud off of you, kept you warm, fed you, and gave you a ride on my back. You have quite the bill to settle with me when you think about it." As much as you'd like to deny it, $Dheshe does make a point, but what could you offer a demigod to satisfy such a debt? "How do I…pay you then? What do you want?" Duri shrugs. "I don't know - I hadn't thought that far." You all go silent, watching Duri fuss over $Dhisher fingernails for a moment. Oswin finally grumbles. "Can you even actually collect anything from $mc without breaching the rules Hayat passed down? You're weakened, what's to stop us from leaving without returning the favor or-" "Or what?" Duri interrupts. "Killing me?" $Dcapitalheshe laughs. "I'm weakened, sure, but you have no idea what the extent of my powers are. Just how many wolves do you think make these woods their home, merc?" "You have power over all of them?" Zahn asks. Duri shakes $Dhisher head. "Not power over. We're a family - I told you. We look out for each other. My death would be felt throughout the forest, and you would not make it out alive, I guarantee it." $Dcapitalheshe smiles sweetly at Oswin. Oswin grumbles. "I don't want to kill you, no matter how insufferable you are. $mc is my priority to protect, and I don't want your perceived debt to inhibit $himher." Duri rolls $Dhisher eyes. "And you call //me// the dog." Oswin glares and Zahn slaps a hand over $Zhisher mouth. The demigod stretches out $Dhisher arms and legs, muscles quivering in a way you're sure feels satisfying. What you wouldn't give to do that right now without experiencing terrible pain. "Don't fret, I'll think of something that's fair, that won't hurt your precious charge. And - no - Hayat's little curse can't stop me from collecting what I want." "Nothing perverse," Oswin adds. Duri snickers. "Well that's not up to you, now is it? Don't give me any ideas you won't like." $Dcapitalheshe turns to you. "For the record, I may be a pervert, but that's a line I'd never cross - unless you want me to. Just say the word…maybe when you're not, you know, all broken." <<set $ch4q4 to true>> [[You suppose you will have to take that as an answer for now.|4.24]]

Either path you choose, Duri will guide you. Going to Codrin will guarantee that you see a healer today and sleep in an actual bed. It's what Oswin prefers, and if you were unconscious still, you have no doubt that he wouldn't have even entertained this conversation about it in the first place. Delaying professional help could be detrimental to your health and recovery. Going to the shrine is risky in your current state and places you even further away from the city. But, there's a chance you will find something there to help with your injuries and maybe even the curse itself. Duri confirmed there are magical things there, and despite posturing and toying with you, seems more helpful than not. Zahn seems more hopeful about finding help for you here. [[You want to go to Codrin.|4.25a][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 10, 0, 100)]] [[You still want to go to the shrine.|4.25b][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 10, 0, 100)]]

"I think it's best to go to Codrin. I'm not going to get far unless I get treatment, and without any guarantees of what we may find at the shrine…" You sigh. It's a bit disappointing to miss your goal when you are so close, but this way at least you can survive and possibly venture back. Oswin nods and a relieved smile spreads across his lips. "I think that is a good plan. Codrin has many great healers." Duri hops to $Dhisher feet, looking down at you. "You may be in luck, little <<if $mark is 'tree'>>sapling.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>sunbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>rain-cloud.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>bramble.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>moonbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>stone.<</if>> There's a bard who frequents Codrin that may be able to help you - a very alluring and magical one." Zahn smiles despite your choosing the city over the shrine. "No worries, $mc, we'll get to the shrine eventually." The demigod looks at you curiously, but doesn't pry. Now, for the hard part…. [[Standing up.|4.26a]]

"I think it's best to go to get to the shrine. I feel like there's a good chance that what I need will be there. If nothing else, we could probably find something to keep me in one piece until we find a proper healer." "$mc," Oswin says. "Please, I can't agree, I don't think this is wisdom." You acknowledge him with a shake of your head. "I know you don't agree, but…we're so close and it just //feels// right to me. If it's fruitless, I won't blame you. It's my choice." His brows dip in worry. You can tell he wants to argue, but this is your life and your choice, and he knows it. Duri hops to $Dhisher feet, looking down at you. "Well, we should get going so you can meet my pack and get settled before sundown. I can keep you warm again tonight if you like little <<if $mark is 'tree'>>sapling.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>sunbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>rain-cloud.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>bramble.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>moonbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>stone.<</if>>" $Dcapitalheshe smirks at you. $Dcapitalhisher smiles are rapidly becoming familiar to you. Zahn claps in excitement. "Don't worry, $mc, I believe that we're gonna find just what you need there!" The demigod looks at you curiously, but doesn't pry. Now, for the hard part…. [[Standing up.|4.26b]]

Oswin wastes very little time once your decision is made. The mounts were already packed up and required little preparation. <<if hasVisited("4.11a")>>He tells you that once the landslide happened, he tried desperately to find you, but couldn't cover the ground quick enough. You slid very far, and the darkness made it impossible to tread. The hillside was even more unstable after as well. He found Flit soon after, or rather she found him after becoming alarmed by the landslide. Not long after, Zahn and $mountname came looking after hearing the commotion.<</if>><<if hasVisited("4.11b")>>Zahn tells you that once the landslide happened, $Zheshe tried to look for you but quickly found it impossible with how dark it still was. $Zcapitalheshe could tell the landslide was too massive to traverse on $Zhisher own, and so rushed to find Oswin. Zahn found $mountname along the way, and Oswin and Flit stumbled upon them after that, drawn by the commotion.<</if>> They hurried back to camp for supplies to find you, and you can now see by how haphazardly the mounts are packed that it was clearly a rush job. Oswin and Zahn searched the mountainside the entire night. When the sun came up, they realized that the caverns underneath had collapsed as well and were looking for a way into them that wasn't a sheer drop. By the time Duri had brought you to them, Oswin was preparing to climb down one of the smaller inclines to find you. You don't need to be told what a bad idea that would be - he'd likely have been sucked in through the loose mud as it settled. The stress this placed on your companions is evident. Neither are free from dark circles under their eyes or lines etched into their brows. You expect such things from Oswin already, but seeing creases in Zahn's expression feels especially out-of-place. With everything packed and Oswin eager to find a healer for you, the next challenge is how to transport you. Oswin offers up another of Lakota's tonics which will stave off a good portion of discomfort, but there is no doubt that the ride will not be enjoyable. The natural jostling of a horse, even on level ground, would be enough to cause pain to your severely bruised body. Zahn laments that you have no cart to ride in. Both offer to support you on either mount, and Duri interrupts them to offer to carry you instead. Being carried in someone's arms would lessen the roughness of the ride, but…do you trust Duri for that enough right now? <<if $height is 'verytall'>>It could be awkward, you are much taller than Duri.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>It could be a bit awkward, you are taller than Duri.<<else>>You'd likely fit pretty comfortably in Duri's arms....<</if>> Or, would you rather spend the time being close to another who brings you comfort? [[You ride with Oswin to support you.|4.26a1]] [[You ride with Zahn to support you.|4.26a2]] [[You agree to let Duri carry you.|4.26a3]]

Oswin wastes very little time once your decision is made. The mounts were already packed up and required little preparation. <<if hasVisited("4.11a")>>He tells you that once the landslide happened, he tried desperately to find you, but couldn't cover the ground quick enough. You slid very far, and the darkness made it impossible to tread. The hillside was even more unstable after as well. He found Flit soon after, or rather she found him after becoming alarmed by the landslide. Not long after Zahn and $mountname came looking after hearing the commotion.<</if>><<if hasVisited("4.11b")>>Zahn tells you that once the landslide happened, $Zheshe tried to look for you but quickly found it impossible with how dark it still was. $Zcapitalheshe could tell the landslide was too massive to traverse on $Zhisher own, and so rushed to find Oswin. Zahn found $mountname along the way, and Oswin and Flit stumbled upon them after that, drawn by the commotion.<</if>> They hurried back to camp for supplies to find you, and you can now see by how haphazardly the mounts are packed that it was clearly a rush job. Oswin and Zahn searched the mountainside the entire night. When the sun came up, they realized that the caverns underneath had collapsed as well and were looking for a way into them that wasn't a sheer drop. By the time Duri had brought you to them, Oswin was preparing to climb down one of the smaller inclines to find you. You don't need to be told what a bad idea that would be - he'd likely have been sucked in through the loose mud as it settled. The stress this placed on your companions is evident. Neither are free from dark circles under their eyes or lines etched into their brows. You expect such things from Oswin already, but seeing creases in Zahn's expression feels especially out-of-place. With everything packed and Zahn eager to find a solution for your wounds, the next challenge is how to transport you. Oswin offers up another of Lakota's tonics which will stave off a good portion of discomfort, but there is no doubt that the ride will not be enjoyable. The natural jostling of a horse, even on level ground, would be enough to cause pain to your severely bruised body. Zahn laments that you have no cart to ride in. Both offer to support you on either mount, and Duri interrupts them to offer to carry you instead. Being carried in someone's arms would lessen the roughness of the ride, but…do you trust Duri for that enough right now? <<if $height is 'verytall'>>It could be awkward, you are much taller than Duri.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>It could be a bit awkward, you are taller than Duri.<<else>>You'd likely fit pretty comfortably in Duri's arms....<</if>> Or, would you rather spend the time being close to another who brings you comfort? [[You ride with Oswin to support you.|4.26b1]] [[You ride with Zahn to support you.|4.26b2]] [[You agree to let Duri carry you.|4.26b3]]

The first challenge is making it down the initial slope. It's difficult to keep from slipping in the mud and for a very brief moment, you almost envy Oswin's trek up the hillside - almost. Eventually the land levels out to a much more gentle incline and you find a path with plenty of vegetation to support you when it becomes difficult. Zahn's agility is impressive, $Zhisher knack for balance makes $Zhimher appear trained, but in an…unrefined sort of way. Eventually the smeared hoof prints you've been following smooth out, and you notice that you are on $mountname's trail. It gives you a sense of relief to know you're on <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> path. Plus, your own mount is more likely to respond to you than Flit would. Not that Oswin's horse doesn't listen to you, but you don't share the same type of bond. "How can you tell it's $mountname?" Zahn asks, staring at the clear prints in the mud. You shrug. "I just know what <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> hoof print looks like… <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>See how it's a bit dainty? She's lighter than Flit and her hoof is more narrow.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>It's a bit wider than Flit's would be. He's heavier too, so the print is deeper.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>Plus, it's huge…can you really not tell the difference? His legs are twice the size of Flit's at least.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>See how the print turns in just a bit? She's slightly pigeon-toed, so I know this is her.<</if>> Can you tell what I mean?" Zahn studies it for a moment with a hand to $Zhisher chin. "...Yes?" You snort. "We'll do a side-by-side comparison later after we get back to camp." Plodding along as you follow the tracks, Zahn lets you lead the way as $Zheshe ambles close to you, seeming much more relaxed now. "So…" $Zheshe begins. "I'm really flattered that you picked me. Just wanted to say that." "Yeah? I suppose you're welcome then?" You chuckle. Zahn preens a bit. "<<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>I feel like you're still debating on what to think of me - which is fair, don't get me wrong - we've not known each other very long yet.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>I already feel like we're becoming fast friends, and I'm really excited about that even if we haven't known each other very long yet.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>I already feel like we're becoming fast friends, and I'm really excited about that even if we haven't known each other very long yet. I feel…attached to you, I guess.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>I already feel like we're becoming fast friends, and I'm really excited about that even if we haven't known each other very long yet.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>I've had the feeling like you don't trust me much - which that's completely fair, so don't get me wrong - I'm a religious traveler you met in the woods. I understand how weird it is.<</if>> You just feel like a person I want to know more, that draws me in, so I really appreciate that you trusted me enough to pair up. I like being around you. Even Oswin, just don't tell him. You're…good…you're good people." $Zcapitalheshe gives you a big smile, and you can see in the faint glow of the lantern that Zahn's face is a little extra flushed. "I didn't realize you felt that way. Don't worry, I won't tell Oswin, <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>I promise.<<else>>unless I need blackmail of course.<</if>>" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Zahn grunts. "You're genuineness is just one of the reasons I've come to really respect you, $mc."<<else>>Zahn laughs. "That is such a you thing to say, $mc…I like the way you make me laugh, though."<</if>> In a twist of the mood, Zahn sighs heavily. "You know…my…the church leader said that…most people aren't good." "What?" you ask. "Really?" "Yeah. He said that…they'd be cruel - um, 'wicked,' was his exact word." "Have you known people outside your church to be wicked?" You find yourself pausing the trek, suddenly feeling curious about what Zahn needs to say. $Zcapitalheshe is quiet for a moment, looking out into the dark forest, away from your light. "Yeah." You wait a moment longer, but Zahn doesn't say anything more. You feel there is so much more behind $Zhisher bright smile and bubbly attitude, but $Zheshe isn't ready to show you. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>Maybe what $Zheshe has to say will sway your feelings about $Zhimher.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>You'll be patient though, and wait until $Zheshe is ready to tell you.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>You'll be patient though, and wait until $Zheshe is ready to tell you.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>You'll be patient though, and wait until $Zheshe is ready to tell you.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>You'd like to know, maybe it would help you determine if $Zheshe can be trusted or not.<</if>> For now, you'll have to be content with these little snippets Zahn shows you, but you feel that you're slowly chipping away at $Zhisher guard. Not but a few minutes after you both get moving again, and Zahn begins to chatter happily once more. "Glad the wolves have been quiet since we headed out. What do you think they were on about earlier? That was the scariest thing I have ever heard. Why does Oswin like wolves so damn much anyway?" "Do you have much experience with dogs or wolves?" You have a feeling you know the answer. "Nope. We aren't allowed pets in the church. The only animals I really interacted with were some cats on the street I lived. One brought me a fish once!" "Seriously? A cat actually brought you a fish?" "Yeah! She had kittens and we were in the same…house, so I think she must have considered me one of her own." "I think if you got to know a dog or a pup a bit, you'd understand more. We have several dogs at home - one of them is mostly a wolf I think too - they're great and they help us keep the farm safe." "You'll have to introduce me to all of them." $Zcapitalheshe gives you another big grin. You smile back, and the forest is feeling much lighter and brighter. [[Until you hear a large POP echoing around you.|4.11b2]]

You freeze. "What was that?" Zahn reels in close to your side with bow in hand. "I don't know…what would even make that sound?" $Zcapitalheshe whispers. Another crack resounds, followed by several smaller pops. You listen closely, trying to find a common direction or identify what you're hearing. The sounds come in from all around you, even up above and down below. Your deep breathing creates vapor in front of your face and that's when your understanding clicks. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You thought it sounded familiar.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You thought it sounded familiar.<</if>> "Oh," you say. "I think I know." Zahn is practically curled into your side. "Yeah? Please share because I don't like it." "The temperature has dropped a lot. The trees are adjusting to it. The air is cooling quicker than they are. Perhaps that's it?" "That makes sense," Zahn replies. "I hadn't noticed how cold it was yet. Your company is just so warm and radiant that I forgot all about it." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You roll your eyes.<<else>>You fan yourself with a hand.<</if>> "No matter how warm and radiant I may be, finding the mounts and sitting around a nice hot fire sounds much better to me." "Suit yourself, but let's get going so we can do just that. Maybe Oswin will let us sleep in a while too." You agree and head out in earnest, the occasional pops and cracks from the surrounding wood echoing through the night. You wonder how Oswin is fairing through all this. Several more minutes roll by, and you still do not see or hear $mountname. The tracks have leveled out and it is clear that <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>she<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>he<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>he<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>she<</if>> is only walking. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>She<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>He<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>He<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>She<</if>> can't be too much farther. Your calls yield no response. You come upon some rough terrain that is jagged with rocks and full of thick brush, where you find a leather strap from a harness, but lose the tracks. You circle the area to find them again as Zahn hops up on a stoney outcrop that sits just a bit higher than the rest of the area. The popping and cracking of the trees has become so regular that you barely notice it anymore, but the cold has really seeped in and is harder to not take any mind of. Your hands are so cold that they ache. You both travel a ways on your respective perches to find a sign of which direction $mountname went. After a few moments, you finally find a light impression of a hoof. "Hey! I found a print!" you call. Zahn pops over, looking down from the outcrop of stone. "Terrific, which way…" You look down, studying the mark. "Heading south, it's faint but-" [[''Don't move.''|4.11b3]]

You freeze at Zahn's urgent command, your head still locked to the ground. Zahn's voice is shaky and strained. "Okay…okay, I'm…I'm gonna help you, I'll get you out of this." Alarm racks your bones. //Out of what?// There is something about being told not to move that makes you want to bolt. "$mc, get up slowly." Your breath catches, but you slowly begin to rise, raising your head to look at Zahn who is slowly bringing an arrow to $Zhisher bow. You instinctively want to look behind you, turning your head slightly. "Don't." Zahn commands. You slowly raise your head to see Zahn nocking an arrow, and your heart races as the trees pop and crack around you again. //What is behind you?// Zahn's eyes are blazing, aimed behind you. $Zcapitalhisher arms are shaking as they try to pull the bowstring. //POP!// //CRACK!// The trees continue to groan. [[And then…you feel it.|4.11b4]]

//Heat.// Moist heat blows against your back, even piercing through your clothing. You choke on your breath and do your best to not run right away. Zahn's voice still shakes and strains. "It's…it's focused on me, I'm going to keep it distracted while you get away. Okay?" //It//? //What is it//? You suddenly hear a puff of breath directly behind you - the source of the moist heat - right on the back of your neck. It ruffles your hair. Your jaw quivers. //POP! CRACK!// The trees continue to strain more and more. The snaps do little to comfort or distract you. Zahn continues to struggle to nock the arrow as you watch, but manages it finally and you feel a small flutter of hope. "It's…it's a wolf, I think. $mc, it's huge. It's ''huge''." $Zcapitalhisher voice sounds as though $Zheshe will burst into tears at any moment. The hot breath crests over your neck and shoulders again. Every hair on your body raises. Your muscles burn for you to run. //POP!// //CRACK!// //POP, POP, POP!// //CRACK!// The forest is ''screaming''. Cold air clogs your throat. Your heart races. Zahn pulls the bowstring and aims. The wolf growls behind you - a tremendous sound - intense enough that you feel it in your own chest. You nearly whimper. //POP! CRACK! CRACK!// //''SNAP!''// [[......|4.11b5]]

<html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">BOOM</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[The ground shifts.|4.11b6]]

You barely register what is happening at first. In an instant, you are falling as the ground beneath you suddenly lurches. The trees and brush continue to crack and snap apart. Your back hits the ground as Zahn screams your name over and over, and you realize that the trees around you are //moving//. You finally get a flashing look at the supposed wolf. It is indeed gigantic - bigger than any horse you've ever seen - but even it seems taken by surprise. Along with you, it's been knocked off its feet and is sliding close to you. A giant paw digs into the dirt close to your head as it tries to regain balance. The earth is being whisked away, and Zahn's frantic screaming is growing more distant by the moment, but you hear the rush of an arrow clearly. Your lantern is lost to you, but even in the shadow of the night you can tell what is happening - you are caught in a landslide. The trees, brush, and the very ground beneath you has given way. You hear the crashing of timber all around you as you feel yourself getting pulled into the mud as it begins its rush to lower ground. The giant animal struggles beside you, but regains footing on the shaky ground. Your eyes meet again, the yellow glow piercing your soul. [[It lunges at you.|4.a7]]

Zahn considers your words for a moment, just looking back at you. "//Wanted// to…" $Zcapitalheshe smiles, popping another bite of cake in $Zhisher mouth. You eye the pilgrim with curiosity for a moment before you notice $Zhisher face twitching oddly. Zahn turns away from you. "Are you okay?" $Zcapitalheshe nods without looking back at you. Unusual… <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Seriously, if you didn't like it, it's okay."<<else>>You force a small chuckle. "If it's left you that tongue-tied, it must be good."<</if>> With a quivering voice, and a mouth full of cake, Zahn responds. "It was wonderful." Zahn hastily clears $Zhisher throat. "Hey…" You gently touch Zahn's shoulder. Why is $Zheshe upset? "Sorry..." $Zcapitalheshe laughs, but it's weak. "It was really so good, I'm just a little stunned." Zahn's voice is strained. Before you can formulate a response, Zahn turns suddenly. "Hey, you probably didn't get a taste, right? You should eat the rest!" Some chipperness returns to $Zhisher demeanor. It's clear that Zahn wants to ignore whatever $Zheshe was feeling over your gesture. Maybe for now you'll drop the subject and let $Zhimher move along. It can always be asked about later. "It's the only one and I don't want to eat your cake." "No, you should…go ahead and take the rest" Zahn gestures to the tin. You break off a piece of cake and pop it into your mouth. The familiar flavor of home cooking fills your senses, along with memories of your da chasing Papa from the kitchen for sneaking tastes of batter and honey. "It tastes like home," Zahn suddenly says. You stare back for a moment, curious how $Zheshe would know. You nod as you finish chewing. Zahn goes quiet and stares out over the water. "That's how I imagined it might taste I guess. Warm and sweet…I'd like to see it sometime - your hometown. I bet it's nice." "Your home doesn't have a familiar taste or smell?" you ask. "Mm…not really. I mean, yeah, in a way - like incense makes me think of it…and porridge. It just doesn't feel like this." Zahn points to the caek. "There's something different about how eating that…feels. Like, coming home to someone you love." You're not quite sure what to say to that, but you get the sick feeling that Zahn doesn't know what it's like to have someone waiting for $Zhimher…wanting $Zhimher home. This church is //not// good for Zahn, it can't be. "Everyone…should have that." $Zcapitalheshe nods as $Zheshe welcomes Miss Quackers back into $Zhisher lap. She settles in happily. "Miss Quackers will stick with me, she needs a home too." The duck quacks happily, making you both smile, until you realize you can hear even more quacking from elsewhere. You look up to see another duck flying in and gracefully landing in the water. Miss Quackers flutters her wings as the quacking between the two intensifies. The new duck is black and white with a tuft of feathers sticking out from the top of its head, and the same piercing yellow eyes. Miss Quackers hustles from Zahn's lap, gliding into the water to greet the newcomer. They circle each other and nuzzle their beaks into each other's feathers. After swimming about for a few minutes, they paddle off together. Zahn sighs, which ends in a chuckle. The irony is not lost on you, and you feel a pang of sympathy. [[You make a joke to help cheer Zahn up.|3.77ab2a1a1a]] [[You give Zahn a comforting side-hug.|3.77ab2a1a1b]] $flirt_label [[A little kiss on the cheek will help Zahn forget all about it.|3.77ab2a1a1c]]

<<set $Oride4 to true>> "Oswin, I'd like to ride with you," you say. His expression is one of relief. "Good; I will do my best to keep you comfortable." Once everyone is settled to begin the trek, Duri and Zahn assist you in mounting Flit. Oswin mounts first and scoots to the back of the saddle since it will be easier for him to keep you steady and address your needs if you sit in front.<<if $height is 'verytall'>> He doesn't seem perturbed by how much taller than him you are either. As long as he can see around you to check the road, you know he trusts Flit to navigate.<</if>> You get up on the side where you can comfortably use your right arm. Oswin guides your ascent as the other two help lift and steady you. It is not without pain. At least you keep from screaming, but must take a moment to breathe. Once you've settled, Oswin hands you a small open phial with a murky greenish brown liquid inside. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>You'd recognize this concoction anywhere, if not by the look, by the earthy and slightly sour smell alone. This tonic is as effective as it is pungent, and from the looks of it, this is a concentrated batch. You give small doses to chronic pain sufferers and larger ones such as this to those in serious pain. You're proud to have your own recipe that rivals that of Lakota and his father. It even tastes better.<</if>> "Is this what you gave me earlier? This is Lakota's anodyne, isn't it?" You ask. "Yes, you weren't…terribly conscious for most of it, but we dripped it down your throat after you fainted." "No wonder I was able to sleep and move around for a while." "We have one more phial after this one, and a few weaker things for pain left if you need them," Oswin says. "<<if $interest is 'healin'>>I have two smaller doses of my pain tonic in my bag too. <</if>>I think this should last me through the trip; I can still feel the lingering effects of the first phial." "Good," he says. "Sorry you have to be awake for this dose.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> Don't tell Lakota I said it, but yours tastes so much better.<</if>>" You shudder a bit. The anodyne isn't the worst medicine out there, but the concentrated version has a lingering bitterness.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> You add a little oil infused with lemongrass, sugar, a touch of blueberry juice to make it go down a little easier.<</if>> "No helping it, as long as it works." You work up your nerve and sling the tonic down, trying to swallow before it settles on your tongue. Wincing a bit as the taste floods your senses, you hand the phial back to Oswin who tucks it away. Once you are settled, you see that Zahn is atop $mountname, but Duri isn't mounted with $Zhimher. You give Duri a curious look. $Dcapitalheshe bats a hand at you. "Don't fret, I'm walking. I can keep up." "<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Try not to strain yourself just the same. Didn't you tell me earlier that you were tired?<<else>>Is this your way of bragging about your stamina?<</if>>" you ask. Duri gives you a lopsided smile. "Just because I've exhausted my magic doesn't mean I can tire so easily. Quite frankly, I believe it's something I should brag about, especially in such…//attractive// company." $Dcapitalheshe winks at you. [[Roll your eyes.|4.26a1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[Smile as you shake your head.|4.26a1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Blush.|4.26a1b][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Wink back.|4.26a1c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

<<set $Zride4 to true>> "I'd like to ride with Zahn," you say. The $Zmanwoperson in question lights up with a big smile. "I'll tend to your every need!" Oswin shakes his head, but you think you spy a slight smile on his lips. Perhaps the excitable pilgrim is wiggling into Oswin's heart bit by bit and earning his trust. Once everyone is settled to begin the trek, Oswin and Duri assist you in mounting $mountname. Zahn gets in the saddle first, scooting to the back to allow you to slot in front of $Zhimher. This way, $Zheshe can assist and support you easier. <<if $height is 'short'>>Zahn will have no trouble seeing over and around you, either.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Since you're about the same height, Zahn shouldn't have much difficulty in seeing around you.<<else>>Though you're taller than Zahn, $Zheshe doesn't seem phased. As long as $Zheshe can see around you to check the road on occasion, you're confident that your mount will stay in line with Flit.<</if>> You get up on the side where you can comfortably use your right arm. Zahn guides your ascent as the other two help lift and steady you. It is not without pain. At least you keep from screaming, but must take a moment to breathe. Once you've settled, Zahn hands you a small open phial with a murky greenish brown liquid inside. "Oswin gave this to me for you. It stinks, but he says it will help your pain." Taking a look at the tonic, you recognize Lakota's handiwork.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> You'd recognize this concoction anywhere, if not by the look, by the earthy and slightly sour smell alone. This tonic is as effective as it is pungent, and from the looks of it, this is a concentrated batch. You give small doses to chronic pain sufferers and larger ones such as this to those in serious pain. You're proud to have your own recipe that rivals that of Lakota and his father. It even tastes better.<</if>> "It's an anodyne my best friend makes. It doesn't smell pleasant, but it works to stave off pain." Zahn hums an agreement. "You seemed a lot better after we gave it to you when you fainted. Now I don't feel so bad about pouring it down your throat." "No wonder I was able to sleep and move around for a while." "I think there's only one more left after that. I don't know how long they'll last, so you might want to pace yourself. I don't know how much I can support you with magic right now." "<<if $interest is 'healin'>>I have two smaller doses of my own pain tonic in my bag too. But, <</if>>I think this should last me through the whole trip; I can still feel the lingering effects of the first phial." "Good," $Zheshe says. "I'm glad, but I'm sorry you have to taste and smell it this time.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> You make this stuff too then? That's pretty incredible. Does it taste bad?<</if>>" You shudder a bit. The anodyne isn't the worst medicine out there, but the concentrated version has a lingering bitterness. "It isn't the best, but I would say it's not as bad as the smell would suggest. It's certainly worth it for what it can do for you.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> I add a little oil infused with lemongrass, sugar, and a touch of blueberry juice to make it go down a little easier.<</if>>" You work up your nerve and sling the tonic down, trying to swallow before it settles on your tongue. Wincing a bit as the taste floods your senses, you hand the phial back to Zahn who tucks it away. Once you are settled, you see that Oswin is atop Flit, but Duri isn't mounted with him. You give Duri a curious look. $Dcapitalheshe bats a hand at you. "Don't fret, I'm walking. I can keep up." "<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Try not to strain yourself just the same. Didn't you tell me earlier that you were tired?<<else>>Is this your way of bragging about your stamina?<</if>>" you ask. Duri gives you a lopsided smile. "Just because I've exhausted my magic doesn't mean I can tire so easily. Quite frankly, I believe it's something I should brag about, especially in such…//attractive// company." $Dcapitalheshe winks at you. [[Roll your eyes.|4.26a1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[Smile as you shake your head.|4.26a1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Blush.|4.26a1b][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Wink back.|4.26a1c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

<<set $Dride4 to true>> You lock eyes with Duri as you work through the decision. $Dcapitalheshe notices and smirks back, seeming to preen as $Dheshe figures out what choice you're leaning towards. Oswin interrupts, handing you a small open phial with a murky greenish brown liquid inside. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>You'd recognize this concoction anywhere, if not by the look, by the earthy and slightly sour smell alone. This tonic is as effective as it is pungent, and from the looks of it, this is a concentrated batch. You give small doses to chronic pain sufferers and larger ones such as this to those in serious pain. You're proud to have your own recipe that rivals that of Lakota and his father. It even tastes better.<</if>> Duri approaches with curiosity etched on $Dhisher face. $Dcapitalheshe sniffs around you and then makes a face, poking out $Dhisher tongue like a toddler refusing to eat vegetables. "Is this what you gave $himher earlier?" Duri asks. Oswin nods as you meet his eye with the same question on your mind. "Yes," he answers, addressing you instead. "You weren't…terribly conscious for most of it, but we dripped it down your throat after you fainted." "No wonder I was able to sleep and move around for a while," you say. Duri shakes $Dhisher head in disgust. Trying to ignore the reaction, Oswin continues. "We have one more phial after this one, and a few weaker things for pain left if you need them." "<<if $interest is 'healin'>>I have two smaller doses of my pain tonic in my bag too. <</if>>I think this should last me through the trip; I can still feel the lingering effects of the first phial," you explain. "Good," Oswin says. "Sorry you have to be awake for this dose.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> Don't tell Lakota I said it, but yours tastes so much better.<</if>>" You shudder a bit. This anodyne isn't the worst medicine out there, but the concentrated version has a lingering bitterness.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> You add a little oil infused with lemongrass, sugar, a touch of blueberry juice to make it go down a little easier.<</if>> "No helping it, as long as it works." You work up your nerve and sling the tonic down, trying to swallow before it settles on your tongue. Wincing a bit as the taste floods your senses, you hand the phial back to Oswin who tucks it away as the demigod looks at you with pity. You turn to Duri with a slight wince. "Are you genuinely offering to carry me? If so…I think that might be the most comfortable option for me." Oswin's face twitches, but he stays quiet. $Dcapitalheshe raises an eyebrow. "Yeah. Why? You don't believe I can?" "It will take hours to get there…Won't that strain you?<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>> Didn't you tell me earlier that you were tired?<<else>> Is this your way of bragging about your stamina?<</if>>" you ask. Duri gives you a lopsided smile. "Just because I've exhausted my magic doesn't mean I can tire so easily. Quite frankly, I believe it's something I should brag about, especially in such…//attractive// company." $Dcapitalheshe winks at you. [[Roll your eyes.|4.26a1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[Smile as you shake your head.|4.26a1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Blush.|4.26a1b][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Wink back.|4.26a1c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You smile as you reach for the tin. "We'll split it like this, if that's okay."<<else>>"I think we're both capable of feeding ourselves, don't you?" you say as you reach for the tin.<</if>> "Of course," he replies. "Mind that your hands don't get too sticky." You shake your head as you break off part of the cake and hand the treat back to Nathan. "And you do the same." Nathan gently takes his half of the cake and brings it to his mouth with one hand poised to catch crumbs. You can't help but watch in curiosity as he takes a bite and then freezes. His hazel eyes go a bit wide and he looks at you as he begins to chew slowly. You're curious about his reaction until you hear him humming in approval. You have to smile at that as you nibble your own bit of cake. The merchant is right… "Oh, $mc…this is a delight," he says after swallowing. "Gods be damned, this must be better than your da's…" Nathan points a finger at you. "Don't tell him I said that." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"It'll be our secret - for now," you say before downing the last bit of your cake.<<else>>"Oh? What's this? A bit of blackmail I can hold over you?" You smirk. "Be on your best behavior and maybe I'll keep your secret."<</if>> He chuckles, the sound deep and almost melodic. "One thing I have to spare is secrets, young Northbreaker. You keep this one of mine and I'll keep yours." He winks. You wrinkle your brow. "And what secret is that?" Nathan feigns exasperation, placing the back of one hand to his forehead. "Why, using baked treats to beguile a poor innocent merchant into the palm of your hand." [[''I'd never do such a thing to you.''|3.77ab3a1][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[''How is it my fault that you're so easy?''|3.77ab3a2][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[''I'm certain you were in my hands long before now…''|3.77ab3a3][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 4, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You blush at the insinuation.|3.77ab3a4][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 4, 0, 100)]]

<<set $merchantopinion +=4>> Shadow skitters away as Nathan sits up on his knees and leans close to where you sit. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Despite your height, he still hovers over you slightly in this position.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>For once, he looms over you instead of meeting your eye.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>He looms over you.<<else>>He towers over you even more than normal.<</if>> "In the southern province, it's common to see people feed each other as an //affectionate// gesture. Perhaps you'd like a demonstration?" <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You look up into his eyes and swallow hard. You //do// want this 'demonstration,' but can't readily voice it. Your face feels like fire, and you can't tell if it's flirtation in general or the fact that this man is still largely a mystery to you.<<else>>Oh, you would indeed. You lean forward, tilting your head up to meet his sultry gaze. Your heart thumps in your chest, and you can't tell if it's flirtation in general or the fact that this man is still largely a mystery to you.<</if>> There's something sensual about that in and of itself - knowing each other just enough, but not //too// much; it's a line made to be crossed. Perhaps some of the enticement is how much older he is than you. He's handsome already, in a way that is somehow both rugged and refined, but there's an unusual allure to Nathanael that is hard to place. You're not completely sure if it's a good thing or not. "Go on now," he says. "Pick up the other bit." You notice then that he has broken off a bit of cake for you. As you murmur a quick apology, you grab a morsel for him as well. Nathan smirks at you. "It's only fair that you get the first taste…and you know, now that I think on it, the honey syrup is probably the best part, right?" He sets the piece of cake back in the tin and runs two fingers along the honey that coats it. His eyes narrow. "This is the taste you really want, $mc…" Your eyes widen and your mouth drops as he presses the fingers towards your lips. You take them in, eagerly, the sweet ting of honey blooming in your senses. His fingers are long and slender, igniting a fire in your loins as they press in and down upon your tongue. You tighten your lips around them, and lift your eyes to his. He groans with delight. "Very good, $mc. Make sure you get it all - wouldn't want to leave me a sticky mess…" You mumble a muffled reply as you suck on his fingers, keeping your eyes on his. Like this, he doesn't look like his normal gentle and slightly silly self. The sensuality between you is palpable. Maybe you should have flirted with him more often…<<if hasVisited("He's a handsome man and fun, perhaps he'd share your bed tonight...")>>You've already invited him to bed once before, and now you find yourself wanting to ask again.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("3.64c2a")>>You already admitted to trying to seduce him, perhaps this is his comeuppance to tease you further.<</if>><<if hasVisited("3.64c2b")>>He was clearly on to you earlier at the bath. Perhaps this is his comeuppance to tease you further.<</if>> Nathan withdraws his fingers a moment later, and their absence almost makes you whine, until you remember that he is owed his treat as well. Gingerly, you bring the treat to his lips. His eyes do not leave yours as he takes the bite of cake from you and moans in delight, seizing your wrist before you can pull away. You can only watch him. "Divine, $mc. Like a taste of home…" He grins at you, still holding your wrist as he seems to think. You feel like you're being pulled along in his flow. "I wonder…if it tastes as delightful as you?" <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>What did he just say? Did you hear him right? You can only ponder as your hand is being drawn towards his mouth. Your heart rate quickens.<<else>>It's a fair question, you think. It would be rude to not allow him to sample everything, right? Without missing a beat, you push your fingers towards his lips, his grip loosening a bit as you do.<</if>> He takes your fingers in much in the same way you did for him, only he controls your wrist in his gentle hold. He sucks your fingers and you feel his hot tongue flip around and in between them. As he tightens his lips around them, you shudder with delight at the sensation. He withdraws them with an audible pop before simply holding your hand up as he licks up and down your fingers. Once he is satisfied, he releases you. "So," you start. "Your thoughts?" "I may need more samples to make a fair assessment…" He smiles and then laughs as he settles back into his seat. "You and your da have more in common than I once thought…" "//What//?" Your eyes bug. He looks at you with a serious face. "Why, he serves cake in much the same way as you." Nathan holds your eye without flinching for a moment before his lips twitch as he fights a smile. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Don't even joke about such things! I had ought to tell Papa what you just implied about his beloved husband."<<else>>"We'll see if you are ever granted a Northbreaker honey cake ever again since you think you're so funny."<</if>> Nathan waves his arms in surrender. "Now, now, I implore you to not be too hasty. I sincerely apologize. My tongue gets away from me at times - as you experienced earlier. Really, $mc…this has been a delight. Gods be damned, your cake is truly better than your da's…" Nathan points a finger at you. "Don't tell him I said that." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"It'll be our secret - for now," you say before taking another bite of cake for yourself. "But, you're on thin ice as it is."<<else>>"Oh? What's this? Yet another bit of blackmail I can hold over you?" You smirk. "Be on your best behavior and maybe I'll keep your secret."<</if>> He chuckles, the sound deep and almost melodic. "One thing I have to spare is secrets, young Northbreaker. You keep one or two of mine, and I'll keep yours." He winks. You wrinkle your brow. "And what secret of mine is that?" Nathan feigns exasperation, placing the back of one hand to his forehead. "Why, using baked treats to beguile a poor innocent merchant into the palm of your hand." [[''I'd never do such a thing to you.''|3.77ab3a1][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 0, 100)]] [[''How is it my fault that you're so easy?''|3.77ab3a2][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[''I'm certain you were in my hands long before now…''|3.77ab3a3][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 4, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You blush at the insinuation.|3.77ab3a4][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 4, 0, 100)]]

Nathan chokes as laughter suddenly bubbles up from his throat. "My, you are a scamp sometimes. I quite like that about you, though.<<if hasVisited("3.64c2d")>> First you tease me about my age, and now this…<</if>> I will have you know that I am anything but //easy// as you call it. I'm rather particular. Perhaps you're just an exception?" He narrows his eyes at you, but the way he holds his lips in a faux pout, tells you he's feigning offense. You chuckle. "I suppose it's wrong of me to victim-blame anyway. Shame on me." You gently smack the top of your hand with the other. The merchant gives you a crooked smile. "You reminded me of your da just now," he says. "Both your fathers are good men, but I'm fond of your da even for how short our interactions have been. There's something both beautiful and a little wistful about one who expresses feelings with the guise of humor…I've crossed paths with many hearts in my time, but none so quite as deep as his. I feel that your heart beats with the same rhythm." You're a bit taken aback by that. "You really think so?" He nods. "At least in this moment. You can always make different choices later, of course, be like someone else for a time…. There's beauty in that too, one that calls to me." He's quiet, looking thoughtful for a moment before adding, "<<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>Though, you are blessedly more shy than he, I think that just speaks to your superior wisdom.<<else>>I'd have never imagined someone could match his boldness, even his own child. You're a beacon.<</if>>" You sit with the merchant for a while longer and chat about a little bit of everything and a lot of nothing. It's nice. It's easy. You simply enjoy his company. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $merchantopinion +=3>> A delighted smile lights up the merchant's face. He leans forward, his eyes narrowing. Oddly, despite his normal friendly and cheerful expressions, Nathan appears almost menacing. "Are you so sure that it is really //I// in //your// hands? How sure is your grip, Northbreaker?" His ringed hand lifts so he can trace your jaw with the backs of his fingers. "Perhaps I only allow you to hold me until I can snatch you away for myself?" Your mouth drops open. That was unexpected, and your mind goes through responses so quickly that you can't manage to pick one. Nathanael chortles, the seriousness in his face falling away so fast it is like it was never there. "Oh, the look on your face…that was delightful. Let this be a lesson in flirting with trouble." You scoff. "You? Trouble? <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>I believe I overheard you telling Shadow earlier how soft '//his cute little tummy//' is…<<else>>I once watched you apologize to a //chair// that you knocked over by accident…<</if>> Trouble isn't the first word that comes to mind when I think of you." He covers his face with his hands. "I did not realize anyone witnessed that. Just let me have this moment, will you? I was really proud of that line." He's practically pouting at you… <<if hasVisited("3.64c2a")>>"You told me earlier during my bath that you'd need to think on it - I'm giving you more to think about. If this is a little game we play, you'll find that I'm quite good at it." He chuckles weakly. "Better than I gave you credit for, I have to admit. It's been a long time since I've enjoyed being so…//playful// with someone."<</if>> "If it's any consolation, you did look sort of sinister-but-sexy for a moment - but only a moment," you tell him. He deadpans. "That truly heals my wounded pride - but only for a moment…" You both break out into laughter. You sit with the merchant for a while longer and chat about a little bit of everything, flirting on occasion. It's nice. It's easy. You simply enjoy his company. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<set $merchantopinion +=3>> A delighted smile lights up the merchant's face. He leans forward, his eyes narrowing. Oddly, despite his normal friendly and cheerful expressions, Nathan appears almost menacing. "What's this? Do I spy some extra color on your cheeks?" You look away, feeling the heat in question upon your face. "Oh, it is.<<if hasVisited("3.64c2b")>> Just like when you were in the bath earlier. How cute.<</if>> I find it sweet when you're shy, my dear. I've no idea what I've done to deserve such bashful attention from you, but it warms me…almost as much as it seems to warm you." You clear your throat. "I think you may just be making assumptions." "Oh, oh yes. You're quite right. Maybe I am reading this all wrong. But anyway, //if// you were finding yourself flustered over me, know that it pleases me so. Even if it's just a game we play, I enjoy it." You nod. "I guess…I do as well, if I'm honest." "Wonderful. I'll try not to torment you further, even if it is tempting." You both smile at one another, an unspoken warmth of understanding between you. You sit with the merchant for a while longer and chat about a little bit of everything, flirting subtly on occasion. It's nice. It's easy. You simply enjoy his company. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

Nathanael chuckles, tilting his head as he smiles at you. "That I know to be true, dear one. I merely jest. I'd never imply that you'd seriously take advantage of me. Would I let you?" He pretends to give thought. "Absolutely." You shake your head. "You reminded me of your papa just now," he says then. "He's a good man. One of the best I've known, though he hasn't spoken at length with me, but I get feelings for people, you know. I've crossed paths with many hearts in my time, but none so quite as big as his. I feel that yours beats with the same rhythm." You're a bit taken aback by that. "You really think so?" He nods. "At least in this moment. You can always make different choices later, of course, be like someone else for a time…. There's beauty in that too, one that calls to me." He's quiet, looking thoughtful for a moment before adding, "<<if $height is 'verytall'>>If nothing else, you've got the height for it. You may have been adopted, but you're still blessed with Dov's stature.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>If nothing else, you've nearly got the height for it. You may have been adopted, but that hasn't stopped you from growing up like Dov.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Even if you don't have quite the height for it, you can still be like Dov on the inside.<<else>>You're like the mini version of Dov - a very cute, very…compact version, but one just as warm.<</if>>" You sit with the merchant for a while longer and chat about a little bit of everything and a lot of nothing. It's nice. It's easy. You simply enjoy his company. [[You continue your day.|3.63]]

<<if $Oride4 is true>> With you situated finally, everyone sets off with Duri leading the mounts back to the road. You're immediately lanced with pain. The transfer of motion is inevitable, and you are clearly injured more beyond just your shoulder. The muscles along your hips and abdomen are severely strained, and you are trying very hard not to focus on your ribs. You feel the roughness of the terrain in every part of your chest. "I'm sorry, $mc," Oswin murmurs. You grit your teeth. "<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>It's…it's not so bad. I can make it.<<else>>It's painful…but I can endure it.<</if>>" "The anodyne will kick in soon, I promise." Your breath is taken away as Flit navigates up a sudden incline. Duri calls out from the front of the pack. "Brace yourself, $mc, the road is ahead but there's a steep downward slope after this!" Your heart races in anticipation of the pain. You feel the shift as the horse makes the descent and cry out involuntarily. Flit's ears turn to listen and she slows her pace. You hear $mountname whinny at you, sounding alarmed as Zahn tries to soothe <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>him<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>him<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>>. "$mc," Oswin says your name gently. "$mc, you can lean back on me. It may not be much better, but I'll try to keep you steady." You gasp as agony ripples up your spine. [[Lean back on Oswin.|4.27aa]] [[Lean forward to try and ease the strain.|4.27ab]] <</if>> <<if $Zride4 is true>> With you situated finally, everyone sets off with Duri leading the mounts back to the road. You're immediately lanced with pain. The transfer of motion is inevitable, and you are clearly injured more beyond just your shoulder. The muscles along your hips and abdomen are severely strained, and you are trying very hard not to focus on your ribs. You feel the roughness of the terrain in every part of your chest. "It'll be okay, $mc," Zahn encourages. "It's hard right now, but it'll be over tonight and we'll have a good healer treat you and you can just rest. Just hold on for now." You grit your teeth. "<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>It's…it's not so bad. I can make it.<<else>>It's painful…but I can endure it.<</if>>" "Your medicine will help soon." Your breath is taken away as $mountname navigates up a sudden incline. Duri calls out from the front of the pack. "Brace yourself, $mc, the road is ahead but there's a steep downward slope after this!" Your heart races in anticipation of the pain. You feel the shift as your <<if $mount is 'mule'>>mule<<else>>horse<</if>> makes the descent and cry out involuntarily. $mountname's ears turn to listen and <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>she<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>he<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>he<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>she<</if>> slows the pace as she nickers at you softly, sounding distressed. "$mc," Zahn says your name gently. "$mc, you can lean back on me. It may not be much better, but I'll comfort you." You gasp as agony ripples up your spine. [[Lean back on Zahn.|4.27aa]] [[Lean forward to try and ease the strain.|4.27ab]] <</if>> <<if $Dride4 is true>> It is clear that the demigod is very pleased that you chose $Dhimher. Duri waits, watching you closely while the others mount up. Once they signal that they are ready, $Dheshe reaches for you. Duri bends and positions $Dhisher hands at the back of your knees and mid-back. "This will probably be the worst part. I won't jerk you up, but I'll move quick." "Okay." Before you can blink, you're whisked up in a fluid motion. You feel discomfort at the motion, but the hardest part is your weight settling differently in the strong arms that now hold you. //Very strong// arms. You can't help the look of surprise on your face. Your face, which is now very close to a smiling, shapeshifting, demigod's. It was so incredibly easy for $Dhimher to pick you up. Duri isn't even breathing differently, and you slot well into $Dhisher arms. $Dcapitalheshe is so warm. It's as if $Dheshe exudes the same heat as when $Dheshe was in the form of the wolf. You won't miss your cloak, that's for certain. "Just let me know if you need something, $mc," Duri says softly. "I'll keep you as comfortable as I can. If this position doesn't work for you, there are many others we can try." Oswin clears his throat from behind you. You nod, and Duri sets out, taking the lead to guide everyone back to the road. "Once we get to the road, you can switch to my back," Duri continues, this time looking slightly less flirtatious. "The route to it is bumpy. With you in my arms like this, I can absorb the impact easier. As an added bonus, you can get a really //good// look at me." You get a winning smile, complete with snaggletooth. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Good to know," you reply.<<else>>"Lucky me," you quip.<</if>> Duri's voice goes quiet. "Seriously though…tell me if you hurt or if I move you in a bad way. You can rest your head on my shoulder if you want - try to sleep or something if you can." [[Rest your head on Duri's shoulder.|4.27aa]] [[Stay where you are.|4.27ab]] <</if>>

<<set $Dflirt +=2>> <<set $Dshy +=2>> <<if $Oride4 is true>> With you situated finally, everyone sets off with Duri leading the mounts back to the road. You're immediately lanced with pain. The transfer of motion is inevitable, and you are clearly injured more beyond just your shoulder. The muscles along your hips and abdomen are severely strained, and you are trying very hard not to focus on your ribs. You feel the roughness of the terrain in every part of your chest. "I'm sorry, $mc," Oswin murmurs. You grit your teeth. "<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>It's…it's not so bad. I can make it.<<else>>It's painful…but I can endure it.<</if>>" "The anodyne will kick in soon, I promise." Your breath is taken away as Flit navigates up a sudden incline. Duri calls out from the front of the pack. "Brace yourself, $mc, the road is ahead but there's a steep downward slope after this!" Your heart races in anticipation of the pain. You feel the shift as the horse makes the descent and cry out involuntarily. Flit's ears turn to listen and she slows her pace. You hear $mountname whinny at you, sounding alarmed as Zahn tries to soothe <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>him<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>him<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>>. "$mc," Oswin says your name gently. "$mc, you can lean back on me. It may not be much better, but I'll try to keep you steady." You gasp as agony ripples up your spine. [[Lean back on Oswin.|4.27aa]] [[Lean forward to try and ease the strain.|4.27ab]] <</if>> <<if $Zride4 is true>> With you situated finally, everyone sets off with Duri leading the mounts back to the road. You're immediately lanced with pain. The transfer of motion is inevitable, and you are clearly injured more beyond just your shoulder. The muscles along your hips and abdomen are severely strained, and you are trying very hard not to focus on your ribs. You feel the roughness of the terrain in every part of your chest. "It'll be okay, $mc," Zahn encourages. "It's hard right now, but it'll be over tonight and we'll have a good healer treat you and you can just rest. Just hold on for now." You grit your teeth. "<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>It's…it's not so bad. I can make it.<<else>>It's painful…but I can endure it.<</if>>" "Your medicine will help soon." Your breath is taken away as $mountname navigates up a sudden incline. Duri calls out from the front of the pack. "Brace yourself, $mc, the road is ahead but there's a steep downward slope after this!" Your heart races in anticipation of the pain. You feel the shift as your <<if $mount is 'mule'>>mule<<else>>horse<</if>> makes the descent and cry out involuntarily. $mountname's ears turn to listen and <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>she<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>he<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>he<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>she<</if>> slows the pace as she nickers at you softly, sounding distressed. "$mc," Zahn says your name gently. "$mc, you can lean back on me. It may not be much better, but I'll comfort you." You gasp as agony ripples up your spine. [[Lean back on Zahn.|4.27aa]] [[Lean forward to try and ease the strain.|4.27ab]] <</if>> <<if $Dride4 is true>> It is clear that the demigod is very pleased that you chose $Dhimher. Duri waits, watching you closely while the others mount up. Once they signal that they are ready, $Dheshe reaches for you. Duri bends and positions $Dhisher hands at the back of your knees and mid-back. "This will probably be the worst part. I won't jerk you up, but I'll move quick." "Okay." Before you can blink, you're whisked up in a fluid motion. You feel discomfort at the motion, but the hardest part is your weight settling differently in the strong arms that now hold you. //Very strong// arms. You can't help the look of surprise on your face. Your face, which is now very close to a smiling, shapeshifting, demigod's. It was so incredibly easy for $Dhimher to pick you up. Duri isn't even breathing differently, and you slot well into $Dhisher arms. $Dcapitalheshe is so warm. It's as if $Dheshe exudes the same heat as when $Dheshe was in the form of the wolf. You won't miss your cloak, that's for certain. "Just let me know if you need something, $mc," Duri says softly. "I'll keep you as comfortable as I can. If this position doesn't work for you, there are many others we can try." Oswin clears his throat from behind you. You nod, and Duri sets out, taking the lead to guide everyone back to the road. "Once we get to the road, you can switch to my back," Duri continues, this time looking slightly less flirtatious. "The route to it is bumpy. With you in my arms like this, I can absorb the impact easier. As an added bonus, you can get a really //good// look at me." You get a winning smile, complete with snaggletooth. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Good to know," you reply.<<else>>"Lucky me," you quip.<</if>> Duri's voice goes quiet. "Seriously though…tell me if you hurt or if I move you in a bad way. You can rest your head on my shoulder if you want - try to sleep or something if you can." [[Rest your head on Duri's shoulder.|4.27aa]] [[Stay where you are.|4.27ab]] <</if>>

<<set $Dflirt +=2>> <<set $Dbold +=2>> <<if $Oride4 is true>>With you situated finally, everyone sets off with Duri leading the mounts back to the road. You're immediately lanced with pain. The transfer of motion is inevitable, and you are clearly injured more beyond just your shoulder. The muscles along your hips and abdomen are severely strained, and you are trying very hard not to focus on your ribs. You feel the roughness of the terrain in every part of your chest. "I'm sorry, $mc," Oswin murmurs. You grit your teeth. "<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>It's…it's not so bad. I can make it.<<else>>It's painful…but I can endure it.<</if>>" "The anodyne will kick in soon, I promise." Your breath is taken away as Flit navigates up a sudden incline. Duri calls out from the front of the pack. "Brace yourself, $mc, the road is ahead but there's a steep downward slope after this!" Your heart races in anticipation of the pain. You feel the shift as the horse makes the descent and cry out involuntarily. Flit's ears turn to listen and she slows her pace. You hear $mountname whinny at you, sounding alarmed as Zahn tries to soothe <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>him<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>him<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>>. "$mc," Oswin says your name gently. "$mc, you can lean back on me. It may not be much better, but I'll try to keep you steady." You gasp as agony ripples up your spine. [[Lean back on Oswin.|4.27aa]] [[Lean forward to try and ease the strain.|4.27ab]] <</if>><<if $Zride4 is true>>With you situated finally, everyone sets off with Duri leading the mounts back to the road. You're immediately lanced with pain. The transfer of motion is inevitable, and you are clearly injured more beyond just your shoulder. The muscles along your hips and abdomen are severely strained, and you are trying very hard not to focus on your ribs. You feel the roughness of the terrain in every part of your chest. "It'll be okay, $mc," Zahn encourages. "It's hard right now, but it'll be over tonight and we'll have a good healer treat you and you can just rest. Just hold on for now." You grit your teeth. "<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>It's…it's not so bad. I can make it.<<else>>It's painful…but I can endure it.<</if>>" "Your medicine will help soon." Your breath is taken away as $mountname navigates up a sudden incline. Duri calls out from the front of the pack. "Brace yourself, $mc, the road is ahead but there's a steep downward slope after this!" Your heart races in anticipation of the pain. You feel the shift as your <<if $mount is 'mule'>>mule<<else>>horse<</if>> makes the descent and cry out involuntarily. $mountname's ears turn to listen and <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>she<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>he<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>he<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>she<</if>> slows the pace as she nickers at you softly, sounding distressed. "$mc," Zahn says your name gently. "$mc, you can lean back on me. It may not be much better, but I'll comfort you." You gasp as agony ripples up your spine. [[Lean back on Zahn.|4.27aa]] [[Lean forward to try and ease the strain.|4.27ab]] <</if>><<if $Dride4 is true>>It is clear that the demigod is very pleased that you chose $Dhimher. Duri waits, watching you closely while the others mount up. Once they signal that they are ready, $Dheshe reaches for you. Duri bends and positions $Dhisher hands at the back of your knees and mid-back. "This will probably be the worst part. I won't jerk you up, but I'll move quick." "Okay." Before you can blink, you're whisked up in a fluid motion. You feel discomfort at the motion, but the hardest part is your weight settling differently in the strong arms that now hold you. //Very strong// arms. You can't help the look of surprise on your face. Your face, which is now very close to a smiling, shapeshifting, demigod's. It was so incredibly easy for $Dhimher to pick you up. Duri isn't even breathing differently, and you slot well into $Dhisher arms. $Dcapitalheshe is so warm. It's as if $Dheshe exudes the same heat as when $Dheshe was in the form of the wolf. You won't miss your cloak, that's for certain. "Just let me know if you need something, $mc," Duri says softly. "I'll keep you as comfortable as I can. If this position doesn't work for you, there are many others we can try." Oswin clears his throat from behind you. You nod, and Duri sets out, taking the lead to guide everyone back to the road. "Once we get to the road, you can switch to my back," Duri continues, this time looking slightly less flirtatious. "The route to it is bumpy. With you in my arms like this, I can absorb the impact easier. As an added bonus, you can get a really //good// look at me." You get a winning smile, complete with snaggletooth. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Good to know," you reply.<<else>>"Lucky me," you quip.<</if>> Duri's voice goes quiet. "Seriously though…tell me if you hurt or if I move you in a bad way. You can rest your head on my shoulder if you want - try to sleep or something if you can." [[Rest your head on Duri's shoulder.|4.27aa]] [[Stay where you are.|4.27ab]] <</if>>

<<if $Oride4 is true>> Squeezing your eyes shut and gnashing your teeth, you lean back into Oswin. He supports you with ease, and your entire back slots perfectly into his firm torso. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>The difference in your heights doesn't hamper your comfort as your neck is supported by his left shoulder.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Your head rests easily on his left shoulder.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Your head rests easily against the left side of his chest.<<else>>Your head rests easily over his heart.<</if>> You restrain yourself from groaning in pain while Flit navigates the steep hill that leads to the road. Oswin gently supports you, laying his right arm along your own. "Almost there, $mc, it's okay. Just another moment." The soft ground gives way a bit and the horse slides, her body jostling to correct her balance. You call out in sudden anguish, clawing at Oswin with your good hand and pressing deeper into his body. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Oswin affectionately nuzzles against the side of your head.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Oswin affectionately nuzzles into the crook of your neck.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Oswin affectionately nuzzles the top of your head.<<else>>Oswin affectionately traces your jaw with his left hand as his right steadies your clawing hand.<</if>> With a strained voice, he tries to soothe you. "You're doing great. Stay with me. You can do this." You unclench as the motion subsides, gradually trying to relax. A subtle tingling is bubbling up from your gut into your arms and legs, and you know that the anodyne is beginning to take effect. Focusing on Oswin's warm presence, you simply try to breathe and relax, keeping your eyes closed. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>The warmth and support of such a friend makes you a little more hopeful.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>The warmth and support of such an important person in your life makes you a little more hopeful. Your heart beats a bit faster, but not because of the pain.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Despite everything, Oswin's warmth towards you is the comfort you've been needing.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Despite everything, Oswin's warmth towards you is the comfort you've been needing.<</if>> As Flit's hooves hit the proper road, you feel the shift as her body levels out on flatter ground. You sigh with relief. Exhaustion is deep in your bones. Oswin offers you his water skin, holding it for you as you drink your fill. You drink, even though you do not feel like it. You know you must be hungry as well as dehydrated, but you've no motivation to meet those needs right now and must force yourself to drink. You stay reclined on Oswin, keeping your eyes shut and focusing on the sound of wind in the trees and chirps of birds winding down for the day. The air is getting cooler and you know that night will approach soon. Sleep is pulling you down easily. You hear Oswin humming a tune, the sound is deep with a hint of melancholy. <<if $hobby is 'singing'>>...It's one of your songs.<</if>> <</if>> <<if $Zride4 is true>> You lean back and Zahn embraces you gently. You hold your eyes shut tightly and grind your teeth together as you ride out the pain. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Though Zahn is shorter than you, $Zheshe still holds you with relative ease, leaning back a bit to accommodate your stature.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Though Zahn is shorter than you, $Zheshe still holds you with relative ease.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Your head rests easily against Zahn's left shoulder.<<else>>Your head rests easily over Zahn's heart.<</if>> You restrain yourself from groaning in pain while $mountname navigates the steep hill that leads to the road. Zahn reaches up and strokes your hair. "I've got you, $mc. I'm gonna make sure you get through this. You'll smile again before you know it, I promise." The soft ground gives way a bit and your <<if $mount is 'mule'>>mule<<else>>horse<</if>> slides, <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> body jostling to correct <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> balance. You call out in sudden anguish, clawing at Zahn with your good hand and pressing deeper into $Zhisher body. Zahn holds the side of your head against $Zhisher body while gently supporting your waist. A weak tingle of magic runs through you, it feels like a snapped thread against a tight seam, but it alleviates the upper edge of the pain to hold you together. "I'm so sorry, $mc. Please hold on, you're going to get through this, the road is right ahead." Zahn's voice quivers as $Zheshe speaks. You unclench as the motion subsides, gradually trying to relax. A subtle tingling is bubbling up from your gut into your arms and legs, and you know that the anodyne is beginning to take effect. Focusing on Zahn's warm presence, you simply try to breathe and relax, keeping your eyes closed. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>Zahn's encouragement and comfort is an unexpected warmth right now. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>Zahn is such a good friend. $Zhisher encouragement and comfort is the light you need to get through this. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Zahn is such a wonderful person, and despite being lance with pain, your heart swells at $Zhisher care. Zahn's encouragement and comfort is the light you need to get through this. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>Zahn is such a good friend. $Zhisher encouragement and comfort is the light you need to get through this. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>You rode with Zahn despite your suspicions of $Zhimher. Perhaps you are testing the boundary of trust between you, or perhaps…your suspicions just weren't as founded as you first thought. Either way, Zahn's encouragement and comfort is an unexpected warmth. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<</if>> As $mountname's hooves hit the proper road, you feel the shift as <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> body levels out on flatter ground. You sigh with relief. Exhaustion is deep in your bones. Zahn offers you $Zhisher water skin, holding it for you as you drink your fill. You drink, even though you do not feel like it. You know you must be hungry as well as dehydrated, but you've no motivation to meet those needs right now and must force yourself to drink. You stay reclined on Zahn, keeping your eyes shut and focusing on the sound of wind in the trees and chirps of birds winding down for the day. The air is getting cooler and you know that night will approach soon. Sleep is pulling you down easily. You hear Zahn humming that same tune $Zheshe often sings, the sound is like...water, cool and soothing. <</if>> <<if $Dride4 is true>> Taking Duri up on $Dhisher offer, you rest your head upon $Dhisher shoulder and try to relax. Duri's arms cradle you easily. It's like you weigh nothing. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Though you are taller, $Dheshe handles you as if you were of delicate stature.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Though you are a little bit taller, $Dheshe handles you as if you were of delicate stature.<<else>>You feel even smaller in $Dhisher arms, cocooned and protected.<</if>> The strength is a marvel, and not something you recall hearing or reading about with gods. You've mostly only ever heard about their magic or wisdom. "Don't become too smitten with me now, at least wait until you are healed up. The path ahead might be a little bit rough, and I don't want that to sully how you feel about me," Duri says with eyes only on the way forward, but $Dhisher mouth is held in a smug grin. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Is your head always this huge? Perhaps you are the one in need of a healer." You smile back.<<else>>"What a shame you had to speak, I almost found you cute there for a moment. Alas, the moment has passed." You smile back.<</if>> Duri's smile grows, and you can tell $Dheshe is trying hard not to laugh and cause you to jostle about. "Ooh, but I //really// like that tongue of yours. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You call it as you see it.<<else>>I like prey that bites back.<</if>> Just don't hate me during this next part…" Your smile vanishes. "Next part?" You're alarmed for a moment. You're in the arms of a demigod, well ahead of your companions and are currently too weak to do much about it if Duri had a sudden change of heart. "There's a steep hill to the road. I can steady you, but it's not possible for me to keep you from feeling all of it, sweet lamb…" You're not sure how to feel about the frequent references to sheep $Dheshe likes to apply to you. Historically, they've never melded well with wolves. "It can't be helped," you reply. "No matter what I chose, this was going to hurt." "Very true. Now, hold onto me as tight as you like - you won't hurt me. Bite me even, if you find it helps." "//Bite// you?" "You heard me." Duri looks at you, the deep golden hues of $Dhisher eyes melding into the sweet brown shade. "Sometimes it helps to bear down on something." $Dcapitalheshe smiles as $Dheshe takes the first step down the hill. You gasp as the motion transfers to your frame. You cling to Duri, squeezing your eyes shut as you clutch $Dhisher robes in your fist. $Dcapitalheshe holds you a bit away from $Dhisher torso so you don't experience the full force of the motion. You bury your face in the crook of Duri's neck, gasping with each step. "Halfway there, little <<if $mark is 'tree'>>sapling.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>sunbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>rain-cloud.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>bramble.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>moonbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>stone.<</if>> The road ahead is much easier." You don't respond as you catch your breath. You can hear $mountname behind you nickering, and you feel that your faithful steed senses your distress. You sense the change in terrain as soon as Duri's feet hit the road. An involuntary sign escapes your lips as your muscles relax. "You did beautifully, $mc. You've endured a great deal." Duri's voice is soft. "Next time I leave you breathless, I hope it will be under more pleasant circumstances." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"You are something else." You shake your head.<<else>>"What, do you want to go for a run or something?" You grin.<</if>> Duri chuckles. "Before we continue, let's get you on my back. The path is pretty level from here, you shouldn't feel me jostling you too much, and I bet you could even sleep." You agree and make the shift while the others wait. Duri lifts you easily again, supporting you with hands under your thighs. You wrap your good arm around $Dhisher shoulder and brace the other between you. As you settle, you feel the tingle of the anodyne running through your arms and legs as it takes hold. You relax against the warmth of Duri's back, keeping your eyes shut and focusing on the sound of wind in the trees and chirps of birds winding down for the day. The air is getting cooler and you know that night will approach soon. Sleep is pulling you down easily. You hear Duri mumbling something, maybe a poem, but you can't quite make out the words, but the soft and steady cadence of $Dhisher voice lulls you. <</if>> [[Once again, you can rest until the next chapter of your journey begins.|A5 codrin direct]]

<<if $Oride4 is true>>Squeezing your eyes shut and gnashing your teeth, you lean up on the saddle, supporting yourself on your right hand until you hit a balance of pressure. The relief you feel is surprising as you take the strain off your back and damaged ribs. Though, you must restrain yourself from groaning in pain while Flit navigates the steep hill that leads to the road. Oswin gently speaks to you. "Almost there, $mc, it's okay. Just another moment." The soft ground gives way a bit and the horse slides, her body jostling to correct her balance. You call out in sudden anguish, clawing at the saddle with your good hand and pressing deeper forward to find relief. With a strained voice, Oswin continues to try and soothe you. "You're doing great. Stay with me. You can do this." You unclench as the motion subsides, gradually trying to relax. A subtle tingling is bubbling up from your gut into your arms and legs, and you know that the anodyne is beginning to take effect. Focusing on Oswin's presence, you simply try to breathe and relax, keeping your eyes closed. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>The support of such a friend makes you a little more hopeful.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>The support of such an important person in your life makes you a little more hopeful. Your heart beats a bit faster, but not because of the pain.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Despite everything, Oswin's encouragement towards you is the comfort you've been needing.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Despite everything, Oswin's encouragement towards you is the comfort you've been needing.<</if>> As Flit's hooves hit the proper road, you feel the shift as her body levels out on flatter ground. You sigh with relief and sit straighter in the saddle. Exhaustion is deep in your bones. Oswin offers you his water skin, holding it for you as you drink your fill. You drink, even though you do not feel like it. You know you must be hungry as well as dehydrated, but you've no motivation to meet those needs right now and must force yourself to drink. You move forward again as tension irritates your ribs, keeping your eyes shut and focusing on the sound of wind in the trees and chirps of birds winding down for the day. The air is getting cooler and you know that night will approach soon. Sleep is pulling you down easily. You hear Oswin humming a tune, the sound is deep with a hint of melancholy. <<if $hobby is 'singing'>>...It's one of your songs.<</if>> <</if>> <<if $Zride4 is true>>Squeezing your eyes shut and gnashing your teeth, you lean up on the saddle, supporting yourself on your right hand until you hit a balance of pressure. The relief you feel is surprising as you take the strain off your back and damaged ribs. Though, you must restrain yourself from groaning in pain while $mountname navigates the steep hill that leads to the road. Zahn speaks to you with conviction. "I'm here for you, $mc. I'm gonna make sure you get through this. You'll smile again before you know it, I promise." The soft ground gives way a bit and your <<if $mount is 'mule'>>mule<<else>>horse<</if>> slides, <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> body jostling to correct <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> balance. You call out in sudden anguish, clawing at the saddle with your good hand and pressing forward to find some relief from the strain. Zahn shifts slightly, leaning closer but leaving you untouched. A weak tingle of magic runs through you, it feels like a snapped thread against a tight seam, but it alleviates the upper edge of the pain to hold you together. "I'm so sorry, $mc. Please hold on, you're going to get through this, the road is right ahead." Zahn's voice quivers as $Zheshe speaks. You unclench as the motion subsides, gradually trying to relax. A subtle tingling is bubbling up from your gut into your arms and legs, and you know that the anodyne is beginning to take effect. Focusing on Zahn's presence, you simply try to breathe and relax, keeping your eyes closed. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>Zahn's encouragement and comfort is an unexpected warmth right now. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>Zahn is such a good friend. $Zhisher encouragement and comfort is the light you need to get through this. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Zahn is such a wonderful person, and despite being lance with pain, your heart swells at $Zhisher care. Zahn's encouragement and comfort is the light you need to get through this. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>Zahn is such a good friend. $Zhisher encouragement and comfort is the light you need to get through this. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>You rode with Zahn despite your suspicions of $Zhimher. Perhaps you are testing the boundary of trust between you, or perhaps…your suspicions just weren't as founded as you first thought. Either way, Zahn's encouragement and comfort is an unexpected warmth. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<</if>> As $mountname's hooves hit the proper road, you feel the shift as <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> body levels out on flatter ground. You sigh with relief. Exhaustion is deep in your bones. Zahn offers you $Zhisher water skin, holding it for you as you drink your fill. You drink, even though you do not feel like it. You know you must be hungry as well as dehydrated, but you've no motivation to meet those needs right now and must force yourself to drink. You move forward again as tension irritates your ribs, keeping your eyes shut and focusing on the sound of wind in the trees and chirps of birds winding down for the day. The air is getting cooler and you know that night will approach soon. Sleep is pulling you down easily. You hear Zahn humming that same tune $Zheshe often sings, the sound is like…water, cool and soothing. <</if>> <<if $Dride4 is true>>You'd rather not get so comfortable with Duri right now, so you simply settle as best you can in $Dhisher arms which cradle you easily. It's like you weigh nothing. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Though you are taller, $Dheshe handles you as if you were of delicate stature.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Though you are a little bit taller, $Dheshe handles you as if you were of delicate stature.<<else>>You feel even smaller in $Dhisher arms, cocooned and protected.<</if>> The strength is a marvel, and not something you recall hearing or reading about with gods. You've mostly only ever heard about their magic or wisdom. "Don't become too smitten with me now, at least wait until you are healed up. The path ahead might be a little bit rough, and I don't want that to sully how you feel about me," Duri says with eyes only on the way forward, but $Dhisher mouth is held in a smug grin. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Is your head always this huge? Perhaps you are the one in need of a healer." You smile back.<<else>>"What a shame you had to speak, I almost found you cute there for a moment. Alas, the moment has passed." You smile back.<</if>> Duri's smile grows, and you can tell $Dheshe is trying hard not to laugh and cause you to jostle about. "Ooh, but I //really// like that tongue of yours. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You call it as you see it.<<else>>I like prey that bites back.<</if>> Just don't hate me during this next part…" Your smile vanishes. "Next part?" You're alarmed for a moment. You're in the arms of a demigod, well ahead of your companions and are currently too weak to do much about it if Duri had a sudden change of heart. "There's a steep hill to the road. I can steady you, but it's not possible for me to keep you from feeling all of it, sweet lamb…" You're not sure how to feel about the frequent references to sheep $Dheshe likes to apply to you. Historically, they've never melded well with wolves. "It can't be helped," you reply. "No matter what I chose, this was going to hurt." "Very true. Now, hold onto me as tight as you like - you won't hurt me. Bite me even, if you find it helps." "//Bite// you?" "You heard me." Duri looks at you, the deep golden hues of $Dhisher eyes melding into the sweet brown shade. "Sometimes it helps to bear down on something." $Dcapitalheshe smiles as $Dheshe takes the first step down the hill. You gasp as the motion transfers to your frame. You cling to Duri, squeezing your eyes shut as you clutch $Dhisher robes in your fist. $Dcapitalheshe holds you a bit away from their torso so you don't experience the full force of the motion. You throw your head back as you wait it out, gasping with each step. "Halfway there, little <<if $mark is 'tree'>>sapling.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>sunbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>rain-cloud.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>bramble.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>moonbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>stone.<</if>> The road ahead is much easier." You don't respond as you catch your breath. You can hear $mountname behind you nickering, and you feel that your faithful steed senses your distress. You sense the change in terrain as soon as Duri's feet hit the road. An involuntary sign escapes your lips as your muscles relax. "You did beautifully, $mc. You've endured a great deal." Duri's voice is soft. "Next time I leave you breathless, I hope it will be under more pleasant circumstances." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"You are something else." You shake your head.<<else>>"What, do you want to go for a run or something?" You grin.<</if>> Duri chuckles. "Before we continue, let's get you on my back. The path is pretty level from here, you shouldn't feel me jostling you too much, and I bet you could even sleep." You agree and make the shift while the others wait. Duri lifts you easily again, supporting you with hands under your thighs. You wrap your good arm around $Dhisher shoulder and brace the other between you. As you settle, you feel the tingle of the anodyne running through your arms and legs as it takes hold. You relax against the warmth of Duri's back, keeping your eyes shut and focusing on the sound of wind in the trees and chirps of birds winding down for the day. The air is getting cooler and you know that night will approach soon. Sleep is pulling you down easily. You hear Duri mumbling something, maybe a poem, but you can't quite make out the words, but the soft and steady cadence of $Dhisher voice lulls you. <</if>> [[Once again, you can rest until the next chapter of your journey begins.|A5 codrin direct]]

<<set $Oride4 to true>> "Oswin, I'd like to ride with you," you say. His expression is one of relief. "Good; I will do my best to keep you comfortable." Once everyone is settled to begin the trek, Duri and Zahn assist you in mounting Flit. Oswin mounts first and scoots to the back of the saddle since it will be easier for him to keep you steady and address your needs if you sit in front.<<if $height is 'verytall'>> He doesn't seem perturbed by how much taller than him you are either. As long as he can see around you to check the road, you know he trusts Flit to navigate.<</if>> You get up on the side where you can comfortably use your right arm. Oswin guides your ascent as the other two help lift and steady you. It is not without pain. At least you keep from screaming, but must take a moment to breathe. Once you've settled, Oswin hands you a small open phial with a murky greenish brown liquid inside. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>You'd recognize this concoction anywhere, if not by the look, by the earthy and slightly sour smell alone. This tonic is as effective as it is pungent, and from the looks of it, this is a concentrated batch. You give small doses to chronic pain sufferers and larger ones such as this to those in serious pain. You're proud to have your own recipe that rivals that of Lakota and his father. It even tastes better.<</if>> "Is this what you gave me earlier? This is Lakota's anodyne, isn't it?" You ask. "Yes, you weren't…terribly conscious for most of it, but we dripped it down your throat after you fainted." "No wonder I was able to sleep and move around for a while." "We have one more phial after this one, and a few weaker things for pain left if you need them," Oswin says. "<<if $interest is 'healin'>>I have two smaller doses of my pain tonic in my bag too. <</if>>I think this should last me through the trip; I can still feel the lingering effects of the first phial." "Good," he says. "Sorry you have to be awake for this dose.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> Don't tell Lakota I said it, but yours tastes so much better.<</if>>" You shudder a bit. The anodyne isn't the worst medicine out there, but the concentrated version has a lingering bitterness.<<if $interest is 'healin'>>You add a little oil infused with lemongrass, sugar, a touch of blueberry juice to make it go down a little easier.<</if>> "No helping it, as long as it works." You work up your nerve and sling the tonic down, trying to swallow before it settles on your tongue. Wincing a bit as the taste floods your senses, you hand the phial back to Oswin who tucks it away. Once you are settled, you see that Zahn is atop $mountname, but Duri isn't mounted with $Zhimher. You give Duri a curious look. $Dcapitalheshe bats a hand at you. "Don't fret, I'm walking. I can keep up." "<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Try not to strain yourself just the same. Didn't you tell me earlier that you were tired?<<else>>Is this your way of bragging about your stamina?<</if>>" you ask. Duri gives you a lopsided smile. "Just because I've exhausted my magic doesn't mean I can tire so easily. Quite frankly, I believe it's something I should brag about, especially in such…//attractive// company." $Dcapitalheshe winks at you. [[Roll your eyes.|4.26b1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[Smile as you shake your head.|4.26b1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Blush.|4.26b1b][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Wink back.|4.26b1c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

<<set $Zride4 to true>> "I'd like to ride with Zahn," you say. The $Zmanwoperson in question lights up with a big smile. "I'll tend to your every need!" Oswin shakes his head, but you think you spy a slight smile on his lips. Perhaps the excitable pilgrim is wiggling into Oswin's heart bit by bit and earning his trust. Once everyone is settled to begin the trek, Oswin and Duri assist you in mounting $mountname. Zahn gets in the saddle first, scooting to the back to allow you to slot in front of $Zhimher. This way, $Zheshe can assist and support you easier. <<if $height is 'short'>>Zahn will have no trouble seeing over and around you, either.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Since you're about the same height, Zahn shouldn't have much difficulty in seeing around you.<<else>>Though you're taller than Zahn, $Zheshe doesn't seem phased. As long as $Zheshe can see around you to check the road on occasion, you're confident that your mount will stay in line with Flit.<</if>> You get up on the side where you can comfortably use your right arm. Zahn guides your ascent as the other two help lift and steady you. It is not without pain. At least you keep from screaming, but must take a moment to breathe. Once you've settled, Zahn hands you a small open phial with a murky greenish brown liquid inside. "Oswin gave this to me for you. It stinks, but he says it will help your pain." Taking a look at the tonic, you recognize Lakota's handiwork.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> You'd recognize this concoction anywhere, if not by the look, by the earthy and slightly sour smell alone. This tonic is as effective as it is pungent, and from the looks of it, this is a concentrated batch. You give small doses to chronic pain sufferers and larger ones such as this to those in serious pain. You're proud to have your own recipe that rivals that of Lakota and his father. It even tastes better.<</if>> "It's an anodyne my best friend makes. It doesn't smell pleasant, but it works to stave off pain." Zahn hums an agreement. "You seemed a lot better after we gave it to you when you fainted. Now I don't feel so bad about pouring it down your throat." "No wonder I was able to sleep and move around for a while." "I think there's only one more left after that. I don't know how long they'll last, so you might want to pace yourself. I don't know how much I can support you with magic right now." "<<if $interest is 'healin'>>I have two smaller doses of my own pain tonic in my bag too. But, <</if>>I think this should last me through the whole trip; I can still feel the lingering effects of the first phial." "Good," $Zheshe says. "I'm glad, but I'm sorry you have to taste and smell it this time.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> You make this stuff too then? That's pretty incredible. Does it tastes bad?<</if>>" You shudder a bit. The anodyne isn't the worst medicine out there, but the concentrated version has a lingering bitterness. "It isn't the best, but I would say it's not as bad as the smell would suggest. It's certainly worth it for what it can do for you.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> I add a little oil infused with lemongrass, sugar, and a touch of blueberry juice to make it go down a little easier.<</if>>" You work up your nerve and sling the tonic down, trying to swallow before it settles on your tongue. Wincing a bit as the taste floods your senses, you hand the phial back to Zahn who tucks it away. Once you are settled, you see that Oswin is atop Flit, but Duri isn't mounted with him. You give Duri a curious look. $Dcapitalheshe bats a hand at you. "Don't fret, I'm walking. I can keep up." "<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Try not to strain yourself just the same. Didn't you tell me earlier that you were tired?<<else>>Is this your way of bragging about your stamina?<</if>>" you ask. Duri gives you a lopsided smile. "Just because I've exhausted my magic doesn't mean I can tire so easily. Quite frankly, I believe it's something I should brag about, especially in such…//attractive// company." $Dcapitalheshe winks at you. [[Roll your eyes.|4.26b1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[Smile as you shake your head.|4.26b1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Blush.|4.26b1b][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Wink back.|4.26b1c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

<<set $Dride4 to true>> You lock eyes with Duri as you work through the decision. $Dcapitalheshe notices and smirks back, seeming to preen as $Dheshe figures out what choice you're leaning towards. Oswin interrupts, handing you a small open phial with a murky greenish brown liquid inside. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>You'd recognize this concoction anywhere, if not by the look, by the earthy and slightly sour smell alone. This tonic is as effective as it is pungent, and from the looks of it, this is a concentrated batch. You give small doses to chronic pain sufferers and larger ones such as this to those in serious pain. You're proud to have your own recipe that rivals that of Lakota and his father. It even tastes better.<</if>> Duri approaches with curiosity etched on $Dhisher face. $Dcapitalheshe sniffs around you and then makes a face, poking out $Dhisher tongue like a toddler refusing to eat vegetables. "Is this what you gave $himher earlier?" Duri asks. Oswin nods as you meet his eye with the same question on your mind. "Yes," he answers, addressing you instead. "You weren't…terribly conscious for most of it, but we dripped it down your throat after you fainted." "No wonder I was able to sleep and move around for a while," you say. Duri shakes $Dhisher head in disgust. Trying to ignore the reaction, Oswin continues. "We have one more phial after this one, and a few weaker things for pain left if you need them." "<<if $interest is 'healin'>>I have two smaller doses of my pain tonic in my bag too. <</if>>I think this should last me through the trip; I can still feel the lingering effects of the first phial," you explain. "Good," Oswin says. "Sorry you have to be awake for this dose.<<if $interest is 'healin'>> Don't tell Lakota I said it, but yours tastes so much better.<</if>>" You shudder a bit. This anodyne isn't the worst medicine out there, but the concentrated version has a lingering bitterness.<<if $interest is 'healin'>>You add a little oil infused with lemongrass, sugar, a touch of blueberry juice to make it go down a little easier.<</if>> "No helping it, as long as it works." You work up your nerve and sling the tonic down, trying to swallow before it settles on your tongue. Wincing a bit as the taste floods your senses, you hand the phial back to Oswin who tucks it away as the demigod looks at you with pity. You turn to Duri with a slight wince. "Are you genuinely offering to carry me? If so…I think that might be the most comfortable option for me." Oswin's face twitches, but he stays quiet. $Dcapitalheshe raises an eyebrow. "Yeah. Why? You don't believe I can?" "It will take hours to get there…Won't that strain you?<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>> Didn't you tell me earlier that you were tired?<<else>> Is this your way of bragging about your stamina?<</if>>" you ask. Duri gives you a lopsided smile. "Just because I've exhausted my magic doesn't mean I can tire so easily. Quite frankly, I believe it's something I should brag about, especially in such…//attractive// company." $Dcapitalheshe winks at you. [[Roll your eyes.|4.26b1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 3, 0, 100)]] [[Smile as you shake your head.|4.26b1a][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Blush.|4.26b1b][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Wink back.|4.26b1c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

<<if $Oride4 is true>> With you situated finally, everyone sets off with Duri leading the mounts back to the road. You're immediately lanced with pain. The transfer of motion is inevitable, and you are clearly injured more beyond just your shoulder. The muscles along your hips and abdomen are severely strained, and you are trying very hard not to focus on your ribs. You feel the roughness of the terrain in every part of your chest. "I'm sorry, $mc," Oswin murmurs. You grit your teeth. "<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>It's…it's not so bad. I can make it.<<else>>It's painful…but I can endure it.<</if>>" "The anodyne will kick in soon, I promise." Your breath is taken away as Flit navigates up a sudden incline. Duri calls out from the front of the pack. "Brace yourself, $mc, the road is ahead but there's a steep downward slope after this!" Your heart races in anticipation of the pain. You feel the shift as the horse makes the descent and cry out involuntarily. Flit's ears turn to listen and she slows her pace. You hear $mountname whinny at you, sounding alarmed as Zahn tries to soothe <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>him<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>him<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>>. "$mc," Oswin says your name gently. "$mc, you can lean back on me. It may not be much better, but I'll try to keep you steady." You gasp as agony ripples up your spine. [[Lean back on Oswin.|4.27ba]] [[Lean forward to try and ease the strain.|4.27bb]] <</if>> <<if $Zride4 is true>> With you situated finally, everyone sets off with Duri leading the mounts back to the road. You're immediately lanced with pain. The transfer of motion is inevitable, and you are clearly injured more beyond just your shoulder. The muscles along your hips and abdomen are severely strained, and you are trying very hard not to focus on your ribs. You feel the roughness of the terrain in every part of your chest. "It'll be okay, $mc," Zahn encourages. "It's hard right now, but it'll be over tonight and we'll have a good healer treat you and you can just rest. Just hold on for now." You grit your teeth. "<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>It's…it's not so bad. I can make it.<<else>>It's painful…but I can endure it.<</if>>" "Your medicine will help soon." Your breath is taken away as $mountname navigates up a sudden incline. Duri calls out from the front of the pack. "Brace yourself, $mc, the road is ahead but there's a steep downward slope after this!" Your heart races in anticipation of the pain. You feel the shift as your <<if $mount is 'mule'>>mule<<else>>horse<</if>> makes the descent and cry out involuntarily. $mountname's ears turn to listen and <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>she<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>he<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>he<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>she<</if>> slows the pace as she nickers at you softly, sounding distressed. "$mc," Zahn says your name gently. "$mc, you can lean back on me. It may not be much better, but I'll comfort you." You gasp as agony ripples up your spine. [[Lean back on Zahn.|4.27ba]] [[Lean forward to try and ease the strain.|4.27bb]] <</if>> <<if $Dride4 is true>> It is clear that the demigod is very pleased that you chose $Dhimher. Duri waits, watching you closely while the others mount up. Once they signal that they are ready, $Dheshe reaches for you. Duri bends and positions $Dhisher hands at the back of your knees and mid-back. "This will probably be the worst part. I won't jerk you up, but I'll move quick." "Okay." Before you can blink, you're whisked up in a fluid motion. You feel discomfort at the motion, but the hardest part is your weight settling differently in the strong arms that now hold you. //Very strong// arms. You can't help the look of surprise on your face. Your face, which is now very close to a smiling, shapeshifting, demigod's. It was so incredibly easy for $Dhimher to pick you up. Duri isn't even breathing differently, and you slot well into $Dhisher arms. $Dcapitalheshe is so warm. It's as if $Dheshe exudes the same heat as when $Dheshe was in the form of the wolf. You won't miss your cloak, that's for certain. "Just let me know if you need something, $mc," Duri says softly. "I'll keep you as comfortable as I can. If this position doesn't work for you, there are many others we can try." Oswin clears his throat from behind you. You nod, and Duri sets out, taking the lead to guide everyone back to the road. "Once we get to the road, you can switch to my back," Duri continues, this time looking slightly less flirtatious. "The route to it is bumpy. With you in my arms like this, I can absorb the impact easier. As an added bonus, you can get a really //good// look at me." You get a winning smile, complete with snaggletooth. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Good to know," you reply.<<else>>"Lucky me," you quip.<</if>> Duri's voice goes quiet. "Seriously though…tell me if you hurt or if I move you in a bad way. You can rest your head on my shoulder if you want - try to sleep or something if you can." [[Rest your head on Duri's shoulder.|4.27ba]] [[Stay where you are.|4.27bb]] <</if>>

<<if $Oride4 is true>> Squeezing your eyes shut and gnashing your teeth, you lean back into Oswin. He supports you with ease, and your entire back slots perfectly into his firm torso. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>The difference in your heights doesn't hamper your comfort as your neck is supported by his left shoulder.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Your head rests easily on his left shoulder.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Your head rests easily against the left side of his chest.<<else>>Your head rests easily over his heart.<</if>> You restrain yourself from groaning in pain while Flit navigates the steep hill that leads to the road. Oswin gently supports you, laying his right arm along your own. "Almost there, $mc, it's okay. Just another moment." The soft ground gives way a bit and the horse slides, her body jostling to correct her balance. You call out in sudden anguish, clawing at Oswin with your good hand and pressing deeper into his body. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Oswin affectionately nuzzles against the side of your head.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Oswin affectionately nuzzles into the crook of your neck.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Oswin affectionately nuzzles the top of your head.<<else>>Oswin affectionately traces your jaw with his left hand as his right steadies your clawing hand.<</if>> With a strained voice, he tries to soothe you. "You're doing great. Stay with me. You can do this." You unclench as the motion subsides, gradually trying to relax. A subtle tingling is bubbling up from your gut into your arms and legs, and you know that the anodyne is beginning to take effect. Focusing on Oswin's warm presence, you simply try to breathe and relax, keeping your eyes closed. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>The warmth and support of such a friend makes you a little more hopeful.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>The warmth and support of such an important person in your life makes you a little more hopeful. Your heart beats a bit faster, but not because of the pain.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Despite everything, Oswin's warmth towards you is the comfort you've been needing.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Despite everything, Oswin's warmth towards you is the comfort you've been needing.<</if>> As Flit's hooves hit the proper road, you feel the shift as her body levels out on flatter ground. You sigh with relief. Exhaustion is deep in your bones. Oswin offers you his water skin, holding it for you as you drink your fill. You drink, even though you do not feel like it. You know you must be hungry as well as dehydrated, but you've no motivation to meet those needs right now and must force yourself to drink. You stay reclined on Oswin, keeping your eyes shut and focusing on the sound of wind in the trees and chirps of birds winding down for the day. The air is getting cooler and you know that night will approach soon. Sleep is pulling you down easily. You hear Oswin humming a tune, the sound is deep with a hint of melancholy. <<if $hobby is 'singing'>>...It's one of your songs.<</if>> <</if>> <<if $Zride4 is true>> You lean back and Zahn embraces you gently. You hold your eyes shut tightly and grind your teeth together as you ride out the pain. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Though Zahn is shorter than you, $Zheshe still holds you with relative ease, leaning back a bit to accommodate your stature.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Though Zahn is shorter than you, $Zheshe still holds you with relative ease.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Your head rests easily against Zahn's left shoulder.<<else>>Your head rests easily over Zahn's heart.<</if>> You restrain yourself from groaning in pain while $mountname navigates the steep hill that leads to the road. Zahn reaches up and strokes your hair. "I've got you, $mc. I'm gonna make sure you get through this. You'll smile again before you know it, I promise." The soft ground gives way a bit and your <<if $mount is 'mule'>>mule<<else>>horse<</if>> slides, <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> body jostling to correct <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> balance. You call out in sudden anguish, clawing at Zahn with your good hand and pressing deeper into $Zhisher body. Zahn holds the side of your head against $Zhisher body while gently supporting your waist. A weak tingle of magic runs through you, it feels like a snapped thread against a tight seam, but it alleviates the upper edge of the pain to hold you together. "I'm so sorry, $mc. Please hold on, you're going to get through this, the road is right ahead." Zahn's voice quivers as $Zheshe speaks. You unclench as the motion subsides, gradually trying to relax. A subtle tingling is bubbling up from your gut into your arms and legs, and you know that the anodyne is beginning to take effect. Focusing on Zahn's warm presence, you simply try to breathe and relax, keeping your eyes closed. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>Zahn's encouragement and comfort is an unexpected warmth right now. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>Zahn is such a good friend. $Zhisher encouragement and comfort is the light you need to get through this. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Zahn is such a wonderful person, and despite being lance with pain, your heart swells at $Zhisher care. Zahn's encouragement and comfort is the light you need to get through this. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>Zahn is such a good friend. $Zhisher encouragement and comfort is the light you need to get through this. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>You rode with Zahn despite your suspicions of $Zhimher. Perhaps you are testing the boundary of trust between you, or perhaps…your suspicions just weren't as founded as you first thought? Either way, Zahn's encouragement and comfort is an unexpected warmth. Without it, you're not sure if you'd be able to keep it together.<</if>> As $mountname's hooves hit the proper road, you feel the shift as <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>her<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>his<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>her<</if>> body levels out on flatter ground. You sigh with relief. Exhaustion is deep in your bones. Zahn offers you $Zhisher water skin, holding it for you as you drink your fill. You drink, even though you do not feel like it. You know you must be hungry as well as dehydrated, but you've no motivation to meet those needs right now and must force yourself to drink. You stay reclined on Zahn, keeping your eyes shut and focusing on the sound of wind in the trees and chirps of birds winding down for the day. The air is getting cooler and you know that night will approach soon. Sleep is pulling you down easily. You hear Zahn humming that same tune $Zheshe often sings, the sound is like…water, cool and soothing. <</if>> <<if $Dride4 is true>> Taking Duri up on $Dhisher offer, you rest your head upon $Dhisher shoulder and try to relax. Duri's arms cradle you easily. It's like you weigh nothing. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Though you are taller, $Dheshe handles you as if you were of delicate stature.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Though you are a little bit taller, $Dheshe handles you as if you were of delicate stature.<<else>>You feel even smaller in $Dhisher arms, cocooned and protected.<</if>> The strength is a marvel, and not something you recall hearing or reading about with gods. You've mostly only ever heard about their magic or wisdom. "Don't become too smitten with me now, at least wait until you are healed up. The path ahead might be a little bit rough, and I don't want that to sully how you feel about me," Duri says with eyes only on the way forward, but $Dhisher mouth is held in a smug grin. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Is your head always this huge? Perhaps you are the one in need of a healer." You smile back.<<else>>"What a shame you had to speak, I almost found you cute there for a moment. Alas, the moment has passed." You smile back.<</if>> Duri's smile grows, and you can tell $Dheshe is trying hard not to laugh and cause you to jostle about. "Ooh, but I //really// like that tongue of yours. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You call it as you see it.<<else>>I like prey that bites back.<</if>> Just don't hate me during this next part…" Your smile vanishes. "Next part?" You're alarmed for a moment. You're in the arms of a demigod, well ahead of your companions and are currently too weak to do much about it if Duri had a sudden change of heart. "There's a steep hill to the road. I can steady you, but it's not possible for me to keep you from feeling all of it, sweet lamb…" You're not sure how to feel about the frequent references to sheep $Dheshe likes to apply to you. Historically, they've never melded well with wolves. "It can't be helped," you reply. "No matter what I chose, this was going to hurt." "Very true. Now, hold onto me as tight as you like - you won't hurt me. Bite me even, if you find it helps." "//Bite// you?" "You heard me." Duri looks at you, the deep golden hues of $Dhisher eyes melding into the sweet brown shade. "Sometimes it helps to bear down on something." $Dcapitalheshe smiles as $Dheshe takes the first step down the hill. You gasp as the motion transfers to your frame. You cling to Duri, squeezing your eyes shut as you clutch $Dhisher robes in your fist. $Dcapitalheshe holds you a bit away from their torso so you don't experience the full force of the motion. You bury your face in the crook of Duri's neck, gasping with each step. "Halfway there, little <<if $mark is 'tree'>>sapling.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>sunbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>rain-cloud.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>bramble.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>moonbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>stone.<</if>> The road ahead is much easier." You don't respond as you catch your breath. You can hear $mountname behind you nickering, and you feel that your faithful steed senses your distress. You sense the change in terrain as soon as Duri's feet hit the road. An involuntary sign escapes your lips as your muscles relax. "You did beautifully, $mc. You've endured a great deal." Duri's voice is soft. "Next time I leave you breathless, I hope it will be under more pleasant circumstances." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"You are something else." You shake your head.<<else>>"What, do you want to go for a run or something?" You grin.<</if>> Duri chuckles. "Before we continue, let's get you on my back. The path is pretty level from here, you shouldn't feel me jostling you too much, and I bet you could even sleep." You agree and make the shift while the others wait. Duri lifts you easily again, supporting you with hands under your thighs. You wrap your good arm around $Dhisher shoulder and brace the other between you. As you settle, you feel the tingle of the anodyne running through your arms and legs as it takes hold. You relax against the warmth of Duri's back, keeping your eyes shut and focusing on the sound of wind in the trees and chirps of birds winding down for the day. The air is getting cooler and you know that night will approach soon. Sleep is pulling you down easily. You hear Duri mumbling something, maybe a poem, but you can't quite make out the words, but the soft and steady cadence of $Dhisher voice lulls you. <</if>> [[You wonder what you will awake to.|4.28]]

You're rousing from sleep as you hear rushed whispers. Sleep does not want to leave you. Your eyes are too heavy to open, and you have no idea what's going on around you. All you sense is movement, though a pleasant numbness spreads across your frame. You feel heavy but also weightless as if you were drifting in water. "I don't know, that's…a lot of eyes." Zahn speaks. //A lot of eyes//? You wonder. Duri groans. "I thought you were over this. It's fine. I'm here, they'll be excited to meet you all. We never have company." You begin to think maybe Duri has someone at the shrine. "Hate to agree with $Dhimher," Oswin says. "But I think we'll be okay. The ones that brought Duri's clothing earlier were very friendly." "See, even your grumpy friend agrees." Duri remarks. Zahn whimpers. "So many…" Duri chuckles. You groan as you begin to fully stir from slumber. "Shit, I hope we didn't wake $himher." Zahn says. "Hm?" you groan. <<if $Oride4 is true>>Oswin chuckles. "Hey $mc, we've about made it to the shrine. You slept nearly the whole way…a bit over three hours. Once we get there, we'll make camp. You've got to eat a good meal and get water down right away. We've got a bit over an hour of daylight left." You nod, at least you think you do. The anodyne has hit a lot harder with this dose, and you're wondering if Lakota got his ratios mixed up again. "Who has eyes?" "What?" Oswin laughs. "I think…all of us here do…" "No, Zahn. Who has a bunch of eyes?" you mumble. Zahn and Duri both snort into restrained laughter. Oswin pauses for a moment before answering. "Oh, you heard us. It's the, uh, wolves. Duri's family, I suppose." <</if>> <<if $Zride is true>>"Hey sleepy," Zahn's soft voice says. "We're nearly there, you've been asleep the whole way. You feel okay? I'm going to get you something to eat as soon as we get there." You nod, at least you think you do. The anodyne has hit a lot harder with this dose, and you're wondering if Lakota got his ratios mixed up again. "Who has eyes?" "Um…" Zahn stammers. "Well, I do and you have beautiful $eyecolor eyes too." "No, the //bunch// of eyes," you mumble with a hint of sleepy irritation. There's a long pause. Duri snickers. "Oh!" Zahn exclaims. "Sorry, I didn't realize you heard us talking. Well…there's sort of, uh, Duri's //family// all around us." <</if>> <<if $Dride is true>>"Did you dream sweetly, my little <<if $mark is 'tree'>>fallen oak<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>sunset<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>rainfall<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>tumbleweed<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>fallen star<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>avalanche<</if>>," Duri chirps. You groan. "Stop calling me weird things. What does that even mean?" "I was recalling how elegant you were falling down the mountainside last night. I thought it was cute, like a commemoration of how we met." You shut your eyes again with a heavy blink only to jerk awake again as you feel Duri squeeze your legs slightly. "What are the eyes?" you ask. Zahn and Duri snort. "The things you see with," Zahn chimes. "No," you whine back. "You said there were a bunch." Duri answers. "Oh, you heard us talking. Zahn meant my friends ahead, they've come to greet us. They're very excited, I can feel it. Don't worry, they'll love you." <</if>> You rub sleep from your eyes with your right hand, which flaps against your face uselessly a few times before succeeding. You open them wide and blink several times. The trees are massive - the biggest you have seen in your life - with trunks several times more round than your papa. You're still on the road, though it is a bit narrow and seems to be a glorified dirt path that's steadily being overgrown by brambles. A short ways ahead you can see the road opens up and it almost appears that there is a village ahead. You keep blinking and as your eyes clear, you notice little glowing lights in the thicket and even well ahead in the villa. And then you realize…they're glowing eyes. "Woofs," you slur. Duri's laughter breaks, ringing out through the forest. A chorus of howls ring back to $Dhimher. You're too intoxicated to fully grasp the scope of what you're looking at. The mounts stop at the entrance to the village, or what's left of it. In front of you is a large area filled with overgrown plants, piles of rubble, and a couple collapsed buildings. A broken down staircase across a large central area leads to a red building, which looks much less deteriorated than the rest and is elevated on a small cliff-face. All of the other buildings appear in various states of disrepair, but overall aren't too bad off considering how old they'd be. There's evidence of a firepit at the center of the area, and what may be crumbled stone pillars at various junctures. Beyond the entryway from the road is the remains of a statue. It doesn't appear to have fallen over as stone seems to be crushed. <div class="centered-image"> <<include "The Shrine">> </div> As you look around and begin to wake and sober up, you begin to realize what you're looking at. The Shrine, you've finally made it. And… [[It's completely full of wolves.|4.29]]

*Chapter Five <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">Magic and Mayhem</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[Start|ChA5]]

You hear some excited yipping coming from all around you. Wolves begin pouring in from all sides of the forest and even some of the buildings. <<if $Oride4 is true>>"Wow…" Oswin murmurs. "I've never seen so many in one place." His voice is full of awe. You're still in a bit of a stupor but are sobering fast. It dawns on you that Flit is being very calm considering she's surrounded by what may be about 30 large wolves. You look over and see Zahn gently speaking to $mountname. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>She's not as calm, but at least isn't bolting away. The wolves give her a wide berth though, not even sparing a sniff in her direction.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>He's being calm, but eyeing the canines warily. The wolves mostly ignore him.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>Like always, he's being very calm and obedient, watching the wolves passively, appearing almost bored. You see a couple wolves more frightened of him than he is of them.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>...She has already frightened four of the curious wolves away - one has run back into the forest with its tail between its legs.<</if>> Oswin taps your right shoulder. "Duri said that he can send them instructions of a sort, they know not to find us as threats and won't see the mounts as prey." "Really? I wonder how that works." You turn your gaze to the demigod in question. $Dcapitalheshe kneels on the ground, surrounded by wolves cowering and whimpering at $Dhisher return, crawling on their bellies to get closer. Some roll on their backs while others nose at $Dhisher hands. Duri turns and sees you watching, giving you a big smile before diving into the pile of wolves to snuggle and play. "Alright," Oswin says. "Let's get you down. You need to eat." The way down doesn't feel as horrible as you feared. Your body is still sedated, though you feel stiff from the ride. Your strength has waned significantly, and as soon as your feet hit the ground, you begin to collapse. Oswin steadies you and a couple concerned wolves check on you, seeming to understand that you're hurt. You walk with help to the ruined campfire, which Zahn is trying to light. <</if>> <<if $Zride4 is true>>Zahn takes a steadying breath, and then another. $Zcapitalheshe reaches around you pats $mountname's shoulder. "Good <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>girl<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>boy<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>boy<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>girl<</if>>, just stay calm." You're still in a bit of a stupor but are sobering fast. It dawns on you as you look over, that Flit is being very calm considering she's surrounded by what may be about 30 large wolves. You focus on your own mount as Zahn continues to sweet talk $mountname. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>She's not as calm, but at least isn't bolting away. The wolves give her a wide berth though, not even sparing a sniff in her direction.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>He's being calm, but eyeing the canines warily. The wolves mostly ignore him.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>Like always, he's being very calm and obedient, watching the wolves passively, appearing almost bored. You see a couple wolves more frightened of him than he is of them.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>...She has already frightened four of the curious wolves away - one has run back into the forest with its tail between its legs.<</if>> Zahn leans to the side as $Zheshe talks. "Duri can tell them what to do and they listen." "Yeah? How does that work?" $Zcapitalheshe hums in thought. "Don't know, but $Dhisher eyes glowed and then we heard howling again. Duri didn't even say anything, it's like they just //know//. It's a bit creepy but as long as I won't get eaten…" You turn your gaze to the demigod in question. $Dcapitalheshe kneels on the ground, surrounded by wolves cowering and whimpering at $Dhisher return, crawling on their bellies to get closer. Some roll on their backs while others nose at $Dhisher hands. Duri turns and sees you watching, giving you a big smile before diving into the pile of wolves to snuggle and play. Zahn chirps at you. "Speaking of delicious meals, you really need one. I'm not on the menu for you tonight either, but I can help you." $Zcapitalheshe smiles. Dismounting doesn't feel as horrible as you feared. Your body is still sedated, though you feel stiff from the ride. Your strength has waned significantly, and as soon as your feet hit the ground, you begin to collapse. Zahn steadies you and a couple concerned wolves check on you, seeming to understand that you're hurt. You walk with help to the ruined campfire, which Oswin is lighting. As soon as he sees you, he rushes to help get you comfortable. <</if>> <<if $Dride4 is true>>"Hello, hello, hellooo!" Duri sings to all $Dhisher four-legged family members flocking to $Dhimher. Several of them begin to circle you both but keep a distance despite how excited they are. "They won't hurt you and your companions or your hooved friends either," Duri reassures. You're still in a bit of a stupor but are sobering fast. It dawns on you that Flit is being very calm considering she's surrounded by what may be about 30 large wolves. You also look over and see Zahn gently speaking to $mountname. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>She's not as calm, but at least isn't bolting away. The wolves give her a wide berth though, not even sparing a sniff in her direction.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>He's being calm, but eyeing the canines warily. The wolves mostly ignore him.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>Like always, he's being very calm and obedient, watching the wolves passively, appearing almost bored. You see a couple wolves more frightened of him than he is of them.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>...She has already frightened four of the curious wolves away - one has run back into the forest with its tail between its legs.<</if>> "They heed me, so do not fret - you're all officially part of the pack for the duration of our…relationship." There's a playful lilt to Duri's voice, and $Dheshe gently squeezes your legs for good measure. "How do you do that?" you ask. "How about I tell you after you've had a good meal and some real rest in an even more real bed?" Duri takes you to the campfire, where Oswin has lit a fire and Zahn is hard at work getting food ready to cook. $Dcapitalheshe gets you close before crouching to release you. As soon as you try to stand on your own, you begin to fall. Duri catches you in a blink, and you notice the wolves also rush to you, seeming to sense that you aren't well. Oswin hurries over and begins searching for a place for you to sit. The wolves and Duri fuss over you as your legs shake as if you are a newborn deer. <</if>> Once Oswin finds an old sturdy log for you to sit on, he wastes no time in working on dinner preparations. Even Duri hurries to help, offering a few things from an old storage shed. The wolves watch you from all sides, but keep away. You can tell some are eager to say hello, their tails are wagging quickly and their noses sniff the air. Eventually, a brave one, cream in color with big brown eyes, waddles up to you, staying low to the ground and whimpering. It noses at your feet first, tail wagging. [[Pat her head.|4.29a]] [[Good girl deserves a snuggle.|4.29b]] [[No pats for now.|4.29c]]

You smile, and hold your hand out for her to check out. She gives a polite sniff and then promptly props her head right under your palm. Your smile grows as you pet her huge head. A long tongue flops from her mouth and her tail thumps hard against the ground. She is big enough that the span of her head between her ears is larger than your whole hand. Other than Duri, this is easily the largest canine you've ever met. Your mind goes to Rosy, one of your childhood dogs. She was huge too, but not like this. The wolf gives a satisfied groan as you scratch a good spot behind her ears. The other wolves begin to crowd around you, feeling more bold now that you're petting one of their own. You get sniffed, and feel a couple little licks, but they all stay calm and gentle. A small wolf brings you a stick, and gives you an expectant look. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Sorry, little one," you say. "Maybe once I'm healed up, I can play with you."<<else>>"Sorry, buddy," you say. "I'm afraid if I threw that for you, I'd probably ruin my good arm too at this point."<</if>> The little wolf drops the stick at your feet and rests his head on your knee. The big, cream colored wolf nuzzles him. Duri comes up with hands on $Dhisher hips. "Look at all the friends you've already made! They love you, I knew they would." "They're quite sweet." You gently squish the fluffy cheek of the big wolf, who revels in your attention. "And very cute." <<if hasVisited("4.13b1")>> Duri pouts. "So…you just pet any cute wolf? I thought I was special." Oswin drops something, a clang resounding through the entire shrine village. He clears his throat and picks up the object. The demigod cocks his head at him before looking back at you. "If I crawl up and act sweet will you pat me again? Oh…perhaps if I roll on my back, you'll rub my-" "A-HEM!" Oswin clears his throat again. Everyone, even the wolves and mounts turn to look at him. "If you would be so kind as to not harass $mc right now, that would be appreciated." <</if>> Duri smiles at you. "I'm glad, in any case…I hope they're a comfort to you as they are to me. Now, how about I get you some water before Oswin chops me up for dinner, hm?" [[You relax as you wait for dinner.|4.30]]

You smile, and hold your hand out for her to check out. She gives a polite sniff and then promptly props her head right under your palm. Your smile grows as you pet her huge head. A long tongue flops from her mouth and her tail thumps hard against the ground. She is big enough that the span of her head between her ears is larger than your whole hand. Other than Duri, this is easily the largest canine you've ever met. Your mind goes to Rosy, one of your childhood dogs. She was huge too, but not like this. The wolf gives a satisfied groan as you scratch a good spot behind her ears. You chuckle as you ruffle her fur. "Come on then," you say, patting your right arm against the same side of your chest. "I think you need a cuddle too." With a delighted grunt, the wolf presses into your right side. You wrap your arm around and hug her, getting a lick to your ear and neck. You burrow your hand and face into her plush fur. A loving warmth bubbles up from your heart. It's…healing. The other wolves start feeling bold enough to approach you. You get sniffed, and feel a couple little licks, but they all stay calm and gentle. A small wolf brings you a stick, and gives you an expectant look. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Sorry, little one," you say. "Maybe once I'm healed up, I can play with you."<<else>>"Sorry, buddy," you say. "I'm afraid if I threw that for you, I'd probably ruin my good arm too at this point."<</if>> The little wolf drops the stick at your feet and rests his head on your knee. The big, cream colored wolf nuzzles him. Duri comes up with hands on $Dhisher hips. "Look at all the friends you've already made! They love you, I knew they would." "They're quite sweet." You gently squish the fluffy cheek of the big wolf, who revels in your attention. "And very cute." <<if hasVisited("4.13b1")>> Duri pouts. "So…you just pet any cute wolf? I thought I was special." Oswin drops something, a clang resounding through the entire shrine village. He clears his throat and picks up the object. The demigod cocks his head at him before looking back at you. "If I crawl up and act sweet will you pat me again? Oh…perhaps if I roll on my back, you'll rub my-" "A-HEM!" Oswin clears his throat again. Everyone, even the wolves and mounts turn to look at him. "If you would be so kind as to not harass $mc right now, that would be appreciated." <</if>> Duri smiles at you. "I'm glad, in any case…I hope they're a comfort to you as they are to me. Now, how about I get you some water before Oswin chops me up for dinner, hm?" [[You relax as you wait for dinner.|4.30]]

You smile and keep your hands to yourself. Now probably isn't the time to be throwing yourself to the wolves…to throw yourself to //more// wolves. She maintains a polite distance, massive head between huge paws, staring up at you with those huge brown eyes. She is big enough that the span of her head between her ears must be larger than your whole hand. Other than Duri, this is easily the biggest canine you've ever met. Your mind goes to Rosy, one of your childhood dogs. She was huge too, but not like this. The wolf gives a cute little whimper, and then sneezes twice. You chuckle. "Not a fan of spring pollen?" She thumps her tail as you speak to her. The other wolves start feeling bold enough to approach you. You get sniffed at, but they all stay calm and gentle. A small wolf brings you a stick, and gives you an expectant look. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Sorry, little one," you say. "Maybe once I'm healed up, I can play with you."<<else>>"Sorry, buddy," you say. "I'm afraid if I threw that for you, I'd probably ruin my good arm too at this point."<</if>> The little wolf drops the stick at your feet and lays down close to you. The big, cream colored wolf nuzzles him. Duri comes up with hands on $Dhisher hips. "Look at all the friends you've already made! They love you, I knew they would." "They're quite sweet and very cute." <<if hasVisited("4.13b1")>> Duri preens. "So…am I so special that I'm the only wolf you'll pet?" Oswin drops something, a clang resounding through the entire shrine village. He clears his throat and picks up the object. The demigod cocks his head at him before looking back at you. "If I crawl up and act sweet will you pat me again? Oh…perhaps if I roll on my back, you'll rub my-" "A-HEM!" Oswin clears his throat again. Everyone, even the wolves and mounts turn to look at him. "If you would be so kind as to not harass $mc right now, that would be appreciated." <</if>> Duri smiles at you. "I'm glad, in any case…I hope being around them is a comfort to you as they are to me. Now, how about I get you some water before Oswin chops me up for dinner, hm?" [[You relax as you wait for dinner.|4.30]]

Despite a delicious array of smells around you, your dinner consists of soft porridge sweetened with honey to stimulate your appetite but not overwhelm your stomach. It takes quite a long time for you to finish it, but you manage to eat a rather large bowl. Duri ensures that you have plenty of water to drink, which is blessedly cold, tasting very fresh. You don't see or hear any streams close by, but glimpse a couple wells in the distance. The others eat stew with potatoes and meat from a couple rabbits that the wolves brought in and dropped at Oswin's feet. Many of the wolves depart to hunt their own dinners, but several stay at camp, including a litter of pups. Duri wrestles with them, rolling on $Dhisher back as the puppies pounce and chew on $Dhimher. Zahn sneaks you some bits of salted potato when Oswin isn't looking. You take a look around as you let your dinner settle while the other cleans up camp. The sun has long since set and you see that the night sky is bright, but dark clouds are floating by quickly, blotting out the moon on occasion. The trees around you are ancient and abnormally large. They tower so high above you that you almost feel like you're sitting in the middle of several mountains, though you can see the actual mountains a short ways behind the large red building. And the trees aren't the only wild growing thing around you. Everywhere you look there are vines, thorns, flowers, bushes, moss and brambles. There are paths trod between the buildings, likely kept worn from the footfalls of many wolves. You close your eyes and feel the cool night air. It is cold, but the porridge and campfire warm you. Thunder rolls in the distance. Your pain medicine is beginning to wear off, but you are still pleasantly numb. You almost feel…good even. As long as you stay still, that is. You eye the large red building, which must be the shrine-proper, and place a hand over where the mark has burned through your flesh. It's warm. You frown, holding tighter…it's //very// warm. Anxiety wants to cling to your shoulders at the familiar sensation. Has it been this warm since you set out? You're not sure. You don't feel sick, not like before. Focusing inward, you try to push past the way the anodyne numbs you. You have no headache, you are not nauseated, and your breathing feels normal. Your shoulder hurts, you are tired and weak but no more than you have been of late, and strangely, despite this, you feel a sort of rush. Adrenaline, you conclude, stirred up by the flair of anxiety and anticipation of being here. "Hey." Oswin's voice snaps you from your thoughts. "Are you okay?" <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You smile.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Your cheeks warm at the clear concern on his face, and you smile.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>You nod.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>You nod and give him a polite smile.<</if>> "I'm fine, just a little…worked up I think by all this." You gesture broadly with your good arm. "Good, I think. If it's too much, let me know. Duri has offered one of the houses." Oswin points up a hill to one of the larger and more in-tact buildings. "$Dcapitalheshe said there is a good bed in it, and it's clean. It's where $Dheshe lives most of the time. The wolves - the ones who aren't hunting tonight - will be joining us apparently. That part was non-negotiable." You murmur an agreement as a wave of tiredness rushes you. [[The others gather around you to help you to bed.|4.31]]

They try to preserve some of your dignity by letting you try to walk as much as you want to. You are out of breath halfway up the hill, but are pleased you made it that far. The cluster of wolves that stayed behind and the puppies follow you, most of them going at your pace, sparing you a sniff and a concerned look each time you hesitate. Duri lets you into $Dhisher house. It's surprisingly nice and mostly clean. There is a wide array of knick knacks and bobbles all over. There's few furnishings aside from a couple tables and chairs on the main floor, but every bit of the walls and available surfaces have things on them. Everything from candlesticks to horseshoes decorates the place. To your surprise, a fox watches you from behind a chair as your companions help you up the stairs. The second floor is a large loft with a huge bed and fireplace. Three raccoons skitter along the central beam that runs along the ceiling, startled by the commotion. The bed is piled with many pillows, blankets, and what may be articles of clothing. It appears clean, though is noticeably furry. Your three helpers look at you expectantly. [[Ask Oswin to help you into bed.|4.31a]] [[Ask Zahn to help you into bed.|4.31b]] [[Ask Duri to help you into bed.|4.31c]]

"Oswin, would you help me get settled?" you ask. He gives a single resolute nod as the other two glance at each other and then bid you goodnight before leaving you in peace. A few of the wolves, including the extra large cream colored one, stay with you, getting comfortable on the floor. Oswin gently guides you to sit on the bed, and then adjust some of the clutter to make a reclined perch on which you can sleep. You balance on your good arm as he gingerly lifts and turns your legs onto the bed so you can lay down. Once you are settled, he quietly gathers pillows and some random blankets to help keep your left shoulder and arm stationary. <<if $Oflirt >= 20 and $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>He looks you over and a strange expression creases his face. "I'm sorry this happened to you," he says softly. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"It's okay, you don't need to apologize. It's not as if you are the one who hurt me." You give him a placid smile.<<else>>"Oh yes, because you caused me to be swept away into a landslide. I forgot that you controlled the rains and mountains." You tilt your head and give him a grin.<</if>> Oswin sighs. "I've failed you. I should have never let you leave camp." You shake your head. "We all needed to help. You could have left me at camp only to return with me injured anyway or worse." His mouth twists at the thought. "I'll make sure to see you well again, $mc. I won't stop until you are cured of //all// your ails and are safe back home. I know I disagreed with your choice to come here…but seeing how it is, maybe there really is something here to help you. Even I can feel how…magical it is. Tomorrow I will scour every bit of this shrine to find anything that may help you." Your heart swells as you smile up at him and realize only now that he is still bent over you. He looks tired and stressed, but his eyes glimmer when they meet yours. Oswin clears his throat. "Let me…tuck another pillow behind you and I'll leave you to sleep." You nod. Though there are pillows everywhere else around you, he aims for one in the center of the head of the bed on your left side. Oswin is cautious of your wounded arm, but the motion brings his body close to yours. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Heat pools in your face and the tops of your ears.<<else>>Your heart kicks up and excitement pulls at your gut.<</if>> He slowly tucks the new pillow behind you, urging you to lean up as he gently slips it in with the others, nearly making your chests touch. Once you relax again, now even more comfortable, Oswin stays close. You're effectively pinned in between his arms on the bed, and he's staring into your eyes. If you sat up just a bit more, your lips would touch. "You…your eyes…" he whispers and then swallows hard as he continues to stare at you. His hair falls, covering his brow. You gently reach with your right hand and sweep his hair back. His eyes shut. "I'll…leave you to rest now," he says, sounding strained and looking as though that is the last thing he wants to do. You smile up at him, allowing him to retreat. "Goodnight, Oswin." "Sleep well, Ravi<<if $mc is 'Ravi'>>.<<else>>, er, $mc…sorry.<</if>>" He stands and watches you for a moment. Your eyes are barely open as you watch back with a weak grin until everything goes dark.<<else>>Oswin sighs heavily. "I'm sorry this happened to you," he says softly. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"It's okay, you don't need to apologize. It's not as if you are the one who hurt me." You give him a placid smile.<<else>>"Oh yes, because you caused me to be swept away into a landslide. I forgot that you controlled the rains and mountains." You tilt your head and give him a grin.<</if>> Oswin sighs. "I've failed you. I should have never let you leave camp." You shake your head. "We all needed to help. You could have left me at camp only to return with me injured anyway or worse." His mouth twists at the thought. "I'll make sure to see you well again, $mc. I won't stop until you are cured of //all// your ails and are safe back home. I know I disagreed with your choice to come here…but seeing how it is, maybe there really is something here to help you. Even I can feel how…magical it is. Tomorrow I will scour every bit of this shrine to find anything that may help you." <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>Your heart warms at his determination.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Your heart warms at his determination and is filled with longing.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>There's an odd pull in your gut. You know you need the help right now despite how you feel about him.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Your heart warms at his determination.<</if>> "Thank you, Oswin." "I'll…leave you to rest now," he says, sounding strained and looking as though that is the last thing he wants to do. "Goodnight, Oswin." "Sleep well, $mc." He stands and watches you for a moment. Your eyes are barely open as you watch back until everything goes dark. <</if>> [[You sleep deeply.|4.32]]

"Zahn, would you help me get settled?" you ask. $Zcapitalheshe jumps, eyes lighting up with a big smile. "Yeah! I can do that for you!" The other two glance at each other and then bid you goodnight before leaving you in peace. A few of the wolves, including the extra large cream colored one, stay with you, getting comfortable on the floor. Zahn gently guides you to sit on the bed, and then adjust some of the clutter to make a reclined perch on which you can sleep. You balance on your good arm as $Zheshe gingerly lifts and turns your legs onto the bed so you can lay down. Once you are settled, $Zheshe quietly gathers pillows and some random blankets to help keep your left shoulder and arm stationary. <<if $Zflirt >= 10 and $Zphys is true>>Zahn takes a seat on edge of the bed to your right and looks at you sweetly. "I'm glad we decided to come here." "Yeah?" You smile, your eyes heavy with exhaustion. "Mm-hmm, I can feel magic all around us here. I've never felt so much before. I believe in my heart that we'll find a solution for you here." Zahn reaches out and softly puts $Zhisher hand on your right arm. You can't help but feel a little relieved at that. "Maybe…we won't need to see a healer in Codrin after all. Maybe we'll be able to just resupply and go home." Zahn leans closer and lowers $Zhisher voice. "You know…the magic here is a little odd, but all magic sort of is." "Yeah? How so?" "It's…a bit like people. Magic from a place or person may feel similar, but it's never truly the same. And it behaves differently, like it does what it wants." Zahn scoots even closer, leaning down near your face, blue eyes just as bright as always. You chuckle. "What does it want then?" $Zcapitalheshe shrugs. "I don't know, but since we've been here, some of it is drawn to you." Your eyes widen. "Drawn? To me? Why would that happen? I don't even feel anything…magical." You pause, you also hadn't felt the magic from your curse that branded you either… A wan smile spreads on Zahn's lips. "I don't know. Maybe…it wants to help - knows that you seek it. Maybe…" Zahn's hand comes up and $Zhisher fingertips trace along your jaw<<if $fullbeard or $trimbeard or $stubble>>, and you feel the gentle tousling of your facial hair<</if>>. "....Things are just drawn to you. Like moths to firelight." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Maybe…but I don't know why I'd draw things in, especially magic. It might just be coincidence."<<else>>"I hope these moths don't eat me or my clothes." You give a cheeky smile.<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Zahn runs a hand down your neck and you feel a soothing chill. "I can saw from experience that's not the case, but I don't know exactly why."<<else>>Zahn stoops to a hair's breadth of your face and whispers. "I wouldn't blame them for wanting a taste."<</if>> <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Your face flushes with a mix of shyness and want.<<else>>Your heart begins to race with playful desire.<</if>> <<else>> Zahn takes a seat on edge of the bed to your right and looks at you sweetly. "I'm glad we decided to come here." "Yeah?" You smile, your eyes heavy with exhaustion. "Mm-hmm, I can feel magic all around us here. I've never felt so much before. I believe in my heart that we'll find a solution for you here." Zahn clasps $Zhisher hands together. You can't help but feel a little relieved at that. "Maybe…we won't need to see a healer in Codrin after all. Maybe we'll be able to just resupply and go home." Zahn leans over slightly and lowers $Zhisher voice. "You know…the magic here is a little odd, but all magic sort of is." "Yeah? How so?" "It's…a bit like people. Magic from a place or person may feel similar, but it's never truly the same. And it behaves differently and almost does what it wants." Zahn blue eyes are just as bright as always, filled with wonder. You chuckle. "What does it want then?" $Zcapitalheshe shrugs. "I don't know, but since we've been here, some of it is being drawn to you." Your eyes widen. "Drawn? To me? Why would that happen? I don't even feel anything…magical." You pause, you also hadn't felt the magic from your curse that branded you either… A wan smile spreads on Zahn's lips. "I don't know. Maybe…it wants to help - knows that you seek it. Maybe…" Zahn's hand comes up and cups $Zhisher chin in thought. "....Things are just drawn to you. Like moths to firelight." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Maybe…but I don't know why I'd draw things in, especially magic. It might just be coincidence."<<else>>"I hope these moths don't eat me or my clothes." You give a cheeky smile.<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Zahn's eyes brighten with mirth. "I can say from experience that's not the case, but I don't know exactly why."<<else>>Zahn's eyes brighten with mirth as $Zheshe whispers. "I wouldn't blame them for wanting a taste."<</if>> <<if $Zphys is true>><<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Your face flushes with a mix of shyness and want.<<else>>Your heart begins to race with playful desire.<</if>><<else>>You roll your eyes.<</if>> <</if>> "Now then," Zahn says as $Zheshe pops up from $Zhisher seat. "I will let you sleep. Rest easy and leave the searching to us tomorrow, okay? Just focus on feeling better." Zahn pulls a blanket over you and up to your chest and bids you goodnight. You stare for a moment after the abrupt exit, now more curious about the pilgrim. Your eyes are barely open for long until everything goes dark. [[You sleep deeply.|4.32]]

"Duri, would you mind helping me get settled? This is your room after all…" you ask. Duri's face lights up. "I would be delighted." Oswin hesitates, but Zahn gently tugs on his sleeve and nods with a smile before turning to wink at you. They exit the room with Oswin looking back at you with a worried expression. Gently guiding you to sit on the bed, Duri snickers. "I'm tempted to ask you to scream just to see what he would do…" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You shake your head. "I don't think that would be very funny."<<else>>You snort. "I'd be interested to see how long you survive after that stunt."<</if>> Duri gives you an exaggerated pout, but seems to move on from the idea quickly. "Apologies, you must want my //full// attention. I shan't be talking about the dashing swordsman any longer. I want your mind on ''me'', $mc." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a toothy grin. You notice then that several of the wolves that followed you to the house, including the extra large cream colored one, stay with you. They get comfortable on the floor, though some look at the bed with curiosity. You think you might know where all the fur comes from. Duri adjusts some of the clutter to make a reclined perch on which you can sleep. You balance on your good arm as $Dheshe gingerly lifts and turns your legs onto the bed so you can lay down. Once you are settled, $Dheshe quickly gathers pillows and some random blankets to help keep your left shoulder and arm stationary. Then, Duri crawls into bed with you on the other side kneeling at your left side at the center of the mattress. You eye $Dhimher cautiously, wondering what $Dheshe might be up to. "So…" Duri says. "Who //usually// tucks you in at night?" You shake your head. "I usually tuck myself in actually." "Really?" Duri leans back, looking surprised. "I'd imagine you wouldn't want for suitors to see you to bed, sweet lamb." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You smile a bit at the thought of home. "It's hardly the time to speak on such things, but I dwell with my parents. It has been many years since they tucked me into bed."<<else>>"I don't believe that is information that you really need to know about me. I live with my parents and am perfectly capable of seeing to my own bedtime, thank you."<</if>> Duri smiles and leans to hover over you a bit. "Apologies, I tend to be nosy. You tickle my interest." $Dcapitalheshe pulls a blanket up over you, but stays where $Dheshe is. "But, seeing as how I'll be keeping tabs on you until your debt is settled…we'll have some time to get to know each other." You shake your head at the playful demigod who then fusses over more pillows to give you, tucking some around your bad arm to keep it still. A couple wolves come up to the bedside and give you a sniff with tails wagging. They are much more like dogs than you expected. "They like you." Duri says, sitting back down. "And not just because I told them to not eat you." You look up at $Dhimher. "I was thinking they were more interested in the fact that I'm in their bed." Duir chuckles. "That too. Me and the others sometimes pile up on here to sleep. Just depends. They don't all like to cuddle, though." [[Thank Duri for giving up the bed.|4.31c1]] [[Ask if Duri wants to share the bed for the night.|4.31c2]]

And then your eyes pop open again. You blink a few times, confused. Didn't you just shut your eyes? <<if hasVisited("4.31a")>>Oswin just saw you to bed…<</if>><<if hasVisited("4.31b")>>Zahn just saw you to bed…<</if>><<if hasVisited("4.31c")>>Duri just saw you to bed…<</if>> But now there is light streaming in through all the windows…and through parts of the ceiling. You blink a few more times and realize that you don't feel so tired. You must have slept so deeply that it was like blinking. You turn your head to the opposite corner of the bed where a smiling demigod is kneeling and watching you. The large cream colored wolf is sprawled out on the other side of the bed watching you with kind eyes. A fox is at your feet, head tilted in curiosity. "Good afternoon!" Duri chirps. You try to sit up and immediately regret it as pain shoots through you. The wolf whines, but the fox appears to be unmoved by your plight. "Afternoon?" you reply. "We tried to wake you a couple times not long ago, but you didn't budge. I have water, food, and medicine for you." Duri hops up and goes to a table at the other side of the room. $Dcapitalheshe comes to your bedside with a tray in hand and sets it on your legs so $Dheshe can adjust your pillows to allow you to sit up. The motion is painful, but tolerable. Once you're presented with your tray, you drink first and then dig into yet another simple porridge. They are feeding you so many oats and grains that you are beginning to feel like a horse. Duri kneels on the floor at your side as you eat, the wolf coming along $Dhisher side so it appears you have an audience. "How did you sleep?" Duri asks. "I suppose fine…it was like I didn't even…it was like I blinked and it was daytime. But I feel rested." "You haven't even moved. Oswin got restless, so he and Zahn set out to explore and dig around for something to heal you up. So, you're with me today. You shouldn't move around too much though, but I'll guide you around." You nod as you chew. "So…" Duri leans closer. "The magic here seems to sort of…like you. I noticed it last night, but it's very noticeable now. You don't seem to be a magic user. Are you related to one maybe?<<if $eyecolor is 'purple'>> I sort of wondered because of the color of your eyes.<</if>>" "I don't know. I never knew my birth parents." "Oh…. Well, either you have some unique magical lineage that the magic likes, or it might just pity you." Duri shrugs. "Can magic really do that?" "It does whatever it wants, I think. The way I experience it is different from others, even among gods my abilities are just different. There are other shapeshifters like me, but they're rare and probably all dead, that's usually how it goes." "Rare? Being a demigod isn't rare enough?" Duri smiles and rocks back and forth. "Yeah! shapeshifting is one of the stranger ways magic manifests, and it's something that only demigods were able to do. As far as I know at least, I've only met a couple others in my lifetime." "So…" You swallow a spoonful of porridge. "Can you change back into a wolf now?" Duri shakes $Dhisher head. "Probably not for a few more days. Once I'm rested, I can shift back and forth as much as it pleases you. Why? You want another ride?" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You shake your head.<<else>>You flick some of your water at Duri, who playfully sticks $Dhisher tongue out at you.<</if>> "So what made you so tired if you can shift so easily?" you ask. You think you see a small tint of color on Duri's cheeks as $Dheshe begins tracing the lines of the floor with $Dhisher fingernails. "Even I can get hurt, $mc. The only reason I walked out of that so easily is that my internal magic was able to heal my wounds a lot faster than you'd be able to." You meet Duri's bright honey eyes realizing that when $Dheshe tried to save you, $Dheshe likely received injuries much like your own. "I didn't realize you got hurt…" Duri shrugs. "Hurt is relative when you heal as fast as I do," $Dheshe says and then gives you a wink. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"Still Duri…don't push aside the fact that you were hurt. It still matters, even if you're a demigod. You still feel pain," you say in rebuttal.<<else>>"Duri, don't try to ignore that you were injured. You should have spoke up."<</if>> Duri gawks at you a moment before waving a hand. "I'm fine, don't get so bent out of shape…well //more// bent out of shape. Anyway, you should get that down so I can take you for a little walk." You hear several yips, barks, and whines from downstairs and Duri covers $Dhisher mouth. [[You suppose wolves enjoy walks just as much as dogs do.|4.33]]

You tip your head to Duri. "Thank you for giving me your bed. I truly appreciate that you've welcomed us here." Duri sits back and gawks at you for a moment. "It's…think nothing of it. Just good manners." $Dcapitalheshe shrugs. "You strike me as the type to forgo manners when it suits you." "Also true," Duri says and then chuckles. "So, since no one regularly sees you to bed each night, how would you like me to wish you a pleasant sleep?" "Huh?" You quirk an eyebrow. "As far as I am aware, it suffices to simply say 'goodnight' to someone." "No, no." Duri shakes $Dhisher head. "Words are fine, but do you want anything else? I suppose hugs are off the table for now…what else do people do? Oh, kiss! Goodnight kiss? Or a head-pat, I like those." You stare back in bemusement. Duri looks as if $Dhisher tail will pop out at any moment and begin to wag. $Dcapitalheshe is so odd at times that you wonder how much $Dheshe is actually around people. $flirt_label [[Accept a goodnight kiss.|4.31c1a]] [[Simply saying goodnight is fine by you.|4.31c1b]] $flirt_label [[A little head pat sounds sweet…|4.31c1c]]

<<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You feel a little bit awkward about it, but you don't mind Duri and this bed is huge. There's ample room for the both of you plus most of the wolves that are scattered around you. "Well…I appreciate the use of your bed…but I'd hate to rob you of it. If you'd like to sleep here, there's plenty of space and I wouldn't mind."<<else>>You smile wide, at least as much as you can considering your exhaustion. "Why don't we just share the bed? I'm thankful that you're letting us in your home as it is and this bed is easily big enough for all of us…What do you think?<</if>> Duri's eyes go wide. "Really? I could…you'd let me?" You nod. "//Sleep// next to me, yes." "That sounds like fun! Yes, let's do that." Duri then lifts $Dhisher head towards the entryway and yells, "$mc is letting me sleep in here tonight, make yourselves at home!" All the wolves look up at $Dhimher. You hear a commotion from downstairs and hear Oswin raise his voice for a moment before being muffled as Zahn begins to advocate for your choice and they go quiet again. Duri sits back and gawks at you for a moment. "You're so sweet. Once you are well again, we should…we could cuddle!" You shake your head. "We'll see" "So, since no one regularly sees you to bed each night, how would you like me to wish you a pleasant sleep?" "Huh?" You quirk an eyebrow. "As far as I am aware, it suffices to simply say 'goodnight' to someone." "No, no." Duri shakes $Dhisher head. "Words are fine, but do you want anything else? I suppose hugs are off the table for now…what else do people do? Oh, kiss! Goodnight kiss? Or a head-pat, I like those." You stare back in bemusement. Duri looks as if $Dhisher tail will pop out at any moment and begin to wag. $Dcapitalheshe is so odd at times that you wonder how much $Dheshe is around people. $flirt_label [[Accept a goodnight kiss.|4.31c2a]] [[Simply saying goodnight is fine by you.|4.31c2b]] $flirt_label [[A little head pat sounds sweet…|4.31c2c]]

<<set $Dflirt +=5>> <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>A nervous flutter takes your heart for a moment. Quietly you say, "A goodnight kiss would be fine."<<else>>An excited flutter dances through your heart. "A kiss goodnight would be lovely," you say.<</if>> Duri gives you a warm smile and wastes no time in leaning over you, careful of your wounded shoulder. You suppose that you shouldn't be surprised that $Dheshe wastes no time in the matter. After hovering face to face for a moment, Duri brings $Dhisher lips to your cheek for a slow and sweet kiss. It's over before you even realize, but $Dheshe stays nose to nose with you, looking deeply into your eyes. "Goodnight, $mc," $Dheshe says softly and then moves to get off the bed. A couple of the wolves follow Duri as $Dheshe makes to leave. "Goodnight, Duri," you return as your eyes suddenly get very heavy. [[You're not even sure if you manage to watch Duri leave the room before your eyes slip closed.|4.32]]

With eyes heavy with the need for sleep, you simply give $Dhimher a polite smile. "A traditional goodnight wish is more than sufficient, Duri." "Then, I wish you the best of nights, $mc, and the sweetest of dreams." $Dheshe says softly and then moves to get off the bed. A couple of the wolves follow Duri as $Dheshe makes to leave. "Goodnight, Duri," you return as your eyes suddenly get very heavy. [[You're not even sure if you manage to watch Duri leave the room before your eyes slip closed.|4.32]]

<<set $Dflirt +=3>> <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>A nervous flutter takes your heart for a moment. Quietly you say, "I guess a little pat would be fine."<<else>>An excited flutter dances through your heart. "A pat on the head would be sweet," you say.<</if>> Duri gives you a warm smile and wastes no time in leaning over you slightly, careful of your wounded shoulder. You suppose that you shouldn't be surprised that $Dheshe wastes no time in the matter. After hovering a hand in the air above you for a moment, Duri lightly pats the top of your head, a wide smile spread over $Dhisher lips. With great gentleness, $Dheshe runs $Dhisher fingers along your hair. <<if $allgreyhair is true>>"You know...I've never met a young person with hair that matches mine. I think now I understand why people stare at it. It's so lovely on you." You're a little taken off guard. <<if $greyokay is true>>The greying of your hair doesn't really bother you, and you get the odd compliment about it sometimes.<<elseif $greyokay is false>>It's a little difficult to stomach the compliments you get about your grey hair. You've never made peace with it.<</if>> But Duri seems to be more than enamored by it. "My hair...used to be $haircolor. I went grey early." Duri lights up a bit. "Me too, sort of. Mine was this really pretty dark brown. It turned grey when I began shifting into a wolf. I was upset for a while, especially since mama had black hair and we sort of looked alike until then. It was so sudden that I cried for days." Duri chuckles. "Maybe it's the advantage of time, but my mother loved it so I grew to love it too." <<if $greyokay is false>>"Maybe there's hope for me then...to make peace with it," you say with a frown. "Maybe I can help with that?" Duri smiles warmly at you.<</if>><<if $greyokay is true>>"I came to appreciate mine as well. It's unique, and it catches the light quite nicely." "It suits you." Duri smiles warmly.<</if>> "Thank you, Duri," you say.<</if>> "Goodnight, $mc," $Dheshe says softly and then moves to get off the bed. A couple of the wolves follow Duri as $Dheshe makes to leave. "Goodnight, Duri," you return as your eyes suddenly get very heavy. [[You're not even sure if you manage to watch Duri leave the room before your eyes slip closed.|4.32]]

<<set $Dflirt +=5>> <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>A nervous flutter takes your heart for a moment. Quietly you say, "A goodnight kiss would be fine."<<else>>An excited flutter dances through your heart. "A kiss goodnight would be lovely," you say.<</if>> Duri gives you a warm smile and wastes no time in leaning over you, careful of your wounded shoulder. You suppose that you shouldn't be surprised that $Dheshe wastes no time in the matter. After hovering face to face for a moment, Duri brings $Dhisher lips to your cheek for a slow and sweet kiss. It's over before you even realize, but $Dheshe stays nose to nose with you, looking deeply into your eyes. "Goodnight, $mc," $Dheshe says softly and then moves to the other side of the bed, flopping down on one side and propping $Dhisher head up on one arm. "Goodnight, Duri," you return as your eyes suddenly get very heavy. [[You're not even sure how long you're able to watch Duri before your eyes slip closed.|4.32]]

With eyes heavy with the need for sleep, you simply give $Dhimher a polite smile. "A traditional goodnight wish is more than sufficient, Duri." "Then, I wish you the best of nights, $mc, and the sweetest of dreams." $Dheshe says softly and then moves to the other side of the bed, flopping down on one side and propping $Dhisher head up on one arm. "Goodnight, Duri," you return as your eyes suddenly get very heavy. [[You're not even sure how long you're able to watch Duri before your eyes slip closed.|4.32]]

<<set $Dflirt +=3>> <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>A nervous flutter takes your heart for a moment. Quietly you say, "I guess a little pat would be fine."<<else>>An excited flutter dances through your heart. "A pat on the head would be sweet," you say.<</if>> Duri gives you a warm smile and wastes no time in leaning over you slightly, careful of your wounded shoulder. You suppose that you shouldn't be surprised that $Dheshe wastes no time in the matter. After hovering a hand in the air above you for a moment, Duri lightly pats the top of your head, a wide smile spread over $Dhisher lips. With great gentleness, $Dheshe runs $Dhisher fingers along your hair. <<if $allgreyhair is true>>"You know...I've never met a young person with hair that matches mine. I think now I understand why people stare at it. It's so lovely on you." You're a little taken off guard. <<if $greyokay is true>>The greying of your hair doesn't really bother you, and you get the odd compliment about it sometimes.<<elseif $greyokay is false>>It's a little difficult to stomach the compliments you get about your grey hair. You've never made peace with it.<</if>> But Duri seems to be more than enamored by it. "My hair...used to be $haircolor. I went grey early." Duri lights up a bit. "Me too, sort of. Mine was this really pretty dark brown. It turned grey when I began shifting into a wolf. I was upset for a while, especially since mama had black hair and we sort of looked alike until then. It was so sudden that I cried for days." Duri chuckles. "Maybe it's the advantage of time, but my mother loved it so I grew to love it too." <<if $greyokay is false>>"Maybe there's hope for me then...to make peace with it," you say with a frown. "Maybe I can help with that?" Duri smiles warmly at you.<</if>><<if $greyokay is true>>"I came to appreciate mine as well. It's unique, and it catches the light quite nicely." "It suits you." Duri smiles warmly.<</if>> "Thank you, Duri," you say.<</if>> "Goodnight, $mc," $Dheshe says softly and then moves to the other side of the bed, flopping down on one side and propping $Dhisher head up on one arm. "Goodnight, Duri," you return as your eyes suddenly get very heavy. [[You're not even sure how long you're able to watch Duri before your eyes slip closed.|4.32]]

Once your pain medicine kicks in and you've finished your meal, it still takes a while for you to get up and moving. Your muscles are extremely stiff, a reminder that the medicine keeps you from feeling the full extent of your injuries. Duri allows you some privacy to clean up, providing you a bucket of water and cloth<<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>, as well as some supplies to change the bandage on your wound<</if>>. It will have to suffice until you can find a decent bath. There's even a good sized mirror for you to use, though time hasn't treated it very well. For the first time you're able to see the damage you took from the landslide. A massive bloom of purple sits over the right side of your ribs. It appears to originate from your back. The area around your wounded shoulder is also angry and swollen. Red and purple vie for dominance across the whole area. <<if $shoulderpuncture is true>>You grimace at the sight as you peel back the old bandage. Oswin was right, it's already infected. If you are not careful, an infection will kill you quicker than the curse can. Thankfully you have a salve to keep it at bay.<<else>>The amount of swelling is alarming, and makes your stomach turn. Your body just does not look right and it's unnerving. You can't lift your left arm either, but the pain keeps you from trying much with it. It worries you that the damage may be irreparable.<</if>> Other than that, you are dotted with bruises all over and have many scraps and cuts. Once you are as clean and ready as you can get, you very slowly make your way down the stairs. The large wolf that has clung to you so far stays at your side. Duri meets you, pleased that you managed to make it downstairs yourself, but laments that $Dheshe wasn't called on for a ride. You suppose you will never hear the end of that. $Dcapitalheshe takes you outside so that you can see the village and shrine in the full light of the sun. It honestly does not look much different, but you can better see the effects of age on the buildings and grounds. Duri begins to lead you up a hill to the right of the house you're staying in towards the big red building, which you guess is the shrine proper. Several wolves crowd around Duri, but the cream one stays at your side. By the time you reach the shrine, you are winded, and need to sit to catch your air. One of the small wolves suddenly darts off back towards the house and returns moments later with a waterskin for you. You grab it looking at Duri in wonder. "How did he do that?" you ask and then take a drink. Duri beams with pride. "They're all very smart." "Yeah?" "Well, I tell them things and they listen." You eye the spunky little wolf that Duri is petting for a job well done. "But you didn't say anything…" "I don't need to. I can just…think it, I guess." You just stare. Duri snorts a laugh. "Listen, I don't really know //how// it works, I was never good at that part of magic. I just //do// things. It comes naturally. I didn't even know I could shift into a wolf until I just did it accidentally one day." $Dcapitalheshe starts to laugh. "You should have seen my…" You listen but Duri's face goes blank and $Dheshe acts like $Dheshe wasn't telling you something. "Anyway," Duri continues. "As long as it's simple things, I can direct and command them. Like, I could go have them get things that they know about or find familiar smells, but I can't make them understand or recognize things they wouldn't already know." "And they have to listen to you?" "Nope, they //choose// to. I don't know if I can force them to do anything, but I don't want to find out. Almost all the wolves of this forest know and trust me. I can connect with other wolves or dogs in the same way, but I've found the less they know me, the less willing they are to help me." You nod. "Makes sense. So, can you send commands to other animals?" Duri thinks a moment. "Some of the foxes listen to me…Raccoons definitely not, but they're a lot of fun that way. I tried a cat once…it attacked me." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I suppose cats would be a natural limitation for you."<<else>>"Can't imagine why." You chuckle.<</if>> [[Once you've caught your breath, Duri invites you inside.|4.34]]

You have to trek through an abundance of overgrown vines, flowers, and bushes to make it to the double doors to get in, but once inside you are completely taken aback. It's incredibly empty. Your steps and the clack of wolf claws echo all around you. The large entryway is devoid of decorations or furnishings. Only a ruined statue sits in the middle of the room with another set of double doors on the other side. The light-colored wood floor is in good shape for its age and the walls are dingy but mostly intact. You reach out and run your hand along the unusually smooth surface of a wall. It's cold to the touch and very hard. Marble. The walls are clad in marble. You wipe away untold years of dust and cobwebs to see the woven splashes of greys and tans swirled within the white stone with flecks of gold.<<if $interest is 'woodin'>> In your profession, you've done little stonework, but you are not ignorant of the scale and cost of work that would go into just one wall. It is little wonder why the building is in better shape than the rest if this is the scope of materials used to build it. The marble must have come from far into the north. The effort to mine it and bring it here would have been immense.<</if>> "In Valko's heyday, his followers meant business." You eye the crumbled statue. "They invested in marble walls, but couldn't make a quality statue?" Duri snorts. "No, that was me…I, uh, tripped." $Dcapitalheshe shrugs and continues to walk to another set of double doors and throw them open. "There isn't much here anymore, but you are welcome to poke around. There was an apothecary here…somewhere - it may have the potions that would help you." You look at the statue again, crumbled beyond recognition, as Duri trots off through the doors. [[You've got questions.|4.35]]

Duri lets you wonder as you please through the maze of rooms in the shrine. $Dcapitalheshe gives you no direction, so you set off alone down the right side of the massive hallway that appears to span the whole building. You peek into every room one by one and are perplexed that you find almost no furnishings aside from the occasional table or chair. You think that many of these rooms were probably bedrooms, though it's difficult to tell for sure. Where would all the furniture even be? Was the shrine raided? Who would steal an enormous amount of furniture for a building this size? There's barely evidence that people once dwelt here. Bedrooms with no beds. A library with no books. Two dining rooms each with broken tables and no chairs, and a kitchen with nothing but a well and fireplace inside. [[This shrine is only full of echos.|4.36]]

As you exit the last room in your slow but steady exploration of the first hall, Duri'naan is waiting for you, leaning against the wall with $Dhisher arms crossed. "Did you find anything, lambchop?" Duri asks and then grins at you, not looking overly friendly, but perhaps a bit strained. "Where //is// everything? This building is huge and there's nothing in it," you answer with clear exasperation in your tone. "You picked the most boring place to start for one, but it is mostly empty everywhere else. When the shrine was abandoned, the priests and priestesses took anything they'd need to start a life in the city." Duri moves from the wall and waves at you to follow, walking slowly so that you can keep up. "So, after the war between the gods?" "...Sort of, more like during," Duri answers quietly. "So-" "I think it's time I got to ask a question." Duri turns $Dhisher head at you with a small smile, another one that feels out of place from the others $Dheshe has shown you. "Okay…" "What are you looking for?" Duri asks, scooting over to walk closer to you. You're quiet for a moment as you think. How much should you tell $Dhimher? How would Duri react? If you fess up about your curse, would that increase your odds of finding a way to break it? [[Dance around the question.|4.36a][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 7, 0, 100)]] [[Lie and distract your way out of it.|4.36b][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 7, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Use seduction to change the subject.|4.36c][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 7, 0, 100)]]

"Well…" you begin. "I thought that was obvious." "You did?" Duri stops and studies you. You look around, trying to look genuinely confused before meeting Duri's eyes. You gesture to your bad shoulder. "I need something to fix this and my other injuries. A healer might be too slow, and I need to be in the best shape possible before I return home." Duri tilts $Dhisher head, looking every bit of the curious wolf. "There's magic in Codrin too. In fact, there are powerful mage healers that would be the better bet for your situation. Plus…that doesn't exactly answer…" Duri <<if $height is 'verytall'>>looks up at you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>tilts $Dhisher head slightly to look up at you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>tilts $Dhisher head slightly to look down toward you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<<else>>looks down at you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<</if>> "...why are you in my forest to begin with?" Your $eyecolor gaze can only maintain composure for so long. You know that Duri is already suspicious, hiding it will just make things worse… "I'm sick…" you say, voice falling flat. Duri studies you longer. "Well…you're telling the truth…mostly. Why not see an actual healer then?" "It's not a normal sickness. I've had it since I was a child…it's…it was inflicted on me by a god, apparently." It goes quiet. Deathly quiet. You and Duri stare at each other. The only sound is the occasional shuffling from the cream colored wolf that followed you in. You watch Duri's face closely and find that $Dheshe looks a bit sad. $Dcapitalheshe finally sighs heavily. "Gods were really good for nothing, weren't they…" $Dheshe says and then begins to walk again. [[You scurry to catch up.|4.37]]

"Well, it's not so much a what but a who." The lie rolls off your tongue like water. "Who?" You nod. "Remember earlier when I told you I had never met my birth parents? Well, my mother passed away while birthing me, but I think my father might still be out there. My adoptive fathers have a lead that he may be from Codrin." Duri tilts $Dhisher head, looking every bit of the curious wolf. "So…you take the backroads, which are rarely traveled, through an ancient forest to find this person? Rather than taking the nice big maintained roads between cities where you'll find actual people who could help you…" Duri <<if $height is 'verytall'>>looks up at you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>tilts $Dhisher head slightly to look up at you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>tilts $Dhisher head slightly to look down toward you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<<else>>looks down at you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<</if>> "Why are you //really// in my forest?" Your $eyecolor gaze can only maintain composure for so long. You know that Duri is already suspicious, hiding it will just make things worse… "I'm sick…" you say, voice falling flat. Duri studies you longer. "Well…you're telling the truth…mostly. Why not go see an actual healer then?" "It's not a normal sickness. I've had it since I was a child…it's…it was inflicted on me by a god, apparently." It goes quiet. Deathly quiet. You and Duri stare at each other. The only sound is the occasional shuffling from the cream colored wolf that followed you in. You watch Duri's face closely and find that $Dheshe looks a bit sad. $Dcapitalheshe finally sighs heavily. "Gods were really good for nothing, weren't they…" $Dheshe says and then begins to walk again. [[You scurry to catch up.|4.37]]

<<set $Dflirt +=4>> <<set $Dbold +=2>> You stare into Duri's honey-brown eyes and feign sweetness. "Honestly…I think I already found what I wanted out of my journey." Duri raises an eyebrow. Using your good arm, you place it against Duri's chest, on $Dhisher collarbone, and gently slide it up towards $Dhisher neck. You lightly tickle the soft and supple flesh there, noticing that it ripples with goosebumps. Duri brings $Dhimselfherself closer to you, pulled in by your allure. "Now that you've found what you //wanted// little lamb, are you sure you can handle it?" You lean in even closer. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You know your face must be as red as the flowers outside, but you press on. "Yes…I think I can."<<else>>"Only one way to find out," you goad.<</if>> Duri brings $Dhisher lips dangerously close to your own, before dipping to the side and moving them to your ear. "You're very cute, $mc, but this isn't going to work," $Dheshe whispers. Duri pulls back and tilts $Dhisher head, looking every bit of the curious wolf. "So…given your failed, but delicious, attempt at distracting me - I know for sure that you're hiding something." Duri <<if $height is 'verytall'>>looks up at you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>tilts $Dhisher head slightly to look up at you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>tilts $Dhisher head slightly to look down toward you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<<else>>looks down at you with a ferocity in $Dhisher eyes.<</if>> "Why are you //really// in my forest?" Your $eyecolor gaze can only maintain composure for so long. You know that Duri is already suspicious, hiding it will just make things worse… "I'm sick…" you say, voice falling flat. Duri studies you longer. "Well…you're telling the truth…mostly. Why not go see an actual healer then?" "It's not a normal sickness. I've had it since I was a child…it's…it was inflicted on me by a god, apparently." It goes quiet. Deathly quiet. You and Duri stare at each other. The only sound is the occasional shuffling from the cream colored wolf that followed you in. You watch Duri's face closely and find that $Dheshe looks a bit sad. $Dcapitalheshe finally sighs heavily. "Gods were really good for nothing, weren't they…" $Dheshe says and then begins to walk again. [[You scurry to catch up.|4.37]]

Duri slows to help you match $Dhisher pace. Without looking at you, $Dheshe continues to speak. "I thought something about you felt off, but not really 'this is a shit person' sort of off." You shake your head. "Sorry for hiding it, but Oswin is paranoid and-" "I mean magically. Apology accepted and all that, but you literally //feel// strange to me. It's a faint sensation, but it's like…when you know something is wrong but you can't quite place what it is. Whatever you have going on, the magic here is drawn to it, and it…" Duri stops and stares at you as if you're a specimen under glass. "It?" you prompt. "Feels familiar in a way, but I don't know why. Either way, there might be something for you here after all." Duri stops at an unassuming door and smiles at you before throwing it open with a flourish. [[You stare inside…|4.38]]

…And see an empty room. You look at Duri who is gazing at you with a cocky smile. You glance at the room again - still nothing. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"Is there…is there supposed to be something here?" you ask softly.<<else>>You stare back at $Dhimher. "It's empty.<</if>> "Huh?" Duri's eye go wide and $Dhisher head snaps to the room. "Oh! Sorry." Duri begins to laugh and walks in towards an interior door. "I always forget…" $Dcapitalheshe throws open the other door as you shuffle in. Beyond it is a room full to the ceiling with shelves of bottles, boxes and books. The rich smell of plants, flowers and herbs muddled with mold and dust hits your nose. You take in everything, seeing a couple work tables full of equipment, tools and every size of mortar you could possibly want. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>This is a treasure trove, a veritable paradise of tools and supplies that would make the best healers in the world envious. <</if>>You cough, clutching your good arm around your ribs. Duri comes closer to check on you as you cough from the onslaught of dust and mold before inviting you to step inside. "This was my mother's apothecary. She was a healer," $Dheshe says quietly. "This place hasn't been used in…a very long time, but she had a lot of potions made and stored here. I don't know much about it, and I know some things go bad over time, but if there is anything that will heal you, it will be here." "This is incredible, Duri…" You gawk as you walk by the massive shelves. "She was," $Dheshe says. "Now, I don't remember a lot about what she did, but I will try. She labeled everything, but…it's been so long they may not have lasted. If we don't know what something is, I may be able to sniff out what's inside." Duri leans against a large work table that is full of scales and books to leave you to explore. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>You are suddenly very thankful for your own experience as a healer. There is a veritable mountain of books and bottles to look through here and your chances of identifying something helpful are much higher than if you didn't know anything.<<else>> You are not exactly sure what all you're looking at, but there's a lot here. There must be //something// that can help you. If not with your curse, then for your injuries.<</if>> The demigod stays quiet as you look through each shelf. As you find little phials or bottles with liquid inside, you pull them aside and set them on a table by a window that is relatively clear of clutter. Unfortunately, many of the labels have long since crumbled away or the writing is too faded to read. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>In your search, you recognize several things as well as an array of desiccated herbs neatly organized into a massive shelf at the far end of the room. The plants are so far gone, that a light touch sends them crumbling to dust. After so many years, the aroma is still evident though, and it reminds you a bit of home.<<else>>You don't recognize much, but you find where the scent of herbs is emanating from. A massive shelf at the far end of the room houses a collection of decaying herbs. You try to touch one that you recognize, only to see it crumble to dust. The scent must be ingrained into the walls and furniture even after so many years.<</if>> To have an apothecary this large, Duri's mother must have been a very popular healer. As you look around pick up items of interest, the back of your mind wanders. Duri is ancient by your standards and $Dhisher mother was clearly human… Children are supposed to outlive their parents but it feels odd to you that Duri experienced this to such a degree. You are curious about what it was like to see a parent age - their life slowing until it stopped one day. Your mind goes to your fathers…and you try to shake the feelings away. You need to focus. And you need to find a solution to your curse if you are to be here for them in the years to come. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You're not always the social type, but you are are curious about Duri, the shrine, and its healer.<<else>>You're not one to turn down some socializing, and you are getting more curious about Duri and this place.<</if>> "So, your mother was a healer?" "Yeah," Duri says. "Only the best." $Dcapitalhisher voice shines with pride. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>"I've also been working as a healer - started when I was young - and this place is a paradise. I bet it was magnificent to work in. It's cluttered, but I can tell she had it organized to suit her." Duri approaches you suddenly. "You're like her? You help people?" You nod. "Yeah, it's been my passion since I was a kid. My fathers taught me some basic things…and I just loved it and had an aptitude for it…it just stuck." $Dcapitalheshe smiles wide. "She'd like you. She would talk for ages about herbs and ointments…I didn't get it, but I liked going to harvest plants with her. I would sit in here while she worked too. She met with patients in that first room, could listen to what was wrong and come back here and know just what to do for them."<<else>> "My best friend is a healer, he comes from a long line of them. We were both sickly as children, and his father and mother tended to us a lot. I don't know if I would be alive today without his family. I'm eternally thankful to them, as I am sure many were to your mother." Duri comes up to you. "She would have been the same to you. I'm sure if she were here now, she'd know just what to do…She'd like you. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Genuine sorts always had a particular appeal to her even if she enjoyed annoying them.<<else>>She was also a fun person and loved to laugh.<</if>> I would sit in here while she worked. She met with patients in that first room, could listen to what was wrong and come back here and know just what to do for them." $Dcapitalheshe smiles big at the memory.<</if>> "She sounds wonderful." Duri begins to poke through the shelves, picking up things, sniffing them and then putting them back. "She was fun, but others got frustrated with her - the way she worked. It was like she had her own little world and language and no one understood it but me. She wasn't like other priestesses - wasn't //proper//." Duri sneers. "Your mother was a priestess?" you ask, suddenly making the connection with Valko. "Yeah, she was the strongest one too. Lots of people thought she was a god herself because magic was so drawn to her. It's still here even." "What is?" "Her magic. The room…" Duri swallows hard. "It feels like her. It smells like her." Duri's eyes go a little wide and $Dheshe suddenly turns on $Dhisher heel and $Dheshe rushes out of the room without another word. Your heart clenches, and you begin to wonder… [[Just how long do you grieve when you say goodbye to those you love?|4.39]]

You let the demigod leave to have some privacy while you keep perusing the rows and rows of shelves. Some bottles you find are broken and in others the contents inside have dried up or molded. You find a jar with something pulsating inside and decide to leave it be. After what feels like an hour or so, you have collected five bottles of mystery liquids that seem viable. You find a collection of phials on which the labels survived, but none of them were recommended for anything other than scrapes and burns. You find a leather satchel to stow your potions in as you scan the room one last time, finding a couple books as well that are in fair shape. Before you get up to leave the room you spot a cabinet next to the large work table Duri had been leaning against. Almost all the shelves here are open, so it draws your attention. It's a simple cabinet, but looks like it was intentionally tucked in a safe place. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You recognize the wood it's made from…Papa always called it ironwood and it is so hard and difficult to cut, he also always told you to never waste your energy on it. The trees are rare and are more common the further south you go in Iroda. Not only would it have been difficult to obtain the wood, but forming it into a cabinet would have been a nightmare.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You recognize the wood it's made from…It's nicknamed ironwood and it is so hard and difficult to cut, you would never waste your energy on it. You sampled a small slab of it once and found that it was a waste of time and good money. Not only would it have been difficult to obtain the wood, but forming it into a cabinet would have been a nightmare.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>You recognize the wood it's made from. It's a rare and a notoriously difficult wood to work with called ironwood. It's also extremely valuable to the right person because of how durable it is, though it is shunned by most woodworkers, including your papa. You've only seen it while working with traders from the southern province.<</if>> You try the door, but find that it is stuck. After some coaxing with your good arm, which still renders you sore, it opens with a loud creak. The metal hinges are in worse shape than the wood. The smell of cedar hits you as you gaze upon the pristine interior of the cabinet. Your instincts tingle, this was a place to keep something important. Something valuable. And in the very back wrapped in a layer of soft cloth is a single bottle. You reach in and carefully pull it out. The red bottle is full of liquid, which is a good sign. It looks untouched and unphased by time and feels warm, almost hot, to the touch. This must be important. There's nothing else left in the cabinet but papers crumbled to dust. You tuck it securely with the others and leave to find Duri. [[You wonder what other secrets are in this place.|4.40]]

Duri is nowhere to be found when you leave the apothecary. You peek in several more rooms, finding them empty just as the others, though this side has more furnishings. Two rooms in particular appear to have a full set of bedroom furniture, but nothing else of note. You return to the center of the hall where you came into the building and eye the double doors opposite from the entrance. They stand out among the other doors, being deep red in color and carved with swirling patterns. You are tiring quickly, but you'd like to find Duri and are admittedly curious about what is behind the fancy doors. You pull one open, finding it exceedingly heavy, and release it as pain shoots through your torso. You nearly fall to your knees and pause a moment to catch your breath. The door opens easily a moment later and Duri peeks at you. "Are you okay?" $Dheshe asks. You nod. "I was looking for you." "Well…you found me." Duri smiles. "Want to come in?" You straighten up and shake the lingering pain away and shuffle inside as Duri holds the door. The room is massive and it's clear that you've found the religious epicenter of the shrine. Large windows are inlaid in the walls, many still whole but all are dingy and falling apart. The remnants of furniture are all around - tables, couches, chairs. Here, the floor is also stone, though you don't recognize what it is, but it is dark grey, almost black. The walls are pure white marble and are marred by vines which have broken in through the roof and damaged windows. There is a platform, almost a short stage, at the front of the room with some sort of monolith at its center. There is a cascade of plants and flowers sprouting and blooming all around it, leaving you wondering how they are surviving. They would receive enough light, but the roof appears too intact to let in much water. As you get closer, you see how ornate the stone pillar on the stage. It's made of black granite and is polished to the point you could see your reflection if you got close. It appears untouched by time and is the cleanest thing you have found in the entire shrine. You look at Duri who is also staring at the stone with a blank expression, and then you realize…it's a memorial. You approach with respect and stare at the marker. [[It bears her name.|4.41]]

<html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">Inola</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[Your thoughts go to your birthmother.|4.42]]

<<if $mommyissues is 'sad'>>Your jaw quivers as you swallow sadness. It feels a bit like you are staring at her grave marker, nestled where you were born in the shelter of a tree. You wonder what she was like, what your relationship to her would have been like. Though you never knew her…you miss her.<<elseif $mommyissues is 'anger'>>You clench your teeth. This reminds you of her grave and how unfair her death feels to you. You wonder what she was like, what your relationship to her would have been like. Though you never knew her…you miss her.<<elseif $mommyissues is 'thankful'>>Gratitude swells within your heart. This reminds you of your mother's sacrifice to keep you alive. You wish you could tell her how much you appreciate what she gave for you. You wish you could show her the person you have become, the person you are still becoming.<<elseif $mommyissues is 'guilt'>>You swallow the grief in your throat, but it fights back. It feels a bit like you are staring at her grave marker, nestled where you were born in the shelter of a tree, a reminder that you stole your mother's life. You wonder what she was like, what your relationship to her would have been like. Because of you, the world will never know.<<elseif $mommyissues is 'okay'>>You take a deep breath and gaze at the stone in reverence to her life. You think of your battle to come to terms with where you came from. You may never know her circumstances, but you are at peace, and you hope that no matter what Duri's relationship with $Dhisher own mother was, $Dheshe can find a similar peace with it.<</if>> Duri quietly approaches and stands at your side, leaning to whisper. "Pick a flower." You gaze back at $Dhimher to find a coy smile on $Dhisher lips. Looking back towards the shrine, you look at the plentiful blooms. Several types are present, some of which should not be blooming at this time of year. You spy your favorite… [[Roses]] [[Asters]] [[Yarrow]] [[Lilies]] [[Poppies]] [[Forget-me-nots]] [[Daisies]] [[Peonies]] [[Foxgloves]]

<<set $flower to 'rose'>><<set $favflower to true>> A big red rose catches your attention. You're drawn to roses, and such a large beautiful one easily catches your eye. You go over to it and cradle the bloom in your hand for a moment. It radiates warmth…and you realize that it feels much like the red bottle of potion you found earlier. Duri comes over and snips the stem with a quick swipe of $Dhisher nails and then turns to make the walk to the doors. After a last glance at the memorial stone you incline your head before making to follow $Dhimher. Duri holds the door for you again. Once you are back to the main doors, Duri grins at you. "Good choice. Roses were her favorite too. She only grew red ones though, our favorite color. Shall we have tea?" You stare at Duri, a bit perplexed. "Tea?" "That's what the flower is for." "You want us to drink rose tea?" Duri grins. "No, just you." You sigh and decide to switch the subject. "Do you grow them? The flowers." "No, my mother does - technically. They feed off the magic from her that lingers here. They bloom even in winter." Duri smiles fondly, running the tip of $Dhisher finger over the edge of one of the petals. Your mouth drops. "//Still//? But…" Duri shrugs and then turns towards the doors. "Don't think about it too much. Let's go back to the house and make you some tea and you can show me the treasures you found." $Dcapitalheshe pauses for a moment. "//After// I get yelled at…" "Wha-?" [[Duri pushes through the door and you follow.|4.43]]

<<set $flower to 'aster'>><<set $favflower to true>> A big purple aster catches your attention. You're drawn to aster flowers, and such a large beautiful one easily catches your eye. You go over to it and cradle the bloom in your hand for a moment. It radiates warmth…and you realize that it feels much like the red bottle of potion you found earlier. Duri comes over and snips the stem with a quick swipe of $Dhisher nails and then turns to make the walk to the doors. After a last glance at the memorial stone you incline your head before making to follow $Dhimher. Duri holds the door for you again. Once you are back to the main doors, Duri grins at you. "Good choice. Asters attract the most beautiful butterflies.... Shall we have tea?" You stare at Duri, a bit perplexed. "Tea?" "That's what the flower is for." "You want us to drink aster tea?" Duri grins. "No, just you." You sigh and decide to switch the subject. "Do you grow them? The flowers." "No, my mother does - technically. They feed off the magic from her that lingers here. They bloom even in winter." Duri smiles fondly, running the tip of $Dhisher finger over the edge of one of the petals. Your mouth drops. "//Still//? But…" Duri shrugs and then turns towards the doors. "Don't think about it too much. Let's go back to the house and make you some tea and you can show me the treasures you found." $Dcapitalheshe pauses for a moment. "//After// I get yelled at…" "Wha-?" [[Duri pushes through the door and you follow.|4.43]]

<<set $flower to 'yarrow'>><<set $favflower to true>> A big cluster of white yarrow catches your attention. You're drawn to yarrow, and such a large beautiful cluster of the tiny flowers easily catches your eye. You go over to it and cradle the blooms in your hand for a moment. They radiate warmth…and you realize that it feels much like the red bottle of potion you found earlier. Duri comes over and snips the stem with a quick swipe of $Dhisher nails and then turns to make the walk to the doors. After a last glance at the memorial stone you incline your head before making to follow $Dhimher. Duri holds the door for you again. Once you are back to the main doors, Duri grins at you. "Good choice. The birds around here really like them.... Shall we have tea? Yarrow is especially tasty with some sugar." You stare at Duri, a bit perplexed. "Tea?" "That's what the flower is for." "You want us to drink yarrow tea?" Duri grins. "No, just you." You sigh and decide to switch the subject. "Do you grow them? The flowers." "No, my mother does - technically. They feed off the magic from her that lingers here. They bloom even in winter." Duri smiles fondly, running the tip of $Dhisher finger over the edge of one of the petals. Your mouth drops. "//Still//? But…" Duri shrugs and then turns towards the doors. "Don't think about it too much. Let's go back to the house and make you some tea and you can show me the treasures you found." $Dcapitalheshe pauses for a moment. "//After// I get yelled at…" "Wha-?" [[Duri pushes through the door and you follow.|4.43]]

<<set $flower to 'lily'>><<set $favflower to true>> A big light purple lily catches your attention. You're drawn to lilies, and such a large beautiful bloom easily catches your eye. You go over to it and cradle it in your hand for a moment. It radiates warmth…and you realize that it feels much like the red bottle of potion you found earlier. Duri comes over and snips the stem with a quick swipe of $Dhisher nails and then turns to make the walk to the doors. After a last glance at the memorial stone you incline your head before making to follow $Dhimher. Duri holds the door for you again. Once you are back to the main doors, Duri grins at you. "Good choice. The bees love them.... Shall we have tea?" You stare at Duri, a bit perplexed. "Tea?" "That's what the flower is for." "You want us to drink lily tea?" Duri grins. "No, just you." You sigh and decide to switch the subject. "Do you grow them? The flowers." "No, my mother does - technically. They feed off the magic from her that lingers here. They bloom even in winter." Duri smiles fondly, running the tip of $Dhisher finger over the edge of one of the petals. Your mouth drops. "//Still//? But…" Duri shrugs and then turns towards the doors. "Don't think about it too much. Let's go back to the house and make you some tea and you can show me the treasures you found." $Dcapitalheshe pauses for a moment. "//After// I get yelled at…" "Wha-?" [[Duri pushes through the door and you follow.|4.43]]

<<set $flower to 'poppy'>><<set $favflower to true>> A big orange poppy catches your attention. You're drawn to poppies, and such a large beautiful one easily catches your eye. You go over to it and cradle the bloom in your hand for a moment. It radiates warmth…and you realize that it feels much like the red bottle of potion you found earlier. Duri comes over and snips the stem with a quick swipe of $Dhisher nails and then turns to make the walk to the doors. After a last glance at the memorial stone you incline your head before making to follow $Dhimher. Duri holds the door for you again. Once you are back to the main doors, Duri grins at you. "Good choice. Poppies attract the most beautiful butterflies.... Shall we have tea?" You stare at Duri, a bit perplexed. "Tea?" "That's what the flower is for." "You want me to drink //poppy// tea? You do realize it's toxic, right?" Duri's eyes light up. "No!" $Dcapitalheshe smiles. You sigh and change the subject. "Do you grow them? The flowers." "No, my mother does - technically. They feed off the magic from her that lingers here. They bloom even in winter." Duri smiles fondly, running the tip of $Dhisher finger over the edge of one of the petals. Your mouth drops. "//Still//? But…" Duri shrugs and then turns towards the doors. "Don't think about it too much. Let's go back to the house and make you some tea and you can show me the treasures you found." $Dcapitalheshe pauses for a moment. "//After// I get yelled at…" "Wha-?" [[Duri pushes through the door and you follow.|4.43]]

<<set $flower to 'forget-me-not'>><<set $favflower to true>> A big cluster of pink forget-me-nots catches your attention. You're drawn to them, and such a large beautiful cluster of the little flowers easily catches your eye. You go over to it and cradle the blooms in your hand for a moment. They radiate warmth…and you realize that it feels much like the red bottle of potion you found earlier. Duri comes over and snips the stem with a quick swipe of $Dhisher nails and then turns to make the walk to the doors. After a last glance at the memorial stone you incline your head before making to follow $Dhimher. Duri holds the door for you again. Once you are back to the main doors, Duri grins at you. "Good choice. The bees around here really like them.... Shall we have tea?" You stare at Duri, a bit perplexed. "Tea?" "That's what the flower is for." "You want us to drink flower tea?" Duri grins. "No, just you." You sigh and decide to switch the subject. "Do you grow them? The flowers." "No, my mother does - technically. They feed off the magic from her that lingers here. They bloom even in winter." Duri smiles fondly, running the tip of $Dhisher finger over the edge of one of the petals. Your mouth drops. "//Still//? But…" Duri shrugs and then turns towards the doors. "Don't think about it too much. Let's go back to the house and make you some tea and you can show me the treasures you found." $Dcapitalheshe pauses for a moment. "//After// I get yelled at…" "Wha-?" [[Duri pushes through the door and you follow.|4.43]]

<<set $flower to 'daisy'>> <<set $favflower to true>> A big white daisy catches your attention. You're drawn to daisies, and such a large beautiful one easily catches your eye. You go over to it and cradle the bloom in your hand for a moment. It radiates warmth…and you realize that it feels much like the red bottle of potion you found earlier. Duri comes over and snips the stem with a quick swipe of $Dhisher nails and then turns to make the walk to the doors. After a last glance at the memorial stone you incline your head before making to follow $Dhimher. Duri holds the door for you again. Once you are back to the main doors, Duri grins at you. "Good choice. Daisies make every garden happier.... Shall we have tea?" You stare at Duri, a bit perplexed. "Tea?" "That's what the flower is for." "You want us to drink daisy tea?" Duri grins. "No, just you." You sigh and decide to switch the subject. "Do you grow them? The flowers." "No, my mother does - technically. They feed off the magic from her that lingers here. They bloom even in winter." Duri smiles fondly, running the tip of $Dhisher finger over the edge of one of the petals. Your mouth drops. "//Still//? But…" Duri shrugs and then turns towards the doors. "Don't think about it too much. Let's go back to the house and make you some tea and you can show me the treasures you found." $Dcapitalheshe pauses for a moment. "//After// I get yelled at…" "Wha-?" [[Duri pushes through the door and you follow.|4.43]]

<<set $flower to 'peony'>> <<set $favflower to true>> A big yellow peony catches your attention. You're drawn to peonies, and such a large beautiful one easily catches your eye. You go over to it and cradle the bloom in your hand for a moment. It radiates warmth…and you realize that it feels much like the red bottle of potion you found earlier. Duri comes over and snips the stem with a quick swipe of $Dhisher nails and then turns to make the walk to the doors. After a last glance at the memorial stone you incline your head before making to follow $Dhimher. Duri holds the door for you again. Once you are back to the main doors, Duri grins at you. "Good choice. Peonies make the bees happy.... Shall we have tea?" You stare at Duri, a bit perplexed. "Tea?" "That's what the flower is for." "You want us to drink peony tea?" Duri grins. "No, just you." You sigh and decide to switch the subject. "Do you grow them? The flowers." "No, my mother does - technically. They feed off the magic from her that lingers here. They bloom even in winter." Duri smiles fondly, running the tip of $Dhisher finger over the edge of one of the petals. Your mouth drops. "//Still//? But…" Duri shrugs and then turns towards the doors. "Don't think about it too much. Let's go back to the house and make you some tea and you can show me the treasures you found." $Dcapitalheshe pauses for a moment. "//After// I get yelled at…" "Wha-?" [[Duri pushes through the door and you follow.|4.43]]

<<set $flower to 'foxglove'>> <<set $favflower to true>> A big cluster of dark purple foxglove catches your attention. You're drawn to foxglove, and such a large beautiful cluster of the flowers easily catches your eye. You go over to it and cradle the blooms in your hand for a moment. They radiate warmth…and you realize that it feels much like the red bottle of potion you found earlier. Duri comes over and snips the stem with a quick swipe of $Dhisher nails and then turns to make the walk to the doors. After a last glance at the memorial stone you incline your head before making to follow $Dhimher. Duri holds the door for you again. Once you are back to the main doors, Duri grins at you. "Good choice. The birds around here really like them.... Shall we have tea? Yarrow is especially tasty with some sugar." You stare at Duri, a bit perplexed. "Tea?" "That's what the flower is for." "You want me to drink //foxglove// tea? You do realize it's toxic, right?" Duri's eyes light up. "No!" $Dcapitalheshe smiles. You sigh and change the subject. "Do you grow them? The flowers." "No, my mother does - technically. They feed off the magic from her that lingers here. They bloom even in winter." Duri smiles fondly, running the tip of $Dhisher finger over the edge of one of the petals. Your mouth drops. "//Still//? But…" Duri shrugs and then turns towards the doors. "Don't think about it too much. Let's go back to the house and make you some tea and you can show me the treasures you found." $Dcapitalheshe pauses for a moment. "//After// I get yelled at…" "Wha-?" [[Duri pushes through the door and you follow.|4.43]]

As soon as you get outside, you spot someone running up the rickety steps up to the shrine. It's… [[Oswin.|4.43a]] [[Zahn.|4.43b]]

He looks ''furious''. Duri plasters a shit-eating grin on $Dhisher face and holds $Dhisher ground. Oswin's hand is on the hilt of his sword and he pays no mind to how the steps creak and groan with his heavy footfalls. His eyes are zeroed in on Duri and you wonder if Oswin is here to start a fight. "What the fuck are you playing at, dog!" Oswin bellows as he steps up on the landing. He then gets right up into Duri's face, looming over $Dhimher. Duri just smiles back and shrugs. "I'm not playing anything currently, but $mc and I just had //loads// of fun without you. Poor thing - are you upset that you missed out?" Oswin's entire neck is dark red, and his hands seem to twitch with his anger. "We made an agreement! I trusted you to keep your word!" "I changed my mind." Duri checks $Dhisher nails, which are now short black claws. Apparently, $Dheshe is not completely unphased by Oswin's aggression. You hear the click of Oswin's sword being released from the scabbard, so you speak up. "Easy, Oswin, I'm fine." He lets the sword slip back into the sheath and looks at you. The anger begins to slip away as he looks you over, seeming to check that you are safe. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>He gazes at you softly as he settles.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>He gazes at you softly as he settles.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>He gives a relieved sigh and nods at you.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>He gives a relieved sigh and nods at you.<</if>> But, the moment he turns back to Duri, his anger returns. "You were under instructions to call for me as soon as $mc had awoken. You //agreed//, you //promised//, you ''insisted''!" Duri rolls $Dhisher eyes. "Hey Oswin, $mc is awake," $Dheshe says in a flat tone while waving a hand in your direction. You're pretty sure you see the veins in Oswin's forehead begin to pop, and you can't remember the last time you saw him quite this angry. "You are an insufferable creature. How can I trust you after this!?" Oswin continues to yell. "Then don't!" Duri snaps back, now also looking angry. "$mc isn't your child, and I wanted to talk to $himher without you two idiots bumbling around and listening in." "That's exactly the problem!" Oswin's voice echoes all around. You note that several of the wolves throughout the area are standing at attention, all with eyes on Oswin. Duri steps closer with eyes narrowed, the two are so close they are nearly touching, and you feel that if you don't intervene, an ugly fight will break out. [[You joke to diffuse the tension.|4.43a1][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]] [[This fight is ridiculous, and you tell them just how ridiculous it is.|4.43a2][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[The tension is upsetting, you feel panicked and unsure of what to do.|4.43a3][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You're not tolerating this bullshit a second longer.|4.43a4][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label +O [[Slip between them and push Oswin back.|4.43a5]] $flirt_label +D [[Slip between them and push Duri back.|4.43a6]]

$Zcapitalhisher face is scrunched up with worry, and $Zheshe clutches $Zhisher bow in one hand with an arrow in the other. Zahn bounds over the steps with such speed and grace that they barely groan. "$mc!" Zahn calls out as $Zheshe hits the landing and rushes to you, panting from exertion. "Are you okay? Are you hurt?" "I'm fine," you say, but before you can say anymore, Zahn turns from you and begins snapping at Duri. "You promised! Why would you do that? I was scared that you had taken $himher away! We couldn't find you, we called for you! I trusted that you would take good care of $mc!" Zahn rants as $Zheshe gasps for air, and with each word, $Zhisher voice gets more distressed. Duri //smiles// and pats Zahn on the head. "Take it easy, sunflower." Zahn slaps $Dhisher hand away. "I really trusted you. Had I known you'd just…I would have stayed with $mc myself. In the name of the gods, what is wrong with you!?" Duri's smile sours at that. "Oh…I see, I get you now. That explains a whole lot." "What?" "Gods, psh. You're one of ''those''. So, you trusted me just because I'm half god? Is that it? Tell me I'm right." Duri laughs. "//Cute//." Zahn's cheeks go pink and $Zheshe stamps $Zhisher foot. "So what!? Why is that so bad? Shouldn't you have some integrity being a demigod? I should at least be able to trust you to keep your word." The demigod doesn't seem to take well to Zahn's words, and steps up to $Zhimher abruptly. Zahn holds $Zhisher ground, gripping $Zhisher arrow tight. "I simply changed my mind as gods are wont to do." Duri sasses as $Dheshe checks $Dhisher nails, which are now short black claws. Apparently, $Dheshe is not completely unphased by Zahn's attitude. "You should learn quick, sunflower, that you are nothing to the gods. They do not care and they never truly did." "I suppose you speak from your personal viewpoint then? That you're just like them?" Zahn sneers. You realize this is getting out of hand fast, and the two seem keen to make this fight a physical one. Even the wolves all around the shrine are clearly tense, looking in this direction as if waiting for commands. You try to get Zahn to settle. "Hey, I'm okay - everything is fine." Zahn turns to you with a distressed expression. "$Dcapitalheshe was supposed to tell me right away when you were awake. Duri promised to keep you safe and let me know so I could make sure you were okay. And when $Dheshe didn't…and then I couldn't find you or $Dhimher anywhere…" "$mc isn't a child," Duri says. "And I wanted to talk to $himher without you two idiots bumbling around and listening in." Zahn surges forward, clutching the arrow. "You could have at least said something!" Duri steps closer too with eyes narrowed, the two are so close they are nearly touching, and you feel that if you don't intervene, an ugly fight will break out. [[You joke to diffuse the tension.|4.43b1][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]] [[This fight is ridiculous, and you tell them just how ridiculous it is.|4.43b2][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[The tension is upsetting, you feel panicked and unsure of what to do.|4.43b3][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You're not tolerating this bullshit a second longer.|4.43b4][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label +Z [[Slip between them and push Zahn back.|4.43b5]] $flirt_label +D [[Slip between them and push Duri back.|4.43b6]]

You take a step forward to subtly pull part of their attention to you. "If you two get any closer, you'll kiss. Would you like some privacy or do you prefer having an audience?" Oswin's face snaps to you as if he had forgotten you were watching. Duri laughs and $Dheshe steps away. All the wolves around the shrine carry about their business as the tension suddenly dissipates. "Not that I'm opposed, $mc, but I crave your lips much more." Duri winks. Oswin groans. "I apologize, $mc." "Save it, just stop picking fights," you say. He nods and then looks at Duri. "I am sorry that I…approached you in such anger. I shouldn't have shouted at you." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

You take a bold step forward to pull their attention to you. "This fight is utter nonsense. Both of you need to settle down. There is no sense in getting heated over this. I am safe and well as I can be at this point. You're wasting your energy." Oswin's face snaps to you as if he had forgotten you were watching. Duri laughs and $Dheshe steps away. All the wolves around the shrine carry about their business as the tension suddenly dissipates. "That's a fair assessment." Duri winks. Oswin groans. "I apologize, $mc." "Save it, just stop picking fights," you say. He nods and then looks at Duri. "I am sorry that I…approached you in such anger. I shouldn't have shouted at you." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

You shrink back as the hostility hits you like a wave. You feel your skin prickle with cold as your stomach rolls. You hate this. Why do they have to keep getting at each other's throats? Why must you be caught in the middle every time? You don't know what to do and your heart is racing. Oswin's face snaps to you as if he had forgotten you were watching. His face falls and he eases his posture and steps back. Duri steps away, mouth pulled into frown. All the wolves around the shrine carry about their business as the tension suddenly dissipates. "I'm sorry little <<if $mark is 'tree'>>sapling.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>sunbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>rain-cloud.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>bramble.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>moonbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>stone.<</if>>" Duri gives you a sheepish smile. Oswin sighs. "I also apologize, $mc. Please forgive me for distressing you." You nod. "Can you two please stop?" He nods and then looks at Duri. "I am sorry that I…approached you in such anger. I shouldn't have shouted at you." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

You take a bold step forward to pull their attention to you. Their eyes break from each other as they turn to look. "That is ''enough''!" you shout. "I am done with your bickering and needling each other. I am not about to stand here while you try to beat the piss out of each other!" You glare at Oswin. "I am //safe//, and I am not some toy for you to get territorial about." You turn your glare to Duri, who looks every bit the scolded dog. "And I am most certainly not a toy for //you// to dangle and tease others with. Get your acts together!" Oswin's face scrunches up. He almost looks as if he might weep. Duri chuckles, the sound laced with nerves, and $Dheshe steps away. All the wolves around the shrine carry about their business as the tension suddenly dissipates. "I think $mc is quite right…" Duri smiles at you and then averts $Dhisher eyes. Oswin sighs. "I apologize, $mc." "Save it, just stop picking fights," you say. He nods and then looks at Duri. "I am sorry that I…approached you in such anger. I shouldn't have shouted at you." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

<<set $Oflirt +=5>> Though they are close together, they stumble apart as you slip between them. At the sight of your face, Oswin's hostility melts away. You push against him with your own body to create more distance between them, clutching his tunic with your good hand. "$mc…" Oswin mumbles. "Please stop this. I don't want to see you so angry. I don't want to see you at each other's throats. //Please//." Oswin gently cups the back of your head with a hand and brings it to rest against <<if $height is 'verytall'>>the top of his shoulder<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>his shoulder<<elseif $height is 'average'>>the top of his chest<<else>>his chest<</if>>. "I am so sorry," he whispers to you softly. "I was out of line, and I let my fear get the better of me." You stay against him for a moment before righting your stance. Oswin's face is free from anger, and he's much more relaxed. Duri clears $Dhisher throat and mumbles what might be an apology. Oswin looks back at Duri. "I am sorry that I…approached you in such anger. I shouldn't have shouted at you." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

<<set $Dflirt +=5>> Though they are close together, they stumble apart as you slip between them. At the sight of your face, Duri's hostility melts away. You push against $Dhimher with your own body to create more distance between them, clutching $Dhisher robes with your good hand. "Awe, $mc…" Duri murmurs, voice sullen. "Please stop this. I don't want to see you so angry. I don't want to see you at each other's throats. //Please//." Duri gently cups the back of your head with a hand and brings it to rest against <<if $height is 'verytall'>>the top of $hisher shoulder<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>$Dhisher shoulder<<elseif $height is 'average'>>$Dhisher shoulder<<else>>$Dhisher chest<</if>>. "I didn't mean for things to get like this…I'm sorry, I went too far," $Dheshe says softly. You stay against $Dhimher for a moment before righting your stance. Duri's face is free from anger, and is back to being soft and playful. Oswin clears his throat and looks to both you and Duri. "I am sorry that I…approached in such anger. I shouldn't have shouted." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

The trip back to the house is a bit awkward, but it's at least not tense. Everyone gathers in Duri's home as $Dheshe sets about lighting a fire and getting a kettle to make you tea. You empty the contents of your borrowed satchel, placing the six bottles on a table. While you wait for Duri, Oswin and Zahn attend to your shoulder. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>They give you a poultice that should help with the swelling.<<else>>They give you a salve to help keep the infection controlled.<</if>> Oswin looks it over with a grimace as Zahn channels some of $Zhisher power through it to provide you some relief. You all sit around the table as Duri brings a hot kettle and a mug to you. $Dcapitalheshe plucks the petals from your flower as well as bits of the leaves and stem and then plops them in the mug before topping them with the hot water. <<if $flower is 'poppy'>>Oswin watches with a scowl for a moment before interrupting. "What in blazes are you doing? Many poppies are toxic…" Duri shakes $Dhisher head. "Not this one. This flower was cultivated with the remnants of my mother's magic. She was a healer, a great one, nothing that sprouts from her power will harm anyone. This will help sustain $mc. It won't heal $himher necessarily, but it will provide comfort while giving your body a boost to heal itself." Oswin grumbles. "If you think I'm letting you give toxic tea to-" "Will it make you feel better if I drank it?" Duri offers without any snark or any mischievous smile. "I am not immune to poison either, and I can prove that as well if you like." Both Zahn and Oswin share a look before glancing at you. Oswin continues. "It would make //me// feel more at ease, but it's $mc's decision." You look at the tea in front of you, almost chuckling that Duri has no intention of providing a strainer for you. You feel the same warmth from it that you felt in the apothecary, from the special potion, and from the sanctuary. You feel in your heart that it will not hurt you. "I'll drink it," you say.<<elseif $flower is 'foxglove'>>Oswin watches with a scowl for a moment before interrupting. "What in blazes are you doing? Foxgloves are deadly…" Duri shakes $Dhisher head. "Not this one. This flower was cultivated with the remnants of my mother's magic. She was a healer, a great one, nothing that sprouts from her power will harm anyone. This will help sustain $mc. It won't heal $himher necessarily, but it will provide comfort while giving your body a boost to heal itself." Oswin grumbles. "If you think I'm letting you give toxic tea to-" "Will it make you feel better if I drank it?" Duri offers without any snark or any mischievous smiles. "I am not immune to poison either, and I can prove that as well if you like." Both Zahn and Oswin share a look before glancing at you. Oswin continues. "It would make //me// feel more at ease, but it's $mc's decision." You look at the tea in front of you, almost chuckling that Duri has no intention of providing a strainer for you. You feel the same warmth from it that you felt in the apothecary, from the special potion, and from the sanctuary. You feel in your heart that it will not hurt you. "I'll drink it," you say.<<else>>Oswin watches with curiosity for a moment. "So, why the flower tea? Where did you even get it?" Duri smiles. "This flower was cultivated with the remnants of my mother's magic. She was a healer, a great one. This will help sustain $mc. It won't heal $himher necessarily, but it will provide comfort while giving your body a boost to heal itself." Oswin and Zahn peek at the tea and then glance at you. You suppose they have no qualms about the idea either.<</if>> Grabbing the mug, you enjoy the heat of the tea for a moment and bask in the smell of it. A strong sensation of comfort flows from your face down into your body. Your eyes go wide. It is unlike any feeling you've experienced. The demigod smiles. "That's what she always felt like." You drink and the sensation blooms like millions of flowers at once. It makes you gasp and smile involuntarily as it trickles through your limbs. It's a similar high to the anodyne, but isn't heavy or sleepy. You continue to sip, enjoying the comforting sensations of the old magic. While you drink, Duri looks at the bottles you found and immediately points to the red bottle. "If any of these will help you, it will be that one. Mother only used the red bottles for her most powerful potions for big problems. Some took her nine or ten days to focus enough magic into. It would exhaust her and she rarely made them. I didn't realize one was still here…" That sounds very promising. "Keep in mind, it was made several hundred years ago." Duri grins. Maybe less promising now, you think. "So," you start. "Should I just drink it?" Duri shrugs. "That's what I assume. Get it down before you sleep tonight, it might be a little overwhelming. It won't hurt you even if it doesn't heal you. Mother's magic is so potent within it, that it couldn't possibly do harm. Hold on to the other phials that you found, just in case." "So…" Zahn chimes in. "Not to interrupt, but what about this?" $Zcapitalheshe places a plain-looking silver bangle on the table. Though plain, it appears untarnished and perfectly polished. It looks like common jewelry to you, but Duri studies it with curiosity etched on $Dhisher face. "I…can't tell who this belongs to," Duri says. "That's odd…" "It's just a bangle," you say. "They're so common, how could you ever find the owner?" Zahn grins at you. "It's the magic inside. There's something really potent within it. It's…" "Loud." Duri finishes. "Which is why I should recognize it. It would have to be a god's, maybe a demigod's for it to be so thick with magical traces." $Dcapitalheshe grimaces like $Dheshe feels sick. "Duri," you say. "What's wrong about that?" Duri shrugs. "No one else was supposed to be here. Not even Valko would ever come back. It was just me and my uncle years ago, but he's…I don't know where. But this doesn't feel like him, it's sort of similar though...well, maybe not." Something tickles your memory. Duri briefly mentioned an uncle before. Each time $Dheshe has brought them up, $Dhisher voice is clearly more gentle, if not outright affectionate. But you recall when the mage, Ansar, examined and spoke to you and your parents. He said that all of Valko's six siblings had died during the war. Several questions roll through your mind. Did Valko have more than six siblings? Could Duri not know that his uncle may have died? The uncle must be a god, otherwise you don't think Duri would speak as if he were still alive. The demigod before you is staring at this bit of jewelry with a strange expression, like confusion with a bit of disgust. "Why does the bangle bother you?" You finally ask. Honey eyes look back at you with just as many questions as you have. "I don't recognize it, but it recognizes //me//." Oswin sits upright in his chair. "How?" Zahn gingerly takes the bangle and wraps it in a cloth before tucking it into a bag with a gentle smile towards Duri. "Magic is like that. It's like it has a personality sometimes and even memories. When you can sense it, sometimes it reaches out to you, to sort of say 'hello.' Sometimes, it reaches out to hurt you too." You shake your head. "It can do that? It really has its own will?" You think about your curse and suddenly it seems to make more sense. It's as if this magic is perhaps fueled by revenge. It does not care that you weren't the one to slight it. "It's just like people…" Oswin remarks with a thoughtful tone. "Some good, some bad, some both." It's quiet for a heavy moment before Zahn cuts it. "We should eat!" [[You are quite hungry…|4.45]]

You take a step forward to subtly pull part of their attention to you. "If you two get any closer, you'll kiss. Would you like some privacy or do you prefer having an audience?" Zahn's face snaps to you as if $Zheshe had forgotten you were watching. Duri laughs and $Dheshe steps away. All the wolves around the shrine carry about their business as the tension suddenly dissipates. "Not that I'm opposed, $mc, but I crave your lips much more." Duri winks. Zahn makes a sad face at you. "I'm sorry, $mc." "Save it, just stop picking fights," you say. $Zcapitalheshe nods and then looks at Duri. "I apologize for getting worked up. I was scared and it got the better of me. I should have just spoken to you about it." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

You take a bold step forward to pull their attention to you. "This fight is utter nonsense. Both of you need to settle down. There is no sense in getting heated over this. I am safe and well as I can be at this point. You're wasting your energy." Zahn's face snaps to you as if $Zheshe had forgotten you were watching. Duri laughs and $Dheshe steps away. All the wolves around the shrine carry about their business as the tension suddenly dissipates. "That's a fair assessment." Duri winks. Zahn makes a sad face at you. "I'm sorry, $mc." "Save it, just stop picking fights," you say. $Zcapitalheshe nods and then looks at Duri. "I apologize for getting worked up. I was scared and it got the better of me. I should have just spoken to you about it." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

You shrink back as the hostility hits you like a wave. You feel your skin prickle with cold as your stomach rolls. You hate this. Why do they have to get at each other's throats over this? Why must you be caught in the middle? You don't know what to do and your heart is racing. Zahn's face snaps to you as if $Zheshe had forgotten you were watching. $Zcapitalhisher face falls and $Zheshe eases $Zhisher posture and steps back. Duri steps away, mouth pulled into frown. All the wolves around the shrine carry about their business as the tension suddenly dissipates. "I'm sorry little <<if $mark is 'tree'>>sapling.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>sunbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>rain-cloud.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>bramble.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>moonbeam.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>stone.<</if>>" Duri gives you a sheepish smile. Zahn turns a sad look your way. "I am so sorry, $mc. I got so carried away…what's important is you, and I just…I'm sorry." You nod. "Can you two please stop?" $Zcapitalheshe nods and then looks at Duri. "I am sorry that I…approached you so angry. I shouldn't have shouted at you or said all those things." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

You take a bold step forward to pull their attention to you. Their eyes break from each other as they turn to look. "That is ''enough''!" you shout. "I am done with your bickering. I am not about to stand here while you try to beat the piss out of each other!" You glare at Zahn. "I am //safe//, and I am not some child for you to fawn over." You turn your glare to Duri, who looks every bit the scolded dog. "And I am most certainly not a toy for //you// to dangle and tease others with. Get your acts together!" Zahn's face scrunches up. $Zcapitalheshe almost looks as if $Zheshe might weep. Duri chuckles, the sound laced with nerves, and $Dheshe steps away. All the wolves around the shrine carry about their business as the tension suddenly dissipates. "I think $mc is quite right…" Duri smiles at you and then averts $Dhisher eyes. Zahn turns a sad look your way. "I am so sorry, $mc. I got so carried away…what's important is you, and I just…I'm sorry." "Save it, just stop picking fights," you say. $Zcapitalheshe nods and then looks at Duri. "I am sorry that I…approached you so angry. I shouldn't have shouted at you or said all those things." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

<<set $Zflirt +=5>> Though they are close together, they stumble apart as you slip between them. At the sight of your face, Zahn's hostility melts away. You push against $Zhimher with your own body to create more distance between them, clutching $Zhisher tunic with your good hand. "$mc…" Zahn whispers. "Please stop this. I don't want to see you so angry. I don't want to see you at each other's throats. //Please//." Zahn <<if $height is 'verytall'>>reaches up nearly on $Zhisher toes<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>reaches up<<elseif $height is 'average'>>reaches over<<else>>reaches down<</if>> and gently cups your cheeks with $Zhisher hands. "I am so very sorry," $Zheshe murmurs softly. "I panicked and lost my wits when I couldn't find you. I feared the worst and made stupid assumptions." You stay against $Zhimher for a moment before righting your stance. Zahn's face is free from worry, and is much more relaxed. Duri clears $Dhisher throat and mumbles what might be an apology. Zahn sighs and then looks at Duri. "I am sorry that I…approached you so angry. I shouldn't have shouted at you or said all those things." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

<<set $Dflirt +=5>> Though they are close together, they stumble apart as you slip between them. At the sight of your face, Duri's hostility melts away. You push against $Dhimher with your own body to create more distance between them, clutching $Dhisher robes with your good hand. "Awe, $mc…" Duri murmurs, voice sullen. "Please stop this. I don't want to see you so angry. I don't want to see you at each other's throats. //Please//." Duri gently cups the back of your head with a hand and brings it to rest against <<if $height is 'verytall'>>the top of $hisher shoulder<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>$Dhisher shoulder<<elseif $height is 'average'>>$Dhisher shoulder<<else>>$Dhisher chest<</if>>. "I didn't mean for things to get like this…I'm sorry, I went too far," $Dheshe says softly. You stay against $Dhimher for a moment before righting your stance. Duri's face is free from anger, and is back to being soft and playful. Zahn clears $Zhisher throat and looks to both you and Duri. "I am sorry that I…approached you so angry. I shouldn't have shouted at you or said all those things." Duri looks surprised for a moment and $Dheshe looks like $Dheshe is unsure of how to respond. "It's…it's fine. I…uh…tea! $mc, your tea…" A look of discomfort flits across Duri's face before $Dheshe plasters on a grin aimed at you. [[With tension diffused, Duri leads you all back to the house.|4.44]]

After your talks, the day slips by just as any other would, just with more wolves. The group makes a large dinner, Oswin putting you on potato-duty since you insist on helping. <<if $interest is 'cookin'>>The restrictions your injury has caused are especially frustrating at meal times. You find it hard not to provide over-the-shoulder guidance to the others as they cobble the meal together. Zahn gently provides reminders for you to sit back and rest.<</if>> At least with one hand you can wash the spuds and crudely chop them. Between the lingering effects of the anodyne and the flower tea, you feel normal, if not outright good. You even bump your bad shoulder a time or two and it doesn't cripple you with pain. You also don't feel as weak or tired as you had been. You're able to walk around and spend some leisure time with the others, including the wolves. The cream colored wolf still stays close to you as does the very curious little fox. When you ask Duri about their names, $Dheshe laughs and tells you to ask them yourself. You think the others have all reached an understanding with one another so far as they all chat casually and share a few stories. Surprisingly, Duri doesn't say much, but listens to everyone intently. It all simply feels like a night at home like any other. A good meal, a few stories, and some laughs. It's nice. Oswin devises a plan for you all to set out in the morning. He is intent on getting you to a proper healer even if the potion ends up miraculously healing you. He also brings up that rations are running low though Duri has provided a few of $Dhisher own foodstuffs to the mix. It will take an entire day to get to Codrin to make it by nightfall if you leave early, right after sunrise. You plan to travel just as you did to get to the shrine since it seemed to work out well before. <<if $Oride4 is true>>Oswin seems pleased to keep you safe and comfortable again. <<elseif $Zride4 is true>>Zahn seems excited to ride with you again.<<else>>Duri seems enormously pleased to carry you again.<</if>> With a plan made, you all eventually retire for the night, and this time you feel well enough to see yourself up the stairs and into bed, with Inola's potion in hand and a wolf and fox at your heels. You stare at the bottle for a long while before working up the nerve to drink it. You pop the cork first and take a sniff. It smells of…lavender. You weren't expecting that. You remember Duri's promise that it would not hurt you. <<if $flower is 'foxglove'>>Considering you are not dead from the foxglove tea you drank earlier, you would say that what $Dheshe has told you is true.<<elseif $flower is 'poppy'>>Considering you are not sick from the poppy tea you drank earlier, you would say that what $Dheshe has told you is true.<<else>>Considering that $Dheshe already helped you by making the flower tea to promote your healing, you would say that it is true.<</if>> [[You ready yourself and gulp down the potion, hoping for the best.|4.46]]

It's…sweet. The taste is of lavender as well, but with a clear hint of rose petals, cinnamon, and…metal. It's strange, but not bad for a magical potion that is over 800 years old. You expect the same sensation that the flower tea caused, but don't feel it. It's a little disappointing, but you remind yourself that this wasn't guaranteed to do anything for you. Still, you sense Inola's warmth, and that is enough to soothe you into a deep and beautiful slumber. The next morning, though it is painfully early, you awake feeling well rested. If not for how unwell your shoulder appears, you could argue that you feel like your normal self. You help the others what little they allow to get the mounts ready to go. Duri says goodbye to $Dhisher wolf family. They seem rather sad to see $Dhimher go. The large wolf that has been at your heels seems a little down as well, and your new fox friend keeps trying to fit inside your saddle bags. Before you know it, you're on the road to Codrin. You barely feel ill at all, but the others won't let you gripe about being fussed over as you travel. They're not taking any chances with your condition. Not long after you are well on your way, you hear the mournful howls from the wolves at the shrine. Duri smiles and you notice $Dhisher eyes glowing a bit in response. You assume while sending a message back to them. Some of the wolves, including the she-wolf that is attached to you and your fox friend, follow along. The unfortunate thing about you feeling well, is that the day feels extraordinarily long. You are so rested that you cannot fall asleep again. Zahn tries $Zhisher guessing games again, which Duri enjoys a great deal and Oswin tolerates with a few grumbles. Other than that, Duri is quiet and Zahn is rather chatty. The wolves follow for a number of hours before Duri commands them to depart. The fox obeys along with the other wolves, but the she-wolf refuses. She stays with you until you all take a break to water the mounts and eat. She stands watch as you depart, howling a sad song. Before you know it, you are back to the area where your trip to the shrine began just a couple nights ago. You are well on your way to the city - to a new place that will hopefully have answers for you. [[For now, you just need to hold on to hope.|B5 codrin shrine route]]

*Chapter Five <<set $ch5Broute to true>> <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">Magic and Mayhem</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[Start|ChB5]]

<<if $Oride4 is true>> Sleep is a fickle mistress while on the road to the city. It embraced you quickly and easily at the start but swiftly pushed you out as well. Your mind stays in a haze, not quite asleep but not awake either. The others chat here and there and you sense Oswin checking your breathing and temperature regularly, remarking that you've begun to feel warm. That isn't at all surprising to you. Sometimes you wonder if it is more unusual for you to //not// have a fever. In the moments you are more conscious, you are entertained by Duri's apparent struggle with your mount. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname has apparently taken a liking to the demigod, trying to kiss $Dhimher at every opportunity. Duri makes a disgusted noise. "Zahn, keep her away from me. At this rate, my clothes and hair will be soaked before we reach town." Zahn guffaws. "She barely got you that time." The demigod speaks through $Dhisher teeth. "She //licked// my entire fucking arm. Do you have any idea how gross that feels?" You can tell that Zahn is muffling laughter. Oswin sighs heavily next to you. "Will you two shut up, $mc is sleeping." Zahn snorts in $Zhisher fit of giggles and then you hear a bit of scuffling. "Hey, come down here," Duri commands. "Come on, I'll show you what it feels like to get licked by a big slobbery horse." You continue to hear light scuffling as Zahn continues to giggle. Oswin sighs again, but it's tilted with humor. He murmurs in a fond tone, "What in blazes is our luck, $mc?" <<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname seems to be unsatisfied with the pace Duri is leading at, and you've heard the demigod balk about how the horse has been nudging $Dhimher with his head. The demigod growls. "Zahn, if that horse pushes me one more time – I'm eating it!" Zahn snorts a laugh in response. "Good luck with that, pretty sure he could kick your ass." "Just wait until I'm healed up, horsey," Duri grumbles to which your stallion grunts. "His name is $mountname." Zahn corrects. "And he's a beautiful and smart boy, aren't you?" The horse nickers back with affection. "Will you two–three shut up?" Oswin quietly chides. "$mc is sleeping." "$mountname started it," Duri whines. "He keeps pushing me." In your mind, you can see Oswin rolling his eyes. Zahn giggles. "Plenty of room up here on the saddle if you're //that// slow." "Fuck off, Sunflower," Duri grumbles. <<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname is apparently smitten with the demigod, trying to walk very close to $Dhimher, which is 'unnerving' according to Duri. The demigod groans. "Why exactly did $mc need the biggest horse in existence for your little escapade?" Zahn snickers. "What's the matter? Is the all-powerful demigod scared of a horse?" Duri growls. "In case you weren't aware, little sunflower, I can still feel pain. I'd rather not have my feet crushed under the hooves of such an animal." "He just likes you," Zahn says. "Take it as a compliment." Oswin sighs. "No accounting for taste, but it is an animal I suppose." $mountname snorts. "Maybe he just likes that you're as big as him when you're all wolfy," Zahn remarks. Duri huffs. "I'm //bigger//." To your surprise, Oswin chuckles. <<if $Dgen is 'male'>>"I know he's a gelding, but I promise you – //he's// bigger."<<else>>"Didn't take you for the sort to be a snob about size."<</if>> Duri chuckles. "Yeah, yeah." <<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname has tried to bite the demigod four times already and has succeeded once. Duri's yelp is what most recently spurred you to more wakefulness. $Dcapitalheshe grumbles. "What in the moon is wrong with that creature!? Are you //trying// to get her to bite me?" "Quiet," Oswin chides in a low voice. "$mc is sleeping." Zahn tries to speak through restrained snickering. "Just don't walk so close to her." Duri huffs. "I keep moving away, but she either follows me or you're goading her next to me! This has never happened before, animals ''love'' me!" "She's just a little odd," Zahn replies with affection in $Zhisher tone. Oswin snorts. "She's an excellent judge of character." The silence that follows Oswin's quip tells you that Duri is sulking. That is, until Zahn remarks, "...Oswin, she bit you earlier before we found $mc." Duri laughs. <</if>> <</if>><<if $Zride4 is true>> Sleep is a fickle mistress while on the road to the city. It embraced you quickly and easily at the start but swiftly pushed you out as well. Your mind stays in a haze, not quite asleep but not awake either. The others chat here and there and you sense Zahn checking your condition on occasion, finally remarking that you seem to have developed a fever. That isn't at all surprising to you. Sometimes you wonder if it is more unusual for you to //not// have a fever. In the moments you are more conscious, you are entertained by Duri's apparent struggle with your mount. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname has apparently taken to the demigod, trying to kiss $Dhimher at every opportunity. Duri makes a disgusted noise. "Zahn, keep her away from me. At this rate, my clothes and hair will be soaked before we reach town." Zahn guffaws. "She barely got you that time." The demigod speaks through $Dhisher teeth. "She //licked// my entire fucking arm. Do you have any idea how gross that feels?" You can tell that Zahn is muffling laughter, trying hard to keep $Zhisher voice down and the shaking of $Zhisher shoulders to a minimum. Oswin sighs heavily. "Will you two shut up, $mc is sleeping." Zahn is struggling hard to not make any noise or excessive movements, but the fit of laughter is almost proving too hard to restrain. "Hey, come down here," Duri commands. "Come on, I'll show you what it feels like to get licked by a big slobbery horse." You sense your horse shift over as Zahn chuckles quietly. Oswin sighs again, but it's tilted with humor. "Please try not to jostle $mc so much. You two can lick each other later." <<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname seems to be unsatisfied with the pace Duri is leading at, and you've heard the demigod balk about how the horse has been nudging $Dhimher with his head. The demigod growls. "Zahn, if that horse pushes me one more time – I'm eating it!" Zahn snorts a laugh in response, clearly trying to stifle the sound for your sake. $Zcapitalheshe replies in a low voice. "Good luck with that, pretty sure he could kick your ass." "Just wait until I'm healed up, horsey," Duri grumbles to which your stallion grunts and you feel him shift directions suddenly. "His name is $mountname." Zahn corrects. "And he's a beautiful and smart boy, aren't you?" Your horse seems to correct course after the sweet words, his ire settled. The horse nickers back with affection. "Will you two–three shut up?" Oswin quietly chides. "$mc is sleeping." "$mountname started it," Duri whines. "He keeps pushing me." In your mind, you can almost see Oswin rolling his eyes. Zahn giggles. "Plenty of room on Oswin's saddle if you're //that// slow." "Fuck off, Sunflower," Duri grumbles. <<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname is apparently smitten with the demigod, trying to walk very close to $Dhimher, which is 'unnerving' according to Duri. The demigod groans. "Why exactly did $mc need the biggest horse in existence for your little escapade?" Zahn snickers, voice tempered with clear restraint. "What's the matter? Is the all-powerful demigod scared of a horse?" Duri growls. "In case you weren't aware, little sunflower, I can still feel pain. I'd rather not have my feet crushed under the hooves of such an animal." "He just likes you," Zahn says. "Take it as a compliment." Oswin sighs. "No accounting for taste, but it is an animal I suppose." $mountname snorts. "Maybe he just likes that you're as big as him when you're all wolfy," Zahn remarks. Duri huffs. "I'm //bigger//." To your surprise, Oswin chuckles. <<if $Dgen is 'male'>>"I know he's a gelding, but I promise you – //he's// bigger."<<else>>"Didn't take you for the sort to be a snob about size."<</if>> Duri chuckles. "Yeah, yeah." <<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname has tried to bite the demigod four times already and has succeeded once. Duri's yelp is what most recently spurred you to more wakefulness. $Dcapitalheshe grumbles. "What in the moon is wrong with that creature!? Are you //trying// to get her to bite me?" "Quiet," Oswin chides in a low voice. "$mc is sleeping." Zahn tries to speak through restrained snickering, failing to keep from shaking you a bit. $Zcapitalheshe replies quietly. "Just don't walk so close to her." Duri huffs. "I keep moving away, but she either follows me or you're goading her next to me! This has never happened before, animals ''love'' me!" "She's just a little odd," Zahn replies with affection in $Zhisher tone. "She's protective of $mc too; probably doesn't like how close you are to $himher." Oswin snorts. "She's an excellent judge of character." The silence that follows Oswin's quip tells you that Duri is sulking. That is, until Zahn remarks, "...Oswin, she also bit you earlier before we found $mc." Duri laughs. <</if>> <</if>><<if $Dride4 is true>> Sleep is a fickle mistress while on the road to the city. It embraced you quickly and easily at the start but swiftly pushed you out as well. Your mind stays in a haze, not quite asleep but not awake either. The others chat here and there and you sense Duri pausing now and again. When the others ask why $Dheshe stops, Duri responds that $Dheshe is listening to your heartbeat and that you feel much warmer now. That isn't at all surprising to you. Sometimes you wonder if it is more unusual for you to //not// have a fever. In the moments you are more conscious, you are entertained by Duri's apparent struggle with your mount. $Dcapitalheshe is fighting to keep you steady on $Dhisher back while remaining quiet as you rest. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname has apparently taken to the demigod, trying to kiss $Dhimher at every opportunity. You also wonder if it has something to do with you riding upon the back of a demigod rather than upon her. Duri makes a disgusted noise. "Zahn, keep her away from us. At this rate, my clothes and hair will be soaked before we reach town and $mc will be marinated in drool." Zahn guffaws. "She barely got you that time." The demigod speaks through $Dhisher teeth. "She //licked// my entire fucking arm. Do you have any idea how gross that feels? I'm trying not to drop my precious cargo if you haven't noticed. I can't even wipe it off and it's driving me insane." You can tell that Zahn is muffling laughter. Oswin sighs heavily. "Will you two shut up, $mc is sleeping." Zahn snorts in $Zhisher fit of giggles and you feel Duri shift more suddenly. You hear your horse trot away. "Hey, come back here," Duri commands in a muted but stern tone. "Come on, I'll show you what it feels like to get licked by a big slobbery horse." You continue to hear light shuffling as Zahn keeps giggling, the sound getting further away. Oswin sighs again, but it's titled with humor. "Please try not to jostle $mc so much. You two can lick each other later." <<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname seems to be unsatisfied with the pace Duri is leading at, and you've heard the demigod balk about how the horse has been nudging $Dhisher butt with his snout. You also wonder if he's upset that you are not the one mounted upon his back. Perhaps he is trying to lift you off your ride. The demigod growls. "Zahn, if that horse touches my ass one more time – I'm eating it!" Duri barely restrains $Dhisher voice. Zahn snorts a laugh in response. "Good luck with that, pretty sure he could kick your ass." "Just wait until I'm healed up, horsey," Duri grumbles to which your stallion grunts. "His name is $mountname." Zahn corrects. "And he's a beautiful and smart boy, aren't you?" The horse nickers back with affection. "Will you two–three shut up?" Oswin quietly chides. "$mc is sleeping." "$mountname started it," Duri whines. "He keeps pushing me." In your mind, you can see Oswin rolling his eyes. Zahn giggles. "You know, I could take $mc off your hands if you're too weak. Your //cargo// would be safe and snug in the saddle with me." "Fuck off, Sunflower," Duri grumbles. "$mc stays with me." You feel Duri's grip on your legs tighten slightly. <<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname is apparently smitten with the demigod, trying to walk very close to $Dhimher, which is 'unnerving' according to Duri. The demigod groans. "Why exactly did $mc need the biggest horse in existence for your little escapade?" Zahn snickers. "What's the matter? Is the all-powerful demigod scared of a horse?" Duri growls. "In case you weren't aware, little sunflower, I can still feel pain. I'd rather not have my feet crushed under the hooves of such an animal, nor do I wish to drop my precious cargo." "He just likes you," Zahn says. "Take it as a compliment. He's probably making sure you're good enough to ride on for $mc." Oswin sighs. "No accounting for taste, but it is an animal I suppose." $mountname snorts. "Maybe he just likes that you're as big as him when you're all wolfy," Zahn remarks. Duri huffs. "I'm //bigger//." To your surprise, Oswin chuckles. <<if $Dgen is 'male'>>"I know he's a gelding, but I promise you– //he's// bigger."<<else>>"Didn't take you for the sort to be a snob about size."<</if>> Duri chuckles. "Yeah, yeah." <<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname has tried to bite the demigod four times already and she succeeded once. Duri's yelp is what most recently spurred you to more wakefulness. $Dcapitalheshe grumbles. "What in the moon is wrong with that creature!? Are you //trying// to get her to bite me!?" "Quiet," Oswin chides in a low voice. "$mc is sleeping." Zahn tries to speak through restrained snickering. "Just don't walk so close to her." Duri huffs. "I keep moving away, but she either follows me or you're goading her next to me! This has never happened before, animals ''love'' me! I don't want to drop $mc." "She's just a little odd," Zahn replies with affection in $Zhisher tone. "And I think she's mad that you're carrying her master." Oswin snorts. "She's an excellent judge of character." The silence that follows Oswin's quip tells you that Duri is sulking. That is, until Zahn remarks, "...Oswin, she bit you earlier before we found $mc." Duri laughs. <</if>><</if>> [[Your drowsy state flits in and out as you travel.|A5.1]]

<<if $Oride4 is true>> Sleep evades you over and over again, but boredom is gnawing at your heels constantly. The others are stubbornly resolute that you rest. Annoyingly, you are not to walk or ride on your own power. Eventually, you resolve to try to nap, shutting your eyes and relaxing, letting daydreams flit in and out of your mind to entertain and relax you. The others chat here and there and you sense Oswin still checking your breathing and temperature regularly, relaying to the others that he believes you finally fell asleep. At best, you are still half awake, but you'll gladly take it. You settle in and simply listen as the others chat. Duri struggles with your mount. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname has apparently taken a liking to the demigod, trying to kiss $Dhimher at every opportunity. Duri makes a disgusted noise. "Zahn, keep her away from me. At this rate, my clothes and hair will be soaked before we reach town." Zahn guffaws. "She barely got you that time." The demigod speaks through $Dhisher teeth. "She //licked// my entire fucking arm. Do you have any idea how gross that feels?" You can tell that Zahn is muffling laughter. Oswin sighs heavily next to you. "Will you two shut up, $mc is sleeping." Zahn snorts in $Zhisher fit of giggles and then you hear a bit of scuffling. "Hey, come down here," Duri commands. "Come on, I'll show you what it feels like to get licked by a big slobbery horse." You continue to hear light scuffling as Zahn continues to giggle. Oswin sighs again, but it's tilted with humor. He murmurs in a fond tone, "What in blazes is our luck, $mc?" <<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname seems to be unsatisfied with the pace Duri is leading at, and you've heard the demigod balk about how the horse has been nudging $Dhimher with his head. The demigod growls. "Zahn, if that horse pushes me one more time – I'm eating it!" Zahn snorts a laugh in response. "Good luck with that, pretty sure he could kick your ass." "Just wait until I'm healed up, horsey," Duri grumbles to which your stallion grunts. "His name is $mountname." Zahn corrects. "And he's a beautiful and smart boy, aren't you?" The horse nickers back with affection. "Will you two–three shut up?" Oswin quietly chides. "$mc is sleeping." "$mountname started it," Duri whines. "He keeps pushing me." In your mind, you can see Oswin rolling his eyes and you try not to laugh. Zahn giggles. "Plenty of room up here on the saddle if you're //that// slow." "Fuck off, Sunflower," Duri grumbles. <<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname is apparently smitten with the demigod, trying to walk very close to $Dhimher, which is 'unnerving' according to Duri. The demigod groans. "Why exactly did $mc need the biggest horse in existence for your little escapade?" Zahn snickers. "What's the matter? Is the all-powerful demigod scared of a horse?" Duri growls. "In case you weren't aware, little sunflower, I can still feel pain. I'd rather not have my feet crushed under the hooves of such an animal." "He just likes you," Zahn says. "Take it as a compliment." Oswin sighs. "No accounting for taste, but it is an animal I suppose." $mountname snorts. "Maybe he just likes that you're as big as him when you're all wolfy," Zahn remarks. Duri huffs. "I'm //bigger//." To your surprise, Oswin chuckles. <<if $Dgen is 'male'>>"I know he's a gelding, but I promise you – //he's// bigger."<<else>>"Didn't take you for the sort to be a snob about size."<</if>> You barely restrain your shock from Oswin's quip. Duri chuckles. "Yeah, yeah." <<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname has tried to bite the demigod four times already and has succeeded once. Duri's yelp is what most recently spurred you to more wakefulness. $Dcapitalheshe grumbles. "What in the moon is wrong with that creature!? Are you //trying// to get her to bite me?" "Quiet," Oswin chides in a low voice. "$mc is sleeping." Zahn tries to speak through restrained snickering. "Just don't walk so close to her." Duri huffs. "I keep moving away, but she either follows me or you're goading her next to me! This has never happened before, animals ''love'' me!" "She's just a little odd," Zahn replies with affection in $Zhisher tone. Oswin snorts. "She's an excellent judge of character." The silence that follows Oswin's quip tells you that Duri is sulking. That is, until Zahn remarks, "...Oswin, she bit you earlier before we found $mc." Duri laughs, and you nearly do as well. <</if>> <</if>><<if $Zride4 is true>> Sleep evades you over and over again, but boredom is gnawing at your heels constantly. The others are stubbornly resolute that you rest. Annoyingly, you are not to walk or ride on your own power. Eventually, you resolve to try to nap, shutting your eyes and relaxing, letting daydreams flit in and out of your mind to entertain and relax you. The others chat here and there and you sense Zahn checking your condition on occasion, finally remarking that you seem to have finally found sleep. Instead of correcting $Zhimher, you decide to just stay relaxed and listen to them all talk. Duri struggles with your mount. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname has apparently taken to the demigod, trying to kiss $Dhimher at every opportunity. Duri makes a disgusted noise. "Zahn, keep her away from me. At this rate, my clothes and hair will be soaked before we reach town." Zahn guffaws. "She barely got you that time." The demigod speaks through $Dhisher teeth. "She //licked// my entire fucking arm. Do you have any idea how gross that feels?" You can tell that Zahn is muffling laughter, trying hard to keep $Zhisher voice down and the shaking of $Zhisher shoulders to a minimum. Oswin sighs heavily. "Will you two shut up, $mc is sleeping." Zahn is struggling hard to not make any noise or excessive movements, but the fit of laughter is almost proving too hard to restrain. "Hey, come down here," Duri commands. "Come on, I'll show you what it feels like to get licked by a big slobbery horse." You sense your horse shift over as Zahn chuckles quietly. Oswin sighs again, but it's tilted with humor. "Please try not to jostle $mc so much. You two can lick each other later." <<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname seems to be unsatisfied with the pace Duri is leading at, and you've heard the demigod balk about how the horse has been nudging $Dhimher with his head. The demigod growls. "Zahn, if that horse pushes me one more time – I'm eating it!" Zahn snorts a laugh in response, clearly trying to stifle the sound for your sake. $Zcapitalheshe replies in a low voice. "Good luck with that, pretty sure he could kick your ass." "Just wait until I'm healed up, horsey," Duri grumbles to which your stallion grunts and you feel him shift directions suddenly. "His name is $mountname." Zahn corrects. "And he's a beautiful and smart boy, aren't you?" Your horse seems to correct course after the sweet words, his ire settled. The horse nickers back with affection. "Will you two–three shut up?" Oswin quietly chides. "$mc is sleeping." "$mountname started it," Duri whines. "He keeps pushing me." In your mind, you can almost see Oswin rolling his eyes, and you try not to laugh. Zahn giggles. "Plenty of room on Oswin's saddle if you're //that// slow." "Fuck off, Sunflower," Duri grumbles. <<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname is apparently smitten with the demigod, trying to walk very close to $Dhimher, which is 'unnerving' according to Duri. The demigod groans. "Why exactly did $mc need the biggest horse in existence for your little escapade?" Zahn snickers, voice tempered with clear restraint. "What's the matter? Is the all-powerful demigod scared of a horse?" Duri growls. "In case you weren't aware, little sunflower, I can still feel pain. I'd rather not have my feet crushed under the hooves of such an animal." "He just likes you," Zahn says. "Take it as a compliment." Oswin sighs. "No accounting for taste, but it is an animal I suppose." $mountname snorts. "Maybe he just likes that you're as big as him when you're all wolfy," Zahn remarks. Duri huffs. "I'm //bigger//." To your surprise, Oswin chuckles. <<if $Dgen is 'male'>>"I know he's a gelding, but I promise you – //he's// bigger."<<else>>"Didn't take you for the sort to be a snob about size."<</if>> You barely restrain your shock from Oswin's quip. Duri chuckles. "Yeah, yeah." <<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname has tried to bite the demigod four times already and has succeeded once. Duri's yelp is what most recently spurred you to more wakefulness. $Dcapitalheshe grumbles. "What in the moon is wrong with that creature!? Are you //trying// to get her to bite me?" "Quiet," Oswin chides in a low voice. "$mc is sleeping." Zahn tries to speak through restrained snickering, failing to keep from shaking you a bit. $Zcapitalheshe replies quietly. "Just don't walk so close to her." Duri huffs. "I keep moving away, but she either follows me or you're goading her next to me! This has never happened before, animals ''love'' me!" "She's just a little odd," Zahn replies with affection in $Zhisher tone. "She's protective of $mc too; probably doesn't like how close you are to $himher." Oswin snorts. "She's an excellent judge of character." The silence that follows Oswin's quip tells you that Duri is sulking. That is, until Zahn remarks, "...Oswin, she also bit you earlier before we found $mc." Duri laughs, and you nearly do as well. <</if>> <</if>><<if $Dride4 is true>> Sleep evades you over and over again, but boredom is gnawing at your heels constantly. The others are stubbornly resolute that you rest. Annoyingly, you are not to walk or ride on your own power. Eventually, you resolve to try to nap, shutting your eyes and relaxing, letting daydreams flit in and out of your mind to entertain and relax you. The others chat here and there, and you sense Duri leaning $Dhisher head back towards you here and there, perhaps curious if you are sleeping. Before long, you are entertained by Duri's apparent struggle with your mount. $Dcapitalheshe is fighting to keep you steady on $Dhisher back while remaining quiet as you rest. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname has apparently taken to the demigod, trying to kiss $Dhimher at every opportunity. You also wonder if it has something to do with you riding upon the back of a demigod rather than upon her. Duri makes a disgusted noise. "Zahn, keep her away from us. At this rate, my clothes and hair will be soaked before we reach town and $mc will be marinated in drool." Zahn guffaws. "She barely got you that time." The demigod speaks through $Dhisher teeth. "She //licked// my entire fucking arm. Do you have any idea how gross that feels? I'm trying not to drop my precious cargo if you haven't noticed. I can't even wipe it off and it's driving me insane." You can tell that Zahn is muffling laughter. Oswin sighs heavily. "Will you two shut up, $mc is sleeping." Zahn snorts in $Zhisher fit of giggles and you feel Duri shift more suddenly. You hear your horse trot away. "Hey, come back here," Duri commands in a muted but stern tone. "Come on, I'll show you what it feels like to get licked by a big slobbery horse." You continue to hear light shuffling as Zahn keeps giggling, the sound getting further away. Oswin sighs again, but it's titled with humor. "Please try not to jostle $mc so much. You two can lick each other later." <<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname seems to be unsatisfied with the pace Duri is leading at, and you've heard the demigod balk about how the horse has been nudging $Dhisher butt with his snout. You also wonder if he's upset that you are not the one mounted upon his back. Perhaps he is trying to lift you off your ride. The demigod growls. "Zahn, if that horse touches my ass one more time – I'm eating it!" Duri barely restrains $Dhisher voice. Zahn snorts a laugh in response. "Good luck with that, pretty sure he could kick your ass." "Just wait until I'm healed up, horsey," Duri grumbles to which your stallion grunts. "His name is $mountname." Zahn corrects. "And he's a beautiful and smart boy, aren't you?" The horse nickers back with affection. "Will you two–three shut up?" Oswin quietly chides. "$mc is sleeping." "$mountname started it," Duri whines. "He keeps pushing me." In your mind, you can see Oswin rolling his eyes and try not to laugh. Zahn giggles. "You know, I could take $mc off your hands if you're too weak. Your //cargo// would be safe and snug in the saddle with me." "Fuck off, Sunflower," Duri grumbles. "$mc stays with me." You feel Duri's grip on your legs tighten slightly. <<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname is apparently smitten with the demigod, trying to walk very close to $Dhimher, which is 'unnerving' according to Duri. The demigod groans. "Why exactly did $mc need the biggest horse in existence for your little escapade?" Zahn snickers. "What's the matter? Is the all-powerful demigod scared of a horse?" Duri growls. "In case you weren't aware, little sunflower, I can still feel pain. I'd rather not have my feet crushed under the hooves of such an animal, nor do I wish to drop my precious cargo." "He just likes you," Zahn says. "Take it as a compliment. He's probably making sure you're good enough to ride on for $mc." Oswin sighs. "No accounting for taste, but it is an animal I suppose." $mountname snorts. "Maybe he just likes that you're as big as him when you're all wolfy," Zahn remarks. Duri huffs. "I'm //bigger//." To your surprise, Oswin chuckles. <<if $Dgen is 'male'>>"I know he's a gelding, but I promise you– //he's// bigger."<<else>>"Didn't take you for the sort to be a snob about size."<</if>> You barely restrain your shock from Oswin's quip. Duri chuckles. "Yeah, yeah." <<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname has tried to bite the demigod four times already and she succeeded once. Duri's yelp is what most recently spurred you to more wakefulness. $Dcapitalheshe grumbles. "What in the moon is wrong with that creature!? Are you //trying// to get her to bite me!?" "Quiet," Oswin chides in a low voice. "$mc is sleeping." Zahn tries to speak through restrained snickering. "Just don't walk so close to her." Duri huffs. "I keep moving away, but she either follows me or you're goading her next to me! This has never happened before, animals ''love'' me! I don't want to drop $mc." "She's just a little odd," Zahn replies with affection in $Zhisher tone. "And I think she's mad that you're carrying her master." Oswin snorts. "She's an excellent judge of character." The silence that follows Oswin's quip tells you that Duri is sulking. That is, until Zahn remarks, "...Oswin, she bit you earlier before we found $mc." Duri laughs, and you nearly do as well. <</if>><</if>> [[Your relaxed state ebs and flows as you travel.|B5.1]]

At some point, you fully drift off back to sleep for an unknown amount of time. If the ruckus the others were creating earlier continued, you were not aware of it. What you are suddenly aware of as sleep releases you yet again, is that you're laying on the ground. Your mind feels as sluggish as your body as you try to move. You open your eyes and wince at the afternoon sun peeking through the tree canopy. Something wet is touching your left cheek, so you raise a hand to wipe it away. Only to be met with a handful of fur and warmth. Your eyes widen suddenly as you turn your head. You are met nose-to-nose with a very large wolf, cream in color with doleful brown eyes. Shock and fear hit you first, and then confusion. You realize the canine is holding something in its mouth – it happens to be your favorite flower. [[Roses|5rose]] [[Asters|5Aster]] [[Yarrow|5Yarrow]] [[Lilies|5Lily]] [[Poppies|5Poppy]] [[Forget-me-nots|5Forget]] [[Daisies|5Daisy]] [[Peonies|5Peony]] [[Foxgloves|5Foxglove]]

<<set $flower to 'rose'>><<set $favflower to true>> The big red rose easily takes over your attention. You're drawn to roses, and such a large beautiful one is distracting. You almost forget that a wolf is holding it and so you make to cradle the bloom in your hand. It radiates warmth…and it isn't //just// warm. There's a soothing quality to how it feels. It's soft but energetic. This…must be magic. It must be. The wolf drops the flower on your chest and plops down beside you as she begins to whine. You see a happily wagging tail swinging behind her. She crouches low, head to the ground, with pleading brown eyes focused on your face. "Oh!" Duri calls out from a short distance away. "Don't worry, $mc, she won't hurt you!" Oswin comes into view and kneels next to the wolf who presses her head against his leg as her tongue lulls out. He scratches her ears as he attends to you. "Don't worry, Duri insisted we stop, but we will be on our way shortly. $Dcapitalhisher sweet friend here brought $Dhimher something $Dheshe needs." Oswin lowers his voice to a whisper. "I think Duri is in some pain but won't admit it." "Heard that!" Duri calls. Oswin grumbles and then helps you sit up. "Why did the wolf give me a gift?" you ask, holding the flower and smelling the bloom. Duri pads over to you, holding a wooden cup with steam billowing from the top. "That's for our tea." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a big smile – full of teeth. "Tea?" The demigod plops next to you, gently taking the rose from your hand before plucking the petals and placing them in the cup. So much for the beautiful flower. Zahn brings another cup and hands it to Duri who adds petals to it too. "Oswin is right…" Duri says quietly. "So, you're actually in pain?" you ask<<if $Dride4 is true>>, feeling a bit remorseful that $Dheshe has been carrying you<</if>>. "Don't fret, it's not so bad. I just need a boost, and I think you do too…. My mother's magic lingers in the shrine where her flowers still grow. She was a healer, so that's what her magic does. Had we gone to her temple...anyway, I sent a message to my friend here to grab us a flower. I just figured we should share it." Though you are groggy and deep under the influence of the anodyne, you don't necessarily feel //worse//. The presence of a fever is hard to miss, of course, but the purpose of traveling to Codrin instead of visiting the shrine was to get help quickly. You can't help the tingle of suspicion as it crawls along your spine. It must show on your face. Duri gives you a defeated look as $Dheshe kneels closer to you. Oswin stiffens and looms protectively in response and you feel a bit surrounded. "I know you are hiding something, $mc," Duri says and then takes a long drink of $Dhisher tea. "You seemed keen to leave my home, so I wasn't going to press, but something strange…. The further we get from the forest center, the more I sense something trying to pull us back to it." Oswin shifts. "What? What do you mean?" "It's magical – it must be. If I weren't so spent, maybe I could make sense of it, but there is something very strange, and it is centered on you, $mc – like a rope. Your body is reacting to it little by little. This feeling, the rope, is fraying; I can tell it is making you weaker the further we get. I can sense the tension and have a bad feeling…" Duri looks at you with eyes that are equal parts pity and curiosity. "It's like the forest is trying to pull you back in…or, or //you're// trying to-" "I'm not trying to do anything!" you blurt as sudden heat wells in your core – very familiar heat. You gasp as you clutch your stomach. Oswin has an arm around you right away. "$mc! What's wrong?" You are lanced with a powerful pain in your skull. The mark burns. Again, it burns you, flaying your skin. Nausea builds in your gut and you fight to keep bile down. //No. No. No. No! Not again, please.// Your mind repeats. "The tea!" Duri presses the cup to your mouth. "Drink – I swear it will help! She always helped!" You part your lips even though a torrent of pain, fire, and bile is building in your gut, the warm water tinted with rose petals slides down your throat. The relief is immediate. The sensation blooms like millions of flowers at once. It makes you gasp with not only relief but a near-joyful feeling. You could nearly weep. Duri presses the cup to your lips again, gently holding the side of your face as $Dheshe helps you. [[You drink.|A5.2]]

<<set $flower to 'aster'>><<set $favflower to true>> The big cluster of purple aster easily takes over your attention. You're drawn to aster flowers, and such a large beautiful bunch is distracting. You almost forget that a wolf is holding them and so you make to cradle the blooms in your hand. It radiates warmth…and it isn't //just// warm. There's a soothing quality to how it feels. It's soft but energetic. This…must be magic. It must be. The wolf drops the flowers on your chest and plops down beside you as she begins to whine. You see a happily wagging tail swinging behind her. She crouches low, head to the ground, with pleading brown eyes focused on your face. "Oh!" Duri calls out from a short distance away. "Don't worry, $mc, she won't hurt you!" Oswin comes into view and kneels next to the wolf who presses her head against his leg as her tongue lulls out. He scratches her ears as he attends to you. "Don't worry, Duri insisted we stop, but we will be on our way shortly. $Dcapitalhisher sweet friend here brought $Dhimher something $Dheshe needs." Oswin lowers his voice to a whisper. "I think Duri is in some pain but won't admit it." "Heard that!" Duri calls. Oswin grumbles and then helps you sit up. "Why did the wolf give me a gift?" you ask, holding the flower and smelling the blooms. Duri pads over to you, holding a wooden cup with steam billowing from the top. "That's for our tea." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a big smile – full of teeth. "Tea?" The demigod plops next to you, gently taking the asters from your hand before plucking the petals and placing them in the cup. So much for the beautiful flowers. Zahn brings another cup and hands it to Duri who adds petals to it too. "Oswin is right…" Duri says quietly. "So, you're actually in pain?" you ask<<if $Dride4 is true>>, feeling a bit remorseful that $Dheshe has been carrying you<</if>>. "Don't fret, it's not so bad. I just need a boost, and I think you do too…. My mother's magic lingers in the shrine where her flowers still grow. She was a healer, so that's what her magic does. Had we gone to her temple...anyway, I sent a message to my friend here to grab us a flower. I just figured we should share it." Though you are groggy and deep under the influence of the anodyne, you don't necessarily feel //worse//. The presence of a fever is hard to miss, of course, but the purpose of traveling to Codrin instead of visiting the shrine was to get help quickly. You can't help the tingle of suspicion as it crawls along your spine. It must show on your face. Duri gives you a defeated look as $Dheshe kneels closer to you. Oswin stiffens and looms protectively in response and you feel a bit surrounded. "I know you are hiding something, $mc," Duri says and then takes a long drink of $Dhisher tea. "You seemed keen to leave my home, so I wasn't going to press, but something strange…. The further we get from the forest center, the more I sense something trying to pull us back to it." Oswin shifts. "What? What do you mean?" "It's magical – it must be. If I weren't so spent, maybe I could make sense of it, but there is something very strange, and it is centered on you, $mc – like a rope. Your body is reacting to it little by little. This feeling, the rope, is fraying; I can tell it is making you weaker the further we get. I can sense the tension and have a bad feeling…" Duri looks at you with eyes that are equal parts pity and curiosity. "It's like the forest is trying to pull you back in…or, or //you're// trying to-" "I'm not trying to do anything!" you blurt as sudden heat wells in your core – very familiar heat. You gasp as you clutch your stomach. Oswin has an arm around you right away. "$mc! What's wrong?" You are lanced with a powerful pain in your skull. The mark burns. Again, it burns you, flaying your skin. Nausea builds in your gut and you fight to keep bile down. //No. No. No. No! Not again, please.// Your mind repeats. "The tea!" Duri presses the cup to your mouth. "Drink – I swear it will help! She always helped!" You part your lips even though a torrent of pain, fire, and bile is building in your gut, the warm water tinted with aster petals slides down your throat. The relief is immediate. The sensation blooms like millions of flowers at once. It makes you gasp with not only relief but a near-joyful feeling. You could nearly weep. Duri presses the cup to your lips again, gently holding the side of your face as $Dheshe helps you. [[You drink.|A5.2]]

<<set $flower to 'yarrow'>><<set $favflower to true>> The big cluster of white yarrow easily takes over your attention. You're drawn to yarrow, and such a large beautiful bunch is distracting. You almost forget that a wolf is holding it and so you make to cradle the blooms in your hand. It radiates warmth…and it isn't //just// warm. There's a soothing quality to how it feels. It's soft but energetic. This…must be magic. It must be. The wolf drops the flowers on your chest and plops down beside you as she begins to whine. You see a happily wagging tail swinging behind her. She crouches low, head to the ground, with pleading brown eyes focused on your face. "Oh!" Duri calls out from a short distance away. "Don't worry, $mc, she won't hurt you!" Oswin comes into view and kneels next to the wolf who presses her head against his leg as her tongue lulls out. He scratches her ears as he attends to you. "Don't worry, Duri insisted we stop, but we will be on our way shortly. $Dcapitalhisher sweet friend here brought $Dhimher something $Dheshe needs." Oswin lowers his voice to a whisper. "I think Duri is in some pain but won't admit it." "Heard that!" Duri calls. Oswin grumbles and then helps you sit up. "Why did the wolf give me a gift?" you ask, holding the flower and smelling the blooms. Duri pads over to you, holding a wooden cup with steam billowing from the top. "That's for our tea." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a big smile – full of teeth. "Tea?" The demigod plops next to you, gently taking the yarrow from your hand before plucking the petals and placing them in the cup. So much for the beautiful flowers. Zahn brings another cup and hands it to Duri who adds petals to it too. "Oswin is right…" Duri says quietly. "So, you're actually in pain?" you ask<<if $Dride4 is true>>, feeling a bit remorseful that $Dheshe has been carrying you<</if>>. "Don't fret, it's not so bad. I just need a boost, and I think you do too…. My mother's magic lingers in the shrine where her flowers still grow. She was a healer, so that's what her magic does. Had we gone to her temple...anyway, I sent a message to my friend here to grab us a flower. I just figured we should share it." Though you are groggy and deep under the influence of the anodyne, you don't necessarily feel //worse//. The presence of a fever is hard to miss, of course, but the purpose of traveling to Codrin instead of visiting the shrine was to get help quickly. You can't help the tingle of suspicion as it crawls along your spine. It must show on your face. Duri gives you a defeated look as $Dheshe kneels closer to you. Oswin stiffens and looms protectively in response and you feel a bit surrounded. "I know you are hiding something, $mc," Duri says and then takes a long drink of $Dhisher tea. "You seemed keen to leave my home, so I wasn't going to press, but something strange…. The further we get from the forest center, the more I sense something trying to pull us back to it." Oswin shifts. "What? What do you mean?" "It's magical – it must be. If I weren't so spent, maybe I could make sense of it, but there is something very strange, and it is centered on you, $mc – like a rope. Your body is reacting to it little by little. This feeling, the rope, is fraying; I can tell it is making you weaker the further we get. I can sense the tension and have a bad feeling…" Duri looks at you with eyes that are equal parts pity and curiosity. "It's like the forest is trying to pull you back in…or, or //you're// trying to-" "I'm not trying to do anything!" you blurt as sudden heat wells in your core – very familiar heat. You gasp as you clutch your stomach. Oswin has an arm around you right away. "$mc! What's wrong?" You are lanced with a powerful pain in your skull. The mark burns. Again, it burns you, flaying your skin. Nausea builds in your gut and you fight to keep bile down. //No. No. No. No! Not again, please.// Your mind repeats. "The tea!" Duri presses the cup to your mouth. "Drink – I swear it will help! She always helped!" You part your lips even though a torrent of pain, fire, and bile is building in your gut, the warm water tinted with yarrow blooms slides down your throat. The relief is immediate. The sensation blooms like millions of flowers at once. It makes you gasp with not only relief but a near-joyful feeling. You could nearly weep. Duri presses the cup to your lips again, gently holding the side of your face as $Dheshe helps you. [[You drink.|A5.2]]

<<set $flower to 'lily'>><<set $favflower to true>> The big light purple lily easily takes over your attention. You're drawn to lillies, and such a large beautiful one is distracting. You almost forget that a wolf is holding it and so you make to cradle the bloom in your hand. It radiates warmth…and it isn't //just// warm. There's a soothing quality to how it feels. It's soft but energetic. This…must be magic. It must be. The wolf drops the flower on your chest and plops down beside you as she begins to whine. You see a happily wagging tail swinging behind her. She crouches low, head to the ground, with pleading brown eyes focused on your face. "Oh!" Duri calls out from a short distance away. "Don't worry, $mc, she won't hurt you!" Oswin comes into view and kneels next to the wolf who presses her head against his leg as her tongue lulls out. He scratches her ears as he attends to you. "Don't worry, Duri insisted we stop, but we will be on our way shortly. $Dcapitalhisher sweet friend here brought $Dhimher something $Dheshe needs." Oswin lowers his voice to a whisper. "I think Duri is in some pain but won't admit it." "Heard that!" Duri calls. Oswin grumbles and then helps you sit up. "Why did the wolf give me a gift?" you ask, holding the flower and smelling the bloom. Duri pads over to you, holding a wooden cup with steam billowing from the top. "That's for our tea." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a big smile – full of teeth. "Tea?" The demigod plops next to you, gently taking the lily from your hand before plucking the petals and placing them in the cup. So much for the beautiful flower. Zahn brings another cup and hands it to Duri who adds petals to it too. "Oswin is right…" Duri says quietly. "So, you're actually in pain?" you ask<<if $Dride4 is true>>, feeling a bit remorseful that $Dheshe has been carrying you<</if>>. "Don't fret, it's not so bad. I just need a boost, and I think you do too…. My mother's magic lingers in the shrine where her flowers still grow. She was a healer, so that's what her magic does. Had we gone to her temple...anyway, I sent a message to my friend here to grab us a flower. I just figured we should share it." Though you are groggy and deep under the influence of the anodyne, you don't necessarily feel //worse//. The presence of a fever is hard to miss, of course, but the purpose of traveling to Codrin instead of visiting the shrine was to get help quickly. You can't help the tingle of suspicion as it crawls along your spine. It must show on your face. Duri gives you a defeated look as $Dheshe kneels closer to you. Oswin stiffens and looms protectively in response and you feel a bit surrounded. "I know you are hiding something, $mc," Duri says and then takes a long drink of $Dhisher tea. "You seemed keen to leave my home, so I wasn't going to press, but something strange…. The further we get from the forest center, the more I sense something trying to pull us back to it." Oswin shifts. "What? What do you mean?" "It's magical – it must be. If I weren't so spent, maybe I could make sense of it, but there is something very strange, and it is centered on you, $mc – like a rope. Your body is reacting to it little by little. This feeling, the rope, is fraying; I can tell it is making you weaker the further we get. I can sense the tension and have a bad feeling…" Duri looks at you with eyes that are equal parts pity and curiosity. "It's like the forest is trying to pull you back in…or, or //you're// trying to-" "I'm not trying to do anything!" you blurt as sudden heat wells in your core – very familiar heat. You gasp as you clutch your stomach. Oswin has an arm around you right away. "$mc! What's wrong?" You are lanced with a powerful pain in your skull. The mark burns. Again, it burns you, flaying your skin. Nausea builds in your gut and you fight to keep bile down. //No. No. No. No! Not again, please.// Your mind repeats. "The tea!" Duri presses the cup to your mouth. "Drink – I swear it will help! She always helped!" You part your lips even though a torrent of pain, fire, and bile is building in your gut, the warm water tinted with lily petals slides down your throat. The relief is immediate. The sensation blooms like millions of flowers at once. It makes you gasp with not only relief but a near-joyful feeling. You could nearly weep. Duri presses the cup to your lips again, gently holding the side of your face as $Dheshe helps you. [[You drink.|A5.2]]

<<set $flower to 'poppy'>><<set $favflower to true>> The big orange poppy easily takes over your attention. You're drawn to poppies, and such a large beautiful one is distracting. You almost forget that a wolf is holding it and so you make to cradle the bloom in your hand. It radiates warmth…and it isn't //just// warm. There's a soothing quality to how it feels. It's soft but energetic. This…must be magic. It must be. The wolf drops the flower on your chest and plops down beside you as she begins to whine. You see a happily wagging tail swinging behind her. She crouches low, head to the ground, with pleading brown eyes focused on your face. "Oh!" Duri calls out from a short distance away. "Don't worry, $mc, she won't hurt you!" Oswin comes into view and kneels next to the wolf who presses her head against his leg as her tongue lulls out. He scratches her ears as he attends to you. "Don't worry, Duri insisted we stop, but we will be on our way shortly. $Dcapitalhisher sweet friend here brought $Dhimher something $Dheshe needs." Oswin lowers his voice to a whisper. "I think Duri is in some pain but won't admit it." "Heard that!" Duri calls. Oswin grumbles and then helps you sit up. "Why did the wolf give me a gift?" you ask, holding the flower and smelling the bloom. Duri pads over to you, holding a wooden cup with steam billowing from the top. "That's for our tea." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a big smile – full of teeth. "Tea? From a ''poppy'' flower?" Oswin sighs, leveling Duri with an irritated stare. "You do know that some poppies are toxic, I hope." The demigod plops next to you, gently taking the poppy from your hand before plucking the petals and placing them in the cup. So much for the beautiful flower. Zahn brings another cup and hands it to Duri who adds petals to it too. "Oswin is right…" Duri says. "On both accounts – I do know that poppies aren't typically harmless…and…" "You're actually in pain," you finish.<<if $Dride4 is true>>, feeling a bit remorseful that $Dheshe has been carrying you<</if>>. "Don't fret, it's not so bad. I just need a boost, and I think you do too…My mother's magic lingers in the shrine where her flowers still grow. She was a healer, so that's what her magic does – this poppy won't hurt either of us because my mother would never. Had we gone to her temple...anyway, I sent a message to my friend here to grab us a flower. I just figured we should share it." Though you are groggy and deep under the influence of the anodyne, you don't necessarily feel //worse//. The presence of a fever is hard to miss, of course, but the purpose of traveling to Codrin instead of visiting the shrine was to get help quickly. You can't help the tingle of suspicion as it crawls along your spine. It must show on your face. Duri gives you a defeated look as $Dheshe kneels closer to you. Oswin stiffens and looms protectively in response and you feel a bit surrounded. "I know you are hiding something, $mc," Duri says and then takes a long drink of $Dhisher tea, which helps confirm a little that $Dheshe isn't out to poison you. "You seemed keen to leave my home, so I wasn't going to press, but something strange…. The further we get from the forest center, the more I sense something trying to pull us back to it." Oswin shifts. "What? What do you mean?" "It's magical – it must be. If I weren't so spent, maybe I could make sense of it, but there is something very strange, and it is centered on you, $mc – like a rope. Your body is reacting to it little by little. This feeling, the rope, is fraying; I can tell it is making you weaker the further we get. I can sense the tension and have a bad feeling…" Duri looks at you with eyes that are equal parts pity and curiosity. "It's like the forest is trying to pull you back in…or, or //you're// trying to-" "I'm not trying to do anything!" you blurt as sudden heat wells in your core – very familiar heat. You gasp as you clutch your stomach. Oswin has an arm around you right away. "$mc! What's wrong?" You are lanced with a powerful pain in your skull. The mark burns. Again, it burns you, flaying your skin. Nausea builds in your gut and you fight to keep bile down. //No. No. No. No! Not again, please.// Your mind repeats. "The tea!" Duri presses the cup to your mouth. "Drink – I swear it will help! She always helped!" You part your lips even though a torrent of pain, fire, and bile is building in your gut, the warm water tinted with poppy petals slides down your throat. The relief is immediate. The sensation blooms like millions of flowers at once. It makes you gasp with not only relief but a near-joyful feeling. You could nearly weep. Duri presses the cup to your lips again, gently holding the side of your face as $Dheshe helps you. [[You drink.|A5.2]]

<<set $flower to 'forget-me-not'>><<set $favflower to true>> The big cluster of pink forget-me-nots catches your attention. You're drawn to them, and such a large beautiful bunch is distracting. You almost forget that a wolf is holding it and make to cradle the blooms in your hand. They radiate warmth…and it isn't //just// warm. There's a soothing quality to how it feels. It's soft but energetic. This…must be magic. The wolf drops the flowers on your chest and plops down beside you. You see a happily wagging tail swinging behind her. She crouches low, head to the ground, with pleading brown eyes focused on your face. "Oh!" Duri calls out from a short distance away. "Don't worry, $mc, she won't hurt you!" Oswin comes into view and kneels next to the wolf who presses her head against his leg. He scratches her ears as he attends to you. "Don't worry, Duri insisted we stop, but we will be on our way shortly. $Dcapitalhisher sweet friend here brought $Dhimher something $Dheshe needs." Oswin lowers his voice to a whisper. "I think Duri is in some pain but won't admit it." "Heard that!" Duri calls. Oswin grumbles and then helps you sit up. "Why did the wolf give me a gift?" you ask, holding the flowers and smelling the blooms. Duri pads over to you, holding a wooden cup with steam billowing from the top. "That's for our tea." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a big smile - full of teeth. "Tea?" The demigod plops next to you, gently taking the forget-me-nots from your hand before plucking the petals and placing them in the cup. So much for the beautiful flowers. Zahn brings another cup and hands it to Duri who adds petals to it too. "Oswin is right…" Duri says. "So, you're actually in pain?" you ask<<if $Dride4 is true>>, feeling a bit remorseful that $Dheshe has been carrying you<</if>>. "Don't fret, it's not so bad. I just need a boost, and I think you do too…My mother's magic still lingers in the shrine where her flowers still grow. She was a healer, so that's what her magic does. Had we gone to her temple....anyway, I sent a message to my friend here to grab us a flower. I just figured we should share it." Though you are groggy and clearly deep under the influence of the anodyne, you don't necessarily feel worse. The presence of a fever is hard to miss, of course, but the purpose in traveling to Codrin instead of visiting the shrine was to get help quicker. You can't help the tingle of suspicion as it crawls along your spine. It must show on your face. Duri gives you a defeated look as $Dheshe kneels closer to you. Oswin stiffens and looms protectively in response and you feel a bit surrounded. "I know you are hiding something, $mc," Duri says and then takes a long drink of $Dhisher tea. "You seemed keen to leave my home, so I wasn't going to press, but something strange… The further we get from the forest center, the more I sense something trying to pull us back to it." Oswin shifts. "What? What do you mean?" "It's magical - it must be. If I weren't so spent, maybe I could make sense of it, but there is something very strange, and it is centered on you, $mc - like a rope. Your body is reacting to it little by little - this feeling, the rope, is fraying; I can tell it is making you weaker the further we get. I can sense the tension and have a bad feeling…" Duri looks at you with eyes that are equal parts pity and curiosity. "It's like the forest is trying to pull you back in…or, or //you're// trying to-" "I'm not trying to do anything!" you blurt as sudden heat wells in your core - very familiar heat. You gasp as you clutch your stomach. Oswin has an arm around you right away. "$mc! What's wrong?" You are lanced with a powerful pain in your skull. The mark burns. Again, it burns you, flaying your skin. "The tea!" Duri presses the cup to your mouth. "Drink - I swear it will help! She always helped!" You part your lips even though a torrent of pain and fire is building in your gut, the warm water tinted with forget-me-not petals slides down your throat. The relief is immediate. The sensation blooms like millions of flowers at once. It makes you gasp with not only relief but a near-joyful feeling. You could nearly weep. Duri presses the cup to your lips again, gently holding the side of your face as $Dheshe helps you. [[You drink.|A5.2]]

<<set $flower to 'daisy'>><<set $favflower to true>> The big white daisy easily takes over your attention. You're drawn to daisies, and such a large beautiful one is distracting. You almost forget that a wolf is holding it and so you make to cradle the bloom in your hand. It radiates warmth…and it isn't //just// warm. There's a soothing quality to how it feels. It's soft but energetic. This…must be magic. It must be. The wolf drops the flower on your chest and plops down beside you as she begins to whine. You see a happily wagging tail swinging behind her. She crouches low, head to the ground, with pleading brown eyes focused on your face. "Oh!" Duri calls out from a short distance away. "Don't worry, $mc, she won't hurt you!" Oswin comes into view and kneels next to the wolf who presses her head against his leg as her tongue lulls out. He scratches her ears as he attends to you. "Don't worry, Duri insisted we stop, but we will be on our way shortly. $Dcapitalhisher sweet friend here brought $Dhimher something $Dheshe needs." Oswin lowers his voice to a whisper. "I think Duri is in some pain but won't admit it." "Heard that!" Duri calls. Oswin grumbles and then helps you sit up. "Why did the wolf give me a gift?" you ask, holding the flower and smelling the blooms. Duri pads over to you, holding a wooden cup with steam billowing from the top. "That's for our tea." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a big smile – full of teeth. "Tea?" The demigod plops next to you, gently taking the daisy from your hand before plucking the petals and placing them in the cup. So much for the beautiful flower. Zahn brings another cup and hands it to Duri who adds petals to it too. "Oswin is right…" Duri says quietly. "So, you're actually in pain?" you ask<<if $Dride4 is true>>, feeling a bit remorseful that $Dheshe has been carrying you<</if>>. "Don't fret, it's not so bad. I just need a boost, and I think you do too…. My mother's magic lingers in the shrine where her flowers still grow. She was a healer, so that's what her magic does. Had we gone to her temple...anyway, I sent a message to my friend here to grab us a flower. I just figured we should share it." Though you are groggy and deep under the influence of the anodyne, you don't necessarily feel //worse//. The presence of a fever is hard to miss, of course, but the purpose of traveling to Codrin instead of visiting the shrine was to get help quickly. You can't help the tingle of suspicion as it crawls along your spine. It must show on your face. Duri gives you a defeated look as $Dheshe kneels closer to you. Oswin stiffens and looms protectively in response and you feel a bit surrounded. "I know you are hiding something, $mc," Duri says and then takes a long drink of $Dhisher tea. "You seemed keen to leave my home, so I wasn't going to press, but something strange…. The further we get from the forest center, the more I sense something trying to pull us back to it." Oswin shifts. "What? What do you mean?" "It's magical – it must be. If I weren't so spent, maybe I could make sense of it, but there is something very strange, and it is centered on you, $mc – like a rope. Your body is reacting to it little by little. This feeling, the rope, is fraying; I can tell it is making you weaker the further we get. I can sense the tension and have a bad feeling…" Duri looks at you with eyes that are equal parts pity and curiosity. "It's like the forest is trying to pull you back in…or, or //you're// trying to-" "I'm not trying to do anything!" you blurt as sudden heat wells in your core – very familiar heat. You gasp as you clutch your stomach. Oswin has an arm around you right away. "$mc! What's wrong?" You are lanced with a powerful pain in your skull. The mark burns. Again, it burns you, flaying your skin. Nausea builds in your gut and you fight to keep bile down. //No. No. No. No! Not again, please.// Your mind repeats. "The tea!" Duri presses the cup to your mouth. "Drink – I swear it will help! She always helped!" You part your lips even though a torrent of pain, fire, and bile is building in your gut, the warm water tinted with daisy petals slides down your throat. The relief is immediate. The sensation blooms like millions of flowers at once. It makes you gasp with not only relief but a near-joyful feeling. You could nearly weep. Duri presses the cup to your lips again, gently holding the side of your face as $Dheshe helps you. [[You drink.|A5.2]]

<<set $flower to 'peony'>><<set $favflower to true>> The big yellow peony easily takes over your attention. You're drawn to peonies, and such a large beautiful one is distracting. You almost forget that a wolf is holding it and so you make to cradle the bloom in your hand. It radiates warmth…and it isn't //just// warm. There's a soothing quality to how it feels. It's soft but energetic. This…must be magic. It must be. The wolf drops the flower on your chest and plops down beside you as she begins to whine. You see a happily wagging tail swinging behind her. She crouches low, head to the ground, with pleading brown eyes focused on your face. "Oh!" Duri calls out from a short distance away. "Don't worry, $mc, she won't hurt you!" Oswin comes into view and kneels next to the wolf who presses her head against his leg as her tongue lulls out. He scratches her ears as he attends to you. "Don't worry, Duri insisted we stop, but we will be on our way shortly. $Dcapitalhisher sweet friend here brought $Dhimher something $Dheshe needs." Oswin lowers his voice to a whisper. "I think Duri is in some pain but won't admit it." "Heard that!" Duri calls. Oswin grumbles and then helps you sit up. "Why did the wolf give me a gift?" you ask, holding the flower and smelling the bloom. Duri pads over to you, holding a wooden cup with steam billowing from the top. "That's for our tea." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a big smile – full of teeth. "Tea?" The demigod plops next to you, gently taking the peony from your hand before plucking the petals and placing them in the cup. So much for the beautiful flower. Zahn brings another cup and hands it to Duri who adds petals to it too. "Oswin is right…" Duri says quietly. "So, you're actually in pain?" you ask<<if $Dride4 is true>>, feeling a bit remorseful that $Dheshe has been carrying you<</if>>. "Don't fret, it's not so bad. I just need a boost, and I think you do too…. My mother's magic lingers in the shrine where her flowers still grow. She was a healer, so that's what her magic does. Had we gone to her temple...anyway, I sent a message to my friend here to grab us a flower. I just figured we should share it." Though you are groggy and deep under the influence of the anodyne, you don't necessarily feel //worse//. The presence of a fever is hard to miss, of course, but the purpose of traveling to Codrin instead of visiting the shrine was to get help quickly. You can't help the tingle of suspicion as it crawls along your spine. It must show on your face. Duri gives you a defeated look as $Dheshe kneels closer to you. Oswin stiffens and looms protectively in response and you feel a bit surrounded. "I know you are hiding something, $mc," Duri says and then takes a long drink of $Dhisher tea. "You seemed keen to leave my home, so I wasn't going to press, but something strange…. The further we get from the forest center, the more I sense something trying to pull us back to it." Oswin shifts. "What? What do you mean?" "It's magical – it must be. If I weren't so spent, maybe I could make sense of it, but there is something very strange, and it is centered on you, $mc – like a rope. Your body is reacting to it little by little. This feeling, the rope, is fraying; I can tell it is making you weaker the further we get. I can sense the tension and have a bad feeling…" Duri looks at you with eyes that are equal parts pity and curiosity. "It's like the forest is trying to pull you back in…or, or //you're// trying to-" "I'm not trying to do anything!" you blurt as sudden heat wells in your core – very familiar heat. You gasp as you clutch your stomach. Oswin has an arm around you right away. "$mc! What's wrong?" You are lanced with a powerful pain in your skull. The mark burns. Again, it burns you, flaying your skin. Nausea builds in your gut and you fight to keep bile down. //No. No. No. No! Not again, please.// Your mind repeats. "The tea!" Duri presses the cup to your mouth. "Drink – I swear it will help! She always helped!" You part your lips even though a torrent of pain, fire, and bile is building in your gut, the warm water tinted with peony petals slides down your throat. The relief is immediate. The sensation blooms like millions of flowers at once. It makes you gasp with not only relief but a near-joyful feeling. You could nearly weep. Duri presses the cup to your lips again, gently holding the side of your face as $Dheshe helps you. [[You drink.|A5.2]]

<<set $flower to 'foxglove'>><<set $favflower to true>> The big cluster of dark purple foxgloves easily takes over your attention. You're drawn to foxglove, and such a large beautiful one is distracting. You almost forget that a wolf is holding it and so you make to cradle the bloom in your hand. It radiates warmth…and it isn't //just// warm. There's a soothing quality to how it feels. It's soft but energetic. This…must be magic. It must be. The wolf drops the flower on your chest and plops down beside you as she begins to whine. You see a happily wagging tail swinging behind her. She crouches low, head to the ground, with pleading brown eyes focused on your face. "Oh!" Duri calls out from a short distance away. "Don't worry, $mc, she won't hurt you!" Oswin comes into view and kneels next to the wolf who presses her head against his leg as her tongue lulls out. He scratches her ears as he attends to you. "Don't worry, Duri insisted we stop, but we will be on our way shortly. $Dcapitalhisher sweet friend here brought $Dhimher something $Dheshe needs." Oswin lowers his voice to a whisper. "I think Duri is in some pain but won't admit it." "Heard that!" Duri calls. Oswin grumbles and then helps you sit up. "Why did the wolf give me a gift?" you ask, holding the flower and smelling the blooms. Duri pads over to you, holding a wooden cup with steam billowing from the top. "That's for our tea." $Dcapitalheshe gives you a big smile – full of teeth. "Tea? From foxglove?" You chuckle at the notion. Oswin sighs, leveling Duri with an irritated stare. "I surely do not need to inform you that foxgloves are deadly…" The demigod plops next to you, gently taking the foxglove from your hand before plucking the petals and placing them in the cup. So much for the beautiful flower. Zahn brings another cup and hands it to Duri who adds petals to it too. "Oswin is right…" Duri says. "Oswin is right…" Duri says. "On both accounts - I do know that foxgloves can kill, and…" "You're actually in pain," you finish.<<if $Dride4 is true>>, feeling a bit remorseful that $Dheshe has been carrying you<</if>>. "Don't fret, it's not so bad. I just need a boost, and I think you do too…My mother's magic lingers in the shrine where her flowers still grow. She was a healer, so that's what her magic does – this foxglove won't hurt either of us because my mother would never. Had we gone to her temple...anyway, I sent a message to my friend here to grab us a flower. I just figured we should share it." Though you are groggy and deep under the influence of the anodyne, you don't necessarily feel //worse//. The presence of a fever is hard to miss, of course, but the purpose of traveling to Codrin instead of visiting the shrine was to get help quickly. You can't help the tingle of suspicion as it crawls along your spine. It must show on your face. Duri gives you a defeated look as $Dheshe kneels closer to you. Oswin stiffens and looms protectively in response and you feel a bit surrounded. "I know you are hiding something, $mc," Duri says and then takes a long drink of $Dhisher tea, which helps confirm a little that $Dheshe isn't out to poison you. "You seemed keen to leave my home, so I wasn't going to press, but something strange…. The further we get from the forest center, the more I sense something trying to pull us back to it." Oswin shifts. "What? What do you mean?" "It's magical – it must be. If I weren't so spent, maybe I could make sense of it, but there is something very strange, and it is centered on you, $mc – like a rope. Your body is reacting to it little by little. This feeling, the rope, is fraying; I can tell it is making you weaker the further we get. I can sense the tension and have a bad feeling…" Duri looks at you with eyes that are equal parts pity and curiosity. "It's like the forest is trying to pull you back in…or, or //you're// trying to-" "I'm not trying to do anything!" you blurt as sudden heat wells in your core – very familiar heat. You gasp as you clutch your stomach. Oswin has an arm around you right away. "$mc! What's wrong?" You are lanced with a powerful pain in your skull. The mark burns. Again, it burns you, flaying your skin. Nausea builds in your gut and you fight to keep bile down. //No. No. No. No! Not again, please.// Your mind repeats. "The tea!" Duri presses the cup to your mouth. "Drink – I swear it will help! She always helped!" You part your lips even though a torrent of pain, fire, and bile is building in your gut, the warm water tinted with foxglove petals slides down your throat. The relief is immediate. The sensation blooms like millions of flowers at once. It makes you gasp with not only relief but a near-joyful feeling. You could nearly weep. Duri presses the cup to your lips again, gently holding the side of your face as $Dheshe helps you. [[You drink.|A5.2]]

After the quickest cup of tea you've ever had, you are loaded back up and off to Codrin at a much faster pace. You know from a great deal of experience that anodyne does little to ease the suffering of a flair from your curse. Before now, you weren't even certain that the full power of a flair would bother you anymore with the mark's presence. The tea somehow calms it, but you are not leaving anything to chance. It is difficult not to lose your mind to the looming fear that another bout could be as intense as the one you had on your birthday – it felt so much like the beginnings of that one. The burning pain that rendered you to your knees is forever etched in your mind. You're in a mental fog between the anxiety, tea, and tonic, but you are aware enough to catch Oswin telling Duri that you have a chronic illness. You almost don't see any point in hiding that it's a curse anymore. You just want this to be done. Oswin rushes the mounts, who seem to readily oblige despite how difficult the last couple of days have been. Sure enough, the further you get from the forest, the deeper the pull in your gut. It feels like a tether stretching more and more as you try to escape its confines. Is the curse reaching out for something or is something reaching out for the curse? …For you. Eventually, most of your hearing goes muffled. You can make out the sound of hooves as they hit the road. You don't remember when your vision went black though. You wish your awareness would fade completely, but it doesn't grant you that small mercy. Your hands tremble, and it's not long after that you sense the full intensity of the convulsions take over. <<if $Oride4 is true>>Oswin holds you tightly. You know that he keeps speaking to you, but you cannot make out the words.<<elseif $Zride4 is true>>At some point Zahn started praying. You're not even sure how you know, but you hear $Zhimher evoke the name of Din as $Zheshe grips you tightly.<<else>>Duri clings to you as if $Dheshe is frightened. $Dcapitalheshe says the same thing over and over again, but you can't tell what it is. You don't even know why $Dheshe would care this much.<</if>> Yet again, you are left wondering if you will survive this. [[....|A5.3]]

<html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:25px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">"HALT!"</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[A deep voice summons you from slumber.|A5.4]]

Your eyes open suddenly and you gasp. You realize quickly that you have no control over your body as it flails and convulses about. <<if $Oride4 is true>>Oswin steadies you the best he can.<<elseif $Zride4 is true>>Zahn steadies you the best $Zheshe can.<<else>>Duri steadies you the best $Dheshe can.<</if>> You can see now and hear as well, but you aren't sure if this is a boon or not. You spot high walls in front of you, lined with armed guards. You think you taste blood. "Please, I beg you, let us through!" Oswin cries out. "My friend is dying, we need a healer!" "Save it, we've heard it all. A bloke just yesterday tried that same stunt. Too easy to fake a seizure. You'll go through security like everyone else." "No!" Oswin cries. "Please, just take-" The guard bellows. "You'll wait your turn like everyone else! Now, dismount before I have you shot down!" <<if $Oride4 is true>>Oswin passes you to Duri so he can dismount quickly.<<elseif $Zride4 is true>>Duri quickly takes you from Zahn so $Zheshe can dismount.<<else>>Duri checks you as the others dismount, worried honey-brown eyes combing over you.<</if>> Your body continues to thrash and you cannot speak. A group of guards comes into your line of sight, and you pathetically try to gargle a plea for assistance to no avail. Duri brings you right towards the guard, presumably a captain who has been barking orders. "We're not faking it, you dolt! We need to see Lyreheart and fast!" The guard laughs in a way that still makes your skin crawl even though you are mid-convulsion. "You and me both. Get in line then, half the city is-" "Excuse me!" A new voice interrupts. You spot the newcomer – sort of. At a glance, you can see that the person is masked, wearing a deep blue cloak with ornate silver embroidery. You only barely register their masked face before their back sweeps in front of you. All you see is the cloak, dark like the night sky and stitched with silver stars and constellations. Your senses are beginning to fail again and you fight back with all you have to stay conscious. "These people mean no harm, Jarvis." The stranger argues. "James." The guard corrects. "Apologies, Hames – I have it on good authority that these folks are expected by the dear bard." The stranger speaks with such confidence that even you believe them. The guard groans. "You are always cooking up something, aren't you." The stranger continues. "I'm here to ensure they make it through the gates posthaste. Lyreheart is performing as we speak and…well, as you can see…" They gesture towards you and then whisper something to the guard. "For fuck sake, fine then! Gods, why do I even do this job? Go on, get in before I change my mind!" The others waste no time in running inside with Duri carrying you and leading the way. As you pass the stranger, you catch the briefest glimpse of their face, only spotting a pair of curious dark eyes staring back at you before you are rushed away. Everyone clamors through the streets. You hear people yelp as your group, with mounts in tow, rush along. Duri is well ahead of the others and seems to know exactly where to go. You're not sure how long you travel before… [[You hear music.|A5.5]]

A very large inn comes into view with throngs of people surrounding it. They fill up a grand porch – crowding the windows to see inside. An overflow of onlookers simply stand around on the street. You're shocked when Duri pushes straight through the crowd, barking at the spectators to move. Most give $Dhimher a wide berth. You catch whispers and gasps coming from them as you pass by. You also catch the words '$Dhimher again' from a small group that clears a path for you. And then, everything blurs out except for the music. Strings, probably a harp or lyre. You guess lyre for the namesake of the person Duri is frantically searching for. The notes cascade around you, rendering most people quiet. The sound is beautiful, but more than that – you //feel// it. Something inside your heart wells at the sound. There's a weight to this music, one that you feel you could hold in your hands as it sailed around in the sky or on the seas and pulled you along. It cradles you. For a moment it is bliss. It soothes your body, even lessening the tremors of your muscles and the blooming pain in your skull. You unconsciously reach toward the music, wanting it closer. Until Duri begins yelling. "Runey!" You hear a string on the lyre suddenly twang. "Runey! Please!" Duri keeps pushing through the throng of people inside the inn. Most spot you and back away quickly, faces twisted in shock and pity. A path opens to the front of a massive lobby and at its head sits the bard… [[A woman|A5.5a]] [[A man.|A5.5b]]

<> <<set $Rgen to 'female'>> <<set $Rheshe to 'she'>> <<set $Rcapitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $Rhisher to 'her'>> <<set $Rcapitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $Rhimher to 'her'>> <<set $Rcapitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $Rhishers to 'hers'>> <<set $Rcapitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $Rhimselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $Rcapitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $Rmanwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $Rsondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <> She sits with a lyre resting on her thigh. Despite her relaxed position, you suddenly feel less like you are in the lobby of an inn and more like you are in a throne room. The inn is nice and not as lavish as a throne room, but before you sits a queen draped in flowing white and purple silks. You almost beg your vision to clear to see her better. She pinches the bridge of her nose with eyes shut tight, annoyance radiating from her stage. "Duri'naan, I made it exceedingly clear after the last time – you are banned!" Her eyes snap open and the ferocity in her expression morphs into shock as she sees you staring back. "Runey, please…" Duri lifts you slightly. "To my quarters, now." The entire crowd parts in an instant. Duri rushes you to a set of stairs running to the top so quickly that you feel a sense of vertigo. You think you hear the voices of Oswin and Zahn behind you. Before you know it, $Dheshe is gently laying you on a large bed. Your body continues to shake and you feel the burning of the mark breaking through again. You can still see and hear a little, but you cannot speak. The bard enters the room, shedding the elegant outer robe as she rushes to a basin of water to wash her hands. "What's happened to them?" Duri stammers. "I don't actually know – this is $mc, I just know it's some sort of illness. The others are coming, they know more." The door bangs open again. You hear Oswin first. "How <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>are<<else>>is<</if>> $heshe?" Duri chimes in. "Oswin, this is Rune. Runey, this is-" "Later," Oswin says, coming to the bedside. "Please, can you help us? We don't know…this is an illness that $mc has had since childhood. These flare-ups happen sporadically. There's convulsions, severe pain, weakness, um, vomiting, fever..." Oswin rushes through every word, clearly frantic. Rune comes to you and feels the side of your face. You finally notice her bright purple eyes, but you can hardly focus on them. "The fever is very high, pupils are completely //constricted//…" The pretty eyes study you. "How strange…" Oswin snaps to attention. "What is strange?" "Everyone out," Rune commands. You hear two sets of footsteps tripping over themselves on the way out of the door, but Oswin does not budge. You are not sure who is more intense in their gaze – Rune or Oswin. You expect a fight any second but are surprised when Rune gently cups the side of Oswin's face with one hand and simply nods to the door. Oswin's bottom lip quivers and then he suddenly turns and storms out of the room without a word. The bard turns back to you with a kind smile. "It'll be okay." [[Everything slowly fades away.|A5.6]]

<> <<set $Rgen to 'male'>> <<set $Rheshe to 'he'>> <<set $Rcapitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $Rhisher to 'his'>> <<set $Rcapitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $Rhimher to 'him'>> <<set $Rcapitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $Rhishers to 'his'>> <<set $Rcapitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $Rhimselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $Rcapitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $Rmanwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $Rsondtrchild to 'son'>> <> He sits with a lyre resting on his thigh. Despite his relaxed position, you suddenly feel less like you are in the lobby of an inn and more like you are in a throne room. The inn is nice and not as lavish as a throne room, but before you sits a king draped in flowing white and purple silks. You almost beg your vision to clear to see him better. He pinches the bridge of his nose with eyes shut tight, annoyance radiating from his stage. "Duri'naan, I made it exceedingly clear after the last time – you are banned!" His eyes snap open and the ferocity in his expression morphs into shock as he sees you staring back. "Runey, please…" Duri lifts you slightly. "To my quarters, now." The entire crowd parts in an instant. Duri rushes you to a set of stairs running to the top so quickly that you feel a sense of vertigo. You think you hear the voices of Oswin and Zahn behind you. Before you know it, $Dheshe is gently laying you on a large bed. Your body continues to shake and you feel the burning of the mark breaking through again. You can still see and hear a little, but you cannot speak. The bard enters the room, shedding the elegant outer robe as he rushes to a basin of water to wash his hands. "What's happened to them?" Duri stammers. "I don't actually know – this is $mc, I just know it's some sort of illness. The others are coming, they know more." The door bangs open again. You hear Oswin first. "How <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>are<<else>>is<</if>> $heshe?" Duri chimes in. "Oswin, this is Rune. Runey, this is-" "Later," Oswin says, coming to the bedside. "Please, can you help us? We don't know…this is an illness that $mc has had since childhood. These flare-ups happen sporadically. There's convulsions, severe pain, weakness, um, vomiting, fever..." Oswin rushes through every word, clearly frantic. Rune comes to you and feels the side of your face. You finally notice his bright purple eyes, but you can hardly focus on them. "The fever is very high, pupils are completely //constricted//…" The pretty eyes study you. "How strange…" Oswin snaps to attention. "What is strange?" "Everyone out," Rune commands. You hear two sets of footsteps tripping over themselves on the way out of the door, but Oswin does not budge. You are not sure who is more intense in their gaze – Rune or Oswin. You expect a fight any second but are surprised when Rune gently cups the side of Oswin's face with one hand and simply nods to the door. Oswin's bottom lip quivers and then he suddenly turns and storms out of the room without a word. The bard turns back to you with a kind smile. "It'll be okay." [[Everything slowly fades away.|A5.6]]

As usual, your consciousness comes and goes. You are lost in time and orientation. Sometimes you wake up and think you are back home, other times you don't remember even being in any particular place. Sometimes you recall being rushed into an inn. But one thing you can remember is a pair of beautiful eyes looking in on you often. Rune speaks to you frequently. Though you cannot reply, you think you can understand most of the time. $Rcapitalheshe narrates to you every move $Rheshe makes, apologizing for touching or moving you, telling you something might hurt a bit, or simply soothing you with kind words. The best part is when Rune sings. $Rcapitalhisher voice is like no other you have heard. There are many good singers in Stonebrook – your Papa isn't bad as long as he thinks no one is listening. Bards pop into the tavern on occasion to make merry, but you have never heard one quite like this. It is difficult to pinpoint what makes Rune's voice different. It's trained and experienced, but there is something else there just out of your grasp of awareness. Either hours or days pass before you open your eyes again with any cognition. As awareness seeps in, you realize you are still in the large bed, staring at the ceiling of an unfamiliar room. You hear birds and realize the sun is coming through the windows, but you can't tell the time of day yet. You blink sleep away and realize the bard sits next to the bed, and that you are completely enshrouded in a purple mist. You startle initially and the mist simply swirls around you as a ripple would in water. You reach out and run your hand through it and watch it flow around in the air. You look to your healer, who is fast asleep in $Rhisher chair, hands on knees with palms up, the source of the purple mist. It's then that you realize just how much better you feel. The burn is gone, you don't feel as weak, and your headache has lessened. You think of your shoulder. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>It still feels swollen and very sore.<<else>>It still feels very tender and you note a throb from within.<</if>> You move it delicately to test it and pain wracks through your back and takes your breath away. So, you're not completely better. However, you do manage to sit yourself up on your own power. The improvement is almost unreal and you are unsure if it is thanks to your healer or to the changes since the curse marked you. [[Either way, you now have a chance to get a good look at your new acquaintance.|A5.7]]

Rune, though sleeping slumped in a chair, is still somehow quite elegant. A mane of rich black curls crowns $Rhisher head, but you notice the bangs just on $Rhisher left temple are a bright purple. $Rcapitalhisher skin is a rich brown but you can't quite make out $Rhisher figure very well from $Rhisher seated position. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You are clearly taller than $Rhimher<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>You can tell you probably stand a bit taller than $Rhimher.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>You think you are roughly around the same height as $Rhimher.<else>>As with most people, you are pretty sure you're shorter than $Rhimher.<</if>> Rune's clothing is also quite lovely. $Rcapitalheshe is wearing a bright white tunic with gold embroidery along the hems. The tunic has an unusually low cut neckline, showing off a large dark tattoo – a depiction of the lower half of a blazing sun – upon $Rhisher chest. Rune also wears a purple silken belt, though $Rhisher trousers appear to be of a simple but rich brown cloth. You spot the robe Rune was wearing last night on a rack by the door. It is floor-length and white silk, but it is lined in rich purple with beads of shining gold sparkling in a pattern you cannot identify from your position. $Rcapitalheshe also wears jewelry of gold – earrings, and bangles along $Rhisher arms. This is //possibly// one of the most color-coordinated people you've ever seen. You peek down to the floor where you see…purple shoes. This is //definitely// the most color-coordinated person you've ever seen. Around you, the magic purple mist pulsates, and you realize that Rune is stirring. Bright purple orbs come into view.<<if $eyecolor is "purple">> They're much like your own, perhaps a different shade. You don't recall ever meeting another person with your eye color.<<else>> You don't know if you've ever actually met a person with purple eyes before. You know what people say about them, though. At least for this person, it seems true that they have some sort of magic affiliation.<</if>> The purple in Rune's hair also draws your curiosity. You wonder how $Rheshe managed to color it that way.<<if $greyokay is false>> It gives you ideas for your own hair. Maybe Rune would have a way to cover your grey hair in a way that would make you happy with it.<</if>> <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You give $Rhimher a sheepish smile accompanied by a little wave of a hand in greeting.<<else>>Your face brightens with a large smile. "Good morning," you greet.<</if>> "Well-met. Glad you're not as unconscious now." The bard nods and leans forward. "I am Rūndis Lyreheart, but I much prefer to simply be addressed as 'Rune' or even 'Lyreheart.' Typically, I am a bard by night and a physician by day, but you seem to have upended my schedule." Rune holds a hand out to you. [[You politely pass on the gesture.|A5.7a]] [[You shake hands in greeting.|A5.7b]] $flirt_label [[You flounder about what to do, so you kiss Rune's hand.|A5.7c]] $flirt_label [[You know just what you want to do, so you kiss Rune's hand.|A5.7d]]

You tilt your head in a small bow to acknowledge the gesture, but keep your hands to yourself. Rune smiles warmly and returns your acknowledgement, folding $Rhisher hands in $Rhisher lap. Rune watches you for a moment with an unreadable expression. $Rcapitalheshe crosses $Rhisher legs at the knee and lightly taps $Rhisher fingertips to $Rhisher chin. You're a bit unsure if $Rheshe is waiting on something from you or not.<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You clear your throat. "I appreciate that you came to my aid…could you tell me how long I was down this time?"<<else>>You tilt your head. "Care to tell me why you're looking at me like that? Was I a bad patient? Did I take your room for a long time or something?"<</if>> Rune seems to snap from thought. "Oh, you were only poorly for about a day." $Rcapitalheshe glances out the window. "A little less, it's late afternoon now – I think they brought you in at sunset yesterday." "What!?" you exclaim. The bard startles slightly and then tilts $Rhisher head. "Is that unusual?" "Very…I should…that bout felt severe enough that I'd usually be in bed for days on end." You search Rune's face for answers. Is $Rheshe simply that powerful? Full lips pull into a tight line as Rune's purple eyes study you with a bit more scrutiny. "We should have a chat before I notify your friends that you are awake. I have questions." A shiver runs up your spine. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Okay…I suppose you wouldn't be out to hurt me if you've brought me this far…"<<else>>"Are you sure you just don't want more time alone with me? I'm flattered."<</if>> Rune leans forward, resting $Rhisher elbows on $Rhisher knees. "Quite…my first question is are you safe?" You're taken aback initially. "Safe?" You look around the room. "Yes?" A finely manicured eyebrow lifts at your reaction. "I mean with your group. Duri'naan I know – $Dheshe is an idiot but wouldn't be out to harm you. The other two I do not know. The one, Oswin, seems to care for you a great deal but that does not mean he has your best interests at heart. Zahn appears sweet-natured, but I've fallen for that once before. If you do not feel safe, I will see to it that you are before the day is out. I have a great deal of sway-" "No, no – I'm safe. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>Oswin is a good friend of mine. We've known each other since childhood. He has a bit of an attitude sometimes, but he's a good man.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Oswin is a good, um, friend of mine. We've known each other since we were children. He's important to me and a very good man.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Oswin is fine, he's my guide for my journey. He's got an attitude, but I'm safe with him.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Oswin is fine, he's my guide for my journey. He's got a bit of an attitude, but I'm safe with him.<</if>> <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>We met Zahn on the journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim, so $Zheshe has tagged along with us for a bit.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, we made fast friends.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, a veritable sweetheart really.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, we made fast friends.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>We met Zahn on the journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim, so $Zheshe has tagged along with us for a bit. Honestly, I'm just a bit suspicious of $Zhimher. I don't feel like I'm in danger exactly, just that $Zheshe's hiding something.<</if>>" Rune nods along. "Okay then, that's good enough for me. I wanted to be sure. I've kept them out of the way. That Oswin is a stubborn one. I was able to secure a room for them, but he refused. He sat outside the door all night instead." "Really?" "Yes. He passed out a while ago and Duri'naan took him to bed for me. He's exceptionally exhausted, so I'm keen to make him sleep as long as possible. I will treat him as well, once I am satisfied with your progress." You sigh. "It's been quite the journey…" Rune leans back in $Rhisher chair. "So, my next question…" "Yes?" [["What are you?"|A5.8]]

You lean forward a bit to reach out to clasp Rune's hand. A tingling warmth encompasses your skin, sending a jolt up your arm – it doesn't hurt though. Surprise must show on your face as Rune gives you a slightly bashful smile. "Occupational hazard," Rune says, taking $Rhisher hand back and folding it with the other on $Rhisher lap. "Magic sometimes lingers after long-term use, so even if I have retracted it, it can be felt by those with particular levels of sensitivity to it." You nod as you recline back in the bed. This must mean you really can sense magic… Rune watches you for a moment with an unreadable expression. $Rcapitalheshe crosses $Rhisher legs at the knee and lightly taps $Rhisher fingertips to $Rhisher chin. You're a bit unsure if $Rheshe is waiting on something from you or not.<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You clear your throat. "I appreciate that you came to my aid…could you tell me how long I was down this time?"<<else>>You tilt your head. "Care to tell me why you're looking at me like that? Was I a bad patient? Did I take your room for a long time or something?"<</if>> Rune seems to snap from thought. "Oh, you were only poorly for about a day." $Rcapitalheshe glances out the window. "A little less, it's late afternoon now – I think they brought you in at sunset yesterday." "What!?" you exclaim. The bard startles slightly and then tilts $Rhisher head. "Is that unusual?" "Very…I should…that bout felt severe enough that I'd usually be in bed for days on end." You search Rune's face for answers. Is $Rheshe simply that powerful? Full lips pull into a tight line as Rune's purple eyes study you with a bit more scrutiny. "We should have a chat before I notify your friends that you are awake. I have questions." A shiver runs up your spine. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Okay…I suppose you wouldn't be out to hurt me if you've brought me this far…"<<else>>"Are you sure you just don't want more time alone with me? I'm flattered."<</if>> Rune leans forward, resting $Rhisher elbows on $Rhisher knees. "Quite…my first question is are you safe?" You're taken aback initially. "Safe?" You look around the room. "Yes?" A finely manicured eyebrow lifts at your reaction. "I mean with your group. Duri'naan I know – $Dheshe is an idiot but wouldn't be out to harm you. The other two I do not know. The one, Oswin, seems to care for you a great deal but that does not mean he has your best interests at heart. Zahn appears sweet-natured, but I've fallen for that once before. If you do not feel safe, I will see to it that you are before the day is out. I have a great deal of sway-" "No, no – I'm safe. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>Oswin is a good friend of mine. We've known each other since childhood. He has a bit of an attitude sometimes, but he's a good man.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Oswin is a good, um, friend of mine. We've known each other since we were children. He's important to me and a very good man.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Oswin is fine, he's my guide for my journey. He's got an attitude, but I'm safe with him.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Oswin is fine, he's my guide for my journey. He's got a bit of an attitude, but I'm safe with him.<</if>> <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>We met Zahn on the journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim, so $Zheshe has tagged along with us for a bit.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, we made fast friends.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, a veritable sweetheart really.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, we made fast friends.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>We met Zahn on the journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim, so $Zheshe has tagged along with us for a bit. Honestly, I'm just a bit suspicious of $Zhimher. I don't feel like I'm in danger exactly, just that $Zheshe's hiding something.<</if>>" Rune nods along. "Okay then, that's good enough for me. I wanted to be sure. I've kept them out of the way. That Oswin is a stubborn one. I was able to secure a room for them, but he refused. He sat outside the door all night instead." "Really?" "Yes. He passed out a while ago and Duri'naan took him to bed for me. He's exceptionally exhausted, so I'm keen to make him sleep as long as possible. I will treat him as well, once I am satisfied with your progress." You sigh. "It's been quite the journey…" Rune leans back in $Rhisher chair. "So, my next question…" "Yes?" [["What are you?"|A5.8]]

<<set $Rflirt +=3>> <<set $Rshy +=3>> Social norms suddenly scramble in your mind. You find yourself leaning forward to clasp Rune's hand, but you are unsure of what you're supposed to do. Rune looks every bit the noble – equal parts beauty and power. You don't remember ever meeting a proper noble. Is it acceptable to shake or does Rune expect something more? You hesitate and then shyly bring your lips to the back of $Rhisher hand to place a light kiss. A tingling warmth encompasses your skin, sending a tingle up your arm and through your lips. You make the mistake of glancing at Rune's face, finding restrained mirth pressed upon $Rhisher lips. Heat fills your face and you mumble an apology as you release the bard's hand. Rune gives you a slightly amused smile. "Quite fine, the debate on decorum was plain on your face and very entertaining, so we're even," $Rheshe says, taking $Rhisher hand back and folding it with the other on $Rhisher lap. "Please excuse any strange tingling sensations. Magic sometimes lingers after long-term use, so even if I have retracted it, it can be felt by those with particular levels of sensitivity to it." You nod as you recline back in the bed. This must mean you really can sense magic… Rune watches you for a moment with an unreadable expression. $Rcapitalheshe crosses $Rhisher legs at the knee and lightly taps $Rhisher fingertips to $Rhisher chin. You're a bit unsure if $Rheshe is waiting on something from you or not.<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You clear your throat. "I appreciate that you came to my aid…could you tell me how long I was down this time?"<<else>>You tilt your head. "Care to tell me why you're looking at me like that? Was I a bad patient? Did I take your room for a long time or something?"<</if>> Rune seems to snap from thought. "Oh, you were only poorly for about a day." $Rcapitalheshe glances out the window. "A little less, it's late afternoon now – I think they brought you in at sunset yesterday." "What!?" you exclaim. The bard startles slightly and then tilts $Rhisher head. "Is that unusual?" "Very…I should…that bout felt severe enough that I'd usually be in bed for days on end." You search Rune's face for answers. Is $Rheshe simply that powerful? Full lips pull into a tight line as Rune's purple eyes study you with a bit more scrutiny. "We should have a chat before I notify your friends that you are awake. I have questions." A shiver runs up your spine. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Okay…I suppose you wouldn't be out to hurt me if you've brought me this far…"<<else>>"Are you sure you just don't want more time alone with me? I'm flattered."<</if>> Rune leans forward, resting $Rhisher elbows on $Rhisher knees. "Quite…my first question is are you safe?" You're taken aback initially. "Safe?" You look around the room. "Yes?" A finely manicured eyebrow lifts at your reaction. "I mean with your group. Duri'naan I know – $Dheshe is an idiot but wouldn't be out to harm you. The other two I do not know. The one, Oswin, seems to care for you a great deal but that does not mean he has your best interests at heart. Zahn appears sweet-natured, but I've fallen for that once before. If you do not feel safe, I will see to it that you are before the day is out. I have a great deal of sway-" "No, no – I'm safe. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>Oswin is a good friend of mine. We've known each other since childhood. He has a bit of an attitude sometimes, but he's a good man.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Oswin is a good, um, friend of mine. We've known each other since we were children. He's important to me and a very good man.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Oswin is fine, he's my guide for my journey. He's got an attitude, but I'm safe with him.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Oswin is fine, he's my guide for my journey. He's got a bit of an attitude, but I'm safe with him.<</if>> <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>We met Zahn on the journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim, so $Zheshe has tagged along with us for a bit.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, we made fast friends.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, a veritable sweetheart really.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, we made fast friends.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>We met Zahn on the journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim, so $Zheshe has tagged along with us for a bit. Honestly, I'm just a bit suspicious of $Zhimher. I don't feel like I'm in danger exactly, just that $Zheshe's hiding something.<</if>>" Rune nods along. "Okay then, that's good enough for me. I wanted to be sure. I've kept them out of the way. That Oswin is a stubborn one. I was able to secure a room for them, but he refused. He sat outside the door all night instead." "Really?" "Yes. He passed out a while ago and Duri'naan took him to bed for me. He's exceptionally exhausted, so I'm keen to make him sleep as long as possible. I will treat him as well, once I am satisfied with your progress." You sigh. "It's been quite the journey…" Rune leans back in $Rhisher chair. "So, my next question…" "Yes?" [["What are you?"|A5.8]]

<<set $Rflirt +=3>> <<set $Rbold +=3>> Rune watches as you pull $Rhisher hand to your lips. You feel how incredibly soft $Rhisher hand is, save for some rough patches along $Rhisher fingers. You press your lips in a long sweet kiss, savoring the suppleness of the sweet skin before you release $Rhisher hand back. A tingling warmth encompasses your skin, sending a delightful tickle up your arm and through your face. The bard blinks. "My but your lips are chapped…What sort of doctor am I – I'll get you some balm." A partial smirk on $Rhisher lips doesn't escape your notice. Rune takes $Rhisher hand back and digs into $Rhisher pocket before tossing you a small tin. "It's my personal balm, but something tells me that won't deter you." You grin as you apply the lip balm, a sting of relief travels across the broken skin. Rune gives you a polite smile, folding $Rhisher hands together on $Rhisher lap. "Please excuse any strange tingling sensations. Magic sometimes lingers after long-term use, so even if I have retracted it, it can be felt by those with particular levels of sensitivity to it." You nod as you recline back in the bed. This must mean you really can sense magic… Rune watches you for a moment with an unreadable expression. $Rcapitalheshe crosses $Rhisher legs at the knee and lightly taps $Rhisher fingertips to $Rhisher chin. You're a bit unsure if $Rheshe is waiting on something from you or not.<<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You clear your throat. "I appreciate that you came to my aid…could you tell me how long I was down this time?"<<else>>You tilt your head. "Care to tell me why you're looking at me like that? Was I a bad patient? Did I take your room for a long time or something?"<</if>> Rune seems to snap from thought. "Oh, you were only poorly for about a day." $Rcapitalheshe glances out the window. "A little less, it's late afternoon now – I think they brought you in at sunset yesterday." "What!?" you exclaim. The bard startles slightly and then tilts $Rhisher head. "Is that unusual?" "Very…I should…that bout felt severe enough that I'd usually be in bed for days on end." You search Rune's face for answers. Is $Rheshe simply that powerful? Full lips pull into a tight line as Rune's purple eyes study you with a bit more scrutiny. "We should have a chat before I notify your friends that you are awake. I have questions." A shiver runs up your spine. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Okay…I suppose you wouldn't be out to hurt me if you've brought me this far…"<<else>>"Are you sure you just don't want more time alone with me? I'm flattered."<</if>> Rune leans forward, resting $Rhisher elbows on $Rhisher knees. "Quite…my first question is are you safe?" You're taken aback initially. "Safe?" You look around the room. "Yes?" A finely manicured eyebrow lifts at your reaction. "I mean with your group. Duri'naan I know – $Dheshe is an idiot but wouldn't be out to harm you. The other two I do not know. The one, Oswin, seems to care for you a great deal but that does not mean he has your best interests at heart. Zahn appears sweet-natured, but I've fallen for that once before. If you do not feel safe, I will see to it that you are before the day is out. I have a great deal of sway-" "No, no – I'm safe. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>Oswin is a good friend of mine. We've known each other since childhood. He has a bit of an attitude sometimes, but he's a good man.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Oswin is a good, um, friend of mine. We've known each other since we were children. He's important to me and a very good man.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Oswin is fine, he's my guide for my journey. He's got an attitude, but I'm safe with him.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Oswin is fine, he's my guide for my journey. He's got a bit of an attitude, but I'm safe with him.<</if>> <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>We met Zahn on the journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim, so $Zheshe has tagged along with us for a bit.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, we made fast friends.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, a veritable sweetheart really.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, we made fast friends.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>We met Zahn on the journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim, so $Zheshe has tagged along with us for a bit. Honestly, I'm just a bit suspicious of $Zhimher. I don't feel like I'm in danger exactly, just that $Zheshe's hiding something.<</if>>" Rune nods along. "Okay then, that's good enough for me. I wanted to be sure. I've kept them out of the way. That Oswin is a stubborn one. I was able to secure a room for them, but he refused. He sat outside the door all night instead." "Really?" "Yes. He passed out a while ago and Duri'naan took him to bed for me. He's exceptionally exhausted, so I'm keen to make him sleep as long as possible. I will treat him as well, once I am satisfied with your progress." You sigh. "It's been quite the journey…" Rune leans back in $Rhisher chair. "So, my next question…" "Yes?" [["What are you?"|A5.8]]

You practically choke on a breath at the question. "What do you mean //what// am I? I'm just $mc Northbreaker…" Rune nods. "Your friends gave me your name – but that's not what I'm asking. Are you a mage, a witch, a magic user in any term?" You shake your head. <<if $eyecolor is "purple">>Rune looks at you with clear dubiousness. "Your eye color is quite rare. Not that it is a sure indicator of those with abilities, but it is even rarer to meet a person with purple eyes who has no aptitude for magic." "Well, I suppose now you have. I can't do any magic that I know of…"<</if>> $Rcapitalheshe looks at you with a puzzled expression. "I don't know what you have, $mc, but it isn't an illness – not in the typical sense." You try to look surprised. "Oh." Rune takes a deep breath. "Mm-hmm, and you knew that already didn't you?" You nod. "So…you have either gotten into something you really shouldn't have, you're lying to me about being a magic user, or…" "I didn't lie…nor have I gotten into anything." "$mc, you have something seriously wrong, and it's something I have never encountered before. Your body is absorbing – or rather, trying to absorb – ''tremendous'' amounts of magic." Your jaw drops. Rune scoots $Rhisher chair closer to the bed. "If you have not been using magic or playing around with artifacts, there is no reason I know that you'd be involuntarily absorbing magic. The physical reaction you are getting appears to be two-fold. At first, it's like a hunger pang reaching out for sustenance, and then when magic enters your body, it cannot handle it the way a mage would, and so reacts in a volatile way." You shake your head. "How could I absorb magic but not be able to use it?" "I can't even understand how you are absorbing it, but that's what's happening. Mages – magic users in general – do not store magic, they pull it from all around them and use it at will. Powerful mages are such because magic finds them and lingers – bending to our commands and becoming one with us in a sense. So, I know that you know something more. Just come clean, and I may be able to help you. Magic can strain your physical body tremendously when you are unaccustomed to it – this //can// kill you." The words settle heavily on your shoulders. [[You breathe a moment and attempt to give a simple explanation of what has happened to you.|A5.8a]] [[The weight of all you have been through crashes down and you burst into tears.|A5.8b]] [[Bitterness is on your tongue as you tell your story.|A5.8c]]

<<set $cursestress +=2>> You take a moment to breathe and collect your thoughts. There's no getting out of explaining this, and it is reasonable to believe that telling Rune could be a key to your survival. Rune waits patiently for you… [[You're suppressing how upsetting it actually is to you.|A5.8a1]] [[You're remaining reasonable, if not a bit optimistic.|A5.8a2]]

<<set $cursefatigue to 'crying'>> <<set $cursestress +=4>> You suck in a stuttering breath as the weight that you carry shatters upon your shoulders. Rune quickly gets up from $Rhisher seat and sits on the edge of the bed, offering to console you. [[You let Rune hold you.|A5.8b1]] [[You do not want to be held.|A5.8b2]]

<<set $cursefatigue to 'bitter'>> <<set $cursestress +=3>> Rune gives you space but stays near to show support as if you have been friends for many years. You grit your teeth and you feel your blood rushing through your body. You freely bear your anger as you speak, explaining to Rune that you are unjustly cursed by a god and dying because of it. You tell of every hard-won breath and every trial from home to where you are today and how hard you are fighting against your fate. Rune listens to every slight you bring $Rhimher, taking on all your frustrations from the curse to the treacherous path you took here. You rant about <<if hasVisited("3.1a")>>how you started this journey with a sense of excitement and adventure, which has only led you to disaster, crushing your hopes of what this path could bring.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1b")>>how apprehensive you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1c")>>how thrilled you were to take this path with Oswin as your guide, to connect with him in a way you'd been missing out on. Only to have it ruined by the perils this trip has thrown you in.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1d")>>how panicked you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have only come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<else>>how unbothered you felt at the start of your journey, but then everything has gone to shit and pulled the rug out from under you, sending you into a spiral of fear you never expected.<</if>> Rune listens patiently as you confess <<if $goal is 'love'>>your aggravation that you will never find love and how your wish for your birthday was to find a rare and beautiful connection with another soul<<elseif $goal is 'friendship'>>your aggravation that you will never find the connections and friendships that your soul craves. That you will spend the final year of your life without having impacted those around you as if you never mattered to the world<<elseif $goal is 'craft'>>your frustration at never having another chance to pursue your passion, your craft. That your love <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>for lumber-work and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>for wood-working and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>for swordsmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>for bowmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>for helping and nurturing others will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>for trade and business will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>for food and meals that bring others together will die with you.<</if>><<elseif $goal is 'answers'>>your frustration that you will die before you ever get answers or before anyone ever takes responsibility for cursing you, that no one will be held accountable for tampering with your life<<elseif $goal is 'independence'>>your aggravation that you will never taste true independence. That you will meet the end of your days just as helpless as the day you were born.<</if>> You spill the venom within your heart, feeling sick with bitterness, all in the presence of a near stranger. Rune guides you with deep breaths to help you settle but does not chide you for the expression of your burdens. Your shoulder aches, but you haven't within yourself to care about the pain anymore. All you've had is pain, and you are so tired of it winning. You feel your blood begin to level out as your heart calms. Rune hands you a kerchief to dab the sweat from your brow that has accumulated Your voice is tight when you speak. "Th-thank you. I apologize for getting worked up…" "Don't apologize for that," Rune says. "You have been through a great deal of hardship and the path ahead is uncertain. It is okay to express yourself as long as you do not hurt yourself or another." You take another calming breath, feeling more relieved. "You're very kind," you mumble. Rune smiles, and it's then that you see a shine in $Rhisher eyes. "If you need a safe place to fall apart, I will be here for you." You nod. "Now, speaking of shoulders - we really should attend to yours more thoroughly and get your other wounds a jump on healing. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>I tended to the most dire tears and swelling as you slept, but most of my energy went to feeding your curse so it would cease the reaction with your body. I took an initial feel around with my magic and the tendons and muscles are badly damaged. Oswin did a wonderful job getting the joint back into place – had he not, it may have been too far gone to ever heal correctly.<<else>>I tended to the wound and was able to stymie the infection, which was severe and trying to spread rapidly. Had you not been treated by your companions, the infection would likely be bad enough that I do not know if even magic would save your arm. I was able to feel around the muscle a bit with my power and it may not surprise you that the damage is significant.<</if>>" "So, how does this work?" you ask. "After treating your curse, I am quite tired. I can still help you, so do not fear. The way I can heal you is by giving your body a push to heal itself much faster. This is best done over multiple days – I do not know how long it will take. I will need to pour magic into the wounded area at least once per day, but likely I will want to start by treating you three times. I do not have to touch you for this to work either if you are averse to it. You //will// be more tired than normal and more hungry. You have the use of my quarters for as long as you need. I would like you to stay in bed for at least two full days, after that I encourage you to move around and get the blood flowing. There's a market just down the road you could walk around in." You glance around at the most opulent inn lodgings that you've ever seen. "I don't have much gold…" Rune's eyes go a bit wide. "Everything I do, I do purely because I want to. I have no need of money. Anyway, I imagine you'd much like to clean up, so allow me a few minutes to begin your treatment. Once we are done, I will retire for a while and you will have use of the washroom. Your belongings are there and you are welcome to use or wear anything you find. I often receive gifts of clothing and have no desire for them." [[Rune wastes no time getting to work.|A5.9]]

Rune embraces you readily as if you have been friends for many years. You sob into $Rhisher shoulder as $Rheshe gently sways side to side while rubbing soothing circles in your back. Through tears and strained cries, you tell Rune that you are cursed by a god and dying. You tell of every hard-won breath and every trial from home to where you are today. Rune listens to every woe you bring $Rhimher, taking on all your frustrations from the curse to the treacherous path you took here. You cry of <<if hasVisited("3.1a")>>how you started this journey with a sense of excitement and adventure, which has only led you to disaster, crushing your hopes of what this path could bring.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1b")>>how apprehensive you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1c")>>how thrilled you were to take this path with Oswin as your guide, to connect with him in a way you'd been missing out on. Only to have it ruined by the perils this trip has thrown you in.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1d")>>how panicked you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have only come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<else>>how unbothered you felt at the start of your journey, but then everything has gone to shit and pulled the rug out from under you, sending you into a spiral of fear you never expected.<</if>> Rune listens patiently as you confess <<if $goal is 'love'>>your fear that you will never find love and how your wish for your birthday was to find a rare and beautiful connection with another soul<<elseif $goal is 'friendship'>>your fear of never finding the connections and friendships that your soul craves. That you will spend the final year of your life without having impacted those around you<<elseif $goal is 'craft'>>your dismay at never having another chance to pursue your passion, your craft. That your love <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>for lumber-work and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>for wood-working and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>for swordsmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>for bowmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>for helping and nurturing others will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>for trade and business will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>for food and meals that bring others together will die with you.<</if>><<elseif $goal is 'answers'>>your fear that you will die before you ever get answers or before anyone ever takes responsibility for cursing you<<elseif $goal is 'independence'>>your fear that you will never taste true independence. That you will meet the end of your days just as helpless as the day you were born.<</if>> You spill your heart and weep yourself nearly sick in the arms of a stranger. Rune hums you a song when you are finished speaking. $Rcapitalheshe does not hurry your tears, whispering apologies and encouragements as $Rheshe rubs your back. Your shoulder aches, but you haven't within yourself to care about the pain anymore. All you've had is pain, and you are so tired of it winning. When you pull yourself away from Rune, you feel that you must look like a mess. $Rcapitalheshe hands you a kerchief for you to dry your eyes and face. Once you feel more presentable, you sheepishly look back to Rune who gives you a gentle smile. Your voice is strained and nasally when you speak. "Th-thank you. I'm sorry I lost it…" "Don't apologize for that," Rune says. "You have been through a great deal of hardship and the path ahead is uncertain. It is okay to fall apart and express yourself." Another tear slips from your eye, but Rune's gentle hand sweeps it away. Your lip quivers slightly. "You're very kind," you mumble. Rune smiles, and it's then that you see a shine to $Rhisher own eyes. "If you need a safe place to fall apart, my shoulder is yours." You nod and swallow the lump in your throat. "Now, speaking of shoulders - we really should attend to yours more thoroughly and get your other wounds a jump on healing. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>I tended to the most dire tears and swelling as you slept, but most of my energy went to feeding your curse so it would cease the reaction with your body. I took an initial feel around with my magic and the tendons and muscles are badly damaged. Oswin did a wonderful job getting the joint back into place – had he not, it may have been too far gone to ever heal correctly.<<else>>I tended to the wound and was able to stymie the infection, which was severe and trying to spread rapidly. Had you not been treated by your companions, the infection would likely be bad enough that I do not know if even magic would save your arm. I was able to feel around the muscle a bit with my power and it may not surprise you that the damage is significant.<</if>>" "So, how does this work?" you ask. "After treating your curse, I am quite tired. I can still help you, so do not fear. The way I can heal you is by giving your body a push to heal itself much faster. This is best done over multiple days – I do not know how long it will take. I will need to pour magic into the wounded area at least once per day, but likely I will want to start by treating you three times. I do not have to touch you for this to work either if you are averse to it. You //will// be more tired than normal and more hungry. You have the use of my quarters for as long as you need. I would like you to stay in bed for at least two full days, after that I encourage you to move around and get the blood flowing. There's a market just down the road you could walk around in." You glance around at the most opulent inn lodgings that you've ever seen. "I don't have much gold…" Rune's eyes go a bit wide. "Everything I do, I do purely because I want to. I have no need of money. Anyway, I imagine you'd much like to clean up, so allow me a few minutes to begin your treatment. Once we are done, I will retire for a while and you will have use of the washroom. Your belongings are there and you are welcome to use or wear anything you find. I often receive gifts of clothing and have no desire for them." [[Rune wastes no time getting to work.|A5.9]]

Rune gives you space but stays near to show support as if you have been friends for many years. You sob into into your hands. Through tears and strained cries, you tell Rune that you are cursed by a god and dying. You tell of every hard-won breath and every trial from home to where you are today. Rune listens to every woe you bring $Rhimher, taking on all your frustrations from the curse to the treacherous path you took here. You cry of <<if hasVisited("3.1a")>>how you started this journey with a sense of excitement and adventure, which has only led you to disaster, crushing your hopes of what this path could bring.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1b")>>how apprehensive you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1c")>>how thrilled you were to take this path with Oswin as your guide, to connect with him in a way you'd been missing out on. Only to have it ruined by the perils this trip has thrown you in.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1d")>>how panicked you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have only come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<else>>how unbothered you felt at the start of your journey, but then everything has gone to shit and pulled the rug out from under you, sending you into a spiral of fear you never expected.<</if>> Rune listens patiently as you confess <<if $goal is 'love'>>your fear that you will never find love and how your wish for your birthday was to find a rare and beautiful connection with another soul<<elseif $goal is 'friendship'>>your fear of never finding the connections and friendships that your soul craves. That you will spend the final year of your life without having impacted those around you<<elseif $goal is 'craft'>>your dismay at never having another chance to pursue your passion, your craft. That your love <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>for lumber-work and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>for wood-working and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>for swordsmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>for bowmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>for helping and nurturing others will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>for trade and business will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>for food and meals that bring others together will die with you.<</if>><<elseif $goal is 'answers'>>your fear that you will die before you ever get answers or before anyone ever takes responsibility for cursing you<<elseif $goal is 'independence'>>your fear that you will never taste true independence. That you will meet the end of your days just as helpless as the day you were born.<</if>> You spill your heart and weep yourself nearly sick in the presence of a stranger. Rune hums you a song when you are finished speaking to bring you any comfort $Rheshe can. $Rcapitalheshe does not hurry your tears, whispering apologies and encouragements. Your shoulder aches, but you haven't within yourself to care about the pain anymore. All you've had is pain, and you are so tired of it winning. When you pull your hands away from your face, you feel that you must look like a mess. $Rcapitalheshe hands you a kerchief for you to dry your eyes and face. Once you feel more presentable, you sheepishly look back to Rune who gives you a gentle smile. Your voice is strained and nasally when you speak. "Th-thank you. I'm sorry I lost it…" "Don't apologize for that," Rune says. "You have been through a great deal of hardship and the path ahead is uncertain. It is okay to fall apart and express yourself." Another tear slips from your eye, and Rune mimics a calming breath for you to help guide yourself into settling. Your lip quivers slightly. "You're very kind," you mumble. Rune smiles, and it's then that you see a shine to $Rhisher own eyes. "If you need a safe place to fall apart, I will be here for you." You nod and swallow the lump in your throat. "Now, speaking of shoulders - we really should attend to yours more thoroughly and get your other wounds a jump on healing. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>I tended to the most dire tears and swelling as you slept, but most of my energy went to feeding your curse so it would cease the reaction with your body. I took an initial feel around with my magic and the tendons and muscles are badly damaged. Oswin did a wonderful job getting the joint back into place – had he not, it may have been too far gone to ever heal correctly.<<else>>I tended to the wound and was able to stymie the infection, which was severe and trying to spread rapidly. Had you not been treated by your companions, the infection would likely be bad enough that I do not know if even magic would save your arm. I was able to feel around the muscle a bit with my power and it may not surprise you that the damage is significant.<</if>>" "So, how does this work?" you ask. "After treating your curse, I am quite tired. I can still help you, so do not fear. The way I can heal you is by giving your body a push to heal itself much faster. This is best done over multiple days – I do not know how long it will take. I will need to pour magic into the wounded area at least once per day, but likely I will want to start by treating you three times. I do not have to touch you for this to work either if you are averse to it. You //will// be more tired than normal and more hungry. You have the use of my quarters for as long as you need. I would like you to stay in bed for at least two full days, after that I encourage you to move around and get the blood flowing. There's a market just down the road you could walk around in." You glance around at the most opulent inn lodgings that you've ever seen. "I don't have much gold…" Rune's eyes go a bit wide. "Everything I do, I do purely because I want to. I have no need of money. Anyway, I imagine you'd much like to clean up, so allow me a few minutes to begin your treatment. Once we are done, I will retire for a while and you will have use of the washroom. Your belongings are there and you are welcome to use or wear anything you find. I often receive gifts of clothing and have no desire for them." [[Rune wastes no time getting to work.|A5.9]]

Rune moves to stand next to the bed and folds $Rhisher hands politely. "As I said, I do not have to touch you for this to work. Some patients desire the contact as, for them, there is an element of comfort in being touched. The choice is yours. This first session will be shorter than the others simply because I am weary. I will help secure, mainly your shoulder, against pain. The ribs will take longer. You will feel better long enough for you to clean up, get a change of clothing, eat, and get back to bed. Tomorrow you will have three sessions with me, a bit less than an hour each – we'll do this for two days. Your job is to rest, eat, and drink – ''nothing'' more. You could feel any number of sensations, most feel nothing, but this will not hurt. Understood?" "Yes." You briefly wonder if you should address Rune as you would a guard captain. "Do you prefer touch or no?" Rune asks. [[You would find it more comforting to let Rune touch you.|A5.9a]] [[You do not want to be touched.|A5.9b]] $flirt_label [[You try to perturb Rune by making it weird as you agree to touch.|A5.9c]] $flirt_label [[You would find touch more comforting but are embarrassed to ask.|A5.9d]] $flirt_label [[You ask that Rune stands close to you instead.|A5.9e]]

<<set $cursefatigue to 'suppress'>> <<set $cursestress +=4>> Rune gives you $Rhisher full attention. You tamp down the rise of emotion you feel as you begin to tell your story. It makes you stop for a moment against your will and Rune gives you an odd look. You clear your throat a few times, shaking the feeling away as you launch into the details as minimally as you can. You tell Rune that you are cursed by a god and dying. Though $Rheshe is shocked at the revelation for a moment, $Rheshe does not interrupt you. You start from the beginning, trying to speak of being a very sick child without letting it throw you into a pit of emotion you do not want to be in right now. So, instead, you focus on the facts and the symptoms. You tell of the visit with the mage, Ansar, and all that he told you and of the plan to seek help from the nearest god you might find. You also tell of how your journey has been fraught with troubles as well, resulting in your injured shoulder. Rune listens with resolute patience, leaning forward and resting $Rhisher chin on $Rhisher hands, asking the occasional question for clarity. You notice little change in how $Rheshe reacts – except – for when Ansar's name is mentioned. For the briefest moment, you would swear, the bard almost winces. When you conclude your tale, Rune leans back, face twisted in thought. "I hate that you have had to go through this, $mc. The pressure you must feel is probably unreal. It would be understandable if you were not okay. I just want you to know that." Rune gives you a significant look. You just nod, though you feel your throat tighten. "Bottling your emotions only leads to bigger problems later." Rune levels you with a serious look. "...Something I know a great deal about. I advise that you seek some comfort where you can. Healthy ones – I am still a physician of sorts. Rely on those companions of yours." $Rcapitalheshe smirks. You manage a small smile as well. "Only Oswin knows the full extent of everything. He did not want to trust anyone else with all the information." Rune nods. "A wise choice. A curse means magic, and some out there would seek to use you for it, even if there was nothing to be tangibly gained. Magic hunters are a significant problem at times. As soon as the landslide occurred, several from the city set out to search for artifacts – none of them are very…//respectable// people. Fortunately, you came right to me. I will note that Duri'naan would be a safe one to tell. $Dcapitalheshe can't exactly help you break it, but $Dheshe won't try to use you for profit or anything. Zahn is a bit simple." Rune freezes for a moment. "Apologies, I don't mean that in an intellectual sense. I mean that $Zheshe just seems to be trying to get by. $Zcapitalheshe was fretting for your wellbeing a great deal and displayed no interests that would indicate selfish motives to me." You nod. Rune smiles warmly at you. "$mc, if you find that you need a safe place to…unravel, I will be here for you. There's no obligation to seek your other companions out, especially if it brings discomfort. But, you may have my shoulder to help you lift your burdens should you need it." You swallow the lump in your throat. "Now, speaking of shoulders - we really should attend to yours more thoroughly and get your other wounds a jump on healing. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>I tended to the most dire tears and swelling as you slept, but most of my energy went to feeding your curse so it would cease the reaction with your body. I took an initial feel around with my magic and the tendons and muscles are badly damaged. Oswin did a wonderful job getting the joint back into place – had he not, it may have been too far gone to ever heal correctly.<<else>>I tended to the wound and was able to stymie the infection, which was severe and trying to spread rapidly. Had you not been treated by your companions, the infection would likely be bad enough that I do not know if even magic would save your arm. I was able to feel around the muscle a bit with my power and it may not surprise you that the damage is significant.<</if>>" "So, how does this work?" you ask. "After treating your curse, I am quite tired. I can still help you, so do not fear. The way I can heal you is by giving your body a push to heal itself much faster. This is best done over multiple days – I do not know how long it will take. I will need to pour magic into the wounded area at least once per day, but likely I will want to start by treating you three times. I do not have to touch you for this to work either if you are averse to it. You //will// be more tired than normal and more hungry. You have the use of my quarters for as long as you need. I would like you to stay in bed for at least two full days, after that I encourage you to move around and get the blood flowing. There's a market just down the road you could walk around in." You glance around at the most opulent inn lodgings that you've ever seen. "I don't have much gold…" Rune's eyes go a bit wide. "Everything I do, I do purely because I want to. I have no need of money. Anyway, I imagine you'd much like to clean up, so allow me a few minutes to begin your treatment. Once we are done, I will retire for a while and you will have use of the washroom. Your belongings are there and you are welcome to use or wear anything you find. I often receive gifts of clothing and have no desire for them." [[Rune wastes no time getting to work.|A5.9]]

<<set $cursefatigue to 'reason'>> Rune gives you $Rhisher full attention. You begin to tell your story as clearly as you can. You tell Rune that you are cursed by a god and dying. Though $Rheshe is shocked at the revelation for a moment, $Rheshe does not interrupt you. You start from the beginning, trying to speak of being a very sick child and how the illness followed you into adulthood. You focus on the facts and the symptoms, mentioning the tea Lakota made you that seemed to help symptoms. You also tell of the visit with the mage, Ansar, and all that he told you and of the plan to seek help from the nearest god you might find. You also tell of how your journey has been fraught with its troubles as well, resulting in your injured shoulder. Rune listens with resolute patience, leaning forward and resting $Rhisher chin on $Rhisher hands, asking the occasional question for clarity. You notice little change in how $Rheshe reacts – except – for when Ansar's name is mentioned. For the briefest moment, you would swear, the bard almost winces. When you conclude your tale, Rune leans back, face twisted in thought. "I hate that you have had to go through this, $mc. It would be understandable if you were not okay. I just want you to know that." Rune gives you a significant look. You just nod. "Thank you, but I am doing okay right now." "I would advise that you maybe spend some time with your friends – confide in them – and do something you enjoy, healthy habits, of course." $Rcapitalheshe smirks. You managed a small smile as well. "Only Oswin knows the full extent of everything. He did not want to trust anyone else with all the information." Rune nods. "A wise choice. A curse means magic, and some out there would seek to use you for it, even if there was nothing to be tangibly gained. Magic hunters are a significant problem at times. As soon as the landslide occurred, several from the city set out to search for artifacts – none of them are very…//respectable// people. Fortunately, you came right to me. I will note that Duri'naan would be a safe one to tell. $Dcapitalheshe can't exactly help you break it, but $Dheshe won't try to use you for profit or anything. Zahn is a bit simple." Rune freezes for a moment. "Apologies, I don't mean that in an intellectual sense. I mean that $Zheshe just seems to be trying to get by. $Zcapitalheshe was fretting for your wellbeing a great deal and displayed no interests that would indicate selfish motives to me." You nod. Rune smiles warmly at you. "$mc, if you find that you need a safe place to…unravel, I will be here for you. There's no obligation to seek your other companions out, especially if it brings discomfort. But, you may have my shoulder to help you lift your burdens should you need it." "I appreciate the offer," you say, bowing your head politely. "Now, speaking of shoulders - we really should attend to yours more thoroughly and get your other wounds a jump on healing. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>I tended to the most dire tears and swelling as you slept, but most of my energy went to feeding your curse so it would cease the reaction with your body. I took an initial feel around with my magic and the tendons and muscles are badly damaged. Oswin did a wonderful job getting the joint back into place – had he not, it may have been too far gone to ever heal correctly.<<else>>I tended to the wound and was able to stymie the infection, which was severe and trying to spread rapidly. Had you not been treated by your companions, the infection would likely be bad enough that I do not know if even magic would save your arm. I was able to feel around the muscle a bit with my power and it may not surprise you that the damage is significant.<</if>>" "So, how does this work?" you ask. "After treating your curse, I am quite tired. I can still help you, so do not fear. The way I can heal you is by giving your body a push to heal itself much faster. This is best done over multiple days – I do not know how long it will take. I will need to pour magic into the wounded area at least once per day, but likely I will want to start by treating you three times. I do not have to touch you for this to work either if you are averse to it. You //will// be more tired than normal and more hungry. You have the use of my quarters for as long as you need. I would like you to stay in bed for at least two full days, after that I encourage you to move around and get the blood flowing. There's a market just down the road you could walk around in." You glance around at the most opulent inn lodgings that you've ever seen. "I don't have much gold…" Rune's eyes go a bit wide. "Everything I do, I do purely because I want to. I have no need of money. Anyway, I imagine you'd much like to clean up, so allow me a few minutes to begin your treatment. Once we are done, I will retire for a while and you will have use of the washroom. Your belongings are there and you are welcome to use or wear anything you find. I often receive gifts of clothing and have no desire for them." [[Rune wastes no time getting to work.|A5.9]]

You find yourself nodding. "I would find it comforting if you'd heal me with touch. If you don't mind." Rune smiles and sits on the edge of the bed. "I would be glad to." The mage raises a hand and very gingerly touches it to your left shoulder. [[Sure enough, you sense the magic course through you.|A5.10]]

You find yourself shaking your head. "If it's possible, I would prefer to not be touched during treatment." Rune smiles and pulls $Rhisher seat close to the bed. "Of course, I am pleased that I can accommodate your needs." The mage raises a hand with palm facing in the direction of your left shoulder. You get to see the purple swirls again emanating from Rune's palm. [[Sure enough, you sense the magic course through you.|A5.10]]

<<set $Rflirt +=3>> <<set $Rbold +=3>> You lean back in the bed, wincing slightly at the sudden pain it brings you. Giving Rune a coy smile, you say, "I'm happy to have you touch me wherever you'd like." Rune's expression doesn't falter, much to your chagrin. $Rcapitalheshe simply sits on the edge of the bed and reaches out for your shoulder. "Unfortunately, there's nothing I can do for your mental stability – you'll need another sort of doctor for that." "Shame," you say, trying to hide your smile. The mage raises a hand and very gingerly touches it to your left shoulder, and then places the opposite hand under your chin to raise your gaze to $Rhishers. "And here I thought you weren't going to be trouble…what a pleasant surprise." [[Sure enough, you sense the magic course through you.|A5.10]]

<<set $Rflirt +=3>> <<set $Rshy +=3>> You're about to request that Rune heal you with touch, but the words get caught in your throat. If it's not //required// part of you feels like you'd be putting Rune out by asking. Though, you feel drawn to the idea. It would be comforting…and Rune is…Rune is… "$mc?" Rune leans forward, getting close to your face. "Um…" Your face burns, and you accidentally look back at Rune's lips instead of $Rhisher eyes, making your heart thump. Those lips press into a charming smile. "You don't have to act cute around me, you know." Rune leans back to let you breathe. "Wha-what?" you stammer. "It is already plain to my eyes just how cute you are already. Did you know that your lips flush when you get embarrassed?" The heat turns into an inferno. Rune sits on the edge of the bed. "May I touch you, $mc?" You nod, looking down at your lap. The mage places one hand on the right side of your jaw and the other gingerly upon your wounded left shoulder. You lean into the hand upon your face, absorbing the sweet warmth from Rune's palm as $Rheshe begins the treatment. [[Sure enough, you sense the magic course through you.|A5.10]]

<<set $Rflirt +=3>> <<set $Rshy +=3>> <<set $Rbold +=3>> There's a simmer of heat in your cheeks as you find yourself shaking your head. "If it's possible, I would prefer to not be touched during treatment…but I would appreciate if you would stand close. If that's okay…" Rune smiles and pulls $Rhisher seat close to the bed, leaning forward on it slightly to keep a gap between you. "Of course, I am pleased that I can accommodate your needs." The mage raises a hand with palm facing in the direction of your left shoulder. You get to see the purple swirls again emanating from Rune's palm and the sweet glow of $Rhisher eyes. [[Sure enough, you sense the magic course through you.|A5.10]]

Before long, you are awash with feelings and sensations. It is almost overwhelming at first and you cannot pick apart one feeling from another. As Rune continues, bright purple eyes dart to yours and then back to the task at hand over and over. You can tell $Rheshe is checking on your reaction, making sure $Rheshe isn't doing more harm than good. As you pick apart the new sensations of being flooded by powerful magic, they become more recognizable. It isn't just a physical sensation, though there is a special warmth seeping into your core. The seconds tick by as your mind places all that you feel. And suddenly, it's like you //feel// every warm moment from your childhood all at the same time. Your memory is triggered and spins to show you the times for honey cakes and other sweet treats shared with your fathers. You remember Da sneaking up behind a knowing Papa for a surprise hug. And you recall the time you snuck out of bed, witnessing Papa chasing Da around the house, catching him only to sling him over his broad shoulders as he carted him off to their bedroom. You remember how your fathers laughed. They always found a way to laugh. Purple eyes lock onto yours. Rune's magic feels like…when your da slowly fed you broth while you were sick, how every cut, bruise, and burn was soothed with kisses and balm, or how Papa would tear up if he had to reprimand you. Rune's magic feels like…sweet nostalgia, warm memories, and the type of unconditional love only shared between you and your parents... [[A torrent of tears spills from your eyes as you bawl.|A5.10a]] [[You barely contain your emotions.|A5.10b]] [[Joyful laughter sprouts from your soul.|A5.10c]]

<<if hasVisited("A5.8b")>>You did not know that you had any more tears to cry. Though you have calmed from the first outburst of emotion, another takes over. <</if>><<if hasVisited("B5.11b")>>You did not know that you had any more tears to cry. Though you have calmed from the first outburst of emotion, another takes over. <</if>>Thoughts and memories of your parents fill your mind. Tenderness and warmth are welling within, but also an undercurrent of pressure – the need to succeed so you can return home to your fathers. To ensure that your path doesn't end with their sorrow. Tears roll down your face as you stare into Rune's eyes. Rune smiles kindly at you. "It seems you can sense and feel magic after all…pretty well I take it. You'll get used to it, I promise. I apologize for making you upset, it won't always be like this." You shake your head and heave a shaky breath. "It's not all bad," you mumble. $Rcapitalheshe grimaces. "You're in tears because of me…" "But…it feels like…I don't know how to describe it." You sniff. "It reminds me of my parents, how they took care of me when I was sick…how they always have made our home so…warm." "Really?" Rune's purple eyes are wide. Another sob bubbles out of you, even though you smile just a bit. Your vision is blurred with tears. "Yes…it feels like being a child again…. Like how when you're a kid, and you just know your parents can handle your troubles. How you don't quite understand the world, and you don't know any better…but it's okay." Rune's lips part slightly as $Rheshe looks back at you, but doesn't say anything. You don't push further as waves of emotion continue to crash over you. Throughout the treatment, you feel the pain in your shoulder and back reduce, but more tears come and go. Once Rune is done, still oddly silent, $Rheshe directs you to a washroom behind a door tucked in the corner of the room, telling you the water should be warm in the tub. You thank Rune as $Rheshe hurries away to go and rest. [[Finally, it's time for a good bath.|A5.11]]

A lot stirs within you, but you manage to keep your peace. You concentrate on the feeling to try and understand it and absorb it. You know it's just the magic and it is a fleeting thing that will stop soon. Rune watches you closely. "Are you okay?" $Rheshe asks. You nod. "Yes, the feeling is a little strange, but I'm managing." The mage nods. "You likely have a decent sensitivity to magic then. For some, it feels like a burn or a tingle. Most won't sense much more than that. Does it tickle or anything? Sometimes I can adjust the sensation by focusing if it's creating discomfort." You shake your head. "It's…not completely a physical feeling." "Really? That's peculiar. How so?" You focus, picking through the memories and that nostalgic pull that the magic is welling within you. "It reminds me of my parents, how they took care of me when I was sick…how they always have made our home so…whole." "Really?" Rune's eyes are wide. You mull it over, confirming the connection. "Yes…it almost feels like being a child again…. Like how when you're a kid, and you just know your parents can handle your troubles. How you don't quite understand the world, and you don't know any better…but it's okay." You shrug. Rune's lips part slightly as $Rheshe looks back at you, but doesn't say anything. You don't push further as waves of feelings continue to crash over you. Throughout the treatment, you feel the pain in your shoulder and back reduce. Once Rune is done, still oddly silent, $Rheshe directs you to a washroom behind a door tucked in the corner of the room, telling you the water should be warm in the tub. You thank Rune as $Rheshe hurries away to go and rest. [[Finally, it's time for a good bath.|A5.11]]

Thoughts and memories of your parents fill your mind. Tenderness and warmth are welling within, but also an undercurrent of joy and determination – the motivation to succeed so you can return home to your fathers. To ensure that your path ends with smiles and laughter. An uncontrollable smile plasters on your face and you bubble with laughter. Rune smiles back at you. "It seems you can sense and feel magic after all…pretty well I take it. You'll get used to it, I promise. I apologize if it becomes distressing." You shake your head and suck in a deep breath as you pitch forward giggling. "It's not bad at all." $Rcapitalheshe grimaces. "I'm glad you're laughing, but isn't it upsetting not being in control of your emotions?" "But…it feels like…I don't know how to describe it." You snort, eyes damp with happy tears. "It reminds me of my parents, how they took care of me when I was sick…how they always have made our home so…joyful." "Really?" Rune's purple eyes are wide. Another cackle bubbles out of you. "Yes! It feels like being a kid again…. Like how when you're small, and you just know your parents can handle your troubles. How you don't quite understand the world, and you don't know any better…but it's okay. Like nothing bad can happen." You smile wide at the mage. Rune's lips part slightly as $Rheshe looks back at you, but doesn't say anything. You don't push further as waves of emotion continue to crash over you. Throughout the treatment, you feel the pain in your shoulder and back reduce, and your laughter comes and goes. Once Rune is done, still oddly silent, $Rheshe directs you to a washroom behind a door tucked in the corner of the room, telling you the water should be warm in the tub. You thank Rune as $Rheshe hurries away to go and rest. [[Finally, it's time for a good bath.|A5.11]]

You are in awe as you walk with your own power to the washroom. If you bend or move too quickly, you feel weakness and pain in your muscles, but you feel relatively normal. Though true to what Rune said, you also feel quite tired and the creeping sensation of hunger is upon you. The washroom is a small paradise. It's a simple room with a narrow window high on the wall to give privacy but still ventilate and bring light into the room. A big round tub is in the center of the room, full of water with steam coming from the top. As you study it, you realize the stone platform it sits on must conceal how the water is heated and drained as it protects the tub. Your da would love this. Plants are all over the room, with vines hanging and crawling along the ceiling and walls. There's a tall mirror next to a vanity and a large armoire. On the vanity sits a neatly folded towel with a basket of soaps and scented oils. You gently disrobe, realizing your clothing is ruined – filthy and in tatters. You cough – you don't smell great either. You can't help but wonder what Rune may have thought. $Rcapitalheshe seems so put together, like someone who appreciates cleanliness…$Rheshe didn't even seem uncomfortable with your appearance, let alone how you smell like a dog dipped in stagnant water, no offense to Duri. <<if hasVisited("A5.8b1")>>You grumble with embarrassment. You threw yourself into Rune's arms without another thought earlier. But…Rune held you without hesitation. It didn't matter how dirty you were…<</if>> You glance at the mirror when your clothing is off and freeze. You look as rough as you smell. The skin on your sides is painted with purple bruises. Small lesions decorate you all over, and your hair looks…//rough//. Your right hip also has a massive bruise on it. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>Your shoulder is the worst of all. It is no fewer than six shades of purple, ranging from near-black to a lovely sunset-fuchsia – encompassed in pockets of angry red.<<else>>Your shoulder is the worst of all. It is still covered by a bandage that you begin carefully removing to bathe, but you can see how red and bruised the flesh is. You see stitches as you gingerly remove the covering, hissing at the slight pain. Though it is better than expected, you know it will leave an incredible scar.<</if>><<if $strangled is true>> The bruise around your throat is daunting. It will be obvious to anyone who sees it that you were strangled. It's an uncomfortable reminder of what you just went through, and you'd much rather forget it.<</if>><<if $ch5Broute is true>> Suddenly, you also realize that not all of this blood is yours…You get flashes of the angry face of the large bandit, wearing your cloak, who attacked you. And that final image of him being pierced by a crossbow bolt haunts you. His warm blood splattered across your skin and clothes. You'd rather not experience that again, you didn't have time to process what you saw in the moment, and maybe you don't want to. You recall the person up on the hill who came to your rescue. You didn't get a good look at their face as they had a hood and perhaps even a mask on. You do vividly recall their unique cloak though. Perhaps you will see them again…<</if>> [[But cuts, bruises and blood aren't the only things you notice about yourself…|A5.12]]

This is the first time since your journey began that you have been able to look in a mirror. The toll the road has taken on you is evident. Select one or more: <<checkbox "$ashyskin" false true autocheck>> Your skin has become ashen. <<checkbox "$weightloss" false true autocheck>> You've clearly lost a significant amount of weight and muscle. <<checkbox "$darkcircles" false true autocheck>> You have deep dark shadows under your eyes. [[You sigh.|A5.13]]

<<if $ashyskin is true>>You look ill. Technically, you suppose, you //are// ill, but the sickly tone of your skin is a beacon of distress.<</if>><<if $weightloss is true>>Gauntness has stricken your face most of all. Your jawline pokes through more than it did before, and your collarbone protrudes further. <<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>>The change is a shock compared to your usual sturdy build, the changes standing out more.<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>>The change is a bit of a shock compared to your usual athletic physique, the difference makes you like you are not even looking at your own reflection.<<elseif $bodytype is 'curvy'>>The change is a shock compared to your usual curvy build, the changes standing out in an uncomfortable way.<<elseif $bodytype is 'toned and lean'>>Your figure was already lean, but the changes you see are beginning to make you look fragile.<<elseif $bodytype is 'slender'>>Your figure was already slender, but the changes you see are beginning to make you look even more fragile, your ribs much more visible than they should be.<<elseif $bodytype is 'voluptuous'>>The change is a shock compared to your usual voluptuous build, they stand out so much that you almost cannot believe this is your own reflection.<</if>><</if>><<if $darkcircles is true>>The deep bags under your eyes make you appear not only tired but stricken with stress. There's a far-away look in them, haunted and sad.<</if>> You hope that with your rest and recovery here at the inn with Rune, you will return to your normal self. You'd hate to see how upset your fathers might be if they saw you like this – broken up and bruised. What are you going to tell them? <<if $ch3letter is 'everything'>>The letter that Nathanael took to your fathers contained all the details from earlier in your journey at least. You imagine they may be prepared for you to look a little different. Though…maybe not quite this different.<<elseif $ch3letter is 'summary'>>The letter that Nathanael took to your fathers did not contain all the details from earlier in your journey. You imagine they may be a bit prepared for you to look a bit different. Though…maybe not quite this different.<<else>>The letter that Nathanael took to your fathers contained few of the more harrowing details of your journey. You imagine it may be a surprise if you show up looking so different. As long as you have put their minds at ease while you are gone, that is what matters. They will be happy to have you back even if you look a bit different. A part of you feels that it was best to put their minds at ease while you're away and it's better to deal with the truth once you return.<</if>> Besides, Rune is a capable healer, you feel confident that your condition will improve while you're here. And…you're at least safe from harm within city walls. Just as you begin to turn from the mirror, something else catches your attention. You stare a little longer, scanning your reflection yet again. Something else is different, but it's almost as if your mind can't or won't comprehend what it is. You are about to give up when you finally realize – the mark has //grown//. You nearly didn't notice at all, but it's so obvious now that you do. <<if $mark is 'tree'>>The tree is bigger in size. The branches sprawl further and the roots dig deeper.<<elseif $mark is 'sun'>>The sun is definitely larger and more radiant, the celestial orbs that surround it have moved further out to give it space.<<elseif $mark is 'storm'>>The dark symbol, the storm as you think of it, is not just larger. New smaller marks have appeared around it. Dots both solid and hollow, strange lines, zigzags, and even triangles have appeared in its vicinity.<<elseif $mark is 'plants'>>The vines have overgrown the strange symbol. The outline of a couple of flowers has appeared, and the thorny vines are spreading up your chest and down below your navel.<<elseif $mark is 'night'>>The symbol itself is larger, but the most notable change is that you are now freckled with additional small marks – little stars painting constellations on your abdomen.<<elseif $mark is 'mountain'>>The symbol is //much// larger, reaching your chest and below your navel. The sphere above what you perceive as a great mountain has developed many lines around it, giving it a radiant look.<</if>> You sigh and think of what Rune has told you. You wonder if it might be time to speak with everyone about this curse and see if they could help you. Right now, you need to push it from your mind. You are too exhausted to spend any more energy dwelling on it. [[You'll start your recovery with a nice bath.|5.14]]

You bathe. You eat. You sleep. Rune visits as promised for your magical healing treatments over your two required days of rest. $Rcapitalheshe brings $Rhisher lyre, playing you music for some of the visits, and you learn that Rune can lace $Rhisher magic with sound. It adds some entertainment to an otherwise mundane process. The emotions evoked by Rune's magic perplex you, though you often drift off to sleep before you can dwell much on it. On the first day you ask to see your friends, but quickly find that once you have eaten, you are asleep before you can even clear your dishes. Rune wakes you for each of $Rhisher visits, always with a large meal in hand. $Rcapitalheshe prepares and offers you several loaves of fresh bread with butter, heaps of cooked vegetables, large potatoes, roast and pheasant. $Rcapitalheshe tells you to eat your fill each time that none will go to waste if you cannot finish it. It seems like too much food for one person in one day, but somehow you actually finish. By the next treatment, you are famished again. The same occurs on the second day. Rune treats you and chats a while, telling you about your friends and how they fair, giving you a feast, and playing you music. And then you sleep – or rather – you pass out until your next visit. When you awake on the third day, you visit the washroom and find that your wounds have healed considerably. The cuts have knit together, bruises appear weeks older than they should, and your shoulder gives much less pain than it should for how damaged it was. You've never seen anything like this before. Rune has prompted several days of recovery in just two. [[When you exit the bathroom, you notice a letter on the foot of your bed.|5.15]]

The next few hours progress much the same. The others bicker off and on, but on occasion, everyone shares a friendly chat. <<if $Oride4 is true>>Oswin remains a mostly-stoic presence with you, checking in frequently to make sure you are comfortable and not in need of anything.<<elseif $Zride4 is true>>Zahn happily chatters at you, recounting all of the beautiful things $Zheshe found at the shrine.<<elseif $Dride4 is true>>Duri is surprisingly quieter than you expected. Though, $Dheshe listens closely to the others, occasionally mumbling commentary to you when $Dheshe is amused.<</if>> When you finally begin pulling away from the forest proper, the trees thin considerably, and a hilly expanse appears before you. A weight settles in your gut the further you crest into a rolling plain, and you shift uncomfortably, feeling unbalanced. <<if $Oride4 is true>>Oswin immediately detects your discomfort and checks in with you, but you barely have a moment to respond before the feeling suddenly seems to release you. You shake it off as you feel completely normal again. Though you relay this to Oswin, you notice that he starts watching you even more closely.<<elseif $Zride4 is true>>Zahn steadies you and asks you in a whisper if you are okay. Duri notices and looks at you but Oswin doesn't seem to detect anything. You barely have a moment to respond before the feeling suddenly seems to release you and you feel normal again. Zahn attributes it to one of the magical things you recently ingested, giggling about 'magical indigestion.'<<elseif $Dride4 is true>>Duri stops and checks on you right away. By the time you try to articulate what you're feeling, the sensation suddenly vanishes. It happens so quickly that your body jerks as if you've been knocked off balance. You shake it off, but Duri seems to hold on to you a little tighter afterward.<</if>> After more time passes, you nearly forget about the strange feeling. It never returns and you continue to feel well. Before long the city is within view, albeit, still quite a ways away and only in sight when you crest atop the hills in the road. As you traverse a valley in the road, where it appears the builders bore through a very large hill instead of over it, the air seems to shift. The hill has been essentially divided into two – each peak towering over both sides of the road The wind is blocked, creating a quiet pocket. At the same time, both Duri and Oswin speak. [["''Be on your guard.''"|B5.2]]

Zahn grabs $Zhisher bow, and Oswin dismounts from Flit to draw his sword. You notice that Duri's fingernails morph into short black claws. With your good arm you grab <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>your axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>you knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>your own sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>a spare knife since you won't be able to wield a bow<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>your knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>your knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>one of your knives<</if>>. <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>$mountname's ears begin to twitch around wildly.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>$mountname's ears go flat against his head.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>$mountname appears calm despite the tension between you and your comrades.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>$mountname's ears go straight up and her lips curl back to show her teeth.<</if>> <<if $Oride4 is true>>You're in control of Flit who appears unbothered. Duri seems to have $Dhisher nose up, looking frustrated.<<elseif $Zride4 is true>>You notice Flit appears at ease, staying behind Oswin, waiting for a command. Zahn looks around, keeping one hand primed to nock an arrow. Duri seems to have $Dhisher nose up, looking frustrated.<<elseif $Dride4 is true>>Duri sniffs the air and makes a frustrated grunt. You notice that Flit seems at ease, staying behind Oswin, waiting for a command. And Zahn seems ready to load $Zhisher bow at a moment's notice.<</if>> As you creep further through the valley, nothing seems to stir. You hear nothing and it seems that Duri smells nothing either. Your stomach drops as you hear something behind you. Everyone whirls around as two people approach, each with a dog at their side. "What do we have here!" A voice calls out from above. You look at either side of the hilltop above and see more people appearing, some sliding down the hill towards the road, and others with bows trained on your group. Another cluster of strangers begins to approach from the other side of the road with more dogs in tow. [[You're surrounded.|B5.3]]

<<if $Oride4 is true>>Oswin motions for you to dismount and stay close to him. You manage to support yourself with your good arm as you slide off the saddle. Flit stays calm, watching Oswin for queues.<<elseif $Zride4 is true>>Zhan helps you dismount, murmuring for you to stay close to Oswin.<<elseif $Dride4 is true>>Duri sets you down, mumbling a request for you to stay close to $Dhimher or Oswin.<</if>> <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>Your mount appears nervous, her ears twitching back and forth and eyes going wider.<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>Your mount appears agitated, ears still flat against his head.<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>Your mount stays as calm as Flit, paying attention, but otherwise nonplussed.<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>Your mule looks as if she is ready to dismember and eat any one of these strangers that would dare touch her or you.<</if>> The stranger that spoke before gets near as their group closes in around you, save for two archers at the hilltops. Standing mostly average in height, they're dressed in mismatched armor, both metal and leather, covering a roughspun tunic and breeches. Long ginger hair flows from their head and piercing amber eyes glare at you with poorly-veiled disgust. They bow. "Hello, my new friends! You may refer to me as Jasper. This is my crew, their names are much less important than my own." They smile back at the others who roll their eyes and sneer back. "You're all just in time too, I'm very cross right now as well as empty-handed." Oswin squares his shoulders. "I recommend you cease your prattle and make way. Find your jollies elsewhere, we have nothing of value." Suddenly, you are struck with the memory of your da's ring buried deeply in your pack. Perhaps it could get you and your group out of this…or make the situation much worse depending on what the ring actually means to others. Jasper places their hands on their hips and looks each of you over. "I wouldn't say that." Their eyes come back to meet yours and then linger. Oswin bristles and steps forward, making all of the bandits tense. The dogs bark and snarl, save for one that stays eerily still next to Jasper, also with dark eyes right on you. Jasper raises their hands in a placating gesture. "Now, now – you're very valiant and all, but you're also very outnumbered. And <<if $height is 'verytall'>>your //very// tall friend there is making my heart go pitter-patter<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>your tall friend there is making my heart go pitter-patter<<else>>your little friend there is making my heart go pitter-patter<</if>>. Seems a small price to pay for everyone else's freedom. Poor thing is looking a bit rough anyway…" Duri snorts a laugh and then looks at you. "At least they know value when they see it, right? They try it and I'll kill them myself." You don't miss the way $Dhisher lips curl back in a cruel smile. Another voice calls from behind. "What if we want the little bowmaster, Jas!" You look back to see the bandits chuckling and leering at Zahn – and you also realize with a start that one of them is wearing your tattered cloak that was lost to the landslide. He spots you staring and throws you an ugly grin complete with missing teeth before stretching his tongue out to wet his lips obscenely. It takes all you have not to retch. Jasper paces in front of your group. "Now, our day didn't go so well, and see, if I have nothing to show for it – I'll be very cross for a while. My people don't like that. So, I want your mounts and all your belongings in exchange for your freedom…and you know, I'll make you a deal, we'll take //either// the cute thing with the bow ''or'' the bedraggled cat holding the <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knife<</if>>. They look directly at you, leaving no room for doubt. Zahn seems upset, looking back at you. $Zcapitalhisher hands are shaky. Oswin remains posturing in front of Jasper, unmoved by the request. You see his eyes flitting about, studying each one of your aggressors. Duri finally balks. "Why don't you want me!?" $Dcapitalheshe gestures up and down $Dhisher body. "I'm //very// pretty!" The bandits chuckle, and a couple whistle. Jasper looks Duri up and down and waves $Dhimher away with a hand. "Your feet are filthy." Duri growls. "Now I really am going to fucking kill you." Jasper seems taken aback at the threat for a moment before looking around at their band of henchmen. "Again, I remind you – outnumbered." They smile. You look around, doing a brief count. You think there are nearly a dozen people including the archers above and five dogs. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You're not as formally trained in combat as the others, but your raw strength can't be ignored. Still, there are three bandits to any one of your group plus the snapping jaws of their companions. And even if you feel better, you are still impaired by your injuries<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You're not as formally trained in combat as the others, but your raw strength can't be ignored. Still, there are three bandits to any one of your group plus the snapping jaws of their companions. And even if you feel better, you are still impaired by your injuries<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Your formal combat training absolutely cannot be ignored, but there are three bandits to any one of your group plus the snapping jaws of their companions. And even if you feel better, you are still impaired by your injuries<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Your formal combat training absolutely cannot be ignored even if you can't use your bow, but there's three bandits to any one of your group plus the snapping jaws of their companions. And even if you feel better, you are still impaired by your injuries<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You have very little formal combat training. Your da taught you basic maneuvers, but you have spent most of your life healing injuries, not causing them. Even with what little you can add to a fight, there are three bandits to any one of your group plus the snapping jaws of their companions. And even if you feel better, you are still impaired by your injuries<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>You have little formal combat training. Your da taught you basic maneuvers, but you have spent most of your life in books and bartering. Even with what little you can add to a fight, there are three bandits to any one of your group plus the snapping jaws of their companions. And even if you feel better, you are still impaired by your injuries<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You have little formal combat training, but your raw strength is nothing that could be mocked. Your da taught you basic maneuvers, and you have spent most of your life kneading bread and wrestling enough meat and vegetables to feed armies. You're not sure what you could add to a fight like this, but there are three bandits to any one of your group plus the snapping jaws of their companions. And even if you feel better, you are still impaired by your injuries<</if>>. Duri chuckles, and you feel $Dheshe is intent on raising the ire of the bandits. "Perhaps we can level the playing field a bit, eh?" $Dcapitalheshe looks at Oswin who gives $Dhimher a nod. [[And then Duri's eyes glow.|B5.4]]

In a split moment, most of the dogs turn, attacking their masters. They call out in surprise and pain, confusion rippling through them and breaking down their ranks with chaos. Everything else happens in a blur. Zahn draws suddenly, firing off two shots so quickly that you didn't even notice $Zhimher reloading after the first. One archer goes down immediately, and the other is knocked off the hill and sent tumbling. Zahn spurs your mount <<if $mount is 'chessy'>>who responds in a panic, bolting forward with a screech<<elseif $mount is 'eb'>>who responds readily, charging with force like a trained destrier<<elseif $mount is 'bay'>>who responds obediently allowing Zahn full trust and control<<elseif $mount is 'mule'>>who ignores the direction and bounds towards one of the bandits with mouth open to bite<</if>>. Jasper draws a sword and immediately makes for you, giving you the feeling that they want a hostage rather than a fight. Oswin intercepts easily and the two begin a deft dance with their swords. The chaos of the dogs continues. The only two that resisted Duri's call fight with the other dogs as the bandits try to shake off yet another themselves. Duri rushes a group of three, throwing quick punches and taking deadly swipes with $Dhisher claws with no regard for dodging or blocking the strikes from fists and clubs aimed at $Dhimher. A bandit rushes you, an arrow slicing through their leg and sending them down before you can respond. You… [[fight.|B5.4a]] [[can't do this and scramble away to safety.|B5.4b]] [[panic and freeze in place.|B5.4c]]

You clutch your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knife<</if>> in your right hand and move into the fray. Oswin barks at you to stay back, though he has his hands full with Jasper and two other swordsmen. Zahn flits through your line of sight for a moment, struggling with a pair of bandits trying to dismount $Zhimher. You're on your own. And trouble finds you. The large man wearing your cloak takes the opportunity to rush you, wielding a heavy club with nails driven through one side. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>He's very nearly as tall as you and thick in the shoulders and gut.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>He's a little taller than you and thick in the shoulders and gut.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>He's a great deal taller than you and thick in the shoulders and gut.<<else>>He's massive compared to you, towering over you and being thick in the body as well.<</if>> You brace yourself, clutching your weapon as he gives you a gross smile. "Saw you eyein' me, pup," he croaks. "Lucky for you, I like lookin' at you too. So, I'll do ya's a favor and only hit you with the blunt side so yous can meet the parents later, yeah?" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Your face twists in disgust. "No thanks. I'll take the sharp side if you will."<<else>>You resist expressing your disgust and twist your face into one of faux pity. "Awe, is that why your face is all…you know – blech?"<</if>> "Tell me, can ya's actually wield that little toy ya's got?" He smiles at you, showing off his disgusting teeth again. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You twirl your axe, its weight a familiar friend. "I've never used this to cut a man down before…I imagine you're a bit squishier than a tree…. Can't say that it will be that hard." You shrug as he glares back at you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You grip the knife in your hand. It's a tool that you don't normally use, though blades are not foreign either. "This will be a new experience for me, in truth…but I like my odds, I've always been good with sharp things." You shrug as he glares back at you.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You twirl your sword, its weight a familiar friend. "If you knew who trained me, you'd have already run away. Perhaps this //pup// can show you what wisdom truly means." You smile as he glares back at you.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You twirl your knife, though not your preference in a weapon, it is still familiar. "If you knew who trained me, you'd have already run away. Perhaps this //pup// can show you what wisdom truly means." You smile as he glares back at you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You grip your knife tightly. "I pledge my life to caring for others. I don't take this lightly, and you're forcing my hand. Know that if I hurt you, I will not aid you." You nod as he glares back at you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>You grip your knife tightly. "Usually I cut deals rather than people…but you're sort of forcing my hand here." You shrug as he glares at you.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You flip your knife and catch it by the handle, the familiar weight brings a sure smile to your face. "Have ''you'' ever beaten two dozen egg whites into stiff peaks, kneaded bread dough enough for 100 people, or whipped an entire bucket of cream? …No? Well, I'm about to ruin your whole damn day." He only glares at you.<</if>> You both brace and watch each other for the first move. He sneers, taking a swing at you that you easily dodge. "What a mouth you have. But don't fret, I can still teach ya's manners. You'll be a good pup for me – I won't even share you." You feint to one side and swing your blade up, nicking him in the forearm before he can back away fast enough. Blood bubbles up, but the cut isn't deep enough to make him back down. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"No thank you. Though, you can keep the cloak in remembrance of me – I doubt I would ever get the smell out anyway." You give him a polite smile as you take another jab with your blade<<else>>"I don't think so, you got my cloak already, that's all that will be keeping you company. And that's only if you survive." You glower at him as you take another jab with your blade<</if>> managing a good slice along the same arm before he knocks you back with his club. He looks angry now and surprised that you're not submitting to him. With a roar, he raises his club and charges you. He's inelegant and untrained, relying completely on his great size rather than any skillset. You dodge and parry, managing to cut into your attacker a few times with only getting a graze from his club in return. Though unskilled, he keeps you on your toes and leaves you no room for checking how the others are fairing. Oswin calls out to you to run several times, but you ignore him. You have made your choice and you are not going to back down while everyone else tries to fight. Though you have no time to look, you can at least hear the voices of your friends as they battle, bolstering your resolve. Suddenly, the bandit switches tactics and charges at full speed right into you. You can't respond in time, and your weapon is knocked from your hand as you topple to the ground. It happens so fast. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Both of you throw punches. He tries to slam your head into the hard ground, looking desperate to knock you out, but he fails over and over again. Pain ripples through your ribs and wounded shoulder, but your drive to live pushes you forward in the fight. You manage to knee him in the gut and gain some room to move – shoving him off and onto his back. You straddle his chest and begin to pummel him until your hand goes numb and he falls unconscious.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Both of you throw punches. He tries to slam your head into the hard ground, looking desperate to knock you out, but he fails over and over again. Pain ripples through your ribs and wounded shoulder, but your drive to live pushes you forward in the fight. You manage to knee him in the gut and gain some room to move – shoving him off and onto his back. You straddle his chest and begin to pummel him until your hand goes numb and he falls unconscious.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Both of you throw punches. He tries to slam your head into the hard ground, looking desperate to knock you out, but he fails over and over again. Pain ripples through your ribs and wounded shoulder, but your drive to live pushes you forward in the fight. You manage to knee him in the gut and gain some room to move – shoving him off and onto his back. You straddle his chest and begin to pummel him until your hand goes numb and he falls unconscious.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Both of you throw punches. He tries to slam your head into the hard ground, looking desperate to knock you out, but he fails over and over again. Pain ripples through your ribs and wounded shoulder, but your drive to live pushes you forward in the fight. You manage to knee him in the gut and gain some room to move – shoving him off and onto his back. You straddle his chest and begin to pummel him until your hand goes numb and he falls unconscious.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>His hands are around your throat in an instant. You hit out against him, managing to land a few solid punches into his face and chest, but you are not strong enough to change the tide of the fight. He lifts you by the neck only to slam you back down so your head smacks the road. Your vision swims and your breath draws short. You begin to flail as he does it again. Panic sets in and tears prick your eyes. You try kicking, weakly beaming him between the legs, but it isn't enough to get him to stop.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>His hands are around your throat in an instant. You hit out against him, managing to land a few solid punches into his face and chest, but you are not strong enough to change the tide of the fight. He lifts you by the neck only to slam you back down so your head smacks the road. Your vision swims and your breath draws short. You begin to flail as he does it again. Panic sets in and tears prick your eyes. You try kicking, weakly beaming him between the legs, but it isn't enough to get him to stop.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Both of you throw punches. He tries to slam your head into the hard ground, looking desperate to knock you out, but he fails over and over again. Pain ripples through your ribs and wounded shoulder, but your drive to live pushes you forward in the fight. You manage to knee him in the gut and gain some room to move – shoving him off and onto his back. You straddle his chest and begin to pummel him until your hand goes numb and he falls unconscious.<</if>> <<if $interest is 'tradin'>>You're vaguely aware of the yelling around you and the sound of metal on metal. Your attacker is chuckling, even cooing at you as consciousness slips away. [[Will anyone be able to help you before it's too late.|B5.4a1]] <<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You're vaguely aware of the yelling around you and the sound of metal on metal. Your attacker is chuckling, even cooing at you as consciousness slips away. [[Will anyone be able to help you before it's too late.|B5.4a1]] <<else>>With your aggressor out of the fight, you rise back to your feet, panting for air. Your legs feel jittery and your wounds old and new throb. You are lucky that no more than the one bandit came at you, though he may have been the biggest of the bunch. You notice your mount running loose, and glimpse Zahn fighting a bandit, each holding a dagger. Oswin still battles with Jasper who is looking worn down but isn't giving up. Many of the bandits lay on the ground unmoving, and you catch sight of two running back towards the forest, and Duri is picking off the stragglers. Out of a dozen or so bandits, it appears you've managed to be victorious. [[A growl interrupts your thoughts.|B5.5]] <</if>>

Oswin calls for you to run, so you do. You clutch your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<else>>knife<</if>> in your right hand as you bolt to the safety of the trees. But trouble follows you. The large man wearing your cloak takes the opportunity to rush you, wielding a heavy club with nails driven through one side. He's hot on your heels, fast for his size. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>He's very nearly as tall as you and thick in the shoulders and gut.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>He's a little taller than you and thick in the shoulders and gut.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>He's a great deal taller than you and thick in the shoulders and gut.<<else>>He's massive compared to you, towering over you and being thick in the body as well.<</if>> You run hard, fighting against the lingering soreness in your body. The brute manages to catch you by your clothes and drag you back with a swift tug. You flail, calling out as the man grabs your throat and pins you to his chest with one hand as the other drops his club in favor of controlling your arm with the weapon, forcing you to drop it. "Saw you eyein' me, pup," he croaks into your ear. "Lucky for you, I like lookin' at you too. So, I'll do ya's a favor, and if yer a good pup, yous can meet the parents later, yeah?" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Your face twists in disgust. "No thanks. I'd rather you just brain me and leave my body on the roadside."<<else>>You resist expressing your disgust and fake a tone of pity. "Awe, do you think someone like me can get your parents to love you?"<</if>> <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>You have to bite your tongue from drawing more ire from the bandit.<<else>>You have no idea where that came from, and you don't want to make this man even angrier while he has you by the throat.<</if>> He jerks you closer to him, placing his gross maw close to your ear. "You've got a mouth on you then. Don't fret, I can teach ya's manners. You'll be a good little pup for me – I won't even share you." You must think fast. The bandit begins to drag you away towards the forest. <<if $interest is 'swordin'>>You remember your training, thinking of the swiftest way to get out of his grip.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You remember your training, thinking of the swiftest way to get out of his grip.<<else>>You think back to some of the lessons your da taught you when you were younger.<</if>> This man is an oaf, the easiest way out of this is to trip him up. You steel yourself and the moment you sense his left foot step down, you ram the heel of your boot right into the top of his foot, you feel the snap of bones even through your boot. He really should be wearing better shoes. He hollers and loosens his grip enough for you to push away and run for your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<else>>knife<</if>>. It doesn't take long for him to rush after you, grabbing his club off the ground as he limps. "You little shit!" He yells as he charges. You wanted to avoid a fight, but it seems like you have no choice now. He looks angry and surprised that you've managed to escape him and stand your ground. With a roar, he raises his club and charges you. He's inelegant and untrained, relying completely on his great size rather than any skillset. You dodge and parry, managing to cut into your attacker a few times with only getting a graze from his club in return. Though unskilled, he keeps you on your toes and leaves you no room for checking how the others are fairing. Oswin calls out to you to run several times, but you can't risk that now. Even with an injured foot, the bandit may catch you again. This boils down to a fight whether you are willing or not. Though you have no time to look, you can at least hear the voices of your friends as they battle, bolstering your resolve. Suddenly, the bandit switches tactics and charges full speed right into you. You can't respond in time, and your weapon is knocked from your hand as you topple to the ground. It happens so fast. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>Both of you throw punches. He tries to slam your head into the hard ground, looking desperate to knock you out, but he fails over and over again. Pain ripples through your ribs and wounded shoulder, but your drive to live pushes you forward in the fight. You manage to knee him in the gut and gain some room to move – shoving him off and onto his back. You straddle his chest and begin to pummel him until your hand goes numb and he falls unconscious.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>Both of you throw punches. He tries to slam your head into the hard ground, looking desperate to knock you out, but he fails over and over again. Pain ripples through your ribs and wounded shoulder, but your drive pushes you forward in the fight. You manage to knee him in the gut and gain some room to move – shoving him off and onto his back. You straddle his chest and begin to pummel him until your hand goes numb and he falls unconscious.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>Both of you throw punches. He tries to slam your head into the hard ground, looking desperate to knock you out, but he fails over and over again. Pain ripples through your ribs and wounded shoulder, but your drive pushes you forward in the fight. You manage to knee him in the gut and gain some room to move – shoving him off and onto his back. You straddle his chest and begin to pummel him until your hand goes numb and he falls unconscious.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>Both of you throw punches. He tries to slam your head into the hard ground, looking desperate to knock you out, but he fails over and over again. Pain ripples through your ribs and wounded shoulder, but your drive pushes you forward in the fight. You manage to knee him in the gut and gain some room to move – shoving him off and onto his back. You straddle his chest and begin to pummel him until your hand goes numb and he falls unconscious.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>His hands are around your throat in an instant. You hit out against him, managing to land a few solid punches into his face and chest, but you are not strong enough to change the tide of the fight. He lifts you by the neck only to slam you back down so your head smacks the road. Your vision swims and your breath draws short. You begin to flail as he does it again. Panic sets in and tears prick your eyes. You try kicking, weakly beaming him between the legs, but it isn't enough to get him to stop.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>His hands are around your throat in an instant. You hit out against him, managing to land a few solid punches into his face and chest, but you are not strong enough to change the tide of the fight. He lifts you by the neck only to slam you back down so your head smacks the road. Your vision swims and your breath draws short. You begin to flail as he does it again. Panic sets in and tears prick your eyes. You try kicking, weakly beaming him between the legs, but it isn't enough to get him to stop.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>Both of you throw punches. He tries to slam your head into the hard ground, looking desperate to knock you out, but he fails over and over again. Pain ripples through your ribs and wounded shoulder, but your drive pushes you forward in the fight. You manage to knee him in the gut and gain some room to move – shoving him off and onto his back. You straddle his chest and begin to pummel him until your hand goes numb and he falls unconscious.<</if>> <<if $interest is 'tradin'>>You're vaguely aware of the yelling around you and the sound of metal on metal. Your attacker is chuckling, even cooing at you as consciousness slips away. [[Will anyone be able to help you before it's too late.|B5.4a1]] <<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You're vaguely aware of the yelling around you and the sound of metal on metal. Your attacker is chuckling, even cooing at you as consciousness slips away. [[Will anyone be able to help you before it's too late.|B5.4a1]] <<else>>With your aggressor out of the fight, you rise back to your feet, panting for air. Your legs feel jittery and your wounds old and new throb. You are lucky that no more than the one bandit came at you, though he may have been the biggest of the bunch. You notice your mount running loose, and glimpse Zahn fighting a bandit, each holding a dagger. Oswin still battles with Jasper who is looking worn down but isn't giving up. Many of the bandits lay on the ground unmoving, and you catch sight of two running back towards the forest, and Duri is picking off the stragglers. Out of a dozen bandits, it appears you've managed to be victorious. [[A growl interrupts your thoughts.|B5.5]] <</if>>

Oswin calls for you to run, but your body won't respond. You look at the eruption of violence and chaos around you in shock. You clutch your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<else>>knife<</if>> your hand trembling. There's already so much blood. You don't know whose it is. Oswin screams your name. Something grips your throat. Your weapon falls from your hand and you stumble to the ground. The large man wearing your cloak has taken advantage of your stupor. He straddles you, smiling cruelly choking you with one hand as he raises the other in a fist to strike you. You cry out and try to struggle, but this just stokes his ire. He lifts you by the neck and slams your head back down into the road. Once. Twice. Three times. Your vision swims. He laughs. "Saw you eyein' me, pup," he croaks. "Be good and go to sleep so I can take you back with me. I'll treat ya nice. I won't share ya's or nothin'. You're all mine, sweet pup. Poor thing, yer so scared." <<set $strangled to true>> You desperately cling to awareness, determined to not let this disgusting thug drag you away like some prize. Your arms feel around for anything you can use as leverage. Darkness creeps into your vision and spreads. You can no longer draw any air beyond his grip on your throat. Your head spins and hurts and you feel the heat of blood against the back of your neck. You will not go down like this. Not like this. Your hand cups something hard – a stone. He raises his fist for the final blow to knock you out completely as if strangling you wasn't enough to satisfy his need to hurt you. Using what little strength you still have you bring your arm over and smack it into the bandit's head. Air suddenly fills your lungs once more and you are sent into a hacking cough as you catch your breath. The man falls away from you clutching the side of his head as it gushes blood. You kick him away for good measure, dizzy and scrambling to reach your weapon in case he comes at you again, but your vision is too skewed and you are too dizzy to locate it. You can barely focus to see anything. He crawls away from you, clutching his head, before fainting in a heap on the road. You get up with considerable effort and carefully look him over, kicking his feet which yields no reaction. You beamed him hard in the temple, rendering him unconscious. You must have hit just the right spot to take him down. Though you were caught by the throat, fortune seems to be with you. Your legs feel jittery and your wounds old and new throb. Your throat aches terribly, you're dizzy and blood is trickling from the back of your head. You are lucky that no more than the one bandit came at you at once, though he may have been the biggest of the bunch. You notice your mount running loose, and glimpse Zahn fighting a bandit, each holding a dagger. Oswin battles with Jasper who is looking worn down, but isn't giving up. Many of the bandits lay on the ground unmoving, and you catch sight of two running away towards the forest, and Duri is picking off the stragglers. Out of maybe up to a dozen enemies, it appears you've managed to be victorious. It dawns on you that your ordeal felt like it happened in an instant, but your companions have worked fast. [[A growl interrupts your thoughts.|B5.5]]

<<set $strangled to true>> You desperately cling to awareness, determined to not let this disgusting thug beat you and drag you away like some prize. Your arms feel around for anything you can use as leverage. Darkness creeps into your vision and spreads. You can no longer draw any air beyond his grip on your throat. Your head spins and hurts and you feel the heat of blood against the back of your neck. You will not go down like this. Not like this. Your hand cups something hard – a stone. Using the last bit of strength you have you bring your arms over and slam it into the bandit's head. Air suddenly fills your lungs once more and you are sent into a hacking cough as you catch your breath. The man falls away from you clutching the side of his head as it gushes blood. You kick him away for good measure, scrambling to reach your knife in case he comes at you again, but your vision is too skewed and you are too dizzy to locate it. He crawls away from you before fainting in a heap on the road. You get up and carefully look him over, kicking his feet which yields no reaction. You beamed him hard in the temple, rendering him unconscious. Your legs feel jittery and your wounds old and new throb. Your throat aches terribly, you're dizzy and blood is trickling from the back of your head. You are lucky that no more than the one bandit came at you at once, though he may have been the biggest of the bunch. You notice your mount running loose, and glimpse Zahn fighting a bandit, each holding a dagger. Oswin still battles with Jasper who is looking worn down but isn't giving up. Many of the bandits lay on the ground unmoving, and you catch sight of two running away towards the forest, and Duri is picking off the stragglers. Out of a dozen bandits, it appears you've managed to be victorious. [[A growl interrupts your thoughts.|B5.5]]

Jasper's dog approaches you, baring its teeth. Blood coats its fangs and soaks through its brown fur. From the looks of the other dogs laying still, it's not its own blood. You can see now that your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>knife<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>knife<</if>> is just out of easy reach. Should you dive to get it, the dog will be on you before you can do much about it. Still, it is better than trying to fight it off with nothing, especially with how tired you are. It seems to be daring you to move, snarling, showing off fangs but making no other noise or movement. It stares into your eyes waiting for the opportunity to kill you. You dive for your weapon. The dog leaps. Your hand barely clasps the handle of your <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>axe<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>sword<<else>>knife<</if>>… [[A rush of air passes over you.|B5.6]]

A heavy thud sounds as you grab your blade and turn. A flash of cream fur is before you, and a terrible cacophony of snarls erupts as your she-wolf meets the dog with her fangs. You back away as their fight rages, blood and fur spattering across the road. You want to help but there would be nothing you could do quick enough, and you'd risk hurting the wolf. Though she is much larger, the dog is quick and intelligent. They tussle and roll, yelping when the other sinks a bite into tender flesh. The sound is terrible, and you want to cover your ears. You've seen dogs scuffle before, quick flashes of aggression quickly soothed. This is not that. This might be a fight to the death, and you can only watch. Your breath catches as the wolf knocks the dog off its feet. She grabs its neck, shakes it for a moment, and then stills, pinning it to the road. It struggles against her, snapping and snarling and kicking, but she does not move. Several moments later, it finally stills, breathing hard and whimpering. The wolf lingers with jaws around the dog's throat until she is certain it has submitted to her. When released, it does not move and the she-wolf shows her teeth, tongue flicking as she growls in warning. Once she has backed away, the dog slowly gets up and limps off towards the trees, keeping low to the ground. The she-wolf approaches you, tongue hanging out as she pants hard, blood staining her beautiful fur. "You came back…" you mumble. She whines at you before taking off towards the others who are fighting the last of the bandits. She's not done yet. [[You struggle to your feet.|B5.7]]

You wheeze as you catch your breath, each one shooting pain up your back. You study the road to see your friends and how they fare. Most of the bandits are down or gone, and one of your companions is sprinting towards you. You smile with relief. [[It's Oswin.|B5.7a]] [[It's Zahn.|B5.7b]] [[It's Duri.|B5.7c]]

<<set $friendhurt to 'Oswin'>> But he doesn't look happy to see you. "MOVE!" he yells. You flinch as a dagger whizzes close to your head. The large bandit is back up and after you, blood coating his face making him look terrifying. He catches you off balance, causing you to fall as he brings the dagger down to stab you. It doesn't land. Oswin slams into the man, bowling him over. They roll in a heap as they fight for control of the dagger. It happens so fast. The bandit pummels Oswin and the dagger plunges into his side. Once. Twice. Three times. Blood. Blood. //Blood//. But you are who the bandit wants. And once Oswin is incapacitated, he lunges for you. This time it is clear that he'd rather kill you than take you away. But Oswin manages to scramble on his hands and knees to try and reach you in time. The man is already bringing the blade down. Blood hits your face. You wince. But the hit didn't land. You look up to see the bandit staring back at you with wide eyes. Blood gushes from his mouth, and you finally notice the tip of a bolt sticking from his chest. His body goes slack and he falls dead at your feet. Your eyes scan the distance in alarm. Duri and Zahn are running in a panic to you and Oswin. But up on the hill above the road is a figure dressed in dark clothes atop a brown horse. A deep blue cloak flutters out in the wind from their back and you catch the glittering of silver embroidery against it. They're holding a large crossbow. You snap from surprise and rush to Oswin. He's fallen face-first into the road, clutching his side as red soaks his tunic and hands. [[You must act now.|B5.8]]

<<set $friendhurt to 'Zahn'>> But $Zheshe looks distraught. "LOOK OUT!" $Zheshe yells. You flinch as a dagger whizzes close to your head. The large bandit is back up and after you, blood coating his face making him look terrifying. He catches you off balance, causing you to fall as he brings the dagger down to stab you. It doesn't land. Zahn slams into the man, bowling him over. They roll in a heap as they fight for control of the dagger. It happens so fast. The bandit pummels Zahn and the dagger plunges into $Zhisher side. Once. Twice. Three times. Blood. Blood. //Blood//. $Zcapitalheshe cries out in pain. But you are who the bandit wants. And once Zahn is incapacitated, he lunges for you. This time it is clear that he'd rather kill you than take you away. Zahn rolls and screams your name, reaching a hand toward you, but the man is already bringing the blade down. Blood hits your face. You wince. But the hit doesn't land. You look up to see the bandit staring down at you with wide eyes. Blood gushes from his mouth, and you finally notice the tip of a bolt sticking from his chest. His body goes slack and he falls dead at your feet. Your eyes scan the distance in alarm. Oswin and Duri are running in a panic to you and Zahn. But up on the hill above the road is a figure dressed in dark clothes atop a brown horse. A deep blue cloak flutters out in the wind from their back and you catch the glittering of silver embroidery against it. They're holding a large crossbow. You snap from surprise and rush to Zahn. $Zcapitalheshe's fallen face-first into the road, clutching $Zhisher side as red soaks $Zhisher tunic and hands. [[You must act now.|B5.8]]

<<set $friendhurt to 'Duri'>> But $Dheshe looks scared. "RUN!" $Dheshe yells. You flinch as a dagger whizzes close to your head. The large bandit is back up and after you, blood coating his face making him look terrifying. He catches you off balance, causing you to fall as he brings the dagger down to stab you. It doesn't land. Duri slams into the man, bowling him over. They roll in a heap as they fight for control of the dagger. It happens so fast. The bandit pummels Duri and Duri rips into him with $Dhisher bare hands as the dagger plunges into $Dhisher side. Once. Twice. Three times. Blood. Blood. //Blood//. $Dcapitalheshe cries out in pain but doesn't stop, tearing into the man's throat next in a deadly swipe and receiving two more slashes from the blade in return. But you are who the bandit wants. And once Duri is indisposed for a moment, he lunges for you. This time it is clear that he'd rather kill you than take you away. Duri scrambles to reach you and calls your name, but the man is already bringing the blade down. Blood hits your face. You wince. But the hit doesn't land. You look up to see the bandit staring down at you with wide eyes. Blood gushes from his mouth, and you finally notice the tip of a bolt sticking from his chest. His body goes slack and he falls dead at your feet. Your eyes scan the distance in alarm. Oswin and Zahn are running in a panic to you and Duri. But up on the hill above the road is a figure dressed in dark clothes atop a brown horse. A deep blue cloak flutters out in the wind from their back and you catch the glittering of silver embroidery against it. They're holding a large crossbow. You snap from surprise and rush to Duri. $Dcapitalheshe's fallen face-first into the road, clutching $Dhisher side as red soaks $Dhisher robes and hands. $Dcapitalheshe is covered in wounds from the fight, some are almost knitting back together, but very slowly, and Duri is losing a lot of blood. [[You must act now.|B5.8]]

Everything after that is a blur as if you experience it from outside yourself. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>You apply aid as best you can, but many of your supplies have been scattered during the fight and you have little in the way of clean dressings and no sutures to speak of. You make do with enough material to staunch the bleeding.<</if>> <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Duri helps you get Oswin to his horse, and for a change, you are the one desperately holding him as you rush to find help. You keep pressure against the stab wounds, trying to also keep him awake as the mounts run towards the city. His breathing is hard, and he's trying to not react to the pain that he is clearly in. You have little choice but to rush the mounts. It jostles him around, but with limited ways to ensure the wounds are cared for, there's little choice around it. As you approach the city gates, the guards stop you only for a moment before seeing the blood and obvious wounds that all of you have. Duri insists on seeing Rundis Lyreheart, so they wave you on with an escort who clears a path to a large inn. Everyone quickly dismounts and the escort handles your mounts. Throngs of people surround it. They fill up a grand porch – crowding the windows to see inside. An overflow of onlookers simply stand around on the street. You and Duri support Oswin and push straight through the crowd as Duri barks at the spectators to move. Most give $Dhimher a wide berth. You catch whispers and gasps coming from them as you pass by. You hear the words '$Dhimher again' from a small group that clears a path for you. There's music all around you, the sound of lyre strings. This must be from the bardic healer. The sound is beautiful, but more than that – you //feel// it. Something inside your heart wells at the sound. There's a weight to this music, one that you feel you could hold in your hands as it sailed around in the sky or on the seas and pulled you along. It cradles you. The soothing sounds are interrupted as Duri begins yelling. "Runey!" You hear a string on the lyre suddenly twang. "Runey! Please!" Duri leads through the crowd. A path opens to the front of a massive lobby and at its head sits the bard… <<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Oswin helps you mount up with Zahn clutched in your arms. You keep pressure against the stab wounds, trying to also keep $Zhimher awake as the mounts run towards the city. $Zcapitalhisher breathing is hard, and $Zheshe gasps in pain from the movement. You have little choice but to rush the mounts. It jostles $Zhimher around, but with limited ways to ensure the wounds are cared for, there's no choice around it. As you approach the city gates, the guards stop you only for a moment before seeing the blood and obvious wounds that all of you have. Duri insists on seeing Rundis Lyreheart, so they wave you on with an escort who clears a path to a large inn. Everyone quickly dismounts and the escort handles your mounts. Throngs of people surround it. They fill up a grand porch – crowding the windows to see inside. An overflow of onlookers simply stand around on the street. You and Duri support Zahn and push straight through the crowd as Duri barks at the spectators to move. Most give $Dhimher a wide berth. You catch whispers and gasps coming from them as you pass by. You hear the words '$Dhimher again' from a small group that clears a path for you. There's music all around you, the sound of lyre strings. This must be from the bardic healer. The sound is beautiful, but more than that – you //feel// it. Something inside your heart wells at the sound. There's a weight to this music, one that you feel you could hold in your hands as it sailed around in the sky or on the seas and pulled you along. It cradles you. The soothing sounds are interrupted as Duri begins yelling. "Runey!" You hear a string on the lyre suddenly twang. "Runey! Please!" Duri leads through the crowd. A path opens to the front of a massive lobby and at its head sits the bard… <<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Oswin helps you mount up with Duri clutched in your arms. You keep pressure against the stab wounds, trying to also keep $Dhimher awake as the mounts run towards the city. $Dcapitalhisher breathing is hard, and $Dheshe's trying to not react to the pain that $Dheshe is clearly in. You have little choice but to rush the mounts. It jostles $Dhimher around, but with limited ways to ensure the wounds are cared for, there's no choice around it. As you approach the city gates, the guards stop you only for a moment before seeing the blood and obvious wounds that all of you have. Duri gives you the name 'Rundis Lyreheart' to relay to the guard, so they wave you on with an escort who clears a path to a large inn. Everyone quickly dismounts and the escort handles your mounts. Throngs of people surround it. They fill up a grand porch – crowding the windows to see inside. An overflow of onlookers simply stand around on the street. You and Oswin support Duri and push straight through the crowd as Duri struggles, but pushes on. Most give you a wide berth. You catch whispers and gasps coming from them as you pass by. You hear the words '$Dhimher again' from a small group that clears a path for you. There's music all around you, the sound of lyre strings. This must be from the bardic healer. The sound is beautiful, but more than that – you //feel// it. Something inside your heart wells at the sound. There's a weight to this music, one that you feel you could hold in your hands as it sailed around in the sky or on the seas and pulled you along. It cradles you. The soothing sounds are interrupted as Oswin begins yelling. "We need help! Please, we're looking for Lyreheart!" You hear a string on the lyre suddenly twang. You and Oswin push forward. A path opens to the front of a massive lobby and at its head sits the bard…<</if>> [[A woman|B5.8a]] [[A man.|B5.8b]]

<> <<set $Rgen to 'female'>> <<set $Rheshe to 'she'>> <<set $Rcapitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $Rhisher to 'her'>> <<set $Rcapitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $Rhimher to 'her'>> <<set $Rcapitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $Rhishers to 'hers'>> <<set $Rcapitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $Rhimselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $Rcapitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<set $Rmanwoperson to 'woman'>> <<set $Rsondtrchild to 'daughter'>> <> She sits with a lyre resting on her thigh. Despite her relaxed position, you suddenly feel less like you are in the lobby of an inn and more like you are in a throne room. The inn is nice and not as lavish as a throne room, but before you sits a queen draped in flowing white and purple silks. She pinches the bridge of her nose with eyes shut tight, annoyance radiating from her stage. <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>> "Duri'naan, I made it exceedingly clear after the last time – you are banned!" Her eyes snap open and the ferocity in her expression morphs into shock as she sees Oswin bleeding before her. "Runey, please…" Duri nods towards Oswin. "To my quarters, now." The entire crowd parts in an instant. You and Duri take Oswin up an elaborate staircase and down a hallway. The demigod knows the right door. You both set Oswin gently on a bed. His skin is ashy and his eyes barely open. He mumbles, but nothing he says is coherent. There's so much blood. Rune bursts in not a moment later, tossing her outer robe and rushing to a basin to wash her hands. "Everyone out while I work." She commands while drying her hands. Duri and Zahn leave the room right away, but you hesitate. "It will be okay – I can fix this, but I need to focus. Stay with Duri'naan." Rune nods at you, bright purple eyes shining, and gets to work. [[You take a long look at Oswin and then leave the room.|B5.9]] <<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>> "Duri'naan, I made it exceedingly clear after the last time – you are banned!" Her eyes snap open and the ferocity in her expression morphs into shock as she sees Zahn bleeding before her. "Runey, please…" Duri nods toward Zahn. "To my quarters, now." The entire crowd parts in an instant. You and Duri take Zahn up an elaborate staircase and down a hallway. The demigod knows the right door. You both set $Zhimher gently on a bed. Zahn's skin is pallid and $Zhisher eyes barely open. $Zcapitalheshe mumbles, but nothing $Zheshe says is coherent. There's so much blood. Rune bursts in not a moment later, tossing her outer robe and rushing to a basin to wash her hands. "Everyone out while I work." She commands while drying her hands. Duri and Oswin leave the room right away, but you hesitate. "It will be okay – I can fix this, but I need to focus. Stay with Duri'naan." Rune nods at you, bright purple eyes shining, and gets to work. [[You take a long look at Zahn and then leave the room.|B5.9]] <<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>> "If this is another marriage proposal, I will skin you alive!" Her eyes snap open and the ferocity in her expression morphs into shock as she sees Duri bleeding before her. "Please help us," Oswin says. "To my quarters – up the stairs, last door on the right. Put $Dhimher on the bed." The entire crowd parts in an instant. You and Oswin take Duri up an elaborate staircase and down a hallway to the last door as you were told. You both set $Dhimher gently on a bed. Duri's skin is pale and $Dhisher eyes barely open. $Dcapitalheshe mumbles, but nothing $Dheshe says is coherent. There's so much blood. Can a demigod die in such a way? Duri said that $Dheshe can get hurt…does this mean… Rune bursts in not a moment later, tossing her outer robe and rushing to a basin to wash her hands. "Everyone out while I work." She commands while drying her hands. Zahn and Oswin leave the room right away, but you hesitate. "It will be okay – I can fix this, but I need to focus. Stay with your friends." Rune nods at you, bright purple eyes shining, and gets to work. [[You take a long look at Duri and then leave the room.|B5.9]] <</if>>

<> <<set $Rgen to 'male'>> <<set $Rheshe to 'he'>> <<set $Rcapitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $Rhisher to 'his'>> <<set $Rcapitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $Rhimher to 'him'>> <<set $Rcapitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $Rhishers to 'his'>> <<set $Rcapitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $Rhimselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $Rcapitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<set $Rmanwoperson to 'man'>> <<set $Rsondtrchild to 'son'>> <> He sits with a lyre resting on his thigh. Despite his relaxed position, you suddenly feel less like you are in the lobby of an inn and more like you are in a throne room. The inn is nice and not as lavish as a throne room, but before you sits a king draped in flowing white and purple silks. He pinches the bridge of his nose with eyes shut tight, annoyance radiating from his stage. <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>> "Duri'naan, I made it exceedingly clear after the last time – you are banned!" His eyes snap open and the ferocity in his expression morphs into shock as he sees Oswin bleeding before him. "Runey, please…" Duri nods towards Oswin. "To my quarters, now." The entire crowd parts in an instant. You and Duri take Oswin up an elaborate staircase and down a hallway. The demigod knows the right door. You both set Oswin gently on a bed. His skin is ashy and his eyes barely open. He mumbles, but nothing he says is coherent. There's so much blood. Rune bursts in not a moment later, tossing his outer robe and rushing to a basin to wash his hands. "Everyone out while I work," he commands while drying his hands. Duri and Zahn leave the room right away, but you hesitate. "It will be okay – I can fix this, but I need to focus. Stay with Duri'naan." Rune nods at you, bright purple eyes shining, and gets to work. [[You take a long look at Oswin and then leave the room.|B5.9]] <<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>> "Duri'naan, I made it exceedingly clear after the last time – you are banned!" His eyes snap open and the ferocity in his expression morphs into shock as he sees Zahn bleeding before him. "Runey, please…" Duri nods toward Zahn. "To my quarters, now." The entire crowd parts in an instant. You and Duri take Zahn up an elaborate staircase and down a hallway. The demigod knows the right door. You both set $Zhimher gently on a bed. Zahn's skin is pallid and $Zhisher eyes barely open. $Zcapitalheshe mumbles, but nothing $Zheshe says is coherent. There's so much blood. Rune bursts in not a moment later, tossing his outer robe and rushing to a basin to wash his hands. "Everyone out while I work," he commands while drying his hands. Duri and Oswin leave the room right away, but you hesitate. "It will be okay – I can fix this, but I need to focus. Stay with Duri'naan." Rune nods at you, bright purple eyes shining, and gets to work. [[You take a long look at Zahn and then leave the room.|B5.9]] <<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>> "If this is another marriage proposal, I will skin you alive!" His eyes snap open and the ferocity in his expression morphs into shock as he sees Duri bleeding before him. "Please help us," Oswin says. "To my quarters – up the stairs, last door on the right. Put $Dhimher on the bed." The entire crowd parts in an instant. You and Oswin take Duri up an elaborate staircase and down a hallway to the last door as you were told. You both set $Dhimher gently on a bed. Duri's skin is pale and $Dhisher eyes barely open. $Dcapitalheshe mumbles, but nothing $Dheshe says is coherent. There's so much blood. Can a demigod die in such a way? Duri said that $Dheshe can get hurt…does this mean… Rune bursts in not a moment later, tossing his outer robe and rushing to a basin to wash his hands. "Everyone out while I work," he commands while drying his hands. Zahn and Oswin leave the room right away, but you hesitate. "It will be okay – I can fix this, but I need to focus. Stay with your friends." Rune nods at you, bright purple eyes shining, and gets to work. [[You take a long look at Duri and then leave the room.|B5.9]] <</if>>

A kindly worker for the inn unlocks the room across from the bard's for your group. It's quite lavish, but you hardly absorb what it looks like. You take a seat at a table as the events of the last hours replay in your mind in a fuzzy loop. It feels surreal. This can't have really happened. You look at your hands. They're coated with blood. It seeps into every crease of your hands, even soaking under your fingernails.<<if $interestwound is "scaracrosshand">> The stain even fills the slight hollow of the scar atop your hand from so long ago.<</if>><<if $interestwound is "righthandpoison">> The stain even fills the slight hollow of the scar atop your hand from so long ago.<</if>><<if $interestwound is "pinfinger">> The stain even fills the slight hollow of the scar on your middle finger from so long ago.<</if>> It happened. It really did. You're hurt too, more wounds piled onto your existing ones. You become more aware of your soreness and weariness as time slips by. You look at your companions who seem to be in the same stupor as you. It feels strange not sitting here with <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Zahn.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri.<</if>> <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Both Zahn and Duri look exhausted. Duri is covered in bruises and cuts. $Dcapitalhisher knuckles are split and raw, and blood is splattered on $Dhisher clothes. Zahn looks a little better, with some bruising on the side of $Zhisher face and some blood seeping through $Zhisher pants from a cut.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Both Oswin and Duri look exhausted. Oswin appears relatively unscathed. His lip is bleeding a bit, and he has an obvious cut across his left bicep. Duri looks a little worse for wear. $Dcapitalhisher knuckles are split and raw, and blood is splattered on $Dhisher clothes.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Both Oswin and Zahn look exhausted. Oswin appears relatively unscathed. His lip is bleeding a bit, and he has an obvious cut across his left bicep. Zahn looks a little better off than Oswin, with some bruising on the side of $Zhisher face and some blood seeping through $Zhisher pants from a small cut.<</if>> You think of <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Zahn.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri.<</if>>.. [[You're so angry and need to punch something.|B5.9a]] [[You're listless. Everything is muted.|B5.9b]] [[You settle yourself.|B5.9c]] [[It's too much. Tears flood your eyes.|B5.9d]]

Spotting a blank space on one wall, you rise from your chair as your companions stare at you. You stand and stare at the spot in a stupor for several moments. Your eye twitches. And then you're punching. The plaster cracks in two hits. Your knuckles split in four. And then you lose count. When you are done, <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Zahn gently takes you by the elbow and guides you back to your chair. $Zcapitalheshe begins to gently clean your wounds, starting with your hands.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Oswin gently takes you by the elbow and guides you back to your chair. He begins to gently clean your wounds, starting with your hands.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Zahn gently takes you by the elbow and guides you back to your chair. $Zcapitalheshe begins to gently clean your wounds, starting with your hands.<</if>> [[You know this isn't your fault.|B5.9a1]] [[Guilt fills you.|B5.9a2]]

Your mind floats away, and you do not care to try and stop it. Disconnecting from everything is the only way you can cope right now. You are blank. There is nothing. Your mind is quiet. [[You only breathe.|B5.10]]

You cannot let the events of today ruin you. To do so is like letting that group of bandits win. You will not let them take anything else from you. This trip has been hard on all of you, but you just came out of multiple deadly situations alive – injured, but still alive. One thing at a time. [[You just need to breathe.|B5.10]]

A wretched sob flees your throat. You bury your head in your hands and cry. You pay no mind to your friends around you or how much noise you make, you just need to cry. This day, this trip has been a nightmare from the start, and now one of your companions is battered and bleeding in the next room. [[You feel like it's your fault.|B5.9d1]] [[You know it's not your fault, but it's still hard.|B5.9d2]]

You don't remember falling asleep. And you definitely don't remember getting into a bed. You try to sit up only to yelp in pain and be sent back down. You suppose the cocktail of potions and tea that kept you afloat has worn off. It's a cruel reminder of your trip down the mountainside. Suddenly you remember that you're not the only one in pain. You wince as you recall the bandit stabbing <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Zahn<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri<</if>> over and over. You need to see what happened overnight. You make to get up again, but the searing pain in your ribs keeps you down. You take a ragged breath. There's a gentle knock at the door. "Come in," you respond quietly. The door opens a crack and an unfamiliar face pokes through. Bright purple eyes regard you with kindness before the bard enters the room. "Good morning. I don't know if you were told but my name is Rūndis Lyreheart, please call me Rune. I won't delay in telling you that <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Zahn<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri'naan<</if>> is okay. I was able to get the wounds to heal quite well overnight." You release a heavy breath, though it hurts, there is relief in it. "Thank you," you say, managing a weak smile. Rune comes to your side of the rather large bed you're in and pulls up a chair. You finally get a good look at $Rhimher. A mane of rich black curls crowns Rune's head, but you notice the bangs just on $Rhisher left temple are a bright purple. $Rcapitalhisher skin is a rich brown but you can't quite make out $Rhisher figure very well from $Rhisher seated position and layers of clothes. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You are clearly taller than $Rhimher<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>You can tell you probably stand a bit taller than $Rhimher.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>You think you are roughly around the same height as $Rhimher.<else>>As with most people, you are pretty sure you're shorter than $Rhimher.<</if>> Rune's clothing is also quite lovely. $Rcapitalheshe is wearing a bright white tunic with gold embroidery along the hems. The tunic has an unusually low cut neckline, showing off a large dark tattoo – a depiction of the lower half of a blazing sun – upon $Rhisher chest. Rune also wears a purple silken belt, though $Rhisher trousers appear to be of a simple but rich brown cloth. $Rcapitalheshe also wears jewelry of gold – earrings, and bangles along $Rhisher arms. This is //possibly// one of the most color-coordinated people you've ever seen. You peek down to the floor where you see…purple shoes. This is //definitely// the most color-coordinated person you've ever seen. Rune's eyes are so bright, their purple color is so definitive that it is hard not to notice $Rhisher eyes first, let alone look away from them. <<if $eyecolor is "purple">>They're much like your own, perhaps a slightly different shade. You don't recall ever meeting another person with your eye color.<<else>>You don't know if you've ever actually met a person with purple eyes before. You know what people say about them, though. At least for this person, it seems true that they have some sort of magic affiliation.<</if>> <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You give $Rhimher a sheepish smile accompanied by a little wave of a hand in greeting.<<else>>Your face brightens with a smile. "Good morning," you finally greet.<</if>> Rune nods at you and smiles politely. "As I said, call me Rune or even simply Lyreheart. Typically, I am a bard by night and a physician by day, but you all seem to have upended my schedule." "Apologies for that. We've managed to find a lot of trouble lately." "I have been informed by your companions of your ordeal. I wanted to offer my healing services to you as well. I mean no offense, but you do not look well." You nod. "I could use a hand, but…aren't you exhausted?" You see Rune begin to smirk before $Rheshe schools it. "Not yet. I do have a couple of questions for you first if you will." "Sure." "I do not like to operate on assumptions, as you are accompanying someone I know and trust already, I'm inclined to not feel concerned, but I always confirm with my patients as to if they feel safe or not." "Safe?" Rune nods. "No, no – I'm safe. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>Oswin is a good friend of mine. We've known each other since childhood. He has a bit of an attitude sometimes, but he's a good man.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Oswin is a good, um, friend of mine. We've known each other since we were children. He's important to me and a very good man.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Oswin is fine, he's my guide for my journey. He's got an attitude, but I'm safe with him.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Oswin is fine, he's my guide for my journey. He's got a bit of an attitude, but I'm safe with him.<</if>> <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>We met Zahn on the journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim, so $Zheshe has tagged along with us for a bit.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, we made fast friends.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, a veritable sweetheart really.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>Zahn is a new friend we made on our journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim. $Zcapitalheshe has been very kind, we made fast friends.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>We met Zahn on the journey here. $Zcapitalheshe is a religious pilgrim, so $Zheshe has tagged along with us for a bit. Honestly, I'm just a bit suspicious of $Zhimher. I don't feel like I'm in danger exactly, just that they're hiding something.<</if>>" The bard smiles. "I had a feeling, but wanted to be sure. Duri'naan doesn't just follow anyone around. My next question…is probably a bit personal depending on your beliefs, I suppose. Since I have been treating <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Zahn<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri<</if>> I have felt something peculiar about you, and wanted to confirm. Know that you are safe with me and I will not be angry." You feel confused already, and it must show on your face. Rune raises $Rhisher hands in a placating gesture. [["''Are you perchance, a mage?''"|B5.11]]

<<set $selfblame5 to true>> It's your fault that <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Zahn<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri<</if>> is hurt. You cry harder. This trip was to help cure you, to break your curse, to find a solution, but you've only caused trouble for other people. <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Zahn gently touches your shoulder and kneels at your chair. $Zcapitalheshe begins to gently clean your wounds. $Zcapitalheshe lets you cry and express yourself but remains a steadfast presence so you know you are not alone.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Oswin quietly kneels by your chair. He begins to gently clean your wounds, remaining a steadfast presence to comfort you.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Zahn gently touches your shoulder and kneels at your chair. $Zcapitalheshe begins to gently clean your wounds. $Zcapitalheshe lets you cry and express yourself but remains a steadfast presence so you know you are not alone.<</if>> [[You can hardly breathe.|B5.10]]

You hate so much that <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Zahn<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri<</if>> is hurt. This isn't fair. The entire trip hasn't been fair to you or your companions. It wasn't supposed to be like this. Why does this shit keep happening around you? You cry harder. <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Zahn gently touches your shoulder and kneels at your chair. $Zcapitalheshe begins to gently clean your wounds. $Zcapitalheshe lets you cry and express yourself but remains a steadfast presence so you know you are not alone.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Oswin quietly kneels by your chair. He begins to gently clean your wounds, remaining a steadfast presence to comfort you.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Zahn gently touches your shoulder and kneels at your chair. $Zcapitalheshe begins to gently clean your wounds. $Zcapitalheshe lets you cry and express yourself but remains a steadfast presence so you know you are not alone.<</if>> [[You can hardly breathe.|B5.10]]

You practically choke on a breath at the question. "No…why would you even think that?" Rune nods. "So you are not a mage, a witch, a magic user of any term?" You shake your head. <<if $eyecolor is "purple">>$Rcapitalheshe looks at you with clear dubiousness. "Your eye color is quite rare. Not that it is a sure indicator of those with abilities, but it is even rarer to meet a person with purple eyes who has no aptitude for magic." "Well, I suppose now you have. I can't do any magic that I know of…"<</if>> The bard stares at you for a long and awkward moment. You're not quite sure what $Rheshe's thinking or why they'd ask such a question. You're locked into this strange staring contest until Rune finally deems fit to clarify. <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>"While I was treating your friend last night, he kept insisting that you needed my help more than he. Considering the blood loss – I was doubtful. He was a bit…delirious to be sure, but he told me – many times – that you've been searching for a cure to a serious illness, and that I needed to leave him be so I could help you."<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>"While I was working on Zahn last night, your friend Oswin visited me. Once he was satisfied that I was actually helping, he began asking me strange questions about my abilities and the limits thereof. He finally confessed that you have an illness of sorts for which you are seeking a solution."<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>"While I was working on Duri'naan last night, your friend Oswin visited me. Once he was satisfied that I was actually helping, he began asking me strange questions about my abilities and the limits thereof. He finally confessed that you have an illness of sorts for which you are seeking a solution."<</if>> You shake your head. "What does this have to do with what you just asked me?" "This is a safe place, $mc, I just want you to know that. You do not need to conceal anything, and I am not angry." "Angry?" Your eyes go wide. What could you do to possibly make Rune angry? You've been here less than a day. "While I worked, there was a notable pull on the magic around me. Something was attempting to divert the energy I was putting into healing away from <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Zahn<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri'naan<</if>>. When I followed the source of the pull, it led to you." Rune gives you a stern look. "Just sitting here, I can sense something very peculiar about you, and I have a hunch about it, but I would need to…examine you." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Your brow wrinkles with no small amount of worry. "I don't know what that could be…I've been…ill since childhood. I swear that I'm not doing anything."<<else>>You try to give a weak smile, but it comes off flat. "I really don't know what that would be. Perhaps it's just a sort of magnetism between us?"<</if>> "I'd like to test something, if you will. Very simple – I won't touch you or anything, I will merely release some magic into the air and see what it does around you." You nod, feeling a bit like you are on trial. A purple mist flows from the palms of Rune's hands. It hovers above you before settling all around you. Just as you get a rush of a familiar feeling, it cuts out. You almost miss it. Rune is clenching $Rhisher jaw. "So…you have either gotten into something you really shouldn't have, you're lying to me about being a magic user, or…" "I didn't lie…nor have I gotten into anything," you insist. "All I know is that I got sick as a kid, very sick. It's nearly killed me more times than I know and we've never found a medical solution to it…" There's an urge inside of you to just confess that you know it's a curse, but you don't know if you should just yet. Rune seems a bit angry, and you're unsure of raising the ire of someone who is helping you and your companions heal up. "$mc, you have something seriously wrong here, and it's something I have never encountered before. Your body is absorbing magic. I can still sense the magic from Inola's shrine upon you as if it cannot leave. As soon as I released my power, it latched onto you as well. I have never seen this before." Your jaw drops. Rune scoots $Rhisher chair closer to the bed. "If you have not been using magic or playing around with artifacts, there is no reason I can think of that you'd be involuntarily absorbing magic. This illness may be related if you are not a witch or mage. Your body is not adapted to it, and reacts in a volatile way." You shake your head. "How could I absorb magic but not be able to use it?" "I can't even understand how you are absorbing it at all, but that's what's happening. Mages do not even store magic, they pull it from all around them and use it at will. Powerful mages are such because magic finds them and lingers – bending to commands. So, I know you know something more, just come clean and I may be able to help you. Magic can strain your physical body tremendously when you are unaccustomed to it – this //can// kill you." The words settle heavily on your shoulders. [[You breathe a moment and attempt to give a simple explanation of what has happened to you.|B5.11a]] [[The weight of all you have been through crashes down and you burst into tears.|B5.11b]] [[Bitterness is on your tongue as you tell your story.|B5.11c]]

<<set $cursestress +=2>> You take a moment to breathe and collect your thoughts. There's no getting out of explaining this, and it is reasonable to believe that telling Rune could be a key to your survival. Rune waits patiently for you… [[You're suppressing how upsetting it actually is to you.|B5.11a1]] [[You're remaining reasonable, if not a bit optimistic.|B5.11a2]]

<<set $cursefatigue to 'bitter'>> <<set $cursestress +=3>> Rune gives you space but stays near to show support as if you have been friends for many years. You grit your teeth and you feel your blood rushing through your body. You freely bear your anger as you speak, explaining to Rune that you are unjustly cursed by a god and dying because of it. You tell of every breath that was hard-won and every trial from home to where you are today and how hard you are fighting against your fate. Rune listens to every slight you bring $Rhimher, taking on all your frustrations from the curse to the treacherous path you took here. You rant about <<if hasVisited("3.1a")>>how you started this journey with a sense of excitement and adventure, which has only led you to disaster, crushing your hopes of what this path could bring.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1b")>>how apprehensive you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1c")>>how thrilled you were to take this path with Oswin as your guide, to connect with him in a way you'd been missing out on. Only to have it ruined by the perils this trip has thrown you in.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1d")>>how panicked you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have only come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<else>>how unbothered you felt at the start of your journey, but then everything has gone to shit and pulled the rug out from under you, sending you into a spiral of fear you never expected.<</if>> Rune listens patiently as you confess <<if $goal is 'love'>>your aggravation that you will never find love and how your wish for your birthday was to find a rare and beautiful connection with another soul<<elseif $goal is 'friendship'>>your aggravation that you will never find the connections and friendships that your soul craves. That you will spend the final year of your life without having impacted those around you as if you never mattered to the world<<elseif $goal is 'craft'>>your frustration at never having another chance to pursue your passion, your craft. That your love <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>for lumber-work and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>for wood-working and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>for swordsmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>for bowmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>for helping and nurturing others will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>for trade and business will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>for food and meals that bring others together will die with you.<</if>><<elseif $goal is 'answers'>>your frustration that you will die before you ever get answers or before anyone ever takes responsibility for cursing you, that no one will be held accountable for tampering with your life<<elseif $goal is 'independence'>>your aggravation that you will never taste true independence. That you will meet the end of your days just as helpless as the day you were born.<</if>> And on top of all this, others were hurt - any one of them could have died. <<if $selfblame5 is true>>And it is all - your - fault.<</if>> You spill the venom within your heart, feeling sick with bitterness, all in the presence of a near stranger. Rune guides you with deep breaths to help you settle, but does not chide you for the expression of your burdens. Your shoulder aches, but you haven't within yourself to care about the pain anymore. All you've had is pain, and you are so tired of it winning. You feel your blood begin to level out as your heart calms. Rune hands you a kerchief to dab the sweat from your brow that has accumulated. Your voice is tight when you speak. "Th-thank you. I apologize for getting worked up…" "Don't apologize for that," Rune says. "You have been through a great deal of hardship and the path ahead is uncertain. It is okay to express yourself as long as you do not hurt yourself or another." You take another calming breath, feeling more relieved. "You're very kind," you mumble. Rune smiles, and it's then that you see a shine to $Rhisher eyes. "If you need a safe place to fall apart, I will be here for you." You nod. "Now, speaking of shoulders - we really should attend to yours more thoroughly and get your other wounds a jump on healing. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>I will be able to mend any torn muscle or tendons and encourage the joint to repair any other damage.<<else>>I will help get the wound and internal damage to knit back together as well as keep any infection down.<</if>>" "So, how does this work?" you ask. "After treating your friend, I am a little tired, but I can still help you, so do not fear. The way I can heal you is by giving your body a push to heal itself much faster. This is best done over the course of days - I do not know how long it will take, that depends on the extent of the damage. I will need to pour magic into the wounded area at least once per day, but likely I will want to start by treating you three times. I do not have to touch you for this to work either if you are averse to it. You //will// be more tired than normal and more hungry. You have the use of my quarters, which is this room and the room across the hall, for as long as you need. I would like you to stay in bed for at least two full days, after that I encourage you to move around and get the blood flowing. There's a market just down the road you could walk around in." You glance around at the most opulent inn lodgings that you've ever seen. "I don't have much gold…" Rune's eyes go a bit wide. "Everything I do, I do purely because I want to. I have no need of money. Anyway, I imagine you'd much like to clean up, so allow me a few minutes to begin your treatment. Once we are done, I will retire for a while and you will have use of the washroom. Your belongings are there and you are welcome to use or wear anything you find in there. I often receive gifts of clothing and have no desire for them." [[Rune wastes no time getting to work.|A5.9]]

<<set $cursefatigue to 'suppress'>> <<set $cursestress +=4>> Rune gives you $Rhisher full attention. You tamp down the rise of emotion you feel as you begin to tell your story. It makes you stop for a moment against your will and Rune gives you an odd look. You clear your throat a few times, shaking the feeling away as you launch into the details as minimally as you can. You tell Rune that you are cursed by a god and dying. Though $Rheshe is shocked at the revelation for a moment, $Rheshe does not interrupt you. You start from the beginning, trying to speak of being a very sick child without letting it throw you into a pit of emotion you do not want to be in right now. So, instead, you focus on the facts and the symptoms. You tell of the visit with the mage, Ansar, and all that he told you – of the plan to seek help from the nearest god you might find. You also tell of how your journey has been fraught with its troubles as well, resulting in your injured shoulder and wounds from the bandit attack. Rune listens with resolute patience, leaning forward and resting $Rhisher chin on $Rhisher hands, asking the occasional question for clarity. You notice little change in how $Rheshe reacts – except – for when Ansar's name is mentioned. For the briefest moment, you would swear, the bard almost winces. When you conclude your tale, Rune leans back, face twisted in thought. "I hate that you have had to go through this, $mc. The pressure you must feel is probably unreal. It would be understandable if you were not okay. I just want you to know that." Rune gives you a significant look. You just nod, though you feel your throat tighten. "Bottling your emotions only leads to bigger problems later." Rune levels you with a serious look. "...Something I know a great deal about. I advise that you seek some comfort where you can. Healthy ones – I am still a physician of sorts. Rely on those companions of yours." $Rcapitalheshe smirks. You manage a small smile as well. "Only Oswin knows the full extent of everything. He did not want to trust anyone else with all the information." Rune nods. "A wise choice in truth. A curse means magic, and some out there would seek to use you for it – even if there was nothing to be gained. Magic hunters are a significant problem at times, I suspect the bandits who accosted you were such. As soon as the landslide occurred, several from the city set out to search for artifacts, none of them are very…//respectable// people. I will note that Duri'naan would be a safe one to tell. $Dcapitalheshe can't exactly help you break it, but $Dheshe won't try to use you for profit or anything. Zahn is a bit simple." Rune freezes for a moment. "Apologies, I don't mean that in an intellectual sense. I mean that $Zheshe just seems to be trying to get by. $Zcapitalheshe was fretting for your well-being a great deal and displayed no interests that would indicate selfish motives to me." You nod. Rune smiles warmly at you. "$mc, if you find that you need a safe place to…unravel, I will be here for you. There's no obligation to seek your other companions out, especially if it brings discomfort. But, you may have my shoulder to help you lift your burdens should you need it." You swallow the lump in your throat. "Now, speaking of shoulders – we really should attend to yours more thoroughly and get your other wounds a jump on healing. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>I will be able to mend any torn muscle or tendons and encourage the joint to repair any other damage.<<else>>I will help get the wound and internal damage to knit back together as well as keep any infection down.<</if>>" "So, how does that work?" you ask. "After treating your friend, I am a little tired, but I can still help you, so do not fear. The way I can heal you is by giving your body a push to heal itself much faster. This is best done over multiple days – I do not know how long it will take – that depends on the extent of the damage. I will need to pour magic into the wounded area at least once per day, but likely I will want to start by treating you three times. I do not have to touch you for this to work either if you are averse to it. You //will// be more tired than normal and more hungry. You have the use of my quarters, which is this room and the room across the hall, for as long as you need. I would like you to stay in bed for at least two full days, after that I encourage you to move around and get the blood flowing. There's a market just down the road you could walk around in." You glance around at the most opulent inn lodgings that you've ever seen. "I don't have much gold…" Rune's eyes go a bit wide. "Everything I do, I do purely because I want to. I have no need of money. Anyway, I imagine you'd much like to clean up, so allow me a few minutes to begin your treatment. Once we are done, I will retire for a while and you will have use of the washroom. Your belongings are there and you are welcome to use or wear anything you find in there. I often receive gifts of clothing and have no desire for them." [[Rune wastes no time getting to work.|A5.9]]

<<set $cursefatigue to 'reason'>> Rune gives you $Rhisher full attention. You begin to tell your story as clearly as you can. You tell Rune that you are cursed by a god and dying. Though $Rheshe is shocked at the revelation for a moment, $Rheshe does not interrupt you. You start from the beginning, trying to speak of being a very sick child and how the illness followed you into adulthood. You focus on the facts and the symptoms, mentioning the tea Lakota made that seemed to help the symptoms. You also tell of the visit with the mage, Ansar, and all that he told you – of the plan to seek help from the nearest god you might find. You also tell of how your journey has been fraught with its troubles as well, resulting in your injured shoulder and an attack from the bandits on the road. Rune listens with resolute patience, leaning forward and resting $Rhisher chin on $Rhisher hands, asking the occasional question for clarity. You notice little change in how $Rheshe reacts – except – for when Ansar's name is mentioned. For the briefest moment, you would swear, the bard almost winces. When you conclude your tale, Rune leans back, face twisted in thought. "I hate that you have had to go through this, $mc. It would be understandable if you were not okay. I just want you to know that." Rune gives you a significant look. You just nod. "Thank you, but I am actually doing okay right now." "I would advise that you maybe spend some time with your friends – confide in them – and do something you enjoy, healthy habits, of course." $Rcapitalheshe smirks. You manage a small smile as well. "Only Oswin knows the full extent of everything. He did not want to trust anyone else with all the information." Rune nods. "A wise choice. A curse means magic, and some out there would seek to use you for it, even if there was nothing to be gained. Magic hunters are a significant problem at times, I suspect the bandits who accosted you were such. As soon as the landslide occurred, several from the city set out to search for artifacts – none of them are very…//respectable// people. I will note that Duri'naan would be a safe one to tell. $Dcapitalheshe can't exactly help you break it, but $Dheshe won't try to use you for profit or anything. Zahn is a bit simple." Rune freezes for a moment. "Apologies, I don't mean that in an intellectual sense. I mean that $Zheshe just seems to be trying to get by. $Zcapitalheshe was fretting for your well-being a great deal and displayed no interests that would indicate selfish motives to me." You nod. Rune smiles warmly at you. "$mc, if you find that you ever need a safe place to…unravel, I will be here for you. There's no obligation to seek your other companions out, especially if it brings discomfort. But, you may have my shoulder to help you lift your burdens should you need it." "I appreciate the offer," you say, bowing your head politely. "Now, speaking of shoulders – we really should attend to yours more thoroughly and get your other wounds a jump on healing. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>I will be able to mend any torn muscle or tendons and encourage the joint to repair any other damage.<<else>>I will help get the wound and internal damage to knit back together as well as keep any infection down.<</if>>" "So, how does this work?" you ask. "After treating your friend, I am a little tired, but I can still help you, so do not fear. The way I can heal you is by giving your body a push to heal itself much faster. This is best done over multiple days – I do not know how long it will take, that depends on the extent of the damage. I will need to pour magic into the wounded area at least once per day, but likely I will want to start by treating you three times. I do not have to touch you for this to work either if you are averse to it. You //will// be more tired than normal and more hungry. You have the use of my quarters, which is this room and the room across the hall, for as long as you need. I would like you to stay in bed for at least two full days, after that I encourage you to move around and get the blood flowing. There's a market just down the road you could walk around in." You glance around at the most opulent inn lodgings that you've ever seen. "I don't have much gold…" Rune's eyes go a bit wide. "Everything I do, I do purely because I want to. I have no need of money. Anyway, I imagine you'd much like to clean up, so allow me a few minutes to begin your treatment. Once we are done, I will retire for a while and you will have use of the washroom. Your belongings are there and you are welcome to use or wear anything you find in there. I often receive gifts of clothing and have no desire for them." [[Rune wastes no time getting to work.|A5.9]]

Rune embraces you readily as if you have been friends for many years. You sob into $Rhisher shoulder as $Rheshe gently sways side to side while rubbing soothing circles in your back. Through tears and strained cries, you tell Rune that you are cursed by a god and dying. You tell of every hard-won breath and every trial from home to where you are today. Rune listens to every woe you bring $Rhimher, taking on all your frustrations from the curse to the treacherous path you took here. You cry of <<if hasVisited("3.1a")>>how you started this journey with a sense of excitement and adventure, which has only led you to disaster, crushing your hopes of what this path could bring.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1b")>>how apprehensive you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1c")>>how thrilled you were to take this path with Oswin as your guide, to connect with him in a way you'd been missing out on. Only to have it ruined by the perils this trip has thrown you in.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1d")>>how panicked you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have only come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<else>>how unbothered you felt at the start of your journey, but then everything has gone to shit and pulled the rug out from under you, sending you into a spiral of fear you never expected.<</if>> Rune listens patiently as you confess <<if $goal is 'love'>>your fear that you will never find love and how your wish for your birthday was to find a rare and beautiful connection with another soul<<elseif $goal is 'friendship'>>your fear of never finding the connections and friendships that your soul craves. That you will spend the final year of your life without having impacted those around you<<elseif $goal is 'craft'>>your dismay at never having another chance to pursue your passion, your craft. That your love <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>for lumber-work and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>for wood-working and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>for swordsmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>for bowmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>for helping and nurturing others will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>for trade and business will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>for food and meals that bring others together will die with you.<</if>><<elseif $goal is 'answers'>>your fear that you will die before you ever get answers or before anyone ever takes responsibility for cursing you<<elseif $goal is 'independence'>>your fear that you will never taste true independence. That you will meet the end of your days just as helpless as the day you were born.<</if>> And on top of all this, others were hurt – any one of them could have died. <<if $selfblame5 is true>>And it is all ''your'' fault.<</if>> You spill your heart and weep yourself nearly sick in the arms of a stranger. Rune hums you a song when you are finished speaking. $Rcapitalheshe does not hurry your tears, whispering apologies and encouragements as $Rheshe rubs your back. Your shoulder aches, but you haven't within yourself to care about the pain anymore. All you've had is pain, and you are so tired of it winning. When you pull yourself away from Rune, you feel that you must look like a mess. $Rcapitalheshe hands you a kerchief for you to dry your eyes and face. Once you feel more presentable, you sheepishly look back to Rune who gives you a gentle smile. Your voice is strained and nasally when you speak. "Th-thank you. I'm sorry I lost it…" "Don't apologize for that," Rune says. "You have been through a great deal of hardship and the path ahead is uncertain. It is okay to fall apart and express yourself." Another tear slips from your eye, but Rune's gentle hand sweeps it away. Your lip quivers slightly. "You're very kind," you mumble. Rune smiles, and it's then that you see a shine to $Rhisher own eyes. "If you need a safe place to fall apart, my shoulder is yours." You nod and swallow the lump in your throat. "Now, speaking of shoulders – we really should attend to yours more thoroughly and get your other wounds a jump on healing. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>I will be able to mend any torn muscle or tendons and encourage the joint to repair any other damage.<<else>>I will help get the wound and internal damage to knit back together as well as keep any infection down.<</if>>" "So, how does this work?" you ask. "After treating your friend, I am a little tired, but I can still help you, so do not fear. The way I can heal you is by giving your body a push to heal itself much faster. This is best done over multiple days – I do not know how long it will take, that depends on the extent of the damage. I will need to pour magic into the wounded area at least once per day, but likely I will want to start by treating you three times. I do not have to touch you for this to work either if you are averse to it. You //will// be more tired than normal and more hungry. You have the use of my quarters, which is this room and the room across the hall, for as long as you need. I would like you to stay in bed for at least two full days, after that I encourage you to move around and get the blood flowing. There's a market just down the road you could walk around in." You glance around at the most opulent inn lodgings that you've ever seen. "I don't have much gold…" Rune's eyes go a bit wide. "Everything I do, I do purely because I want to. I have no need of money. Anyway, I imagine you'd much like to clean up, so allow me a few minutes to begin your treatment. Once we are done, I will retire for a while and you will have use of the washroom. Your belongings are there and you are welcome to use or wear anything you find in there. I often receive gifts of clothing and have no desire for them." [[Rune wastes no time getting to work.|A5.9]]

Rune gives you space but stays near to show support as if you have been friends for many years. You sob into into your hands. Through tears and strained cries, you tell Rune that you are cursed by a god and dying. You tell of every hard-won breath and every trial from home to where you are today. Rune listens to every woe you bring $Rhimher, taking on all your frustrations from the curse to the treacherous path you took here. You cry of <<if hasVisited("3.1a")>>how you started this journey with a sense of excitement and adventure, which has only led you to disaster, crushing your hopes of what this path could bring.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1b")>>how apprehensive you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1c")>>how thrilled you were to take this path with Oswin as your guide, to connect with him in a way you'd been missing out on. Only to have it ruined by the perils this trip has thrown you in.<<elseif hasVisited("3.1d")>>how panicked you felt starting this journey, and how your fears have only come to fruition and spiraled out of control.<<else>>how unbothered you felt at the start of your journey, but then everything has gone to shit and pulled the rug out from under you, sending you into a spiral of fear you never expected.<</if>> Rune listens patiently as you confess <<if $goal is 'love'>>your fear that you will never find love and how your wish for your birthday was to find a rare and beautiful connection with another soul<<elseif $goal is 'friendship'>>your fear of never finding the connections and friendships that your soul craves. That you will spend the final year of your life without having impacted those around you<<elseif $goal is 'craft'>>your dismay at never having another chance to pursue your passion, your craft. That your love <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>for lumber-work and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>for wood-working and your walk in Papa's footsteps will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>for swordsmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>for bowmanship will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>for helping and nurturing others will die with you.<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>for trade and business will perish with you.<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>for food and meals that bring others together will die with you.<</if>><<elseif $goal is 'answers'>>your fear that you will die before you ever get answers or before anyone ever takes responsibility for cursing you<<elseif $goal is 'independence'>>your fear that you will never taste true independence. That you will meet the end of your days just as helpless as the day you were born.<</if>> And on top of all this, others were hurt – any one of them could have died. <<if $selfblame5 is true>>And it is all ''your'' fault.<</if>> You spill your heart and weep yourself nearly sick in the presence of a stranger. Rune hums you a song when you are finished speaking to bring you any comfort $Rheshe can. $Rcapitalheshe does not hurry your tears, whispering apologies and encouragements. Your shoulder aches, but you haven't within yourself to care about the pain anymore. All you've had is pain, and you are so tired of it winning. When you pull your hands away from your face, you feel that you must look like a mess. $Rcapitalheshe hands you a kerchief for you to dry your eyes and face. Once you feel more presentable, you sheepishly look back to Rune who gives you a gentle smile. Your voice is strained and nasally when you speak. "Th-thank you. I'm sorry I lost it…" "Don't apologize for that," Rune says. "You have been through a great deal of hardship and the path ahead is uncertain. It is okay to fall apart and express yourself." Another tear slips from your eye, and Rune mimics a calming breath for you to help guide yourself into settling. Your lip quivers slightly. "You're very kind," you mumble. Rune smiles, and it's then that you see a shine to $Rhisher own eyes. "If you need a safe place to fall apart, I will be here for you." You nod and swallow the lump in your throat. "Now, speaking of shoulders – we really should attend to yours more thoroughly and get your other wounds a jump on healing. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>I will be able to mend any torn muscle or tendons and encourage the joint to repair any other damage.<<else>>I will help get the wound and internal damage to knit back together as well as keep any infection down.<</if>>" "So, how does this work?" you ask. "After treating your friend, I am a little tired, but I can still help you, so do not fear. The way I can heal you is by giving your body a push to heal itself much faster. This is best done over multiple days – I do not know how long it will take, that depends on the extent of the damage. I will need to pour magic into the wounded area at least once per day, but likely I will want to start by treating you three times. I do not have to touch you for this to work either if you are averse to it. You //will// be more tired than normal and more hungry. You have the use of my quarters, which is this room and the room across the hall, for as long as you need. I would like you to stay in bed for at least two full days, after that I encourage you to move around and get the blood flowing. There's a market just down the road you could walk around in." You glance around at the most opulent inn lodgings that you've ever seen. "I don't have much gold…" Rune's eyes go a bit wide. "Everything I do, I do purely because I want to. I have no need of money. Anyway, I imagine you'd much like to clean up, so allow me a few minutes to begin your treatment. Once we are done, I will retire for a while and you will have use of the washroom. Your belongings are there and you are welcome to use or wear anything you find in there. I often receive gifts of clothing and have no desire for them." [[Rune wastes no time getting to work.|A5.9]]

You grab the thick paper and note the purple wax seal. You chuckle as you break it. At least you know Rune's favorite color very well by now. In beautiful neat script, the note reads: <div class="centered-image"> <<include "rune note">> </div> You look over the rather large and thick piece of paper for such a short note wondering why Rune even sealed it. $Rcapitalheshe is not one for half-measures, clearly. And to be addressed as "Master" is a little odd – perhaps a habit among nobles. You decide that it is better to not keep them waiting, and you are eager to leave this room for the first time in days. You dig around in your pack for your clothing. You can finally wear what you enjoy most without the worry of how it will hold up to travel…or the odd landslide. <<if $clothing is "comfortable">>Something comfortable<<elseif $clothing is "regular">>Something simple<<elseif $clothing is "business">>Something professional<<elseif $clothing is "color">>Something with vibrant colors<<elseif $clothing is "revealing">>Something that shows you off while still concealing the mark so Oswin doesn't hound you,<</if>> and is blessedly clean. Rune saw to it that all of your clothes were cleaned and mended<<if $ch5Broute is true>>, and $Rheshe even provided you with a new cloak<</if>>. After so many days on the road, you finally look and feel clean, smell nice, and appear put-together. Aside from the new bruises, scars, scratches and the magically-growing mark on your torso – everything is…normal. [[It's time to see your company.|5.16]]

You knock before opening the door – not worried about decorum since you were invited. Inside is a room that is identical to the one you just left. You sigh and feel your eye twitch. You need to get out of this inn for a while or at least visit the lobby and tavern. At least the view from the window should be different. If not, you may just scream. Inside sits your companions old and new. They all look up and give you warm smiles, sort of. Duri is sitting upon a chair with a cloth stuffed in $Dhisher mouth as Rune brushes tangles from $Dhisher hair. Oswin is standing at a mirror over a small bowl of water, shaving off the short beard he has grown since setting out – he nicks himself as he sees you. And Zahn is sitting on the window ledge stuffing little bits of fruit into $Zhisher mouth like a squirrel while Rune looks at you. <<if $ch5Broute is true>>You stare a little longer at <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin. He seems to be getting around just fine, much to your relief.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Zahn. $Zcapitalheshe seems to be doing just fine, much to your relief.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri. $Dcapitalheshe seems to be doing just fine, aside from being gagged, much to your relief.<</if>><<if $selfblame5 is true>> You swallow the guilt you feel as the image of the bandit bringing his knife down over and over dances at the edge of your memory.<</if>><<else>>You remember the stir your relapse caused and how frantic everyone was to find help for you. Considering you were only down one whole day from the ordeal, it feels like a mercy compared to all the other times the curse has stricken you down.<</if>> You shake away your thoughts and take a breath to greet the others but are interrupted by the sound of light thumping from another part of the room. Duri spits out $Dhisher gag. "That's for you," $Dheshe says as $Dheshe gestures over towards a large armoire recessed into a wall. You cross the room, the thumps getting louder, and you notice the door is ajar. Grabbing the handle you slowly open it, and your gaze is drawn by doleful brown eyes set against beige fur. The thump gets louder. You chuckle. "There's a she-wolf in the closet." She scrambles up and out of her nest of assorted clothing, eager to sit at your feet. You kneel and pat her head. <<if $ch5Broute is true>>"Thank you for coming to my rescue, sweet girl."<<else>>"Thank you for bringing me the flower, sweet girl. I didn't expect you to follow us all the way here."<</if>> The wolf groans in delight as you hit a good spot behind her ear. You note how clean she looks and how pleasant she smells – a bit like lavender. "I made both her and Duri'naan have a bath," Rune says, yanking a tangle out of Duri's hair as $Dheshe grits $Dhisher teeth. Oswin peers at you, done with his shaving. "I don't think she's leaving anytime soon. Before we eat and talk, I think she needs a name, don't you?" He smiles, making the crows feet on his eyes appear. You nod, looking at the wolf who seems quite taken with you for some reason. "I'll call her, <<textbox "$wolf" "she-wolf name">>." [[The happy wolf gives you a nuzzle.|5.17]]

<<if $wolf is "Shakira">>"An honest name," Oswin declares with hands on his hips. <</if>> With $wolf's short naming ceremony out of the way, you all gather around a table laden with food. Everyone greets you in earnest. Duri winks at you, Zahn claps – showing you a big smile for good measure, Rune bows $Rhisher head, and Oswin holds your gaze looking a bit fraught. <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>You look back at Oswin. "I hope you are feeling okay, I've been worried for you. Rune's told me about your progress at least. It's strange to see you up and about already." He waves a hand at you. "I'm fine. I've had worse, it was nothing." Duri snorts. "You were stabbed – that's not nothing. I don't care if you are the big, scary merc. That shit hurts." Oswin rolls his eyes. "Ignore the dog. I am fine. Just a bit sore still." Zahn chirps, mouth full of bread, "Show us your cool new scar!" Oswin sighs. "You are the last people I put myself on display for," he grumbles. The other two laugh, responding in unison. "Who's the first?" Rune smacks Duri with the hairbrush and glares at Zahn. <<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>You look back at Zahn. "I hope you are feeling okay, I've been worried for you. Rune's told me about your progress at least. It's strange to see you up and about already." "I'm good!" Zahn replies. "Will take more than a tiny dagger to bring me down!" Oswin chuckles. "You were surprisingly tenacious. That thug would have been more effective had he offered you a snack instead." Zahn laughs hard before hissing in pain and clutching $Zhisher side. "I think I would have preferred that too, but I'd never give $mc up." You can't help but smile. <<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>You look to Duri. "I hope you are feeling okay, I've been worried for you. Rune's told me about your progress at least. It's strange to see you up and about already." Duri gives you a wide smile, little fangs on display. "I am totally fine. Barely felt it – it just looked messy." Rune lightly smacks $Dhimher with the hairbrush. Duri shrugs. "Okay, it hurt a //bit//, but I'm fine, nothing to worry yourself over. Not that I don't love you fawning over me." Rune smacks $Dhimher again. You probably look a little unconvinced, prompting Duri to stand suddenly. "Here," $Dheshe says. "I'll show you that I'm fine." Duri begins to gather the layers of $Dhisher robes. Rune smacks the demigod again, much harder this time. "Quit that, we all know you do not wear underclothing. Breakfast is set, I will not have you flashing your //bits// at my guests, especially with food on the table." Duri flops back down on the chair, clearly pouting. Honey-brown eyes look at you. "I'll show you later." <<else>>"I should probably thank you all for coming to my aid. This…uh, relapse has been one of the easiest to overcome because of all of you." Oswin doesn't say anything, but holds your gaze for a moment. Duri doesn't seem to be paying any attention, simply gnawing on a sausage as $Dheshe looks out the window. Zahn, of course, smiles at you. "No worries, $mc, as long as we're here – we'll help." Rune nods in agreement. "Precisely, I am happy to lend you my services. I am a firm believer in that if you //can// do something you should do something." You can't help but be reminded of your fathers. <</if>> "Anyway," Oswin declares. "$mc should have something to eat and we should…discuss a few things." He gives you a significant look. Zahn wastes no time in setting a plate down for you, dumping all manner of food on it. Three small loaves of bread, an apple, figs, four plums, two types of jam, a cluster of grapes, honey, and cheese are set on your dish before you have time to think. And finally, Zahn plops a bowl of sausages next to it in case you want any – or perhaps thinking you should eat the whole bowl. <<if $height is 'short'>>The mound of food nearly blocks your view of the rest of the table.<</if>> [[Everyone digs in.|5.18]]

Once everyone has filled their plates and cups, Oswin begins the conversation by addressing you. "I've spoken with Lyreheart about…the reason for our journey." He nods, signaling to you that he's discussed the //true// reason for your quest. You imagine that after your chat with Rune, $Rheshe likely wanted to speak on it more. "I think…Rune has reassured me that Duri is trustworthy and as I've come to know Zahn, I find $Zhimher to be an honest sort. So, I think we should…if you're in agreement, we should tell all." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You hum in agreement. "I agree, it seems a little pointless over the last few days to keep it all a secret now. I don't think they'd have stuck with us through this without being decent people."<<else>>You nod. "Perhaps Rune can play a tune for us while we tell my story of woe. Oh, maybe we can find actors as well – we'll make a whole thing of it." You grin.<</if>> Oswin smiles, his shoulders seem to relax as he leans back in his chair. While you all eat, you and Oswin explain your situation. You touch on the history that led to your 24th birthday, the mark, Ansar the mage, and the journey to find a way to break the curse placed upon you or your family line by a god. Your companions all vary in their reactions. Rune and Oswin, knowing the truth already, remain fairly stoic. Zahn seems dismayed right away, almost in disbelief. Duri appears agitated and won't look at you. Once your story is concluded, you pick along what is left of your plate of food. You know that you alone will have to tell of the most recent development. "There's one more thing." You swallow hard. Oswin looks at you, his brow wrinkled with worry. Any sense of relief he had in coming clean to the group seems lost now. You clear your throat and sit up. "I noticed when I bathed that the mark is spreading." "Spreading?" Rune asks. "How so?" "It's bigger…there's just more to it now." Rune thinks for a moment. "I've determined that you are absorbing magic, so the mark must be reacting to it. Perhaps its size and composition correlates with how much power it has taken in." Duri stares at Rune for a moment before looking at you finally. "Can we see it?" Oswin grumbles, making a sound like a growl, getting the attention of $wolf who plods up to the table as if summoned. Duri waves a hand to placate him. "For once, I'm not trying to ogle $mc. I met a lot of gods when they were still around. If any of them had the audacity to apply a curse, they also had the audacity to take the credit. If there's one thing that idiots like that love, it's attention. I may recognize the symbol in a way your creepy mage friend didn't. They put them fucking //everywhere// back then." You are about to answer, when Oswin interrupts. "Then we could just as easily draw you a picture, correct? $mc shouldn't have to make a display for you." Duri nods. For once $Dheshe looks entirely serious. No winking, no smirking, and not even a suggestive look. [[You draw the mark instead.|5.18a]] [[You show the mark to everyone.|5.18b]] [[You'll show the mark only to Duri, and draw it for the others.|5.18c]]

Rune procures you paper, charcoal, and ink. You take your time sketching out the curse mark, the image is burned into your mind as much as your flesh and you cannot even forget a single detail. <<if $hobby is 'drawing'>>The rendition is perfect, and though you are drawing something that has caused you a great deal of grief, there's a sort of relief in it. It simply feels good to put this to paper, and you even let yourself get lost in it just for a bit.<<else>>You're not necessarily an artist, but the image comes to life and takes shape just the same. It's strange putting it to paper, and in an odd way makes it feel more real.<</if>> When you are finished, you stand and place the paper over the location where the mark spreads. Zahn and Duri both study it with surprising amounts of attention. Duri gets closer, nose wrinkled in what may either be frustration or disgust. Both shake their heads and Rune soon follows suit. "Sorry, $mc," Duri starts. "I've never seen this emblem before. $Dcapitalheshe sighs heavily. Zahn also shakes $Zhisher head. "I don't know either, but I'd probably know even less than most." "I also do not recognize it," Rune adds. "But, while you're here resting anyway, I can check the royal library of Codrin. They have some ancient texts that could be useful and some scrolls about old magic." Oswin furrows his brow. "Isn't the library under direct oversight by the //monarch//?" "Yes," Rune replies, adding nothing else. You share a look with Oswin, and the same question seems to play in both your eyes. Rune does not stop to clarify anything, but instead moves the conversation along. "Duri'naan, I know this may be a subject of sensitivity, but what of your uncle?" Duri shrugs. "I already told you that I don't know what happened to him." You immediately recall what you know of the history of gods, and you wonder if Duri's uncle could have died. "So…" you start gently. "Who is this uncle of yours? He's a god I understand, right?" Duri nods and smiles. "Yeah, he took care of me after…" $Dcapitalheshe goes silent, the smile fades away as $Dheshe stares out the window. "He was…//is// kind and fun, but he wasn't really ever okay. I guess...he might be gone. I don't know." Oswin takes a breath to ask more, but Duri interrupts by standing and making for the door. The demigod slips out without a word. Rune shakes $Rhisher head. "Shame, I thought we were close to getting $Dhimher to talk. Duri'naan mentions this uncle once in a while but never tells anything about him really. $Dcapitalheshe acts like $Dheshe wants to talk about this relative, but everytime reacts the same. It seems to me like $Dheshe may believe that he is dead, and may not want to open up the conversation about it. All I have learned is that both Duri'naan and this relative of $Dhishers both hated Valko and were very close." "Um," Zahn starts. "Maybe I can help then?" Oswin nods for $Zhimher to go ahead. "I don't have any big connections like the others do, but maybe my church knows something. We've passed down a lot of knowledge about Din since the god wars. The Acceptor is always talking about texts and things like that." Rune nods enthusiastically. "I would not suggest that is just any small connection. Din was a pivotal piece when gods reigned. He connected them all to the people and because of him, faith became organized, which means he would have had some connection with the one that presumably marked $mc's ancestor. I have heard that many facets of life and history were only recorded because of him and his followers." Zahn smiles. "I will find a way to send a message and see if the local sect has anything. Most of my people are still in Lale, but many cities have at least one of our churches." $Zcapitalhisher big blue eyes meet yours, full of hope. [[Even if your journey has taken you in unexpected directions, it appears that you still have hope.|5.19]]

It will not bother you to directly show the mark and may be the fastest way to move the conversation along. You stand and begin adjusting your clothing. <<if $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Oswin rises from his chair and moves to stand in front of you. "You don't have to show everyone. We're in no rush." He's blushing, the bit of red just visible on the tips of his ears.<<else>>Oswin fidgets in his seat. "$mc…um, you don't have to…there's other ways.<</if>> "It's okay, Oswin," you respond. "I can cover what I don't feel comfortable showing. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>It'll be over quickly, and I trust that no one here is using this as an opportunity to gawk." You give him a nod.<<else>>Just pretend I'm showing off my beautiful new tattoo, hm? Perhaps we can get matching ones later." You smirk.<</if>> Oswin settles down and gives you the floor once again. You reveal the mark while holding your clothing back as the others look. Oswin suddenly finds the window more interesting, but you know that he has already seen it anyway. Zahn and Duri both study the mark with surprising amounts of attention. Duri gets closer, nose wrinkled in what may either be frustration or disgust. You're almost proud when neither of them tries to flirt. Their seriousness is both endearing and sort of cute. Both shake their heads and Rune soon follows suit, so you readjust your clothes. "Sorry, $mc," Duri starts. "I've never seen this emblem before. $Dcapitalheshe sighs heavily. Zahn also shakes $Zhisher head. "I don't know either, but I'd probably know even less than most." "I also do not recognize it," Rune adds. "But, while you're here resting anyway, I can check the royal library of Codrin. They have some ancient texts that could be useful and some scrolls about old magic." Oswin furrows his brow. "Isn't the library under direct oversight by the //monarch//?" "Yes," Rune replies, adding nothing else. You share a look with Oswin, and the same question seems to play in both your eyes. Rune does not stop to clarify anything, but instead moves the conversation along. "Duri'naan, I know this may be a subject of sensitivity, but what of your uncle?" Duri shrugs. "I already told you that I don't know what happened to him." You immediately recall what you know of the history of gods, and you wonder if Duri's uncle could have died. "So…" you start gently. "Who is this uncle of yours? He's a god I understand, right?" Duri nods and smiles. "Yeah, he took care of me after…" $Dcapitalheshe goes silent, the smile fades away as $Dheshe stares out the window. "He was…//is// kind and fun, but he wasn't really ever okay. I guess...he might be gone. I don't know." Oswin takes a breath to ask more, but Duri interrupts by standing and making for the door. The demigod slips out without a word. Rune shakes $Rhisher head. "Shame, I thought we were close to getting $Dhimher to talk. Duri'naan mentions this uncle once in a while but never tells anything about him really. $Dcapitalheshe acts like $Dheshe wants to talk about this relative, but everytime reacts the same. It seems to me like $Dheshe may believe that he is dead, and may not want to open up the conversation about it. All I have learned is that both Duri'naan and this relative of $Dhishers both hated Valko and were very close." "Um," Zahn starts. "Maybe I can help then?" Oswin nods for $Zhimher to go ahead. "I don't have any big connections like the others do, but maybe my church knows something. We've passed down a lot of knowledge about Din since the god wars. The Acceptor is always talking about texts and things like that." Rune nods enthusiastically. "I would not suggest that is just any small connection. Din was a pivotal piece when gods reigned. He connected them all to the people and because of him, faith became organized, which means he would have had some connection with the one that presumably marked $mc's ancestor. I have heard that many facets of life and history were only recorded because of him and his followers." Zahn smiles. "I will find a way to send a message and see if the local sect has anything. Most of my people are still in Lale, but many cities have at least one of our churches." $Zcapitalhisher big blue eyes meet yours, full of hope. [[Even if your journey has taken you in unexpected directions, it appears that you still have hope.|5.19]]

Oswin chokes on his tea. Zahn pats his back while you motion for Duri to follow you into the washroom. Once the door is shut you hear Oswin say something in a harsh tone and then cough again. Duri grins at you. "Why am I so special, hm?" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Don't feel so superior just yet. You're the closest to a god we have, and you seem to have some strange feelings about what's going on with me.<<else>>"Don't get a big head, I'm looking for ways to tease you and also irritate Oswin and this fits both goals.<</if>> And maybe if you see it directly, it will trigger something, I don't know." Duri's grin turns into more of a kind smile. "Sorry, I was just trying to mess with you. I'll take it seriously, I promise." "Are you capable of such a feat?" you smart back. "Only one way to find out." Duri pops $Dhisher hands on $Dhisher knees and looks at your midriff expectantly. You move your clothing around to reveal the mark. Duri looks it over, brows furrowed while $Dheshe lightly bites $Dhisher bottom lip in thought. $Dcapitalheshe shakes $Dhisher head. "I...I don't think I recognize it…I'm sorry, truly." You sigh. You suppose it isn't a total waste, Duri has proved that $Dheshe isn't always an insufferable flirt… $flirt_label $flirt_label [[But you are…|5.18c1][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 5, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You take a moment to sincerly thank Duri.|5.18c3]] $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You feel equally embarrassed and thrilled to be in this position.|5.18c2][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You readjust your clothes and leave the room.|5.18d]]

Rune regains everyone's attention once more. "Now that business is concluded, I welcome you all officially to the Lark and Heron Inn. You are free to mill about as my guests, share these two rooms, enjoy the baths, and eat your fill from the kitchen. I only ask that you are all on your best behavior. The owners are personal friends of mine." Oswin nods. "Absolutely, we are very thankful for the hospitality." You glance at Zahn and are certain that $Zheshe is already thinking about the kitchen. "One more thing I will add before we part," Rune says. "Codrin is a safe city, but there is currently a bit of unrest you should be aware of." You almost groan. This sounds like one more thing to worry about suddenly. "What sort of unrest?" you ask. "It will only be a few days, likely, but soldiers representing King Amalric are scouring the city." Oswin scoffs. "Why have they come all this way?" You tilt your head. "Who?" "King Amalric rules over the capital region – Tallulah," Rune explains. "What I have gathered is that his troops are searching for something, and I have a feeling that it was a stolen something. But they refuse to explain what the item is. It is difficult to tell if they seek the object or the person who stole it." You see Oswin roll his eyes. "Figures, another one of his tantrums. And Monarch Shem is just allowing these men to run amok in their city?" Rune nods. "They granted the permission. Whatever was lost or stolen must be important. But, if you stay close to the inn and don't stir up any trouble, they won't be a problem. They're not allowed to question or search anyone within the confines of homes or businesses, but you'll likely see them milling about the tavern downstairs. Just ignore them." Zahn seems to shrink. "They can be really mean," $Zheshe whispers to you. Oswin nods and sighs. "$mc, <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>please exercise caution if you do run into them. Don't do anything foolish.<<else>>you should be fine if you run into them, don't get anxious.<</if>> If they speak with you, just behave and go along – answer, and then get out of their way." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You nod your agreement. After all you've been through, you don't want any more trouble. "I can do that, no problem. Now, is that all we needed to talk about?"<<else>>"Well, there goes all my fun," you say. "I suppose I can behave if you really want me to. Can I go now?"<</if>> "One more thing," Rune says. "I'm going to put you on a regiment of tonics to aid your recovery. I will have them set on your bedside table by the afternoon each day. They will help relax you to sleep easily by nightfall and bolster your strength and healing." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Okay, that won't be a problem."<<else>>"Do they taste bad?"<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Rune nods. "An excellent attitude to have. These will help you get back to normal before you travel again.<<else>>Rune glares at you. "Not usually, but for you I will make an exception. These will help get you back on your feet.<</if>>" "We will rest here for a while longer," Oswin begins. "And once we've recovered sufficiently, we will head back to Stonebrook using the main roads. Until then, you only need to focus on rest. Enjoy yourself, $mc, and try to have a good time while you're stuck here." He smiles, looking surprisingly relieved. You murmur and agreement as you think of what you could get up to while here. Unfortunately, you can't go far, but given the situation, you don't want to anyway. At least your companions will probably be happy to spend some time with you. [[All that's left is to relax and entertain yourself.|5.O1]]

<<set $Dflirt +=3>> <<set $Dbold +=3>> You put on a fake pout. "I'm almost upset that you're not even //trying// to woo me…. And here I just exposed myself to you." Duri freezes, $Dhisher mouth hangs open slightly for a moment before $Dheshe suddenly straightens $Dhisher posture. $Dcapitalhisher eyes shift towards the door. "I'm trying to be a //little// good here, $mc." You sigh, exaggerating your reaction. "Maybe I could ask someone else to take a look then…" "No, no – no. You don't need to do that." Duri refocuses on you with a smirk. "Maybe…maybe it would help my memory to touch the mark instead." You bite your lip. "It's best to be sure, I think." Duri crowds you, pushing your back against a wall. "This is what I like about you." "Yeah? What specifically?" "Making the best of your situation. Here we are discussing such a…" $Dcapitalheshe uses a finger to lightly graze your torso over the mark. "//Damning// topic, but you managed to turn it around, get me alone, and seduce me with those lovely $eyecolor eyes of yours." "Well, are you seduced yet?" you ask, trying to hide a smile. Duri groans, dragging $Dhisher whole hand down your abdomen slowly. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>"Here I believed you to be such a shy thing. I quite like how versatile you are. Is it just for me that you're like this? Perhaps I am already seduced after all."<<else>>"Perhaps I've met my match…I almost can't handle myself around you when you act this way. Maybe I really am seduced."<</if>> You enjoy the feeling of Duri's hand on you, it tickles slightly but sends pleasant shivers up your sides. Despite the lingering aches and pains, it feels tantalizing to be touched this way. There's a bang against the door followed by the sound of Rune's chiding tone before you hear a knock. Oswin speaks from the other side. "Is everything okay in there?" Duri's smile grows as $Dheshe begins fixing your clothing while languidly feeling about your torso a bit more. "Everything's fine!" $Dheshe calls back and then pauses a moment before winking at you. "Just putting ''our'' clothes back on!" "What!?" Oswin yells. You shake your head as you make for the door, throwing it open to find an audience waiting with various levels of enthusiasm. Zahn is smiling wide and leaning forward, Oswin looks absolutely beside himself, and Rune appears annoyed. As Duri comes through the door, laughing, Rune wacks $Dhimher upside the head with a firm hand. [[You suppose you should get to drawing.|5.18d]]

<<set $Dflirt +=3>> <<set $Dshy +=3>> You're so distracted by your nerves that you forget to cover yourself. There's a war inside of you. Part of you gets a thrill out of being exposed like this in front of Duri. $Dcapitalheshe has made $Dhisher interest clear to you, but do you dare return it? "Little lamb, you are looking a bit more flustered than usual…" Duri interrupts your spiraling thoughts. "What?" Duri stalks closer until your back is against a wall. "If I didn't know any better I would say that you're doing it on purpose." "Doing what?" You stare into Duri's honeyed eyes which are looking much less innocent as the seconds tick by. You feel Duri drag a nail down your stomach over the mark. "Exposing such a…//vulnerable// part of yourself to a predator." You swallow. "And I was trying so hard to be good this time. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Your bashfulness is so cute, makes me want to eat you up.<<else>>It's cute what a mess you have suddenly become. What happened to your bite? Hm? Do you lose it just for me?<</if>>" You nearly gasp as you feel Duri's hand gently tracing along your torso over the mark. Duri groans as $Dheshe feels you out. It tickles slightly but sends pleasant shivers up your sides. Despite the lingering aches and pains, it feels tantalizing to be touched this way. There's a bang against the door followed by the sound of Rune's chiding tone before you hear a knock. Oswin speaks from the other side. "Is everything okay in there?" Duri's smile grows as $Dheshe begins fixing your clothing while languidly feeling about your torso a bit more. "Everything's fine!" $Dheshe calls back and then pauses a moment before winking at you. "Just putting ''our'' clothes back on!" "What!?" Oswin yells. You shake your head as you make for the door, throwing it open to find an audience waiting with various levels of enthusiasm. Zahn is smiling wide and leaning forward, Oswin looks absolutely beside himself, and Rune appears annoyed. As Duri comes through the door, laughing, Rune wacks $Dhimher upside the head with a firm hand. [[You suppose you should get to drawing.|5.18d]]

Rune procures you paper, charcoal, and ink as Duri informs the others that $Dheshe didn't recognize the mark. You take your time sketching out the curse mark, the image is burned into your mind as much as your flesh and you cannot even forget a single detail. <<if $hobby is 'drawing'>>The rendition is perfect, and though you are drawing something that has caused you a great deal of grief, there's a sort of relief in it. It simply feels good to put this to paper, and you even let yourself get lost in it just for a bit.<<else>>You're not necessarily an artist, but the image comes to life and takes shape just the same. It's strange putting it to paper, and oddly makes it feel more real.<</if>> When you are finished, you stand and place the paper over the location where the mark spreads. Zahn and Rune study the mark carefully but soon shake their heads. Zahn sighs heavily. "It's not familiar at all, but I'd probably know even less than the others." "I also do not recognize it," Rune adds. "But, while you're here resting anyway, I can check the royal library of Codrin. They have some ancient texts that could be useful and some scrolls about old magic." Oswin furrows his brow. "Isn't the library under direct oversight by the //monarch//?" "Yes," Rune replies, adding nothing else. You share a look with Oswin, and the same question seems to play in both your eyes. Rune does not stop to clarify anything, but instead moves the conversation along. "Duri'naan, I know this may be a subject of sensitivity, but what of your uncle?" Duri shrugs. "I already told you that I don't know what happened to him." You immediately recall what you know of the history of gods, and you wonder if Duri's uncle could have died. "So…" you start gently. "Who is this uncle of yours? He's a god I understand, right?" Duri nods and smiles. "Yeah, he took care of me after…" $Dcapitalheshe goes silent, the smile fades away as $Dheshe stares out the window. "He was…//is// kind and fun, but he wasn't really ever okay. I guess...he might be gone. I don't know." Oswin takes a breath to ask more, but Duri interrupts by standing and making for the door. The demigod slips out without a word. Rune shakes $Rhisher head. "Shame, I thought we were close to getting $Dhimher to talk. Duri'naan mentions this uncle once in a while but never tells anything about him really. $Dcapitalheshe acts like $Dheshe wants to talk about this relative, but everytime reacts the same. It seems to me like $Dheshe may believe that he is dead, and may not want to open up the conversation about it. All I have learned is that both Duri'naan and this relative of $Dhishers both hated Valko and were very close." "Um," Zahn starts. "Maybe I can help then?" Oswin nods for $Zhimher to go ahead. "I don't have any big connections like the others do, but maybe my church knows something. We've passed down a lot of knowledge about Din since the god wars. The Acceptor is always talking about texts and things like that." Rune nods enthusiastically. "I would not suggest that is just any small connection. Din was a pivotal piece when gods reigned. He connected them all to the people and because of him, faith became organized, which means he would have had some connection with the one that presumably marked $mc's ancestor. I have heard that many facets of life and history were only recorded because of him and his followers." Zahn smiles. "I will find a way to send a message and see if the local sect has anything. Most of my people are still in Lale, but many cities have at least one of our churches." $Zcapitalhisher big blue eyes meet yours, full of hope. [[Even if your journey has taken you in unexpected directions, it appears that you still have hope.|5.19]]

By early afternoon, you find yourself sitting at the inn's tavern, enjoying the low bustle of people around you. It's not quite as busy yet as it seems to get in the evenings. There are still people around to watch, but not so many that it's uncomfortable. You're feeling back to your normal self today, even if you have a few more scars than before. <<if $virgin is true>>Though you've never had sex before, the mood has struck. Perhaps it's because of your harrowing experiences while on this journey. Your life could be cut short at any time, and you'd like to have some fun.<<else>>You've had sex before, the experience isn't foreign to you. Now that you're feeling well, other urges are rising to the surface. Not fighting for your life has that effect you suppose.<</if>> You scan the crowd. The downside of the tavern being a bit empty is that there aren't many people looking for casual encounters at this time of day. You've heard that the Snake and Lily is a good place for frivolity, but it is on the other side of the city. You look around at the people milling about. A few people are hanging out alone. You also spot one of the innkeepers at the bar, Alondra. She did tell you that if you needed anything to come see her. You move to the end of the bar where she is organizing tankards for the rush that will inevitably hit tonight. She's humming a song, her short frame bouncing around as she tidies and organizes everything. You can tell that this place would not run smoothly without her. "Hey there, Alondra," you say, taking a seat. "Oh! $mc! I am so glad to see you prowling around again. Can I get you anything? We have lots of good mead on tap, wine of course, tea or I can grab you some soup and bread." You wave a hand. "Thank you, but I'm actually after something else." "What's that? If it can be found, I can serve it." She grins. "I'm<<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>, um." You lower your voice to a whisper. "I'm looking for some //company//, if you know what I mean."<<else>> looking for a lucky person to spend some //quality// time with."<</if>> Her eyes light up. "Oh my dear, I see. I can help with that as well – but I won't be serving!" She laughs. "I know the usuals, and I know just who you can trust." "Great! Anyone around now?" "Well, you're a little early, truth be told, but…you see that young man at the other end of the bar?" You peek over. There's a tall man, slouched over, nursing a cup of tea. He looks rather nervous, his eyes rarely leaving his cup. You look back at the innkeeper, the question plain on your face. "I'll give you a little hint just in case. You see someone sipping amparo tea, usually alone, and doing nothing else – they're looking for a partner." "Yeah?" She nods. "What better way to signal than drinking a contraceptive tea alone in a bar? It just became a thing at least around here. Unless you're in the brothel, it's a fair way to signal to folks without being too forward." "Better than wearing a sign I suppose." "Well, they do that in other taverns!" She laughs. "That man is Jun, and I highly recommend him to you and you to him. He's a sweetie – a nervous one – and he's been in here every few days for the last season sipping that tea and waiting for someone to take home." "No one has yet?" "Not yet, he's a little particular I think, and I've seen several people back out once he tells them what he wants. I won't tell his secrets though, that's for you to discuss if you want to talk with him. And he's a bit shy, so you'll need to get him warmed up to you a bit. Want me to get you a tea so your intent is clear?" You nod, and within a few moments, you have a little cup of the amparo tea. You sit and opt to watch Jun for another moment. Aside from being withdrawn, practically huddled on his barstool, he's cute. He's thin and sort of lanky with nice angles to his jaw and even his nose. His auburn hair flops, looking artfully messy and hanging around his ears. He keeps his eyes turned down at his tea, and you can't help but want to see their color. Taking a look around the tavern you see mostly couples and small groups enjoying their afternoons. This may be your only time to take part if you want to enjoy some outside company, and this lone man may be your only option for a while, at least until you get home. [[Approach Jun.|5.J1a]] [[Jun isn't for you.|5.J1ba]] {end moment}

You take your tea with you as you make your way to the other end of the large bar. The slim man freezes noticeably when you take the seat next to him and set your tea down. He keeps his head down, his auburn hair forming a curtain that conceals his eyes from you. Slowly, he turns his head to sneak a look at you, snapping his head back once he realizes you're watching back. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You briefly wonder if he is even more reserved than you.<<else>>His shyness is kinda cute and makes you want to drag him out of his shell a little.<</if>> "Hello," you say, starting things off easy. "Hello," he answers quietly, slipping a subtle peek at you again before snapping his head down. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>"It's okay if you're shy, I understand what that feels like. You can look at me if you want. I would appreciate seeing your face too."<<else>>You grin. "It's okay for you to take a look at me if you want. I'd really like to see your face too, you know."<</if>> Jun slowly turns his head. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Though he's nearly as tall as you, with the way he's sitting, he appears so much smaller. As he looks up at you, his face appears so innocent.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Though you're certain he's taller than you, with the way he's sitting, he appears so much smaller. As he looks up at you, his face appears so innocent.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Though you're certain he's taller than you, with the way he's sitting, he appears so much smaller. As he looks right at you, his face appears so innocent.<<else>>Though he's much taller than you even while hunched over, with the way he's sitting, he appears small. As he looks at you, his face appears so innocent.<</if>> You finally see his eyes. They are a light and an almost shiny grey, maybe closer to silver, and you see that his right eye is freckled with a few spots of brown. His lashes are long and dark, creating a frame around the silver orbs that makes them pop. Very faint freckles dot the prominent bridge of his sharp nose. He smiles at you meekly, his lips are defined but small. You spot little freckles along his lower lip. He takes a deep breath and turns his face back to his tea. "Not what you were hoping for?" you ask. "Oh!" His face snaps back to yours. "No, no, um not at all. No, wait…" You tilt your head. "That's not what I meant – I like…um…" His face goes back down and his hands fidget in his lap. "You're…a vision. I don't know why you'd be talking to //me//…" You feel your face warm slightly. "Well, I saw you drinking that tea…" You scoot your cup closer towards him. "I thought I'd join you since it seems…we have the same tastes." He looks at you again, his lips parting in what you think is surprise. He grabs his teacup and you notice how long his delicate fingers are. "You…really?" He looks at you with hopeful eyes. You nod. "I would like some company…" "I'd like that…um, well…I should tell you something though." "Okay, that's fine, say whatever you need to." You try to think of what this could be. How has this man been turned down before? He straightens and takes a deep breath before leaning closer to you to whisper. "So…it's okay if you don't want to, well, deal with me. Others haven't been comfortable about it…" You lean in to hear better and wait patiently. "So…I haven't done this before." "That's okay," you say. "Lots of people don't like finding casual company." "No…not that – well, that too, but…um." You look at his face, seeing his lips scrunched up. "I've never…//been// with another person before." "Oh… Well, I suppose you'd want to start somewhere, right?" He nods. "Most people who want to just meet for a…uh, short time, want to just have their fun and go their separate ways. But it's not so easy with me. I don't know what I'm doing, and I've been too…I guess scared in a way. I want to…I want to have…things with other people, I just don't know how it works tangibly. I know in my head, but I don't know //know//…you know…" Jun curls in on himself. His face is dark red. "I get it, I think. You need someone to practice with, right? So you feel comfortable the next time." He turns his eyes to you and nods animatedly. "Yes, that's it. I've never felt a call for a partner. I have friends and a large family, and I just like…I just appreciate being on my own. But I can't help…I have…" "Physical needs?" He nods again, smiling at you. "I've entertained myself for a long time, but I just need to try this and branch out. I need someone who will be a little patient with me but still get me through the experience." $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You are that person.|5.J2]] [[Something like this isn't quite for you.|5.J1b]]

You give Jun an apologetic look and he smiles back at you. He nods. "It's okay." You sigh. "I am sorry, I just don't think I'm right for you at this point." "I know it's a tall order for some. I've had a couple who were interested, but I didn't feel a connection – not a romantic one, just in general. There wasn't as much of a draw for me." "Did you feel a draw with me?" You can't help but be curious. Jun chuckles. "I did. I find you attractive, but you also have a…radiance. Some people just have a special air to them, I think, I don't know what it is. I trusted you right away." You smile, and something catches your eye from across the room. An attractive older $pronouns with greying hair and fine robes sits at a table, eyes on the two of you. No…eyes on Jun. As Jun looks down at his tea, you give the $pronouns a nod, <<if $pronouns is 'woman'>>she<<elseif $pronouns is 'man'>>he<<else>>they<</if>> smile back at you and stand. "Jun, I wish you the best. If it's any consolation – I don't think it will be much longer." He nods and gives you a warm look. "Thank you for chatting with me. I also wish you the best. Some evenings there are more people looking for a connection should you come back." You take your leave and head back to the stairs to get to your room. You take one last look at Jun as the new possible suitor approaches him, looking //very// interested. You hope it works out for them. Instead of a sexual excursion, you find a friend and pass the day quietly. [[Before you go to sleep for the night, you make plans to go to the market the next day.|5.A]]

You raise your tea and hold it towards Jun. He eyes it a moment before grabbing his cup and raising it close to yours. You clink the cups together and then take a drink and Jun mimics you. "I think I can help you, Jun." You smile at him. His brow lifts and for a moment you think he may cry tears of joy. "Really? Truly? You'd…are you sure? You…you're so- Wow, I feel so lucky." He laughs, his cheeks are tinted red and the end of his nose is even flushed. <<if $virgin is true>>"Now, I've actually never done this before either, but I am confident that we can get through it. There's nothing to be ashamed of, we'll figure it out." His eyes go wide. "Really? You've never? Well, that's sort of exciting I think."<<else>>"I have experience, so I'm happy to guide you. We'll have fun." He smiles. "I'll be in your care then. I'm thankful, I hope that isn't odd for something like this."<</if>> "So," you say while leaning closer. "Where should we go?" "Um, if you don't mind, I live just behind the inn. I always imagined it…in my own bed, I guess. It feels wrong for me to use the beds here…maybe that's weird." <<if $virgin is true>>"I don't think that's weird. Makes sense that being in a familiar place would maybe feel better. My room here is just as unfamiliar as yours probably would be, so I'm flexible."<<else>>"It's not for everyone. Some people like to be out of their own beds and some just don't. Wherever you're comfortable, I'm flexible."<</if>> Jun smiles as he stands from his seat, setting some money on the bar and waving at Alondra. "I'm so excited." Just to look at him, you'd never know he was excited, aside from the big smile he doesn't seem to emote much. You also wave at the innkeeper and she claps with elation, scaring the patron she's trying to serve in the process. Your tall companion gently takes your hand and guides you towards the back of the inn where there is a hidden exit. Once you leave, you're in a small courtyard that divides the block up from the front street and back streets. Jun leads you to a door on a building just on the other side of the little courtyard and begins to open it with a key. He was not joking that he was right behind the inn. "I live and work here if you're wondering," he says as the door clicks open. "Oh, that makes sense. I was thinking that there were just businesses here. What do you do?" He leads you into a small back room that is lined with shelves of material. "I do textiles, I guess." He shrugs. "I make clothing, rugs, shoes, hats…" "Oh, I bet you're usually busy then. Why are you hanging around a tavern in the middle of the day?" "I took some time off actually. I have a tendency to just work and work. My parents and siblings were worried that I was overdoing it. So, I closed down the front of my shop and am only making articles by appointment. I live upstairs, follow me." He smiles as he leads you to another door and unlocks it, opening up to reveal a staircase. As you look around at the building it becomes clear that Jun must do good business. Everything around you appears high quality. He opens another door for you and lets you file into his home. His loft is similar to the shop below. Everything is decorated simply, but all the furnishings are quite solid and made from quality material. "So," he says with his hands folded politely in front of him. "What do you do for a living?" "I work in <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>logging<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>carpentry<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>my village guard. I specialize in swordsmanship<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>my village guard. I specialize in bowmanship<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>medicine<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>merchandising<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>culinary arts<</if>>." "Oh, that's wonderful. So is your trade what brought you to the Lark and Heron?" Jun leads you into a small sitting room with a few chairs and a tea table. You both sit as you continue to chat. You clear your throat. "Not exactly…I'm satisfying a bit of wanderlust. I'm from Stonebrook out by Lale." "Yes! I've heard of that little town. There's a merchant who buys from me sometimes that talks of it often." You sit back and stare at Jun. "Nathanael?" Suddenly it makes sense, some of the fine linens you spotted on the shelves were definitely the merchant's style. "Oh? You know him? I haven't seen him in ages, but he's mentioned your little village a time or two. There was another…a woman, Magra is her name." You shake your head. "I've not met her yet." "She's kind – loud, but kind. She often sells around the city." [[You both continue to chat for a while…|5.J3]] {leads to explicit content} [[You both continue to chat for a while before blazing ahead...|5.J3fade]] {skip explicit details}

After pleasantries to ease the both of you into a more intimate situation, Jun takes you to his bedroom. It's a cozy space with a large bed covered in rich burgundy linens with a few simple and soft furnishings around the room. Everything is tidy and well organized. Jun stands at the foot of the bed staring at it. He hugs his arms to himself as his face goes blank. "Are you okay?" you ask. He nods. "Yeah…little embarrassed, little nervous, but I'm also sort of excited. I've wanted to…feel what sex was like with another person for a long time. It's a bit surreal actually getting to this point." <<if $virgin is true>>"I think I know what you mean. Maybe we should try to get comfortable then."<<else>>"I understand, we'll have fun – the unforgettable kind. We should get comfortable."<</if>> Jun smiles. "Yeah, I agree." <> <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:16px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">~~~*make a save here if you'd like to replay this moment later*~~~</div> </h1> </body> </html> <> <<if $bits is false>> On your torso are: <<listbox "$chest" autoselect>> <<option "pecs">> <<option "breasts">> <</listbox>> You have a: <<listbox "$vp" autoselect>> <<option "vagina">> <<option "penis">> <</listbox>> Is kissing (mouth/tongue) with Jun okay? <<listbox "$kiss" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> [[Continue|5.J4]] <<else>> Is kissing (mouth/tongue) with Jun okay? <<listbox "$kiss" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> You have $chest and a $vp. {If these have not been set before or need to be changed, select No below} Are these correct? [[Yes.|5.J4]] [[No.|5.J3a]] <</if>>

<<set $virgin to false>> You and Jun enjoy some intimate time together. It opens his eyes to a whole horizon of pleasures of the flesh and you have no doubt he leaves the time spent with you emboldened in his endeavors. He will quietly remain grateful to you for taking a chance on him, and making his first experience with sex pleasant and memorable. You part with an open-ended invitation to his bedroom. [[Before you go to sleep for the night, you make plans to go to the market the next day.|5.A]]

<<set $bits to true>> Jun leads you over to his bedside, shifting around with nervous excitement. <<if $vp is "vagina">>He motions to a bedside table with a drawer. "I don't know what you like, but I have, um…well, me and a friend have designed some //instruments//." "Instruments?" you repeat as you move towards the table. "Things to use to sate our own needs. A bit of a common find, but we took a finer approach." You open the drawer and find it lined with luscious red material, a beautiful glass phallus sitting upon it. It looks shockingly like the real thing. And to the right of it sets…a leather harness and phials of oil. Jun's face is bright red. "My friend is a glassmaker; they are quite the master as well. I fashioned the harness myself to fit it. I could never be sure who might grace my bed, so I wanted to be prepared. Other designs aren't as…comfortable as ours. We'd like to produce and sell a few soon." "The craftsmanship is certainly fine, I can tell by looking." "If you wish to use it, I am…at your…um…yes, I'd be fine. Either way, that is. I just do not believe I could handle – you know – both…both ways. And just so you are aware…it is designed to apply pressure to your- to //you//. And there's another small phallus that fits in the harness if you want…//internal// stimulation." Jun takes a few rapid breaths after he gives you the options and it's difficult to tell if he's embarrassed, aroused, or both. Do you take the strap-on? {MC will take control of penetration if yes} <<listbox "$strapon" autoselect>> <<option "no">> <<option "yes">> <</listbox>> ** ''If yes'', do you want the insertable portion? {text will not specify exactly where MC uses it so this can be left to imagination} <<listbox "$insert" autoselect>> <<option "no">> <<option "yes">> <</listbox>> [[Continue|5.J5v1]] <<else>>He motions to a bedside table with a drawer. "However you wish to…//proceed// is fine by me. I'm open to all forms of desire. There is oil in this drawer…for me or for you." You open the drawer finding it lined with rich red fabric. You see the oil in question and also a glass phallus with a leather harness, which draws your eye and curiosity. You look back at Jun. "A project a friend and I are undertaking. High quality…instruments to sate all desires." He smiles, his cheeks bright red. "It's something I'd like to try out with the right partner one day." You grab the oil and give him a smirk. Is the oil for Jun or for you? {selected will be receiving from the other} <<listbox "$lubeup" autoselect>> <<option "Jun">> <<option "you">> <</listbox>> [[Continue|5.J5p1]] <</if>>

On your torso are: <<listbox "$chest" autoselect>> <<option "breasts">> <<option "pecs">> <</listbox>> You have a: <<listbox "$vp" autoselect>> <<option "penis">> <<option "vagina">> <</listbox>> Is kissing (mouth/tongue) with Jun okay? <<listbox "$kiss" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> [[Continue|5.J4]]

Once you've seen your options and decided what you want, you stand with Jun next to his neatly made bed. He continues to fidget as he looks at it. "I don't know how to start…" he mumbles. <<if $virgin is true>>You ponder that for a moment. "I think, in our case, we can just //start//. It might be more true to why we're here right now at least. Once sex becomes more natural for you, you'll know better how to lead up to it. Right?"<<else>>You nudge him gently with your shoulder. "We can just get to it if you like. We don't need any fanfare. You'll figure out as you get used to sex how you want to start things off."<</if>> Jun smiles. "You're right. Um, can we just take our clothes off then?" He bites his lip, hiding the little bit of excitement which is becoming more apparent in his expression. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You agree, feeling a little shy, but also encouraged at his enthusiasm.<<else>>You agree, fueled by the excitement that he's radiating.<</if>> It's a little clinical at first disrobing with someone you just met. Had Jun had any experience it may be more fluid or natural, but he'll get there, and you're going to help him. At first, he's not sure where to look<<if $virgin is true>> and you aren't either<</if>>. But then your eyes linger on him as he unfastens the buttons on his shirt. His fingers are so long and graceful that you think anything he does with them would look like art. He must take great care of his skin as it is soft, his nails perfectly clean and manicured. For someone who works with his hands a great deal, he must be meticulous about it. His shirt slips off his shoulders and then to the floor. You undo your clothing in a haze as you watch him. His skin is smooth, and as well cared for as his hands. His body is thin, but not overly so. You catch the outline of his hips as he pushes his trousers down, but his eyes are on you. Jun drinks you in as you reveal your body to him. He even stops fidgeting. You can tell that his eyes focus on the mark a bit longer, and just for a beat of your heart, you flinch. He approaches you, meeting your eyes as you remove the last of your clothes. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>He stares at your left shoulder where the flesh is still bruised and the musculature is different from your other side.<<else>>He stares at the scar on your left shoulder. Though it has healed rapidly, the wound was severe enough that even magic couldn't prevent the nasty scar.<</if>> "It's okay," you reassure. "It doesn't hurt?" Jun's face scrunches. "No, not anymore. I'm fine." You smile. "I apologize for staring, I just don't want to hurt you…and I can't seem to look away." He smiles wide and gives you a nervous chuckle. "I quite like that tattoo as well, I've never seen such fine work before." You let that comment fly over you. For right now, you agree that it is just a tattoo. You move a little closer to Jun. He lifts his hands and gently glides them across either side of your neck before rolling them over your shoulders and down your arms. His breath studders. <<if $kiss is "Yes">>You watch Jun's lips only to realize he is also looking at yours. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You tilt your head down and give him a demure smile.<<else>>You look up and give him a demure smile.<</if>> He crosses the small gap between you and gently presses his lips to yours. You gently peck along each other's mouths. Jun quivers slightly as he tests different ways to meld your lips together. You feel him smile after you tug and suck his bottom lip. His hands gently slide along your sides, caressing your skin and bringing you flush against him. You part from him and watch as he pants with excitement. His face is flushing and his eyes are eager. "Open your mouth," you request, though it comes out more as a demand. He's obedient, though his eyes look back at you with a little uncertainty. You lace your hands at the back of his neck and bring his mouth to yours, slipping your tongue between his lips. He moans and presses closer, his hands skirting down to your hips – they're so warm. His tongue meets yours and gently tangles with it. You taste tea and honey. You drag your hands down his back <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>tentatively feeling him out. You pause at his lower back, your hands quivering before you slowly, and a little hesitantly, lower them to his ass.<<else>>eagerly feeling him out. Your hands dip to his lower back, and you dig your fingers in as you glide them down to grip his ass.<</if>> Jun groans, his hold on your hips tightens as his front presses against you. His cock is hard. He presses his mouth firmly against you, becoming more frantic in his excitement. <<else>> Jun is clearly eager to touch you. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You tilt your head down and give him a demure smile.<<else>>You look up and give him a demure smile.<</if>> He crosses the small gap between you and gently brings you into a hug. The touch is tentative at first and very light. He rubs your back softly as you both begin to melt into each other. Jun's hands gently slide along your sides, caressing your skin and bringing you flush against him. You part from him and watch as he pants with excitement. His face is flushing and his eyes are eager. "Press against me harder," you request, though it comes out more as a demand. He's obedient, though his eyes look back at you with a little uncertainty. You lace your hands at the back of his neck and guide him tight against your body. He moans as your fronts meet, hands skirting down to your hips - they're so warm. Jun tucks his face in the crook of your neck and you feel his hot breath against your skin. You drag your hands down his back <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>tentatively feeling him out. You pause at his lower back, your hands quivering before you slowly, and a little hesitantly, lower them to his ass.<<else>>eagerly feeling him out. Your hands dip to his lower back, and you dig your fingers in as you glide them down to grip his ass.<</if>> Jun groans, his hold on your hips tightens as his front presses against you. His cock is hard. He presses his mouth against the juncture of your shoulder with a gentle bite before gliding his tongue against the sensitive skin. <</if>> <<if $strapon is "no">>You're both heating up, and you sense that you are ready for the next step. [[You move to the bed.|5.J6v]] <<else>>You're both heating up, and you sense that you are ready for the next step. [[You guide Jun to the bed.|5.J6vstrap]] <</if>>

Once you have grabbed the oil, you stand with Jun next to his neatly made bed. He continues to fidget as he looks at it. "I don't know how to start…" he mumbles. <<if $virgin is true>>You ponder that for a moment. "I think, in our case, we can just //start//. It might be more true to why we're here right now at least. Once sex becomes more natural for you, you'll know better how to lead up to it. Right?"<<else>>You nudge him gently with your shoulder. "We can just get to it if you like. We don't need any fanfare. You'll figure out as you get used to sex how you want to start things off."<</if>> Jun smiles. "You're right. Um, can we just take our clothes off then?" He bites his lip, hiding the little bit of excitement which is becoming more apparent in his expression. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You agree, feeling a little shy, but also encouraged at his enthusiasm.<<else>>You agree, fueled by the excitement that he's radiating.<</if>> It's a little clinical at first disrobing with someone you just met. Had Jun had any experience it may be more fluid or natural, but he'll get there, and you're going to help him. At first, he's not sure where to look<<if $virgin is true>> and you aren't either<</if>>. But then your eyes linger on him as he unfastens the buttons on his shirt. His fingers are so long and graceful that you think anything he does with them must look like art. He must take great care of his skin as it looks so soft, his nails perfectly clean and manicured. For someone who works with his hands a great deal, he must be meticulous about it. His shirt slips off his shoulders and then to the floor. You undo your clothing in a haze as you watch him. His skin is smooth and well cared for just like his hands. His body is thin, but not overly so. You catch the outline of his hips as he pushes his trousers down, but his eyes are on you. Jun drinks you in as you reveal your body to him. He even stops fidgeting. You can tell that his eyes focus on the mark a bit longer. He approaches you, meeting your eyes as you remove the last of your clothes. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>He stares at your left shoulder where the flesh is still bruised and the musculature is different from your other side.<<else>>He stares at the scar on your left shoulder. Though it has healed rapidly, the wound was severe enough that even magic couldn't prevent the nasty scar.<</if>> "It's okay," you reassure. "It doesn't hurt?" Jun's face scrunches. "No, not anymore. I'm fine." You smile. "I apologize for staring, I just don't want to hurt you…and I can't seem to look away." He smiles wide and gives you a nervous chuckle. "I quite like that tattoo as well, I've never seen such fine work before." You let that comment fly over you. For right now, you agree that it is just a tattoo. You move a little closer to Jun. He lifts his hands and gently glides them across either side of your neck before rolling them over your shoulders and down your arms. His breath studders. <<if $kiss is "Yes">>You watch Jun's lips only to realize he is also looking at yours. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You tilt your head down and give him a demure smile.<<else>>You look up and give him a demure smile.<</if>> He crosses the small gap between you and gently presses his lips to yours. You lightly peck along each other's mouths. Jun quivers slightly as he tests different ways to meld your lips together. You feel him smile after you tug and suck his bottom lip. His hands gently slide along your sides, caressing your skin and bringing you flush against him. You part from him and watch as he pants with excitement. His face is flushing and his eyes are eager. "Open your mouth," you request, though it comes out more as a demand. He's obedient, though his eyes look back at you with a little uncertainty. You lace your hands at the back of his neck and bring his lips to yours, slipping your tongue into his awaiting mouth. He moans and presses closer, his hands skirting down to your hips – they're so warm. His tongue meets yours and gently tangles with it. You taste tea and honey. You drag your hands down his back <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>tentatively feeling him out. You pause at his lower back, your hands quivering before you slowly, and a little hesitantly, lower them to his ass.<<else>>eagerly feeling him out. Your hands dip to his lower back, and you dig your fingers in as you glide them down to grip his ass.<</if>> Jun groans, his hold on your hips tightens as his front presses against you. His cock is hard, pressing against your hardening member. He pushes his mouth against you, becoming more frantic in his excitement. <<else>> Jun is eager to touch you. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You tilt your head down and give him a demure smile.<<else>>You look up and give him a demure smile.<</if>> He crosses the small gap between you and gently brings you into a hug. The touch is tentative at first and very light. He rubs your back softly as you both begin to melt into each other. Jun's hands gently slide along your sides, caressing your skin and bringing you flush against him. You part from him and watch as he pants with excitement. His face is flushing and his eyes are eager. "Press against me harder," you request, though it comes out more as a demand. He's obedient, though his eyes look back at you with a little uncertainty. You lace your hands at the back of his neck and guide him tight against your body. He moans as your fronts meet, hands skirting down to your hips – they're so warm. Jun tucks his face in the crook of your neck and you feel his hot breath against your skin. You drag your hands down his back <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>tentatively feeling him out. You pause at his lower back, your hands quivering before you slowly, and a little hesitantly, lower them to his ass.<<else>>eagerly feeling him out. Your hands dip to his lower back, and you dig your fingers in as you glide them down to grip his ass.<</if>> Jun groans, his hold on your hips tightens as his front presses against you. His cock is hard, matching the stiffness of your own. He presses his mouth against the juncture of your shoulder with a gentle bite before gliding his tongue against the sensitive skin. <</if>> <<if $lubeup is "you">>You're both heating up, and you sense that you are ready for the next step. [[You move to the bed.|5.J6pMCb]] <<else>>You're both heating up, and you sense that you are ready for the next step. [[You guide Jun to the bed.|5.J6pMCt]] <</if>>

Jun follows you like a lost lamb. You sit on the edge of the bed and notice that he looks like he wants to say something. "Jun, what do you need?" you ask. "Um." He takes a breath. "May I…" His eyes jump to your lap and then back up. "P-please you, but with my mouth first?" You're a little taken aback at the request. Before you respond, Jun continues. "I don't expect //that// in return. To be blunt, I don't think I will…if you touch it with your mouth…it might be all over." He chuckles and rubs the back of his neck. "I just want to know what it's like…to taste you first." You take a breath to respond, but Jun interrupts again. "I have heard that people really like that. And I-I am a bit worried that during, um, the main…part you may not be as satisfied so…" "Jun." He folds his hands together, looking as if you just scolded him. "It's fine." You nod, trying to give him an encouraging look. "I understand that <<if $virgin is true>>it's our first time<<else>>it's your first time<</if>>. If it doesn't last as long, that's okay. That's normal even." He gives you a sheepish smile and nods. "I…do things myself sort of frequently so…that should help, but I just- It means a lot that you were willing to do this with me and I care about you having fun." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"You are very kind and considerate, I don't think I will need to worry about such things. I think it's time, don't you?"<<else>>"You are so cute, I almost can't handle it. Now, get over here."<</if>> You lean back a bit on the bed and open your legs slightly. Jun's eyes go wide and he follows the motion carefully, automatically approaching and lowering to his knees. He places his hands on the tops of your legs before gently playing his fingers along the inside of your thighs. <<if $virgin is true>>You tingle with anticipation and nerves. It feels so different having another person touch you so intimately.<<else>>You hum in enjoyment anticipating what's to come.<</if>> Gingerly, Jun begins to push your legs apart. You recline back, getting comfortable <<if $virgin is true>>as you spread your legs a little hesitantly<<else>>as you spread your legs wide<</if>>. He hooks his arms around your hips and drags you closer before placing kisses along your inner thigh. He sucks and licks at the tender flesh there, slowly moving up towards your groin. There's a moment where you only feel the air between you, and just as you wonder if Jun has decided to stop, you feel the caress of a finger against your folds. Your breath goes sharp for a moment. "Wow…" Jun says, his voice sounds raw. His fingers slip up and down your divide. You are already wet, but with each stroke, you feel your body preparing for what is about to happen. Jun spreads your lips with gentle fingers, running one up along until he hits your clitoris. You hum in approval. He repeats the motion, this time focusing more intently on your clit, and without much warning, you feel his mouth on you. Jun eagerly takes your clit into his mouth and begins to suckle. Your body shakes and you grip his bed linens tight. You look down and see his silver-orbed eyes looking back at you as he sucks. You sit up, supported by one arm as the other goes to the top of his head, guiding him. At your behest, he runs his tongue down and flicks it around your entrance before trailing back up again to tap your bud. You groan and writhe in place. Jun's hands encroach upwards along your abdomen until they reach your $chest. He kneads them with his hands, moaning against your clit which sends you into an enraptured shiver. He pinches at and tugs your nipples as he sucks and licks your cunt. His breath is so hot between your legs that you swear you see steam. And then he moves his hands to grip your hips firmly as he buries his face in your pussy. His tongue prods at your entrance, wiggling inside as he tastes your core. You can't help but cry out<<if $virgin is true>>, the newness of the feeling any inhibitions you had are out of your mind, and you just //feel// it<</if>>. He finally releases you from his mouth and grip, breathing hard as he looks at you. There's a wildness to his eyes now. "I…I need to be inside you, please," he begs. "I'm so hard, //please//." You recline back and run your hands down to your loins as you spread your legs. "I'm ready for you, Jun." His breath stammers and he rises to stand. You see his member bob between your thighs and find that he is, in fact, //very// hard. The flesh is so swollen that it's much darker in color. You hope that Jun does not burst right away when he enters you, but you know it's a possibility… [[Tell him it's fine to finish within you.|5.J7vin]] [[Tell him to pull out when he finishes.|5.J7vout]]

You squirm in place as he looks at you with hunger, his cock rubbing your thigh. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>"Um…" you start, your face filling with a new kind of heat. "When you come…you can…do it inside." You bite your lip as you look back at him.<<else>>"Jun, I want you to come inside of me…"<</if>> His hands grip your legs and he moves closer with a groan. "Gods yes, I want to. Can I? Can I put it in now?" "Yes," you respond eagerly. <<if $virgin is true>>You're ready, you are so ready to feel the heat as you connect with another person. You're excited to feel how a cock will feel inside of you, how it will stretch you out. You wonder if it will hurt, but you are so wet and eager that you can hardly spare a moment to consider it.<</if>> Jun pulls you until your rear hangs off the edge of the bed, but he supports you so you don't fall. He holds you by the backs of your knees so he can spread your legs and use them as leverage to bring your pussy level with his cock. He watches intently as the lips of your cunt part and the tip of his dick nudges your entrance. He meets your eye and you give him a nod, and then you feel him breach inside of you. <<if $virgin is true>>There's light resistance as the head of his cock tries to push in, but it stalls him only for a moment. You are so wet that he slides mostly unhindered into you. It doesn't hurt, but you feel a foreign pressure from within.<<else>>His head sinks in first, and you feel a telling stretch as a fullness emanates from your loins. You are so wet, that the meeting of your flesh gives a delightful squelch.<</if>> He does not stop pressing into you until he bottoms out. He groans when he is fully locked within you. Jun's breathing is quick, and on his face is a look of pure bliss. "I'll try to hold out as long as I can… You feel so damn good. If I wasn't trying to resist it, I would have come already. It's…hotter and tighter than I ever thought. //Gods//. <<if $virgin is true>>Are you okay? Does it feel as good for you? Tell me if I am hurting you, please.<<else>>You feel good too right?<</if>>" You grin at him, simmering in the feeling of his dick being buried in you. "<<if $virgin is true>>It doesn't hurt at all, there's pressure but it's not a bad feeling. It's new and different, but I like it.<<else>>Oh yes I do, I feel //very// good.<</if>> Keep going when you're ready." You bite your lip. Jun stares into your eyes as he begins to slowly pull out from your wet sheath. He hisses through his teeth, looking as if he is barely keeping it together. His gaze moves to where you are joined as he pushes back in slowly. He repeats the motion, bringing his hand down to your clit to begin stroking it with his thumb. He takes each thrust slow and easy, but he flicks the sensitive peak of your cunt with fervor. The differences in the speed of the stimulation drive you mad, and you begin to use what little leverage you have to meet his thrusts a little quicker. Every time your flesh collides, it's with a wet slap, and you feel as if your pussy is drooling – salivating all over the delicious cock he's feeding it. You whine and grip the bedding harder, widening your hips even further to sink him as deep as possible. Jun picks up speed and he's clearly lost in the feeling. He continues to rub your clit automatically as if he's locked into the motion. His mouth opens and he tilts his head back. "I'm…I'm…" He doesn't complete his sentence and you feel a new warmth flood your pussy as he cries out. You watch him as his head tilts back down, mouth staying open, as he stares at his cock spasming into you. He withdraws completely and then pushes back in firmly, groaning. The pace he takes on your clit quickens as he does it again. You feel his seed rush to spill out of you, but he gathers it on the tip of his dick and pushes it back in. That is when you lose your senses. You shake with orgasm, your hips quivering at all the sensations. Your clit feels like it has been hit with lightning and your insides clench and milk the cock within you for more and more. Jun presses into you hard, getting as deep as he can as he cries out again. All you hear is both of you breathing hard for a few moments. Jun pushes you back further on his bed so you don't fall as he withdraws from your cunt. You watch, noticing that he's still a bit hard and his cock is coated in his seed. <<if $virgin is true>>You can't help but be a little amazed and curious that the essence of his loins was drawn out by your body.<<else>>You get a little shiver of excitement seeing the evidence of the pleasure he has taken in your flesh.<</if>> His face is a bit red as he looks at your body. He smiles. "I thought you were stunning before, but seeing you like this on my bed…You are incredible, that was amazing. I had no idea it could feel so //good// to share this with another person." His smile grows and you think you see his eyes water a little. You chuckle. "It felt very good. <<if $virgin is true>>I'm…I think I'm proud of us.<<else>> I'm so glad you enjoyed it.<</if>>" Jun looks down at his softening member and back to your loins. "I must say, had I known I'd make such a mess, I would have placed some linens down. But…it's, I think I like it. It feels so…freeing to make a mess this way." Just then, you feel a warm rush at your entrance. <<if $virgin is true>>You yip in surprise as you realize Jun's cum is leaking out from inside of you. Your face goes a little hot as you close your legs, unsure of what to do. "I'm sorry! I didn't realize that might happen."<<else>>You startle as Jun's cum begins to leak from inside of you. "Sorry, I thought you'd taken the worst of it with you. I hope your bed is okay."<</if>> "Oh no, don't apologize for that, please. It will wash, and I also learned something." He giggles, looking elated. "Um, would you…do you want to rest or have water or food? We can do anything you like, or if you want to go that's fine." [[Relax a while with Jun.|5.J8a]] [[Go ahead and get ready to leave.|5.J8b]] [[...Ask to play around some more.|5.J8c]]

You squirm in place as he looks at you with hunger, his cock rubbing your thigh. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>"Um…" you start, your face filling with a new kind of heat. "When you come…can you…pull out?" You bite your lip as you look back at him.<<else>>"Jun, I want you to pull out when you come…"<</if>> His hands grip your legs and he moves closer with a groan. "Gods yes, anything you want. Can I? Can I put it in now?" "Yes," you respond eagerly. <<if $virgin is true>>You're ready, you are so ready to feel the heat as you connect with another person. You're excited to feel how a cock will feel inside of you, how it will stretch you out. You wonder if it will hurt, but you are so wet and eager that you can hardly spare a moment to consider it.<</if>> Jun pulls you until your rear hangs off the edge of the bed, but he supports you so you don't fall. He holds you by the backs of your knees so he can spread your legs and use them as leverage to bring your pussy level with his cock. He watches intently as the lips of your cunt part and the tip of his dick nudges your entrance. He meets your eye and you give him a nod, and then you feel him breach inside of you. <<if $virgin is true>>There's light resistance as the head of his cock tries to push in, but it stalls him only for a moment. You are so wet that he slides mostly unhindered into you. It doesn't hurt, but you feel a foreign pressure from within.<<else>>His head sinks in first, and you feel a telling stretch as a fullness emanates from your loins. You are so wet, that the meeting of your flesh gives a delightful squelch.<</if>> He does not stop pressing into you until he bottoms out. He groans when he is fully locked within you. Jun's breathing is quick, and on his face is a look of pure bliss. "I'll try to hold out as long as I can… You feel so damn good. If I wasn't trying to resist it, I would have come already. It's…hotter and tighter than I ever thought. //Gods//. <<if $virgin is true>>Are you okay? Does it feel as good for you? Tell me if I am hurting you, please.<<else>>You feel good too right?<</if>>" You grin at him, simmering in the feeling of his dick being buried in you. "<<if $virgin is true>>It doesn't hurt at all, there's pressure but it's not a bad feeling. It's new and different, but I like it.<<else>>Oh yes I do, I feel //very// good.<</if>> Keep going when you're ready." You bite your lip. Jun stares into your eyes as he begins to slowly pull out from your wet sheath. He hisses through his teeth, looking as if he is barely keeping it together. His gaze moves to where you are joined as he pushes back in slowly. He repeats the motion, bringing his hand down to your clit to begin stroking it with his thumb. He takes each thrust slow and easy, but he flicks the sensitive peak of your cunt with fervor. The differences in the speed of the stimulation drive you mad, and you begin to use what little leverage you have to meet his thrusts a little quicker. Every time your flesh collides, it's with a wet slap, and you feel as if your pussy is drooling – salivating all over the delicious cock he's feeding it. You whine and grip the bedding harder, widening your hips even further to sink him as deep as possible. Jun picks up speed and he's clearly lost in the feeling. He continues to rub your clit automatically as if he's locked into the motion. His mouth opens and he tilts his head back. "I'm…I'm…" He doesn't complete his sentence and you feel him jerk away from you suddenly. You miss his cock almost immediately but the sight of him suddenly stroking his member with such vigor is nearly enough to make you come. He leans over as he looks at you and pumps his member, it spurts and you feel his hot cum paint your stomach and chest. The pace he takes on your clit quickens as he does it again, and you feel more splatter across your stomach and begin to drip down your side. Once he has given all he can, he lowers his cock back down to your pussy and shoves it back in. He hisses from overstimulation and pleasure as he burrows back into you. That is when you lose your senses. You shake with orgasm, your hips quivering at all the sensations. Your clit feels like it has been hit with lightning and your insides clench and squeeze the cock within you, chasing that pleasurable pressure. Jun thrusts into you hard, getting as deep as he can as he groans, only to suddenly withdraw again as he comes more, a smaller spurt hitting your inner thigh before he dives back in a final time. All you hear is both of you breathing hard for a few moments. Jun pushes you back further on his bed so you don't fall as he withdraws from your cunt. You watch, noticing that he's still a bit hard but is slowly relaxing. You are covered with his seed, you realize suddenly. <<if $virgin is true>>You can't help but be a little amazed and curious that the essence of his loins was drawn out by your body.<<else>>You get a little shiver of excitement seeing the evidence of the pleasure he has taken in your flesh.<</if>> His face is a bit red as he looks at your body. He smiles. "I thought you were stunning before, but seeing you like this on my bed…You are incredible, that was amazing. I had no idea it could feel so //good// to share this with another person." His smile grows and you think you see his eyes water a little. You chuckle. "It felt very good. <<if $virgin is true>>I'm…I think I'm proud of us.<<else>> I'm so glad you enjoyed it.<</if>>" Jun looks down at his softening member and back to your loins. "I must say, had I known I'd make such a mess, I would have placed some linens down. And I do apologize for, um, finishing //on// you, it hit me so suddenly that I couldn't think about where I should aim. I have to admit that for me at least, it feels so…freeing to make a mess this way." You feel the cum begin to drip more along your chest. <<if $virgin is true>>You didn't realize it could be this messy.<<else>>You knew what you were getting into, but still, Jun came…a //lot//.<</if>> "Mind helping me clean up a little?" you ask. "Sorry, I think it got on your bed." "Oh no, don't apologize for that, please." Jun rushes to hand you a swath of fabric from a nearby dresser and begins to carefully wipe you off. "It will wash, and I also learned something. Again, I am sorry for…//wow//, there is a lot…" His face goes red, but he still chuckles. "Um, would you…do you want to rest or have water or food? We can do anything you like, or if you want to go, that's fine." [[Relax a while with Jun.|5.J8a]] [[Go ahead and get ready to leave.|5.J8b]] [[...Ask to play around some more.|5.J8c]]

<<set $virgin to false>> After removing the soiled bit of bedding, you curl up with Jun, enjoying each other's warmth and company. You chat for a while and have a few laughs. Jun seems more confident and elated to have had his first sexual experience with you. He gives you an open-ended offer to look him up if you are ever back in Codrin. You rest for the remainder of the day. [[Tomorrow you'll head to the market.|5.A]]

<<set $virgin to false>> You're a bit apologetic as you agree to take your leave now. Jun ensures you that he is okay with your choice and that you're not beholden to stay with him. He seems a great deal more confident and excited to have had his first sexual experience with you. He gives you an open-ended offer to look him up if you are ever back in Codrin. You rest for the remainder of the day. [[Tomorrow you'll head to the market.|5.A]]

<<set $virgin to false>> Jun seems a great deal more confident and excited to have had his first sexual experience with you. He gives you an open-ended offer to look him up if you are ever back in Codrin before you decide – why not take his second time too? Or perhaps his third as well. You spend a good portion of the day fucking, deciding that if Jun needs to wash his bedding anyway – why hold back? [[You can always go to the market tomorrow.|5.A]]

Jun follows you like a lost lamb. You sit on the edge of the bed and notice that he looks like he wants to say something. "Jun, what do you need?" you ask. "Um." He takes a breath. "May I…" His eyes jump to your lap and then back up. "P-please you, but with my mouth first?" You're a little taken aback at the request. Before you respond, Jun continues. "I don't expect that in return. To be blunt, I don't think I will…if you touch it with your mouth…it might be all over." He chuckles and rubs the back of his neck. "I just want to know what it's like…to taste you first." You take a breath to respond, but Jun interrupts again. "I have heard that people really like that. And I-I am a bit worried that during, um, the main…part you may not be as satisfied so…" "Jun." He folds his hands together, looking as if you just scolded him. "It's fine." You nod, trying to give him an encouraging look. "I understand that <<if $virgin is true>>it's our first time<<else>>it's your first time<</if>>. If it doesn't last as long, that's okay. That's normal even, I would say." He gives you a sheepish smile and nods. "I…do things myself sort of frequently so…that should help, but I just- It means a lot that you were willing to do this with me and I care about you having fun." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"You are very kind and considerate, I don't think I will need to worry about such things. I think it's time, don't you?"<<else>>"You are so cute, I almost can't handle it. Now, get over here."<</if>> You lean back a bit on the bed and open your legs slightly. Jun's eyes go wide and he follows the motion carefully, automatically approaching and lowering to his knees. He places his hands on the tops of your legs before gently playing his fingers along the inside of your thighs. <<if $virgin is true>>You tingle with anticipation and nerves. It feels so different having another person touch you so intimately.<<else>>You hum in enjoyment anticipating what's to come.<</if>> Gingerly, Jun begins to push your legs apart. You recline back, getting comfortable <<if $virgin is true>>as you spread your legs a little hesitantly<<else>>as you spread your legs wide<</if>>. He hooks his arms around your hips and drags you closer before placing kisses along your inner thigh. He sucks and licks at the tender flesh there, slowly moving up towards your groin. There's a moment where you only feel the air between you, and just as you wonder if Jun has decided to stop, you feel his tongue swipe up along your sac and the underside of your cock. Your breath goes sharp for a moment. "Wow…" Jun says, his voice sounds raw. He gives you more experimental licks along your shaft, massaging your balls with one hand, as the other blindly seeks out the phial of oil. Once he successfully douses his fingers with it, he nudges your legs apart further. He distracts you by swirling his tongue at the head of your dick while a hand cups and tugs your sac. His other hand gently warms the oil before you feel a touch at your hole. It startles you for a moment, but you will yourself to relax. You hum in approval. He repeats the motions, this time focusing more intently on your cock, and without much warning, you feel his mouth take in your length. He nearly gags, but pulls back and tries again. You groan in delight, and then you feel a finger press into your entrance. Jun sucks at your cock, helping you relax your muscles to allow the invasion further below. Your body shakes and you grip his bed linens tight. You look down and see his silver-orbed eyes looking back at you as he licks your twitching dick. You sit up, supported by one arm as the other goes to the top of his head, guiding him. At your behest, he runs his tongue down and flicks it around your balls before trailing back up again to swirl at the head. You moan and writhe in place. He inserts another finger, coaxing your body into opening for him. Jun's other hand encroaches upwards along your abdomen until it reaches your $chest. He kneads them one at a time with his hand, moaning against your dick which sends you into an enraptured shiver. He pinches at and tugs your nipples as he sucks and licks the sweetness from your cock while fingering you. His breath is so hot between your legs that you swear you see steam. He drives a third finger in, and you feel a surge of electricity up your back when he finds your secret place. You can't help but cry out<<if $virgin is true>>, the newness of the feeling any inhibitions you had are out of your mind, and you just //feel// it<</if>>. He finally releases you from his mouth and grip, breathing hard as he looks at you. There's a wildness to his eyes now. "I…I need to be inside you, please," he begs. "I'm so hard, please." You recline back and run your hands down to your loins as you spread your legs. "I'm ready for you, Jun." His breath stammers and he rises to stand. You see his member bob between your thighs and find that he is, in fact, //very// hard. The flesh is so swollen that it's much darker in color. You hope that Jun does not burst right away when he enters you, but you know it's a possibility… [[Tell him it's fine to finish within you.|5.J7pin]] [[Tell him to pull out when he finishes.|5.J7pout]]

Jun follows you like a lost lamb. He sits on the edge of the bed and you notice that he looks like he wants to say something. "Jun, what do you need?" you ask. "Um." He takes a breath. "May I…" His eyes jump to your groin and then back up. "P-please you with my mouth first?" You're a little taken aback at the request at first. Before you respond, Jun continues. "I don't expect that in return. To be blunt, I don't think I will…if you touch me with your mouth…it might be all over." He chuckles and rubs the back of his neck. "I just want to know what it's like…to taste you first." You take a breath to respond, but Jun interrupts again. "I have heard that people really like that. And I-I am curious what it's like, and the thought…really, really…" "Jun." He folds his hands together, looking as if you just scolded him. "It's fine." You nod, trying to give him an encouraging look. "I understand that <<if $virgin is true>>it's our first time<<else>>it's your first time<</if>>. Being curious and wanting to try things is why we're here." He gives you a sheepish smile and nods. "I just- It means a lot that you were willing to do this with me and I care about you having fun." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"You are very kind and considerate, I don't think I will need to worry about such things. I think it's time, don't you?"<<else>>"You are so cute, I almost can't handle it. Now, get over here."<</if>> You motion him towards you with a finger and a smile. Jun's eyes go wide and he follows the motion carefully, automatically approaching and lowering to his knees. The flush upon his face is dark and delicious, a shiver runs through you as you watch his mouth just a breath away from touching. He starts with a tentative hand, watching your eyes as he touches your dick delicately, stroking with his long fingers. He palms your sac with his other hand, lightly massaging. You groan, biting your lower lips as you watch. Jun seems to become a little bolder at your clear approval, moving his eyes to your member as he grips it in his hand and begins to stroke in earnest. He watches hungrily as you get harder with every tug. He brings his face closer, holding your shaft straight up as his eyes lock with yours and his tongue sticks out as far as he can get it. You lightly set your hand atop his head and then feel his wet tongue meet your balls before sliding up to the tip of your cock. Your breath goes sharp and your grip on his head tightens. He gives you more experimental licks along your shaft, massaging your balls with one hand as the other grips the base of your dick. He licks as if it's a delicious treat, wets his lips, and then runs them along the sensitive flesh, before raising on his knees slightly. You feel the head of your cock breach his lips before sliding to the back of his throat. He nearly gags, but pulls back and tries again slower. You feel how his soft wet tongue dances along the underside of your member and groan. You look down and see his silver-orbed eyes looking back at you as he licks your twitching dick before plunging it into his mouth once again. You look at him with ravenous hunger and begin preparing the oil while he continues to taste you, nearly dropping it when you feel him tonguing your tip. "Jun, go to the bed and get comfortable, <<if $virgin is true>>I am pretty sure we should prepare for the rest<<else>>I need to prep you before we keep going<</if>>. I want to be sure I don't hurt you." Jun hums an agreement but takes another swipe at your cock with his tongue before heading to the bed. He lays on his back, with his legs hanging off the side. "I have, um, done things with my ass before…so I should adapt easily." He covers his face with his hands. "Are you okay?" you ask as you meet him at the bed, warming the oil between your fingers. "Yeah," he says and then sighs. "I'm just a bit embarrassed. Sort of a…sensitive place to be seen by another." You smile. "It's okay, it's just skin. Remember that I chose to do this with you. <<if $virgin is true>>I know I don't have experience, but I like seeing you. It's exciting, you have nothing to be embarrassed about.<<else>>You have to remember that I want this too. You're not asking too much. Sex is a vulnerable time, but we're on the level here.<</if>> Now, lift and spread your legs for me." Jun peeks at you from between his hands as he obeys. You guide his legs to rest against your shoulders and take a look at your feast. He looks good under you. He's hard from sucking your dick and you spot a tight hole for your pleasure. You gently touch his entrance with oiled fingers. He jerks and moves his arms to cover his face. You gently massage the area in a steady circle, sensing that his nerves are causing him to clench up. "Jun, take a slow breath okay? Clear your mind. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>I understand feeling shy about this, I really do. But please trust me to provide you with the pleasure you've yearned for. It's a pleasure that I want as well.<<else>>I want you, keep thinking about that. I want to be here, I want to be inside of you…<</if>>" Jun moans and his entrance relaxes so you can slip a finger inside him. With him relaxed, it goes in easily and you begin to thrust it in and out. He finally removes his arms from his face and looks at you, already looking rapt with pleasure. "That feels so good…" he mumbles. You press harder into his ass and he arches his back and groans. To enhance his enjoyment, you begin to tug at his dick, which is already dripping. He whines as you pump him in both places before slipping another finger inside of him. He gasps. Instinctively, he bends his knees outward, spreading his legs wider to demand more from you. You are so hard that you can barely stand it. Jun's ass is loosening easily, so you test a third finger. It slips in with only mild resistance. He's nearly ready. You're so eager to fuck him. You realize that you need to ask what to do as you come. "Jun, should I pull out when I finish?" Your voice is raw with desire. "No, I want to know what it's like…to feel it inside me." He answers before writhing on the bed as you hit a sweet spot inside of him. [[Your heart beats faster in anticipation.|5.J7pMCt]]

You squirm in place as he looks at you with hunger, as he douses his cock with more of the oil. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>"Um…" you start, your face filling with a new kind of heat. "When you come…you can…do it inside." You bite your lip as you look back at him.<<else>>"Jun, I want you to come inside of me…"<</if>> His hands grip your legs and he moves closer with a groan. "Gods yes, I want to. Can I? Can I put it in now?" "Yes," you respond eagerly. <<if $virgin is true>>You're ready, you are so ready to feel the heat as you connect with another person. You're excited to feel how a cock will feel inside of you, how it will stretch you out. You wonder if it will hurt, but you are so hot and eager that you can hardly spare a moment to consider it.<</if>> Jun pulls you until your rear hangs off the edge of the bed, but he supports you so you don't fall. He holds you by the backs of your knees so he can spread your legs and use them as leverage to bring your butt level with his cock. He watches intently as the clefts of your ass part and the tip of his dick nudges your entrance. He meets your eye and you give him a nod, and then you feel him breach inside of you. <<if $virgin is true>>There's light resistance as the head of his cock tries to push in, but it stalls him only for a moment. The oil is so slick, and you've been stretched enough that he slides mostly unhindered into you. It doesn't hurt, but you feel a foreign pressure from within.<<else>>His head sinks in first, and you feel a telling stretch as a fullness emanates from your loins. The oil has made you so slick, that the meeting of your flesh gives a delightful squelch.<</if>> He does not stop pressing into you until he bottoms out. He groans when he is fully locked within you. Jun's breathing is quick, and on his face is a look of pure bliss. "I'll try to hold out as long as I can… You feel so damn good. If I wasn't trying to resist it, I would have come already. It's…hotter and tighter than I ever thought. //Gods//, so tight. <<if $virgin is true>>Are you okay? Does it feel as good for you? Tell me if I am hurting you, please.<<else>>You feel good too right?<</if>>" You grin at him, simmering in the feeling of his dick being buried in you. "<<if $virgin is true>>It doesn't hurt at all, there's pressure but it's not a bad feeling. It's new and different, but I like it.<<else>>Oh yes I do, I feel //very// good.<</if>> Keep going when you're ready." You bite your lip. Jun stares into your eyes as he begins to slowly pull out from your oiled sheath. He hisses through his teeth, looking as if he is barely keeping it together. His gaze moves to where you are joined as he pushes back in slowly. He repeats the motion, bringing his hand down to your cock to begin stroking it in a tight fist. He takes each thrust slow and easy, as he jerks your member, pressing his thumb to your tip and swirling it. The differences in the stimulations drive you mad, and you begin to use what little leverage you have to meet his thrusts a little quicker. Every time your flesh collides, it's with a wet slap, and you feel as if your body is sucking his cock from inside, milking him for a reward. You whine and grip the bedding harder, widening your hips even further to sink him as deep as possible. Jun picks up speed and he's clearly lost in the feeling. He continues to stroke your dick automatically as if he's locked into the motion. His mouth opens and he tilts his head back. "I'm…I'm…" He doesn't complete his sentence and you feel a new warmth flood your body as he cries out. You watch him as his head tilts back down, mouth staying open, as he stares at his cock spasming into you. He withdraws completely and then pushes back in firmly, groaning. The pace he takes on your cock quickens as he does it again. You feel his seed rush to spill out of you, but he gathers it on the tip of his dick and pushes it back in. That is when you lose your senses. You shake with orgasm, your hips quivering and your cum spurting in thick bursts from your cock. Your member feels like it has been hit with lightning, and your insides clench to milk the cock within you for more and more. Your cum flows down to where you are joined, coating Jun's, mixing with his seed. He presses into you hard, getting as deep as he can as he cries out again. All you hear is both of you breathing hard for a few moments. Jun pushes you back further on his bed so you don't fall as he withdraws from your ass. You watch, noticing that he's still a bit hard and his cock is coated in seed from both of you. <<if $virgin is true>>You can't help but be a little amazed and curious that the essence of his loins was drawn out by your body.<<else>>You get a little shiver of excitement seeing the evidence of the pleasure he has taken in your flesh.<</if>> His face is a bit red as he looks at your body. He smiles. "I thought you were stunning before, but seeing you like this on my bed…You are incredible, that was amazing. I had no idea it could feel so //good// to share this with another person." His smile grows and you think you see his eyes water a little. You chuckle. "It felt very good. <<if $virgin is true>>I'm…I think I'm proud of us.<<else>> I'm so glad you enjoyed it.<</if>>" Jun looks down at his softening member and back to your loins. "I must say, had I known I'd make such a mess, I would have placed some linens down. But…it's, I think I like it. It feels so…freeing to make a mess this way." Just then, you feel a warm rush at your hole. <<if $virgin is true>>You yip in surprise as you realize Jun's cum is leaking out from inside of you. Your face goes a little hot as you close your legs, unsure of what to do. "I'm sorry! I didn't realize that would happen."<<else>>You startle as Jun's cum begins to leak from inside of you. "Sorry, I thought you'd taken the worst of it with you. I hope your bed is okay."<</if>> "Oh no, don't apologize for that, please. It will wash, and I also learned something." He giggles, looking elated. "Um, would you…do you want to rest or have water or food? We can do anything you like, or if you want to go that's fine." [[Relax a while with Jun.|5.J8a]] [[Go ahead and get ready to leave.|5.J8b]] [[...Ask to play around some more.|5.J8c]]

You squirm in place as he looks at you with hunger, his cock rubbing your thigh. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>"Um…" you start, your face filling with a new kind of heat. "When you come…you can…pull out?" You bite your lip as you look back at him.<<else>>"Jun, I want you to pull out when you come…"<</if>> His hands grip your legs and he moves closer with a groan. "Gods yes, anything you want. Can I? Can I put it in now?" "Yes," you respond eagerly. <<if $virgin is true>>You're ready, you are so ready to feel the heat as you connect with another person. You're excited to feel how a cock will feel inside of you, how it will stretch you out. You wonder if it will hurt, but you are so hot and eager that you can hardly spare a moment to consider it.<</if>> Jun pulls you until your rear hangs off the edge of the bed, but he supports you so you don't fall. He holds you by the backs of your knees so he can spread your legs and use them as leverage to bring your butt level with his cock. He watches intently as the clefts of your ass part and the tip of his dick nudges your entrance. He meets your eye and you give him a nod, and then you feel him breach inside of you. <<if $virgin is true>>There's light resistance as the head of his cock tries to push in, but it stalls him only for a moment. The oil is so slick, and you've been stretched enough that he slides mostly unhindered into you. It doesn't hurt, but you feel a foreign pressure from within.<<else>>His head sinks in first, and you feel a telling stretch as a fullness emanates from your loins. The oil has made you so slick, that the meeting of your flesh gives a delightful squelch.<</if>> He does not stop pressing into you until he bottoms out. He groans when he is fully locked within you. Jun's breathing is quick, and on his face is a look of pure bliss. "I'll try to hold out as long as I can… You feel so damn good. If I wasn't trying to resist it, I would have come already. It's…hotter and tighter than I ever thought. //Gods//, so tight. <<if $virgin is true>>Are you okay? Does it feel as good for you? Tell me if I am hurting you, please.<<else>>You feel good too right?<</if>>" You grin at him, simmering in the feeling of his dick being buried in you. "<<if $virgin is true>>It doesn't hurt at all, there's pressure but it's not a bad feeling. It's new and different, but I like it.<<else>>Oh yes I do, I feel //very// good.<</if>> Keep going when you're ready." You bite your lip. Jun stares into your eyes as he begins to slowly pull out from your oiled sheath. He hisses through his teeth, looking as if he is barely keeping it together. His gaze moves to where you are joined as he pushes back in slowly. He repeats the motion, bringing his hand down to your cock to begin stroking it in a tight fist. He takes each thrust slow and easy, as he jerks your member, pressing his thumb to your tip and swirling it. The differences in the stimulations drive you mad, and you begin to use what little leverage you have to meet his thrusts a little quicker. Every time your flesh collides, it's with a wet slap, and you feel as if your body is sucking his cock from inside, milking him for a reward. You whine and grip the bedding harder, widening your hips even further to sink him as deep as possible. Jun picks up speed and he's clearly lost in the feeling. He continues to stroke your dick automatically as if he's locked into the motion. His mouth opens and he tilts his head back. "I'm…I'm…" He doesn't complete his sentence and you feel him jerk away from you suddenly. You miss his cock almost immediately but the sight of him suddenly stroking his member with such vigor is nearly enough to make you come. He leans over as he looks at you and pumps his member, it spurts and you feel his hot cum paint your stomach and dick. The pace he takes on your cock quickens as he does it again, and you feel more splatter across your loins and begin to drip. Once he has given all he can, he lowers his cock back down to your ass and shoves it back in. He hisses from overstimulation and pleasure as he burrows back into you. That is when you lose your senses. You shake with orgasm, your hips quivering and your cum spurting in thick bursts from your cock, hitting your stomach and mixing with Jun's. Your member feels like it has been hit with lightning, and your insides clench and squeeze the cock within you, chasing that pleasurable pressure. Your cum flows down coating your shaft as he pumps you harder to get every drop. He thrusts into you hard, getting as deep as he can as he groans, only to suddenly withdraw again as he comes more, a smaller spurt hitting your inner thigh before he dives back in a final time. All you hear is both of you breathing hard for a few moments. Jun pushes you back further on his bed so you don't fall as he withdraws from your ass. You watch, noticing that he's still a bit hard but is slowly relaxing. You are covered with seed, you realize suddenly. <<if $virgin is true>>You can't help but be a little amazed and curious that the essence of his loins was drawn out by your body.<<else>>You get a little shiver of excitement seeing the evidence of the pleasure he has taken in your flesh.<</if>> His face is a bit red as he looks at your body. He smiles. "I thought you were stunning before, but seeing you like this on my bed…You are incredible, that was amazing. I had no idea it could feel so //good// to share this with another person." His smile grows and you think you see his eyes water a little. You chuckle. "It felt very good. <<if $virgin is true>>I'm…I think I'm proud of us.<<else>> I'm so glad you enjoyed it.<</if>>" Jun looks down at his softening member and back to your loins. "I must say, had I known I'd make such a mess, I would have placed some linens down. And I do apologize for, um, finishing //on// you, it hit me so suddenly that I couldn't think about where I should aim. I have to admit that for me at least, it feels so…freeing to make a mess this way." You feel the cum begin to drip more along your stomach. <<if $virgin is true>>You didn't realize it could be this messy.<<else>>You knew what you were getting into, but still, Jun came…a //lot//.<</if>> "Mind helping me clean up a little?" you ask. "Sorry, I think it got on your bed." "Oh no, don't apologize for that, please." Jun rushes to hand you a swath of fabric from a nearby dresser and begins to carefully wipe you off. "It will wash, and I also learned something. Again, I am sorry for…//wow//, there is a lot…" His face goes red, but he still chuckles. "Um, would you…do you want to rest or have water or food? We can do anything you like, or if you want to go, that's fine." [[Relax a while with Jun.|5.J8a]] [[Go ahead and get ready to leave.|5.J8b]] [[...Ask to play around some more.|5.J8c]]

You don't waste any time, removing your hand from Jun's body as he whines, dousing your dick with oil and pumping it to make it slick. Jun places his hands under his knees and pulls his legs back. His hole opens and beckons you. You line up, swirling the head of your cock at his entrance. Jun grunts and wiggles his rear, desperate from the teasing. You grab his cock with your other hand, also slick with oil, and stroke it as you press your dick to his ass. You breach the tight ring of muscles and shiver at the pleasing relief it brings you. You watch him as you slowly slide in. He's mumbling something over and over, gripping the sheets, with a look on his face that tells you that your cock was made for him. You press until you are balls deep. And then, you allow him to rest and acclimate. Jun subtly wiggles his hips, feeling out the new sensations. <<if $virgin is true>>You take a moment to get used to it as well. The sensation is incredible, and your cock feels as though it wants to come right away.<<else>>You soak in the feeling of your cock being warm and wet inside a tight hole. He feels so good around you that it should be a crime.<</if>> The urge to thrust is unreal, but you hold back and watch Jun for his okay. "Fuck, $mc…" he whines. "I had no…no idea. Playing around isn't…isn't like this. It feels so good, I think I'm going to come already…" You rub his hip with one hand as your other squeezes his cock. "<<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>I'm glad it feels good, try to wait for me if you can.<<else>>You can come when you want but just know I'm not going to slow down. I want you so badly…<</if>> But you feel so good that I don't think I'll last either…" Jun moans, urging his hips forward to press against your cock. "I'm ready, I'm ready – I need it, p-please!" You don't wait. Pulling your dick back halfway, you pop your hips forward to slide back in with a slap. You watch Jun to make sure he feels good as you do it again and again and then work into a more steady rhythm. He feels amazing like he's sucking you back in each time you pull out. Your cock shines with oil as you watch it disappear into his body over and over. You notice when you're just a little bit inside of him that he arches his back. The tip of your dick nudges his sweet spot each time, so you angle his hips to drag your shaft along it harder. He gasps, clawing at the sheets. The urge to get your cock as far into him as you can is almost overwhelming, but the way his face twists in pleasure and his hole grips you when you hit that spot is too good to ignore. "I'm coming!" he cries suddenly, eyes meeting yours as his mouth hangs open. You pump his dick faster in your hand as you nudge his sweet spot with the head of your dick. Just moments later, cum shoots from his dick. It rains down on his stomach and against your hand - hot and thick. Seeing him come sends the familiar sensation to your cock and it surges to follow suit. "Me too…" you say, driving deep and fast into his ass. A blissful haze runs up your spine and through your mind as you press in as far as possible to burst within him. Jun continues to whine with pleasure through it all, ensuring that you stay lodged inside of him as you ejaculate. Even after you feel spent, you thrust a few more times slowly, the final time coaxing one more rush from the tip of your cock. All you hear is both of you breathing hard for a few moments. As your cock begins to soften, your eyes rove to it as it starts a retreat. You pull back, finding it coated in your seed. A torrent of it follows, spilling onto the edge of the bed and then the floor. <<if $virgin is true>>You can't help but be a little amazed and curious that the essence of your loins was drawn out by his body.<<else>>You get a little shiver of excitement seeing the evidence of the pleasure you have taken in his flesh.<</if>> Jun yips and sits up quickly, causing another rush to flow out of him. "Oh…I didn't think of that." As he tries to look at the mess, more spills along the bedding. <<if $virgin is true>>You shake your head. "Sorry, I didn't realize that would happen. I didn't think about it either."<<else>>Your shoulders slump. "I'm sorry, I wasn't even thinking. I was too focused on…well, you know."<</if>> Jun laughs. "It's fine. It was…wow, that was so sexy, even the messy part. Watching you…//rut// was…it was amazing…so //powerful//. You are incredible. I had no idea it could feel so //good// to share this with another person." His smile grows and you think you see his eyes water a little. You chuckle. "It felt very good. <<if $virgin is true>>I'm…I think I'm proud of us.<<else>> I'm so glad you enjoyed it.<</if>> I do apologize about your bedding though." "Oh no, don't apologize for that, please. It will wash, and I also learned something." He giggles, looking elated. "Um, would you…do you want to rest or have water or food? We can do anything you like, or if you want to go, that's fine." [[Relax a while with Jun.|5.J8a]] [[Go ahead and get ready to leave.|5.J8b]] [[...Ask to play around some more.|5.J8c]]

Though you opted to use the harness, you're not opposed to Jun pleasing you a bit first. Before you can respond, Jun continues. "I don't expect that in return. To be blunt, I don't think I will…if you touch me with your mouth…it might be all over." He chuckles and rubs the back of his neck. "I just want to know what it's like…to taste you first." You take a breath to respond, but Jun interrupts again. "I have heard that people really like that. And I-I am curious what it's like, and the thought…really, really…" "Jun." He folds his hands together, looking as if you just scolded him. "It's fine." You nod, trying to give him an encouraging look. "I understand that <<if $virgin is true>>it's our first time<<else>>it's your first time<</if>>. Being curious and wanting to try things is why we're here. And this is something I am comfortable doing with you." He gives you a sheepish smile and nods. "I just- It means a lot that you were willing to do this with me and I care about you having fun." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"You are very kind and considerate, I don't think I will need to worry about such things. I think it's time, don't you?"<<else>>"You are so cute, I almost can't handle it. Now, get over here."<</if>> You motion him towards you with a finger and a smile. Jun's eyes go wide and he follows the motion carefully, automatically approaching and lowering to his knees. The flush upon his face is dark and delicious, a shiver runs through you as you watch his mouth just a breath away from touching. He starts with a tentative hand, watching your eyes as he touches your cunt delicately, stroking with his long fingers. He runs them along your divide, just barely parting your lips with each stroke. You groan, biting your lower lips as you watch. <<if $virgin is true>>You tingle with anticipation and nerves. It feels so different having another person touch you so intimately.<<else>>You hum in enjoyment anticipating what's to come.<</if>> Gingerly, Jun slides his fingers through your warm slit, hitting your clitoris and sending a shiver of delight through you. He watches hungrily as it swells with need. He brings his face closer, parting your lips slightly as his eyes lock with yours and his tongue sticks out as far as he can get it. Leaning back to give him more access, you lightly set your hand atop his head and then feel his wet tongue meet your sex before sliding up to the tip of your clit. Your breath goes sharp and your grip on his head tightens. Jun eagerly takes your clit into his mouth and begins to suckle. Your body shakes and you grip his hair tight. You look down and see his silver-orbed eyes looking back at you as he sucks. You move to spread your legs further "Oh wow…" Jun says, his voice sounds raw. At your behest, he runs his tongue down and flicks it around your entrance before trailing back up again to tap your bud. You groan and writhe in place. He licks as if it's a delicious treat, wets his lips, and then runs them along the sensitive flesh. You feel how his soft wet tongue dances along the underside of your clit and groan. You look at him with ravenous hunger and begin preparing the harness and oil while he continues to taste you, nearly dropping them when you feel him tonguing your hole. "Jun, go to the bed and get comfortable, <<if $virgin is true>>I am pretty sure we should prepare for the rest<<else>>I need to prep you before we keep going<</if>>. I want to be sure I don't hurt you." Jun hums an agreement but takes another swipe at your pussy with his tongue before heading to the bed. He lays on his back, with his legs hanging off the side. "I have, um, done things with my ass before…so I should adapt easily." He covers his face with his hands. "Are you okay?" you ask as you meet him at the bed, slipping your legs into the harness. "Yeah," he says and then sighs. "I'm just a bit embarrassed. Sort of a…sensitive place to be seen by another." You smile. "It's okay, it's just skin. Remember that I chose to do this with you. <<if $virgin is true>>I know I don't have experience, but I like seeing you. It's exciting, you have nothing to be embarrassed about.<<else>>You have to remember that I want this too. You're not asking too much. Sex is a vulnerable time, but we're on the same level here.<</if>>" Jun watches you in turn. <<if $insert is "yes">>His breath hitches as he watches you play with the small phallus before slipping it inside you. It feels good, fits snugly, and hits you in the right places. The combination of sensations will be incredible.<</if>> He watches hungrily as you slip the phallus into a slot on the harness and pull it tightly against you. The base of it hits just right at the front of your sex, and you can tell it will nudge you with each thrust you give to Jun. You warm the oil between your fingers as you stare Jun down. "Now, lift and spread your legs for me." Jun peeks at you from between his hands as he obeys. You guide his legs to rest against your shoulders and take a look at your feast. He looks good under you. He's hard from licking and watching you. You gently touch his entrance with oiled fingers. He jerks and moves his arms to cover his face. You gently massage the area in a steady circle, sensing that his nerves are causing him to clench up. "Jun, take a slow breath okay? Clear your mind. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>I understand feeling shy about this, I really do. But please trust me to provide you with the pleasure you've yearned for. It's a pleasure that I want as well.<<else>>I want you, keep thinking about that. I want to be here, I want to be inside of you…<</if>>" Jun moans and his entrance relaxes so you can slip a finger inside him. With him relaxed, it goes in easily and you begin to thrust it in and out. He finally removes his arms from his face and looks at you, already looking rapt with pleasure. "That feels so good…" he mumbles. You press harder into his ass and he arches his back and a groan. To enhance his enjoyment, you begin to tug at his dick, which is already dripping. He whines as you pump him in both places before slipping another finger inside of him. <<if $insert is "yes">>You wiggle your hips, feeling the toy inside rub you on the inside. It spurs your desire forward.<</if>> He gasps. Instinctively, he bends his knees outward, spreading his legs wider to demand more from you. You are so ready for him that you can barely stand it. Jun's ass is loosening easily, so you test a third finger. It slips in with only mild resistance. He's nearly there. You're so eager to fuck him. "Nearly ready, Jun," you warn. "I'm ready, I need it, $mc…" [[Your heart beats faster in anticipation.|5.J7vstrap3]]

You opted to use the harness so you could control your own experience the way you want. This isn't exactly something you can do with Jun right now. You put a hand up to get Jun's attention. "I appreciate that you're willing to do that, and I apologize if it's something you desire, but it isn't something I want right now." He folds his hands together, looking as if you just scolded him, though he smiles shyly. "I was curious to try it, but not if you are uncomfortable. Thank you for being upfront with me. I hope the request didn't bother you." "It's fine." You nod, trying to give him an encouraging look. "I understand that <<if $virgin is true>>it's our first time<<else>>it's your first time<</if>>. Being curious and wanting to try things is why we're here. I'm sure you will find someone to sate that desire for you in the future." He gives you a sheepish smile and nods. "I just- It means a lot that you were willing to do this with me and I care about you having fun." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"You are very kind and considerate, I don't think I will need to worry about such things. I think it's time, don't you?"<<else>>"You are so cute, I almost can't handle it. Now, let's get started."<</if>> You point to command him to the bed He goes to the bed and sits like an obedient man, watching you carefully for direction. You look at him with ravenous hunger and begin preparing the harness and oil while he continues to watch you, nearly dropping them when you see him begin to stroke his cock. "Jun, get comfortable, <<if $virgin is true>>I am pretty sure we should prepare for the rest<<else>>I need to prep you before we keep going<</if>>. I want to be sure I don't hurt you." Jun hums an agreement but pumps himself a few more times before moving. He lays on his back, with his legs hanging off the side. "I have, um, done things with my ass before…so I should adapt easily." He covers his face with his hands. "Are you okay?" you ask as you meet him at the bed, slipping your legs into the harness. "Yeah," he says and then sighs. "I'm just a bit embarrassed. Sort of a…sensitive place to be seen by another." You smile. "It's okay, it's just skin. Remember that I chose to do this with you. <<if $virgin is true>>I know I don't have experience, but I like seeing you. It's exciting, you have nothing to be embarrassed about.<<else>>You have to remember that I want this too. You're not asking too much. Sex is a vulnerable time, but we're on the same level here.<</if>>" Jun watches you in turn. <<if $insert is "yes">>His breath hitches as he watches you play with the small phallus before slipping it inside you. It feels good, fits snugly, and hits you in the right places. The combination of sensations will be incredible.<</if>> He watches hungrily as you slip his special phallus into a slot on the harness and pull it tightly against you. The base of it hits just right at the front of your sex, and you can tell it will nudge you with each thrust you give to Jun. You warm the oil between your fingers as you stare Jun down. "Now, lift and spread your legs for me." Jun peeks at you from between his hands as he obeys. You guide his legs to rest against your shoulders and take a look at your feast. He looks good under you. He's hard from watching you and touching himself. You gently feel around his entrance with oiled fingers. He jerks and moves his arms to cover his face. You gently massage the area in a steady circle, sensing that his nerves are causing him to clench up. "Jun, take a slow breath, okay? Clear your mind. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>I understand feeling shy about this, I really do. But please trust me to provide you with the pleasure you've yearned for. It's a pleasure that I want as well.<<else>>I want you, keep thinking about that. I want to be here, I want to be inside of you…<</if>>" Jun moans and his entrance relaxes so you can slip a finger inside him. With him relaxed, it goes in easily and you begin to thrust it in and out. He finally removes his arms from his face and looks at you, already looking rapt with pleasure. "That feels so good…" he mumbles. You press harder into his ass and he arches his back and a groan. To enhance his enjoyment, you begin to tug at his dick, which is already dripping. He whines as you pump him in both places before slipping another finger inside of him. <<if $insert is "yes">>You wiggle your hips, feeling the toy inside rub you on the inside. It spurs your desire forward.<</if>> He gasps. Instinctively, he bends his knees outward, spreading his legs wider to demand more from you. You are so ready for him that you can barely stand it. Jun's ass is loosening easily, so you test a third finger. It slips in with only mild resistance. He's nearly there. You're so eager to fuck him. "Nearly ready, Jun," you warn. "I'm ready, I need it, $mc…" [[Your heart beats faster in anticipation.|5.J7vstrap3]]

You don't waste any time, removing your hand from Jun's body as he whines, dousing your glass dick with oil and pumping it to make it slick. Jun places his hands under his knees and pulls his legs back. His hole opens and beckons you. You line up, swirling the head of your cock at his entrance, you feel pressure against your sex from the harness and bite your lip. Jun grunts and wiggles his rear, desperate from the teasing. You grab his cock with your other hand, also slick with oil, and pump it as you press your dick to his ass. You breach the tight ring of muscles and shiver at the sight of pushing it into his body. You watch him as you slowly slide yours in. He's mumbling something over and over, gripping the sheets, with a look on his face that tells you that your cock will be his undoing. You press until you are buried to the holster, trying to resist pushing harder as the base of your toy nudges your clit. But you allow him to rest and acclimate instead. Jun subtly wiggles his hips, feeling out the new sensations. <<if $virgin is true>>You take a moment to get used to it as well. The sight alone is nearly enough to make you come undone. The harness makes you feel sexy and powerful, making you dizzy with desire.<<else>>The harness makes you feel sexy and powerful, making you dizzy with desire. Seeing how needy he is under you is a high in itself.<</if>> The urge to thrust is unreal, but you hold back and watch Jun for his okay. <<if $insert is "yes">>The toy inside you isn't helping the urges. With every motion you take, it will press into every sweet spot you have.<</if>> "Fuck, $mc…" he whines. "I had no…no idea. Playing around isn't…isn't like this. It feels so good, I think I'm going to come already…" You rub his hip with one hand as your other squeezes his cock. "<<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>I'm glad it feels good, try to wait for me if you can.<<else>>You can come when you want but just know I'm not going to slow down. I want you so badly…<</if>> But this feels so good that I don't think I'll last either…" Jun moans, urging his hips forward to press against your cock. "I'm ready, I'm ready – I need it, p-please!" You don't wait. Pulling your dick back halfway, you pop your hips forward to slide back in with a slap. You get a chill as your clit bucks against the base of the phallus. <<if $insert is "yes">>The toy hits your inner walls and you grind your hips to chase the sensation. <</if>>You watch Jun to make sure he feels good as you do it again and again and then work into a more steady rhythm. He feels and looks amazing like his ass is pulling you back in each time you pull out. Your cock shines with oil as you watch it disappear into his body over and over again. You notice when you're just a little bit inside of him that he arches his back. The tip of your dick nudges his sweet spot each time, so you angle his hips to drag your shaft along it harder. He gasps, clawing at the sheets. The urge to get your cock as far into him as you can is almost overwhelming, but the way his face twists in pleasure and his hole grips the dick when you hit that spot is too sweet to ignore. "I'm coming!" he cries suddenly, eyes meeting yours as his mouth hangs open. You pump his dick faster in your hand as you nudge his sweet spot with the head of your glass cock. Just moments later, cum shoots from his dick. It rains down on his stomach and against your hand – hot and thick. You ride on his ecstasy, pounding against him hard, sending delicious stimulation to your clit<<if $insert is "yes">>, and further pressing the phallus inside of you to your own pleasure spot<</if>>. "Me too…" you say, driving deep and fast into his ass. You push to the base and then gyrate your hips, feeling the breach of orgasm creeping up your spine. Jun continues to moan with pleasure through it all, ensuring that you stay lodged inside of him as you come, your whole body shaking. All you hear is both of you breathing hard for a few moments. A mischievous thought flutters through you as you slowly begin to pull your borrowed dick out of Jun. Once you are partway, you angle your hips and thrust back in again. Jun calls out and you see his dick weep with more cum in a long thread. You do it again, the overstimulation making you shudder. You take in Jun's form as it is prone before you at your mercy. He came so much and is covered in his seed. <<if $virgin is true>>You can't help but be a little amazed that you were able to draw this much out of his body.<<else>>You get a little shiver of excitement seeing the evidence of the pleasure you have taken in his flesh.<</if>> You finally pull out of him, though you are tempted to keep going. Jun sits up and his cum trickles down to the bedding. "Oh…I didn't think of that." As he tries to look at the mess, more spills along the linens. <<if $virgin is true>>You scratch your head. "Sorry, I didn't realize that would happen. Otherwise, I would have warned you."<<else>>Your shoulders slump. "I'm sorry, I wasn't even thinking. I was too focused on…well, you know."<</if>> Jun laughs. "It's fine. It was…wow, that was so sexy, even the messy part. Watching you…//rut// was…it was amazing…so //powerful//. You are incredible. I had no idea it could feel so //good// to share this with another person." His smile grows and you think you see his eyes water a little. "You must tell me how you liked the, um, device?" You nod. "I think it's wonderful, it felt very good for me.<<if $insert is "yes">> The insert was a great option too.<</if>> I think you could make some people very happy with it." He smiles. "I quite like the glass as the material. There are others made from different ones, but glass, even if it is more difficult to make, gives many options for design. Not to mention it is easy to clean. I will notify my friend of your review. I'd say we were very successful in all of our endeavors today." You chuckle. "Yeah, it felt very good. <<if $virgin is true>>I'm…I think I'm proud of us.<<else>> I'm so glad you enjoyed it.<</if>> I do apologize about your bedding though." "Oh no, don't apologize for that, please. It will wash, and I also learned something." He giggles, looking elated. "Um, would you…do you want to rest or have water or food? We can do anything you like, or if you want to go, that's fine." [[Relax a while with Jun.|5.J8a]] [[Go ahead and get ready to leave.|5.J8b]] [[...Ask to play around some more.|5.J8c]]

You know there will be others you can find at home or perhaps among your own travel companions. You mentally wish the man the best, but he isn't quite what you are seeking. Instead, you'll simply enjoy your time around the tavern and explore the inn a bit more. Hopefully, you can find one of your friends and make a visit to $mountname too. [[Before you go to sleep, you make plans to go to the market the next day.|5.A]]

You start your days of relaxation by simply returning to your room to try and think of what to spend your days doing. You fiddle about the room, poking through drawers before you settle your mind. The more you think about it, you really should write to your fathers. Even if you head towards home in the next ten days or so, you know they will appreciate an update. Since you are unsure of how long the next stretch of your journey will take, you are certain the letter will reach them before you would. You go back through the desk sitting under one of the windows, remembering the supplies you glimpsed earlier. Rune did tell you to make yourself at home, and you don't suppose $Rheshe is the type to leave private documents lying around. You finally find some blank parchment, ink, and a pen and set up to write. No sooner than when you've written a greeting on the page, there is a light tap at the door. You're not even sure if it was a knock. So you shrug it off as just noise in the hallway and continue to write until you hear it again. "Come in?" you reply, turning to look towards the door. It creaks open and the shadow of a man appears in the gap – Oswin. "I hope I am not bothering you, $mc…" <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You wave him in. "No, it's fine. I'm writing a quick letter to my parents, but I'm not exactly busy."<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>You wave him in. "No, it's fine. I'm writing a quick letter to my parents, but I'm not exactly busy. Please, don't hesitate, you can come in."<<else>>You shake your head. "I //am// writing a letter to my parents, but I'm not necessarily overwhelmed with things to do."<</if>> He finally comes in and shuts the door quietly behind him. It's been a little odd seeing him dressed down since you arrived in the city. He's wearing plain beige linen trousers and a very loose blue tunic, the laces at the chest missing. You're pretty sure that these are not Oswin's clothes – he looks a bit like a child wearing their parent's things. You must be making a face since Oswin sighs, seeming to know what's on your mind. "Rune gave me these and then confiscated all my clothing and my armor for washing. $Rcapitalheshe borrowed the tunic from one of the innkeepers." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You shake your head. "Rune is very…persuasive."<<else>>You snort a laugh. "Do you feel naked?"<</if>> The look he gives you is a bit pathetic. "I think you've met your match in stubbornness," you muse as you set down your pen and turn your seat around to face him. "I have to agree with you. Rune is a force when $Rheshe wants to be. We've chatted some, $Rheshe seems to be a good person, at least someone I don't mind…bending to on such matters." Oswin looks down at his feet before mumbling, "Though I'd rather do my own laundry…" Shaking your head, you gesture to another chair at a table across the room. "Would you like to sit?" Oswin stalls for a moment, staring at the chair before he plods over and grabs it. He sets it a short distance away from you – probably a bit further away than one would be for a normal conversation. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You smile. "You know, you don't have to be quite that far away.<<else>>You shake your head. "Do you fear that I may bite?"<</if>> He looks at you sheepishly and then scoots the chair closer, but the legs are rough upon the floor and screech in an unholy way. "Sorry," he says looking pointedly away from you. "Don't mind it. So, what brings you here?" Oswin takes a very long and deep breath. "I…uh, //owe// you." [["You owe me?"|5.O2]]

He nods. "I owe you much, but specifically…you are due a gift. It's well past your birthday after all." He gives you a soft smile. "Oh," you say, failing to hide surprise from your expression. <<if $ch5Broute is true>>"We //did// go to the shrine after all, and I didn't receive it. Even if we were a little distracted…"<<else>>"I know we didn't exactly make it to the shrine, like we agreed on, but I would say I get a pass."<</if>> Oswin nods. "I did not anticipate how…busy we would be." A weak chuckle escapes him. "What?" "I have escorted merchants and nobles all across Iroda for years now, and I have never encountered such dangers in any one trip. It's so unreal that it's almost comical. But, I can only find the humor in it now that you are safe." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You hum an agreement. "I also thought it was a little unreal at times. And it has certainly felt like I've been the butt of a joke at times."<<else>>You chuckle as well. "Well, the real joke here is that you're not even getting paid for it."<</if>> Oswin shares a kind smile with you. "It will be better from here on. I will find a way to make sure of it." "Will you send a sternly worded letter to the mountain? Make the ''god'' who cursed me pay restitution for my suffering?<<if $ch5Broute is true>> Or perhaps lecture the //bandits// who sought to rob us?<</if>>" He laughs, hardily, like he did when you were children – eyes closed and his head tipped back as his whole body shakes. Once he composes himself, he shakes his head. "If I have to, yes. I'd do it for you. You've met my mother, I learned a thing or two from her and especially that spoon…" You give him a long look as you try to figure him out.<<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>> It's good to hear him laugh like that again though. It warms your heart.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>> Your heart beats harder. It's times like these where your feelings are so difficult to tame.<<else>> You just wonder what he's thinking.<</if>> Finally, Oswin sighs and begins rooting around in his pockets. His eyes go a little wide for a moment, and his hands a bit frantic, before he finally finds the right one and sighs in relief. He takes out a small box made of dark wood, a little green ribbon tied neatly around it. <<if $mc is 'Ravi'>>"Happy birthday, Ravi, my dearest…. Friend."<<else>>"Happy birthday, Ravi- uh, $mc. Sorry, I did it again. My head…my mind has been on the past a great deal."<</if>> <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You eye the little gift and feel a swell of warmth in your gut.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Your stomach does a flip at the sight of the present. You have no idea what it could be, but you already love it.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>The gesture is kind. It's the nature of gifts after all. You wonder if he's trying to bridge the distance between you…that's something that gifts can't do. Your affection and your friendship are not for purchase.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>You eye the little gift and feel a slight swell of warmth in your gut. A kind gesture, one you suspect is meant to reach out and mend your relationship further or support the one you have now.<</if>> Oswin stays quiet as you take the gift, admiring the box for a moment. <<if $interest is 'woodin'>>You can tell by the joints alone that this is your papa's work.<<else>> It looks similar to your papa's work.<</if>> The dark wood is perfectly smooth and a bit heavy for the size of the box<<if $interest is 'woodin'>>, definitely from a fine walnut tree.<<elseif $interest is 'choppin'>>, definitely from a sturdy walnut tree.<</if>> "Your papa made the box for me…" Oswin confirms your thoughts. You nod as you slip the ribbon off the box and pop it open, setting the lid aside. A little green velvet pillow rests inside, displaying your treasure from childhood. <<if $favgift is 'earring'>>The earring you prized so highly is before your eyes and with it – a match. The long chair has been fixed, the jade baubles cleaned and shined, and a new hook has been attached. The match is identical in every way and you are almost convinced that Oswin has somehow found it.<<elseif $favgift is 'crystals'>>The two crystals that had you so enamored since you were small. Though now they are outfitted with thin metal, almost to cage them in, with hooks at the top so they can be worn as earrings or clipped to a chain necklace. They are even more radiant than you remember. The sunlight filtering through the window makes the colors dance in your palm.<<elseif $favgift is 'rat'>>The skull of a rat, but now it dawns a reinforcement of metal with two gleaming red stones in the eye sockets. A fine chain has been attached so it can be worn as a necklace. The lower jaw seems to have not made it, but the teeth of the creature have survived and have been dipped in the metal to secure them.<<elseif $favgift is 'snail'>>The perfect snail shell that you were entranced with when you were small. It looks shiny and new as if a snail friend might still be inside. The swirls of browns, white, and black are just as you remember, though now they are safely preserved in a coating of some kind, perhaps a resin. A chain is secured to it so it can be worn as a pendant.<<elseif $favgift is 'metal'>>The unusual and striking blue metal that puzzled you when you were small is now fashioned into the band of a ring. Two gleaming clear stones are inlaid on the simple band, and you think the metal itself may be a little darker than you remember.<</if>> You pick up the gift and admire it closely. As you touch it, so many memories come back. You remember finding the treasure, wondering about all the other places it had been before or if it had a whole life before it came to your hands. It has a new life now, and it's come back to you to live again. [[You start crying without realizing.|5.O2a]] {accept} [[You accept the gift with grace|5.O2b]] {accept} [[All you can do is smile.|5.O2c]] {accept} [[You do not really want this, but accept the gift to be polite like Da taught you.|5.O2d]] {reject}

Oswin is already up from his chair, his hands hovering on either side of your face like he isn't certain what to do. You're confused for a moment before you feel the damp heat streaming down your face. You wipe your cheek and stare at the glistening tears that come away from your fingers. More fall from your eyes as you look back up at Oswin. There are so many stories in his deep green eyes when he looks back at you. He remembered. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You've been holding on to your friendship, you already decided on that and now you know beyond doubt that he is too.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>You've been holding on to your friendship, you already decided on that and now you know beyond doubt that he is too. But is there something more to hold on to? Would he let you if there was? He feels this too right?<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Maybe a part of him still knows your heart after all.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Maybe there's still genuine warmth between you. Something a bit beyond just cordial feelings.<</if>> Gentle and calloused hands wipe the tears from your face. Oswin smiles at you gently. "I don't know if this means you like it or not. I hope, I sincerely hope it hasn't left you with bitter feelings." You shake your head. "It's just a lot at once. I guess it just…resonated somehow." "Would you like to try it on? I- I can help you." You agree and hand him the box. <<if $favgift is 'earring'>>He gently takes each earring from the box and carefully loops them into your ears. They dangle almost to your shoulders, but they aren't very heavy.<<elseif $favgift is 'crystals'>>He gently takes each earring from the box and carefully loops them into your ears. They hang just off the lobes of your ears and are very light.<<elseif $favgift is 'rat'>>He carefully takes the chain and unhooks it to bring it around your neck. He leans in so he can peer behind you as he hooks it. The pendant hangs right between your collarbones.<<elseif $favgift is 'snail'>>He carefully takes the chain and unhooks it to bring it around your neck. He leans in so he can peer behind you as he hooks it. The pendant hangs right between your collarbones.<<elseif $favgift is 'metal'>>Grabbing the ring from the box, he takes your outstretched hand and slips the ring on your finger of choice. You're a little shocked when it fits without much fuss.<</if>> Oswin smiles as he sees you wearing the gift. "Um, you can credit Nathanael for the craftsmanship." "Really? Does he know a jewel-smith or something?" He shakes his head. "He dabbles apparently. He said that it has been a fairly frequent request to have the little bobbles he sold made into something else, so he obliges. He especially enjoys jewlery, it so happens." You think back and remember just how many rings the man wears. "That…makes sense, he does have a fondness for such things." "<<if $favgift is 'earring'>>He managed to craft a replica to make the match and repair the other easily. They look brand new, but he swears the piece is very old. The stones are pure jade.<<elseif $favgift is 'crystals'>>He added the metal details himself and said the crystal is a very fine and pure type of quartz. He wasn't sure how they ended up around Stonebrook, but crystals like that are popular among the wealthy in Auster Province.<<elseif $favgift is 'rat'>>When I collected our treasure box, I found that the lower jaw didn't survive. It crumbled badly. He was able to reinforce the skull with the metalwork himself, and I had him add garnets to the eyes. I was rather impressed with how it looked.<<elseif $favgift is 'snail'>>I was worried that the shell might break if I simply had him fasten it to a necklace. He knew of some sort of resin that would encase and protect it. It's like glass, but not fragile, I've never seen anything quite like it.<<elseif $favgift is 'metal'>>He said this metal was unlike anything he had worked with before. He wasn't even sure if it was a known material. To melt and shape it into a ring, he had to find a special furnace that could get extremely hot and work very fast. But, he was able to add a couple stones. When it cooled, it was darker.<</if>>" You can't help but run your fingers along your treasure. "Thank you, Oswin. I appreciate this. It feels a little bit like retaking some of my childhood, you know?" He nods. "I…I admit that I often went back to look through our little box of goods. There were times I wanted to bring you back to the little hideaway so we could look through it again together." "Why didn't you?" He sits back down and folds his hands in his lap, staring down at them for a long moment. When his head lifts, you are shocked to see his eyes wet with unshed tears. "Because I am a fool. Because I have spent the last…ten cycles running from…everything." Oswin's face looks like he's just seen horrors untold. His eyes are far away and he looks so much smaller and so much more lost than you've ever seen. "Oswin…" [["''I need to tell you…you deserve to know what a fool I've been.''"|5.O3]]

You remain composed as you accept the gift There's a gentle and quiet sort of joy that falls over you. You watch Oswin as he watches you with a gaze that speaks of admiration. There are so many stories in his deep green eyes when he looks back at you. He remembered. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You've been holding on to your friendship, you already decided on that and now you know beyond doubt that he is too.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>You've been holding on to your friendship, you already decided on that and now you know beyond doubt that he is too. But is there something more to hold on to? Would he let you if there was? He feels this too right?<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Maybe a part of him still knows your heart after all.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Maybe there's still genuine warmth between you. Something a bit beyond just cordial feelings.<</if>> Oswin smiles at you kindly. "I hope this gift is a pleasant reminder of our childhood adventures." You nod. "It is. It really resonates with me." "Would you like to try it on? I- I can help you." You agree and hand him the box. <<if $favgift is 'earring'>>He gently takes each earring from the box and carefully loops them into your ears. They dangle almost to your shoulders, but they aren't very heavy.<<elseif $favgift is 'crystals'>>He gently takes each earring from the box and carefully loops them into your ears. They hang just off the lobes of your ears and are very light.<<elseif $favgift is 'rat'>>He carefully takes the chain and unhooks it to bring it around your neck. He leans in so he can peer behind you as he hooks it. The pendant hangs right between your collarbones.<<elseif $favgift is 'snail'>>He carefully takes the chain and unhooks it to bring it around your neck. He leans in so he can peer behind you as he hooks it. The pendant hangs right between your collarbones.<<elseif $favgift is 'metal'>>Grabbing the ring from the box, he takes your outstretched hand and slips the ring on your finger of choice. You're a little shocked when it fits without much fuss.<</if>> Oswin smiles as he sees you wearing the gift. "Um, you can credit Nathanael for the craftsmanship." "Really? Does he know a jewel-smith or something?" He shakes his head. "He dabbles apparently. He said that it has been a fairly frequent request to have the little bobbles he sold made into something else, so he obliges. He especially enjoys jewlery, it so happens." You think back and remember just how many rings the man wears. "That…makes sense, he does have a fondness for such things." "<<if $favgift is 'earring'>>He managed to craft a replica to make the match and repair the other easily. They look brand new, but he swears the piece is very old. The stones are pure jade.<<elseif $favgift is 'crystals'>>He added the metal details himself and said the crystal is a very fine and pure type of quartz. He wasn't sure how they ended up around Stonebrook, but crystals like that are popular among the wealthy in Auster Province.<<elseif $favgift is 'rat'>>When I collected our treasure box, I found that the lower jaw didn't survive. It crumbled badly. He was able to reinforce the skull with the metalwork himself, and I had him add garnets to the eyes. I was rather impressed with how it looked.<<elseif $favgift is 'snail'>>I was worried that the shell might break if I simply had him fasten it to a necklace. He knew of some sort of resin that would encase and protect it. It's like glass, but not fragile, I've never seen anything quite like it.<<elseif $favgift is 'metal'>>He said this metal was unlike anything he had worked with before. He wasn't even sure if it was a known material. To melt and shape it into a ring, he had to find a special furnace that could get extremely hot and work very fast. But, he was able to add a couple stones. When it cooled, it was darker.<</if>>" You can't help but run your fingers along your treasure. "Thank you, Oswin. I appreciate this. It feels a little bit like retaking some of my childhood, you know?" He nods. "I…I admit that I often went back to look through our little box of goods. There were times I wanted to bring you back to the little hideaway so we could look through it again together." "Why didn't you?" He sits back down and folds his hands in his lap, staring down at them for a long moment. When his head lifts, you are shocked to see his eyes wet with unshed tears. "Because I am a fool. Because I have spent the last…ten cycles running from…everything." Oswin's face looks like he's just seen horrors untold. His eyes are far away and he looks so much smaller and so much more lost than you've ever seen. "Oswin…" [["''I need to tell you…you deserve to know what a fool I've been.''"|5.O3]]

<<set $acceptOgift to true>> A huge smile grows on your face. You almost can't believe what you're looking at. So many memories of antics and laughter fill your mind. Joy washes over you. You watch Oswin as he watches you back with a gaze that speaks of admiration. There are so many stories in his deep green eyes when he looks back at you. He remembered. <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You've been holding on to your friendship, you already decided on that and now you know beyond doubt that he is too.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>You've been holding on to your friendship, you already decided on that and now you know beyond doubt that he is too. But is there something more to hold on to? Would he let you if there was? He feels this too right?<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>Maybe a part of him still knows your heart after all.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Maybe there's still genuine warmth between you. Something a bit beyond just cordial feelings.<</if>> Oswin smiles at you kindly. "I hope this gift is a pleasant reminder of our childhood adventures." You nod. "It is. It really resonates with me." "Would you like to try it on? I- I can help you." You agree and hand him the box. <<if $favgift is 'earring'>>He gently takes each earring from the box and carefully loops them into your ears. They dangle almost to your shoulders, but they aren't very heavy.<<elseif $favgift is 'crystals'>>He gently takes each earring from the box and carefully loops them into your ears. They hang just off the lobes of your ears and are very light.<<elseif $favgift is 'rat'>>He carefully takes the chain and unhooks it to bring it around your neck. He leans in so he can peer behind you as he hooks it. The pendant hangs right between your collarbones.<<elseif $favgift is 'snail'>>He carefully takes the chain and unhooks it to bring it around your neck. He leans in so he can peer behind you as he hooks it. The pendant hangs right between your collarbones.<<elseif $favgift is 'metal'>>Grabbing the ring from the box, he takes your outstretched hand and slips the ring on your finger of choice. You're a little shocked when it fits without much fuss.<</if>> Oswin smiles as he sees you wearing the gift. "Um, you can credit Nathanael for the craftsmanship." "Really? Does he know a jewel-smith or something?" He shakes his head. "He dabbles apparently. He said that it has been a fairly frequent request to have the little bobbles he sold made into something else, so he obliges. He especially enjoys jewlery, it so happens." You think back and remember just how many rings the man wears. "That…makes sense, he does have a fondness for such things." "<<if $favgift is 'earring'>>He managed to craft a replica to make the match and repair the other easily. They look brand new, but he swears the piece is very old. The stones are pure jade.<<elseif $favgift is 'crystals'>>He added the metal details himself and said the crystal is a very fine and pure type of quartz. He wasn't sure how they ended up around Stonebrook, but crystals like that are popular among the wealthy in Auster Province.<<elseif $favgift is 'rat'>>When I collected our treasure box, I found that the lower jaw didn't survive. It crumbled badly. He was able to reinforce the skull with the metalwork himself, and I had him add garnets to the eyes. I was rather impressed with how it looked.<<elseif $favgift is 'snail'>>I was worried that the shell might break if I simply had him fasten it to a necklace. He knew of some sort of resin that would encase and protect it. It's like glass, but not fragile, I've never seen anything quite like it.<<elseif $favgift is 'metal'>>He said this metal was unlike anything he had worked with before. He wasn't even sure if it was a known material. To melt and shape it into a ring, he had to find a special furnace that could get extremely hot and work very fast. But, he was able to add a couple stones. When it cooled, it was darker.<</if>>" You can't help but run your fingers along your treasure. "Thank you, Oswin. I appreciate this. It feels a little bit like retaking some of my childhood, you know?" He nods. "I…I admit that I often went back to look through the little box of goods. There were times I wanted to bring you back to our little hideaway so we could look through it again together." "Why didn't you?" He sits back down and folds his hands in his lap, staring down at them for a long moment. When his head lifts, you are shocked to see his eyes wet with unshed tears. "Because I am a fool. Because I have spent the last…ten cycles running from…everything." Oswin's face looks like he's just seen horrors untold. His eyes are far away and he looks so much smaller and so much more lost than you've ever seen. "Oswin…" [["''I need to tell you…you deserve to know what a fool I've been.''"|5.O3]]

<<set $rejectOgift to true>> You cannot help the stirring within you. You will take the gift as you can tell there is no malice behind it, but it's not something you want. [[It's because Oswin is giving it to you.|5.O2d1]] [[The reminder of your childhood is difficult.|5.O2d2]] [[It's both Oswin and the bad memories of your childhood.|5.O2d3]]

You feel shocked. After years of closing himself off, does he want to come clean? What reasons could he have and what makes them foolish? <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You're his friend, and you need to hear him out. It sounds like he needs some sort of closure, and somewhere in your heart, you probably do too.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>You already decided where your feelings about him lean, and you need to hear him out. It sounds like he needs some sort of closure, and somewhere in your heart, you probably do too. There's something within him that needs healing, but you need to see the wound in order to help.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>There's a chasm between you both. You are curious as to why since he made it all on his own. But you cannot help but ask yourself if you even want a bridge across it. Would you rather the gap remain, or could there be a longing within you to reach across?<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>You already decided on a polite relationship, but you would like to hear him out. It sounds like he needs some sort of closure, and somewhere in your heart, you probably do too.<</if>> You give him a nod and your full attention. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"When you're ready, walk me through what you have to say. I'm listening. Take your time."<<else>>"I'll hear you out."<</if>> He takes a few deep breaths, exhaling each one through his lips in a practiced manner. "This might all sound so stupid…and, I admit…there are things I don't believe I can yet bring myself to tell you." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I'll be the judge on how stupid it is or isn't."<<else>>"Okay, but you gotta give me //something//, I've waited a decade for this you know."<</if>> He smiles weakly and then leans forward, supporting his arms upon the tops of his knees. "So, I have been doing a lot of, uh, reflection. Your da has been helping me- He's been trying to help me for years. I don't know what it was or when it happened, but I realized-" Oswin stops and lowers his head. His hands come up to rub and hold the back of his neck as he folds in on himself. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"It's okay," you say. "Just breathe again, and when you're ready keep going. Tell me in little pieces if you need to."<<else>>"You can do this," you say. "Find your strength and try again."<</if>> He lifts back up, but his eyes don't focus on you. "I just suddenly realized just how massively insecure I am – about who I am or who I could be, about what I'm capable of." He laughs derisively. "And I let that define me…for nearly 20 years." "That long?" You sit back in your chair. "What has made you feel this way?" He nods. "I- Keep in mind, ''none'' of this is your fault. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You're a heartfelt person. I do not want you for even a moment to think you had a hand, no matter how circumstantial, in my flawed reasoning.<<else>>You're a straightforward person, but I wanted to be sure that you- that this wouldn't come across as me trying to blame you for my flawed reasoning.<</if>> I want you to promise me that you understand that." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Of course," you say firmly.<<else>>"Just this once," you say with a smirk.<</if>> "Okay…." He takes a slow breath with his eyes closed before continuing. "I think- well, I //know// I have always probably been this way. In my talks with your da, and my reflections, I think I may have spiraled after you first…um." "When I got sick?" "Yes." Your stomach drops a little. "How?" "I didn't- I //couldn't// cope after seeing you like that. You were my closest friend, and then all a sudden – you were dying. You were dying right in front of my eyes, and I- I- I was…" His eyes go glossy again. "Useless." "Oswin-" "No, no – don't – you don't have to say anything. I just need you to listen." You settle. "I saw you suffering in my head at all times after that. It was in my dreams, the image of your eyes rolling back, you laying on the ground, convulsing. My mind would twist it into…evil things. In my dreams, my hands were chained and my mouth was gagged as I watched you die over and over. In other dreams, ''I'' was the one hurting you. "When it first happened that day, when you first fell, I panicked – was frozen. I was the older one – I was supposed to be bigger and stronger to fucking //do// something to help you…. Lakota was the one who spurred me to carry you to get help. And that feeling sat with me, simmering in the back of my mind for years. I couldn't save you then, and as the years went by and your illness returned time and again, I was still useless. Lakota was able to help. He made tonics with our father, found herbs, he found the creeping sprout – he knew how to care for you. But I- I- I'm not smart enough for those things. I've learned a lot, but I didn't understand back then. I picked the wrong herbs, I didn't prepare them correctly, and I broke the bottles for tonics. I was only good for making a mess. I couldn't protect you in the way that everyone else could." Tears run down his face. "//Useless//." You give him a hard stare and try to resist interrupting. "So if I wasn't smart enough – I would become strong enough – or so I thought. But, it became an obsession. I had to prove it to myself, to you, to my family that I could be useful. No one else but me put this pressure on my shoulders, I just //needed// to protect you and them and then everyone else too. I had to show everyone that I could save people like my father and brother did. So I trained. I worked hard and earned a great apprenticeship…and I hated it." "You don't like your profession?" "Yes and no. My master was horrendous. Cruel. I learned a lot, but I- he made me feel worse about myself, and I was so angry, but I couldn't //do// anything about it. That spilled over to you, to my own brother, to anyone else who tried to be my friend. And just recently…I feel like I've finally opened my eyes after a long sleep." "Why now?" you ask. "I don't know. Maybe the things your da and my ma have been saying all these years finally sunk in. I wanted to undo the damage I felt and that I had caused. I was an ass to you, to Lakota; I took my frustrations out on people who didn't deserve it. An apology doesn't take back every time I snipped at you, every time I ignored you. A gift doesn't rebuild the bridge that I burned…I know that. But I wanted to tell you I was sorry, I wanted you to know //why// – it's not an excuse for my behavior. You never did anything wrong, and I…I cared about how you felt and what you thought of me more…more than anyone else. In truth." You examine him for a long moment. He's wrought with emotion, but his eyes are shifting around, pointedly avoiding yours. "Is that…everything?" you ask, your instincts suspicious. [[He shakes his head.|5.O4]]

"No," he says. "It is not." He still doesn't meet your eye. "Well, whi-" "I can't." He shakes his head. "Not now. I am in no position to plead with you to listen or even ask that you forgive me, but there are things…things I cannot bring myself to say right now. I must selfishly ask that you grant me this mercy." <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>That makes your heart ache. It hurts you for him, but it also hurts that he is still keeping something important from you.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>That makes your heart ache. It hurts you for him, but it also hurts that he is still keeping something important from you. You would like to see his heart mended.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>It's frustrating. He wanted to talk, but he seems to be backing down yet again after giving what is almost just crumbs.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>It's a bit frustrating, but you feel a little bad that he seems to be so heavily burdened.<</if>> All you can do now is sit and think about what he has told you and what he still hasn't. You've waited long enough. "$mc…there are things…" His lips quiver and he swallows thickly. His voice cracks as he continues in a small voice. "Things that haunt me. I beg you to not think that I take joy in stringing this out. I am going to tell you everything, but it pains me. Even though I have- I am prepared that you may rather keep a distance from me, I still care about what you think of me. And I am loath to face who I really am- who I've been on the inside and the things I have done." He goes silent, leaning once again on his elbows as he stares at the floor, his black hair forming a curtain to hide behind. No matter what you feel, curiosity pokes at you, but you doubt that pleading with him will convince him to go ahead and tell you everything. Some of your questions are answered. You at least know where in time he started to change and why. But does that change anything about your feelings about your relationship? [[Oswin is still your friend.|5.O4a]] [[You definitely have romantic feelings for him, maybe you even love him.|5.O4b]] [[Oswin isn't your enemy or your friend at this point.|5.O4c]] [[There's a gap between you, and maybe it should stay that way.|5.O4d]]

<<set $Ostat3 to 'friend'>> <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You still feel the kinship between you. That has not changed.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Perhaps you understand and know him less than you thought. You want to rethink your romantic feelings and pursue a friendship with him.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>The distance you felt before matters little in the face of what he just told you. Your heart is ready to cross the divide and mend your relationship.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>You understand what he has told you, and you know there is more to come, but if his hand is reaching out – you will take it.<</if>> "Oswin," you start. "I don't know what all you've been through. But I hear you. I want you to know that I'm your friend in this. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>I will be patient until you are ready to tell me the rest.<<else>>I guess I'll just have to wait until you're ready to tell me the rest. Until then, you are obligated to laugh at all my jokes.<</if>>" He smiles and shakes his head. "I am beyond happy to have you as a friend again." "Still." "Still," he repeats. "So…this feeling. Is it part of why you wanted to take me all this way?" "Not entirely. It may have played a part, but I just wanted to do it for you and your fathers too. It did give me a feeling…of being useful if I'm honest. Like I had trained all those years with that prick for a reason." "He was really that cruel?" you ask. You never learned much about Oswin's master and only knew that he was renowned for his skill.<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Did he…did he harm you?"<<else>>"Was he bad about sharing food or something?"<</if>> He smiles ruefully. "He had a way of figuring you out and bringing you down with his words. During my first season there, I was terribly homesick. He teased me, would get me worked up, and then make me fight him. Gave me my first //real// scar, on the back of my right shoulder." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>Your heart aches for Oswin. "That's awful! How could he be so cruel, you were still so young! There is something deeply wrong with a man like that, I have a mind to find him and set him straight myself."<<else>>You grind your teeth. "You should introduce me, I could show him<<if $interest is 'choppin'>>the blade of my axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>the business end of my chisels<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>the tip of my sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>my finest arrowheads up close<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>just how quickly hemlock becomes dangerous<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>just how sharp an ink pen is<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>how quickly I can //fillet// fish and //de-bone// chicken…<</if>>"<</if>> His eyes curl at the corners as he smiles. "I have always ad-appreciated how <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>tender you can be, even when you're angry.<<else>>terrifyingly passionate you can be.<</if>>" <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>You shake your head. "So, while we are on the subject of old scars…how is your side?" <<if $selfblame5 is true>>You swallow thickly.<</if>> "Oh," he says. "It's fine. Rune was able to heal it quite well. Still a little ways to go, and it hurts a bit when I move a certain way. Thankfully, the knife wasn't very large. So, do not fret over it." <<if $selfblame5 is true>>You can't help it, though. You worry your lip. <</if>>"I'm sorry it happened. Will it scar?" He nods. "Likely. Don't be sorry<<if $selfblame5 is true>>, there's guilt in your eyes, $mc, cast it out<</if>>. I do not regret this, I would take more than a knife to keep you safe. I'd do it again and again if I had to." "I couldn't ask you to do that, I didn't." "You didn't need to. I chose to." <<if $selfblame5 is true>>Tears come to your eyes unbidden and your throat constricts. <</if>>You fold your arms. "You have nothing to prove to me. I don't want you throwing yourself into harm's way because…because of what you just told me." "That's not why I did it. And I wouldn't have let anyone just get hurt like that, not when I could do something…except maybe Duri'naan." He chuckles, clearly trying to lighten the atmosphere around you. You sigh and reluctantly chuckle a little. <<if $selfblame5 is true>>"Take it from me, guilt is an infection in a wound. You must clean it out first if you are to heal."<<else>>"Do not think on it more. I am okay as are you and our new friends."<</if>> You nod. <<else>> You raise a hand. "Think nothing of it, that's just decency <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>and a bit of Papa's influence<<else>>and a bit of Da's influence<</if>>." "Definitely." Oswin pauses for a moment and seems to study you. "So, you are truly feeling better now? You look much better than before…Not to say you don't often look- you always look nice- well, not sick." He covers his face with his hand, which muffles his voice. "Do you feel okay?" You try not to laugh. "Yes, I feel wondrously better. It's a shame that we never found Rune sooner." "I thought the same. This was a bad one, $mc…I could see it. It was like…before on your birthday, violent." He runs his hands down his face. "I ''hate'' that you suffer so. If I could take this burden from your shoulders, I would." You kick him lightly in the shin. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"Don't speak like that. It would tear me apart to see you in such pain."<<else>>"Don't you dare speak like that. I would not wish this on you either, and I certainly do not wish to see a friend suffer."<</if>> "I apologize." "It's fine. In your shoes, I would be frustrated as well."<</if>> [[Oswin clears his throat.|5.O5]]

<<set $Ostat3 to 'romantic'>> <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>The kinship you felt has swelled into more, and you can't ignore how your heart beats differently for him.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Your heart still yearns for his. There is no changing that right now.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>The distance you felt before matters little in the face of what he just told you. Your heart is ready to cross the divide and mend your relationship. Your heart has bounded across the chasm between you and clung to him.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>You understand what he has told you, and you know there is more to come, but if his hand is reaching out - you will take it. You will hold on to him with all you have.<</if>> "Oswin," you start. "I don't know what all you've been through. But I hear you. I want you to know that I'm your…friend in this. You are incredibly important to me. I care about what you've been through, what you're going through, and how you can move ahead. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>I will be patient until you are ready to tell me the rest.<<else>>I guess I'll just have to wait until you're ready to tell me the rest. Until then, you are obligated to laugh at all my jokes.<</if>>" He smiles and shakes his head. "I am beyond happy to have you as a friend again." "Still." "Still," he repeats. "So…this feeling. Is it part of why you wanted to take me all this way?" "Not entirely. It may have played a part, but I just wanted to do it for you and for your fathers too. It did give me a feeling…of being useful, if I'm honest. Like I had trained all those years with that prick for a reason. If all of that could be used to save you in some way, I'd go through a lifetime of it." "He was really so cruel?" you ask. You never learned much about Oswin's master and only knew that he was renowned for his skill.<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Did he…did he harm you?"<<else>>"Was he bad about sharing food or something?"<</if>> He smiles ruefully. "He had a way of figuring you out and bringing you down with his words. My first season there, I was terribly homesick. He teased me, would get me worked up and then make me fight him. Gave me my first //real// scar, on the back of my right shoulder." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>Your heart aches for Oswin. "That's awful! How could he be so cruel, you were still so young! There is something deeply wrong with a man like that, I have a mind to find him and set him straight myself."<<else>>You grind your teeth. "You should introduce me sometime, I could show him<<if $interest is 'choppin'>>the blade of my axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>the business end of my chisels<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>the tip of my sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>my finest arrowheads up close<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>just how quickly hemlock becomes dangerous<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>just how sharp an ink pen is<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>how quickly I can //fillet// fish and //de-bone// chicken…<</if>>"<</if>> His eyes curl at the corners as he smiles. "I have always ad- appreciated how <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>tender you can be, even when you're angry.<<else>>terrifyingly passionate you can be.<</if>>" A soft silence falls over the two of you. You look closely at his face. He looks much better than before, like he's actually sleeping and eating well. He's less stressed even if he is going through a torrent of emotions. Your eyes lingers on his lips for a moment and then match his eyes. There's a warmth in them when he looks back at you, and you ponder if he feels the same for you that you do for him. And if he did…would he admit it? $flirt_label [[You need to tell him how you feel right now.|5.O4b1]] [[You know you should move the conversation along.|5.O4b2]]

<<set $Ostat3 to 'neural'>> <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You begin to think you should peel back your relationship and look at it more honestly. It may be better if he is neither your friend nor your enemy right now.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>Perhaps you understand and know him less than you thought. You want to rethink your romantic feelings and pursue something else with him for now.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>The distance you felt before matters less in the face of what he just told you. Your heart is ready to cross the divide and mend your relationship, at least on neutral ground.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>You don't feel any different, in truth.<</if>> "Oswin," you start. "I don't know what all you've been through. But I hear you. I will listen to what you have to say when you are ready to say it. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>I will be patient until you are ready.<<else>>I guess I'll just have to wait until you're ready to tell me the rest. Until then, you are obligated to laugh at all my jokes.<</if>>" He smiles and shakes his head. "I am beyond happy to hear that." "So…this feeling. Is it part of why you wanted to take me all this way?" "Not entirely. It may have played a part, but I just wanted to do it for you and your fathers too. It did give me a feeling…of being useful if I'm honest. Like I had trained all those years with that prick for a reason." "He was really that cruel?" you ask. You never learned much about Oswin's master and only knew that he was renowned for his skill.<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Did he…did he harm you?"<<else>>"Was he bad about sharing food or something?"<</if>> He smiles ruefully. "He had a way of figuring you out and bringing you down with his words. My first season there, I was terribly homesick. He teased me, would get me worked up, and then make me fight him. Gave me my first //real// scar, on the back of my right shoulder." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>Your heart aches for Oswin. "That's awful! How could he be so cruel, you were still so young! There is something deeply wrong with a man like that, I have a mind to find him and set him straight myself."<<else>>You grind your teeth. "You should introduce me sometime, I could show him<<if $interest is 'choppin'>>the blade of my axe<<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>the business end of my chisels<<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>the tip of my sword<<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>my finest arrowheads up close<<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>just how quickly hemlock becomes dangerous<<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>just how sharp an ink pen is<<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>how quickly I can //fillet// fish and //de-bone// chicken…<</if>>"<</if>> His eyes curl at the corners as he smiles. "I have always ad-appreciated how <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>tender you can be, even when you're angry.<<else>>terrifyingly passionate you can be.<</if>>" <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>You shake your head. "So, while we are on the subject of old scars…how is your side?" <<if $selfblame5 is true>>You swallow thickly.<</if>> "Oh," he says. "It's fine. Rune was able to heal it quite well. Still a little ways to go, and it hurts a bit when I move a certain way. Thankfully, the knife wasn't very large. So, do not fret over it." <<if $selfblame5 is true>>You can't help it, though. You worry your lip. <</if>>"I'm sorry it happened. Will it scar?" He nods. "Likely. Don't be sorry<<if $selfblame5 is true>>, there's guilt in your eyes, $mc, cast it out<</if>>. I do not regret this, I would take more than a knife to keep you safe. I'd do it again and again if I had to." "I couldn't ask you to do that, I didn't." "You didn't need to. I chose to." <<if $selfblame5 is true>>Tears come to your eyes unbidden and your throat constricts. <</if>>You fold your arms. "You have nothing to prove to me. I don't want you throwing yourself into harm's way because…because of what you just told me." "That's not why I did it. And I wouldn't have let anyone just get hurt like that, not when I could do something…except maybe Duri'naan." He chuckles, clearly trying to lighten the atmosphere around you. You sigh and reluctantly chuckle a little. <<if $selfblame5 is true>>"Take it from me, guilt is an infection in a wound. You must clean it out first if you are to heal."<<else>>"Do not think on it more. I am okay as are you and our new friends."<</if>> You nod.<<else>>You raise a hand. "Think nothing of it, that's just decency <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>and a bit of Papa's influence<<else>>and a bit of Da's influence<</if>>." "Definitely." Oswin pauses for a moment and seems to study you. "So, you are truly feeling better now? You look much better than before…Not to say you don't often look- you always look nice- well, not sick." He covers his face with his hand, which muffles his voice. "Do you feel okay?" You try not to laugh. "Yes, I feel wondrously better. It's a shame that we never found Rune sooner." "I thought the same. This was a bad one, $mc…I could see it. It was like…before on your birthday, violent." He runs his hands down his face. "I ''hate'' that you suffer so. If I could take this burden from your shoulders, I would." You kick him lightly in the shin. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"Don't speak like that. It would tear me apart to see someone else in such pain."<<else>>"Don't you dare speak like that. I would not wish this on anyone."<</if>> "I apologize." "It's fine. In your shoes, I would be frustrated as well."<</if>> [[Oswin clears his throat.|5.O5]]

<<set $Ostat3 to 'distance'>> <<if $Ostat2 is 'friends'>>You feel a divide growing between you. How much else do you not know of him? What won't he tell you? What is the purpose of all these secrets? Should you worry about the things he will not say?<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'romantic'>>A part of your heart breaks. You feel a divide growing between you. How much else do you not know of him? What won't he tell you? What is the purpose of all these secrets? Should you worry about the things he will not say?<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'distant'>>The distance between you is still there and unmistakable. Perhaps once you know all, your feelings will change, perhaps not. Either way, you do not want or are unable to change how you feel about him right now.<<elseif $Ostat2 is 'neutral'>>Perhaps you understand and know him less than you thought. Your feelings shift and a firm gap between you opens.<</if>> "So…this feeling," you begin, "Is it part of why you wanted to take me all this way?" "Not entirely. It may have played a part, but I just wanted to do it for you and your fathers too. It did give me a feeling…of being useful if I'm honest. Like I had trained all those years with that prick for a reason." "Your master was quite cruel then?" He smiles ruefully. "He had a way of figuring you out and bringing you down with his words. During my first season there, I was terribly homesick. He teased me, would get me worked up, and then make me fight him. Gave me my first //real// scar, on the back of my right shoulder." You shake your head. No matter your feelings about Oswin, that is terrible to learn. This man was in a position of power and respect over him and abused it. "He had no business taking on any apprenticeships. He sounds vile." "There were bits and pieces of him that were…salvageable, but I am glad to no longer be at his behest…" <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>You shake your head. "So, while we are on the subject of old scars…how is your side?" <<if $selfblame5 is true>>You swallow thickly. Even if you can't bring yourself closer to Oswin, he is still a person and was still gravely wounded on your account.<</if>> "Oh," he says. "It's fine. Rune was able to heal it quite well. Still a little ways to go, and it hurts a bit when I move a certain way. Thankfully, the knife wasn't very large. So, do not fret over it." <<if $selfblame5 is true>>You can't help it, though. You worry your lip remembering all the blood he lost. <</if>>"I'm sorry it happened. Will it scar?" He nods. "Likely. Don't be sorry<<if $selfblame5 is true>>, there's guilt in your eyes, $mc, cast it out<</if>>. I do not regret this, I would take more than a knife to keep you safe. I'd do it again and again if I had to." "I couldn't ask you to do that, I didn't." "You didn't need to. I chose to." <<if $selfblame5 is true>>Your throat constricts with the very guilt he tells you to shed. <</if>>You fold your arms. "You have nothing to prove to me. I don't want you throwing yourself into harm's way because…because of what you just told me." "That's not why I did it. And I wouldn't have let anyone just get hurt like that, not when I could do something…except maybe Duri'naan." He chuckles, clearly trying to lighten the atmosphere around you. You sigh and reluctantly chuckle a little. <<if $selfblame5 is true>>"Take it from me, guilt is an infection in a wound. You must clean it out first if you are to heal."<<else>>"Do not think on it more. I am okay as are you and our new friends."<</if>> You nod.<<else>>You raise a hand. "Think nothing of it, that's just decency <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>and a bit of Papa's influence<<else>>and a bit of Da's influence<</if>>." "Definitely." Oswin pauses for a moment and seems to study you. "So, you are truly feeling better now? You look much better than before…Not to say you don't often look- you always look nice- well, not sick." He covers his face with his hand, which muffles his voice. "Do you feel okay?" You try not to laugh. "Yes, I feel wondrously better. It's a shame that we never found Rune sooner." "I thought the same. This was a bad one, $mc…I could see it. It was like…before on your birthday, violent." He runs his hands down his face. "I ''hate'' that you suffer so. If I could take this burden from your shoulders, I would." You kick him lightly in the shin. "Don't speak like that. I would not wish this on anyone." "I apologize." "It's fine. In your shoes, I would probably be frustrated as well."<</if>> [[Oswin clears his throat.|5.O5]]

With that, whether you want to or not, the conversation moves on. Oswin straightens a bit, looking more business-like in his demeanor. He remains, perhaps, slightly more relaxed than what you know to be normal, and his clothing being too big for him adds a comical flair to his attempt at shifting the mood in the room. "I think we should discuss where to go from here." "Hm, you're probably right. <<if $ch5Broute is true>>Where else do you think we should look?<<else>>Do you think we should head back into the forest and check the shrine after all?<</if>>" He shakes his head. "I am honestly not sure of anything at this point. I think it would be best to get you home though. We need to resupply, and I think it would be good for you to check in with your fathers. We took far longer than normal to reach this far than I ever expected." You suddenly realize that you do not even recall what date it is. "We left home…on the 23rd, correct?" "Yes, it's now <<if $ch5Broute is true>>47-Spring<<46-Spring<</if>>." Your jaw goes slack. "Half the season is already gone…" "Do not think too much on it. We will focus on recovery and rest and then journey home." "<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>It feels like we are no closer to a solution though and now so much time has gone.<<else>>Oh yes, silly me, I shan't worry so much about my expiration date looming ahead.<</if>>" He levels a serious look at you. "This trip is not wasted. We have learned more about your curse than we ever had before. Rune's information alone has made the trip successful. Not to mention we have made three allies all with possible resources to help." "None of them are beholden to me, Oswin. Why would they…" He shrugs. "Whatever the motivation, help is help right now. Zahn…is clearly lonely, and eager. Duri is odd…bored likely. Rune seems genuinely moved by your plight, but also simply curious. I do not tell you this to say we take advantage of their quirks but to accept what they willingly provide. Zahn and Duri are…irritating to me, but I admit they all seem like decent people. Rune is pleasant company as well." Your eyes go wide. "So…are you saying we take them all to Stonebrook?" Oswin heaves a heavy sigh. "Yes, if they are willing, which all of them – even Rune – seem to be at least for the time being. It's more mouths to feed, but all are self-sufficient in their own ways." "So what do we say when I bring three strangers to my family's doorstep to meet my parents?" "The truth, um, //except// about Duri'naan. Your da would…not take kindly to a demigod roaming his house. Your papa will not be fond of Rune either, but hiding that $Rheshe is a mage won't be possible, I imagine. But Rune, unlike Duri, is blessedly civil." You gawk back at him. You don't know if you are more shocked that he is suggesting this in the first place or that his attitude over it is positively nonchalant. "So…I just say, 'Hello Papa, hello Da, please meet these three random strangers I met on my first trip far away from home?'" He nods. "Three strangers and a wolf. Don't forget $wolf. Dov will probably be so thrilled about her that he'd ignore Duri…too bad our demigod isn't a much smaller wolf...otherwise, we could pass $Dhimher off as another pet." "All told, probably not the weirdest things I've brought home…" Oswin snorts an agreement. "Well, I will leave you to your letter, and I will finish one of my own for them. I appreciate that you've listened to what I've had to say very much. I promise I will tell you everything else in time. I just need…need to do this in pieces." "You don't need to thank me for that, Oswin, but I'm going to hold you to that. You are going to have to tell me everything.<<if $Ostat3 is 'friends'>>I can't bear you pushing me away again.<<elseif $Ostat3 is 'romantic'>>I can't bear you pushing me away again.<</if>>" "I promise. Even if it pains me, I will tell you everything." He holds your eye resolutely. [[Clasp his arm to yours to seal the promise.|5.O5a]] [[You go in for a hug.|5.O5b]] [[You give him a firm nod.|5.O5c]]

You stand and he rises to follow suit. You both hold your arms out and you clasp them together with a firm smack. "It's a promise," you affirm. "On my life and honor, it's a promise," he swears to you. [[With a promise made, you return to your task.|5.O6end]]

You stand and he rises to follow suit. You wrap your arms around him and bring him in close. He seems taken aback at first but carefully holds you in his arms. "It's a promise," you affirm. "On my life and honor, it's a promise," he swears to you. [[With a promise made, you return to your task.|5.O6end]]

You stand and he rises to follow suit. You give him a firm gaze and he returns it as you both nod once definitively. "It's a promise," you affirm. "On my life and honor, it's a promise," he swears to you. [[With a promise made, you return to your task.|5.O6end]]

<<set $rejectOgiftreason to 'Oswin'>> Your emotions are complicated. <<if $Ostat3 is 'friends'>>You decided to connect as friends again, but for some reason accepting this gift just doesn't feel right. Are you not close enough? Do you feel strangely guilty? Do you harbor discontent with him? Maybe you just need closure, to reveal the secrets he is keeping from you.<<elseif $Ostat3 is 'romantic'>>You decided to connect as friends again and you've felt him pull on your heart as more than a friend. But, for some reason, accepting this gift just doesn't feel right. Are you not close enough? Do you feel strangely guilty? Do you harbor discontent with him? Maybe you just need closure, to reveal the secrets he is keeping from you.<<elseif $Ostat3 is 'distant'>>The gap between you may just be uncrossable. Does he think that a finely crafted bobble repairs the damage that //he// caused? Does it unburn a bridge? No. It does not. It would be easier if you were strangers. You can't start anew with him, there are too many unanswered questions and hurt feelings to ignore.<<elseif $Ostat3 is 'neutral'>>You decided to not harbor specific feelings about him, but for some reason accepting this gift just doesn't feel right. Are you perhaps too neutral in your thoughts and feelings? Do you feel strangely guilty? Perhaps your neutrality is a way to fool yourself, and you are actually discontent with him? Maybe you just need closure first to decide, to reveal the secrets he is keeping from you.<</if>> Your face is polite as you close the box and set it aside on the desk. Oswin gives you a mild smile, and you're not sure if he senses your feelings about it or not. "I wanted to preserve something that was precious to you once. A reminder of our- your beginnings." "Thank you," you say simply. "Um, you can credit Nathanael for the craftsmanship." He gestures to the box. "Really? Does he know a jewel-smith or something?" He shakes his head. "He dabbles apparently. He said that it has been a fairly frequent request to have the little bobbles he sold made into something else, so he obliges. He especially enjoys jewlery, it so happens." You think back and remember just how many rings the man wears. "That…makes sense, he does have a fondness for such things." "<<if $favgift is 'earring'>>He managed to craft a replica to make the match and repair the other easily. They look brand new, but he swears the piece is very old. The stones are pure jade.<<elseif $favgift is 'crystals'>>He added the metal details himself and said the crystal is a very fine and pure type of quartz. He wasn't sure how they ended up around Stonebrook, but crystals like that are popular among the wealthy in Auster Province.<<elseif $favgift is 'rat'>>When I collected our treasure box, I found that the lower jaw didn't survive. It crumbled badly. He was able to reinforce the skull with the metalwork himself, and I had him add garnets to the eyes. I was rather impressed with how it looked.<<elseif $favgift is 'snail'>>I was worried that the shell might break if I simply had him fasten it to a necklace. He knew of some sort of resin that would encase and protect it. It's like glass, but not fragile, I've never seen anything quite like it.<<elseif $favgift is 'metal'>>He said this metal was unlike anything he had worked with before. He wasn't even sure if it was a known material. To melt and shape it into a ring, he had to find a special furnace that could get extremely hot and work very fast. But, he was able to add a couple stones. When it cooled, it was darker.<</if>>" "I can appreciate such craftsmanship. I'll be sure to thank him next time I see him." He nods. "I…I admit that I often went back to look through the little box of goods. There were times I wanted to bring you back to the little hideaway so we could look through it again together." "Why didn't you?" He fidgets in the chair and folds his hands in his lap, staring down at them for a long moment. When his head lifts, you are shocked to see his eyes wet with unshed tears. "Because I am a fool. Because I have spent the last…ten cycles running from…everything." Oswin's face looks like he's just seen horrors untold. His eyes are far away and he looks so much smaller and so much more lost than you've ever seen. "Tell me…" [["''I- you deserve to know what a fool I've been.''"|5.O3]]

<<set $rejectOgiftreason to 'reminder'>> There were beautiful parts of your childhood. But part of you was robbed when you were only in your fifth year. It wasn't all bad after that, but so much of it was difficult and limiting. It's so hard to be faced with it again. There's a strange longing when you see the lovely piece, but it hurts. It reminds you of a time when you were oblivious and happy and also of a time when you were cheated. It makes you face a time when Oswin was one of your closest friends before he suddenly just wasn't. Your face is polite as you close the box and set it aside on the desk. Oswin gives you a mild smile, and you're not sure if he senses your feelings about it or not. "I wanted to preserve something that was once precious to you. A reminder of our- your beginnings. Of easier times." "Thank you," you say simply. "Um, you can credit Nathanael for the craftsmanship." He gestures to the box. "Really? Does he know a jewel-smith or something?" He shakes his head. "He dabbles apparently. He said that it has been a fairly frequent request to have the little bobbles he sold made into something else, so he obliges. He especially enjoys jewlery, it so happens." You think back and remember just how many rings the man wears. "That…makes sense, he does have a fondness for such things." "<<if $favgift is 'earring'>>He managed to craft a replica to make the match and repair the other easily. They look brand new, but he swears the piece is very old. The stones are pure jade.<<elseif $favgift is 'crystals'>>He added the metal details himself and said the crystal is a very fine and pure type of quartz. He wasn't sure how they ended up around Stonebrook, but crystals like that are popular among the wealthy in Auster Province.<<elseif $favgift is 'rat'>>When I collected our treasure box, I found that the lower jaw didn't survive. It crumbled badly. He was able to reinforce the skull with the metalwork himself, and I had him add garnets to the eyes. I was rather impressed with how it looked.<<elseif $favgift is 'snail'>>I was worried that the shell might break if I simply had him fasten it to a necklace. He knew of some sort of resin that would encase and protect it. It's like glass, but not fragile, I've never seen anything quite like it.<<elseif $favgift is 'metal'>>He said this metal was unlike anything he had worked with before. He wasn't even sure if it was a known material. To melt and shape it into a ring, he had to find a special furnace that could get extremely hot and work very fast. But, he was able to add a couple stones. When it cooled, it was darker.<</if>>" "I can appreciate such craftsmanship. I'll be sure to thank him next time I see him." He nods. "I…I admit that I often went back to look through our little box of goods. There were times I wanted to bring you back to the little hideaway so we could look through it again together." "Why didn't you?" He fidgets in the chair and folds his hands in his lap, staring down at them for a long moment. When his head lifts, you are shocked to see his eyes wet with unshed tears. "Because I am a fool. Because I have spent the last…ten cycles running from…everything." Oswin's face looks like he's just seen horrors untold. His eyes are far away and he looks so much smaller and so much more lost than you've ever seen. "Tell me…" [["I- you deserve to know what a fool I've been."|5.O3]]

<<set $rejectOgiftreason to 'both'>> There were beautiful parts of your childhood. But part of you was robbed when you were only in your fifth year. It wasn't all bad after that, but so much of it was difficult. It's so hard to be faced with it again. There's a strange longing when you see the lovely piece, but it hurts. It reminds you of a time when you were oblivious and happy and also of a time when you were cheated. It makes you face a time when Oswin was one of your closest friends before he suddenly just wasn't. Your emotions about him are complicated. <<if $Ostat3 is 'friends'>>You decided to connect as friends again, but for some reason accepting this gift just doesn't feel right. Are you not close enough? Do you feel strangely guilty? Do you harbor discontent with him? Maybe you just need closure, to reveal the secrets he is keeping from you.<<elseif $Ostat3 is 'romantic'>>You decided to connect as friends again and you've felt him pull on your heart as more than a friend. But, for some reason, accepting this gift just doesn't feel right. Are you not close enough? Do you feel strangely guilty? Do you harbor discontent with him? Maybe you just need closure, to reveal the secrets he is keeping from you.<<elseif $Ostat3 is 'distant'>>The gap between you may just be uncrossable. Does he think that a finely crafted bobble repairs the damage that //he// caused? Does it unburn a bridge? No. It does not. It would be easier if you were strangers. You can't start anew with him, there are too many unanswered questions and hurt feelings to ignore.<<elseif $Ostat3 is 'neutral'>>You chose to not harbor specific feelings about him, but for some reason accepting this gift just doesn't feel right. Are you perhaps too neutral in your thoughts and feelings? Do you feel strangely guilty? Perhaps your neutrality is a way to fool yourself, and you are actually discontent with him? Maybe you just need closure first to decide, to reveal the secrets he is keeping from you.<</if>> Your face is polite as you close the box and set it aside on the desk. Oswin gives you a mild smile, and you're not sure if he senses your feelings about it or not. "I wanted to preserve something that was once precious to you. A reminder of our- your beginnings. Of easier times." "Thank you," you say simply. "Um, you can credit Nathanael for the craftsmanship." He gestures to the box. "Really? Does he know a jewel-smith or something?" He shakes his head. "He dabbles apparently. He said that it has been a fairly frequent request to have the little bobbles he sold made into something else, so he obliges. He especially enjoys jewlery, it so happens." You think back and remember just how many rings the man wears. "That…makes sense, he does have a fondness for such things." "<<if $favgift is 'earring'>>He managed to craft a replica to make the match and repair the other easily. They look brand new, but he swears the piece is very old. The stones are pure jade.<<elseif $favgift is 'crystals'>>He added the metal details himself and said the crystal is a very fine and pure type of quartz. He wasn't sure how they ended up around Stonebrook, but crystals like that are popular among the wealthy in Auster Province.<<elseif $favgift is 'rat'>>When I collected our treasure box, I found that the lower jaw didn't survive. It crumbled badly. He was able to reinforce the skull with the metalwork himself, and I had him add garnets to the eyes. I was rather impressed with how it looked.<<elseif $favgift is 'snail'>>I was worried that the shell might break if I simply had him fasten it to a necklace. He knew of some sort of resin that would encase and protect it. It's like glass, but not fragile, I've never seen anything quite like it.<<elseif $favgift is 'metal'>>He said this metal was unlike anything he had worked with before. He wasn't even sure if it was a known material. To melt and shape it into a ring, he had to find a special furnace that could get extremely hot and work very fast. But, he was able to add a couple stones. When it cooled, it was darker.<</if>>" "I can appreciate such craftsmanship. I'll be sure to thank him next time I see him." He nods. "I…I admit that I often went back to look through our little box of goods. There were times I wanted to bring you back to our little hideaway so we could look through it again together." "Why didn't you?" He fidgets in the chair and folds his hands in his lap, staring down at them for a long moment. When his head lifts, you are shocked to see his eyes wet with unshed tears. "Because I am a fool. Because I have spent the last…ten cycles running from…everything." Oswin's face looks like he's just seen horrors untold. His eyes are far away and he looks so much smaller and so much more lost than you've ever seen. "Tell me…" [["I- you deserve to know what a fool I've been."|5.O3]]

<<set $youtriedin5 to true>> You know he is the right one for you. Maybe you've always known. Though he has more to tell you, you can wait patiently for it, but what you cannot wait to do is tell him how you feel. Your feelings won't change, you know that they won't. Both your head and your heart have chosen him. He feels wounded and vulnerable right now, and you do not wish to overwhelm him, so you leave your chair and kneel at his feet. Oswin looks down at you with wide eyes that are still damp. He's shocked speechless, though you can almost hear all the questions he would normally be spitting at you. [[You take his hands in yours.|5.O4b1a]] [[You hold his gaze.|5.O4b1b]]

<<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>You shake your head, and clear your throat. The long pause has added a bit of awkwardness to the room, but it's nothing that can't be soothed over. "So, while we are on the subject of old scars…how is your side?" <<if $selfblame5 is true>>You swallow thickly.<</if>> "Oh," he says. "It's fine. Rune was able to heal it quite well. Still a little ways to go, and it hurts a bit when I move a certain way. Thankfully, the knife wasn't very large. So, do not fret over it." <<if $selfblame5 is true>>You can't help it, though. You worry your lip. <</if>>"I'm sorry it happened. Will it scar?" He nods. "Likely. Don't be sorry<<if $selfblame5 is true>>, there's guilt in your eyes, $mc, cast it out<</if>>. I do not regret this, I would take more than a knife to keep you safe. I'd do it again and again if I had to." "I couldn't ask you to do that, I didn't." "You didn't need to. I chose to." <<if $selfblame5 is true>>Tears come to your eyes unbidden and your throat constricts. <</if>>You fold your arms. "You have nothing to prove to me. I don't want you throwing yourself into harm's way because…because of what you just told me." "That's not why I did it. And I wouldn't have let anyone just get hurt like that, not when I could do something…except maybe Duri'naan." He chuckles, clearly trying to lighten the atmosphere around you. You sigh and reluctantly chuckle a little. <<if $selfblame5 is true>>"Take it from me, guilt is an infection in a wound. You must clean it out first if you are to heal."<<else>>"Do not think on it more. I am okay as are you and our new friends."<</if>> You nod.<<else>>You raise a hand. "Think nothing of it, that's just decency <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>and a bit of Papa's influence<<else>>and a bit of Da's influence<</if>>." "Definitely." Oswin pauses for a moment and seems to study you. "So, you are truly feeling better now? You look much better than before…Not to say you don't often look- you always look nice- well, not sick." He covers his face with his hand, which muffles his voice. "Do you feel okay?" You try not to laugh. "Yes, I feel wondrously better. It's a shame that we never found Rune sooner." "I thought the same. This was a bad one, $mc…I could see it. It was like…before on your birthday, violent." He runs his hands down his face. "I ''hate'' that you suffer so. If I could take this burden from your shoulders, I would." You kick him lightly in the shin. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"Don't speak like that. It would tear me apart to see you in such pain."<<else>>"Don't you dare speak like that. I would not wish this on you either, and I certainly do not wish to see a friend suffer."<</if>> "I apologize." "It's fine. In your shoes, I would be frustrated as well."<</if>> [[Oswin clears his throat.|5.O5]]

Gently grabbing his hands, you hold them in yours and rest them on his lap. You caress the top of his fingers with your thumbs as you smile at him. "I need to tell you something too," you start. His eyes jump from you to the window and then to your joined hands. His eyebrows seem to be escaping towards his hairline. "Wa-wait, $mc…" "I can't. I need to say this." "Are…are you, what I think…going to say? Um." His breathing picks up, and you feel your concern growing at his reaction. He looks scared, ready to bolt as if you are drawing a weapon and not kneeling at his feet. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Your face is hot, but you press on. You feel ready now, and if you don't do this that readiness may fizzle out.<<else>>You can no longer wait no matter what his own feelings are. You must express yourself now. Strike while the iron is hot as they say.<</if>> "I care for you, Oswin. More than just-" "Stop," he pleads with a thick voice. He //pleads//. His voice sounds as if you were about to exude torture upon him. "Oswin…" "I can't hear it…I can't." Tears burst from his eyes and stream down his face. "Don't waste your heart on me, don't waste your words." "It's not a waste!" you declare, gripping his hands more firmly. "You're not allowed to tell me how I feel!" "I know…I know, and I'm not trying to. But you should know everything first." "I don't need to know everything, I know how I feel." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>Your throat feels close all of a sudden.<<else>>Frustration rises within you and you lock your jaw.<</if>> He sniffles. "There is nothing I want more than to hear you…hear you say what you- Nothing more… But for your own sake. $mc, I'm a monster. I have been a ''monster''. Your heart should be free of thoughts of me until you know what haunts my sleep at night. If you can do that for me and your heart does not change, then I will hear those words and I will spend the rest of my days showing you what you mean to me." <<if $goal is 'love'>>"Is it because I am dying?" <<if $cursefatigue is 'reason'>>You suppose it's logical. Why accept feelings from a person that may not last the year?<<elseif $cursefatigue is 'suppress'>>You shove your despair deep down.<<if $cursefatigue is 'crying'>>You fail to completely resist the tears that flow from your eyes.<<else>>You ask with a hard edge to your voice.<</if>> He shakes his head firmly. "No, never. It is because I truly believe that you will have a full life after this. No matter what you choose to fill it with, I merely want you to make…an //informed// decision."<<else>> You go silent, releasing his hands. It's a blow. Though, you've at least seemed to confirm that he feels //something// more for you than he tries to let on. Yet, the way he speaks makes you think that something wants to eat you – bones and all. "I am sorry, $mc. I- I merely want you to make…an //informed// decision."<</if>><</if>> You straighten up and then get back into your chair. The air is thick and awkward. After a long pause, you add, <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Let's just carry on then. There's no sense in focusing on…that."<<else>>"Now that I have firmly lodge my foot within my mouth and begun to swallow, how about we move along?"<</if>> "It's okay. Just so you know. Feel no shame about it. Let's just start again from where we were earlier." [[The room is a bit less awkward, but a silence remains.|5.O4b2]]

You look into his eyes with the utmost adoration. You hope your smile carries the way you feel to him. "I need to tell you something too," you start. His eyes jump from you to the window and then to your joined hands. His eyebrows seem to be escaping towards his hairline. "Wa-wait, $mc…" "I can't. I need to say this." "Are…are you, what I think…going to say? Um." His breathing picks up, and you feel your concern growing at his reaction. He looks scared, ready to bolt as if you are drawing a weapon and not kneeling at his feet. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>Your face is hot, but you press on. You feel ready now, and if you don't do this that readiness may fizzle out.<<else>>You can no longer wait no matter what his own feelings are. You must express yourself now. Strike while the iron is hot as they say.<</if>> "I care for you, Oswin. More than just-" "Stop," he pleads with a thick voice. He //pleads//. His voice sounds as if you were about to exude torture upon him. "Oswin…" "I can't hear it…I can't." Tears burst from his eyes and stream down his face. "Don't waste your heart on me, don't waste your words." "It's not a waste!" you declare, staring back with fire in your gaze. "You're not allowed to tell me how I feel!" "I know…I know, and I'm not trying to. But you should know everything first." "I don't need to know everything, I know how I feel." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>Your throat feels close all of a sudden.<<else>>Frustration rises within you and you lock your jaw.<</if>> He sniffles. "There is nothing I want more than to hear you…hear you say what you-" His voice lowers to a near-whisper. "//Nothing// more… But for your own sake. $mc, I'm a monster. I have been a monster. Your heart should be free of thoughts of me until you know what haunts my sleep at night. If you can do that for me and your heart does not change, then I will hear those words, and I will spend the rest of my days showing you what you mean to me." <<if $goal is 'love'>>"Is it because I am dying?" <<if $cursefatigue is 'reason'>>You suppose it's logical. Why accept feelings from a person that may not last the year?<<elseif $cursefatigue is 'suppress'>>You shove your despair deep down.<<if $cursefatigue is 'crying'>>You fail to completely resist the tears that flow from your eyes.<<else>>You ask with a hard edge to your voice.<</if>> He shakes his head firmly. "No, never. It is because I truly believe that you will have a full life after this. No matter what you choose to fill it with, I merely want you to make…an //informed// decision."<<else>> You go silent, looking away from him. It's a blow. Though, you've at least seemed to confirm that he feels //something// more for you than he tries to let on. Yet, the way he speaks makes you think that something wants to eat you – bones and all. "I am sorry, $mc. I- I merely want you to make…an //informed// decision."<</if>><</if>> You straighten up and then get back into your chair. The air is thick and awkward. After a long pause, you add, <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Let's just carry on then. There's no sense in focusing on…that."<<else>>"Now that I have firmly lodged my foot within my mouth and begun to swallow, how about we move along?"<</if>> "It's okay. Just so you know. Feel no shame about it. Let's just start again from where we were earlier." [[The room is a bit less awkward, but a silence remains.|5.O4b2]]

Per the instructions in your invitation, you enter Rune's room, and find $Rhimher reclined in a chair with $Rhisher legs crossed at the knee. You are shocked that the bard is dressed down compared to the other times you've met, though you are still getting acquainted. $Rcapitalheshe has a loose and rough-hewn shirt tucked into plain brown pants with suspenders over $Rhisher shoulders. It is shocking how refined Rune still appears even while lounging so casually. $Rcapitalheshe seems lost in thought as $Rheshe taps $Rhisher fingers on $Rhisher knee. A parchment is laid out on the table. You clear your throat and Rune seems to snap from reverie. "Oh, Master Northbreaker, please make yourself comfortable. I apologize for not hearing you come in." Rune gestures to the seat across the table. You walk over and take your seat, noting that the parchment has lines written and crossed out here and there. "What are you working on?" you ask. "Lyrics; I have a tune in my head, but I can't quite find the words to go with it…" Rune taps $Rhisher chin in thought. "What sort of song is it?" A slow smile spreads upon $Rhisher lips as $Rheshe leans forward. "Why a //love// song of course," Rune says softly. [[You nod along.|5.R1a]] $flirt_label [[Something about Rune's tone makes your face warm.|5.R1b][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[You lean forward with interest plain on your face.|5.R1c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

"I suppose romantic ballads are the most popular. <<if $hobby is 'singing'>><<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I, uh, I actually do a bit of singing as well. Just for fun, of course. I'm not like how you are.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>Well, perhaps you could use my insight for your song. I'm something of a singer myself.<</if>><<elseif $hobby is 'drawing'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics; I'm more of a traditional artist – paints and charcoal sing my songs for me.<<elseif $hobby is 'sculpting'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics; I'm actually a sculptor in my free time. I let clay express my heart for me.<<elseif $hobby is 'storytelling'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics specifically, though I am a writer of sorts. I prefer to tell stories directly rather than sing them.<<elseif $hobby is 'whittling'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics, but I whittle in my free time. I like to think my knives and chisels do the singing.<<elseif $hobby is 'needlework'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics, but I could stitch them into your clothes if you like. I prefer needlework to song.<</if>>" Rune leans back. "Of course. <<if $hobby is 'singing'>>It would be a delight if you could sing with me sometime, I can tell by the way you speak that there is a melody in your heart.<<else>>Even if you don't count yourself a singer, I quite like your voice. It's…there's a rapture to it. I bet you still sing delightfully.<</if>> I wouldn't mind you joining me some evening downstairs if it pleases you. Tonight even, if you are available." "Oh, well, thank you. I will consider it. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>As long as I still feel well, I see no reason that I could not make it.<<else>>I'll try to pencil you in between naps.<</if>>" $Rcapitalheshe smiles softly. "So, we haven't been able to spend much casual time together yet. I am very pleased with your recovery. Perhaps you wouldn't mind a few questions to help me get to know you a bit better?" <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You fidget in your chair. "Oh…uh, really? You want to know about me? I don't see why not, I suppose."<<else>>You sit up straighter. "That sounds lovely, I'd also like to know more about you."<</if>> <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>Rune gives you a gentle smile. "I apologize if that makes you a bit uneasy. I do promise you that I do not seek to pry, only to know you on a, let us say, a //base// level unless you feel like sharing more of course."<<else>>Rune smiles warmly. "Terrific, I had a notion that you would be game. Nothing too personal now, just the basics unless you are in a more sharing mood."<</if>> "Sure, that's fair." Rune rolls up $Rhisher parchment and sets it to the side. "Excellent timing as well, the tea should be here shortly. They always bring me a setting for two in case I'm entertaining anyway." "Do you entertain often then?" you ask. "Oh, by Casimir, no. I tend to enjoy my space when I am not performing. Occasionally one of the innkeepers joins me, and a time or two, an old friend has popped in to visit." You watch Rune for a moment. "But they still always bring you tea for two?" $Rcapitalheshe nods. "I do wonder about it, but I assume they think I am hiding company somewhere within the room, or maybe a rogue comes through my window for tea." Rune shrugs. "So, since we are getting acquainted, may I ask why you refer to me as //Master// Northbreaker? My taken name is just fine to address me…" "I was merely being polite because I'm no longer current on some noble houses in this region." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You still for a moment. "I'm not…I'm not a noble."<<else>>You snort ungracefully. "What about me says 'noble' exactly?"<</if>> Rune's brows crest. "You are from House Northbreaker, correct? Of Norwood Province?" "I was born around Stonebrook, here in Mahdeh. I don't know about any other Northbreakers. It's my papa's surname from his father, but Papa never met him. My grandmother did tell me that grandfather was from the north." Rune hums as $Rheshe thinks, making $ Rhisher's lips pout. "It's not a common name, so you must be related somehow. It was a very powerful family with lots of history in Iroda." "My fathers never told me anything of the sort. Grandmother only said that he was a simple man, kind and quiet." "What was your grandfather's forename?" You freeze. "I- I- don't know…Grandmother didn't like talking about it; she was a very stoic person, Papa told me it was hard for her." Rune worries $Rhisher lip. "I apologize for asking callously. As a child, I studied history and noble houses until my eyes bled, it just struck my curiosity to meet a member of one of the old houses." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"It's okay, I never knew my grandfather and my grandmother has long since passed. I was just surprised."<<else>>"You're lucky I'm not a noble, imagine how I would have //guffawed// at such insolence."<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Rune bows $Rhisher head slightly. "You are quite gracious. I'd not be surprised to learn if you were truly of one of the great houses. Even if your upbringing was not one of gratuitous wealth, your heart still abounds with riches."<<else>>Rune suddenly snorts and then slaps a hand over $Rhisher mouth in a poor attempt to keep composure. "That was…unseemly. Tell me, do you practice such lines in case you find occasions such as these to use them?"<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I can't help but notice that you have quite a way with words. //You// must be from one of these noble houses then. Is that why you are so intrigued?"<<else>>"Are you always so proper? You nobles need to learn to laugh more."<</if>> Rune smiles in such a way that $Rhisher eyes almost squint. A true smile – nothing 'proper' or demure about it. "You've caught me. I //am// from a noble house in my origins, though I recused myself from those shackles a few years ago. Old habits do not break easily, but know that as I become more familiar with you, the etiquette will diminish." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You smile back politely. "It's not that I mind, as long as you're comfortable."<<else>>You grin. "Thank the stars for that."<</if>> [[There's a knock at the door.|5.R2]]

<<set $Rshy +=3>> Warmth fills your cheeks and your eyes can't seem to leave the smile on Rune's lips. There's something quite beautiful about the way $Rheshe smiles. You've noticed that it's different. Where the lips of others tend to curl up only out of politeness with no true feeling, Rune's smile is genuine even when $Rheshe is just being polite. Your eyes accidentally meet. Bright purple gems study you in return. More heat fills your face as you wonder how long you've been staring at Rune's lips. "Curious," Rune says. You clear your throat and respond in a small voice. "Sorry, I, uh, zoned out a bit." "Hm. Usually, when I get looks from others, it leaves me feeling distinctly…sticky. Your eyes don't do that, though. <<if $eyecolor is "brown">>Brown eyes, particularly yours, have a way of making one feel at home, I think. Safe. Though, when you concentrate, there's a focus to them that's almost…dangerous.<<elseif $eyecolor is "black">>Eyes of black are like the night sky. Where some see a frightening, unreadable abyss – others see stars. Yours seem to hold an entire cosmos…how dangerous.<<elseif $eyecolor is "hazel">>The beauty of hazel eyes is that they are not just one color. At every angle, in every light, they show you another enchanting hue. Perhaps they also show how dangerous and alluring the person behind them is.<<elseif $eyecolor is "green">>Green eyes are magical, but not in the way you might assume. They're striking but soft. Can be gentle and sinister. Feel natural or ethereal. They can even make a person seem safe or…dangerous."<<elseif $eyecolor is "blue">>There is something divine about blue eyes. Blue in the sky, the sea, in precious gems, and even in flowers. But there is nothing //quite// like blue eyes. They lure you in with peerless beauty and ensnare you with their depth…very dangerous.<<elseif $eyecolor is "amber">>Amber is a color not often seen in the eyes of humankind, even if most assume that purple is rarer. It reminds one of gold but perhaps hidden behind veils of luscious brown. Hidden riches and power behind an illusion of meekness. Amber eyes have always felt a little…wild to me, you might say dangerous.<<elseif $eyecolor is "grey">>Some say that grey is the color of wisdom, but to me, it is more than that. To me, it is storms and stones – forces and foundations of nature – pure and untameable. Something as ancient and powerful as it is…dangerous.<<else>>Purple is the rarest of all eye colors, they say, and perhaps the most beautiful, most desired of all. I confess when I look into a mirror, I don't feel those things – I'm not enchanted or drawn. But when I look at yours…I am pulled – drawn by something mystical, something…dangerous.<</if>>" "Dangerous?" "Hm, dangerous for my heart perhaps." You swallow with difficulty. Rune smiles at you for a long moment. $Rcapitalhisher gaze never flinching from yours. "Anyway, what, uh, what were we talking about? Love songs, right?" You clear your throat. "Well, I suppose romantic ballads are the most popular. <<if $hobby is 'singing'>><<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I, uh, I actually do a bit of singing as well. Just for fun, of course. I'm not like how you are.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>Well, perhaps you could use my insight for your song. I'm something of a singer myself.<</if>><<elseif $hobby is 'drawing'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics; I'm more of a traditional artist - paints and charcoal sing my songs for me.<<elseif $hobby is 'sculpting'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics; I'm actually a sculptor in my free time. I let clay express my heart for me.<<elseif $hobby is 'storytelling'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics specifically, though I am a writer of sorts. I prefer to tell stories directly rather than sing them.<<elseif $hobby is 'whittling'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics, but I whittle in my free time. I like to think my knives and chisels do the singing.<<elseif $hobby is 'needlework'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics, but I could stitch them into your clothes if you like. I prefer needlework to song.<</if>>" Rune leans back. "Of course. <<if $hobby is 'singing'>>It would be a delight if you could sing with me sometime, I can tell by the way you speak that there is a melody in your heart.<<else>>Even if you don't count yourself a singer, I quite like your voice. It's…there's a rapture to it. I bet you still sing delightfully.<</if>> I wouldn't mind you joining me some evening downstairs if it pleases you. Tonight even, if you are available." "Oh, well, thank you. I will consider it. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>As long as I still feel well, I see no reason that I could not make it.<<else>>I'll try to pencil you in between naps.<</if>>" $Rcapitalheshe smiles softly. "So, we haven't been able to spend much casual time together yet. I am very pleased with your recovery. Perhaps you wouldn't mind a few questions to help me get to know you a bit better?" <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You fidget in your chair. "Oh…uh, really? You want to know about me? I don't see why not, I suppose."<<else>>You sit up straighter. "That sounds lovely, I'd also like to know more about you."<</if>> <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>Rune gives you a gentle smile. "I apologize if that makes you a bit uneasy. I do promise you that I do not seek to pry, only to know you on a, let us say, a //base// level unless you feel like sharing more of course."<<else>>Rune smiles warmly. "Terrific, I had a notion that you would be game. Nothing too personal now, just the basics unless you are in a more sharing mood."<</if>> "Sure, that's fair." Rune rolls up $Rhisher parchment and sets it to the side. "Excellent timing as well, the tea should be here shortly. They always bring me a setting for two in case I'm entertaining anyway." "Do you entertain often then?" you ask. "Oh, by Casimir, no. I tend to enjoy my space when I am not performing. Occasionally one of the innkeepers joins me, and a time or two, an old friend has popped in to visit." You watch Rune for a moment. "But they still always bring you tea for two?" $Rcapitalheshe nods. "I do wonder about it, but I assume they think I am hiding company somewhere within the room, or maybe a rogue comes through my window for tea." Rune shrugs. "So, since we are getting acquainted, may I ask why you refer to me as //Master// Northbreaker? My taken name is just fine to address me…" "I was merely being polite because I'm no longer current on some noble houses in this region." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You still for a moment. "I'm not…I'm not a noble."<<else>>You snort ungracefully. "What about me says 'noble' exactly?"<</if>> Rune's brows crest. "You are from House Northbreaker, correct? Of Norwood Province?" "I was born around Stonebrook, here in Mahdeh. I don't know about any other Northbreakers. It's my papa's surname from his father, but Papa never met him. My grandmother did tell me that grandfather was from the north." Rune hums as $Rheshe thinks, making $ Rhisher's lips pout. "It's not a common name, so you must be related somehow. It was a very powerful family with lots of history in Iroda." "My fathers never told me anything of the sort. Grandmother only said that he was a simple man, kind and quiet." "What was your grandfather's forename?" You freeze. "I- I- don't know…Grandmother didn't like talking about it; she was a very stoic person, Papa told me it was hard for her." Rune worries $Rhisher lip. "I apologize for asking callously. As a child, I studied history and noble houses until my eyes bled, it just struck my curiosity to meet a member of one of the old houses." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"It's okay, I never knew my grandfather and my grandmother has long since passed. I was just surprised."<<else>>"You're lucky I'm not a noble, imagine how I would have //guffawed// at such insolence."<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Rune bows $Rhisher head slightly. "You are quite gracious. I'd not be surprised to learn if you were truly of one of the great houses. Even if your upbringing was not one of gratuitous wealth, your heart still abounds with riches."<<else>>Rune suddenly snorts and then slaps a hand over $Rhisher mouth in a poor attempt to keep composure. "That was…unseemly. Tell me, do you practice such lines in case you find occasions such as these to use them?"<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I can't help but notice that you have quite a way with words. //You// must be from one of these noble houses then. Is that why you are so intrigued?"<<else>>"Are you always so proper? You nobles need to learn to laugh more."<</if>> Rune smiles in such a way that $Rhisher eyes almost squint. A true smile – nothing 'proper' or demure about it. "You've caught me. I //am// from a noble house in my origins, though I recused myself from those shackles a few years ago. Old habits do not break easily, but know that as I become more familiar with you, the etiquette will diminish." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You smile back politely. "It's not that I mind, as long as you're comfortable."<<else>>You grin. "Thank the stars for that."<</if>> [[There's a knock at the door.|5.R2]]

<<set $Rbold +=3>> You lean forward and narrow your eyes as if you were looking at prey. Rune shifts at the motion, but watches you in turn – not with the eyes of prey, but with those of a predator of equal measure. There's challenge plain on $Rhisher face, one that is eager and hopeful that you will try. Your eyes settle upon the smile on Rune's lips. There's something quite beautiful about the way $Rheshe smiles especially. You've noticed that it's different. Where the lips of others tend to curl up only out of politeness with no true feeling, Rune's smile is genuine even when $Rheshe is just being polite. Your eyes accidentally meet. Bright purple gems study you in return. A tingle of want flits through your heart as you wonder how long you've been staring at Rune's lips. "Curious," Rune says. You lean back to relax in your chair. "Sorry, seems I got distracted for a moment." "Hm. Usually, when I get looks from others, it leaves me feeling distinctly…sticky. Your eyes don't do that, though. <<if $eyecolor is "brown">>Brown eyes, particularly yours, have a way of making one feel at home, I think. Safe. Though, when you concentrate, there's a focus to them that's almost…dangerous.<<elseif $eyecolor is "black">>Eyes of black are like the night sky. Where some see a frightening, unreadable abyss - others see stars. Yours seem to hold an entire cosmos…how dangerous.<<elseif $eyecolor is "hazel">>The beauty of hazel eyes is that they are not just one color. At every angle, in every light, they show you another enchanting color. Perhaps they also show how dangerous and alluring the person behind them is.<<elseif $eyecolor is "green">>Green eyes are magical, but not in the way you might assume. They're striking but soft. Can be gentle and sinister. Feel natural or ethereal. They can even make a person seem safe or…dangerous."<<elseif $eyecolor is "blue">>There is something divine about blue eyes. Blue in the sky, the sea, in precious gems, and even in flowers. But there is nothing //quite// like blue eyes. They lure you in with peerless beauty and ensnare you with their depth…very dangerous.<<elseif $eyecolor is "amber">>Amber is a color not often seen in the eyes of humankind, even if most assume that purple is rarer. It reminds one of gold but perhaps hidden behind veils of luscious brown. Hidden riches and power behind an illusion of meekness. Amber eyes have always felt a little…wild to me, you might say dangerous.<<elseif $eyecolor is "grey">>Some say that grey is the color of wisdom, but to me, it is more than that. To me, it is storms and stones - forces and foundations of nature - pure and untameable. Something as ancient and powerful as it is…dangerous.<<else>>Purple is the rarest of all eye colors, they say, and perhaps the most beautiful, most desired of all. I confess when I look into a mirror, I don't feel those things - I'm not enchanted or drawn. But when I look at yours…I am pulled – drawn by something mystical, something…dangerous.<</if>>" "Dangerous?" "Hm, dangerous for my heart perhaps." You swallow – trying to contain your excitement about the game that you are setting. Rune smiles at you for a long moment. $Rcapitalhisher gaze never flinching from yours. "Anyway, what were we talking about again? //Love// songs, right?" You clear your throat and grin pleasantly. "Well, I suppose romantic ballads are the most popular. <<if $hobby is 'singing'>><<if $hobbycomfort is 'shy'>>I, uh, I actually do a bit of singing as well. Just for fun, of course. I'm not like how you are.<<elseif $hobbycomfort is 'bold'>>Well, perhaps you could use my insight for your song. I'm something of a singer myself.<</if>><<elseif $hobby is 'drawing'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics; I'm more of a traditional artist - paints and charcoal sing my songs for me.<<elseif $hobby is 'sculpting'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics; I'm actually a sculptor in my free time. I let clay express my heart for me.<<elseif $hobby is 'storytelling'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics specifically, though I am a writer of sorts. I prefer to tell stories directly rather than sing them.<<elseif $hobby is 'whittling'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics, but I whittle in my free time. I like to think my knives and chisels do the singing.<<elseif $hobby is 'needlework'>>I don't know much about writing lyrics, but I could stitch them into your clothes if you like. I prefer needlework to song.<</if>>" Rune leans back. "Of course. <<if $hobby is 'singing'>>It would be a delight if you could sing with me sometime, I can tell by the way you speak that there is a melody in your heart.<<else>>Even if you don't count yourself a singer, I quite like your voice. It's…there's a rapture to it. I bet you still sing delightfully.<</if>> I wouldn't mind you joining me some evening downstairs if it pleases you. Tonight even, if you are available." "Oh, well, thank you. I will consider it. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>As long as I still feel well, I see no reason that I could not make it.<<else>>I'll try to pencil you in between naps.<</if>>" $Rcapitalheshe smiles softly. "So, we haven't been able to spend much casual time together yet. I am very pleased with your recovery. Perhaps you wouldn't mind a few questions to help me get to know you a bit better?" <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You fidget in your chair. "Oh…uh, really? You want to know about me? I don't see why not, I suppose."<<else>>You sit up straighter. "That sounds lovely, I'd also like to know more about you."<</if>> <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>Rune gives you a gentle smile. "I apologize if that makes you a bit uneasy. I do promise you that I do not seek to pry, only to know you on a, let us say, a //base// level unless you feel like sharing more of course."<<else>>Rune smiles warmly. "Terrific, I had a notion that you would be game. Nothing too personal now, just the basics unless you are in a more sharing mood."<</if>> "Sure, that's fair." Rune rolls up $Rhisher parchment and sets it to the side. "Excellent timing as well, the tea should be here shortly. They always bring me a setting for two in case I'm entertaining anyway." "Do you entertain often then?" you ask. "Oh, by Casimir, no. I tend to enjoy my space when I am not performing. Occasionally one of the innkeepers joins me, and a time or two, an old friend has popped in to visit." You watch Rune for a moment. "But they still always bring you tea for two?" $Rcapitalheshe nods. "I do wonder about it, but I assume they think I am hiding company somewhere within the room, or maybe a rogue comes through my window for tea." Rune shrugs. "So, since we are getting acquainted, may I ask why you refer to me as //Master// Northbreaker? My taken name is just fine to address me…" "I was merely being polite because I'm no longer current on some noble houses in this region." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You still for a moment. "I'm not…I'm not a noble."<<else>>You snort ungracefully. "What about me says 'noble' exactly?"<</if>> Rune's brows crest. "You are from House Northbreaker, correct? Of Norwood Province?" "I was born around Stonebrook, here in Mahdeh. I don't know about any other Northbreakers. It's my papa's surname from his father, but Papa never met him. My grandmother did tell me that grandfather was from the north." Rune hums as $Rheshe thinks, making $ Rhisher's lips pout. "It's not a common name, so you must be related somehow. It was a very powerful family with lots of history in Iroda." "My fathers never told me anything of the sort. Grandmother only said that he was a simple man, kind and quiet." "What was your grandfather's forename?" You freeze. "I- I- don't know…Grandmother didn't like talking about it; she was a very stoic person, Papa told me it was hard for her." Rune worries $Rhisher lip. "I apologize for asking callously. As a child, I studied history and noble houses until my eyes bled, it just struck my curiosity to meet a member of one of the old houses." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"It's okay, I never knew my grandfather and my grandmother has long since passed. I was just surprised."<<else>>"You're lucky I'm not a noble, imagine how I would have //guffawed// at such insolence."<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Rune bows $Rhisher head slightly. "You are quite gracious. I'd not be surprised to learn if you were truly of one of the great houses. Even if your upbringing was not one of gratuitous wealth, your heart still abounds with riches."<<else>>Rune suddenly snorts and then slaps a hand over $Rhisher mouth in a poor attempt to keep composure. "That was…unseemly. Tell me, do you practice such lines in case you find occasions such as these to use them?"<</if>> <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I can't help but notice that you have quite a way with words. //You// must be from one of these noble houses then. Is that why you are so intrigued?"<<else>>"Are you always so proper? You nobles need to learn to laugh more."<</if>> Rune smiles in such a way that $Rhisher eyes almost squint. A true smile – nothing 'proper' or demure about it. "You've caught me. I //am// from a noble house in my origins, though I recused myself from those shackles a few years ago. Old habits do not break easily, but know that as I become more familiar with you, the etiquette will diminish." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You smile back politely. "It's not that I mind, as long as you're comfortable."<<else>>You grin. "Thank the stars for that."<</if>> [[There's a knock at the door.|5.R2]]

Rune calls for the person at the door to enter, and a short woman with long black hair in loose waves comes in tugging a small cart behind her. She curses as the cart snags on a rug, the clatter of porcelain echoing through the room. She giggles, but the sound is strained. "Sorry, dears!" she calls as she finally frees the cart. Rune stands. "Alondra, a surprise to see you delivering tea today. Is your husband well?" "Oh, he's fine – he lost a bet, so I get to bring you and your guest tea today!" She giggles again as if she can barely contain her excitement. Rune huffs. "$mc, I would like you to meet our gracious host and the owner of this establishment, Alondra. Alondra, this is $mc Northbreaker." The innkeeper begins to set out the tea as she looks at you with doleful brown eyes. "I am so glad you and your friends are doing better. I was so worried that I'd been sick with fear. You look well, darling. Just focus on getting better, we'll take care of the rest." You smile. "Th-" "Just let me know if you need anything else." "Th-" "Or my husband, Garza. Look for a big guy, loud, usually downstairs, hair going white – he'll set you up." Alondra plots a plate of biscuits and sweets in front of you with a clatter. "Eat up, don't you worry, you're a guest of my favorite guest after all." "Than-" "Oh! And make sure you come downstairs to the tavern and get anything you want between meals. We have snacks and drinks, ales and such, you know." You pause for a moment, meeting Alondra's gaze as she smiles back at you. "Th-" "No need to be shy, dear!" She giggles, turns, and pinches Rune's cheeks. "You keep such darling company!" You watch as she drags the cart away and out the door, snagging it again on the rug and swearing in the manner your papa used to tell you was uncouth in polite company. Rune begins to pour you tea as you digest what just happened. "She's sweet," $Rheshe says. "And a bit…" "Exciteable?" "Exciteable," Rune concurs. "She and Garza are genuinely kind. They have worked hard to build this place from nothing and they give back as much as they receive." You take a few moments to settle and fix your tea with a few treats and bits of fruit. Rune does the same, and you notice $Rheshe seems to favor the sweets – little cakes garnished with fruit jams especially. "So," you start. "You asked about my 'house,' would you care to tell me about yours?" Rune dabs $Rhisher lips with a napkin. "In truth, I would prefer to not tell you specifics. As you may have guessed, I was born to a rather affluent name. I, let's say, disowned myself and took a new surname of my making. I am Lyreheart now and will be the rest of my days. It is the only name I wish to be known by." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"It sounds like you've had to make some difficult choices."<<else>>"Even nobles face hardships?"<</if>> "Such is life for us all in one season or another. My trials were no harder than those of anyone else, and I am not ignorant that money and influence made my journey much simpler than the paths which others walk." Rune delicately places a hand over $Rhisher chest, covering the tattoo you can see peeking from the neckline of $Rhisher shirt. The image is familiar to you, though you cannot place it. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I sense there's something significant about your tattoo?"<<else>>"If the stories my da told me growing up are any indication, that tattoo is probably important, no?"<</if>> [[Rune smiles warmly.|5.R3]]

"You would be correct. This mark is the sigil for Casimir, the god of destruction – second of the nine ancient ones, and loving sister of The First." You blink. "I am devoted to her, though I am well aware that the gods no longer sit upon their thrones. I'm no zealot, I promise you, but I love her as a mother." "So, are you like Zahn? Do you have a church that you are a part of?" "No, it's just me I suppose. I am not one for congregations, and historically I have a 'problematic attitude' towards authority." Rune grins and then takes a sip of tea. "If you pardon the bard pun, I only move to my own beat." "So, why the god of //destruction//?" That seems the obvious question to you. You'd expect perhaps Hayat, the god of life, given that Rune acts as a healer or perhaps some god of the arts. Rune sets $Rhisher teacup down. "I wanted to speak with you alone about that, actually." You raise a brow. "Go on…" "I worship Casimir because she saved my own life, she came to my rescue – more than once. To me, she is the god among gods." Rune pops a tiny cake in $Rhisher mouth. "Saved you? I thought the gods couldn't act upon humanity any longer…" Rune shakes $Rhisher head. "I don't understand all the nuances, but what I have learned is that there is some contingency for saving human life and maintaining the sanctity of Hayat's curse. Casimir is still active in the world, I have no way of knowing where, but she visits me for my birthday each cycle. Given your very unique predicament, I do believe she would help." You nearly jump out of your chair. "Seriously? You mean…you know a god who can end this?" "//Possibly//. I do not fully understand what is going on with you, but she is merciful, doting even. I know she would try." "So, when is your birthday? Can we find her?" Rune grimaces. "Not until the first day of winter…that is why I haven't mentioned this before." You deflate. That is so long to wait, nearly the entire cycle. Your own birthday is near the start of spring. If this didn't work, it wouldn't leave you with much time if the curse would claim you within the year. The thought of how sick you may become is one you do not wish to focus on. Rune pours you more tea. "This is also why I believe we should continue to seek a solution apart from this and use it as a last resort." You shake your head. "Is there no way you can contact her?" "I have tried. I have tried for years. I do not know if the curse prevents it or if she ignores me. Casimir has always been adamant that she is meddling too much in my life. We once spent a great deal of time together, but she left my side when she realized that she had taken my mother's place within my heart." You try to school your expectations for the moment. "So, do you have other ideas?" "Research for the moment. I will know more later, but you absorb and retain magic, much like an artifact of old. I will research such things and see where it leads." "Could I use magic then? Could you show me how?" Rune picks up a biscuit and spreads a dab of red jam onto it. $Rcapitalhisher eyes stare off for a bit. "I think it would be good for you to try. I've never seen anyone who did not already have the aptitude to learn it perform magic, but I have also never known a human to absorb magic. Perhaps it would be a way to dispel the power trapped in your body before it can hurt you." The bard sinks back into thought, absently feeding $Rhimselfherself a bite of biscuit. A smidge of jam paints the corner of $Rhisher mouth. [[Hand Rune a napkin.|5.R3a]] $flirt_label [[Try to hide your smile.|5.R3b]] $flirt_label [[Reflexively dab it away with a napkin yourself.|5.R3c][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt - 3, 0, 100)]] $flirt_label [[Wipe it away with your thumb and have a taste.|5.R3d][$BoldflirtShyflirt to Math.clamp($BoldflirtShyflirt + 3, 0, 100)]]

Rune nods in thanks and wipes away the jam. "So," you interrupt the mage's thoughts. "How exactly does magic…//work//?" "Mm," Rune sits up, setting $Rhisher treat down and grabbing $Rhisher tea. "Excellent question to ask. One I have knowledge of, naturally, but there are still many mysteries I have no answer to." "Is it even true that magic is dwindling in the world? I always heard that growing up, but since this curse business, it feels like it is everywhere." "I see why you would call that into question. The answer is still yes. When gods still ruled us, most people could use magic. It was a rarity that one could not to some extent. I have read that it could be felt in the air. The world was steeped in it. Humans even lived much longer lives just for being around mages. What I have found, though, is that magic draws magic. I do not know if it is somehow intentional or a coincidence, that is one of the mysteries. You will draw more magic to you or those who seek it – this could be very fortuitous or extremely dangerous<<if $ch5Broute is true>>, as you have already experienced<</if>>." You take your tea with a sigh. Ironically, it seems magic is both a gift and a curse. "To answer your question on how to use it – it is simply a matter of will." "Will?" Rune nods. "Magic…has a will of its own. It almost feels alive. When you have a natural ability to wield it, magic follows you around. Mages, witches – whatever you wish to call them – command it, but it only obeys if they have the strength of heart to bend it to their wills." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"That sounds too easy," you say.<<else>>"So that's it? You just snap your fingers and that's that?" you ask.<</if>> "It only sounds easy, I assure you. As I said, magic has a will of its own. It does not bend easily until you have mastery over yourself. As you might imagine, I was a very…willful child. A brat. But, my self-assuredness made me a natural with magic. I simply did not believe I could fail at anything, so magic listened. As I grew older and maturity gave me doubts and uncertainty, my ability actually waned." "So…if my will is great enough, if I am sure enough, do you think I could do something with this power?" Rune nods. "I want to say yes. Curse or not, the magic is there and has become a part of you. If you possess any innate ability, I think we can raise it to the surface. Perhaps you can break your own curse with the same magic that fuels it." "That would be incredible…and convenient. So, how precisely do I learn this?" "Well, we will discover a way. There is no set direction on how one wields it. Some prefer to have a more tangible catalyst, which can be spoken words, motions, alchemical mediums, or even songs. Others, such as myself, have no set medium to channel magic. I can simply will it by thinking, but at times I may use my hands as a sort of guide to my visualization. We'll test some methods to find what feels natural to you." "Is that how you healed me, by just willing it?" Rune smiles and leans forward. "I'm glad you asked. Healing is my favorite way that magic manifests, it is also the most particular. The reason that these mediums, these channels are necessary is that magic requires you to be specific – to communicate to it exactly what you want. To heal a wound, you must know how the body is supposed to be knit together. I studied anatomy at length to understand how bones and muscles are contained. Because I know what they //should// look like, I can guide the magic to spur your body to sort of correct itself." "And if one's body cannot correct the problem?" "Then the magic can only do so much. It cannot regrow a limb or cure a disease that the body is not already capable of defeating. This is also why illnesses are tricky. I can lower a fever, calm nausea, or even take away aches with magic, but if I do not understand the illness itself, I cannot use magic to stop it. Only bolster the body until it can fend off whatever ills you. But, as you have learned, this creates a great need to sustain the body. The energy required is enormous. If not performed with care, one could nearly starve themselves to death with the new demand for sustenance that magic will create." You take a few moments to absorb all that Rune has told you as you finish your snacks and tea. The prospect of wielding magic is both exciting and daunting. If it has a will of its own, then it will be like taming a wild animal, which perhaps means…it can bite. "Rune…is there a danger to me trying to learn magic? Could it…perhaps not like me or backfire?" The mage bites $Rhisher lip. "There is a risk, yes. Try to do too much, and it could essentially blow up in your face. This can happen to experienced mages if focus is lost. You must //hold// magic as you use it. There's a balance to how tight your grasp should be – enough to control but also loose enough to give it room to work. We will start very small and I will protect you, I swear." [[You will have a lot to think about in the days to come.|5.R4]]

<<set $Rflirt +=3>> <<set $Rbold +=3>> <<set $Rshy +=3>> There's something about seeing a person who is so put-together get jam on $Rhisher face… You hide your mouth with the back of your hand as Rune munches with delight. You wonder briefly about dabbing a biscuit against $Rhisher face, which only makes your smile grow as you imagine what Rune's expression would be like. Your eyes must give you away as Rune stops eating to stare at you. You hold back a snicker as you tap the side of your mouth. "Oh," Rune says, grabbing a napkin and whipping the mess. $Rcapitalheshe clears $Rhisher throat, eyes darting to the window to avoid yours. "Pardon me." "Think nothing of it." "I count it as a blessing that you aren't a stuffy nobel after all. Otherwise, I don't think I'd feel quite as comfortable as I do around you. That being said…" Rune chuckles, bringing $Rhisher biscuit back to $Rhisher lips. "I still find myself caring about what you think of me." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"We're human. We've all had jam on our faces at one time or another, right?"<<else>>"I thought you looked rather dignified with a spot of jam. Perhaps you could start a new fashion craze?"<</if>> Rune smiles. "I like the way you think." "So," you begin to shift the subject. "How exactly does magic…//work//?" "Mm," Rune sits up, setting $Rhisher treat down and grabbing $Rhisher tea. "Excellent question to ask. One I have knowledge of, naturally, but there are still many mysteries I have no answer to." "Is it even true that magic is dwindling in the world? I always heard that growing up, but since this curse business, it feels like it is everywhere." "I see why you would call that into question. The answer is still yes. When gods still ruled us, most people could use magic. It was a rarity that one could not to some extent. I have read that it could be felt in the air. The world was steeped in it. Humans even lived much longer lives just for being around mages. What I have found, though, is that magic draws magic. I do not know if it is somehow intentional or a coincidence, that is one of the mysteries. You will draw more magic to you or those who seek it – this could be very fortuitous or extremely dangerous<<if $ch5Broute is true>>, as you have already experienced<</if>>." You take your tea with a sigh. Ironically, it seems magic is both a gift and a curse. "To answer your question on how to use it – it is simply a matter of will." "Will?" Rune nods. "Magic…has a will of its own. It almost feels alive. When you have a natural ability to wield it, magic follows you around. Mages, witches – whatever you wish to call them – command it, but it only obeys if they have the strength of heart to bend it to their wills." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"That sounds too easy," you say.<<else>>"So that's it? You just snap your fingers and that's that?" you ask.<</if>> "It only sounds easy, I assure you. As I said, magic has a will of its own. It does not bend easily until you have mastery over yourself. As you might imagine, I was a very…willful child. A brat. But, my self-assuredness made me a natural with magic. I simply did not believe I could fail at anything, so magic listened. As I grew older and maturity gave me doubts and uncertainty, my ability actually waned." "So…if my will is great enough, if I am sure enough, do you think I could do something with this power?" Rune nods. "I want to say yes. Curse or not, the magic is there and has become a part of you. If you possess any innate ability, I think we can raise it to the surface. Perhaps you can break your own curse with the same magic that fuels it." "That would be incredible…and convenient. So, how precisely do I learn this?" "Well, we will discover a way. There is no set direction on how one wields it. Some prefer to have a more tangible catalyst, which can be spoken words, motions, alchemical mediums, or even songs. Others, such as myself, have no set medium to channel magic. I can simply will it by thinking, but at times I may use my hands as a sort of guide to my visualization. We'll test some methods to find what feels natural to you." "Is that how you healed me, by just willing it?" Rune smiles and leans forward. "I'm glad you asked. Healing is my favorite way that magic manifests, it is also the most particular. The reason that these mediums, these channels are necessary is that magic requires you to be specific – to communicate to it exactly what you want. To heal a wound, you must know how the body is supposed to be knit together. I studied anatomy at length to understand how bones and muscles are contained. Because I know what they //should// look like, I can guide the magic to spur your body to sort of correct itself." "And if one's body cannot correct the problem?" "Then the magic can only do so much. It cannot regrow a limb or cure a disease that the body is not already capable of defeating. This is also why illnesses are tricky. I can lower a fever, calm nausea, or even take away aches with magic, but if I do not understand the illness itself, I cannot use magic to stop it. Only bolster the body until it can fend off whatever ills you. But, as you have learned, this creates a great need to sustain the body. The energy required is enormous. If not performed with care, one could nearly starve themselves to death with the new demand for sustenance that magic will create." You take a few moments to absorb all that Rune has told you as you finish your snacks and tea. The prospect of wielding magic is both exciting and daunting. If it has a will of its own, then it will be like taming a wild animal, which perhaps means…it can bite. "Rune…is there a danger to me trying to learn magic? Could it…perhaps not like me or backfire?" The mage bites $Rhisher lip. "There is a risk, yes. Try to do too much, and it could essentially blow up in your face. This can happen to experienced mages if focus is lost. You must //hold// magic as you use it. There's a balance to how tight your grasp should be – enough to control but also loose enough to give it room to work. We will start very small and I will protect you, I swear." [[You will have a lot to think about in the days to come.|5.R4]]

<<set $Rflirt +=3>> <<set $Rshy +=3>> "Oh," you say as you grab your napkin and bring it to Rune's face. Gingerly you dab the mess and then fold the napkin to a clean spot so you can ensure none is left behind. You meet Rune's surprised eyes and suddenly realize just what you're doing. Your heart falters and heat gathers at the back of your neck. "//Shit//." Rune's mouth drops slightly. "Oh! No, that's not- Sorry. I mean //sorry// for doing that. And sorry for the //shit//. No, wait." You stare into the red spot on the napkin as if it will somehow save you. $Rcapitalheshe bursts into laughter. You sink into your chair. Rune slaps the table and pitches back in $Rhisher chair. After what feels like an exceedingly long moment, Rune settles, wiping moisture from the corner of $Rhisher eyes. "Oh, that was delightful, $mc. I haven't laughed like that in ages. I count it as a blessing that you aren't a stuffy noble after all. Otherwise, I don't think I'd feel quite as comfortable as I do around you. That being said…" Rune chuckles, bringing $Rhisher biscuit back to $Rhisher lips. "I apologize for laughing, but I promise that it is not to make fun. I found you quite cute and was surprised is all." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"We're human. We've all had jam on our faces at one time or another, right?" You clear your throat as your eyes dart away from Rune.<<else>>"I thought you looked rather dignified with a spot of jam. Perhaps you could start a new fashion craze?" You clear your throat as your eyes dart away from Rune.<</if>> Rune smiles. "I like the way you think. That your immediate response was to help me – //out of a jam// – tells me a great deal about you, and it warms my heart." You smile despite your lingering embarrassment, meeting Rune's gaze as you settle. "So," you begin, to shift the subject. "How exactly does magic…//work//?" "Mm," Rune sits up, setting $Rhisher treat down and grabbing $Rhisher tea. "Excellent question to ask. One I have knowledge of, naturally, but there are still many mysteries I have no answer to." "Is it even true that magic is dwindling in the world? I always heard that growing up, but since this curse business, it feels like it is everywhere." "I see why you would call that into question. The answer is still yes. When gods still ruled us, most people could use magic. It was a rarity that one could not to some extent. I have read that it could be felt in the air. The world was steeped in it. Humans even lived much longer lives just for being around mages. What I have found, though, is that magic draws magic. I do not know if it is somehow intentional or a coincidence, that is one of the mysteries. You will draw more magic to you or those who seek it – this could be very fortuitous or extremely dangerous<<if $ch5Broute is true>>, as you have already experienced<</if>>." You take your tea with a sigh. Ironically, it seems magic is both a gift and a curse. "To answer your question on how to use it – it is simply a matter of will." "Will?" Rune nods. "Magic…has a will of its own. It almost feels alive. When you have a natural ability to wield it, magic follows you around. Mages, witches – whatever you wish to call them – command it, but it only obeys if they have the strength of heart to bend it to their wills." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"That sounds too easy," you say.<<else>>"So that's it? You just snap your fingers and that's that?" you ask.<</if>> "It only sounds easy, I assure you. As I said, magic has a will of its own. It does not bend easily until you have mastery over yourself. As you might imagine, I was a very…willful child. A brat. But, my self-assuredness made me a natural with magic. I simply did not believe I could fail at anything, so magic listened. As I grew older and maturity gave me doubts and uncertainty, my ability actually waned." "So…if my will is great enough, if I am sure enough, do you think I could do something with this power?" Rune nods. "I want to say yes. Curse or not, the magic is there and has become a part of you. If you possess any innate ability, I think we can raise it to the surface. Perhaps you can break your own curse with the same magic that fuels it." "That would be incredible…and convenient. So, how precisely do I learn this?" "Well, we will discover a way. There is no set direction on how one wields it. Some prefer to have a more tangible catalyst, which can be spoken words, motions, alchemical mediums, or even songs. Others, such as myself, have no set medium to channel magic. I can simply will it by thinking, but at times I may use my hands as a sort of guide to my visualization. We'll test some methods to find what feels natural to you." "Is that how you healed me, by just willing it?" Rune smiles and leans forward. "I'm glad you asked. Healing is my favorite way that magic manifests, it is also the most particular. The reason that these mediums, these channels are necessary is that magic requires you to be specific – to communicate to it exactly what you want. To heal a wound, you must know how the body is supposed to be knit together. I studied anatomy at length to understand how bones and muscles are contained. Because I know what they //should// look like, I can guide the magic to spur your body to sort of correct itself." "And if one's body cannot correct the problem?" "Then the magic can only do so much. It cannot regrow a limb or cure a disease that the body is not already capable of defeating. This is also why illnesses are tricky. I can lower a fever, calm nausea, or even take away aches with magic, but if I do not understand the illness itself, I cannot use magic to stop it. Only bolster the body until it can fend off whatever ills you. But, as you have learned, this creates a great need to sustain the body. The energy required is enormous. If not performed with care, one could nearly starve themselves to death with the new demand for sustenance that magic will create." You take a few moments to absorb all that Rune has told you as you finish your snacks and tea. The prospect of wielding magic is both exciting and daunting. If it has a will of its own, then it will be like taming a wild animal, which perhaps means…it can bite. "Rune…is there a danger to me trying to learn magic? Could it…perhaps not like me or backfire?" The mage bites $Rhisher lip. "There is a risk, yes. Try to do too much, and it could essentially blow up in your face. This can happen to experienced mages if focus is lost. You must //hold// magic as you use it. There's a balance to how tight your grasp should be – enough to control but also loose enough to give it room to work. We will start very small and I will protect you, I swear." [[You will have a lot to think about in the days to come.|5.R4]]

<<set $Rflirt +=3>> <<set $Rbold +=3>> Without a word, you simply clear the sweet mess and bring it to your mouth for a taste. Rune's spoon clatters to the table as $Rheshe watches you with wide eyes. The jam is very sweet on your tongue, you gauge that it must be a mixture of different berries or perhaps Rune has $Rhisher own sweet flavor to add. "Blessed Destruction, what possessed you to do //that// of all things?" You shrug. "It was a small spot, not worth staining a napkin for, and…it looked tasty." Rune guffaws. "Well, save a step next time and just lick my face why don't you." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You shake your head. "Oh I don't know if that would be necessary, but I'll take it into consideration."<<else>>You nod enthusiastically. "Don't mind if I do."<</if>> Rune begins to laugh, covering $Rhisher mouth with a hand as the other slaps the table and $Rheshe pitches back in $Rhisher chair. After a long moment, Rune settles, wiping moisture from the corner of $Rhisher eyes. "Oh, that was delightful, $mc. I haven't laughed like that in ages. I count it as a blessing that you aren't a stuffy noble after all. Otherwise, I don't think I'd feel quite as comfortable as I do around you. That being said…" Rune chuckles, bringing $Rhisher biscuit back to $Rhisher lips. "Your gall should irritate me, but for some silly reason, it doesn't." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"We're human. We've all had jam on our faces at one time or another, right?" You smirk.<<else>>"I thought you looked rather dignified with a spot of jam. Perhaps you could start a new fashion craze?" You smirk.<</if>> Rune smiles. "I like the way you think. That your immediate response was to help me in your own strange way – //out of a jam// – tells me a great deal about you, and it warms my heart, even if you are…a bit gross." You can't help but feel a little smug at Rune's response, but you allow the moment to settle. "So," you begin, to shift the subject. "How exactly does magic…//work//?" "Mm," Rune sits up, setting $Rhisher treat down and grabbing $Rhisher tea. "Excellent question to ask. One I have knowledge of, naturally, but there are still many mysteries I have no answer to." "Is it even true that magic is dwindling in the world? I always heard that growing up, but since this curse business, it feels like it is everywhere." "I see why you would call that into question. The answer is still yes. When gods still ruled us, most people could use magic. It was a rarity that one could not to some extent. I have read that it could be felt in the air. The world was steeped in it. Humans even lived much longer lives just for being around mages. What I have found, though, is that magic draws magic. I do not know if it is somehow intentional or a coincidence, that is one of the mysteries. You will draw more magic to you or those who seek it – this could be very fortuitous or extremely dangerous<<if $ch5Broute is true>>, as you have already experienced<</if>>." You take your tea with a sigh. Ironically, it seems magic is both a gift and a curse. "To answer your question on how to use it – it is simply a matter of will." "Will?" Rune nods. "Magic…has a will of its own. It almost feels alive. When you have a natural ability to wield it, magic follows you around. Mages, witches – whatever you wish to call them – command it, but it only obeys if they have the strength of heart to bend it to their wills." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"That sounds too easy," you say.<<else>>"So that's it? You just snap your fingers and that's that?" you ask.<</if>> "It only sounds easy, I assure you. As I said, magic has a will of its own. It does not bend easily until you have mastery over yourself. As you might imagine, I was a very…willful child. A brat. But, my self-assuredness made me a natural with magic. I simply did not believe I could fail at anything, so magic listened. As I grew older and maturity gave me doubts and uncertainty, my ability actually waned." "So…if my will is great enough, if I am sure enough, do you think I could do something with this power?" Rune nods. "I want to say yes. Curse or not, the magic is there and has become a part of you. If you possess any innate ability, I think we can raise it to the surface. Perhaps you can break your own curse with the same magic that fuels it." "That would be incredible…and convenient. So, how precisely do I learn this?" "Well, we will discover a way. There is no set direction on how one wields it. Some prefer to have a more tangible catalyst, which can be spoken words, motions, alchemical mediums, or even songs. Others, such as myself, have no set medium to channel magic. I can simply will it by thinking, but at times I may use my hands as a sort of guide to my visualization. We'll test some methods to find what feels natural to you." "Is that how you healed me, by just willing it?" Rune smiles and leans forward. "I'm glad you asked. Healing is my favorite way that magic manifests, it is also the most particular. The reason that these mediums, these channels are necessary is that magic requires you to be specific – to communicate to it exactly what you want. To heal a wound, you must know how the body is supposed to be knit together. I studied anatomy at length to understand how bones and muscles are contained. Because I know what they //should// look like, I can guide the magic to spur your body to sort of correct itself." "And if one's body cannot correct the problem?" "Then the magic can only do so much. It cannot regrow a limb or cure a disease that the body is not already capable of defeating. This is also why illnesses are tricky. I can lower a fever, calm nausea, or even take away aches with magic, but if I do not understand the illness itself, I cannot use magic to stop it. Only bolster the body until it can fend off whatever ills you. But, as you have learned, this creates a great need to sustain the body. The energy required is enormous. If not performed with care, one could nearly starve themselves to death with the new demand for sustenance that magic will create." You take a few moments to absorb all that Rune has told you as you finish your snacks and tea. The prospect of wielding magic is both exciting and daunting. If it has a will of its own, then it will be like taming a wild animal, which perhaps means…it can bite. "Rune…is there a danger to me trying to learn magic? Could it…perhaps not like me or backfire?" The mage bites $Rhisher lip. "There is a risk, yes. Try to do too much, and it could essentially blow up in your face. This can happen to experienced mages if focus is lost. You must //hold// magic as you use it. There's a balance to how tight your grasp should be – enough to control but also loose enough to give it room to work. We will start very small and I will protect you, I swear." [[You will have a lot to think about in the days to come.|5.R4]]

The conversation relaxes a great deal after you finish tea with Rune, though $Rheshe seems excited to begin teaching you. You note several times where $Rheshe stops $Rhimselfherself from giving you more lessons on magic and history. Rune's nature is something of a puzzle. $Rcapitalheshe is nothing like what you know of noble folk. The more Rune relaxes, the more excitable $Rheshe lets $Rhimselfherself be, yet there is always an underlying sense of the dignity $Rheshe carries. You chat a bit about Rune traveling home with you as well, and much to your surprise $Rheshe meets the idea with enthusiasm, having already discussed it with Oswin. Though you explain the modest accommodations and that your papa has a hard time with mages, Rune is not deterred. $Rcapitalheshe already seems invested in not only understanding what is happening to you but righting the injustice done to you with the curse. Before your time is up with the bard, $Rheshe invites you to come listen to $Rhisher performance at night in the lobby of the inn. [[Afterwards, you pass the time in your room until the evening.|5.2R1]]

On your third day of having nothing to do, you are basking in the mid-morning sun coming through the window while you lounge on your bed. Staying at the inn is a luxury compared to how your travels have gone so far. It has been so easy lately that it's almost boring. You eat and sleep whenever you feel like it. There are plenty of people milling about to watch or speak to. Oswin and Rune keep insisting that as long as you do not strain yourself, you can do whatever you feel like. But then, Oswin still nags that you should stay close to the inn as well. You've already tried the market, which is less fun when you worry about how much gold you'll need for the way home. But, you could go just to browse… As you contemplate how to pass the hours on what is looking like another long day of too much thinking, there is a knock at your door. "Come in," you answer. The door pops open with little hesitancy and a familiar mop of unruly blond waves flops through. Zahn hurries to shut the door behind $Zhimher before bounding toward you. "Hello, $mc!" Zahn smiles brightly at you, and you note that $Zheshe is wearing $Zhisher traveling cloak. <<if $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>> You begin to greet $Zhimher, but your words falter. It is clear that Zahn is favoring one side with the guise of $Zhisher normal energy. $Zcapitalheshe isn't healed yet. "Shouldn't you be resting? You're still hurt," you insist. "No! I'm fine! See, I'm up, I feel good!" Zahn spins in a circle as if that proves anything. You grumble. "You were stabbed." "And then a magician patched me up – no big deal." "Do you even realize how odd that sounds?" you ask. Zahn shrugs. "Just don't think about it. It just happened and I'm fine, and even if I wasn't fine…it's still…it's just whatever, doesn't matter." $Zcapitalheshe smiles, but it's weak. <<if $selfblame5 is true>>"//Zahn// it does matter. You got hurt because of me. You could have died, had permanent damage…you'll probably have scars too and I can't imagine…you'll have to remember this for the rest of your days…"<<else>>"It doesn't matter though. You came to my rescue. You didn't have to, but you saved me – you likely saved my life. I can't just forget that."<</if>> $Zcapitalheshe fidgets. "I just did it, you don't have to think much of it.<<if $selfblame5 is true>> Don't blame yourself, it was my choice. <</if>>I couldn't…I couldn't stand to see you hurt so I just reacted. <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>It didn't seem right for something like that to happen to you. I just wanted to keep you safe. I felt like I could actually //do// something so I did.<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>I care about you, $mc. I could never stand by and let that happen. I want to keep you safe.<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>I care about you, $mc, a lot. I know we are still getting to know each other, but I think we have a special connection. I could never stand by and let that happen. I want to keep you safe.<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>I care about you, $mc. I could never stand by and let that happen. I want to keep you safe.<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>It didn't seem right for something like that to happen to you. I just wanted to keep you safe. I felt like I could actually //do// something so I did.<</if>> But we don't have to say anything more about it. It's done, I'm fine, and you're fine. We're //fine//." Zahn nods and tries to smile again. You stare at $Zhimher for a moment. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"Do you have a difficult time with me trying to show my concern and appreciation about this?"<<else>>"Do you feel //guilty// when I talk about it?"<</if>> Zahn pulls $Zhisher ratty cloak around $Zhimher, holding it tight against $Zhisher chest. "I don't know…I guess. I just feel weird about it. I just don't want to right now. That's not why I came here anyway. Until later, just pretend it didn't happen, okay? Just for a bit." Zahn's face has become bright red, any darker, and $Zheshe will match the color of $Zhisher favorite cloak. You sigh. "Okay. I will drop it." "Thank you," Zahn mumbles. A real smile finally spreads across $Zhisher lips. You watch Zahn for a moment… <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>You haven't had any strong feelings one way or another for Zahn. You wonder if $Zhisher rescue has moved your feelings. [[Zahn is still just Zahn to you. You don't feel any different.|5.Zneutral]] [[You feel a blossoming friendship now.|5.Zfriend]] [[You feel friendship and something more.|5.Zromance]] <<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>You already considered Zahn a friend. You wonder if $Zhisher actions have changed your heart any. [[You are just as good of friends as ever.|5.Zfriend]] [[Your heart tells you that there is more to your feelings now.|5.Zromance]] <<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>You already considered Zahn a friend and found $Zhimher special in your heart. You consider if $Zhisher actions have changed your mind any. [[Your heart still beats the same for Zahn.|5.Zromance]] [[You feel that your connection is more akin to just friendship.|5.Zfriend]] <<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>You already considered Zahn a friend. You consider if $Zhisher actions have changed your heart any. [[You are just as good of friends as ever, and Zahn is still very cute.|5.Zfriend]] [[Your heart tells you that there is more to your feelings now.|5.Zromance]] <<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>You decided not to trust Zahn, but now you wonder if $Zhisher actions have changed your mind. [[Zahn still perplexes you. You don't feel any different.|5.Zsus]] [[You feel a blossoming friendship now.|5.Zfriend]] [[You feel friendship and something more.|5.Zromance]]<</if>> <<else>> "Good morning, Zahn," you greet. Zahn stands at the end of your bed and smiles. You realize that you haven't seen much of Zahn lately, $Zheshe has been in and out, and you mostly only see $Zhimher at mealtimes. "Haven't seen you around much," you add. "What have you been up to?" $Zcapitalheshe fidgets in place. "Mostly just staying out of the way, I guess. Everyone else seems to have more important things going on and I don't want to bother anyone. Especially you. I'm not useful like the others.<<if $ch5Broute is true>>After we were attacked and everything, there was a lot of stress for us all, and I didn't want to add to it.<<else>>You'd…I know Rune helped, but you got so sick and it was so sudden. Everyone was really tense and I just thought I should stay out of the way since I'm not really useful.<</if>>" <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>You shrug. "You're fine, Zahn. I don't think you'd have bothered anyone."<<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>You give $Zhimher a sad smile. "Don't feel that way, you're part of the group. It's fine for you to come around, especially when it's a bit stressful. You don't have to be //useful// you know. It's your company that's important."<<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>You give $Zhimher a sad smile. "Don't feel that way, you're part of the group. It's fine for you to come around, especially when it's a bit stressful. I know I want you around. I promise. You don't have to be //useful// you know. It's your company that's important."<<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>You give $Zhimher a sad smile. "Don't feel that way, you're part of the group. It's fine for you to come around, especially when it's a bit stressful. You don't have to be //useful// you know. It's your company that's important."<<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>You shrug. "I suppose I can appreciate that you were being considerate…but that wasn't necessary."<</if>> Zahn nods. "Sorry, I didn't mean to disappear or anything. I did help the innkeepers with a couple things though. They're really nice. Alondra is such a good cook, I almost wish I could live here…" The pilgrim stands looking a little sheepish, with eyes that seem to want your approval… <<if $Zstat is 'neutral'>>You haven't had any strong feelings one way or another for Zahn. As you look at $Zhimher now, you consider if your feelings have changed. [[Zahn is still just Zahn to you. You don't feel any different.|5.Zneutral]] [[You feel a blossoming friendship now.|5.Zfriend]] $flirt_label [[You feel friendship and something more.|5.Zromance]] <<elseif $Zstat is 'friends'>>You already consider Zahn a friend. You wonder if your heart has changed any. [[You are just as good of friends as ever.|5.Zfriend]] $flirt_label [[Your heart tells you that there is more to your feelings now.|5.Zromance]] <<elseif $Zstat is 'romantic'>>You already considered Zahn a friend and found $Zhimher special in your heart. You wonder if your heart has changed any. $flirt_label [[Your heart still beats the same for Zahn.|5.Zromance]] [[You feel that your connection is more akin to just friendship.|5.Zfriend]] <<elseif $Zstat is 'physical'>>You already consider Zahn a friend, a friend who you're attracted to. You wonder if your heart has changed any. [[You are just as good of friends as ever, and Zahn is still very cute.|5.Zfriend]] $flirt_label [[Your heart tells you that there is more to your feelings now.|5.Zromance]] <<elseif $Zstat is 'sus'>>You decided not to trust Zahn a while back, but now that $Zheshe has been around more, you wonder if your mind has changed at all. [[Zahn still perplexes you. You don't feel any different.|5.Zsus]] [[You feel a blossoming friendship now.|5.Zfriend]] $flirt_label [[You feel friendship and something more.|5.Zromance]] <</if>><</if>>

Just when you begin to wonder if you overstepped, Zahn speaks. "You're way smarter than the Acceptor." $Zcapitalheshe laughs. "Don't tell him." <<if $Zstat5 is 'neutral'>>You shrug. "It's nothing really, you're just too close to see things as clearly."<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'friends'>>You smile. "I'm here for you. I know you are in a hard spot, and these people, this church is like family, but sometimes you need to look at your family objectively. Just do what is right for you."<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'romantic'>>You smile, warmth coming to your face. "I'm here for you, I care. I know you are in a hard spot, and these people, this church is like family, but sometimes you need to look at your family objectively. Just do what is right for you. I'll support you."<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'sus'>>You shrug. "It's nothing really, you're just too close to see things as clearly."<</if>> Zahn groans. "To tell you the truth I…I guess I already decided what I want, or rather don't want. I did a long time ago. Something just suddenly became clear." "What made it more clear?" "You." Your eyes snap to Zahn's. "What? Why?" "I don't know yet." Zahn smiles at you, but it doesn't reach $Zhisher eyes. "I'll tell you when I figure it out though." <<if $Zphys is true>> [[You take a long look at Zahn.|5.Z2a]] <<else>>[[You nod|5.Z2b]] <</if>>

<<set $Dsin +=3>><<set $Dflirt +=3>> You notice Duri chewing $Dhisher lip, seeming to gnash it in frustration. "Hey, Duri," you say. $Dcapitalhisher attention goes back to you, and $Dheshe gives you a forced smile. "Thank you for trying. I mean that from my heart. It's okay that you don't recognize it. I appreciate that you took this seriously for me to try and help." The smile drops from Duri's face and $Dheshe looks away. "That's…nothing. I just wanted to corner you in the washroom, $mc – surely you're not so naive." "Just the same, I'm still grateful. You're kind, sticking with us all this way." Duri folds $Dhisher arms and still will not look your way. "What can I say – you have a lovely waist. We should go, the others will be impatient." You move over into Duri's line of sight, forcing $Dhimher to look at you, and you simply smile. $Dcapitalhisher golden-brown eyes focus on you a moment before $Dhisher lips curl up slightly, and the tip of Duri's nose goes a shade darker. There's a sudden bang against the door followed by the sound of Rune's chiding tone before you hear a knock. Oswin speaks from the other side. "Is everything okay in there?" Duri's smile grows wicked as $Dheshe gestures for you to fix your clothes, which you suddenly realize you've been holding up this whole time. "Everything's fine!" $Dheshe calls back and then pauses a moment before winking at you. "Just putting ''our'' clothes back on!" "What!?" Oswin yells. You shake your head as you make for the door, throwing it open to find an audience waiting with various levels of enthusiasm. Zahn is smiling wide and leaning forward, Oswin looks absolutely beside himself, and Rune appears annoyed. As Duri comes through the door, laughing, Rune wacks $Dhimher upside the head with a firm hand. [[You suppose you should get to drawing.|5.18d]]

<<set $Zstat5 to 'neutral'>><<set $Zphys to false>> <<set $Zpos to false>> <<set $Zneg to true>> Your feelings about $Zhimher might just be unshakeable. Now that the air is cleared a bit, you decide to get back to why Zahn has come to see you. "So anyway," you start. "What are you up to? You look like you're on your way somewhere." Zahn crosses the room and plops on the corner at the foot of the bed. "Well, about that…I wanted to see you for a bit, but I am going to be out. Just for a few days." "Where are you off to?" "On the other side of Codrin, my sect has a church. Every church has records tucked away. If I go visit, I might be able to look at them and find anything useful like I promised." "Really? That easy?" Zahn nods. "It won't be a big deal. I just need to make nice with the leadership, probably report about my pilgrimage, and then I can come back." "A few days for that?" you ask. "Seems like a lot, is it far?" "Oh, well, I should- I need to at least make an effort to say hi. There's usually some sort of service involved and a meal. It would be a bit rude for me to leave so quickly." "I see." It seems a little odd to need more than just a day or so for that, but you also don't know everything about Zahn's faith. Zahn scoots in $Zhisher seat to get a little more comfortable. "I know you might be a little bored by now, so I thought we should just talk or something before I go. I didn't want to just disappear. I told Oswin. Duri overheard, of course. I don't think Rune would mind much. Rune is…kinda scary but nice. What do you think of $Rhimher? Are you feeling better?" Zahn practically begins panting after the cascade of conversation. You stare back at the pilgrim for a moment. "...Yes, I do feel better. I'm still getting to know Rune though, but $Rheshe seems <<if $Rstat is 'friends'>>like a decent sort to me<<elseif $Rstat is 'romantic'>>like a good and trustworthy person<<else>>like a fine sort<</if>>. Are you sure you're okay?" "Yes. Yes, I'm just…. I'm having a bit of nerves about going…//home//." "Nervous excitement?" "Maybe some. I just don't know the congregation here very well is all. And-" Zahn fidgets, folding $Zhisher hands in $Zhisher lap. "And?" you prompt. "It's just that this…my pilgrimage, they'll ask about it and I don't know if they'll be disappointed in my progress or not. I want…I don't know." Zahn shrugs. You sit up. "Hey, maybe it's not my place, but if you want to talk about it, we can." Zahn flops back, laying along the foot of the bed, covering $Zhisher eyes with the heels of $Zhisher hands. "I don't know. I want to do…I want to do a good job for my church, I want them to be impressed, I want to show them how thankful I am that I've had a home with them…" "I sense a but." Zahn giggles, rolling to $Zhisher side, propping $Zhisher head on one hand to look at you. "But sometimes I just want to do what //I// want to do, I guess." "Why don't you?" "Well…I sort of //owe// them. They raised me. I probably would have died if not for them." "Did you ask them to? Or sign a contract?" Zahn goes still. "Well, no." "Zahn, what is your church about?" you ask. "What do you mean?" You sigh, unsure if this is your place, but Zahn seems to be reaching for something. "You speak about making //them// proud, doing what //they// want. What are //they// the church //of//?" "Din, our god." Zahn's bright blue eyes dart around as $Zheshe thinks. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"All they did for you, they did of their own will. And honestly, they did what anyone should have done for you in the situation you were in. I think you're having these thoughts because you're finally figuring out what you truly want. That's what we're supposed to do as we grow up."<<else>>"You do not owe them anything. You are your own person, you are allowed to want other things and live your own life. It's great they took care of you, but that doesn't mean you need to spend the rest of your days paying back an imaginary debt."<</if>> Zahn flops on $Zhisher back again. [[It goes quiet.|5.Z2]]

<set $Zstat5 to 'friends'>><<set $Zphys to true>><<set $ch5Zstat to true>> <<set $Zpos to true>> <<set $Zneg to false>> You feel that Zahn is a steadfast friend and you readily embrace it. Now that the air is cleared a bit, you decide to get back to why Zahn has come to see you. "So anyway," you start. "Please tell me you aren't leaving. It looks like you're getting ready to go somewhere…" Zahn plops on the corner at the foot of the bed. "Well, about that…I wanted to see you for a bit, but I am going to be out. Just for a few days!" "Where are you off to?" "On the other side of Codrin, my sect has a church. Every church has records tucked away. If I go visit, I might be able to look at them and find anything useful." "Really? That easy?" Zahn nods. "It won't be a big deal. I just need to make nice with the leadership, probably report about my pilgrimage, and then I can come back." "A few days for that?" you ask. "Seems like a lot, is it far?" "Oh, well, I should- I need to at least make an effort to say hi. There's usually some sort of service involved and a meal. It would be a bit rude for me to leave so quickly." "I see." It seems a little odd to need more than just a day for that, but you also don't know everything about Zahn's faith. Zahn scoots in $Zhisher seat to get a little more comfortable. "I know you might be a little bored by now, so I thought we should just talk or something before I go. I didn't want to just disappear. I told Oswin. Duri overheard, of course. I don't think Rune would mind much. Rune is…kinda scary but nice. What do you think of $Rhimher? Are you feeling better?" Zahn practically begins panting after the cascade of conversation. You stare back at the pilgrim for a moment. "...Yes, I do feel better. I'm still getting to know Rune though, but $Rheshe seems <<if $Rstat is 'friends'>>like a decent sort to me<<elseif $Rstat is 'romantic'>>like a good and trustworthy person<<else>>like a fine sort<</if>>. Are you sure you're okay?" "Yes. Yes, I'm just…. I'm having a bit of nerves about going…//home//." "Nervous excitement?" "Maybe some. I just don't know the congregation here very well is all. And-" Zahn fidgets, folding $Zhisher hands in $Zhisher lap. "And?" you prompt. "It's just that this…my pilgrimage, they'll ask about it and I don't know if they'll be disappointed in my progress or not. I want…I don't know." Zahn shrugs. You sit up. "Zahn, I'm your friend. There's something on your mind, it's obvious. You can tell me. What is it that //you// want?" Zahn flops back, laying along the foot of the bed, covering $Zhisher eyes with the heels of $Zhisher hands. "I don't know. I want to do…I want to do a good job for my church, I want them to be impressed, I want to show them how thankful I am that I've had a home with them…" "I sense a but." Zahn giggles, rolling to $Zhisher side, propping $Zhisher head on one hand to look at you. "But sometimes I just want to do what //I// want to do, I guess." "Why don't you?" "Well…I sort of owe them. They raised me. I probably would have died if not for them." "Did you ask them to?" Zahn goes still. "Well, no." "Zahn, what is your church about?" you ask. "What do you mean?" You sigh, unsure if this is really your place, but Zahn seems to be reaching for something. "You speak about making //them// proud, doing what //they// want. What are they the church //of//?" "Din, our god." Zahn's bright blue eyes dart around as $Zheshe thinks. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"All they did for you, they did of their own will. And honestly, they did what anyone should have done for you in the situation you were in. I think you're having these thoughts because you're finally figuring out what you really want. That's what we're supposed to do as we grow up."<<else>>"You do not owe them anything. You are your own person, you are allowed to want other things and live your own life. It's great they took care of you, but that doesn't mean you need to spend the rest of your days paying back an imaginary debt."<</if>> Zahn flops on $Zhisher back again. [[It goes quiet.|5.Z2]]

<<set $Zstat5 to 'romantic'>><<set $Zphys to true>><<set $Zpos to true>> <<set $Zneg to false>> You feel that Zahn is a steadfast friend that leaves a wanting in your heart, and you readily embrace it. Now that the air is cleared a bit, you decide to get back to why Zahn has come to see you. "So anyway," you start. "I really hope you aren't leaving." Zahn plops on the corner at the foot of the bed. "Well, about that…I wanted to see you for a bit, but I am going to be out. Just for a few days!" "Where are you off to?" "On the other side of Codrin, my sect has a church. Every church has records tucked away. If I go visit, I might be able to look at them and find anything useful." "Really? That easy?" Zahn nods. "It won't be a big deal. I just need to make nice with the leadership, probably report about my pilgrimage, and then I can come back." "A few days for that?" you ask. "Seems like a lot, is it far?" "Oh, well, I should- I need to at least make an effort to say hi. There's usually some sort of service involved and a meal. It would be a bit rude for me to leave so quickly." "I see." It seems a little odd to need more than just a day for that, but you also don't know everything about Zahn's faith. Zahn scoots in $Zhisher seat to get a little more comfortable. "I know you might be a little bored by now, so I thought we should just talk or something before I go. I didn't want to just disappear. I told Oswin. Duri overheard, of course. I don't think Rune would mind much. Rune is…kinda scary but nice. What do you think of $Rhimher? Are you feeling better?" Zahn practically begins panting after the cascade of conversation. You stare back at the pilgrim for a moment. "...Yes, I do feel better. I'm still getting to know Rune though, but $Rheshe seems <<if $Rstat is 'friends'>>like a decent sort to me<<elseif $Rstat is 'romantic'>>like a good and trustworthy person<<else>>like a fine sort<</if>>. Are you sure you're okay?" "Yes. Yes, I'm just…. I'm having a bit of nerves about going…//home//." "Nervous excitement?" "Maybe some. I just don't know the congregation here very well is all. And-" Zahn fidgets, folding $Zhisher hands in $Zhisher lap. "And?" you prompt. "It's just that this…my pilgrimage, they'll ask about it and I don't know if they'll be disappointed in my progress or not. I want…I don't know." Zahn shrugs. You sit up. "Zahn, I'm your friend, and I really care about you. There's something on your mind, it's clear. You can tell me. What is it that //you// want?" Zahn flops back, laying along the foot of the bed, covering $Zhisher eyes with the heels of $Zhisher hands. "I don't know. I want to do…I want to do a good job for my church, I want them to be impressed, I want to show them how thankful I am that I've had a home with them…" "I sense a but." Zahn giggles, rolling to $Zhisher side, propping $Zhisher head on one hand to look at you. "But sometimes I just want to do what //I// want to do, I guess." "Why don't you?" "Well…I sort of owe them. They raised me. I probably would have died if not for them." "Did you ask them to?" Zahn goes still. "Well, no." "Zahn, what is your church about?" you ask. "What do you mean?" You sigh, unsure if this is really your place, but Zahn seems to be reaching for something. "You speak about making //them// proud, doing what //they// want. What are they the church //of//?" "Din, our god." Zahn's bright blue eyes dart around as $Zheshe thinks. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"All they did for you, they did of their own will. And honestly, they did what anyone should have done for you in the situation you were in. I think you're having these thoughts because you're finally figuring out what you really want. That's what we're supposed to do as we grow up."<<else>>"You do not owe them anything. You are your own person, you are allowed to want other things and live your own life. It's great they took care of you, but that doesn't mean you need to spend the rest of your days paying back an imaginary debt."<</if>> Zahn flops on $Zhisher back again. [[It goes quiet.|5.Z2]]

<set $Zstat5 to 'sus'>><<set $Zphys to false>><<set $ch5Zstat to true>><<set $Zpos to false>> <<set $Zneg to true>> You just can't shake your suspicion of $Zhimher. Maybe you never will. Maybe you just need to know the full story. Now that the air is cleared a bit, you decide to get back to why Zahn has come to see you. "So anyway," you start. "What are you up to? You look like you're on your way somewhere." Zahn plops on the corner at the foot of the bed. "Well, about that…I wanted to see you for a bit, but I am going to be out. Just for a few days!" "Where are you off to?" "On the other side of Codrin, my sect has a church. Every church has records tucked away. If I go visit, I might be able to look at them and find anything useful." "Really? That easy?" Zahn nods. "It won't be a big deal. I just need to make nice with the leadership, probably report about my pilgrimage, and then I can come back." "A few days for that?" you ask. "Seems like a lot, is it far?" "Oh, well, I should- I need to at least make an effort to say hi. There's usually some sort of service involved and a meal. It would be a bit rude for me to leave so quickly." "I see." A tingle of suspicion crawls up your back. Zahn scoots in $Zhisher seat to get a little more comfortable. "I know you might be a little bored by now, so I thought we should just talk or something before I go. I didn't want to just disappear. I told Oswin. Duri overheard, of course. I don't think Rune would mind much. Rune is…kinda scary but nice. What do you think of $Rhimher? Are you feeling better?" Zahn practically begins panting after the cascade of conversation. You stare back at the pilgrim for a moment. "...Yes, I do feel better. I'm still getting to know Rune though, but $Rheshe seems fine. Are you sure you're okay?" "Yes. Yes, I'm just…. I'm having a bit of nerves about going…//home//." "Nervous excitement?" "Maybe some. I just don't know the congregation here very well is all. And-" Zahn fidgets, folding $Zhisher hands in $Zhisher lap. "And?" you prompt. "It's just that this…my pilgrimage, they'll ask about it and I don't know if they'll be disappointed in my progress or not. I want…I don't know." Zahn shrugs. You sit up. "It may not be my business, but maybe you should tell me what's really going on…" Zahn flops back, laying along the foot of the bed, covering $Zhisher eyes with the heels of $Zhisher hands. "I don't know. I want to do…I want to do a good job for my church, I want them to be impressed, I want to show them how thankful I am that I've had a home with them…" "I sense a but." Zahn giggles, rolling to $Zhisher side, propping $Zhisher head on one hand to look at you. "But sometimes I just want to do what //I// want to do, I guess." "Why don't you?" "Well…I sort of owe them. They raised me. I probably would have died if not for them." "Did you ask them to?" Zahn goes still. "Well, no." "Zahn, what is your church about?" you ask. "What do you mean?" You sigh, unsure if this is really your place, but Zahn seems to be reaching for something. "You speak about making //them// proud, doing what //they// want. What are they the church //of//?" "Din, our god." Zahn's bright blue eyes dart around as $Zheshe thinks. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"All they did for you, they did of their own will. And honestly, they did what anyone should have done for you in the situation you were in. I think you're having these thoughts because you're finally figuring out what you really want. That's what we're supposed to do as we grow up."<<else>>"You do not owe them anything. You are your own person, you are allowed to want other things and live your own life. It's great they took care of you, but that doesn't mean you need to spend the rest of your days paying back an imaginary debt."<</if>> Zahn flops on $Zhisher back again. [[It goes quiet.|5.Z2]]

<<if $Zpos is true>> You sit back and stare at the ceiling.<<if $Z5fool is true>> A haze of relaxation washes over you as your body settles down from the high of pleasure.<</if>> You can't help but think about the little pilgrim more. There's worry in the back of your mind for $Zhimher. It should be only a little while before you will set out for home. What if Zahn doesn't return? What if this was $Zhisher last goodbye? There's an undeniable connection between the two of you. You don't want to say goodbye forever, especially not right now. $Zcapitalheshe wouldn't do that, right? But, Zahn seemed intent on returning to you, and you know $Zheshe isn't great at hiding things. You nod to yourself, feeling a bit reassured. Zahn will come back. <<if $Zstat5 is 'romantic'>>You feel delightfully warm about seeing $Zhimher again soon.<</if>> [[Just a few days to go until you head home.|5.E1]] <<else>> You sit back and try to relax a bit. As the moments slip by, something in your gut is unsettled. Why would Zahn wait until now to head to $Zhisher sect when it was just across the city? Sure, the distance there will be a bit significant, but all the more reason to have left sooner. The thought enters your mind that Zahn doesn't intend to come back and $Zheshe just wanted to rest at the inn before returning. That would make sense. Why not take advantage of such nice accommodations? Perhaps it is mistrust or simple curiosity, but you're still not satisfied with that conclusion… [[You decide to follow Zahn.|5.Z4]] [[You decide that you need to let it go.|5.Z3a1]] <</if>>

You mull it over in your mind for a moment and then shake your head. "No, I don't want to do that. Sorry if you're disappointed." Zahn smiles. "Don't apologize for that. I'd never take something like that personally or anything. But the offer stands if you want to mess around sometime later!" You chuckle. "I guess I'll keep that in mind then." $Zcapitalheshe jogs to the door. "I'll head out now – Rune takes tea and snacks soon, and if I'm quick I can snag a few cakes from $Rhisher tray before I go." You roll your eyes as Zahn flees the room, giggling. [[You hear a man yelp and the clatter of a metal tray shortly after.|5.Z3a]]

You mull it over in your mind for a moment and then shake your head. "No, I don't want to do that right now. Sorry if you're disappointed. I just don't think now is the right time." Zahn smiles. "Don't apologize for that. I'd never take something like that personally or anything. I can understand the timing is a little off…. We're in a strange place, you went through a lot and here I would have to run right after." Zahn rubs the back of $Zhisher neck. "I should have considered all that too. But the offer stands if you want to mess around sometime later!" You chuckle. "I guess I'll keep that in mind then." $Zcapitalheshe jogs to the door. "I'll head out now – Rune takes tea and snacks soon, and if I'm quick I can snag a few cakes from $Rhisher tray before I go." You roll your eyes as Zahn flees the room, giggling. [[You hear a man yelp and the clatter of a metal tray shortly after.|5.Z3a]]

"Well," you start. "I don't know about going that far, but what would you say to<<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>, um…just curling up for a bit. With me, but not like what you had in mind, just cuddling. Not that what you want is bad, I just-<<else>> snuggling up with me for a while instead?<</if>>" "$mc," Zahn says. "I //love// that idea!" You and Zahn get comfortable on your bed<<if $height is 'average'>> having a bit of a laugh at how much extra room there still is even with the two of you on it<<elseif $height is 'short'>> having a bit of a laugh at how much extra room there still is even with the two of you on it<</if>>. Zahn scoots close, a big smile plastered on $Zhisher lips. [[You put your arm around Zahn.|5.Z3d1]] [[Zahn pulls you in.|5.Z3d2]]

<<set $Z5fool to true>> <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You swallow hard, nerves fluttering around in your stomach. You avert your eyes from Zahn and nod your head. "Yeah, I think that would be fun."<<else>>A shiver of excitement goes up your spine. "That sounds like fun to me too."<</if>> You swear that Zahn's eyes practically glow. $Zcapitalheshe sheds $Zhisher cloak with alarming speed, pitching towards you with a wicked smile. "I have been dying to show you what I can do." $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You prepare for your intimate moment with Zahn.|5.Ztime1]] {Explicit} [[Fade to black.|5.Ztimefade]]

<<if $bits is true>> Zahn is cisgendered and set to $Zgen. Is kissing with lips and tongue okay? <<listbox "$kiss" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> Is $mc comfortable with anal play in this situation? (This interaction will only appear for MCs who have a penis.) <<listbox "$anal" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> You have $chest and a $vp. If no corrections are required, select [[Yes.|5.Ztime2]] To update, select [[No.|5.Zbits]] <<else>> Zahn is cisgendered and set to $Zgen. Make selections to guide your interactions with $Zhimher. You have: <<listbox "$chest" autoselect>> <<option "pecs">> <<option "breasts">> <</listbox>> You have a: <<listbox "$vp" autoselect>> <<option "vagina">> <<option "penis">> <</listbox>> Is kissing with lips and tongue okay? <<listbox "$kiss" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> Is $mc comfortable with anal play in this situation? (This interaction will only appear for MCs who have a penis.) <<listbox "$anal" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> [[Continue.|5.Ztime2]] <</if>>

True to Zahn's desire, $Zheshe shows you what $Zheshe is capable of – focusing completely on pleasing you with promises of more should you want them. As Zahn leaves, $Zheshe is clearly reluctant to go, trying to cover up the feeling by drumming up some excitement in stealing some afternoon snacks. $Zcapitalheshe bolts from the room… [[And you hear a man yelp and the clatter of a metal tray shortly after.|5.Z3a]]

Zahn pops up on $Zhisher knees, sinking into the plush of the bed. $Zcapitalheshe grins. "$mc, I really want you to feel good." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You tilt your head. "I did just agree to that, right?"<<else>>You snort. "Didn't we just agree to that or have you somehow hit your head and forgotten already?"<</if>> "No, well, I mean you've been through a lot. I want you just to lay back and enjoy what I can do for you." Zahn flops down so $Zheshe is on all fours, $Zhisher face coming tantalizingly close to yours. $Zcapitalheshe whispers. "Let me //please// you." You swallow. "Well, that doesn't seem fair to you, and this was your idea." Zahn bites $Zhisher lip. "Okay, well it's not like I //don't// want you to touch me. Just…//after// I'm done with you – if you still have the strength that is." "You're on." You glower. Zahn immediately straddles your legs, and you are suddenly glad you are still in your lounge clothes. <<if $Zgen is 'male'>>Your eyes drift to Zahn's groin where you find a noticeable bulge already. That seems…fast. You tuck that information away for later.<</if>> $Zcapitalheshe looks down at you with a wide smile, as if $Zheshe is looking at a feast and isn't sure where to begin. An exploratory hand lightly glides along your waist and skirts down to your hip before curling around your backside and trailing down. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>It feels like there is fire in your face.<else>>Excitement kicks up your heartbeat.<</if>> Big blue eyes go to your waistband as Zahn moves $Zhisher hand to play with the tie that holds it to your hips. $Zcapitalheshe plays with the string. "I really, //really// want dessert first but maybe I should start with the appetizer," $Zheshe says as the hand pushes up under your shirt. You suck in a breath as Zahn's hands slowly glide up your skin, taking time to enjoy all your dips and ridges. Your shirt hikes up in small increments as $Zhisher hands reach for your chest. Once there, Zahn pushes your clothing up over your $chest and stares at you. <<if $Zgen is 'male'>>You feel a twitch from where Zahn's pelvis is leaning against you.<<else>>You feel Zahn unconsciously grind her pelvis against you.<</if>> Zahn groans. "Now I ''really'' don't want to leave…<<if hasVisited("3.64b")>>I tried to be good when we bathed together before, and now being able to finally touch and see you feels amazing – like a reward.<</if>>" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Well, you better enjoy it while you're here then." You smile. <<else>>"That just makes me want to tease you." You smirk.<</if>> The excitement is plain on Zahn's face as $Zhisher fingers encroach upon your $chest. They trace light circles upon the skin there but evade the more sensitive flesh around your nipples. Zahn watches your expression carefully while holding $Zhisher bottom lip between $Zhisher teeth. Your hands find Zahn's knees at your sides and you grab on just to do //something// with them. Finally, $Zheshe <<if $chest is "breasts">>cups your breasts, grabbing a firm handful and squeezing before gently kneading them.<<else>>palms and massages the slight mounds of your chest.<</if>> Zahn's breathing picks up noticeably as $Zheshe continues the sensual ministrations, bringing $Zhisher thumbs down to lightly stroke your nipples. You groan in approval as the tingle they create travels, the pleasure making your loins ignite. Zahn, spurred on by your reaction, continues to play with them. $Zcapitalheshe pinches them gently, rolling them between $Zhisher fingers before pulling slightly. You hiss with delight. <<if $vp is "penis">>Your dick swells in response.<<else>>Your cunt clenches in response.<</if>> Zahn meets your eyes and drags $Zhisher lip through $Zhisher teeth and then lowers to your chest. You feel little kisses peppered along your sternum and then along your ribs. <<if $chest is "breasts">>There's a slight pause before you feel Zahn's lips upon your right breast, kissing gently as $Zhisher hand massages the other side. $Zcapitalheshe work $Zhisher way up to your nipple, taking a mouthful around it to suck.<<else>>Zahn's kisses travel up along your chest before $Zheshe drags $Zhisher tongue up along our right pec, catching your nipple. $Zcapitalheshe pinches and tugs the nipple on your left as $Zhisher tongue flicks the one on the right.<</if>> Your breath hitches as the sensations dazzle your senses. Currents of pleasure jolt through your pelvis, making you squirm under Zahn. As $Zheshe continues to play with your chest, <<if $Zgen is 'male'>><<if $vp is "penis">>he straddles where your cock pushes against its confines – grinding against it with his own swollen shaft. You lift your hips to meet him, reveling in the feeling of the tease that rubbing your clothed members brings.<<else>>he grinds his clothed member against you, making you feel how swollen for you he's become, teasing you to want more. You're wet and eager, so you lift your hips to make him feel how much you want him.<</if>><<else>><<if $vp is "penis">>she straddles where your cock pushes against its confines – grinding against you with her clothed pussy. Where you have the luxury of thinner clothes, her pants are frustratingly thick. You can only barely feel out her lips with your covered cock.<<else>>she grinds her clothed pussy against you, riding you, making herself wet. You're thankful for how thin your clothes are as you feel every movement through them, but it's clear you're about to soak through.<</if>><</if>> You are in a haze as Zahn sucks and licks your nipples, going from one to the other as if $Zheshe doesn't know which tastes better. Little red marks dot your chest and a wicked smile stretches on Zahn's lips. <<if $kiss is "Yes">>$Zcapitalheshe kisses $Zhisher way up your chest, to your neck where $Zheshe gently licks and sucks a path to your mouth. Without thinking, you open for $Zhimher as a delicate pink tongue slides in. Zahn grinds hard against your pelvis as $Zheshe moans your name against your lips. Your hands fly around $Zhimher to bring $Zhimher closer. Zahn's tongue dances with your own before $Zheshe makes to nibble at and pull your bottom lip. $Zcapitalheshe pauses a moment to breathe before attacking your mouth again, holding your face gently.<<else>>$Zcapitalheshe runs $Zhisher tongue all around your $chest, flicking your nipples with just the tip to tease you. Zahn grinds hard against your pelvis and moans at the feeling. Your hands rush to grab hold of $Zhimher and pull $Zhimher close as you push your hips up in response.<</if>> Both of you pause a moment to catch your wind. Zahn sits up and fiddles with your waistband. "I think it's time for the main event." [[Zahn tugs your bottoms free of your hips.|5.Ztime3]]

Zahn is cisgendered and set to $Zgen. Make selections to guide your interactions with $Zhimher. You have: <<listbox "$chest" autoselect>> <<option "pecs">> <<option "breasts">> <</listbox>> You have a: <<listbox "$vp" autoselect>> <<option "vagina">> <<option "penis">> <</listbox>> Is kissing with lips and tongue okay? <<listbox "$kiss" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> Is $mc comfortable with anal play in this situation? (This interaction will only appear for MCs who have a penis.) <<listbox "$anal" autoselect>> <<option "No">> <<option "Yes">> <</listbox>> [[Continue.|5.Ztime2]]

<<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You yelp at the sudden shift and cover yourself with your hands.<<else>>You struggle to lift your hips in time to help Zahn.<</if>> "Whoa, sorry!" Zahn giggles, looking sheepish. "I got excited. Here, I'll join you, <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>so don't feel shy<<else>>so I don't feel left out<</if>>." Zahn quickly undoes the buttons of $Zhisher trousers and pushes them down. $Zcapitalheshe is still a bit restricted, <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>but at least you are not the only one exposed<<else>>but it still gives you a sight to behold<</if>>. You can't help but ogle, half out of curiosity and half out of pure lust. <<if $Zgen is 'male'>>His cock is slightly darker than the rest of his skin crowned with thin pale hair, the head flushed dark with blood.<<else>>A patch of thin pale hair crowns her petite pussy – clit dark pink and swollen with desire and lips that beckon your fingers to slide into<</if>>. But this is only a sample, you want to see Zahn with no clothing obscuring your view even a bit. $Zcapitalheshe lightly strokes $Zhimselfherself while watching you with hungry eyes. You didn't even realize that $Zheshe managed to pull your bottoms completely off. <<if $vp is "penis">>Your cock twitches.<<else>>Your pussy clenches.<</if>> Zahn wastes no more time and dives to your loins without hesitation. Zahn gently moves $Zhisher lips just barely along your <<if $vp is "penis">>shaft<<else>>clit<</if>>. You feel $Zhisher hot breath tease you. "I was just gonna use my hands. I wanted to show you how good I could make you feel just with them, so you'd come back and beg me to use my tongue next…but you look good enough to eat, and I don't want to wait that long to taste you." <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You're not quite sure if you have more blood in your face or your nethers, but you're both excited and embarrassed at the prospect of being devoured.<<if $virgin is true>> It's a foreign feeling to have another person in your…private space, and you're not quite sure how to react. You begin to worry about how you look, your scent, your taste. Will Zahn like doing this with you? What are you supposed to do //during//? What do you do after?<</if>><<else>>You have never been more ready to be eaten than you are now.<<if $virgin is true>> It's a foreign feeling to have another person in your…space like this. It's exciting but makes you feel delightfully vulnerable. You worry a little about how you look, smell and taste. Will Zahn like doing this with you?<</if>><</if>> Zahn grins as you as $Zheshe continues to tease you with $Zhisher lips.<<if $virgin is true>> "You look like you're doing too much thinking, $mc. Just relax and I will take care of everything. Just feel it, don't think of anything else."<<else>> "Someone is looking pretty eager…just lay back and let me show you how much I appreciate you."<</if>> You do as suggested and relax, sinking in slightly to the plush pillows behind you, propped up just enough to watch Zahn's pretty blue eyes stare back from between your legs. <<if $vp is "penis">>$Zcapitalheshe raises up and presses your tip to the center of $Zhisher lips, you feel how hot and wet $Zhisher breath is and then you feel the tip of $Zhisher tongue. You groan immediately. Zahn twirls $Zhisher tongue just around the head of your shaft – you close your eyes as you get lost in the sensation. $Zcapitalheshe chuckles at your responses while gliding $Zhisher lips down your cock all the way down to your balls. Zahn is not shy or delicate in the slightest, eagerly pressing $Zhisher face into your flesh to taste, suck and devour. While $Zhisher tongue plays with your sac, $Zhisher hand works your cock, holding you in a tight grip. Your hands grip the bedding as Zahn's tongue slides along the underside of your dick. As $Zheshe repositions to sit up, $Zhisher right hand goes to your lips. You automatically open your mouth and allow Zahn to push in $Zhisher index and middle fingers. Zahn moans at the feeling as you gently suck $Zhisher fingers, wrapping your tongue around them, holding them tight with your lips as Zahns circles your cock with $Zhisher own lips. You feel the head breach into $Zhisher hot mouth, and your own mouth drops as you groan. You can't focus on Zahn's fingers as $Zhisher head bobs up and down on your cock. $Zcapitalheshe keeps his lips synced tight around you and drags $Zhisher tongue along each time $Zheshe brings you to the back of $Zhisher throat. <<if $virgin is true>>You gasp, you're about to come. Zahn suddenly releases you, and you whine as the urgent sensation abates. "Not so fast, $mc," $Zheshe says wiping $Zhisher mouth with the back of $Zhisher hand. Your cock shines with saliva, the tip is dripping and you need to look away for fear that you will it to erupt just by you thinking about it. Zahn allows you to cool down a moment, letting you continue to suck $Zhisher fingers as $Zheshe massages your sac with the other hand. $Zcapitalheshe watches you with a playful grin. <<else>>You gasp, and Zahn pokes $Zhisher fingers back into your mouth, so you suck them obediently. Zahn takes you to the back of $Zhisher throat over and over, pumping you through tight pink lips so fast that you have no idea how $Zheshe manages not to gag. Zahn withdraws, leaving a thick trail of saliva coating your cock. $Zcapitalheshe works $Zhisher jaw, looking like it might be a bit strained.<</if>> <<if $anal is "Yes">>Zahn bites $Zhisher bottom lip as $Zheshe removes the fingers from your mouth. While looking right into your eyes, $Zheshe parts your legs. "I don't have any oil, so I'll just use one finger, just relax – this will //really// send you off when you come." You put your trust in Zahn as you will your body to relax. $Zcapitalhisher slick finger pushes through the ring of your ass with relative ease. Zahn lowers down a little, lips nearing your cock as $Zheshe gently probes inside of you, sweeping along in search of something good. Once Zahn's tongue touches your dick, $Zheshe finds it and you jolt at the sudden pleasure. Zahh chuckles as $Zheshe begins another onslaught on your throbbing cock while pressing behind it from your hole. A myriad of sensations dance in your mind. Pulses of pleasure cascade up and down your dick, in your ass, and up your spine. The back of your head //tingles//. You stare down with your mouth hanging open as Zahn sucks the life out of you while moaning. You feel the build-up traveling up your cock, but you can't speak so you try to fervently smack the bed and claw the sheets to signal. Zahn does not stop. $Zcapitalheshe takes your cock to the hilt, working your hole with $Zhisher hand, making you see stars. You call out as you come, instinctively thrusting against Zahn's throat as $Zheshe takes your load. <<else>> Zahn bites $hisher bottom lip as $Zheshe removes the fingers from your mouth. While looking right into your eyes, $Zheshe puts them into $Zhisher own mouth and sucks them before moving them to $Zhisher loins to begin stroking $Zhimselfherself. "You are unbelievably sexy. I wish we would have done this sooner." Zahn lowers down a little, lips nearing your cock as $Zheshe gently strokes $Zhimselfherself. Once Zahn's tongue touches your dick, you jolt at the sudden pleasure. Zahh chuckles as $Zheshe begins another onslaught on your throbbing cock, locking $Zhisher lips even tighter around you. You're throbbing for release. A myriad of sensations dance in your mind. Pulses of pleasure cascade up and down your dick, that surge, that need for it to burst becoming an ever-present demand. The back of your head //tingles//. You stare down with your mouth hanging open as Zahn sucks the life out of you while moaning and pleasuring $Zhimselfherself at the same time. You feel the build-up traveling up your cock, but you can't speak so you try to fervently smack the bed and claw the sheets to signal. Zahn does not stop. $Zcapitalheshe takes your cock to the hilt, your head slipping down $Zhisher throat, making you see stars. You call out as you come, instinctively thrusting against Zahn's throat as $Zheshe takes your load – swallowing. <</if>> You lay back, breathing hard. Everything around you is muted as a sensation of serenity settles. Zahn slides off of your dick with a final quick swipe from $Zhisher lips, making your body seize up with an influx of intense pleasure. <<else>> $Zcapitalheshe raises up and presses $Zhisher lips right against your swollen clit, you feel how hot and wet $Zhisher breath is and then you feel the tip of $Zhisher tongue just barely teasing you. You groan immediately. Zahn twirls $Zhisher tongue just around, gently parting your lips with two fingers – you close your eyes as you get lost in the sensation. $Zcapitalheshe chuckles at your responses while gliding $Zhisher tongue down your divide to your tight entrance. Zahn is not shy or delicate in the slightest, eagerly pressing $Zhisher face into your flesh to taste, lick, and devour. While $Zhisher tongue darts around your hole, $Zhisher hand works your clit, holding your hips to keep you spread open. Your hands grip the bedding as Zahn's tongue slides inside of you as deep as $Zheshe can get. With head nestled between your thighs, $Zhisher right hand goes to your mouth. You automatically open and allow Zahn to push in $Zhisher index and middle fingers. Zahn moans against your pussy at the feeling as you gently suck $Zhisher fingers, wrapping your tongue around them, holding them tight with your lips as Zahns circles your clit with $Zhisher own lips. You feel the swollen bud breach into $Zhisher hot mouth, holding it firmly in $Zhisher lips, and your own mouth drops as you groan. You can't focus on Zahn's fingers as $Zheshe suckles at your nerve point, tapping the underside with the tip of $Zhisher tongue. $Zcapitalheshe works $Zhisher way down to your hole again, pushing inside with $Zhisher tongue as $Zhisher fingers find your clit again. <<if $virgin is true>>You gasp, you're about to come. Zahn suddenly releases you, and you whine as the urgent sensation abates. "Not so fast, $mc," $Zheshe says wiping $Zhisher mouth with the back of $Zhisher hand. You suddenly realize how tremendously wet you are, unsure if it is all you or not. The sight of Zahn's wet lips makes you dizzy. $Zcapitalheshe allows you to cool down a moment, letting you continue to suck $Zhisher fingers as $Zheshe massages your cunt lightly with the other hand. $Zcapitalheshe watches you with a playful grin. <<else>>You gasp, and Zahn pokes $Zhisher fingers back into your mouth, so you suck them obediently. Zahn dives back and forth between your clit and your entrance over and over with an eager tongue. First testing the nerves at the top and then dragging the sensation down to your hole, sending shockwaves up your back. $Zcapitalheshe pulls away and works $Zhisher jaw, looking like it might be a bit strained.<</if>> Zahn bites $Zhisher bottom lip as $Zheshe removes the fingers from your mouth. While looking right into your eyes, $Zheshe makes a show of spreading your legs wider. You feel the lips of your pussy open up wider, making you feel even more exposed. "Just relax, I'll start with one finger and then put the second one in – this will //really// send you off when you come." You put your trust in Zahn as you will your body to relax. $Zcapitalhisher slick finger pushes through your entrance with relative ease. Zahn lowers down a little, lips nearing your clit as $Zheshe gently probes inside of you, sweeping along in search of something good. Once Zahn's tongue touches your clit, $Zheshe finds the spot inside of you and you jolt at the sudden pleasure. Zahh chuckles as $Zheshe begins another onslaught on your throbbing clit while pushing another finger inside of you to thrust in and out. A myriad of sensations dance in your mind. Pulses of pleasure cascade up and down and inside your cunt – they dance all the way up your spine. The back of your head //tingles//. You stare down with your mouth hanging open as Zahn sucks the life out of you while moaning – making your clit quiver with the sound. You feel the build-up traveling through your pelvis, but you can't speak so you try to fervently smack the bed and claw the sheets to signal. Your legs try to spread even wide, your pussy demanding more and more friction. Zahn does not stop. $Zcapitalheshe suckles your clit intensely, as $Zheshe fervently stimulates the sweet spot inside of you. You call out as you come, instinctively thrusting against Zahn's fingers as $Zheshe takes you over the edge. <</if>> You lay back, breathing hard. Everything around you is muted as a sensation of serenity settles. Zahn slides off of your clit with a final quick swipe from $Zhisher tongue, making your body seize up with an influx of intense pleasure. When your mind finally comes to the present, Zahn is kneeling between your legs smiling smugly and holding one hand palm up. Before you can even formulate words, $Zheshe pops up and heads to the washroom giggling, pants around $Zhisher knees. Just a moment later, $Zheshe pops back in wiping $Zhisher hands on a towel. "Sorry, I got a bit messy in my excitement, my hand was…um, wet." You realize that Zahn's pants are still around $Zhisher knees and chuckle. Your voice is raw and broken as you speak. "<<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>So…you, um…are you satisfied? You can…I can…<<else>>"Do you mean that you came?"<</if>> "Yeah, I'm good. I was //really// worked up seeing you all worked up and I couldn't wait anymore. I touched myself and then-" Zahn blows a raspberry. "It was all over. I was trying hard to hold out for you, but gods you are sexy." You pout a little. "Well, I had fun, but I feel like that's a little unfair to you." Zahn smiles warmly. "Trust me, it's not. Do you have any idea how long I'm going to replay this memory in my head? Anyway, if you wanna do it again, just let me know. But…I need to go soon. Otherwise, I would stay and we could see what happens." <<if $Zstat5 is 'romantic'>>A little part of your heart crumbles as you remember that Zahn is heading off for a few days.<</if>> "Oh, I understand. It was nice though…" Zahn finally pulls up $Zhisher pants and heads towards the door. "I better hurry, if I- If I don't go now, I know I won't at all. I don't really want to leave you so quickly, I promise. So don't think…I don't want you to get the wrong idea.<<if $Zstat5 is 'romantic'>> This meant something to me.<</if>> I have to go and do this, so I can find answers for you. Plus, Rune takes tea and snacks soon, and if I'm quick I can snag a few cakes from $Rhisher tray before I go!" You roll your eyes as Zahn flees the room after giving you a sultry look and a wink…<<if $Zstat5 is 'romantic'>> Your heart flutters. This meant something to $Zhimher. Those words almost take the sting out of seeing Zahn leave.<</if>> [[You then hear a man yelp and the clatter of a metal tray.|5.Z3a]]

There are throngs of people about since the weather is fairly warm, though there is still a chill to the wind. You pass a group that begins to whisper and giggle as they watch you pass by. One smiles, and you catch Rune's name being thrown around. Another waves at you quickly with a deep rosy blush on their face before tucking their hand away. You're a bit curious, but decide to press forward. The smell of street food hits you and lures you further down the street. The stalls are full, serving what seems to be an unusual number of children, so you move to the shops instead. Most seem to be general goods, refurbished items, tools, trinkets, and jewelry. One stall is less busy than the others, and their wares are piled high. It's quite a large stall, the owner standing in the center, surrounded by four wooden tables full of goods as he scrutinizes everyone who walks by. It seems like a good enough place for you to poke around. There's a lot on offer here, and after the shopkeep glowers at you a moment, he seems to deem you law-abiding enough to ignore. As you search around the various wares and sundries of the overflowing market stall, you catch a dark figure out of the corner of your eye. You subtly shift your gaze over a couple of times as you handle a shiny bobble that appears to be a useless paperweight. The figure is covered in a cloak that is as dark as a blue night and embroidered with silver threads, making an elegant pattern of swirls and stars – almost like constellations. You've glimpsed this cloak before, you think. As familiarity tickles your memory, your focus on the trinket decreases and your eyes are no longer subtle in their attention. The figure has their hood drawn up, their face well-hidden within, though you spy a dark cloth mask covering their nose and mouth. Their eyes are difficult to see, and you think they must be dark in color. They're also examining a bobble from the stall under the intense gaze of the shop owner. It appears that he trusts the person far less than his other patrons. Suddenly, the stranger's eyes snap to yours. You're taken aback for a split moment as you stare at each other. You can barely distinguish their eyes from the shadow of their hood, but you faintly pick up on how they seem to curl up at the corners. <<if $ReservedOutgoing > 49>>You fumble the merchandise you hold, and it clatters back to the table and you quickly snatch it up to quiet it. The tips of your ears go hot.<<else>>You watch them back and raise your brow as you twirl the merchandise you're holding.<</if>> You turn your focus back to the goods, staring at the item you've been playing with. You set it down eventually and scoot a little further away as you peruse the other wares. Eventually, you hear the raised voices of the mysterious patron and the shopkeeper. You can't distinguish exactly what they're saying, but it seems to be a heated discussion on price. And then, something catches your eye… [[A good gift for your parents.|5.A1a]] [[A good gift for Lakota.|5.A1b]] [[A gift for someone…special perhaps.|5.A1c]]

<<set $gift5 to 'parents'>> It's a well-made stone carving of three bears – a large one with a cub upon its back with a smaller adult bear at its side. Just like the three of you. The stone is a dark and smooth granite. Whoever made it must have had a great deal of skill and patience. The carving would be perfect for your parents. You can already hear your da guffawing at how alike it is to your little family. The little price tag shows the gold it would cost you…it's a bit on the high side and would leave your purse quite light. You wrinkle your nose. You could try to haggle but as you just overheard an argument over price, you don't think the keeper will come down much. As you chew your bottom lip in thought, you realize the voices have stopped. You look over and no longer see the cloaked figure at the stall and are a bit disappointed. As to why, you are unsure. [[You sigh.|5.A2]]

<<set $gift5 to 'Lakota'>> At first glance, it just appears to be a leather pouch, but it is filled with something. You open it and peer inside and find that it is full of seeds. A tag shows they are twinflower seeds. You chuckle. It's too good to pass up. Lakota would love to grow these, and the fact that he and Willow likely have twins on the way, true to the family name, just makes it better. The seeds would be great for your friend. You know he will coo about how beautiful they will be, and the bag is very full, he will get an entire field out of these. The little price tag shows the gold it would cost you…it's a bit on the high side and would leave your purse quite light. You wrinkle your nose. You could try to haggle but as you just overheard an argument over price, you don't think the keeper will come down much. As you chew your bottom lip in thought, you realize the voices have stopped. You look over and no longer see the cloaked figure at the stall and are a bit disappointed. As to why, you are unsure. [[You sigh.|5.A2]]

<<set $gift5 to 'special'>> It's a bracelet made from woven twine and stone beads. The beads are polished to a high shine, each swirled with grey, black, and hints of red or orange. It's a heavy piece and you're not certain what type the stone is, but appears semi-precious. It would look lovely as everyday jewelry or could go well with slightly formal clothing. The piece would be perfect for someone you care for. Maybe it would be possible to find similar stones to make a match to it as well. The little price tag shows the gold it would cost you…it's a bit on the high side and would leave your purse quite light. You wrinkle your nose. You could try to haggle but as you just overheard an argument over price, you don't think the keeper will come down much. As you chew your bottom lip in thought, you realize the voices have stopped. You look over and no longer see the cloaked figure at the stall and are a bit disappointed. As to why, you are unsure. [[You sigh.|5.A2]]

"Find anything you like?" A voice interrupts. You startle, dropping the <<if $gift5 is 'parents'>>statue<<elseif $gift5 is 'Lakota'>>pouch<<else>>bracelet<</if>>. A swift hand snatches it before it can fall. Your eyes dart up resting upon the dark gaze of the cloaked person – a man you realize, has managed to get right next to you without you noticing at all. "Um, yeah, I believe so," you answer. "Quite a lovely thing," he says. You nod and then say, "Yes, I thought it would make a lovely gift for <<if $gift5 is 'parents'>>my parents<<elseif $gift5 is 'Lakota'>>my closest friend<<else>>a, uh, good friend<</if>>." "Oh – no, no. Not this drab thing – I meant you." He winks. You stare back dumbly as he hands you back the <<if $gift5 is 'parents'>>statue<<elseif $gift5 is 'Lakota'>>pouch of seeds<<else>>bracelet<</if>>. And then it clicks. You remember where you saw that cloak. <<if $ch5Broute is true>>He was the one on the hill who shot down the bandit before he could kill you.<<else>>He was the one who was able to get you quick entry into the city.<</if>> You distinctly remember how his cloak caught your eye, the silver threads glittering slightly. "I…I've seen you before…" His eyes turn up at the corners once more. "Yes, fantastic memory you have. You see…" He points over to where he was first standing. "I was once right over there." You glower, but before you can say another word, the stranger continues. "Oh, shopkeep!" He waves at the balding man minding the stall. The bloke stomps over. "I won't hear this again, young man, my price is firm." "Sure, sure! But, I'll do you one better. Throw this $pronouns's purchase in, and I will pay your full price for the little trinket I desire." "Are you touched, boy? I'd be losing more gold that way." "Ah, but you see, your freedom is priceless – is it not?" His tone shifts, and you gather the stranger isn't just being funny anymore. The shopkeep stiffens. "What in the stars are you on about?" The stranger takes the <<if $gift5 is 'parents'>>statue<<elseif $gift5 is 'Lakota'>>pouch<<else>>bracelet<</if>> from you once more and holds it up. "There's been a rash of thievery lately, haven't you heard?" "That's got noth-" "I think the guard, who are quite fond of me, would find you terribly mistaken, sir. This little thing matches the description given by one Master Cordwain in a list of stolen goods reported just the other day." The shopkeeper's face pales. "No…that can't- No. I just traded for that…they…they…" His eyes nervously shift around. "Oh, so you're a fence are you?" "Never!" Bellows the keep. The stranger hands the item back to you. "So, do we have a deal?" The keeper is beet-red now. "Fine! But I never want to see the likes of either of you back at my stall!" Your mouth drops. What did you do!? The stranger exchanges the gold and ushers you away before you can even make an argument. "Well done," the stranger says. "I didn't do anything! Was this really stolen?" You almost panic. What if you get caught? Would anyone post your bail? The stranger laughs – a melodic sound. "Fuck if I know." He shrugs and then laughs again, this time with a snarky lilt to the tone. "Not really my problem anymore now is it? You've served your purpose, take your spoils and celebrate." You have a mind to snatch the mask from his face and look upon his – no doubt – arrogant expression. A flurry of emotion ripples through you along with an odd spike of pain that ignites through the new expanse of the mark. You try to keep yourself from panicking in the middle of the market, but you know your face must be giving you away. The stranger tilts his head at you. Stepping closer, he dips into a bow before raising up again and coming close – too close. He looms over you<<if $height is 'verytall'>> – there are few people who do, so it feels particularly odd<</if>>. And his eyes zero in on yours. You finally see that you were correct and they are a very deep brown – there's a richness to the color that you've never seen in others before, with flecks of lighter brown making them look like stones. You wait for him to speak, but he doesn't. He just stares into you blankly, yet you find yourself unable to look away. Finally, he clears his throat. "I apologize," he says quietly. "I tend to get caught up in my own little…endeavors and-" "Speak from your ass?" you finish. "Quite." He sighs. "Listen, let us start over." "To start over, don't you need to have started the first time?" He scoffs. "Goodness, I have chosen the wrong person to slight. I appreciate a sharp tongue, allow me to introduce you to mine. I am Astrophel – but please – for the sake of the gods, do not call me that." "What shall I call you if not your name?" "Simply 'Aster,' if you please. My friends have, thankfully, shortened it for me." His eyes curl up as he smiles. Your eyes go a little wide and your mouth drops. Memories of your childhood come to the surface as you remember your dear friend with wild frizzy hair getting into trouble with you.<<if $gift5 is 'Lakota'>>The very person you are getting this gift for.<</if>> "That was my best friend's name when we were children." Aster's eyes go wide. "Really? Perhaps this is fate? I thought I felt a connection with you when our eyes met. Must be in the stars. Tell me your name, perhaps it shall strike a chord for me as well." "$mc." <<if $mc is 'Noodles'>>Aster's face scrunches up – he makes no effort to hide his distaste. "Did your family give you that name or did you commit such an atrocity against yourself? You know what, I don't want to even know."<<elseif $mc is 'Ravinder'>>Aster's lips pout as he seems to stop and think. "That's…that actually strikes a chord. Quite familiar, that name, but I don't recall why. Hm, not often I don't remember something."<<elseif $mc is 'Ravi'>>Aster's lips pout as he seems to stop and think. "That's…that actually strikes a chord. Quite familiar, that name, but I don't recall why. Hm, not often I don't remember something. It's nice though, rolls off the tongue in a //satisfying// way."<<else>>Aster taps his chin with his knuckles as he thinks. "It's a lovely name, but I fear it doesn't strike a chord with me. At least – yet."<</if>> He smirks down at you. "Well, $mc, it was a pleasure meeting you and doing business. I do hope you are satisfied with your, uh, //purchase//." [[You say your goodbyes.|5.A2a]] $flirt_label [[You really want to see under his mask before he goes.|5.A2b]]

You smile and bow your head slightly. "Thank you for the //purchase// of my gift. I wish you well in the future, Aster." He narrows his eyes at you. "Hm, I hope we cross paths again. If nothing else, hearing my name on your tongue is an unexpected delight. I'll cherish the memory." You barely keep your eyes from rolling. "I believe I have overstayed my welcome in your presence. Your friend over there has been watching me as if I am looking to steal you away." You turn your gaze down the street and realize that through the bustle of citizens, a familiar figure really is watching you… [[Oswin.|5.A3a]] [[Zahn.|5.A3b]] [[Duri.|5.A3c]] [[Rune.|5.A3d]]

<<set $Aflirt +=3>> <<set $Abold +=3>> <<set $Ashy +=3>> "Wait!" you call, the word slipping from your lips unbidden. "Yes?" Aster tilts his head, his dark eyes studying you. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You tense and then fidget on the spot. "Um…your face…"<<else>>You smile. "Well, I'd like to see your face before you head off is all."<</if>> "My face?" "Yes, I can only see your eyes. But if I ever saw you without the mask, I'd like to be able to recognize you. How else would I say hello? Besides, you look like a bandit anyway – it makes you stick out, and doesn't that just defeat the purpose?" "Hm, perhaps it does, but the mask serves another purpose." "Which is?" "You'll ''desire'' to //see// me again. You'll long for it even. You've already implied as much." Aster winks. "Until then, may the memory of my dark and mysterious eyes keep you up at night." He bats his lashes at you. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You roll your eyes.<<else>>You snort a laugh.<</if>> "I believe I have overstayed my welcome in your presence. Your friend over there has been watching me as if I am looking to steal you away." You turn your gaze down the street and realize that through the bustle of citizens, a familiar figure is watching you… [[Oswin.|5.A3a]] [[Zahn.|5.A3b]] [[Duri.|5.A3c]] [[Rune.|5.A3d]]

But his eyes aren't precisely on you. Even from here, you can see his scowl directed at your new acquaintance. Once he notices you looking, his expression morphs into something much more soft. By the time you turn back, Aster has disappeared from view. You cannot even spot his dark and glittering cloak in the throngs of plain-clothed people. Quick and silent – a bit of a deadly combination. When you can't find him in the crowd, you decide to head back up the street, tucking your special gift away. Oswin smiles as you approach. "Everything okay?" he asks. You nod. "Yeah, just met someone in the market. He was the one who <<if $ch5Broute is true>>shot down the bandit before he could stab me.<<else>>got the guards to let us through the gates when we arrived.<</if>>" "I see. Did he seem like a decent sort? It's a little suspicious wearing a mask in a market…." "I'm not sure we spoke long enough for me to make a fair assessment. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>He seemed a bit cheeky, I think.<<else>>He seemed like a fun sort of person to me.<</if>>" Oswin nods. "Either way, he did come to our aid. I suppose he wouldn't be a bad person if he's willing to do such a thing." You both begin to walk back to the inn in comfortable silence, with nothing but the din of other patrons around you. You can't help but think that you might meet the masked stranger again, a niggling feeling in your gut tells you so. [[Your dreams are haunted by a pair of dark eyes.|5.Z]]

But $Zhisher eyes aren't precisely on you. Even from here, you can see $Zhisher curious look directed at your new acquaintance. Once $Zheshe notices you looking, $Zhisher expression morphs into happy excitement. By the time you turn back, Aster has disappeared from view. You cannot even spot his dark and glittering cloak in the throngs of plain-clothed people. Quick and silent – a bit of a deadly combination. When you can't find him in the crowd, you decide to head back up the street, tucking your special gift away. Zahn runs to meet you partway, all smiles. "Hey, $mc! What are you up to? That person wasn't giving you trouble I hope." You nod. "Yeah everything is fine, just met someone in the market. He was the one who <<if $ch5Broute is true>>shot down the bandit before he could stab me.<<else>>got the guards to let us through the gates when we arrived.<</if>>" "Oh! What fortune! He looks rich if his clothes are anything to go by. Was he nice?" "I'm not sure we spoke long enough for me to make a fair assessment. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>He seemed a bit cheeky, I think.<<else>>He seemed like a fun sort of person to me.<</if>>" "I wonder if he's like one of those vigilante people? What with the mask and all – maybe he goes around and does good deeds or something." You both begin to walk back to the inn as Zahn continues to spin theories on the masked stranger. You can't help but think that you might meet him again, a niggling feeling in your gut tells you so. [[Your dreams are haunted by a pair of dark eyes.|5.Z]]

But $Dhisher eyes aren't precisely on you. Even from here, you can see $Dhisher puzzled look directed at your new acquaintance. Once $Dheshe notices you looking, $Dhisher expression morphs into pure mischief. By the time you turn back, Aster has disappeared from view. You cannot even spot his dark and glittering cloak in the throngs of plain-clothed people. Quick and silent – a bit of a deadly combination. When you can't find him in the crowd, you decide to head back up the street, tucking your special gift away. Duri circles you once you reach $Dhimher, trying to be subtle about sniffing you. "Who's the pretty stranger, hm? You having a little tryst without me?" <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You give a longsuffering sigh. "Could you at least try to be polite and just smell me from a respectable distance?"<<else>>You grit your teeth. "Quit sniffing me, and I'll tell you."<</if>> Duri stops and shrugs. "Sorry, I was curious and it's a habit." "Anyway, he was the one who <<if $ch5Broute is true>>shot down the bandit before he could stab me.<<else>>got the guards to let us through the gates when we arrived.<</if>>" "Oh! A masked hero, how sexy. Was he like the ones you read about in children's tales? Or, maybe more like the ones in the books Runey hides under $Rhisher bed?" "...Rune has books un- You know what, never mind – I'm not sure we spoke long enough for me to make a fair assessment. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>He seemed a bit cheeky, I think.<<else>>He seemed like a fun sort of person to me.<</if>>" You both begin to walk back to the inn in comfortable silence, with nothing but the din of other patrons around you. You can't help but think that you might meet the masked stranger again, a niggling feeling in your gut tells you so. [[Your dreams are haunted by a pair of dark eyes.|5.Z]]

But $Rhisher eyes aren't precisely on you. Even from here, you can see $Rhisher nonplussed look directed at your new acquaintance. Once $Rheshe notices you looking, $Rhisher expression morphs into something much more warm and beckoning. By the time you turn back, Aster has disappeared from view. You cannot even spot his dark and glittering cloak in the throngs of plain-clothed people. Quick and silent – a bit of a deadly combination. When you can't find him in the crowd, you decide to head back up the street, tucking your special gift away. Rune smiles as you approach. "Everything okay?" $Rheshe asks. You nod. "Yeah, just met someone in the market. He was the one who <<if $ch5Broute is true>>shot down one of the bandits we told you about. I think he may have saved my life, or at least saved me from injury.<<else>>got the guards to let us through the gates when we arrived.<</if>>" Rune hums. "I've glimpsed him a time or two. Aster I think he's called." "You know him then?" "Not really. He riles people up sometimes, the innkeepers have banned him for it but he sneaks in on occasion, particularly when I'm in town. <<if $ch5Broute is true>>He's a rich scholar or something, looking for artifacts I assume.<<else>>He took advantage of the stir your arrival brought and worked the crowd at the inn. I assume he's searching for artifacts or something.<</if>>" "What sort of artifacts?" "Same as most others, but he's a little more dignified than a bandit accosting people on the road. Looks for things from the gods or even bits from the old world. People like him are either searching for power and riches or to solve mysteries of their own creation. They're best ignored." "He at least came to our aid when we needed it." "And I am truly thankful that he did." Rune smiles at you, giving you a warm look. You both begin to walk back to the inn in comfortable silence, with nothing but the din of other patrons around you. You can't help but feel that you might meet the masked stranger again, a niggling feeling in your gut tells you so. [[Your dreams are haunted by a pair of dark eyes.|5.Z]]

You bring $Zhimher close to you, curling your arm around $Zhisher shoulders to bring $Zhimher into lean on you. Zahn sighs with contentment as $Zheshe rests $Zhisher head on your chest and circles your middle with an arm. You get a waft of lilacs from Zahn's hair and notice how it seems to be more fluffy and bouncy than before. You're not the only one enjoying the luxury of the bath and Rune's expensive soaps and oils. The brief thought that Zahn would probably try to eat the soap crosses your mind and you almost laugh. Zahn snuggles into you deeper. "This is so nice. Makes me feel all…warm, but not…like on the inside." You hug Zahn tighter. "I know what you mean. It's comforting." "Safe. It feels safe." Zahn swings one leg over yours. You begin to idly play with $Zhisher soft hair and Zahn hums with delight. "My fathers would hold me like this when I was a kid. It made me feel so much smaller, but not in a bad way. Like, even though I felt so tiny in their arms, I felt like nothing could hurt me.<<if $height is 'verytall'>> Now, I'm as big as they were when I was a kid, but they still just //feel// bigger. It still makes me feel safe too.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>> Now, I'm as big as they were when I was a kid – well, as big as my da at least – but they still just //feel// bigger to me. And it still makes me feel safe.<</if>>" "That's kinda how I feel right now too, and maybe something more than that even." Zahn's hand lightly touches your side, tracing the threads in your thin lounge clothes. "Mm, you smell good. <<if $favsmell is "citrus">>Like fresh fruit.<<elseif $favsmell is "vanilla with warm spices">>Like cakes or cookies.<<elseif $favsmell is "the forest">>Sort of like tea.<<elseif $favsmell is "sweet candies">>Like sweeties.<<elseif $favsmell is "herbs">>Like a tasty feast.<<elseif $favsmell is "flowers">>Like sweet nectar.<</if>>" You smile. "You're not hungry, are you?" "How did you know?" Zahn pops $Zhisher head up and looks at you curiously before settling back down. "Just a hunch," you say, tracing the shell of $Zhisher ear. Zahn squeezes you and closes $Zhisher eyes. "I don't want to leave," $Zheshe murmurs softly. <<if $Zstat5 is 'romantic'>>Your heart flutters.<</if>> "Just stay as long as you can…." For a long time, you both settle in each other's company, lightly touching as you snuggle and comfort one another. A couple of times you nearly nod off to sleep, lulled by the peace you feel with your arms around Zahn. But it has to end, and eventually, $Zheshe gets up and leaves the warmth of the bed, looking sullen. After taking a moment, Zahn finally perks back up and smiles at you. "That was wonderful, but I really should go now. I'm glad you suggested that. We should do it again. And we can do //more// if you ever want to, but we don't have to." You smile and nod. "Alright, I'll keep that in mind." $Zcapitalheshe jogs to the door. "I'll head out now – Rune takes tea and snacks soon, and if I'm quick I can snag a few cakes from $Rhisher tray before I go." You roll your eyes as Zahn flees the room, giggling. [[You hear a man yelp and the clatter of a metal tray shortly after.|5.Z3a]]

Zahn brings you close by putting an arm around your shoulder so you can rest your head on $Zhisher chest. You nestle in close, throwing your arm around $Zhimher and finally tucking your head in the crook of $Zhisher neck. You get a waft of lilacs from Zahn's hair and notice how it seems to be more fluffy and bouncy than before. You're not the only one enjoying the luxury of the bath and Rune's expensive soaps and oils. The brief thought that Zahn would probably try to eat the soap crosses your mind and you almost laugh. Zahn circles $Zhisher arms around you and presses you against $Zhimselfherself tighter. "This is so nice. Makes me feel all…warm, but not- Like inside." You hug Zahn tighter in return. "I know what you mean. It's comforting." "Safe. It feels safe," Zahn says, gently rubbing your back. You begin to idly play your fingers along $Zhisher collarbone and Zahn hums with delight. "My fathers would hold me like this when I was a kid. It made me feel so much smaller, but not in a bad way. Like, even though I felt so tiny in their arms, I felt like nothing could hurt me.<<if $height is 'verytall'>> Now, I'm as big as they were when I was a kid, but they still just //feel// bigger. It still makes me feel safe too.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>> Now, I'm as big as they were when I was a kid – well, as big as my da at least – but they still just //feel// bigger to me. And it still makes me feel safe.<</if>>" "I hope I can do that for you – make you feel safe. I'm not big or tall, but I want to keep you safe…" Zahn's hand lightly touches your side, tracing the threads in your thin lounge clothes. "Mm, you smell good too. <<if $favsmell is "citrus">>Like fresh fruit.<<elseif $favsmell is "vanilla with warm spices">>Like cakes or cookies.<<elseif $favsmell is "the forest">><<elseif $favsmell is "sweet candies">>Like sweeties.<<elseif $favsmell is "herbs">>Like a tasty feast.<<elseif $favsmell is "flowers">>Like flower tea and nectar.<</if>>" You smile. "You're not hungry are you?" "How did you know?" Zahn chuckles, resting $Zhisher head on yours. "Just a hunch," you say, tracing a path up $Zhisher neck with a delicate touch. Zahn squeezes you. "I don't want to leave," $Zheshe murmurs softly. <<if $Zstat5 is 'romantic'>>Your heart flutters.<</if>> "Just stay as long as you can…." For a long time, you both settle in each other's company, lightly touching as you snuggle and comfort one another. A couple of times you nearly nod off to sleep, lulled by the peace you feel with your arms around Zahn. But it has to end, and eventually, $Zheshe gets up and leaves the warmth of the bed, looking sullen. After taking a moment, Zahn finally perks back up and smiles at you. "That was wonderful, but I really should go now. I'm glad you suggested that – we should do it again. And we can do //more// if you ever want to, but we don't have to." You smile and nod. "Alright, I'll keep that in mind." $Zcapitalheshe jogs to the door. "I'll head out now – Rune takes tea and snacks soon, and if I'm quick I can snag a few cakes from $Rhisher tray before I go." You roll your eyes as Zahn flees the room, giggling. [[You hear a man yelp and the clatter of a metal tray shortly after.|5.Z3a]]

It feels like the afternoon passes in a flash. All you accomplished was an impromptu nap and a round of catch with $wolf. She's very good at it. As you traverse the long stretch of hallway from your room to the stairs, the din of the crowd reaches your ears. It's still early, yet there seems to be a sizable crowd already. You hear the occasional pluck of lyre strings, you presume from Rune tuning $Rhisher instrument. The smell of roasting meat and vegetables with a bit of something sweet hits you the closer you get to the bottom steps. The patrons are thick right at the bottom of the stairs, waiting for Rune to play. You're not even sure if you can make your way through them to get into the lobby. <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>You try to simply push through once you reach the bottom step, but only the first line of people in your path let you through. The next group is packed so tightly, that you only succeed in jarring them and getting dirty looks in return.<<else>>You politely ask to be let through. One person allows you through the first line of patrons, but then you are met with a wall of others who ignore you.<</if>> A booming voice calls through the crowd. "Make way! Make way!" And then you hear three hard bangs – wood against wood. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>You see across the room very easily.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>You see across the room easily.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>You stand on your toes so you can see what's going on.<<else>>You jump to see what is happening.<</if>> It's Garza, one of the owners Rune told you about, and he's looking right at you as he bellows again. "I said make way!" He bangs a staff against the floor again and people finally begin to part. "Get the fuck outta the way! Clear the stairs you dolts and let my guest through, else I'll set my wife on ya!" A small voice from the back pipes in. "What am I, a dog!?" The other patrons grumble but shuffle quickly from your path. Garza is a huge man – tall and broad. He has blue eyes and salt-and-pepper hair which is much heavier on the salt. He is just as loud as he is tall but wears plain clothes – a simple tunic with leather pants and a long duster over top. You can't tell if his staff is for fun or if he needs it to walk. He doesn't appear terribly old, maybe a bit younger than your parents. "Alright, Northbreaker, come with me! Lyreheart saved you a seat." He smiles at you, the apples of his cheeks nearly hiding his eyes completely. You bridge the gap and reach Garza as a short – very short – woman hustles to you. It's Alondra, the keeper that you met earlier during tea with Rune. She wipes her hands on her apron. "Oh! You're still up and around! I'm so glad you're doing so much better, dear." You smile and greet her with a wave. Now that you aren't sitting, you finally gauge how tall she is…or isn't rather. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>It feels as though she is only half your size.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>She is…incredibly short, you nearly tower over her as much as Garza does.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>She is short enough that you finally feel tall.<<else>>She is even shorter than you, a feat you never thought possible in adults.<</if>> Her long black hair escapes the bun on the top of her head and her apron is covered with flour and soaked with water right in the middle. Her light brown eyes shine with joy. Garza throws a big arm around her shoulders and brings her in close. "This peppy thing is my lovely wife if you haven't been properly introduced – she's the brains and master chef of this place and my guiding star, my moon, my sun, my-" "We get it!" Alondra elbows him in the side. You try not to laugh. "It's lovely to //officially// meet you both. I appreciate your hospitality to me and my group." Alondra smiles at you fondly. "Oh, dear, it's no bother. Sometimes you just find yourself in a spot and need a little help. That's life. Make yourself at home, and take the time you need to get back on your feet." Garza smiles, looking at Alondra instead of you. "What she said…. This is why I married her – she has a heart for everyone, and ''gods'' can she cook." He pats his round stomach. Alondra rolls her eyes. "You only married me for my pies and roasts! I knew it!" She throws her hands up and begins to walk away. "It's not the //only// reason!" Garza calls out. He looks back and you and then cups his hands to his chest – holding them out a ways for emphasis while he nods. A hunk of what might be dough flies across the room and smacks the man in the head. "So help me, this rolling pin will go straight up your ass if you keep carrying on like that!" "Yes, my love!" He motions for you to follow, lowering his voice. "Buy a guy dinner first at least, am I right?" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You shake your head<<else>>You shake with laughter<</if>> as you walk with him. [[He leads you to a table.|5.2R2]]

Your seat faces the side of the stage where Rune sits, facing you while plucking the strings of $Rhisher lyre, dressed in the same robe as the night you first came to the inn. $Rcapitalheshe meets your gaze, giving you a nod and a smile before returning attention to the strings. To your surprise, Duri leans against the wall, hidden in shadow, arms crossed together as $Dheshe grins at you – the one little fang on display. You are more surprised to see $Dhimher in regular clothes – a loose button-up shirt, trousers that are a little too short and held up with suspenders…these are Rune's clothes. You chuckle as you sit and then Duri plops in the seat next to yours. "Nice clothes," you quip. Duri pitches back and throws $Dhisher feet up on the table – bare feet. "Thanks! Picked them up just tonight. Wanted a change." You glance at Rune who is glaring back towards Duri. "Where did you pick them up?" you ask. "Runey's floor," Duri says. "$Rcapitalheshe didn't think I'd be able to pick $Rhisher new lock…" You shake your head. "I take it you can?" "Nope!" "So how did you steal Rune's clothes?" Duri fishes in $Dhisher (Rune's) pocket, procuring a key just enough for you to see. "I can't pick locks. Why waste the time to learn when people leave keys just hanging around?" You snort, but before you can say anything, Duri's chair lurches back suddenly, stopping just barely before $Dhisher head hits the floor. $Dcapitalhisher legs stick straight up in the air. "Feet off the table," Rune says from $Rhisher perch on the stage, without even a glance. You look around the legs of the chair, spotting traces of glittering purple tendrils wrapped around them. The chair slowly rights itself as a pouting Duri glares at the mage. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I mean, $Rheshe has a point," you say.<<else>>"You probably deserved that," you say in jest and smile.<</if>> "No fun, either of you." Duri leans the chair back on the rear legs but keeps $Dhisher feet on the floor. "How are you feeling, $mc?" "Much better now. After taking a rest, I'm ready to move around a while though." "I'm glad." Duri gives you a long look. "What?" Duri shrugs. "Nothing really, I just like looking at you." You stare back at the demigod, unconvinced. "So, what are you doing here tonight? Is this the sort of thing you enjoy?" $Dcapitalheshe wrinkles $Dhisher nose. "Not really. It's fun to work a crowd sometimes, maybe switch some valuables around, but this mess is too busy for me. Runey makes pretty music though, and //you're// here." Duri smiles at you – all teeth. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You gently nudge $Dhimher with your shoulder. "Something tells me that's not the whole story though. You can tell me. I may not even tease you if it's embarrassing."<<else>>You give $Dhimher an incredulous look. "Mm-hmm, and?"<</if>> Duri growls in frustration. "Fine. I'm sort of…under house arrest I guess. Just for a few more days." "Does this have something to do with you being banned? Seems to me like the opposite should happen if that's the case." $Dcapitalheshe folds $Dhisher arms. "You set one fire – //accidentally// – and everyone gets their knickers in a twist about it…Runey just wants to keep an eye on me, at least $Rheshe claims." You recall when Duri stormed out of the meeting you all had. Perhaps Rune is worried about Duri's emotional state. The question of what their relationship to each other is begins to circle your mind. $flirt_label [[You feel a slight pang for Duri.|5.2R2a]] +D $flirt_label [[You feel a slight pang for Rune.|5.2R2b]] +R [[You're just a bit curious.|5.2R2c]]

<<set $Dflirt +=5>> Duri scoots closer to you, bringing $Dhisher lips right to your ear. "What are you thinking about?" The way $Dhisher voice tickles your ear sends a shiver down your back. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>"//Nothing//," you quickly respond.<<else>>"Don't worry about it," you say.<</if>> You're unsure if it's your place to ask. The two don't quite act like lovers as far as you can tell, but they do act oddly familiar with each other. You've just met Rune and Duri is still a bit of a stranger, perhaps they have a history. "It's cute when you're jealous." Duri begins to snicker. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"Oh, don't look so far into it."<<else>>"There's nothing to be jealous of."<</if>> "//So// cute." $Dcapitalheshe props $Dhisher head on $Dhisher hand and stares at you. "We're just friends – we have always just been friends." "I didn't ask." "You didn't have to." Duri puckers $Dhisher lips at you, looking like a fish for a moment. "Feel free to pine for me all you want." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You scoff. "I'm not ''pining'' for you. Don't be ridiculous. You are the one clearly hung up over me anyway."<<else>>You force a laugh. "Oh, whatever. I think they call that projection or…wishful thinking."<</if>> "Would you like that?" "What?" "What if I do pine for you? Hm? What if I want to take you up to your room and show you how much I want you? It doesn't mean anything, just a bit of fun. I'd love to please you, watch you fall apart, teach you the true meaning of pleasure." You watch as a subtle glow emits from Duri's eyes. The look $Dheshe gives you is predatory – hungry, full of desire, and a touch vicious. Your tongue isn't sure how to respond, but the conversation is blissfully interrupted by the clatter of a heavy dish on the table. "Alright!" Garza bellows. "House special for two with drinks. Wave me down if you need a top-off or anything else!" He gives you a nod and then sets off. You gaze at the large tray of food. It's loaded with at least three types of potato, a smattering of other vegetables, bread and cheeses, jams, sliced fruit, a huge bowl of beans in some sort of sticky sauce, and two small bowls of some kind of meat stew. This is enough to feed a family of six, and fortunately, you are about as hungry as just such a family. Duri wastes no time in snagging a bowl of stew with a bit of bread. "They must like you a lot. This is not the house special for //two//." "I think they must like Rune." You peruse the platter to find something to start with. "Either way, they like you enough to counteract their distaste for me, and for that, I am very thankful." As you eat, you think that Duri may be so distracted by food that $Dheshe doesn't remember the conversation you were having. On one hand, you are glad of it, on the other, you still wonder. "To answer your burning question from earlier," Duri says – surprisingly while covering $Dhisher mouth with a hand. "Me and Runey never had a thing. I pester $Rhimher with flirting, but it's not like that." "How did you meet then? Do you come to the city often or something?" "I pop in when I get bored or want some company. I first met Rune a few years ago when $Rheshe was just starting the whole bard thing. I was…pretty sour I guess. Hunters had hurt a couple of my family in the pack, they were slowly dying and there was nothing I could do. I came here to distract myself in a warm bed, flirted with Runey, $Rheshe turned me down hard. $Rcapitalheshe seemed to just know something was on my mind and we talked and then $Rheshe followed me into the woods and healed my pack. Just like that." "That was kind." //And courageous//, you think to yourself. Duri nods. "Most healers would say, 'they're just wolves,' and I'd be out of luck. Rune didn't even think it over, I didn't even need to ask. Most people you meet are disappointing, $mc, but not $Rhimher. Runey tolerates me, lets me have my fun too. $Rcapitalheshe has banned me from the inn about ten times already, but always lets me back in." $Dcapitalheshe smiles, looking into $Dhisher stew. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"So, you're a pest to $Rhimher because you care. I suppose even I can see the charm in that.<<else>>"I think I understand it now – you get under $Rhisher skin because you care. Maybe we're a bit alike then.<</if>>" "Don't tell $Rhimher that," Duri whispers. You glance up at Rune who has $Rhisher eyes closed as $Rheshe continues to practice and tune the lyre. "Do you really think that Rune doesn't already know?" Duri snorts. "No, but $Rheshe has the kindness to not remind me…. You know, if anyone can help you figure out your //predicament// it will be Rune. I won't pretend like $Rheshe isn't invested out of some personal curiosity, but $Rheshe truly cares. The more difficult the case, the more Rune tries, I think." "Why do you believe that is?" you ask, swirling your drink. "I don't know for sure, but I know some of Rune's background – it's not for me to say, but I think some of it is almost like…penance, but not at the same time." Duri takes a breath as if to continue but then suddenly stops. "It's not my place to tell you what I know, I can't betray Rune's trust like that." You nod. [[Before the conversation continues, the notes of the lyre take your attention.|5.2R3]]

<<set $Rflirt +=5>> Duri scoots closer to you, bringing $Dhisher lips right to your ear. "Ooh, $mc, not jealous of me are you? How sweet. Runey is quite the catch – exceedingly lovely, smart, powerful, eyes to get lost in, lips to be caught by…" The way $Dhisher voice tickles your ear sends a shiver down your back. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>"//No//, it's not like that," you quickly respond.<<else>>"Don't you start," you say.<</if>> You're unsure if it's your place to ask. The two don't quite act like lovers as far as you can tell, but they do act oddly familiar with each other. You've just met Rune and Duri is still a bit of a stranger, perhaps they have a history. "It's so cute when you're jealous." Duri begins to snicker. "Oh, Runey would eat this up, though $Rheshe would act all prim about it." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"You're just reading too far into it."<<else>>"There's nothing to be jealous of."<</if>> "//So// cute." $Dcapitalheshe props $Dhisher head on $Dhisher hand and stares at you. "We're just friends – we have always just been friends." "I didn't ask." "You didn't have to." Duri leers at you. "Covet the bard all you like, $mc." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You scoff. "I'm not. Don't be ridiculous. Is this some sort of fetish for you?"<<else>>You force a laugh. "Oh, whatever. I think they call that projection or…wishful thinking."<</if>> "Maybe it is. Can't blame me for thinking about it – you'd be very cute together. Maybe Rune would dress you in purple, dote on you with jewels and feats of magic, show you off to all $Rhisher friends." "What?" "You probably didn't know that Runey hasn't had a lover in a while. $Rcapitalheshe seems to have a soft spot for you already, that's better than others have done. There's no shortage of admirers for $Rhimher, you know. Tonight this whole place will be filled with people who just want to get in $Rhisher robes…" "//Stop that//. Stop it right now, Duri'naan." Something thuds hard against the table, interrupting the conversation. "Alright!" Garza bellows. "House special with drinks for two. Wave me down if you need a top-off or anything else!" He gives you a nod and then sets off. You gaze at the large tray of food. It's loaded with at least three types of potato, a smattering of other vegetables, bread and cheeses, jams, sliced fruit, a huge bowl of beans in some sort of sticky sauce, and two small bowls of some kind of meat stew. This is enough to feed a family of six, and fortunately, you are about as hungry as just such a family. Duri wastes no time in snagging a bowl of stew with a bit of bread. "They must like you a lot. This is not the house special for //two//." "I think they must like Rune." You peruse the platter to find something to start with. "Either way, they like you enough to counteract their distaste for me, and for that, I am very thankful." As you eat, you think that Duri may be so distracted by food that $Dheshe doesn't remember the conversation you were having. On one hand, you are glad of it, on the other, you still wonder. You're also curious about the apparent heat that Duri was teasing you with. Is $Dheshe trying to antagonize you into pursuing or staying away from Rune? You can't tell. "To answer your burning question from earlier," Duri says – surprisingly while covering $Dhisher mouth with a hand. "Me and Runey never had a thing. I pester $Rhimher with flirting, but it's not like that. And I apologize if I was…nettling you too much." "How did you meet then? Do you come to the city often or something?" "I pop in when I get bored or want some company. I first met Rune a few years ago when $Rheshe was just starting the whole bard thing. I was…pretty sour I guess. Hunters had hurt a couple of my family in the pack, they were slowly dying and there was nothing I could do. I came here to distract myself in a warm bed, flirted with Runey, $Rheshe turned me down hard. $Rcapitalheshe seemed to just know something was on my mind and we talked and then $Rheshe followed me into the woods and healed my pack. Just like that." "That was kind." //And courageous//, you think to yourself. Duri nods. "Most healers would say, 'they're just wolves,' and I'd be out of luck. Rune didn't even think it over, I didn't even need to ask. Most people you meet are disappointing, $mc, but not $Rhimher. Runey tolerates me, lets me have my fun too. $Rcapitalheshe has banned me from the inn about ten times already, but always lets me back in." $Dcapitalheshe smiles, looking into $Dhisher stew. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"So, you're a pest to $Rhimher because you care. I suppose even I can see the charm in that.<<else>>"I think I understand it now – you get under $Rhisher skin because you care. Maybe we're a bit alike then.<</if>>" "Don't tell $Rhimher that," Duri whispers. You glance up at Rune who has $Rhisher eyes closed as $Rheshe continues to practice and tune the lyre. "Do you really think that Rune doesn't already know?" Duri snorts. "No, but $Rheshe has the kindness to not remind me…. You know, if anyone can help you figure out your //predicament// it will be Rune. I won't pretend like $Rheshe isn't invested out of some personal curiosity, but $Rheshe truly cares. The more difficult the case, the more Rune tries, I think." "Why do you believe that is?" you ask, swirling your drink. "I don't know for sure, but I know some of Rune's background – it's not for me to say, but I think some of it is almost like…penance but not at the same time." Duri takes a breath as if to continue but then suddenly stops. "It's not my place to tell you what I know, I can't betray Rune's trust like that." You nod. Duri leans closer to you to whisper. "Just between us, if you did have some sort of affection for Rune…I'd support you – at least as far as I know you now. Most people just want to use $Rhimher – take, take, take. Runey will give until $Rheshe's broken, but you seem more the type that would hold $Rhimher together. Just thought I'd say so." You're not sure how to respond to that, so you just stare back into Duri's gold-brown eyes. [[Before you can respond, the notes of the lyre take your attention.|5.2R3]]

You decide to simply ask. "So, how did you two become…acquainted?" Duri thinks for a moment, but as $Dheshe opens $Dhisher mouth to answer, something thuds hard against the table. "Alright!" Garza bellows. "House special with drinks for two. Wave me down if you need a top-off or anything else!" He gives you a nod and then sets off. You gaze at the large tray of food. It's loaded with at least three types of potato, a smattering of other vegetables, bread and cheeses, jams, sliced fruit, a huge bowl of beans in some sort of sticky sauce, and two small bowls of some kind of meat stew. This is enough to feed a family of six, and fortunately, you are about as hungry as just such a family. Duri wastes no time in snagging a bowl of stew with a bit of bread. "They must like you a lot. This is not the house special for //two//." "I think they must like Rune." You peruse the platter to find something to start with. "Either way, they like you enough to counteract their distaste for me, and for that, I am very thankful." As you eat, you think that Duri may be so distracted by food that $Dheshe doesn't remember the conversation you were having. Your curiosity is still not sated. "To answer your burning question from earlier," Duri says – surprisingly while covering $Dhisher mouth with a hand. "Me and Runey are just friends. I pester $Rhimher with flirting, but it's not like that." "How did you meet then? Do you come to the city often or something?" "I pop in when I get bored or want some company. I first met Rune a few years ago when $Rheshe was just starting the whole bard thing. I was…pretty sour I guess. Hunters had hurt a couple of my family in the pack, they were slowly dying and there was nothing I could do. I came here to distract myself in a warm bed, flirted with Runey, $Rheshe turned me down hard. $Rcapitalheshe seemed to just know something was on my mind and we talked and then $Rheshe followed me into the woods and healed my pack. Just like that." "That was kind." //And courageous//, you think to yourself. Duri nods. "Most healers would say, 'they're just wolves,' and I'd be out of luck. Rune didn't even think it over, I didn't even need to ask. Most people you meet are disappointing, $mc, but not $Rhimher. Runey tolerates me, lets me have my fun too. $Rcapitalheshe has banned me from the inn about ten times already, but always lets me back in." $Dcapitalheshe smiles, looking into $Dhisher stew. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"So, you're a pest to $Rhimher because you care. I suppose even I can see the charm in that.<<else>>"I think I understand it now – you get under $Rhisher skin because you care. Maybe we're a bit alike then.<</if>>" "Don't tell $Rhimher that," Duri whispers. You glance up at Rune who has $Rhisher eyes closed as $Rheshe continues to practice and tune the lyre. "Do you really think that Rune doesn't already know?" Duri snorts. "No, but $Rheshe has the kindness to not remind me…. You know, if anyone can help you figure out your //predicament// it will be Rune. I won't pretend like $Rheshe isn't invested out of some personal curiosity, but $Rheshe truly cares. The more difficult the case, the more Rune tries, I think." "Why do you believe that is?" you ask, swirling your drink. "I don't know for sure, but I know some of Rune's background – it's not for me to say, but I think some of it is almost like…penance but also not." Duri takes a breath as if to continue but then suddenly stops. "It's not my place to tell you what I know, I can't betray Rune's trust like that." You nod. [[Before you can continue talking, the notes of the lyre take your attention.|5.2R3]]

The performance begins in earnest. There is no announcement or fanfare, $Rheshe simply plays and the entire audience hushes. Only then do you realize how large of an audience has formed. The room is filled with spectators. The tables are full, most people stand anywhere there is room, and some simply sit on the floor. Faces appear in nearly all the windows, pressing close to see and hear. Rune glows. Magic circles all around $Rhimher as $Rheshe plays. It glitters in many shades of purple with whisps of gold and silver interspersed. It dances slowly outward, spanning above the crowd as they reach up to try and touch it. The notes of the music are gentle, taking your spirit to a time when you had no cares. When your main concern was what snack your papa would give you and what you would play for the day. The time before you were sick. The time when a scraped knee or winter chill was the worst ill to befall you. The notes carry you through the trees of your home, running and jumping through the forest with Yarrow and Aster as their mother called you for dinner. Playing in the creek. Tracking mud in the house. Roasting a whole egg over the fire as a 'gift' to da. He even ate it. It was crunchy. You float along the melody as takes you through every peaceful and joyful moment of your early life. Rune's eyes are closed through all of it, $Rhisher hands moving with such assuredness and grace that you can barely comprehend it. As you listen, your heart swells. <<if $goal is 'love'>>You feel a spark within yourself, one that tells you there is hope for you. One that tells you that you are worthy of love, that there is someone out there who would gratefully seek your heart and hold it close. And just maybe, that person is already close to you.<<elseif $goal is 'friendship'>>You feel a warmth fuel you from within. One that tells you that there are those who will always stand by your side, those who will happily call you friend. You're not alone, you never were. You are already among those that hold your heart in friendship.<<elseif $goal is 'craft'>>A strength settles upon your shoulders, as you realize how capable you truly are. All of this is just a trial, one that you will overcome. This curse doesn't dampen your potential, it ultimately will not hold you back from achieving your goals.<<elseif $goal is 'answers'>>Your heart begins to beat with new courage. This is the year you get answers. This is your time to learn about yourself, to make peace, and close the book on all the mysteries that have plagued you.<<elseif $goal is 'independence'>>A fervor settles into your bones. This journey is your step into real adulthood, one where you are not shackled by misfortune and illness. You are not a burden to those who care for you.<</if>> Not all is lost. [[You watch on.|5.2R3a]] [[Tears run down your face.|5.2R3b]] [[A smile remains on your lips.|5.2R3c]]

Rune watches you back from time to time, adding subtle variations to the song when $Rheshe looks at you. A flurry of magic dances around you, crowning your head in a brilliant glow. Just when you think you could not be enchanted even more, Rune begins to sing. <<if $ch5Broute is true>> //<html> <body> Off they rode, off they rode The six companions bold Through meadow sweet and forest wild And over mountains cold On they went to meet their fate They knew what lay ahead Before the year had met its end They knew that they'd be dead </body> </html>// <<else>> //<html> <body> How sweet the taste of love can be When it is you who pours the wine How soft the feel of lover's lips A touch truly divine But gods cannot unmake my love Its light burns far too bright They could even drown the sun, my love But I would be your light </body> </html>// <</if>> The way Rune's voice wraps around each word gives you chills. It's almost as haunting as it is beautiful. You're enraptured by it and the pluck of the lute strings that you don't even realize how quickly time slips by. Before you know it, Rune's performance is done for the night and $Rheshe takes a bow to a thunderous applause. A good deal of the spectators clear out, though many linger for drinks, food, and flirtation. You sit back in your chair and suddenly realize that Duri is gone. Looking around, you don't spot $Dhimher either, though it looks like $Dheshe at least ate dinner. You stand to look over the crowd to try and spot $Dhimher, but are interrupted by a familiar voice. "Duri'naan ran out a while ago I'm afraid." You turn. Rune stands at your table, looking regal as ever with $Rhisher long and silky outer robe of pure white and deep purple. Even $Rhisher hair looks perfect, each black curl coils and shines like it was placed by an artist – the strands dyed in purple completing $Rhisher look. And peeking from under those luscious curls are glittering gold earnings up and down each of Rune's ears. You'd never know that $Rheshe was just playing in a tavern when $Rheshe is dressed as if performing for the monarch themself. There are no half-measures with Rundis Lyreheart. You settle back in your chair. "I didn't even notice $Dhimher leaving…Any idea why?" Rune settles in Duri's vacated chair and begins to pick at what is left of your meal platter. "At risk of saying more than what $Dheshe would want me to, I will only say that Duri'naan quite likes my music, but it becomes a bit much for $Dhimher." "So…the things I felt…" Rune nods. "It is part of it. Magic weaves into my song. It's something I cannot explain as I do not do it completely intentionally. Most tell me it draws out emotions. Some claim that ailments they've had for years suddenly vanish after my performances. Others don't feel anything and only hear the music. As long as it is a net gain for those that listen, I will keep playing." $Rcapitalheshe smiles. "Your performance was beautiful. I think I understand why so many people crowd around for it." "Thank you, it was a pleasure showing off a little for you tonight." You watch Rune pop a nibble of cheese into $Rhisher mouth and reply… $flirt_label "[["Would you like to show me anything else?"|5.2R3b1]]" $flirt_label "[["...You're just so wonderful…"|5.2R3b2]]" "[["My pleasure."|5.2R3b3]]"

Rune smiles warmly at you when $Rheshe opens $Rhisher eyes and looks back. A flurry of magic wisps touch your cheeks to wipe away the tears. Just when you think you could not be enchanted even more, Rune begins to sing. <<if $ch5Broute is true>> //<html> <body> Off they rode, off they rode The six companions bold Through meadow sweet and forest wild And over mountains cold On they went to meet their fate They knew what lay ahead Before the year had met its end They knew that they'd be dead </body> </html>// <<else>> //<html> <body> How sweet the taste of love can be When it is you who pours the wine How soft the feel of lover's lips A touch truly divine But gods cannot unmake my love Its light burns far too bright They could even drown the sun, my love But I would be your light </body> </html>// <</if>> The way Rune's voice wraps around each word gives you chills. It's almost as haunting as it is beautiful. You're enraptured by it and the pluck of the lute strings that you don't even realize how quickly time slips by. Before you know it, Rune's performance is done for the night and $Rheshe takes a bow to a thunderous applause. A good deal of the spectators clear out, though many linger for drinks, food, and flirtation. You sit back in your chair and suddenly realize that Duri is gone. Looking around, you don't spot $Dhimher either, though it looks like $Dheshe at least ate dinner. You stand to look over the crowd to try and spot $Dhimher, but are interrupted by a familiar voice. "Duri'naan ran out a while ago I'm afraid." You turn. Rune stands at your table, looking regal as ever with $Rhisher long and silky outer robe of pure white and deep purple. Even $Rhisher hair looks perfect, each black curl coils and shines like it was placed by an artist – the strands dyed in purple completing $Rhisher look. And peeking from under those luscious curls are glittering gold earnings up and down each of Rune's ears. You'd never know that $Rheshe was just playing in a tavern when $Rheshe is dressed as if performing for the monarch themself. There are no half-measures with Rundis Lyreheart. You settle back in your chair. "I didn't even notice $Dhimher leaving…Any idea why?" Rune settles in Duri's vacated chair and begins to pick at what is left of your meal platter. "At risk of saying more than what $Dheshe would want me to, I will only say that Duri'naan quite likes my music, but it becomes a bit much for $Dhimher." "So…the things I felt…" Rune nods. "It is part of it. Magic weaves into my song. It's something I cannot explain as I do not do it completely intentionally. Most tell me it draws out emotions. Some claim that ailments they've had for years suddenly vanish after my performances. Others don't feel anything and only hear the music. As long as it is a net gain for those that listen, I will keep playing." $Rcapitalheshe smiles. "Your performance was beautiful. I think I understand why so many people crowd around for it." "Thank you, it was a pleasure showing off a little for you tonight." You watch Rune pop a nibble of cheese into $Rhisher mouth and reply… $flirt_label "[["Would you like to show me anything else?"|5.2R3b1]]" $flirt_label "[["...You're just so wonderful…"|5.2R3b2]]" "[["My pleasure."|5.2R3b3]]"

Rune smiles gently in return when $Rheshe opens $Rhisher eyes and looks back. A flurry of magic wisps warm your face, lighting upon your lips to make them tingle. Just when you think you could not be enchanted even more, Rune begins to sing. <<if $ch5Broute is true>> //<html> <body> Off they rode, off they rode The six companions bold Through meadow sweet and forest wild And over mountains cold On they went to meet their fate They knew what lay ahead Before the year had met its end They knew that they'd be dead </body> </html>// <<else>> //<html> <body> How sweet the taste of love can be When it is you who pours the wine How soft the feel of lover's lips A touch truly divine But gods cannot unmake my love Its light burns far too bright They could even drown the sun, my love But I would be your light </body> </html>// <</if>> The way Rune's voice wraps around each word gives you chills. It's almost as haunting as it is beautiful. You're enraptured by it and the pluck of the lute strings that you don't even realize how quickly time slips by. Before you know it, Rune's performance is done for the night and $Rheshe takes a bow to a thunderous applause. A good deal of the spectators clear out, though many linger for drinks, food, and flirtation. You sit back in your chair and suddenly realize that Duri is gone. Looking around, you don't spot $Dhimher either, though it looks like $Dheshe at least ate dinner. You stand to look over the crowd to try and spot $Dhimher, but are interrupted by a familiar voice. "Duri'naan ran out a while ago I'm afraid." You turn. Rune stands at your table, looking regal as ever with $Rhisher long and silky outer robe of pure white and deep purple. Even $Rhisher hair looks perfect, each black curl coils and shines like it was placed by an artist – the strands dyed in purple completing $Rhisher look. And peeking from under those luscious curls are glittering gold earnings up and down each of Rune's ears. You'd never know that $Rheshe was just playing in a tavern when $Rheshe is dressed as if performing for the monarch themself. There are no half-measures with Rundis Lyreheart. You settle back in your chair. "I didn't even notice $Dhimher leaving…Any idea why?" Rune settles in Duri's vacated chair and begins to pick at what is left of your meal platter. "At risk of saying more than what $Dheshe would want me to, I will only say that Duri'naan quite likes my music, but it becomes a bit much for $Dhimher." "So…the things I felt…" Rune nods. "It is part of it. Magic weaves into my song. It's something I cannot explain as I do not do it completely intentionally. Most tell me it draws out emotions. Some claim that ailments they've had for years suddenly vanish after my performances. Others don't feel anything and only hear the music. As long as it is a net gain for those that listen, I will keep playing." $Rcapitalheshe smiles. "Your performance was beautiful. I think I understand why so many people crowd around for it." "Thank you, it was a pleasure showing off a little for you tonight." You watch Rune pop a nibble of cheese into $Rhisher mouth and reply… $flirt_label "[["Would you like to show me anything else?"|5.2R3b1]]" $flirt_label "[["...You're just so wonderful…"|5.2R3b2]]" "[["My pleasure."|5.2R3b3]]"

<<set $Rflirt +=3>> <<set $Rbold +=3>> Rune chews slower as $Rheshe studies you, and once finished with the morsel, smirks back at you. "Actually, yes." Your mouth drops. "Re-really?" $Rcapitalheshe nods. "Indeed. I've been told that the back of my hand is a particularly stunning sight." Rune holds up $Rhisher left hand, adored with two rather large rings with sharp edges. "What say you? Would you like a closer look?" Rune smiles, eyes curling up as $Rheshe bites $Rhisher lower lip to keep from laughing. "I can see it very well from here, actually. It, like the rest of you, is enchanting and best viewed from a…//respectable// distance." "Let me know if you change your mind." "Don't you worry, I certainly will." You clear your throat and decide to also pick at what is left of the dinner platter, which is shockingly empty considering how much food had been on it. "So, Duri told me a bit about how you met. Are you two close?" Rune thinks a moment, leaning back in $Rhisher chair. "Yes and no. Perhaps as close as one can be with Duri'naan. It's difficult to get to $Dhisher heart, and I am also guilty of guarding mine quite closely. We know enough of each other's intentions that we have trust. So, in that regard, we are close." "$Dcapitalheshe seems pretty open to me…" "Then either you do not know $Dhimher well enough or you possess a skill that few others do. Duri is open only as far as skin-deep, it gives the illusion that $Dheshe is close without $Dhimher needing to be so." "And what about you?" you ask. "I'm fairly open, I despise lying and lip service, and I like to be forthright. I'm not without a past with parts I'd rather forget, and in those areas, you will find my boundaries. But, I quite like you so far and would like to be friends if you would as well." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I don't think I've ever been offered friendship quite so…directly before. It's sort of nice."<<else>>"I feel like I'm negotiating a job, do you ever have fun?"<</if>> Rune shrugs. "Told you, I was forthright. And really, I think my odds of befriending you are quite high considering your sad attempt at flirting with me." "//Hey//, it wasn't //sad.//" You place a hand over your heart. "Sure, sure," Rune agrees. "It was //cute//." You think $Rheshe may still be gently insulting you… [[No matter, you'd still like to be friends.|2.R3b1a]] $flirt_label [[Rune is right, you have a more romantic pursuit in mind – and you confess as much.|2.R3b1b]] $flirt_label [[Rune is right, you're thinking about romance but you're too shy to admit it now.|2.R3b1c]] [[You remain neutral towards Rune, at least for now.|2.R3b1d]]

<<set $Rflirt +=3>><<set $Rshy +=3>> Heat immediately flares along your neck and up to your ears. You meant what you said, but it slipped out unbidden, and the way you said it was like you were whispering a sweet nothing to a lover. Rune chews slower as $Rheshe studies you, and once finished with the morsel, smirks back at you. "And I find you ridiculously charming." Your mouth drops. "Re-really?" $Rcapitalheshe nods. "Indeed. Your embarrassment is as cute as it is delectable. I get the feeling you didn't quite mean to say that directly to my face." "Well…uh…" Your mind stumbles over itself as you try to right the path the conversation is taking. "I mean…well, it's true – that I think that about you, not that I was trying to hide it! That's not…um." Rune chuckles. "You are making this too easy to have my fun, and I'd rather not stoop to Duri'naan's level." You clear your throat and decide to also pick at what is left of the dinner platter, in an effort to glaze over your awkwardness. "So, Duri told me a bit about how you met. Are you two close?" Rune thinks a moment, leaning back in $Rhisher chair. "Yes and no. Perhaps as close as one can be with Duri'naan. It's difficult to get to $Dhisher heart, and I am also guilty of guarding mine quite closely. We know enough of each other's intentions that we have trust. So, in that regard, we are close." "$Dcapitalheshe seems pretty open to me…" "Then either you do not know $Dhimher well enough or you possess a skill that few others do. Duri is open only as far as skin-deep, it gives the illusion that $Dheshe is close without $Dhimher needing to be so." "And what about you?" you ask. "I'm fairly open, I despise lying and lip service, and I like to be forthright. I'm not without a past with parts I'd rather forget, and in those areas, you will find my boundaries. But, I quite like you so far and would like to be friends if you would as well." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I don't think I've ever been offered friendship quite so…directly before. It's sort of nice."<<else>>"I feel like I'm negotiating a job, do you ever have fun?"<</if>> Rune shrugs. "Told you, I was forthright. And really, I think my odds of befriending you are quite high considering your adorable and accidental flirtation with me." Your skin heats again. "So, what do you think?" [[You'd still like to be friends.|2.R3b1a]] $flirt_label [[Rune is right, you have a more romantic pursuit in mind – and you confess as much.|2.R3b1b]] $flirt_label [[Rune is right, you're thinking about romance but you're too shy to admit it now.|2.R3b1c]] [[You remain neutral towards Rune, at least for now.|2.R3b1d]]

You clear your throat and decide to also pick at what is left of the dinner platter, which you're a bit shocked to see is relatively barren. "So, Duri told me a bit about how you met. Are you two close?" Rune thinks a moment, leaning back in $Rhisher chair. "Yes and no. Perhaps as close as one can be with Duri'naan. It's difficult to get to $Dhisher heart, and I am also guilty of guarding mine quite closely. We know enough of each other's intentions that we have trust. So, in that regard, we are close." "$Dcapitalheshe seems pretty open to me…" "Then either you do not know $Dhimher well enough or you possess a skill that few others do. Duri is open only as far as skin-deep, it gives the illusion that $Dheshe is close without $Dhimher needing to be so." "And what about you?" you ask. "I'm fairly open, I despise lying and lip service, and I like to be forthright. I'm not without a past with parts I'd rather forget, and in those areas, you will find my boundaries. But, I quite like you so far and would like to be friends if you would as well." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I don't think I've ever been offered friendship quite so…directly before. It's sort of nice."<<else>>"I feel like I'm negotiating a job, do you ever have fun?"<</if>> Rune shrugs. "Told you, I was forthright." You nod. "So, what do you think?" [[You'd like to be friends.|2.R3b1a]] $flirt_label [[You have a more romantic pursuit in mind – and you confess as much.|2.R3b1b]] $flirt_label [[You're thinking about romance but you're too shy to admit it now.|2.R3b1c]] [[You remain neutral towards Rune, at least for now.|2.R3b1d]]

<<set $Rstat to 'friends'>> You give Rune a steady nod. "I think we would make fine friends. You've done a lot for us, and I think we get along fine. I see no reason to not call you friend." Rune folds $Rhisher hands on $Rhisher lap. "I would quite like that." "Is it so easy to gain your friendship?" you ask. "On a base level, yes. You and your ilk seem like decent people to me, until you show me otherwise – we are friends. Easy enough." Before you can reply, a blur of grey enters your peripheral vision and you turn to see Duri across the room. $Dcapitalheshe approaches a table where a petite young man with blond hair sits nursing a cup of wine. They chat, Duri smiling and leaning closer to the man before reaching out to play with his bright blond locks. $flirt_label [[Your mood sours as you realize what's happening.|2.R3b1a1]] +D [[You return your attention to Rune.|2.R3b1a2]]

<<set $Rstat to 'romantic'>> <<set $Rtold to true>> <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You fidget in place. This level of forwardness is a bit unusual for you, but Rune seems to value this sort of transparency. You don't think that $Rheshe will not outright turn you down at the idea. You nod. "Well, I do think you're on to something there. I'm…drawn to you."<<else>>You give Rune an assured nod. You don't see the harm in telling $Rhimher that you do have a romantic attraction to $Rhimher. You think Rune would value the transparency. "Well, I must confess that in the short time we've known each other, I have found myself enchanted by you in a special way."<</if>> Rune folds $Rhisher hands on $Rhisher lap. "I appreciate the candor. I am happy to be your friend and simply see how things develop. A word of warning, though." "Warning?" You furrow your brow. "I have been hurt before, deeply, by a lover I trusted. I am not opposed to love, but I know that I am jaded by it even though years have passed. I am not so ignorant as to not understand these pitfalls and how they make me guard my true heart. But I also know that I long for a steadfast love, so I am willing to give it a chance as we simply take our time." "So, how do I…if you are jaded, how would I even win your heart?" You hate to admit your disappointment so soon into this. "Just be a companion to me. Show me who you are or even who you will be, and I will show you who I am. You can then decide if you still desire my heart as we grow to know one another, and I will do the same." You can't help but smile a little. "So does this mean you…feel the same as I do now?" Rune rolls $Rhisher eyes and shakes $Rhisher head. "Don't inflate your ego, but I feel…a slight prickle in my heart for you, yes. As one might feel for a stray cat caught in the rain." $Rcapitalheshe laughs. "I jest – mostly." Before you can reply, a blur of grey enters your peripheral vision and you turn to see Duri across the room. $Dcapitalheshe approaches a table where a petite young man with blond hair sits nursing a cup of wine. They chat, Duri smiling and leaning closer to the man before reaching out to play with his bright blond locks. $flirt_label [[Your mood sours as you realize what's happening.|2.R3b1a1]] +D [[You return your attention to Rune.|2.R3b1a2]]

<<set $Rstat to 'romantic'>> <<set $Rtold to false>> You nearly wither under Rune's purple stare. $Rcapitalheshe seems rather astute about the connection you feel. You can't deny the little flutter in your heart for $Rhimher. It's difficult to ignore, but you can't just say that out loud to $Rhimher right now. There are so many unknowns. You have the curse to worry about, you haven't known $Rhimher long, you don't know how long you'll even be around Rune, and what if your feelings change? There are so many what-ifs, not to mention, you're just plain shy about it. "$mc?" Rune prompts. "Are you okay? I apologize for being forward. I did not think about the pressure I was placing on you." "No!" you yip, your voice cracking. You clear your throat. "No, don't worry about it. I just…I just think we are friends. Just, yes, friend." You smile and give a resolute nod that you hope covers your fluttering emotions. "Yes," Rune says. "I agree…//friends//. There is a great many things you can be within a friendship because like all beautiful things, it grows in tandem with the care you put into it. I look forward to nurturing our friendship together." Before you can reply, a blur of grey enters your peripheral vision and you turn to see Duri across the room. $Dcapitalheshe approaches a table where a petite young man with blond hair sits nursing a cup of wine. They chat, Duri smiling and leaning closer to the man before reaching out to play with his bright blond locks. $flirt_label [[Your mood sours as you realize what's happening.|2.R3b1a1]] +D [[You return your attention to Rune.|2.R3b1a2]]

<<set $Rstat to 'neutral'>> "Well, take no offense to this, but I believe we should simply be amicable with each other, but make no definition on our relationship. We've not known each other long, so maybe that is best." Rune nods, and you are surprised to see a warm smile on $Rhisher face. "That's wisdom, $mc, you grace me again with a reason to respect you. I appreciate you telling me so. Not many would be so true to their hearts and honest about it." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Well, I am pleased you take me seriously. Some think I jest when I say these things or find me rude." You shrug.<<else>>"I sort of just turned you down, but you seem happy by it…not sure if I should be insulted or not." You chuckle.<</if>> "You are just fine. I like the idea of simply seeing if our acquaintanceship grows. I hope it does, but it is fine if it does not. Such is the nature of relationships." Before you can reply, a blur of grey enters your peripheral vision and you turn to see Duri across the room. $Dcapitalheshe approaches a table where a petite young man with blond hair sits nursing a cup of wine. They chat, Duri smiling and leaning closer to the man before reaching out to play with his bright blond locks. $flirt_label [[Your mood sours as you realize what's happening.|2.R3b1a1]] +D [[You return your attention to Rune.|2.R3b1a2]]

<<set $Dflirt +=3>> You feel sick as you keep watching, unable to look away. Your emotions are all twisted up. Duri sits across from the man, leaning $Dhisher chest fully on the table to be closer. The man is flustered, laughing and hiding his face with a hand. If it were anyone else, it would almost be cute. "That's what $Dheshe does," Rune says. Your attention is ripped from the scene and you simply look back to the mage, unable to disguise your discontent. "I am sorry. Your feelings are torn, you should not watch any longer." "What do you mean it's what $Dheshe does?" "Duri'naan…in the time I have gotten to know $Dhimher, avoids complicated emotions. You will find that for yourself if you get close enough. $Dcapitalheshe seeks…distractions." You think it over for a moment… [[You pout. You hate this. You'd flip the table if you could.|5.2RD1]] [[You just feel sick about it.|5.2RD2]]

"That's what $Dheshe does," Rune says. You glance back at the two. Duri plays with the man's hair as he acts shy over the attention. "What do you mean it's what $Dheshe does?" "Duri'naan…in the time I have gotten to know $Dhimher, avoids complicated emotions. You will find that for yourself if you get close enough. $Dcapitalheshe seeks…distractions. I worry over $Dhimher, but $Dheshe will not speak about $Dhisher heart. I feel the right person is out there who can help Duri understand $Dhisher feelings." You consider your own feelings about the demigod… [[You definitely have romantic feelings for Duri.|5.2RD1a]] [[You only have feelings of friendship for Duri.|5.2RD1b]] [[You think it's best to remain neutral about Duri for now.|5.2RD1c]] [[You haven't brought yourself to trust Duri just yet.|5.2RD1d]]

<<set $Dpout to true>> You glare in the direction of the man, who's long forgotten his wine and is looking at Duri with want and affection. You have the urge to flick Duri in the ear too. "Try not to take it personally even if it hurts," Rune cautions. "I think there is hope for Duri to understand real love and faithfulness, so don't despair if you feel something for $Dhimher." You consider your feelings about the demigod… [[You definitely have romantic feelings for Duri.|5.2RD1a]] [[You only have feelings of friendship for Duri.|5.2RD1b]] [[You think it's best to remain neutral about Duri for now.|5.2RD1c]]

You glare in the direction of the man, who's long forgotten his wine and is looking at Duri with want and affection. You fight your reflex to gag. "Try not to take it personally even if it hurts," Rune cautions. "I think there is hope for Duri to understand real love and faithfulness, so don't despair if you feel something for $Dhimher." You consider your feelings about the demigod… [[You definitely have romantic feelings for Duri.|5.2RD1a]] [[You only have feelings of friendship for Duri.|5.2RD1b]] [[You think it's best to remain neutral about Duri for now.|5.2RD1c]]

<<set $Dstat to 'romantic'>> Maybe it's foolhardy, but you feel something for $Dhimher. For now, for the sake of your own heart, maybe you should ignore that. "$mc, I must apologize – I need to speak with Alondra about something important before she retires for the night. Wait here a moment, and I will return to escort you back to your quarters." You nod and watch as Rune quickly walks towards the kitchen. You decide it's best not to watch Duri flirt and begin to poke at the crumbs of food left on your tray instead as you wait. Barely a moment passes when you are suddenly doused with liquor. You jerk over in your seat instinctively as your left shoulder and arm are soaked in ale. You shake your hand out as you eye your clumsy assailant. A woman with a long brown braid over her shoulder gazes at you through drunk eyes. She wears a guard uniform, black with what appears to be a gold bird stitched on her sleeve. You suddenly remember what you heard about the king's soldiers and wonder if this is one. Her eyes are dark, and you cannot tell if they are colored black or if she is so intoxicated that they are dilated. You can tell by how she holds her jaw that she chews a wad of tobacco. "Whoops!" she calls, slamming her tankard down. "Didn't see ya there." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"No harm done," you reassure, hoping she will leave quickly.<<else>>"I don't know if I believe that, but you do appear to be staggeringly drunk."<</if>> "By the sword, maybe it's the ale, but you have a body that I'd like to get to know." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Perhaps you shouldn't make such an assessment while drunk."<<else>>"It's the ale – I'm actually a large muskrat."<</if>> She laughs uproariously. "Yer funny too!" Suddenly, she throws up one leg, slamming her boot on the top of the table so you are faced with her pelvis as she stands over you. You couldn't tell how tall she was before, and you also missed the big sword hanging from her hip. Her boot is muddy and dirties the table. You glance up at her to see her smiling, tobacco stains riddle her teeth. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"//Delightful//," you mutter.<<else>>"I'm telling you – big muskrat – big."<</if>> "Come on, baby, you gotta room here? Take me to it. I won't tell anyone, I'll let you touch my sword even. You want money or something? That's fine by me, I've got lots of gold." You wave your hand. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"I'm sorry, but no, I am not interested. I've heard there is a brothel somewhere, I'm sure the innkeepers would give you directions."<<else>>"''No'', I don't want anything to do with you, leave me be," you insist.<</if>> She grabs you by your bad shoulder, making you yelp in pain. "Let me convince you, baby," she coos, oblivious to the discomfort she brings you. Her hand is ripped off you in the blink of an eye before you can do anything about her yourself. The tankard of ale clatters to the floor as she slams into the ground, Duri stands over her. "You were told no, asshole!" $Dheshe yells. The room goes quiet as everyone stares. You hear the screeching of chair legs as a few other patrons, in the same uniform as the woman, stand with hands on swords. The tension in the room is palpable. The woman flounders on the floor, too drunk to get up as another soldier approaches. "Do you have any idea-" "Oh fuck off," Duri snarls. "She was hassling my friend here and you fucking know it. You turn a blind eye because this isn't //your// city." "How dare you-" Duri rushes the soldier, getting right in their face. "Don't try that with ''me''. I am the last fucking person here you should try cocking around with." "Easy, easy everybody," Garza pleads calmly from the bar. "Break it up. If you're going to fight – you get out of my establishment. We all saw her put a hand on the kid, she got what was coming and now that's the end of the story. You're all even and you are done. That's final." The soldier backs up, eyeing Duri carefully as they pick up the woman from the floor and drag her back to their table. The lingering tension finally eases. "You okay?" Duri asks, shoulders relaxing. You nod. "Yeah, I am now. Thank you." "Runey's gonna be upset I think, but…sorry if I- Well, I got mad when she touched you like that. I fucking hated it." Duri takes a moment to look into your eyes, but $Dheshe looks more puzzled than angry. "I mean…I'd be angry if she touched anyone who said no. It's just…not right. So, yeah." You look across the room and find that the blond stranger is gone. "Let me take you to your room, $mc," Duri offers. [[You nod and make to leave with Duri.|5.2RD1a1]]

<<set $Dstat to 'friends'>> You'd like to consider $Dhimher a friend and you wonder if $Dheshe feels the same. "$mc, I must apologize – I need to speak with Alondra about something important before she retires for the night. Wait here a moment, and I will return to escort you back to your quarters." You nod and watch as Rune quickly walks towards the kitchen. You decide it's best not to watch Duri flirt and begin to poke at the crumbs of food left on your tray instead as you wait. Barely a moment passes when you are suddenly doused with liquor. You jerk over in your seat instinctively as your left shoulder and arm are soaked in ale. You shake your hand out as you eye your clumsy assailant. A woman with a long brown braid over her shoulder gazes at you through drunk eyes. She wears a guard uniform, black with what appears to be a gold bird stitched on her sleeve. You suddenly remember what you heard about the king's soldiers and wonder if this is one. Her eyes are dark, and you cannot tell if they are colored black or if she is so intoxicated that they are dilated. You can tell by how she holds her jaw that she chews a wad of tobacco. "Whoops!" she calls, slamming her tankard down. "Didn't see ya there." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"No harm done," you reassure, hoping she will leave quickly.<<else>>"I don't know if I believe that, but you do appear to be staggeringly drunk."<</if>> "By the sword, maybe it's the ale, but you have a body that I'd like to get to know." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Perhaps you shouldn't make such an assessment while drunk."<<else>>"It's the ale – I'm actually a large muskrat."<</if>> She laughs uproariously. "Yer funny too!" Suddenly, she throws up one leg, slamming her boot on the top of the table so you are faced with her pelvis as she stands over you. You couldn't tell how tall she was before, and you also missed the big sword hanging from her hip. Her boot is muddy and dirties the table. You glance up at her to see her smiling, tobacco stains riddle her teeth. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"//Delightful//," you mutter.<<else>>"I'm telling you – big muskrat – big."<</if>> "Come on, baby, you gotta room here? Take me to it. I won't tell anyone, I'll let you touch my sword even. You want money or something? That's fine by me, I've got lots of gold." You wave your hand. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"I'm sorry, but no, I am not interested. I've heard there is a brothel somewhere, I'm sure the innkeepers would give you directions."<<else>>"''No'', I don't want anything to do with you, leave me be," you insist.<</if>> She grabs you by your bad shoulder, making you yelp in pain. "Let me convince you, baby," she coos, oblivious to the discomfort she brings you. Her hand is ripped off you in the blink of an eye before you can do anything about her yourself. The tankard of ale clatters to the floor as she slams into the ground, Duri stands over her. "You were told no, asshole!" $Dheshe yells. The room goes quiet as everyone stares. You hear the screeching of chair legs as a few other patrons, in the same uniform as the woman, stand with hands on swords. The tension in the room is palpable. The woman flounders on the floor, too drunk to get up as another soldier approaches. "Do you have any idea-" "Oh fuck off," Duri snarls. "She was hassling my friend here and you fucking know it. You turn a blind eye because this isn't //your// city." "How dare you-" Duri rushes the soldier, getting right in their face. "Don't try that with ''me''. I am the last fucking person here you should try cocking around with." "Easy, easy everybody," Garza pleads calmly from the bar. "Break it up. If you're going to fight – you get out of my establishment. We all saw her put a hand on the kid, she got what was coming and now that's the end of the story. You're all even and you are done. That's final." The soldier backs up, eyeing Duri carefully as they pick up the woman from the floor and drag her back to their table. The lingering tension finally eases. "You okay?" Duri asks, shoulders relaxing. You nod. "Yeah, I am now. Thank you." "Runey's gonna be upset I think, but…sorry if I- Well, I got mad when she touched you like that. I fucking hated it." Duri takes a moment to look into your eyes, but $Dheshe looks more puzzled than angry. "I mean…I'd be angry if she touched anyone who said no. It's just…not right. So, yeah." You look across the room and find that the blond stranger is gone. "Let me take you to your room, $mc," Duri offers. [[You nod and make to leave with Duri.|5.2RD1a1]]

<<set $Dstat to 'neutral'>> You can't say for sure how you feel about $Dhimher. Maybe in time, you will settle on something. "$mc, I must apologize – I need to speak with Alondra about something important before she retires for the night. Wait here a moment, and I will return to escort you back to your quarters." You nod and watch as Rune quickly walks towards the kitchen. You decide it's best not to watch Duri flirt and begin to poke at the crumbs of food left on your tray instead as you wait. Barely a moment passes when you are suddenly doused with liquor. You jerk over in your seat instinctively as your left shoulder and arm are soaked in ale. You shake your hand out as you eye your clumsy assailant. A woman with a long brown braid over her shoulder gazes at you through drunk eyes. She wears a guard uniform, black with what appears to be a gold bird stitched on her sleeve. You suddenly remember what you heard about the king's soldiers and wonder if this is one. Her eyes are dark, and you cannot tell if they are colored black or if she is so intoxicated that they are dilated. You can tell by how she holds her jaw, that she chews a wad of tobacco. "Whoops!" she calls, slamming her tankard down. "Didn't see ya there." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"No harm done," you reassure, hoping she will leave quickly.<<else>>"I don't know if I believe that, but you do appear to be staggeringly drunk."<</if>> "By the sword, maybe it's the ale, but you have a body that I'd like to get to know." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Perhaps you shouldn't make such an assessment while drunk."<<else>>"It's the ale – I'm actually a large muskrat."<</if>> She laughs uproariously. "Yer funny too!" Suddenly, she throws up one leg, slamming her boot on the top of the table so you are faced with her pelvis as she stands over you. You couldn't tell how tall she was before, and you also missed the big sword hanging from her hip. Her boot is muddy and dirties the table. You glance up at her to see her smiling, tobacco stains riddle her teeth. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"//Delightful//," you mutter.<<else>>"I'm telling you – big muskrat – big."<</if>> "Come on, baby, you gotta room here? Take me to it. I won't tell anyone, I'll let you touch my sword even. You want money or something? That's fine by me, I've got lots of gold." You wave your hand. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"I'm sorry, but no, I am not interested. I've heard there is a brothel somewhere, I'm sure the innkeepers would give you directions."<<else>>"''No'', I don't want anything to do with you, leave me be," you insist.<</if>> She grabs you by your bad shoulder, making you yelp in pain. "Let me convince you, baby," she coos, oblivious to the discomfort she brings you. As quick as you can blink, the soldier is thrown clear away from you. But rather than landing on the floor or among the few patrons left, she floats in the air. "That was rather uncouth," Rune snarks from the edge of the bar, $Rhisher face twisted with anger. The soldier flails and yells, upside down, as shimmers of purple mist encompass her legs and arms. A table of people, all wearing the same uniform as the woman, rises to their feet as Rune makes $Rhisher way to stand in front of you. One of them approaches, stomping their feet. "Do you have any idea-" "Cease your prattle. A dog of Amalric has no power here. You are to carry your business out in the streets, and not cause grief for citizens or disrupt business. Your associate accosted my companion verbally and physically, her actions are not tolerated." "We have every right to be here, the monarch-" "Yes, the monarch, a close //personal// friend of mine. Shall we take the matter to them, I assure you, they will be fair regardless of our long-standing association. Shall we bring all these witnesses too?" "Figures, the monarch in your pocket or your knickers, that's all it takes to get your way in Codrin, right?" The soldier lifts from the ground, joining their compatriot as they both flounder. Rune sheds $Rhisher outer robe and steps forward. "Make no mistake, I was merely showing you a kindness, I do not require the assistance of the monarch to rid Codrin of the lot of you, and I will ''not'' abide you insulting them. You would do well to treat this place and its people as you would your own. You make a poor example of the capital and its king." "Easy, easy everybody," Garza pleads calmly from the bar. "Break it up. If you're going to fight – you get out of my establishment. We all saw her put a hand on the kid, she got what was coming and now that's the end of the story. You're all even and you are done. That's final." Rune nods to Garza and sets the two soldiers down. They return to their table quietly and the tension slowly leaves the room. As Rune sits next to you, $Rhisher face still looks sour. "I apologize," Rune says. "I made too much of a spectacle. I was…very cross when she put a hand on you. She hurt you and did so against your wishes and I just…I could have throttled her." "It's okay, I still appreciate the help." "Let's get you up to your room, I would like to settle in as well." [[You nod and make to leave with Rune.|5.2RD1a2]]

<<set $Dstat to 'distrust'>> You can't say for sure how you feel about $Dhimher. Maybe in time, you will settle on something. "$mc, I must apologize – I need to speak with Alondra about something important before she retires for the night. Wait here a moment, and I will return to escort you back to your quarters." You nod and watch as Rune quickly walks towards the kitchen. You decide it's best not to watch Duri flirt and begin to poke at the crumbs of food left on your tray instead as you wait. Barely a moment passes when you are suddenly doused with liquor. You jerk over in your seat instinctively as your left shoulder and arm are soaked in ale. You shake your hand out as you eye your clumsy assailant. A woman with a long brown braid over her shoulder gazes at you through drunk eyes. She wears a guard uniform, black with what appears to be a gold bird stitched on her sleeve. You suddenly remember what you heard about the king's soldiers and wonder if this is one. Her eyes are dark, and you cannot tell if they are colored black or if she is so intoxicated that they are dilated. You can tell by how she holds her jaw, that she chews a wad of tobacco. "Whoops!" she calls, slamming her tankard down. "Didn't see ya there." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"No harm done," you reassure, hoping she will leave quickly.<<else>>"I don't know if I believe that, but you do appear to be staggeringly drunk."<</if>> "By the sword, maybe it's the ale, but you have a body that I'd like to get to know." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Perhaps you shouldn't make such an assessment while drunk."<<else>>"It's the ale – I'm actually a large muskrat."<</if>> She laughs uproariously. "Yer funny too!" Suddenly, she throws up one leg, slamming her boot on the top of the table so you are faced with her pelvis as she stands over you. You couldn't tell how tall she was before, and you also missed the big sword hanging from her hip. Her boot is muddy and dirties the table. You glance up at her to see her smiling, tobacco stains riddle her teeth. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"//Delightful//," you mutter.<<else>>"I'm telling you – big muskrat – big."<</if>> "Come on, baby, you gotta room here? Take me to it. I won't tell anyone, I'll let you touch my sword even. You want money or something? That's fine by me, I've got lots of gold." You wave your hand. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"I'm sorry, but no, I am not interested. I've heard there is a brothel somewhere, I'm sure the innkeepers would give you directions."<<else>>"''No'', I don't want anything to do with you, leave me be," you insist.<</if>> She grabs you by your bad shoulder, making you yelp in pain. "Let me convince you, baby," she coos, oblivious to the discomfort she brings you. As quick as you can blink, the soldier is thrown clear away from you. But rather than landing on the floor or among the few patrons left, she floats in the air. "That was rather uncouth," Rune snarks from the edge of the bar, $Rhisher face twisted with anger. The soldier flails and yells, upside down, as shimmers of purple mist encompass her legs and arms. A table of people, all wearing the same uniform as the woman, rises to their feet as Rune makes $Rhisher way to stand in front of you. One of them approaches, stomping their feet. "Do you have any idea-" "Cease your prattle. A dog of Amalric has no power here. You are to carry your business out in the streets, and not cause grief for citizens or disrupt business. Your associate accosted my companion verbally and physically, her actions are not tolerated." "We have every right to be here, the monarch-" "Yes, the monarch, a close //personal// friend of mine. Shall we take the matter to them, I assure you, they will be fair regardless of our long-standing association. Shall we bring all these witnesses too?" "Figures, the monarch in your pocket or your knickers, that's all it takes to get your way in Codrin, right?" The soldier lifts from the ground, joining their compatriot as they both flounder. Rune sheds $Rhisher outer robe and steps forward. "Make no mistake, I was merely showing you a kindness, I do not require the assistance of the monarch to rid Codrin of the lot of you, and I will ''not'' abide you insulting them. You would do well to treat this place and its people as you would your own. You make a poor example of the capital and its king." "Easy, easy everybody," Garza pleads calmly from the bar. "Break it up. If you're going to fight – you get out of my establishment. We all saw her put a hand on the kid, she got what was coming and now that's the end of the story. You're all even and you are done. That's final." Rune nods to Garza and sets the two soldiers down. They return to their table quietly and the tension slowly leaves the room. As Rune sits next to you, $Rhisher face still looks sour. "I apologize," Rune says. "I made too much of a spectacle. I was…very cross when she put a hand on you. She hurt you and did so against your wishes and I just…I could have throttled her." "It's okay, I still appreciate the help." "Let's get you up to your room, I would like to settle in as well." [[You nod and make to leave with Rune.|5.2RD1a2]]

<<set $ch5drunk to 'Duri'>> As you make your way through the room, Rune catches your eye, nods, and smiles when $Rheshe sees Duri with you and returns to speaking with the innkeepers. Duri doesn't speak as you go up the stairs, down the hall and back to your room. "Sleep well, $mc. I'll be milling around, but you may not see me much for a few days. I'm curious about what those soldiers are looking for." <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>You shake your head. "You know, I'm no stranger to questionable decisions, but are you sure that's wise? You also did just make a scene with them and I don't think they like you very much."<<else>>You shake your head. "Duri, no. That could be so dangerous. What if they hold a grudge after what just happened?"<</if>> "I'll deal with it." Duri gives you a smug smile, snaggletooth on display. "My strength is returning, I'm not scared of them and they don't have jurisdiction here. Not that anyone can apply human laws to me anyway." $Dcapitalheshe snorts a laugh. <<if $Dstat is 'romantic'>>"I mean it. Be careful. I don't want anything to happen to you."<<else>>"You must be careful, promise me you won't get yourself hurt."<</if>> <<if $Dstat is 'romantic'>>Duri studies you a moment. "I promise I will be very careful, only because you asked me to. Would you like me to seal my promise with a goodnight kiss?" <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You blanch.<<else>>Your eyes widen.<</if>> $flirt_label [[Accept the kiss.|5.2RD1a1a]] $flirt_label [[You want a truly sincere promise as your token.|5.2RD1a1b]] [[You do not need a token for Duri's promise.|5.2RD1a1c]] <<else>> "I swear to you, I will be cautious. I will think before I do anything stupid, just for you." You nod. "I'll…see you soon then, I hope." Duri winks at you before walking backward down the hall. You watch $Dhimher until $Dheshe turns tail and heads down the stairs. [[You retire for the evening.|5.2RDend]] <</if>>

Agreement slips from your lips, and Duri wastes no time in sealing $Dhisher promise. You expect $Dhisher lips to slot against yours, but Duri dodges your mouth completely. Instead, $Dheshe brings you in close and nestles $Dhisher face in the crook of your neck. Still, $Dhisher lips do not touch. You feel the tip of Duri's nose and $Dhisher hot breath taunt your sensitive flesh slowly up your neck and along your jaw, all the way to your temple where $Dheshe places a slow and simple kiss. "Promise sealed," $Dheshe whispers in your ear. You nod. "I'll…see you soon then, I hope." Your voice sounds raw. Duri winks at you before walking backward down the hall. You watch $Dhimher until $Dheshe turns tail and heads down the stairs. [[You retire for the evening, in a haze.|5.2RDend]]

You shake your head. "You are insufferable sometimes. Your oath is all that I need. I want a //sincere// promise that you will come back to me unharmed." Duri rears back a bit, the playfulness fading from $Dhisher face. "Oh…" "Go on then." You wait, expectantly. The demigod ponders for a moment before motioning for you to come closer and getting near your ear. "I swear to you that I will be careful, I will think before I act, and I will return to you unharmed and still incredibly charming." You can't resist the little smile that pulls at your lips. "Promise sealed," $Dheshe whispers in your ear. You nod. "I'll…see you soon then, I hope." Your voice sounds raw. Duri winks at you before walking backward down the hall. You watch $Dhimher until $Dheshe turns tail and heads down the stairs. [[You retire for the evening, in a haze.|5.2RDend]]

You shake your head. "You are unreal sometimes. I do not need a token or anything, I will trust what you have already said." "Ugh!" Duri throws $Dhisher head back. "When you say it like that, it's the same as sealing an oath. Now I //have// to be good." "So you were going to go back on your word?" Duri shrugs. "Maybe…but now I won't." "Go on then, and come back soon," you say. Duri winks at you before walking backward down the hall. You watch $Dhimher until $Dheshe turns tail and heads down the stairs. [[You retire for the evening, in a haze.|5.2RDend]]

$wolf greets you and follows you about the room as you prepare to relax into bed and think about how to spend tomorrow. Although part of your evening got a bit heated, your excursion has given you a bit of restlessness to leave the inn or at least have some fun. You even wonder about the people you may meet by lingering in the tavern. Or, you could simply get out and mill around the market for a while. Just as you drift off to sleep, you make up your mind... $flirt_label $flirt_label [[You decide to find physical company tomorrow.|5.J]] {Leads to explicit options for a one-night stand.} [[You only want to check out the market.|5.A]] {Skip one-night stand.]

<<set $ch5drunk to 'Rune'>> Rune is quiet until you reach the door to your room. "I hope your evening was not ruined." You shake your head. "I wouldn't say ruined, you put on quite the show after all." $Rcapitalheshe rubs the back of $Rhisher neck. "Yes, I'm certain I did. At least I made it especially memorable." "I'm a bit curious now, are you personal friends with the monarch here or were you posturing?" Rune shrugs. "Mostly. We are well acquainted for sure, I would call us friends but maybe not quite as close as I implied earlier. Still, they would take our side if the matter escalated. They are not fond of the king in Tallulah." "I suppose I should thank you for sticking your neck out for me," you offer. "No need. Truth be told, I should have conferred with you. You're capable. I know you are still healing, but you aren't helpless either…I should leave you to relax. Let me know if you need anything." Rune smiles and dips $Rhisher head down in respect. [[You bid Rune goodnight and retire.|5.2RDend]] $flirt_label [[You scramble to find a reason to keep talking.|5.2RD1a2a]]

<<set $Rflirt +=3>> "Um!" you call out. Rune stops and turns, looking at you attentively. You fidget, <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>unsure of how to do this<<else>>oddly unsure of yourself<</if>>. "So, your performance." $Rcapitalheshe grins. "Yes?" "It was…magical." Rune raises a brow. "I can't tell if you are making a bad pun or being sweet." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I don't usually jest about such things." You look Rune in the eye.<<else>>"It's a gamble you'll have to make." You smirk.<</if>> "Thank you, $mc. I will gladly perform for you again. A private show one day perhaps?" "Yes! I mean, yes, I'd appreciate that." "Goodnight, $mc. Dream well." "You too." [[You retire for the night.|5.2RDend]]

You stare at your packs. Oswin informed you this morning that you'll be heading out soon, perhaps in a day or two. It is unreal. The time has passed both quickly and slowly. You've spent a great deal of time with everyone and gotten to know each of them a little better. Your shoulder is much better now, and many of your other ills have gone. <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin has healed up just fine and claims the wounds have barely left a scar. You doubt the validity of that claim, but he refuses to prove it since it would be 'improper.' The both of you know that is a lie and he doesn't truly think such a thing.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>As far as you know, Zahn has healed fine from $Zhisher wounds. Rune reassured you that $Zheshe checked in with $Rhimher before $Zhisher departure and that the injury was fine.<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri has healed well from $Dhisher injuries, and happily showed you how it only left a faint few scars. The little lines in $Dhisher flesh are barely noticeable now.<</if>> Now if only your clothing would pack itself. All of it has been cleaned for you and is already folded neatly, you just need to organize and stuff it into your pack. As you arrange your clothing, you think about the path ahead. All three of your new associates have agreed or even asked to come with you. Duri insists that you still owe $Dhimher, Zahn frets for your health and life, and Rune is also concerned for your well-being as well as drawn by the mystery your curse presents. You are still unsure of how your parents will react, but they are both generally welcoming sorts, so it should be fine. The afternoon is waning as you pack the last of your things other than what you may need for another day. There's nothing left to do but relax until dinner. Everyone has been out doing their own things today, so you doubt anyone will be around for company. You think of how Zahn has not yet returned. <<if $Zstat5 is 'neutral'>>You're not sure how to feel about that.<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'friends'>>You hope $Zheshe returns soon and that Oswin won't insist on leaving without $Zhimher.<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'romantic'>>You hope $Zheshe returns soon and that Oswin won't insist on leaving without $Zhimher. You're prepared to argue if he does.<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'sus'>>You wonder what $Zheshe has been up to.<</if>> Even Duri had some sort of business to attend to. Whatever it was, it peaked $wolf's interest and she went with $Dhimher. You think Rune and Oswin are somewhere around the tavern at least. Rune told you that $Rheshe was performing tonight, and Oswin is likely resupplying at the market down the road. You're stuck until dinner it seems. Sitting on the bed, you spot Rune's tonic on the bedside table. It's nearly time for your dose. It makes you a bit tired but only after some hours pass, so you decide to take it. You're not sure what is in it, but it makes you sleep like you did as a kid. Popping the cork you throw the green liquid back and swallow. You cough and make a face. It's much more bitter today. You stare at the phial like it just bit you. <<if $interest is 'healin'>>You smack your lips and focus on your tongue. Something in the tonic must have been burnt. You stare at the phial again. It's the same one, the same cork, but something is different. Rune wouldn't put anything burnt in $Rhisher tonic. Rune wouldn't… A chill runs down your spine. What did you just drink? Rather, what was added to what you just drank? You sniff the phial, but the burnt notes make it difficult to distinguish. Who would tamper with your tonic? Why? Is Duri playing a trick on you? You relax a moment, it must be $Dhimher. It must be. Dizziness washes over you. This isn't right. Your hand shakes and you drop the phial. It smashes to the floor. Staggering to your feet, you try to rush for the door to get help but stumble, falling to your knees. As you cling to the bed to try and get up, you hear a noise from the wardrobe. The door opens and out walks <<if $ch5Broute is true>>Jasper, the leader of the bandits from before.<<else>>a stranger.<</if>> <<if $ch5Broute is true>>"Hello again, sweety," they croon.<<else>>"Hello sweety, you can call me Jasper. I'll be your abductor this evening." They laugh.<</if>> "Don't be scared. I'm not here to kill you or even hurt you. I'd have done it already if I was." You struggle to get to your feet, but your legs shake too much to stand. "What…what did you give me?" Jasper laughs. "Old family secret. Seems like you are a clever one though, you were supposed to be sleeping soundly for me." "You //burnt// it." They snear. "Some people like it toasty. Anyway, please either pass out or come willingly. Your friends are preoccupied //finally//. I've waited days for this and time is money.<<if $ch5Broute is true>> After our little run-in before, you practically owe me this. Your brave little friend broke my sword and gave me a nasty scar on my backside. I can imagine his delicious screams when he finds you missing.<</if>>" You hear one of the windows rattle and look over as another bandit begins to force it open and crawl through. You try to drag yourself to the door but Jasper grabs you by the ankle. You call out as they slap a hand to your mouth. Flailing, you try to rally strength to get free to no avail. The dizziness makes you disoriented, and weakness plucks at all your limbs. You can hear the bandits laughing as you try to struggle. Jasper begins to bind your legs and arms as the two others enter the room to help restrain you, not that whatever drug they slipped you allows you to put up much of a fight. As they try to gag you, you speak frantically. "Wait, wait, please. Let's…" You scramble to think of something. Suddenly you remember Da's ring. "I can trade! I have something valuable!" Surprisingly, Jasper stops. "Oh?" They look at the others. "What is it?" "A ring." "And?" Jasper grips your face and forces you to look at them. "I just know it's valuable, my father gave it to me in case I was in trouble. I know it's important, just not how." "Where?" one of the other bandits demands. "My pack, the big one in the middle, it's tucked in a pouch at the very bottom," you explain. Jasper doesn't take their hands off you. "Dump it," they command the others. The two do as they say, unlatching your pack and turning it over. All your clothes scatter about, tempting you to chide the ruffians. The pouch tumbles out after, clattering to the floor. Jasper snatches it and empties it into their hand. Out pops…a rock. A rock about the size of the ring. "Ooh, very valuable indeed," Jasper mocks. "I'd say you should take it up with your dear poppa, but I doubt you'll be seeing him anytime soon." You stare in shock. You haven't even touched the ring since you set out. You always…felt the bottom of your bag to ensure it was there. You never even uncovered it completely when you camped. No one could have seen it. This isn't possible. Jasper taps your cheek. "Something tells me that you may have been robbed. Wow, this //really// isn't your season is it?" They laugh and the other two join in as they continue to bind your hands and feet and then wrap a cloth in and around your mouth. You whimper as your eyes get heavy and you begin to lose consciousness. [[Everything goes black.|5.E2]] <<else>> You make a mental note to tell Rune that $Rheshe might have something spoilt in their apothecary supplies. You chase the bitter tonic with a glass of water, downing the whole glass before the taste seems sufficiently washed from your tongue. You sigh as you crawl into your bed. You're bored, so bored that you're tired as well as restless. As you glance outside the window, you can see that the sun is just beginning to wane, but it isn't too late in the day. You have time before dinner, and your eyes are getting a bit heavy, so you think you'll let yourself nod off for a while. Besides, you should soak up this exceedingly comfortable bed while you still can. As you sink into the mattress, not even bothering to get under the covers, the room is already starting to fade. You must have been more tired than you thought. [[A wash of dizziness briefly comes over you as you sink into sleep.|5.E1a]] <</if>>

You slowly wake up sometime later. It's dark and your head feels muddled, like it's filled with wet sand. Your mouth feels like it is full of cotton, and then you realize – it actually is because you're still gagged. It takes a great deal of time and effort, but you focus on your surroundings. It's dark, but unnaturally so – you have a bag on your head. You are lying on your back against wood, and you're being jostled back and forth. You hear the sound of hooves hitting dirt and the creak of wheels. A wagon – you're in the back of a wagon or caravan. You sense your hands are bound in front of you at the wrists. Likewise, your ankles are tied together. You hear others around you chatting, Jasper's voice chief among them. "$capitalheshe<<if $pronouns is 'they'>>'re<<else>>'s<</if>> waking up," a voice says. You nearly curse. //How could they tell?// Someone rends the bag from your head in a swift motion. You blink to adjust to the light of a lantern that hangs above you. You're in a caravan and are surrounded by Jasper, the two other bandits – a man and a woman – that took you from your room, and one other – another woman. "You're up early," Jasper says, running a hand through their red hair, playing with it as they smile at you. "Must be resilient." The others chuckle and leer at you. The man eyes you up and down slowly, making your skin crawl. <<if $ch5Broute is true>>You wonder what it is about you that attracts this disgusting attention from these brigands.<</if>> "Looks cute with $hisher mouth stuffed shut," the man says. "Are we sure we want to sell this one?" "Why are you so godsdamn gross," Jasper says, sneering. "We're not passing up this chance. Everything else has gone tits up." //Sell? To whom?// <<if $ch5Broute is true>>"I won't pretend that I wouldn't like a little extra revenge, though. I didn't care for Cenn, but did he deserve to die?" Jasper thinks for a moment. "Well, probably, //but// someone stole my shit while we were out cold on the road, and I think I deserve some compensation."<</if>> They shift around, studying you closely. "You're a good-looking thing, but I don't understand exactly what our client wants from you. I feel a little magic spark in you, though, perhaps they want to dig that out." The women both laugh. One speaks. "It's one of those cults, Jas. Creepy freaks. They probably want to butcher $himher. You ever seen those alters in the woods? Big stone slab, bunch-a dead bodies around it. Typical cult shit." Jasper rolls their eyes. "No one pays this kind of money for something they want to kill." The man scoots closer to you and you try to wriggle away. "It's a waste," he says. "Ramsey – cool it. You're as gross as your brother," Jasper chides. The women begin to pick at your clothes. "You're sure this is the right one? Doesn't look like much. Just a common brat." <<if $eyecolor is "purple">>Jasper rolls their eyes. "How many other people do you see running around with purple peepers? Lyreheart notwithstanding. I'd be fucked if we tried to nab that one. Not worth it."<<else>>Jasper snorts. "Don't say 'common' like it's a bad thing. Wonderful things come in //common// packages sometimes. Me and Ramy here like what we see after all."<</if>> They gesture to your stomach. "Besides, $heshe <<if $pronouns is 'they'>>have<<else>>has<</if>> the tattoo. It's just as the buyer described." Your eyes go wide. "Oh?" Jasper tilts their head. "Something the matter, my little captive? Or are you upset that I took a good look to make sure?<<if $clothing is "revealing">> I didn't think you'd mind, it's not like I had to dig very far to find it!" They laugh.<</if>>" <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>You begin to thrash, trying to swing both your legs to kick out at Jasper, but you are still under the effect of the drug and can make little progress. It just makes the group laugh at your expense.<<else>>You recoil in disgust but try to stay still and bide your time. You're in no position to put up a struggle right now.<</if>> The one called Ramsey smiles at you. "We sure we have to sell this one? I like $hisher attitude." Jasper leans back and you almost think they're considering it, an idea that you don't necessarily like. "I can tell $heshe<<if $pronouns is 'they'>>'re<<else>>'s<</if>> special in some way…it's tempting, but we need the money and we need it now. Besides, we could always just steal $himher back!" They all laugh. You don't know if you're even going to get a good opportunity to take action yourself. You don't know if anyone is coming for you. You don't know where they're taking you or how far they've traveled already. The drug is still making you weak, but maybe you can rally yourself enough to fight back. Maybe now is a better time to do something about this yourself. The caravan is close-quarters, which can work both for and against you. If there's enough disruption, it may even tip over and give you an opening. But…they could hurt you as well. You don't think they'll kill you if you mean they get paid. Someone wants you alive and you don't even want to begin thinking about who is offering money to buy you like some object. You just want to be home. You think of your fathers, their faces if Oswin returned without you in tow. What would that do to them? <<if $interest is 'choppin'>>You're no weakling, your profession has seen to that. Despite being sick nearly all your life, despite being injured and battered on your journey – you are not helpless.<<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>> Your build is a force to be reckoned with as well.<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>> Your build is a force to be reckoned with as well.<</if>><<elseif $interest is 'woodin'>>You're no weakling. But are you strong enough to fend off four bandits in a caravan? You're not a trained fighter either, though your da saw to it to teach you a few things.<<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>> Your build is a force to be reckoned with as well.<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>> Your build is a force to be reckoned with as well.<</if>><<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>>You're no weakling, your profession has seen to that. Despite being sick nearly all your life, despite being injured and battered on your journey – you are not helpless.<<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>> Your build is a force to be reckoned with as well.<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>> Your build is a force to be reckoned with as well.<</if>><<elseif $interest is 'archin'>>You're no weakling, your profession has seen to that. Despite being sick nearly all your life, despite being injured and battered on your journey – you are not helpless.<<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>> Your build is a force to be reckoned with as well.<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>> Your build is a force to be reckoned with as well.<</if>><<elseif $interest is 'healin'>>You're not the strongest around. Not that you are completely helpless either. Your da taught you some ways to defend yourself, but most of them require you to not be tied up in a caravan. If only you had your apothecary bag…<<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>> At least your build is a force to be reckoned with, maybe it's enough to give you an edge.<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>> At least your build is a force to be reckoned with, maybe it's enough to give you an edge.<</if>><<elseif $interest is 'tradin'>>You're not the strongest around. Not that you are completely helpless either. Your da taught you some ways to defend yourself, but most of them require you to not be tied up in a caravan. You wish you had one of your pens to use as a weapon.<<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>> At least your build is a force to be reckoned with, maybe it's enough to give you an edge.<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>> At least your build is a force to be reckoned with, maybe it's enough to give you an edge.<</if>><<elseif $interest is 'cookin'>>You're no weakling. But are you strong enough to fend off four bandits in a caravan? You're not a trained fighter either, though your da saw to it to teach you a few things.<<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>> At least your build is a force to be reckoned with, maybe it's enough to give you an edge.<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>> At least your build is a force to be reckoned with, maybe it's enough to give you an edge.<</if>><</if>> You need to do //something//. [[You resist the urge to fight and try to wait, trusting your friends.|5.E2a][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 10, 0, 100)]] [[You will fight tooth and nail to get out of this.|5.E2b][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 10, 0, 100)]] [[You're paralyzed by emotion and begin to weep.|5.E2c][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]]

But a strange noise makes your adrenaline surge so that you spring awake. You sit up, only to find yourself abnormally groggy. The room spins. You hear something again and your eyes snap to a figure exiting the wardrobe across the room. Jumping from the bed, you stumble, barely catching yourself on the nightstand to stay up. Your vision is swimming, but the way your heart pounds tells you that you mustn't give in. You focus on the person. <<if $ch5Broute is true>>It's Jasper, the bandit leader from before.<</if>> <<if $ch5Broute is true>>"Hello again, sweety," they croon.<<else>>"Hello sweety, you can call me Jasper. I'll be your abductor this evening." They laugh.<</if>> "Don't be scared. I'm not here to kill you or even hurt you. I'd have done it already if I was." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"Just…just take it easy," you say. "Let's talk."<<else>>"Stay the fuck away from me," you say, putting as much venom as you can in your tone.<</if>> You know very well that you are not in a good position to posture or wiggle out of this. Jasper coos. "You are too cute. Anyway, please either pass out or come willingly. Your friends are preoccupied //finally//. I've waited days for this and time is money.<<if $ch5Broute is true>> After our little run-in before, you practically owe me this. Your brave little friend broke my sword and gave me a nasty scar on my backside. I can imagine his delicious screams when he finds you missing.<</if>>" You hear one of the windows rattle and look over as another bandit begins to force it open and crawl through. You are trapped, likely drugged, and already outnumbered. <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>You bolt. At least you try to. Your legs flounder as you push to reach the door, but Jasper easily intercepts you and you fall to the floor.<<else>>You decide to play this safely. You don't have any chance right now, but if you can bide your time and stay conscious, you may be able to escape another way. Jasper quickly closes in on you, forcing you to the floor.<</if>> You can hear the bandits laughing as you try to struggle. Jasper begins to bind your legs and arms as the two others move to help restrain you, not that whatever drug they slipped you allows you to put up much of a fight. "Wait, wait, please. Let's…" You scramble to think of something before they gag you. Suddenly you remember Da's ring. "I can trade! I have something valuable!" Surprisingly, Jasper stops. "Oh?" They look at the others. "What is it?" "A ring." "And?" Jasper grips your face and forces you to look at them. "I just know it's valuable, my father gave it to me in case I was in trouble. I know it's important just now how." "Where?" one of the other bandits demands. "My pack, the big one in the middle, it's tucked in a pouch at the very bottom," you explain. Jasper doesn't take their hands off you. "Dump it," they command the others. The two do as they say, unlatching your pack and turning it over. All your clothes scatter about, tempting you to chide the ruffians. The pouch tumbles out after, clattering to the floor. Jasper snatches it and empties it into their hand. Out pops…a rock. A rock about the size of the ring. "Ooh, very valuable indeed," Jasper mocks. "I'd say you should take it up with your dear poppa, but I doubt you'll be seeing him anytime soon." You stare in shock. You haven't even touched the ring since you set out. You always…felt the bottom of your bag to ensure it was there. You never even uncovered it completely when you camped. No one could have seen it. This isn't possible. Jasper taps your cheek. "Something tells me that you may have been robbed. Wow, this //really// isn't your season is it?" They laugh and the other two join in as they continue to bind your hands and feet and then wrap a cloth in and around your mouth. You whimper as your eyes get heavy and you begin to lose consciousness. [[Everything goes black.|5.E2]]

You tamp down the adrenaline that is surging you forward to do something. If you are too reckless, you may never get out of this alive at all. You remind yourself that you are in a particularly vulnerable spot at the moment. If you are called to act, there will likely be better times to do so. And maybe it would be smart to see if you pick up any more information. You glance around only to catch Jasper's amber eyes studying you. They just stare, expression a mix of apathy and a hint of disdain. You want to look away but you can't. "You're lucky my contact is a rich bitch and I need some fast money," they finally say. You narrow your eyes. "Don't look at me like that. I can //feel// that you've got something weird going on. Our client too. Some magic shit. I always get this weird feeling when it's around, it's how I've made it this far.<<if $ch5Broute is true>> I felt it when I first saw you too. It's irony that we meet again like this.<</if>> Something's got a hold on you…it's not right, but I have a feeling it would be worth a lot more money than we're getting for you." You sigh through the gag.<<if $ch5Broute is true>> It sounds like Jasper may not have had this planned since before your first run-in.<</if>> Who is paying for you to be abducted like this? For what purpose? Is it someone who knows about the curse? Or is it simply because it's magical?<<if $Zstat5 is 'sus'>> You suddenly remember that Zahn took off days ago. You never saw $Zhimher return either. Has $Zheshe told someone about your affliction? Oswin did say that Zahn's church was full of zealots – do they covet magic? Would $Zheshe really do that to you?<</if>> "I can tell the wheels in that pretty head of yours are spinning. Get comfortable though, it will be a while still before we meet your purchaser." Jasper chuckles. You simply lay there. Thankfully Ramsey and the other two have backed off, but you still feel unsettled about closing your eyes, so you stare at the roof of the caravan. You try to send your mind to a better place and think of anything but the situation you're in now. [[You try to relax.|5.E3a]]

The anxiety is growing too much to handle. Now that you've laid here for a while and grasped the situation you're in, you see it for what it is. You are trapped by strangers who do not care about you. None of your friends know where you are. You are powerless. What fate awaits you? What will they do to you? Will you ever see your parents or your friends again? Hot tears fill your eyes and stream down the sides of your head, making your hair damp. A muffled sob is caught by the gag in your mouth. You cry quietly. The man – Ramsey – reaches out as if he wants to comfort you, but the last person in here you want touching you is him. You cry harder and try to wriggle away. Thankfully, one of the women smacks him in the head and he backs off. You glance around only to catch Jasper's amber eyes studying you. They just stare, expression a mix of apathy and a hint of disdain. You want to look away but you can't. "You're lucky my contact is a rich bitch and I need some fast money," they finally say. More tears pour from your eyes. "Don't look at me like that. I can //feel// that you've got something weird going on. Our client too. Some magic shit. I always get this weird feeling when it's around, it's how I've made it this far.<<if $ch5Broute is true>> I felt it when I first saw you too. It's irony that we meet again like this.<</if>> Something's got a hold on you…it's not right, but I have a feeling it would be worth a lot more money than we're getting for you." You whimper through the gag.<<if $ch5Broute is true>> It sounds like Jasper may not have had this planned since before your first run-in.<</if>> Who is paying for you to be abducted like this? For what purpose? Is it someone who knows about the curse? Or is it simply because it's magical?<<if $Zstat5 is 'sus'>> You suddenly remember that Zahn took off days ago. You never saw $Zhimher return either. Has $Zheshe told someone about your affliction? Oswin did say that Zahn's church was full of zealots – do they covet magic? Would $Zheshe really do that to you?<</if>> "I can tell the wheels in that pretty head of yours are spinning. Get comfortable though, it will be a while still before we meet your //purchaser//." Jasper chuckles. You simply lay there and sniffle, tiredness setting in. Thankfully, Ramsey and the other two have backed off, but you still feel unsettled about closing your eyes, so you stare at the roof of the caravan. You try to send your mind to a better place and think of anything but the situation you're in now. [[You try to relax.|5.E3a]]

<html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:25px;"> <div style="text-align: center;">But someone screams.</div> </h1> </body> </html> [[The caravan lurches.|5.E3a1]]

The scream was from outside. You hear a bang against the roof of the caravan and another person out there begins to yell. The horses pulling it pick up speed and you all begin to rock and bounce. "What the fuck is going on out there!?" Jasper yells as the others try to brace themselves against the shaking caravan. A muffled voice calls back, likely the driver. "Sam just bit it! Someone's after us!" The women both start frantically looking for something. "Shit, shit, shit – fucking knew this was too easy!" one yells. You hear wood splinter and look over to see Ramsey with his mouth open in a silent scream. He yanks away from the side of the caravan, blood spurting from his back. You spot an arrow – no – a steel bolt protruding from the wall. The man isn't down, but the wound looks bad. The women have found a bow and Jasper is trying to open a hatch in the roof to get out. [[You have a chance to act…you must decide fast.|5.E3a2]]

[[WAIT.]] [[FIGHT.]] <<timed 2s>><<goto "WAIT.">><</timed>>

Your heart races wildly. Your bones tell you to move, but the restraints prevent you from doing anything. Panic begins to set in as the need to fight or hide gets more and more insistent. You begin to scoot yourself to the edge of the caravan. Jasper eyes you carefully as they try to open a hatch on the roof. They begin to struggle with it once they realize it's jammed shut. The women begin to unlatch part of one wall that opens into a bit of a window. There appears to be only one bow between them, but the other finds a knife, which you assume gives her the illusion of preparedness. Once the window is propped and Jasper is banging hard against the hatch to force it open, the woman with the bow spots a target outside aims and fires. She draws another arrow and no sooner than she draws it back, a bolt sails through and spears her in the shoulder. The other woman takes over the bow but doesn't fire a single shot before she is also shot down. Unlike the first one, you don't think she'll be getting back up again. You suddenly realize just how much blood is now coating the walls and floor of the caravan and try to scoot further back into a corner. The bandits are all busy or maybe dead, so you take the gag from your mouth and begin to work on the ropes around your hands with your teeth. "Don't go far – you better keep your butt down because you're my hostage," Jasper says with a snarl. There's another scream, you think from the driver. A couple of thuds resound and then the caravan bounces hard like it hit something in the road. Jasper fights with the hatch again. "What the fuck is wrong with this thing!?" The caravan lurches again – hard – and flips. [[The horses scream once more.|5.E3b]]

<<set $foughtbandits to true>> Thankfully your hands are not bound to anything else, so you reach up and rip out the gag so you can work on the rope with your teeth. You manage to quickly free your hands. The women spot what you're trying and immediately rush you. With no time to doddle, you make do with your feet still bound and scoot back. <<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>> With limited room to maneuver, they have to form a line to get to you. With no time to think, you manage to get your feet under you enough to hurtle yourself forward and crash into them. It catches them completely off guard and you all go down in a heap. Jasper curses at the hatch as Ramsey comes at you with a baton, but he's slow and sluggish from his injury. You struggle to right yourself as he brings it down on your back. One of the women pinned beneath you begins to land punches in your side, but she is just in line for you to knock your head into her. After a dazed moment, her body relaxes as she passes out from the blow. You roll away in time with the caravan lurching hard as the horses pick up speed. Ramsey loses his balance as he brings the baton back down and hits the other woman by accident. A knife slides away from her grip. Grabbing the knife quickly, you begin to hack at the ropes on your ankles, but you don't get them off before Ramsey throws himself against you, which seems to hurt him as much as it does you. He pins you to the caravan wall and tries to take you to the floor, but you firmly resist. "Why the fuck are you so damn strong!" he yells as he tries to grab your arms to restrain them instead. You grab hold of his wrists and begin to force him off you, muscles straining but determination fueling you. "Because I take after my papa!" you yell back as you reverse his pin and slam his back into the wall. He screams in pain and succumbs, his eyes rolling back as he falls to the floor. Once you regain your senses, Jasper is upon you. They knee you in the gut and then swing behind you to grapple you by the throat. The entire caravan suddenly lurches and you hear another scream from outside. It's only a momentary distraction as Jasper continues to try and rend you to your knees. You struggle to stay balanced as the caravan shakes and rocks. Jasper redoubles their efforts to try and subdue you and finally succeeds in forcing you to the floor on your stomach. The caravan lurches once more as the horses scream in protest of how the driver is pushing them. "Fuck this," Jasper curses, bringing something down on the back of your head. There's a ringing in your ears, but you refuse to back down. You see the knife. You snatch it and then wing your arm back wildly. Jasper screams and you think you've caught them in the leg. They slam into you in a rage, taking the knife from you. You manage to wiggle out and turn in time to see Jasper raising the knife to stab you. The caravan lurches again – hard – and flips. [[The horses scream again.|5.E3b]] <<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>> With limited room to maneuver, they have to form a line to get to you. With no time to think, you manage to get your feet under you enough to hurtle yourself forward and crash into them. It catches them completely off guard and you all go down in a heap. Jasper curses at the hatch as Ramsey comes at you with a baton, but he's slow and sluggish from his injury. You struggle to right yourself as he brings it down on your back. One of the women pinned beneath you begins to land punches in your side, but she is just in line for you to knock your head into her. After a dazed moment, her body relaxes as she passes out from the blow. You roll away in time with the caravan lurching hard as the horses pick up speed. Ramsey loses his balance as he brings the baton back down and hits the other woman by accident. A knife slides away from her grip. Grabbing the knife quickly, you begin to hack at the ropes on your ankles, but you don't get them off before Ramsey throws himself against you, which seems to hurt him as much as it does you. He pins you to the caravan wall and tries to take you to the floor, but you firmly resist. "Why the fuck are you so damn strong!" he yells as he tries to grab your arms to restrain them instead. You grab hold of his wrists and begin to force him off you, muscles straining but determination fueling you. "Because I take after my da!" you yell back as you reverse his pin and slam his back into the wall. He screams in pain and succumbs, his eyes rolling back as he falls to the floor. Once you regain your senses, Jasper is upon you. They knee you in the gut and then swing behind you to grapple you by the throat. The entire caravan suddenly lurches and you hear another scream from outside. It's only a momentary distraction as Jasper continues to try and rend you to your knees. You struggle to stay balanced as the caravan shakes and rocks. Jasper redoubles their efforts to try and subdue you and finally succeeds in forcing you to the floor on your stomach. The caravan lurches once more as the horses scream in protest of how the driver is pushing them. "Fuck this," Jasper curses, bringing something down on the back of your head. There's a ringing in your ears, but you refuse to back down. You see the knife. You snatch it and then wing your arm back wildly. Jasper screams and you think you've caught them in the leg. They slam into you in a rage, taking the knife from you. You manage to wiggle out and turn in time to see Jasper raising the knife to stab you. The caravan lurches again – hard – and flips. [[The horses scream again.|5.E3b]] <<else>> With limited room to maneuver, they have to form a line to get to you. With no time to think, you manage to get your feet under you enough to hurtle yourself forward and crash into them. One of them falls with you, bashing her head on something and going still. The other rushes to look for something. Jasper curses at the hatch as Ramsey comes at you with a baton, but he's slow and sluggish from his injury. You struggle to right yourself as he brings it down on your back. The other woman retrieves a knife and comes at you as you are prone on the floor. She pounces with a scream. You block her hit just in time, but the blade slashes along your arm. You punch her in the jaw and then rend the knife from her hands as you shove her off so you can move. You slash at the ropes around your ankles. Just before they break, Ramsey lands on top of you, forcing the knife out of your hand. At least he's lost his baton, so instead tries to restrain you by the neck as the woman scurries to keep you from throwing punches. You wriggle like a dog avoiding a bath. You do not care a bit how inelegant or unprofessional you look, you've got to get out of this. Your strength is waning quickly. The moment you feel the woman's grip on your arms falter, you swing out and clock her in the throat. She falls away and then you start swinging at Ramsey. "//Gods// you are so fucking cute," he coos through gritted teeth as he releases your neck in favor of restraining your arms. "It's like watching a naughty little kitten try to fight back. I like that you have claws." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Fuck off!" you snarl. "If you like me so damn much, get me outta here!"<<else>>"And just like a naughty kitten, I will piss on everything you love!" you snap back in disgust.<</if>> You start gaining on him and he struggles to keep your arms pinned. You slip one from his grip and throw your fist against his face. "Where the fuck did you learn to be so tenacious!?" he yells, blood pouring from his mouth. You curl your legs up to get your knees under him and push. "I learned it from my fathers!" you yell as you manage to push him enough to scramble away. You're completely exhausted and Jasper is now coming at you. Your legs give out as you try to stand, so you search for the knife but can't find it. They pounce on you, pinning you back against the floor. The entire caravan suddenly lurches and you hear a scream from outside. It's only a momentary distraction, but unbalances Jasper enough for you to start crawling away. They drag you back by the legs and straddle you to keep you in place. The caravan rocks again. The horses have sped up. Jasper slams a fist into your face three times before grabbing you by the neck. You try but can't shake them off. The caravan lurches again as the horses scream in protest of how the driver is pushing them. "Fuck this," Jasper curses, and begins squeezing your neck hard. "They'll pay half for your body anyway." There's a ringing in your ears, but you refuse to back down. You see the knife. You flail your arm to reach it, but come up empty. Jasper chuckles. "Awe, you were so close too. To think, you could have stabbed me. Maybe in another life, hm?" One of Jasper's hands leaves your neck and snatches the knife. They raise it above you with a smile. The caravan lurches again – hard – and flips. [[The horses scream again.|5.E3b]] <</if>>

You are tossed about the caravan like a doll. It all happens so fast, but you feel it all so slowly. You are knocked around, slamming into the walls, the roof, and into the bandits. The meager supplies inside are loosed and knocked into you. You feel like you are at the bottom of a pestle and the mortar is pounded down over and over to break you up. When the caravan finally stops moving, you're not sure if you're alive or dead. Consciousness barely clings to you as everything settles. The bandits are quiet and you wonder if any of them are left alive. Everything hurts. Crawling around out of the debris, you find that you are bleeding from a few places – your face, arms, and one of your legs. Once you kick away the rope that bound your ankles, you can feel the harsh burns it has left on them. The roof of the caravan has split wide open, but the hatch remains closed – it makes you almost want to chuckle. You can't spot Jasper in the rubble, but you aren't keen to dig around and look. You spot the body of Ramsey and one of the women as you crawl out, they are likely dead. You catch the feeling of sunlight on your skin as you drag yourself out of the wreckage. The feeling is so sweet, you could almost cry. You try to get your bearings but you're dizzy, so you focus on breathing… [[Until something grabs you.|5.E4]]

<<set $foughtbandits to true>> Fueled by adrenaline and emotion, you quickly wing your bound legs up and over right into Jasper's face. They slam into the wall of the caravan hard enough to rock it. The others are so surprised they don't act, giving you precious few seconds to scoot away and try to rip the ropes from your wrists. Thankfully, they didn't think to bind your hands to your ankles, so you are able to bring your hands up to remove the gag and work the rope with your teeth. By the time Ramsey is reaching for you, with a baton in hand, you have the rope loosened. He swings wildly, but in the confines of the caravan, most of the force hits the ceiling and you're able to move out of the way. As Jasper shakes off your initial blow, you get your hands free. They look incredibly angry. You won't have time to get your feet free, but you at least have hands now. <<if $interest is 'choppin'>> As Jasper lunges at you, you grasp a support on the ceiling and fling your feet out to knock them right in the chest. One of the women swings a fist as Jasper falls again, barely missing your chin. You jump forward, letting your body weight carry you to collide with her as you bring your head down to slam into her face. She cries out and falls on her back as your knees hit the floor. Ramsey tries his club again and this time succeeds in slamming it into your back, making you call out. You flop on your butt and wing your legs around to catch the back of his knees and trip him. The second woman comes at you with a knife. She pounces on you with a scream. You block her hit just in time, but the blade slashes along your arm. You punch her in the jaw and then rend the knife from her hands as you kick her off of you. Throwing yourself back to make room, you slash at the ropes around your ankles. Just before the break, Ramsey lands on top of you. He's lost his baton and tries to restrain you by the neck as one of the women scurries to keep you from throwing punches. You wriggle like a dog avoiding a bath. You do not care a bit how inelegant or unprofessional you look, you've got to get out of this. The moment you feel the woman's grip on your arms falter, you swing out and clock her in the throat. She falls away and then you start swinging at Ramsey. "Why the fuck are you so damn strong!" he yells as he tries to grab your arms and restrain them instead. You curl your legs up to get your knees under him and lift him up and off of you. "Because I take after my papa!" you yell back as you throw him off with just your legs. You're nearly exhausted and Jasper is coming at you. Scrambling to stand, you search for the knife but can't find it. They give you no time as they tackle you, but you manage to stay standing. Now that Jasper has room to work, you feel how fierce they truly are. They knee you in the gut and then swing behind you to grapple you by the throat. The entire caravan suddenly lurches and you hear a scream from outside. It's only a momentary distraction as Jasper continues to try and rend you to your knees. You struggle to stay balanced as the caravan shakes and rocks. The horses have sped up. Jasper grips your neck in the crook of their elbow with one arm as the other hammers punches into your side. You try but can't shake them off. You hear something slam into the side of the caravan and both you and Jasper are distracted. Ramsey falls back to the floor, blood streaming from his back. A steel bolt sticks out of the caravan wall. Jasper redoubles their efforts to try and subdue you and finally succeeds in forcing you to the floor on your stomach. The caravan lurches again as the horses scream in protest of the driver. "Fuck this," Jasper curses, bringing something down on the back of your head. There's a ringing in your ears, but you refuse to back down. You see the knife. You snatch it and then wing your arm back wildly. Jasper screams and you think you've caught them in the leg. They slam into you in a rage, taking the knife from you. You managed to wiggle out and turn in time to see Jasper raising the knife to stab you. The caravan lurches again – hard – and flips. [[The horses scream again.|5.E3b]] <<elseif $interest is 'swordin'>> As Jasper lunges at you, you grasp a support on the ceiling and fling your feet out to knock them right in the chest. One of the women swings a fist as Jasper falls again, barely missing your chin. You jump forward, letting your body weight carry you to collide with her as you bring your head down to slam into her face. She cries out and falls on her back as your knees hit the floor. Ramsey tries his club again and this time succeeds in slamming it into your back, making you call out. You flop on your butt and wing your legs around to catch the back of his knees and trip him. The second woman comes at you with a knife. She pounces on you with a scream. You block her hit just in time, but the blade slashes along your arm. You punch her in the jaw and then rend the knife from her hands as you kick her off of you. Throwing yourself back to make room, you slash at the ropes around your ankles. Just before the break, Ramsey lands on top of you. He's lost his baton and tries to restrain you by the neck as one of the women scurries to keep you from throwing punches. You wriggle like a dog avoiding a bath. You do not care a bit how inelegant or unprofessional you look, you've got to get out of this. The moment you feel the woman's grip on your arms falter, you swing out and clock her in the throat. She falls away and then you start swinging at Ramsey. "Why the fuck are you so damn strong!" he yells as he tries to grab your arms and restrain them instead. You curl your legs up to get your knees under him and lift him up and off of you. "Because I take after my <<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>>papa<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>>da<<else>>fathers<</if>>!" you yell back as you throw him off with just your legs. You're nearly exhausted and Jasper is coming at you. Scrambling to stand, you search for the knife but can't find it. They give you no time as they tackle you, but you manage to stay standing. Now that Jasper has room to work, you feel how fierce they truly are. They knee you in the gut and then swing behind you to grapple you by the throat. The entire caravan suddenly lurches and you hear a scream from outside. It's only a momentary distraction as Jasper continues to try and rend you to your knees. You struggle to stay balanced as the caravan shakes and rocks. The horses have sped up. Jasper grips your neck in the crook of their elbow with one arm as the other hammers punches into your side. You try but can't shake them off. You hear something slam into the side of the caravan and both you and Jasper are distracted. Ramsey falls back to the floor, blood streaming from his back. A steel bolt sticks out of the caravan wall. Jasper redoubles their efforts to try and subdue you and finally succeeds in forcing you to the floor on your stomach. The caravan lurches again as the horses scream in protest of the driver. "Fuck this," Jasper curses, bringing something down on the back of your head. There's a ringing in your ears, but you refuse to back down. You see the knife. You snatch it and then wing your arm back wildly. Jasper screams and you think you've caught them in the leg. They slam into you in a rage, taking the knife from you. You managed to wiggle out and turn in time to see Jasper raising the knife to stab you. The caravan lurches again – hard – and flips. [[The horses scream again.|5.E3b]] <<elseif $interest is 'archin'>> As Jasper lunges at you, you grasp a support on the ceiling and fling your feet out to knock them right in the chest. One of the women swings a fist as Jasper falls again, barely missing your chin. You jump forward, letting your body weight carry you to collide with her as you bring your head down to slam into her face. She cries out and falls on her back as your knees hit the floor. Ramsey tries his club again and this time succeeds in slamming it into your back, making you call out. You flop on your butt and wing your legs around to catch the back of his knees and trip him. The second woman comes at you with a knife. She pounces on you with a scream. You block her hit just in time, but the blade slashes along your arm. You punch her in the jaw and then rend the knife from her hands as you kick her off of you. Throwing yourself back to make room, you slash at the ropes around your ankles. Just before the break, Ramsey lands on top of you. He's lost his baton and tries to restrain you by the neck as one of the women scurries to keep you from throwing punches. You wriggle like a dog avoiding a bath. You do not care a bit how inelegant or unprofessional you look, you've got to get out of this. The moment you feel the woman's grip on your arms falter, you swing out and clock her in the throat. She falls away and then you start swinging at Ramsey. "Why the fuck are you so damn strong!" he yells as he tries to grab your arms and restrain them instead. You curl your legs up to get your knees under him and lift him up and off of you. "Because I take after my <<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>>papa<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>>da<<else>>fathers<</if>>!" you yell back as you throw him off with just your legs. You're nearly exhausted and Jasper is coming at you. Scrambling to stand, you search for the knife but can't find it. They give you no time as they tackle you, but you manage to stay standing. Now that Jasper has room to work, you feel how fierce they truly are. They knee you in the gut and then swing behind you to grapple you by the throat. The entire caravan suddenly lurches and you hear a scream from outside. It's only a momentary distraction as Jasper continues to try and rend you to your knees. You struggle to stay balanced as the caravan shakes and rocks. The horses have sped up. Jasper grips your neck in the crook of their elbow with one arm as the other hammers punches into your side. You try but can't shake them off. You hear something slam into the side of the caravan and both you and Jasper are distracted. Ramsey falls back to the floor, blood streaming from his back. A steel bolt sticks out of the caravan wall. Jasper redoubles their efforts to try and subdue you and finally succeeds in forcing you to the floor on your stomach. The caravan lurches again as the horses scream in protest of the driver. "Fuck this," Jasper curses, bringing something down on the back of your head. There's a ringing in your ears, but you refuse to back down. You see the knife. You snatch it and then wing your arm back wildly. Jasper screams and you think you've caught them in the leg. They slam into you in a rage, taking the knife from you. You managed to wiggle out and turn in time to see Jasper raising the knife to stab you. The caravan lurches again – hard – and flips. [[The horses scream again.|5.E3b]] <<else>> As Jasper lunges at you, you grasp a support on the ceiling and fling your feet out to knock them right in the chest. They stagger back but regain their balance quickly. One of the women swings a fist as Jasper comes at you again, and she manages to catch Jasper's jaw. You take advantage of their accidental entanglement and try to create some space between you. Ramsey tries his club again and this time succeeds in slamming it into your back, making you call out. You fall on your butt and manage to swing your legs around to catch the back of his knees and trip him before he can attack again. The second woman comes at you with a knife. She pounces on you with a scream. You block her hit just in time, but the blade slashes along your arm. You punch her in the jaw and then rend the knife from her hands as you kick her off of you. Throwing yourself back to make room, you slash at the ropes around your ankles. Just before the break, Ramsey lands on top of you. He's lost his baton and tries to restrain you by the neck as one of the women scurries to keep you from throwing punches. You wriggle like a dog avoiding a bath. You do not care a bit how inelegant or unprofessional you look, you've got to get out of this. Your strength is waning quickly. The moment you feel the woman's grip on your arms falter, you swing out and clock her in the throat. She falls away and then you start swinging at Ramsey. "//Gods// you are so fucking cute," he coos through gritted teeth as he releases your neck in favor of restraining your arms. "It's like watching a naughty little kitten try to fight back. I like that you have claws." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Fuck off!" you snarl. "If you like me so damn much, get me outta here!"<<else>>"And just like a naughty kitten, I will piss on everything you love!"<</if>> You start gaining on him and he struggles to keep your arms pinned. You slip one from his grip and throw your fist against his face. "Where the fuck did you learn to be so tenacious!?" he yells, blood pouring from his mouth. You curl your legs up to get your knees under him and push against him. "I learned it from my <<if $bodytype is 'broad and sturdy'>>papa<<elseif $bodytype is 'athletic and agile'>>da<<else>>fathers<</if>>!" you yell as you manage to push him enough to scramble away. You're completely exhausted and Jasper is now coming at you. Your legs give out as you try to stand, so you search for the knife but can't find it. They pounce on you, pinning you back against the floor. The entire caravan suddenly lurches and you hear a scream from outside. It's only a momentary distraction, but unbalances Jasper enough for you to start crawling away. They drag you back by the legs and straddle you to keep you in place. The caravan rocks again. The horses have sped up. Jasper slams a fist into your face three times before grabbing you by the neck. You try but can't shake them off. You hear something slam into the side of the caravan and both you and Jasper startle and look over to see Ramsey fall to the floor, blood streaming from his back. A steel bolt sticks out of the caravan wall. The caravan lurches again as the horses scream in protest of the driver. "Fuck this," Jasper curses, and begins squeezing your neck hard. "They'll pay half for your body anyway." There's a ringing in your ears, but you refuse to back down. You see the knife. You flail your arm to reach it, but come up empty. Jasper chuckles. "Awe, you were so close too. To think, you could have stabbed me. Maybe in another life, hm?" One of Jasper's hands leaves your neck and snatches the knife. They raise it above you with a smile. The caravan lurches again – hard – and flips. [[The horses scream again.|5.E3b]] <</if>>

You startle as an arm wraps around your neck and a blade is pressed into your back. Jasper. They're breathing hard and wheezing, but hold you like a dying wish. "Play along and you may live," they say. You're not in much of a position or a condition to argue. Together, you stumble away from the wreckage. Finally, you spot who you think could be your savior – a tall man upon a brown horse wearing a dark cloak and mask. //Aster//. Your feet stop out of surprise but Jasper forces you forward. Aster sits patiently in his saddle, crossbow in one arm and eyes unreadable from where you stand. Jasper starts. "If you want your friend alive, I want gold and your horse." Aster swings a leg over his saddle and hops down. You look at him curiously. Is he seriously about to give in to this thug's demands for someone he barely knows? He approaches but stays a distance back and looks quietly at you. "That's all well and good, but…that's not my friend." You think you feel your heart sink into your stomach. Jasper's breath hitches. "You're bluffing! I'll fucking kill $himher!" Aster seems to search your eyes. "Tell me your purpose with $himher and I'll consider your request." Jasper speaks from your shoulder, cowering behind you. <<if $height is 'verytall'>>Your height making it very easy for them.<<elseif $height is 'tall'>>Your height making it easy for them.<<elseif $height is 'average'>>Your height making it almost simple for them.<<else>>Your height making it exceedingly difficult for them.<</if>> "Some zealot group – old magic worshippers wanted $himher. They're willing to pay enough that we could both live well for years if you want to split it." Aster //yawns//. "Well then? Do we have a deal?" Jasper asks, nerves evident in his voice. Aster pretends to think. "So, if I don't agree and you kill $himher, what's your plan?" "What?" "I'm not here playing hero, I don't need your little captive alive. I'm asking what your plan is after you throw your tantrum. Also, I don't need money, so unless you have something more interesting to offer-" "Wait!" Jasper calls, peeking out from behind you a bit more. "I have information – loads of it. I can practically guarantee that I can tell you something that will interest you." Aster waves his crossbow around. "I'm waiting…" Jasper pushes you away slightly, apparently finding you not worth paying attention to. "My contact, it's a-" The bolt goes right through their neck. Warm blood splatters across your face and clothing as Jasper falls. You stare at their lifeless body as the blood drains from them. $flirt_label [[You stumble away in fear of Aster.|5.E4a]] [[You protest Jasper's death.|5.E4b]] [[You vomit at the sight of blood and death.|5.E4c]] $flirt_label [[You thank Aster, certain he rescued you.|5.E4d]]

<<set $Aflirt +=3>> <<set $Aheart1 +=1>> You back away from Jasper's body, keeping your eyes on Aster as he walks towards you. Involuntary quivers wrack your body as you trip and fall. You scoot until your back hits the wreckage of the caravan. Your breathing is hard, a cold sweat prickles against your skin, and you feel sick. Jasper sets his bow down and presses towards you, kneeling in front of you as you turn away. He takes the glove off from one hand and presses it gently to your chin to turn your head. "You're okay," he says softly. His thumb caresses your cheek and you realize a tear escaped your eye. "I won't hurt you." You look at his dark eyes. They're unreadable to you still. He removes his hand. "Maybe...would you feel better if I take the mask off?" [[You nod.|5.E5]]

You gasp in horror. "Why did you do that!?" you yell. He looks at you and tilts his head. "Why did I kill the //murderer//?" "You didn't know if they were going to kill me for certain!" Aster snors and throws his bow down so he can place his hands on his hips. "Oh, so sorry, next time I will wait until //after// you're murdered!" You fix a firm stare at him. "There was another way – there is always another way that doesn't involve-" "Oh stop," he groans. "You know what – yeah, it was the easy way. And I'd do it again too. Next time, I'll just let them take you, yeah?" "I didn't ask you to play hero, not like that. What? You get off on dawning a mask and pretending to be a vigilante or something!?" Aster stomps up to you, making you back up to the caravan wreckage. "So should I take the mask off before I kill a trafficking psychopath next time? Hm? Does that make it better?" "Maybe it does!" You feel like you're losing steam in this argument. "Fine – I'll take off the mask and start with you. Would that make you feel better?" [["Maybe it would," you snark back.|5.E5]]

The outpouring of blood replays in your mind on a loop. You turn away and rush to the caravan wreckage, supporting yourself on it while you hurl. You vomit until you are only left heaving and coughing. Once done, you stand staring at the wreck as you catch your breath and try to calm your stomach. Something nudges your arm and then Aster hands you a waterskin. You rinse your mouth and drink what you can. "Would something else to look at help?" he asks in a soft voice. [[You nod.|5.E5]]

<<set $Aflirt +=5>> <<set $Aheart2 +=1>> A relieved smile spreads across your lips. You simply stand and stare at Aster for a moment, enjoying the feeling of sun and wind. The fact that you are saved from so much uncertainty fills you with hope. Aster approaches you and sets his crossbow down. He stares at you strangely. "Thank you," you say, staring into his eyes. "Thank you so much for saving me." His dark brown eyes widen. "I thought for sure I was doomed there." He tilts his head. "You're…welcome then I guess. I'm a bit surprised to hear thanks after all that. You're something else." You shake your head. "I'm sure I will process all the…everything later." "Perhaps my handsome face will help you along?" He chuckles. [[You nod|5.E5]]

You watch closely as Aster pushes his hood down, revealing dark brown hair that shines with a deep red hue when the sunlight hits it. He then unhooks his mask and moves it away. You examine him. He was hiding a short and well-manicured beard under his mask, a jaw that could cut glass, and a nose and cheekbones that may as well have been carved by the old gods. Aster gives you a dashing smile with perfect teeth. "I've been told that my smile makes everything better. What say you?" He winks. $flirt_label [[You blush and look away.|5.E5a]] $flirt_label [[You roll your eyes, but secretly agree.|5.E5b]] [[You roll your eyes and disagree.|5.E5c][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 4, 0, 100)]] [[You smile and shake your head, but agree.|5.E5d][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 4, 0, 100)]]

<<set $Aflirt +=3>> <<set $Ashy +=3>> Despite everything, heat fills your face and you can't meet Aster's gaze any longer. He chuckles. "How very…cute." You have the urge to pout but resist. His ego doesn't need the boost. You think now that he may wear the mask to keep eyes from following him around. He is very…gawkable. Aster chuckles. "You're thinking about how the mask makes more sense now, right?" "No!" you respond, much too quickly. He gives you a mischievous smile. "You're easy to read, which will make everything much simpler for me." "What do you mean, simpler?" [["''Let's have a chat.''"|5.E6]]

<<set $Aflirt +=3>> <<set $Abold +=3>> You will not give him the satisfaction, even if he is stupidly handsome. You think you understand the mask now. Without it, he would draw a lot more attention. Passers-by would stare at a mask with curiosity or suspicion for a moment or two, but a handsome face would train eyes almost constantly. Aster chuckles. "You're thinking about how the mask makes more sense now, right?" "No!" you respond, much too quickly. He gives you a mischievous smile. "You're easy to read, which will make everything much simpler for me." "What do you mean, simpler?" [["''Let's have a chat.''"|5.E6]]

The smile leaves his face, which is more satisfying to you. He chuckles. "Well if my looks don't make your heart speed up, maybe my charm and wit would? Perhaps my mind? Hm? I'm extremely intelligent as well. The whole package really." You scoff. "Please stop, I can only roll my eyes back so far until they hit my brain." He smiles again. "Game on, I suppose. I'll find a way to win you over, make no mistake." Shaking your head, you try to move him along. "So, is your perceived handsomeness why you wear the mask?" Aster nods. "Mostly. People tend to remember my face, you know. It's a relief you seem to be forthright, that will make this so much easier." You wrinkle your nose. "What do you mean, easier?" [["''Let's have a chat.''"|5.E6]]

You know you shouldn't fuel his ego, but your lips turn up into a smile anyway as you shake your head in disbelief. "I knew you had great taste," he says, still giving you that wide handsome smile. You think you understand the mask now. Without it, he would draw a lot more attention. Passers-by would stare at a mask with curiosity or suspicion for a moment or two, but a handsome face would train eyes almost constantly. Aster chuckles. "You're thinking about how the mask makes more sense now, right?" "No!" you respond, much too quickly. He gives you a mischievous smile. "You're easy to read, which will make everything much simpler for me." "What do you mean, simpler?" [["''Let's have a chat.''"|5.E6]]

Aster leads you away from the wreckage to a line of trees. He collects his crossbow and his horse follows loyally just behind. You can't tell where you are at. A fair ways away is what appears to be a road. The city is nowhere in sight, so it's impossible to tell how far they've taken you. Once you reach the trees, Aster sheds his cloak and you see that he wears a black gambeson leather straps across the chest under it. He stretches the cloak along the grass, and then gestures for you to sit. You get comfortable, trying not to think of how worried your other companions may be right now. You can't even be certain how much time has passed. "Well," Aster begins as he rests his back against a tree. "Now that you're away from all you little guard dogs…" Your anxiety spikes. Could you have just traded one abductor for another? "Don't get all nervous," he says. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>You nod. "Okay then, please give me a reason not to be."<<else>>"I'm not," you say.<</if>> "Let me start by telling you more about my favorite subject – me." He grins. You sigh. "But then…I want to know about you." He looks at you as if you're the mystery here. "I'm going to be direct with you – I am a magic hunter." Your heart thumps and alarm begins to set in your bones. "And?" "I think we can help each other." "What makes you think I need help?" He chuckles. "I can tell. I wasn't certain at first, but our run-ins are not entirely coincidence." You stare at him. "What do you mean? Have you been stalking me?" "Nothing like that, quite. Between you and me and the trees, I have a bit of innate magic abilities – a unique relationship with it if you will. I can sense it, feel it, track it. Using it is…let's just say, I'd rather not. I have been feeling these enormous…flairs. They disrupt the natural flow of magic, and they draw even more magic to the source." "What source?" Aster leans forward. "You." Your expression goes slack. He smiles. "You know just what I'm talking about, don't you?" It's not a question. He knows something about you. Maybe everything. "You turn up each time I feel this, and when I found you in the market – I felt it in real time. When you became a little aggravated at me, there was a surge tied to your emotions. It is different from anything else I have felt before. And now, just sitting next to you…I can tell there are all sorts of things going on around you." "So what does that mean for me? What do you want?" you ask though you're not sure you want an answer. Aster leans back and sighs. "I won't be telling you my secrets, but I don't mean you harm. I'm not like your little bandit friends. I am a scholar mostly and an adventurer when it suits me. I wouldn't be so cruel as to spirit you away and do horrible things. I actually think we can help each other." "What makes you think I need help?" He snorts. "Trust me, I can tell. You are in deep shit." He holds your gaze as he smiles at you in a way that only appears dashing, but has too much pride in it. "Deep." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"My, aren't you astute." You fold your arms.<<else>>"You could say that." You chuckle.<</if>> "So, you seem to know something. Mind telling me what it is?" "I can tell you what I //think// I know just from being around you. Magic is trapped inside your body and you are soaking up more and more. I would say that you aren't doing this intentionally, because if you are – you are terminally stupid. It's obvious that you can't handle what's happening." You chew your lip. "I'm cursed." The words roll from your tongue flatly. Aster looks at you, but you are almost surprised that he doesn't look…surprised. His face gives nothing away. "All the more reason, I think we can help each other." "So you seek to gain something from me. What is it?" You're not naive. You know he stands to gain from you or you might not be having this conversation right now. "I need power – you have it, simple as that." You groan. "I can't control this magic, at least not yet." "If my thinking is correct, you wouldn't need to. I think I can draw it from your body; I just need to figure out how. I have some theories already." "That doesn't solve my issue though. It doesn't break the curse. Once you get your power, I'm back at square one. Maybe with more time to figure this out, but that's all." Aster grins. "If I am correct – and by the way, I usually am – I think I can take //all// the magic that plagues you, curses included. I won't make promises right this moment. I need time to study your condition." He seems excited. You shake your head, trying to not get taken in by hope. "Okay, so, how can you prove to me that you could do something for me? What makes you think so?" He rolls his eyes. "Figures you'd be a smart one." <<if $RecklessCautious > 49>>"You just caught me on a good day," you quip.<<else>>"You better get used to that if you want to work with me."<</if>> Aster runs his hands through his chin-length hair making you notice how artfully tusseled it is. It looks like it would feel very silky. "I can tell you more theories than anything I'm afraid, but I do have some proof of a sort. But you can't share this with other people. Maybe your friends, but that's it. It's not something you want to be spouting to just anyone." "Well, I'm intrigued." [[Aster digs in his pocket.|5.E7]]

You watch, intrigued, as he takes out a simple black pouch, no bigger than his palm. He holds it up like a child with a prize. "So," he begins. "We'll get to this in a moment. How much do you know about gods, $mc?" You shrug. "I don't have an extensive knowledge. Just basics from what my papa told me growing up. Everyone knows about the war." "Do you know much about the first ones? Some call them old ones or ancient ones." You think for a moment. "Um, my papa still prays to Casimir and Hayat, but I think I remember him saying there were nine." His smile goes wide. "That's what I wanted to hear." He leans close, lowering his voice as if the trees are trying to listen in. "What if I told you that everyone is wrong?" "About?" You find yourself whispering back even though there is no reason. "I believe there were ten – not nine." You're not sure how impressed you should be with this notion. It seems to matter little in an age where gods have left humans alone. "And that means what to us now?" "//Everything//," he says with glee in his tone. "The tenth god, goddess, or deity – since I don't know who they were exactly, the texts were unclear, but the term 'god' was generally used by all. Anyway, they may have left behind just what we need to fix both our problems. But they were stricken from history by the nine we know of today." "Why?" "Why else do you cut off such a thing? Say, like a family member, hm? Because they make everyone else look bad." You shift uncomfortably, a tingling around your mark making you think. "An evil god?" "Essentially. Evil, crazed, whatever you want to want to call it is fair – Chaos is what I have dubbed them. The gods all represented the very things that gave them their powers. Much of the history preserved until today is a bit more…flowery than the truth." You nod recalling some of the things you read in the book that Nathanael gave you for your da. "And you somehow know some truths that others don't? How?" "I am a descendant of the Servants of Aigar, the goddess of time. As you might guess, being such a god, she was quite firm on recording history as it really was. I have had access to a lot of information that most do not know about. A lot of closely guarded secrets even today. That is where I read some…let's say misplaced texts about the tenth god, a //mad// one." "And they're legitimate?" He nods. "It took a long time, but I found proof of a sort. The texts told of their unique abilities to use magic, some even said that they had more power than the other nine. Tell me, do you know much about magic artifacts?" "Not really. I think I only saw one and it was just a pipe that could light itself." Aster's brows raise. "That does sound handy. Most artifacts are like that – little curios. But this god was the source of some seriously powerful objects, the ones most magic hunters like myself covet. The texts said that they specialized in channeling massive amounts of power into things like jewelry or weapons. They enchanted things for most of the other gods, supposedly. And this…" He holds up the pouch. "Contains just such an article. It was described in detail and I tracked it down." "So, without whatever texts you studied, you expect me to just believe that whatever is in that bag is from some old and completely unknown god?" You sense a bit of your da emerging in your tone. Aster narrows his eyes at you. "You won't //believe// it – you'll //feel// it. This bag is special, a gift from my family you could say. It is doing both of us a favor and hiding what lies within, binding it with magic. Otherwise…we could both die. More you than me, if I do say so. My own abilities allow me to resist it somewhat." You watch expectantly as Aster unties the string around the pouch and unwraps it. As he wedges open the fabric, the mark begins to burn. You swallow. Aster shakes the pouch into his palm and out pops…a ring. A band of silvery metal inlaid with stones of many colors, with a mount that looks as if it is meant to hold a large central stone – but it's empty. You start to shake as you look at it. You feel sick like something heavy has just lighted upon your shoulders and has started to crush you with its weight. You gag as your stomach protests and then the air leaves your lungs. The mark ceases the burning, and you almost feel like it is rebelling against whatever the ring emanates. You motion at Aster to put it away, but all he does is smile. You flop to your side, like a dying fish. "I think I'm right about you, $mc." You grasp and pull at your clothing as the need for air grows, but your arms are too weak to do much. Aster pops the ring back in the bag and seals it up. You take a deep breath as the pressure abates. You sit back up as he hands you a water skin and you gulp down what you can to settle your stomach. You try to ignore that Aster just made a cruel show of proving himself to you. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I guess that does seem to support what you're saying…" you admit.<<else>>"Let's not do that again, yeah? I guess I believe you," you admit.<</if>> "Did you feel what happened?" "I ''felt'' like I was dying." You glower. "Not to worry, I felt it. Your curse sensed the power and drew it in…but this little thing pulled right back, just as it was designed to do. I think we can figure out a way to use it to draw out your curse, but the trick is…well, not killing you with it." Great. [[Another potential solution that may or may not kill you.|5.E8]]

Aster takes you back toward Codrin after checking the bandit caravan for goods as you find and unhitch the poor and frightened horses. They settle with Aster's horse, a strong mare who is brown in her eyes, mane, and tail with a white snip on her nose and forehead. Her mane is bound in a neat braid. Aster calls her Samra. You ride behind Aster with the other horses in tow – too unsettled to ride, though Samra seems to help them stay calm. It isn't long before all your friends manage to find you. The initial meeting with Aster is a bit tense, though it doesn't take long to convince everyone that Aster rescued you. Rune vouches for him to an extent, stating that though he is known to cause a bit of trouble at times, he's a fairly well-known noble with a good reputation. As you travel back to the city, the sun sets completely and you have plenty of time to recount your tale of abduction. Oswin is extremely quiet. Rune initiates healing for your injuries and you are given a good hot meal when you return to the inn. The others tell you that Oswin realized something was amiss and could tell something strange had happened in your room. He, Duri, and Rune initiated a search and Zahn returned before they set out. <<if $Zstat5 is 'sus'>>The fact that Zahn turned back up helps ease your suspicions. If you were somehow sold out by $Zhimher, there would be no use in returning and no way to know if you escaped your captor or not either.<</if>> Zahn returned with an old book to search through as well, though you note that the pilgrim isn't $Zhisher usual chipper self. $Zcapitalheshe seems tired. [[The next days are a blur.|5.E9]]

You detail a letter to your parents <<if $ch3letter is 'everything'>>explaining most of the events since your last message<<elseif $ch3letter is 'summary'>>summarizing the events since your last message<<else>>focusing on the more positive details of your journey since your last message. Though…it seems to be a short list<</if>>. Oswin takes your letter with his own, telling you that his letter simply covers the logistics of your journey, hinting at some of the trouble that has required a rest in the city. He ensures that the messages get to the carrier. The remaining free time you have his spent poking around the inn, which is massive, it turns out. You learn that it was once three buildings and the owners have since merged it into one. The tavern in which you came is a fairly standard facility, complete with bar and kitchen and a generous amount of tables with a stage in one corner where Rune and other performers can work. The upstairs area of the tavern contains the living quarters of the innkeepers and accommodations for special guests. One side of the building houses animals and the other has regular guest accommodations. The craftsmanship of the building reminds you of your papa's. Several types of wood make up most of the building, but several walls have stone cladding and there are decorations on most of the available spots on the walls. Paintings, drawings, old weapons, and dried flowers make the place feel homey. You also notice an unusual number of cats milling about. They often slip in and out through the rafters along the ceiling. Pest control, you wager. [[It isn't but another day until you get an invite for tea with Rune.|5.R1]]

When you awake the next morning, you almost feel as if you have reached your limit on rest and recovery. Shockingly, you feel better than you have in a long time. Your shoulder is still a bit stiff and after poking around it, you find that it only hurts if grabbed firmly. The rest of your wounds are doing much better, though they still have a little way left to heal overall. Rune's daily checking to ensure you heal properly without permanent damage seems to be an ongoing success. <<if $shoulderdislocate is true>>$Rcapitalheshe believes the tendons and joint in your shoulder should return to normal. Rune has warned that if it is strained too soon, it could dislocate again easily.<<else>>$Rcapitalheshe is satisfied with your healing progress. There is no escaping the scar you received, but the muscles and tendons have healed very well. Rune anticipates no further problems.<</if>> You decide that after taking your time to enjoy your morning you will head off to the market down the road. [[You wonder what you'll find…|5.A1]]

There's likely some decent company to find here. It would certainly keep you busy and you feel well enough for such things. <<if $virgin is true>>Maybe it's time for you to experiment a little.<</if>>Doing this here may be for the best. You won't have to worry about any awkward run-ins with people back home after all. If nothing else, you can sit in the tavern and just enjoy being out of your room… [[You fall asleep quickly, excited for tomorrow.|5.J1]]

The next couple of days could be better as far as entertainment. You tend to $mountname who happily eats treats and soaks up your attention. You're pleased that the stables are very nice and your mount and Flit are well cared for, warm, and fed. $wolf spends her time following you about or latching on to Duri as if she can't choose who she wants to be with more. You learn from the demigod that she was not a part of $Dhisher pack until around a full cycle ago when she came down from the north and into the Shaw. She and two almost-adult pups were in poor shape when they arrived. Tragically, the pups, both pure white and highly sought after for their coats, fell to the hunters Duri first mistook your group for. Apparently, $wolf never stopped searching for them, and Duri believes she has taken you on as an honorary cub. She seems unusually attached and protective of you. <<if $fullbeard or $trimbeard or $stubble>>With time to spare, you are sure to tend to yourself. Your facial hair is, frankly, out of hand. Rune provides you with everything you need to trim it back to your liking – complete with the most luxurious beard oil and skin cream you've ever had.<</if>> <<if $acceptOgift is true>>You can't help but keep Oswin's gift with you at all times. You find yourself touching it or looking at it often. It makes you smile, though the man himself has made himself scarce these days.<<if $youtriedin5 is true>> Even if he wasn't willing or able to hear your confession out, there's still something there tethering you to him. You try to focus on that and not the measure of heartache that conversation has left you with.<</if>><</if>> You've thought about your companions more with all this free time. It feels peculiar to have gathered these strangers into some sort of crew. It makes you feel like some sort of crusader or troop of heroes, though you aspire to save your own life only for right now. Once your fathers find out what you went through – coasting on a landslide <<if $ch5Broute is true>>and then being accosted by bandits especially<<else>>and then having another relapse that was almost as severe as the one that nearly killed you on your birthday<</if>>, they probably won't want to ever let you out of the house again. <<if $selfblame5 is true>>The guilt you harbor because of <<if $friendhurt is 'Oswin'>>Oswin's<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Zahn'>>Zahn's<<elseif $friendhurt is 'Duri'>>Duri's<</if>> injury still eats at you. You wonder what provoked such a sacrifice for your sake.<</if>> Two days of limited entertainment makes you sit in your head a bit too much. [[You hope to find something to do soon…|5.Z1]]

<<set $Zfollow to true>> You can't stand it. You have to know what Zahn is up to. Rushing to get your cloak and shoes on, you are out the door as quickly as you can. $Zcapitalheshe is quick, but you also know that $Zheshe is probably munching on whatever $Zheshe snagged from Rune's tea cart. You spot some lost crumbs in the hallway, likely from whatever was knocked over. You pull your hood up and quickly slip down the stairs and out the door to the street. The road isn't very crowded, which means you won't have much cover, but Zahn should be easy to spot. You'll have to find corners to duck into if $Zheshe looks around. You spot your target quickly, just down the road at the market, so you hurry to catch up just enough, blending into a small group that is walking in the same direction. Zahn seems unhurried, trying to eye the market stalls as $Zheshe passes. One of the shopkeepers gives $Zhimher a cheery wave which Zahn returns. A question crosses your mind – are you really going to follow Zahn across the whole city? Even if you did, you could be back hopefully before sunset. The worst you'll get is a lecture from Oswin or Rune – and it's possible that they won't even notice. You'll just have to see what happens and if Zahn does anything to make you feel more or less suspicious. [[You stay close and keep your head down.|5.Z5]]

You shake your head. You're not doing this. Maybe you trust Zahn more than that or you simply do not care enough. Either way, it isn't your business. If $Zheshe doesn't want to come back – that's that. You can't really imagine what harm Zahn could do anyway. There's just not much, if anything, to gain from you or your group. Not to mention, you just made a powerful and influential ally. You shrug it off and the concern melts from your bones. There's only a few days left. [[You'll be going home before you know it.|5.E1]]

You follow Zahn along the same road for many blocks before $Zheshe finally makes a turn to another main thoroughfare. Even if you don't know if you have a good reason for doing this, at least you're able to see more of the city this way. The buildings are more refined than the ones back home. More people use plasters and stones on the outside, with awnings of bold colors. The streets are clean and several are paved with stone to accommodate so many people. It's a bit odd to you since you only know of one path in Stonebrook that is paved. Zahn walks on, still slow, with you behind $Zhimher for a long time. Nothing happens. The only unusual thing is that Zahn doesn't even look twice when passing food stalls, but $Zheshe did just steal some snacks from Rune. You think a moment on that, not recalling Zahn ever passing up food without drooling. No, this actually is odd. Finally, Zahn stops and looks around at a couple of little shops. You tuck into an alley, leaning against a corner so you can peek out. There's a throng of people on the road, and you feel that you're well hidden. Zahn walks to one side of the road and pulls $Zhisher cloaks close around $Zhimher as if $Zheshe was cold. You feel quite warm in your cloak, almost too warm. Odd. [[You wait.|5.Z6]]

As time slips by, the road begins to get thicker with pedestrians. It provides you with more cover but occasionally obscures your view of Zahn as well, who hasn't moved either. Your feet begin to ache before something finally happens. A group comes out from one of the shops, all wearing the same cloaks of pale blue. You count four, all of them laughing and talking together. One parts from the others and continues to walk and the remaining three approach Zahn. You look on as Zahn greets them with a small wave. Though you are a bit distant, you can tell $Zheshe is smiling, but not in $Zhisher normal way. Zahn is stiff, clutching $Zhisher cloak close as the three gather around $Zhimher. Two are much taller, the third about Zahn's same size. One of the tall ones puts an arm around Zahn, yanking $Zhimher close. Zahn seems to laugh but tries to lean away until $Zheshe's released. They all huddle close and begin to talk. The group seems to take some sort of glee in the conversation, looking at each other and smiling or laughing. Zahn looks smaller and smaller the longer they chat. One of the tall ones begins to look agitated, which the other two quickly mimic. One of them places a hand on the back of Zahn's neck and says something right in Zahn's ear to which $Zheshe nods. The person doesn't let go and Zahn looks like a scolded kitten being held by the scruff. They begin to walk away together, surrounding Zahn. Your gut twists. Zahn doesn't look comfortable but doesn't fight, argue, or try to get away. You spot two city guards nearby as well. If $Zheshe raised a fuss, there's little doubt $Zheshe would get away. And $Zheshe clearly waited for these people…. Could these truly be fellow church members? A part of you considers following them, but Zahn is a known entity and these three others are not. They don't seem particularly friendly and you are weaponless in a strange area of the city. You decide that you should go back now. It's early enough that you probably weren't missed. You could always tell Oswin what you saw, even if you would get a lecture for it… [[You'll tell Oswin.|5.Z6a]] [[You won't tell Oswin.|5.Z6b]]

<<set $Ztold to true>> You have to, it's suspicious. Even if it is nothing, there's no harm in it. Odds are, Oswin may find something else to fuss about anyway. Decision made, you turn around to leave. [[And someone grabs you.|5.Z7]]

It's weird, but nothing really //happened// other than Zahn's fellow church-goers seem to be unfriendly. You already had the idea that they didn't exactly treat Zahn well. You didn't see anything worth the lecture you'd get for wandering off without telling anyone. Decision made, you turn around to leave. [[And someone grabs you.|5.Z7]]

You startle and begin to struggle and the person lets go immediately. "Sorry!" a familiar voice yelps. You realize – it's Duri. Slapping a hand to your chest you heave a relieved breath. A few passersby give you a funny look but ignore you when you appear to be okay. You scowl. Duri tries to hide a smile but fails. "I really am sorry. I was about to speak, but you turned around so suddenly and I didn't want to hurt you, so I grabbed your arms out of reflex." You shake it off. "It's fine, I was only startled. Why are you here?" Duri folds $Dhisher arms. "I was about to ask you the same." You look down and see the happy face of $wolf, and spot a purple kerchief around her neck. "I wondered where you had gotten off to." She wags her tail. Duri pats the wolf's head. "Rune gave her a gift, can you tell? Anyway, you're grown and can do what you want, but just so you know – you look incredibly suspicious." You glare back. "I am not suspicious." $Dcapitalheshe points across the way. You follow the gesture across the street where two elderly people are watching you from the window of a bakery. "You scared the old folks. They said you've been loitering here with your hood up just watching people for the better part of an hour. They asked me to check it out." "Oh." You wave at the people, feeling sheepish as you mouth a 'sorry' at them. They smile and wave back before carrying about their business. "Gotta be nice to them – they like to feed me," Duri says. "Now, you don't have to tell me what you were up to, but considering Sunflower told me $Zheshe was leaving earlier and I can still smell $Zhimher in the air – you were following $Zhimher about, weren't you." You sigh. "Yes. Zahn told me the same and I felt a little weird about it, so I decided to check it out. It just felt suspicious." Duri shrugs. "Our little flower has some secrets, everyone does, but I don't think $Zhishers are the kind of secrets that get people like you and me hurt." "No?" you ask, pulling away from your hiding spot to walk with Duri back to the inn. "No. Sunflower's secrets are the type that only hurt $Zhimher. I mean, come on, $Zheshe's in a fucking cult." "So, you think Zahn is completely trustworthy?" Duri shrugs. "Here's the thing about trust, $mc – anyone can break it. It's just a matter of it catching you by surprise and breaking your heart or the ability to tell everyone 'I told you so.' Little Zahny is working through it. That place is no good and I think $Zheshe knows it, but it's $Zhisher choice." You think about Duri's words for a moment. "Do you think $Zheshe will come back?" "Yeah, definitely. We're a taste of freedom $Zheshe's never had before for one. For two, $Zheshe really likes us." Duri grins, making a point that you see as $Dheshe tries to get in your face. <<if $Dstat is 'friends'>>You gently push $Dhimher out of your way as you laugh.<<elseif $Dstat is 'romantic'>>You can't help but smile back and flush at the proximity.<<elseif $Dstat is 'neutral'>>You shake your head as you push $Dhimher out of your way.<<else>>You give Duri a nonplussed look as you push past.<</if>> "So you're saying that between the two of you, I have my hands full…" "Yup!" Duri chirps. "You won't see the back of me until I'm //satisfied// that your debt is paid." $Dcapitalheshe thinks for a moment. "Well, technically, there are other ways to see the back of me, but you know what I mean." As you're thinking of a rebuttal, a silvery glint passes your periphery and startles you. You quickly glance over only to see nothing of note. "You okay?" Duri asks, following your line of sight. You continue to scan the crowd and note that $wolf seems to be on alert as well, ears pricked forward right where you thought you saw something. "I thought I saw something strange…maybe familiar, but I don't know. I don't see it now." Duri takes another look around and you see $Dhimher with $Dhisher nose to the air. "Nothing seems off, but I'll keep my ears and nose peeled. Now, come on and pick up the pace. I'm hungry!" You snort. "You sound like Zahn." [[You head back to the inn with your wolfy companions.|5.Z8]]

<<if $Ztold is true>>When you return to the inn, you head off to find Oswin as Duri goes to find something to eat. You find him in the sables shoeing the mounts and tell them what you saw. As predicted, he's upset that you went off alone. He agrees with you that Zahn's behavior is a little odd, but also agrees with what Duri told you. But, he promises to remain alert should Zahn return and thanks you for being honest. He reminds you to begin preparing to embark on the journey home.<<else>>When you return to the inn, Duri hustles off to find food while $wolf sticks with you. You're not sure what to do if and when Zahn comes back. Perhaps Duri is right in that $Zheshe is only hurting $Zhimselfherself with whatever $Zheshe may be sneaking around to do. You suppose you will find out in time, possibly very soon.<</if>> There's only a few days left. [[You'll be going home before you know it.|5.E1]]

To no one's surprise, Oswin does not care for Aster. He thanks the haughty noble for coming to your aid in a genuine manner but otherwise treats him with mistrust. Aster takes it in stride of course. Duri seems to withhold $Dhisher opinion and Rune is generally friendly with him. Zahn remains quiet, still looking tired. Aster explains how he may be able to help you, but to do so will require time and the ability to study your curse. Oswin vetoes it right away, but Rune urges him to consider the possibility. Reluctantly, Aster confesses that he has possession of the artifact he showed you. You urge him to not take it out again after what you suffered but corroborate what he says. It is Rune who eventually cools Oswin's suspicions and adds credibility to Aster's story. Even $Rheshe has heard small whispers of this tenth ancient god and sees the possibility of the artifact being useful. After more rest and planning – it is finally decided. Aster will be allowed to travel home with you for the sake of studying the curse, but he will be watched very closely by the others. [[Finally. Finally, you are ready to journey home.|5.E10]]

It feels strange but good to be packing up your mount again. $mountname seems ready to hit the road again, eager to travel. The innkeepers were kind enough to arrange some supplies for your journey with a contact the use regularly. There's a shop on the road out of town where you will stop and pick up what you assume is mostly food for the ride home. Rune has a small wagon pulled by lovely white gelding with dark grey mane called Sulo. The wagon will be large enough to sleep two people at a time and hold most of the supplies for the journey. Oswin offers to rotate the mounts to pull if needed to give Sulo a rest. As you mount up with the innkeepers waving goodbye and onlookers mourning Rune's departure, you spot the bard and Zahn having a chat. Rune gestures to the back of the wagon and a tired Zahn nods and slowly crawls into the back. <<if $Zstat5 is 'friends'>>A prickle of worry hits you. $Zcapitalheshe hasn't been acting right – hardly speaking, looking exhausted, and showing no enthusiasm for food.<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'romantic'>>A prickle of worry hits you. $Zcapitalheshe hasn't been acting right – hardly speaking, looking exhausted, and showing no enthusiasm for food.<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'physical'>>A prickle of worry hits you. $Zcapitalheshe hasn't been acting right – hardly speaking, looking exhausted, and showing no enthusiasm for food.<<else>>Zahn acts almost as if $Zheshe is ill. It makes you a bit curious.<</if>> Duri sits up on the wagon with Rune as $Rheshe drives. They bring up the back while the rest of you on mounts take the lead. All together you make a formidable troupe. The road you will take back home is regularly traveled and patroled by various guardsmen. And now that you have a band of people with you and are all healed up, you don't anticipate trouble that you cannot handle. As you trot off out from the city gates, you think you might want to come back one day to thank Alondra and Garza for their extended hospitality, and maybe get to see more of the city… Oswin interrupts your thoughts. "Our contact for the supplies should be just up the road. Alondra said she has a little kiosk that we can't miss right as you get to the main road. She said they are paid for, but I'd like to give some extra gold for their trouble, they've been more than generous." You murmur your agreement as you focus on the road. Aster says nothing, his face to the sky as if he is daydreaming. He seems to realize you're watching him and gives you a slight smile. Even in traveling clothes, he's quite a sight. Between he and Rune there is a parade of high fashion. Aster seems to favor more austere clothing with belts and buckles and strips of leather that you aren't always sure actually //do// anything. He has also been a bit quiet since entering the group and you think he's trying to make an effort to be accepted by Oswin. An uneasy respect drifts between them. You've met four new friends on your first real journey away from home and each may help you find a way to break your curse and survive to see another cycle. Though you won't be returning home alleviated of your troubles, you will return with four possible solutions. When you think of it like that, there's a lot of hope. Your fathers will take hope, you know they will. You're going ot have to find a place for all these people to sleep… You think of Oswin…<<if $Ostat3 is 'friends'>>Your friendship has bloomed over this journey and you will continue to cherish and cultivate it through the next.<<elseif $Ostat3 is 'romantic'>>Your friendship has bloomed over this journey and you will continue to cherish and cultivate it through the next. But your heart also years for him, and that prospect feels a little unsteady right now.<<elseif $Ostat3 is 'distant'>>You wonder if the distance between you will ever close now.<<elseif $Ostat3 is 'neutral'>>He simply //is//, and for now, there's not much else to be said.<</if>> You think of Zahn…<<if $Zstat5 is 'neutral'>>And you just don't feel strongly one way or the other for $Zhimher.<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'friends'>>And you've made fast friends over the time you've know each other. $Zcapitalheshe has proven to be kind and reliable and you hope to hold $Zhimher as a friend.<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'romantic'>>And you've made fast friends over the time you've know each other. $Zcapitalheshe has proven to be kind and reliable and you hope to hold $Zhimher as a friend. But you also can't hide how there's warmth in your heart for Zahn too.<<elseif $Zstat5 is 'sus'>>And you just can't shake your suspicions. Maybe in time you will decide if they are founded or not.<</if>> You think of Duri'naan…<<if $Dstat is 'friends'>>And you'd like to think you've managed to make friends with a demigod. You know deep down that $Dhisher posturing of your supposed debt is merely a ruse. $Dcapitalheshe likes you just as much as you like $Dhimher.<<elseif $Dstat is 'romantic'>>And you'd like to think you've managed to make friends with a demigod. You hope deep down that $Dhisher posturing of your supposed debt is merely a ruse. You hope $Dheshe enjoys your company as much as you enjoy $Dhishers.<<elseif $Dstat is 'neutral'>>And you think you'll need to know $Dhimher longer before you make a decision on how you really feel.<<else>>And you still can't bring yourself to trust $Dhimher.<</if>> You think of Rune…<<if $Rstat is 'friends'>>And you are pleased to call $Rhimher friend. $Rcapitalheshe has already been a source of comfort and strength to you – a selfless person whom you can trust.<<elseif $Rstat is 'romantic'>>And you are pleased to call $Rhimher friend. $Rcapitalheshe has already been a source of comfort and strength to you – a selfless person whom you can trust. The type of person that makes your heart sing even in the short time you've known $Rhimher.<<else>>And you find $Rhimher to be a decent person, but you just may need to know $Rhimher longer before you make any decisions on how you feel.<</if>> You think of Aster…. Your newest companion, still an unknown entity in truth. He came to your rescue even if he claims that it wasn't necessarily for your benefit… $flirt_label [[He stirs up your feelings if you are honest with yourself.|5.E10a]] [[You think you can make a friend out of him.|5.E10b]] [[You haven't decided how you think of him yet.|5.E10c]] [[You don't trust him just yet, he may just be a means to an end.|5.E10d]]

<<set $Astat to 'romantic'>> You'll think on that more later… As you focus on the road ahead, you see a small building coming up – possibly, your supply stop. It's…colorful. It's…familiar. It's…Nathanael? You lean forward in your saddle and you notice Oswin doing the same before he turns to look at you. He already appears irritated and a bit suspicious. As you get closer, the colors of the caravan are unmistakable – it must be him. Oswin mutters curses to himself as Aster and Rune exchange looks. [[Once you pull up to the shop and dismount, the shutter on the side flips open suddenly.|5.E11]]

<<set $Astat to 'friends'>> You'll think on that more later… As you focus on the road ahead, you see a small building coming up – possibly, your supply stop. It's…colorful. It's…familiar. It's…Nathanael? You lean forward in your saddle and you notice Oswin doing the same before he turns to look at you. He already appears irritated and a bit suspicious. As you get closer, the colors of the caravan are unmistakable – it must be him. Oswin mutters curses to himself as Aster and Rune exchange looks. [[Once you pull up to the shop and dismount, the shutter on the side flips open suddenly.|5.E11]]

<<set $Astat to 'neutral'>> You'll think on that more later… As you focus on the road ahead, you see a small building coming up – possibly, your supply stop. It's…colorful. It's…familiar. It's…Nathanael? You lean forward in your saddle and you notice Oswin doing the same before he turns to look at you. He already appears irritated and a bit suspicious. As you get closer, the colors of the caravan are unmistakable – it must be him. Oswin mutters curses to himself as Aster and Rune exchange looks. [[Once you pull up to the shop and dismount, the shutter on the side flips open suddenly.|5.E11]]

<<set $Astat to 'distrust'>> You'll think on that more later… As you focus on the road ahead, you see a small building coming up – possibly, your supply stop. It's…colorful. It's…familiar. It's…Nathanael? You lean forward in your saddle and you notice Oswin doing the same before he turns to look at you. He already appears irritated and a bit suspicious. As you get closer, the colors of the caravan are unmistakable – it must be him. Oswin mutters curses to himself as Aster and Rune exchange looks. [[Once you pull up to the shop and dismount, the shutter on the side flips open suddenly.|5.E11]]

"Hellooooo!" cries a cheerful voice as the shutter slams up. A woman leans out, waving frantically at you all. She has dark skin, deep blue eyes and light brown hair in braids piled high on her head and woven with beads. Her clothing is all manner of colors and patterns as if they were stitched together from different pieces. "Welcome!" she calls out. "Welcome to Nathanael's Whimsy and Want – come, come and see my wares! I have staples and curios and things you never knew you absolutely needed at stellar prices!" Oswin sighs with relief. The caravan looks so similar to Nathanael's, but this must be one of his other stores he told you about. The woman continues her pitch. "I've got it all, folks! Well, mostly – probably! Come see!" You and Oswin approach the window but the others stay back, though Aster looks like he wants to shop. "Hello, I'm Oswin Twinflower – Alondra of the Lark and Heron directed me to you." "Oh Yes! I am Magra Windroamer, and I have just what you ordered!" The woman yells and then flings herself back in the caravan. It rocks side to side as you hear her clang around towards the back. Suddenly, a cat jumps up to the window sill – a rather plump thing – mostly black with patches of orange and brown. Her tail swishes as she rides out the rocking of the caravan until the shopkeeper pops back up in the window – flopping her //bountiful// chest upon the ledge along with a crate. "Here's part of it. Once I catch my breath, I'll get the rest." Oswin thanks her and then takes the crate. Magra looks at you so you give her a nod and she grins back. $flirt_label [[She's cute…|5.E11a]] [[You ask about her cat.|5.E11b]] [[You ask if Nathanael is good to work with.|5.E11c]]

<<set $merchantopinion +=5>> You smile warmly at her. <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>"Hi," you say, raising your arm to give her a small wave.<<else>>You try to not stare at her chest even though it is right in your line of sight. "You look lovely, Magra," you say instead.<</if>> "Awe! Look how sweet you are! How darling!" she croons. You begin to wonder if she only yells. "What's your name, sweetie?" She leans out, her smiling making her eyes almost squint. "$mc Northbreaker. Good to meet you." "Yes! Oh, that is right – I know the name. You're on the list!" "What list?" "Oh that boss of mine, he picks favorites. You and that Twinflower boy are on it. I'll give ya a discount if you want to buy anything. Alondra covered your supplies, but I can show you what I got if you wanna buy still. Admittedly…I lied earlier, I'm actually a bit short on supplies right now. Just keep that between you and me though, love." She snickers. "So, you work for Nathanael?" "Oh, yes, that darling scoundrel. He's off doing gods know what. If you see that man, you tell him that he shorted me four whole gold pieces on my cut. He thinks I can't add or something, but he's the one that doesn't understand the numbers." You chuckle. "I'll let him know." The cat stretches and plods over to Magra for attention. The woman scratches the cat's chin and coos at her. "Do all of these caravans have cats?" you ask. "Actually, yes," Magra answers. "This is Lulu. She's an older lady, like me. Good company and my resident pest controller. Feel free to try and pet her, but she's picky, so don't be offended if she ignores you." Oswin comes up again and Magra disappears once more to fish out the other supplies. You collect three heavy crates of food and medical supplies before you are all stocked up. You raise your hand to Lulu, who snubs it and stares at you with no small amount of disdain. It isn't long before you're ready to head out again, though Magra gets your attention and hands you something wrapped in cloth with a finger to her lips. When you peek at it, you find two large honeycakes. You smile back at her and she waves, blowing you a kiss as you head off down the road once more. [[You'll be home soon…]] {end demo}

"Hello," you greet first. "Hi sweetie, what's your name?" she asks. "$mc Northbreaker. Good to meet you." "Yes! Oh, that is right – I know the name. You're on the list!" "What list?" "Oh that boss of mine, he picks favorites. You and that Twinflower boy are on it. I'll give ya a discount if you want to buy anything. Alondra covered your supplies, but I can show you what I got if you wanna buy still. Admittedly…I lied earlier, I'm actually a bit short on supplies right now. Just keep that between you and me though, love." She snickers. "So, you work for Nathanael?" "Oh, yes, that darling scoundrel. He's off doing gods know what. If you see that man, you tell him that he shorted me four whole gold pieces on my cut. He thinks I can't add or something, but he's the one that doesn't understand the numbers." You chuckle. "I'll let him know." The cat stretches and plods over to Magra for attention. The woman scratches the cat's chin and coos at her. "Your cat is pretty. Do all of these shops have a cat as a mascot or something?" you ask. "Actually, yes," Magra answers. "This is Lulu. She's an older lady, like me. Good company and my resident pest controller. Feel free to try and pet her, but she's picky, so don't be offended if she ignores you." Oswin comes up again and Magra disappears once more to fish out the other supplies. You collect three heavy crates of food and medical supplies before you are all stocked up. You raise your hand to Lulu, who snubs it and stares at you with no small amount of disdain. It isn't long before you're ready to head out again. Magra waves you off as her cat just stares at you. You are once again on the way home…it won't be long now. [[You'll be home soon…]] {end demo}

Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed your journey so far and you'll come back for the next installment. In the coming months, each chapter will get a more thorough editing to find typos and grammatical errors. With the release of Chapter 6, a skip function should be implemented which will take you through a (probably) long list of selections to get you right to the new content. It is currently unknown when this release may happen, but the loose goal for it is late Spring 2025. If you'd like to follow along on Tumblr, I will be posting there regularly when I have new information. You can send in questions there if you have them as well. The link to that is in the menu. Please be safe and take care of yourself, my friends! ~Lunan

You finally nod. "Just take care of yourself." "I'll try," says Zahn. "And you should too. Especially after all you've been through." "You know, I agree. It's funny, I don't remember the last time I could even be bored at all. It's as if I need to get accustomed to resting again." Zahn goes oddly still for a moment before $Zhisher arm goes up and rests over $Zhisher eyes. "You okay?" you ask. "I was just thinking of when we lost the horses. It's been a long time since I felt that scared. <<if $ch4split is 'Zahn'>>I was so glad that you came with me, it was kinda fun even until, you know. I froze up, and I'm sorry for that. I guess I'm glad I didn't shoot Duri right away, but I kept thinking had I been faster or found some courage, you wouldn't have been swept away like that." "Not your fault. It was just a strange mix of occurrences. Not even the demigod anticipated the landslide." Zahn sighs. "Speaking of," you say. "Remember what we were talking about before that?" "Hm? I don't know, we chatted almost the whole time." <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"True, it was nice to get to talk just the two of us. But, you told me that your leader taught you to expect wicked people while you were on your mission."<<else>>"Well, //you// chatted the whole time." You snicker. "But what I mean is, your Acceptor told you to expect wicked people on your pilgrimage."<</if>> "Oh." Zahn uncovers $Zhisher eyes and turns $Zhisher head to look at you. $Zcapitalhisher wavy hair sprawls about the bed and around Zahn's face, and the image is almost artful. "What about it?" "Do you think it's true?" "Not completely. You, Oswin, and Duri have changed my mind about a lot of things…Rune too I guess. None of you are wicked and you're the majority of people I've met so far." Zahn chuckles. "I've met a lot of cruel people though, from before…but, $mc, if I'm honest with you…" Zahn lowers $Zhisher voice to a whisper. "I think I finally understand that people are people whether you're inside my sect or outside. There's //good// people in both places…and…" Zahn goes still. You nod. "I understand." <<else>> I was sort of relieved that you went with Oswin." "Really?" "Yeah, it was a lot of pressure because I knew he'd expect me to protect you – and I'd want to, you know, I'm just not good at the whole 'hero' thing. But he is, he tries really hard." Zahn looks at you and bites $Zhisher lip. "What? Why are you looking at me like that?" Zahn begins to whisper. "He cried." "What?" You lean forward. "He cried. When you…you know. When he found me, he was a mess, and could hardly speak." You sit back and soak that in. "I didn't know that." "You were a bit busy at the time. He was…I don't know if I could describe it – mad almost, not angry-mad, but just broken. He was in hysterics trying to find you for a while. After a bit, he did that thing where he tries to fix everything by organizing it, shoves his feelings down." You nod. "Yeah, I've seen that before." "You didn't hear that from me though…" Zahn shifts nervously. You snort. <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"I don't see how that would exactly work, but fine."<<else>>"Who the fuck else would have told me – $mountname!?<</if>> <</if>> [[Zahn pops up and bounces on the bed to move closer to you, clearly wanting to move along.|5.Z2a1]]

And then you study Zahn for a moment. The pilgrim has been an interesting addition to your travels, and it seems fairly clear that $Zheshe comes from unusual circumstances. Something in the back of your mind is bothering you, though. Something doesn't feel completely right, completely honest. "Zahn…" you start. "Hm?" $Zcapitalheshe tilts $Zhisher head. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"If you're…I just want you to know that if you are keeping a secret if you're hiding things, you can tell me."<<else>>"Are you hiding something?"<</if>> Zahn's face goes uncharacteristically slack. A long and awkward moment passes while Zahn stares at you. "Everyone is hiding something, $mc. Yourself included." <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>"Well, my secret is out now, isn't it? And it's not like it was harmful to you."<<else>>"Well, I'm all boring now, I had to reveal my little secret already."<</if>> $Zcapitalheshe shrugs. "Hiding is how you survive when you're too weak to fight." You don't think you'll get anything solid out of Zahn at this point. Perhaps you should wait and watch a while. Part of you even wonders if Zahn will come back at all after $Zheshe visits $Zhisher church. You may or may not care about that prospect, but you also might end up needing whatever the little church or cult has. If a solution could be there, you will need Zahn to get it. You give a slight nod to Zahn to help break the tension. Zahn sits up and jumps to $Zhisher feet, seeming to shake the heaviness off as if it never happened. "Well, $mc, I should be off. I'm glad we got to talk just for a moment. I will look as hard as I can for any information we have that you can use. I promise." "Thank you, Zahn, I appreciate that. Good luck, and be safe." Zahn jogs to the door. "I better hurry, Rune takes tea and snacks soon, and if I'm quick I can snag a few cakes from $Rhisher tray before I go." You roll your eyes as Zahn flees the room, giggling. [[You hear a man yelp and the clatter of a metal tray shortly after.|5.Z3a]]<</if>>

"So," Zahn starts carefully. "This might sound stupid…" <<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>You tilt your head. "Well, tell me and I'll let you know if it is."<<else>>You snort. "All the more reason to say it. I could use a laugh."<</if>> Zahn squirms. "I just…I really hated seeing you sick." "Oh." "I don't know. This is probably…it's probably not what you should tell a sick person." Zahn groans. "I'm not good at that stuff, things are just in my head so I say them. I really am sorry if this is rude. But, you were sick on the road, but it was just so awful and we couldn't do //anything//." You nod. "The bouts can be pretty nasty." "I've never seen a seizure before. I felt just dumb, I didn't know what to do for you." You shake your head. "There's not much that //can// be done. My parents and our village healers have tried everything. Nothing seems to help the symptoms except a little weed my friend found, but it doesn't solve the problem." Zahn looks at you with watery blue eyes. "Was it //always// like that for you? Did you always have to deal with the shaking and all the other stuff?" "Yeah, yeah I did. Not all of them were as violent but many were worse. During the most deadly relapses, I'd stop breathing." "Even when you were a kid?" You nod. "It started when I was around five cycles I think." "That's not fair." Zahn's voice breaks slightly. <<if $GentleAssertive > 49>>"It doesn't feel that way sometimes.<<else>>"Life isn't, Zahn. At least it rarely is.<</if>> But, many people aren't handed a fair lot – yourself included. It's hard, but we can't necessarily compare lives like that. Everyone struggles with //something// and rarely does someone struggle with //nothing//." "Ugh, how did you get so smart? That's not fair, leave some for the rest of us." Zahn laughs. "<<if $SeriousPlayful > 49>>Blame my parents.<<else>>I had to grow up kinda quick, comes with the territory I guess.<</if>> My fathers have given me what they could. They taught me a lot about people, especially my da. Like, how some people do bad things out of fear or act strong even though they feel weak. We seem to not realize that everyone is fighting something." You make a mental note to thank your parents when you return home. Zahn fiddles with the tattered threads of $Zhisher cloak. "That's true. Some people hide it too, but they're all messed up inside. It's just, you seem like a good person to me. It seems extra unfair for you to be cursed. I wish I was a god so I could lift it for you. You shouldn't have to pay because someone else was a jerk." A grin forms on your lips as you watch Zahn's small cheeks puff out in indignation. "That's kind of you to say, Zahn. I sometimes wonder if my birth parents would feel the same. I wonder if they knew…my fathers always told me that at least my mother tried hard to make sure I survived." "Do you ever wish you'd known your mom or even just more about her?" <<if $mommyissues is 'sad'>>Your lips quiver slightly. "I always felt bad for my birth mom. She died trying to…you know. I'd have liked to know her."<<elseif $mommyissues is 'anger'>>You clench your jaw. "Life wasn't fair for my birth mother either. I wish I could save her."<<elseif $mommyissues is 'thankful'>>A warm smile curls on your lips. "My birth mom did what she could to save me. I don't know what her situation was, but I'm still grateful."<<elseif $mommyissues is 'guilt'>>Your lips quiver slightly. "I always felt bad for my birth mom. She died trying to…you know. I'd have liked to know her."<<elseif $mommyissues is 'okay'>>You take a breath. "I've made my peace, but I am a little curious though."<</if>> "You're not alone, no matter how you feel about it." Zahn scoots a little closer. "I'm glad that you're okay…and that we're all working together now." You smile at $Zhimher. "To be honest, I think my mind has been distracting me from dwelling on it much. But, thank you." "I hope it's not weird, but the whole thing has made me think about you a lot more. I already like you, I think you are gorgeous too…I don't wanna hide what I'm thinking about, so…It doesn't have to be a romantic thing, but I wanted to – you know…" "Do I know?" <<if $BoldflirtShyflirt < 40>>You blush.<<else>>You grin.<</if>> Zahn rocks back and forth, meeting your eyes as $Zheshe gives you a coy grin. "I thought we could fool around a little – just for fun, nothing too serious, at least yet. I mean, we can just have fun now and figure other stuff out later." [[Turn Zahn's proposal down.|5.Z3b]] $flirt_label [[Turn Zahn down gently, now just isn't the right time.|5.Z3c]] $flirt_label [[Ask to just cuddle or be close for a while instead.|5.Z3d]] $flirt_label $flirt_label [[Accept the proposal to fool around.|5.Z3e]]