God Cursed Public ch 1 and 2

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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"> <span id="sidebar-toggle-icon" class="lnr lnr-menu-circle"></span> </div> </div>   <div class="sidebar-history-nav"> <span id="backwards-button" class="lnr lnr-arrow-left"></span> <span id="forwards-button" class="lnr lnr-arrow-right"></span> </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> <span id="restart-button" class="lnr lnr-redo"></span> <span class="tooltiptext">Restart</span> </li> <li> <span id="saves-button" class="lnr lnr-download"></span> <span class="tooltiptext">Saves</span> </li> <li> <span id="settings-button" class="lnr lnr-cog"></span> <span class="tooltiptext">Settings</span> </li> </ul> <ul class="story-menu" data-passage="storyMenu"> </ul> </nav> <nav id="social-media"> <p>Social media</p> <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>

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

<<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. 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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>

!Stat page <<nobr>> <html> <body> <span> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"><span style="color:red"> <div style="text-align: center;">Character Information</div></h1> </body> </html> Your name is $mc Northbreaker. <html> <body> <span> <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>> <br> <<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>> <br> <<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>> <br> <<if $RecklessCautious > 50>>Recklessness 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>> <br> <<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. A moderate approach keeps everyone happy.<</if>> <html> <body> <span> <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>> <br> <br> <<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 childhood, 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>> <br> <br> <<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>> <</nobr>>  <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center>

!Your Home [[World]] [[Lore]] --under construction--  <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center>

*Prologue 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 Later... “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 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 - 3, 0, 100)]] [[“As long as I can have sweet cakes for breakfast.”][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] [[“So I guess I'll get up.”][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 3, 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 + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You giggle and playfully swat at him.|Da Loves You][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You're a little overcome with feeling and can't think to respond.|Da Loves You][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 3, 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 + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You giggle and playfully swat at him.|Da Loves You][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You're a little overcome with feeling and can't think to respond.|Da Loves You][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 3, 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 + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You giggle and playfully swat at him.|Da Loves You][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 3, 0, 100)]] [[You're a little overcome with feeling and can't think to respond.|Da Loves You][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 3, 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">> <</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]]

<<nobr>> <<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 $sondtrchild to 'child'>> <</if>> <</nobr>> Staring into the big larder, you think about your options. You grab some bread and fruit, things your fathers prefer you eat to break your fast, but can't help but to also eye the sweet cakes. They're a little high up for you to reach on your own, though there's a crate you could stand on if you wanted to swipe one. You're well aware both Papa and Da wouldn't like you sneaking sweets. [[You grab the crate and stand on it to reach the cakes.][$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 umbre 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 umbre 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. 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 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 us. “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 I 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 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 simple 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 simple 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 my 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 *Oswin: *Zahn: *Duri'naan: *Rūndis:  <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center>

!Character Information [[Romanceable Characters]] [[Family and Friends]] [[Others]]  <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center>

<<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 $merchantopinion to 5>> <<set $anx to 0>>

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

<<nobr>> <span> <html> <body> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:gray">Over the next three years...</h1></div> </body> </html> </span> <</nobr>> [[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'>> You 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. You 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 you 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 manor 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 an art piece itself 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. I think 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 fist 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 mind 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, and 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. 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 manor 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, though 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 manor 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, durring 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 advise 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 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 and 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.” [[Everyone cheered.|Northbreaker.]]

<<nobr>> <<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. <br> <br> "Yer a fine $manwoperson already, Ravinder." She smirked. "So I guess I can agree the name suits ya." <br> <br> You laughed and rolled your eyes. "You're more like Da than you'd ever care to admit, aren't you." <br> <br> 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." <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> "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..." <br> <br> <<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. <br> <br> "Yer a fine $manwoperson already, $mc." She smirked. "...and I suppose yer not half bad at pickin' names." <br> <br> You laughed and rolled your eyes. "You're more like Da than you'd ever care to admit, aren't you." <br> <br> 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." <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> "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>> <</nobr>> "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>> [[Next|creation part 2]]

<<nobr>> <<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>> <</nobr>> [[Continue|creation part 3]]

<<nobr>> <<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 manor 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>> <</nobr>> *You must select one: <<nobr>> <<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. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "treescrapeonleftshoulder" autocheck>> You ended up with a nasty tear in your left shoulder blade one day while felling a tree. Ironically, it wasn't the tree you were cutting that ended up giving you the wound. An adjacent tree was weak from a recent storm and fell along with yours, but it's trajectory was towards you. You barely manged to avoid being crushed but took a nasty hit to your shoulder as the tree scraped you. At least, in the end, you were able to use both trees. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$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. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "scaronbackofthigh" autocheck>> You bear a scar on the back of one thigh from a tragic sitting accident. As you were testing a chair you had designed, feeling perhaps a bit over-confident that the structure was sound, the piece gave way. It collapsed in spectacular fashion and you with it, sending one of the iron nails you had used directly under the flesh of your thigh. You very quietly treated your wound, and ended up with a scar that few would see. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$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. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "oswinscar" autocheck>> Because you were learning the sword from your da, you ran into Oswin on several occasions as he was intent on training for the guard, and Da had worked with him a great deal already. Though he had been standoffish and strange over the years with you, he was civil during training and seemed to enjoy sparring with you, though the moment you caught a glimpse of your former closeness, he rolled himself back again. During such a training, you'd both been running a little hot with aggravation, sparring like your lives were actually at risk. Oswin was trouncing you handily, and in his fervor, accidentally injured you, his blade ripping through your armor and through the top of your right arm. Oswin was immensely remorseful and cared for your wound himself. You don't think he ever quite forgave himself. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$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. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "frontshouldershotscar" autocheck>> You'd worked very hard with your da to improve your archery skills enough to compete. The surrounding local villages held small tournaments each year around the time of other festivals and celebrations, so you were never left wanting for a place to test your skill. During one such competition, you not only placed, but you took first, unseating a reigning champion that had taken the title every year for over a decade. They did not take it well, and to show their displeasure, shot you. Thankfully, a fellow competitor was able to disrupt the shot – skewing the aim and strength of the blow. The arrow still pierced the meat of your right shoulder, but did not lodge fully. Papa wrangled the perpetrator himself when the local guard failed to; you'd never seen him quite so angry. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$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. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "bitemarkleftarm" autocheck>> While assisting Kavi and Lakota with a patient who was suffering from a bout of delirium, you were bitten. Unfortunately, at the time, you were alone with the woman who was supposed to be asleep after Kavi gave her a dose of a sleeping tonic. She woke suddenly, became frightened and clamped down on your upper left arm hard enough that she drew blood – lots of it. It was horribly painful, and the patient refused to let go, being to out of mind to think rationally. You did not want to injure her since you knew she was not hurting you intentionally. Lakota heard the commotion and came to your rescue, getting her to release you by throwing a powder made from ground pepper seeds at her. She let go, but the powder also made your wound burn. It wasn't a great day and you still have a bite-shaped scar to remind you. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$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 manor 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. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "pinfinger" autocheck>> Your work isn't inherently too dangerous, especially as you stick very close to town and to the occasional visit to nearby villages. Though you are known to be a shrewd business dealer, you may not always take the wisest of actions. During a visit to a neighboring tavern, an unruly and very drunk patron challenged you to a game of pinfinger. You promptly ignored her and continued about your business as she carried on, trying to get your attention. She finally threw down a large sack of gold in front of you, saying that she would buy everything you had in your cart if you'd play her game. It felt like easy money. The woman was piss drunk. The sack of gold she offered for your wares would put you ahead by leaps and bounds. So, you accepted. The first one to nick themselves would lose. You were certain that she'd cut a finger in the first set. She did not. It turned out, she was quite good at the game, even while drunk. Though, you were also quite good – being sober – and lasted quite a while. Your knife came down hard on your middle finger, slicing it to the bone. Papa always made sure your knives were razor sharp. The plus to that, was that it cut through so easily that you barely felt it at first. The red blood was unmistakable though. The woman cheered for her win and for your performance, and also helped you treat the wound. She still bought a good deal of your stock and then made you a marriage proposal which you promptly turned down. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$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 manor 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. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "leftarmburn" autocheck>> Unfortunately, as you began doing bigger jobs when you became known for your food, you also had to work with other aspiring cooks. Not all of these people had the skill and wherewithal that you did, which led to some mishaps. One such mishap, gave you a bad burn on your left upper arm. An assistant, working with you at a holiday banquet for a wealthy family, caused a grease fire in the small kitchen you were crammed into. The boy panicked and immediately threw a bucket of water at the flames while you were in the line of fire. The water and grease splashed up and you barely raised your arm in time to protect the side of your face. Some of the skin on your arm was left gnarled, but thankfully nothing else on you was injured. The assistant was fired and the home owner compensated you a great deal for the trouble. <br> <br> <<radiobutton "$interestwound" "headwound" autocheck>> A pan fell on you. It scarred your forehead. You don't like talking about it. <</if>> <</nobr>> [[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]]

<<nobr>> <<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>> <br> <br> <<if $tat1 is true>>At least for where you were in life thus far, tattoos just weren't for you. Maybe in the future you'd change your mind though.<</if>> <</nobr>> No matter your current stance on tattoos, one thing you could not go without – at least in public – was clothing. Being a small town meant limited options, but you made the most with what you could find. Traveling merchants had made finding items you liked a bit easier in recent years, even if prices were a bit higher than average. *You must choose one: <<radiobutton "$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. Hell, 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 + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more bold and outspoken][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]] [[It's made you take a step back and just relax][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a touch more aggressive.][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[You sometimes find it difficult to take things lightly.][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become more adventurous and fun-seeking][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]] [[Your behavior can only be described as reckless.][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious + 5, 0, 100)]] [[You've become a bit more cautious about things.][$RecklessCautious to Math.clamp($RecklessCautious - 5, 0, 100)]]

*Chapter One <html> <body> <span> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <span style="color:red"> <div style="text-align: center;">Growing Pains</div> </h1> </span> </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 $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 $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 $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 $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 $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 + 5, 0, 100)]] [[becoming aggravated.|time to move on][$GentleAssertive to Math.clamp($GentleAssertive - 5, 0, 100)]] [[cracking jokes.|time to move on][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful - 5, 0, 100)]] [[humbled and sober.|time to move on][$SeriousPlayful to Math.clamp($SeriousPlayful + 5, 0, 100)]] [[wanting to withdraw.|time to move on][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing + 5, 0, 100)]] [[jumping on every opportunity to socialize.|time to move on][$ReservedOutgoing to Math.clamp($ReservedOutgoing - 5, 0, 100)]]

However, 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)]] [[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)]] [[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)]]

However, 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)]] [[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)]] [[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)]]

However, 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> <span> <h1 style="font-size:40px;"> <span style="color:red"> <div style="text-align: center;">Where the Journey Begins</div> </h1> </span> </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 passed 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!” “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. 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($GentleAssertive + 3, 0, 100)]] [[You tried not to feel much of anything about it.|curious oswin]] [[It was a shame, he is indeed a handsome man, and his coldness did not stop you from appreciating that.|curious oswin][$Oflirt += 1]] [[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 as large as 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 with flecks of 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 gal? 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 you 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 += 2>> 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. "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. Flirting will act as optional "flavor" to the relationship with your MC. Developing your chosen relationship does not have to be based in flirtations. As the story progresses, your MC will have opportunities to specifically choose if they wish to pursue another character in a romantic capacity. Eventually, that choice will be locked-in if you decide to romance someone until the end of your story. 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 story. 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. Any option that may be seen as specifically (intentionally) flirty or even generally (perhaps even unintentionally) flirtatious will be indicated with a $flirt_label. Just like in real life, perception on what is flirting might be different for each person, and it doesn't always automatically mean //romance//. Sometimes, it’s just lighthearted fun or cute. Your character will also have the option of flirting with world characters as a means to an end. For some, this may mean flattering a merchant to get a discount or a special gift; 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. GC not only gives you four ''main'' romantic partners to choose from, but there will also be fifth "mystery" suitor, and even casual encounters that //can be// sexual in nature. These explicit moments can happen with two of the main cast (prior to locked-in relationships) and with some random characters you meet in the wild. 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 likely be ''graphically'' detailed. They will not all be just flowery language – explicit language will be used. 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. *Author’s note: I am very new at this and am learning as I go, so I would appreciate kindness should you want to report errors. 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 (and, I’m honestly a bit rusty after a very long stint with severe depression). 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 as I have a spouse, cat, and a home to care for while I also work full time (on top of dealing with the wonders of ADHD and taking the odd class here and there). 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. In the menu, there is a link to my Tumblr and also a link to a Spotify playlist that is not mine, but one I personally enjoy while I read. Some of the menu options are incomplete and will be fleshed out in time. [[Now, to everyone’s favorite part...TRIGGER WARNINGS]] <html> <body> <span> <h1 style="font-size:8px;"> <span style="color:black"> <div style="text-align: left;">(Am I the only one that checks these things to see how interested I'll be in the book?)</div> </h1> </span> </body> </html>

*Some content warnings you should know about… It should go without saying, 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 ** Violence ** Blood, possible gore ** Animal death (natural, and in reference to hunting) ** Optional sexual content (explicitly detailed) ** Touching (non-sexual) without specific consent (this work is not written with touch-aversions in mind at all times, though the MC isn't just being touched willy-nilly). Certain instances will allow the reader to choose if touch is okay, but not all. ** Chronic illness of MC with severe symptomatic episodes ** Physical injury to MC and other characters ** Death (human, unnatural) ** Religious trauma ** Cults ** Depression/Anxiety/Panic ** Nightmares ** Disparaging thoughts ** AND MORE! With that out of the way... [[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. "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 hide out, 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 honey-cakes." 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, many gods 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 manor 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 manor 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 manor 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 manor 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 manor 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 briefly visits you a couple times as well. 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 $eyecolor eyes are marred with red lines, and deep dark circles have formed under them. You realize that your cheekbones and jawline protrude much further than they did before. You try to pump water for a bath, but lack the strength. Thankfully, Papa checks on you and happily draws the water. He requests that you rest a while so he can heat the water as well. You do not argue. Once Papa is sure that you are fine on your own, you strip off your clothing and make your way to the tub which has a little steam coming from the top of it. You have never been more thankful that your da insisted on a bathtub in the house. You carefully sink into the water. The heat sends a calming sensation through your limbs and chest. You lay back and breathe deep as you stare at the ceiling. The memories, many spotty, from the last 10 days flood your mind. [[You cry. You cry and cry.|it's over][$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)]]

Your father has also helped you try different ways of wearing your hair.<<nobr>> <<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>> <</nobr>> 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>

[[Pantheon]] [[Creation]] <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center>

!Oswin Twinflower !Zahn !Duri'naan !Rūndis Lyreheart <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center>

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 manor 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>

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 it’s 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. Given 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 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>

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, and he is the youngest of the three. He was quickly elevated to the running for emperor 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 position. 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>

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>

!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 once 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>

!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>

*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. *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. *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 among family members, lounging and eating. Some wealthy families may even celebrate for the last ten entire days of the season. <center><<link "Return to game" $return>><</link>></center>

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? <<nobr>> <<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 $goal is 'independence'>>Not only will you remain a burden on your parents and all those you love, but you will never get to taste true adulthood. Eventually your fathers will resent you. You’ve taken their best years already, and now you will take the rest. Independence and even privacy are fallacies for you, always within reach but never touchable.<</if>> <</nobr>> You stagger as your vision begins to blur. Despite your hard breathing, you feel as though you are asphyxiating. The beats of your heart are like that of a rabbit kicking to flee a predator. Your legs give and your knees slam hard into the floor. The walls are closing in. This is your tomb. The door suddenly swings open with a resounding bang. Strong hands grip your shoulders to support you. Through blurry vision, you see that it’s Oswin who has come to your aid. His expression is panicked as he takes your face in his hands, sweeping the wet strands of hair from your forehead. “$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 fully 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? <<nobr>> <<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 $goal is 'independence'>>Not only will you remain a burden on your parents and all those you love, but you will never get to taste true adulthood. Eventually your fathers will resent you. You’ve taken their best years already, and now you will take the rest. Independence and even privacy are fallacies for you, always within reach but never touchable.<</if>> <</nobr>> You cry so hard that you practically choke on ever breath. With eyes burning and throat raw and tired, you begin to heave as you mourn. Your legs give and your knees slam hard into the floor. Your head starts to pound from the strain and you briefly wonder if the grief you feel will do you in. The door suddenly swings open with a resounding bang. Strong hands grip your shoulders to support you. Through watery vision, you see that it’s Oswin who has come to your aid. His expression is panicked as he takes your face in his hands, sweeping tears from your cheeks. “$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 fully 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? <<nobr>> <<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 $goal is 'independence'>>Not only will you remain a burden on your parents and all those you love, but you will never get to taste true adulthood. Eventually your fathers will resent you. You’ve taken their best years already, and now you will take the rest. Independence and even privacy are fallacies for you, always within reach but never touchable.<</if>> <</nobr>> Your voice and throat become raw and pained, but you cannot stop screaming. Your legs give and your knees slam hard into the floor. You desperately slam your fist into the floor, needing something – anything – to take this out on. The door suddenly swings open with a resounding bang. Strong hands grip your shoulders before you can lay another punch down. Through the anger in your vision, you see that it’s Oswin who has come to your aid. His expression is panicked as he places one hand to the side of your face, and the other gingerly holds the fist you drove into the floor. “$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 fully 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? <<nobr>> <<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 $goal is 'independence'>>Not only will you remain a burden on your parents and all those you love, but you will never get to taste true adulthood. Eventually your fathers will resent you. You’ve taken their best years already, and now you will take the rest. Independence and even privacy are fallacies for you, always within reach but never touchable.<</if>> <</nobr>> The savage mirth racks you with pain in your throat and stomach, but you cannot stop. Tears prick in the corner of your eyes as the sound of your laughter begins to morph closely to that of cries. Your legs give and your knees slam hard into the floor. You desperately clutch your arms around your torso as you strain from the fit. The door suddenly swings open with a resounding bang. Strong hands grip your shoulders before you can lay another punch down. Through the anger in your vision, you see that it’s Oswin who has come to your aid. His expression is panicked as he places one hand to the side of your face, and the other gingerly holds the fist you drove into the floor. “$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 fully 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? <<nobr>> <<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>> <</nobr>> 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, $mc. It’s okay.” There’s care in his voice, pure and simple. You have no words and you can only stare as resignation settles on your shoulders. “I’m here.” Oswin hugs you close. His leather armor presses into your skin, the uncomfortable poke seems to bring your presence of mind forward. “Focus on me and let yourself rise out of it.” He rocks you gently. “Focus on me, don’t lose yourself to it. Slow breaths.” After minutes of trying to breathe and focus on something else, your listlessness begins to subside, and the fog of feelings diminishes, allowing your body to regain composure. Oswin continues to rock you gently until you pull away. Once you have taken some slow, deep breaths and gain your bearings fully, you absorb the situation. Oswin still looks worried, his green eyes are wide, and he keeps his hands poised up, as if he’s ready to catch you. Looking down, you realize that, though you grip the ends of your towel in each hand, your front is fully exposed. Perhaps Oswin doesn’t realize, as his eyes do not so much as blink away from your gaze. [[You manage a small smile in silent thanks as you close the towel around yourself, trying to not draw his attention to it.][$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)]]

However, 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)]]

However, 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. Though, you can easily keep your chest covered, it 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. “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 nods and then 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. Though, you can easily keep your chest covered, it 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. “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 more 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.” 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 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 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 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.]]

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 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 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 such 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 god of darkness, and their benevolence is well-documented. Though, they are 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 stories 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. 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 frequently 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 that 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 beam 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 tended, 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. “Who says I do care, Ravi?” You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little.” 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. “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.” “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. 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.” “It was just a slip…” Oswin turns and begins to walk towards your fathers, putting an end to the subject. [[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. He folds his arms. “You’re lying, Ravi...$mc.” You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little.” “It was just a slip…I’m sorry.” Oswin turns and begins to walk towards your fathers, putting an end to the subject. [[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. 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.” 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. [[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. “I was merely...concerned about you, Ravi,” he concludes. You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little.” 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. [[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. He sighs. “I’ll always fret over you, Ravi.” You tilt your head. “You haven’t called me that since we were little.” He steps back and stammers a moment. “I apologize, $mc, it...it slipped. I don’t…” “It’s fine.” You try to reassure him. “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. [[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 he called you Ravi earlier, 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 ones. 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…]]

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

<<nobr>> <<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>> <</nobr>> Now that you are healed up enough to convince your fathers that you are suitable to travel, your mount has been secured, and provision 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 to, or you could merely rest and wait for your departure, though you might miss out on something if you do. And you even have the time to everything on the list. [[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>> [[You’ll rest and wait for the time to journey forth.]]

<<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 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 friends 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 an 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.” “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.” “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 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>>

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]]

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.]]

<<nobr>> 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>> <br> <br> Kanta is panting and her face is completely flushed. She looks up from her station and meets your eyes. "I want you so bad..." <br> <br> "I want you too...lay back and I can return-" <br> <br> Kanta shakes her head. "Maybe later, I need <<if $vp is 'penis'>>you inside me.<<else>>to feel you against me.<</if>>" <br> <br> At her words, there is a carnal stirring inside of you. You move to accommodate Kanta's desire. <br> <br> <<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. <br> <br> "Please..." She whimpers, "I //need// it." <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> "Kanta...I'm...close," you warn. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> <<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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> Kanta whimpers your name. "Please, I want to feel yours against mine...I'm so close, please." <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> Kanta's back suddenly arches and she cries out. "I'm cumming, $mc!" <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> <</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. <</nobr>> 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 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>>

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]]

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. <<nobr>> <<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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> <<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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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>> <</nobr>> [[You prepare yourself.]]

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>> <<nobr>> <<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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> "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. <br> <<else>> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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 womanhood 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> "I need you, $mc," he says, continuing to pump his cock as he meets your eyes. <</if>> <</nobr>> [[You spread your legs.]]

<<nobr>> <<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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> He takes a moment to breath once he's hilted inside, gingerly rubbing your legs with his hands. "You feel magnificent...Are you okay?" <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> He brings his lips to your ear and against your own moaning you hear him whisper. "Come for me, $mc..." <br> <br> 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. <br> <<else>> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> He takes a moment to breathe once he's hilted inside, gingerly rubbing your legs with his hands. "You feel magnificent...Are you okay?" <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> He brings his lips to your ear and against your own moaning you hear him whisper. "Come for me, $mc..." <br> <br> You shiver and clutch your legs around Kanta, the feeling of climax spiraling from your pelvis. You give in and come fast and hard as Kanta continues to thrust into you. Your muscles convulse and clench as shivers erupt through your whole body until your legs are left shaking and you are crying Kanta's name. <</if>> <br> He groans. "$mc...I'm coming; what should I do?" <br> <br> <</nobr>> [[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]]

<<nobr>> <<if $vp is 'penis'>> You rub your cock with oil, thoroghly 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. <br> <br> 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 resistant 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> The sensation builds, starting in your balls. You're nearly there as well. <br> <br> "I'm coming," you breathe, trying to give warning before you erupt. <br> <br> "Withdraw," Kanta pants, still pumping his cock, "I want to feel your heat cover me." <br> <br> [[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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> Kanta pants, looking at your connection before tossing his head back to the bed. "You're so //wet//, $mc." <br> <br> You chuckle, his girth is also not doing you any favors as far as stretching your playtime out. He hits in all the right places. You begin your jaunt, pushing your hips down to fully seat him inside. He grabs your hips and grunts each time you thrust. Grabbing Kanta's hands from your hips to help you balance, you begin to ride him furiously, grinding him down into the bed, getting him as deep as possible. It doesn't take long for you to come undone, and you sense that your pleasure will erupt soon. Kanta takes a hand back and uses it to rub against your clit. You lean back to allow him better access. <br> <br> You lose yourself. The dick inside you fills while the hand at your sex sends electric ripples through your entire body. Within moments your muscles tense and your climax decends. You cry out over and over, shaking as you come. Kanta takes over thrusting, letting you stay lost in bliss. He whispers curses as he watches you. <br> <br> Once you are no longer shaking and in the haze of pleasure, you limply try to continue your onslaught on Kanta's cock. You can tell by his moaning that he's close. <br> <br> "$mc..." he says, "I'm so close...where...where..." Kanta's head tips back and you need to react now. <br> <br> [[You allow him to cum inside of you.]] <br> <br> [[You pull yourself off to have him finish outside of you.]] <</if>> <</nobr>>

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 her 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]]

<<nobr>> <<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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <br> <</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. <br> <br> 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. <br> <</if>> <</nobr>> <<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 quite 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 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'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You'll seek out some romance while you can.<</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 in tact.” 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 in tact.” 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 each 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 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 not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You'll seek out some romance while you can.<</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 on 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 him 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 spend some time with Da.<</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 not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You'll seek out some romance while you can.<</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 him 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 spend some time with Da.<</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 not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You'll seek out some romance while you can.<</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 him 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 spend some time with Da.<</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 not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You'll seek out some romance while you can.<</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 him 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 spend some time with Da.<</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 not hasVisited("You'll seek out some romance while you can.")>>[[You'll seek out some romance while you can.]]<<else>>You'll seek out some romance while you can.<</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)]]

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

Thank you for reading! I hope you have enjoyed the story so far. Posting this IF has given me palpitations and set my nerves on fire, but I decided a while ago that I need to just do it. I’m trying to pursue things in life that bring me joy and writing is one of those things. I am trying hard to get more comfortable sharing my passions. Even if only one person enjoys this, then I am happy I’ve written and shared it. If you’re interested, chapter 3 is in progress and chapter 4 is already outlined, and they will be released together at a later date. These chapters will introduce new friends and/or romantic partners and start your journey in earnest. My plan is to rotate around 2 or 3 works of interactive fiction to keep me from burning out on just one. I have several ideas that I’m playing with currently, but nothing set in stone yet. The others will be different genres as well (likely contemporary and supernatural). These won’t get started until chapters 3 and 4 of God-Cursed are public. If you’d like to follow along for updates, there is a link to my Tumblr in the menu. You can follow on itch.io too, of course, but I may not post much there for the time being. Send me an ask on Tumblr if you come up with questions, and I will try to get back to you. I haven’t devised a plan for error-reporting yet, so if you have found a bug, typo, or even something that just didn’t make sense, go ahead and send it in a Tumblr ask as well. If you’re like me and have Maximum Strength Social Anxiety, please feel at ease if you’d like to contact me. I really don’t mind questions or comments and such, and I know too well what it feels like to really want to say something and freeze up. Just know, that I am a bit socially inept and sometimes think a bit too literally. I also tend to prattle too long! Anyway, much love! ~Lunan

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CREDITS and SHOUT-OUTS Without the resources and people listed below, I would be totally lost. Twine Template: Vahnya ~ 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/ Map Maker: https://inkarnate.com Graphics: designed with https://www.canva.com/ (one day, I will try the pro version and remove the watermarks) Endless encouragement, friendship, and the one who introduced me to all this: Syryh Inspiration, support, and a great ass: My Husband