Moon goes a bit wide-eyed as Grob flounders trying to amend, correct, and apologize for whatever he said. Her brow crinkles trying to piece together his meaning. As he lapses into silence, she wraps an arm around his, and presses her body - in that dress - against his arm. She rests her chin on his shoulder and gazes at him before saying quietly, ”You say things like that to me and I just… melt.” She gazes at him a little longer before pulling away, suddenly aware of their audience.
Relief fills his face as it appears she's understanding what he's trying to say, and then delight, the pressure of her against him is just.. well, it quickens the blood in the best of ways, and yet also makes him feel rather special. He starts to tell her it's just plain true, but then remembers that what to him sounds like straight talk might come out as belittling some very real feelings for her, so he tries to betray a bit more true enthusiasm [smaller]"Good. You're even prettier in liquid form." a nudge against her, gently and brief.
Grob realizes, they are fine now. Whatever he said has righted the ship. Possibly moreso… beneath the table, he believes Moon has slipped a foot out of one of her clever Tien slippers because he feels a few toes rubbing against his ankle pushing up his leather pants. So, either Moon is very pleased with him or Meep is…
It's not Meep he's thinking of, and maybe she's melting, but parts of him are threatening to harden as Moon demonstrates hidden tactile approval.
"I grew up when Olmira was still a young woman. She hasn't changed much, so I'm sure that Grobradon has seen a lot more than your dress shows from his mentor."
THAT gets a deep chuckle out of Grobradon, "Yeaah, Olmira likes to go skyclad a lot. Says it lets her kiss the sun with the wholeness of her spirit. Father Prasst and she debate how close to town she should get for that. Hilarious to overhear."
Then his mom just destroys any machoismo he could have... sigh"I wish I could speak from experience about love and finding that special person that wants to spend the rest of their life with you as much as you want to spend your life with them. All I can do is tell you want my parents told me. That you'll know when you find that person. You'll see that they care deeply about you and want to be the best person they can be for you, and you'll feel the same way about them. I love Grobradon. He's my precious boy, and even though I can never forgive his father for what he did to me, I've never blamed him for it. He is a lot like Maidie's Tanglefoot, a prickly ball of spines covering a soft, loveable belly."
"Please don't tell Maidie or Betzolte you made that comparison, mom. Just, please."
Then his mother adressses him with some gentle lessons..She's just as forthright and honest as you are, in her own way. If this is something you want, then you'll have to learn how to deal with that, though, I think you are making a good start."
"Oh, Moon can be direct," He says proudly, "Mom, in a fight she is fearless! She went after the enemy like a hawk spiking from the sky. I mean, beautiful, sure, but fierce and deadly I did not see coming. She can be relentless, and protective too." He blurts out this praise without shame.
"In some ways I envy you two," she says. "I never got to experience this before I was pregnant with Grob. I want what's best for you, both of you. I've prayed many times that he'd make friends and even find someone that would watch his back like he would watch theirs. He deserves more than being treated as an oddity or an object of pity. He's stalwart, honest, and passionate. If you can handle that, Moon, then you have my blessing. I just wish he'd found you first."
A brow knit, "You're not dead yet, mother. Let's not bury you so soon ? You know, there are some fellows in the village your age who .. well, I mean, if you find one you like, let me know. I'll get lost in the woods for a few days while you decide what to make of him." He sounds like he's quite willing to abduct a man his mother favors if need be.
He sees Meep poking "Hope you like the stew Meep. You and Moon are probably going to get invited to a lot of dinners around here but my mom makes the best Sausage spiced stew around." Then he remembers something else "And... that reminds me."A look to Moon, "Moon, I know you need a new place eventually. And Meep will likely be a housemate I'm guessing. How would you feel about a third person? This place is tight, and the only reason this little shack isn't broken down is that Mother and I both know how to patch wood. With me lumbering around here, it's gotten smaller as I've gotten bigger.. so maybe.. maybe you should see if you and Mom and Meep want to take mom in as a third person? If you say no, it's okay. I plan to build her a better house eventually, but figured she might like the company, and I'd feel safer with her in a place with friends anyway." He looks at his mother "Obviously, mother, you get a vote in this as well, as does Meep."
“Moon is right, there's a part of me that was judging her and whether or not I thought she could be a good fit for you Grobradon. From what I have heard, I believe that you two are very well suited to one another… I believe that this young woman is worthy of your love. She's just as forthright and honest as you are, in her own way. If this is something you want, then you'll have to learn how to deal with that, though, I think you are making a good start."
Moon is relieved and pleased with Coldana’s opinion of her as it was quite likely the one insurmountable hurdle to them having any sort of future. ”I don’t think of it as you judging me. You want your son to be happy and well-matched. And we often aren’t the best judges of who is right for us when we are young. Our wants and our needs are different beasts. It takes wisdom to know that.”
“And as for your immodesty, Moon." Coldana laughs as she waves the young ranger's concerns away. "I grew up when Olmira was still a young woman. She hasn't changed much, so I'm sure that Grobradon has seen a lot more than your dress shows from his mentor."
Moon tries to navigate to an answer that would make sense. ”Madam Ventar, I… It is very important to me that you understand, despite my choice of clothing this evening, and despite some behavior that my… that Temue would not approve… I am not… uh ‘reckless’ with my body, my affections, or with the hearts of others. I have never worn a dress such as this in Kassen before, and I don’t believe I will again… publicly.”
”He's stalwart, honest, and passionate. If you can handle that, Moon, then you have my blessing. I just wish he'd found you first.”
Moon looks to Grob as Coldana recites his qualities… ‘passionate’ particularly draws her attention. ”Those are all very important to me. I am privileged to have your blessing. I would very much like to be courted by your son, if that is his wish.” She decidedly does NOT look to Grob for an immediate answer.
She circles back around to Coldana’s final comment. ”First? So you know about…” Her smile at Grob turns a little feral. She turns to Coldana, ”Madam Ventar, Grob does not want me to know the name of the… strumpet. Possibly because I expressed a willingness to break her nose and chase her through town whipping her with a willow switch. If you ever wish to unburden your soul of her name, I would be more than happy to listen.”
"Moon, I know you need a new place eventually. And Meep will likely be a housemate I'm guessing. How would you feel about a third person?...
”Give me a moment.” Moon thinks very carefully about the financial and logistical aspects of the idea. It could be done. The final configuration of her house could accommodate another bedroom in one of two places, three with a slight change to the existing plans. Coldana’s physical limitations would be a determining factor. She sorts it all in her head, framing an answer, ”Your mother will be welcome in my home, when it is built, and assuming she is comfortable with the arrangements and location. I’ll be buying a lot I found this morning. It is just outside of the town walls but close by Arnama’s house. It is fully fenced so it will be safe. Madam Ventar, would that be a concern for you? Will you entertain the idea of living with us?”
”Good. You're even prettier in liquid form." a nudge against her, gently and brief.
Something is his words or his approach strikes a deep chord in the ranger. Moon searches Grob’s face and looks like there is something she really wants to say. Her eyes glance over to his mom, and she gives a brief shake of her head. Whatever it is, she can’t say it in company. But she slides her chair a little closer to Grob, curls against his arm, and rests her head on his shoulder, very content.
Grobradon notes that she smells even better than the stew but isn't sure that's the kind of flattery a girl wants to hear. For now, he just enjoys her resting against his shoulder while he waits to see what his mother thinks of the idea.
He still hopes to find a way to help his mother get her vision back, but she shouldn't have to stay in this shack.
"Please don't tell Maidie or Betzolte you made that comparison, mom. Just, please."
Coldana smiles sweetly.
"I won't, Grob," she promises.
A brow knit, "You're not dead yet, mother. Let's not bury you so soon ? You know, there are some fellows in the village your age who .. well, I mean, if you find one you like, let me know. I'll get lost in the woods for a few days while you decide what to make of him." He sounds like he's quite willing to abduct a man his mother favors if need be.
The older woman barks a laugh at this, though everyone can hear the bitter tinge it has under her good humor.
"I appreciate the offer, but-- Oh never mind me," she waves the thought off before Grobradon asks Meep how she likes the stew.
"I do like it," she says as she puts her spoon down in her bowl. She looks down at her spotless dress before continuing "I just don't want to get it on my dress."
She looks up as Grobradon asks Moon if his mother could live with her and Meep once their house is built. Meep looks from Moon to Grobradon and then to Coldana as the conversation comes to a stop as Coldana thinks.
"You two are very kind," Coldana says, tears rimming her eyes as she gives you both a bittersweet smile. "It takes a lot of courage and humility to ask someone for help, and while I have been humbled many times in my life, I have always had a stubborn pride in myself for overcoming the difficulties and problems life has thrown my way. I probably would have refused outright a year or two ago, but... I have to admit it's getting harder. I'm getting older. Pride says I can keep living as I have been, but honesty compels me to admit that its not as easy as it was when Grobradon was little."
Meep, who's been quietly listening pipes up.
"Miss Coldana," she says, "I think you're nice, and I would be happy to have you live with us. I want to learn how to make tasty food, like this stew, and I want to be good. Good people help each other. I want to help you. I'm small. I'm not very strong, but I still want to help. If staying with Moon and me helps you, then I want you to stay with us."
Coldana sits for a moment, wiping the tears from her eyes.
"How can I say no after that," she laughs. "It brings my heart no end of joy to know that Grobradon has friends like you two young ladies."
She takes in a deep breath and looks to Moon.
"You are wise beyond your years, Moon Akechi. Temue is a heartless, gutless fool, and if you ever do run into him again, I hope you break his nose and knock some teeth loose. Family and community are the bonds which hold us together and even if nothing comes of the feelings you and Grobradon have for each other besides friendship, I will always welcome you as family. The same goes for Meep."
She smiles again, this time with a mischievous edge to it.
"As for the strumpet in question. I do know who she is, but Grobradon has given his word. However much I might wish to tell you and be there when two meet, I have to respect my son's desire to keep his promise to her. It's a shame you won't wear that lovely dress again. It sounds rather pretty and I'm sure that you look stunning in it. I can only imagine how she'd look if she sees you wearing it while on Grob's arm."
She winks as she takes a sip of her water.
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The older woman barks a laugh at this, though everyone can hear the bitter tinge it has under her good humor.
"I appreciate the offer, but-- Oh never mind me," she waves the thought off before Grobradon asks Meep how she likes the stew.
At this point, Grob wishes he could give his mother a few years back. She lost a lot of them blind and caring for him.
"I do like it," she says as she puts her spoon down in her bowl. She looks down at her spotless dress before continuing "I just don't want to get it on my dress."
"Sometimes it helps if you put a cloth or napkin at your lap or around yoer neck so it gets messy instead." he offers a rather humble rag, but one that will work.
This his mother and Meep have an exchange that, well, if Meep hadn't won him over before, this would do it. As the goblin, who has only what she's been given... shares that with his mother, or offers to.
Well, that settles it. If anyone hurts Meep I'm going to just have to beat them to a fine paste.
"How can I say no after that," she laughs. "It brings my heart no end of joy to know that Grobradon has friends like you two young ladies."
"I am pretty lucky." He admits, "And mom, not like you don't bring a lot to things. You're a hard worker."
Mom formally welcoming Moon and Meep to their pack makes him smile
then there's that tricky bit. but..
"As for the strumpet in question. I do know who she is, but Grobradon has given his word. However much I might wish to tell you and be there when two meet, I have to respect my son's desire to keep his promise to her. It's a shame you won't wear that lovely dress again. It sounds rather pretty and I'm sure that you look stunning in it. I can only imagine how she'd look if she sees you wearing it while on Grob's arm."
A whew of relief.
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Taking barely half a step forward on the deck, the gnome clears his throat and, in a noticeably louder voice calls out, "河裡的居民們，你們好。沒有必要試圖躲避我們。請來到光中與我們交談。"
"Greetings, river dwellers. There is no need to try to hide from us. Please, come into the light and speak with us."
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"You two are very kind," Coldana says, tears rimming her eyes as she gives you both a bittersweet smile. "It takes a lot of courage and humility to ask someone for help, and while I have been humbled many times in my life, I have always had a stubborn pride in myself for overcoming the difficulties and problems life has thrown my way. I probably would have refused outright a year or two ago, but... I have to admit it's getting harder. I'm getting older. Pride says I can keep living as I have been, but honesty compels me to admit that it’s not as easy as it was when Grobradon was little."
Moon reluctantly leans away from Grob and towards his mother, grabbing her hand, ”I understand how you feel. I have always been independent. I am strong, and young, and I have skills, and I can live off the land… and I have always been my own mistress, even under Temue’s thumb. And now I find myself relying on the charity of others, taking meals where I can, taking a bed or bath where I can. I am not helpless but I feel like I have no control… and I hate it.” she says vehemently. ”I hate it beyond measure. I can do many, many things… but there is no easy solution to this. I even considered buying a covered wagon and planting it on some spot just so I could impose a little less, to have a ‘home’ of my own, no matter how meager. People say I am not imposing… but they are adjusting their lives in small or large ways just to help me. And I hate it.”
She blows breaths, trying to calm herself. ”But, here is what I have learned - painfully. I have friends in this town I never knew. I have seen great acts of kindness and compassion that make me want to cry. Many people want to help me build a better life, if I can swallow my pride enough to accept their help. So, I could have bought a wagon and saved some shred of my pride and built the life I want in a year or two or three. OR, I can swallow my pride, allow people to help build the foundation of my new life and maybe get to the same result in six months. Maybe, I will have imposed less on others over the long term by accepting more charity now. So that is what I’m going to do. Pride be damned.”
Meep, who's been quietly listening pipes up. "Miss Coldana," she says, "I think you're nice, and I would be happy to have you live with us. I want to learn how to make tasty food, like this stew, and I want to be good. Good people help each other. I want to help you. I'm small. I'm not very strong, but I still want to help. If staying with Moon and me helps you, then I want you to stay with us."
Moon looks at Meep, never more proud of the generous little goblin.
Coldana sits for a moment, wiping the tears from her eyes.
"How can I say no after that," she laughs. "It brings my heart no end of joy to know that Grobradon has friends like you two young ladies."
"And mom, it’s not like you don't bring a lot to things. You're a hard worker."
”Good, then it’s settled. As soon as we have the basics of a home built, you will come live with us, Madam Ventar. Unfortunately, I don't believe we can break ground on the house until spring. I'm sorry you have to wait. Also, I’ve a mind to start a small business from our home. If you are interested, perhaps you could work with us? Oh, one other question... Would you prefer to share a space with us in the main house, or have your own separate cottage on the property? For safety, I’d prefer you stay in the main house but I understand if you’d rather have your own separate home.”
"Family and community are the bonds which hold us together and even if nothing comes of the feelings you and Grobradon have for each other besides friendship, I will always welcome you as family. The same goes for Meep."
Moon shoots a confirming look at Meep before saying, ”We are truly honored, Madam Ventar. And, regardless of my relationship with your son, you will always have a place in our home.”
”…It's a shame you won't wear that lovely dress again. It sounds rather pretty and I'm sure that you look stunning in it. I can only imagine how she'd look if she sees you wearing it while on Grob's arm."
Moon blinks, twice. Devious… There’s more than one way to flush a partridge. ”I bow to your wisdom in this matter. If you would not be shamed to have me wear this dress in public accompanying your son, then I would be pleased to wear it to best effect.” The ‘best effect’ to Moon’s mind was making the unnamed strumpet choke on it, which she strongly suspects is in-line with Coldana’s view.
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With the fog and so many lizards, her sling would be likely pointless, so she returns it to her pocket and readies her shield. "Oi! Ethulfel! Sweettalk 'em all you want, but care to come here so I can guard your skinny ass? Fall into these cold waters and you're a goner!"
Moon's lamentation on relying on others charity hits a chord with him. And he listens, the insights she's sharing should not be ignored. He actually finds himself nodding sympathetically because at times he has felt the same desire, to be an island to himself. But like Moon he's learned there's more power in the pack.
The questions about his mother's exact living arrangements are for his mother to decide and he curbs his opinions on that. Moon's already explained options better than he could.
He does offer, "I.. have the power to shape wood with primal magics now, in a crude fashion, but couple it with mending, it could save us time and resources. You'll still want to smooth it out. Since your place will also be my mother's place, I definitely think aiding you is of double interest to me."
When the talk of walking with Moon still in that dress comes up, well, he misses the subtext completely. He just eats some food and smiles.
No answers come from Ethulfel's question, and the hairs begin to rise on the back of the gnome's neck. The crew is quick to wake as Erigga's whistle pierces through their dreams and yanks them back to consciousness. Less than a minute later, everyone is up on the barge's deck and looking for the lizards. It's difficult to spot anything in the fog, which appears to be a little thinner than it was a moment ago. Just as the tension grows almost too much to bear, a cold breeze blows in and brings with it a break in the fog.
"'Thoa's tits," one of the deckhands mutters as everyone sees not only the seven lizards with goblins riding on them as they swim through the ice-cold water, but scores of them on the northern shore with over a half-dozen boats in the water making their way towards the barge.
the captain bellows. The crew launch into motion and the goblins on the shore draw their bows.
Dale screams as goblin arrows fly.
Meep spends a little time adjusting the napkin to keep her dress covered while she eats. She smiles as she thanks Grob for telling her about it, though she still tries to be as careful as she can to avoid making a mess.
===
"I'll do what I can to help, too. To be honest, I think I'd get a little lonely if I was by myself, so if the two of you don't mind me staying in the same house, I would love to join you."
When Moon bows to Coldana's wisdom regarding wearing the dress, the older woman chuckles.
"Moon, the only way you could shame me is by humiliating my son. I don't think anyone's going to complain so long as you're not exposing yourself, and given Olmira's antics, I'm not so sure they would. I'm certainly not going to if you want to show off a little bit."
===
When everyone's almost had their fill, Coldana asks Grob to help her make some tea and get the pastries he was given onto a platter for dessert. There's a wide assortment of sweet breads, all freshly baked that day. A few minutes warming them by the stove has them filling the small shack with sweet, nutty aromas.
"Moon, do you follow any of the gods," Coldana asks as she nurses her cup of tea once everyone's settled at the table again.
"I'll do what I can to help, too. To be honest, I think I'd get a little lonely if I was by myself, so if the two of you don't mind me staying in the same house, I would love to join you."
”We would prefer that, honestly.” She looks at Grob briefly before switching back to his mother, ”May I visit you tomorrow to discuss one or two more personal details, as they touch on Grobradon?”
When Moon bows to Coldana's wisdom regarding wearing the dress, the older woman chuckles.
"Moon, the only way you could shame me is by humiliating my son. I don't think anyone's going to complain so long as you're not exposing yourself, and given Olmira's antics, I'm not so sure they would. I'm certainly not going to if you want to show off a little bit."
”I would never intentionally humiliate, Grob. I will tease him mercilessly in private, however.” Moon’s face clouds over a bit as she thinks about how much she is ‘exposing herself’. She regards the older woman, ”Madam Ventar, I must be honest with you. This dress is… questionable. The gods have given me fewer curves than most women. This dress displays them all, beneath the fabric. Nothing is hanging out by Avistani standards. However, it does have slits up the side of the skirt that reveal up to my thighs. You will have to judge if I have crossed the lines of propriety or would bring shame on your household. I sincerely hope I have not.”
"Moon, do you follow any of the gods," Coldana asks as she nurses her cup of tea once everyone's settled at the table again.
Moon is enjoying a cup of tea and eyeing a delightful looking bun, when Coldana’s question falls. ”Temue wished me to worship the Tien gods, but that seemed strange as my life is in Avistan. As an archer, I very much respect Eristil. I suppose I respect all the benign gods really. I’m curious about Gozreh given my profession. But the goddess that I favor most, perhaps because of the elven part of my heart and nature, is Desna. I have called on her for help before and she has answered at times.”
”We would prefer that, honestly.” She looks at Grob briefly before switching back to his mother, ”May I visit you tomorrow to discuss one or two more personal details, as they touch on Grobradon?”
He gives a grateful nod to Moon, unaware of any plotting.
The talk of the dress, he gives an admiring side glance, then takes a careful sip of his drink.
When everyone's almost had their fill, Coldana asks Grob to help her make some tea and get the pastries he was given onto a platter for dessert. There's a wide assortment of sweet breads, all freshly baked that day. A few minutes warming them by the stove has them filling the small shack with sweet, nutty aromas.
Of course he complies...
Then the subject turns to the gods, and he finds himself intrigued, not too surprised, but a bit. He's got nothing against Desna,personally, and he supposes it makes sense that Desna would be Moon's favorite.
He can't imagine his mom having any reason to dislike the goddess of stars, dreams and travel.
Instead, he nudges Meep, "Remind me to tell you both about Gozreh later, Meep. But there are lots of cool gods that you might find you like if you're interested. Ones that aren't so big on the evil."
Coldana is more than happy to meet with Moon to discuss more personal details at a later date.
===
”I would never intentionally humiliate, Grob. I will tease him mercilessly in private, however.” Moon’s face clouds over a bit as she thinks about how much she is ‘exposing herself’. She regards the older woman, ”Madam Ventar, I must be honest with you. This dress is… questionable. The gods have given me fewer curves than most women. This dress displays them all, beneath the fabric. Nothing is hanging out by Avistani standards. However, it does have slits up the side of the skirt that reveal up to my thighs. You will have to judge if I have crossed the lines of propriety or would bring shame on your household. I sincerely hope I have not.”
Coldana slowly reaches out and, after a little searching, finds Moon's arm and holds gently.
"Moon, If I had a copper piece for every time a young woman probed the bounds of propriety, I could live as a queen. A dress that hugs your figure and has slits up to your thighs, but covers everything is hardly the most scandalous thing a girl has worn around here. Even if you leave out Olmira's antics, there's more than enough stories about young women showing more than they ought to fill up a library. It's true that we tend to be more conservative here than in the bigger towns and cities like Tamran, but every so often some girl will try to seduce the boy she likes in the most brazen manner she thinks she can get away with. I think Timolt's wife caused quite the stir about fifteen years ago when she wore that translucent elven gown, and nothing else when they were dancing at the spring festival. I didn't see it, but I heard about it for months afterwards. Trust me dear, from what you and Grob have described, you're fine."
===
Moon is enjoying a cup of tea and eyeing a delightful looking bun, when Coldana’s question falls. ”Temue wished me to worship the Tien gods, but that seemed strange as my life is in Avistan. As an archer, I very much respect Erastil. I suppose I respect all the benign gods really. I’m curious about Gozreh given my profession. But the goddess that I favor most, perhaps because of the elven part of my heart and nature, is Desna. I have called on her for help before and she has answered at times.”
"Would you say that you're an adventuresome sort, then," Coldana asks, a teasing smile curling the corners of her mouth.
Meanwhile, Meep, having eaten her fill, feels her eyelids getting heavier and heavier as the long day catches up to her. She starts when Grobradon nudges her. She blinks up at the druid before rubbing one of her eyes.
"Gozreh," she asks drowsily. "Don't think I can learn more today."
"Gozreh," she asks drowsily. "Don't think I can learn more today."
Grobradon chuckles kindly, "I think you might miss dessert and need to sleep." A look to Moon and his mom "She seems bushed."
"I can stay *yawn* awake," Meep says about as convincingly as a wooden plank with the word gold painted on it in yellow.
"I think you're right," Coldana says with a warm smile.
”I would say I’m adventurous…” Moon regards the drowsing goblin, ”but perhaps not tonight. I think I need to get her to bed. Being an elven princess is tough work.”
She places a hand on Grob’s arm. ”Would you get our wraps, please?”
Taking the older woman's hand she says, ”Madam Ventar, thank you so much for a lovely evening, a delicious dinner, and the warmth of your hospitality. We do appreciate it greatly.”
Grobradon rises and gets their wraps, putting them over each lady's shoulders if allowed.
"If Culver sees Meep in that outfit, his eyes might pop out... in a good way."
Meep yawns again before looking around and making sure that she isn't about to get anything on her dress. Moving helps wake her up a little more, at least enough for her to remember her manners.
"Thank you Miss Coldana. The stew was delicious. I hope you'll teach me how to make it one day," Meep tells Grobradon's mother.
"It has been my pleasure," the older woman says to both Moon and Meep. "I look forward to spending a lot more time with both you." She thinks for a moment before turning to her son.
"Grob, would you mind seeing these ladies home, for my peace of mind," she asks the druid as he helps the two young ladies into their wraps. "You can help me clean up when you get back," she adds to forestall his most likely argument.
She shuffles over to Moon and carefully wraps her up in a hug.
"And please, call me Coldana," she whispers in Moon's ear before kneeling to give Meep a hug as well.
"It has been a pleasure to meet you, Miss Meep," she tells the goblin. "Come back at any time. I would be happy to have you." She stands and looks at Moon. "Both of you."
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"Grob, would you mind seeing these ladies home, for my peace of mind," she asks the druid as he helps the two young ladies into their wraps. "You can help me clean up when you get back," she adds to forestall his most likely argument.
Okay, yes he was going to fuss just a bit about her doing the work to clean up , but that nips that so, "Sure mom."
Once Moon and Meep have said their goodbyes he guides them out, and if need be offers to help carry Meep like a little faerie princess.
As they head under the night sky, he says "You two were wonderful. Thanks for giving mom a spot at the new place to be. You won't regret it."
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Grobradon rises and gets their wraps, putting them over each lady's shoulders if allowed.
Moon leans back into him as he puts the wrap around her shoulders. ”Thank you.” she almost purrs. Grob isn’t sure what he’s doing, but it’s clearly right.
"If Culver sees Meep in that outfit, his eyes might pop out... in a good way."
As Meep is practically sleeping while standing, Moon decides it safe to alert Grob, ”Men will need to go very slow with her. She has been through a lot, Grob.”
"Grob, would you mind seeing these ladies home, for my peace of mind," she asks the druid as he helps the two young ladies into their wraps. "You can help me clean up when you get back," she adds to forestall his most likely argument.
It seems Moon is of a like mind. ”That’s very kind. I would appreciate that… in case Meep falls asleep halfway home. Carrying her in this dress would be a trick.”
”And please, call me Coldana,” she tells the goblin. "Come back at any time. I would be happy to have you." She stands and looks at Moon. "Both of you." .
Moon resists the urge take Grob’s mom a powerful hug. ”Thank you again, for everything, Coldana. Good night.”
She ushers the little goblin out with a hand on her shoulder.
As they head under the night sky, he says "You two were wonderful. Thanks for giving mom a spot at the new place to be. You won't regret it."
"Your mother is a jewel, Grob. She'll be a blessing to have around." She shivers then laughs quietly, "I'm not used to wearing such impractical clothes. Ooof, it's cold. I'd kiss you if you had an Endure Elements spell right now."
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”Thank you.” she almost purrs. Grob isn’t sure what he’s doing, but it’s clearly right.
His lips get too close to her ear, or delightfully close enough, "Most welcome."
Damn she really does smell better than the stew.
*********
”Your mother is wonderful. It explains how you turned out so fine.”
"Olmira taught me about nature. My mother taught me how to be strong in ways most never see." He agrees.
"Your mother is a jewel, Grob. She'll be a blessing to have around." She shivers then laughs quietly, "I'm not used to wearing such impractical clothes. Ooof, it's cold."
While still helping with Meep, he presses closer to Moon, "Better?" In the dark he can see her perfectly well, "Moon, since I didn't say it enouogh in there, you look so damned amazing. I don't expect for you to dress like that often, but... wow. Thank you. I try to keep my cards close to my sleeve so to speak but ... if you wanna know, the fire was the second hottest thing in the shack tonight."
"Good night," Meep tells Coldana hefore she, Moon, and Grob leave.
"Good night, and sweet dreams. It has been a pleasure getting to know you," she tells Moon and Meep before focusing on Grob. "And thank you, Grobradon." She smiles as the three of them leave.
Coldana's request turns out to be a wise one. Meep, despite her valiant efforts to stay awake, almost falls twice before making it to the first turn. Thankfully, she's small and fairly light, easy enough for Grob to hold in one arm while the other wraps around Moon. Almost as soon as he and Moon start walking again, she's asleep with her head on his shoulder.
If one didn't know better, they looked like a young family heading home.
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"Olmira taught me about nature. My mother taught me how to be strong in ways most never see." He agrees.
”You also know how to be soft in the right ways… Well, right ways for me.”
he presses closer to Moon, "Better?"
”Much.” She twines an arm around his and presses into his side.
In the dark he can see her perfectly well, "Moon, since I didn't say it enough in there, you look so damned amazing. I don't expect for you to dress like that often, but... wow. Thank you. I try to keep my cards close to my sleeve so to speak but ... if you wanna know, the fire was the second hottest thing in the shack tonight."
She laughs, ”Flatterer!” Her voice sounds playfully skeptical but in the darkness he can see her smile and then look down for a moment, embarrassed. She squeezes his arm a little tighter. "I like those pants on you. Thank you for taking the time to dress up."
Moments later, her eyes glitter in the darkness. Her vision may not be as sharp as his, but in the half light of the town’s lamps, she can see his face. She looks sober. ”I need to say something because you may have taken it the wrong way. About ‘courting’… I wasn’t trying to say we should formally date with an expectation of marriage. Yes, that is what courting is, but I didn’t mean it quite that way. I know, some people are just looking for a bedmate. That’s fine. Many animals mate for a season and that’s all. I can see how a druid might... honor that aspect of nature. I understand that.” She struggles to find her way forward, ”What I was trying to say is that I’m hoping to find more than a bedmate. I want to find someone to give my heart to and have them do the same. It doesn’t have to be a marriage.” She exhales heavily. ”At some point - doesn’t have to be now or next month - I’d just like to know what you are looking for. And if you’re not sure, I can understand that, too.”
Feeling better with that off her chest, she keeps walking next to the druid.
After Grob has to carry Meep and wraps an arm around Moon's shoulder, she pulls his arm down and flares her wrap over it, placing his hand on her hip, his skin separated from hers by a few thin layers of satin. She lies "I don't want your arm to get cold."
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Dale's warning brings a spring to her feet. A quick look at her employer shows she is likely safe. A quick glance at Ethulfel. Bugger. Two strides to get her some momentum and then a jump and dive, Erigga rolls once before springing up to cover the gnome with her strong dark shield.
Her jaw is hard, her eyes are shut and she holds her breath, waiting, the seconds stretching. She was never in the middle of a hail of arrows. Was she covering herself enough? Her knee was covered at least, for the least thing she wanted was to be shot there and bring an end to her career like what happened to that overly talkative guard in Tamran.
Then the arrows started to fall. Two hit her shield, while a couple others were around them. She should hear nothing but the thuds. Was there someone crying? She dared not to look at Ethulfel. "You... Alright?"
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”You also know how to be soft in the right ways… Well, right ways for me.”
"I'm learning that sometimes.. sometimes, allowing yourself to be soft is a strength." He admits "Still working on it, but glad you like."
When she presses back against him, his pulse quickens.
"I like those pants on you. Thank you for taking the time to dress up."
"Glad you like," And he means it, "I don't dress up often but figured if you were thinking about it, I should a little."
Moments later, her eyes glitter in the darkness. Her vision may not be as sharp as his, but in the half light of the town’s lamps, she can see his face. She looks sober. ”I need to say something because you may have taken it the wrong way. About ‘courting’… I wasn’t trying to say we should formally date with an expectation of marriage. Yes, that is what courting is, but I didn’t mean it quite that way. I know, some people are just looking for a bedmate. That’s fine. Many animals mate for a season and that’s all. I can see how a druid might... honor that aspect of nature. I understand that.” She struggles to find her way forward, ”What I was trying to say is that I’m hoping to find more than a bedmate. I want to find someone to give my heart to and have them do the same. It doesn’t have to be a marriage.” She exhales heavily. ”At some point - doesn’t have to be now or next month - I’d just like to know what you are looking for. And if you’re not sure, I can understand that, too.”
Grobradon's features shift, growing more serious as well as they talk in a way he can understand, "SOME animals mate when the cycle is upon them, with anyone else they can find. Others, mate for life. You know this. I know this. But... I am not sure what kind of Animal Grobradon Ventar is, yet. I'd like to find out. I'd like to find out with you. But I don't want to hurt you if I try to be one kind and find out I'm the other. When I first saw you in that tent, bare in the night, well, if we weren't in trouble I would ... I would have accepted" That's putting it mildly, a bit of humor returns, "But now you've complicated things. I still want you that way, as a bedmate. But you made me care about you as Moon, not just as a beautiful woman to desire. So, I want a bedmate, AND.... more. You've made me care, and desire both, and you've no idea how vexing that is. Wonderful too so far" He admits, "I'm going to screw up, a lot on the caring part. Words are not my friend. I have a wild heart in that it is cautious to come out where it can be seen by others. So the caring part, and showing I care? that's where I'm needing work. If you can put up with my mistakes, I'd like to see where it goes with us."
A breath, and he looks at the dozing Meep "If Meep weren't here, I'd invite you to that clearing right now for a way to heat up old as life itself. Yet I also know that if in the morning after that, YOU rose up , said thanks, and left saying that was all it was... I'd feel ..cheated. I'd want more. I DO want more. I'm just not sure yet how much more. I don't want to wait forever to cast my shadow over your form while you smile. But I do understand you might want to sort it out. Olmira says a man chases a woman until she catches him. I didn't understand that. I don't know about courting for marriage, though this town IS kind of pushy, not you, others. I do know I'm all for chasing you until you catch me. And.. I don't just desire pleasure of your body. I want to get greedy and see how much of you I can get, and how much of me you'll take."He looks to the heavens and sighs, "Am I making any sense?"
Etulfel, have a +2 to your Reflex since Erigga is covering you.
“I'm learning that sometimes.. sometimes, allowing yourself to be soft is a strength." He admits "Still working on it, but glad you like."
Her voice is a quiet growl, ”I more than just like it.”
” ... I am not sure what kind of Animal Grobradon Ventar is, yet… you've complicated things. I still want you that way… AND.... more. Words are not my friend. I have a wild heart… If you can put up with my mistakes, I'd like to see where it goes with us… I don't want to wait forever to cast my shadow over your form while you smile. But I do understand you might want to sort it out… Am I making any sense?”
Eyes down, Moon listens carefully to every word, nodding periodically, then stops. ”We’re here.” Grob isn’t sure if she means ‘in front of Arnama’s house’… which they certainly are. Or if she is stating the relational precipice on which they stand. Both are true.
Tears stain her cheeks. She rubs the goblin’s back, waking her gently. ”Meep? Sweetie, we’re home. Can you wake up a little bit and head in to bed? I need a few minutes with Grob. I’ll be in in a little while.” She takes the rousing goblin from Grob, puts her down and sees her on her way. She only turns back to Grob once the door is shut and they stand alone in the dimness beyond the house lights.
She faces the druid head-on and expels a breath, trying to calm herself. ”For a man without words… you picked a lot of good ones.” Moon rushes Grob, plastering herself against him, grinding her body against him, and kissing him fiercely, her tongue searching for his. Her arms run up along his back, trying to pull him closer, as if it were possible.
Meep wakes up with a soft, protesting groan. She blinks as she mostly wakes up. She gives Grob a hug around his and a kiss on his cheek before he can put her down.
"Thank you for carrying me. Good night, Grob," she mutters before Arnama helps guide her into the house and closes the door so that Grob and Moon can have some privacy.
She gives Grob a hug around his and a kiss on his cheek before he can put her down.
He takes the affection with some of that softness he's been working on.
"Thank you for carrying me. Good night, Grob," she mutters before Arnama helps guide her into the house and closes the door so that Grob and Moon can have some privacy.
"Don't get used to it." He advises lest he get some odd piggy back reputation. He maybe to turn INTO a pony one day and he's not going to be used at parties for such. "And good night."
The growl to Moon's voice keeps stirring... instincts in Grobradon. He's not sure if it is orc blood, or if every human male would feel the same.
He resists the urge to touch a tear on Moon's face with a thick greenish finger, to try to wipe it away.
Then Meep is guided away, and the door closed once she is gone in.
She only turns back to Grob once the door is shut and they stand alone in the dimness beyond the house lights.
She faces the druid head-on and expels a breath, trying to calm herself. ”For a man without words… you picked a lot of good ones.” Moon rushes Grob, plastering herself against him, grinding her body against him, and kissing him fiercely, her tongue searching for his. Her arms run up along his back, trying to pull him closer, as if it were possible.
The druid's response is immediate and..receptive, as much as she grinds, he clutches and pulls her more so. His mouth retaliates against her onslaught of kisses with hungry insistence of its own as they taste each other without regret or hesitation. His hands grip and press here , then there as soon it seems there is zero moonlight between them. If not for the clothes they wore... well, suffice to say the lovely dress is at risk.
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Moon stifles a groan when he grabs her somewhere she has been aching for his touch, and lets out little delighted yips when he hits a spot she hadn’t anticipated. She lets their mutual passions flow as long as she can stand it before she knows she’ll take it too far. Not now, not yet.
With a pile of regret on a mountain of longing, she pauses and pushes back from him, not far. She pushes for a little distance with her upper body, leaving their pelvises touching. She fans her face despite the cold.
”I’m so sorry, Grob. For now, I need to stop.”
” ... I am not sure what kind of Animal Grobradon Ventar is, yet… you've complicated things. I still want you that way… AND.... more. Words are not my friend. I have a wild heart… If you can put up with my mistakes, I'd like to see where it goes with us… I don't want to wait forever to cast my shadow over your form while you smile. But I do understand you might want to sort it out… Am I making any sense?”
She rests her hands on his chest and gathers herself, ”You said some things and you need to hear how I feel. I’m very, very happy that you want something more with me. Even if it doesn’t work out, you’ve made me happy that you want to try. I will gladly take your mistakes for the chance we can do more than share a bed. I hope you will accept my mistakes, too. I don’t know the future any more than you do. Maybe we will grow together or apart. That is life. But in this moment, you have made me so happy.” She wipes more tears from her cheeks briefly and laughs at herself, being ridiculous and girly.
”Before my father left,” he can hear the open wound in her voice when she uses that title, ”… and I lost my home, you and I were planning a picnic. And I think we were intending to have a picnic after that picnic. I want them both but I can’t picnic the way I want to with you yet.”
Frustrated with the euphemisms, she tries a more candid tact. ”I want you. But I want our first time to be special, not sneaking off for something quick, and not where I’ve got a pinecone biting into my back. I want to take you into my bed, share our bodies all night, and wake up beside each other in the morning.” She takes a breath. ”But I have no home yet. I can’t do that in someone’s else bed which is leant by charity. And I have to work very hard this winter to be able to build my home. People are relying on me… and my life is chaos. I’m not who I want to be. I want to give you the real me when we… join. Maybe this seems silly to you. Maybe it is silly…. But it is important to me.”
”You said you’ll wait. I’m sorry I have to ask that of you. Please, I promise it won’t be long. In the spring, after the thaws, they will start building. As soon as I have a bedroom, you will be there. Can you wait that long? If you can’t, there… there are other things I could do for…”
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Blood hot, heart thundering, feeling a need so great that...
”I’m so sorry, Grob. For now, I need to stop.”
It takes all his will power and druidic serenity not to groan and say 'you've GOT to be kidding me'. But he manages, and, as she talks... he realizes to his lust's annoyance that.. she's right.
Oh at first, the tears confuse him.. if she's happy why is she crying about it? Are women just wired strangely? But as she goes on
”Before my father left,” he can hear the open wound in her voice when she uses that title, ”… and I lost my home, you and I were planning a picnic. And I think we were intending to have a picnic after that picnic. I want them both but I can’t picnic the way I want to with you yet.”
Frustrated with the euphemisms, she tries a more candid tact. ”I want you. But I want our first time to be special, not sneaking off for something quick, and not where I’ve got a pinecone biting into my back. I want to take you into my bed, share our bodies all night, and wake up beside each other in the morning.” She takes a breath. ”But I have no home yet. I can’t do that in someone’s else bed which is leant by charity. And I have to work very hard this winter to be able to build my home. People are relying on me… and my life is chaos. I’m not who I want to be. I want to give you the real me when we… join. Maybe this seems silly to you. Maybe it is silly…. But it is important to me.”
”You said you’ll wait. I’m sorry I have to ask that of you. Please, I promise it won’t be long. In the spring, after the thaws, they will start building. As soon as I have a bedroom, you will be there. Can you wait that long? If you can’t, there… there are other things I could do for…”
A slow cleansing breath IS required, then, "Yes - I was hoping for a picnic and not just a picnic. Yes- I understand you want to wait until you can share yourself in a place that is truly your own. I don't really think Pinecones are THAT hard to work around, but this important to you, and thus important to me. Yes- I can wait whether I wonder if something is silly or not. No- I don't want you to... relieve me. I want us to please each other, not just me. And before you think it's because I'm nice, there's a lot of pride involved in that for me too. I want to be the man who makes you purr at just the memory of our joining. It's a kind of vanity but I'm man enough to confess to it. Also yeah, it'll make you happy. So we wait." A long breath again, then "Now, you go to bed. I'm gonna go find a cold stream and dunk my head in it."
Moon is stricken. Hating what she’s asking, miserable that he needs a cold stream, and irritated that she is frustrating him. She chases after the druid, trying to catch him and turn him around. Wait, Grob… please, wait. I’m so sorry. I want those things to. You make me want… And you do make me purr! I’ve been purring all night and we haven’t even…”
She pulls the druid to a stop and gets in front of him, ”I’m not one of those girls in town who get a man uh… ‘up’ and stops, thinking it is funny. I want to have you and please you and I’m the one stopping it. I know I make no sense. But I need you to know how much I want to be with you. Please, give me that chance.” She takes a half-step away from him. She squirms in her dress, hitching her thumbs up the slits. Something soft and silky slides from beneath her dress. She gently places the ball of fabric in his hands – sheer, elven, in a shade of lavender that compliments her dress. Despite the cold night air…
As she chases AFTER him he turns and he says, "Stop beating yourself up about.. I am well aware you're not a tease. Okay? You were honest. I WANT you honest. And this isn't the first time I've hit a cold stream for 'medicinal' purposes" He says trying to soothe with a bit of honest levity, "Okay? I..." But as she goes on and...
with his gift in hand, he says "I'm going to have to remind myself not to put that room up so fast it's slap dash is all." A fanged grin ,"Now, go to bed. Okay?" A kiss of farewell.
he says "I'm going to have to remind myself not to put that room up so fast it's slap dash is all." A fanged grin ,"Now, go to bed. Okay?" A kiss of farewell.
She wipes her eyes and laughs, ”I’m hiring a team of laborers for the first bedroom. I’ll put the roof on myself, if need be.” She accepts the kiss then hugs him desperately for a moment. ”Thank you, eerotoko. You really are a dream.”
She lets him go and walks into the house, hoping that Meep is asleep. She expects about 100 questions.
You walk into the bedroom that you share with Meep in Arnama's house to find both Arnama and Meep, now in the nightshirt that Agatha and Dimira had found for her, still awake and sitting on the bed. The dress Meep wore that evening is draped neatly over a chair where the rest of what she wore is neatly stacked.
"'M glad you got a chance to talk to Grob," Meep says in a sleepy voice. "Sorry the fun had t'stop because o' me."
Arnama rubs the little goblin's back and gives her a warm smile.
"You don't have to apologize for that," she tells Meep. "You've had a long day. Anyone would be tired after one of those."
She looks up at you and pointedly avoids making any of the comments you can see flitting through her mind.
"She wanted to stay up and tell you good night," Arnama instead explains. "So, after I helped her get changed, I stayed up with her."
Once she's sure that Meep won't topple over as soon as she stands, Arnama leaves the bedroom so you have a little more privacy to get changed.
The ice cold water from a nearby rain barrel helps calm down the raging inferno of desire so it's more of a large bonfire. Still, all you can smell or taste is Moon as you make your way back home. As you walk into the small shack you see that your mother is a bit of a fibber. The dishes from supper have been cleaned and put away, but there is a plate with a pastry and a cup of still steaming tea set at the table where you normally sit. Your mother's hands are wrapped around a mug of her own as she waits for you.
"Grob," she asks as you step in and close the door. "I hope you--" she cuts herself off as she notices something off. "Well, either things went very well or very poorly." She grins mischievously before waving at your normal seat.
"Dry off and have a seat," she tells you, the levity fading quickly from her voice and expression. "There's... There's some things I need to talk to you about."
She looks up at you and pointedly avoids making any of the comments you can see flitting through her mind.
Once she's sure that Meep won't topple over as soon as she stands, Arnama leaves the bedroom so you have a little more privacy to get changed.
Moon raises an amused eyebrow at the unasked questions with a ‘go ahead I dare you’ look. Then she smiles, indicating the night went rather well. As Arnama passes out of the room, Moon touches her and mouths “thank you for everything. Talk tomorrow.”
She regards the cute and sleepy goblin. ”We had a great time because you were there. Even when you were sleepy.” The rest of her comments are muffled as she peels the dress off. ”You did great. You were a princess and kept your dress clean. I’m very proud of you for inviting Coldana to live with us.” She lays the dress on a chair, glad she can breathe again. She throws on her sleeping kimono and ties it before landing heavily on the bed ”Ready for sleep, Meep?”
Arnama nods and smiles before closing the door.
"Uh-huh," Meep mumbles when asked if she's ready to sleep. "Good night, Big Sis. I-- I love you," she says as she hugs your arm. Soon after the two of you are under the covers, she's fast asleep with a small, contented smile curling the corners of her mouth.
The ice cold water from a nearby rain barrel helps calm down the raging inferno of desire so it's more of a large bonfire.
Still, all you can smell or taste is Moon as you make your way back home.
Yep. She's gonna own his dreams tonight regardless of the plunge, he is sure of that.
As you walk into the small shack you see that your mother is a bit of a fibber. The dishes from supper have been cleaned and put away, but there is a plate with a pastry and a cup of still steaming tea set at the table where you normally sit. Your mother's hands are wrapped around a mug of her own as she waits for you."Grob," she asks as you step in and close the door. "I hope you--" she cuts herself off as she notices something off. "Well, either things went very well or very poorly." She grins mischievously before waving at your normal seat.
"Dry off and have a seat," she tells you, the levity fading quickly from her voice and expression. "There's... There's some things I need to talk to you about."
"is it about how you said you'd take my HELP in cleaning up when I got back? but clearly did not?" It is tone, not a brow lift, that conveys his chiding, but he goes on "Give me a moment and.. sure."
He moves to change, putting a newly prized possession away carefully, drying off , and then returning to grab his tea and pastry and taking his normal seat. "What did you want to talk about?"
Coldana rubs her thumbs together as she lets you see the trepidation she feels, something you haven't seen from her often.
"Grob, about some of the things we said tonight," she begins after a moment of collecting her thoughts. "I know I'm not close to dying. If I'm lucky, I could live another two to three decades, but I don't want you to live your life for me. You're a young man. You should be falling in love with someone and getting up to all sorts of mischief. I know you two were trying to be reasonable and wise by taking things slow and not committing yourselves too soon, but I think there is a connection there, a real one, like the one your grandparents had and the one I wish I could have had. I hate that I envy Moon. It makes me feel ugly and small, but I wish I could have had what you two have. I wish I could offer more than second-hand advice and teachings that I have never had the chance to practice myself."
Tears roll down her face as admits that.
"You're no longer a boy, and haven't been for some time now, Grobradon. I wish that I could offer you the wisdom of experience that mother can give to her children or that you had a father, a real father, that could teach you how to love and care for a woman. As much as he may have taken from me, my virginity and my sight, he stole much more from you."
She takes a deep breath and falls silent as she fights to keep her composure.
"I'll never get those things back, and I can't get the things he stole from you, either. I wish I could have brought myself to find someone that could be your father, that could have told you the things I can't, but-- I couldn't do that. I couldn't face the possibility of never seeing his face, and seeing that bastard's--" she clinches her jaw and draws in a sharp breath.
"I didn't want to live through that again," she says in a calmer voice. "I don't think I could have, either. Olmira and Father Groen helped me a lot when I was carrying you and afterwards. If not for them, I might have killed myself after you were born. Even with their help and the support everyone could spare for me and you, there were many nights where I had nightmares. I wish, I deeply wish that I could do more for you, to let you grow up and have fun instead of relying on you to live at least somewhat normally. Worse, I am afraid I let my own fears and selfishness intrude upon what should be the home that Moon and Meep share. I-- couldn't say no. I wanted to, but I didn't want you to worry about me. Saying yes was the only path I saw that would keep you from spending your youth, the rest of your youth, looking after me."
She looks down at her cup and sighs.
"I'm sorry Grobradon. I'm sorry I couldn't do more for you."
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"Good night, Big Sis. I-- I love you," she says as she hugs your arm.
A stab in the heart is a bad thing... until it isn't. Moon curls up next to the quarter-awake goblin and brushes the hair from her face. "I love you, too. See you in the morning."
When he sat down, he expected a warning to use the proper herbs and other protections from unwanted births, or a talk about how she felt about Moon period.
But this has him wondering if there's not something in the water making the women in his life coming out of the blue with some very strange paths of thought.
"Grob, about some of the things we said tonight," she begins after a moment of collecting her thoughts. "I know I'm not close to dying. If I'm lucky, I could live another two to three decades, but I don't want you to live your life for me. You're a young man. You should be falling in love with someone and getting up to all sorts of mischief. I know you two were trying to be reasonable and wise by taking things slow and not committing yourselves too soon, but I think there is a connection there, a real one, like the one your grandparents had and the one I wish I could have had. I hate that I envy Moon. It makes me feel ugly and small, but I wish I could have had what you two have. I wish I could offer more than second-hand advice and teachings that I have never had the chance to practice myself."
"Mom, you're not that old, and blindness aside, in good health, and you are, as you point out, NOT dead yet. As for me and Moon, trust me, we've gotten in over our heads together before. Mostly with undead battles and goblin raids, but it certain means we aren't going to take forever to do whatever we'll do."
He gives her a hug as she cries. Why are all the women he knows springing leaks? It makes him want to find a bad guy and sic fire ants on them."You're no longer a boy, and haven't been for some time now, Grobradon. I wish that I could offer you the wisdom of experience that mother can give to her children or that you had a father, a real father, that could teach you how to love and care for a woman. As much as he may have taken from me, my virginity and my sight, he stole much more from you."
"Mother," Her son assures, "I am not some ignorant novice. Culver taught me plenty!" Then a beat and "Just kidding. Olmira however taught me a lot of nature, and of human nature too. Father PRasst and I aren't of the same faith, but he keeps my confidences. What that orc took from me, I have gained elsewhere, and you made that possible by finding me a village with some... surpsingly kind folks ... with a few jerks." He admits.
"I'll never get those things back, and I can't get the things he stole from you, either. I wish I could have brought myself to find someone that could be your father, that could have told you the things I can't, but-- I couldn't do that. I couldn't face the possibility of never seeing his face, and seeing that bastard's--" she clinches her jaw and draws in a sharp breath.
"I didn't want to live through that again," she says in a calmer voice. "I don't think I could have, either. Olmira and Father Groen helped me a lot when I was carrying you and afterwards. If not for them, I might have killed myself after you were born. Even with their help and the support everyone could spare for me and you, there were many nights where I had nightmares. I wish, I deeply wish that I could do more for you, to let you grow up and have fun instead of relying on you to live at least somewhat normally. Worse, I am afraid I let my own fears and selfishness intrude upon what should be the home that Moon and Meep share. I-- couldn't say no. I wanted to, but I didn't want you to worry about me. Saying yes was the only path I saw that would keep you from spending your youth, the rest of your youth, looking after me."
She looks down at her cup and sighs.
"I'm sorry Grobradon. I'm sorry I couldn't do more for you."
Too much, too fast, too quick to respond to. Thank Gozreh he has a drink to focus on, and think it over.
"Okay." He says, "I did not know that one reason you hadn't found a fellow was because you still saw.. THAT Orc's face when you thought about... romance. I am so sorry. I.. there is something I plan to do. I'm going to get you your vision back. Okay? It will cost some gold but one thing about taking on goblins and others is that I am getting the coin needed to hire a more powerful cleric than anyone here. In time I'll be able to send for one. I didn't want to tell you this, get your hopes up but it sounds like you need to know. As for what you've done for me... mother, did you pour strong whiskey in your tea while I was away? I came from the worst moment of your life, and you kept me. Your brother tried to bully you into abandoning me in exchange for a cozier life, and you kept me anyway. 'I' am the one who should apologize to you for denying you a second chance at a better life if we go by that logic. Do more? you gave me life, and a mother's love. You've done everything, and if someone else is saying other wise, they are either a fool, or a liar. Either way, it's nonsense. You are no 'intruding'. You are stepping up. You saw Moon, she's had her world uprooted by a man who is supposed to be her father! Where the hell is he to do the right thing? Running, like a blighted coward. He's a pathetic worm trying to act like a lord when in truth he is a worm unworthy of being a father. Now, I love you. I do, and I am glad you've come clean with how.. incredibly hard it has been on you." How hard I've made life for you "But when sniveling wretches like
Akechi Temue slink off, don't you DARE act like you've failed as a parent or failed me period." He puts the tea down, "Oh, and don't ever think of killing yourself or I'll find a way to reincarnate you just so I can chew you out. I ain't kidding" A fierce look she cannot see.
Betzolte, after parting ways with the group at Moon's former abode, wastes no time in helping Maidie set up her temporary alchemy lab, lugging the equipment and putting it where she's directed.
"Right, gimme a list of herbs and stuff you haven't got picked already and I'll see about buying it for you."
When Madie doesn't need her muscle, she makes her way to the Town Watch Headquarters, looking for Captain Wisslo.
The jokes help take some of the edge off your mother's nerves, but it's still not an easy thing for her to talk about. As you pour your own heart out, she blinks at the ferocity with which you defend her from herself.
"I won't," she assures you after you warn her what will happen if she does go through with suicide. "But, don't you go blaming yourself for how hard life's been for both of us. You were just a baby and a boy. You have brought me so much joy, Grob. Please don't blame yourself for something that happened before you were even born." Her voice is pleading, despite the strength she tries to give it. She drains the rest of her tea and gets up after she finishes.
"You are a fine young man, and don't let anyone else tell you different, especially yourself," she says as she walks around the table and gives you a hug. "And no, that isn't the whiskey talking. I didn't even pull it out."
She stands there with you, just holding you tight for a long moment.
"I love you, Grobradon. I love you as only a mother could. I hope you'll see that for yourself one day," she says before giving you a kiss on the cheek. "Good night, and I hope you have pleasant dreams."
She disappears into the small section of the shack that gives her some privacy, leaving you to think on what she has said.
Thistlewings pondered what he'd overheard this night as he rested in the eaves of the the small shack. He so wanted to do something to the lovers, to sour their feelings into hate, but Ganny Black Tongue had given him firm instructions. He was to look and to listen.
Thistlewings chaffed at the orders, but the promise of greater misery that he so loved to watch and drink up and what Ganny Black Tongue would do to him if he ever made her mad were more than enough to earn his compliance. It appeared that his patience, as limited is it is for most sprites and especially for him, had been rewarded. Not only had he found Ganny's wayward daughter, but he had also discovered an opportunity.
A wicked smile bared his sharp teeth as he imagined the possibilities. First, though, he had to tell Ganny. She would listen to him, she always did, but she was cunning and conniving on her own, and she might see things he had missed. Oh yes, he and Ganny would have fun, so much fun, but they had to tread carefully here, where there are so many.
He slipped out into the cold night, carefully making his way to the trees before zipping off at full speed. Oh yes, Ganny Black Tongue will be pleased.
A very annoyed and bored looking Voronoy escorts you into the captain's office when you stop by. She has apparently been put on desk duty for a while until the captain is sure she's fully recovered. When you walk into the man's office, you see an unruly stack of correspondence ready to be sent off as well as ink stains on the captain's fingers, a matter of fact that he seems to be none too happy about.
"Miss Ironhame, What can I do for you," he asks when he looks up at Voronoy's announcement.
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"I won't," she assures you after you warn her what will happen if she does go through with suicide. "But, don't you go blaming yourself for how hard life's been for both of us. You were just a baby and a boy. You have brought me so much joy, Grob. Please don't blame yourself for something that happened before you were even born." Her voice is pleading, despite the strength she tries to give it. She drains the rest of her tea and gets up after she finishes."You are a fine young man, and don't let anyone else tell you different, especially yourself," she says as she walks around the table and gives you a hug. "And no, that isn't the whiskey talking. I didn't even pull it out."
"Fine. You don't blame yourself for stuff, and i won't blame MYself for stuff. It's a deal."
She stands there with you, just holding you tight for a long moment.
He holds her gently just as long.
"I love you, Grobradon. I love you as only a mother could. I hope you'll see that for yourself one day," she says before giving you a kiss on the cheek. "Good night, and I hope you have pleasant dreams."
She disappears into the small section of the shack that gives her some privacy, leaving you to think on what she has said.
He watches her go, "I do see it mom." He puts the last of the things to clean up, the cups they just used mostly, and works I just hope when you get your sight back, I don't look anything like the monster who hurt you. If you're seeing his face in your nightmares, you're already plagued by it too much
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With Winter approaching, and resources to be gathered, Grobradon becomes far more 'central' to Kassen than anyone has seen before. In the past, he preferred the woods and save for time with his mother, would often not be seen for days at a time inside the village, at least not its public square. Save for Culver, he did not interact often socially with folks his own age.
It must be said, all that has changed.
His cousin, Caroline, gets shown around to the various mentors of Kassen. Not just Olmira , or Arnama either but to Jocyn, and Ring. She meets others as well, though a few of Grobradon's friends may find themselves having his cousin put on their door, with a request for introductions to Holgast and others.
The half orc also tends to getting the resources now that he'll need in the Spring for construction of Moon's new domain and he soon shows just valuable the skills of a dedicated druid can be.
***
Hunters live in Kassen, not all make their whole living on it, inded, only a few do, but to hunt successfully you have to find game. Some few think a druid would never use his knowledge of nature to hunt the animals. Those few would be wrong. It has to be the right sort of animal at the right sort of time. Wild boars are very dangerous, not just to people and beasts who cross their paths, but to the roots of trees. They can, if left to grow too numerous, despoil a place. Those Hunters that agree to follow Grobadon's rules find that he is willing to lead them to where the Wild boars might be found, and get his advice in the best way to cull them, winnowing their numbers to acceptable levels so other life can thrive without the boars being gone entirely. Further more, when one hunter is hurt , as is not atypical against these dangerous creatures, said hunter maybe glad a druid can heal the worst of the wound in a moment's notice.
For a little while, there is a surplus of delicious pork in Kassen thanks to this.
****
Where there are pigs of any sort, there is a good chance mushrooms might be found. Here too, the druid sells his services within reason. Not only does he track where the most delicious mushrooms might be located, he also points out which ones are edible truffles, and which ones will kill you. He is happy to work with local Alchemists, such as Tang or Maidie, to make sure they get ones with less cullinary but exotic effets. Apparently there is a rare blue stripped one that can make you see the faces of the gods... or at least send you on a really bendy trip.
****
Of course, the druid's greatest aid is with wood. Here he is, if anything, even more protective. Folks have heard his arguements for preserving the forest and restricting some areas from cutting. He'll talk to anyone who listens why old forest is not the same as just new forest grown like a crop. However, few are better at finding suitable dead wood to use for this or that. More than this, with his ablity to mend broken wood whole again, and shape existing wood roughly. Grobradon is happy to work with Jasper in this, or anyone else who will pay it forward to the new construction plans come spring. A few might be insulted he insists on promisory notes, but when Colbin has power over so many in the town, most agree it is just prudent. Wood shaped by druidic magic is often rough, but if you yourself don't have that talent, you know who could smooth that for you? Coldana, Grobradon's mother, and she'll do it for a fair price. HINT HINT!
***
After awhile, word gets out that a druid is willing to help you today for goods or services tomorrow. This leads to some interesting situations where Grobradon finds someone actually seeking HIM out for ...well, odd stuff.
Leading to conversations he never thought he would have in his life "Honestly, Miss Julworth, I know you had plans for breeding pure blooded Isgerian Springer Spaniels and now that's been ruined, but I've cast speak with animals and asked Roseypaw who the sire is, and she refuses to rat him out. My guess would be that Varisian spotted Mastiff at the guardhouse but you'll just have to wait and see how the puppies look as they get older, and no, I don't think you can demand satisfaction on her behalf or sue but you can ask the Mayor. Really though? They're perfectly fine puppies."
Suffice to say, the client on that one was NOT happy, and Roseypaw told him he was a squealer.
Out of the bed, Moon creeps to let Meep sleep. She pads barefoot into Arnama’s kitchen to make tea and sort herself before the day truly begins. She has to buy the abandoned stockyard and then guide a hunter through the woods to his preferred quarry. Since he had paid full price for her bow, she didn’t feel she could say no. Besides, he had money and friends, which could expand her fledging venture. And if she happened to take a winding route through some of the timberlands that might yield good trees for her home, that was a happy accident.
But - for the moment - she curls up in a chair, drinks tea, greets the growing day, and reflects on the wonders of the night before. She has worries, but also hopes and no dashed dreams. A sly smile rests on her face despite her best efforts to suppress it. Things were beginning to work out.
A very annoyed and bored looking Voronoy escorts you into the captain's office when you stop by. She has apparently been put on desk duty for a while until the captain is sure she's fully recovered. When you walk into the man's office, you see an unruly stack of correspondence ready to be sent off as well as ink stains on the captain's fingers, a matter of fact that he seems to be none too happy about.
"Miss Ironhame, What can I do for you," he asks when he looks up at Voronoy's announcement.
"Good to see you're recovering Voronoy. If you want, I can get you something from Holgast's to read. It's not ALL books on magical theory and mysticism up there," Betzolte says as she's escorted to the Captain. She gives a short bow, in the dwarven way.
"I know I haven't trained under you the way Voronoy has, but Kassen's gonna need every sword-arm it has to weather what's coming, and now that I've learned a thing or two about battle, I wanna add to that. Maidie's helping by brewing things to help the town, but I'm nowhere near as good an alchemist as she is, so...I guess what I'm saying is, I wanna volunteer?"
Ethulfel tries to step behind Erigga's shield to avoid the arrows, but catches his toe on her heel and stumbles right into the path of several of them. He grunts (but doesn't cry) as they bite into his flesh. "I'll be alright, thank you," he answers her. Then he steps behind her and quickly casts a spell. Suddenly, unintelligible human voices start calling out from further back on the river.
"Сизге зыяны жок дегенбиз. Сураныч, чабуулуңузду токтотуңуз, болбосо артыбыздагы башка кемелер өч алат!"