World of Ae'oene Bonus: Thalira and Kaldin, Part 4

Transcript

Speaker: Destabilizing Foundations. Episode... um Bonus content of Legend Talira and Caldin Part 4.

Speaker: The World of Aion contains stories with mature themes. Content warnings can be found in the episode description.

Speaker: Welcome back, everyone, to the World of Aeon Stories of Legend bonus episode again. If you all remember from our last episode, we discussed how we are going doing some bonus episodes here in the middle of season one and season two. And sure enough, we are back to hopefully finish out the Talera Kalden three-year gap stuff and kind of put a nice little bow on that.

Speaker: And speaking of which, I do have MJ and Rennie. How are doing? Doing good. How about you? We exist. I'm doing good. So today we're going to be getting into some fun stuff and I really don't want to dabble too long because frankly I want to get into it and we have a really fun kind of reveal in this episode. So let's get to it.

Speaker: Last episode with the adventures of Yellen and Talira, they met some interesting people. Yellen? Considering one. Did I say Yellen? You did. Wow. Wow. Fuck me, I guess. um Yellen's now Calden.

Speaker: First we shipped them, and now and now Calden has become him. They are just one person. They are. Kellen. Yeah, yelledin'.

Speaker: In the last episode with the adventures of Kaldin and Talira, they met some interesting people, one being a researcher of vampire chickens in which they received the egg that would later become Yana.

Speaker: After getting home with the first ingredient and being forced to take a little time off, they ended up finding their way to the second ingredient being finding dragon shit.

Speaker: Sorry for the vulgarity. and know that'll get cut out. The vulgarity? Calvin says fuck all the time. cursed the show all the damn time. um

Speaker: In the process of getting dragonshit, turns out you might find a dragon, and indeed they did as they entered into a cavern to find an ancient, ancient water dragon, one who had been through the ringer.

Speaker: They did end up giving it some salves and some ability to heal, how much effect it had is yet to be seen, but regardless, they found the dragonshit and they made their way back home.

Speaker: After getting back home with the final ingredient, Gwynedd was able to put them together into a salve and apply them to Dawncaller. As some weeks went by, with Gwynedd carefully tending to Talira's mother, Calden and Talira and Lou were able to rest and relax for some time.

Speaker: After having been home for several weeks at this point, we see as Lou approaches Talira, and Talira, ah just for some reference, during some of this down period, this downtime, what are some of the things Talira would be doing that maybe Lou would be able to come find her doing?

Speaker: Talira would be hanging out around camp, tending basic business, making sure there was enough firewood, helping out with any kind of hunting. I'm sure there would just be a lot of time where Talira was resting and Lou would be able to join her whenever. Okay.

Speaker: In the last episode, we had learned that Talira has a favorite spot next to a stream. Lou comes over that ridge to find you resting there. Nothing necessarily too emotional, but she knows it's your favorite spot. She's able to come find you there. As she approaches, she comes and nestles down next to you as you're sitting against a rock, listening to the water flow. And she bumps her head against you a few times. And at this point, Talira would have gotten the armband that allows you to speak with animals for a couple times a day.

Speaker: Cool. Hey, Lou, what's going on? Hey, I, uh... And she looks up to the sky to take note of the fact that the lunar alignment that you guys have been waiting for is going to be beginning soon. The whole the whole clan of Goliaths have been preparing for it as a lot of things change with the world during the lunar alignments, and one of them is preparation and defense of the area, but... Also, generally, there's a lot of spiritual celebration to happen during this time. So it's it's on everyone's mind. And as she looks up to it.

Speaker: So with the lunar alignment about to happen, I was wondering, you do you mind coming with me into the forest a bit? i've I've got something I want to show you. Yeah, course. What's up?

Speaker: um I would say this is a surprise. So I kind of want to keep it that way for you. Oh, gods. Okay. um Yeah, sure. Okay. Here, follow me. Do I need to be worried?

Speaker: No. Oh gosh, no. No, this is a, it's an exciting one. I would say it's k one I've been waiting for. Okay. Yeah. And she gets up and she basically continues down the path for a bit that would have led you to this spot and then takes a hard left into the forest for a bit. Is this more than the 10 minutes of walking that she would have with the Speak With Animals armband?

Speaker: Um, probably yes. Okay. Talira would continue chatting until armband wore off and continue, I guess, in companionable silence. Right before the connection with the armband would fade, Lou speaks to you.

Speaker: I, uh, I wanted to... I just thought it'd be cool if I could share this experience with you. Caldan already knows what's about to happen, but I told him that I think I wanted to have this moment alone with you.

Speaker: So when this happens, just try not to be alarmed. You're not helping me not be, I'm going to be honest. But I will try.

Speaker: It's gonna... it's going to be alarming. Just trust that what's going to happen is supposed to happen. okay. And I'm going to be okay, okay? Okay, you're really not helping things, but okay.

Speaker: It's gonna be in the connection phase. Oh, gods. Okay. Don't die on me, okay? You better not do anything stupid. She kind of starts to pick up her pace and run for it and looks back at you and chuckles like the bear does and continues on. and After about 15 or so more minutes, she finds this this nice little spot among the tall trees of the forest where there's a break in the canopy, allowing a perfect view of the lunar alignment above. She kind of motions for you to sit in front of her as she does so as well.

Speaker: Talira sits. And she just puts her eyes to the sky as you watch as the three moons and the sun slowly align. And as you're staring up at it with her, for a second you might not notice the difference as all of a sudden she's not looking at it anymore and instead she's hunched over, her head down, and extremely tense as you start to hear a little bit of moaning and a grunt. Are you okay?

Speaker: And then suddenly a bone's snapping. What the fuck? As she just hunches over and then just kind of falls on all fours and then all fours go to the side and she just writhes in pain.

Speaker: The fur on Lu begins to fall off and enclumps as the screams kind of continue and then there's this sort of gargle that comes up as this as this bear is becoming mutilated almost. Vomit comes out of her mouth, spilling onto the ground full of blood.

Speaker: Oh my gods. Um, um, how much of werecreatures does Talira know? Considering the Order of the Grey Wolf has visited your camp before, you've probably seen it before.

Speaker: Holy shit. And Talira, when she realizes what is going on, she stands, the way she leans over very protectively, like i she doesn't know, she knows she can't help in this sort of situation, but she's like, this is an incredibly vulnerable situation for this person here and she's going to be on guard.

Speaker: And as you're on guard, several minutes goes by as slowly the dark tone of skin and white hair begins to peek through the absolute mess of this transformation as as Lou slowly, with almost perfectly halfling hands at this point, begins to start ripping away old flesh off of her body.

Speaker: Talira is gravely concerned, very surprised, and still somehow, in all of that, manages to squeak out with a little bit of care and almost tenderness.

Speaker: Lou, are you okay? Finally uncurling from the fetal position, Lou, in complete nudity due to the transformation, stands in front of you.

Speaker: Now, for the audience, MJ, I would like to give you the honor of describing what she looks like as she now stands in front of you. Lou is a halfling woman who is surprisingly tall for a halfling, standing around four feet.

Speaker: She has curvy build, dark bronze skin, and bright white hair. She has dimples on her cheeks, heart-shaped face, and very bright eyes and big smile.

Speaker: or big wide, i I don't know if she's smiling at this point, but the the image of her I have is. I think that gives the audience a good image. As she stands now before you with a slightly bowed head, ah surprisingly a bit bashful, as she tries to cover herself slightly,

Speaker: Talira, i I thought I'd have the confidence to stand proudly ah for you, but I guess first time, you know, with skin. don't know, something about you always kind of throws me off.

Speaker: It's not what I expected. Talira is confused by that, and her eyes are kind of darting everywhere, not wanting to be inappropriate, but beautiful naked woman in front of her.

Speaker: And just, ah she, she swipes her hair back. Um, holy shit, you're a halfling. i mean, i I knew you were a halfling, but you're a halfling.

Speaker: Uh, I... God, you think you're thrown off? I can hear and actually... I can actually hear you. You! wo Oh my God! Holy shit.

Speaker: You're beautiful. The color in her cheeks blushes intensely after you say that. Oh, thank you. i Thanks, Talira.

Speaker: i have a feeling you don't hear that often, so I've been waiting to tell you with my voice. But you're beautiful too, and thank you for protecting me all this time.

Speaker: Talira just freezes. She is just overwhelmed. her She is buzzing, like her entire body is just buzzing.

Speaker: Her hands are like opening and closing, not knowing what to do. hands like just... in her hair absolutely flushed like she doesn't know what to do with that kind of compliment and she doesn't know how to act what to do she doesn't want to say or do anything that would hurt lou scare lou and all of that all of that confusion and like what the fuck what the fuck is just all over her face she is i don't know what to do here

Speaker: And yeah, she's she's just kind of frozen. And after a couple seconds, I mean, always will.

Speaker: yeah As long as you need it, you want it. i mean, yeah. After seeing you kind of frozen for a minute and seeing your reaction, the confidence that you would hear in Lu's voice in your head previously kind of starts to show in her body language.

Speaker: You remember that bear hug you promised me? Can I get that now? Uh, yeah, yeah. And Talira, that jolts her out of the confusion a little bit. There's some action there. She knows how to do, a like, she doesn't do the thought. She does things, action. And yeah, she opens her arms to give Lou that big old bear hug.

Speaker: And as that happens, like, all of the emotion starts to catch up and she starts crying. Yeah. as As you pull her in and start crying, she kind of melts into your arms and she can't help but to cry with you for a minute.

Speaker: And then then finally, she manages to pull herself back together and and recognizing the awkwardness, especially with Talira, she gets this kind of smirk on her on her face. She leans in kind of close to her ear and whispers, I don't mind if you want to look.

Speaker: Um... Oh, okay. And Chalera is just, I'm sorry, I'm just, I am untethered in the best way right now.

Speaker: Lou kind of steps back from the hug as well, and as she does, she trips on a rock and ends up falling onto her ass. Oh, shit. Are you okay? Yeah, i'm I'm good. I'm good.

Speaker: Okay, look, i I'm all kinds of thrown off here. i think that's pretty obvious. And I don't i don't know what to say. i don't I'm not good at knowing what to say. And like, okay, so I knew you were a halfling cursed to a bear form. And...

Speaker: I didn't know that it was going to be this. And now I see you're hot as fuck, too. I'm sorry. I need a minute to, like, process everything. What is Talira's passive insight? That's not one I generally remember super well.

Speaker: Fifteen. She kind of laughs alongside you as as you're saying all this, and she gets back up. Well, I don't know how I expected this to go, but I think this was good. So, Talira?

Speaker: Lou? Lou? I forgot to bring clothes. Oh shit! Um, here.

Speaker: ah Because she's at home. She's not wearing her armor. She just pulls off her first, like the tunic that she has. She has on a second tunic and like she she's not naked. But yeah, she she hands Lou a shirt um that, he you know, I had that thought at first and then I got a little bit distracted. So I'm so sorry. It's going to be really big. But here.

Speaker: I'll take your distraction as a compliment. She kind of turns around and looks over her shoulder as she says that, as she puts the tunic on. Obviously extremely oversized as it was it looks like a dress on her. As she kind of starts to walk back to you, she has to pick it up a bit to even walk.

Speaker: But when she turned around, Talira notices for the first time a brand in the center of her back. Yeah, that was definitely a compliment.

Speaker: Um...

Speaker: ah Shit.

Speaker: One day we're going to kill the fuckers that did that to you. What? Oh, um... Yeah, one day.

Speaker: But let's just get back, okay? Uh, Kalda knew about this and he hasn't seen me yet, so I'm excited to show him what I look like. Sorry, that should have stayed an inside thought.

Speaker: Um, yeah, that isn't anything to be worried about right now. I'll follow your lead, whatever you need. It's okay. I love that you're so passionate for those you care about. It it it shows.

Speaker: um I've got about a week like this, so let's just enjoy it the best we can, okay? Okay, deal. Just so I understand, this is what every solstice is?

Speaker: Yes, every alignment. So the two big solstices every year. Our force trans- uh, transformations, they're controlled by the center moon, as Zaidi.

Speaker: So normally, course, I'd be changing into a bear, but... well, you know. Yeah. Okay. Yeah. Well, if you have a week, what do you want to do first?

Speaker: What do I want to do first? um Honestly, I'd love to eat with the taste buds of a halfling. That'd be fantastic. By the way, my name, like my true name, it's Luana.

Speaker: I wanted to tell you, but I thought it would deserve like a special moment. Luana. It's a beautiful name. And yeah, let's get you some food. Solstice food here?

Speaker: fucking great. I have been looking forward to it, that's for sure. You begin making your way back to the encampment to go find Calden.

Speaker: As this was going on, about halfway through that entire and that entire scene between Talira and Lou, Gwynedd ends up finding you, Kalden, as she just kind of casually walks up to you as you are walking away from having been watching Kiro help train some of the yugglings.

Speaker: Excuse me, Kalden, do you have a moment? what What's up, Gwynedd? I realized that there was something for Dawncaller that I may need and I think you'd be specifically gifted in finding a certain ingredient that I need.

Speaker: Yeah, of course. What do you need? There's this certain flower on a tree that only blooms during the solstice and as it's about to begin, it'd be nice if you could go find it for me.

Speaker: Yeah. when When would you need that? Any day during the solstice would do as long as it is blooming, realistically. Okay. Uh, I could probably... gonna help Kira a little bit more later.

Speaker: I could probably go tomorrow. i think now would be a really good time for you to go get it. uh, oh. Okay. Sooner the better, you know?

Speaker: Sure. Yeah. And she gives you, like, a short description. I think it would take, think about a four-hour run to get to an area where I think it would be, and she kind of gives you and points you in the right direction, gives you some instructions and directions on how to go get it and how to pluck it properly.

Speaker: So yeah, take your time. There's no need to hurry. I'm sure you'll actually have a fantastic view of the solstice from there, in fact. And matt let Lero know that I'll be back, I guess.

Speaker: Absolutely, I will. And he leaves. And shortly after that, say 30, 45 minutes, Talira and Lu, when you both make your way back to the encampment, there is a bit of a surprise waiting for you.

Speaker: second naked halfling? What?

Speaker: As when you get back, there are two oversized wolves, one being gray and one completely black. and they are accompanied by a dwarven woman, fully kitted in studded armor, who holds a a hand axe on both of her hips. She's strawberry blonde with a singular braid that goes all the way down her back and a thin chin strap of a beard.

Speaker: And you see that granite fist is addressing them with the majority of the Goliath tribe seemingly present. We are all very happy to have you back on your yearly journey. Again, I'm sorry Dawncaller is not available to greet you, but you are more than welcome to rest in our home.

Speaker: Do any of these figures seem familiar at all, or do they have different gray wolves every year? You recognize the black wolf. This is Ulrich Thorborough. A couple years ago, some years ago, he demonstrated the hybrid transformation for some of the young goliaths. That was your probably first time seeing him specifically transform, but you've never seen him in fullhar full wolf form.

Speaker: wolf form He is normally, but he's not a wolf, clean-shaven, sharp-jawed man with slick back black hair. But obviously, there's the solstice going on, so... Talira leans down to Lou.

Speaker: Well, it looks like Grey Wolf is here. Maybe they have something closer to your size we can trade. My tunic is a gown on you. Yeah, maybe. It's awesome to see some other werecursed. Yeah, there are resident vampire hunters. They teach each other what to look for, and they help keep the woods safe.

Speaker: I guess I should go be chieftain's daughter, though. It's um usually much easier when she's here. Talira approaches Yulric and says hello, turns to the other human and the dwarven woman. Hello, I'm Talira Grimstone Eculenatti. I'm Don Caller's daughter.

Speaker: Welcome. It's good to see you. Hello, Talira. I am sorry to hear about your mother. Keteia here has been a lovely guest to greet us, so we know you are caring for the ill, so we won't stay long.

Speaker: Ylric got a scent of vampiric origin, so we are just doing due diligence to follow the scent. concern immediately flashes to Talira's face and she looks around for Calden because she's not going to let anything get to him.

Speaker: Oh, um, that's strange. We haven't seen any signs of one year here. is Was it just the scent? She looks to the gray wolf for a moment and then back.

Speaker: Yes, just the scent, but they believe it may be wounded. When they are in this form, and she motions to the wolves, their senses of smell are extremely strong and accurate, as you know.

Speaker: They can smell certain creatures that have a strong scent from miles away. When something bleeds, it generally lets a stronger scent in the air, so we understand that the air's been blowing it to the east, hence why we may think it may be in your area.

Speaker: Do you care if they take a look around to see if it could have been here? We don't want to step on any toes, but we're worried they may have been here when you were asleep last night. Not at all, please.

Speaker: Talira looks over at Lou, engaging her reaction to overhearing all of this. You see Lou deep in thought. she She kind of is looking around, not like panicked, but a bit on edge, but staying silent.

Speaker: Talira leans down. Hey, what's on your mind? Now isn't the time. Okay. Lou kind broadens herself a bit and goes to address the dwarven woman and the wolves.

Speaker: Hi, my name is Lou. I actually was wondering. I assume you aren't a were-creature, given the solstice and that you aren't a wolf. Would you mind relaying information to the others for me?

Speaker: I'm actually one of them, but my curse is a it's a bit messed up. Yes, if if what you say is true, then I'm happy to translate between you. Please be patient, though. They will need to finish their search first.

Speaker: Oh, of course, yeah. No worries. And Lou turns to face you, Talira. Kind of pulls you to the side and whispers again. Where is Kalden? That is what I'm worried about.

Speaker: There are vampires around. i don't want him out there. i was looking around for him as, you know, I walked up to them, but I i didn't see. We should probably find Gwynedd or Granite Fist. Maybe Cairo has seen him.

Speaker: I'll check with Gwynedd first. She knows everything. And Talira looks around for Gwynedd. As you look, Yulric, the black wolf, lets out a short howl suddenly as he is sniffing a bush to the side of your mother's tent.

Speaker: He found something. What? And Talira, she gets really gravely concerned when she hears where that yip came from.

Speaker: Mom? And she rushes over. Yul'Rik looks to the dwarven woman who has ah who has rushed over with you, and you can see that on his muzzle, right on his nose, there's a small amount of red blood that's smeared on it.

Speaker: His nose never lies. Y'all have had a vampire here. Which way did he go? Ylric sniffs the air as the gray wolf joins him as well. They put their nose to the ground and they kind of sniff around your mother's tent and then they they don't go all the way in, but they do sniff just inside the flap of the door. He then looks to you, Talira, with worry in his eyes.

Speaker: What is it? It either is or was in the tent. Is? Talira grabs her axe and she rushes in. As you're rushing in, you almost run headfirst as Gwynedd is coming out Has anyone seen T'Li- Oh!

Speaker: Oh my gosh! Oh, good lord, how clumsy of me. I spilled the gift you got me again. I was just coming to thank you. I was experimenting with it. Shit, Gwynedd! Is it just the two of you in here? Grey Wolf sniffed vampire.

Speaker: It's just us. So false alarm. I mean, yes, if they sniffed a vampire, I'm using the blood you gave me from the one you killed. What? I thought I brought back ashes.

Speaker: No, you brought back some blood as well. Oh, fuck, that's all right. It was... yeah. Um, I'll tell them it was a false alarm and there was nothing to worry about.

Speaker: Yes, that would be... that would be good. It's what a coincidence that the Order of the Grey Wolf is here when I'm experimenting with the vampire blood. Lost in my work, I guess, but... yeah, do... do tell them for me. Yeah, yeah, I can do that.

Speaker: Talira walks out of the tent and swipes her hair back as she looks to... What was the... Oh, she never actually got the woman's name.

Speaker: No, she did not. I owe you an apology. We ran up into a vampire up like Walla, and Gwyneth was experimenting with what we brought back.

Speaker: Wouldn't be

Speaker: just curious and seeing for a cure is all would be life-changing for a lot of people you know the wolves shake their head and the dwarf dwarn woman does as well you are wasting your time wouldn't be if she succeeds That may be true, but Talir is right, and I will try anyway.

Speaker: If you don't want to be wasting your time, I hear rumors of a new nest near Dunfor on my way in a few months ago. i am sorry, Gwyneth here is a close friend of our people and the healer that is helping our Dawncaller.

Speaker: I can confirm she means no harm. Talira's face is blank, and she doesn't meet the dwarf's eyes. As she addresses her, You are welcome here, as always, as is Skyspeaker.

Speaker: We ask that you don't interfere with her work. But we did have a question for you, if you're still willing to answer. And she looks down at Liu when she asks that.

Speaker: Thank you for the hospitality. But if what your healer says is true, then it's best we start heading south immediately. She looks all three of you up and down a bit, kind of sensing your hesitation. Before you go, would you happen to have some smaller clothes we could potentially trade you for? This is, um, yeah.

Speaker: The dwarven woman notices, of course, like, Lou's gown. It'll still be a bit big, but it'll make do, yes. And she looks to Lou. You may have one of my extra shirts. I'll get a new one and done for.

Speaker: Thank you. Really. And Lyra looks over at Lou. Looks like we'll have to figure out some kind of skirt or trousers for you, but at least you won't be drowning in fabric.

Speaker: Could we give you some supplies for the road? No need. We carry none. We live off the land for this year's journey. Sort of part of the challenge among our group. Plus, we hunt easily enough during the alignment, as you'd expect.

Speaker: Oh, fair, yeah. That's how we feast. Thank you again, really. And, Lou, were you able to ask what you wanted? No, no, no. They they seem in a hurry. Just best to let them be.

Speaker: Okay. We'll seek them out another time, then. Kinda turns to you as they're walking away, and she says, I doubt they'll know much anyway, to be honest, but let's go find Kalden.

Speaker: He still hasn't seen me, so... Right, yes! Holy shit, he'll be so excited! Gwyneth, have you seen Kalden? As the two grey wolves and the dwarven woman begin to walk out of the home and south toward the valley, Gwyneth is watching them go.

Speaker: Well, at least we know we are safe from vampires. I'm sure Dunfor will be grateful to have their presence. Anyway, Kalden is out running an errand for me to do the north. could probably head that way and find him if you wanted to, but you'd have to be quick. You'd have to try to catch up to him.

Speaker: Oh, thank you. Come on, Lou. And Talira starts to jog and then realizes she's got really big strides and Lou doesn't and probably can't run so fast. So she she slows down to a ah a little bit of a power walk, I guess.

Speaker: As you are going, it's going to take you a while to be able to even attempt to catch up to Kalden. But Kalden, at some point, do would you stop to get a drink at a at a stream? You know, stop to maybe pick some berries or get any sort of food or anything? Hunt hunt a squirrel or something small?

Speaker: Probably not in that amount of time. It hasn't been that long, has it? It's been since he left, about an hour and a half, probably. Probably not then. It's not very long. He probably wouldn't have slowed down for anything within this amount of time.

Speaker: But also, he wasn't rushing. Okay. Or trying to hide his tracks because he wasn't under the impression that he needed to. Right. Okay, so given Talira's tracking skills and the fact that she is probably rushing more than you are, I'd say you're able to catch up to Kaladin in, what, two, two and a half hours?

Speaker: Okay, cool, yeah. The whole way down, of course, Talira would be chatting and also constantly checking up on Lou to make sure she wasn't too cold, to make sure she was okay. And she would ask, so is it the right time to ask what was on your mind earlier?

Speaker: it It can wait until we see Keldon. Oh, okay. Yeah, it'll be it'll be okay. No worries. and And you're okay? ah You're not too cold or anything? Yes, oh my gosh, yes. I'm... Especially all this exercise.

Speaker: Yeah, I'm staying plenty warm. Okay, good, yeah. But later, know, once know it gets cold here, especially during the alignments. I'm built for the cold. I forget about it.

Speaker: Yeah. I mean, once we stop for the night, I'm sure it'll get a little cold and I might need, you know something or someone to help keep me warm. Oh, yeah. Yeah, anyway...

Speaker: God, he actually, despite the fact that I know i am following his tracks, they are really fucking hard to find. Why does that man never leave tracks? Kalden!

Speaker: He's light-footed. What do you want from him? so yeah, Talira, Lou, chatting. She's listening to anything Lou wants to say. Talking back, calling out for Kalden.

Speaker: Kalden! Kalden! So, helin's probably climbed a tree or something to survey, as he does. he likes to have height advantage on shit. He's a little less certain when he sees Talira with someone he doesn't know, but is probably pretty quickly able to put together that it's Lou, I'm guessing.

Speaker: you doing okay, Lou? You hear her shout. Or not really shout, but call out. you're doing okay, Lou? Out into the ether for no reason whatsoever. She's left Lou like a mile behind her.

Speaker: She's got a big stride. is like, just put me down and let me run for a bit.

Speaker: We need to get Lou roller skates for whenever she's in halfling form. She can just like Hang on to the back of Delira's clothes. Oh my gosh.

Speaker: That's off-road roller skates. Yes, absolutely. and well that Actually, yeah, that sounds terrible. They'd be big-ass fucking wheels, like a foot in diameter.

Speaker: yeah. Giant, like, fat treads. hey Off-roading roller skates. Hell yeah. Yeah, he jumps down. Delira. Blah.

Speaker: That's what he says. i but but that That is my thing. i struggle with common, not you. No, I had i had a li a leaf.

Speaker: God, my mouth. yeah You good? What are you doing out here? Everything okay? Yeah, Gwyneth sent me to find a flower that she needs for your mother.

Speaker: Oh, okay, yeah. she i mean She mentioned you might be out this way. She sent you somewhere, but that's weird. It's Lou! Look! Lou! You're a person again!

Speaker: Now it's going to be extra weird whenever you offer for me to pet your head. It's... Yeah, it it is. a Hi. We can actually talk out of our heads now.

Speaker: Like, not in our heads. I mean, it doesn't feel very different to me either way, but yeah. I i had a friend that that was really the only way we communicate for a long time, so.

Speaker: Oh, that's... Well, it's different for me, and you can see she's just beaming with a big smile to be able to talk to you. How long do you get to stay like this just for the solstice? Or do you think yeah maybe there's a chance that it'll be broken after this?

Speaker: Is this the first solstice since everything got fucked up? Yeah, I mean, maybe. i don't know. it I would assume a week, but maybe there's a chance it'll go back. i don't I don't know. You know, whatever happened to my curse is ah a mystery.

Speaker: so It's like been inverted. Why? That's so weird. Calden? Sorry.

Speaker: No, I just... I wish I knew how to help so you could be mostly half-thing again. We're going to figure that out, you know. Yeah.

Speaker: We will. But in the meantime, I've got a week. So, let's make the best of it. Exactly. Exactly. Yeah. i I still have to find that flower, but do you do you know where they are, Jalera?

Speaker: What flower? He describes the flower that Gwyn had sent him for. Not anything you've ever heard of. I have no idea. Well, I might be out here a while then.

Speaker: Well, I guess we should help you then. I don't want you to waste the time you have as a person lou looking for a flower for me. Well, if it's taking you a while, why don't we just go ask Gwyneth for some better instructions?

Speaker: I mean, she said it would be blooming about now. Okay. Is this not how she usually gives directions? No, she's usually very specific.

Speaker: I think we need to go back and ask her. It has been a weird night. Oh, shit! By the way, Calden... Um, Grey Wolf was here and they smelled vampire blood.

Speaker: But then... Grey Wolf? Aren't they the monster vampire hunters? Yeah. they They come around every year. They do like a ah solstice kind of deal. And they found vampire blood in the tent. And it was fucking Gwyneth doing some kind of experiment.

Speaker: Oh, good. False alarm, then, guess. Yeah, it was a false alarm, yes, but it was weird. I'm just glad i'm glad it was nothing, but yeah. i thought I thought we brought her back ashes.

Speaker: I think we brought back both, didn't we? I don't even know any anymore. Did we not? i thought we did. ah we might have. I guess it doesn't matter...

Speaker: We should find the flower that she needs, though, since it's for your mother. Right, yeah. So, are we going to ask for better instructions, or we just going to wing it?

Speaker: I vote better instructions personally. She made it sound like it was really urgent. I hate to go all the way back. I mean, we can take a look around for a little bit. If we can't find it, then... If we can't find it, then better not to have wasted twice the time.

Speaker: I guess you're right. mean you Can we roll for it? race Ooh, yeah. Can we roll to see if we find it? I don't know. Why the fuck didn't I think of it? This is Right. We rolled dice here.

Speaker: yeah Yeah, absolutely. If you want to give me like a, i guess it'd be a survival. Yeah. That's an 11 on the die. And I'm pretty sure she has survival proficiency. 17 for me.

Speaker: 17 for Kalden. Oh, nice. That's a 17 for me as well.

Speaker: What did Lou roll? Oh, Lou did not roll very well, actually. Oh, no. She rolled less than both of you, so. With a 17 from both of you, it actually works out as you guys decide to kind of look around the area, maybe a little further north, and you see a smaller tree, one that doesn't reach all the way up to the canopy, and you see it's got a couple blooms that are kind of reaching for the the light that is unique to the solstice.

Speaker: It loosely kind of matches what Gwynedd was talking about, and you can't seem to find anything else that is any kind of closer. I think this has to be it. Blue flower, red thorns, probably. This would be so much easier if I wasn't colorblind.

Speaker: I didn't know that. I was making a Shrek reference. Oh, I forgot about that. Yes, now I remember that. I totally thought we just got new Kaladin lore.

Speaker: I know, right? I completely, i haven't seen Shrek in years. Actual years. Dude, that scene has left rent free in my head since it dropped. I don't know why it's not that funny of a scene.

Speaker: it just stuck with me as a kid. All right. ah Yeah, I think this is, I think this is it. Let's just grab it. And if it's not it, then we'll get better instructions.

Speaker: Sounds like a plan me. That fair. Yeah. about as good as i probably would have found on my own. And with that, you all begin to head back to the encampment and find that the festivities are in full swing for the solstice as the Goliath have gathered several tables to put together in the middle of the camp to allow seating for almost everyone to be able to gather. there You see the food starting to be laid out. There's some drums put to the side for some music to start being played soon. Some of the the classic and traditional chants that the Goliath would have.

Speaker: And it's looking like it's going fun party. Hell yes! I have been waiting for this fucking boar! Kiru and I... God, we had so much fun hunting that shit.

Speaker: You two better not get absolutely wasted tonight. I'm not going to get absolutely wasted. I'm going to get pleasantly, happily wasted.

Speaker: be her before the Before we get too far into the weeds, probably should figure out, because I didn't think about it, now that I'm not a bear, I probably need have a bedroll or something to sleep in.

Speaker: Oh, shit. That's a good point. Ah, yeah. I'll see if we have an extra around. Um, well, you did.

Speaker: There was an extra. But then Kiro kind of accidentally cut it. And it hasn't been repaired yet.

Speaker: Ah! A wolf? Oh, that's okay. I mean, that's okay. I mean, I can always share one. Well, I mean, mine pretty much only fits me, but, um... Tanira, yours is pretty big.

Speaker: It is. It is pretty big. I... Count, count, it's not wrong. And, and Lou's pretty small. I am pretty small. I mean, yeah, I guess you're welcome to share mine. i don't know if it'll be much more comfortable, though. I snore.

Speaker: I'm sure I can manage, you know, I, if, as long as you're willing, I would hate to be a bother. i mean Yeah, that's fine with me. i will find you some wax or something just, you know, to plug your ears just in case, but yeah, I guess that's settled.

Speaker: What the fuck did Kiro do? Who even knows? It's Kiro. That's a good point. He was doing something stupid, trying to look cool, and it didn't look cool.

Speaker: As Talira walks a couple steps ahead, Lou walking behind Talira next to Kaladin kind of puts her hand up for high five. Gives a secret high five back, and in his head he's like, man. it's It's a thankless job trying to get laid.

Speaker: You know what? Kaldan's gonna do it because she is clueless. Taliris is bro. He's gonna get her laid. It's so funny.

Speaker: As you guys walk in further into the camp, Gwyneth ends up coming to approach you. it Took you a while to find the flower, I take it, Kaldan? I think we found it. And he holds up the flower that they picked.

Speaker: Is this right? That's perfect, yes, absolutely. And she takes it and just kind of stuffs it into her bag. That's exactly what I needed, yes. Thank goodness. Okay, all right. Didn't fuck it up.

Speaker: Go team. Yeah, no, it's perfectly fine. Does Gwyneth look like it was important or no, or something's not adding up here.

Speaker: The way she took it, she just stuffed it into her into her bag without even looking at it. Yeah, I noticed that. Yeah, yeah. was like, is there any reason it needed to be blooming if you were just going to shove it half-assed into your bag like it was like it was a permission slip sent home with your kid?

Speaker: Is something going on that I'm missing regarding flowers? No, no, it's just an idea I have that I think could help your mother, but it's nothing super important right now, so.

Speaker: Talira looks confused. Okay. She looks around at all the festivities and then comes to a realization and she leans in. Why don't you take Lou to get her first proper bath in, I don't know, how many months? I need to speak with Kalten for a moment.

Speaker: Talira looks a little sheepish that she hadn't thought about that herself. I don't know why she would have, but she feels guilty about it and still has more questions, but...

Speaker: swipes her hair back. Yeah, ah okay. I'm sorry I didn't think about that before, Blue. Honestly, I didn't even think about it until she mentioned it, but oh my gosh, that would be amazing right now.

Speaker: Well, I'll hunt down someone who can heat up some water for you. I don't think you want to jump in that stream right now. I like the cold, but oops.

Speaker: Wait, warm water too? Oh man, you're really trying to butter me up. Yeah, I can't wait. Let's do this. All right. I'll go find the maela. As Talira and Lu, as you both walk off, Gwynedd guides you, Calden, back into Dawncaller's tent and takes you to the healing station that she has set up to take care of Dawncaller. She points to the table and you see that there's a vial there with some sort of like dark red substance.

Speaker: Do you know what that is? Looks at it a little suspiciously. blood That is correct. you know why i have that blood? no That is a fun component that I happen to get thanks to you, actually, when your past caught up to me.

Speaker: I've been respecting your privacy for a while, but I wanted to bring this up with you as, well, now I'm involved. what what What do you mean? What happened? Don't worry about me.

Speaker: I'm grateful. They were a wonderful source of ritual components, hence why I have this. But I've been more worried about you since learning a bit more of what has been following you.

Speaker: Now, I believe what you would call them is spawn, if I am correct? Unfortunately, the more powerful one managed to limp away while I was busy, but I did manage to get some information out of one of them.

Speaker: Since then, I've been thinking about ways I could better help you, Kalten, which is why I needed your blood. The powerful one? What did it look like?

Speaker: What did you... What did you learn? Well, he had a giant caterpillar on his lip, super muscular and full of himself. Real obnoxious type.

Speaker: But all I learned about you is that you were kept as a slave for a very powerful vampire. For some time, and with you being an elf, I assumed that that would have been a lot of years.

Speaker: I have a feeling it was not the muscle man, though. He didn't come off as that type. Are you okay, Kelton?

Speaker: I'm fine. Why did you need my blood? Well, I have constructed a present for you. ah present?

Speaker: What do you mean? Seeing as you were being tracked, I had a feeling that that was still the case. Did you see the area with twine around it, right outside your tent, where it looks like something may have been planted?

Speaker: Yeah. Well, I planted a tree there. And that tree, as it grows from its seed, it will be able to block any way that they could be tracking you arcane-ly.

Speaker: As long as you are within a mile of it, of course. You cannot be tracked by arcane means.

Speaker: I'm... If I'm here, I'm safe... then? Yes, Kalden, you are. It would take an army to take on a group of rune-powered goliaths like Dawncaller's clan anyway.

Speaker: And that's only even if they could find you. And now they cannot even do that. And-and Blue. It-it protects Blue. They're-they're tracking her too.

Speaker: I'm working on that one. But I'll get there soon. And I've talked to her while you were away. She's hesitant to say much, understandably so. I don't think she was held very long.

Speaker: I have a feeling she was planted on purpose near you, to get in your head. Yeah? You said you injured him? My traps did.

Speaker: I'm powerful in my own right, but I doubt I would've walked away clean if I wasn't at my own home. Trying to take me on at home is like trying to siege a castle without magic.

Speaker: They targeted you, though, specifically. I think they were just tracking you. They came not long after you had left my home. I'm sorry, Glynad. I'm so sorry. I never wanted to endanger anyone.

Speaker: None of this is your fault, Kalden. And don't you dare try to take the blame. Like I said, I thank you for it. Vampire components are rare and expensive. I got enough vampire fangs, ash, and blood to last a couple of years now.

Speaker: I do think you should keep Talira in the dark for now, though. Yeah. I'm still not certain whether knowing or not knowing is more dangerous to her, but it's good they won't be allowed here.

Speaker: When I leave, they won't be drawn to Talira and the tribe. It's hard, keeping something from a friend, but Talira's head's strong and cares deeply. I'm afraid if she learns the full extent of your past, that she will go out of her way to do something about it, and she is not ready for that challenge yet.

Speaker: No. She'd be killed. Or worse. Yes. But every time I see her, she grows more powerful. And as do you. You both are not the most powerful in this encampment as of now, but I do believe you both are the most gifted and have the highest potential.

Speaker: I don't think it is long before you can manage well together. I won't knowingly put to their end danger. In the event something happens in the future, though, don't hesitate to put your faith in your friends.

Speaker: I can't know someone like that again. She... She looks at you when you say that thinks for a moment. Are you a hug kind of person?

Speaker: I don't know. think I used to be. Well, I am not. I can't lie to you. But I think you need one. So if I were you, I would not pass up the rare opportunity for a Gwyneth hug.

Speaker: She kind of chuckles to herself as she says that and puts her arms out for you to come come be embraced. He accepts the hug. She holds you for as long as you need, waiting for you to let up pressure of the hug.

Speaker: I think probably cries for a while into her shoulder and eventually

Speaker: wipes his tears and steps back and... Thank you, Gwynedd.

Speaker: I didn't realize what a relief it would be to have someone who knows in my corner. You are very welcome. And one last piece of advice.

Speaker: It plays into their plan, but it is also the truth. I think it would be very healing for both of you and Lu to share and talk about your experiences.

Speaker: Don't ruin her week, though. She was telling me how excited she was to get a week to walk around on two feet. And she kind of leans in and gets this sly smile that is rare from Gwynedd.

Speaker: And to try to get into Talira's bedroll.

Speaker: I had to work very hard to help her accomplish that last one. Well, and a little help from Kiro too, but that was unintentional. That was him being a dumbass. She is unbearably tense.

Speaker: oh In her defense, Lou's been a bear. That is true, that is true. but Come on.

Speaker: And she kind of gets herself back together. She kind of wipes away a happy tear from laughing. They should be coming back sometime soon. Thank you again, Gwynedd. If there's anything you need, you don't hesitate, okay?

Speaker: He nods and heads out of the tent. And Calden, as you walk out of the tent to see Talira and Lu approaching, you walk over to meet them also, finding that Lu is now clean and glowing.

Speaker: And shortly thereafter, Gwynedd also walks out of the tent seeing the three you, comes over to join you. Next time I have to delve into a a volcano, I know who's coming with me. Well, I'm glad you had a nice bath.

Speaker: Gwynedd pauses for a second. I think I forgot to take your mother's pulse before leaving the tent. Talira, do you mind to go do that for me? Of course. Thank you so much.

Speaker: I'll be right back. As she walks away, Gwynedd sits down, goes to sit down at one of the tables that have some of the some of the finger foods and stuff. And at right as she's about to make some small talk with Kalden and Lou, Talira, while you're in the tent, while you're bending down to to find your mother's wrist, as you as you grab it, you just she kind of moans slightly as if waking up.

Speaker: Mom? Mom! Talira? Holy shit, you're awake! Talira, is that

Speaker: Talira, is that you? Yeah, Mom, it's me.

Speaker: Do you have any water? Yeah, whole of course. i'll i'll be wreck but i'll I'll go get some. Talir rushes over. I'm sure there's... Actually, she probably has a canteen on her side. We're somewhere nearby. And she grabs that and pours it gently down her mom's throat. Gingerly, kindly.

Speaker: ah That is exactly what I needed. Okay.

Speaker: Hang on one second. Talira shouts, Gwynedd! Gwynedd! Gwynedd perks up at hearing this and immediately stands up and begins running to the tent.

Speaker: Oh shit. we We follow right? That doesn't bode well. No, no. If they need us, they'll call. i don't I don't want to get in the way. Okay.

Speaker: Yeah, that's thats smart. Talira is holding up water for her mom as she needs it. She's also just overwhelmed. She just doesn't know what to do other than just like be there, hover.

Speaker: As you're hovering and kind of trying to give her whatever she needs, you you see that she's kind of going in and out of consciousness. Gwynedd rushes into the tent. but with What's going on? what's What happened? She's awake.

Speaker: She's awake! She's awake! Well, that's unexpected. as Gwynedd kneels down to join you next to your mother, and your mother wakes up, eyes wide this time, just for the moment as she retches and just a pile of necrotic bile and blood clots come up, spilling over the bedside.

Speaker: Shit. She, you see, as Gwynedd quickly turns back around and grabs a bucket at the healing station and brings it over. Talira grabs the first cloth item she can see and she looks around for some more water. She pushes back her mom's hair with one hand and she starts cleaning up the vomit, the bloody mess from her face. It's okay, mom. I'm here. It's okay.

Speaker: One thing that you know is that Gwyneth does not use your clan names very often. As you hear her say, Grimstone, move. Talira moves. She rushes rushes in to replace your spot next to her, being just the best spot to take care of her. And she puts the bucket underneath your your mother's bedside where you could easily reach over to vomit.

Speaker: And your mother's eyes meet yours just for a second. My little giant... It's okay, Mom, get the doubt. You see as Gwynedd reaches into the bucket and scoops some of this bile into her hands and pulls it out, puts it in like its own little own little cup.

Speaker: Take this to the bench, go get fresh water, and then mix them in that beaker. Add in the dried peppermint, and you're going to need tomato, ginger there, and add that too. Hurry. Yeah, yeah.

Speaker: Water, peppermint, muddled with ginger, got it. I love you, mom. And she says that last bit in Giant before rushing off. As you are rushing out of the tent, you can hear your mother gasping for breath as Gwynedd says, I'm sorry for how uncomfortable this is going to be. And you can hear your mother release more of this bile as you leave the tent.

Speaker: Cowdling Lou, as you are outside waiting to see what happens, you see us till your rushes out of the tent. I guess we follow her, or I do. i don't know about Lou, although I'm sure she would follow. Yeah, Talira's on a full-on sprint to the well. Doesn't really notice anything.

Speaker: Talira, what's going on? She doesn't register it yet. Talira, is your mother okay? I can't talk. Mom woke up. I'm getting stuff for Gwyneth. She's awake.

Speaker: Thanks to gods. Talira doesn't respond. She's just reciting what she needs to do. Okay, got water, muddle everything with peppermint, ginger. And she runs back into the tent, like chanting that. Muddle everything, water, peppermint, ginger, muddle.

Speaker: And she just starts mashing. Talir is grinding away and after a few more minutes she huffs as she brings the mortar back to Gwynedd. ah How is this? if If I grind anymore it's going to be great deep from stone.

Speaker: This is perfect, yes. Lou looks to you, Calvin. I'm going wait outside the tent. I want to be here when she needs us but I don't think this is our place. Yeah, I think that's a good idea.

Speaker: Kiro would want to know that she's awake. I think I'll go find him. You should definitely stay here for Talira. Yeah, that sounds good.

Speaker: Okay. Okay. And Kaladin's gonna head off to try and find T'Kiru. Okay.

Speaker: Back in the tent, Gwynedd turns from Dawncaller. She takes the mortar out of your hand and scoops the paste of ingredients into her palm. She encloses her other hand over it and begins whispering an incantation.

Speaker: Her hands glow for a moment. When she separates them, pure water splashes to the ground. Not even applying anything to your mother, weirdly enough, but Gwyneth then says, amazing. Oh, she's going to be able to hold water now.

Speaker: Talira, I need as much peppermint and ginger as we can muster. Can you gather more while I work with what I brought? Of course. And she goes over to her mom, Aurila, and squeezes her hand.

Speaker: I'll be back, mom. I love you. Thank you, Skyspeaker, for everything. And she grabs some baskets and rushes out. And as you rush out, you hear Lou from behind your shoulder.

Speaker: Talira, how is she doing? Hey, Lou. um She's going to be okay, I think. Gwyneth needs more peppermint and ginger, and I need to gather.

Speaker: Kalden and I can help. Let let us help, please. Ginger doesn't grow in the mountains, so you're going to have to go into town to get more and i mean take a horse, and would be the fastest. Kalden and cal I can gather peppermint from around here somewhere.

Speaker: Uh, Thank you. Urily. Um, let's go find Kalden. I want to make sure i can tell him that she'll be okay and we give him the plan.

Speaker: Yeah, okay. he He went this way. He went to go find Kiro. She leads you quickly towards the combat practice area. If there's festivities happening, would Kiro still be training right now or would he be partaking in that? and There would probably be some kind of tournaments going on. Yeah, he'd probably be, instead of training, be leading like warm-ups for a tournament with the kids.

Speaker: Kalden, you find Kiro as he's leading warm-ups and doing a little bit of sparring with some of the young Goliath, getting ready for one of the tournaments that's going be held for the Solstice festivities. Okay, well, he's not in the biggest hurry right now because he doesn't know how soon Dawncaller will be ready for Kiro to even go into the tent. He just wants to let know.

Speaker: So he finds the nearest tree, makes eye contact with Kiro and just kind of leans against it, waiting for Kiro to be available. he He notices your eye contact but continues real quick as he is guiding and showing these younglings how to make sure they're properly warmed up, how to avoid injury, how to keep themselves safe within the confines of the stone circle in which the tournament's going to take place.

Speaker: Now remember, it is always going to be your priority to keep yourself safe. Prioritize your defense over your offense and always look for the opening. Take your time. Your adrenaline will be rushing and you're going to want to strike quicker and faster than what is maybe necessary.

Speaker: All right, you all spar and practice amongst yourselves. I'll be right back. He turns away and walks towards you, Kalden. Gives a little head tilt acknowledgement shit.

Speaker: He looks cool. I don't have words. Hey, Kalten. Everything good? Dawncalla's awake. Wait, what? She just woke up. Oh.

Speaker: Shit, we need to... Okay. We need to go now. what How are you so calm? Everything's fine. gwynen and Tilyra are there with her. Okay. Okay, that's that's good. I'm glad.

Speaker: How is she... I didn't go in. i didn't want to crowd. figured give space for her and Talira. But I figured you'd want to know as well, so... Yeah, thank you for telling me. I... Well...

Speaker: Just give me one second. And he turns back around to the young Goliaths. I need to go for a moment. You all continue. And don't hurt each other. Well, you're going to in the tournament, but you know what i mean.

Speaker: Just kind of nods and turns back around. He hears in his head, dipshit.

Speaker: Okay, well, let's go. I want to be there when when she's awake and when they're ready. Yeah. Okay. And he starts to walk briskly towards the tent. Talira, as Lou guides you towards the direction that Kalden and Witt to go find Kiro, you actually find that Kiro and Kalden are walking back towards you at a fairly brisk pace.

Speaker: Talira at this point now is unusually calm after the events of today. and Fairly flat in her expression as she sees Kiro and Kalden out of her periphery and she's not meeting their eyes, just kind of looking into nothingness.

Speaker: Hey, ah she's awake and she will hold water. I'm going to town for more ginger for Skyspeaker. She'll need as much peppermint as we can get.

Speaker: I'm taking one of the horses. Is there anything we can do to help? um Lou offered to stay behind and gather the peppermint if you would be able to do that.

Speaker: She figured you would be able to help with that one. Of course. um Yeah. I'll... But I can probably handle getting some peppermint on my own.

Speaker: should take Lou with you. She can get clothes while she's in town. As much as that would be nice, I'd like to help here if that's alright. And at this point, Kiro looks in between all of you. Let me join you on my horsecrimstone.

Speaker: The road isn't always safe, and I can make sure that you get there quickly. oh Okay, yeah, that works. Thank you, Kiro. That means a lot. He kind of calms down, seeing that, like, it's a very serious tone, but you're not, like, rushing, rushing.

Speaker: Happy to be of any help to Don Collar and her, quote-unquote, little giant, as he kind of, like, hits you on the shoulder a little bit. Talira doesn't react. she She just looks blankly ahead.

Speaker: It's pretty obvious Talira is at the point of overwhelm where she's not reactive. Yeah. he he He senses that, he swallows.

Speaker: it's it's not It's not meltdown, it is shut down, but she's trying to focus on the thing that she has to do. He kind of switches after giving you that little jab. and Instead, he puts his hand on your shoulder.

Speaker: We'll get there quickly and we'll get back. Thank you, yeah. Okay, let's go. Talira looks to Calden and Lou. Thank you again. Of course.

Speaker: Talira and Kira rush off to gather two of the horses and immediately make for done for.

Speaker: As Kira and Talira rush towards the horses, Kira stops you, Talira, just for a second. I have to stop at Keteia's tent for a moment and let her know command is hers while I'm away. Give me just one second.

Speaker: Of course, yeah. And he rushes over and kind of dips into Keteia's tent, comes back up. Okay, we we're good. Anyway, as he joins back with you as you guys quickly walk towards the horses.

Speaker: So what's it like traveling and adventuring? Um, that was actually the perfect question to ask her because it got her mind off of things. Um, exciting, terrifying, freeing, overwhelming, all of it all at once.

Speaker: I like the goals. It's something I know I can do. I've always wondered what it would be like to be on the road, you know? Do you have taken the same path you have instead of, well, taking my path?

Speaker: Are you satisfied with your path? Not happy. i mean, your path is not easy, but content, at least. Yeah, i'm I'm more than content.

Speaker: I help friends, family, show the little ones how life should be lived, and both Gorla and Kethra have their eyes on me, so it's just... I am I'm likely to lead one day, and this world continues to grow, and we're more than just our mile of mountainside.

Speaker: fear if I don't know the world, I might not be able to lead us into the future. Good. She breathes, swipes her hair back. i thought so, but I needed to know how this will go.

Speaker: And she is finally starting to get back to herself. That's not fear, that's wisdom. Look, if we're going to have more dealings with everyone around us, we need to understand them.

Speaker: And once mom is better, do you want to take an assignment with us? Give you some understanding of what we're up against? The dense but always wise Talira.

Speaker: Yeah. I'll take you up on that offer. I gotta to be around to make sure Lou doesn't break my favorite cousin's heart anyway. he punches your shoulder the- What?

Speaker: Oh, you know, I wasn't sure about it at first, but now that I've seen her as a halfling, I gotta say, Talira, you've got real good instincts.

Speaker: Uh, what?

Speaker: Even with those instincts, it's amazing I forget that you are more dense than a stone golem. What in the fuck are you talking about? Like, she needed help.

Speaker: I helped. Like, I like talking to her, but we hang out. I didn't know what she... Well, I didn't know any of this shit, okay? He just has this big, dumb smile.

Speaker: I love the way you are. Anyway, I'm excited for you, Future. I mean, the way I am, it's going to be rough for the next week because she's bunking with me. What do you need the extra bedroll for?

Speaker: you slashed it? ah Okay, yeah, it's a bit it's a bit embarrassing. I ah managed to dodge the question with Kaladin, but you know Kythra?

Speaker: Yeah? Well, she's been, wealth was, sharing nights with me occasionally, but so was Gorla. oh Okay? yeah ah Now, I told each of them I'm not a giant to be tethered yet, and I told them up front.

Speaker: Dude. You're such a dumbass! Gods! You're an absolute dipshit! So... Which one slashed it?

Speaker: He's got his like hands up, like a you got me. ah Both. Are you serious? First Kythra. Yeah, first Kythra, then I replaced my extra for Gorla, and then she slashed it the next night.

Speaker: Gods above!

Speaker: and ah You're a fucking idiot, you know that, but right? I may be an idiot, but it made for a good story. What the hells are you doing in there?

Speaker: i you know... yeah No, no, no, like, no shit. If they're destroying bedrolls over this shit, I need to take some notes. I... eight He just kind of finds himself a little, like, a little speechless for a moment.

Speaker: You know, just... never Never mind. Never mind. No, fuck that. Spit it out. I have had so many secrets, have truths tonight, big reveals. I am losing my god's damned mind.

Speaker: Like, fuck. He like stops you for a moment puts his hand on your shoulder. Well, you see, and he just takes off sprinting for the horses. Get back here, you dipshit! Add one to the list then, cause I don't want to be hit by your boulder of a hand! I'm going to hit you if you don't tell me, you dipshit!

Speaker: He like gets to the horses and hops with a hand on one. You're sharing a bedroll with Lou? How about I come you for notes in a few days as instead the other way around? What the fuck are you talking about?

Speaker: Look, you're the one who can't keep it in your trousers. He just laughs and hops up on the horse and he digs his heels in and just takes off laughing. She hops on the horse, also gives it a gentle yeah kick.

Speaker: And when she finally catches up, the sparkle is back in her eyes. She is, now you can see she is back to herself. Still looks like she's trying to parse through all of these thoughts rushing around in her head, but she's present again, finally.

Speaker: As Kira watches you kind of catch up, seeing that kind of sparkle a little bit back, he just smiles and nods to himself like, it's what she needed. As you guys ride the horses down the side of the mountain, you do know that there's like a small village on the way to Dunfor. As you ride through, you stop hoping maybe they would have ginger, but unfortunately, they don't have any, and you do have to make the ride all the way down to the city of Dunfor.

Speaker: Unfortunately, as you know, at full speed, that is a two-day ride. Well, shit. Looks like we're going to be gone a little bit longer. As you guys stop after that small village, let the horses take a drink from the stream.

Speaker: Yeah, it's okay. We'll, like said, we'll hurry. We'll get back soon. you mentioned the other day something about a bunch of half-truths. Everything good? Well, I mean, figuring out the bedroll answered some of those questions because Kalden was being really weird about it.

Speaker: Other stuff, it's not really my place to say. It's not my story to tell. But, um, it's pretty fucking obvious that, like, I can say I knew Lou was a werebear and something happened that kept her in bear form, but, like...

Speaker: I had no idea she was a reverse werebear. Like, she surprised me with that change, and, um, that's a sh- Well, no. It was a great surprise.

Speaker: It was really big surprise. And then, after that, we were going to find Calden, and everything started going crazy, and...

Speaker: I was finally getting a chance to talk to Lou as Lou instead of a bear in our heads or as us grunting at each other with this armband. And like, by the way, if you didn't know, watching a friend make the change by surprise is probably one of the most horrifying things you could ever do. Like, I was sitting there completely dumbfounded. Like, I knew what she was going through because I saw it with the gray wolf, but like, She's there, writhing in agony, I can't help her, and after everything settled, I just fucking cried like a baby.

Speaker: And, I mean, she did too, and then we held each other crying, and then there was Grey Wolf, and the vampire scare, and the mom- like, I didn't talk to her before I was out again, it's just... What the Hey, hey, look at me.

Speaker: He meets your eye. You'll get to talk to her. Just even more important on why we get back quick. ah Yeah. How bullshit is this? First time that she's here, the the words. The first time here that she turns and I'm spending most of the week away. Wouldn't that be my luck?

Speaker: But also, like, why am I anxious about this? Like, it's lo I'm perfectly comfortable talking to her and now I have no idea what the fuck I'm doing.

Speaker: He just kind of like bends his head down and raises an eyebrow. She's really hot. Mm-hmm. What? I can see the gears turning. What? Just spit it out, dipshit.

Speaker: No. You gotta be the one to say it. I like her, don't I? Ah, finally catching up to the rest of us already new. Well, it's not like I can do anything about it.

Speaker: Like, saw her as a heathling for the first time a couple days ago. For a few hours. It was great.

Speaker: Great, let me tell ya. And like, one, this is me. I don't know how to talk to women. I freeze. Calvin! Gods bless him, he is the best wingman I have ever had. But like, me knowing all of this ruins everything.

Speaker: Plus, I helped rescue her. That could be a huge mindfuck for her. Bad choice of words. Don't say anything. And anyway, I don't want her to get hurt.

Speaker: And with me, that's basically an inevitability.

Speaker: Don't make me pull a granite fist on you to get you thinking straight. this before! i wouldn't be the first thing about being someone's, what, girlfriend?

Speaker: and starting with a woman who's a bear for all but two weeks of the year seems like kind of the advanced version. Well then, start slow! You're known for being the giant with an even more giant heart.

Speaker: You would make an amazing partner. But there's no need to rush into that. You got a point. Being a bear all but two weeks of the year is gonna be, oh different. Why don't you have fun while trying to fix that for her?

Speaker: By the time we get back, she will only have a few days before being a bear again, if what you say is true. Listen, me of all people, I am no relationship expert. Yeah, seriously.

Speaker: Hey, hey, now. But you're right. But trust me. I mean, this I am smart enough to know a tree that grows slow, grows firm, and lives long. I tend to think that love is kind of like that too.

Speaker: Yeah, I guess that makes sense. You don't think it would be crossing a line with her? Hell if I know. Just ask her.

Speaker: think she would know best. Good. He reaches down like grabs an apple to feed his horse out of his pack. Women, am I right?

Speaker: Women indeed. So, um, you blew it with both of them? Sorry, that wasn't funny. It kinda is.

Speaker: Only for now, I think. I just blew it for the young fun, I'm betting. I think they'd be interested when it's time to be ready for, you know, laying a foundation.

Speaker: Don't count on Kitra waiting for you, though. Well, maybe on the adventure I join you on, I'll find a worldly woman.

Speaker: I doubt you'll have a problem finding interested women. I will have no problem with that. Oh, I have to go into a tavern with you.

Speaker: Oh, gods help us. No, no. Gods help that tavern. Oh, no. I can just hear them now. Is everything about a Goliath big?

Speaker: Ugh. Dude, you're about to be up to your eyeballs in women once we get closer to a guild chapter. Like, I would say I'm jealous, but I would be panicking. And, yeah, no.

Speaker: Like, one just sends me into a panic. Now, don't get me too excited. I gotta want to go back home, all alright? Anyway, let's get back on the road.

Speaker: You know... After a while on the road, home is good. You'll want to. But yeah, let's go. Hmm. All right. Then you two get back on the horses and continue on.

Speaker: As you get close to Dunfor your last day of travel, you both have had to been going as fast as a pace as you can, but during this time, you've had to be very much on guard because during the solstice, the natural world kind of goes into overdrive.

Speaker: And sure enough, as you are just going fast paced through the forest, you end up seeing the dwarven woman that you had previously seen from the Order Grey Wolf riding one of the larger two wolves and seeing the other wolf with her as well.

Speaker: As they notice you're approaching and she calls out, Ah, if it isn't the Dawn Collar's daughter and... Kee-roh. Yeah. What are you in such hurry for? Herbs for Gwynedd.

Speaker: Mum woke up. That's great news. Come on, guys, back to running. Let's help keep him protected the rest of the way. It is alignment week after all. Thank you. I... realized in all the confusion I didn't ask your name. I'm really sorry about that.

Speaker: I also didn't know Lou was going to change, so I was a bit discombobulated. As the horses continue on, you're having to yell over the sound of the hooves upon the dirt road, and the dwarven woman yells over top of it.

Speaker: The name's Durtha. Lou was the little halfling, right? Yes, that's her. Yulirik said she smuggled a bear fur. Had this instinct about him. ah she She said her curse is fucked up, right?

Speaker: Yeah, she's a halfling on the solstice. The bear, the rest of the year. Well, ain't that a bit odd. She know what did it? I don't know. I just found out about it that night. I didn't really get the chance to talk to her about it.

Speaker: Huh. Yeah, that's odd. It'll be some time before we're back at the fort, but when will do, I'll look into it. Your tribe has been gracious to us every year. We don't forget a kindness. Thank you. It really will mean the world to her.

Speaker: As you say that, a bipedal beast with overlapping scaled flaps and a maw of short teeth, also resembling a beak, darts out of the forest and in... and right into the side of Yulric, the large black wolf leading you all, and they tumble off the road. Bullshit!

Speaker: Contact right! It's a pack of armored Jermias. Keep them off Grimstone! She then addresses you, Talira. Talira, keep going. We will take care of this. How dangerous are these things? Cause like, Talira would be, as she goes, oh shit, pulling out the axe, like getting ready.

Speaker: You've seen them before. They're normally pretty docile. They only get crazy during the alignments generally. You know that they can handle them. Okay, cool. Yeah. Then Talira will shout back as they gallop past.

Speaker: Thank you again. be safe. The battle has already begun as you hear the high-pitched whine of one of these beasts that ring out as you continue to gallop. As Kiro then speaks up, ah lineman week is always a party, isn't it? ah Yeah, it's normally my favorite and I've been itching for action.

Speaker: A short time later, you both are able to get to Dunfor, passing through the walls that are currently, because of the solstice, heavily guarded. And as you approach, you find that the city is deep into its lunar festival for the week.

Speaker: Booths and food galore, as well as festival games, are in full swing right now. Similar to your Goliath encampment, although a little different seeing as it's little less tribal. Next year.

Speaker: We'll enjoy this next year. And she looks over at one of the games like, damn, that would be fun. Next year. Maybe we, well, I doubt Dawn Caller would want to come down here, but maybe we would take a day off from our celebrations and bring her with us.

Speaker: Yeah, I think that would be good. Mom does love solstice. She focuses her thoughts again and starts looking around for an apothecary or an herbalist.

Speaker: Yeah, given your your passive i won't even make your role just given your passive perception, you're able to notice one pretty easily. It's behind what looks like some sort of toy booth. Oh, over there.

Speaker: She looks around again for a place to tie the horses. After looking around and you're able to ask a guard of the festival where maybe is a stable and you're able to be directed towards one. has a two bays open on the east side of the city. So you're able to go stable your horses and not have any issues.

Speaker: Cool. what What is Kiro looking like? what What kind of expression does he have in everything? You can see he's he's taking it all in with utter curiosity.

Speaker: He's been to Dunfor before. This is probably the closest quote unquote city to the encampment, but he's never been here for solstice. He's never, he you can come here to buy some things at the shop, but you don't experience as much of the culture. Mm-hmm.

Speaker: And so he's kind of enamored. You can see the way he's watching. He both is kind of has that wistful look you did to want to join in. You can also see there's like a level of studying to him. He's just trying to take it in and and learn.

Speaker: And um what time of day is it at this point? Probably like early evening. Okay. Shit. um Not much light left. You think they're still open? He looks away from the festivities. He shrugs his shoulders. Only one way to know. It's emergency, so let's hope so.

Speaker: He walks up to the building, go ahead and going ahead and taking the lead, and knocks loudly. And a few months later, an old man walks over with a cane. He walks over from the booth across the road rather than from inside the building.

Speaker: Can I help you, Giants? Hi, yes. I'm Talira, Dawncaller's doctor. I'm sorry i had to take you away from the booth, but we're in need of as much ginger as you have, and it's urgent.

Speaker: Dawncaller... Dawncaller... Oh, Stonespeakers. Yes. Oh, okay. He brings out ah an old key, puts it in a lock. He unlocks it and then just turns around to act as if he's just going to walk back to his booth.

Speaker: Take what you need and lock it back up on your way out. Um, what? He, does he know you? No. She looks really confused.

Speaker: Insight check? Yeah, yeah, roll. Absolutely. Cool.

Speaker: It's 17. Okay. Yeah, you kind watch walk back, kind of trying to get a sense of maybe he's like looking at you in the corner of your eye or maybe not trusting. but You don't get any like malintent from him. It's actually kind of weird. Honestly, the interaction almost seems kind of hollow.

Speaker: Thank you. i guess we can settle up at your booth. No need. I'll see you next time. Cool. And she's not getting the feeling that he's met her before?

Speaker: No. Okay. Well, thank you again. And she goes in. She starts browsing the shelves and the jars for some ginger.

Speaker: Yeah, and as you walk in, you see the sign above the countertop says Rose and Thyme Apothecary. And you find an extremely impressive allotment of very rare and non-native plants, herbs, alchemist components, a lot of things that aren't native to the region.

Speaker: You end up coming into a large collection of things labeled bargain bins, things of just everyday use, you know, where you might find, you know, bulbs of ginger. Alright.

Speaker: Well, um, I don't want to clean them out completely, but least it's common. Can you roll me a nature check real quick? Alright.

Speaker: Yeah, I would say that Talira knows that ginger doesn't grow in this region, but also that it's not rare. Like when where it grows, it grows plentiful as long as it's in that warm and humid climate. But you know that's that's not where you're at.

Speaker: Okay. Would it seem like two thirds was okay to take? Would be appropriate for Gwynedd and not be too much? I mean, yeah, I'd say so. Okay, cool. Yeah.

Speaker: Talira pulls a sack out then and she starts collecting the ginger and takes about two thirds of it. um And she'd check around for a price list. Okay. You like just taking a visual look of like what's around you or like are you like investigating?

Speaker: pretty much like looking over the walls and tables, but not super, super hard. Okay. You don't even need to roll anything. you if you're If that's all you're looking, you don't find any prices.

Speaker: Okay. Weird. This shop is, i don't know, something feels off. Kind of cool, but like also odd. Yeah.

Speaker: Yeah. It's weird. I don't want to leave without giving him something in the return, though. She pulls out a couple gold pieces from her pack, or her little pouch, and places them on the counter.

Speaker: Let's get back. Agreed. We can bring your mother back another time so she can personally thank him. Yeah. Yeah. She'd insist on doing that anyway, if we're being real.

Speaker: She's going to be a busy woman once she gets better, just for all the thanks she'll have to give. Well, she'll feel like that, but I just hope she doesn't fucking apologize for everything. Like, I know she wouldn't to the public, but she would to me.

Speaker: As Talira is saying this, she's locking up the shop and she's heading over to the stall, walking and talking so she can return the key. You know she's going to. It's just who she is.

Speaker: No one views her as weak from this, but we both know that's going to be what she's worrying about. You ready for that fight? God, knowing her, once her strength is back, she's going to want to prove it to herself.

Speaker: Fuck, I'll figure she'll get it out by barking, growling at me a bit. We'll have a spat at the whole camp here, and then I play the bad guy for a day or two. She'll go on a hunt, catch something big. It'll be fine.

Speaker: Don't forget the sparring. There are many bumps and bruises in both of our futures. Yeah. I will skip my armor and make her feel better about it.

Speaker: Sounds like a true Goliath leader. That she is. We've locked up. I left something on the counter for you. I hope two-thirds of the ginger isn't too much.

Speaker: Thank you again. You really have done us a great service. As you head approach the booth, you see that the booth contains like these little hand-carved dolls, all made from just a huge variety of different sorts of wood.

Speaker: Ginger, good to know. I'll start restocking that soon. I did not ask for anything, though, so please enjoy a gift. Pick out a doll. Yours to take. Weird? What's going on with this guy?

Speaker: Going off the same insight roll you had already rolled, you kind of like, you can like sense some emotion from his voice, but it like lacks a little bit. Okay. Kind of, the sort of hollow feeling isn't just his voice. Cause like, there's, like I said, there's some emotion there.

Speaker: It almost feels physical. Like it'd be his body. All right. i don't know Talera would be looking too deeply into that. Just kind of feels like an odd dude. Yeah.

Speaker: Oh, thank you. Are you sure? that That's really generous of you. I insist. I feel as if you are going through a hard time and could use a nice gesture.

Speaker: You see that as he like you presents the dolls to you, essentially, that are on his table, you see that they are extremely intricate. Like, they legitimately look lifelike in how well they are carved.

Speaker: Creepy. um And do we get any kind of vibe from them that they're anything other than masterfully made beautiful dolls? Haunted doll watch. duda du okay Roll me something. um I mean, if you want to roll another insight, you could. if you want to do perception or like investigation.

Speaker: if you're looking magic, you could be arcana. I mean, you got options, but you got to pick something, I guess.

Speaker: Uh, Dirty 20. And, uh, going perception here. Okay. Take 20. 20's good. Delira takes a look at the dolls. The work is just masterful.

Speaker: But as you're looking around, one of the larger ones catches your eye. And it doesn't catch your eye because something's weird about it, or because, like, you saw it move or something weird like that. No.

Speaker: You recognize the person. It's been so long since you've seen this person, but you recognize it so well because you recently just saw them in a memory when Gwynedd took you through your road of memories, essentially.

Speaker: Okay. This doll, it's carved out of redwood. And you see it's it's a young version of your father. Um... me Um... Okay.

Speaker: Yeah, definitely haunted fucking ass dolls.

Speaker: Talira, when she sees that, her eyes widen big in surprise. I'll take this one, if it's okay.

Speaker: Absolutely. It is yours. I met that young man once while traveling south of here, but I got lost off the mountain pass trail. He was a kind of soul who helped me find my way.

Speaker: I wanted to honor him with this doll, but I never saw him again. It's been quite some time. He was my father. He died when I was little. I barely remember him.

Speaker: I am sorry to hear that. He deserved a much longer life. I am glad it is going to you then. Nothing could be more fitting. He did. Yeah.

Speaker: Thank you. Once again, you give me a great gift. More than you know. She is buzzing again, and she shakes her hands a little bit to shake that buzzy feeling out And you see her just mask up, refocus on the task.

Speaker: We'll be back, so we can properly thank you. Enjoy the solstice. You as well. See you again. And you see that, like, he puts his hand up to wave, but he's like, the timing of it was a little weird.

Speaker: Like, he put his hand up to wave before even started talking. Like York Morgan in Deadly Premonition. If anyone has ever played that game, it's like the voice lines and the gestures don't match completely. And it is the funniest fucking thing.

Speaker: It's kind of how the whole interaction with him felt. Yeah. It's like the voice and the body language, like none of it's really matched. Okay. Yeah. Weird as fuck. Mm-hmm.

Speaker: Talira starts to head back to the stables, and then she stops. Wait a minute. We're in town. I need to get Lou some clothes. Oh, yeah. let's Let's do that.

Speaker: Surely we can... One of these booths has clothes. Yeah, she desperately needs a cloak at least. We can find her something quick. Yeah, here. You know what, you go, I'll, I'll, no, you know better. I'll go grab the horses, you grab clothes.

Speaker: Great. I don't know what size to get other than small. You think I know? Ugh. Fine, okay, okay. I can do this.

Speaker: You can do this. I'm going to go get the horses. And he rushes off. Talira finds a stall. Any kind of like, actually, I think it would be cute if she got something like lunar solstice related.

Speaker: Oh, there's plenty of that to go around. Yeah, she will find something she thinks will fit. Cloak is a fairly safe bet at least. So she's going to get a really nice looking cloak that's like lunar solstice themed and find something she thinks might fit.

Speaker: Roll me a d20.

Speaker: Nine. Nine? Hmm. Yeah. I wasn't actually using the numbers in the way you think. It's just just a hair big.

Speaker: Okay. Yeah, yeah. I was going with like the number is like, and the with ah giving you a little bit of, Talira, a little bit of of grace, but like the number minus a few is that the size.

Speaker: Okay. Okay.

Speaker: So, yeah, it's just a hair big, but you'll see that when you back. Cool. Kira comes around the the corner of the main throwaway. Well, I got the horses, and you, yep.

Speaker: Ooh, good choice. Thanks. I hope it works. i'm I'm sure it'll be fine. Anyway, let's let's get going. we gotta We got a couple day ride back. Yeah, yeah, we need to get back quickly.

Speaker: Yeah. Also, that old dude was weird. Dude, he was so weird. Yeah, it's like his voice didn't match his body.

Speaker: It was crazy. Definitely disconcerting, for sure. Do you think Gwynedd would know of him? Who knows? You know, let's hurry home, and we'll find out.

Speaker: Agreed. Okay, and you guys take off to take the same path back up the mountain towards home. As Talira and Kiro ride home as quick as they can, it still ends up taking six days from the day they left.

Speaker: As you race back into camp that evening, the Goliath, they recognize you, they hear the horses coming, and everybody did and everybody begins to gather, making a making a ruckus.

Speaker: Talira, she dismounts as she sees everybody, of course, rushing over, and she shouts over to Kiro, Can you handle stabling them? I'll get this over to Gwyneth.

Speaker: And she grabs the satchel from the saddlebag. He grabs the horses and begins to take them to the stable. Cool. And you all know Talira, woman on a mission, so unless something or someone breaks her out of that focus, she's not stopping until she gets to the tent.

Speaker: you see coming out of your tent because of the commotion, Lou comes out and she sees you big smile immediately on her face as she waves at you. Lou, hey.

Speaker: Talira, you're back. um um You got the ginger? Yeah, yeah, I did. Okay, great, great. ah Don't let me stop you. Let's get to your mom. Absolutely. Yeah, um you can come in if you want.

Speaker: Yeah, okay. i You go. I'll follow. All right. Mom? Mom? Gwyneth, she opens the tent flap and pokes her head in.

Speaker: Talira, welcome back. She's sleeping right now. I take it Jehota didn't have any ginger? No, we had to ride to Danford, but we got it. How is she?

Speaker: Sleeping, I know, but... After, like, an awkward moment of silence, she she smiles at you. Good. Surprisingly well, to be honest. She walks over and plucks some of the ginger out her satchel and quickly, with a mortar and pestle, starts crushing it.

Speaker: Go on. Go see her. Talira's breath just hitches in her chest a little bit, and she glances down at Lou, and she takes a deep breath, pushes her hair back, and she opens that little divider flap to get to her mom's bedroom.

Speaker: Mom? You see that Dawn Collar appears to be pretty similar to how you left her, lacking most of the color to her skin, her eyes sunken in, but you notice that her breathing seems to be a bit stronger. Any of the bile that had hit the ground or was on the bed has been cleaned off by now, as if it had never happened, and beside the bed there's now the addition of a pot of water boiling lightly above a small flame.

Speaker: You can smell the scent of peppermint leaves boiling within it. Gives a nice, nice smell and adds some humidity to the room. Talira goes and sits by the bed and she touches her hand gently to her mom's shoulder. Hey mom, I'm home.

Speaker: Lou steps in at this point and kind of wraps her arm around one of your arms. You hear Gwynad, you all have been amazing. I think now I just need time to work, and even more so, she just needs time to heal.

Speaker: mean, we do what we can. um When Mom is awake, i have a question for the both of you. I wanted to say something now so I don't forget.

Speaker: And then Talira turns to Lou. Have you gotten to meet her yet? I have, yeah. Gwyn had needed some help a few days ago, and I lended a hand.

Speaker: Your mother is beautiful, Talira. I can't wait to get know her. Talira smiles. I'm glad she looks back at her mom. You see that smile on her face again, just very light.

Speaker: She really is beautiful, isn't she? She's also the biggest badass, I know. You see her thinking, like, she she looks like she's recalling something, and that something would be the comment Kiro made about all of the bruises in their future. How were things here?

Speaker: Sorry, I had to leave. Things have been good. Calden and i had some good conversation. I've been guented, and honestly, this is starting to feel like home.

Speaker: Good. I'm glad. It's your home as long as you want it to be. So, did anything fun happen while running to Dunfort? Actually, yeah. um We ran into Greywolf. Dyrta, the dwarf, um she asked about you.

Speaker: They won't be at the fort for a while, but they will look into what's fucked up with your curse. Oh. Well, that's fantastic. I hope they find something.

Speaker: I'm just walking on two feet for more than two weeks i out of the year. Yeah, I bet she is blushing a little bit. She's just kind of awkward, not sure what to do here.

Speaker: i hope they find something, too. Yeah. um Change of subject. Did Giro ever mention anything about Kithra to you?

Speaker: That fucking dipshit. Is Kithra okay? Oh, she's fine. All the drama around has been about Kiro, Kithra, and Gorla. Apparently this love triangle has been crazy. That's why we don't have an extra bedroll for you.

Speaker: Why Kiro doesn't have one either. he fucking deserved that. Yeah, yeah, he did. Honestly, think Kithra's still into but into him, though.

Speaker: Really? She talks a big game, but you can tell. Huh. Also, I mean, like, I haven't spent much time with her lately, so I haven't really seen the two of them interacting much, but I know she's not one to really wait around for anyone.

Speaker: She still smiles when his name gets brought up. You know, before he catches herself and has to look angry on and purpose. Ah... I hope he's not too much of a dipshit when we're away then.

Speaker: i don't think he's ready. i mean, he wants a little adventure before he settles. I think it would do him some good. I was listening to some of the conversations and apparently he really has trouble sleeping.

Speaker: Githra says he doesn't open much up to her, but one night he had a few too many ciders and got emotional. Said he didn't feel ready and that's just a lot of pressure. Is it bad that it made me like him more now that I know he's more sensitive than he lets on?

Speaker: I mean, he always has been. If he were a total dipshit, I wouldn't be friends with him. He's got a good heart. Kirill's going to be coming on us with our next contract with the guild once Mom is better. Honestly, think it'll be better for him, too. I mean, I asked if i want if he wanted to come along.

Speaker: This is his home, and... I feel like he needs to realize that too. But he has to get out to realize it.

Speaker: A good heart for a good man. Mom.

Speaker: Mom! Skyspeaker!

Speaker: Hey, Mom. And Talira is, at this point now, putting her arms under her mom and trying to help her into a position where it's a little easier to breathe.

Speaker: Gwynedd opens up the door flap. Glad to see you are with the living again. oh my little giant. I've missed you. Mom, I've missed you too.

Speaker: She gives you a really weak hug. And that's when the waterworks start for Talira. there why like They're happy tears. They're definitely happy tears. And she's not like a sobbing wreck or anything, but you can tell she is overwhelmed with emotion. And yeah.

Speaker: I've missed you too, mom. How are you feeling? Like I've swallowed a pregnant bloat tone and gave birth in my stomach. home

Speaker: Mom, stop. You okay?

Speaker: Oyla, you must take it easy. No laughing if you can help it. Your lungs need much rest for some time. You can see that your mom just ignores Gwynedd for a minute to take her finger and gently wipe away some of your tears.

Speaker: Mom! Mom!

Speaker: I am so sorry you had to abandon your mission for me. I know deep in my heart that you were helping someone who needed you. But thank you. I love you so much, Delira.

Speaker: I was scared I wasn't going to be able to tell you that again. I love you too, Mom.

Speaker: Don't worry about the mission. the problem isn't happening again. i was needed here. Don't you fucking apologize about this, okay?

Speaker: Besides, we needed to bring Lou back here. promised we'd keep her safe. Who is Lou? You speak her name with... once.

Speaker: She's right here. Mom, meet Lou. Her story is not mine to tell, but I told her she has a home here as long as she would like one.

Speaker: Lou, this is my mom. Orilla Don Collor Eculanati. Hello, ma'am. Glad to see you recovering.

Speaker: Your home and people have been wonderful to me. And your daughter has too. Please... There no extra bedrolls, I've been told.

Speaker: you are safe among my people lira have you given her a tent and a bedroll yet

Speaker: they or no extra bad roles i've been pulled Oh shit! I'm such a dipshit, Lou! i was in town and I was so focused on getting the ginger and then thrown off by this creepy vendor.

Speaker: I got you some clothes though. i didn't want you to be cold. I could have gotten a bedroll. I'm... oh Oh, thank you.

Speaker: That'll do just fine. And Arilla, it's no problem. Your daughter has graciously offered for me to share her bedroll with her. And you see that your mother, still weak as ever, manages to kind of turn her head just the littlest bit and raises an eyebrow at you.

Speaker: Oh, has she now. Talira is blushing at this point. I would think that my daughter, Talira Grimstone Eculunathi,

Speaker: would know that our family line is a proud one and would instead happily give up our bedrolls to a guest who needed one.

Speaker: She says this with a weak but like just a stupid grin on her face as she looks at you. She starts to laughing and it just, it erupts once again into just violent coughing as as you see a little bit of blood at the end of it splatter onto the bed sheet.

Speaker: Mom! Don't hurt yourself. Don't laugh. Gods. Damn it, Orilla. What did I just say? And Quinnid comes in with a wet towel and the salve she was working on with the with the ginger.

Speaker: Let this sit on your tongue and then drink it in a few minutes, okay? You see that Lou is also laughing quietly, kind of hiding her blushing face. but This is thoroughly embarrassing.

Speaker: But yes, Lou, you are welcome to use my happy mom. Yes, quite. and she lays she You can see she kind of lays her head back still with that sly grin.

Speaker: Why is just speaking so taxing? Fuck this curse of disease. Talira, do you mind to bring Kiro to me? I want to speak with him before I rest again.

Speaker: Yeah, of course. I'll go get them. I love you, Mom. I love you too, little giant. Talira gets up and squeezes her mom's hand, and then she turns to Lou.

Speaker: So what trouble do you think Kiro is getting up to now? I'll be back in a few, Mom. As Talira goes to get Kiro, they're able to bring him back and they're able to have their conversation regarding the leadership of the tribe.

Speaker: And from there, things go well. As over the next six, eight weeks and so on, your mother slowly but surely begins to gain strength.

Speaker: The recovery is still going to take a long time, but she's safe. After several of those weeks, Granite Fist comes and finds you, Talira. Granite Fist?

Speaker: What's going on? It's time you get back out there. What? Mom's just getting better. But... But I need to be here.

Speaker: What are you doing? I am getting what Mom needs. I am spending time with her and I'm getting rest. I think you wanted me to do that the last time you talked.

Speaker: You got rest. It's been weeks. Any one of us can get what Gwena needs now. Your mother's gonna be alright. She's going to be fine. And I'm not telling you to leave for good.

Speaker: You're going to grow restless, and your blades are going to grow dull, as your senses will as well. You're telling me I need another contract. I'm telling you to go do what you're good at and what you enjoy.

Speaker: Okay. I'll tell Calden and I'll get moving. Good. Tomorrow. We need funds to buy more ginger anyway, so you're still going to be helping your mother.

Speaker: That's fair. I can do that. Good. Glad to hear it. And Granite Fist turns on her heel and walks away. Well, shit. All right.

Speaker: Talira gets up. I don't know if she would have been in the tent at that point. what were Were we inside of the tent? Where where were we? I was personally envisioning her inside a tent. i was Okay, yeah. I was thinking she probably came to your tent shortly after waking you up.

Speaker: Or shortly after you'd be waking up. Okay, yeah. Would Lou have been in there then? were not? Yeah, I'd say so. Okay. Talira looks over at Lou...

Speaker: Well, I guess I'm going to get more money for Ginger. do you want to stay here for a little longer, or i mean you're always welcome to come along?

Speaker: Lou kind of looks up into the air for a moment, contemplating, and just kind of shakes her head no. Okay. It shouldn't be too long, I guess. And um this is a great place, isn't it?

Speaker: She smiles and nods her head. I guess I should go find Calden and let him know. She nods her head again. Like, yep.

Speaker: ah We really need to figure out a way for us to talk or something, because this is going to be really hard. She just kind of shrugs her shoulders.

Speaker: We'll figure it out later. oh oh I'll think about it. I don't know how successful I will be, i but I will think about it. She takes her paw and pats it on her head too and just kind of nods at you.

Speaker: Yeah. All right. And Talira heads out to find Calden. Where would Talira find Calden at? Talira's an early riser, right? Ish, yeah.

Speaker: Although I guess Calden doesn't have to rest nearly as long. No, he gets that nice trance, jealous.

Speaker: He'd be chilling somewhere. Hey, Calden. Good morning. Um, so Granite Fist is kicking me out of the nest.

Speaker: Time to fly again? Yeah. it Besides, she says we need more money to buy more ginger, and i need to do what I am good at.

Speaker: When do we leave? Tomorrow. You don't have to go if you don't want, but... No, I... I'll go. Good.

Speaker: Glad to have you around. Lou's gonna stay behind. um I did tell Kiro that he could come along on some smaller kinds of adventures. He sort of needs to see the world a little bit.

Speaker: So he'll be tagging along. yeah i should probably tell him to. That'll go well. Yeah. Yeah. I hope he's not too much of a dipshit.

Speaker: I wouldn't hold your breath about that. It'll be small-time contracts, at least. Nothing big. That's definitely for the best. um Okay, i'll I'll get stuff together and we'll leave tomorrow.

Speaker: Sounds good. And the next day you guys were able to head out for your contract, and after that one... you did another one, and after that one, you did another one, and so and so forth.

Speaker: Until eventually your mother was good enough for you to feel comfortable leaving for longer and bigger ones, in which you took a contract that required a delivery to the City of Glory on a peninsula quite some distance away.

Speaker: I think that is where today's episode will end. Finally caught up to present. Woo! Woohoo! We did it Well, audience, I hope you enjoyed today's episode. And if you don't remember, our next upload is not in two weeks, but it is a month from now. And it is going to be our Table Talk episode where we review all of the first season and answer some of your guys' questions.

Speaker: And then after that, season two. Yes! So hope you guys look forward to that. Some good stuff so far in season two. Absolutely, there has been. Start sending in questions if you haven't already. We'll go over them. please. Yes, please do send in those questions. You can find us on all of our socials.

Speaker: Or you can leave comments here on this podcast episode, depending on what platform you're on. And um as as always, we want to hear from you guys. So make sure to let us know what you like, what you dislike, so on, so forth. Hit up our link tree, and you can also find our Discord server if you want to join the community. We also have a coffee if you feel like giving us a little bit of coffee, aka money. But if you don't, that's fine too. And even more so, if you want to give us any sort of monetary support, we have our Patreon. And of course, there you can find some extra content and get to know us a little bit more there, especially with two of our little talk shows we started. so either way, hope you guys enjoyed today and we will see you next time. Bye.

Speaker: I'm going to go to the next one.