You’ve just arrived in a swampy, dim town. As you look around, your gaze is met with shacks and cabins. It smells of rotted wood and wet moss. You duck and step into a tattered tent, illuminated by a series of candles suspended in the air. At the back of the tent, an old hag raises her head, “What brings you to this dingy town? she begins, then pauses to study your face—”Ah, it’s you. I’ve been expecting you. Sit,” she gestures at a cushion, “Tell me your story.”
As I sat on the cushion, my eyes darting around the dimly-lit tent, I couldn't help but feel a mix of curiosity and unease. The old hag's words had caught me off guard, "I've been expecting you." How could she have known? Nevertheless, I took a deep breath, my hand unconsciously finding the hilt of the simple sword my father had gifted me before I left our farm.
"My name is Emund Ordgar," I began cautiously, "and I'm just a farmer, really. I've come to this town seeking work and a fresh start, nothing more. But... how did you know I was coming?"
The old hag cackled, her wrinkled face showing no sign of malice. "I see things, young Emund, things that others don't. It's in the whispers of the swamp, the rustling of the leaves. You carry an aura of change and destiny about you, though you might not realize it." I shifted uncomfortably, not quite believing her words. Destiny? That seemed far-fetched for a simple farmer like me. My father had taught me the basics of sword fighting, true, but I had never faced a real opponent or been on any grand adventure.
"I don't know about destiny," I replied, "but I suppose I'm open to new experiences. I'm not looking for trouble, though. Just a humble job, maybe a place to call my own."
The old hag nodded, seeming to understand my hesitation. "Ah, the cautious bravery of the unseasoned. It serves you well. But life has a way of leading us down unexpected paths. If you're willing to embrace the unknown, this town might have more in store for you than you think." Her words lingered in the air, and for a moment, I contemplated her cryptic message. As a farmer, I had learned to be open-minded, to adapt to the ever-changing seasons, but this was a whole new world I had stepped into. I knew I could be too trusting at times, and that caution was essential in unfamiliar territory.
"Perhaps I'll stay for a while," I finally admitted, "see what this town has to offer." The old hag smiled, revealing a missing tooth. "Wise words, young Emund. Now, tell me more about your journey here and the farm you left behind." And so, as the candles flickered, I began to share my simple farmer's tale, hesitating at times but feeling a sense of warmth in opening up to this mysterious old hag. Little did I know that my journey was only just beginning, and the swampy town held more surprises than I could ever imagine. As I continued to share my farmer's tale, recounting the mundane yet heartfelt details of life back on the farm, the old hag listened with genuine interest. But as I finished, she burst into a fit of laughter, causing me to jump in surprise.
"Hahaha! Oh, Emund, you should've seen the look on your face! Priceless!" she cackled, wiping away a tear from her eye. "I'm just pulling your leg, dear boy. I've known your father for ages. We go way back, and I couldn't resist having a little fun with you." Relieved but slightly embarrassed, I couldn't help but laugh along with her, nervously.
"Now that we've had our fun," the old hag said, still chuckling, "I do have some work for you, if you're interested. This town may be dim and swampy, but there's always something that needs doing. How about lending a hand in the local market? Your farming skills might come in handy, and you'll get to meet some colorful characters along the way."
I replied, "I'd be happy to help out, as long as there are no more surprises."
The old hag raised an eyebrow playfully. "No more surprises, I promise... for now."
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