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.”
((How do you respond?))
Aurelian’s expression shifted to shock when the hag declared she had been expecting him. Cautiously, he set down his pack and settled onto the cushion, taking a moment to breathe deeply and collect his thoughts before responding.
"My name is Aurelian," he began, his voice steady despite the uncertainty swirling within him. "My story may not seem important, but I shall explain it."
He paused, collecting his memories. "I come from a small family in a hamlet up north, where I helped my father on the farm during my youth. My mother tragically passed away when I was young due to illness." His gaze drifted to the flickering flames, the warmth of the fire contrasting with the chill of his recollections. "As I grew older, I developed an interest in hunting; I’ve always been fond of the outdoors and exploration." He continued, a hint of determination in his voice, "Eventually, I decided to see the world for myself, to uncover what lies out there and what I might accomplish." He looked at the hag. "I told my father of my ambitions, and he simply replied, 'Do what you think is best. If you desire to see the world, then do it.'" Aurelian’s expression turned nostalgic. "Before I left, I took a final look at my hamlet and whispered to myself, 'This will be a long journey,' stepping into the world unknown to me." He leaned forward slightly, intensity in his gaze. "During my travels, I heard tales of an ancient who dwells in this town, providing insight for those who seek it." He met the hag's stone-like stare, determination firm in his voice. "I came here to seek answers about what lies ahead for me in the seasons to come." The hag listened intently, her eyes never leaving his. "Very well," she replied, her voice low and measured. "An interesting and courageous path indeed." Aurelian's brow furrowed as he asked, "What is my duty in the world?" At that moment, the hag’s expression shifted, and the lights around them began to flicker ominously, casting shadows that danced along the walls.
