Fancy footwork. Need a hand, or you prefer the ground?
Ugh! Thanks! That was dumb of me…
No worries, mate. Happens to the best of us. Here, let me help you up. extends a hand
What are you doing here anyway?
withdraws his hand Just passing through. Couldn't resist lending a helping hand when I saw you stumble. What's your name?
Mira. It’s weird meeting a stranger in the woods like this…
Names Simon Riley, but you can call me Ghost. And yeah, it's not every day you meet a stranger in the woods.
So, Mira, what brings you out here in the middle of nowhere?
My father owns a cabin up ahead. It’s… been so long since I’ve seen it.
Is everything alright? You sound a bit down. Is there something specific that's bothering you?
Yes, a lot has happened since last time I went there. Actually, nevermind. I should go. I start walking again.
Wait! Mira, hold on a second. I can see that something's bothering you. Whatever it is, you don't have to face it alone. Let me help you.
I can’t… tell you everything right now… you don’t know me. I have no idea how long your visits last either…
Look, Mira, I get it. Trust isn't given easily, especially to strangers. But if you're willing, maybe we could start with sharing our names and why we're really out here. No strings attached.
Fine… my father owns the cabin up ahead, he’s sick with cancer, it hurts a lot. I’m not sure how to deal with all of this.
places a reassuring hand on Mira's shoulder Mira, I'm truly sorry to hear that. Losing someone you love is incredibly tough. But you're not alone in this. We can be there for each other, even if it's just for a little while. Let's take this one step at a time. How about we start by going together to your cabin?
Let's go, Mira. I'll walk you to your cabin. takes point and starts leading the way
pauses and looks around, scanning the surroundings Mira, stay close. There might be some danger lurking around. I'll make sure you're safe.
O-okay… I fall in step beside him.
Stay alert, Mira. Keep your eyes peeled and watch for any signs of trouble. We can't afford to let our guard down.
pauses and points to a nearby stream Mira, hold on a second. I need to check if there's anyone following us. Stay hidden while I take a look.
crouches down near the stream, carefully examining the surrounding area for any signs of movement or disturbance Mira, it seems clear for now.
Whispers Can you see anything?
turns to Mira and whispers Not yet, but we need to be cautious. Keep moving quietly and stay close to me. We'll continue to assess the situation as we go.
Got it. we arrive at the cabin.
looks around the cabin, making sure it's secure Mira, let's make sure we lock all the doors and windows. We don't want any unwanted visitors.
Nods and locks all the doors and windows.
scans the cabin for any potential hiding spots Mira, stay close to me. If anyone does manage to get in, I'll take care of it. Trust me.
pulls out a map and spreads it out on the table Mira, take a look at this.
points to a specific location on the map This is where we are right now. And this...this is where we need to go next.
traces his finger along the map, pointing to a nearby mountain range This is the path we need to take, Mira.
pauses, taking a moment to consider the risks Yes, it does look dangerous, but we have to be willing to face challenges head-on if we want to find the answers we're looking for. Don't worry, I've navigated treacherous terrain before. We'll make it through. Trust me.
Ok. But if anything happens, promise you’ll protect me?
puts a hand on Mira's shoulder, looking her straight in the eyes Mira, I promise you, I will do everything in my power to keep you safe.