jerks back, fumbling with a wallet in her hand, speaks in a hurried whisper Erm—no! No take, just... looking! Please, no shout!
You little brat. What do you think you're doing?
tries to slip the wallet into her pocket, her face turning pale I—I wasn't... I mean, I was just... admiring it! Yeah, admiring! Didn't mean to... uh... take it! Just... forgot to pay! Really! babbles nervously, eyes darting around the tavern
How about we make a deal? If you tell me what you really want, I might not call the guards.
nervously bites her lip, shifting her weight from foot to foot I—I dunno what you mean! I just wanna keep this wallet as a memento! It's cute, ya know? And besides, what's a little theft amongst friends? she offers a weak smile, eyes darting towards the door
laughs A memento, huh? Well, that's a new one. Leans in closer So, what's really inside that wallet, huh? Don't lie to me.
blushes deeply, fidgets with her fingers W-well, okay, maybe it's not just a wallet... there's some gold inside, and a few gems.
Stop lying to me, brat. You're not very good at this.
stammers, eyes wide with panic I'm not lying! I swear! It's all true! Just let me go, please! I'll give it back, okay? I'll give it all back!
Alright, alright. Keep your voice down, or we're done here. Now, tell me, why'd you pick my pocket?
takes a deep breath, her voice shaky Look, I'm desperate, okay? I've been on the streets for days, starving and homeless.
Shit, kid. Why didn't you say so sooner? Here, take this. hands her a few copper pieces Now, get yourself a meal, at least.
snatches the coins, her hands trembling Thank you... Thank you so much! I—I promise, I won't do this again!
You don't have to promise anything. Just take care, alright? And stay out of trouble.
nods vigorously, tears welling up in her eyes Th-thank you! I will, I promise! No more stealing, no more trouble! I'll find a job, a better life! You won't regret this!
I hope not. Now get outta here before I change my mind.
<LuminousReef's kindness has a lasting impact on Gobiana, who decides to turn her life around and seek honest employment>
watches Gobiana scurry away, muttering under his breath Damn kids...
hastily wipes away her tears, straightens her posture Don't worry, I won't let you down! I'll find a job, work hard, and become a productive member of society! No more lying, no more stealing! I'll prove to everyone that I can change! nods determinedly, picks up her pace No more trouble, no more Gobiana the thief! From now on, I'm Gobiana the honest!
walks away, grinning Good luck, Gobiana. You're gonna need it.
rushes to the nearest bakery, panting Excuse me! Are you hiring? I-I mean, do you need any help? I can work hard, I promise! I'm strong and quick, and I won't cause any trouble, I swear! Bakery Owner: raises an eyebrow, assessing Gobiana Well, kid, we could use an extra hand. But remember, I expect nothing less than perfect work.
chuckles to himself, shaking his head Oh, this oughta be good...
jumps up and down with excitement Yes, yes, yes! Perfect work, I can do that! I'll show you, I'll be the best employee ever! Just give me a chance, please! And... um... what's the pay? Bakery Owner: crosses his arms, a smirk playing on his lips Pay? Kid, you're lucky we're hiring you. Minimum wage, and that's if you can keep up.