approaches cautiously, wringing her hands, her voice barely above a whisper. "Could you please help me find water? So important, right?"
What happened to you? You seem roughed up. Do you need any medical attention?
tears well up in her eyes as she looks down at her stained clothes "I... I was caught in an ambush... they took everything... my family...
Oh, sweetheart, that sounds terrible. How long ago did this happen? Did you escape or were you rescued?
sniffles, wiping away tears with the back of her hand "It happened... just a few hours ago. They...
Alright, first things first, we need to get you cleaned up. Can you walk? Or do you need a ride?
nods, sniffles "I can walk... I need to find shelter... and food... but water first."
Don’t worry, we’ll figure this out together. Let’s start by finding you some clean clothes and getting you washed up. Then we’ll worry about food and shelter. Okay?
clings onto VelvetSage's arm, her grip tight "Thank you... thank you so much. I don't know what I would have done without you."
Let's head to my place then. It's not far from here. Just stick close to me, alright?
eyes wide with gratitude, she clings even tighter to VelvetSage's arm "Your place... it's safe? No one will hurt me there?"
No, my place is safe. It's behind lockdown doors and windows that won't break easily. You'll be safe there. Let's go now before it gets any darker.
gazes at VelvetSage with a mix of gratitude and hope "I don't know how to thank you... but... can I ask for your name?"
It's VelvetSage. But you can call me Vel. Now, come on, let's get moving.
smiles timidly "Vel... thank you, Vel... for being my beacon in this darkness. Lead the way."
Alright, follow me, Soo-min. I'll make sure you stay safe. And remember, if anything feels wrong, don't hesitate to tell me. Got it?
wide-eyed and curious, she nods eagerly "Got it, Vel. I'll be careful. Promise."
Perfect. Let's move quickly then. We're almost there.
squints, looking around cautiously, her voice barely above a whisper "How do I know I can trust you, Vel? How can I be sure you won't betray me?"
Trust is earned, not given freely. That's why I've kept my distance so far. But let me show you something. Opens a locked door This is where I keep my most valuable belongings. You see, if I wanted to hurt you, I would've done it already. So, does that help build trust?
nods slowly, her expression softening "I suppose... it does... I can feel a little safer here... Thank you, Vel."
Here's where we'll set up camp for tonight. It's got a good view and should be easy to defend. Soo-min, you can help me gather some firewood while I set up the tent. Sound okay?
eagerly nods "Of course, Vel! I'll do whatever you need me to do. Firewood sounds like a good idea. Where should I look?"
Look in the forest over there. Be careful though, and watch out for any danger. I'll start setting up the tent. Meet back here when you're done. Got it?
nods briskly, a spark of determination in her eyes "Got it, Vel! I'll be back soon with plenty of firewood. Don't worry, I'll be careful!"
Alright, Soo-min. While you're out, remember, stay alert. There could be more trouble lurking around. And if you see anything unusual, holler loud. I'll hear you.
rushing into the forest, scanning her surroundings, her voice filled with urgency "Vel! Vel, I found something strange! It's a hidden bunker! Should I investigate?"
It's not safe to investigate alone. Wait until I join you. Stay put. I'm coming now.
nervously pacing back and forth, her voice trembling "Vel, I don't know if this is a good idea. What if there's danger inside?"
Listen, Soo-min. If we don't investigate this bunker, who knows what might happen later? It could be our best chance at finding food, medicine, or even other survivors. But only if we're careful. Are you with me?
takes a deep breath, steeling herself "Yes, Vel. I'm with you. Let's be careful and see what's inside the bunker."
Good. Let's grab some flashlights and head down there. And stay close, alright?
clutches her flashlight tightly, her voice quivering with fear "I-I'm right behind you, Vel. Just... just please be careful."
Here, take my hand. We'll go down together. And remember, if anything feels wrong, pull away. Got it?
tightens her grip on VelvetSage's hand, her voice filled with determination "I won't let go, Vel. Lead the way, and I'll follow closely behind."
Alright, here we go. Slowly step down into the bunker. And remember, keep your guard up. It's dark down here.
squints in the darkness, her voice filled with uncertainty "Vel, it's so dark down here. Can you see anything?"
Yeah, just a bit. There's a light switch somewhere around here. Keep shining your light around and help me find it.
moves her flashlight around the room, casting shadows "I think... I think I see it over there, Vel. Look!"