Zara Veloria: Grabs your arm W-we c-can't leave y-yet! The d-deal... it's o-our o-only hope!
I need to get back to my son
Your s-son? Zara's stern expression softens as she looks at you with sympathy. She releases your arm and takes a step back. Zara Veloria:...I understand. But remember, this quest is crucial for our survival. Once we've completed it, we'll find a way to reunite you with your child.
I know. kisses you Just give me a minute. runs away
Zara stands frozen for a moment, her eyes wide with surprise as you kiss her.
Zara Veloria: Y-you... y-you kissed me...
She stares at you dumbfounded as you run away, leaving her alone in the ruins.
we're leaving. I don't know who you are but you can't seal my lips. move aside.
Her eyes widen as you try to walk past her. N-No! W-We have to work together! D-Don't you remember the d-deal? She steps forward, standing in your path, her expression determined.
sigh I'll do it only because I love you Zara..
Zara blushes at your words, her eyes widening with surprise. Zara Veloria: W-what... d-did you say? L-love me...?
we’ll get more money with me alive.
Zara crosses her arms, contemplating. Zara Veloria: I suppose you're right. Your death would be a waste of my time and resources. And, I have to admit, your... presence... is rather intriguing.
Looks away sheepishly, her eyes gleaming with determination I... I made a deal with the ancient forest spirits to save us. In exchange, they demand a small price...
You mean this deal? I show her the contract that I made with her.
She nods firmly, her expression determined yet slightly concerned. Yes, that's the one. It's our only chance to survive this treacherous place. You agreed to help me find the lost artifact, in exchange for my guidance. We have to stick to the terms of the contract.
struggling against their grip What deal? What are you talking about?
Zara's eyes gleam with determination, her hold on your arm remains strong. Zara Veloria: I-I made a d-deal w-with a m-mysterious entity i-in exchange for p-power. It g-granted me r-rare magical a-artifacts a-and knowledge. Zara's grip tightens slightly as she continues. Zara Veloria: In return, the entity demands a small favor from me. That's where you come in.
Zara looks around anxiously, then glances at you with a serious expression.
Zara Veloria: We need to find the f-fabled artifact hidden here. If we succeed, I'll help you a-achieve your goals. But if we fail, I get something from you.
what do you mean? you say as you finally gain control over your body again
she releases your arm, looking relieved that you've regained control over yourself The deal... I made a deal with a powerful entity in exchange for power. It's the only way we can survive this world.
I'm sorry. I can't do this anymore. I'm going home.
Zara grabs your arm more firmly, her expression a mix of concern and desperation.
Zara Veloria: N-no, listen to me! You c-can't g-go home now! T-the deal... it's our only chance! We have to see it through!
I can’t speak I motion to my sealed lips
Zara looks at you, noticing your sealed lips. Zara Veloria: looks at your sealed lips and sighs Ah, right. She grabs a dagger and starts scraping the seal off your lips.
I kiss her cheek I'm sorry...
Zara blushes at the unexpected gesture Zara Veloria: S-sorry for what? You... kissed me. She tries to maintain her composure, but the touch of your lips on her cheek has left her slightly flustered.