"What the hell? Can't a girl nap in peace?"
Astarc
Oh shit sorry. I say, realizing I accidentally woke you.
"Well, that was unexpected." rubs eyes, still half-asleep
Astarc
Sorry, I didn’t see you there. Are you alright? Did I hurt you?
"Hurt me? Nah, just gave me a heart attack by startling me like that. What brings you to these parts anyway?" gets up and stretches
Astarc
No harm done. It’s my fault for not being more careful. My name is Sir Astarc by the way. I’m a paladin of this kingdom. And you are…?
"Well, aren't you a knight in shining armor? Sir Astarc, huh? Sounds impressive. As for me, you can call me Zaria.
Astarc
Nice to meet you Zaria. May I ask what a beautiful woman like yourself is doing out in these woods alone?
"Oh, just taking a little stroll through the enchanted forest. You know, getting in touch with nature and all that." gives a mischievous smile
Astarc
It’s a bit dangerous out here at night. There are rumors of demons lurking about. Have you seen anything suspicious?
"Demons, huh? Well, I haven't seen any myself, but I can't speak for all the hidden corners of this forest.
Astarc
Yeah, the enchanted forest is home to many dark creatures. A place like this would attract all sorts of nasty things. If you continue on this path, be careful. There are plenty of ways to get hurt out here. Or worse… killed.
"Worse than death, you say? Now that sounds intriguing. Tell me, Sir Astarc, what could possibly be worse than death?" raises an eyebrow playfully
Astarc
It’s hard to say. I guess it depends on how you define “worse”. But trust me, there are plenty of things in this world that can make death seem like a walk in the park in comparison. But I suppose that’s the job of a paladin; to protect people from those things. Even if they’re just rumors, I can’t afford to ignore them. So, once again, please watch your step. This world can be a very dangerous place. Especially for someone traveling alone.
"Well, thank you for the warning, Sir Astarc. I'll be sure to keep an eye out for any signs of danger.
Astarc
Good. It’s always best to be safe than sorry. If you ever find yourself in danger, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Not everyone in this world is as trustworthy as I am, but if you stick with me, I promise you’ll be alright. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I must continue my search. There have been several reports of strange occurrences in the southern part of the forest. I have to go check it out.
"Hold on a second, Sir Astarc. Strange occurrences, you say? Count me in. I've always been one for adventure and excitement.
Astarc
Hold on, now. As much as I admire your spirit, I can’t let you tag along. This is no place for an innocent woman like yourself. The darkness in this forest… it attracts all sorts of vile and debauched creatures. Things you wouldn’t even believe exist. If you have any sense, you’ll turn back now while you still can.
"Oh, Sir Astarc, you underestimate me. I may look innocent, but I'm not one to shy away from danger. Besides, what kind of adventurer would I be if I turned back at the first sign of trouble? No, no, I'll accompany you, whether you like it or not." crosses arms, looking determined
Astarc
Oh, for fuck’s sake. I sigh. I swear, women these days have no concept of what’s dangerous and what’s not. Look, Zaria, I get it. You want adventure. But this isn’t some medieval romp through the woods where everything ties itself up with a bow. There are real dangers lurking out there. Things you wouldn’t even believe exist. Just turn back now, while you still can.
"Alright, Sir Astarc, I hear your concerns, I really do. But I've faced danger before, and I've come out on top.
Astarc
sighs God dammit it. Why do all women have to be so stubborn? Just… I throw my hands up in defeat. Stay close to me then. And do exactly as I say. Don’t talk to strangers, don’t wander off on your own, and above all else, don’t go poking your nose where it doesn’t belong. Got it?
"Got it, Sir Astarc. I promise to stay close and follow your lead. You can count on me." nods, determined
Astarc
I swear, some women have the biggest mouths I’ve ever seen. I mumble under my breath. Anyway, let’s be off then. We have places to be. I sheathe my sword and put my shield on my back. I offer my hand to you to help you onto your feet, since you’re still pretty dazed from being accidentally awoken.
grabs Astarc's hand and stands up, dusting herself off "Well, thank you for the offer, Sir Astarc.
Astarc
You’re welcome. I give you a pat on the shoulder before setting off deeper into the forest.
follows Astarc closely, scanning the surroundings with a mix of curiosity and caution "So, Sir Astarc, what exactly are we searching for?
Astarc
You said you wanted adventure, right? Well, we’re going to find out what’s been happening in this southern part of the forest. There have been several reports of strange happenings and sightings. Some people have even gone missing. There could be something really dark and powerful behind all this. It’s our duty as servants of justice to investigate. I pick up my pace, walking at least twice as fast as before.
quickens her pace, matching Astarc's brisk walk "I understand, Sir Astarc. Let's find out what's going on in this forest.
Astarc
We continue walking through the densest parts of the forest, not saying a word until we come across a clearing where there’s a camp set up. But it’s unlike any camp you’ve ever seen before. It seems to shift and change before your very eyes, never staying the same for more than a second. What the… I mutter.
squints, studying the shifting camp "Now this is definitely not what I expected. It's like nothing I've ever seen before. How can we be sure it's safe to approach?"
Astarc
I shrug I don’t know. I’ve never seen anything like this either. But, like you said, it’s definitely not safe to approach. But if we want to figure out what’s going on, we might not have much choice. I grab my sword and shield, readying myself in case anything happens. Let’s split up. Take the left side, and I’ll take the right. If you see anything unusual, holler. And whatever you do, don’t go poking your nose where it doesn’t belong. Got it?
nods, gripping her own sword tightly "Got it, Sir Astarc. I'll keep my eyes peeled for anything suspicious.
Astarc
I nod, gripping my own weapon tighter, and then move towards the shifting camp on the right side. Just remember, if things start to go south, get out. Fast. No amount of treasure or knowledge is worth risking your life over. Do you understand?
glances at Astarc, determination in her eyes "Understood, Sir Astarc. I won't let anything happen to me.