The Dragon's Wrath: A Virtual Dream

Chapter 16: A Crowded Cabin for Two

(Saturday, March 6th Game Day / Friday, January 22nd Real Day)

In conversing with the newly found Companion, I discovered that she had a rather peculiar circumstance. As she told it, "I was originally part of a traveling convent led by the Brother Saul along with a few hunters that would provide for us on our travel, which included my friend Selene.

"But roughly three weeks ago, upon nearing Andal we were suddenly attacked by bandits and we hurriedly fled towards the village.

"After running as fast as we could, Selene and I were rescued by the Earl's men and the bandits had dispersed into the forest. We were the only survivors… the Earl had offered us food and shelter for our suffering and promised to protect and avenge our fallen brothers.

"But it was all a lie! We were taken by their words and Selene had decided to go hunting in the forest to help with provisions, so we could be self-reliant.

"Not a day after she had left I noticed that some of the Earl's men looked similar to the bandits! And soon after that the Earl declared to me that he would make me his fourth wife!

"I couldn't believe my ears! He even said that despite my lack of good looks, he would provide for me as he was a benevolent man! My looks he says! The bastard!"

Of course the first thing I took from this conversation was that she seemed more insulted by the Earl's comment on her "lack" of good looks than the fact that the Earl may have ordered the killing of the men from the convent. But it was wise to not really say anything in these types of situations, reaffirming her opinion or denying the other's isn't what she wants to hear, she just wants someone to listen.

But I'm curious, so I'll ask a question anyways to prove I'm at least listening.

I ask her, "You said you would be made the fourth wife? What of the first three?"

She puffed her cheeks as her shoulders rose and I could see the big explosion building, ah what did I just get myself into… "They're still alive! And they are hideous! The first wife is a grotesquely overweight slovenly pig that does nothing but stuff her cheeks like a chipmunk! The second wife is cross-eyed with pig-tails and rabbit teeth! The third… the third, I don't even know what she looks like but who cares!?"

Ah, well.

At first I thought… may haps the man simply has exceptionally high standards, but even so… the woman in front of me should please any man's pallet.

She stands a rough 5'9" with lovely fair skin with the slightest hint of a tan, a slender frame yet athletic nonetheless, long wavy dark brown hair that lies slightly past her shoulders, piercing tri-color eyes that melt your heart, a truly angelic face, and eh-hem, to top it off… more than ample assets… from all angles.

Yes, I've come to the conclusion that this Earl is in bad taste, simply bad taste.

Mhmm.

Before I could let my mind wander any further I was interrupted by her, "Ahem, so, after hearing what he had in store for me and realizing that the 'bandits' were most likely his men, I decided to immediately escape.

"I knew Selene had headed in this general direction so I set off to find her before the Earl would notice I was gone. I figured she would have followed the river… but after traveling for three days I still haven't seen a trace of her."

Ah so that's how it is.

Time to interject!

"I haven't seen any hunters around these parts as of yesterday, but I just returned from the top of the mountain. It's possible she may have passed by and continued on. Do you think she may have returned to the village already?"

At this her eyes were wide in terror, "Oh Gods! I hope not! She could be punished or even worse for my refusal of the Earl! My liege, would you grant me one more favor and find Selene before the Earl does? You're the only one I can ask!"

Wait.

Wait.

Hold on a minute, who is she calling her liege?

"Um, my liege, you say?"

She steadfastly replies, "I owe you my life, for I would have most certainly perished if it were not for your kindness, as I have no way to repay you, all I can offer is my services. If you agree to find Selene, I will swear fealty to you and serve you until you see fit! Please, you must find Selene before the Earl does!"

After hearing this I start to scratch the side of my chin, seems my beard got itchy all of a sudden, now my cheeks itchy too ai-yah-yah.

A second later a system message appeared:

[Available Quest: Find Selene!]

[Do you wish to accept?]

[Yes / No]

I selected [Yes], whelp… looks like I'll have to get my exploring on.

Although I have no reason to disbelieve everything I've been told, I'm a little reluctant to believe everything either.

Searching the forest in the winter for a hunter with a trail that's nearly a week cold is asking for the near impossible. Without any more information I think the best course of action would be to venture towards the Northern Triangle and gather some intelligence.

But first I have to do something about my new loyal companion… ah, that's right.

I haven't introduced myself.

Where are my manners, "You know, I forgot to introduce myself… my name is Roth Sigurd, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Extending a hand out I find she is quite receptive as she takes my hand and lightly bows, "The pleasure is all mine, and my name is Katherine, Priestess Katherine."