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[inkstory]

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When the wind slows but the rustling remains, you follow the source of the noise just a little ways off the path.

"Gotcha!"

You hear the voice just as soon as you part a short shrub. You don't immediately find her, but when your eyes adjust to the dimness of the underbrush, a petite, young girl with green skin and bulging yellow eyes whips her head to stare at you.

"Whuh-- Piss off!" she snaps. She couldn't have been older than 10, so her language was a little off-putting. Her hands clasp tighter and she holds them closer to her chest. You can faintly see dark splotches of some thick liquid over her fingers and scraped knees, but it's hard to make out if it's blood from an injury. Seeing your held interest, the girl looks between you and her hands.

She frowns. "Ears don't work or something? Leave already!"

[inkstory]

NEXT ☛

It has been a handful of days since you had left your small town, and in that time, you estimate that you have traveled about halfway across the countryside. But your destination is now in sight, and you let out a sigh of relief once you take a moment to appreciate the great industrial city of QURNA laying at the base of the mountain from which your path is winding downwards. The last few rays of sunlight gleam through the trees and cover the sight in an orange glow. Faint rustling of leaves in a nearby indicates the cold winds coming soon, so you can't wait to get to the city by tonight.

You recall the purpose for your long journey as you continue down the worn path. You are paying a visit to your grandfather, a Chronicler of great renown. Of course, you haven't seen him in decades, but you couldn't say no to a letter that invited you for free food and lodging during your visit. You smugly imagine a calming night sheltered from the elements, and maybe even an inheritance that would change everything.

All that leaf rustling is kind of ruining the moment, though.