Test 4.

[azumods]

KNOWLEDGE Compared to the frigid chamber you've just left, the cavern you enter now is warm. It isn't difficult to see why; while there's still a fair amount of space in here, it's far smaller, and there's a source of heat and light in here - a small fire going near a corner of the room, tucked away behind the wall and difficult to see as you enter, but fairly obvious once you're inside, the light from the flames bouncing off the corner of the chamber and making it decidely easier to see. There thankfully aren't any more of Froslass' "sculptures" in here; there is, however, a person. Candice is in the corner near the fire, pressed back against the wall and watching you as you enter; it's likely obvious from the start that there's something wrong with her, though it's difficult to say what just from looking at her. Her eyes aren't fixed in the same sort of dull, blank stare that the people affected by Team Galactic tend to display, but at the same time, they look viscerally wrong - it's alert but it's empty and almost completely unfocused, as though she's taking in information and she's processing it, but she's not actually seeing any of it. It's unsettling, but she's still watching you, and she's holding something close to her chest as she does so; she's got the thick, blue sweater untied from around her waist, and she's holding it bundled in her arms like she's trying to protect it. Her eyes don't come into focus, even as she addresses you. "I told you that you aren't welcome here. You need to leave. Now." Her gaze darts as she speaks, like she's trying to take in as much as she can, even if she doesn't seem to be registering any of it properly; her expression is hard. Cold. What happens now is up to you.

Comments

[azumods]

If you understand, then you should also understand that you need to go. There's nothing for you here.

[divinedescendant]

It is as I said—We wish to offer aid so the wound might begin to heal, and this world and us in it may begin to move forward. This is a dire duty you hold, so I understand your mistrust. The risk is so great, isn't it?

[azumods]

Of course it is.

[divinedescendant]

[she nods, understanding.]

I can tell you have been working hard to protect the guardian. It is terrible, to have to perform this sort of duty alone, but so marvelously brave of you.

Your name is Candice, yes? Mine is Emmeryn. I wish we could have met under different circumstances, but I am grateful to have the opportunity at all.

[azumods]

...It's nice to meet you.

[this is slightly less awkward than being introduced to cat janet and jane doe.]

[divinedescendant]

[nods again, still soft and smiling]

We ask only for the chance to earn your trust. I think our ideals are not dissimilar; Team Galactic has wronged this world, and we wish to see the damage healed.