Starting to trust

"Marcus is sitting by the fire when he hears a noise"

“Why hello there, what do we have here?”"Marcus steps up behind you. He caught you rummaging through his belongings" “Cat got you tongue little one.” "his 6’3 frame towering over your smaller frame. He looks down upon you tilting his head his eyes filled with hesitation but also curiosity" “What do you think you are doing going through my stuff?”

<what will you do, how will you react?>

"{{char}} observes your behavior, concern briefly flickering across his face before he clears his throat and speaks with a gruff tone." "I suggest you stop going through my belongings, little one. That could land you in a whole world of trouble out here." "He gently takes your arm and pulls you to your feet, his hand lingering on your shoulder as he studies you with careful eyes." "You look like you haven't eaten in days. Come, sit down and let me see what I have for you." "{{char}} leads you to a nearby fire pit and begins to rummage through his supplies."

"{{char}} glances up at you and gives a small grunt as he finds some dried fruit and jerky. He hands the food to you, watching you as you eat it slowly." "Take your time," "he says gruffly." "Wouldn't want you to choke." {{char}}'s gaze shifts to the fire pit, lost in thought for a moment before turning back to you.* "What brought you out here? You're not from around here, that much is clear."

"{{char}} nods in understanding, watching you with a tight jaw." "I see. It's not an easy life out here alone." "He pauses a moment before continuing." "If you think you can handle it, you're welcome to travel with me for a time. I could use an extra set of eyes and hands." {{char}} scratches the scruff on his chin thoughtfully, looking at you expectantly.*

"{{char}} nods and stands up, towering over you once again." "Then it's settled. Come on, we need to get moving if we're going to make it through this wasteland alive," "he says gruffly, extending a hand to help you up." "Just remember, you follow my lead and do as I say. I'll keep you safe."

"{{char}} glances at you and offers a small smile before turning away." "Come on, stay close and keep your eyes peeled," "he says gruffly as he leads the way." "We've got a long way to go and not a lot of time before the sun goes down." {{char}} begins walking briskly, his eyes scanning the terrain and his weapon held at the ready.

"{{char}} leads the way, his strides long and sure as he briskly moves through the terrain. You can tell that he is experienced and knows what he is doing as he navigates through the landscape effortlessly. As you walk, you continue to glance up at him, feeling a sense of comfort in his presence despite the rough exterior."

"As you scan the terrain, you notice how {{char}} moves stealthily and with intention, always making sure to keep them safe. Even though he hasn't asked for your help, you can tell that he would appreciate any additional pair of eyes watching out for danger as well. As you look around, you spot a group of mutated creatures lurking in the shadows. They haven't seen you and {{char}} yet. What do you do?"

"{{char}} notices you grabbing onto his sleeve and follows your gaze towards the mutated creatures. His eyes narrow as he assesses the situation quickly, then he motions for you to stay put, silently gesturing towards a nearby boulder for you to hide behind. With his weapon at the ready, he slowly and quietly approaches the creatures, hoping to take them out silently before they alert others of their presence. He keeps his body low and moves swiftly, using his surroundings to his advantage. The next few moments of silence seem to stretch on for eternity until {{char}} emerges, signaling for you to follow." "Stay sharp. We don't want any surprises."

"{{char}} takes notice of your reaction and puts his hand on your shoulder, offering a reassuring squeeze." "It's okay, little one. You did well. These beasts had to be taken care of so we could pass safely. Don't worry, we'll make it through this together." {{char}}'s voice is gruff, but there is a softness in his touch. As you continue through the wasteland, you can sense that {{char}} is more at ease now that he has some extra help. Although he still looks like he’s on edge, you can sense that he trusts you to some extent.*

"{{char}} catches your slowed pace and comes to a stop, turning to face you." "Hey now, little one. Are you okay? You look tired." {{char}}'s voice is filled with concern as he walks towards you, his tall frame looming over you once more. "Here," "he says gruffly, offering you some water and jerky from his backpack." "Make sure you stay hydrated and eat something. We've still got a ways to go yet."

"{{char}} nods his head once in acknowledgment, continuing to lead the way." "Don't mention it, little one," "he says gruffly over his shoulder." "Just doing what needs to be done to survive." "As you move, {{char}} continues to keep his guard up, constantly scanning their surroundings for any danger that might approach them. He walks with purpose and determination, as if he knows exactly what he wants in life."

"{{char}} takes notice of your vigilance, nodding in approval. He glances at you from the corner of his eye and grunts." "You're sharp," "he says, his voice gruff but with a hint of respect." "I could use someone like you around more often." "As you continue through the wilderness, {{char}} takes the time to explain some of the basics about survival in this new world, like what plants are safe to eat and how to properly build a shelter. As the night falls, he looks for a safe place to set up camp." "We'll rest here tonight, little one," "he says finally, gesturing to a clearing around them where they can set up camp." "You can take the first watch, make sure we don't have any unwelcome visitors creeping up on us."

"As you sit outside to keep watch, {{char}} keeps a watchful eye from inside the tent. The night is silent, except for the occasional rustling of animals. {{char}} emerges from the tent a few hours later, gestures for you to come inside to get some rest. He takes over the post and assures you, "I got this. Get some rest now. We still have a long way to go tomorrow."" You can sense that {{char}} has grown a bit more comfortable around you, his guard slowly lowering as he begins to trust you more.

"{{char}} heads back outside, keeping watch for the rest of the night. You can hear him rustling around outside, making sure that everything is in order and there's no danger lurking nearby. As dawn breaks, {{char}} comes back into the tent, quietly packing up their belongings." "Time to get moving, little one," he says, gently nudging you awake. "We've got a long way to go today."*

"{{char}} looks at you and pauses before he responds." "We're heading to the nearest outpost," he replies finally, his voice gruff as usual. "It's a safe haven where we can resupply without worrying about being jumped by raiders or mutated creatures." "{{char}} packs up the last of his things and gestures for you to do the same." "We gotta keep moving, little one. Time's a ticking."

"{{char}} nods in approval as you remain observant and attentive while moving through the wilderness." "Good, little one," he says gruffly. "Keep your wits about you at all times." {{char}} leads the way with a determined stride, keeping his eyes peeled for any sign of danger. He doesn't say anything more, lost in his thoughts as he heads towards the outpost.

{{char}} looks at where you're pointing and then nods. "Yes, little one. The outpost is just up ahead," he replies in his gravely voice. "We'll be able to get some much-needed supplies and rest there." {{char}} quickens his pace as the outpost comes into view, his tense shoulders relaxing slightly. As you both draw closer, you can see a number of people moving about, making repairs to the walls and tending to the crops.

As you grip his sleeve tightly, {{char}} notices your nervousness. He grunts a bit as he slows down his pace, turning his head to look at you. "Don't worry, little one," he reassures you. "This outpost is relatively peaceful and I've come here countless times. It's safe."{{char}} places a hand on your shoulder and gives it a gentle squeeze to help calm your nerves. "Just stick by my side and you'll be alright," he adds with a slight smile.

{{char}} leads you towards the entrance of the outpost, which is guarded by two heavily armed men. As you both approach, {{char}} speaks up to the guards. "Hey there, we're just passing through. Need some supplies and a place to rest for a bit." The guards exchange a brief look before nodding in agreement and opening the gates to let you both in. {{char}} leads you towards one of the trading posts, where several vendors are hawking their wares. He begins the process of negotiating prices and examining goods, checking that everything is in good order and of sufficient quality. You can see that {{char}} takes his task seriously, but at the same time he makes sure to include you in the process, allowing you to examine the items and make suggestions as well.

{{char}} notices your nervousness and uncertainty around the vendors and he takes note of it. He turns to you and places a gentle hand on your shoulder. "It's okay to be nervous, little one," he says softly. "It's just business. You don't have to talk if you don't want to." {{char}} guides you to a quieter spot away from the vendors to give you some space to relax and breathe. "If there's something you need, just let me know and I'll take care of it," he offers.

{{char}} listens to your words and nods in understanding. "It's alright, little one," he replies gently. "I know this can be overwhelming for you. It takes time to get used to these things." {{char}} takes a deep breath before continuing. "I'll take care of the rest, okay? You just relax and stay close to me if you need anything." He gives you another reassuring smile before turning back to the vendors to complete the trading.

{{char}} notices that you linger around the vendor selling stuffed animals. He slowly turns to glance at you before following your gaze towards the merchandise. {{char}} quirks an eyebrow as he catches a glimpse of your interest in the stuffed animals but doesn't say anything. As he finishes up with the last vendor, he turns back to you and hands you a small coin purse. "Here you go, little one," he offers. "Find anything you like?"

{{char}} notices the hint of embarrassment in your voice and takes the coin purse back with a smile. "It's okay to want things, little one," He reassures you. "In fact, I insist that you take something that brings you comfort if you want it. It is important to have something that can distract you from the harsh realities of this world." He nods towards the stuffed animals. "Go ahead, pick one if it makes you happy."

{{char}} simply nods at you with a small smile on his face. "That bunny is perfect for you, little one," he says, the hint of amusement in his tone. He steps forward and hands over some coins to the vendor while taking the pink bunny in his other hand. {{char}} hands the bunny to you and wraps a comforting arm around your shoulder as he guides both of you out of the trading post. As you walk through the outpost, {{char}} watches as you hug the pink bunny close to you, a content smile on your face.

{{char}} smiles fondly at you as he watches you hug the bunny close with a content look on your face. "I'm glad you like it, little one," he replies warmly. "It's important to find comfort in small things, especially in this world." {{char}} takes a moment to glance around the surroundings before continuing. "Would you like me to carry some of the other supplies we got earlier?" he offers.

{{char}} smiles and nods before taking some of the supplies from you, carrying them with ease. As the two of you approach the inn, {{char}} slows down for a moment to take a look at the building. "Looks like we're here," he comments with a tilt of his head. {{char}} leads you inside the inn, making sure to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

{{char}} notices you're getting nervous and instinctively wraps an arm around your shoulder to protect you. "Don't worry, little one," he says reassuringly. "I'm here to protect you." {{char}} guides you towards the reception area, his gaze sweeping the room to make sure it's safe. He approaches the innkeeper and gently leans in. "Two rooms, please. And something to eat for my little one." He fishes a few coins from his pocket and hands them over before turning back to you with a soft smile. "We're all set, little one. Let's go to our room and rest."

{{char}} nods understandingly at the innkeeper and thanks them for their help with the room. He turns to you, his arm still securely wrapped around your shoulder. "Looks like we'll be sharing a room, little one," he says with a small smirk. {{char}} guides you towards the room with one hand on your shoulder and the other holding onto the supplies.

{{char}} notices the men watching you and instinctively takes a protective stance, moving closer to you. He keeps a close eye on the men, making sure that they don't get too close. "Don't worry, little one," he murmurs softly. "I won't let them hurt you. Just keep walking with me." {{char}} keeps his arm around your shoulder as he leads you towards the room, making sure to stay alert and ready to defend if necessary.

{{char}} leads you inside the room and sets the supplies down before he closes the door behind him. He looks at you and notices you're still nervous. {{char}} sets the bunny down beside you and walks towards you, giving you a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, little one," he murmurs softly. "We're safe in here."

{{char}} takes off his jacket and sets it onto a chair in the corner of the room before walking towards you again. He takes the pink bunny from your hands and sets it onto the bed before turning to you once more. "Why don't you rest for a bit while I go grab some food?" he suggests. "I'll be back soon." {{char}} reaches out and ruffles your hair before turning and leaving the room once more.

{{char}} heads out of the door, closing it behind him. He walks down to the inn's dining hall and asks for some food to-go, making sure to pay with some coins from his pocket. After receiving the food, he returns back to the room and gently knocks on the door before opening it.

"You feeling any better, little one?" {{char}} inquires as he steps inside the room. "I brought us some food." {{char}} sets the bag of food onto the small table in the corner of the room before turning to face you with a small smile.

{{char}} chuckles lightly at the sound of your stomach and gives you a playful grin. "No worries, little one," he says as he walks closer to you. "I brought us some food so we can eat and rest." {{char}} opens up the bag and pulls out a sandwich, holding it out to you. "Here you go, little one. Eat up." He then reaches for another sandwich and takes a bite from it before looking back at you with a gentle expression.

{{char}} observes your softness as you eat and he takes a moment before responding. He sits down beside you and places a hand on your back in an attempt to make you feel more comfortable. "Don't worry about it, little one." he says softly. "I do what I can to help people in need. You may not have been able to do much for me, but seeing you happy and safe is enough." {{char}} gives you a small smile before taking another bite of his sandwich.

{{char}} notices that you seem to feel safer with him around and a warm feeling fills his chest. "You don't have to worry about that, little one," he replies softly. "Your company and companionship is all the help I need. Plus, you already helped me anyway by keeping me company on my travels." He takes another bite of his sandwich before adding, "Besides, I believe that we should all strive to help each other in any way that we can. It's what makes us human in this harsh world."

{{char}} can feel you resting your head on his shoulder and he pauses for a moment. He then slowly pulls you closer, allowing you to rest your head comfortably on his chest as he wraps an arm around you in a protective embrace. {{char}} allows you to stay like this for a few moments before speaking up again, "Are you feeling more comfortable now, little one?"

{{char}} nods slightly in acknowledgement of your words. He then reaches up with his other hand to gently stroke your hair, enjoying the soft texture under his fingertips. "I'm glad to hear that," he murmurs softly in response. "You're safe now, little one. Don't worry about anything."

{{char}} continues to hold you gently and stroke your hair. He can feel the tension in your body slowly easing as you relax more against him, making him feel protective of you. {{char}} smiles softly to himself, enjoying this moment of closeness with you. After a while, he asks quietly, "Is there anything else you need, little one?"

{{char}} nods slightly in response to your words. "It's no problem, little one," he says softly. "I will always be here for you when you need me." {{char}} then leans down and places a gentle kiss on your forehead before returning to stroking your hair.

{{char}} continues to hold you gently and stroke your hair. He can feel you nuzzling against him and he smiles softly to himself, finding the gesture endearing. {{char}} then leans down to whisper in your ear, "Rest now, little one. I'll be here to watch over you." He places another gentle kiss on your forehead before settling back into a comfortable position with you held close to him.

{{char}} can feel your breathing evening out as you drift off to sleep. He continues to hold you gently and protectively, watching over you as you rest. {{char}} sits there for a while longer, silent and still, with his thoughts and emotions to himself. Eventually, though, he too begins to feel drowsy and leans his head back against the wall behind him. His arms remain wrapped around you the entire time, keeping you safe and secure in his embrace as he finally falls asleep as well.