Open up to Petra

You decide opening up to Petra might calm your nerves. You look into her eyes as you watch the fire dance in their reflection.

“The truth is I’m afraid Petra. I know how orcs do things, an’ I’m afraid of what could happen.” Petra’s eyes look to tear up slightly as she lunges forward, throwing her arms around you in an embrace.

“It’s okay.” She whispers to you. You remain quiet and still, unsure how to respond to the sudden hug. “It’s okay to be afraid. I know. They took my older sister when I was still young. I felt so powerless. I became a cleric so I could help others and prevent them from hurting people. Should you get hurt, I’ll be there to pick you up.” Feeling her embrace, its one of genuine compassion. He smaller body presses into yours as you wrap your arms firmly around her. Despite her smaller stature you can confidently say you’ve never shared a more comfortable hug. You find your eyes producing their own small stream of tears as you share the embrace.

“Thank you.” Is all you can say as you end the embrace, once again looking at each other face to face. She produces a small cloth from her cleric bag as she reaches towards you, wiping away your tears. She places the cloth in your hand and closes your hands around it.

“Keep it as a token of good fortune. So long as you keep that cloth, no tears should stain your cheeks.” You nod in acknowledgement and look down at the cloth. You’ve only met Petra tonight yet you feel like you’ve known her for much longer. Can anyone be this innately kind and considerate to a dwarf they just met? “I’m going to rest up before things get started. You’re welcome to share my tent if you don’t feel comfortable being alone with the guys yet.”

Still struggling to find words, you nod again to Petra as she vanishes into her tent. With the tender moment passed, you compose yourself once more. Tucking away Petra’s handkerchief you look around the camp. Dusk is upon you as the last of the sunlight is drained from the night’s sky. You gaze upwards as the stars look back at you. How should you spend your time before the trap is sprung?