Go with her

You pause for a second with contemplation. This is a big decision. Leaving your mother to run the shop and fend for herself while you go out into the world. You're not sure if she'll be safe in this crime ridden city. But you know what you have to do. You are your own man with your own adventures and ideals.

You look at Ragnor your face dropping into solemn expression.

"Ragnor I need you to do something for me. While I'm away look after my mother. You know as well as anyone how dangerous this city can be."

"I will do everything I can."

Ragnor's reassurance only marginally helping with your nerves, but he's a strong man and you've known him since you were a child, you can trust that he'll do the right thing. Now that you know she'll be protected you turn to Jess

"I want to go with you. I want to be there when we explore this world together," you declare.

+ Jess love

Jess's face lights up switching from her deadpan expression into a brilliant almost contagious smile. You can see she's raring to go, but survival instincts keep you on edge. The world outside is lethal. To you, she's still the kid from the slums you took under your wing—but maybe she's outgrowing that title.

"I knew you wouldn't leave me behind," says Jess "Now quickly there's no time to waste go pack your things. I'll meet you at the gate in an hour. The festival can wait for another year."

Stunned by the sudden shift in pace, you realize there's no time to second-guess. You throw a quick hug around Jess, wave off to Ragnor, and bolt back out into the alleyway, your boots hammering against the cobblestones as you race home to prep.