Your Father

"Dad," you say. "Can I talk to you alone?"

Your sister and mother exchange a look.

"Sure," he says. You bring him back up to your room, your bed unmade from a few moments ago. You begin pulling it together.

"I know you have a lot of responsibilities here, but I would really appreciate it if you would come with me on this quest. Your expertise is unmatched, and I could use your guidance."

"Of course, son, I would be happy to come with you," he says. He pulls you into a hug, you take in his burly scent, a mix of grass and sweat from the morning. "Is there anything you need from me before we head off? A lot of quest-runners use simple tests to express the loyalty of their guard. I've done a lot of things for a lot of people whose quests I've helped. I'm willing to do anything that you might think would be helpful for you, before we go."