Joyce
As the first rays of dawn kissed the horizon, Bicco emerged from the comfort of his farmhouse, a sense of purpose guiding his every movement. With weathered hands, he fastened the straps of his leather boots and donned a wide-brimmed hat to shield himself from the sun's relentless gaze. The air was crisp with the promise of a new day, carrying with it the earthy scent of dew-kissed grass and the faint whispers of magic that lingered in the air.

Making his way to the fields that stretched out before him, Bicco breathed in the beauty of his farm, a patchwork quilt of vibrant greens and golds that danced in the gentle breeze. With a contented smile, he set about his morning routine, his steps guided by the rhythmic pulse of the land beneath his feet.

With practiced hands, Bicco tended to his crops with care and reverence, each plant a testament to the delicate balance of nature's harmony. Amongst the rows of familiar vegetables and grains, there grew an array of fantastical crops, each possessing its own unique properties and magical properties.

In one corner of the field, towering stalks of luminous moonflowers reached towards the sky, their petals aglow with a soft, ethereal light that bathed the surrounding area in a gentle, otherworldly glow. Bicco tended to these delicate blooms with the utmost care, knowing that their blossoms held the key to unlocking the secrets of the night.

Nearby, clusters of shimmering starberries hung from the branches of slender trees, their iridescent hues shimmering in the morning sunlight. Said to possess mystical healing properties, these rare fruits were prized by healers and mages alike for their ability to mend even the most grievous of wounds.

Further down the field, rows of shimmering crystals protruded from the rich soil, their prismatic surfaces refracting the sunlight into a dazzling display of colors. These enchanted gemstones were coveted by artisans and craftsmen for their beauty and magical potency, fetching a hefty price in the markets of distant lands.

As the morning wore on, Bicco moved from crop to crop, tending to their needs with a gentle touch and a deep respect for the magic that flowed through them. With each passing hour, the fields began to flourish under his care, a testament to his skill as a farmer and steward of the land.
Norbert
The early time of day meant most of the land kept itself cloaked in shadows - shadows of tall trees and lustrious overgrowth. The land of the Elves, *Veralis*, seemed blessed with this almost .. Eternal quality, like every tree and every branch had existed for longer than even the most long-lived mortal. For those who came from realms beyond, it would be a mystical sensation— mesmerizing, terrifying, or perhaps a bit of both. 

From that perspective, *She* Wasn't an *Entirely* Foreign element. She pressed down one of her paws upon a lengthier bush, bending the flexible trunk and allowing her easy access to the ripened fruits that hung from its sides and top - each of her digits accompanied by a claw as long and sharp as a knife. The night before brought a steady trickle of rain, which still showed in her fur, wet and as dark as the soil from which these plants grew.

This place .. THIS PLACE— if there ever was some sort of godly paradise on earth, this would have to be it, wouldn't it?! Her conscious thoughts struggled against her beastly inclinations. Perhaps, under other circumstances, she would've known that these treasures *Weren't* Just random berries in the wild and probably belonged to someone. But hunger was a primal instinct, and every pang that resonated through her stomach removed her more intelligent thought processes. Every single time she was just about to give it a *Little bit more thought*, the overwhelming urge to DIG IN on the next crop completely eradicated everything else, .. And **Oh my.**

OH. MY.

Rest assured, the care with which the elderly Ser Bicco tended to his crops, **She** Vested in her jovial plunder. Her pace was almost like a mirror to himself but then reversed! She did not have much of a smile, but her posture and demeanor indicated she was very content. She greedily lapped up, licked, chewed and tore her way through the more *Familiar* Vegetables and grains. She liked grains and vegetables, both! So that was a good thing! BUT EVERY NOW AND AGAIN, she found a veritable TREASURE of .. Of something else!

There was something that looked like... Flowers?? They were pretty! And tasted amazing! Really scrumptious! And then, oh, by the GODS, those clusters of .. Of.. Berries? SHE HAD NEVER SAMPLED ITS LIKE. And they were AMAZING. She even felt better after eating a bunch! Which, of course, meant that she had to eat more! And then there were, uh, rocks?

She tried one of the shiny rocks but didn't like it. Who would put rocks in a beautiful place like this?? Oh, well. They looked kinda enchanting, and she caught herself staring at one for a long time. She also tried to sample it and give it a lick, but it just tasted like a weirdly smooth rock, so that wasn't edible.

Naturally, someone of Bicco's disposition wouldn't have left *Her* Unnoticed for long. So isolated, so far from the rest of civilization, even her natural camouflage wouldn't have hidden her for long - if it had at all. And then, it couldn't have been too rare, right? He may have eschewed Humanoid visitors, but animals? The lack of care with which she strutted through his lands revealed a great deal because *Most* Adults of her species knew to give places such as these a WIDE berth..

A hulking figure, wet, brown fur, canines and molars fit for tearing through sinew and crunching through bone, and thick paws and limbs that—though obscured due to her coat—still allowed an onlooker to gleam their inherent strength. Each plant on this fantastic farm was a testament to nature's harmony. 

But she was like the opposite, a primal incarnation of nature's wrath and chaos. And pretty foolish, at that. It'd take a knowing eye to identify those sorts of things, but despite her size, she wasn't that big, comparatively speaking. Someone in tune with nature and with at least a superficial grasp of animal lore could tell that *She* Was definitely a she - and probably a creature veering more towards the younger end of the adult spectrum.

Quite frankly, the only things more dangerous when it came to *Her* Breed was a male of her age or a mother with cubs. But all the guides, all the experts, every single piece of information would be able to tell that a sight like this was terrible news. Not because she was necessarily more potent than the larger and older variants, .. On the contrary. But because, at her stage of development, she hadn't yet dealt with much adversity. 

She hadn't yet discovered that there were creatures that were **Far more dangerous** Than she was. Her size and power alone meant that she tended to instantly trump over eight out of ten competitors. A top-of-the-food chain animal. She had enough might to take down STAGS and outrun BOARS. The forest was *Her* Playground.

It made her overconfident. And *That*, again, showed in the way she carelessly blundered onto this farm. An older adult would've *KNOWN* To be more cautious, to keep an ear and eye open. And it's not like she didn't? It's just .. She didn't really know what to look out for yet. And that there was no more dangerous a foe than the ones on two legs - the ones with stone huts and houses and.. And *Farmers.*

Even with her size, her brown fur coat tended to blend her into scenes, making her far stealthier than most might've initially guessed. And it tended to be her scent that hit people first—this deep, penetrative musk—almost like moss and upheaved, wet earth. Anyone familiar with it, and *The old Knight probably was*, would be able to identify it within an instant.

A bear.

It probably wasn't the first time one of those creatures had intruded on Bicco's farm, right? A single glance would reveal those earlier peculiarities; a young adult female brown bear .. With icy blue eyes, inquisitively going from plant to plant and bush to bush. It might require some anthropomorphization, but she looked positive, happy, and fully in her element. Positively DELIGHTED that she had stumbled upon, .. Well, whatever this magical place was!
Joyce
As Ser Bicco stepped out into the open, the weight of his massive sword at his side felt heavier than usual, a constant reminder of the responsibility that rested on his shoulders. His weathered features were set in a determined expression, his gaze unwavering as it met the piercing blue eyes of the bear.

For a moment, time seemed to stand still as man and beast regarded each other, a silent exchange passing between them that spoke volumes without a single word uttered. Ser Bicco's heart pounded in his chest, a mixture of fear and awe coursing through his veins as he took in the sight before him.

He knew the danger that the bear posed to his farm, the potential devastation that could be wrought by her powerful claws and jaws. But even as he gripped the hilt of his sword tighter, a part of him couldn't help but marvel at the sheer majesty of the creature standing before him.

With a deep breath, Ser Bicco forced himself to relax, to push aside the fear and uncertainty that threatened to overwhelm him. He had faced countless challenges in his long life, and he refused to let this be the one that broke him.

"Easy there, girl," He said, his voice steady despite the turmoil raging within him. "I mean you no harm. But I can't have you plundering my crops like this. We'll need to find a compromise, you and I."

As he spoke, he watched the bear closely, searching for any sign of aggression or hostility in her movements. But to his surprise, she seemed to understand his words, her posture relaxing ever so slightly as if in response to his calming presence.

With a sense of relief washing over him, Ser Bicco lowered his sword, a gesture of trust and goodwill.
Norbert
Ser Bicco's words definitely drew the beast's attention, filtering into her ears and entering that maelstrom of thought that had ever struggled against her primordial instincts. How she looked at him revealed an uncanny intelligence that *Somehow*, in *Some sense*, wasn't entirely fitting. Ursine creatures of her like, *Especially* Her like, were clever and keen - capable of improvisation and so much more .. But be her eyes a mirror into her heart and soul, they revealed a mindscape of an eternal battlefield. A conflict of attempts at filtering what he meant and bestial inclinations ..

'We'll .. Harm .. No ..-'

It was strange!! Didn't she recognize what sort of creature he was? She had met them before! The weird, two-legged predators! Hunters? A lightly agitated huff left her snout, but the agitation quickly faded due to Bicco's words' intonation. He didn't sound aggressive. He didn't sound *Hostile.* He just sounded .. Resolute? And didn't she recognize what he was holding beside him? Within an instant, her emotions flared and reminded her of thoughts of **Pain**. Pain and suffering! Her claws were MIGHTIER, her teeth were STRONGER, but .. But were they? She was sure whatever the tall thing held beside him was dangerous.

A lot of her considerations and thoughts reverberated through her positioning. Her posturing and the manner of her vocalizations. Humanoids, of course, tended to have *Speech* To relay intent. But it was far more subtle for her types of creatures; little variations and ways she observed and smelled and such things. Therefore, even if Bicco couldn't read her mind - and despite his magical prowess, he might not be able to? - he could see a reflection of her thoughts and decision-making process resonating through what she *Did.*

And the first few seconds, from that perspective, were the **Most** Important. The young adult's relative inexperience and juvenile dumbness showed clear as day in that she *Only* Noticed him when he called out to her. An older creature would've probably sniffed out Ser Bicco from miles away, but she was so focused on her veritable feast, .. So unconcerned with the potential dangers that she hadn't even SMELLED him before that point! It startled her! She had been eagerly crunching on another collection of **Delicious**, **Ripe** Starflowers. Fruit juices gushed everywhere and stained the fur of her snout and maw. If ever there was a description for being 'caught with your pants down' in bear terms, THIS was it, as she almost jerked into a mild, startled jump and shot her sights over to him. It was like someone had hit her with an arrow!

She vocalized frantic grumbles and groans, trying to identify the SOURCE of the sound. Her eyes scanned the area and quickly settled on Bicco!! Her mouth had briefly ceased to *Chew*, and she just kinda .. **Stared** At him for a couple of moments. A mildly awkward exchange in which she wasn't *Sure* What he was or what he wanted, why he approached her or what **He was doing here** - she was having a good time, darn-it! So why-

And he was TALL. He looked pretty imposing! But .. He wasn't moving into her space? So that meant he wasn't a predator, right? Because no predator would show themselves off like that! AND ALSO, probably not a rival because he wasn't actively challenging her. So what in the HONEY was this?? Well, there was one stark advantage the old knight had. For a second or two, the situation was initially quite tense. Somehow, the beast seemed to *Know* Where his eyes were, and she stared at him dead on; a gaze that, likely, remained **Locked** For both parties.

That's where the knight's advantage came into play. If she had gotten the idea that he was scared of her, that there was even a hint of timidity in his bearing, it wouldn't have been difficult to assume that the man wasn't just intruding on her feast but was a part of it.

But he wasn't prey. He looked too large for that. And had some sorta claw thing! So .. It probably wasn't a good idea to try that. Also, advantage number two? BICCO HAD CAUGHT HER IN THE BEST MOOD SHE HAD BEEN IN, FOR LIKE, MONTHS??? Her jaw moved again, crunching on the fruits she had taken in, filling the air with delicious squelching noises. Her tongue lapped up the juices around her snout, sending drool all over the place.

OF COURSE, this sacred grove of treasures ..! The two-legged creature must've stumbled upon it, as well? And, well, if there had been less, *She* Might've been more protective of it! But see? She maintained her eyes on him and exhaled through her nostrils, sharply but also *Gently.* A sign of recognition! It was as if she was trying to say, 'Okay, fine, you can have some too!' — even if she was a gluttonous beast, she didn't mind sharing every now and then! There was plenty! He was more than free to dig in.

Why, it might even make it better! There'd be someone ELSE to keep a lookout for potential threats! Quite frankly, even a GOBLIN wouldn't have bothered her much in this place! Okay, well, maybe *Those* Would've bothered her. Yea. She'd definitely have swatted them away. Goblins stank and taste terrible. But he wasn't a Goblin! More some sorta.. Troll-stag thing??? ANYWAY. He showed his trust by lowering his claw horn thing. And on her part, she showcased mild relaxation and a general *Disregard*. That's how she showed trust, turning away from him and refocusing her attention on the bush she had been chewing through.

She wondered if its roots tasted as good as the fruits? With renewed curiosity, she began to claw at the soil.
Joyce
Ser Bicco watched the young bear-like creature with a sense of wonder, his eyes tracing her movements as she delved into her meal with gusto. After a moment of silent observation, he cleared his throat gently, drawing her attention back to him.

"You know," He began, his voice soft yet filled with a hint of nostalgia, "There was once a time when I encountered a man who embodied the spirit of a bear."

"He was a great warrior, feared and respected by all who knew him," Ser Bicco continued, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he reminisced. "But despite his fierce exterior, he possessed a kindness and loyalty that ran as deep as the roots of the ancient trees."

Ser Bicco's mind drifted back to that encounter, recalling the man's unwavering courage in the face of adversity.

"I remember one winter's eve," He recounted, his voice tinged with warmth, "When a fierce blizzard swept through the land, threatening to bury us all beneath a blanket of snow. Many feared for their lives, but not him. He braved the storm to rescue a lost cub, risking everything to ensure its safety."

As he spoke, Ser Bicco's eyes sparkled with the memory of that long-ago act of bravery, a testament to the bond between man and beast.

"In the end, it wasn't his strength or his skill with a blade that defined him," Ser Bicco mused, his voice growing quiet. "It was his compassion, his willingness to sacrifice everything for the sake of another."

With those words hanging in the air, Ser Bicco fell silent, allowing the young bear to return to her meal, her heart undoubtedly touched by the tale he had woven.
Norbert
In the purely physical realm, the current situation was *Just that,* Just a stray bear monster wandering through Ser Bicco's farm by sheer chance, having found a great feast. Initially, it did not seem like the ursine creature paid him much heed. She had already consented to his 'presence in her vicinity', so long as he didn't stray too close. Of course, that could still switch just as quickly, and an undertone of danger undoubtedly continued to mark their interaction. How easy would it have been for him to call upon those magical forces he knew? Simultaneously, the creature ravaging his land was quick and powerful. Though there was a considerable distance between them, his elevated tone and voice reflecting that, there'd be little doubt that - if riled - *She* Could cross it within seconds. Those claws were sufficient to puncture through armour, each paw possessing force akin to an oversized war-hammer.

His story overlapped that lingering tension. Even on the bear's side, though the bear had consented to his presence, he could *See* That she, too, kept a portion of her attention on him at all times. She found the delicious roots of the plant, snout digging into the earth while her teeth tried to snap at those hard bits - but her vocalizations .. Light huffs and groans, exhales, indicated she was still paying attention to him. Still along the lines of .. 'I'm digging up this delicious ROOT, so you better not try to bamboozle me!!'

And maybe he didn't realize it. Being entirely QUIET in that situation, as most would because they tended to be scared .. They didn't want to draw her attention unnecessarily, would've had an adverse reaction. Among her kin, it was *Expected* To make one's presence known and continue to do that to prevent incidents. It depended on how well the old Knight knew her type of animal. But .. While she didn't APPEAR or SEEM to be listening to him, his constant talking calmed her. Because it allowed her to 'see' where he was without looking in his direction.

That's why..

Even if it might've looked like he spoke to mere air and that it didn't seem to have all that much of an impact, she was **Listening.** Her feral, primordial, instinct-driven part of her being didn't COMPREHEND what he was saying. They just sounded like bizarre sounds! But there was *Another* Part to it all. Somewhere, within the deepest recesses of her mind, something was changing. Maybe, right now, she didn't understand just how kind this old guy was! But .. There was a pushed-off part of her personality that DID understand. That understood that most *Farmers* Would've tried to kill her by now! They always did that! That's why she HATED THEM, them.. And their METAL STABBERS-

Her mind briefly dwelled on the rage and anger inherent to her current form, but that went away just as quickly. Ser Bicco hadn't done that! He had his massive claw antler, and instead, he just let her do her thing—eat her fill. And then his story. A story about ... Compassion? Right now, that obscured part of her mind was figuratively burning through the darkness, but a light flicker at first that turned to a torch and then transitioned to a bonfire.

Was there anything more *Human* Than compassion? Images filled her soul. Images of a cruel, disgusting man - a great deal younger than Ser Bicco. How old was he when he died? It couldn't have been more than forty winters. A miserable death that didn't mean anything. She knew his scent by the booze he drank. Knew his presence by the way he ravaged and slaughtered at will. And, still, she felt an uneasy mourning. The heart of a bear, huh?

The magics involved in her physiology were raw and primal, a far cry from the common sorceries of *These* Realms. But, depending on the old man's ability to feel those sorts of things, he could tell that the creature plundering his farm wasn't *Just* An ordinary bear. He'd taken note of that intelligence, of course. But there was something *More* To it. Like a... Darkness had gripped its soul. In the purely physical realms, nothing much appeared to be happening. But in the realms beyond, something mirrored its presence, spiritually and gradually transforming from a mosquito's buzz to a full-fledged scream ..

He might be able to tell. Regardless, the beast's transition was **Sudden**. It was like someone had struck it with a blade! Out of nowhere, she snapped her attention from the field in panic. She clawed at her snout and grumbled before taking back a few paces. There was a sudden agitation alongside a daze that imbalanced her somewhat. She was barely keeping herself steady, swaying from side to side precariously! And the sensation she felt on the *Inside*, she vocalized on the outside in a growing roar, like something had brought her aggression to the very forefront of her experiences.

Hadn't she chilled out a moment ago?! She had VOUCHED for the farmer's presence and still looked ready to WRESTLE an OGRE. All in all, her current state lasted an agonizingly long three or four seconds, after which she **Suddenly took to making for Ser Bicco's** Residence in a MAD sprint. Her eyes momentarily seemed to *Flash* With a deep blue, though it'd be easy to think it a mere illusion or mirage; it passed *Quickly* And her rush made individual details challenging to observe.

Anyone—almost anyone—would've assumed she turned her aggression on them. It was a full-on, unrestrained bear charge, and as mentioned above, it was incredibly fast—fast enough to keep up with deer and slower horses. She was charging straight at the old knight! Straight at Bicco! But another glance at her eyes would reveal that .. She wasn't charging at **Him!** It'd really take that level of perception to see. But she wasn't necessarily looking at him - instead, .. Through him! Depending on what he did, *How he responded*, she was charging straight for the doorway of his house! Maddened! Frantic! As if beset by something!
Joyce
Ser Bicco gently set his massive sword down, a symbol of trust and non-aggression. With a keen eye, he selected the finest crops from his farm, carefully gathering them and tossing them towards the bear, hoping to quell its aggression or fear with the offering of food.

Bicco took the opportunity to brew a pot of tea. The fragrant aroma filled the air as he set out cups, inviting the bear to join him. With a warm smile, he gestures for the bear to approach, offering a seat nearby.

Seated across from the bear, Bicco began to recount a tale from his youth. His voice was filled with nostalgia as he shared the memories, his eyes twinkling with the excitement of days gone by.

"You see, my friend, many years ago, I was but a young knight seeking glory and honor. It was at a grand tournament where I first laid eyes on her—my beloved wife. She was unlike any other, with a spirit as fierce as her beauty. We met on the field of battle, our swords clashing in a dance of skill and determination."

Lost in the memories of love and loss, Bicco's voice carried the weight of years gone by. "In her, I found my match, my equal in strength and wit. Together, we faced the challenges of life with courage and devotion. But alas, fate is a cruel mistress, and she was taken from me too soon."

A solemn silence hung in the air as Bicco's gaze met the bear's, a silent understanding passing between them. "If she were still here," He murmured, his voice tinged with sorrow, "She would've known what to feed you."
Norbert
**"Losing her .. Too soon??"**

Her voice was pained and drawn, uttered with an unnatural reverberation that seemed to follow her words momentarily like a strange echo. There was an element of .. Inquisitiveness to *Her* Voice. Was that possible? Was it possible for someone to leave this earthly realm before their time? The knight had likely pondered such things for a long time. And her asking held a youthfulness to it, like she hadn't yet gotten acquainted with that concept.

.. In the moments preceding this weird encounter, the ursine beast - the brown bear to which Ser Bicco had played host - rampaged into his home with no regard for furniture or possessions. She would have crashed straight through if he had left the door closed behind him. Thick gashes of her claws were left in her wake, tearing through wood and scratching stone. And a deep musk wafted from her, likely filling the cabin and making it known that *She* Had entered. It was potent, but the sights that followed were likely even more so.

It all came back to his tale—his story about his lost lover, his compassion, and what all of it meant. He might not have known it, but a battle had been fought. And it was a battle he had WON .. At least, for now. She had sought to rush into his house, and assuming he followed her inside, he would no longer be able to set eyes upon her bear shape; nay. The pop of bones, the shifting of flesh, the transformation of teeth and jaws. Unlike the more focused, more natural magics of druids and those types, the transformation was like the manifestation of a CURSE; gruesome, painful and *Bloody.*

But.

What was left afterwards was no bear. Depending on how quickly Bicco followed her inside, he could witness some of the transformation process. It wasn't swift. But before long, his visitor was no longer clad in the skin of a bear. Well, in a manner of speaking—because instead of actual fur, she seemed to wear something of a pelt—a bear-skin cloak and a collection of garments that appeared fashioned from the same. His visitor was no longer a bear, but .. A... A Human?! She was left panting and weary, body tremoring and half-slumped against a chair and table. Sweat dripped from her face and arms.

The knight was an old soldier. There weren't many in this realm who'd identify her type of creature, where she came from, or what she *Was.* But. He had fought on the eastern frontiers, hadn't he? And he might have encountered those savages, those tribal creatures no better than beasts. More akin to a CAVEMAN than any *Civilized* Person from the *Empire.*

She mirrored many of her bear features. Her hair was messy and unkempt, and she seemed to be a fierce auburn ginger and brown, like her bear fur. Her face was rounded. And while she wasn't precisely obese, she held a physique that naturally lent itself to storing fat. Nonetheless, as a fellow warrior, he could also likely see the athleticism of her form; she was a little more *Rounded*, but more so in the style of a WARRIOR who drank a lot of mead and ate a lot of meat. Skinnier around the hips, with a bit of belly fat to support a hefty battle hammer, and thick arms fit for wrestling hill trolls. And, like her shape as a bear, she seemed to be in the latter stages of her youth, probably .. Eighteen, nineteen winters. Humans tend to age quickly.

She was also quite tall. Not as tall, by far, as the half-giant, But taller than most women of these lands, even taller than some of the Elves.

More important than that, ... The thick, black, runic lines she bore on her face and arms. Again, no ORDINARY citizen of the Empire would recognize *Those.* Especially not in these lands. Velaris, though bordering the savage eastern regions, was well protected from invaders through its natural mountain range. No army could pass them. But a single individual? Someone capable of ignoring the cold and keep themselves thriving by changing into a bear? It seems .. That she had more success.

A berserker. That's what those symbols and lines meant. Someone in league with heathen spirits and tribal chiefs. If he had fought on the front, SURELY, he would've come across one or two eventually?! Those crazed men and women. Magnanimously REVILED. Wretched butchers; villains!

A moment before, she was mighty and powerful. A powerful bear more than a match for most! But now, she was weak. Visibly shivering, .. Trying to recompose but failing! Surely, it'd be the Knight's DUTY to strike?! To put an end to this THREAT before it could manifest further?
Joyce
Ser Bicco's heart pounded in his chest as he followed the rampaging beast into his home. Each step felt heavier than the last, the weight of uncertainty pressing down upon him like a leaden cloak. The thick gashes left by her claws marred the once pristine interior of his cabin, a stark reminder of the chaos that had ensued.

As he entered the dimly lit room, his eyes fell upon the creature in its final throes of transformation. The sight before him was both mesmerizing and terrifying—a being caught between two worlds, straddling the line between beast and human.

The knight's breath caught in his throat as he beheld the figure before him. Where once stood a fearsome bear now stood a weary warrior, her form still trembling with the remnants of her primal rage. The bear-skin cloak that adorned her shoulders seemed to whisper tales of ancient battles and untold struggles, its coarse fur a stark contrast to the delicate features of her human face.

Ser Bicco's mind raced as he tried to make sense of the situation unfolding before him. He had encountered many creatures in his lifetime, but none quite like this. The runes etched into her skin spoke of a power beyond comprehension, a connection to forces far older than the realm in which they now stood.

But amidst the chaos and confusion, one thing remained clear—this was a being in need of compassion, not condemnation. With a steady hand, Ser Bicco approached the weary warrior, his movements cautious yet purposeful.

"Losing her too soon," He murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "Life has a way of testing us in ways we never thought possible."

His words hung heavy in the air, a somber reminder of the fragility of existence. The warrior before him bore the weight of a thousand battles, her weary eyes reflecting the pain and sorrow of a life lived on the edge of oblivion.

But despite the darkness that threatened to consume them both, Ser Bicco saw a glimmer of hope amidst the shadows. He reached out a hand, offering the warrior a cup of tea, its warm embrace a comforting reminder of the simple joys that still remained.

"We may come from different worlds," He said softly, "But in the end, we are all bound by the same struggles and desires. Let us find solace in each other's company, and together, we shall weather the storm that rages within."

As the warrior reached for the offered cup, Ser Bicco's eyes held a quiet determination. "If she were still here," He added, his voice tinged with sadness, "She would've known what to feed you. But for now, let us share in the simple comfort of tea."
Norbert
The shadows of the farmer's cabin made the faint, icy blue hue radiating off the barbarian's eyes all the more pronounced. Some claimed that the eyes were a mirror of the soul - and sure enough, for all her characteristics, those she seemed to keep regardless. As the magicks within slowly coiled to an uneasy calm, so too did her tremors lessen, and her grip on *Reality* Visibly improved. In the end, she was but lurched over, breathing heavily, only the chair and table keeping her upright at all, and once the worst of the transformation pains had passed, she slumped down into a less-than-graceful seat. She landed upon the chair with an audible 'THUMP', her entire weight coming to a sudden standstill, and she took a good few seconds just to ... To *Take everything in.*

The lights. The smells. The transition from bear to human was a hard one. It wasn't accurate to say that she was one or the other. Instead, she was both simultaneously and separately. As a bear, she perceived the world in a manner that no humanoid could even *Envision;* Her scent alone was of an entirely different category. Her distribution of weight was *Far* Different. Her entire state of being was different. The same accounted for her Human state; as much as she could try, her ursine form did *Not* Gift her genuine Humanoid intelligence.

All in all, it felt like waking up from a fever dream. Rather than accurately recollecting everything that had just passed by, Yrsa saw it more as vague glimpses, feelings, and hunches. That wasn't immediately apparent on the *Outside*, of course, but her eyes were glazed and tired - beset with a mixture of *Confusion* And steady reacquaintance. As... The old man reached out the cup of hot liquid out to her, the *Smell* Hit her first. She looked at her hand and flexed her fingers as if she had almost forgotten how. But her eyes lifted from that quickly enough, and soon, she turned them on the Knight again with *Slow* Recognition;

.. She recognized him! He ... She didn't think he was a bad guy! Hadn't he just .. Something about food?? Her lungs kept pumping air, her chest visibly rising and lowering with each breath. Her fingers coiled about the mug unsteadily, slowly lowering it. For just a split second, her mind dwelled on *Another* Person. Whatever that was, it informed her that this was probably something she should try sipping carefully. Elf friend??

"How.. Uh ..."

The berserker wettened her lips and swallowed before taking a slow and steady sip. Its taste made her blink and reaffirm her gaze as if *Surprised!* It tasted good! And while she didn't outright SAY as much, it is evident that she thought so.

"Heh...!! My uncle. He said... To DIE is glorious! But he did not die very gloriously...??" She voiced, ending her sentence with an awkward question. Her attention went from the cup to *Bicco*, only now taking on his features. She recognized him properly! He.. Was a farmer! But he didn't look like a farmer. He was a warrior, wasn't he? She thought so. He had that sort of FEEL to him. That's why it made it easy to talk! But then, she tended to be pretty blunt. On her part, she probably looked very young; she *Was* Quite young. But the calluses on her hands, the tattoos, and the odd scar here and there painted a home on the battlefield.

It had to be, given her supposed affiliations.

Somehow, she managed a smile at the end of her sentence. She said it less sorrowfully than she meant it inquisitively! This man felt smart! And .. The way he spoke about his wife - it felt familiar!

**"... When is too soon?? I would like to hear about your wife!"**

The way she phrased that made her pause a moment. She didn't especially seem like the type to have a lot of introspection. But maybe that came off as insensitive? So she took another quick sip of her tea, and put down the cup, opening her mouth a moment before realizing she was only about to make it worse. It took her a grand total of five seconds to realize that ..

"I am Yrsa!" .. Maybe introductions would be good, first and foremost.

".. Von Schwarzhofen. I am trustworthy. Therefore, you may tell me and all your tales. Also.. I would like to compliment you!! Your garden is delicious!"
Joyce
Ser Bicco watched with a mix of relief and curiosity as the berserker—now revealed as Yrsa—slowly regained her composure. Her transformation from bear to human had left her visibly drained, but there was a newfound clarity in her eyes as she took in her surroundings.

As she tentatively sipped the tea he offered, Ser Bicco couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction at her reaction. It was a small gesture, but one that seemed to bridge the gap between their worlds, if only for a moment.

Her words about her uncle and the concept of glory in death struck a chord with Ser Bicco. He had seen many brave souls fall in battle, their names forever etched in the annals of history. But there was a sadness in the way Yrsa spoke, a recognition of the harsh realities of life and death.

"When is too soon?" Ser Bicco echoed, his voice tinged with a hint of melancholy. "A question that has plagued many a troubled soul, my dear Yrsa. Some depart this world before their time, their stories left unfinished, their dreams unrealized. And yet, in their passing, they leave behind a legacy—a memory that lives on in the hearts of those who knew them."

He paused, a wistful smile playing at the corners of his lips as he thought of his beloved wife. "My wife, Stosa, was a beacon of light in the darkness—a guiding star that led me through the storms of life. We met at a tournament many years ago, where she captured my heart with her grace and wit. She was a fierce warrior in her own right, but it was her kindness and compassion that truly set her apart."

Ser Bicco's gaze drifted to the garden outside, his mind filled with memories of happier times. "If she were still here," He murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, "She would have known exactly what to feed you. She had a way with plants and herbs—a gift passed down through generations. But alas, she is gone, and I am left to tend to the garden alone."

He turned his gaze back to Yrsa, his eyes reflecting the pain of loss yet also a glimmer of hope for the future. "You honor me with your presence, Yrsa von Schwarzhofen," He said, his voice warm with gratitude. "And if you wish to hear more tales of my wife and our life together, I would be happy to share them with you. But for now, let us enjoy the simple pleasures of tea."
Norbert
*Yrsa*, .. This tribalistic berserker from far-away lands - to the far north-east, non-verbally relished in a moment of peace and quiet, which was STRANGE. The older man could probably *Tell* That she found it strange! This awkward, weird sensation of ... Of home or something! Yea! She didn't recognize it at all! She wrapped her other hand around her wooden cup, too, the warmth radiating through her fingers. And she absently looked down at it.

"Huh.."

Her head tilted a little, ponderously.

"Don't think a lot of people knew him!! Uh.. Those who did probably hated his guts! Hahaha...!! Drank a lot! Heh. I don't even think I miss him!! He was dumb. And stupid! Eh.."

She snorted without a speck of grace or dignity, breaking out into a wide, toothy grin that stretched across her face. Then, dismissively, she shook her head. This was so unlike her! Usually, she wasn't this emotional! Like, EVER. Usually, she just blustered and blundered through every situation!

And here she was, sharing sad tales with some random old man! Weird stuff. But then, she got an IDEA.. - the man was all wise and gloomy. Kinda like her uncle but in reverse! She snapped her eyes back to him with *Renewed* Enthusiasm- "AH ... I have way to fix this! You see, maybe your wife isn't here .. And you don't know what to feed me. BUT."

Her palms came upon the table with a *Slap*, quaking the wood momentarily and causing the tea within her cup to wobble dangerously, and she turned to him with vigor.

"Friendly farmer person .. Know, that I, .. *I*, know what to feed me! So, even if your wife is not here.. We can still give me FOOD. Because I know what I like!"

She .. She was just trying to squeeze more food out of him, wasn't she? Without spoiling too much, yes, yes, she was. Was there ever a situation that COULDN'T be fixed by throwing food her way?? Her grin somehow increased, and she counted her preferences on her fingers.

"I like honey! And MEAD. And BEER. Also, I *Can* Drink the .. Uh, grape-juice alcohol .. The WINE. YES. Bread. I like bread! But!! Oh, what is your name again? So, I just had many vegetables, but no MEAT. I will say this; I will eat ALL of your meat eagerly. That is how nice I am! I like ALL the meat except Goblin. Goblins are icky. They taste like sweat and old feet."

Yrsa nodded along with her suggestions, wholly sacrificing herself for the greater good. With this marvellous suggestion, she was sure to put the farmer at ease. And she would have FOOD. A win-win situation!

There is one thing she noticed, though. Or *Just* Did, at the tail-end of her sentence. Usually, her transformation left her .. Extremely lethargic. Unable to move even a LIMB for days. And she had only wandered around as a bear for less than half a day. But, still, she only *Now* Realized just how much energy she had! Her gaze went to her palms, blinking several times, and it seemed to leave her distracted!
Joyce
Ser Bicco couldn't help but chuckle at Yrsa's sudden burst of enthusiasm, her energy contagious even in the midst of their somber conversation. It was a welcome change from the weighty topics they had been discussing, and he found himself genuinely amused by her antics.

"Well, Yrsa, it's a pleasure to meet someone with such a hearty appetite!" He exclaimed, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "And you're in luck, my dear friend, for I happen to have a bounty of delicious food just waiting to be enjoyed."

With a flourish, Ser Bicco rose from his seat and made his way to the kitchen, his movements surprisingly graceful for a man of his age. He returned moments later carrying a platter piled high with an assortment of meats, bread, and cheeses, accompanied by a jar of honey and a pitcher of mead.

"Here you go, Yrsa," He said, setting the platter down on the table before her with a smile. "A feast fit for a warrior such as yourself. Help yourself to whatever you like, and don't hold back."

Ser Bicco couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. Despite the trials and tribulations of life, moments like these reminded him of the simple joys that could be found in companionship and good food.

He couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness for his late wife. If only she were here to witness this moment, to share in the laughter and camaraderie. But even in her absence, Ser Bicco found solace in the knowledge that her memory lived on in the stories he shared and the kindness he showed to others.

With a silent prayer to the heavens, Ser Bicco raised his own cup of tea in a silent toast to his beloved wife, thankful for the time they had shared and the lessons she had taught him about love and compassion. And as he joined Yrsa in enjoying their meal together, he couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope for the future
Norbert
"How ..." Yrsa muttered to herself in disbelief. She removed her right hand from her cup and flexed her fingers again, trying to get a *Feel* For her current state by turning a *Strong* Fist. The veins in her arms and hands visibly popped, visible even through the layer of softer fat. Quite frankly, her ploy to 'try and get more food' was on the level of a WOLF pulling some PUPPY EYES. Not because *She* Cared that much, but because she knew it would force the gullible to give her delicious morsels! Her suggestion was more of a cheeky ploy!

But .. The farmer was... Nice enough to GO with it?? That's why, initially, when he said he'd oblige, she half didn't believe it. And her attention was *On it*, but not entirely. So when he said he had that food, waiting to be enjoyed, standing up and making it to the kitchen, her attention instantly returned to this weird feeling. And that's when she tested her strength, when she tried to find the vigor running through her body, when she made her *Fist.*

Ser Bicco probably walked in on her at the end of her confusion. He could see her holding up that fist. See that she mentally struggled with something. And he *Might* Just hear the words she mumbled to herself..

**"How am I still STRONG??"**

Again. Usually, transforming back and forth left the berserker incapacitated for DAYS. And she was feeling a little more tired than usual. But it was like .. Something *Healed* Her. It was that sort of feeling! And somehow, it didn't feel *Wrong.* She relaxed her fist and timidly reached for her cup, taking a sip and looking around the room with a fresh understanding.

".. The Elven lands. The magic. This must be... A **God**..."

She had travelled long, and her body bore the marks of that. But her mentor, her 'uncle', had once told her there was great bounty in the lands of the Elves. A land of... Of gods and demigods and creatures. And an Empire mightier than ANY tribe! Such things felt weird to think about. But now, she felt like she got her first glimpse of it. That's why the man was living in loneliness, wasn't he?! She had inadvertently stepped... Into a heavenly place! Not even in the metaphorical sense! But REAL divinity! 

That could be the only explanation.

And then... Came the food. Within an instant, **All** Off Yrsa's previous thoughts culminated in an expression of DUMB REVERENCE; her jaw hung wide open, she *Stared* At Bicco with .. With.. A **Sparkle**. First, due to his presence. Second, due to his feast! HIS PLATTER. Her right eye twitched a little. Her breath became hot and bothered. She swallowed *Deep*. And managed to usher out a very light, shrill *Shriek* - barely audible, barely noticeable. But present. Just a tiny "Aaaaaaaaaaaaa..."

Yrsa was not a stutterer. She had a heavy ACCENT to her words, sure. But she didn't stutter. But right now? She barely believed what she saw.

"H-... Honey..."

"Meat..!!"

"MEAAAD..."

Her words gradually increased in power and audibility, radiating with pure joy. Her eat-fest back at Alcuin's place was good! Great, even! But .. He also didn't eat meat! And Yrsa HUNGERED for some FLESH. She jerked upright, frothing at the mouth, her quiet squeal suddenly erupting into a mighty exclamation; "AHAHAHAHAHA... **YES!!!!**" - and as he put the platter down in front of her, she made a quick moment of eye contact. She was terrible at saying 'thank you', but EVERYTHING about her radiated gratitude.

She barely finished her sentence, blustering out a proclamation while clapping her hands together with CONCLUSION. Even if he didn't like it, even if he wanted to be rid of her, well .. He'd be in his right! BUT. He'd bound his FATE;

"GOD OF FARMS.. MIGHTY CREATURE. By my word, I say you are now my FRIEND! This means much! And I won't forget!"

Yrsa rubbed her hands together eagerly and plopped down onto her seat, hands already reaching out for the... The PILES... Upon PILES of food before her. A lot of people would be intimidated by this amount of food! But not her! NAY. SHE was doing the intimidating! She thrust her face into the platter, clenching her teeth about a whole roasted chicken and simultaneously grabbed a pitcher of mead with her right hand. Her left, she used to scoop up some. Uh, it was something yellow?? Anyway, she grabbed it.

"SHO JUICHEHH. AGHH.. AGH. Farm God!! SHO WOUND ME. Ish... TOO MUCH TASTE. Yhodh arhghg a GRTEAT GOD."
Joyce
Ser Bicco couldn't help but smile and chuckle softly as he watched Yrsa eagerly devour her meal. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and he found himself genuinely amused by her voracious appetite. Despite the chaos that had unfolded earlier, seeing her enjoy the simple pleasure of a good meal brought a sense of warmth to his heart.Once Yrsa had settled down a bit, Bicco leaned back in his chair and regarded her with a gentle expression. "You have quite the appetite, my friend," He remarked with a smile. "I'm glad you're enjoying the food. It's not often I have guests to share a meal with."As Yrsa expressed her gratitude and dubbed him the "God of Farms," Bicco couldn't help but laugh softly. "Oh, I'm no god, Yrsa," He said, shaking his head. "Just a simple farmer trying to make a living off the land."But then, a twinkle of nostalgia sparked in Bicco's eyes as he recalled a tale from his travels. "However, I have encountered beings that could be mistaken for gods," He continued, his voice taking on a thoughtful tone. "During my adventures, I once crossed paths with a deity."Bicco's voice took on a reverent quality as he recounted his encounter with the ancient deity, describing the diety's majestic presence and the profound wisdom she imparted upon him. Despite being a mere mortal, Bicco had been granted a glimpse into the realm of the divine, forever shaping his perspective on the world."It was a humbling experience, to say the least," Bicco concluded, his gaze drifting off into the distance as he reminisced. "Meeting it reminded me that even in this vast and wondrous world, there are forces far greater than ourselves at work."
Norbert
The young berserker ate, ate, and **Ate** - seriously, there seemed to be no end to her appetite. If Bicco had a fondness for folk that enjoyed his produce, well, Yrsa seemed a prime candidate; every new flavor sparked in her eyes something *New*. She had previously attended warlord's feasts, grand celebrations after a battle won - or hosted for some other reason. As travelling vagabonds, she and her mentor were often unwelcome guests. But her master was quite fond of his drink and equally demanding in how he got it.

Large halls filled with warriors. Mugs topped off with mead. Large animal carcasses, roasted and prepared. Those feasts were *Fantastic*, but truth be told? Even the grandest celebrations where she was from PALED compared to the farmer's bounty Bicco had extended to her. And she went at it like she had been *Possessed*. Despite her Human form, her eating habits didn't seem much improved compared to her ursine state - actually, many of the things she did .. *Holding and squeezing down* Meat while she brought her head over to it seemed to be a direct *Mirror* To how she ate as a bear.

The weird flux of her soul meant that while she was currently in her Human shape, she still carried many habits that would've been considered 'primal' and 'savage' - more akin to an animal.

".. My uncle says this, too! Or, said!" She remarked, nodding along eagerly. Before continuing with what she wanted to say, however, she thrust another loaf of bread into her mouth, tearing off a large piece. She chewed such that bread-infused saliva flew EVERYWHERE. .. Did ... Did no one teach her ANY manners?!

"He said this uh, Empire thing..!! Home to GODS. I do not.."

Yrsa pursed her lips, circling what remained of the loaf for about a moment while she thought about it.

"I do not know what to think of this. But! It is mighty! .. The Empire?? I have heard it's the STRONGEST-" Yrsa followed up, emphasizing that 'strongest' part with a healthy bit of bravado. Her lips curved up into a grin again while she said it. But that also betrayed specific *Influences.* .. 

Bicco had never met her mentor, but it was tangible enough to see that many things she did and said weren't derived solely from herself. Her master's hand still loomed over her like a spectre. And while she, herself, seemed quite ADVERSE to premature death, to .. Horror and carnage, it's like she had been *Brainwashed* To believe she should chase after it.

That's probably why she voiced such timidity and uncertainty when asked what Ser Bicco thought about it. Yrsa wanted to say something more. *Add* To the bravado! But something prevented her. She opened her mouth only to close it again, pensive.

It didn't take her much longer to finish the feast Bicco had prepared for her. In the end, she had torn through the entire platter; there wasn't a single speck of grain behind. She had lapped up all the meaty juices and drank through every last droplet of wine, mead and beer. She did continue to converse, of course, but she was the type to say something only when it interested her - and, well, the FOOD... The FOOD tended to captivate the MAJORITY of her interest! She leaned back in her chair with greasy hands behind her head, her palms supporting her. And as if to add to the image of an uncultured savage, she *BELCHED!* One *Loud* Burp followed by three or four others. It was a belch, but also a hiccup? Because her way of eating didn't allow for much breathing room in between.

"HARGHARGH.. That was DELICI.. <hic!— AGH. ACCURSED STOMACH. YOU WILL BE QU..." Another hiccup interrupted her words. And she hammered down upon her chest several times, trying to suppress it!

"You cannot.. Blame me for this, friend! Your food is TOO— agh.. Agh, it is TOO good!! I will come again! You have my word. But, also, one thing I wonder. If.. You are no god, then, how come I am still so POWERFUL??"

Her choice of words might've sounded cocky. But it was probably a translation error. What she meant was more like, 'how am I not falling over right now?' - and she tried to elaborate on that!

"Usually, I would have butter-arms and flab-muscles. Yet ... Yet...!! After eating your flower-star-fruits, I feel ... I feel... I feel SO good! If you are no God, then, how is this???"
Joyce
Ser Bicco couldn't help but chuckle at Yrsa's unabashed enthusiasm, even as she devoured every last morsel of the feast he had prepared. Her energy was infectious, and he found himself enjoying her company more than he had anticipated. Despite her rough exterior and somewhat uncouth manners, there was a certain charm to her raw honesty and genuine appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.As she expressed her confusion about his supposed godhood and marveled at her newfound vitality, Bicco leaned forward, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

 "Ah, my dear Yrsa," He began, his voice warm and reassuring. "The power you feel within you is not the work of any god, but simply the natural energy that comes from nourishing your body with good food and drink."He gestured towards the remnants of the meal before them, a smile playing at the corners of his lips. 

"The bounty of the earth has a way of invigorating us, of restoring our strength and vitality," He explained. "It's not magic or divine intervention, but rather the simple beauty of nature at work."Bicco's gaze softened as he spoke, a sense of reverence in his tone as he reflected on the interconnectedness of all living things.

 "We are all part of the same cycle, you see," He continued. "Every plant, every animal, every person - we all draw our sustenance from the earth, and in turn, we give back to it. It's a sacred bond, one that transcends mortal understanding.

He paused for a moment, lost in thought before his expression brightened with the memory of another tale. "Speaking of bonds with nature, let me tell you about the time I encountered a gentle giant during my travels," He said, his eyes lighting up with excitement. "The Guardian of the Forests, and it taught me more about the balance of nature than I could ever have imagined."

And with that, Bicco launched into another story, recounting his encounter with the ancient creature and the profound wisdom it imparted upon him. And in that moment, amidst the warmth of the farmer's cabin and the camaraderie of newfound friendship, the line between reality and myth blurred.
Norbert
Meanwhile, Yrsa listened to the old knight with such interest that it left her eyes lit—sparking with a deep interest she couldn't really put into words! Like a toddler listening to an exciting bedtime story, it visibly filled her with wonder. Her old master was never much the type for stories—even his accounts of Aeterna's gods were more matter-of-fact! She liked this place. Again, it felt homely! And this man was really nice! She didn't feel like he'd try to pull a fast one on her and had already cemented a degree of trust by eagerly sharing his food with her.

The giant man kinda felt like.. An elderly grandfather or something!! They weren't AT ALL related! They were practically strangers! But, y'know, there was something to the guy! And then his tale. For some reason, the hairs on the back of her neck *Bristled*, and she felt goosebumps travel up her arms. Almost instinctively, her ... Mark, her mark upon her back *Itched*. Given the dim lighting of the cabin, it'd probably have been difficult to see up to now. But if he keened his sight, Bicco *Might* Just notice the ends of what appeared to be some sorta... Birthmark? Or scar?

These darker *Lines* Ran down from her right shoulder. And that she felt itchy wasn't so strange! Everyone's got an itch sometimes, right? But it felt different from that. She scratched at her shoulder, eyes falling a little so that while she kept Bicco in her 'general vision, ' she wasn't meeting his gaze dead on.

**"Same... Cycle."** Yrsa repeated after him, but softer. Her words had a strange weight to them, and she blinked twice, trying to get her mind to process it. Logically, what the older man said could have made more sense. It'd have made more sense that one of the things she ate had healing properties! But in this instance, somehow, his explanation felt closer to the truth than something purely logical!

Like... Something to do with feelings. Or something. The barbarian wasn't sure, and she scratched her fingers through her hair in this mixture of deeper understanding and confusion.

Her brows furrowed deep. And she raised her eyes to meet Bicco's again.

"I think I understand this."

Her accent was thick now because she was still trying to form her thoughts while verbalizing them. Yrsa couldn't understand it intellectually. Yet... Yet. The spectre shadowing over her, dictating her wrath and rage- it felt... Soothed, somehow? If she explained better, then Bicco might've understood! Might've been able to help her more! But she didn't even know how to phrase it herself.

"The old shaman-seer says that, no! I am not of Asbjørn Sigurðsson. Nay, she says this; long ago... There was a mighty forest guardian called EIKJARN. But. Then the people came. I feel this .. Nature thing, too! Sometimes, it is scared. Sometimes, it is good. Sometimes, I do not know.

That is why I HATE Goblins. And HAGS. They are foul."

That line between myth and reality was blurring more than one could've rightfully assumed. Her fingers kept rubbing at the mark on her back, and initially, it didn't look like it detracted much from her story. But Bicco could see that it was distracting her a little. She never thought about nature that way—that it was all just a cycle and a circle and that it transcended something. *Her* Understanding of the natural world was purely instinctive.

Feelings such as hate, wrath, and anger triggered her transformation because they removed conscious thought and instead paved the way for subconscious rage. Her forebear had INFUSED her mark with its dying breath, an infusion of all those negative feelings. Bicco saw it, too, right? That she was unnaturally hostile for even a brown bear! But there was something more to nature than just wrath. Getting her to understand those principles, in turn, aligned the berserker's mind with *Another* Element of nature.

"I think.. I would like to come back and eat here again! I would like to hear more about your wife and how pretty she was! And eat more food! I will behave, too. Please?"

Whatever was happening to her wasn't immediately apparent yet. But her attention was dwindling. And all, at least for her, weighed on whether Bicco consented .. Or rejected her request. She had just EATEN her way through his vegetables and supplies - he'd have to be crazy to allow her to do the same again, right?! Surely .. If he wanted nothing to do with her, if it was just a burden, it wouldn't be difficult to tell her to get lost! She even seemed somewhat ready - somewhat expecting - to accept that much!
Joyce
Bicco listened intently as Yrsa shared her thoughts, her words carrying a weight of earnestness and vulnerability that touched something deep within him. He couldn't help but feel a sense of kinship with the young berserker, a shared understanding of the complexities of the natural world and the struggles of finding one's place within it.

As she spoke of EIKJARN, the ancient forest guardian, and her own tumultuous relationship with nature, Bicco's heart swelled with empathy. He had encountered similar tales during his travels, stories of beings that embodied the very essence of the land itself, protectors and stewards of the wild places untouched by civilization.
"You have a deep connection to the world around you, Yrsa," Bicco said softly, his voice carrying a warmth that belied his years. "It is a gift, a bond that few are fortunate enough to possess. But it can also be a burden, a weight that one must learn to carry with grace and humility."

He reached out a weathered hand and placed it gently on Yrsa's shoulder, offering her a reassuring smile. "You are welcome here anytime, my dear friend," He said, his tone sincere. "And I would be honored to share more stories with you, to regale you with tales of my wife and the life we shared together."His gaze softened as he spoke of his beloved wife, a fondness shining in his eyes as he remembered her with a mixture of joy and sadness. 

"She was the light of my life, my guiding star in a world filled with darkness," He continued, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "And though she is no longer with me, her spirit lives on in every blade of grass, every bloom of flower, every breath of wind."

Bicco's words hung in the air, a quiet reverence settling over the room as the weight of his memories enveloped them both. And in that moment, amidst the flickering firelight and the gentle embrace of friendship, the bond between Yrsa and Bicco grew stronger.
Norbert
Maybe she was more than pure wrath and anger, more than a single-minded pursuit of death and carnage. Yrsa felt like those were part of her, too; she had a fierce temper and couldn't erase the last few years. She was a warrior, through and through - a berserker. But while she couldn't quite understand Bicco yet on an intellectual level, as mentioned above, she felt like she - something was aligning with what he said. It's just that she hadn't thought it that way before. The ancient sorceries responsible for her strange physiology probably couldn't be understood through simple words - but it was like a split soul that, for a moment, **Became whole.** If feelings of wrath, anger and instinct led to her ursine shape, and ... Intellectual emotions and thoughts like improvisation and selfless love led to her *Human* Form - then, perhaps, something between those two extremes granted harmony?

It was a strange acceptance, perhaps, to recognize that both were part of the greater whole—grace and humility, as Ser Bicco said. She spent entire days trying to suppress her primal instincts, trying to PREVENT herself from transforming without her consent. Yrsa feared that, in part.

She could set her claws and teeth on her friends and acquaintances. On her family; that's why they drove her away, right? But, somehow, she wasn't afraid of that now. That feeling, that glimpse of knowledge that she was transitioning from one thing to another. She knew it well - knew it to be an unstoppable process. Once it started, there was *Nothing more* She could do other than try to run away from an area and isolate herself. 

But even then, it tended to be an effort in vain.

The Knight had seen a glimpse of it, right? Her transformation was something straight out of a nightmare. Wicked, bloody, painful.

It wasn't that at all right now. If Yrsa was the epitome of nature's wrath, it seemed that somehow, with his tales about his dead wife and fables and encounters, he was placating that. Her forebear had only wanted to be understood, too. It wasn't an evil deity—not really. It was just.. Concerned for his forest. Spiteful. Vengeful. But not necessarily evil. She listened intently to Ser Bicco's words, lips curving into a gentler smile than one of her goofy grins; ..

"Every blade of grass, bloom of flower, ... Breath of-"

She had stared at him until this point, trying to take in his every word, but there was also a strain on them. Sweat had moistened her forehead, and she clenched her hands into fists. Her eyes suddenly began to shine with a light blue hue - foggy like a hot breath amidst a winter frost and ice climate. She was initially tense and preparing for it - but, .. Found that she didn't need to be. There was no pain. No extreme feelings of exhaustion.

Instead, that blue light slowly enveloped her entire body, wrapping it in a soft mist. The outlines of her body could still be seen, but they lacked the archetypal horror with which she associated this process. Halfway through the transformation, Bicco's words felt like .. Well, she could hear the *Sounds*, but could no longer discern their meaning intellectually.

The emotions, however, remained. 

.. A guiding star in a world of darkness.

After about ten seconds, the light slowly retracted back into her eyes. One massive, furry paw struck through the brightness, and the remainder of her exterior soon followed. Her auburn, ginger hair transitioned into a vast fur coat - a little browner just due to the distribution. Her teeth were clear on display. Her claws were still as dangerous as ever. Her weight was enough to crush a horse if she put her mind to it. And Ser Bicco was so close that it probably wouldn't take more than a split second to get to him. And the situation might've initially felt tense, just due to the *Size of her*, and how many factors continued to be uncertain; did she remember him? Did she-

Her mind had dulled, but she still remembered the farmer of the excellent food and the loyal mate. And... Good sounds?? She liked listening to him for some reason! Animals like these tended to be quite savvy in relaying their intent through the eyes. And her icy blues, having returned to normality—no trace of magic in sight—stared directly at him.

There was no hostility within them whatsoever. On the contrary! She sauntered her merry way toward the half-giant and sought to thump her head into him affectionately—which, to be fair, still had enough weight behind it to push down a grown man—like a little 'THANK YOU VERY MUCH' boop. It had that sort of feeling to it!

With that done, however, she made for the hut's exit. She was feeling STUFFED and .. Didn't she have things to do? Something something.. Elf-friend? The creature took in a giant whiff. ...

Yep. Elf friend.
Joyce
After bidding farewell to Yrsa, Bicco watched her disappear into the forest before turning back towards his humble abode. With a heavy heart and a sense of longing, he ascended the creaky stairs to the small room he called his own.Entering the room, Bicco's gaze fell upon a painting portrait hanging on the wall—the image of a woman with kind eyes and a gentle smile. It was his beloved wife, Stosa, gone but never forgotten.

With a tender touch, Bicco reached out and traced the outline of Stosa's face, his fingers lingering on the canvas as if trying to capture the memory of her touch. And as he settled into his chair beside the painting, he began to recount his encounter with Yrsa, his voice soft and filled with emotion.

"Stosa, my love," He whispered, his words a gentle caress against the silence of the room. "Today, I met a remarkable young woman—a warrior with a heart of gold and a spirit as fierce as the wind. She reminded me of you, my dear, with her courage and determination."

As he spoke, memories flooded back to him—memories of their life together, of the adventures they had shared, and of the love that had bound them together through the years. And as he recounted the tale of his encounter with Yrsa, he felt a sense of peace settle over him, knowing that even in death, Stosa was still by his side, listening to his every word with love and understanding.

And so, surrounded by memories and the quiet comfort of his home, Bicco continued to speak, sharing his stories and his heart with the one who had always been his guiding light—the love of his life, his dear Stosa.

As the first rays of dawn broke over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, Bicco emerged from his humble abode, ready to start another day of tending to his farm. The air was crisp and cool, carrying with it the promise of a new beginning.

With practiced hands, Bicco set to work, tending to his crops with care and precision. He moved through the fields with a sense of purpose, checking each row of vegetables and fruits for signs of growth or pests. There was a quiet rhythm to his movements, a comforting familiarity that brought a sense of peace to his soul.

Yet, even as he worked, his thoughts drifted to those who were no longer with him. He couldn't help but think of Tarin, his old friend and comrade-in-arms, whose absence still weighed heavily on his heart. They had fought side by side in countless battles, sharing victories and losses alike. Bicco wondered where Tarin was now, and if he was safe.

Then there was Yrsa, the fierce berserker from distant lands, whose unexpected visit had brought both chaos and joy into his life. He couldn't help but smile as he thought of her boundless energy and insatiable appetite, a reminder of the vitality of youth.

But most of all, Bicco thought of his beloved wife, Stosa, whose memory lingered in every corner of their home. She had been his rock, his confidante, his everything. Even now, years after her passing, her presence was felt in the gentle breeze and the warmth of the morning sun.
Willie
The forge she frequented had gone quiet. What was once a place of relative tranquility for Gum had become one that felt cold and haunting, a combination of emotions wholly new to the little goblin. As such, she had made the impulsive decision to travel in order to find someplace warm.

It was the farthest she had ever journeyed away from the streets, though something still poked and prodded at her heart. With the feeling persisting, she continued moving, taking in everything about her environment with wide and curious eyes.

That all changed, however, as the sun began to slip from view. To Gum, it didn't mean much, even as little water droplets plopped down atop her head and back. The dirt she walked upon became mud, but she had spent countless nights sleeping in the poor weather.

That was, until the thunder started.

A low rumbling from the sky immediately put the creature on high alert. Her pupils contracted and she began to look around wildly for any sign of such an intense noise. The pace of her steps quickened as she became more panicked, the goblin sniffing the air for any extra tells. Her large ears were perked up, on the lookout for any potential danger.

All rhyme and reason was thrown out the window as the first lightning bolt hit the ground. The flash of light was a surprise, but the *Crack* That followed sent her into a frenzy. She began to sprint down the muddy road on all fours, eventually ducking into the trees off the beaten path to try and hide. The next lightning strike prompted her to continue fleeing, stopping to change directions each time a new bolt struck the ground.
_ _

Her desperate movement eventually put Bicco's farm into view, a place that Gum at *Least* Recognized as shelter. She made a beeline straight for the farmhouse, completely out of breath as the sky *Attacked* Her from every possible angle. Gum was so desperate, she slammed her head right into the door, causing her to stumble back in a daze. After coming to her senses, she bolted down the steps and slipped underneath them. It was the only shelter she could think to seek as the sky roared and thundered.

With that, she was left shivering, covered in mud, and coughing given how far and hard she had ran. Each boom of the sky caused her to recoil intensely, making quite the ruckus from underneath the stairs.
Joyce
Bicco had been tending to his evening chores when he heard the distant rumble of thunder. As the storm approached, the sky darkened, and the air grew heavy with the promise of rain. He glanced up from his work, concern etched on his weathered features as he sensed the impending tempest.

The first flash of lightning illuminated the landscape, followed by a deafening crack of thunder that echoed through the valley. Bicco's gaze swept the horizon, searching for any signs of trouble. That's when he spotted a small figure darting towards his farmhouse, moving with frantic urgency.

As Gum crashed into the door, Bicco hurried over, concern deepening at the sight of the shivering and mud-covered goblin. Without hesitation, he swung the door open wider, beckoning her inside. "Quickly, come in!" He called out over the roar of the storm.

As Gum stumbled down the steps and sought shelter beneath them, Bicco followed, crouching down beside her. He reached out a hand, resting it gently on her trembling shoulder. "It's alright, you're safe now," He reassured her, his voice a calming presence amidst the chaos.

With a sympathetic smile, Bicco glanced up at the storm raging overhead, then back at Gum. "You're welcome to stay here until the storm passes. I'll make sure you have a warm place to rest and some food to eat."

In the shelter of his farmhouse, surrounded by the comforting warmth of a crackling fire, Bicco offered Gum a sense of security in the midst of the storm.
Willie
Gum was positively terrified. Her little body shook so hard, her limbs had gone stiff. Through her fear, she pushed her face against the ground and used her hands to hold her ears down, trying to block out the noise. Unfortunately, it didn't help much, and a new problem presented itself soon after.

The hand on her shoulder prompted her to shoot backwards, the goblin retreating as much as she could without exposing herself to the rain. All of a sudden, she had been cornered, and her instincts had all but given up trying to find practical solutions. Behind her was the thundering environment that rattled the goblin to her core, and in front of her was someone she was half afraid would try to kill her.

In response, she opened her mouth and let out a few small, meek yelps. Her noises were easily drowned out by the rain pounding down, and soon devolved to fits of coughing as she struggled to catch her breath.

Eventually, her instincts forced her to make a decision. Her defensive stance was dropped as she went limp, dropping face-first into the mud to play dead. Unfortunately, her fear betrayed the act, Gum's limbs still shaking and chest still moving as she breathed. She closed her eyes tightly and waited, hoping *Something* Would change and give her an opportunity to flee or seek somewhere safe.
Joyce
Bicco's heart went out to the trembling goblin before him, her fear palpable in the way she cowered and retreated. He took a step forward, intending to offer her comfort and reassurance, but he hesitated when he saw her meek yelps and fitful coughing.

Seeing her drop face-first into the mud, attempting to play dead, Bicco felt a pang of sympathy. He knelt down beside her, his large hand hovering over her back in a gesture of gentle reassurance. "Hey there, little one," He said softly, his voice a calming rumble amid the storm. "You're safe now. There's no need to be afraid."

Gum's continued trembling and shallow breaths tugged at Bicco's heartstrings. He wished he could offer her more than just words, but he knew that patience and understanding were key in moments like these. "You're not alone," He added, his tone filled with warmth and compassion. "I'm here to help. Take your time, catch your breath, and when you're ready, we can figure out what to do next, alright?"

As Bicco observed Gum's trembling form, memories stirred within him, bringing forth echoes of a distant past. He recalled his daughter, a sweet and fragile soul who, much like Gum, was easily frightened by the world around her. In his mind's eye, he saw her face, so innocent and full of wonder, yet overshadowed by fear.

He remembered the countless times she sought refuge in his embrace, her tiny frame trembling against his chest as he whispered soothing words to calm her racing heart. His daughter's vulnerability had always touched him deeply, and he had made it his mission to protect her from the terrors of the world.

As he watched Gum's futile attempt to play dead, Bicco couldn't help but feel a pang of empathy. He understood all too well the overwhelming sense of fear that could grip one's heart, paralyzing them in its grip. Just as he had done for his daughter so many years ago, he wanted to offer Gum a sense of safety and security amidst the storm.

With a heavy heart, Bicco silently vowed to be a source of strength for the frightened goblin before him, just as he had been for his beloved daughter. He would do whatever it took to ease her fears and guide her through the darkness, for he knew all too well the power of compassion and understanding in times of need.
Willie
Further ruining her act of playing dead, Gum's ears twitched and perked up as Bicco's calm voice managed to reach them through the rain. In the moments where he spoke, all else seemed quiet, and the goblin eventually lifted her head to meet his gaze.

Something began to click inside of her head. Bicco's actions started seeming less harmful, especially compared to her typical interactions with people. His stillness, his compassion, and his patience all had their effects on her, and the strength displayed helped Gum find some of her own. Though still trembling, she clambered up onto all fours and inched her way towards him.

With the storm still circling overhead, there were quite a few cracks of thunder that sent Gum hurtling fearfully back to her original position. Each time she recovered, however, she made it further and further towards him.
In the game of life that Gum played, bravery of such order was often met with swift punishment. She never had the opportunity to imagine a positive outcome, and her instincts had adapted to keep her from trying.

But with Bicco's steeled resolve, she managed for force past her primal design, even if only for a moment, to get out from underneath the stairs. Her big, wide eyes looked up to the retired knight, and her trembling became less prominent. Even the cracks of thunder, while still causing her to flinch, did not send her back to hiding underneath the stairs. She simply continued to look up at Bicco, sniffing occasionally while her little heart pounded.