Linda
**He was breathing somewhat heavily, thinking to himself, this lady's shop should be nearby...**

**"Are you really gonna try getting rid of me? I thought we were on good terms!"** 

**He looks around, making sure no one is close enough to hear him talk to himself,**

No, we aren't, and you're more harmful than helpful - and annoying. 

**He stops at what seems to be a shop, knocking on the door three times.**
Matthew
***THESE EVENTS HAPPENED AFTER SELENA MET ALEC***

```A normal day of work, it was traditional.```

***The shop was full of plants and ancient architecture, you could see multiple framings with chakras and crystals, even some collection of bugs and butterflies laying around***

***The outside was pure glass, some swirls of quartz made the doorframe with a bell quite charming. A sign written in fancy letters "Open! Enjoy your stay!" Could be found.***


***There was a woman inside the shop, seeming to light up some lights with her own hands... Magic.***
Linda
**He would proceed to walk in after reading the sign**

**His eyes were red, his hair was far too messy, clearly hadn't been done in days at minimum. His clothes, however, were clean.**

**But the one thing that catches the eye more than anything, is that he was using a staff... As a cane, and he, was limping**

**He would first simply browse the shop, completely ignoring the woman**
Jan
[[You can do it if you want, I usually fast reply so up2u
Ann
***She finished lighting up some aromatic cnaldes, ready to start her business. The bell rang, someone was in.***
"Ah, greetings, Sir! Is there anything you require from my assitance?"
Linda
**He would slowly make his way over to the strange woman, almost tripping a few times, the pain in his leg was immense today** 

I hear you, **He pauses, holding up his hand to signal to give him a second, which he would proceed to take a few heavy breaths**

I hear you are a healer of some sorts?
Ann
"Yes, I do herbal, crystal, aura, chakra and magical healing... Do you need any of those services?"
Linda
**He looks over to Nichole [his hallucination in the form of pearl's mother]** 

Can you prevent hallucinations from occurring?

**He decides to ignore mentioning the fact that he's hallucinating because of painkillers, knowing if he simply detoxed, the hallucinations would go away anyways**
Ann
"Hallucinations? Depends... Please, have a seat."
***She pointed to a beanbag chair as she started making some magnolia tea.***
Linda
**He seemed a bit skeptic, he wasn't here for a therapy session... But he proceeded to sit down anyways**

You from around here? 

**"Huh... So you won't tell her about the painkillers, even though you have all the physical symptoms, I guess you don't really want to get rid of me then."**

**He was a bit jittery, he knew it was because it's been at least 12 hours since he last took some painkillers, his body might be experiencing early symptoms of detox, he thought to himself, I should've taken some before entering this shop**
Ann
"No, I'm from Kahlo actually... My family and I moved to the shifting forest's borders when I was born."
***The tea was ready.***

"You want some tea before we begin?"
Linda
Oh cool, I'm from Kahlo too, born and raised actually... A noble technically... Until I became an outlaw. 

**He looks at the tea, skeptic that it may be some sort of medicine without his knowledge**

Sure...

**"WHY ARE YOU TRUSTING THIS STRANGER? WHAT IF SHE'S DRUGGING YOU?"**

**He thought to himself, what else could he lose?**
Ann
"Right, it's herbal tea.. Magnolia flowers with honey."
***She poured it in a cup and gave it to Qaysar.***
"Hope it's good for your taste. May I ask some questions about your hallucinations before I settle on a possible treatment?"
Linda
**He sighs**

Go ahead. Ask away...

**"I HATE THERAPY, WE HATE THERAPY, IT DIDN'T WORK WHEN FATHER AND MOTHER WERE GETTING DIVORCED, IT WON'T WORK NOW!"**
Ann
"Mhm.. When did these hallucinations you say started appearing?"
Linda
**"I TOLD YOU THIS WOULD BE THERAPY AND YOU DIDN'T LISTEN" He hated that his hallucination was right**

**He sighs,** When I was hospitalized for 6 months. 

**He was being really closed off with his answers**
Ann
"And what was the reason you were hospitalized for? Any wounds or events?"
Linda
**He grinds his teeth a bit**

I fell. From a ladder.

**An *Obvious* Lie**
Ann
***She lightly chuckled, sighing.***
"You can be honest with me, no secrets are running out this door without permissions."
Linda
Does it really matter how or why I got hospitalized?

**Just thinking about what Lue did made him feel sick**
Ann
"Actually, it really is... If it is because of a wound, perhaps it is medicine. If it is because of trauma, it might be the brain functions and your inner consciousness still marked by the events."
Linda
**He thinks for a moment, trying to formulate the least informative answer required**

It's mental trauma.

**A lie, its because of physical torture that caused mental trauma as well, and obviously a leg injury he chooses not to get healed**
Ann
"And do you take any medicine for that? Antidepressants, or any ansiolitics?"
Linda
**He looks for a moment at his staff, knowing the contents it holds within it, weapons of all sorts, and 20 bottles of painkillers**

No. 

**He's hoping she doesn't realize his physical pain is part of early stage detox, which would mean he was lying**
Ann
"Right... Can I have a look at your leg, for a quick second?"
Linda
**He raised an eyebrow**

Why?
Ann
"It was trembling a while ago."
Linda
Like I said, fell from a ladder.
Ann
"And don't you need help to heal it?"
Kim
|| this is the least talkative qaysars been in any convo that didnt include battle
Linda
The wound? No.

Just a single muscle is gone.
**He didn't like the question about showing it to her, he'd been intentionally avoiding looking at his leg when he showers, he realized, he doesn't know how his leg looks like now**
Ann
"Seems like you're hesitant about even being here... These hallucinations are not something that healing will magically get rid of them; the problem is that *You* Need to accept to move foward and stop treating yourself like shit. I know nothing about your life, but I can sense from you that you've gatekeeped a lot of feelings."
Linda
**He was shaking a bit, the lack of painkillers in his system was really getting to him**

**He sounded a bit angry** 
I'm treating myself as best as I can!

**His hands were shaking so much, he accidentally broke the cup of tea in his hand, causing him to get slightly burnt and start bleeding**

Oh- I'm so sorry about that, **He tries picking up the pieces but the bleeding is too painful, he didn't seem to care even though he was clearly hurt**
Ann
"Shhh, it's fine."
***She grabbed his hand immediately, closing her own eyes... What the fuck— Did her back start glowing or some shit? YES!***
***If he looked t his own hand, the wounds started to patch themselves up.***
Linda
Thanks.

I didn't come here for therapy, I came here for hallucination problems!
**He was a bit angry still, he got up and started making his way to the door**

**"I knew you wouldn't wanna get rid of me! I'm the only thing you have close to a friend!" She laughed**

**He stopped 2 feet away from the door, "What are you doing...? Come on, go out there!"**

**He would start walking back to the seat, but would fall in the middle of the shop, trembling, was that crying that can be heard?**
Kim
|| PSYCHOTIC BREAK?!
Ann
"It's not the—"

***She tilted her head in confusion, feeling a gut-wrecking emotion as she saw him cry.***
"...Are the hallucinations telling you things-?"
Linda
I-
**He was breathing heavily**

I need help. I'm screwed up in the head.
**Tears can be seen coming down his eyes. How can such a huge man be so screwed up?**

SHE WON'T GO AWAY! NO MATTER WHAT I DO!

**His voice was shaking**
Ann
"I— Hey hey hey hey, close your eyes. Breathe in an out."
Linda
AND FOR THE LOVE OF GOD WHY DOES SHE LOOK LIKE *HER*? 

EVERYTIME SHE REMINDS ME OF WHAT HAPPENED!
**He throws his staff off to the side, it would make a loud BANG as it hit the wall**

WHY IS IT THAT I CAN HELP STRANGERS SO WELL BUT SO HELP ME GOD IF MY LIFE DEPENDED ON A GOOD PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP!

**He crawls his way to his staff, unlocking it, causing it to release all the objects it holds onto the ground. Twin sickles, a flintlock, shadow grenades, but what was most prevelant, was 20 bottles of painkillers, he was struggling as he tried reaching for the painkillers**
Ann
***She stood up and grabbed the painkillers***
"Ha, so this is the little troubling shit that's messing your head... Hey, I have an idea."
Linda
**He looks at her, his eyes were wide**

GIVE THOSE TO ME! I NEED THEM! I CAN'T HANDLE THE PAIN IN MY LEG!
Ann
***She crouched down, holding tight to the bottle.***
"We're going to find an alternative solution to help you out. Just listen to what I say and you'll be fine, 'kay?"
Kim
|| she should prob take the other 19 bottles
Jan
[[Yep she boutta do it
Linda
**He would crawl his way over to his staff, trying to reach for one of the other bottles**
Kim
|| hes too slow to get there before her bc of his leg pain
Ann
"First of all, just— Nonono, stay on the floor."
***She took the other bottles and put them inside a bag, climbing up a shelf and placing them on the highest level.***
"Alllrighr mister, just lay down, and let me help, okay? You came to the right person."
Linda
NO. GIVE THEM BACK TO ME! I NEED THEM! 

**"SHE CLEARLY HATES CRIPPLES! LOOK AT HER, SHE'S WATCHING YOU SUFFER! SHE'S PROBABLY LAUGHING ON THE INSIDE!"**

YOU KNOW WHAT IT'S LIKE TO BE IN CONSTANT PA-

**He stops, noticing how he looks like in a nearby mirror, for a moment he couldn't recognize himself, he thought, what have I become?**

**He rests a bit, letting his muscles relax, and he sighs, he looked broken**
Ann
"Dude, just lay down and relax, good?"
***She started at him on the floor, soon after sitting down besides him.***
"Okay, there we go. First of all, let's bring your mind to the present moment, shall we?"
Linda
**He sighs**

I'll give you real answers from now on.

**Nichole was looking at him with a look of worry, that he might actually get rid of her, he looks at the non-existent woman**

You're only worried because you know this will work.
Kim
|| saw ur reply then forgot to reply
Jan
[[Honestly I don't mind either pings or no pings, since I don't get a lot of messages
Ann
"I'm actually worried because I know how hallucinations are, they're terrible... I'll only tell you one main guidance: listen to my voice. If you hear anyone else, try your best to focus on me. Sounds good?"
Linda
Okay. 
**He takes a deap breath**
What do you need to know?
Ann
"What caused these hallucinations. Only like that I'll be able to help you. No need to be fully descriptive, if you tell me the main points already, it'll be good enough."
Linda
**He takes a deep breath, he hadn't actually ever told a story about trauma before, certainly not about recent events**

Well, since you're from Kahlo, I assume you've been relatively informed on events that go on there? Or is that not the case...?

**It would certainly be harder for him to explain *Everything* If she wasn't aware of these events he's about to describe**
Ann
"Not really... I don't like all the drama-ish stories, I rather live my life making sure the people that need me are happy. But, you peaked me interest on that."
Linda
**He sighs**

Okay, this is gonna take longer than expected then...

I... Stole money, and resources... From the rich all over Ambrosia... Over 400M to be exact... But don't get me wrong, it wasn't for me... I gave it all away to the poor. If I stole from the King of Kahlo, I gave it all to the people of Kahlo, steal from Nobles in Celestia, give it all to the people of Celestia. I'm actually quiet literally BROKE. 

Hence, I had a bounty on my head, one that only ever increased, at its peak it was 50M or so, they even placed guards on my mother's home. One thing led to another and what was meant to be sleeping powder was actually poison and was given to the King, causing his death and his tyrannal son to take power. His son...

**He pauses, and starting breathing in and out**

He, dismembered my mother in front of my own eyes, in public, and I couldn't save her. 

I helped take him down obviously, but what was done was done.

That's the first half of the story... Can I get some water please?
**He looked very uneasy for simply saying those events**
Ann
"Oh dear... Sounds really like those fictional tales from books."
***She stood up to get some water for him; she brought along a pillow and gave both away.***
"Is there anything else?"
Linda
Thanks.

**He sat there, collecting his thoughts**

My cousin... A serial killer, he escaped taht al- **He held himself back, not wanting to confirm that the myth about such a prison was in fact a reality**
He resurfaced... Killed some innocents, then kidnapped and tortured me 2/3 of the way to death... Then he-


**"Tell her, tell her how you got my daughter killed when you promised you'd keep her safe! Tell her how the reason I'm dead in the first place is for helping YOU! TELL HER HOW YOU'RE A DEATH BOMB FOR ANYONE WHO HELPS YOU OR COMES CLOSE TO YOU!" Nichole proceeded to sit on the sidelines, staring at him**
**A few tears were going down his eyes**

He, **His voice was shaking,** He killed my adopted daughter- And I couldn't do anything to save her like I promised her parents I would. Instead, I was lying in a hospital for weeks, before I went to find him and kill him, he's the reason my leg is like this... My girlfriend and drinking pal took me to a hospital, where I spent the next 6 months recovering.
Ann
"That... Seems like a lot of baggage you need to dispose of... It's better if you start off slowly with ways to cope with all this— That are not pills, drugs or alcohol."
Linda
I- I- I don't know anything anymore.

**He was really shaking now**

Is th- this- detox? I haven't taken painkillers in- in 14 hours-
Ann
"Mhm. You're experiencing the effect of depenency from your pills. Slowly, your body will get used to that feeling. You might feel really sensitive, both physically and emotionally."
Linda
My leg.
**His breathing was shaky**
It hurts.

And before you ask, no, your healing won't work... That window is long gone...
**He thought to himself, she must be wondering how long it took him to realize he has a problem once he was out of the hospital if it's too late to get his leg fixed**
Kim
|| also i js realized they never got each others names
Ann
"Well, you know.. I- I don't know if I can do this but... People tell me I have potential to revive the dead. If they say that, for sure I can attempt to grow back a muscle."
Kim
|| i mean sure but it wont work, part of the consequences for Qaysar ^
Linda
**He takes a breath**
Sure... But it probably won't work...
Jan
[[the consequences of my actions nowwwwrrrrrr...

[[i mean it can at least get rid of good amounts of pain
Ann
"Right. I just need you to be focused and relaxed."
***Inside of a bag, she took out some crystals: clear quartz and obisidian.***
***Soon enough, she held them in her hand and her back started glowing again.***
"Just give it a while..."
Linda
**After a while, nothing happens**
Yeah... I don't think its gonna work.

**Just the feeling of his hand on his thigh muscle makes him feel sick**
Ann
"But did the pain at least get reduced?"
Linda
Yeah... I think so... Somewhat... It's still really painful...

I've found that when I'm fighting other people I tend to completely forget about it.
Ann
"I think I do have an alternative solution instead of pills for you..."

"Let me find it-"
***She opened a cabinet and started scouring.***
"Where is it, where is it... Aha! Found it!"

***It was an anesthetic numbing cream made from herbs and non-toxic chemical compounds.***
"I sometimes do tend to do tattoo art, and these work really well for numbing the muscles to avoid pain. You should try it!"
Linda
Honestly... Can't guarantee I'll somehow not turn that into an addiction... What was it you said earlier? Coping mechanisms? Tell me more about that.
Kim
|| also she does realize she's gonna need to monitor him for weeks to ensure hes truly not gonna go back to painkillers
Ann
"I mean, it'll be healthier than whatever you got going on.

Oh and coping mechanisms! Those are actions or things that you can do to ease things that you need to go through. As an example, I have a coping mechanism of always offering help to others, and whenever they accept it, it makes me happy because I made someone's day better.
These can be used for good benefits, but sometimes if you use the coping too much, it can rather become annoying or worrying— Like joking about trauma to make the experience less traumatizing."
Linda
What about... Cooking?
Ann
"Yeah that's a great one!"
Linda
I... Feel an immense amount of guilt...
My hallucination... Its in the image of my daughters mother...
Ann
"Oh.. Did you stop to think of the pills had hallucinogenic compounds?"
Linda
No... I'm not sure.

But even then... My subconscious chose her out of everyone...

How can I live with myself knowing who died because of me?
Kim
|| forgor abt that second part hence the 11 min diff
Ann
"Hey hey, people die, whether they are related to us or not. The best thing we can do is focus on the now to make them happy.
Now, do you find an interest in cooking?"
Linda
I guess so.

**He was shaking a lot now, the detox was at its peak, as he looks over to Nichole, she's less prevelant, more quiet, the detox was working**

**He notices a painkiller off in the distance, on the ground**

Can I get something to eat?
Ann
"Actually, why don't *We* Make something to eat? We can start right now!"
Linda
Sure.
**He grabs his weapons off the ground, placing them into his staff, closing it up, and holding it as a cane**

**He sees the painkiller pill right beside the staff, grabbing it un-noticeably at first**

**"Well well well, if you take it, then you're pain will go away, but at the same time, then you don't deserve her help, and you wouldn't deserve anyone else around you."**

**He stands still, clearly holding something in his hand now, frozen in place, unable to determine what to do**
Ann
"What do you want to do? We can make pasta, or some cookies— maybe muffins!"
***She headed to a back corner of the shop, where it seemed more like a house and got some utensils out.***
Kim
|| so she just doesnt notice the pain pill
Jan
[[nope because she's far away from him
It's up to you decide: redemption or not.
Linda
**"Take it, take it, take it"**

**He screams** GET OUT OF MY HEAD!

HELP ME!!!!!!!!! **He was trembling, the pill fell out of his hand and rolled towards the kitchen**

**He tries to go grab it**
Ann
"Wait huh WHAT HAPPENED-?!"
***She rushed to Qaysar, noticing the pills.***

"Hey hey hey look at me—"
Linda
**He grabs the pill, he's too far from her for her to stop him**

**"YES"** 
**He looks at Selena, then he throws the pill off into the distance, and sits on the ground, taking a few deep breaths**

**He laughs a bit** I never found out your name, haha.
Ann
"Hey hey HEY—"
***She reached out to him, but then he threw the pills away...***

"...Good decision. Well uhm- My name? I'm.. Selena."
Linda
That's a good name... My name is Al-Qaysar... Half the people know me, the other half don't, I assume you're from the other half? Unless you're poor.
Ann
"I mean, I lived in the woods for almost half my life so-"
Linda
Yeah... Thought so. 
**He gets up, heading into the kitchen**
Pizza? 

**He seems to know a decent amount in regards to ingredients, not his first time cooking, but certainly not exactly a good cook**

How do I know after I detox fully that I won't go back to the pills?
Ann
"Sounds good!"

***She started getting some flour and water out.***

"Well, it is not an automatic response... There's a mix of the body and the mind response. You'll feel physically dependent from it, but your head needs to fight it out. Thus why the coping mechanisms are helpful!"
Linda
Okay... This is as far as I know in regards to cooking pizza...

**He's glad she didn't ask him to take a good look at his right leg**
Kim
|| brute force therapy
Ann
"Yeah, this is.. The dough part-! Oh and actually, can I ask a question?"

"You acknowledged your leg is hurt, but did you take time to look at it properly or talk to a doctor?"

"...Do you want to look at it-?"
Linda
**He breaths heavily, but knows its something he has to do**

Sure...
**He pulls up his pants on his right leg, taking a look at his missing thigh muscle, and the wounds**
**He couldn't look for more than a few seconds before looking away**
**"You can't look at it for long, you fool."** 

**He forces himself to look at it for longer**
This... Is who I am now.
Ann
"Good thing that you accept it... The first step for healing is taking in the situation of who you are in the present moment."

"But lets not take the sad conversations now, a pizza is waiting."
***She starts making a pile of flour and added some water, mixing it with her hands***
Linda
**He was pretty useful for cooking, he seemed to be a natural, but every 15mins or so, he would sit on the ground, shaking for a few minutes as a result of the painkillers leaving his system**

**By the time they were done making the pizza, he seemed far better**

Now to see if it tastes as good as we think it does.
Ann
"Oh for sure it will!"
***She took a bite, then another, soon the whole slice was done for.***
"...Soft, fluffy dough. With the right amount of sauce and cheese."
Linda
**He eats at least half of the pizza, relatively fast too, he was really hungry, he hadn't eaten anything all day and night, there was a beautiful sun rise outside** 

**He pauses, having a moment of realization, he looks around a bit**
We're alone!
Ann
"Actually, not entirely alone... Where is she- AZURA?!"
Matthew
*Mrow. Bitch was on top of a shelf.*
Ann
"...There you are-"
Kim
|| HE WAS REFERRING TO HOW HIS HALLUCINATION IS GONE
Jan
[[When she's adhd focused:
Linda
No no, we're alone as in there's no other intelligent life here.

She's gone- Nichole, my hallucination.
Ann
"Ohhh I see— ...Azura no."
Matthew
*She legit jumped right on Qaysar's head and stayed there.*
Ann
"...She does that with newcomers."
Linda
**He laughs a bit**

I don't mind it. 

**He gently takes the cat and places her in his lap, petting her for a bit**

Does she like me?
Ann
"I think so, yeah. She's really social."
Kim
|| i love how she didnt inquire about personal relationships as part of his therapy
Jan
[[she doesn't want to ask much because ✨speech consent✨
Linda
I've always wanted a pet... But when I was a child my dad was cruel, never let me get one.
And now, well I travel around too much to have a pet. Closest thing I have to one is a horse I keep at my ex-girlfriend's house... Not the princess of Kahlo... My other ex. 

**It seemed a bit suspicious as to why he would keep his horse at an ex's house unless there was something still connecting them**
**It was more odd that he didn't mention that he broke up with the Princess of Kahlo when he had initially mentioned dating her earlier in the day**

I, uh, I do horseback riding, one of my favorite hobbies actually.
Ann
"You dated the princess of Kahlo..? Woah- But it's nice to know you like horses!"
Kim
|| he mentioned her being his gf when he first mentioned the trauma 😭
Linda
Yeah... But I broke up with her... I don't want her getting hurt because of me...
And she deserves someone better. All I did was harm her more, especially when I accidentally killed her own brother, using her own magical powder.
Jan
[[Girl is adhd spam sometimes
Ann
"Oh shit... Well, does she know that you still want to see her happy?"
Linda
Yeah... I couldn't tell her my real reasons to her face, so I sent her a letter that she would've received right after heading home from the hospital. 

My other ex-girlfriend though... She was something else.
**He had a small smile on his face for a moment**

She's the one I keep my horse with, haven't visited in 3 years though. 
**It was clear he was hiding something in regards to his other ex, but he was hesitant to say it**
Ann
"And did you think of talking with her?"
Linda
**He sighed**
It's complicated, we're like, toxic for each other.

Everytime we've tried getting back together it only blew up worse, I would proceed not to visit for a few weeks, and that would only make our so- our horse's mental state worse...

**He initially almost said *Our son,* It was actually clearly said, and it doesn't make sense for a horse's mental state to be worse because of a break up between two humans**
Ann
"Oh god... And did you try getting the horse back at least?"
Linda
No, I can't, *He* Would be really sad, and would think I was abandoning him. 

**He wasn't exactly referring to a horse when he said "He" Anymore**

**He sighs**

Promise me that what I'm about to tell you, you won't tell a single soul, regardless of who they are, otherwise, if someone dies, their blood is on your hands.

PROMISE ME. SAY YOU PROMISE!
Ann
"I- I PROMISE, IT'S OKAY-"
Linda
**He takes a deep breath in**

The reason she has my horse, the reason I'm still keeping contact with her every now and then, isn't because I simply still love her. 
It's because we share a son. He's eight, and I taught him how to horseback ride. Everytime I visit I take my horse and he takes his, and we ride alongside the beach.

Everytime his mother and I have given our relationship another shot, it starts off with what every relationship starts with, good intimacy, messing around, then it blows up because we know how to get under each other's skin, then I don't visit for a few weeks, and he thinks its his fault or is bummed out.
Ann
"Oh god... I'm so sorry... Is he at least happy with her?"
Linda
Yeah... I think, not sure anymore, haven't been able to visit in 3 years, first it was being swamped with the bounty on my head, I still sent letters and money, then it was tyrant in power and then my cousin then hospitalized for 6 months and painkiller addiction, at which point I couldn't even send letters or money, they probably think I'm dead.
Ann
"But I do say... It is your kid after all. You shouldn't leave them without their proper father figure, nobody would ever want an absent parent..."
Linda
**He sighs**
I know, I know, I was really good at taking care of him until 3 years ago, I wanted to visit but didn't want them to see me in my current situation, addicted, broken, weak.
Ann
"That's why you came to me. It was good of your own decision to try healing."
Linda
Yeah... I reached a point where I couldn't think straight... Almost overdosed intentionally to see what my mentee would do.
Ann
"Annnnd this is why we are definitely going to cut out those pills, they're like- a literal entrance for death."
Linda
What do I say to them? 

When I visit my son... He probably looks so different now 😔
Ann
"You know what's the best thing to do? Say the truth. It's better than lying, because whenever they find out, thing will only be worse."
Linda
Yeah... Its just a lot for them to handle, "HEY SORRY FOR DISAPPEARING I WAS BUSY ALMOST DYING 4 TIMES!"
Ann
"PFFFFT- I mean, did you want to see them safe and sound? That's a reason to add to.. Almost dying four times!"
Linda
I mean yeah, that's the whole reason no one knows that he's my son, but he doesn't understand that completely yet.
Ann
"I just tell you, it's better to be honest to them. Perhaps saying the truth and starting to treat yourself better might be a key for a healthy bonding with your son's mother. You guys don't necessarily need to get back together, but at least stay on good terms."
Linda
Yeah. For now, I need to find more coping mechanisms! 

**He browses the shop, looking at all the different items on the shelves**

So... This is your job? Shopkeeper and therapist? Any travelling that you do, or no?
Ann
"Actually, it's a bit compicated to explain... I don't like to limit my abilities to one title, because... Imagine someone who is a nurse, a healer, a herbal doctor, a crystal expert, a chakra and aura student and as well a huntress who keeps a shop and just wants to help others move from whatever deals they're passing?"
Linda
I think they call that an entrepreneur. 

Good on you! As long as you're doing what you enjoy, that's all that matters.

I basically help people too but illegally for the most part, until recently, now its more legal and on a larger scale... Mostly killing dictators and serial killers.
Ann
"Well, the more you get off the illegal paths, the better for you. And an entrepreneur? Huh... An entrepreneur known for hutning vampires, sweet!"
Linda
Better title than a criminal! **He laughs, not sure if its in sarcasm or sadness**
Ann
"Hey, I know that was referencing to you- Just take your time, treat yourself better to then treat others the same way. But hey, some people say I'm a wonder and others say I'm just a hazard-"
Linda
Truly a wonder what people can say about you, ask a local anywhere, they'll most likely call me a hero. Ask a royal, noble, or high ranking authority official, and they'll call me the worst thief this world has ever seen.

....Ask me... And... Honestly, I don't know what I think of myself.
Ann
"And that's why you have to work on yourself. It takes time for sure, but it'll be worth it."
Linda
I sure hope so...

You got anything in this shop that's useful for my coping mechanisms? 

Oh, and do you got anything you think might be a good present for an 8 year old?

**He smiles slightly**
Kim
|| bro def forgot i replied
Ann
"Hmmm... Coping mechanisms... Maybe I can find something- What do you think about crystals?"
Linda
What do crystals do exactly?
Ann
"They say that if you find the right crystals for the right situations, they will thing you positivity, luck, lightness and a better mindset."
Linda
Hmmm. Anything else? Something I can fidget with, you know?

Bare minimum in terms of magic or emotional manipulation.
Ann
"Oh! What if I make a charm? Or a bracelet? Like that it should do the trick."
Linda
What about... Art? 
Like drawing, and also marshal arts.
Ann
"That can also work! After all, you choose your own path after all."
Linda
Yeah. 
**He lies down on the ground on his back, closing his eyes, thinking**

How much do I owe you?
Ann
"Well, since you were the first person here, I can do it for free. How about that?"
Linda
Really? I mean, are you sure? I can get you money if you think I don't have any.

**He indeed had no money on him, zip, nadda, not even a single dime**
Jan
[[sorry notifs have been funky
Ann
"Hey hey, it's fine. Money sure is something we need to live, but if I could, I'd be without it everyday."
Linda
Ha, yeah.

You know, you're the first person I meet who holds that opinion, at least now I know I'm not crazy.
Ann
"Dude, I've lived in the forest for 10 years, those were so peaceful. I still go around the woods for some weeks, but then I remember I have a shop."
Linda
And that, is why I don't stick around somewhere specific! Can't really be expected to stick to a kingdom when there's all this natural beauty! AND, poor people exist outside JUST Kahlo!
Ann
"Yeahhh... Variety is good. But hey, you said you stole from the rich to give to the poor, huh?"
Linda
Yeah, you don't have some moral confliction with that, right? 

I mean, my bounty is gone, for the time being, but authorities still do hate me.

You know the whole, if a cop follows a car long enough, he'll find a broken tail light, or break it himself is what they're doing now.
Ann
"No, I don't hav a problem with politics themselves... I'd say I would *Love* An anarchist society, but it is what it is."
***She was half-ly being sarcastic, she just hated the drama and wars.***
Kim
|| it seems a lot of ur characters hate the drama and wars

|| meanwhile most of mine are directly involved
Jan
[[Planning on adding a radicalist be like:
Linda
Oh, good, very good then. 

Well, now I don't really steal from the rich as much anymore... Was gonna settle down with the princess of Kahlo...
And, well, I used to have a repeating nightmare... I'd walk around on my favorite street in Kahlo, from my childhood, but I can't seem to find anyone I know or care about, and everytime I'd ask a stranger about a loved one, they'd tell me I killed them.
Ann
"Oh fuuuuuck- You still have nightmares?"
Linda
Sometimes yeah... Or at least when I can actually manage to fall asleep.
Ann
"You want a dream catcher?"
Linda
**He raises an eyebrow, in interest**
What's that do?
Ann
"It's like... A craft piece that has stones and crystals, should help you with your sleep."
Linda
Uh... Sure, but I'll only use it on nights I can't get myself to fall asleep in within 2 hours of being in bed.
Ann
"Oh nonono, it's something you hang up in your room! Here."
***She showed him a dream catcher***

"This one is clear quartz, for purity and balance."
Kim
|| not me forgetting to reply again
Linda
Not exactly sure how I feel about that, I'd have to take it with me almost everyday, I don't exactly stay in one place for longer than a few days.
Ann
"Hmmm, maybe I can find a smaller one then."
Linda
Perhaps. I'm honestly trying to go for dealing with things naturally, without much magic, I'm old fashioned.
Ann
"Oh this isn't magic, it's a craft! Assumed to have good factors for dreaming from the positive energy it has. 
The only thing I use of magic in this shop is healing and light to get my candles going, the rest is all natural and spiritual."
Linda
Oh, alright. 
**He was still a bit skeptic**

I don't know, not much of a fan of things I don't exactly understand.
Ann
"It's understandable, people do tend to call me a bit heretic, they didn't lie when they called me— well, a witch."
Linda
OH NO! YOU'RE A WITCH? SOMEBODY HELP! 
**He had a sarcastic tone**

I actually have had better encounters with witches than humans...
Ann
"PFFFFT- Really? I mean, I'm an elf with healing magic and I taught myself light... I want to expand my knowledge one day for more elements, but it'll be a long journey-"
Linda
Well... I don't hate witches... Most humans do.

Hence, when a witch tryna survive finds someone not trying to kill them, they tend to be happy.

Besides, one of my closest childhood friends is a witch.
Ann
"Well, I don't tell people I'm a witch, but if they figure out, uhhh... That's another story."
Linda
Don't gotta worry about my reaction then. 
**He laughs a bit, but his expression quickly fades**

When I was a kid... And my father would hit me or give me cruel punishments... I always felt outcasted by other humans, had that feeling in common with other species back in Kahlo.
Ann
"Ohhh... So there's a full story. Opening up, hm?"
Linda
Yeah... I guess so.

My father always ridiculed me every chance he got, punished me for anything, and everything really. 

The only time I could really enjoy myself was at balls held by the nobility, and oftentimes thats when I could really play games with any Noble child from any race, oftentimes it being with a wizard/witch. He's the one who made my staff with its magical uses.
Kim
|| HEY LOOK I REPLIED

|| ONLY TOOK A SINGLE DAY

|| OK, NOTED, NEXT TIME ILL TAKE A WEEK.
Ann
"Ohhh... I see. Well, that's really a story-"
Linda
Eh, not really, once father found out I was hanging out with a wizard he never let me go to those balls again with him and mother. 
**She could tell he was raised a noble, from the way he said mother and father as well as his tone while saying it**
Kim
|| OH I SEE? REALLY?
Jan
[[I need some fuckin coffee
Ann
"But like- You were uh.. Noble or something? Because they way you're talking makes it sound like it."
Linda
**He grins**
Yeah... I'm a noble, unfortunately. 

I'm supposed to marry from the "Same social class" Or something, otherwise the kingdom won't approve it.
Ann
"Honestly could care less, money and classes are shit, I would rather live in the woods alone but hey, welcome to 'we need money to survive and majority of the people can't get that' world."
Linda
Yeah, that's why I stole from the rich, give the money to the people they exploited, you know?
Ann
"Ehh I guess yeah, sure."
***She started making some natural medicine with some plants, crushing them and shaping them to pills.***
Linda
**He observes her carefully**

What type of pills are those?
Ann
"You guess you could call these uh... Tranquilizers."
Linda
What you gonna use them for?
Ann
"...For- For clients in.. A state of tantrum?"
Linda
Alright, cool... What do you think the next step for me is? You now, in my process of "Healing"
Ann
"Well, you have to try minimizing yourself of getting in trouble or things that remind of you of bad memories."
Linda
That sounds... Doable, I think. 
**He didn't even believe his own words, he didn't sound like it either**
What about my ex-fiance, do you think I did her dirty with the way things ended? I'm not sure what to do anymore
Ann
"You should go one step at a time. I'm sure that things will get settled if you improve yourself."
Linda
Yeah, I guess so. It's just that I was only gonna harm her, and she doesn't deserve that. She deserves more, someone better.
Ann
"And what if you become better by your own?"
Linda
I don't know anymore, will I ever even be capable of love again...
Ann
"Well that's a question I don't know how to answer because it all depends of you-"
Linda
Everything depends on me huh, so you're just supposed to listen and help me realize stuff my subconscious is hiding from me?
Ann
"...I guess, yeah. I'm like the one who's supposed to tell you about your magical destiny or shit."
Linda
Fun... Oh, I promise I'll pay you... Eventually, I just need to get more money... I keep giving it all away 😀
Ann
"No worries, at this point I'm the whole free charity."
Linda
Yeah... Which is all the more reason I need to pay you for your services.
Ann
"Nahhhh there's no need."
Linda
Sure... Whatever you say...

What should I do if I feel like taking painkillers and I'm nowhere close to your shop, like what if I'm in Kahlo...
Ann
"Hmm... I'll recommend this, immediately close your eyes and shout all the anger or frustration you have. That should do the trick, works for me."
Linda
Hm, sure, I hope that works. Maybe limiting my secret stashes would help too.
Ann
"Anything that you stop and think is bad, get rid of it one way or another, I guess. Therapy helps."
***She does a thumbs-up.***
Kim
|| THUMBS UP LMAOOO
Jan
[[she is a walking meme respond
Linda
Hm, sure, I guess, if you think of it that way, but its hard when your own enemy is yourself in such situations.
Ann
"That is why you gotta learn what makes you a bad person, you dummy."
***She lightly slapped the back of his head.***
"The best thing you can do is slowly work the problems out of your life, in a *Healthy* Way. That's why therapy and talking to other people helps."
Kim
|| SLAPPED HIS HEAD LMAOOOO
Jan
[[She is a very much dude bisexual fem lean vibe
Linda
**He slightly laughed**

Talking to other people... I don't think there's anyone I can do that with except you... So just therapy will help.

**He chuckles, then sighs**

No one wants to hear other people's problems, especially mine, can't look weak in front of the people I give money to, their definition of the world will crumble if their "Hero" Himself is having issues.
Jan
[[I've been editing stuff for my characters all day long dude
Ann
"Well, to have issues is clearly human, you can't be always perfect."
Linda
That's why the people like having a hero who seems perfect though
Ann
"But that's just the ideology... A hero is never a hero without their issues."
Kim
|| pov what i say in regards to what i do to qaysar
Linda
Yeah... But a hero is also supposed to give people hope, that won't work if their hero is struggling.
Ann
"That's why balance is the key."
Linda
Perhaps, I guess so. 
**He sits on the ground, taking deep breaths**
Hey, so if I'm supposed to be clean off painkillers and other drugs, does that mean I should also not drink alcohol?
Ann
"...You wanna get worse?"
Linda
So... That's a no then. Welp, gonna have to break the news to my drinking buddy. He's gonna be devastated.
Ann
"...Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought you said you didn't have friends?"
Kim
|| she got him there huh
Linda
Well... Yes and no... Depends on what you consider a friend...
My "Drinking buddy" Is actually someone I met while being a bandit, we teamed up, and killed the tyrant who ruled Kahlo, then we kinda stuck together when it came to getting rid of big threats, and became drinking buddies in that sense. 

Other than that, there are a few nobles, mainly one really, who I was friends with when I was a child, barely been in contact recently though, but he did make me my quarterstaff, its not actually intended to be used as a cane...

Technically, I got my half-sister as well, but we haven't exactly gotten to know each other that well so far. I think you'd get along with her though. 

I guess... There's also my first ex-girlfriend, simply because we have the mutual goal of raising our son.
Ann
"No friends, got it. Go be social, like in a bar or so. Best way."
Linda
You want me, someone who's supposed to limit alcoholic drink intaking, to go to a bar? 
What kind of therapist are you...?
Ann
"Exactly. Test yourself to see if you're really that dependent of alcohol and drugs, and actually.. I'm not even a therapy, people *Consider* Me a therapist. I'm just talking, saying the stuff that should be done-
Again, I'm the one person to say about your magical destiny or some shit."
Linda
Then I'd consider a career shift if I were you.

**He laughs a bit** 

You can become the most famous therapist if you do it in Kahlo!
Ann
"Pfft- Well, I help *Others*, but I don't know... Never been to uh- any sort of professional area."
Linda
I mean, you seem to have things going pretty well, better than me, at the very least.
I'm considered unemployed
Ann
"Eh, I like my life chill how it is..."
Linda
I can tell, yeah. Good on you, really. 

How long before you're sure I can be trusted on my own, you know?
Ann
"Do you feel ready?"
Linda
I guess so, but that's why I was asking you!
Ann
"I can't answer for you, dummy. You have to tell yourself to not do things you've been avoiding to partake in."
Linda
OK OK, wait, so you can ask questions but I can't? Doesn't seem that fair...
Ann
"Because I'm trying to guide you to make up your own decisions and answers!"
Linda
Grrrr, ok.

Well, to answer that, yeah, I think I'm ready to handle things alone... I mean, detox was the hardest part anyways, right? 
Now's the easy part, not going back to the pills.
Ann
"You can get emotional one time and immediately think of the pills as a way to escape this. It comes and goes, sort of like periods of sadness."
Linda
Yeah... I'll try my best I guess, can't really think of any situations like that that wouldn't require deep emotional involvement, like another relationship, but I don't think that will happen anytime soon really.
Ann
"Just never jinx yourself. Well then!"
Linda
**He takes a deep breath, the last time he was outside must've been 3 or 4 days ago, and he certainly would've used painkillers on his way out. Part of him feared the outcome, but he was more excited really, he didn't know the exact reason though**

Yeah...

**He gets up**

Do we like handshake or can I like hug you? 
**He slightly smiled**
You've been really helpful honestly, I don't know what I would've done otherwise.
Ann
"Oh uhm— Whatever you want, I guess?"
Kim
|| WYM UP TO U I ASKED BC I WANTED UR OPINION

|| it would be the first time qaysar has gotten a hug since before his mom died 💀
Linda
**He nods and leans in for a friendly hug, the first hug he'd get in perhaps just over a year?**

Alright, I'll be seeing ya.

**He placed his quarterstaff by his side, using it as a cane, and would walk out of the store**
Ann
***Her face seemed to be in a complete state of shock, waving awkwardly as he left.***
"See... You-"


***...What the hell just happened.***
Linda
**A few hours later, a noise could be heard coming from the door, but by the time she would check, there would be no one, nothing but a bag, left on top of the counter, with a note on top which read "Payment - Q." It was a bag full of coins**
Ann
"Huh-?"
***She grabbed the bag and opened it, sighing.***
"...I said no payment was required, dumbass.."

***She took the bag and stored it with a bunch of others inside a cabinet.***
Kim
|| yes tell a guy whos entire personna is giving away every penny not to pay you

|| bc that will def get him to back down