Dinnertime Discussions 2

As the sun lowers in the sky, the landscape shifts colors, becoming hues of gold and the deepest blue. You walk along the path, your feet aching. Your pack is a hot, heavy weight against your back that you look forward to shedding. Somehow, the athletic Laezel and Karlach are always far ahead. You tend to stick to the middle with Wyll and Gale, while Shadowheart and Astarion take the back with Scratch and the Owlbear. Making your way back through the mountains hasn’t been easy. The group has traveled in silence--a rare occurrence. Throughout the day of walking, you have been alone with your thoughts. //You must find the heart of the Absolute, whatever that may be, and use yourself as the catalyst that will burn it from this world.// The night before, Elminster Aumar, the greatest wizard in the realms, made a visit to your humble campfire. An evening of pilfered cheese and wine turned into one of the most harrowing nights you could remember since being infected with the tadpole. Elminster stalled, talked in circles, then apologized as he delivered a message from a goddess, asking Gale to give up his life. It was a lot to take in. A solemn air hung over the procession. You have opened your mouth to make conversation a few times, but every attempt died in your throat when you saw Gale’s face. Whatever joy and laughter you shared seemed a distant memory. There was only his set frown and the long road ahead. Occasionally, you could hear him muttering under his breath, as though arguing with himself. Before long, you make camp, preparing tents and a campfire. Even with the threat of death looming over him, Gale acts on instinct, retrieving the pack with the group’s scavenged supplies. You wait beside your tent, debating. The first night you were all together, you made a point of helping Gale cook. The task seemed overwhelming to do alone, especially after a long day of adventuring. Ever since then, it has become a nightly ritual. Now, for the first time since then, you hesitate. Would he want to be alone? Surely things would be awkward between the two of you. Your last conversation was an argument. You begged him not to give up on himself, but you couldn't seem to sway him no matter what you said. Gale looks around, searching. With a start, you realize he’s looking for you. His face falls, disappointed. He already expects you to abandon him. [[Walk up beside him. "Is it all right if I join you?"|walk up]] [[Sit beside him. "So, what supplies did we manage to find?"|supplies]] [[Touch his shoulder. "Do you mind having a helping hand tonight?"|helping hand]] [[Leave him alone with his thoughts.]]

Gale freezes, then gives a soft chuckle, relaxing. As you take a seat on the log beside him, he smiles with all of his forgotten warmth. “Yes, of course. I’ve grown accustomed to having you here. I was worried for a moment…” He shakes his head. “Ah, never mind.” He opens the provision sack, his mouth twisting, then hands it to you. “I suppose this is all we have to work with tonight. Not exactly a feast, but it will do.” You take account of the insides. Among the odd moldy carrot and the cheap beer, there are enough ingredients for a few different dishes. But first, are you any good at cooking? [[Yes|yes]] [[No|no]]

Gale freezes, then gives a soft chuckle, relaxing. As you take a seat on the log beside him, he smiles with all of his forgotten warmth. "Oh, only the ingredients for a king’s feast." He peers into the provision sack. "Let me see, we have… half a lemon, two bottles of cheap beer, and a moldy carrot." Gale closes the sack and hands it to you, sharing a mirthful grin. "But knowing us, I have a feeling we can turn the stale hand we’ve been dealt into something exquisite." You take account of the insides. Among the odd moldy carrot and the cheap beer, there are enough ingredients for a few different dishes. But first, are you any good at cooking? [[Yes|yes]] [[No|no]]

Gale freezes, then gives a soft chuckle, relaxing. As you take a seat on the log beside him, he smiles with all of his forgotten warmth. "I'd welcome your help, as always," he says. "What do we have for supplies?" “Oh, only the ingredients for a king’s feast.” He peers into the provision sack. “Let me see, we have… half a lemon, two bottles of cheap beer, and a moldy carrot.” Gale closes the sack and hands it to you, sharing a mirthful grin. “But knowing us, I have a feeling we can turn the stale hand we’ve been dealt into something exquisite.” You take account of the insides. Among the odd moldy carrot and the cheap beer, there are enough ingredients for a few different dishes. But first, are you any good at cooking? [[Yes|yes]] [[No|no]]

You walk away, unable to face him. Your footsteps take you beyond the camp and into the wilderness. A path leads up a hill to a cliff where you can overlook the valley below. You sit on a rock, watching the sun descend until it kisses the horizon. It’s peaceful here, unlike the turmoil within you. You think over different arguments—anything to dissuade Gale from his suicide mission. It all seems so hopeless. What could you possibly say to change his mind? You’ve heard him talk about Mystra, and you know he would do anything for her forgiveness. You are merely a small passage in his story. When you return, the smell of burnt food greets you. Gale is sitting by the fire with his head in his hands. Wyll is patting him on the shoulder while trying to rescue the remains of sautéed meat that have turned into charcoal. "I’ll take over from here," Wyll says. "Go rest. You have too much to contemplate right now." "Yes, I think you’re right," Gale says. "Thank you, Wyll." Gale gets to his feet, then sees you just as you come near. He freezes, then looks down, shoulder lowering. [[Go after him.]] [[You’ve done enough. Leave him be.|leave him be]]

"How about something simple and satisfying? Traveler’s stew should suffice." Gale relaxes, his shoulders lowering. "Ah, yes. A staple of the road. Perhaps comfort and ease are what we need right now." (If:$cook is true)[You retrieve a cut of beef, along with carrots, potatoes, and onions. Gale finds your meager set of cooking equipment—a reliable pot, a cutting board, a knife, and a ladle. Every piece of food and every spice was taken from diverse places, but the most valuable equipment came from looting the kitchen at Waukeen’s Rest after the smoke cleared. Before then, cooking had to be much more… improvisational.]\ (else:)["So... I assume we need carrots..." You search through the bag for ingredients you've seen in stews before. It's a common enough meal, so when you present your findings to Gale, he smiles. The spices, however, you leave to him. He finds your meager set of cooking equipment—a reliable pot, a cutting board, a knife, and a ladle. Every piece of food and every spice was taken from diverse places, but the most valuable equipment came from looting the kitchen at Waukeen’s Rest after the smoke cleared. Before then, cooking had to be much more… improvisational.] After so many days on the road, you each fall into a familiar pattern, taking your usual tasks without speaking. You cut the vegetables while Gale prepares the fire and the pot. As your knife taps against the wood, you chance a look at him. Gale has tied his hair away from his face, catching the longer strands behind his head in a knot, but a few shorter pieces always manage to find their way loose. With a light from his hand, the wood catches on fire, licking the bottom of the pot. The glint of the fire catches the profile of his face, the curve of his arms, the delicate poise of his hands. So effortless, so beautiful. It’s enough to put a lump in your throat. You want to talk to him about everything he intends to do, but how? [["Can we talk about last night?"|can we talk]] [["Do you always talk to yourself when you’re upset?"|talk to yourself]] [["I’ve been worried about you."|worried about you]]

"How about the bouillabaise? We may as well make the most of these ingredients before they spoil." Gale brightens at the mention of seafood. "It’s been a long time since I’ve had a dish like that. Although… the seafood we carry is a far cry from the fare you can find in Waterdeep." (If:$cook is true)[You retrieve filets of cod, clams, onions, and tomatoes. Gale finds your meager set of cooking equipment—a deep pot with a lid, a cutting board, a knife, and a ladle. Every piece of food and every spice was taken from diverse places, but the most valuable equipment came from looting the kitchen at Waukeen’s Rest after the smoke cleared. Before then, cooking had to be much more… improvisational.]\ (else:)[You stare at the bag, your face warming as you realize you have no idea what a bouillabaise is. Gale smiles kindly, ever patient with you. "We'll need cod, clams, onions, and tomatoes." He finds your meager set of cooking equipment—a deep pot with a lid, a cutting board, a knife, and a ladle. Every piece of food and every spice was taken from diverse places, but the most valuable equipment came from looting the kitchen at Waukeen’s Rest after the smoke cleared. Before then, cooking had to be much more… improvisational.] After so many days on the road, you each fall into a familiar pattern, taking your usual tasks without speaking. You cut the vegetables while Gale prepares the fire and the pot. As your knife taps against the wood, you chance a look at him. Gale has tied his hair away from his face, catching the longer strands behind his head in a knot, but a few shorter pieces always manage to find their way loose. With a light from his hand, the wood catches on fire, licking the bottom of the pot. The glint of the fire catches the profile of his face, the curve of his arms, the delicate poise of his hands. So effortless, so beautiful. It’s enough to put a lump in your throat. You want to talk to him about everything he intends to do, but how? [["Can we talk about last night?"|can we talk]] [["Do you always talk to yourself when you’re upset?"|talk to yourself]] [["I’ve been worried about you."|worried about you]]

"We’re all tired, so how about something quick? Pan fried trout doesn’t require much thought to prepare." Gale nods, his shoulders relaxing. "An excellent idea. Those meandering paths left my feet sore, and I can hear my pillow beckoning to me." (if:$cook is true)[You retrieve several trout, whatever lemon you have remaining, and some shallots. Gale finds your meager set of cooking equipment—a reliable pan, a cutting board, a knife, and a spatula. Every piece of food and every spice was taken from diverse places, but the most valuable equipment came from looting the kitchen at Waukeen’s Rest after the smoke cleared. Before then, cooking had to be much more… improvisational.]\ (else:)[You retrieve the trout, but that's the easy part. You stare at the ingredients, trying to guess at what else he might need. Gale smiles kindly, ever patient with you. "We'll need lemon and shallots as well." He finds your meager set of cooking equipment—a reliable pan, a cutting board, a knife, and a spatula. Every piece of food and every spice was taken from diverse places, but the most valuable equipment came from looting the kitchen at Waukeen’s Rest after the smoke cleared. Before then, cooking had to be much more… improvisational.] After so many days on the road, you each fall into a familiar pattern, taking your usual tasks without speaking. You cut the vegetables while Gale prepares the fire and the pan. As your knife taps against the wood, you chance a look at him. Gale has tied his hair away from his face, catching the longer strands behind his head in a knot, but a few shorter pieces always manage to find their way loose. With a light from his hand, the wood catches on fire, licking the bottom of the pot. The glint of the fire catches the profile of his face, the curve of his arms, the delicate poise of his hands. So effortless, so beautiful. It’s enough to put a lump in your throat. You want to talk to him about everything he intends to do, but how? [["Can we talk about last night?"|can we talk]] [["Do you always talk to yourself when you’re upset?"|talk to yourself]] [["I’ve been worried about you."|worried about you]]

"We need something appetizing to raise our spirits. How about we make ourselves a treat and use that chuck roast we’ve been saving for some Amphail braised beef?" Gale’s pensive expression lifts, becoming eager. For a moment, the darkness has been pushed back. For now, what to have for dinner is an immediate concern that both of you can get lost in. (if:$cook is true)[You retrieve the chuck roast, along with ripe pears, onions, and a hard cider. Gale finds your meager set of cooking equipment—a deep pot with a lid, a cutting board, a knife, and a ladle. Every piece of food and every spice was taken from diverse places, but the most valuable equipment came from looting the kitchen at Waukeen’s Rest after the smoke cleared. Before then, cooking had to be much more… improvisational.]\ (else:)[You retrieve the chuck roast, then stare at the bag, trying to guess at what else he might need. Perhaps onions? Gale smiles kindly, ever patient with you. "We'll need those ripe pears, onions, and a hard cider." He finds your meager set of cooking equipment—a deep pot with a lid, a cutting board, a knife, and a ladle. Every piece of food and every spice was taken from diverse places, but the most valuable equipment came from looting the kitchen at Waukeen’s Rest after the smoke cleared. Before then, cooking had to be much more… improvisational.] After so many days on the road, you each fall into a familiar pattern, taking your usual tasks without speaking. You cut the vegetables while Gale prepares the fire and the pot. As your knife taps against the wood, you chance a look at him. Gale has tied his hair away from his face, catching the longer strands behind his head in a knot, but a few shorter pieces always manage to find their way loose. With a spark of magical light from his hand, the wood catches fire, licking the bottom of the pot. The glint of the fire catches the profile of his face, the curve of his arms, the delicate poise of his hands. So effortless, so beautiful. It’s enough to put a lump in your throat. You want to talk to him about everything he intends to do, but how? [["Can we talk about last night?"|can we talk]] [["Do you always talk to yourself when you’re upset?"|talk to yourself]] [["I’ve been worried about you."|worried about you]]

(set:$name to (prompt:"Enter your name: ", "Tav")) (set:$cook to false) (set:$travelersStew to false) (set:$seafood to false) (set:$trout to false) (set:$braisedBeef to false) (set: $knowsStars to false) (set: $knowsSome to false) (set: $noStars to false)

You run after him and grab his hand, pulling him to face you. "Gale," you say. "$name," he says, wary. "I didn't see you earlier. I... missed you." He takes in a sharp breath and gives his head a small shake. "Well, what I mean to say is, your help was sorely missed. It seems I've grown used to it." You rub your arm, guilt pricking your insides. "I’m sorry I didn’t stick around. What happened yesterday, and our argument… it’s just been a lot for me to process. I needed time to think." "Believe me, I completely understand." His eyes flicker to the burnt remains of dinner. "Would you meet me later tonight? I think it would be good to talk about everything." [["Of course."|go after him dinner]]

You let him go. Gale retires to his tent and closes the flap. No sound comes from within. When the party gathers around the campfire to eat Wyll’s vegetable concoction, Gale does not join you. His usual place sitting beside you is empty, the void of him somehow having a weight of its own. You do not speak to anyone—the silence wraps you up, creating a barrier that smothers you. There is nothing to say. At least, nothing that will make a difference. You go to bed, but it takes a while for sleep to take you. You wonder if he’s all right. [[Go find him.]] [[Go to sleep.]]

Wyll has only cooked dinner on one other occasion, and he takes advantage of his chance, creating a healthy sauté of mixed vegetables. He dishes you and Gale a plate with a flourish, twirling the ladle. "I appreciate the showmanship," Gale says. "Healthy and wholesome, just like its cook." He pushes the vegetables around with his fork, as though trying to find the meat under all the vegetables. "It could use a sauce, though," he adds quietly. "Thank you for taking over, Wyll," you say. He waves a hand at you. "It’s no trouble. I do enjoy having a turn at the pot." Gale joins you on one of the log benches. You remember when he first started sitting this close to you. It was sometime after your magic lesson. After he became flustered with your romantic feelings, you gave him space to sort himself out. Then, after cooking together, he came to sit beside you. It’s as distracting today as it's always been, especially since you now sit so close you’re practically touching. This hasn't gone unnoticed by your companions, each of them giving your almost-touching hands a glance, but no one seems particularly surprised. Wyll is competent enough, and his vegetable stir-fry is light and pleasing. You finish it quickly, considering all the vitamins and minerals you’ve just ingested. It’s probably more than you’ve had all week. With dinner finished, your companions disperse while chatting, washing their plates. You stack them once more, and as you do, Gale places his own at the top. You turn to face him. He is standing close enough that you could brush against him by accident. "It’s nice to have a break," Gale says, "but I look forward to cooking with you again soon, if you’re still up for it. It’s become one of my favorite rituals." "I’d like that," you say. [[Continue|go after him ending]]

You leave your bed roll and enter the chill of the night. Though you have a moment of hesitation when you come to stand outside his tent, you’re certain he’s as sleepless as you are. "Gale?" you say softly. "Are you awake?" There is a pause, then a ruffle. The tent flap opens. Gale peeks through, his hair messy, the skin around his eyes red. Despite his state, he brightens when he sees you. "Did you need something?" he asks. "I figured you wouldn’t be able to sleep. Did you want to take a walk in the moonlight with me? It might help." "Yes, it might," he says to himself. Gale combs a hand through his hair, then leaves the tent, giving a limp smile. "Lead the way. Anywhere is better than here." [[Continue|go find him ending]]

Eventually, the exertion of the road and the events of all the days prior catch up with you, pulling you into a deep sleep. When you wake the next morning, rummaging through the pack for some kind of breakfast, Gale walks by, his hair uncharacteristically disheveled. It looks as though bruises are forming underneath his eyes. You continue your journey, though you can’t help but think there’s so much more to say, but it will have to wait for now. [[The End|Thank You Ending 3]]

The nighttime mountain air is distinct, you realize. It has its own signature scent, thin and cold, as though it is somehow wilder than the air of gentler climates. You meet him at the edge of camp just as the full moon breaches the silhouette of the peaks. Gale stands with his back to you, his hands clasped behind him as he often does. He turns his head, and when he catches sight of you, he smiles. You stand beside him. The valley is sprawled out below, the trees and rocks marked in the barest shade of silver. A winding river glitters as it winds its way through. "Thank you for coming out here with me," he says. "I’ve had little peace since yesterday, but being with you gives me comfort." Gale presses his lips together, flattening them as he thinks. He turns to you and takes in a small breath, his mouth parting. Whatever he was about to say, it’s lost for a moment. [["What is it?"|what go after him ending]] [[There’s no need to speak.|speak go after him ending]]

The nighttime mountain air is distinct, you realize. It has its own signature scent, thin and cold, as though it is somehow wilder than the air of gentler climates. You walk together in silence, then stop at the edge of a cliff. Both of you stop to observe the valley sprawled out below, the trees and rocks marked in the barest shade of silver. A winding river glitters under the light of the full moon as it winds its way through the darkness. "Are you okay?" you ask. Gale does not answer at first. "I will be. Eventually." He looks at you and smiles faintly. "I’m glad to have you here, at least." His smile fades, a thought overtaking him. Gale turns his face from you. “Where were you earlier? I didn’t see you anywhere.” "I needed some time to think," you say. "The events of the past few days have been… overwhelming." He nods. "Yes, I… I understand that better than anyone. Still, I missed you. Though it may sound silly, I look forward to our cooking ritual. I’ve enjoyed our discussions by the firelight." Gale presses his lips together, flattening them as he thinks. He turns to you and takes in a small breath, his mouth parting. Whatever he was about to say, it’s lost for a moment. [["What is it?"|what go find him ending]] [[There’s no need to speak.|speak go find him ending]]

"I…" Gale shakes his head a little. "I apologize, I’m not accustomed to losing my words. It’s only that the moonlight lays things bare in a way the garish day does not. You have an ethereal glow about you. It’s otherworldly, and… captivating." You see what he means. As he turns to look up at the stars, the moonlight settles like a silvery veil on the planes of his face, highlighting the strong angles and pleasing curves. Gale seems made for the light of the moon and stars. "I didn’t anger you, did I?" Gale asks carefully. "Actually, don’t answer that. I know I angered you. When you didn’t show, I assumed it was because of our heated exchange the night before." You remember the conversation well. As soon as Elminster was done speaking, Gale seemed resigned to his fate. You didn’t take it well. After declaring that you’d find another way, your anger barely restrained, you parted, avoiding each other for the rest of the night. [["No, it wasn’t that."|it wasn't go find him ending]] [["Yes, I was still upset."|upset go find him ending]]

"Oh, Gale. No, no. It wasn’t that. I’m sorry." You touch his arm gently. "I was worried //you// didn’t want to see //me.//" He turns his head sharply to you. "What? How could you think that? I can’t think of a time that I didn’t want your company." You shrug, warmth rising to your cheeks at Gale’s words. "Like you said, our discussion got passionate, and I thought maybe you would want space to cool off." You shuffle your feet under his gaze. When he looks at you like that, the reasoning now feels half-baked at best, even though it made sense at the time. "Then let me rectify the situation," Gale says sternly. "You can safely assume that I always want you near me unless I say otherwise. Am I understood?" You smile at his mock seriousness. "Of course. I wouldn’t dream of misunderstanding you." "Good." He grins. It’s wonderful to see him smile; it seems to beat back the cloud of sorrow hanging over him. "Have you given what I said any more thought?" you ask. His smile slips away. For a moment, you regret asking. "Ah. Yes, you could say that. I was only arguing with myself the entire day." "And was there a clear winner?" Gale lowers his head, allowing shadows to settle in the hollows of his face. "No. Though I know what the answer //should// be. I just have to will myself to do it. My fate has been in motion for a while now, whether I like it or not. I’ve only been delaying things." [["Try to have hope that we’ll find another way. Please."|have hope go find him ending]] [["Fate..."|fate go find him ending]]

"Yes… I’m still upset," you say. "Our discussion got pretty passionate, and I needed to cool off. But I’m willing to talk now." "I suppose I understand,” Gale says. “I was arguing with myself the entire day. I can hardly blame you." "And was there a clear winner?" Gale lowers his head, allowing shadows to settle in the hollows of his face. “No. Though I know what the answer //should// be. I just have to will myself to do it. My fate has been in motion for a while now, whether I like it or not. I’ve only been delaying things." [["It doesn't have to be that way. Try to have hope that we’ll find another way. Please."|have hope go find him ending]] [["Are you sure this is your fate?"|fate go find him ending]]

"I know you don't believe there's another way," you continue. "We can't figure everything out tonight. Just promise me that you’ll have hope." "I admire how you refuse to give up," Gale says. He gives a smile that doesn’t reach his eyes. "But I don’t want to entertain false hope. I can’t expect the gods to save me, nor anything here in the material plane. The world is simply out of options. Perhaps this is meant to be my fate." [["You sound so certain. I know you have faith in your goddess, but when did you lose your faith in yourself?"|faith go find him ending]] [["Are you sure this is your fate?"|fate go find him ending]]

"I don't think anyone has ever told me that before," Gale says quietly, almost to himself. "You deserve to hear it," you say. "It’s true." There’s a brief pause, and he gives a huff that almost sounds like a laugh, but you’re not sure. "What did I do to deserve someone like you in my life?" he says, his voice thick. You reach out, placing a gentle hand on his arm. Gale places his own overtop of yours, then turns to you, your faces only a breath away. You come closer, touching your forehead to his, and you close your eyes. "Please don't give up," you whisper. "You're always thinking of others, but I can be selfish for the both of us. Do it for me. I’ll take the blame." Gale pulls back, considering what you’ve said. "I would never put the weight of this on your shoulders. Already I can see how this is tearing at you. I wish I could spare you the pain." "I’ve told you, it’s not a burden." Your voice is fierce. "I want all the pain. I want it all. Put it on me stone by stone. Let me feel the weight of you." Gale’s shoulders lower, and he looks at you with those vulnerable, glassy eyes. It’s like a guard has dropped, and you can see where he’s been wounded before. "You can’t mean that. No one would want that." "I’m telling you I do. Would I lie to you?" He pauses. "No, of course not." [["Don’t give up. Please. I believe any fate can be rewritten."|rewritten fate go after him ending]]

"I know you don't believe there's another way," you continue. "We can't figure everything out tonight. Just promise me that you’ll have hope." "That //is// a tall order," he says. Gale gives you a sad smile. "But for you, I’ll try. I promise." It's not much, but some of the tension in your gut unwinds. Hope is often the hardest part. Gale takes a seat on a nearby rock. It’s large enough for two, so you take the spot beside him. You both look up at the stars. "Do you know any constellations?" he asks. (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations")

"We can't figure everything out tonight," you continue. "Just promise me that you’ll have hope." "I want to have hope," he says. "Gods, with you, anything sounds possible. As long as you stay nearby, I think I can manage it." Gale gives you a sad smile. It's not much, but some of the tension in your gut unwinds. Hope is often the hardest part. Gale takes a seat on a nearby rock. It’s large enough for two, so you take the spot beside him. You both look up at the stars. The air between you is charged, and you are hyper-aware of how close you are to him without having to look. He rubs the corners of his eyes, then clears his throat, trying to regain some composure. "Do you… know any constellations?" he asks. (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ]

{(if: $knowsStars is true)["Yes, I’m familiar with them," you say. "It looks like the Centaur and the Warrior Woman are out tonight." You nod up at the cluster of stars that vaguely resemble a centaur and a woman locked in a swordfight. One of the brightest stars in the night sky is where their swords meet.]\ (if: $knowsSome is true)["I know a few," you say, narrowing your eyes at the specks of light. Names float around in your memory. "There’s the Eyes of the Watching Woman," you say, pointing to a pair of crescent-shaped clusters. "As for the others… their names escape me."]\ (if: $noStars is true)["Not really," you say, shrugging. You narrow your eyes as the specks of light, their shapes foreign to you. "They’re undeniably beautiful, but I’ve never cared to learn the names."]} Gale gives you a fond smile, then stares up at the sky as though searching for something. "Let’s see… I can make out Lavarandar’s Lantern, the Sleepless Knights, and Auroth the Ice Snake." You follow his naming, coming to rest on a cluster of zigzagging stars that resembled a snake with a knot in its tail. "An ice snake?" Gale’s eyes shine at the opportunity to tell a story. "It’s an old legend I heard some years ago. Auroth was the beloved mount of the goddess Auril, the goddess of winter. In a battle among the gods, Auroth sacrificed his life to save Auril. He was made immortal by the goddess by writing him into the stars." You tilt your head. "Where did you hear that one?" "That was during a memorable trip when I was young. I have a few traders in my extended family that make the trip up to Neverwinter, and on one occasion, my mother and I went with them. Waterdeep is my home, but Neverwinter certainly captured my imagination." "What is it like?" "Colorful. It’s not called the Jewel of the North for nothing. It’s full of life—bursting with flowers, gems, and the most intricate glass sculptures. Then at night, just when you think all color has fled from the world, it strikes again in the sky." You suppress a smile at how he gesticulates. He raises his palm to the stars as though he can wipe them away, replacing them with a picture in his mind. "Colors in the sky? What do you mean?" "I read that it’s called the Aurora Borealis. It’s quite the phenomenon to see in person, like a dancing ribbon of iridescent colors. Like…" Gale raises his hand to the sky, his brow furrowed in concentration. For a moment, you see a gasp of color, then nothing. "Ah… it seems my abilities are creeping back, slowly. But tonight, they disappoint me." He sighs, then offers his hand to you, palm up. Within, a small illusion of shimmering lines appears. "Wow," you breathe. The corner of his mouth lifts at your appreciation, and some of his disappointment lifts. "It’s not what I hoped to show you." "That’s okay. Just keep practicing," you say with a smile. "I’m sure you’ll get another chance to impress me." You slip your hand over his, and the illusion vanishes. Gale is startled, but he takes your hand, interlacing your fingers. The trials are far from over, but for one night, both of you are content. The anxieties of tomorrow can wait. He is here with you, and he is alive. You are happy and peaceful, together. That is all that matters. [[The End|Thank You Ending 1]]

Gale’s shoulders stiffen. He takes the prepared ingredients, sliding them off the cutting board with a swipe of the knife. They hit the heated oil with a hiss. He watches the ingredients cook to avoid looking at you. "I’m not sure what else there is to talk about," he says. "The road ahead seems clear. I just need to make my peace with it." You take in a breath, once again shocked by how matter-of-fact he is about giving up his life. Clearly the idea depresses him, and yet he won’t consider another option. You doubt you’ll be able to change his mind in one night. [["Forgive me for stating the obvious, but you don’t seem happy about that."|not happy]] [["You can’t be serious."|not serious]]

Gale takes the prepared ingredients, sliding them off the cutting board with a swipe of the knife. They hit the heated oil with a hiss. He watches the ingredients cook and with a humorless smile. "I don’t always notice that I’m doing it," he says. "I apologize if I was especially chatty on the road. I had some matters to work out with myself, but everything is in order now." "Oh really? Everything’s settled?" Gale turns to face the challenge in your tone with a defiant lift to his chin. "Yes, I am… at peace with my decision." It sounds as though he’s trying to convince himself. [["The decision to make a sacrifice of yourself?"|kill yourself]] [["Do you mind filling me in on your conversation with yourself?"|fill me in]] [["I don’t believe you."|don't believe]]

Gale takes the prepared ingredients, and as he does so, your hands brush. Both of you take in a sharp breath, parting more quickly than is necessary. There is a tension between the two of you, something that has gone unnamed, but not unnoticed. He slides the ingredients off the cutting board with a swipe of the knife. They hit the heated oil with a hiss. Galewatches the contents cook, his forehead wrinkling. "I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to cause you pain. I’ve been rather wrapped up in my own problems. But… of course you would be concerned. After all, we…" He trails off, unsure of how to finish. Indeed, what were you to each other? You only kissed in your mind. Emotion threatens to boil to the surface as you recall your late nights, the sleep you lost because of your thoughts of this man. But you hold yourself back in every moment for fear of going too far. It’s killing you, but you’d rather combust than harm him. You wonder… does he feel the same? Can there be any hope? Because it’s already too late for you. You love him, and there’s no undoing it now. [["We’re close?"|close]] [["We’re friends?"|friends]] [["We’re…" You can’t make yourself finish the sentence, but you want to say so much more.|we're more]]

Gale stirs the ingredients to keep them from burning. It’s only a quick sauté before adding the rest. It buys him some time before he needs to reply. "No, I’m not. But it’s not about how I feel. It’s about what’s best for everyone." [["Best for everyone? What about me?"|what about me]] [["Why do your feelings about this not matter? It’s your life!"|feelings matter]] [["I guess if that's what you really believe, then I won't stop you."|can't stop]]

Gale stops his sautéing the ingredients and turns his head to you sharply. "I have never been more serious in my life." He tightens his grip on the wooden spatula. "This isn’t easy for me to contemplate, I assure you. It’s just… the best option for everyone." [["Best for everyone? What about me?"|what about me]] [["Why do your feelings about this not matter? It’s your life!"|feelings matter]] [["I guess if that's what you really believe, then I won't stop you."|can't stop]]

He flinches at the bare words, stark and revealing. "Yes, that one. I’ve given it some thought, and it’s clear to me that this is what’s best for everyone." [["Best for everyone? What about me?"|what about me]] [["Why do your feelings about this not matter? It’s your life!"|feelings matter]] [["I guess if that's what you really believe, then I won't stop you."|can't stop]]

"I have a feeling I know what conclusion you came to,” you say, “and I deserve to know why." Gale frowns. "Yes, I suppose I owe you my thoughts, at least. After giving things some thought, I realized that my… my sacrifice would be the surest way to victory." [["Best for everyone? What about me?"|what about me]] [["Why do your feelings about this not matter? It’s your life!"|feelings matter]] [["I guess if that's what you really believe, then I won't stop you."|can't stop]]

"You’re not at peace," you say, "you’re resigned. You’ve given up on fighting. There’s a difference between peace and a surrender." Gale freezes, pausing to think for so long that you wonder if the vegetables will burn. For a moment, you wonder if you’ve ignited something in him, but then he gives himself a small shake and continues to stir. "It doesn’t make sense to fight when you already hold everyone else’s victory," he says. "This can all be over soon, if only I can make the sacrifice." [["Best for everyone? What about me?"|what about me]] [["Why do your feelings about this not matter? It’s your life!"|feelings matter]] [["I guess if that's what you really believe, then I won't stop you."|can't stop]]

He gives a short laugh. "Yes. Of course. That." Though you both exchange a glance that lingers. It is not the sort of look that friends give each other. There is far too much longing. (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is true)[You toss the cut pieces of beef through a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper. You hand them to Gale, eager to be helpful. You stare at each other. He takes the bowl gently, then one by one transfers the beef to the pot, searing the pieces on each side.]\ (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is false)["Here," he says, handing you a bowl filled with flour, salt, and pepper. He hovers close to your shoulder, gesturing as he explains. "We're going to use this to give the beef a coating. After you toss it, I'll cook it in the pot." You trust in Gale and do as directed, though you're not sure what the purpose of this is.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is true)[Just as he looks for the next ingredient, you’re ready to hand Gale wine to follow the tomato paste he’s thrown in the pot. He blinks with surprise. You stare at each other. He takes it gently, pouring a small amount for flavor, deglazing the browned bottom.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is false)["Would you hand me the bottle of wine?" he asks. You do so and watch as he pours in a small amount, scraping at the bottom of the pot.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is true)[You coat the trout in a mixture of flour and spices, your hands sticky with the white powder, then present the fish to Gale on a plate. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, placing each trout in a bed of oil.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is false)["Here," he says, handing you a tray that holds a mixture of flour and spices. He hovers close to your shoulder, gesturing as he explains. "We're going to use this to give the trout a coating. After you toss it, I'll cook it in the pan." Though you're not sure what the purpose of this is, you trust in Gale and do as directed, your fingers becoming sticky with flour.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is true)[Just as he looks for the next ingredient, you’re ready to hand Gale the cider and the cut pears. He blinks with surprise. You stare at each other. He takes it all gingerly, adding the liquid, then nestling the pears between the onions and beef.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is false)["Would you hand me the cider and pears?" he asks. You do so and watch as he pours in the liquid, then nestles the pears between the onion and beef.]\ “Because we're close," you say, "I think you should listen to me." Gale tries to restrain a smile, but it turns into a smirk. "Oh? Have you prepared a lecture for me? Please continue, wise professor. I am your eager pupil." Your face warms. No, you can’t let his teasing distract you. This is a serious matter. You will save him if it’s the last thing you do. [["The demand Mystra’s made of you is cruel."|cruel goddess]] [["You don’t need to give your faith to a goddess who can’t return her faith in you."|faithless]]

He gives a short laugh. "Yes. Of course. That." Though you both exchange a glance that lingers. It is not the sort of look that friends give each other. There is far too much longing. (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is true)[You toss the cut pieces of beef roughly through a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper. You hand them to Gale, eager to be helpful. You stare at each other. He takes the bowl gently, then one by one transfers the beef to the pot, searing the pieces on each side.]\ (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is false)["Here," he says, handing you a bowl filled with flour, salt, and pepper. He hovers close to your shoulder, gesturing as he explains. "We're going to use this to give the beef a coating. After you toss it, I'll cook it in the pot." You trust in Gale and do as directed, though you're not sure what the purpose of this is.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is true)[Just as he looks for the next ingredient, you’re ready to hand Gale wine to follow the tomato paste he’s thrown in the pot. He blinks with surprise. You stare at each other. He takes it gently, pouring a small amount for flavor, deglazing the browned bottom.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is false)["Would you hand me the bottle of wine?" he asks. You do so and watch as he pours in a small amount, scraping at the bottom of the pot.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is true)[You coat the trout in a mixture of flour and spices, your hands sticky with the white powder, then present the fish to Gale on a plate. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, placing each trout in a bed of oil.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is false)["Here," he says, handing you a tray that holds a mixture of flour and spices. He hovers close to your shoulder, gesturing as he explains. "We're going to use this to give the trout a coating. After you toss it, I'll cook it in the pan." Though you're not sure what the purpose of this is, you trust in Gale and do as directed, your fingers becoming sticky with flour.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is true)[Just as he looks for the next ingredient, you’re ready to hand Gale the cider and the cut pears. He blinks with surprise. You stare at each other. He takes it all gingerly, adding the liquid, then nestling the pears between the onions and beef.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is false)["Would you hand me the cider and pears?" he asks. You do so and watch as he pours in the liquid, then nestles the pears between the onion and beef.]\ "Because we're close," you say, "I think you should listen to me." Gale tries to restrain a smile, but it turns into a smirk. "Oh? Have you prepared a lecture for me? Please continue, wise professor. I am your eager pupil." Your face warms. No, you can’t let his teasing distract you. This is a serious matter. You will save him if it’s the last thing you do. [["The demand Mystra’s made of you is cruel."|cruel goddess]] [["You don’t need to give your faith to a goddess who can’t return her faith in you."|faithless]]

Your hand inches closer to his. Gale’s fingers flex, as though he wants to reach out, but he moves his hand to sauté the vegetables instead. He lets out a small, pained breath. (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is true)[You toss the cut pieces of beef roughly through a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper. You hand them to Gale, eager to be helpful. You stare at each other. He takes the bowl gently, then one by one transfers the beef to the pot, searing the pieces on each side.]\ (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is false)["Here," he says, handing you a bowl filled with flour, salt, and pepper. He hovers close to your shoulder, gesturing as he explains. "We're going to use this to give the beef a coating. After you toss it, I'll cook it in the pot." You trust in Gale and do as directed, though you're not sure what the purpose of this is.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is true)[Just as he looks for the next ingredient, you’re ready to hand Gale wine to follow the tomato paste he’s thrown in the pot. He blinks with surprise. You stare at each other. He takes it gently, pouring a small amount for flavor, deglazing the browned bottom.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is false)["Would you hand me the bottle of wine?" he asks. You do so and watch as he pours in a small amount, scraping at the bottom of the pot.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is true)[You coat the trout in a mixture of flour and spices, your hands sticky with the white powder, then present the fish to Gale on a plate. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, placing each trout in a bed of oil.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is false)["Here," he says, handing you a tray that holds a mixture of flour and spices. He hovers close to your shoulder, gesturing as he explains. "We're going to use this to give the trout a coating. After you toss it, I'll cook it in the pan." Though you're not sure what the purpose of this is, you trust in Gale and do as directed, your fingers becoming sticky with flour.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is true)[Just as he looks for the next ingredient, you’re ready to hand Gale the cider and the cut pears. He blinks with surprise. You stare at each other. He takes it all gingerly, adding the liquid, then nestling the pears between the onions and beef.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is false)["Would you hand me the cider and pears?" he asks. You do so and watch as he pours in the liquid, then nestles the pears between the onion and beef.]\ "Indeed, what are we?" he finally says, his attention on the flickering flames below the pot. "Whatever we were becoming, it seems fate has stopped that in its tracks." "No, please, it doesn’t have to be that way." You can’t hide the desperation that creeps into your voice. "I’m willing to hear your arguments, but I doubt you will change my mind," Gale says. "I can be persuasive when I want to be." "It’s not that I doubt your ability to debate. It’s just that I’ve already made my decision." You glare as you search the sack of ingredients, thinking of your line of attack. You will save him, somehow. [["The demand Mystra’s made of you is cruel."|cruel goddess]] [["You don’t need to give your faith to a goddess who can’t return her faith in you."|faithless]]

"Best for everyone? What about me?" He looks away from you, guilt written in his features. "You may not see it now, but I mean that about you as well. I won't let the Absolute burn the world, and you along with it." (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is true)[You toss the cut pieces of beef roughly through a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper. You hand them to Gale, waiting, expectant. You stare at each other. He takes the bowl gingerly, then one by one transfers the beef to the pot, searing the pieces on each side.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is true)[You hand Gale wine to follow the tomato paste he’s thrown in the pot. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, pouring a small amount for flavor, deglazing the browned bottom.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is true)[You coat the trout in a mixture of flour and spices, your hands sticky with the white powder, then present the fish to Gale on a plate. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, placing each trout in a bed of oil.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is true)[You retrieve the cider and the cut pears, presenting them to Gale. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it all gingerly, adding the liquid, then nestling the pears between the onions and beef. He does not immediately answer.]\ (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is false)[He hesitates, then awkwardly hands you a mixed bowl of flour, salt, and pepper. "Ah, if you would coat the beef with this, that would be most helpful." You toss the cut pieces of beef roughly through a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper. You hand them to Gale, waiting, expectant. You stare at each other. He takes the bowl gingerly, then one by one transfers the beef to the pot, searing the pieces on each side.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is false)[He hesitates, growing tense and awkward, his attention drifting to the pack of supplies. "Ah, if you would find the tomato paste and wine, that would be most helpful." You hand Gale wine to follow the tomato paste he’s thrown in the pot. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, pouring a small amount for flavor, deglazing the browned bottom.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is false)[He hesitates, then awkwardly hands you a bowl of mixed flour, salt, and other spices. "Ah, if you would coat the trout with this, that would be most helpful." You do as he asks, your hands sticky with the white powder, then present the fish to Gale on a plate. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, placing each trout in a bed of oil.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is false)[He hesitates, growing tense and awkward, attention drifting to the pack of supplies. "Ah, if you would find the cider and pears, that would be most helpful." You retrieve the cider and the cut pears, presenting them to Gale. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it all gingerly, adding the liquid, then nestling the pears between the onions and beef.]\ "Please don’t do this for me. I would never ask that of you." "I know, and you’re wonderful for that. But you know I’m right." [["I’m not giving up on you."|not giving up]] [["Fine. I give up."|I give up]]

“Why do your feelings about this not matter? It’s your life!” Gale sighs and rubs the bridge of his nose. "Either the world goes on to live, or I do for a little while longer. I can’t help but think that’s a selfish choice." (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is true)[You toss the cut pieces of beef roughly through a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper. You hand them to Gale, waiting, expectant. You stare at each other. He takes the bowl gingerly, then one by one transfers the beef to the pot, searing the pieces on each side.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is true)[You hand Gale wine to follow the tomato paste he’s thrown in the pot. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, pouring a small amount for flavor, deglazing the browned bottom.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is true)[You coat the trout in a mixture of flour and spices, your hands sticky with the white powder, then present the fish to Gale on a plate. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, placing each trout in a bed of oil.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is true)[You retrieve the cider and the cut pears, presenting them to Gale. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it all gingerly, adding the liquid, then nestling the pears between the onions and beef. He does not immediately answer.]\ (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is false)[He hesitates, then awkwardly hands you a mixed bowl of flour, salt, and pepper. "Ah, if you would coat the beef with this, that would be most helpful." You toss the cut pieces of beef roughly through a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper. You hand them to Gale, waiting, expectant. You stare at each other. He takes the bowl gingerly, then one by one transfers the beef to the pot, searing the pieces on each side.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is false)[He hesitates, growing tense and awkward, his attention drifting to the pack of supplies. "Ah, if you would find the tomato paste and wine, that would be most helpful." You hand Gale wine to follow the tomato paste he’s thrown in the pot. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, pouring a small amount for flavor, deglazing the browned bottom.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is false)[He hesitates, then awkwardly hands you a bowl of mixed flour, salt, and other spices. "Ah, if you would coat the trout with this, that would be most helpful." You do as he asks, your hands sticky with the white powder, then present the fish to Gale on a plate. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, placing each trout in a bed of oil.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is false)[He hesitates, growing tense and awkward, attention drifting to the pack of supplies. "Ah, if you would find the cider and pears, that would be most helpful." You retrieve the cider and the cut pears, presenting them to Gale. The way you offer it is almost confrontational. You stare at each other. He takes it all gingerly, adding the liquid, then nestling the pears between the onions and beef.]\ “We could succeed, you know. I have faith in us even if your goddess doesn’t. What if you could live?” You try to fuel your words with hope. He needs every drop he can get. He pauses, considering. “That’s… a dangerous thought. What if you’re wrong? Then what happens to the world?” You consider telling him that you’d rather watch the world burn than lose him, but you choke on the words. You are selfish enough for the two of you, but that isn’t what he needs to hear right now. [["I’m not giving up on you."|not giving up]] [["Fine. I give up."|I give up]]

"I guess if that's what you really believe, then I won't stop you." Your words are the evidence of your heart snapping within you, folding in on itself like a tree bowed in a storm. You hoped Gale would fight for himself, and for you. For the both of you. But one word from his goddess seems to have scorched whatever could've been between you. Gale stops, his face pained. "$name... I didn't meant to hurt you. I haven't been myself lately." "I know you didn't mean to hurt me. You seem convinced that your absence will hurt nothing at all." Your voice quakes, both with anger and sadness. You try to keep it even, but it's useless. You care far too much to hide it all inside a careful box, showing nothing but cool indifference. He makes you feel far too much. You turn away from him, your face crumpling. How could you possibly explain what he means to you? If only you could list everything out, if only you could make him understand how wonderful he is. Then maybe he wouldn't try to throw himself away. Gale fingers give your arm a gentle caress. "You're shaking," he whispers. "Please, stay." His words are strained, even desperate. You can pull away from him, if you wish. [[Leave.]] [[Turn toward him.]]

You reach out to touch him, crossing what feels like a chasm between you, and place your hand on his arm. Gale tenses, then relaxes, closing his eyes. He places his hand over yours. His thumb gently runs circles across your skin, sending ripples that send a current to your scalp. For a small moment, all is right. You are together. He is alive, and you are cooking dinner together. This small space is yours and his—a sacred space. You would do anything to stretch the moment into eternity. Then Gale draws away. The moment is broken. You are not truly together. You don’t even know if he yearns for you in the same way you do for him. Neither of you are brave enough to say the words for fear it will end in annihilation. The looks, the brief touches, every small brush is an overload to your senses. No, there is no hope for you. You have fallen and now you’re doomed. How could you possibly save him? Gale is still tied to Mystra. What could a frail, imperfect mortal like you do to reverse it? Before you can stop them, tears sting your eyes. Hot, humiliating tears that you can’t stop. You rub at the wetness that marks your cheeks, but you can’t hide them before he sees. Gale’s eyes widen. He turns to you, the dinner forgotten. You want to stay strong. You want to pretend like nothing can hurt you. But he touches you again, a brush of fingers across your cheek to wipe away your tears, and it is enough to make you crumble. For the first time, the physical gap between you disappears. Gale embraces you. Your whimper is muffled, your tears soaking his shoulder. The scent of old books and spice fills your nose. You inhale deeply, taking a calming breath. [[Put your arms around him.]] [[“I’m sorry. I’m not what you need. I’m sorry.”|I'm sorry]] [[“This discussion isn’t over! I have more counterpoints. You can’t…” He can’t leave you. Not now.|not over]]

“Fine,” you say. Frustration brings stinging tears to the corners of your eyes. “This was a mistake to talk about. I’m done. If you’re decided, then I guess that’s it.” You stand up feeling hot and unbalanced, your breathing coming fast. You can’t look at him. If you do, you’ll fall apart. “Wait!” Gale catches your hand. You try half-heartedly to take it back, but he resists, keeping you in place. You look at him, blinking back tears. “I can't do this right now. Let me go.” “Please, stay,” he says, pleading. The crease between his eyebrows deepens. “I’m sorry,” he says. His eyes glint with the firelight. “It wasn’t my intention to hurt you. But if you can’t be around me now, I… I can bear it.” Despite his words, he sounds uncertain. Even still, Gale opens his hand, letting yours rest on top of his. He will not force you. He waits, as though your hand is a skittish bird that could take flight at any moment. You are free to draw away from him, if you wish. [[Stay.]] [[Go.]]

Your arms find their way around him. You are soft with him. Someone needs to be. Everything else has been so painful. "What can I say to make you stay?" you whisper near his ear. Gale takes in a sharp breath and grips you tightly. "You make me waver more than you may guess. I thought the choice was easy, but you make me question my resolve." He lowers his face until his breath just grazes your neck. You wonder if he is breathing in your scent. "I don’t know what’s right anymore. How could I be selfish and condemn the world?" "But how could you leave us… me… behind?" "Would you really miss me so terribly if I were gone?" His voice is hopeful, and so vulnerable. Answers leap to your mind, overwhelming your ability to speak. How could you succinctly explain your feelings? It’s impossible to truly capture, but you need to try, for his sake. [["I would never forgive you for leaving this way."|never forgive]] [["I can’t imagine life without you."|can't imagine]] [["I would fight the gods to keep you here."|fight the gods]]

Gale pulls back, tilting your chin up to look at him. You try not to flinch under his careful examination. "And what is it that you think I need?" You open and close your mouth, and in the end, you only manage a whisper. "A goddess. There’s only so much I can offer you. I can’t fix this with a wave of my hand, though I wish I could." His body becomes rigid, his face losing some color. Several thoughts seem to pass through his mind at once. "You’re far more powerful than you think," Gale whispers. "Please, don’t discount yourself. I promise I’ve been listening. This decision has nothing to do with your abilities." Your hands tremble. He is so close that if you leaned forward, you would close the distance between you. For now, you restrain yourself. There is a wavering moment when it looks as though he will close the gap himself, but he pulls back with a pained frown. "Try to understand," he continues. "This isn’t what I want. It’s only that… I fear this is what fate intends for me. It seems like a way that I can finally be useful. I always knew my story would have a grand ending. I just… thought it would be longer." [[No, he’s wrong. All of this is wrong.|he's wrong]] [["I wish you would listen to your heart."|listen heart]] [[Perhaps he has a point. Maybe it’s time to stop fighting the inevitable.|he has a point]]

"This discussion isn’t over! I have more counterpoints. You can’t…" You grab his arms, your face turned to the ground as tears collect in your eyes. He can’t leave you. Not now. It was cruel of the gods to let you know he existed, only for them to snatch him away. There could be so much more, if only you could gain the space to live. Gale’s hand touches your back. It feels like a silent apology, but you don’t want his apologies. You want him. "What can I say to make you stay?" you ask. He sighs, then brushes your cheek with his palm. "This ultimately isn’t up to you. Though… it means the world to me that you care. I can’t remember the last time a person has shown such passion on my behalf." Gale takes your face in his hands, brushing his thumb across your jaw. The way he holds you is unfamiliar. You didn’t know that someone could be so gentle, or look at you like you’re his last canteen of water in a parched land. Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Continue to dinner|not over dinner]]

"If you look me in the eyes and tell me this is what you want, I will never speak of it again. If you want to be parted from me, then I will have no choice but to let you go. But if that’s not true—if you want to stay and leave anyway—then I will never forgive you. You are not only betraying me, but betraying yourself as well." Gale pulls back to look you over, as though he needs to confirm what you’re saying is real. "Your conviction is admirable. Fiery, even. It’s humbling that you feel it on my behalf." He takes in a breath, absorbing your words. Something changes in his touch. His arms are firm around you, as though he wishes to keep you there. Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Continue|he's wrong dinner]]

"I can’t imagine life without you. If you were gone, I… I don’t know how I’d carry on." You can remember life before him. Gods, how did you get on before you knew he existed? You never thought someone could be so wonderful. He’s so precious to you, but a higher power would snuff out his light without a second thought, leaving you in the dark. No, you would not accept it. Gale pulls back to look you over, as though he needs to confirm what you’re saying is real. "I’ve been trying not to think about how my loss would devastate those close to me. I fear that what’s necessary would become impossible. I would hate to leave you alone. But with time, perhaps you can heal and move on. You are…" He pauses, taking you in. His hand brushes your jaw ever so gently. "You are wonderful. I’m sure you could create a good life without me." A life without you. "No, Gale, you’re not listening. Please!" Your tone is desperate, clawing, breathless. As your heartbeat picks up, so does your breathing, and quickly you become lightheaded. Panic is setting in. He can’t mean that. "How can I make you see?" You flounder for the right thing to say. Surely if you could find it, he would stay. Gale presses his forehead to yours. The closeness of it shocks you out of your spiral. "Breathe," he says, and you do. He commands you like he does the elements—not with an iron fist, but with gentle persuasion. He takes your hands in his, gripping it tightly. The sensation of the touch takes you out of your thoughts. "Just keep breathing. I am here." "But you won’t be. Not for long." He is quiet for a moment. His touch becomes firmer, more possessive. "I’m sorry for upsetting you like that. I wasn’t thinking. I didn’t consider… well, I’ll resolve to be more careful with my words." Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Continue|he's wrong dinner]]

"I would fight the gods to keep you here." The venom in your tone surprises you. It is heretical, reverberating with the power of the forbidden words, yet it’s true. It is a fool’s errand to fight against the gods; one might as well fight the weather or stop the planet from spinning. They were a force of nature. But if they threatened him, you would make the divine powers your enemy. Gale becomes rigid under your touch. He pulls back to look at you, as though he needs to confirm what you’re saying is real. There is fear in his eyes, but he smiles. "You really shouldn’t say things like that. If the gods cared to listen, they wouldn’t take kindly to your blasphemous sentiments." "But it’s true, and I doubt they care enough to listen anyway." You wrinkle your nose. He laughs softly. "I daresay I like the image of you gearing up for war against the pantheon. They would be fools to not be intimidated." Something changes in the way he looks at you. His smile fades, his lips barely parting. The camp around you fades away. You are both transfixed. Though your future seems a chaotic ocean full of storms, you are both fully moored in each other. Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Continue|he's wrong dinner]]

His words hit you like a drop from a cliff into cold water. It steals your breath. "What are you talking about? What does usefulness have to do with anything?" Your voice shakes with the weight of your emotion. "Would you get rid of me if I stopped being useful?" Gale opens and closes his mouth, flustered. "What? Of course not! That’s not the same—" "Yes it is!" You get to your feet, passion rising in you. "You’re incredibly useful. A force to be reckoned with. You’re the reason we’ve survived so many encounters. But do you think I keep you around simply because you’re 'useful?'" He stares at you, at a loss for words. "Gods," you say. "Is that really what you think of me?" Gale appraises you as though you are something rare. Something beautiful. There is reverence there. "No. You are different. And I… have been a fool not to see it. I’m sorry." Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Continue|he's wrong dinner]]

"I wish you would listen to your heart," you say. "If you did, I’m sure it wouldn’t lead you astray." "On the contrary, many of my desires seem to lead to disaster." Gale gives a bitter smile. "You know what I’m talking about is different. Our thoughts can be led astray, but there’s an innate part of each one of us that can’t be deceived. It’s a kind of animal intuition. You can lie to the mind, but the heart knows what it wants." He doesn’t respond. You’ve gotten him thinking now. It’s a start. "Please, just listen to it," you say. "What is it telling you?" Gale turns to look at you. His gaze lingers on your face, as though reading something there, and his eyes soften. His hand twitches as though he wants to reach out again. He does so, taking your hand in the warmth of his own. "I think… my heart says that I’m lucky to have someone like you in my life. Thank you for everything. Truly." "Don’t say that like you’re saying goodbye." You will yourself not to cry again and grip his hand tighter. Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Continue|he's wrong dinner]]

"I’m trying to understand," you say. "I promise I’m trying. But… I don’t know how I’m going to let you go. We’ve shared so much. I…" You want to tell him that you love him, but you doubt it would make a difference now. It’s better not to make things more painful before you part ways. Maybe one day, when you can remember him without being consumed with grief, the life you hoped to have with him can become a fantasy, and you can look back on all of this as a bittersweet "what if?" You know you are lying to yourself, but it’s the only comfort left to you. It seems there is no turning him back. "I know," he says, his voice full of gentleness. "I’m so sorry." Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Continue|he has a point dinner]]

“The demand Mystra’s made of you is cruel.” The smile drops from his face. Gale turns his attention to the food, a crease forming between his eyebrows. "I’m not entirely convinced," he says carefully. "If my life could be traded for the world, wouldn’t that be worth it?" "All life is precious. Would you hesitate more if she asked you to sacrifice someone else instead of yourself? Imagine yourself holding the knife over an innocent, simply because your goddess asked you to. What would you do then? After all, it’s only one life to save the world." Gale covers his mouth with his hand, thinking. You’ve engaged his philosophical mind now. You can almost see him weighing different responses in his mind. "I admit I haven’t thought of it that way," he says finally. You tap his chest. "You’re a person too, Gale. Don’t forget that. You matter just as much as anyone else." He gives a short laugh, but he can’t keep his tired smile from fading. "That’s all well and good in a philosophy class, but this isn't theoretical. We’re in the real world now with real lives at stake. It would be selfish of me to put so many people in danger because I’m afraid." [["Don’t give up. We can still do this. We can fight side by side. I believe in us."|I believe]] [[Maybe he has a point.|he has a point]]

"Why do you give your faith to a goddess who can’t return her faith in you?" The smile drops from his face. Gale turns his attention to the food, a crease forming between his eyebrows. "I never expected something like this from her, but her foresight is greater than mine. She’s an omniscient goddess, after all, and a powerful one. If she’s frightened of the Absolute, who am I to question her?" He agitates the food, keeping it from burning. "Still, I don’t take kindly to her asking me to die. It’s… difficult to reconcile when we used to be so close. Or at least, I thought we were close." "Can you really have a relationship with a goddess? I always got the impression that mortals were often tools, no matter how beloved." Gale gives a wry smile. "If you had asked me a year ago, I would’ve told you that you’re wrong, or that I was somehow special. Now… well, it seems I’m something to use, as you said. I’m a useful tool, but yes, nothing more." You can tell this has been eating away at him for some time now—Mystra’s icy silence taking its toll, the year of isolation and abandonment, the looming fear of death. You can see how tired he is in the way his shoulders bow and his arms droop, his head hanging low. Despite the heartbreak, the order to sacrifice himself is probably a relief in a way—at least he doesn't have to wonder when the end is coming. No more constantly worrying about impending disaster. It will be taken care of by his own hand. "I admit," he continues, "I’m not sure I know how to rebel against her. What would I be without my faith in the Weave? It is a part of me as surely as my ability to breathe." [["You can start your rebellion by valuing yourself. Try to see yourself the way I do."|see you]] [["Who would you be? You’d be the man I… care very deeply about."|I care deeply]]

"Don’t give up. We can still do this. We can fight side by side. I believe in us." Your voice sounds far more confident than you feel. You can't let yourself waver. Far too much hangs in the balance. Gale turns to you, the dinner forgotten. His eyes are shining. He takes your hands in his, the attention arresting you completely. "So often, my doubts, my fears, they perch in my mind and stare at me like buzzards waiting for my inevitable end. But with you… I feel as though you force them to flee. The hope you instill in me… it's dangerous, but I find myself craving more." You are too distracted by the circling of his thumb on your skin to respond quickly. Your pulse quickens, and you wonder if he can tell. "I’m willing to face that danger if it means you come out of this alive," you say. Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Go to dinner|I believe dinner]]

"Oh?" Gale raises an eyebrow. "And how do you see me?" His curiosity seems genuine, though you detect a hint of self-satisfaction. Your cheeks warm, and you will yourself not to stammer. You take a steadying breath. Perhaps some compliments would do him well. "Well, first off, I enjoy how unintentionally funny you are." You smile at the memory of Gale’s quirks. "I don’t think I like where this is going." He gives a self-depricating smile. "I am well-aware of my many follies. Not sure I care to be reminded." "You could do with some teasing now and again," you say, the color of your voice full of mirth and softness. "I recall you praising my unwashed stink." Gale covers his eyes. "Oh gods. As if I could forget. I’m glad you enjoy it when I put my foot in my mouth, because I’m starting to resent how it tastes." You put a hand on his arm, a laugh bubbling out of you despite everything. "Please don’t be hard on yourself. Honestly, I’m glad you sometimes fumble. Otherwise, you wouldn’t seem human. You’re so wonderful otherwise." He lowers his hand, uncovering his eyes, and considers what you’ve said. "Wonderful? Really?" You toy with the sack of ingredients, suddenly aware of the tension rising between you once again. If the air were a string, you’d be able to pluck it and hear a note. "Y-yes. Of course. How could I not? You’re gentle and kind, you’re curious, and… I love the way you talk about the world. You never seem bored, like you can find wonder in anything." He gives a quiet laugh and puts his fist to his mouth, closing his eyes. "You keep surprising me. I feel so lucky that you’ve taken a liking to me. What would I do without you?" Gale pauses, then looks at you, his eyes shining. There is something different about the way he regards you. "What would I do without you?" he echoes to himself. Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Go to dinner|I believe dinner]]

Gale takes in a sharp breath, as though he didn’t expect that answer. He grins, and for a moment, it’s like the shadows haunting him never existed. He abandons the food and turns to you, taking your hands in his. "The feeling is mutual," he says. "It’s a relief to hear you say that. I’m not sure that I should be surprised, as you’ve demonstrated how much you care again and again, but ever since my disgrace, I’ve felt like my good luck has run out. It may seem illogical, but I had the fear that I was doomed by the narrative, so to speak." You nod, taking in his words. It makes sense. After all, during your magic lesson together, you showed your feelings for him clearly, yet he has been holding back. You assumed it was because of the orb, but there was another reason. Gale feared that you were too good to be true. "I’m not going anywhere," you say. "I’m with you to the end." Gale’s mouth twitches, and he blinks rapidly. "I… I think for once I’m at a loss for words." He looks away from you, saving face, and pulls one of his hands away to rub at his eyes. "Ah, apologies. There’s just a copious amount of onions in this dish and I’m starting to feel it." "Gale, it’s okay." You raise his captive hand to your lips and give it a light kiss, your eyes never leaving his. Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Go to dinner|I believe dinner]]

The remorse in his voice makes you hesitate. You take in a deep breath and close your eyes. With a frown, you sit down beside him once more. "No… I won’t leave you. That’s not what I really want." You press a hand to your mouth as you think, your emotions tossing inside you. "It’s just… I’m so angry. But not with you. I don’t mean to take it out on you. I simply don’t know what to do with myself." Gale stirs the ingredients and nods. "I know what you mean. I’ve oscillated between anger, despair, and a numb void since I was given the command. Acceptance seems to elude me." "Maybe you should listen to those feelings," you say. "If only it were that easy," he says, sighing. "It can be that easy." You rest your hand on his arm. Gale looks at your hand, then at you. He searches you, as though looking for an answer to something that’s been puzzling him. "Stay with me," you whisper. "We’ll figure out the rest as we go. I refuse to believe this is what fate has in store for you." Gale takes in a small breath of surprise, and he smiles. "That’s… incredibly tempting." His eyes flicker to your lips. Warmth spreads through you. Though it seems like time stands still when you look at each other, the smell of something burning hits both of you at the same time. Gale jumps into action to take the food from the fire. The meal has some charred parts, but overall, the dinner seems full of flavor. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" This discussion isn’t over, but after your stomach rumbles, you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Continue to dinner|he's wrong dinner]]

"I’m sorry Gale, but I can't bear this," you say, pulling your hand away. Once you do, a thread between you breaks. You are now worlds apart, and it's doubtful that anything can breach the distance now. "You expect me to sit by your side and act like everything's fine, to accept the loss of you, but I can't. I doubt you'll listen to me, and I'm not about to stand by while you throw yourself away." Gale curls his fingers and rests his defeated hand against his chest, as though clutching a wound. His eyes glint with the firelight. "Yes… I shouldn’t expect that of you. That would be selfish. My mind is made up, so we should save ourselves from further heartbreak." You turn from him, unable to withstand the sadness in his expression. You know that if you stay longer, you’ll crumble to it. With tears in your eyes, you return to your tent and bury your face in your arms. When the smells of a finished meal drift over, they only turn your stomach. You do not rise when the others join for dinner. You need time alone to grieve. You try to sleep, but sleep does not take you. Instead you stare at the ceiling of your tent, watching as wind moves through the extra fabric. Sometime later, you hear a soft voice at the entrance of your tent. "$name? Are you still awake?" It's Gale. [["I'm awake." Go to the tent flap.|I'm awake]] [[Don't answer him. Try to sleep.|Go to sleep.]]

When you first met him, Gale’s skill in cooking had been a pleasant surprise. He turned what would've been individuals scavenging through a pack of supplies into a proper meal. Most of their group was forced to mingle if they wanted to eat. At first the gathering was awkward and tense, but eventually, it turned into a ritual everyone looked forward to. The fact that you and Gale were able to bring everyone together with food is a source of pride for you. Now even Astarion makes an appearance, even if it's only to mingle. Your companions surround the cookpot, taking silverware from a stack. You make note of every one of your companions as they accept your offering. All are accounted for. They are safe, for now. {(if: $travelersStew is true)[You turn to see Gale handing you a bowl with a smile. You accept it with a nod of thanks, then allow him to serve you some of the traveler’s stew. The ladle pours out a rich broth tinged with beer. Chunks of meat, carrot, and potato float within. The smell makes you salivate.]\ (if: $seafood is true)[You turn to see Gale handing you a bowl with a smile. You accept it with a nod of thanks, then allow him to serve you some of the seafood bouillabaise. The ladle pours out a tomato broth filled with clam shells. Pieces of white fish meat float within. The smell makes you salivate.]\ (if: $trout is true)[You turn to see Gale handing you a plate with a smile. You accept it with a nod of thanks, then allow him to serve you a piece of trout. The glistening meat is dusted with spices and topped with lemon. A side of potatoes and vegetables accompanies the main course. The smell makes you salivate.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true)[You turn to see Gale handing you a plate with a smile. You accept it with a nod of thanks, then allow him to serve you a plate of braised beef. The sweet-smelling meat falls apart at a touch. Carrots and pears accompany the main course. The smell makes you salivate.]} Gale joins you on one of the log benches. You remember when he first started sitting this close to you. It was sometime after your magic lesson. After he became flustered with your romantic feelings, you gave him space to sort himself out. Then, after cooking together, he came to sit beside you. It’s as distracting today as it's always been, especially since you now sit so close you’re practically touching. This hasn't gone unnoticed by your companions, each of them giving your almost-touching hands a glance, but no one seems particularly surprised. {(if: $travelersStew is true)[You take your first bite and sigh in contentment. The stew is earthy and thick. The spices warm you, fortifying you against the cold that swept in after the sun disappeared behind the mountains. One bowl is enough to give your stomach a pleasant ache.]\ (if: $seafood is true)[You take your first bite and sigh in contentment. The tomato combines wonderfully with a small bit of spice, and you catch a hint of fennel. Between the white meat of the haddock, the clams, and shrimp, you never get bored. You're sorry when you finish the delicacy so quickly.]\ (if: $trout is true)[You take your first bite and sigh in contentment. The trout is layered with flavor; salt, spice, and lemon come together in harmony. It's a light and healthy meal that leaves you feeling satisfied, but not weighed down.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true)[You take your first bite and sigh in contentment. The softened meat is soaked in luxurious flavor. Sweet pear mingles with spice and the faint taste of cider. It's difficult to stop once you get started, and soon you've eaten everything, you're belly straining against its new load.]} With dinner finished, your companions disperse while chatting and washing up. You help clean up, and as you do, Gale joins you. You turn to face him. He is standing close enough that you could brush against him by accident. "I wanted to speak with you," he says. "Before you settle for the night, would you meet me at the edge of camp?" [[Continue|he's wrong ending]]

The nighttime mountain air is distinct, you realize. It has its own signature scent, thin and cold, as though it is somehow wilder than the air of gentler climates. You meet him at the edge of camp just as the full moon breaches the silhouette of the peaks. Gale stands with his back to you, his hands clasped behind him as he often does. He turns his head, and when he catches sight of you, he smiles. You stand beside him. The valley is sprawled out below, the trees and rocks marked in the barest shade of silver. A winding river glitters as it winds its way through. "I wanted to thank you," he says. "I’ve had little peace since yesterday, but somehow, you’ve managed to give me comfort." Gale presses his lips together, flattening them as he thinks. He turns to you and takes in a small breath, his mouth parting. Whatever he was about to say, it’s lost for a moment. [["What is it?"|what he's wrong]] [[There’s no need to speak.|speak he's wrong]]

"I…" Gale shakes his head a little. "I apologize, I’m not accustomed to losing my words. It’s only that the moonlight lays things bare in a way the garish day does not. You have an ethereal glow about you. It’s otherworldly, and… captivating." You see what he means. As he turns to look up at the stars, the moonlight settles like a silvery veil on the planes of his face, highlighting the strong angles and pleasing curves. Gale seems made for the light of the moon and stars. "Sometimes I fear I rely on you too much," he says. "All I can do is offer myself in return. If you ever need anything, I’m here for you." The words strike at your center. //Here for you.// The mask you keep in place for the others slips just a little. Gods, you’re so tired. You don’t want to show how scared you are to the group. You’re the leader. But the position was given to you, not chosen, and you’ve never navigated situations with forces far more powerful than yourself. What can you say to undo the will of a goddess? The weak, human part of you slips out. Tears threaten you. [["Don’t worry about relying on me too much. It’s not a burden if it’s you."|not a burden he's wrong ending]] [["There is something you can do for me. Don't give up, for me."|don't give up he's wrong ending]]

When you first met him, Gale’s skill in cooking had been a pleasant surprise. He turned what would've been individuals scavenging through a pack of supplies into a proper meal. Most of the group was forced to mingle if they wanted to eat. At first the gathering was awkward and tense, but eventually, it turned into a ritual everyone looked forward to. The fact that you and Gale were able to bring everyone together with food is a source of pride for you. Now even Astarion makes an appearance, even if it's only to mingle. Your companions surround the cookpot, taking bowls from a stack. You hand out bread to Karlach, then Shadowheart, making note of every one of your companions as they accept your offering. All are accounted for. They are safe, for now. {(if: $travelersStew is true)[You turn to see Gale handing you a bowl. You accept it with a nod of thanks, then allow him to serve you some of the traveler’s stew. The ladle pours out a rich broth tinged with beer. Chunks of meat, carrot, and potato float within. In other circumstances, the smell would make your mouth water, but you can’t seem to find your appetite]\ (if: $seafood is true)[You turn to see Gale handing you a bowl. You accept it with a nod of thanks, then allow him to serve you some of the seafood bouillabaise. The ladle pours out a tomato broth filled with clam shells. Pieces of white fish meat float within. In other circumstances, the smell would make your mouth water, but you can’t seem to find your appetite]\ (if: $trout is true)[You turn to see Gale handing you a plate. You accept it with a nod of thanks, then allow him to serve you a piece of trout. The glistening meat is dusted with spices and topped with lemon. A side of potatoes and vegetables accompanies the main course. In other circumstances, the smell would make your mouth water, but you can’t seem to find your appetite]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true)[You turn to see Gale handing you a plate. You accept it with a nod of thanks, then allow him to serve you a plate of braised beef. The sweet-smelling meat falls apart at a touch. Carrots and pears accompany the main course. In other circumstances, the smell would make your mouth water, but you can’t seem to find your appetite]} Gale sits at the edge of the circle, far from his usual place beside you. This hasn't gone unnoticed by your companions, who give each of you a glance. Karlach frowns at Gale, but does not comment on it, choosing to forgo her spoon and gulp down the stew. You take your first bite and sigh. It’s an excellent stew, but you can’t eat much of it as the anxiety in your stomach works its way into knots. With dinner finished, your companions disperse while chatting, washing their bowls. You stack them once more, and as you do, Gale places his own at the top. You turn to face him. He is standing close enough that you could brush against him by accident. "I wanted to speak with you," he says. "Before you settle for the night, would you meet me at the edge of camp?" [[Continue|he has a point ending]]

The nighttime mountain air is distinct, you realize. It has its own signature scent, thin and cold, as though it is somehow wilder than the air of gentler climates. You meet him at the edge of camp just as the full moon breaches the silhouette of the peaks. Gale stands with his back to you, his hands clasped behind him as he often does. He turns his head, and when he catches sight of you, he smiles, but it's quickly overtaken by somberness. You stand beside him. The valley is sprawled out below, the trees and rocks marked in the barest shade of silver. A winding river glitters as it winds its way through. "Thank you for coming out here." Gale presses his lips together, flattening them as he thinks. He turns to you and takes in a small breath, his mouth parting. Whatever he was about to say, it’s lost for a moment. [["What is it?"|what he has a point]] [[There’s no need to speak.|speak he has a point]]

"I…" Gale shakes his head a little. "I apologize, I’m not accustomed to losing my words. It’s only that the moonlight lays things bare in a way the garish day does not. You have an ethereal glow about you. It’s otherworldly, and… captivating." You see what he means. As he turns to look up at the stars, the moonlight settles like a silvery veil on the planes of his face, highlighting the strong angles and pleasing curves. Gale seems made for the light of the moon and stars. "I wanted to apologize. I know we’ve been growing closer, but I should’ve been more realistic. I’ve been living on borrowed time. The situation I’m in isn’t ideal for… growing closer." The words strike at your center. The mask you keep in place for the others slips just a little. Gods, you’re so tired. You don’t want to show how scared you are. You’ve never navigated situations with forces this powerful. What can you say to undo the will of a goddess? The weak, human part of you slips out. Tears threaten you. When Gale notices the tears now spilling over, he takes you by the arm. "Oh, $name. Please don’t cry. Not for me." His words only make your tears flow harder. “Why not for you?” It comes as a gasp. You cover your traitorous mouth with the back of your hand, stifling the sobs that want to escape you. All you can do is repeat your own words, softly. “Why not for you?” Gale comes closer, his arms outstretched to encircle you. [[Let him.]] [[Push him away.]]

You shake as you embrace each other, your eyes hot and itchy, your lungs quivering. You grip his clothes tightly, as though by holding on to him, you can keep him from the fate he seems so determined to choose. “I’m so sorry, $name…” he whispers into your hair. “Hurting you is the last thing I wanted.” “What did you expect? I can’t let you go. Not like that.” “You’ll come to forgive me with time,” Gale says. “When this is all over, go back to Baldur’s Gate. Pick up where you left off. Leave me as a fond memory, and don’t let our time here impede your happiness. I want you to live.” “It’s not that easy.” “Promise me you’ll try. It’s the only thing I want. I can save the world, but I won’t be satisfied unless I know you’ll be okay.” [["I promise."]] [["No."]]

You turn away and ward him off. Gale lets his arms hang for a moment before pulling back, disappointed. Your hands squeeze into fists until your nails bite into your palms. The tension keeps you from falling apart. "$name…" he says, pleading. "Don’t," you say. "If you’re looking to comfort me, know that it’s in vain. I refuse to be comforted while you march off to your grave." "You’ll come to forgive me with time," Gale says. "When this is all over, go back to Baldur’s Gate. Pick up where you left off. Leave me as a fond memory, and don’t let it impede your happiness. I want you to live." "It’s not that easy." "Promise me you’ll try. It’s the only thing I want. I can save the world, but I won’t be satisfied unless I know you’ll be okay." [["I promise."]] [["No."]]

Gale gives a smile that doesn’t reach his eyes. He relaxes, seeming satisfied, and wipes away your tears. “Thank you. I can rest easy knowing there’s a future for you. I hope it’s as rich and full of life as you are.” You hate this. You don’t want a future without him, but you also know what you’re up against. It’s best to put off thinking about what a world without Gale would look like, as it may undo you all over again, and you’re so tired of crying. “Come with me,” he says. “We need a change of topic. Let’s distract ourselves for at least a little while.” Gale takes a seat on a nearby rock. It’s large enough for two, so you take the spot beside him. You both look up at the stars. “Do you know any constellations?” he asks. (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations sad") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations sad") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations sad") ]

Your answer hits like a dropped stone. “I’m not playing that game. I’m not going to make this easy. This can’t be the fate intended for you. I will beg and plead with you to change your mind until it’s too late.” Despite your confrontational tone, Gale breathes out through his nose and gives a slight smile. “I admire how you never give up. So stubborn, so fearless. I have no doubt you would fight the gods on my behalf. I don’t deserve it, but I’m grateful.” He wipes away a stray tear from your cheek as you glare at him. “You deserve all that and more,” you say. “So do you,” Gale says. “Gods, how I wish I could give it to you.” You touch his hand. “It’s not too late.” He smiles. “Yes, I suppose we have some time. It’s not a lot, but we can make it count.” Gale takes your hand. “Come with me. We need a change of topic. Let’s distract ourselves for at least a little while.” He takes a seat on a nearby rock. It’s large enough for two, so you take the spot beside him. You both look up at the stars. “Do you know any constellations?” he asks. (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ]

You feel numb, but he’s right. You do need a distraction. Besides, you need to savor every moment you have left with him. {(if: $knowsStars is true)["Yes, I’m familiar with them," you say. "It looks like the Centaur and the Warrior Woman are out tonight." You nod up at the cluster of stars that vaguely resemble a centaur and a woman locked in a swordfight. One of the brightest stars in the night sky is where their swords meet.]\ (if: $knowsSome is true)["I know a few," you say, narrowing your eyes at the specks of light. Names float around in your memory. "There’s the Eyes of the Watching Woman," you say, pointing to a pair of crescent-shaped clusters. "As for the others… their names escape me."]\ (if: $noStars is true)["Not really," you say, shrugging. You narrow your eyes as the specks of light, their shapes foreign to you. "They’re undeniably beautiful, but I’ve never cared to learn the names."]} Gale gives you a fond smile, then stares up at the sky as though searching for something. "Let’s see… I can make out Lavarandar’s Lantern, the Sleepless Knights, and Auroth the Ice Snake." You follow his naming, coming to rest on a cluster of zigzagging stars that resembled a snake with a knot in its tail. "An ice snake?" Gale’s eyes shine at the opportunity to tell a story. "It’s an old legend I heard some years ago. Auroth was the beloved mount of the goddess Auril, the goddess of winter. In a battle among the gods, Auroth sacrificed his life to save Auril. He was made immortal by the goddess by writing him into the stars." You tilt your head. "Where did you hear that one?" "That was during a memorable trip when I was young. I have a few traders in my extended family that make the trip up to Neverwinter, and on one occasion, my mother and I went with them. Waterdeep is my home, but Neverwinter certainly captured my imagination." "What is it like?" "Colorful. It’s not called the Jewel of the North for nothing. It’s full of life—bursting with flowers, gems, and the most intricate glass sculptures. Then at night, just when you think all color has fled from the world, it strikes again in the sky." You suppress a smile at how he gesticulates. He raises his palm to the stars as though he can wipe them away, replacing them with a picture in his mind. "Colors in the sky? What do you mean?" "I read that it’s called the Aurora Borealis. It’s quite the phenomenon to see in person, like a dancing ribbon of iridescent colors. Like…" Gale raises his hand to the sky, his brow furrowed in concentration. There is only a spark of color that interrupts the stars, then nothing. He sighs, his hand falling limply to his side. "There's so much I wanted to show you. If only I had the time." You want to offer something that will make this all better, but you can't. You share his feelings. The both of you deserve so much more together; you would give anything to make it so. "All I care is that I'm here with you, now." You slip your hand over his. Gale is startled, but he takes your hand, interlacing your fingers. The trials are far from over, but for one night, you are together. The anxieties of tomorrow can wait. He is here with you, and he is alive, for now. It will have to be enough. [[The End|Thank You Ending 2]]

It takes all your strength to stand and walk away. You can't look at him, because you know that if you do, your resolve will disintegrate. You feel his eyes on your back. With your hands clenched, you stalk off in the direction of your tent. Without a word to anyone, you enter its darkness and hide beneath your covers. Your ratty blanket is a weight on your face, drowning out the sensory information from the world around you. If only it could quiet the noise within you. Some time later, you hear footsteps and chatter as the others congregate for dinner. You also smell something burning. [[Go to dinner|can't stop dinner]] [[Stay under the covers. You're not hungry.|Go to sleep.]]

You can't abandon Gale now; not when he needs you most. You turn toward him, your eyes brimming with tears, your hands balled into fists in your lap. He takes your hands in his and examines you closely. Your eyes widen. There is no place to hide as he searches you. Somehow, it feels more intimate than even reading your mind. "I didn't mean it," you say. "Which part?" Gale asks. "When I said I won't try to stop you... I //will// try to stop you, even if you don't want me to. I will be a hindrance at every step of your long march toward self-destruction. You really can't expect me to let this go quietly." You look away from him, unable to hold the intensity of his gaze any longer. You can feel yourself fraying at the edges. Gale appraises you as though you are something rare. Something beautiful. There is reverence there. “Of course. You would never let me slip into the darkness without a fight. You are... truly wonderful. Thank you, $name." (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is true)[You sniff and wipe your eyes. Though there is more to say, dinner must be finished. You toss the cut pieces of beef through a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper. You hand them to Gale, eager to be helpful. He takes the bowl gently, then one by one transfers the beef to the pot, searing the pieces on each side.]\ (if: $travelersStew is true and $cook is false)[You sniff and wipe your eyes. Though there is more to say, dinner must be finished. "Here," he says, handing you a bowl filled with flour, salt, and pepper. He hovers close to your shoulder, gesturing as he explains. "We're going to use this to give the beef a coating. After you toss it, I'll cook it in the pot." You trust in Gale and do as directed, though you're not sure what the purpose of this is.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is true)[You sniff and wipe your eyes. Though there is more to say, dinner must be finished. Just as he looks for the next ingredient, you’re ready to hand Gale wine to follow the tomato paste he’s thrown in the pot. He blinks with surprise. You stare at each other. He takes it gently, pouring a small amount for flavor, deglazing the browned bottom.]\ (if: $seafood is true and $cook is false)[You sniff and wipe your eyes. Though there is more to say, dinner must be finished. "Would you hand me the bottle of wine?" he asks. You do so and watch as he pours in a small amount, scraping at the bottom of the pot.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is true)[You sniff and wipe your eyes. Though there is more to say, dinner must be finished. You coat the trout in a mixture of flour and spices, your hands sticky with the white powder, then present the fish to Gale on a plate. You stare at each other. He takes it gingerly, placing each trout in a bed of oil.]\ (if: $trout is true and $cook is false)[You sniff and wipe your eyes. Though there is more to say, dinner must be finished. "Here," he says, handing you a tray that holds a mixture of flour and spices. He hovers close to your shoulder, gesturing as he explains. "We're going to use this to give the trout a coating. After you toss it, I'll cook it in the pan." Though you're not sure what the purpose of this is, you trust in Gale and do as directed, your fingers becoming sticky with flour.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is true)[You sniff and wipe your eyes. Though there is more to say, dinner must be finished. Just as he looks for the next ingredient, you’re ready to hand Gale the cider and the cut pears. He blinks with surprise. You stare at each other. He takes it all gingerly, adding the liquid, then nestling the pears between the onions and beef.]\ (if: $braisedBeef is true and $cook is false)[You sniff and wipe your eyes. Though there is more to say, dinner must be finished. "Would you hand me the cider and pears?" he asks. You do so and watch as he pours in the liquid, then nestles the pears between the onion and beef.]\ Time flows easily when you work together. The difficulties of the road and the looming battles fade away with him beside you. For a moment, it is only the two of you in your bubble of calm. The smell of cooking food becomes overpowering, making your mouth water. "I think it’s time for dinner," he says. "Don’t you?" Your stomach rumbles. There is more to say, but you have to admit to yourself that it can wait. It’s been a long day. [[Continue|he's wrong dinner]]

You arise, your eyes bleary from your time spent in darkness. You peek your head out of your tent. The burning smell hits you harder, and you wrinkle your nose. {(if: $travelersStew is true)[It's the smell of a pot of stew that's boiled over. The pot of traveler's stew spits and the fire crackles, lighting up with the bits of food and charring them instantly. Gale shoots the base of the pot with a ray of frost, settling the bubbles at once.] (if: $seafood is true)[It's the smell of a pot of seafood soup that's boiled over. The bouillabaise spits and the fire crackles, lighting up with the bits of fish, charring them instantly. Gale shoots the base of the pot with a ray of frost, settling the bubbles at once.] (if: $trout is true)[It's the smell of burnt fish. Gale touches the pan with frosted-over hands, cooling it at once. With a frown, he tries to scrape the overdone fish from the pan, and it comes away in bits.] (if: $braisedBeef is true)[It's the smell of a pot of braising meat boiling over. The pot spits and the fire crackles, lighting up with bits of food and charring them instantly. Gale shoots the basae of the pot with a ray of frost, settling the bubbles at once.]} Karlach is standing near the fire, peering at the scene with curiosity. "Whoa, what happened? Gale, did you //burn// something? I didn't think it was possible." Gale rubs his temple. "Well, recent events //have// been unusual. Still, I don't know what I was thinking." "You did seem distracted." Karlach rubs the back of her neck and shuffles her feet. "Um, sorry if this is an invasive question, but... is everything okay between you and $name? I mean, you two are pretty close and all. Did you have a fight?" Gale's silhoutte in the firelight become rigid. "I... think I hurt $name's feelings." You approach slowly, sticking to the periphery of the firelight. Neither of them notice you. "Well, I'm no relationship expert, but if I'd hurt someone's feelings, I'd go find them and make up." "I doubt $name wants anyting to do with me right now." "That's a load of bullshit and you know it." Karlach folds her arms, her tone incredulous. Gale looks away. He's quiet for a moment. "I'm sorry, but dinner is ruined. I'm sure there's bread and cheese somewhere." He turns from Karlach, and as he does so, he comes face to face with you. Gale stops, taking a step back, his eyes wide. "$name." [["Gale."]] [["I was just going to look for you."|looking for you]] [["What happened?]] [["Can we talk?"]]

"I was just looking for you." The words hang in the air. You want to cross the distance between you, but you hold back. After all, you left for a reason, and the barrier remains. He is the first to come near. Gale approaches you slowly, watching your face all the while, reading your mood. You have no malice toward him; hells, you can barely stay angry at him. All you wanted was for him to live. "You came back," he states cautiously, as though concerned you might leave again. "I wanted to talk," you finally say. "Somewhere private, if we can." "Consider it done," Gale says. "Meet me at the edge of camp after the others have gone to bed." [[Continue|can't stop ending]]

"What happened?" You glance over at the mess over the fire and gesture to it. "Ah, that." Gale furrows his brow and frowns. "I was... lost in thought. I wasn't paying attention to the meal and let the flames climb too high. I hope you can forgive me for spoiling dinner." "It's no trouble. We could stand to eat more cold cuts and raw vegetables anyway. The hike here was hard enough with the extra weight I've gained around the middle. It's entirely your fault." Gale smiles, coming closer to you. "I do aim to please." "You are exemplary." You smile back. If he were yours, you would reach out and take him by the waist. But he is not yours, and you are not his. Not yet. "Now, I do believe we have a conversation to finish." "Meet me at the edge of camp after the others have gone to bed," he says. "We can talk for as long as we need to." [[Continue|can't stop ending]]

"Can we talk?" The words hang in the air. You want to cross the distance between you, but you hold back. After all, you left for a reason, and the barrier remains. He is the first to come near. Gale approaches you slowly, watching your face all the while, reading your mood. You have no malice toward him; hells, you can barely stay angry at him. All you wanted was for him to live. "You came back," he states cautiously, as though concerned you might leave again. "I couldn't stay away," you say. "I can't leave things the way I did. There's still so much left unsaid." Gale pauses, his eyes softening. "Well, in that case, meet me at the edge of camp after the others have gone to bed. We can talk for as long as we need to." [[Continue|can't stop ending]]

"Gale." His name hangs in the air. You want to cross the distance between you, but you hold back. After all, you left for a reason, and the barrier remains. He is the first to come near. Gale approaches you slowly, watching your face all the while, reading your mood. You have no malice toward him; hells, you can barely stay angry at him. All you wanted was for him to live. "You came back," he states cautiously, as though concerned you might leave again. "I wanted to talk," you finally say. "Somewhere private, if we can." "Consider it done," Gale says. "Meet me at the edge of camp after the others have gone to bed." [[Continue|can't stop ending]]

When the news of the burnt dinner spreads through camp, the group seems to understand. With the recent news and the pressure on Gale, your companions are more than happy to fend for themselves. Gale has earned a break. You remain by the smoldering embers of the fire while the others turn in for the night, and Astarion stalks off into the forest in search of something to eat. Gale remains as well, his arms folded as he studies the tender, white-hot coals. He raises a hand, focusing a ray from his fingertips, putting out the fire in an instant. The papery coals go dark, covered in a layer of ice. You rise, following him to the edge of camp, and your fingers accidentally brush his. Before you can pull your hand away, Gale reaches out, taking your hand. After a moment of hesitation, you allow your hand to intertwine with his. Your heart picks up its rhythm, doubling the pace of your footsteps. The nighttime mountain air is distinct, you realize. It has its own signature scent, thin and cold, as though it is somehow wilder than the air of gentler climates. You reach the edge of a cliff overlooking at valley. A silvery river glitters under the full moon that breaches the silhouette of the peaks. You stand side by side, taking in the beautiful scene. [["Do you really believe I'd be better off without you?"|better off can't stop ending]] [["I'm sorry for losing my temper."|losing temper can't stop ending]]

"Do you really believe I'd be better off without you?" You will your voice not to waver as you get straight to the point. The question has been sitting in your mind all night. It came to you as you stared at the shifting body of wind passing through the rippling folds of your tent. It was a question borne of disbelief. No matter how you try to face it, you can't understand why he would think such a thing. Gale sighs, his hands searching for something to articulate. He settles for folding his arms. "In all honesty… yes." His certainty steals your breath. It takes you a moment to find your words. "Why? Have you harmed me? Diminished me? Have you ever caused me fear? Why would I want you to leave me?" He hesitates, overcome with genuine confusion. "Do you really want me to list my many faults?" A pressure builds in his voice, his confusion giving way to frustration. "Where should I start? My knees are failing me, others find me annoying at the best of times, and inevitably, I seem to hurt those closest to me. I'm a human man, fallen from grace, desperately trying to survive in the dirt." "What about me? Do I not also have faults? Will you throw me away as well?" "Of course not!" After Gale raises his voice, he catches himself, clearing his throat. He turns his head away, thinking. "I would never throw you away. //Never.// Forgive me. I… simply don't understand what it is //you// see in //me.//" [["You don't have to be perfect to be loved."|loved can't stop ending]]

"I'm sorry for losing my temper," you say. "I wish I stayed to help you. It's just that to hear you be so decided on snuffing yourself out... it was too much for me." Gale pauses, as though taken by surprise. "I... didn't think about it like that. Forgive me, I must sound dense, but I've been so wrapped up in what I must do that I didn't consider your feelings on the matter." "Why would you think you're absence makes no difference?" you ask. "I know the loss of me would hurt you," he says carefully, his voice gentle. "Do you? Do you really?" Your tone is fierce. You turn to him, your eyes searching his face. "It wouldn't just hurt me, Gale. It would inflict a pain that would hinder my ability to live." You must tread carefully. You have all but admitted that you love him, but neither of you are prepared to face that reality yet. He hesitates, truly thinking about what you said. You continue, taking advantage of the quiet. "How could losing you be what's best for everyone? Best for me? I don't understand." Gale steps closer to you and silently asks for your hand by raising his. You take it. "If it were a choice between the world burning or not, I would keep it alive for your sake," he says. "Forget about the cities, towns, and wilds. Forget about each soul that calls this place home. I would do it for you alone if it meant you could live another day." Your bottom lip trembles. You shake your head, tears springing to your eyes. "No, Gale. No, no, no. Please, no." He brings you in, putting an arm around your back, his face close to your ear. "If it comes to it, let me save you, $name. How could I bear the alternative?" "You don't understand. //I'm// trying to save //you.//" You can't keep the sob from your voice. You're growing desperate now. "Promise me, if you have any kindness in your heart, that you'll at least try to find another way. Please, for my sake." Gale sighs. "How could I say no to such an impassioned plea? I will try. For you. But I can't promise to succeed." It's not much, but some of the tension in your gut unwinds. You can tell that something has shifted within him for the better. It may be enough to save him. You stay like that for a while until your tears dry. When you pull away and look up at him, he gives you a sad smile. "I think we're in need of a distraction," he says. "Don't you?" You nod numbly, not quite recovered from your tears. Gale takes a seat on a nearby rock. It’s large enough for two, so you take the spot beside him. You both look up at the stars. The air between you is charged, and you are hyper-aware of how close you are to him without having to look. "Gods, the stars are beautiful tonight," he says. "Such a vast array of them, each one a tiny mystery. Are you familiar with the constellations?" (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ]

"You don't have to be perfect to be loved." For once, Gale doesn't have an immediate answer. He looks at you, opens his mouth, then closes it, thinking better of whatever he was going to say. When he has no reply, you continue. "Your vices are as endearing as your virtues. This may be hard to believe, but all those things you mentioned aren't enough to turn me away. I love the way your knees creak, and your know-it-all tone. As for hurting others… isn't that what compassion is for? What happened to mercy, or forgiveness?” "Forgiveness... has been in short supply for me." You reach out for his hand, your fingers probing gently. Gale reaches out with tentative searching, but when your hands truly meet, they quickly envelop one another. He raises your hand slowly to his lips and places a gentle kiss there, his eyes never deviating from yours. A flush of heat courses through you. "Am I at least worthy of your forgiveness?" he asks quietly, his voice mumbled against your fingers. "That depends. Can you promise me you’ll try to live?" Gale blinks. His mouth moves into a smile despite his best efforts to keep himself moored in solemnity. "If it earns your favor, there’s little harm in trying." It's not much, but some of the tension in your gut unwinds. You can tell that something has shifted within him for the better. It may be enough to save him. Gale takes a seat on a nearby rock. It’s large enough for two, so you take the spot beside him. You both look up at the stars. The air between you is charged, and you are hyper-aware of how close you are to him without having to look. "Gods, the stars are beautiful tonight," he says. "Such a vast array of them, each one a tiny mystery. Are you familiar with the constellations?" (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ]

The nighttime mountain air is distinct, you realize. It has its own signature scent, thin and cold, as though it is somehow wilder than the air of gentler climates. You meet him at the edge of camp just as the full moon breaches the silhouette of the peaks. Gale stands with his back to you, his hands clasped behind him as he often does. He turns his head, and when he catches sight of you, he smiles. You stand beside him. The valley is sprawled out below, the trees and rocks marked in the barest shade of silver. A winding river glitters as it winds its way through. "I wanted to thank you," he says. "I’ve had little peace since yesterday, but somehow, you’ve managed to give me comfort." Gale presses his lips together, flattening them as he thinks. He turns to you and takes in a small breath, his mouth parting. Whatever he was about to say, it’s lost for a moment. [["What is it?"|what he's wrong]] [[There’s no need to speak.|speak he's wrong]]

"You sound so certain. I know you have faith in your goddess, but when did you lose your faith in yourself?" Gale's head lowers, his shoulders bowing. A veil falls away from him. During the day, he was able to keep a brave face, putting on whatever mask he needed to so that he could face the task ahead. He could be selfless, he could be noble, or even self-destructive. Whatever was needed to complete the task given to him, he would summon it with stubborn resolve. But in front of you now, he is frightened, and so very tired. "Do you have faith we can find another way?" he asks. There is another question he's implying. //Do you have faith in me?// "Of course. I believe in you most of all." "Really? Why is that?" "Let's see, because you are kind, clever, creative, and above all tenacious. Because you see the good in people when they can't see it in themselves. Because you are not the sort of person to go to his fate quietly." Gale blinks, surprised. You can see him trying to make sense of your statements, comparing your description to the picture of the man he has in his head and finding only discrepancies. He shakes his head, smiling. "Perhaps it would do me good to lean on your opinions for once. Your view of me is far more generous." You find a rock to sit on together. Gale looks up at the stars, searching. "The stars are beautiful tonight," he says. "Do you know any constellations?" (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations")

At the sound of his voice, you feel the urge to act. You leave your tent and open the flap, letting the chill of the night seep in. Gale is waiting for you. His expression brightens when he sees you, though he seems nervous and doesn't quite smile. "$name." He says your name in a sigh of relief. "Are you all right? You were in a state when you left, and I was worried about you. I couldn't leave things as they were. I hoped you would come speak with me under the light of the moon." [[Go with him|moonlight stroll ending]] [["I'm tired, and I fear there's nothing else to say. Goodnight, Gale."|I'm tired ending]]

The nighttime mountain air is distinct, you realize. It has its own signature scent, thin and cold, as though it is somehow wilder than the air of gentler climates. You meet him at the edge of camp just as the full moon breaches the silhouette of the peaks. Gale stands with his back to you, his hands clasped behind him as he often does. He turns his head, and when he catches sight of you, he smiles. You stand beside him. The valley is sprawled out below, the trees and rocks marked in the barest shade of silver. A winding river glitters as it winds its way through. "I wanted to thank you," he says, smiling to himself. "I’ve had little peace since yesterday, but somehow, you’ve managed to give me comfort. Few have ever become that passionate on my behalf." Gale presses his lips together, flattening them as he thinks. "You asked... what would make me stay. I don't know the answer to that question, but I do have a selfish request." He turns to you and takes in a small breath, his mouth parting. Whatever he was about to say, it’s lost for a moment. [["What is it?"|what not over ending]] [[There's no need to speak.|speak not over over ending]]

"I'm tired, and I fear there's nothing else to say. Goodnight, Gale." Your tone is polite with an edge. It is far more devastating than losing your temper with him. At least then, you would have been vulnerable. Here, you are a cold door slammed in his face. You pull the tent flap closed as his expression falls. Though you can hide your vulnerabilities, Gale cannot. He is unfailingly earnest, and you have wounded him. Slipping back into your bedroll, you listen as his footsteps grow quieter as he leaves the flap of your tent. Eventually, the exertion of the road and the events of all the days prior catch up with you, pulling you into a deep sleep. When you wake the next morning, rummaging through the pack for some kind of breakfast, Gale walks by, his hair uncharacteristically disheveled. It looks as though bruises are forming underneath his eyes. If there was more to say, it has been silenced for now. Perhaps you will seek forgiveness as you continue your journey. Or perhaps... the two of you were simply never meant to be. [[The End|Thank You Ending 3]]

Relief pulses through your chest. He's here. He came for you. Leaving your tent behind is an easy decision. After all, you were never done with him--only the misanthropic conversation. "That sounds wonderful," you say with a slight smile. You walk side by side, hyper-aware of him next to you. Each of you could have easily lasped into silence, but instead, Gale's words become a quickly flowing river with no end in sight, as though he is nervous to let the quiet stand. "The night air is bracing, isn't it? Though a mite chilly. I'm not really used to the mountains, especially around this time of year." He continues on, speaking on Marpenoth in Waterdeep and the various holidays that make up the month, then somehow gets on the subject of the pranks he got away with on Liar's Night. When you reach a cliff, both of you stop to observe the valley sprawled out below, the trees and rocks marked in the barest shade of silver. A winding river glitters under the light of the full moon as it winds its way through the darkness. It takes you a moment to notice, but Gale has fallen silent. “Are you okay?” you ask. Gale does not answer at first. “I will be. Eventually.” He looks at you and smiles faintly. “I’m glad to have you here, at least.” His smile fades, a thought overtaking him. Gale turns his face from you. “I'm sorry that I upset you. I didn't realize..." “I needed some alone-time to think,” you say. “The events of the past few days have been… overwhelming.” He nods. “Yes, I… I understand that better than anyone. Still, I missed you. Though it may sound silly, I realized I look forward to our cooking ritual. I’ve enjoyed our discussions by the firelight.” Gale presses his lips together, flattening them as he thinks. He turns to you and takes in a small breath, as though steeling himself. "$name..." [["What is it?|what moonlight stroll ending]] [[There's no need to speak. You only need to listen.|quiet moonlight stroll ending]]

"What is it?" Gale's head lowers, his shoulders bowing. A veil falls away from him. During the day, he was able to keep a brave face, putting on whatever mask he needed to so that he could face the task ahead. He could be selfless, he could be noble, or even self-destructive. Whatever was needed to complete the task given to him, he would summon it with stubborn resolve. But in front of you now, he is frightened, and so very tired. "Gale..." You cannot stop yourself from putting a hand on his shoulder. There is too much weight there for him to carry alone. It is enough to drown a person. "It may sound selfish," he says quietly, "but tell me you want me to live. Just once. Even if it doesn't come true, I need to hear it. It would mean the most coming from you." "I want you to live." The words are easy. Quick. You have said them a thousand times in your head. Gods, you want him to live. Not just survive, but truly //live.// He deserves so much. Gale turns to you, as though he's finally gained the courage to do so. The shadows fall across his features, dark wells falling on his eyes and cheeks. You reach out, tilting his face up. The stars and moonlight settle like a silvery veil on the planes of his face, highlighting the strong angles and beautiful curves. Your eyes flicker to lips, but you do not stay there, afraid of asking for too much. Now is not the time, not when he is in so much pain. Instead, you plead with yourself to be his steadying rock. You will keep him alive if it's the last thing you do. Gale pauses, as though the notion snagged on a doorhandle while passing through him. "Thank you," he says, his words breathing like a sigh of relief. "No," you say, taking his hands in yours. You are afraid he doesn't completely believe you. "Gale, truly listen to me. //I want you to live.//" Your bottom lip trembles. If only you could change his mind with words as easily as he commanded the elements. His eyes shine. He lifts one of your hands to his lips and gives it a brush so light that it feels like the wind--a sacred touch. "Thank you." The words have more meat, more color. Something has shifted within him, however slight. "Do //you// want to live?" "I do," Gale says, more sure now. "You've helped me see that. It's harder when I'm alone, but when I'm with you, I feel so sure. You may have to remind me if I lose my way." "I'll do so as many times as it takes." He gives a genuine smile. It's as though some life as returned to him. You find a rock to sit on together. Gale looks up at the stars, searching. "The stars are beautiful tonight," he says. "Do you know any constellations?" (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ]

You wait for Gale to speak. Gale's head lowers, his shoulders bowing. A veil falls away from him. During the day, he was able to keep a brave face, putting on whatever mask he needed to so that he could face the task ahead. He could be selfless, he could be noble, or even self-destructive. Whatever was needed to complete the task given to him, he would summon it with stubborn resolve. But in front of you now, he is frightened, and so very tired. "Gale..." You cannot stop yourself from putting a hand on his shoulder. There is too much weight there for him to carry alone. It is enough to drown a person. "It may sound selfish," he says quietly, "but tell me you want me to live. Just once. Even if it doesn't come true, I need to hear it. It would mean the most coming from you." "I want you to live." The words are easy. Quick. You have said them a thousand times in your head. Gods, you want him to live. Not just survive, but truly //live.// He deserves so much. Gale turns to you, as though he's finally gained the courage to do so. The shadows fall across his features, dark wells falling on his eyes and cheeks. You reach out, tilting his face up. The stars and moonlight settle like a silvery veil on the planes of his face, highlighting the strong angles and beautiful curves. Your eyes flicker to lips, but you do not stay there, afraid of asking for too much. Now is not the time, not when he is in so much pain. Instead, you plead with yourself to be his steadying rock. You will keep him alive if it's the last thing you do. Gale pauses, as though the notion snagged on a doorhandle while passing through him. "Thank you," he says, his words breathing like a sigh of relief. "No," you say, taking his hands in yours. You are afraid he doesn't completely believe you. "Gale, truly listen to me. //I want you to live.//" Your bottom lip trembles. If only you could change his mind with words as easily as he commanded the elements. His eyes shine. He lifts one of your hands to his lips and gives it a brush so light that it feels like the wind--a sacred touch. "Thank you." The words have more meat, more color. Something has shifted within him, however slight. "Do //you// want to live?" "I do," Gale says, more sure now. "You've helped me see that. It's harder when I'm alone, but when I'm with you, I feel so sure. You may have to remind me if I lose my way." "I'll do so as many times as it takes." He gives a genuine smile. It's as though some life as returned to him. You find a rock to sit on together. Gale looks up at the stars, searching. "The stars are beautiful tonight," he says. "Do you know any constellations?" (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ]

"Fate..." You say the word slowly, considering the simple one-syllable word that held so much importance. "How are you so sure that a tragic end is something the universe intends for you?" His eyebrows draw together, deepening the crease between them. Gale shifts, uncomfortable. He looks away from you as he speaks, his focus trained on the landscape beyond. "If I tell you, will you promise not to laugh at me?" "I can promise that humor is far from my mind right now. Please, just tell me what's going on in that clever mind of yours." "Well... It's an intuition built from stories. You see, many of them have a basis in fact. So many of our legends started as history. I've read plenty of tragic stories. Here I am, given the task of being this world's hero. All I have to do is close my eyes and let go. If this were a story, there's no doubt my sacrifice would end up as some kind of moral victory--the lesson whispered to children as a bedtime tale." He grows quiet, as though saying more is difficult. "Gale... the end of this story is up to you. While those stories might have tragic endings, this one doesn't have to. You're the author this time." He turns to you, his eyes searching. "How do I know I'm not just penning a more tragic ending for later?" For a moment, you let yourself imagine the outcome Gale is worried about. There are so many dead that bodies choke the streets, blood staining every cobblestone of Baldur's Gate and beyond. Mindflayers roam the landscape unchecked. The gods themselves quake in fear. "There isn't a way to know that. We can only hope. We can fight against the unfairness of the world and find the will to create the one we want." You take his hand. Gale looks from your clasped hands to you, then draws closer. "I so desperately want to believe that," he says, "though it's hard to have faith that we can fight this. Whatever it is that we've encountered... it's so much more powerful than us. The odds seem slim." "They always do in heroic tales. Otherwise they wouldn't be exciting. Where's the suspense in a sure victory?" Gale can't keep a smile from his face. He nods. "Very well. You have a point. Though I think I still need some time to let your words sink in." It's not much, but some of the tension in your gut unwinds. Hope is often the hardest part. "Gods, the stars are beautiful tonight," he says. "Would you mind if we stopped here for a while? It's been a while since I've really been able to take them in." "That sounds wonderful." You find a rock to sit on together. Gale looks up at the stars, searching. "Do you have much familiarity with the constellations?" (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ]

Thanks for playing! You got ending 1, the hopeful ending. There are two other endings.

Thank you for playing! You got ending 2, the sorrowful ending. There are two other endings.

Thank you for playing! You got ending 3, the pulling apart ending. There are two other endings.

“I…” Gale shakes his head a little. “I apologize, I’m not accustomed to losing my words. It’s only that the moonlight lays things bare in a way the garish day does not. You have an ethereal glow about you. It’s otherworldly, and… captivating.” You see what he means. As he turns to look up at the stars, the moonlight settles like a silvery veil on the planes of his face, highlighting the strong angles and pleasing curves. Gale seems made for the light of the moon and stars. "Gale... what was your request?" "Oh, that." He pulls away, suddenly embarrassed. He sighs, as though finding his resolve. "Tell me that you want me to live. I just want to hear at least one person say it, even if it doesn't true. It would mean the world coming from you." You don't hesitate. "I want you to live. I want you to return home to read, write your poetry, drink wine--accumulate all those little moments that make up a life. I can't see you taken from this world. Not yet." Gale lets out a small gasp. There is pain in his eyes. "What's wrong?" you ask. "Did I do something wrong?" He shakes his head. "No, you didn't do anything wrong. You did something very right, in fact." There’s a brief pause, and he gives a huff that almost sounds like a laugh, but you’re not sure. “What did I do to deserve someone like you in my life?” he says, his voice thick. You reach out, placing a gentle hand on his arm. Gale places his own overtop of yours, then turns to you, your faces only a breath away. You come closer, touching your forehead to his, and you close your eyes. "I want you to live," you say. "Please don't give up." "I'll try for you," he says. "If there's a way out, I'll find it." It's not much, but some of the tension in your gut unwinds. Hope is often the hardest part. Gale takes a seat on a nearby rock. It’s large enough for two, so you take the spot beside him. You both look up at the stars. The air between you is charged, and you are hyper-aware of how close you are to him without having to look. He rubs the corners of his eyes, then clears his throat, trying to regain some composure. “Do you… know any constellations?” he asks. (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ]

You match his intensity, observing him as he does you. The moonlight settles like a silvery veil on the planes of his face, highlighting the strong angles and pleasing curves. Gale seems made for the light of the moon and stars. Gale reaches out as though to touch your face, but he remembers himself at the last moment, lowering his hand. "I…" He shakes his head a little. "I apologize, I’m not accustomed to losing my words. It’s only that the moonlight lays things bare in a way the garish day does not. You have an ethereal glow about you. It’s otherworldly, and… captivating." You see what he means. As he turns to look up at the stars, the moonlight settles like a silvery veil on the planes of his face, highlighting the strong angles and pleasing curves. Gale seems made for the light of the moon and stars. "Gale... what was your request?" "Oh, that." He pulls away, suddenly embarrassed. He sighs, as though finding his resolve. "Tell me that you want me to live. I just want to hear at least one person say it, even if it doesn't true. It would mean the world coming from you." You don't hesitate. "I want you to live. I want you to return home to read, write your poetry, drink wine--accumulate all those little moments that make up a life. I can't see you taken from this world. Not yet." Gale lets out a small gasp. There is pain in his eyes. "What's wrong?" you ask. "Did I do something wrong?" He shakes his head. "No, you didn't do anything wrong. You did something very right, in fact." There’s a brief pause, and he gives a huff that almost sounds like a laugh, but you’re not sure. “What did I do to deserve someone like you in my life?” he says, his voice thick. You reach out, placing a gentle hand on his arm. Gale places his own overtop of yours, then turns to you, your faces only a breath away. You come closer, touching your forehead to his, and you close your eyes. "I want you to live," you say. "Please don't give up." "I'll try for you," he says. "If there's a way out, I'll find it." It's not much, but some of the tension in your gut unwinds. Hope is often the hardest part. Gale takes a seat on a nearby rock. It’s large enough for two, so you take the spot beside him. You both look up at the stars. The air between you is charged, and you are hyper-aware of how close you are to him without having to look. He rubs the corners of his eyes, then clears his throat, trying to regain some composure. “Do you… know any constellations?” he asks. (link: "Yes, I'm familiar with them.")[ (set: $knowsStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "I know a few")[ (set: $knowsSome to true) (go-to: "constellations") ] (link: "Not really.")[ (set: $noStars to true) (go-to: "constellations") ]

Unfortunately, cooking isn't something you're particularly interested in. Your many attempts to help Gale were more about getting a chance to speak with him than being any real help. Though with enough pratice on the road, and Gale's instruction, you're now a decent assistant. "Um... there's enough for a stew, I think," you say. Gale nods. "Yes, that's one option among many. I'd say we can choose from traveler's stew, a seafood bouillabaise, pan-fried trout, or braised beef. Is there one in particular that stands out to you?" (link: "Traveler's Stew")[ (set: $travelersStew to true) (go-to: "Traveler's Stew") ] (link: "Sword Coast Seafood Bouillabaise")[ (set: $seafood to true) (go-to: "Sword Coast Seafood Bouillabaise") ] (link: "Pan Fried Knucklehead Trout")[ (set: $trout to true) (go-to: "Pan Fried Knucklehead Trout") ] (link: "Amphail Braised Beef")[ (set: $braisedBeef to true) (go-to: "Amphail Braised Beef") ]

(set: $cook to true)\ Luckily, cooking is something you're familiar with. Some different dishes come to mind. (link: "Traveler's Stew")[ (set: $travelersStew to true) (go-to: "Traveler's Stew") ] (link: "Sword Coast Seafood Bouillabaise")[ (set: $seafood to true) (go-to: "Sword Coast Seafood Bouillabaise") ] (link: "Pan Fried Knucklehead Trout")[ (set: $trout to true) (go-to: "Pan Fried Knucklehead Trout") ] (link: "Amphail Braised Beef")[ (set: $braisedBeef to true) (go-to: "Amphail Braised Beef") ]

(align:"=><=")[Dinnertime Discussions] (align:"=><=")[A Fan Game by Sigma Elaine] (align:"=><=")[[[CLICK HERE TO BEGIN|Beginning]]]