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File 175305575171.png - (9.41KB , 800x800 , 0.png )
1111397 No. 1111397 ID: b6ea64

Lana and Kaari are back for another adventure!

Previous Chapters:
https://questden.org/wiki/Behind_Closed_Bars
https://questden.org/wiki/Life_After_Bars
35 posts omitted. Last 100 shown. Expand all images
>>
No. 1113120 ID: 691162

I feel I'm at peace, really, the sound of the birds and the wind blowing gently on my fur... just as long as we don't go anywhere near lakes or rivers, and the weather doesn't rain, I think I feel at ease right now.
>>
No. 1113128 ID: fd169b

It feels like, despite my problems, the forest will still be here. Sort of the world keeps going feeling. Its comforting.
>>
No. 1113328 ID: b6ea64
File 175661432492.png - (5.84KB , 800x600 , 18.png )
1113328

>I feel I'm at peace
>It feels like, despite my problems, the forest will still be here.
Kaari: “Despite my problems, I feel at peace. Like whatever happens, the forest will be fine. Nature will keep marching on. Long as we don’t get rained on or head into a river anyway….”

Lana: “Don’t worry about the rain, I made sure the forecast was clear weather all day. Maybe I should have played it safe and brought an umbrella.”

Kaari: “Well that’s a great way to make it rain on us now.”

Lana: “Let’s move along before we have to worry about it then.”
>>
No. 1113329 ID: b6ea64
File 175661434651.png - (11.37KB , 800x800 , 19.png )
1113329

We continue on the trail until we reach the first landmark. A giant beam of sunlight shines through the canopy. It illuminates a beautiful circle in the clearing.

Lana: “According to guide, this spot is called Hazel’s Eye. Guide says that regardless of the weather, this relaxing spot on the trail is always sunny and peaceful.”

The warmth of the sun just draws me in. I venture into it’s warm rays and stand still. The warmth is so nice and puts me at ease.

I think I feel well enough that I could chat with Lana more and not get bogged down by everything else that’s been picking at my mind.

What should I talk to her about, or maybe there’s something I could ask about herself? We’ve been dating for awhile now, but I feel like there’s still a lot I don’t know about her.
>>
No. 1113330 ID: 02dd56

Ask how her mom and sister are doing!
>>
No. 1113345 ID: fd169b

Exchange fun childhood memories
>>
No. 1113415 ID: b6ea64
File 175686110590.png - (7.39KB , 800x600 , 20.png )
1113415

The two of us sit down in the light.

>Ask how her mom and sister are doing!
Kaari: “How’s your mom and sister been doing Lana?”

Lana: “Well, my sister’s cruising for a tutoring session here soon. It’s not even November and she’s already down to a C in math. At least she’s starting to help mom out with the heavier household chores.”

I giggle a bit and tease Lana,

Kaari: “Guess math doesn’t run well in the family.”

She lightly slugs me in the shoulder

Lana: “Hey where’s that coming from? I’m great at math, especially when it comes to running the numbers.”

Kaari: “Just teasing ya from yesterday. I remember your friend was over helping you out with your math assignment.”

Lana: “Eugh, I don’t want to think about either of those things right now.”

Kaari: “Too soon?”

Lana: “Yeah, let’s change topics. How about, what’s your favorite quality about yourself?”

Kaari: “Myself? I dunno Lana, that’s a tough one.”

Lana: “Heheh, too many great things to pick from?”

Kaari: “I dunno about that. It’s tough because I can’t think of anything. I feel like I’m at rock bottom.”

Lana: “Rock bottom? Nah, we just climbed out of that place the other week.”

Kaari: “What do you- ooh! Okay still, I’ve been a lousy bartender who ended up not making enough to pay her bills.”

Lana: “Well if you’re a lousy bartender then I’m a lousy bouncer who got drunk and let three criminals take over the bar.”

Kaari: “That wasn’t your fault Lana! We didn’t know that champagne was drugged.”

Lana: “That’s right. Now what about the tipping situation? It’s not your fault some jerk got mad at, what was it? Not telling him about what happened that night. It’s not his business to know and you don’t have to share if you don’t want to.”

Lana: “I’ll make the question easier, what’s one thing you like about yourself?”
>>
No. 1113419 ID: fd169b

her resilience. She's struggling, but she hasn't given up. Give her time and she'll be back on her feet once again.
>>
No. 1113420 ID: 74fd28

The fact that despite all this, she still knows how to find things to care about, and still is willing to invest herself into them to actually care about them. Gotta care!
>>
No. 1113441 ID: b6ea64
File 175694696177.png - (7.35KB , 800x600 , 21.png )
1113441

>her resilience. She's struggling, but she hasn't given up. Give her time and she'll be back on her feet once again.
Kaari: “I guess my resilience; despite everything that’s happened, I’m doing what I can to get back up.”

She smiles and hypes me up some more.

Lana: “Yeah! The Kaari I know isn’t going to let a few tiny fleas hold her down!”

Lana: “See, and that’s just one of the great qualities you have, Kaari. You have a lot of’em. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise, not even yourself.”

Kaari: “Okay, name one of your favorite qualities about me then.”

Lana: “Easy, you’re sweet and caring.”

Kaari: “I am?”

Lana: “Would someone who wasn’t help their girlfriend with a pile of dirty dishes, or think to bring first aid for her leg on a nature walk?”

Kaari: “I guess she wouldn’t.”

I take a deep breath and focus back on the warm rays of sunlight. Maybe I am being too hard on myself.
>>
No. 1113442 ID: b6ea64
File 175694700296.png - (7.37KB , 800x600 , 22.png )
1113442

Kaari: “Oh! How about-”

Lana: “Nope! It’s my turn to ask something now.”

Kaari: “Oh, okay.”

She stops and thinks for a moment,

Lana: “What’s something I can do to help make you feel safer, or more comfortable?”

Kaari: “Nothing like breaking out the heavy questions. I feel like you worry about me too much, Lana. You’re always trying so hard to help others, even at your own expense.”

Lana: “At my own expense, like being selfless? Is that a bad thing?”

Kaari: “It is when you push so hard to help, you end up hurting yourself.”

Lana: “When have I done that?”

Kaari: “When we were trapped in the bar. You could barely stand up and yet, you kept straining and forcing yourself to keep going.”

Lana: “Okay, that was a life or death situation. Yeah, maybe I overdid it after Norb crushed that dude with a speaker, but I wasn’t taking chances.”

Her face scrunches up for a moment, almost like a flash of frustration, but she relaxes just as quickly.

Lana: “I just try to do everything I can to make sure the people I care about are still there with me.”

Things feel kinda awkward now. Maybe there’s something I can say or do steer the conversation back to something more relaxing or romantic?
>>
No. 1113444 ID: 73a678

>>1113442
Hug her.

"...honestly, I do appreciate that. I just worry about you as much as you do me, so I get nervous. I want you around me for a long, long time."
>>
No. 1113447 ID: fd169b

Hold her hand and look her in the eye "I feel the same way. So lets look out for each other, yeah?"

And then just like, bask in each other's presence
>>
No. 1113457 ID: 74fd28

>>1113444
This!
>>
No. 1113583 ID: b6ea64
File 175726339286.png - (12.05KB , 800x800 , 23.png )
1113583

>Hug her.
I move over and go in for a hug
Kaari: “I feel the same way Lana. I just worry about you as much you do for me.”

She embraces and pulls me in tightly.

Kaari: “Let’s do our best to look out for each other, alright?”

Lana: “Yeah.”

I hold onto her for a few more moments.

Lana: “Alright, how about we get back on the trail and move on to the next spot?”

Kaari: “Sure! I wonder if the next spot will be even more relaxing.”
>>
No. 1113584 ID: b6ea64
File 175726344765.png - (6.18KB , 800x600 , 24.png )
1113584

As we make our way down and approach the next spot on the trail, a sweet aroma fills the air.
Kaari: “What’s that sweet smell?”

Lana: “That’s probably tree sap. Next landmark on the trail is a sap farm-”

A stern voice cuts her off,
???: “Pack it up and get out of here!”

We look around, but don’t see anyone at first.

Lana: “You heard that too, right?”

Kaari: “Yeah, I think it came from that way.”

Lana: “Hopefully we didn’t end up straying off the path and land on private property.”

Kaari: “Wait, shh… Looks a like park ranger yelling at someone.”

We get a little nosey and sneak over behind a bush and watch. There’s an anteater and a wolverine by a sap tree.

Wolverine: “Don’t you have better things to do like pissing out a camp fire?”

Anteater: “We’ve lost five sap trees because of you poachers! I’m putting a stop to this now!

Wolverine: “How about I put a stop to you interfering instead. I’ll tear you to shreds if you don’t make like a tree and leave.”

Lana: “Kaari, we gotta do something here. I gotta do something.”

Kaari: “Lana, you can’t run in and fight that guy! What if something happens to your leg?”

Lana: “I never said anything about running up and clobbering the guy. Power in numbers after all. There’s gotta be something we can do to help though.”
>>
No. 1113585 ID: 73a678

>>1113584
Honestly, might be the play here. Scaring him off with numbers. Dude gave a threat- to one person. Three involves a lot more calculus as to whether it's worth it or not. Posture big enough, and wolverine or not he might think twice. Still a risk, though...
>>
No. 1113587 ID: 14709f

We shouldn't have to fight. You got your phones. Record what is going on now. If it escalates to violence, we'll have proof when we call the police.
>>
No. 1113605 ID: fd169b

plausible deniability is your friend here. Back off a bit and then loudly approach. Rustle underbrush, talk about nature, have your phone out like you're filming birds. Just having an audience should be enough to get him to back down.
>>
No. 1113648 ID: 06a3f3

Here is an opportunity for some fun bonding exercise!

Hold Kaari's hand, tell her to follow your lead and wink conspiracionately, and then...

Frolic.

Frolic towards the pair, singing your favourite whimsical tune, traipsing through the grass as the sun falls from between the tree tops.

Then when you are close enough, grab the faucet and bucket an frolic away like no tomorrow.
>>
No. 1113824 ID: b6ea64
File 175773441036.png - (7.39KB , 800x600 , 25.png )
1113824

>You got your phones. Record what is going on now. If it escalates to violence, we'll have proof when we call the police.
I don’t know if my cell phone can record videos; I think it just snaps photos.

>Honestly, might be the play here. Scaring him off with numbers.
>Three involves a lot more calculus as to whether it's worth it or not. Posture big enough, and wolverine or not he might think twice. Still a risk, though...
Kaari: “Okay, I think if we just act like we’re here to back her up it’ll scare him off at least. Worse comes to worse, there’s three of us and only one of him.”

She nods and we both jump out of the bush,
Lana: “Looks like you beat us to him! Need some help giving him the boot?”

Wolverine: “Oh screw this, I’m out!”

He pulls out a walkie-talkie as he starts running,

Wolverine: “The whole colony is swarming, watch out and get out!”
>>
No. 1113826 ID: b6ea64
File 175773451162.png - (6.62KB , 800x600 , 26.png )
1113826

Anteater: “I-ugh. You two stay there.”

She pulls out her own walkie-talkie.

Lana: “Aren’t you going to chase after him?”

She waves down at us to be quiet.

Judith: “Judith reporting. Sap poacher found: Wolverine. Suspect seen fleeing towards Anturo’s station. Could be multiple offenders, try to group up. Over.”

Her walkie-talkie crackles with a response,

Grant: “This is Grant, heading to back up Anturo. Are you in pursuit of the suspect, Judy? Over.”

Judith: “This is Judith, negative. Staying on standby. Got two witnesses here with me. Sounds like they know something. Over and out.”

She holsters the walkie-talkie and looks and scoffs at us.

Judith: “Tugh, I could have handled that guy just fine.”

Lana: “Aren’t you going to chase after him?”

Judith: “Grant and Anturo can take care of him. I’m more worried about the trees and you two at this point.”

Kaari: “Why are you worried about us?”

Judith: “Because since when does a giant cat and a rabbit come jumping out of a bush after a wolverine. Seriously though, you two alright? He didn’t do nothing to you, did he?”
>>
No. 1113832 ID: 73a678

>>1113826
"No, first we saw him. Just, uh...we've had to deal with some stuff in our lives that makes us less amendable to that kinda shit. Also probably messed with our heads, pretty sure what we just did would be crazy to most folks."

That last bit isn't joking but you can pretend it is.
>>
No. 1113833 ID: 2f41db

>>1113826
Be honest.
You were banking on him backing down when he saw more people stepping in.
Just came from the hazel eye too.
Sit there a while and nothing feels like it could go wrong.
>>
No. 1113848 ID: fd169b

seems an odd question. You're just passersby who wanted to help. You've never met that man, he couldn't have done anything to you.
>>
No. 1113875 ID: 66de4b

She said he was killing all the sap trees! Who doesn't like maple syrup?
>>
No. 1113996 ID: b6ea64
File 175816376338.gif - (31.65KB , 800x600 , 27.gif )
1113996

>seems an odd question. You're just passersby who wanted to help.
Kaari: “That’s kind of an odd question, we’ve never seen him before.”

Judith: “You jumped out of those bushes sounding like you were looking for him, though.”

Kaari: “Oh, we were just trying to act like we were your backup.”

Judith: “Well regardless, takes a lot of guts to jump out at him like that. What would you have done if he had a gun or something?”

Lana: “Get shot I guess-“

Kaari: “Lana!”

Lana: “Honestly though, I’m not really sure. I guess I just got too caught up in the moment.”

I start nervously tapping my foot, that didn’t cross my mind either!

Judith: “So, what brings you two out here? Looking to get some syrup yourselves?”

Kaari: “No, we’re out on a nature walk, geocaching!”

Judith: “Well good, because of these ‘leaches’ trying to steal all our syrup, we’ve had to slow down on selling it.”

>She said he was killing all the sap trees! Who doesn't like maple syrup?
Kaari: “You mentioned he killed off some of the sap trees, why would they do that?”

Judith: “Greed. First few trees they stuck jammed eight or ten taps in at once. We didn’t catch what was going on in time and paid for it. Not to mention they don’t patch up the holes when they’re done either.”

She looks at the poachers bucket and sap tap.

Judith: “Ugh, now I have to haul all this crap back to my station for evidence, and patch up the trees.”

She swings her leg at the bucket, but stops before impact.

Judith: ”That would’ve sucked…”

Judith: “You two like syrup?”

Kaari: “Yeah! Lana makes the best pancakes, I bet it’d go great with them.”

Lana: “You’re going to give us a bucket of stolen sap?”

Judith: “No, I just said I have to keep this as evidence. If you two don’t mind helping me clean up and haul this junk over, I’ll bend the rules a bit and let you each have a big bottle of the stuff.”

Oh wow, a whole bottle of syrup! I bet it’d make Lana’s pancakes even better! Oh, but if we help her carry this stuff back, it might take away our time for exploring the trail and finding that geocache.
>>
No. 1113997 ID: 74fd28

Is there any way to heal the trees?

(But take some syrup, let's not let it go to waste!)
>>
No. 1113999 ID: fd169b

There should be time, and helping out feels good. (I wonder if they're hiring?)
>>
No. 1114019 ID: 2f41db

>>1113996
Free syrup, a story to remember and share, got to be worth it.
>>
No. 1114139 ID: b6ea64
File 175849612402.gif - (126.61KB , 800x600 , 28.gif )
1114139

>There should be time, and helping out feels good.
>Free syrup, a story to remember and share, got to be worth it.
Kaari: “We can probably spare some time to help her out, right Lana?”

Lana: “Sure, Kaari you start pulling out those taps. I’ll carry the bucket-“

Judith: “Whoa slow down there. I’ll handle pulling out their taps and pass them on to one of you. The other can carry this bundle of tubes. I’ll take the buckets.”

Lana: “Worried I’d run off with- wait buckets? I only see one.”

Judith: “Tubes and another bucket on the other side of the tree.”

Judith: “Also nah. I ain’t worried about you running off with them, but the other rangers might have questions if they see you with them.”

Lana: “Good point.”

Judith: “Now let’s get started!”

She carefully takes out the taps and passes them over to me. Lana lifts up a bundle of tubes from behind the tree.

Judith: “Here, you can put those taps in this plastic bag.”

She’s pulls out a plastic bag from her jacket. Can’t quite see everything in there but it looks like she’s packed with everything!

Kaari: “Thanks! They were pretty sticky and pulling on my fur.”

Judith: “Now to haul these buckets. Stay close and follow me. Station isn’t too far away.”

Judith grunts and strains a bit as she carries both buckets.

Lana: “You sure you don’t want me to carry those?”

She strains some more,

Judith: “I’ve got it.”
>>
No. 1114140 ID: b6ea64
File 175849616661.png - (7.14KB , 800x600 , 29.png )
1114140

We head off, but at an ants pace. Judith keeps having to stop for a moment, put the buckets down, and catch her breath. Lana eventually convinces her to trade off and carries the buckets with ease!

Once we get to the station, she has us place everything in a closet, then brings us over to her desk.

Judith: “Thanks again for helping me carry all that back here. I’d probably have to take two more trips to haul all of it on my own.”

Lana: “No problem.”

Judith: “You know, I don’t think we got to really introduce ourselves yet. What brings you two here to Hazel Pointe Nature Trail?”

Kaari: “Oh! Well my name’s Kaari, and this is Lana. We’re out enjoying a nature walk and geocaching.”

Judith: “Lana? You ever been on TV or something before? I feel like I recognize you for some reason.”

Lana: “Nah, I mostly keep to myself. Not one for acting or being on TV. You must be thinking of someone else.”

Judith: “Guess so.”

We kinda stand around for a moment in an awkward silence.

>I wonder if they're hiring?
Oh! You know what, maybe working outside here with Judith wouldn’t be so bad. The forest has been pretty calming so far. I’m a little nervous to ask. Is it too soon for something like that? What if she says no and I blow my chance!

If I do ask now, I’d need some kind of “sale pitch” to help out. What could I say that’d make me look like a good fit for the job?
>>
No. 1114149 ID: 2f41db

>>1114140
Speculative inquiries.
Ask how you end up working as a park ranger and sap Marshall. Ask what its like out here most of the time. Theyll pick up on your interest.
>>
No. 1114150 ID: 74fd28

Bring up your extensive experience in customer service! Being front facing is impressive and probably not a skill they have, but one they need.
>>
No. 1114170 ID: 73a678

>>1114149
Backing this. Don't sound obvious, sound legit interested. Let them explain and if you really think it fits you, then push the idea/offer forwards.
>>
No. 1114184 ID: 014180

You have experience at dealing with difficult people from your job at the bar, considering they get drunk.
>>
No. 1114203 ID: fd169b

>>1114149
This is the way, show interest before asking about work. Also could bring up that it seems like they could use help.
>>
No. 1114492 ID: b6ea64
File 175908202739.png - (7.24KB , 800x600 , 30.png )
1114492

>Speculative inquiries. Ask how you end up working as a park ranger and sap Marshall.
Kaari: “I’m a little curious, how did you end up working as a park ranger?”

She hmms… a bit, looking lost in her thoughts.

Judith: “Well, I was in a rough spot before I started working here. A good friend from the volunteer fire fighters put in a good word for me and the rest is history.”

Kaari: “So what’s it like being a park ranger, is it always chasing after sap poachers?”

Judith: “No, those bottom feeders are just a recent thorn in my side. My mornings here involve checking the trails around my station. Making sure no branches or trees are blocking the path. If I’m lucky, I find a nice ant hill or termite mound to polish off.”

Lana: “Termites! I think you got bigger worries than sap poachers killing your trees then.”

Judith: “They’re certainly a destructive pest, but there’s enough of us anteaters here to keep them in check. ”

Kaari: “What about after you open up for the day?”

Judith: “Normally I’d be guiding visitors around the sap trees, showing how we collect it to make syrup. Now I’m stuck filling out legal paperwork and taking note of how much syrup is left.”

Lana: “If it’s down so much you have to monitor it like that, should you really be giving us some?”

Judith: “Don’t worry too much. Got enough that we can still get by, but we’re going to have to look at new ways to make some revenue for the park if this keeps up any further.”

Kaari: “You could charge an admission fee?”

She gives me a dirty look,

Judith: “We already do that.”

Lana: “Why wasn’t there anyone at the entrance to pay to get in then?”

She eases up and laughs,
Judith: “Nah, just teasing. It’s against the law for us to charge admission.”

Lana: “That’s a weird law.”

Kaari: “I suppose that means the park isn’t really hiring then?”

Judith: “Well, if you’re trying to get some school or college credits for volunteer work I could probably find something for ya.”

Kaari: “Nothing paid though?”

Judith: “We do have openings, but until those poachers are shown the gate, we aren’t even looking at applications.”
>>
No. 1114493 ID: b6ea64
File 175908205409.png - (5.36KB , 800x600 , 32.png )
1114493

I lightly smack myself in the face.

Kaari: ”So much for that I guess.”

I try not to let it bother me much. If they’re not hiring, then there’s nothing I can do about it. Based on that glance she’s giving me though, I think she understands how I feel hearing that.

Judith: “How badly do you need the work?”

Kaari: “I-what?”

Judith: “Hey, if you’re facing hard times, we can get with the other rangers and figure out some kind of plan to help out.”

Kaari: “I-I don’t know what to say.”

Judith: “We’d have to do something about those fleas first, don’t need any more pests running around here. Those are easy enough for me to handle though.”

I feel really conflicted now. On one end, yeah I want the job. I desperately want to get away from working at the bar. On the other end though, it’s not like my livelihood depends on getting this job or not. Lana’s already helping out and letting me stay with her till I can get back on my feet.
>>
No. 1114497 ID: 2f41db

>>1114493
Take a phone number with gratitude and interest.
Thank judith too for the info.
Its great to have a possibility like this in your life, but the now is for you and lana to use.
Theres nature. It needs walking through. Theres time left to spend for your date.
>>
No. 1114506 ID: fd169b

Don't worry about if your life is bad enough for you to deserve the opportunity. Take it and just make sure to do your best to live up to it.

>Those are easy enough for me to handle though.
Hang on, is she offering to eat the fleas? That's probably rude to assume though. Ask what she meant, does she have some way of dealing with fleas?
>>
No. 1114513 ID: 73a678

>>1114493
Never EVER pass up an opportunity gladly given to you. So long as it's not illegal, anywho, and it's not. Take her name, number, any pertinent info, and let yourself and your gf consider it. There is literally NEGATIVE shame in regaining a measure of independence, no matter how it comes. This IS getting back on your feet.
>>
No. 1115297 ID: b6ea64
File 176090920207.png - (7.12KB , 800x600 , 33.png )
1115297

>Hang on, is she offering to eat the fleas? That's probably rude to assume though. Ask what she meant, does she have some way of dealing with fleas?
Kaari: “Wait, you have an easy way to deal with fleas?”

Judith: “Yeah and before you ask, no, I don’t mean eating them. We had them real bad last summer. Grant must have found a circus of those buggers. Learned that a nice hot sauna and some flea shampoo works the best.”

Lana: “How much for couples? I’ve always to try out a sauna.”

Judith: “Usually they’re just for the campers, but I’m more than happy to bend the rules for helping me out.”

Lana: “What do you think, Kaari?”


Kaari: “You know, I think I might enjoy it.”

It’ll probably be a lot more tolerable than a bath or shower, that’s for sure. Hopefully I can handle it without freaking out.

>Never EVER pass up an opportunity gladly given to you. So long as it's not illegal, anywho
>Don't worry about if your life is bad enough for you to deserve the opportunity. Take it and just make sure to do your best to live up to it.
>Take a phone number with gratitude and interest. Thank Judith too for the info.
Kaari: “Can I get your phone number, Judith? I think it’d be a great opportunity for me if you can work something out.”

Judith: “Sure, here’s my business card.”

Judith: “It takes about two hours for the sauna to heat up. I shouldn’t get ahead of myself though. Were you interested in it today or did you want to make reservations for later?”

>the now is for you and Lana to use.
>There’s nature. It needs walking through. There’s time left to spend for your date.
Kaari: “Maybe we could come back tomorrow, then continue looking at job opportunities.”
Judith: “Hey, works for me. Well, long as nothing wild progresses with the sap poachers anyway. Give me a call whenever.”

I look back to Lana,
Kaari: “Well, shall we get back to our walk?”

Lana: “I dunno, I remember being promised some syrup…”

Judith: “Sorry, it’s either two bottles of syrup or the sauna.”

Lana: “Sorry Kaari, no syrup for your pancakes then. Sauna’s more important.”

Judith laughs,
Judith: “Ah just messing with you. I’ll have to go sneak two bottles out of the storage room. If you can stop back at my station before you leave, I’ll have it ready for you."

Lana: “Works for me.”

Judith: “So where you two heading next on the trail?”

Lana: “Just winging it along the way till we end up at the geocache location.”

Judith: “Well, there’s two attractions you can get to from here. There’s the old ‘magic’ wishing well, just take a left at the sign. Head right and it’ll take you over to the haunted cabin!”
>>
No. 1115308 ID: fd169b

Haunted cabin sounds neat (and not water related)
>>
No. 1115311 ID: 74fd28

Haunted cabin? Sure what could go wrong?
>>
No. 1115312 ID: 73a678

>>1115297
I actually think the wishing well would be cute.
>>
No. 1116008 ID: b6ea64
File 176193839591.png - (5.05KB , 800x600 , 34.png )
1116008

>Haunted cabin sounds neat (and not water related)
>Haunted cabin? Sure what could go wrong?

Kaari: “W-what makes the cabin haunted?”

She tries to look uninterested as she replies,
Judith: “Oh you know, just the ghosts of some old loggers.”

Lana: “Just some old loggers huh. What’s the story?”

Judith: “The story itself is creepier than the cabin if you ask me. I won’t spoil the history lesson for you though, you can read about it when you get there.”

Lana: “Maybe you’d like to come with us, a tour guide would be nice.”

Judith: “I’d love to, unfortunately I have to start putting ink on papers and stay posted for this poacher nonsense.”
She chuckles,
Judith: “Oh yeah, no funny business in the cabin either. Last thing I need to hear is you two becoming the poor victims like a cheesy slasher flick.”

I shiver a bit, my mind starts racing back to the bar again. I feel Lana gently hold onto my paw, and I’m snapped back to the present.

Judith: “All jokes aside, I’m going to let you borrow a walkie-talkie. It’s already tuned for my frequency. Buzz me if you end up running into those poachers or any trouble.”

Lana takes it and clips it onto her pocket.

Lana: “Thanks, we’ll be careful.”
>>
No. 1116009 ID: b6ea64
File 176193859299.png - (6.19KB , 800x600 , 35.png )
1116009

With that we wave goodbye and get back on the trail. We stop for moment to munch on some granola bars.

Lana: “You sure you’re okay with checking out a haunted cabin Kaari?”

Kaari: “It can’t be all that scary. Besides, Judith made it sounds more like a park history thing than a spooky attraction.”

She devours the remainder of her granola bar and gets up,
Lana: "If you need to, you can hold onto me if it's a bit much. We can always just book it out if it ends up being too spooky.

Kaari: "Thanks Lana."

I finish up my snack and we head towards the cabin.
>>
No. 1116010 ID: b6ea64
File 176193861295.png - (5.84KB , 800x600 , 36.png )
1116010

Once inside we look around for a brief moment. There’s a pair of bunk beds and oil lanterns and noisy fridge humming.

Lana: “For a haunted cabin, it sure looks well lived in. That fridge sounds like it’s the most haunted thing in here.”

Kaari: “Maybe someone left the defroster on?”

Lana: “Lot of plaques and signage around, must be the right place.”

She looks around some more,

Lana: “Well, wanna start reading up on the history of this place? Or maybe I could shut off the lights and see if some ghosts come out to spook us?”
>>
No. 1116035 ID: 70f58a

Reading the history always makes the experience better.
>>
No. 1116039 ID: fd169b

what sordid tales do these walls hold? read some plaques
>>
No. 1116057 ID: 2f41db

>>1116010
Read the history aloud.
With a spooky voice.
Try to get a laugh outta her.
>>
No. 1116116 ID: b6ea64
File 176204150986.png - (5.41KB , 800x600 , 37.png )
1116116

>Reading the history always makes the experience better.
>what sordid tales do these walls hold? read some plaques
Kaari: “Let’s see what sordid tales haunt this poor cabin. Any signs on where we should start?”

Lana: “Hard telling, there’s no numbering on the plaques. They even put one on the fridge!”

>Read the history aloud. With a spooky voice.
Kaari: “Really? Let me see.”
I read off the plaque with a spooky tone.
Kaari: “Maaaay our fuuuture loggers never goooo withooout again.”

Lana: “Well that’s ominous. Guessing there was a famine or something? Let’s keep reading.”

Kaari: “There’s one on the bunk beds. Let’s see…”

Kaari: “In loving memory of those who lost their lives here in the winter of nineteen-fifty.”

Lana: “Shaping up to be a brutal winter that year. There’s gotta be more to it than that though. Let’s keep looking.”
>>
No. 1116117 ID: b6ea64
File 176204154177.png - (4.48KB , 800x600 , 38.png )
1116117

We venture further into the cabin and there’s a glass display with some newspaper clippings.
Kaari: “Loggers on strike! Following tragedy on lake, loggers of Hazel Pointe Logging Co. have gone on strike. They demand for better wages and safer equipment.”

Lana: “Here’s the next one, ‘Record breaking snowstorm! Over three feet of snow buries town in harshest winter.’ Can you imagine seeing three feet of snow?”

Kaari: “That’d be almost all the way up to my head!”

We move on to the next one,
Kaari: “Logging Strike turns Deadly! Sole Survivor of Snowed-in Cabin Shares horrifying details!”

Kaari: “After exhausting all other rescue efforts, a second team flew in with a helicopter. They entered through the chimney fearing they may be too late. Miraculously, one determined beaver had barely hung on. ‘That filthy rat refused to send help until we called off the strike! Radio was up but we could only reach the boss. None of us were going to play these negotiation games, so we said screw’em. Help would come soon.’ When asked about how he survived and what happened to the others, he painted a gruesome picture for us. ‘We ran out of food and starvation hit. You have a room full of starving animals trapped in a room together, I think you can fill in the rest. I’m just lucky the cabin was made of wood. Not much was edible per say, but it was enough to keep me going.’ Currently the owner of the logging company is being held on charges of gross negligence.”

I look over to Lana and see her trying to keep her claws in,

Lana: “I can’t believe some scumbag would go that far to save a few bucks and screw his employees like that! Now I get what Judith said about this place.”
>>
No. 1116119 ID: b6ea64
File 176204189184.gif - (15.22KB , 800x600 , 39.gif )
1116119

Kaari: “Shh, wait. Do you hear that?”

Lana: “I don’t hear anything. You’ll have to try a bit harder than that to spook me.”

It’s hard to tell with that noisy fridge, but there’s a faint bubbling kind of noise coming from below the floorboards. I walk around a bit trying to find where it’s coming from. Then I notice a spot on the floor is significantly warmer.

Kaari: “There’s some weird bubbly noise coming from below, Lana. The floor’s warmer over here.”

I hear Lana sniffle a bit.

Lana: “Whatever it is, it smells sweet!”

“Quiet…”

Lana: ”Okay okay I’ll whisper!”

Kaari: ”That wasn’t me Lana….”
>>
No. 1116129 ID: fd169b

Oh for gods' sakes did they really put their illicit syrup operation under a tourist attraction? A dry historical one, but still.

Alright keep talking like you didn't notice anything, casually walk out of the cabin, and radio Judith once you're out of earshot. Not going to let these saps ruin your nice day.
>>
No. 1116137 ID: b428f2

>>1116129
Agreed.
They would have gotten away with it too if it wasnt for these damn meddling kid- well.
Young adults.
>>
No. 1116162 ID: 70f58a

>>1116129
Yes.

At most say something like "oh god it's a ghost!"
>>
No. 1116189 ID: b6ea64
File 176211003032.png - (5.87KB , 800x600 , 40.png )
1116189

>Alright keep talking like you didn't notice anything, casually walk out of the cabin, and radio Judith once you're out of earshot. Not going to let these saps ruin your nice day.
>say something like "oh god it's a ghost!"
Kaari: ”L-Lana I thi-think we ne-need to get out. I t-think we woke up the ghosts.”

Lana: “Kaari- okay yeah let’s book it!”

Lana grabs my arm and darts off with me in an instant.
>>
No. 1116190 ID: b6ea64
File 176211009435.png - (6.04KB , 800x600 , 41.png )
1116190

Kaari: “Don’t stop, keep going!”

We run for a bit more and stop at a bench. Lana sits down and groans.

Lana: ”Ugh, my leg…”

She continues to breathe heavily trying to catch her breath.

Kaari: “Give me the walkie-talkie Lana, we need to get Judith. Now.

She goes to pass me the walkie-talkie, but hesitates.

Lana: “Can you fill me in here first Kaari? I don’t think I’ve ever seen you look more terrified, and I think that’s saying something.”

Kaari: “The poachers! I think- I think they were down there making syrup. What if-what if we had stayed in there!”

She looks at me with more concern,

Kaari: “What if they trapped us in there Lana! They could’ve-”

Lana: “Could’ve. We got outside and away from them. It’s okay now though. Let’s get Judith on the walkie-talkie to investigate."

I hold onto Lana as she looks at the walkie-talkie.

Lana: “Hopefully I remember how to properly talk over these things.”

She pushes down on the talk button and it beeps,

Lana: “Come in Judith… this is Lana and Kaari, over.”

There’s a short pause, followed by the crackle of the walkie-talkie

Judith: “Copy that, this is Judith. You two okay? Over.”

Lana: “We think the sap poachers are operating right under that haunted cabin. Heard something boiling and smelt a little sweet in there. Over.”
The walkie-talkie spits out static for an uncomfortable moment, Lana tries to reach back.
Lana: “Uh, Judith do you read?”

Judith: “Sorry, stand-by Lana.”
Another few moments go by before she responds back again.
Judith: “I’ve got a group heading over to investigate. The two of you okay? Over.”

Lana: “Yeah, we’re okay. We got out of there before anything happened. Over.”

Judith: “Alright, buzz me again if anything else comes up. Over and out.”
>>
No. 1116191 ID: b6ea64
File 176211013519.png - (5.97KB , 800x600 , 42.png )
1116191

She puts the walkie-talkie away and groans,

Lana: “Kaari can you look at my leg? I can’t tell if it’s bleeding or not.”

Kaari: “Uh, sure Lana.”

I carefully pull up her pant leg and…

Kaari: “Eugh! Blood everywhere!”

Lana: “How bad is everywhere? Did the stitches tear open?”

Kaari: “Th-this is a bit hard to look at, uh… uh… They look stretched and loose?”

Lana: “I don’t know if that’s a good or bad thing honestly.”
She let’s out a pained sigh.
Lana: “Kaari, I’m sorry this has been a crappy date so far. Nothing can ever go right, can it?”

Almost I blurt out forget about that! I gotta focus on Lana’s wound right now. I’m not sure if I should try and get the first aid out and try to clean up myself, or if I should radio in Judith again to help? Surely the park rangers would know something about first aid, right?
>>
No. 1116196 ID: a0832d

Radio, and ask what to do about treating the wound, let Judith know you have the first aid kit, and will follow directions. Consider this training for if you get to work here in the future.

To ease Lana’s worries, tell her that maybe discovering the poachers might make for good experience, and show them that you are capable of working here.
>>
No. 1116197 ID: 2f41db

>>1116196
Yep.
Got to look good on the application sheet helping find the sap sapping saps.
As to wound...
See what you can do, but call on judith for guidance.
Brief explanation so she knows its not a fresh injury.
>>
No. 1116242 ID: fd169b

Yes Judith probably has some training in first aid. And you were responsible and brought the kit so everything will be fine. Worst that happens is you need to find a good sturdy branch for a crutch.
>>
No. 1116285 ID: b6ea64
File 176217467055.png - (6.07KB , 800x600 , 43.png )
1116285

>To ease Lana’s worries, tell her that maybe discovering the poachers might make for good experience, and show them that you are capable of working here.
>Got to look good on the application sheet helping find the sap sapping saps.
Kaari: “Okay it’s been rough with the poachers, but finding them might end up showing Judith I have what it takes to work here.”

I hear Lana mumble something to herself, but can’t pick up on it. She pulls out the firstaid kit and passes it onto me.

>Radio, and ask what to do about treating the wound, let Judith know you have the first aid kit, and will follow directions.
>See what you can do, but call on Judith for guidance.
>Yes Judith probably has some training in first aid.
Kaari: “Can you pass me the walkie-talkie as well?

Lana: “What do you need the walkie-talkie for Kaari?”

Kaari: “I’m not entirely sure what I should do with the stitches? I’m going to ask Judith if she knows how to fix them.”

Lana: “Well, you’re going to need both paws for that. I can communicate with her, and you can follow her instructions.”

Kaari: “Oh, yeah that’s sounds like a good plan.”

Lana: “Okay, first you should use one of the antiseptic wipes to clean it up.”

Kaari: “Right!”

The sudden radio crackle startles me for a moment,
Lana: “Come in Judith, this is Lana and Kaari again. Over.”

Judith: “Copy that, this is Judith. Forget something? Over.”

Lana: “So, realized I’ve over did when we were running off, looks like I messed up the stitches in my leg, bloods all over.”

Judith: “Say again? Bloods all what?”

Lana: “Bleeding a lot. Kaari’s got a first aid kit and cleaning it up, but we don’t know what to do about my stitches. They look stretched and loose. Over.”

Judith: “Have either of you stitched up a wound before? Over.”

Kaari and Lana: “Nope.”

Judith: “Alright here’s what you’re going to need to do…”

She helps walk me through on what to do, and I manage to tighten Lana’s stitches back up. Afterwards I wrap it up with some gauze.

Judith: “I’d highly recommend getting your doctor to check on that later when you’re done here. They might want to end up redo the stitches themselves, but you should be fine for now. Over.”

Lana: “Thanks again for the help Judith. Over.”

Judith: “Do you two need anything else? I can head over your way if you’d like. Over.”

She teases Judith a bit,
Lana: “I thought you were busy putting ink on papers? Over.”

Judith: “Safety of our visitors is a higher priority. I didn’t think the poachers would have a whole operation running here, but here we are with a group digging around an old haunted cabin. Over.”

Hm, it wouldn’t be bad having Judith tag along with us. Another set of eyes watching out isn’t bad. At the same time it might be awkward with Lana and I being here on a date.
>>
No. 1116286 ID: a0832d

Methinks we’re good. Let’s enjoy the rest of the forest date by ourselves.
>>
No. 1116292 ID: 2f41db

Yeah.
Thank her but a little time for you guys is whats needed.
Even if its just sitting somewhere with a nice view and taking it all in
>>
No. 1116311 ID: b6ea64
File 176222163765.png - (6.11KB , 800x600 , 44.png )
1116311

>Let’s enjoy the rest of the forest date by ourselves.
>Thank her but a little time for you guys is whats needed. Even if its just sitting somewhere with a nice view and taking it all in
Kaari: “I think we’ll be fine on our own Lana. I want to relax more with you.”

Lana: “Nah, we can handle things ourselves Judith. Thanks for the help, we’ll call again if anything else comes up. Over.”

Judith: “Alright you two, try to take it easy with that leg and enjoy the rest of the park. Over and out!”

Lana clips it back on her pocket and tries to stand up.
Lana: “Hurts a little bit to move around, but it’s bearable.”

Kaari: “Sit down and rest a little bit then. We have been walking and running around for awhile now.”

Lana: “Yeah, probably a good idea. Do you want some water or anything while we're taking a break?”

Kaari: “Sure, I could use a little sip.”

I pack up the first aid kit and grab a water bottle from the backpack.

Lana: “Ah, let’s see here… getting close to five right now. We probably have time to check out another nearby spot in the park before the sun starts going down. After that we should probably head to our geocache spot.”

Kaari: “Didn’t we bring flashlights?”

Lana: “We did, but I’d like to search for it while there’s some light.”

Kaari: “Okay, so what’s nearby we can check out then?”

Lana: “We could walk back to that sign, go the other way, and check out the wishing well. There’s a little picnic area there too. If we keep heading down this path it’ll lead us over a small copper mine. We can’t actually go and mine for anything, but we we’re allowed to check out a few areas.”
>>
No. 1116312 ID: a200b3

wishing well = water. no thanks.

Lets go to the mining site.
>>
No. 1116314 ID: 70f58a

>>1116311
That old copper mine probably has poachers in it...
Go to the picnic area. The well should be fine so long as you don't look into it.
>>
No. 1116316 ID: ddf3dd

>>1116312
Mine!
>>
No. 1116320 ID: fd169b

Mine sounds fine
>>
No. 1116784 ID: b6ea64
File 176291236671.png - (6.01KB , 800x600 , 45.png )
1116784

>Lets go to the mining site.
>Mine sounds fine
Kaari: “How about we go check out the copper mine?”

Lana: “Sure. Maybe we’ll see some more interesting history. Either that or we’ll find out those saps are setup in the caves too.”

Kaari: “Ugh, don’t say that! Knowing my luck they probably would be hiding in there.”

Lana: “Well we could always turn back for the wishing well then.”

Kaari: “No, let’s head for the mine. There’s probably more interesting stuff to see there than an old well.”

Lana gets up from the bench and takes a few slow steps.
Kaari: “We can sit here for a bit too if your leg still hurts.”

Lana: “I don’t think my leg’s going to be pain free for awhile yet, Kaari. It’ll be fine though, let’s go.”
I just nod and we head down the path towards the mine.
>>
No. 1116785 ID: b6ea64
File 176291242471.png - (6.22KB , 800x600 , 46.png )
1116785

Lana: “Wow, lot of warning signs posted here.”

Kaari: “Under no circumstance is any guest of Hazel Pointe Nature Trail to take any precious metals or ore out of the mine shaft. Violators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”

Lana: “Maybe they need to throw signs like that up by the sap trees. What else do we need to be wary of in the mines?”

Kaari: “Absolutely no smoking allowed in the mines. Punishable by fine of up to ten thousand notes!”
I look over to see she’s digging in her pockets,

Lana: “Hey, just making sure I’m clean, Kaari.”

Kaari: “I hope so, can you imagine having to pay that fine!”

Lana: “A fine like that? It’d be behind locked bars for me.”

Kaari: “Good thing you’re not packing any contraband then. Come on, let’s head inside.”
>>
No. 1116786 ID: b6ea64
File 176291249473.png - (5.95KB , 800x600 , 47.png )
1116786

We make our way, and it starts to get noticeably warmer as head further into the shaft.

Lana: “You know, this is pretty cozy. Warm lights and the rustic accents. Expected this to be more damp and dark.”
Kaari: “Looks like it’s so we can see the displays they’ve setup.”

Lana: “Hopefully the history lesson here isn’t as bleak as the cabin’s.”

Inside the box is a rough looking tree sculpture. Looking at it closely, the bottom of it is really shiny while the top is all rough and oxidized.
Lana: “Wow, I wonder how they keep the bottom of that from oxidizing?”

Kaari: “Well, however they do it, that’s a cool idea! What’s the story behind it though?”

Lana: “Let’s see here... Edward DuPointe painstakingly sculpted this copper tree in an attempt to win back his fiancé. After news broke out about the unfortunate cabin snow in, Lauren Poppy tried to cut all ties with the DuPointe family. Edward hoped to separate himself from his father’s cold actions by warming up to the fine arts. After a few weeks, he proposed to her with this sculpture. ‘Forget the olive branch Lauren, I’m reaching out with the whole tree!’ Unfortunately for Edward though, the love boat had sailed. Lauren rejected his gift stating he should be helping out the families affected by his fathers actions instead. A cold jab at his reported failures to show up at negotiations to end the strike.”

Kaari: “Eugh. At this point I’ve got a feeling everything here is going to circle back to that cabin.”

Lana: “Well, it was a pretty tragic event Kaari. Got me thinking though.”

Kaari: “Thinking about what? Going on strike at the bar?”

Lana: “Hah, no. Any of us went on strike and they’d give us the boot.”

Lana: “If you had to make something to win over my heart, what would it be?”

I tease her a bit,
Kaari: “Gee Lana, how could I ever top our most intimate and romantic moments like prying boards off a door to escape a hostage situation, or tightening up your stitches.”
That gets a little laugh out of her.

Lana: “True, I’d be hard pressed to beat helping out with a flea bath myself.”

Kaari: “I know your only joking a bit, but that really did mean a lot to me that you helped with that."

Lana: “Hey, I’m there for whatever it takes to help out when you need it.”

That was a good question she asked though. Lana’s done a lot for me. What would be something nice I could make or give her?
>>
No. 1116803 ID: 2f41db

It is a good question...

One worth finding an answer for even if you dont share it.

"If i told you, it wouldnt have as much effect when you saw it."
Or something like that is the answer to give, but as to the answer you have...

A tree made of bottlecaps and other bar pariphinalia.
She means a lot to you.
Something beautiful out of the bar, to remind of the forest and the tree of copper you saw in a mine on an odd but still very much a wonderful date.

Which if she pushes you could share i guess, but otherwise youve got an arts and crafts project ahead of you.
>>
No. 1116841 ID: 63709c

Something that reflects her interests or what she needs. Right now that would be something she can use at college, but personalized for her. Could be a backpack, a notebook, a calculator, whatever. The important thing is that she'll use it everyday and it will be a reminder of their love.
>>
No. 1116870 ID: ddf3dd

Calculator with a poem on the back.
>>
No. 1117145 ID: b6ea64
File 176343528193.png - (5.77KB , 800x600 , 48.png )
1117145

>Something that reflects her interests or what she needs. Right now that would be something she can use at college, but personalized for her.
>Could be a backpack, a notebook, a calculator, whatever.
>Calculator with a poem on the back.
>important thing is that she'll use it everyday and it will be a reminder of their love.
That could be nice! Something she’d see and use everyday. I wish I knew more about the college classes she’s taking. That’d probably make it a bit easier to find something she needs.
Kaari: “Back to your question, I dunno Lana. You got me thinking of some good Christmas gifts.”

Lana: “Oh yeah? What kind of gifts?”

Kaari: “I told you, Christmas gifts.”

She chuckles,
Lana: “Alright, I get the hint. Sounds like you got something special in mind there.”

She proceeds further into the shaft,

Lana: “Come on, let’s we what else we can find in here. ”
>>
No. 1117146 ID: b6ea64
File 176343532713.gif - (104.21KB , 800x600 , 49.gif )
1117146

We continue on, there’s a few ‘Do not enter’ and ‘Employees only’ signs posted.
Kaari: “I’m getting the feeling there isn’t much else to see in here, Lana.”

Lana: “I think you spoke too soon Kaari, look over there.”
She points over to something orange and red littered across the ground.

Kaari: “Wait, is that fur a-and blood?!”

She kneels down and picks up some strands,
Lana: “Yeah I don’t like this. We should probably head back, Kaari.”
>>
No. 1117147 ID: b6ea64
File 176343537283.gif - (28.63KB , 800x600 , 50.gif )
1117147

Deeper in the tunnel we can hear someone coughing up a lung. A few moments later, heavy boot steps echo.

Click-clomp, click-clomp, click-clomp…

We both freeze. I catch a glimpse of a large figure in the corner of my vision.

Click-clomp, click-clomp, click-clomp…

I almost bolt right then and there, but fear has too strong of a grip.
>>
No. 1117151 ID: b6ea64
File 176343576532.png - (7.02KB , 800x600 , 51.png )
1117151

The figure stifles another cough. A strained and gravelly voice greets us,

???: “Aegh, sorry.”

The figure is so tall, it has to duck to enter the section. Oh that’s a massive donkey!

He rubs on his throat and mumbles for a moment,
Donkey: “Guests?”

Lana: “Oh uh, yeah. We’re here checking out the copper mine.”

He looks down at me for a moment, then gives Lana an annoyed look.
Donkey: “No boots?”

Kaari: “Oh, sorry. Are we suppose to have shoes on in here?”

Donkey: “Sharp rocks hu-”
He stops for moment and coughs in his arm.
Donkey: “They hurt, boots help.”

He points down at the scattered fur,
Donkey: “This one learned- auck. Painful lesson.”

He looks around for a moment and lets out another cough.
Donkey: “Lost?”

Kaari: “No, we’re just looking around.”

He rubs his throat some more.
Donkey: “Where’s the guide?”

Lana: “There’s supposed to be a tour guide?”

There’s that annoyed look again.
Donkey: “Bums. Easy to get lost.”

He scratches his chin,
Donkey: “Guess I can guide.”

He looks towards both ways in the section.
Donkey: “Mine carts, mining tools. Could show the camp too, I think.”

All of that sounds like it'd be cool to check out. Kind of nervous still, this guy is massive, but he seems nice enough. My minds just, racing a lot from that still. Where should we go next?
>>
No. 1117152 ID: 70f58a

>>1117151
Well, if you want to know for sure it's safe, have him lead you in the direction of the blood trail. I'm guessing that's the camp. He goes first.

I expect to see a cat sitting around with a bandaged foot. Oh, and watch your step.
>>
No. 1117154 ID: fd169b

You know, I don't think sharp rocks usually cause fur loss. I mean there's no fur on the bottom of your feet. But it is a good excuse for not going any further into the mine.
>>
No. 1117200 ID: 5cc438

Ask if he has something to show he works here?
>>
No. 1117213 ID: e807fa

Check da camp out yo.
>>
No. 1117214 ID: 60dd6a

>>1117152
yeah, do what this says
>>
No. 1117215 ID: 94d85e

Instead of adding to the trail of fur and blood, let's go back. Maybe get some safety equipment.
>>
No. 1117665 ID: b6ea64
File 176412355755.png - (6.74KB , 800x600 , 52.png )
1117665

>Ask if he has something to show he works here?
Kaari: “What’s that pin on your overalls say?”

He takes it off and passes it over to me.

Kaari: “Pickford, D-team captain. Is that your name?”

He nods his head yes.

Lana: “What were you the captain of?”

Pickford: “D-team.”

He lets of a brief chuckle.

Pickford: “Was my crew.”

>Well, if you want to know for sure it's safe, have him lead you in the direction of the blood trail. I'm guessing that's the camp. He goes first.
Kaari: “Alright, how about we check out the camp?”

He ducks under the entryway again and then motions for us to follow him.

Lana: “Are you sure about this, Kaari?”

Kaari: ”He seems nice enough. I’ll be sure to watch my step.”

She let’s out a nervous sigh,
Lana: “Okay Pickford, lead the way.”
>>
No. 1117666 ID: b6ea64
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1117666

I keep my eyes towards the ground as we follow Pickford.

Lana: “So how’d you end up becoming a mining captain?”

He struggles for a moment to clear his throat,
Pickford: “Hard work.”

Kaari: “How long have you worked here in the mines?”

Pickford: “Twenty-two years.”
>>
No. 1117667 ID: b6ea64
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1117667

He takes us around another turn and into the camp.
Pickford opens a cooler and chugs a water in one gulp.
Pickford: “Aaah. Been needing that.”
He grabs another one and continues,
Pickford: “Can I offer anything? Got waters and orange soder.”

Lana: “That’s fine, we brought our own snacks and drinks.”

He shuts the lid and sits on it,
Pickford: “Hm, so what’s got you two here in the mines?”

Kaari: “We’re here on a nature walk, and in a bit we’re going to go geocaching.”

Pickford: “Used to have caches in here.”
He chugs down the entire bottle in one gulp again.
Pickford: “Banned it from the mines. Folks kept getting lost.”

Lana: “It’s still okay on the nature trail though?”

Pickford: “Mmmhmm. Easier to get back on track outside.”

Kaari: “Have you ever got lost in here?”

Pickford: “Oooh, once or twice? When I first started. Know the paths real well now.”

Pickford: “Could share some work stories if that’s what you’re interested in.”

Pickford: “Or I guess any questions ya have about mining. History and what not.”

Oh! This might be a good chance to learn about something other than that cabin incident. There’s a lot I could ask him, but I should probably keep it to just one or two questions.
>>
No. 1117796 ID: fd169b

Surely the mine has some stories that aren't sad like the cabin's
>>
No. 1117798 ID: 2f41db

Yes.
Mention the cabin and ask if theres anything in the mines history thats a bit, um, brighter than that. Positive stuff.
>>
No. 1117837 ID: 4d17c5

What's his favorite soder?
>>
No. 1118150 ID: f9ff2a

How much copper is still in this mine? how much copper did everyone mine?
>>
No. 1118159 ID: b6ea64
File 176453671644.png - (7.06KB , 800x600 , 55.png )
1118159

>What's his favorite soder?
Kaari: “What’s your favorite soder, Pickford?”

Pickford: “Mmm, Doctor Leopard.”

Lana: “Citrus or Cream Soda flavor?”

Pickford: “Cream Soder. Cherry’s okay too. Not too fussy.”

>How much copper is still in this mine?
Kaari: “Is there any copper left to find?”

Pickford: “Possibly. Mostly just tours now. Still maintain things for safety.”

>how much copper did everyone mine?
Lana: “How much copper came out of this mine?”

Pickford: “Wasn’t too privy on that. At least two-hundred tons, maybe three?

>Surely the mine has some stories that aren't sad like the cabin's
> Mention the cabin and ask if theres anything in the mines history thats a bit, um, brighter than that. Positive stuff.
Kaari: “Got anything more positive than the cabin story?”

Pickford: “Is that the snow in, or the lumber accident?”

Pickford: “Don’t matter I guess. Both were tragic.”

He rubs his throat for a moment,

Pickford: “Positive stories… well I guess there’s the cave-in we had. Almost lost my crew-"

Lana: “That’s positive?”

Pickford: Almost, don’t be interrupting now. Yours truly saved the day.”

He leans forward and starts telling his tale,
>>
No. 1118160 ID: b6ea64
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1118160

Pickford: “So, there I was, playing a game of blackjack. Having some soders with the guys. Foremen comes in all pissed off at me.”

He tries to sound like an angry drill sergeant, he still sounds a bit rough.

Pickford: ”Are all jackasses deaf or just you! On your feet, grab your gear, your crew just caved themselves in!”

Pickford: “No one heard a thing. Crew wasn’t even scheduled to go in yet. Foreman gave me shit for not being round. Asked him what happened, and he said,”

Pickford: “You got a Smoky Joe amongst your men Pickford! Some idiot chimney puffer went and lit one of them damn cancer sticks and caused an explosion! Probably ain’t got no fur left on his face.”

Lana: “You really remember everything he said there?”

Pickford: “When you got a foremen like ol Mueller, you don’t forget a thing he says.”

Kaari: “Yeah, I don’t think I could ever forget someone calling someone a chimney puffer.”

Lana: “Yeah, and if I ever hear you call me that, you better hope I wasn’t listening.”

He chuckles,
Pickford: “Well, foremen’s tangent aside. I grabbed my tool belt en helmet. Followed the foremen down to where my crew was. Situation was worse than I thought, those bums were screwing around with their lady friends. Tryin to act all tough and show’em round the mines.”

He stops to down another water.

Pickford: “No ‘chimney puffers’ in my crew though. Some jackass was playing with the dynamite.”

Pickford: “Anyway, quite the rough situation. Explosion had rubble rollin and seal’en’em in.”

Pickford: “Spent hours shoveling gravel away only to find more trouble.”

Kaari: “What could possibly make the cave-in worse?”

Pickford: “A second cave-in of course.”

Pickford: “Nah, wasn’t that bad. A solid slab was in our way next.”

Kaari: “Did you have to blow it up?”

Pickford: “Not a chance. Had to bust it up.”

Lana: “What’d you use then? I can’t imagine a pickax would break solid rock.”

Pickford: “You’d be right. Picks are for prying. Foremen had to haul in the power tools.”

Kaari: “Like a jack hammer?"

Pickford: “Nah, rock breakers. Bit smaller, easier to hold.”

Pickford: “Breaks more than rocks too.”

He motions his wrist a bit and winces.

Pickford: “Also kills your hands.”

Lana: “How long did it take to make an exit hole or something for them?”

Pickford: “Oh it wasn’t no hole. Had to break the whole thing down.”

Pickford: “Five hours and eight men.”

Kaari: “Did everyone make it out okay?”

Pickford: “Well, no deaths. Jackass who caused it, knocked himself unconscious. Hauled him out on a stretcher.”

He gets a big smile on his face.

Pickford: “Came busting in for everyone. Tell ya, all dem ladies came rushing to me.”

Then he blushes,
Pickford: “Was how I met my wife, Chloe.”

He slumps over a bit and sighs,
Pickford: “Bless her heart, she was a wonderful gal.”

Pickford: “That’s the story though. Most folks like a happy rescue. What’d you think?”
>>
No. 1118162 ID: f9ff2a

We gotta hero in our presence, 2 heroes in fact! I’d ask Lana to share her heroic story, but it might be too traumatic…

Hmm… Actually maybe ask about any trauma he or the other miners might have faced if any after that ordeal and how they dealt with it. Like how was he and his people able to continue working in the mines after something so horrific? Maybe he can share some tips for your and Lana's own trauma and help overcome your fear of water.

Other than that, maybe he can show you where the cave-in happened, so we can get a visual idea of what he experienced
>>
No. 1118245 ID: 115263

>>1118160
That was wonderful.
A happy ending, even for the jackass but mostly for the folks who deserved it.

>>1118162
Yep.
Salute the hero.
Hes the real deal.

It... does kinda sound like he has lost his wife though.
But maybe ask him about chloe. If he wants to talk.
No pressure.
She was a part of a story too after all.
He sounds like he dug up a diamond that day.
>>
No. 1118266 ID: fd169b

Sounds like what must have been a traumatic experience has faded to the point its just an interesting story to tell.

Maybe someday Lana and Kaari will look back on that night the same way.
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