So, what was that about?

After saying goodbye to Ougen, Skarra and I continued our journey towards Hallow's Pond. Once I was sure Ougen couldn't hear us anymore, I asked Skarra about her sudden agitation.

N: Ok, what was that all about?

Sk: Hmm?

N: Your attitude before, it seemed ... off. What's with the sudden rush?

Sk: My attitude wasn't off it was appropriate. We don't know this guy. He shows up, while we're sleeping, having stalked us for at least an hour, just to offer us an interview and food, exactly the things we need? You don't think that is suspicious at all?

N: Well, now that you mention it ... but he was super nice. He even made me this cool mechanism to let me interview while walking. In fact im recording right now.

Sk: Are you serious.

I nod.

Sk sighs.

Sk: Look, Nothol. Not everyone has good intentions. Most people want to get something from you and just act like they are nice in order to get it. I'm surprise that you didn't grow more cautious after what happened in 'Bluestone'.

I shrug.

N: We got away, didn't we.

Sk: Yes, by the skin of our teeth. You might not realise it, but the only reason we did was because they didn't expect you to know a gateway into the 'silent ways'. For them it was like a game of cat-and-mouse with mice that can't escape anyway. Do you understand how powerful that map of yours is? Please tell me you didn't mention the map to him.

N: I'm not supid!

Sk: Gullibility is a kind of stupidity. For all we know this man's goal could have been finding out, how we got into the 'silent ways'.

N: Why would he be interested in this. Apparently he already has a way of entering.

Sk: Knowing one specific gate into the ways is very different from possessing a map that not only finds you the nearest path in but also guides you along it. Many would do whatever it takes to get their hands on this kind of map. Starting with slitting your throat.

N: That is unnecessarily pessimistic.

Skarra takes a deep breath, exhaling slowly.

Sk: Look, im sorry to break it to you but you have to understand how the world works. If you really want to continue traveling around, you have to be wary of strangers. Nobody does anything without wanting something in return. Make sure you know what others want from you and that they know they only get it by helping you.

N: You saved my life, without asking for something in return.

Sk: I had my reasons.

I pause in an effort to give her time to explain more, but when I realize she won't continue, I do so myself.

N: Mhm, one fo those reasons being my stunning beauty?

She looks at me dumbfounded.

Sk: Just ... shut up, and walk.

.