[ There is something about the end of one year and the start of another to inspire a state of reflection and looking toward the future. That, at least, is nothing new. It isn't something they ever had to experience in Barovia (and for that, Fern is thankful), but now they're here. Further from home than they've ever been, it seems.
When Adrian broaches the subject, Fern can't say she's surprised. It's also been on her mind. She takes a moment to finish the dumpling she'd been chewing and take a sip of her drink, which also happens to give her a chance to think it all over.
Time really has gone by so quickly. Whereas in Barovia a single day could feel like a month, here the days seemed to fly by. People were living here, in a way they hadn't ever been in Barovia, instead trapped under the weight of Strahd's influence and control. Maybe that's why.
And as much as Fern would like to claim that she'd be ready to uproot herself and go home the moment that potentiality presented itself, that's not exactly true. She's met people here, people she would want to say farewells to. She has a strange bond with a man who she hadn't even known before coming to this place, one that baffles both of them. And she's paid off her loan, which both tightens and loosens her tether to Diadem. No more debt, but the motorcycle is hers.
She realizes she's gone quiet for too long, and clears her throat, her gaze settling on Adrian for a moment before she glances away to the television, which is at a low enough volume to not interrupt their conversation. ]
And they might be right. I've heard no word of any record of someone returning to where they came from. Those who vanish might go home... but they could just as well have ended up somewhere else.
[ Adrian doesn't push while Fern thinks through her answer. He's grown accustomed to her over all these months, and even if he hadn't... he feels much the same. It's a lot to think about.
As the months have stretched on, he's wondered what became of their companions, despite knowing very well that it won't do him any good. Had Ireena escaped Strahd's clutches? Had Shump, Alden, and Taulok managed to kill the vampire and return home?
Are any of them still alive?
He takes a slow breath. ]
I know that Mr. Viktor and Mr. Jayce are researching the subject... [ The words are quiet, more contemplative than any sort of assertion. Adrian turns to the television as well, watching a trail of ants carry the carcass of a moth. ]
If we keep this pace, the van will be paid off in a few more months. Perhaps we should begin to consider the longer term. A place of our own, work that pays a bit better... That is, if you aren't opposed to remaining together until you find a partner or companion that you might prefer.
no subject
When Adrian broaches the subject, Fern can't say she's surprised. It's also been on her mind. She takes a moment to finish the dumpling she'd been chewing and take a sip of her drink, which also happens to give her a chance to think it all over.
Time really has gone by so quickly. Whereas in Barovia a single day could feel like a month, here the days seemed to fly by. People were living here, in a way they hadn't ever been in Barovia, instead trapped under the weight of Strahd's influence and control. Maybe that's why.
And as much as Fern would like to claim that she'd be ready to uproot herself and go home the moment that potentiality presented itself, that's not exactly true. She's met people here, people she would want to say farewells to. She has a strange bond with a man who she hadn't even known before coming to this place, one that baffles both of them. And she's paid off her loan, which both tightens and loosens her tether to Diadem. No more debt, but the motorcycle is hers.
She realizes she's gone quiet for too long, and clears her throat, her gaze settling on Adrian for a moment before she glances away to the television, which is at a low enough volume to not interrupt their conversation. ]
And they might be right. I've heard no word of any record of someone returning to where they came from. Those who vanish might go home... but they could just as well have ended up somewhere else.
[ Or been turned to dust. ]
no subject
As the months have stretched on, he's wondered what became of their companions, despite knowing very well that it won't do him any good. Had Ireena escaped Strahd's clutches? Had Shump, Alden, and Taulok managed to kill the vampire and return home?
Are any of them still alive?
He takes a slow breath. ]
I know that Mr. Viktor and Mr. Jayce are researching the subject... [ The words are quiet, more contemplative than any sort of assertion. Adrian turns to the television as well, watching a trail of ants carry the carcass of a moth. ]
If we keep this pace, the van will be paid off in a few more months. Perhaps we should begin to consider the longer term. A place of our own, work that pays a bit better... That is, if you aren't opposed to remaining together until you find a partner or companion that you might prefer.