World of Nibel: "Facing the journey"

[Gunni]

​

Home

The mist of the mountains swayed like a dance across the rocky landscape, waterfalls and river cutting through the vast ravines below. There was rain that struck upon the pine trees, and the animals in the fenced off yard of the lone cabin out in the middle of nowhere only connected to the outside world by a bridge. It was quiet, only the rain and sounds of nature were the only noise here.

Outside, in a small one stead stable was a horse resting from a long day of work and travel. There were chickens cooped up in their shelter and goats found a shield from the rain under the roof of the home as they huddled to the walls outside.

Smoke came from the chimney and inside the structure was a warm cozy place. A chopping axe hooked to the wall by the front door, along with other tools to keep the place and animals all intact. The floor was wooden, not like the muddy or hay floors of urban settlements, no, time and care was taken into this place. Even the outhouse was afforded the same love in its creator.

There was a diner table by the window, four seats available, and deeper in the home the fireplace and surrounding it were comfy chairs and kitchen supplies with a stone counter to which they were placed upon. A painting of the very landscape surrounding the cabin even hung on a naked wall to fill the space. But among all that was there, there was a supply closet filled with the ordinary yet a chest tucked deep in the back laid dormant and would easily stand out to anyone coming in.

And finally there was the bedroom at the very end of the living room, opposite side of the house to the storage. Behind the door there was a queen sized bed with wool, pelts and sheets with feather stuffed pillows. A wardrobe filled with working man clothes, loose sleepwear, change of clothes and something more nice if a special occasion ever arose.

Out the outhouse came a man, covering his head from the rain as it had only started moments ago, racing back to the cabin as he pranced with a single book acting as a cover. As mud got on his boots, "Oh Lyster, above!" A prophetic name he speaks, smiling as he enjoys the sudden rush of running through the pouring rain. By the time he escapes from the water and into his home again he shakes his head as the water drips off, and he wipes his face with a rag by the door. "Jeez, who'd think it'd start drenching as soon as I finished in the crapper. " He says, having found comfort in talking to himself long ago. The man had a beard, it was dark brown all like the rest of his hair, and speaking of which he had long hair that reached down to his shoulders now. Truly a mountain man if there were one. Eventually he would be dried and eventually he would finally kick in to his loose sleep wear and nuzzle up in his chair by the fire and take up his book from beforehand, religious scripture. "What a day…" he sighs, as he kicks his feet up on the foot rest having been satisfied with the work he's done for the day. After a very long day of work, he could finally just… relax…

 

[Spooder Queen]

​

The torrential downpour projected an atmosphere of gloom across the rocky province. The foreboding air permeated unremittingly while those brown eyes surveyed the scene. Notwithstanding the mood, the pelting of the rain provided a degree of solace. Ever since Valerna had materialized into this world, she was beset with a myriad of strange sights. Before the squall loomed aloft, the spider observed the alien azure. Above weren't two sols but a lonesome sun radiating within the cerulean backdrop. It was this singular observation that removed any doubt regarding her circumstances.

Initially, she sauntered within the wilds, her webbing entangling prey whose innards supplied much-needed nourishment. Valerna repeated the same routine day in and day out. She'd hunt, procure water, bathe, and push further from her entry point. The giantess knew what episode resulted in her being launched haphazardly across the void. The canticle of the wildlife and such ruminations kept delirium and despondency at bay. However, it changed when she stumbled across a few hunters. The humans felt inclined to attack as opposed to conducting themselves civilly.

The arachnid's filigree stopped their projectiles, which induced hysteria within the archers as they fled. The chimps of this world were predisposed to the same small-mindedness of those she once tolerated. How peculiar, a different world, yet the same fallibilities and prejudices. Valerna roused from her stupor, her creamy skin drenched to the bone as that auburn hair was beyond saturated. Her stride lengthened as she remained mindful of her footfalls and the wildness. The threat of a prowling predator should never be dismissed, especially when traversing an unknown patch of soil.

Valerna crouched, her knee imprinting in the mud as her enhanced vision witnessed the man's movements. How fortuitous, a quaint little shack tucked from snooping gazes that were girdled by the seclusion the terrain offered. She remained hushed, her bosom swelling from a large breath while those chestnut orbs tracked the man before he retired to his home. Once more, she'd inspect her surroundings before she stepped free from the nearby treeline. The foliage brushed against her flesh while she navigated to examine the small building the stranger exited from. The smell gave the purpose behind his nightly trek. Standing in the rain, the towering outlander studied his footprints.

The giantess soughed as she crouched, thoroughly examining the clue. Gradually, Valerna rose before those spider ligaments primped her wet mane. That split tongue spun her lip piercing as she mulled over how to proceed. She could attempt to build her own shelter. Or, she could test the "empathy" of the locals. Ultimately, she selected the latter. After all, if the man should verify himself as uncivilized, the arachnoid could scurry off into the night, and the information would be valuable. Carefully she followed his stride while her eyes kept surveying the environment.

Valerna sashayed without fear, her broad hips moving fluidly with that strut. Her movement desisted once she approached the wooden door, giving this course of action a final review. There was no shame regarding the application of a mite of prudence. Nevertheless, she'd elect to throw caution into the wind as those rubicund and bone-shielded knuckles knocked. The sojourner regained her composure, not wanting to add any room for alarm. It was conceivable that her towering and buxom figure alone might present an obstacle—no need to add additional pitfalls. Patiently, she'd abide, hungering for answers and maybe a pittance of compassion.

 

[Gunni]

The man had maybe sat for only ten seconds, if that, his arms resting on the chair arms while he was sunk in a comfy spot. Then there was a noise, a sign of presence. The quiet and peaceful nature of the man shattered like a vase hitting the floor. Fear shook him to his core. His left hand wrapped tightly around the end of the chair's arm, his eyes wider than the full moon. The pale color of a ghost pigmenting his face at the sudden shock of worry.

Someone knew where he was, and he couldn't possibly understand how. He had not left the solitude of the mountains for nearly a year, last he went to the local village was to supply up for the winter, it was the end of summer now. He always checked his tracks, made sure not to be followed, and knew no human could get to a vantage point to where they could see him without proper gear. It was impossible to him; had the Numerians finally taken over the Drakarians, was the outside world now flung up with banners of red and black? And if so, did the soldiers finally know where to find the mysterious mountaineer? Furthermore, did they know who he was….

There was a long pause after the knocks, he knew they were real, there was no doubt. He was frozen for several second before snapping out of his tensioned state. He rose from the chair, twisting his body to look back at dining window next to the front door. There was nothing he saw there. Upon his advance, he took himself a clever, the left hand gripping it tightly. He took cover behind the door, gently nudging over to get a glimpse past the window, now at a better angle. What he saw, was not expected… a large leg that took up his view and slowly glancing up he couldn't even view past what looked like a massive breast.

His jaw nearly dropped like a weighted sandbag hitting the battlefield, his face only being able to be described as bewildered. At the fact there was a giant yes, however the spider appendages that he just barely saw befuddled him entirely…
…He could've saw more, but at risk to give his cover up and be seen, no. Large and heavy steps were taken away from the door, not even sure as to what to do. He heard stories of giants, he wondered if they were like the great ogres and beasts he fought in his military days. Was the giant here to eat him, tear him limb from limb or worse? Not to mention what the spider legs were, perhaps a mage had used the giantess for experiments, he had seen it before but those rarely didn't end up turning the subject into a wild monster. So much was uncertain.

A moment was taken, perhaps ten seconds. If whoever was out there didn't know if someone was home his loud steps just now rectified that. Yet, if he were to meet an unsavory end would it not have came to him already? If the giantess was a monster wouldn't she have bursted in or snuck and did him in without the trouble of the friendly gesture of a knock on a door… Or did she like the chase, the slow burn…

At the end of that time, he looked down to his left hand there the clever was still, and he looked to his right where there was a nub where a hand should be. Was not all he had been through worse than this moment now? The banishment, abandonment, his crimes and guilt did he learn nothing from the blessing he received from the woman all that time ago? To be merciful, follow what is true to God and treat those as you want them to treat you. And with that, he put the clever on the table.

He took a deep breath, and after reached for the door and undid the chain before opening it up. Looking ahead, he had almost forgotten the height difference finding his eyes directly in line with breasts. A blush came about his face, quickly he changed his gaze and looked up at the face. And like before he was stunned, but relieved. There was no monster.

His scruffy beard and long hair made him appear messy and unorganized, even he felt self conscious about his nub that hung at the end of his sleeve…

…He hadn't felt that ever since he first retired his gauntlet prosthetic. Compared to her, he couldn't help but feel he should've been ready for a guest. Him and his pajamas… and with a swallow he spoke. "Hello, how can I help you?" He asked.

 

[Spooder Queen]

​

The eeriness of the twilight shrouded the giantess. By nature, everyone feared the darkness. The dread of the unknown is universal and often proliferated much derision toward outsiders. Nevertheless, this primal defense mechanism was indispensable if one were to survive. The universe was antagonistic, no matter the globe one inhabited. And the line between prey and hunter constantly shifted. The man in this lodge didn't seem like a threat from afar. But impressions can be misleading.

Whatever beasts stalked this mountainous terrain, the giantess was positive she could overpower them. Nevertheless, the detrimental tendencies of humanity knew no limitations. Valerna had witnessed it many times before. Their habitual yet sanguinary pursuits often left ruination wherever they colonized. And while not all conformed under such an umbrella, enough did to warrant a degree of paranoia. The man's delay was to be expected, given the lateness of the hour. However, his presence was betrayed due to the din of his hefty shiftings.

Valerna said nothing, standing confidently as the recluse examined her from the window. Providentially for the human, his studying had eluded her detection. Nonetheless, the spider felt as if she were being watched. Her two hearts drummed to an ancient cadence, a rhythm that was all too familiar to the eternal voyager. Melancholy, a kiss she hadn't felt in many years, caked itself over those organs. She cogitated whether or not she'd ever return home. And, if she somehow did, what state would the world be in upon reentry?

A gelid current whisked across the scene, altering the slant of the rain droplets. The psithurism of the trees reminds the Araneae of her primordial jungle. How she missed hunting denuded under that verdant canopy with her daughters while disseminating kernels of edification during that bonding ritual. Something was consoling about feeling the soil between one's toes as they harmonized with nature. A wink that begot with it a humbling epiphany concerning one's standing within the macrocosm. Which begged the question, where was her place within the ladder of this unfamiliar globe?

Nonetheless, she would need more time to scrutinize this query, and the parting of that door robbed her of that opportunity. Valerna peeked down, seeing the diminutive lad gawking up at her. The man's reddening of those cheeks and lingering eyes had been noted. The giantess was left to wonder if fear had delayed his answering or if she had awoken him from slumber. Doubtful, given she immediately followed his footprints. However, the dearth of ostensible fear left the errant giantess confounded. Little did she know that his carnal hankering had usurped prior sentiments.

How seredenpitious. It seemed Valerna had to mourn through the objectification of her form. Still, she had gotten good at donning a mask to conceal her disapproval. After all, such occurrences were hardly scarce, so she developed a thick skin to combat such barb. Whatever her initial thoughts were emerged as immaterial. The man behind the door had spoken, and his voice was timorous. The arachnid arched her groomed brows conveying confusion before she let loose a weighty and heated sigh.

Those brown eyes studied the man, giving him a moment to welter. It wouldn't be long before she spotted that stump. How riveting; it seemed the man was maimed. Perhaps a former soldier? Regardless, she wouldn't tolerate a long gaze, veering them back toward the stranger's bearded countenance. Then she glimpsed how disheveled he appeared, which corroborated the idea that the man was sequestered. However, whether by choice or not, she couldn't say. The giant used her spinal appendages to comb back her wet hair as that split tongue spun that piercing—one of her favorite idiosyncracies.

"Fear? You're the third human to vault to that emotion immediately. Fret not; I'm not some beast pounding on your door with malicious aims. No, I instead seek a drop of the milk of human kindness. I would like to know if I can seek shelter on your property. The weather could be better for camping. If not, I will depart in the same manner I emerged, without incident and amicably." Valerna purred before she dropped to her knee to limit the strain on the human's neck.

"My name is Valerna Jorgenskull. I'm a voyager of sorts." She chortled in a bid to speckle some levity over the awkward scene. She was unsure if her endeavor to appear cordial might come across as a tad maladroit.

 

[Gunni]

Else where, in the land of Drakaria and The Land surrounding Dramon's Home

​

Long months had it been since the Numerian red and black flags dawned the walls of Drakarian castles. Despite their resistance, they have begun to lose this war, the never ending waves of Numerians ever present like mosquitos in the summer. Occupation was strict, soldiers patrolled and ransacked the resources from the area. The violations that occurred to the people were many.

But before, years prior even, Sir Gerald had been offered the opportunity to hunt Dramon for his cowardice crimes of his mission. Old friends turned enemies; he accepted and acquired a band of mercenaries under Sir Ovenstein of Rothdrein and set out. Long has it been for the hunt, the prey never giving him a clue as he searched… what thought to be an easy job quickly turned maddening. For Gerald and his men could not return home without Dramon's head.

And in the tavern of the local village of Pokia just outside the mountains, he rested with his men. There were Gerald knight of the Numerians, Spot the archer, Rahmar a Yurlich (Celtic) warrior and Simon and Roth; two swordsmen vying for their own glory. Roth was adorned in chain with his helmet at all times covering his face.

The men bickered and complained as they always had about their impossible task. The only favor they found was now the army had taken control of the region, hoping that they would go home. That and being able to burn and pillage as they pleased now did no harm to their predicament..

Suddenly though, men bursted into the tavern shouting of a terrible creature in the mountains. The band of five turned their attention and in little time set out. The mountains is where they'd go, thought impossible to make it deep within them, but these mens' ambitions desired to conquer for a chance at slaying, or perhaps even capturing, the monster. Such a feat would surely bring them home they thought.

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Home

The rain kept its wrath up, the figure standing before the man all more overwhelming as silence came. He couldn't help but tense up as she didn't even say a word yet and he already had goosebumps along every part of his body. The realization that she was analyzing only made his heart race, fear slowly creeping back in. Helpless was he, nothing to defend from the giantess's mighty gaze. His eyes were fixed up, hoping she'd speak to break such the trembling fear he had.

How he even managed to notice her giving eye to his nub were a miracle. Quickly though, he hid his nub behind his thigh. Could he have made a mistake? Opening that door without the clever? Perhaps. But like an answered pray she spoke to him. Once the creature explained not only her reason for being here but that she was not a threat, a wave of relief washed over him.

The man couldn't help but take a deep sigh, letting all that locked tension go. He stood there for a moment, looking down at the ground as he processed all that had happened. And when he looked back up, he found his gaze looking at the ceiling of the patio. Eyes shifting back down with his head finding the face of the female in front of him. He smiled nervously at her introduction. With a few awkward nods of the head his lips once more opened up, "Well, that's a relief." He joked, still holding that anxious smile, "For a second I thought I was in some serious trouble, but it's nice to know you've come as a friend." He laughed skittishly, his left hand reaching around to the back of his head as he scratched it. "It's nice to meet you. My name is Heinrich." That was a lie. "And yes, please come in. Uuuhh, forgive me for my attire and appearance I didn't expect company all the way out here." He explained, backing from the doorway, to let his now guest in. "May I ask how you found this place?" He added a question.

 

[Spooder Queen]

​

The air between the two ionized as the tensions were palpable. Heinrich radiated a tinge of fear due to the difference in their measurements. Whatever myths surrounded her kind in this pitiable world must not have been flattering. And given humanity's scarcity of inventiveness, she'd reckon their fables besmeared her people as brutes. Why the hermit felt inclined to express such a cliche response was beyond the spider. He'd likely already be reduced to a red paste if she wanted him dead.

Those chestnut spheres tapered, Valerna's foci assessing the lad's body language. Unlike him, the giant quickly banished any introspections concerning heinous intentions. The recluse's missing hand and his string of words painted a precise image. Heinrich consciously withdrew from society, likely due to some sin in his past. Whatever blunders the human might have perpetrated were of no concern to the wanderer. She had no stake in the realm's petty politics and would rather keep it as such. Her goals were simple: seek shelter for the night and vanish to find a way back home.

Despite appearances, the arachnid was a clever girl. A benefit of ranging the globe without an end is that the amassing of perspicuity was inevitable. Heinrich likely was absentminded to the denotative signs that divulged a portion of his past. The spinner of threads wondered if it was tactful to communicate what she had gathered. But before doing so, she quickly stitched together a mental webbing to reevaluate her assessments lest she leaves unnecessary room for an offense.

Valerna mulled over his selection of words and compared that with his reticent deportment. While enlightening, once this was knitted together with his choice of words, the truth was solidified. Her original assessment was on point and hit the mark. And this implied either her acumen was beyond reproach or the homebody was a simple fellow. Whatever the case, she'd opt to present an augury.

"Whatever wrongdoings haunt your past are of no consequence to me. I'm not here to supply retribution, divine or otherwise. What's in the interest of those you've likely roused ire from isn't beneficial to me. Tonight, I seek shelter from the elements and possibly a few answers. Whatever accounts your people hold regarding my kind is immaterial. I'm not from this world. As such, I'm not guilty of either the condemnation or praise their actions have warranted."

The giantess paused, her eyes studying the doorway as she sighed while the host left her room to enter. Her hedonistic figure squeezed through the frame as she crawled on all four and remained in such a position. Valerna sighed, turning her head as those brown eyes met the human's own. Those spider extremities brushed and squeezed some of the water from those red locks of hair.

"Be heedful of your words. You're fortunate I'm neutral in whatever mess you've encountered. Honesty is an excellent trait to have. However, duplicity can be both prudent and advantageous. Well, at least in moderation."

The Araneae purred with a puckish grin forming across her beguiling countenance—a profile that unveiled the natural beauty behind her absurd build and imposing stature.

"There is no need to be bashful. A lady shouldn't be knocking on a man's door at such a late hour. Nevertheless, I had no choice. Regardless, it's only fair I reward your hospitality by answering your question. Fret not. I happened across your quaint abode by happenstance alone. I wasn't followed. The universe displaced me here. I have yet to find out whether that was by pure chance or by a higher power's will. And truth be told, you can make what you will of my circumstance.

And yes, I know I'm no longer in my world. That's because my home has two suns. It's tricky to misplace such a fireball."

She jested, chortling while keeping her backside facing the man while abiding to see how he'd navigate across his home before risking any sudden movements. And if he endeavored to gawk, those brown eyes would be waiting to catch him in such a lascivious act.

 

[Gunni]

The air was as true as the sun was high above, tense indeed. Confusion from one perspective entirely which resulted in fear, even at his desperate attempts to subside it. His fears weren't justified, but he judged Valerna by her size and the stories of such larger people. There were orcs, elves and other races all which too weak to compete with the humans and their nature; those of great stature however were something else entirely… How could he judge though, was he not more of a monster for what he had done? Was his beliefs not called to see past sin, forgive and serve, that of which God decrees for the races of the world.

A hypocrite, and he couldn't realize that till she spoke before entering. Words that were genuine and from his experience with those of supernatural, wise or even the other races he validated the truth she said. And as she entered, his head lowered in guilt and shame for his assumption, how he may had offended her. As he rose his head locking gazes with her own did his own blue eyes flaunt for themselves. There was a moment of thought, till she began to talk again, advising him such as she said.

He shut his eyes for three seconds, the time used to take a deep sigh. Letting go all that fear, the sin of lying and taking his first steps to open himself up. As the scriptures foretold. When opened, he took a great notice and liking to that beauty she presented, his heart stabilizing and breath returning to normal. The first genuine smile was offered from him, taking a delight in her pleasant grin. A nod slowly came after her calming words, and the explanation as to how she even found him. He would trust her word.

"In that case, please do forgive me Valerna. It's been a long while since I've been able to trust others. I understand if my body language and what I've said thus far has made you feel disturbed that I feared you. I apologize, I can also understand how that might feel, believe me." He gave a sweet but sour smile now…

…Although fear had dispersed, he was now left with even more questions. Her world? She made it clear indeed she was not in fact in her home, but a world? With two suns nonetheless! But another elephant in the room was that her backside had been turned to him, arousing his interest to a peak.

Stunned for the moment at the sheer size of it, his own member excited and printing a mark along his pants. He had to clear his throat to keep himself under control. Quickly he turned his attention to where her spider legs projected from. He looked curiously with a tilt of his head. By that point his erected situation began to settle thankfully to save himself some embarrassment.

"And you mentioned your world…" He gave a few bouncing nods with a neutral expression, not sure how to tackle that. "I unfortunately do not know any world beyond this one and the heaven promised after this one. But I can certainly answer more of your questions, you are most welcomed to stay here." He answered honestly. He motioned her to come with, as he began to lead to the living room. "Come on in, there is a fire to keep you warm and more space in the living room."

As he moved he couldn't help but look at his reflection in the mirror on the wall as he passed it. Looking ahead once more he looked at the storage closet, and felt at his beard and long hair. "And you were right actually," he continued as he pondered what to do with the scruff of a mess. "I am hiding from my past, why I grew my hairs out to best disguise myself along with dawning common clothes. And not to mention hiding out here." When he made it to the living room, he merely waited for Valerna. Turning back, "My name is Dramon actually, Heinrich is my father's name. Apologies for the lie, I was scared." He rectified, bowing his head out of respect.

 

[Spooder Queen]

​

The proletarian hermit needn't stress over such trifling particulars. The eternal voyager had grown accustomed to the unfair treatment of others. Humans were a sordid disease that scoured the world clean of anything they regarded as lesser. And while many species were apt to bigotry, none could compete with its profundity in man's hearts. Whatever atrocities his kind had dealt to others were of no consequence. Valerna wasn't from this world and thus wouldn't impart culpability. She hadn't mourned through their transgressions, but she wouldn't forget her own experiences with his kind.

The fellow's commentary was brushed aside as the spider shifted her posture. The giantess no longer remained on all fours. Instead, she planted that bum against her heels as she sat within the epicenter of the room. Valerna's brown eyes studied her surroundings, taking in the peculiarities housed within this comfy little lodge. Everything her host clung to held a story; while the precise details might elude her, a vague vision wasn't outside her grasp. However, the bewitching offworlder wouldn't ignore the man as he spoke. And her focus ultimately did veer back toward her host.

Those perceptive optics quickly spotted his excitement. The web spinner smirked and huffed, Valerna's bosom deflating as she pondered, underscoring the visual stimulation. Fortunately, she erred against doing so, as she deemed it a waste of effort. Heinrich was a man, after all, and the biological response was likely only natural and exceeded any degree of control. Additionally, given his sequestration, he likely hadn't been this close to a woman in ages. Naturally, this morsel of data paved a route she could take to procure what she wanted. However, the giantess secretly hated her figure and didn't wish to return to her days of being regarded as a sex object and not a woman.

Heinrich didn't fritter away much time before caroming off that mortifying excitement. He endeavored to helm control over their fellowship by steering the conversation toward Valerna's declaration. The web weaver clicked her split tongue while she arched her right brow. That facial profile altered to amusement, only stretching her grin further. How engrossing. The man could have bartered yet selected to keep a mite of chivalry. Perhaps she was wrong to lump in this recluse with the rest of his kind?

Valerna remained hushed momentarily, allowing him to voice everything as the crackling fire projected an orange hue across her pale skin. Those chestnut eyes reflected the ambient light while the shadow waned and expanded based on the fireplace's intervals of illumination. The affirmation of her deductive reasoning presented no apparent reaction. Her host's willingness to come clean wouldn't influence her sense of self-assuredness. Nevertheless, the falsehood regarding his name seemed ludicrous. It didn't make much sense to the Araneae. If he was hiding and she located him, it alluded that she had enough information to see past that flimsy mask. And if she was sincere and oblivious, it served no benefit aside from casting suspicion on his honesty and character.

The whistling of the frightful winds broke the silence, only accompanied by the faint crackling of the fire. The wayfarer chuckled while those arachnid ligaments finished preening those auburn locks. Gradually Valerna's glossy skin faded as the flame repelled the frigid kiss of the tempest. However, she wouldn't allow Dramon to languish under the stillness for too long. And so she prepared to deliver her linguistical webbing.

"I'm appreciative that you unveiled that trickery early on. It isn't wise to lie to a lady. We're known for harboring grudges. However, I'm not like most other girls..."

Valerna deployed a sprinkling of levity to remove any apprehension and quash down whatever strain might have surfaced. She did so not without solipsistic wants. After all, she'd be sharing this shack with the man for the night, and if he were on edge, it's far-fetched he'd deal candidly with her.

"There is no need to dig up the past as there was no reason to affirm my deductions. The truth needn't be spoken. It speaks volumes even if your lips remain sealed. Still, I suppose you meant to dismiss the miasma of suspicion you produced with that tiny fib? If so, consider it dispelled."

The spider waved her hand to simulate the dispersing of such a fog before resting those hands on her muscular thighs.

"Now, tell me about this world. What year is it, and what species is in power? What major pitfalls should I avoid, or what factions shouldn't be trusted? And, what is the likelihood I'll be hounded like some beast by the other inhabitants of this province? I'd wager it's probable, if my two examples so far are any indication."

She paused, realizing she may have flooded him with enough inquests. Still, she was only delving surface deep and had several more. Regardless, she abstained from doing so and exhibited restraint.

 

[Gunni]

His initial response to her words were that of a chuckle, with fond and bad memories alike of his lies to women in the past. Most of all his wife… Bitter sweet was the laughter he let out. Then came a sigh, shaking his head lightly, pondering if he would explain. Ultimately he decided not. "Trust me, I know. And good to hear." He lightly smiled, as he shut his eyes tightly, before opening them up back to her.

Continuing to listen, the smile faded as he attentively heard what she had to say. Overall, he began to feel at ease now than what he had before; enjoying the conversation as his tricks were forgiven. As she went on, he paid close attention, even as Valerna pelted him with question after question. Good for her, he was a soldier and had many experiences with being asked a many at a singular time and responding in fashion. High stress situations from battles, drills and being chewed out by superiors was something he was used to.

Dramon, although now a mountain hermit, still possessed his mental strength. A sharp mind too that never faded, even after all this time. "I see… Well first, I'm glad that all is settled." He said, taking the moment to let that go, "And yes you are once right on your assumptions. You seem to have a knack for that…" He smirked, before making a twisted contortion with his face.

He'd process what the giantess had said, giving himself a few seconds to formulate a response. "Umm, the year of The Lord is 848 of the Third Age… And uh, of the races humanity rules over a majority if not all from as far as I'm aware. There are only small pocket nations of orcs scattered around the continent, the elven peoples more nomadic and live in underground societies for the most part." He shrugged, in fact she could take that literally too, the cave elves with their grey skin often built camps in the earth. "By pitfalls, I assume you mean what not to do. If so, I wouldn't imagine that matters to you, no offense at all." He said, as he brought up…

…a hand to signal he meant no disrespect, with his face frowning slightly before returning back to thinking. "As for the nations, the Drakerians is the land we are in right now, they're a more open people to mages and the minorities of this world, but still have their shortcomings. Very imperialistic, currently at war with the Numerians who I served as a Knight for a part of my life. The Numerians once had a great empire, but the ethnic uprisings in their Northern Territory nearly eighty years ago have definitely weakened the Wolf banner nation. Do not underestimate them though, even when I served not in their prime, they are great formidable threat, sharing that same conquest lust. They discriminate and execute those that are different, the other races are merely tolerated there. And the Yurlichs are North of that, which is where I was born. They're generally the same as the Numerians in all but looks, coin and architecture. Yet, there are those out there who are tolerable, an organization being the Church for one, never have I met a bad priest. However, I would unfortunately have to tell you many would be at the very least alarmed by you, in all honesty."

His facial expression was that of disappointment that he had to be the one to give her that last unfortunate news. Dramon personally had nothing against any race, and he was beginning to learn that not all those 'abominations' were all terrible; that was sure out of this encounter. "Though you can't really blame them… To tell the truth someone like you is a first. All the others are the results of those of the dark arts terrible creations out of their experiments and said creatures tend to break loose and reek havoc across the land."

As he finished, he paused and shifted his body and began to walk himself to the storage. "I fought many in my military days, and many of my friends' lives did they take. Our first encounter with one took forty soldiers and attempts that spanned months on end to kill it." As quickly as he entered the closet, he returned with a razor, ointment and scissors in his left hand. And a small bucket of water dangling from his right arm.

"And forgive me for walking about," he said, as he wandered himself back to the mirror, setting his items down, the bucket under him as he leaned his face forward with the scissors in hand, "I decided, better to look my best if I have a pleasant guest over." He glanced over and offered a smile, before focusing back to his reflection, beginning the process on his beard. Flocks of scruffy and strained hair falling into the bucket.

He figured his compliment wasn't too on the nose to compliment her utter beauty, overall he figured to say at least something.

 

[Spooder Queen]

​

Was that a tinge of cajolery the arachnid detected? Flattery is a timeless commodity, and it would do a bit of restoration concerning her stance on this human. In response, the giantess smirked and huffed, Valerna's bosom rising and falling from the discharge of that heated breath. Nevertheless, she wouldn't abide spurning this man's address, so she hearkened intently to his comments. How riveting. It appeared that the same folly that beset humanity in her world was present in spades—that detestable sense of smugness that somehow endowed them with the right to determine which species warranted life.

What hubris to mark yourself as the arbiter of such matters. Whatever the case, the arachnoid abstained from chiding the man. After all, it was unmistakable that he wasn't exactly on the best terms with some of the powers that be. A facet she could manipulate if the need arose. However, given her moral compass, the svengali preferred not to trek down such a route. Unlike some, she was a lady of principle and strove to avoid veering off her ethical path—a rare trait, especially amongst humankind's iniquitous and licentious hearts.

Valerna remained settled in that seated position, those talons of bone tapping away at her thigh as Dramon paced. Those bright eyes of brown tracked his movements while he divulged more details regarding this rancours world. The year, the factions and every morsel of data were wolfed down and exhaustively ingested. She'd weigh it over, cataloging it within that labyrinth of a mind. Despite her host's best efforts, what he provided wasn't enough. Still, given the broad inquisition levied, such an outcome was expected. And so she'd brook it internally for the time being.

The giantess laughed, uncovering humor in his weak justification. What inanity, even if true, the sins of another should never be applied to an innocent. People must give an account for their transgressions. Valerna's only failure was immutable, that being the form she had been gifted upon conception. Try as Dramon may, it would take much more to persuade her that they were nothing short of nits. The spider wiggled her bum, getting comfortable as she prepared to lay forth a counter.

"They're culpable for their fallacies. I, however, am not answerable for the alleged misconduct of another. So yes, I can blame them. Otherwise, You're saying you rate my ire for the humans of my domain's genocide. And unlike your brittle justification, by your own words, it seems they are repeating the same sins. So shall I smite you down with virtuous indignation? Should we burden you with the crimes of those of your species? You spit such vitriol, but they're hypocrites from where I'm standing. No manner of beast or abomination can vie to overpower humanity's capacity for ruination.

Dark creatures? Havoc? Tell me, were the realms a utopia before these entities' emergence? No, the land was saturated with blood and blackened by the soot of conflict long before those episodes. And mark my words; even if you manage to butcher all that look different, it will continue to be blemished by the wickedness ingrained in your hearts."

Valerna held no scruple reprimanding the lad. After all, he endeavored to pretty up their most repugnant qualities, a propensity for intolerance and a dearth of clemency. The tactic of dragging in the hunt he suffered wouldn't avail him. And Valerna responded to that antidote with one of her own.

"Long ago, foreign soldiers entered our jungle and disrupted the harmony. The discord they brought came with sanguinary intent. The soil was soaked in blood, and the bodies piled high. Humans came with their love for butchery. They beheld us as lesser, mocked our culture, and destroyed the symbol of our people. The primordial heart was an ancient relic, one we were charged to protect.

They released something that day, an edifice that floated within the sky. A tower not made of stone and mud but of flesh and bone. It hovered over the earth and sucked me and the other captives into its budding lesions. Outside, a shadow was cast. A twilight that blotted the welkin as it used our bodies to sow new seeds of creation. These horrors devoured all, only to add them to its infernal song. Everything blanketed by that dark canopy was theirs to dismantle.

Women smothered their babes to spare them the fate unleashed upon the land. Our only solace was that the horror humanity released saw them as equal quarry. I was trapped inside its flesh. But, for whatever reason, I didn't transform. I and others united and pushed through the sinew into its core—a world of bodily organs and horror. Eventually, we took out its drumming heart and awoke outside. Armies fell, and an untold amount of lives were snuffed out. The road to recovery was long and arduous, and the world barely survived.

It would have been a kindness if I perished that day. However, the universe has a sick sense of humor. That was over 2,000 years ago. And I've had this creature on my back ever since. Death refuses to take me, and life has become my unremitting warden. I'm a prisoner. Don't think a life unending is a blessing. It's a malediction. Imagine burying everyone you know and will meet. Finding love, birthing children, only to stand alone dressed in black by their graveside. You lie each time. You promise them you will meet them on the other side. Nevertheless, that day never comes.

You see the cyclical nature of the world. History repeats with minute differences. You scream, trying to thwart the madness, but none will listen. Day in and day out, generation after generation, it never ends. I didn't ask for any of this. Humanity made that choice for me. And I bear the symbol of their hatred on my back. So please, spare me your minor scuffle. Or would you rather us compare tragedies like children to see which species is the bigger asshole?"

Valerna added poignantly with the aspirations of deferring any additional remarks regarding this insipid subject. She watched as the man prettied himself. If nothing else, her tale might provide him with a great saga to pass the time.

"Based on what you've said. I should eradicate any human that moves mistrustfully. Deal with them as you would a rabid animal frothing from the mouth. Be alert, keep your distance, and if it lunges, break its neck. Don't worry; unlike your kings, I have no interest in pulverizing the spines of the innocent. But only those that indicate the scarcest whiff of harmful will. One final question, am I to believe one such beast cost you that hand? Is that why you hide away from the world? Color me curious, what vile act could a man commit to justify writhing from such fear?"

She questioned, figuring that it was only fair he reciprocated since she had unveiled her slight deformity. Grant it. The spider didn't expect the man to answer honestly, if it all.

 

[Gunni]

The clouds of curly beard fell from his face like fallen angels of heaven, crashing in the watery grave that was the bucket. It felt tough to sheer off such a mass off his face, he maybe wore this for two or more years at that point. In all that time he had no reason to shave, even when visiting the villages he often kept to himself out of fear bounty hunters would discover him. But today was different, his faulty wall of fear of Valerna not only collapsed, but his fright that made him hide behind lies was beginning to melt. His beard now cut to a length where the ointment and razor could fine tune to finally reveal a face.

However, first he took the scissors and very carefully began to cut his own hair. The same fate had befallen it over the span of time. His caution was not only warranted by the lack of a right hand, but also the fact he hadn't cut the hair in ages. Sure, he had learn to do it with one hand and nub but he made sure to take care in his cutting. And as he cut was when his guest began to speak.

And again, he felt stupid, poor choice of words. Yeah you think? Whether it were his long lack of communication with others or little intelligence, there be no excuse, he had chosen to speak too comfortably without regard to her feelings. Therefore he made mistakes; how scripture told you should think before you speak is where he failed. He continued to listen, managed to get his hair to a length more presentable, (11 rolled) it wasn't perfect and in fact it was considerably messy still.

Perhaps later in the evening he could take another gander when Valerna went to sleep. The scissors were discharged, and the ointment came, as he lathered it across the remainder of his facial hair. Next the razor, as he began to cut, this being much easier for him than a one handed haircut. As the last flick of the blades skidded across his face, revealing who he truly was, his skin burned from the sensitivity. His redness developed despite the ointment, time had…

…been his downfall. But in all that time, he made sure to pay attention to what she said. His heart aching at her view on the human race, a frown forming as he looked at himself deep in the mirror. Much of what she did say was true, and he looked at that face which revealed a scar on his left cheek and the face of a man who had done many wrongs. He couldn't help but reach and lightly touch the mirror, meeting himself again, meeting his past. Suddenly the razor fell to the floor, smacking into the barrel of water with a splash.

The shock of her question jolted him with painful memories and a flash of all that had happened up to this point. And instantly he was pale, not from fear but of that race of blood circulating in an alarmed fashion. It was like the body had been stabbed. Her many points from before only intensifying his visions of what was. He saw flames, and heard screaming as he stared right back into those blue eyes; those once soulless and evil blue eyes.

There was begging, there were pointless battles that ended in bloodshed and so much abuse he dealt. It was like a great demon had appeared ahead of him. How he looked in at himself with fear and distain, but only for a moment… "It was taken from me by humans. Bandits." He clarified coldly, "I came for their heads they took my hand." His hand now slowly fell from his grasp, still giving himself gazes at his revived look.

"This is the face of a different man; I was a different man. These evils you speak of in your world done by man I have also done. They feared me, I convinced many through a persona of being loving, and they foolishly trusted me. I got what I wanted near damn always, no matter what." A cold gaze set in as the blankest of deadly dagger eyes jammed deep into his reflection. "I burned many 'heretics,' including my best friend, I whipped and tortured many, I killed senselessly and I was a hypocrite above all. I committed the same heresy as the people I slaughtered by marrying…

…a mage."

He turned away from his reflection as he made a tight regretful face upon his confession. "I did so much more. Even after I was given a chance to change my ways I did not, and even after losing my hand that should've been it, yet I still continued. I was banished for all I had done eventually, for years I wandered and was abandoned by all, I hoped for death and fought many but by some cursed miracle I survived every time."

He eventually turned himself back to Valerna, presenting himself to her as he continued, "The very same people who banished me, who made laws that dictated and allowed me to commit such atrocities, they asked of me to do evil again for a chance at redemption. And in the process of that evil act, I made an unlikely friend; she showed me the way out of that wretched life I once lived. She too had a similar story, and had made many mistakes but she took care of me as if I was her son even after I told her I had been sent to kill her. I expected to be executed there, and I would've accepted it, but no."

He made himself move ahead, coming to the giants side, gazing up to meet her eyes once more. "She told me of this place, gave me the supplies I needed to get started and gave me a copy of the Mortalis (This world's Bible). Since then I've lived here in solitude and hiding, I have put away my sword. I know that the Numerians are looking for me, I have seen them throughout the years, men I once knew who had a gripe to pick with me or bounty men. I am a disgrace and now traitor to them."

He then took a deep breath, and proceeded to let it all out as he shifted his head down. He hadn't told anyone all that since Olivia upon revealing his mission. Time was taken to ponder for the moment before he spoke again, "I am sorry for my choice of words, you are truly right as God rules all, humanity is sinful and has no excuses for the evil we commit. But I suppose if someone like me can find it in my heart to realize what I have done was wrong…

…and slowly but surely learn to forgive myself and others; why not others? Doesn't excuse what we did, but we can do better. And I know I've learned, I suppose now it's time for me, to do better." He then gently placed a hand on her flesh, "Also, what you described that you have gone through, do not mistake that I overlook it. I may not perceive the image that well, but I can understand why you feel the way you do. It sounds like indescribable pain, and I am sorry you had to go through that. " He finished.

 

[Spooder Queen]

​

The man's deportment had shifted to that of a fellow wallowing in a pensive stupor. The spider would wait patiently, understanding the importance of such ruminations. Valerna's remarks likely stung. Nevertheless, the fact this human circumvented the want to retaliate instinctively spoke magnitudes regarding his temperament. The game they were playing was a dangerous one. Thus far, they've avoided ongoing conflict, but another kerfuffle wasn't exceeding the realm of possibility. Regardless, the voyager swore to withhold the provoking of her host without justifiable provocation.

Dramon was a wounded man. His spirit was overwhelmed by the crest of despondency. And behind those eyes was a gelidness that supplied believability regarding his account. On an initial inspection, the propensity for skepticism appeared rude. However, the man had already verified himself willing to sow duplicity. The arachnid remained hushed and still like the tranquil surface of a lake. That acute mind absorbed the detail as she mulled over the story. That story had a bit of irony, given his holier-than-thou standpoint on the aforementioned "beasts."

Valerna had confronted the demons of her past already. Dramon was still in the process of coming to terms with his. How peculiar that such a journey awaited all, notwithstanding their circumstances. Still, she wouldn't present an over charitable hand lest she cheapens the strength he'll achieve by confronting the element of his past. The Araneae knew that an open heart could do more damage than a balled fist. The foreigner soughed, her eyes roaming to the warm fire while the human sought to tidy up his unhomely appearance.

Dramon's walk through memory lane was an all too familiar tale. The fact the lad was alive alluded to a strong will to survive. However, survival doesn't equate to a merry existence. A different world, yet the same species appeared keen to traipse down the same evil path. An epiphany that did much to bolster her conviction that she handled his kind appropriately. A somber realization, given Valerna accepted that not all were beyond redemption. Individually, humanity was fine. However, once they congregate, the consequences are often catastrophic.

No species was perfect. The giants weren't without blemishes in their history. Nevertheless, the difference wasn't the discord itself—more the frequency and intensity of it. Valerna came to terms with this certainty. She'd withhold from articulating it out loud, knowing one might be predisposed to employ it to rationalize the corruption ingrained within the essence of humanity. The web spinner was unperturbed by how that limb had been severed. They both understood that it was lopped off due to his fidelity. And the bandits were partly justified.

Once he had finished spinning his linguistical web Valerna would supply one glimmer of hope. One that she hoped would flicker for sometime against the blackened backdrop of depression.

"The heft of despair pulverizes many a fool. Far too often do we stew and sulk within the hand we're dealt. Pity and envy are two hideous aspects of our nature we must contest. Listen, you can see the mark I bear. However, if there is one thing I've learned from my incarceration, it is this. That one can take the negative energy and funnel it into something positive. You can't turn back the flow of time.

Nevertheless, you can seek to leave the world slightly better than you made it. I can't promise this will bring you forgiveness. But it will allow those that follow to have a more leisurely journey. And that has to count for something."

Whatever doubt the man may have harbored regarding Valerna's professed age might wane. For such a young body and face, an aged and wise spirit was trapped within that buxom frame.

"It seems you have more in common with those beasts than you initially thought. Have you ever considered there is a reason for their attack? And if you could welcome an abomination like myself into your home. Perhaps an accord could be met? Not just with those alleged monsters but with the most significant threat of them all. The other humans you gainsay against?"

She queried, confident her rejoinder would suffice.

 

[Gunni]

A hand remained to her flesh, allowing a physical connection between the two. Like a bridge bringing in two worlds. Feelings of compassion, grief and empathy poured from his arm and out. A back turned toward the fire, his right arm limbed off. All the while his gaze remained up as the guest endowed him with her wisdom.

Words alone gave way to demolition of the thought she was young indeed. The age she mentioned prior he assumed at first it was just the process for her kind, now he knew that was wrong. Damned she was. There was no room for doubt now. Beyond his new epiphany of her, the enlightened speech was one to cherish.

A conversation like this one was rare, in fact may have only been his second or third time entertaining it. Yet inspiration was taken from all he heard, his nub now coming up out of hiding. It came right under his lips, pressing his face lightly into it as he looked at his hand placed upon the thigh. He had listened and he had understood. Especially he took his time to think over his commonality with the beasts. Not to mention the serious questions she posed.

It all punctured holes through the human train of thought. In a way he was thankful. He took this experience well so far, and could only be grateful for these questions to help him grow. "I perceive that you are right. I actually do have much in common with them, and now that I think about it, no I never asked myself these questions. I suppose I had reasons for why I did what I did, just as much as they did. And I think it was fear overall, but I may be wrong… And yes, you're right, now my vision is clear. I can no longer justify or look at you with any connection with evil, in fact is the exact opposite now." Speaking this, he returned his gaze back to the spider, retaining the eye contact and physical connection. "Yes, an agreement can be met, 'monster' or not." He emphasized the word monster for a lack of better terms. "You're very wise." Smiling, almost laughing at how obvious…

… that was. "But, I suppose when I go into the village in these next months I can stop hiding. Make friends, wear myself as who I am, instead of this imposter. And maybe, just maybe, there's a chance to make not life better for myself… but all my fellow man. For it is written, 'treat others as you want to be treated.'" This lesson became imprinted within, their conversation being most beneficial. Forever in his days would be hold this talk close to his heart. Learning to heal, learning to keep moving forward.

His scriptures may have told him this, but he was alone. With a just newly made guest, if not friend, he had someone to help him in this lonely world. His hand came off gently, looking over to the kitchen counter slowly. "Let it be known, you have given me a lot to think about, and I thank you. You truly are a friend in my home. Well met." And as he fixed his eyesight on over, he figured this would be a time to change the subject to further tend to his guest.

"By the way, I have food and water here. You are more than welcome to partake, and so would you like me to make you anything?" He gestured, moving ahead, before turning back to her. "And given your size, if you want to take my bed this night, you may. It's a fairly large one, I can certainly handle sleeping in my chair, I've done it before after long days of work." Despite the hospitality, he still wasn't satisfied. He feel he could be doing more… and he remembered that she said she was trying to find her way home. Would it be too deadly for him to leave his home, who would take care of the animals? If he were to leave who would he hire, who could he trust to do the job and not give his location away freely? So much, but a life like this grew trying alone, that much he realized through their conversation. "And if you like… I can help you find your way home? I know a lot about my realm, and I have friends that may have answers for you." He offered, lightly grinning with humility.

 

[Spooder Queen]

​

The undying wayfarer wouldn't reprimand the man for reaching out. It was evident by the room's ambiance that Dramon needed to feel something. The spider could commune with his ailment. She also felt secluded from the world. However, unlike her host, there was no remedy to her predicament. That physical connection formed a bridge, a mode by which the two spirits might communicate. Those chestnut eyes wandered over to the point of contact, blinking, before following it to the human's face.

Dramon had started this engagement with an air of suspicion. Nevertheless, somehow Valerna managed to whittle it away. The arachnid puffed at the man's taffy. She wasn't a monster, but she wasn't a saint either. Throughout her odyssey, the voyager had done much wrong. But she refused to tolerate prior misgivings and blunders to comprise her person. She'd learn from them and aspired to a higher calling. Perhaps she was doomed to meander across the globe without rest. If so, she could use this curse to leave behind kernels of influence that might lead to a better life for those that followed in her wake.

Valerna tilted her head as a puzzled look formed across that stunning visage. So humanity's doctrine specified treating others as they wish to be treated? Did that suggest Dramon's people longed for a swift exit from this world? Doubtful, it was more likely that they were hypocrites that utilized these texts to contort others to their wills. Secretly, she approved, understanding that it was as necessary as unpleasant. Regardless, she'd keep such thoughts to herself as the spider lounged on her mental webbing.

She threaded together a hypothesis and then analyzed Dramon's sudden chipper demeanor. Valerna did so silently, presenting no visible inkling of the inner working of her mind. Dramon's hospitality reared itself; the hermit offered what sustenance and drink he had amassed as a way to further bond with his visitor. Those brown eyes moved toward the direction of the kitchen or food storage room. Unfortunately, the man's generosity was misguided. Nonetheless, the gesticulation was very much appreciated.

"I don't feast like most. I paralyze and liquefy my prey's organs and slurp the bodily soup. It may sound revolting. However, I assure you it's pretty scrumptious."

The giant declared without a grain of mortification. Valerna shrugged her shoulders, took a deep breath, and then exhaled. She felt more at ease, enough that she even began spinning that lip piercing with her split tongue—one of the many idiosyncrasies she employed to pass the time. Without further delay, she'd place her hand over the contact they shared while those perforating orbs endeavored to meet Dramon's eyes.

"Wise? I doubt it. Regarding my morality, I appreciate the compliment. However, I'm far from pure. I merely learned from my mistakes and the errors of others. Even now, I feel the urge of my hijacker. It tells me to devour you or egg you. I know, it's wicked. But that's what separates us from the beast. I don't let my lesser penchants control my actions. Instead, I mastered them. Maybe I was reborn into a monster after all? If correct, then there is much honor in conquering it."

A subtle wink and nod. It was Valerna's way of communicating that his sinful nature wasn't something to be ashamed of but rather conquered. An admission that she, too, is beset by an egomaniacal heart. The Araneae shifted. Wiggling her bum, a frown formed on her pale face. She knew Dramon meant no offense; he only sought to aid her. However, those that followed her during this lonely journey often met a gruesome end. And there was another reason behind her discomfort. One she'd readily voice.

"No. It would be best if you stayed here. Your time is more finite, and you have lots of work to do to improve not just yourself but the lives of those around you. But if you wish to help me out, how about this instead? The day will come when you'll be faced with a dilemma. A wink of time when you must consider placing a hardship on yourself to lighten the yoke of another. When that time invariably emerges. Return the kindness I have presented. And should you happen across another errant soul radiating a haze of depression. Please don't give up on them. The building of a better tomorrow is seldom massive strides. But the accumulation of a thousand baby steps. A stride so small, it may even be imperceptible."

She concluded with a genuine smile.

 

[Gunni]

The flesh of the nub was still at his side, not to rise as commanded. It be the flesh of a whole hand that was given the advance. He lightly grasped upon his newly shaven face, feeling it out as he formed a puzzled look. Confused was the state of mind; all she said, yes understood, it was clear. But her last note off the keys of reason… imperfect.

Not entirely, her admission to being just as prone to make mistakes as he, that spoke volumes. Volumes that could crash the walls of her reasoning near the end as he understood it. The recognition from both parties and now the insight in their evils revealed. It was accepted, even if there laid a parasite influencing such horrors on his guest. Be not afraid, as he would.

Still, the flaw he saw in those words of hers, he couldn't help but hypothesize a theory. Was he being tested, were those last regards of there to be a day of choice to help another through hardship and sacrifice this very moment? To sacrifice his comfort, to embrace the hardship of hate that fell to him by many. Now could be that opportunity to go and be better, to turn this negativity into positive power, similar words to that of the giantess. Would it be hypocritical in all he learned this moment to not answer the call?

After all, this was not who he was. Dramon was not a pig farming hermit who was meant to live and die alone away from his fellow social creatures. He was a man, once boy, who had dreams to help and be kind. Along that path he became lost, he would admit, but were chickens and pigs really the destiny of one who had just learned so much more about himself now than ever; no. No, he couldn't knowingly turn away with the knowledge there was a chance, even so small, like a baby step…

"No." Refusal, as the hand flew down with the speed of a sword. A determined look on his face made it clear he did not agree, not in the slightest. "I view this as wrong. Call it human arrogance, or an impulse of emotion, but damnit knowing what I know…
…now I refuse to sit idly by. And you may find zero logic in the human before you, and that's ok, but I wish to help. You could say this is out of my own desire to do something about my situation. And yes, you'd be right, along with it being foolish; I'd be prone, too, to make mistakes in this big leap again you are right. You speak of courage to take the path of hardship to help others, is this not it? There's no sense in me staying here, if I'm to do something about it I might as well go out and proceed. But although I may choose the emotional response, but do not mistake, I will take what advice you've given. To help others."

That fierce fire, the candle of humanity, it did not disappear. It flamed hotter than the sun with passion in his words and the formation of his face and body being only a mere fraction of the very fuel that helped spark such a blaze. A tale old as the fall of the races from God's grace. But really, she was indeed a stranger to his world, and she might be fine on her own; he may even slow her down. But he had old friends, some of those who still saw his light; the same who could have answers for Valerna. Not to mention, a way home. At least, that was a part of his justification… "Please." Was what he finished on, the desperation in his voice mixed with the profound commitment of passion… it only presented a stew of wanting to be better. He had to be.

 

[Spooder Queen]

​

Valerna needn't be a savant to gauge the objection emanating from Dramon. The giantess wasn't daunted by his body language. However, her eyes instinctively swerved toward that arm's sudden jerking. The spider is quite familiar with ambivalence and all the forms it might assume. The universe was hostile; its antagonistic tendencies were indefatigable and ubiquitous in its presence. And throughout her indeterminable odyssey, she had fronted it without fail. Many a contender was pulverized 'neath her heel. However, she took no satisfaction in the extinguishing of life.

Nonetheless, she only permitted them the distinction of besting her if merited. Valerna's intuition demonstrated fallible as Dramon made no such commitment to acrimony. And the outrage that did fester inside was likely a manifestation of deep-seated disdain. However, such anger seemed more directed internally, and the sudden movement represented this potential explanation. She'd disregard it and withhold from acting on impulse. The arachnid sighed while she bore the brunt of his staunch disposition.

Predictably the man threw her previous utterance back at Valerna. Nevertheless, the web spinner didn't balk or revise her deportment. She remained utterly still, a hint that she anticipated such a reaction. In reality, she giant wasn't so perceptive. She was just desensitized and indifferent to the whole affair. Dramon likely beheld her as a pawn, a means to atone for yesteryear's drubbings. And if true, Valerna would aptly rebuke him if she became aware of this factoid.

Whatever inspired his outburst was regarded as inconsequential within the voyager's eyes. Valerna hadn't entered his home to try and sway the man for making a poor decision. She had proved a route, and what Dramon did with that information was up to him. After all, such was the burden of free will. And humans possess the capacity to act out infinite sound and poor judgments. Unfortunately, they appeared susceptible to the latter and not the former. The pale beaut soughed once more, shrugging her shoulders as those brown eyes locked with her host.

Dramon pleaded. If the spider was effortlessly swayed, she might have been soft-soaped by the solemnity of it all. Providentially for the human, the giant was quite adamant. There was no reason to throw away what impact he might have to trek alongside her. Dramon was a bit stereotypical and harbored the want to gallivant about and be a hero. Naturally, if pressed, he'd deny any such allegations. However, his words and actions could debunk any insistence to the contrary. Something that made her reply all the more empty.

"So, you're a moral arbiter now? Why should I give you the reigns to dictate right or wrong? Based on what we've uncovered this evening, I wonder if you'd characterize yourself as qualified."

She paused as those eyes reflected the fireplace's flame at the human.

"I'll never understand why your kind needs to label everything as under your species' dominion. Human arrogance? As opposed to what, just arrogance? You're more than free to frolic about and sow kernels of forgiveness. I won't stop you. However, you'd find nothing but misery in following my road. Never mind, there isn't much you can do. I applaud your proactiveness. However, there is no guarantee any of your former connections will yield results. And it also assumes I'm unaware of how my departure will materialize.

Ask yourself this, why would someone desperate to go home seek asylum within this cabin? Doesn't that seem foolish, given the more pressing concerns? I'll leave this world one way or another. It isn't a question of how, where, or why. But when. I wish to depart your abode come morning, not on some epic quest to find a dimensional rift. I desire to see what could have been. To learn what we lost or gained and contextualize your people's extinction in my homeworld. I've always wondered if it was for the better or for the worse.

No matter how deplorable your world might be. There is at least one speck of wisdom I can glean from it. I have no love for interference. Well, no more than necessary, given the situation. I'm a voyager. But I'm also an observer. Do you wish to help? I can provide an easy solution. Prove your commitment, change yourself, and, by proxy, those nearby. Show me I'm wrong about your kind. Do that, and all of this was worth more than gold. Anything else, and our chanced meeting was purposeless."

 

[Gunni]

Water and a bucket of it too, that of which her words were. The very water that would be doused onto and within him, extinguishing such a fiery inferno of chaotic passion. Such a surge of cooling reason would calm the soul. In all he was learning, he continued to do so, each drop of soothing sounds of his guest made sure. As waves washed over all, the mind still were slowly steaming out.

Arbiter, was he? No, long was he far from that. He was no great settler of conflicts, that much could be said as he was reminded of his past. Even in the moment he realized… he was not ready. Imperfect still, how could he expect to change suddenly into ultimate just authority in the span of only this conversation? It was a fantasy.

And soon after, in came shadows to fill the space left by a tarnished fire. How foolish once again he felt, were humans destined repeatedly take matters into their own hands and ruin things? Were they a lost cause, and entirely as the giantess described? The black goo of disdain they had for others, the desire to be in control, how impotent. Powerless he felt, powerless indeed to the misleading urges of man.

But in this reminder of who he was, what they were, there was hope lighting the way. The smoldering fire that had been extinguished leaving him in darkness, with a soul suddenly illuminated by shining rays to replace it. There was a glimmering path forward, simple in its truest nature; prove worthy and change, along with those around. In humanity, there was a chance to change things for the better. And that's what matters… "I suppose."

After all she said, he sounded exhausted in his response. "In truth, I cannot argue with this. I am not special, nor should I expect to change rapidly in an instant. No wise man am I, just a man. But I believe I see your point, a man is just enough. Enough to prove, enough to love and enough to be worth it." He paused, continuing to reflect, wandering back to his chair, sinking his bum back in. The weight of…

…knowledge of his people's absolute extinction in another world only now beginning to dawn. It was sickening, were they that terrible? And worse, could it happen here? However quickly, taking what he learned overall, he breathed and steadied himself. "All of humanity, gone. Such a shame, now I wonder too if it could've been different for them. And I wonder too, it could be different for us." He glanced forward, meeting up with her gaze again. "I can only say, I now better clearly see your lesson taught. You're right, the only way to help is to grow, and like a garden helping others grow too. And indeed prove to you that you are in fact wrong about us." His face now from fury and ambition, to a mature and confident one. Surely, this was the answer, to rise above and do better. The locking gaze extended, being dragged into being quiet for the foreseeable future. And as he stared, he took the time to analyze her face before him. To understand every fragment of such a gorgeous face, to explore the beauty. And in that moment, the soul, and observation, there was peace.

 

[Spooder Queen]

​

Valerna understood that her words might appear gelid. However, she didn't wish to rope another victim within her webbing. Dramon was a tortured soul with a blighted past; the worst thing she could do was snuff out any prospect of redemption. No, the time they spent ought to suffice and serve as a memory they could cherish. The spider's mind wandered; she reminisced about those she left behind. How did time flow in her absence? Would they still be there waiting upon her reemergence? These two questions beset her heart the most.

The giant had slipped between realms before, never of her own volition. Nevertheless, the outcome drastically varied. Valerna considered a slew of ethical dilemmas. Her mere appearance will create ripples, the consequences of which were impossible to perceive. Did she have the right to meddle in their world and timeline? An unsettling query that she mulled over too late. There was no stemming what she had done, and her presence implied additional interference was unavoidable. Still, maybe she could mitigate it.

Dramon's little remark merited her focus. Indeed, he was just a puny man. Then again, Valerna was also just a speck herself. A frown settled across her remarkable profile as she cogitated on his comments. The arachnoid had been cursed with her condition, but there was a benefit it provided. She had lived many lives and had seen firsthand how the movement of a single grain of sand can alter the face of a beach, that the slightest of pushes can set off an incomprehensible and world-altering chain of events. So, given this truth, were they that small in the grand scheme of things?

The web spinner shook her head and raised that hand in opposition. Once more, she prepared to sprinkle a liberal perspective over the somber statement. She didn't wish to leave things in such a sour state. Dramon did invite her into his abode, an act of kindness that rated appreciation.

"Indubitably, you're just a puny man. However, am I not equally inconsequential? Throughout history, such specks have altered the trajectory of history—snapshots of time where the choices of the insignificant culminated in radical change. These icons of civilization were nobodies. They were just men and women, yet their existence's influence can't be denied. Lift your chin, tomorrow is a new day, and it will improve."

Valerna purred while endowing Dramon with a warm smile. The giantess yawned as she stretched her sore muscles and lay on the floor. Those chestnut eyes looked up at the human while those pearly fangs clenched her bottom lip. The Araneae was obviously in a pensive stupor, and something was tormenting her. Luckily, the human needn't stew for long to be provided with an answer.

"The loss of life is always a shame. Any soul, no matter how deplorable, can seek redemption. Death is finite, yet life is infinite in possibilities. I often ask myself the same questions. However, no satisfactory resolution ever materializes. It's too late to change their fate in my world. But I suspect the same can't be said for this reality. I can only pray that your kind can avert pursuing a similar fate. It's one thing to be born evil at heart. And a whole other matter to conquer your inclinations. See to it that you do the latter, as I have."

The spider veered her focus back to that crackling fire as she sighed while her curvaceous figure remained still on the floor.

"I'm no one—just an eternal voyager. Eventually, you will know release, and I will carry on within this prison. It is inescapable. Don't live your life trying to prove me wrong or win me over. Your time would be better spent showing your people that their path isn't correct. Although, I can say this. At least I won't be by your graveside when you pass. You'd think it would become routine. However, the sting never lessens. And I rather not be there when the final chapter of your story is penned. Sometimes, not knowing the ending of a book is best."

 

[Gunni]

Peace couldn't be present forever before the study of her stunning features turned seductive in thought. A print forming again, but as before he glanced away so he might oppress such objectification of his guest in his mind. His embarrassment waned as she rose her hand to oppose. Had he said something wrong, or worse been noticed again? He surely hoped not, the insecurity of being abandoned and left by his first friend in ages magnifying.

Thankfully he could be relieved, connecting his eyes back to her as she demonstrated a way to interpret what he said prior. The great iconic characters began somewhere, even if they were once nothing. Someone as insignificant as him, and likewise her, surely could look to the future in pursuit of something better. The process to becoming great… To overcome evils that the footprints of men left behind.

Dramon could only hope for the avoidance of man's destruction. Even in a world dominated by humans, injustices were often committed unto man by man. A slippery slope, who's to say it could not escalate, eventually the men of the earth causing their own annihilation. The other races only hope for a better world was to merely wait for the humans to kill themselves off. Whether through the razing of the world and all it's resources or to slaughter each other to the last, to continue on the path the race of men pursued would lead to death itself.

Valerna laid, his observation shifting as he no longer had to look slightly up, instead keeping a steady look ahead. He examined that of her curves and lovely attractions, the thoughts crossing his mind again, before his eyes met hers. He could see that there was conflict, a relieved and thoughtful expression now turned to a bit of confusion and worry. Before long he would once again be listening to the spider, taking careful interest. At the end, in her moment of focus shifting, he smiled and nodded in agreement.

Taking steps to get closer, he assembled his hand to grasp his nub behind his back. He stood in thought, he too now joining Valerna's gaze into the fire. The last cords of her words leaving him with much to think about. Suppose his purpose was not to prove wrong, or be some sort of best but rather to keep moving forward in the hope of finding meaning through the goodness in his heart. Who did he need to impress?

What a world, he thought, even so for her. What pain it must be for the giantess to go through, and to know that he too would be another passing memory in the line of beings prior she surpassed. He felt sorry, sad even. Realizing she'd rather avoid the end than see through and be vanquished with grief. Yet, no words he felt he could or even should say… what could he say?

"I-… I see." He swallowed, his throat being cleared from choking on that depressing reality for her. He turned himself back to her, coming as close as he might, his blue eyes finding to connect with her own. "I'm sorry."

"It's not my place, but maybe one day you'll discover something else to do other than eternally voyage." He suggested, but didn't continue, knowing full well he wasn't ready to begin to understand. Plus he wouldn't want to make her upset with his arrogance. But he figured all he could do was give her an idea, something to look forward to, to dream of. To hope…

"Do you wish to take my room? It's getting late." He mentioned, taking notice that she was in fact tired. Not to mention by now it was pitch black outside thanks to a quick glance through the window. And like an infectious plague, the yawn traveled consequently making him yawn. "In fact, surely now I'm getting tired as I speak." He covered his mouth with his left, to be polite during his yawn. Before smiling with a exhausted but kind expression.

 

[Spooder Queen]

​

The forlorn wanderer caught the glimmer in his eyes. Dramon introduced the precursors that foreshadowed his hunger to experience her flesh. How effortlessly the spider could spin her web and exhaust this mortal. That deep-seated hankering to dominate swelled within her bosom. Giants, by nature, were domineering, enticed by that timeless Darwinian tussle. Her host made the rejection of her lesser penchants all the more arduous. She could tell he enjoyed her mind as much as her body. A point that caused inner ambivalence as she scuffled in silence.

Valerna lay on the ground, shuffling in such a way to better flair her posterior to entice him. She was playing with her food, curious how far she could prod the beast before he succumbed to his nature. Eventually, she would sit up; one hand supported her weight while the other arm slipped under her breast. The arachnids perky mounds pushed up, a coquettish gesture that wouldn't elude his grasp. Salaciously, that wet and hot oral muscle traced her lips as those piercing brown eyes focused on the quarry. The predator sensed sincerity within his offering to take his bed. However, she doubted the furniture could support her weight.

Nonetheless, she remained thankful and chuckled from amusement. The pale beauty disregarded his apology. Valerna saw no benefit in beating a dead horse or dawdling on trivial details. Dramon had no way of conceptualizing her torment, so how could she fault him? The man's intent was unsullied, and it came from the heart. Nevertheless, she sensed that less wholesome aspirations might have spurred his kindness. She deliberated whether to bring that hypothesis to light or leave it in the dark.

The voluptuous maiden remained still as the fire's flickering light unveiled her figure in sporadic bursts. However, she'd eventually crawl on all fours like a cat. Those massive breasts dangled and swayed hypnotically as the voyager inched closer to the reclined man. Once the distance had been closed, her hands seized the armrest as she slid herself up his body as her hefty chest rested on Dramon's lap. Valerna would stay close, taking in his scent as she relished the fusion of fear and attraction.

"My, my. You reek of lust and concern. How...flattering." She purred into his ear as the hunter refused to remove herself from Dramon's personal bubble.

"Your room? How chivalrous of you. Luckily for you, I find it rude to deprive you of the magnetism you've grown fond of. No, I would rather sleep here." Valerna added before running her right pointer claw up his chest and neck and ending by flicking her host nose.

"I can imagine it has been some time since you've been this close to a woman. Tell me, would you give your throat to this spider? Would you fly into my web of your own accord? I'm curious about which would break first. The body or the spirit? Shall we find out?" She taunted before permitting her breasts to relax on his lap while those amber jewels peered into his soul. Valerna was testing him—Gauging Dramon's willpower. Providentially for him, they both stood to gain something, no matter the outcome. It made this game they've engaged in as enthralling as it was titillating.