warrior-willow:

[She tenses at first, because she rarely receives hugs. Eventually, she relaxes as she embraces him.]

I owe you so much, my friend. 

[laughs softly into her hair as he tightens his hug.]

You own me nothing, friend. Nothing at all.

warrior-willow:

I feel unworthy of your words. You are so generous, David. I have never met someone like you. Truly one of a kind.

Of course you’re worthy, Willow. You’re quite a special one yourself. And a good friend. And if you ever need anything, you know exactly where to find me.

[wraps her in a warm hug]

warrior-willow:

I am uncertain there will any good in my destiny. Are you sure about that, David?

There’s bound to be. The gods look lovingly upon honor. And you’re one of the most honorable people I know.

warrior-willow:

Those are wise words, my friend.

I would change everything, so that my family would be alive and well.

What have I done to deserve this suffering? All this anger… I..I do not understand.

You’ve done nothing to deserve this. But if our destinies were based on what is deserved and what isn’t, then it wouldn’t be destiny.

What’s happened to you is a terrible thing, and I wouldn’t wish it on anybody, certainly not you, Willow. But perhaps there are good things in your destiny as well.

warrior-willow:

True, but what if you can do something about your fate? Would you still do it?

It depends… Sometimes I feel like fate knows best. The gods do what they will for a reason. But being human, we naturally want to do what we want to do, regardless.

warrior-willow:

Would you? 

Isn’t that what makes it fate? The fact that there isn’t much you can do about it?

braven-blacksmith-owen:

You would do that for me? Thank you! [a smile] 

Yes, I am. I like her, a lot, actually. 

Not a problem.

And that’s wonderful! She’s a good woman. Like a sister to me, really.

braven-blacksmith-owen:

Really? .. Well, then. D-Do you know which gemstone Pandora prefers? Maybe an aqua marine or an emerald? I am not sure. A diamond seems so boring. I want to give her something unique.

It’s a small favor. I feel rather awkward if I asked her myself.

Err— huh? I mean, she and I don’t really talk about…gemstones… And I’ve never noticed her wearing any, so I wouldn’t know.

But for you, friend, I could find out.

You’re quite fond of her aren’t you? [grins]

braven-blacksmith-owen:

[A small, humbling smile.]

Uh.. that won’t be necessary. It’s fine, David. You do not owe me anything. 

Oh, but I must pay you for your fine craftsmanship. If not in coin, then by virtue of a favor? I have a little smidge of influence.