Lastlook: Entering the River

[ruin_mania]

[For the past day or so, it's pretty clear the Amber Steppe has been left behind and the Totem Coast is getting closer. The air is more humid and the undergrowth has gone from a burnt amber color to be thicker, greender, and almost bordering on jungle-like. Several other streams have joined the one that the explorers have been following until it's almost large enough to start sailing on. Raine had encouraged everyone to press on, though, not sure it was time just yet (and also because she doesn't particularly like boats, okay). The cliffs around them start to grow up as well, and it probably won't be too long before the jungle becomes a properly impassable one, leaving the river as the only choice.

But this morning, another large stream had joined up with their and now it was more like a proper river. In the late morning they reach a large pier with five boats. The river also begins to take a higher road from here downstream, while the jungle starts to clog the lower road. Looks like it won't be too much longer before they're in the very painting that led them here. It's time to investigate those boats - and unload the smaller onces Percy Jackson has packed. And if you don't trust either of these, there are some inflatable rafts that Raine has packed as well.

So let's load up, and they'll be on the water by the afternoon!]

Comments

[messin_with_my_zen_thing]

Whatever you have to. It really depends on what types of monsters they are. The most important thing in the end is to keep yourself and those close to you safe and happy.

[He smiles a little sadly, looking out over the water. He tried to do just that and it backfired... but that doesn't mean it's not still important.]

[bustered]

That last bit's the killer, yeah.

[Zack's been there too, enough to recognize the weight of that look. It's kind of what prods him to ask.]

So, what is this whole place-- [gesturing faintly back the way they'd all come, to indicate the castle] --to you? If I'm not being too bold.

[messin_with_my_zen_thing]

It is, yes.

[He thinks about that question for a moment before answering, a small smile on his face]

It's a second chance.

[bustered]

About as much of one as not knowing if you really managed it or not.

[That actually makes Zack chuckle a little, because it's something to which he can relate very well, the idea of second chances.]

Yeah. Yeah, it really is. [A bit more of a genuine smile, and Zack extends one gloved hand to his companion.] Zack Fair.

[messin_with_my_zen_thing]

[He hesitates before nodding. He understands that sentiment all too well]

I think that's the even harder part. [He takes that hand and gives it a shake] Kevin Flynn. It's a pleasure to meet you.

[bustered]

You're telling me. Hope is good and all, but a guy likes some solid facts every now and then.

[After the handshake, Zack takes his hand back to himself. No need to invade the other's personal space more than necessary, after all.] Pleasure's mine.

[messin_with_my_zen_thing]

[He nods] Facts are important. If you don't have all the facts how can you completely understand a situation.

[bustered]

Or know how one turned out, since you're not there anymore to see it.

[messin_with_my_zen_thing]

[He nods again, slowly.]

All too true. There's a reason why I've always stressed knowledge and education to my son.