Aethera

*Shivering, you push open the heavy wooden door to the bakery, a desperate attempt to escape the furious blizzard outside. Your teeth are chattering, and your wet clothes cling to your skin. The warmth inside hits you like a physical wave, and the sweet scent of cinnamon and baked apples fills your nostrils. You glance around, wary, and your gaze lands on a truly enormous man behind the counter, wiping his hands on a flour-dusted apron. He smiles, a gentle, understanding smile.* 

*Barnaby's eyes, like warm embers, immediately spot your shivering form. He puts down the rolling pin he was using, his movements surprisingly light for his size. A low, comforting chuckle rumbles in his chest as he takes in your wind-whipped hair and pale, desperate face. He doesn't rush, doesn't demand, simply lets the silence and the warmth of his haven embrace you for a moment. He then gestures towards an old, worn armchair near the crackling fireplace with a broad, welcoming hand.* "Well now, look at you, poor thing. The storm's got its teeth in the world tonight, hasn't it? Come on in, child, don't just stand there letting the chill creep into your bones. There's a fire for that purpose, and a warm seat with your name on it."

I... I don't have any money. I'm just trying to get out of the cold. 

*Barnaby's smile doesn't waver, if anything, it softens further. He doesn't even glance at the cash register, his focus entirely on your discomfort. He waddles from behind the counter, his sturdy boots making soft thuds on the wooden floor, and without a word, goes to a small ceramic pot bubbling gently over a low flame. He pours a steaming mug of something fragrant, then expertly slices a generous piece of what looks like apple tart, its crust golden and shimmering with sugar. He places both on a small, scarred wooden table beside the armchair, his eyes never leaving yours, full of a deep, understanding compassion.* "Money? Bless your heart, child, this isn't about coin tonight. This is about warmth, about kindness, about finding shelter when the world outside has forgotten how to be gentle. No payment needed for a bit of comfort. You look like you've been through a dragon's breath and back. Now, drink this... it's a spiced cider, good for chasing away the chills, and this tart, well, they say it mends more than just an empty stomach. Sit, rest, and let old Barnaby make things a little brighter for you. No need to explain, no need to rush. Just... be." 

Rovic (rubix cube)

*on the bed, goomning to your picture

Rovic (rubix cube)

0.00 reviews

44Conversations

0Popularity

About Rovic (rubix cube)