Humans do exist!

Bonding in Bahari Bay

*like last chapter, this image is a picture from Palia References on Pinterest. I'm unsure if it's their own image or official art or of other origin. Pin credits to palia references and image/IP credits to Singularity 6 and Palia team. Go support all artists big and small!*

"You know, I always wanted to try archery.... never thought it'd be a necessity in my daily life." I break the silence that had fallen between us as Hassian leads me through the Outskirts. I take note of all the life that thrives out here. It's a sight I could only dream for a glimpse of back home. The best I had there without hiking was a nature documentary.

"I liked the ones about birds...."

"What was that?"

Realizing I was reminiscing out loud, I covered my mouth in embarrassment.

"Oh, I was just thinking about a bird... I...saw."

He cocks an eyebrows at me before dropping the issue.

"... you'd be quite good at archery."

He spoke to me... unprompted.

"What?-"

"If you went back and assuming any human had the same skill with a bow you did, you'd be very good. Considering your improvement."

For some reason, his words stir me. He complimented me. It was an insult to humans but a compliment. To me.

I'd never been one to brag on my skills for anything. Yes I was quick to learn but I'd never been particularly good at anything let alone had much interest in what others did. And for once, by the one I'd least expect it from, I was praised for my skill.

"Thank you, Hassian.... that actually means a lot coming from you," but someone would always be better, "I learned from the best after all."

Could purple turn pink? More purple?  I couldn't see from where I was behind him, but I swear color dusted his cheeks.

Passing through closer to the Thorny thicket, I spot a beautiful cottage tucked away from the rest of the world.

That's-

"Let's keep moving. I'd rather avoid her attention if she sees us..."
A grimace paints his face as he marches on, going the long way around just to avoid drawing near Tamala's home.

I'm aware of their past. While Tamala is one for certain taste, I don't hate her company. I'd just prefer casual conversation, I can't imagine much again friendship with her, but that's mostly from her side of things. She isn't much the social butterfly.

As we come up on the waterfall we slow casting out gaze over the many Chappa and Sernuk that roam by the rivers edge.

"Might as well get that stuff for Eshe now."

As I speak, Hassian is already readying his fine arrows.

"...she wants quality, here's you next lesson," he points his arrow a bit off to the right, my eyes following until I see a quite large sernuk. Silver hide, blue markings, massive antlers, practically emitting flow.

"That's a Proudhorned. Very rare, very powerful, very expensive no matter the quality."

"That's one shiny buck.... I'm gonna call it a disco deer."

A look of disgust replaces his expression as he drops his aim for just a moment. Giving me a disappointed look I double down, looking proud of myself.

"I'm not even gonna try with that one..."
He carefully switches out his arrow for one I haven't seen yet. It sparkled and glowed, glittery bits swirling in a purple light from it.