Quoted By:
>Apologize to Dhundan Kepa
A couple time in the first weeks, you attempted to overcome the fear seizing you when attempting to get closer and talk to the other kid while shoveling dung. You failed each time.
Good Mental Resistance (Sun-gazing test) and great test roll for this particular attempt
However, third time's the charm. You step closer, and a stare weighting you down like the whole saddlery of the imposing draft horse you had to move around a couple time for your lateness turn your movement into a slog.
Still, you take a slow and small step crawling ever so closer to your goal. A hint of surprise lace in the pure anger of the gaze, then the pressure double.
Still, you take another as slow and as small step, inching forward to reach him. The anger mask placed on Dhundan's face fissures, but the glimpse is too brief to catch the deeper feeling.
"<span class="mu-i">Stop here. You'll regret it.</span>
- It's alright. Sorry." - he stares silently - "Sorry for making animals crapping you. I was just playing."
He's still standing, mute. The storm rages against your mind in unpredictable bursts, followed by calmer light knocking.
"<span class="mu-i">...Why?...</span>
- I was wrong. So I have to make excuses.
- <span class="mu-i">No. Why aren't you running away like the others? Only the masters talk to me, and I can always feel them angry. You're not angry. I don't understand.</span>"
The pressure gradually soften, until coming back hitting as a charging ram. You take a step back. Gritting your teeth, you muster all of your willpower to endure, overcome, and slowly reclaims the lost ground.
Both of you stare at each other without a word.
"<span class="mu-g"><span class="mu-s">Not over yet? I don't have all day!</span></span>"
Both of you quickly go back to shoveling.
The next morning, the body preparation instructor tells you during daily practice that he felt your <span class="mu-s">Mental Energy</span> rised up and to keep up with your effort.
You quickly link the two events. Later, while scrubbing the sticky guano in the Aviary, you approach him again.
"<span class="mu-i">What do you want.</span>
- Talking with you. Actually, the pressure when we talk is great training for me.
- <span class="mu-i">... Pressure? ...</span>"
Wait... He doesn't realize he's scary and angry at everything?
"Let's make a deal. In exchange to me getting train by your pressure, I can maybe tell and help on how it's working?"
Pressure recede.
"<span class="mu-i">That mean you'll keep talking with me? Even after we are not punished any more?</span>"
Turns out the little tomfoolery engaged toward Dhundan Kepa might have been one of the best decision you took in your life so far.
