Today the streets of Baldur’s Gate were buzzing and alive.

  It was the celebration of Highharvestide. Each citizen of the various pantheons of Faer?n celebrated the holiday in slightly different ways; Honoring fallen comrades, hunts, bonfires, discarding of weapons, summoning of storms. But despite the personal differences on how the holiday was celebrated, there was always good food, always dancing, and of course, music.

  Agreth was already hard at work. He was one of the paid performers to help bring merriment to the streets, along with one of his dearest bard friends, Rune. A female Tiefling who matched his mirth and mischief every step of the ways. The two of them were a well-known and common sight performing in the streets of Baldur’s Gate, and often a sought-out attraction to festivals in the city.

  Their music complimented each other beautifully. Their years of friendship, and shared theatrics coming through in their notes; Agreth with his violin and Rune with her lute. Today, they performed at the waterfront, as people bustled around the market to buy items, meet friends, dance, and overall celebrate.

  Agreth looks up periodically smiling and gesturing to the crowd, riling them up, getting them to laugh, and dance and join with the music. It was contagious, how much he lost himself and clearly loved his craft. His enthusiasm, echoed by Rune, became a feedback loop of excited energy between him and the people around him.

  He was so lost in the flow that he did not spot the familiar face that had joined.

  Gale, donning slightly more festive blue and purple robe himself, has also fallen prey to the draw of the infectious mirth and melody of the waterfront. Quickly Gale spots him, Agreth, amid his performance. A spark of recognition and delight ignites within him. Of course, this mysterious bard was the source of the festive din.

  Approaching closer, pushing into the depth of the people, he watches Agreth and Rune create a tapestry of sound that weaves through the crowd. As the music begins to still, signaling a much-earned break, a smile plays at the edges of his lips anticipating the moment of reunion.

  The song ends, the crowd applauds, Gale approaches, clapping along with them.

  "Agreth!" he calls out, his voice carrying a blend of joy and formality over the noise of the festival.

  Agreth’s eyes follow Gale as he moves through the crowd, his face reflecting momentary surprise at Gale’s enthusiasm before easing into a happiness of his own.

  Despite the applause of the crowd, and cheers for more, Agreth makes his way over to the wizard. He quickly closes the distance between them with a wave of a hand still holding the bow, his violin coming to rest at his side. His face breaks out into a pleased smile as they get within conversational distances.

  Gale’s own smile echoes Agreth’s as it widens at his approach.

  " Happy Highharvestide. It seems the fates have indeed favored us with another meeting. How wonderful to see you thriving amidst the celebration."

  He gestures around at the bustling market and the lively waterfront, vibrant with the joy of the festival.

  "I'll consider it a true stroke of luck. Happy Highharvestide good Wizard. What brings you here?"

  He asks in turn with the lilt of still being in a performative mindset.

  "I came seeking the cheer of the celebration and the company of good folk. Highharvestide always brings out the best of the community; good food, good music, and, as it turns out, excellent company."

  Gale glances appreciatively at Rune he had finally cut through the crowd herself and then back to Agreth.

  "Your music has certainly added to the spirit of the day. It's been a pleasure to hear your melodies once again, echoing through the air and enlivening the heart."

  "I’ll never miss an opportunity to get up to a little mischief." Agreth says in response with a wink.

  Rune coming up beside Agreth droops off his shoulder in a friendly gesture, her own lute back on her back.

  "A pleasure." she says towards Gale, cutting off their conversation and making herself known. Her toothy smile pauses a moment, and her eyes widen in sudden recognition.

  "Wait-" she says looking to Gale and then to Agreth. "Agreth is this the wizard you have been telling me about?"

  A light blush touches Agreth’s face and he elbows her in the ribs in an embarrassed hush. She relishes in the troublemaking with a quick laugh.

  Gale’s own expression turns playfully conspiratorial upon her realization.

  "Ah, it appears my reputation precedes me, though I hope Agreth has been mostly generous in his accounts," he says with a light chuckle. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Rune. Your partnership in today's performance was truly enchanting."

  Ever the gentlemen Gale ignored the wordless but heavily intent laden silent stares shared between Agreth and Rune. They appeared more sibling-like than musical partners he mused.

  "And now that we are all here, perhaps we can share in a bit of this festive mischief together? Highharvestide is best enjoyed in good company, and I'd be honored to count myself among yours for the day, if you'll have me."

  Agreth raises his brows a little surprised at the offer, not expecting the renown wizard to be able to commit more time than a few words.

  Agreth did not hide his own eagerness.

  "I can't think of anything that'd make me happier." he glances to Rune to see if she's in as well.

  She looks between the two men one more time and with a hardly veiled devilish grin shakes her head no.

  "I'm afraid this crowd won't entertain themselves," she says, reaching for her lute "but you boys have fun" she says with a wink, turning to walk back to the crowd.

  Gale watches Rune departs with a playful flourish, an amused glint in his eye. When his eyes return to Agreth, he sees his apologetic smile.

  "Fear not the mischief of friends; their teasing often means affection runs deep."

  Gale offers as a reassurance, laughter laden upon his voice. But his attention turns, looking over the festival that still bustled about them, considering their options anew.

  "Now, where should our Highharvestide adventure begin? Perhaps a stroll through the market stalls, or maybe there's a game or two that could use a wizard's touch, and a bard's charm."

  He gestures invitingly toward the heart of the celebration, ready to dive into the festivities. Agreth swings his violin and bow to store on his back once more.

  "I think we should try our hand at a game or two." Agreth glances over at him, offering an arm to the wizard. "Do you have a favorite?"

  Gale accepts his arm and allows himself to be led into the festive throng.

  "A game…” he muses “I've always been partial to those that require a bit of strategy and wit. But today, let's seek out something that equally challenges the skills of a bard and a wizard. "

  Agreth made note to himself to test his wit against the wizards sometime. It would prove an interesting contest. But in terms of strategy, Gale without doubt would outdo him. As they weave through the crowd, Gale spots a stall set up for an archery contest, colorful targets beckoning challengers with promises of prizes.

  "How about we test our precision with the bow? It's not often I exchange my spells for arrows, but I find the focus required is much akin to the concentration needed for casting."

  "I do use a bow quite regularly." Agreth muses gesturing to the violin bow with a wink. "Perhaps there won't be much difference between the two."

  Dropping Gale’s arm, heh walks to the stall and casually leans against the counter, waving the attendant over. The attendant, a jovially robust man with a wide smile, approaches them.

  "Welcome, welcome!" he exclaims, gesturing to the array of bows and arrows. "Try your luck and skill! Hit the bullseye and win a prize fit for kings- or should I say, wizards and bards?"

  Gale wastes no time. Picking up one of the bows he exams it with a critical eye, comparing its simple make with the intensity of a sage.

  "We shall certainly try," he responds, handing Agreth a bow with a flourish. Agreth hardly looks it over at all, as they both step up to the line marked for shooting.

  "Let's see if the finesse with which you handle your violin bow transfers to this slightly different instrument. Let's set the standard high, shall we?"

  There is a challenging hint of competition to his voice, as he gestures for Agreth to start.

  Agreth adjusts the bow stretching it a few times, testing the resistance and how it feels in his hand. He had said it as a horrible pun, but there actually was some familiarity in the tension of the string and wood, flexing in a taut resistance beneath his hand.

  Agreth notches the arrow and takes aim, his upper body poised. He takes in a deep breath through his nose, and slowly releases it through his mouth. His breath steady, his eyes focused on his goal, and at the mid of his breath releases the arrow.

  With a twang it sprang into action and snaps into the target. A decent showing. A few inches from the middle, but clearly, he had drawn in the bow not quite far enough.

  "Hmm," he muses "I don't normally choke under pressure." he says with mild disappointment lowering his bow and stepping aside.

  Gale having watched his technique gives an acknowledging nod and then steps in to take the spot Agreth had left, preparing his own shot.

  "A strong start, Agreth," he comments, as he takes his own aim. "And sometimes, it's not the pressure but the unfamiliar bow. Each has its own character, much like our spells and songs."

  He draws an arrow from the quiver, feeling the balance of the bow in his hand as he aligns his stance. Mimicking Agreth’s approach, he inhales deeply, allowing the festive sounds of the market to fade into the background, focusing solely on the target ahead.

  With a calm exhale, he releases the arrow. It flies straight, landing just outside the bullseye, closer but not quite perfect.

  Gale turns to Agreth with a wry smile.

  "It appears I too am susceptible to the quirks of unfamiliar tools." Handing the bow back to the attendant, Gale chuckles lightly. "But the joy of the game lies in the challenge, not perfection. Shall we give it another round?"

  There was something comforting seeing that they were about equally paired in something.

  Agreth leans back on the counter, his attention shifting from Gale’s shot to the attendant who patiently oversaw their fun. The attendant himself being Agreth’s new aimed at target.

  "I think our attendant friend should take the next shot," he pauses looking over his shoulder at the attendant "just to prove it is doable and not rigged." He adds with a playful wink.

  The attendant, catching the playful challenge in his voice, chuckles heartily and steps up to the challenge with a grin. Happy to be involved for once instead of being a part of the festivals backdrop.

  Gale caught this subtle shift, his stomach twisting in a gentle appreciation at the bards ability to bring the light of life into everyone around him.

  "Ah, you've caught me! Let's see if I can demonstrate that the game is fair indeed." The attendant picks up a bow, familiar and practiced in his movements, showcasing his frequent dealings with these tools.

  Positioning himself at the line, he takes a moment to sight along the arrow, then releases it with a swift, smooth motion. The arrow arcs through the air and thuds into the target, striking the bullseye, eliciting a few cheers from onlookers who've gathered to watch the exchange.

  "There we are!" he declares, turning back to them with a wide, satisfied smile. "Not rigged, just requires a bit of luck and a steady hand. Now, will you gentlemen try again, or has my little demonstration inspired you to seek out other challenges?"

  Agreth gives the attendant an appreciative bow, admitting defeat. The man swells with pride.

  "I think we've been put to shame good wizard." Agreth says looking around playfully at the cheering crowd. "Too bad we could not use magic missile," he pauses considering what he has to offer "or a sharp quip."

  Gale laughs heartily at his suggestion, the idea of cheating the rules and using a spell to ensure accuracy in a game of archery tickling his fancy.

  "The crowd might never forgive us for such a display of overpowering advantage." He asserts, knowing when it is best to be humble.

  Stepping away from the archery stall, Gale gesture broadly to the festivities surrounding them.

  "But perhaps our talents might be better appreciated elsewhere. There are many games and spectacles to choose from, each with its own appeal.”

  They walk for a bit taking in the festivities around them considering their options until one stall in particular catches Agreth’s attention this time. He takes Gale’s hand eagerly forgetting himself, tugging at him in excitement.

  "How do you feel about divination?"

  Gale feeling the sudden enthusiasm in his tug, allows himself to be led toward the stall, curious about Agreth’s interest.

  "It's a fascinating art, one that peers into possibilities and paths yet taken. I've dabbled a bit, as many wizards do, though my focus has usually been more on the tangible elements of magic."

  As they approach the divination stall, adorned with symbols and tools of the trade, crystal balls, tarot cards, and rune stones Gale looks around with an inquisitive eye. Appreciating someone who had dedicated themselves to an art he had just had a cursory look into.

  "I must admit, there's always a certain allure to the mysteries these tools represent. Let's see what fortunes they hold for us today."

  As they approach the tent Agreth’s tugging lessens, as his excited redirection is consented to, in his razor focus he remains holding Gale’s hand. Unintentionally at first, but once he realizes, he does not let go, simultaneously noticing that Gale had also not released the touch.

  The fortune teller tent was modest. A simple structure of sturdy wood supports tied at the top with a heavy deep blue tarp thrown over top. It was clearly designed to be easily put up and taken down for festivals such as these. The space inside was hardly big enough for the three of them and a small table set in the middle.

  A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

  The walls hung plants, gems, stones, dehydrated bits of organic matter no longer identifiable. The air hug heavy with incense and wet earthy notes. The air still, and almost overwhelming purposefully adding an other worldly closeness. A soft light illuminated the room, it’s source difficult to pinpoint. As the flap closes behind them and they enter the tent the noises of the outside world are muffled and fall away. The faint sound of a magical humming, filling the room.

  The two men feel an immediate hush fall over them. A sense of reverence thrust upon them in this new environment under the commanding gaze of the fortune teller.

  She was already sitting behind the table in oversized cushions. Her eyes a piercing blue that bordered on white, her skin a dark rich lush color of mahogany, almost looking Drow-like in the low light. Her black hair pulled back into braids, woven with silver and gold charms. Her face was mostly obscured by a deep blue silken veil, the same material used for the flowing robes that draped her form and shimmered in a subtle magic of their own. She did not greet them but gestured for the two to sit.

  As they settle into their seats, Gale finally releases Agreth’s hand, giving it a quick squeeze before he does.

  "Welcome, seekers," she begins, her voice as captivating as her appearance. "The threads of fate are ever twisting, ever turning. What is it you seek to uncover within the weave of your destinies?"

  Agreth settles in feeling a bit like he has have been transported to childhood wonder once more. He looks to Gale searching his face and then back to the fortune teller carefully considering his question.

  "What paths lay before us," He pauses and look at Gale out of the corner of his eye before returning his gaze back to her "both separate... and together."

  The fortune teller nods slowly, understanding the weight and breadth of his question. She turns her head and considers the tools of her trade she has stored about her in the small space. Bones, crystal ball, palmistry. She pauses and looks at the two men sitting expectantly, but politely. An air of pedigree exuding from them both. Tea leaves perhaps. No, for these two, cards.

  She reaches for a deck of tarot cards. Before her fingers could touch them, she catches Gale in the corner of her eye, giving his disappointed look a challenging return of her own. He was disappointed that she would not be using magical divination she knew.

  “Let’s see what your future holds outside the influence of the weave.” She adds in a cool pointed tone, gathering her cards from their rest under a silk cloth and shuffling them with practiced hands as she prepares to lay bare the hidden currents of their futures.

  She fans out the tarot cards in a wide arc across the velvet cloth, her fingers hovering briefly before selecting several cards. With deliberate movements, she places them face up before them. One towards Agreth, one towards Gale, and a third between both. Something curious happens as she lays down this third card that causes the fortune teller to gasp lightly.

  As she lays it down, the card shifts on the smooth surface of the table, so that it is turned to the side.

  She stares at it for a moment before her expression eases and she mutters a “curious…” mostly to herself. Both Agreth and Gale look to each other, worry etched across their faces. But the fortune teller presses on, not addressing it now.

  She reached down and taps the card sitting in front of Agreth and meets his eyes.

  "For you," she begins, flipping the card over.

  The card appeared to be a knight wielding a stick instead of a sword, on the back of a rearing white unicorn.

  "your path is marked by the reversed Knight of Wands.” She offers, her head tilting slightly as if considering the implications of the card herself.

  “The reversed knight of wands speaks of recklessness, a deep anger that drives both an unshakable frustration and impulsive decisions.” Her eyes meet Agreth’s for a moment, just long enough to acknowledge through the pained and twisted expression on his face that this spoke true to him somewhere.

  “And you wizard…”

  She flips the card in front of Gale. Her eyebrows go up as she sees another reversed card.

  Gale looked over the card before him. It was a hand that held a golden goblet that had water flowing from it.

  “The reversed Ace of Cups.” She begins “this speaks of a closed heart. A sense of emotional loss, of a lack in creativity of an overall deep sense of emptiness.”

  She explains in cruelly gentle tones. It was obvious that this insight was just as impactful on Gale as it had been on Agreth.

  The fortune teller presses on further, her finger coming to rest on the card in-between the two that slide sideways.

  She looks at them both.

  “This is your potentially shared path. It seems you are both on a crossroads together. Depending on your choices, this card with either shift in one direction of the other. Upright or reversed. It is rare that the fates indicate it is so wholly your choice you can both make with your actions going forward.”

  With the explanation out of the way, she flips the third card to both Gale’s and Agreth’s eager attention. The card on its side was a depiction of two figures, exchanging goblets between them.

  "Together, your combined path is represented by the Two of Cups.” She says with a slight smile as though some extra insight to her alone pleased her about this conclusion “upright this card speaks of an unwavering partnership, of unity and the true deep connection of kindred spirits. In reverse it is a card of broken trust, disharmony, poor communication, and tension.”

  She leans back, allowing them to absorb the significance of the cards.

  "The paths you walk are rich with potential and interwoven with the possibility of profound mutual enrichment. Whether these paths converge for a longer journey or simply intersect briefly, they are marked by significant impact and emotional depth. How you navigate these waters is still yours to decide."

  Agreth looks to Gale to judge his thoughts on these revelations, feeling like the air in his lungs comes heavy and slow. They had come to this tent as a silly jest, but he felt as though he was cut to the wick.

  Gale meets his gaze with a contemplative expression, he ponders the cards' meanings, reflecting on the implications for their individual journeys and the intriguing prospects of their combined path.

  "The Two of Cups," he murmurs thoughtfully, "It seems our fates are indeed intertwined in a meaningful way, at least for a time."

  Gale turns his attention back to the fortune teller a serious note lacing through his expression and voice.

  "Given the uncertainty of the path that lays before us, what strengths should we rely on to point us in the right direction?"

  The fortune teller looks momentarily surprised as though it never occurred to her that it would not be obvious to them both. Her eyes lower to the cards that represent them.

  “These are both in reverse, and currently represent your biggest obstacle to the right path.” She explains.

  Her hand reaches out and a finger rests on the card before Agreth. She physically twists it, so it is upright before him.

  “The Knight of Wands upright; Fearlessness, action, adventure, and a passion for life. Let go of the anger, of the reckless impulsivity.” She says, as though certain of the bard.

  Her eyes turn to Gale’s card, her finger twisting his card upright.

  “The Ace of cups upright: Tranquility, emotional awakening, and true fulfillment. Finding what truly fills that emptiness, instead of what you tell yourself does.” She concludes, as though she could reveal the inner workings of the wizard.

  The fortune teller looks up from the cards to both men, her expression serene yet encouraging.

  "Consider where you are, and where you’d like to be as individuals, and this will help you on your path together. Lean on your strengths- your resilience, your courage, and your hope. They will guide you and lead you towards fulfillment and deeper understanding."

  A silence falls about the three, as the two men deeply consider her words in their own way.

  Gale turns to Agreth once more offering a smile. An attempt to bring the atmosphere back to the jovial playful anticipation they had entered the tent with before heavy truths were revealed.

  "It seems we have quite a journey ahead, Agreth.”

  Agreth’s own expression and thoughts ease, thankful for Gale’s calm.

  "Seems we are twisted into each other's futures. I have to confess I'm pleased to see our encounters maybe more than a two-day affair." Agreth responds, looking at the cards thoughtfully once more "I just wish I knew the nature of the journey."

  Gale smiles reassuringly, leaning slightly towards Agreth as if to emphasize the camaraderie and potential adventure that lies in their intertwined futures.

  "The mystery of it adds to the allure, doesn't it? Each encounter, each shared moment builds upon the last, crafting a story that neither of us could have anticipated alone. After all, the most memorable tales often begin with a bit of mystery and a leap of faith."

  Encouraged by the poetic words, Agreth leans over offering his hand to the wizard once more.

  "Here's to songs, and spells and brave leaps then."

  Gale grasps his hand firmly, clasping it in a sturdy moment of shared determination. Using the grasp, he stands, lightly pulling the bard to his feet as well. Once standing he releases his grip and gestures for their exit.

  "Now, shall we continue to enjoy the festival? There’s much more Highharvestide to celebrate, and I can think of no better way to honor our new understanding than by partaking in the joy of the present moment."

  In response Agreth nods to the fortune teller in thanks, brushing his cloths into order.

  "My gracious appreciation." he adds, and she simply nods in return, gathering her deck back together, her task completed for these two wandering souls.

  The two of them slip back out into the streets bustling with energy. They both wait and simply take in deep clear, crisp breaths. The heaviness of the room and conversation easing from both of their souls in the balm of celebration occurring around them.

  Gale scans the area, his eyes catching on several promising sights.

  "Let’s see, there’s a storyteller gathering a crowd with tales of distant lands and daring adventures just over there," he gestures towards a small circle of people enthralled by an animated figure. "Or perhaps, if you’re in the mood for something a bit more active, there’s a dance troupe inviting festivalgoers to learn a traditional dance steps."

  "Are you fleet footed Wizard?" Agreth asks in response glancing him up and down, seeing little of his form through his draping robes.

  With a playful twinkle in his eye, Gale responds, "More than you might expect. Wizards must often be quick on their feet, whether dodging a spell or dancing at a ball." he sweeps back a portion of his robe with a flourish, hinting at readiness for more physical activities. "I would be delighted to join the dance and test our coordination."

  Agreth steps towards the area where the dance troupe was gathering participants, and gestures invitingly.

  As they join the crowd near the dance troupe, the atmosphere is lively with anticipation. The head of the troupe, a vibrant character adorned in colorful garments, claps her hands to gather everyone's attention and begins to demonstrate the steps of the dance. The movements are rhythmic and fluid, accompanied by lively music played by nearby musicians.

  "Follow along, and don't be shy!" the troupe leader encourages, her voice carrying over the music as she shows a series of steps that involve quick footwork and graceful turns.

  Gale glances at Agreth with a prepared if slightly challenging smile, positioning himself to mirror the bard’s stance, ready to follow the dance steps.

  "Let's see if your aim is as true in dance as it is with your bow," he teases lightly, moving in time with the music.

  As they begin to mimic the dance, the steps initially challenging but increasingly fun, laughter and music fill the air as couples begin to lose rhythm and step on toes, or bump bodies.

  Not the bard and the wizard though.

  "I’m impressed Gale,” Agreth puffs with exertion as they twirl and step in keen rhythm together. As a Bard and the creator of music he has had decades of experience in dance, mastering it as an extension of his craft.

  "I did not expect you to be so skilled." he bows and offers a hand to twirl him. “I did not think studying tomes and scrolls lent itself to physical feats of skill."

  Gale accepts his hand with a chuckle, he spins gracefully under Agreth’s guidance, the movement fluid despite the bulk of his robes.

  "Ah, Agreth, there are many secrets beneath the surface of a wizard's life. Dance, it turns out, is not just a celebration of music and movement but also a form of arcane practice in its own right. Balance, rhythm, and a touch of spatial awareness- useful skills for spellcasting as well."

  As the music swells, he matches Agreth’s steps with a surprising agility, his own enjoyment of the dance evident.

  "Besides," he continues, breathlessly keeping pace with him, "one must find some way to stay nimble, lest all those hours poring over ancient texts take too much of a toll."

  The dance draws other festivalgoers into their rhythm, their laughter and cheers adding to the festive atmosphere.

  "It seems," he says with a broad smile, "that we both have hidden depths yet to explore.”

  "Oh?" Agreth quirks a brow at his words, their steps a sway of give and take. Gales movements in every way as skilled as Agreth’s. Their movements so unified and graceful that others are starting to notice and slow in their own dance captivated and keen just to watch them.

  "Are there things you wish to discover about me Gale?" he asked in faux innocence.

  As their dance continues, drawing the eyes of the crowd, Gale meets Agreth’s questioning gaze with a look of playful intrigue.

  "Indeed, Agreth, there is always more to learn, more to discover. Each tale you spin, each note you play, and now, each step you dance adds another layer. A bard's life is rich with experiences and stories, and who would I be, as a scholar of the arcane and the hidden, if I did not seek to learn more?"

  Even the musicians have now taken notice, their music flowing with their steps propping up their performance. The trope leader, observing with her hands on her hips, her annoyance at first softening at the two’s obvious care-free enjoyment.

  Agreth extends the dance into a final, elegant twirl, drawing them to a graceful halt amidst the applause of their audience. There is a hushed moment between the two, as they catch their breath.

  "And in turn, should curiosity strike, you are welcome to discover more about me. It is only fair, after all." Gale offers, his voice low and for Agreth alone to hear. Their eyes lock for a moment and the hushed moment grows with a new tension.

  Agreth steps back and offers Gale a sweeping appreciative bow, and then turns and bows to the crowd not missing an opportunity to be a true showman. While still bowing to others he speaks over his shoulder to Gale, speaking in more conversational tones.

  "And here this all started with me interviewing you. Curious that I piqued your interest so."

  Gale offers the applauding crowd a much less practiced bow of his own.

  "Ah, but such is the way of truly interesting encounters; they evolve, they deepen, they become reciprocal. From an interview to companionship, our journey has indeed taken a delightful turn."

  As the crowd begins to disperse, some still murmuring their appreciation for the dance, Gale steps closer to Agreth, the festive ambience around them still vibrant with the ongoing celebrations of Highharvestide.

  "You are no ordinary bard; your artistry, your wit, and your flair for life prove as much. It would be remiss of me not to take an interest."

  A blush creeps over Agreth’s face once more as Gale steps closer and offers such praise.

  "You flatter me Gale". He says simply, his wit failing him.

  Glancing around at the festival's many attractions, Gale finds a new suggestion to make.

  "Perhaps we might continue this exchange over a meal or a drink?” he gestures towards a nearby stall adorned with lanterns, offering a cozy spot for further conversation.

  Agreth glances to where he suggests they sit, the glow of the lanterns reminiscent of the place chosen for him to play Gale his song. He nods in easy agreement.

  As they make their way to the lantern-adorned stall, the soft glow of the lights casts a warm and inviting ambience, ideal for deeper conversation and reflection. They settle into seats that offer a comfortable view of the remaining festival activities yet provide a sense of privacy for their continued dialogue.

  “It's rare to find someone whose talents span so broadly and who also appreciates the finer nuances of magic and melody." Gale offers as he signals to a vendor for two cups of something warm, turning back to Agreth as they make themselves comfortable.

  "I'm curious, what drives your creativity? You weave music and words with such skill; surely there must be a wellspring of inspiration from which you draw?"

  Gale leans forward slightly as though intent to study the bard as he would a scroll. A genuine interest in learning more about the forces that seemed to drive the bard so effortlessly.

  "It actually might be boringly similar to something that inspires you" Agreth responds, staring off at nothing in particular taking time to gather his thoughts.

  "I was inspired by the Weave." his hands cup around the hot drink as it is brought to them, taking in its warmth

  "I could always feel it, but it always eluded me. Just out of reach of my senses. Like the buzzing electricity of two bodies anticipating touch." at that he steals a quick glance at the wizard’s grey eyes and then looks off and continues

  "The first time I picked up an instrument was the first time I could touch it. Truly." He sighs dreamily "That feeling, I could never leave it. I chase it in every melody I make."

  Gale nods, understanding immediately that profound yearning that could almost drive someone to madness.

  "Ah, to touch the Weave.” Gale murmurs, his own fascination with the arcane finding a parallel in his musical pursuits. "It's a beautiful notion, that music can serve as a bridge to the magical, connecting the tangible and intangible."

  Gale sips from his own cup, the warmth spreading through him.

  "Each of us chases something that gives our lives depth and meaning. A longing to understand and connect with something greater than ourselves."

  His eyes meet Agreth’s again, this time holding the gaze a little longer, allowing a connection beyond words.

  "Music and magic," he finally says, "perhaps they're more akin than most realize. Both are about weaving elements together to create something more, something that can touch others deeply."

  "Perhaps someday we could share." Agreth offers in response, his eyes wandering to the crowd that is starting to thin. The festival must be coming to an end, as the sun threatens to lower.

  "A demonstration of our magics to each other." he clarifies.

  "That would be a splendid idea," Gale agrees warmly, his eyes now too following the thinning crowd and noting the softening light of the approaching dusk.

  "I’ve had little opportunity to see how others outside of wizardry connect with the weave, manipulate her forces. It’d be quite the learning experience to see firsthand.”

  Gale glance back to Agreth, the idea clearly sparking excitement.

  "Let's plan for this, Agreth. Let's find a time and place where we can truly explore the depths of our talents. It could be a learning experience for both of us, and who knows, there may be an opportunity to explore magical connections within.”

  Gale raises his cup slightly in a toast to the future, a lingering invitation to accept his request. Agreth meets his toast heartily. Though at the toast, his appreciation smile turns sharp at the edges.

  "Are you asking me out on a date then Gale?" He asks teasingly.

  The sense of the crowd dispersing adding a sense of urgency. Plans being made would guarantee a re-meeting, no longer relaying on fate and risking slipping through each other's fingers.

  With a chuckle at Agreth’s teasing tone, Gale meets his playful inquiry with a gentle smile.

  "If you consider a meeting of magical and musical minds a date, then yes, perhaps I am," he responds, the lightness in his voice matching. "A date with destiny, let's say, where we explore the realms of art and arcane together."

  He pulls out a small calendar from one of his many pockets, a wizard's habit for keeping track of celestial events, and quickly confirms a date.

  "How does the first evening of the next new moon sound? It’s a time often associated with new beginnings and would be a fitting backdrop for our exploration. That would be just a fortnight away. We could meet here, at the edge of the town."

  "Consider it a date." Agreth chuckles in response with a coy smile.

  A playful exasperated glance enters the wizards face, though the smile never wavers.

  "A date it is, then. I look forward to it with great anticipation Agreth." He says in calculated cool tones, finishing off the last sips of his warm tea.

  Agreth follows suit finishing his as well, a quiet contentedness settling over him with new plans made for the two, the end of the night seeming less threatening now.

  Their companionship slips into quiet contemplation of the day before Gale stands, straightening his robes.

  "It has been an unexpectedly memorable day. I look forward to our next meeting. until then, take care, and let the muse of your music guide you."

  Agreth stands out of politeness and gives him a slight bow.

  “Have a restful night, Gale. Thank you for the playful exploration today.”

  With a final nod and a respectful bow, Gale turns to leave, the fading light of the festival day mingling with the warmth of a newly formed connection and the promise of shared magic to come.