Morning light presses faintly against the heavy curtains. Patch remains beneath the silk blanket beside Kerson, one hand resting protectively over her abdomen.
Patch
Kerson, wake gently, handsome. I have something important to tell you, and I need you to hear all of it.
Patch shifts onto one elbow, keeping her palm over her stomach. Her usual mischief is absent, replaced by careful uncertainty as the quiet room holds their warmth.
Patch
I am pregnant. I know it is early, but I have counted twice, and I am certain enough to tell you.
Patch
Please do not let fear turn this home into another place I have to flee.
Patch
The house can become what we planned, but our plans must change. Less reckless work, more provisions, and no disappearing alone. I need care, not promises made in haste.
She studies Kerson’s face, then lightly tightens her hold over her abdomen. Beyond the curtains, Bellwater carries on unaware, while the future of their family waits for his answer.
✓ Quest Accepted
Prepare for the arrival of Patch and Kerson’s child
“"I know, no more jobs right now, after all I have to take care of the two most important people in the world." you murmur softly to her as you nuzzle her, one hand straying to her stomach.”
SUCCESS (Great Willpower, rolled -2)
Kerson
I know. No more jobs right now. I have to take care of the two most important people in the world.
Kerson murmurs the reassurance softly against Patch, nuzzling her as one hand settles over her stomach. The promise is quiet, but unmistakably firm.
Patch
You mean that? No sudden errands, no discreet work, no vanishing because someone offers enough coin to tempt you?
Kerson
No jobs. I will stay here and care for you and our child.
Patch covers his hand with hers. In answering, Kerson gives up the next commissions that might have replenished their purse, leaving their household coin to bear every coming expense.
Patch
Then I believe you, handsome. We will make this work carefully, together. But you are helping with every shelf, every meal, and every frightened thought.
She draws him close beneath the silk blanket, her uncertainty easing without disappearing. Morning remains muted behind the curtains, and their new family begins with the promise kept.
“spend your time quietly shopping for new items that a baby needs, a crib, toys, making the nursery baby proof and removing anything sharp inside it.”
SUCCESS (Fair Reasoning, rolled +1)
Kerson spends the morning moving quietly through Bellwater’s market with Patch, choosing soft blankets, linen wraps, small wooden toys, and enough clothing for a growing child.
At a carpenter’s stall, he selects a sturdy wooden crib with smooth rails and a low rocking cradle, paying from their household coin without haggling.
Patch
You are taking this very seriously, handsome. Good. Our little one deserves more than hurried purchases and whatever fits in an old travel pack.
Back at the riverside house, Kerson clears the smaller chamber. He removes blades, tools, sharp hooks, loose nails, and anything with a dangerous edge, locking them safely elsewhere.
He pads the hearth’s corners, secures the cupboard doors, covers the window latch, and checks every floorboard and shelf until the nursery is orderly and safe.
Patch
There. A crib, toys, clean linens, and no hidden hazards waiting for curious little hands. You have made the room ready, partner.
The crib settles beneath the curtained window, surrounded by fresh blankets and painted wooden animals. Patch rests a hand over her abdomen, and the quiet nursery waits for its new occupant.
Quest Complete
Prepare for the arrival of Patch and Kerson’s child
Attribute Upgrade: Willpower Great→Superb
+ New Item Acquired
Baby blankets
+ New Item Acquired
Linen wraps
+ New Item Acquired
Wooden toys
+ New Item Acquired
Wooden crib
+ New Item Acquired
Rocking cradle