Lake Rodney Staring death in the face

Her words brought a certain sadness to Kaito's chest, though he wasn't real sure if "sadness" was the right word to use. Maybe not -- or maybe yes. Quite frankly, he didn't know. What he felt was an indescribable feeling, a vacant yet very present ache that rose just behind his sternum, and crawled into his throat. Kaito desperately wished to help Serem, but he could only help her as much as she let him. He had to accept that, but he didn't have to like it.

He deffered to her with a tip of his head, but kept his gentle gaze on her face, as soft as he was resolute. "You deserve so much more than just a place where you can hold your ground," he said, and kept silent a moment, before he shifted, and began to turn away, "Well, you'd best believe you've made a friend in me today. So, y'know, if you ever change your mind, and decide you need to get out, and you need somewhere safe to stay, you know my name. Just look for me, ask around," he meant that, and he meant this, "You're worthy to be treated with love, and kindness, and great respect. I hope you know that." No, he hoped she believed it, and he smiled -- a bit sadder than before, but no less genuine.  "See you around, Serem. I pray our paths will meet again."

And like that, he was gone, and the path away from the lake concealed the woman from sight. But her memory would linger well into the winter. Serem was not a face, nor a story, he would soon forget -- and he was okay with that.