( this place is clearly in mourning, which isn't really helping Hayley with her current coping issues. so instead of lingering around the sad looks begging for help, Hayley finds any tavern open and serving.

when the sun goes down. because apparently that's a thing she needs to worry about.

the bartender is kind enough to offer a drink, she guesses she looks like she needs it. but she doesn't offer much extra in conversation, and Hayley lets it go. at first. the longer she sits there, though, the more she realizes how quiet it's died around her. people move seats over, giving her a wide berth. ) Fine, I can take a hint.

( she gets up from her chair, taking her drink with her as she leaves the tavern entirely. surprisingly, no one stops her. the loss of the cup is worth it for the relaxing breath they all take when the Otherworlder clears the scene. Spotting another who clearly doesn't come from here, Hayley frowns at them. )

If you're looking to socialize, inside probably isn't your best bet. ( she approaches the little wall that separates the tavern's yard from the street, climbing onto it to sit down while she drinks in the cold. ) The beer's not bad, though. ( she shrugs. she supposes it depends on what matters most to you right now. )

( there's a cat talking to her.

Hayley is fairly positive she's not lost her mind- actually she hasn't ruled that out. this is a very strange cosmic event to be pulled into after all. the cat, though, really isn't helping her think this is anything more than a fever dream. )

All right... ( she draws out hesitantly, wide eyes still on the cat. ) I'll bite. ( she looks around for someone nearby that might be up for an adventure. and apparently "someone up for an adventure" is really just any Otherworlder that can confirm this cat is actually talking right now. )

Hey. You want to help out?

( exploring the woods at night would be less creepy for the vampire if her abilities weren't so weakened. she feels exposed, the darkness nearly suffocating with the potential of danger. from the rumors she's heard, though, she has nothing to fear from the forest. so long as she means it no harm at least.

admittedly, she came her with intention. she doesn't find the shrines by any luck or chance. once she hears of Death and their realm, she seeks out some way of finding them. it's early, she's aware, but Hayley is accustomed to working on tight timelines. she doesn't waste seconds, being former immortal helping her realize those seconds are too precious to waste.

instead she finds the shrines mostly empty. most people don't venture out into the woods at night, but she has little other options to her. on her way out, and older woman presses a coin into Hayley's hand. genuinely, Hayley thanks her for the advice and the gift. one that she readily offers to the shrine. )

I don't know if you're... really listening. Or if you have better things to do. ( she folds her arms over her chest, holding herself as she mulls over her thoughts. ) But if you are out there, I could use some help. ( she bites her lip. ) Or maybe just some guidance...

( once she's finished, she kneels down to press her coin into the bowl before she speaks- ) You know it's rude to listen to someone's prayers.

USERNAME: HAYLEY

Well this is definitely a strange situation to be in.

I guess I'm kind of curious here. It seems like there's two choices, but we weren't asked which side we wanted to be on.

So... does everyone really support the side they're on? Or are you just doing what you have to to get by?

( feel free to make a starter of your own or pm me with any questions! )