Methinks we’re good. Let’s enjoy the rest of the forest date by ourselves.

Yeah.
Thank her but a little time for you guys is whats needed.
Even if its just sitting somewhere with a nice view and taking it all in

Buckwheat 2025/11/04(Tue)02:00 No. 1116311 ID: b6ea64
File 176222163765.png - (6.11KB , 800x600 , 44.png )

>Let’s enjoy the rest of the forest date by ourselves.
>Thank her but a little time for you guys is whats needed. Even if its just sitting somewhere with a nice view and taking it all in
Kaari: “I think we’ll be fine on our own Lana. I want to relax more with you.”

Lana: “Nah, we can handle things ourselves Judith. Thanks for the help, we’ll call again if anything else comes up. Over.”

Judith: “Alright you two, try to take it easy with that leg and enjoy the rest of the park. Over and out!”

Lana clips it back on her pocket and tries to stand up.
Lana: “Hurts a little bit to move around, but it’s bearable.”

Kaari: “Sit down and rest a little bit then. We have been walking and running around for awhile now.”

Lana: “Yeah, probably a good idea. Do you want some water or anything while we're taking a break?”

Kaari: “Sure, I could use a little sip.”

I pack up the first aid kit and grab a water bottle from the backpack.

Lana: “Ah, let’s see here… getting close to five right now. We probably have time to check out another nearby spot in the park before the sun starts going down. After that we should probably head to our geocache spot.”

Kaari: “Didn’t we bring flashlights?”

Lana: “We did, but I’d like to search for it while there’s some light.”

Kaari: “Okay, so what’s nearby we can check out then?”

Lana: “We could walk back to that sign, go the other way, and check out the wishing well. There’s a little picnic area there too. If we keep heading down this path it’ll lead us over a small copper mine. We can’t actually go and mine for anything, but we we’re allowed to check out a few areas.”

wishing well = water. no thanks.

Lets go to the mining site.

>>1116311
That old copper mine probably has poachers in it...
Go to the picnic area. The well should be fine so long as you don't look into it.

>>1116312
Mine!

Mine sounds fine

1/3 Buckwheat 2025/11/12(Wed)01:52 No. 1116784 ID: b6ea64
File 176291236671.png - (6.01KB , 800x600 , 45.png )

>Lets go to the mining site.
>Mine sounds fine
Kaari: “How about we go check out the copper mine?”

Lana: “Sure. Maybe we’ll see some more interesting history. Either that or we’ll find out those saps are setup in the caves too.”

Kaari: “Ugh, don’t say that! Knowing my luck they probably would be hiding in there.”

Lana: “Well we could always turn back for the wishing well then.”

Kaari: “No, let’s head for the mine. There’s probably more interesting stuff to see there than an old well.”

Lana gets up from the bench and takes a few slow steps.
Kaari: “We can sit here for a bit too if your leg still hurts.”

Lana: “I don’t think my leg’s going to be pain free for awhile yet, Kaari. It’ll be fine though, let’s go.”
I just nod and we head down the path towards the mine.

2/3 Buckwheat 2025/11/12(Wed)01:53 No. 1116785 ID: b6ea64
File 176291242471.png - (6.22KB , 800x600 , 46.png )

Lana: “Wow, lot of warning signs posted here.”

Kaari: “Under no circumstance is any guest of Hazel Pointe Nature Trail to take any precious metals or ore out of the mine shaft. Violators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”

Lana: “Maybe they need to throw signs like that up by the sap trees. What else do we need to be wary of in the mines?”

Kaari: “Absolutely no smoking allowed in the mines. Punishable by fine of up to ten thousand notes!”
I look over to see she’s digging in her pockets,

Lana: “Hey, just making sure I’m clean, Kaari.”

Kaari: “I hope so, can you imagine having to pay that fine!”

Lana: “A fine like that? It’d be behind locked bars for me.”

Kaari: “Good thing you’re not packing any contraband then. Come on, let’s head inside.”

3/3 Buckwheat 2025/11/12(Wed)01:54 No. 1116786 ID: b6ea64
File 176291249473.png - (5.95KB , 800x600 , 47.png )

We make our way, and it starts to get noticeably warmer as head further into the shaft.

Lana: “You know, this is pretty cozy. Warm lights and the rustic accents. Expected this to be more damp and dark.”
Kaari: “Looks like it’s so we can see the displays they’ve setup.”

Lana: “Hopefully the history lesson here isn’t as bleak as the cabin’s.”

Inside the box is a rough looking tree sculpture. Looking at it closely, the bottom of it is really shiny while the top is all rough and oxidized.
Lana: “Wow, I wonder how they keep the bottom of that from oxidizing?”

Kaari: “Well, however they do it, that’s a cool idea! What’s the story behind it though?”

Lana: “Let’s see here... Edward DuPointe painstakingly sculpted this copper tree in an attempt to win back his fiancé. After news broke out about the unfortunate cabin snow in, Lauren Poppy tried to cut all ties with the DuPointe family. Edward hoped to separate himself from his father’s cold actions by warming up to the fine arts. After a few weeks, he proposed to her with this sculpture. ‘Forget the olive branch Lauren, I’m reaching out with the whole tree!’ Unfortunately for Edward though, the love boat had sailed. Lauren rejected his gift stating he should be helping out the families affected by his fathers actions instead. A cold jab at his reported failures to show up at negotiations to end the strike.”

Kaari: “Eugh. At this point I’ve got a feeling everything here is going to circle back to that cabin.”

Lana: “Well, it was a pretty tragic event Kaari. Got me thinking though.”

Kaari: “Thinking about what? Going on strike at the bar?”

Lana: “Hah, no. Any of us went on strike and they’d give us the boot.”

Lana: “If you had to make something to win over my heart, what would it be?”

I tease her a bit,
Kaari: “Gee Lana, how could I ever top our most intimate and romantic moments like prying boards off a door to escape a hostage situation, or tightening up your stitches.”
That gets a little laugh out of her.

Lana: “True, I’d be hard pressed to beat helping out with a flea bath myself.”

Kaari: “I know your only joking a bit, but that really did mean a lot to me that you helped with that."

Lana: “Hey, I’m there for whatever it takes to help out when you need it.”

That was a good question she asked though. Lana’s done a lot for me. What would be something nice I could make or give her?

It is a good question...

One worth finding an answer for even if you dont share it.

"If i told you, it wouldnt have as much effect when you saw it."
Or something like that is the answer to give, but as to the answer you have...

A tree made of bottlecaps and other bar pariphinalia.
She means a lot to you.
Something beautiful out of the bar, to remind of the forest and the tree of copper you saw in a mine on an odd but still very much a wonderful date.

Which if she pushes you could share i guess, but otherwise youve got an arts and crafts project ahead of you.

Something that reflects her interests or what she needs. Right now that would be something she can use at college, but personalized for her. Could be a backpack, a notebook, a calculator, whatever. The important thing is that she'll use it everyday and it will be a reminder of their love.

Calculator with a poem on the back.

1/4 Buckwheat 2025/11/18(Tue)03:08 No. 1117145 ID: b6ea64
File 176343528193.png - (5.77KB , 800x600 , 48.png )

>Something that reflects her interests or what she needs. Right now that would be something she can use at college, but personalized for her.
>Could be a backpack, a notebook, a calculator, whatever.
>Calculator with a poem on the back.
>important thing is that she'll use it everyday and it will be a reminder of their love.
That could be nice! Something she’d see and use everyday. I wish I knew more about the college classes she’s taking. That’d probably make it a bit easier to find something she needs.
Kaari: “Back to your question, I dunno Lana. You got me thinking of some good Christmas gifts.”

Lana: “Oh yeah? What kind of gifts?”

Kaari: “I told you, Christmas gifts.”

She chuckles,
Lana: “Alright, I get the hint. Sounds like you got something special in mind there.”

She proceeds further into the shaft,

Lana: “Come on, let’s we what else we can find in here. ”

2/4 (animated) Buckwheat 2025/11/18(Tue)03:08 No. 1117146 ID: b6ea64
File 176343532713.gif - (104.21KB , 800x600 , 49.gif )

We continue on, there’s a few ‘Do not enter’ and ‘Employees only’ signs posted.
Kaari: “I’m getting the feeling there isn’t much else to see in here, Lana.”

Lana: “I think you spoke too soon Kaari, look over there.”
She points over to something orange and red littered across the ground.

Kaari: “Wait, is that fur a-and blood?!”

She kneels down and picks up some strands,
Lana: “Yeah I don’t like this. We should probably head back, Kaari.”

3/4 (animated) Buckwheat 2025/11/18(Tue)03:09 No. 1117147 ID: b6ea64
File 176343537283.gif - (28.63KB , 800x600 , 50.gif )

Deeper in the tunnel we can hear someone coughing up a lung. A few moments later, heavy boot steps echo.

Click-clomp, click-clomp, click-clomp…

We both freeze. I catch a glimpse of a large figure in the corner of my vision.

Click-clomp, click-clomp, click-clomp…

I almost bolt right then and there, but fear has too strong of a grip.

4/4 Buckwheat 2025/11/18(Tue)03:16 No. 1117151 ID: b6ea64
File 176343576532.png - (7.02KB , 800x600 , 51.png )

The figure stifles another cough. A strained and gravelly voice greets us,

???: “Aegh, sorry.”

The figure is so tall, it has to duck to enter the section. Oh that’s a massive donkey!

He rubs on his throat and mumbles for a moment,
Donkey: “Guests?”

Lana: “Oh uh, yeah. We’re here checking out the copper mine.”

He looks down at me for a moment, then gives Lana an annoyed look.
Donkey: “No boots?”

Kaari: “Oh, sorry. Are we suppose to have shoes on in here?”

Donkey: “Sharp rocks hu-”
He stops for moment and coughs in his arm.
Donkey: “They hurt, boots help.”

He points down at the scattered fur,
Donkey: “This one learned- auck. Painful lesson.”

He looks around for a moment and lets out another cough.
Donkey: “Lost?”

Kaari: “No, we’re just looking around.”

He rubs his throat some more.
Donkey: “Where’s the guide?”

Lana: “There’s supposed to be a tour guide?”

There’s that annoyed look again.
Donkey: “Bums. Easy to get lost.”

He scratches his chin,
Donkey: “Guess I can guide.”

He looks towards both ways in the section.
Donkey: “Mine carts, mining tools. Could show the camp too, I think.”

All of that sounds like it'd be cool to check out. Kind of nervous still, this guy is massive, but he seems nice enough. My minds just, racing a lot from that still. Where should we go next?

>>1117151
Well, if you want to know for sure it's safe, have him lead you in the direction of the blood trail. I'm guessing that's the camp. He goes first.

I expect to see a cat sitting around with a bandaged foot. Oh, and watch your step.

You know, I don't think sharp rocks usually cause fur loss. I mean there's no fur on the bottom of your feet. But it is a good excuse for not going any further into the mine.

Ask if he has something to show he works here?

Check da camp out yo.

>>1117152
yeah, do what this says

Instead of adding to the trail of fur and blood, let's go back. Maybe get some safety equipment.

1/3 Buckwheat 2025/11/26(Wed)02:19 No. 1117665 ID: b6ea64
File 176412355755.png - (6.74KB , 800x600 , 52.png )

>Ask if he has something to show he works here?
Kaari: “What’s that pin on your overalls say?”

He takes it off and passes it over to me.

Kaari: “Pickford, D-team captain. Is that your name?”

He nods his head yes.

Lana: “What were you the captain of?”

Pickford: “D-team.”

He lets of a brief chuckle.

Pickford: “Was my crew.”

>Well, if you want to know for sure it's safe, have him lead you in the direction of the blood trail. I'm guessing that's the camp. He goes first.
Kaari: “Alright, how about we check out the camp?”

He ducks under the entryway again and then motions for us to follow him.

Lana: “Are you sure about this, Kaari?”

Kaari: ”He seems nice enough. I’ll be sure to watch my step.”

She let’s out a nervous sigh,
Lana: “Okay Pickford, lead the way.”

2/3 Buckwheat 2025/11/26(Wed)02:19 No. 1117666 ID: b6ea64
File 176412358840.png - (6.47KB , 800x600 , 53.png )

I keep my eyes towards the ground as we follow Pickford.

Lana: “So how’d you end up becoming a mining captain?”

He struggles for a moment to clear his throat,
Pickford: “Hard work.”

Kaari: “How long have you worked here in the mines?”

Pickford: “Twenty-two years.”

3/3 Buckwheat 2025/11/26(Wed)02:21 No. 1117667 ID: b6ea64
File 176412367173.png - (7.30KB , 800x600 , 54.png )

He takes us around another turn and into the camp.
Pickford opens a cooler and chugs a water in one gulp.
Pickford: “Aaah. Been needing that.”
He grabs another one and continues,
Pickford: “Can I offer anything? Got waters and orange soder.”

Lana: “That’s fine, we brought our own snacks and drinks.”

He shuts the lid and sits on it,
Pickford: “Hm, so what’s got you two here in the mines?”

Kaari: “We’re here on a nature walk, and in a bit we’re going to go geocaching.”

Pickford: “Used to have caches in here.”
He chugs down the entire bottle in one gulp again.
Pickford: “Banned it from the mines. Folks kept getting lost.”

Lana: “It’s still okay on the nature trail though?”

Pickford: “Mmmhmm. Easier to get back on track outside.”

Kaari: “Have you ever got lost in here?”

Pickford: “Oooh, once or twice? When I first started. Know the paths real well now.”

Pickford: “Could share some work stories if that’s what you’re interested in.”

Pickford: “Or I guess any questions ya have about mining. History and what not.”

Oh! This might be a good chance to learn about something other than that cabin incident. There’s a lot I could ask him, but I should probably keep it to just one or two questions.

Surely the mine has some stories that aren't sad like the cabin's

Yes.
Mention the cabin and ask if theres anything in the mines history thats a bit, um, brighter than that. Positive stuff.

What's his favorite soder?

How much copper is still in this mine? how much copper did everyone mine?

1/2 Buckwheat 2025/11/30(Sun)21:05 No. 1118159 ID: b6ea64
File 176453671644.png - (7.06KB , 800x600 , 55.png )

>What's his favorite soder?
Kaari: “What’s your favorite soder, Pickford?”

Pickford: “Mmm, Doctor Leopard.”

Lana: “Citrus or Cream Soda flavor?”

Pickford: “Cream Soder. Cherry’s okay too. Not too fussy.”

>How much copper is still in this mine?
Kaari: “Is there any copper left to find?”

Pickford: “Possibly. Mostly just tours now. Still maintain things for safety.”

>how much copper did everyone mine?
Lana: “How much copper came out of this mine?”

Pickford: “Wasn’t too privy on that. At least two-hundred tons, maybe three?

>Surely the mine has some stories that aren't sad like the cabin's
> Mention the cabin and ask if theres anything in the mines history thats a bit, um, brighter than that. Positive stuff.
Kaari: “Got anything more positive than the cabin story?”

Pickford: “Is that the snow in, or the lumber accident?”

Pickford: “Don’t matter I guess. Both were tragic.”

He rubs his throat for a moment,

Pickford: “Positive stories… well I guess there’s the cave-in we had. Almost lost my crew-"

Lana: “That’s positive?”

Pickford: Almost, don’t be interrupting now. Yours truly saved the day.”

He leans forward and starts telling his tale,

2/2 Buckwheat 2025/11/30(Sun)21:06 No. 1118160 ID: b6ea64
File 176453680239.png - (7.04KB , 800x600 , 56.png )

Pickford: “So, there I was, playing a game of blackjack. Having some soders with the guys. Foremen comes in all pissed off at me.”

He tries to sound like an angry drill sergeant, he still sounds a bit rough.

Pickford: ”Are all jackasses deaf or just you! On your feet, grab your gear, your crew just caved themselves in!”

Pickford: “No one heard a thing. Crew wasn’t even scheduled to go in yet. Foreman gave me shit for not being round. Asked him what happened, and he said,”

Pickford: “You got a Smoky Joe amongst your men Pickford! Some idiot chimney puffer went and lit one of them damn cancer sticks and caused an explosion! Probably ain’t got no fur left on his face.”

Lana: “You really remember everything he said there?”

Pickford: “When you got a foremen like ol Mueller, you don’t forget a thing he says.”

Kaari: “Yeah, I don’t think I could ever forget someone calling someone a chimney puffer.”

Lana: “Yeah, and if I ever hear you call me that, you better hope I wasn’t listening.”

He chuckles,
Pickford: “Well, foremen’s tangent aside. I grabbed my tool belt en helmet. Followed the foremen down to where my crew was. Situation was worse than I thought, those bums were screwing around with their lady friends. Tryin to act all tough and show’em round the mines.”

He stops to down another water.

Pickford: “No ‘chimney puffers’ in my crew though. Some jackass was playing with the dynamite.”

Pickford: “Anyway, quite the rough situation. Explosion had rubble rollin and seal’en’em in.”

Pickford: “Spent hours shoveling gravel away only to find more trouble.”

Kaari: “What could possibly make the cave-in worse?”

Pickford: “A second cave-in of course.”

Pickford: “Nah, wasn’t that bad. A solid slab was in our way next.”

Kaari: “Did you have to blow it up?”

Pickford: “Not a chance. Had to bust it up.”

Lana: “What’d you use then? I can’t imagine a pickax would break solid rock.”

Pickford: “You’d be right. Picks are for prying. Foremen had to haul in the power tools.”

Kaari: “Like a jack hammer?"

Pickford: “Nah, rock breakers. Bit smaller, easier to hold.”

Pickford: “Breaks more than rocks too.”

He motions his wrist a bit and winces.

Pickford: “Also kills your hands.”

Lana: “How long did it take to make an exit hole or something for them?”

Pickford: “Oh it wasn’t no hole. Had to break the whole thing down.”

Pickford: “Five hours and eight men.”

Kaari: “Did everyone make it out okay?”

Pickford: “Well, no deaths. Jackass who caused it, knocked himself unconscious. Hauled him out on a stretcher.”

He gets a big smile on his face.

Pickford: “Came busting in for everyone. Tell ya, all dem ladies came rushing to me.”

Then he blushes,
Pickford: “Was how I met my wife, Chloe.”

He slumps over a bit and sighs,
Pickford: “Bless her heart, she was a wonderful gal.”

Pickford: “That’s the story though. Most folks like a happy rescue. What’d you think?”

We gotta hero in our presence, 2 heroes in fact! I’d ask Lana to share her heroic story, but it might be too traumatic…

Hmm… Actually maybe ask about any trauma he or the other miners might have faced if any after that ordeal and how they dealt with it. Like how was he and his people able to continue working in the mines after something so horrific? Maybe he can share some tips for your and Lana's own trauma and help overcome your fear of water.

Other than that, maybe he can show you where the cave-in happened, so we can get a visual idea of what he experienced

>>1118160
That was wonderful.
A happy ending, even for the jackass but mostly for the folks who deserved it.

>>1118162
Yep.
Salute the hero.
Hes the real deal.

It... does kinda sound like he has lost his wife though.
But maybe ask him about chloe. If he wants to talk.
No pressure.
She was a part of a story too after all.
He sounds like he dug up a diamond that day.

Sounds like what must have been a traumatic experience has faded to the point its just an interesting story to tell.

Maybe someday Lana and Kaari will look back on that night the same way.

1/5 Buckwheat 2025/12/07(Sun)05:20 No. 1118621 ID: b6ea64
File 176508485439.png - (7.07KB , 800x600 , 57.png )

>Salute the hero. He’s the real deal.
Kaari: “That was a good story Pickford. You’re a real hero!”

Pickford: “Well, gotta protect my crew. Would’a done it for any of’em.”

>He sounds like he dug up a diamond that day.
>maybe ask him about chloe. If he wants to talk.
Kaari: “Do you mind talking about Chloe? What was she like?”

He lets out another sigh,
Pickford: “She was an athletic horse. Could run laps around me. ‘Sted she’d slow down-n-wait.”

Pickford: “Sure I’m tall an strong. Mining’s tough though. Wears your body down.”

Pickford: “She came up with a whole routine for me. Taught this stubborn mule to take better care of himself. Stretches, when to take a short break.”

Pickford: “Go figure though-“

He has another coughing fit,
Pickford: “Erhm. Go figure. I got smoke-n-gravel in my lungs. Sicker than a dog some days. Yet, she’s the one who dies from a damn heart attack.”

Lana: “I’m sorry to hear that, Pickford.”

Pickford: “She died doing what she loved.”

He wipes some tears,
Pickford: “She’ll always be first place in my heart.”

>Ask about any trauma he or the other miners might have faced if any after that ordeal and how they dealt with it
Kaari: “This might be a tough question, but how did you or the other miners deal with any trauma after that incident?”

Pickford: “Banned ol Nestor from ever touching a stick of dynamite again.”

Pickford: “Whole thing was easily preventable though. We all shook it off just fine.”

He sighs and looks down at the ground,
Pickford: “The other incidents, well. I don’t think you wanna to hear about those.”

Pickford: “I can see it in your eyes though. You got stories of your own.”

Lana: “Yeah, that’s one way to put it.”

Kaari: “We had a narrow escape of our own recently.”

Kaari: “It was… a lot of what happened is still stuck on my mind. Do you have any advice to help?”

He rubs his chin for a good moment.
Pickford: “Stick with your loved ones. Ma, pa, boyfriend, girlfriend, best friend, don’t matter.”

Pickford: “Do stuff with’em. Make good memories.”

Pickford: “Eventually, the good times will bury the bad.”

2/5 Buckwheat 2025/12/07(Sun)05:21 No. 1118622 ID: b6ea64
File 176508488310.png - (7.14KB , 800x600 , 58.png )

He gets up and stretches,
Pickford: “Eruuugh! Well, hope this ol mule was helpful. Gotta get back to inspections soon.”

Pickford: “Hm, suppose I should walk you twos back out. Easy to get lost.”

Pickford: ”Bum rangers.”

3/5 Buckwheat 2025/12/07(Sun)05:21 No. 1118623 ID: b6ea64
File 176508491014.png - (6.57KB , 800x600 , 59.png )

He guides us out back to the entrance of the mine,

Kaari: “Thanks again for the story and advice, Pickford!”

Pickford: “Was no problem at all. Stay safe and on the trail now.”

Lana: “Will do.”

Kaari: “Bye Pickford!”

He starts coughing again, but waves us goodbye as he ducks back into the mines.

4/5 Buckwheat 2025/12/07(Sun)05:22 No. 1118624 ID: b6ea64
File 176508493899.png - (6.07KB , 800x600 , 60.png )

Lana pulls out a map.

Lana: “Alright, just double checking where we need to go…”

She starts mumbling a bit, tracing over paths with claws.

Lana: “Think I’ve got a good trail for us to take.”

She pockets the map and leads the way.

5/5 Buckwheat 2025/12/07(Sun)05:22 No. 1118625 ID: b6ea64
File 176508496313.png - (5.43KB , 800x600 , 61.png )

Lana: “So, you seemed pretty interested in the mines. Thinking of digging for copper with Pickford?”

Kaari: “I don’t think I’m really cut out for mining, plus he made it sound like the mine isn’t active anymore.”

Lana: “Think you could say the same about the logging they used to do too. Lot of trees around here yet.”

Kaari: “Maybe these ones didn’t get chopped down since they’re sap trees?”

Lana: “Good point. Not sure all of these are used for that though.”

She stops and turns around,
Lana: “So, if you get the job here Kaari. What do you hope to do? What’s interested you so far?”

This is gonna sound silly, but is soder delivery something they need? :)

>>1118625
"What's interested me? I guess in a way...being able to protect something worth protecting, I guess. Kinda like you- not that you're just a 'thing', obviously, I love you so much, I just...I dunno. I like this place. Feels peaceful. Calm. Want it to stay that way.

"I've always wanted to drive a big ass truck."

What a sweet old mule.

Soder delivery doesnt sound silly at all.
Could even combine it with a, well, maybe not a big ass truck, but a reasonably assed one at least.
And itd put you in the place where youd be able to help ward the woods from saps and neredowells.

Say, imagine... a small food and drink cabinspace.
Primarily for park staff as a cafeteria, but available for visitors to supplement park finances.
A little bike to deliver lunches to more remote workers like that sweet old mule.
Pitch in with the rangering during quiet times.
Maybe even while youre doing it, start out on a formal education in whatever qualifications rangers carry.

1/2 Buckwheat 2025/12/07(Sun)18:57 No. 1118680 ID: b6ea64
File 176513382390.png - (5.48KB , 800x600 , 62.png )

>"What's interested me? I guess in a way...being able to protect something worth protecting
>I like this place. Feels peaceful. Calm. Want it to stay that way.
Kaari: “What’s interested me is how peaceful this place feels. I just feel so much at ease here than I ever have at the bar. I want to help Judith and Pickford protect that feeling.”

Lana: “You might not feel that peace while you’re working here. Remember, we’re here having a nice date while Judith and the other rangers are running around chasing sap poachers.”

Kaari: “That’s kind of a negative look at it.”

Lana: “Sorry, that’s not what I meant. I’m just trying to put some things into perspective and get you thinking about things. It’s a great job opportunity, but are you going to be handle dealing with things like poachers or other park troubles?”

Ah, that’s where she’s going with that.
Kaari: “Honestly Lana, I’m not sure on that part. I’ll have to figure it out or deal with it somehow.”

Lana: “Better keep that one in mind, they might ask you that if they interview you.”

Lana: “How about the other part of the question, say you get the job. What do you want to do here?”

>I've always wanted to drive a big ass truck.
>is soder delivery something they need?
>small food and drink cabinspace. Primarily for park staff as a cafeteria, but available for visitors to supplement park finances. A little bike to deliver lunches to more remote workers like that sweet old mule.
Kaari: “Maybe a little soder delivery service?”

She chuckles,
Lana: “Sounds like you’ve already picked up Pickford’s accent.”

Kaari: “Heheh, I thought it was a little cute honestly.”

Lana: “Should I start saying soder then?”

Kaari: “Nah, you don’t have to change up the way you talk for me.”

Lana: “So, doing a delivery service. How do you think it’d work here?”

Kaari: “I could go driving around the park delivering food or drinks to the rangers, or other stuff when they need it. They could radio me what they need and I’d come deliver it.”

Kaari: “Or maybe biking around. Set up a little cafeteria or something even.”

2/2 Buckwheat 2025/12/07(Sun)18:57 No. 1118681 ID: b6ea64
File 176513384665.png - (5.48KB , 800x600 , 63.png )

Lana: “Oh shit, Kaari your drivers license.”

Kaari: “What about- oh no.”

Lana: “What are you going to tell them when they run a background check on you, and find out about your little drag racing stunt?”

Kaari: “I-oh Lana why’d you have to bring that up!”

I am so screwed. I still have another week and a half until I can even start the process of getting my license back. They’re going to find out about it and then I’m not going to get the job, and I’m going to have to be stuck at the bar or jobless!

I-there’s has to be something I could do or say? I can’t just give up!

Be forthright and say you can’t drive. Find the one among them who’s the oldest and most experienced. They’re usually the most forgiving.

To at least get your foot in the door, perhaps try applying for a job here that doesn't require driving. Then, once you get your license after half a year to a year, then you can try asking for a different position. This will also help you get a lay of the land working here.

Maybe firewatching could be one example. you can check the area for any signs of smoke from a fire lookout tower, then radio somebody to check it out. Yeah, a boring job, but won't be for long until you get your license back, and you can start asking for a delivery service job. Plus, it puts you in a position to get to look around the area.

alternatively, you can also try janitorial work. keep the park clean!

>>1118681
Dont need a drivers license for a bike.
Maybe a motorised one, but notpedal.

Mind you, thats probably not the real issue.
>>1118683
Agreed.
Better to reveal than it be uncovered like you were hiding something.
A mistake like that is a mark against you, but your actions with the sap thieves strike me as a more accurate measure of your character. both the confrontation then maybe even figuring out their den would mitigate a mistake youve grown beyond.
Even for the suggested firewatch option, there'd still be a chance of background check.

We all have our little transgressions. No one lives who doesn't break some law, whether they get caught or not. As long as you aren't evasive about it you should be fine.

So say that you are in the process of re-earning your license, and if they ask then say what happened and that it was a mistake you regret.

1/2 Buckwheat 2025/12/17(Wed)01:17 No. 1119144 ID: b6ea64
File 176593426342.png - (5.45KB , 800x600 , 64.png )

>Be forthright and say you can’t drive.
>say that you are in the process of re-earning your license
>A mistake like that is a mark against you, but your actions with the sap thieves strike me as a more accurate measure of your character.
Kaari: “I’ll just have to tell Judith upfront when we see her again. I’ll let her know I’m working on getting my license back.”

Lana: “What about getting to and from work?”

Kaari: “I don’t suppose you’d lend me a ride?”

Lana: “That… that might be a bit tough for me, Kaari. I’ll do what I can to help, but remember I’m running on a night schedule here.”

Kaari: “Well, there’s always the bus or taxi. Which… I can’t use till my fleas hit the road.”
Lana: “Hopefully that sauna session Judith offered helps out with that.”

Lana: “So, if it can’t involve driving around. What else are you thinking about doing here?”

>Maybe firewatching
>alternatively, you can also try janitorial work. keep the park clean!
Kaari: “Guess I could get into the custodial arts, picking up litter and trash. Could watch for fires or smoke, high up in a tower. Honestly, anything beats being at the bar. I’ll take whatever I can get, Lana.”

Lana: “Never know, you might get a few choices to pick from.”

I let out a sigh,
Kaari: “Yeah, and I could also get rejected because of that stupid drag race.”

Lana: “Then we look elsewhere. They’re not the only place that’s going to be hiring.”

Kaari: “H-how about we just start moving on the trail again?”

2/2 Buckwheat 2025/12/17(Wed)01:19 No. 1119145 ID: b6ea64
File 176593438225.png - (6.31KB , 800x600 , 65.png )

She takes the lead again, bringing us over to clearing by some bushes.

Lana: “Here we are!”

Kaari: “So where it is?”

Lana: “No idea.”

Kaari: “What? What do you mean you don’t know!”

Lana: “You only get a rough idea of where to look for it.”

Lana: “I know a few things though. It's either in this area of the park, or close by. We'll need to dig a little for it. There’s also a short riddle included as a hint for us.”

Kaari: “What’s the riddle?”

She takes out some paper and read off the riddle, trying to sound mysterious.

Lana: “Secured by its old perch, you don’t need to lurch.
Resting near fallen remains, you will find what the cache contains.
You won’t have to guess where to dig, when you see it, you’ll know you’ve hit it big.”

Maybe near a dead tree or something? Pile of leaves or sticks? Any graveyards nearby?

> perch
That would suggest a branch or similar, but not too high since you don't need to lurch.

> fallen remains
probably not bones, as animals would steal those. A log most likely

But it says you'll have to dig, so how does that work with perch? maybe there's something attached to a tree above where the cache is hidden.

>>1119145
Uh what's that red and orange stuff in the bushes?

Also there was a tree with claw marks on it before. Was that a territory mark from some big animal you have to worry about?

>>1119145
Hm.
My money would be on a fallen hollow log.

You could also try biking to work, if it’s not too too far, can get some exercise too! Do you have a bike?

>>1119148
Kinda looks like the orange fur and red blood we saw back at the cave, don’t it? Whoever it is might need first aid if they’re in the bushes. Check footprints first in case it’s a dangerous wild animal.

1/4 Buckwheat 2025/12/22(Mon)01:11 No. 1119282 ID: 9db031
File 176636589827.png - (5.71KB , 800x600 , 66.png )

>it says you'll have to dig, so how does that work with perch? maybe there's something attached to a tree above where the cache is hidden.
>My money would be on a fallen hollow log.
>Maybe near a dead tree or something?
Kaari: “I’m thinking we’ll have to look for a hollow log or fallen tree.”

Lana: “Okay, that could be a good start. How does that play into the perch though?”

Kaari: “Maybe there’s something hanging off a branch to let us know we’re close?”

Lana: “Pretty quick thinking Kaari. Let’s start searching.”

>there was a tree with claw marks on it before. Was that a territory mark from some big animal you have to worry about?
There wouldn’t be any big animals to worry about out here. Maybe Lana if she got grumpy…

2/4 Buckwheat 2025/12/22(Mon)01:12 No. 1119283 ID: 9db031
File 176636594040.png - (6.24KB , 800x600 , 67.png )

>Uh what's that red and orange stuff in the bushes?
>Kinda looks like the orange fur and red blood we saw back at the cave, don’t it? Whoever it is might need first aid if they’re in the bushes.
Kaari: “Hey wait, there’s that orange fur from the cave again!”

She quickly turns around to look,
Lana: “I don’t think this was an accident like the rocks. Let’s take a closer look.”

She walks up to the bush and examines the fur,
Lana: “Same as in the mine. There’s a red string, too.”

I notice something else,

Lana: “Easy, watch out for the thorns.”

I carefully pull out a torn piece of cloth.
Kaari: “Looks like part of a shirt.”

Lana ponders for a moment.
Lana: “I think either someone’s trying to get us to follow them, or we’re walking into trouble.”

Kaari: “Well those shoe prints make it look like they went right into it.”

Lana checks the other side of the bush.
Lana: “Gets weirder, no shoe prints or anything leaving the bush.”

3/4 Buckwheat 2025/12/22(Mon)01:12 No. 1119284 ID: 9db031
File 176636597177.png - (6.30KB , 800x600 , 68.png )

We back away for now,
Kaari: “So what do you think, Lana?”

Lana: “I think we stay away and just keep our eyes peeled.”

Kaari: “A-are you sure Lana?”

Lana: “Nothing feels right about this. I think we just look for the geocache, and pay attention for any more fur clumps.”

Lana: “Besides, we have a solid track record for running into trouble today. We’ll probably bump into our mysterious shedder eventually.”

I don’t really agree, but I get the feeling Lana’s starting to get worn out. Maybe a passive approach is better.
Kaari: “I-oh. Okay. If you say so.”

Lana: “I think a see spot up ahead with some old logs. Let’s try checking that out first.”

Kaari: “Uh, sure!”

4/4 Buckwheat 2025/12/22(Mon)01:13 No. 1119285 ID: 9db031
File 176636599015.png - (7.04KB , 800x600 , 69.png )

We walk over a more rough looking spot. There’s a few hollow logs around, some more bare trees with crusty leaves.

There’s lots around here to check, but where to start? Everything here looks like it could be a spot the cache is hiding. It’s almost overwhelming.

maybe there was a hidden underground passage where that bush is? If there is an underground area, then we will probably have to be careful how deep we dig so we don't fall in.

First off check the hollow log for snakes or frogs or cool bugs.

second investigate the stump. It might be the "old perch" and the dig spot would then be a log or limb nearby.

>>1119285
An old perch could be a branch still on a fallen log.
Start with that one?

1/3 Buckwheat 2026/01/22(Thu)23:32 No. 1120352 ID: 9db031
File 176912475935.png - (5.49KB , 800x600 , 70.png )

>First off check the hollow log for snakes or frogs or cool bugs.
>An old perch could be a branch still on a fallen log. Start with that one?
Kaari: “Hm, maybe it’s in one of these hollowed out logs?”

I walk over and take a peek. Aw, just a bunch of ants crawling around. I hear the crunching and shuffling of some leaves behind me, Lana’s digging through the other one.
Kaari: “Find anything?”

Lana: “I found something green!”

Kaari: “Is it the cache!?”

Lana: “Might be even better, hurry up and look!”

2/3 Buckwheat 2026/01/22(Thu)23:33 No. 1120353 ID: 9db031
File 176912478074.png - (7.09KB , 800x600 , 71.png )

I rush back over and see Lana holding a gob of something. She chucks it to the ground and it splats all over.

Kaari: “Haha! What was that all about?”

Lana: “All the moss and crusty leaves you’ll ever need in life. You ever gather up moss and try to make the biggest splat with it?”

Kaari: “No, I don’t think I’ve ever seen much moss before.”

Lana: “Wanna try it? There’s more bunched up in the log.”

Kaari: “Uh...nah I’m fine.”

Lana: “A shame, guess I’ll have to put aside my moss-splatting days again to look for the cache. Got any other ideas on where to look?”

3/3 Buckwheat 2026/01/22(Thu)23:33 No. 1120354 ID: 9db031
File 176912481092.png - (4.97KB , 800x600 , 72.png )

>second investigate the stump. It might be the "old perch" and the dig spot would then be a log or limb nearby.
Kaari: “How about that stump. Maybe that’s where the old perch was.”

Lana: “Or the stump is the perch. Let’s look!”

Examining the stump, and there’s a little branch stuck to the side.
Lana: “Looking promising, good call Kaari.”

Kaari: “I’m not sure, nothing really says we struck it big.”

Lana: “Uh, look a little closer. Missing patch of grass. Hard to see, but you can see a bit of shine on it from the sunlight.”

Kaari: “I can kinda see it now. Let’s dig it up and see if we’re right!”

Lana: “How about we take a guess what’s in it?”

Kaari: “We don’t even know if this is the cache.”

She gives it a good tap, it makes a bit of a metallic clunk.
Lana: “If this isn’t it, then I have no idea what it would be then.”

Geocache or not, I’m getting more and more curious as to what this thing even is? She’s looking at me waiting for a response. The suspense is getting to me a bit, the temptation to just blurt out something random is growing. Oooh, what should I say?!

>>1120354
I bet you could set a glitter bomb in one of these things.
Uh.
Biodegradable glitter though.
Cause prospective rangers scattering a microplastic tornado in the heartnp of nature would probably be a no no.

Uh.
Contents?
A poem?
Shiny rock from another country!
Polaroid of a chache visitor?
A bottle of mystery liquid!

>>1120354
Ha, it's the box from the OP.

>what's in it?
20 bux.

I bet its a little diorama of a scene of local history

IT S A LANDMINE! HIT THE DECK!

You joke

It’s a time capsule you think

or knowing their luck, probably something Dente related, like drugs or a bunch of ill gotten money hidden here, unrelated to the scavenger hunt

Watch it be sap/syrup

1/2 Buckwheat 2026/01/31(Sat)23:40 No. 1120625 ID: 9db031
File 176990285531.png - (4.80KB , 800x600 , 73.png )

>I bet you could set a glitter bomb in one of these things.
I hope not, glitter is sooo tough to get out of fur!

>Watch it be sap/syrup
That would be my luck.

>Shiny rock from another country!
>diorama of a scene of local history
Kaari: “Maybe there’s a shiny rock from another country, or a little diorama of a historic moment?”

Lana: “I bet it’s something cool from the cooper mine!”

She doesn’t hesitate and lifts the cache out of the ground.
Lana: “An old ammo box? Hopefully it’s the cache and not something those poachers stashed.”

Kaari: “Uh, open it carefully I guess?”

She slowly lifts up the squeaky lid, and takes a notepad out of it.
Kaari: “That’s it?”

Lana: “No, this is the finders log. You’re suppose to sign and date an entry when you find these. Here, your turn.”

Kaari: “Oh sure.”

I quickly scribble my name in, and put it back on the cache.

2/2 Buckwheat 2026/01/31(Sat)23:42 No. 1120626 ID: 9db031
File 176990294813.png - (5.34KB , 800x600 , 74.png )

Lana: “Alright, let’s see what stuff we can pick from. We can take something from cache, as long as we put something new in it.”

She starts taking things out and laying them on the stump.

Lana: “Some fancy rocks, a goofy goldfish pen, oh man check out this sick knife!”

Kaari: “I-I’d rather not…”

She jabs it into the stump and moves on.
Lana: “A cassette tape? It’s a single from the Blood Soaked Hecklers!”

Kaari: “Wow, what are the odds. Which song is it?”

Lana: “Tropical Punch Clocks, with the first print blood stain pattern.”

Kaari: “Eh. Anything else?”

Lana: “A pine tree air freshener.”

Kaari: “Kinda silly to put that in there when there’s all kinds of tree smells out here.”

Lana: “Yeah, but then we could take the good smells with us!”

I let out a little chuckle.

Lana: “Alright dibs on the knife, that’s way too cool to pass up on.”

Kaari: “All yours Lana.”

Lana: “How about you Kaari, what do you want to take?”

Hm, not too sure. I think any of these would make for a funny souvenir to remember our date. Not really sure what I want though.
What should I take, and what’s something I could put back in the cache?

Doesn't that purple rock remind you of Lana?

I hope Lana brought something nice to put in the box, cause all Kaari has is the firstaid kit. Actually why not put some of the the kit supplies in. Maybe a future seeker will have hurt themselves on the way and find that really helpful.

>>1120626
The goldfish pen. It's something you can use, and recognizable enough that it makes a good memento.

>what to put in?
Inventory check!

The cassette tape, maybe listen to some music, maybe somebody recorded over it to leave a secret message too?That’d be a laugh. Who knows, it might be super rare and you can sell it for a profit at an online auction for an fortune and get your life back on track!

Some bandages might be a good idea, considering all the weird bloodstains we’ve been seeing. We already know that at least two people got hurt today, including Lana. Someone who got hurt while searching for the box might appreciate it (tho that would mean they can only take the bandages)

>>1120637
Yep! Inventory check!
Ooh.
Do we have an interesting key chain mascotvwe dan bring ourself tompart with?

Agree on taking the goldfish pen, and leaving a keychain charm in its place.

1/2 Buckwheat 2026/02/25(Wed)21:49 No. 1122633 ID: 9db031
File 177205619697.png - (6.13KB , 800x600 , 75.png )

>Yep! Inventory check!
>I hope Lana brought something nice to put in the box, cause all Kaari has is the firstaid kit.
Aw man! I would brought something fun had I known.

Kaari: “Uh, hope you can bail me out here Lana cause all I’ve got is the first aid kit.”

Lana chuckles a bit and teases,
Lana: “Oh darn, I guess you don’t’ get to take anything then.”

She starts rummaging through her backpack,
Lana: “How about this, I’ll let you pick something from the backpack to put in. Then later you can find me something for my backpack.”

Kaari: “Sounds fair enough.”

Lana: “I actually brought a few things for the swap. Sticker sheets, bottle cap necklace, one of those lil toy skateboards, a googly eye wolf keychain.”

Kaari: “Oh! Googly eye Wolf! Googly eye Wolf!”

Lana: “Haha! Okay sounds like a winner then. I’m going to throw in the sticker sheets and the skateboard for my swap then. What we’re you going to take?”

>The goldfish pen. It's something you can use, and recognizable enough that it makes a good memento.
>Agree on taking the goldfish pen

Kaari: “I want the goldfish pen. Something silly, but also something I can use.”

Lana: “Alright grab your pen and let’s clean up. We got one more thing to do before we get going.”

She quickly puts everything back in the geocache and gets it back into the ground. After that she pulls some kind of stand out of the backpack.

Kaari: “What’s that for?”

She smiles, pulling out a camera next.
Lana: “A photo to remember our date with.”

She gets it setup and tells me where to position myself.
Lana: “Alright, a little closer. Oh, try to hold up your goldfish pen as well, I wanna get our prizes in the picture too.”

Then she hurries over by me and holds out her knife. A few moments later the camera starts flashing rapidly.
Lana: “Alright lets see how those turned out.”

As she approaches the camera, there’s some rustling in the bushes. We both freeze.

Lana: “Oh for the love… Whoever you are, you got three seconds to get out of that bush and get lost!”

A figure emerges from the bush, and when I realize who it is, I can feel my eyes grow with shock.

2/2 Buckwheat 2026/02/25(Wed)21:51 No. 1122635 ID: 9db031
File 177205628357.png - (4.84KB , 800x600 , 76.png )

Dente: “I-I-need to g-get out of here, quickly. Uh-not-not se-seen. Can you h-help?”

A tornado of emotions fill me. Relief she’s okay, absolute anger thinking about what we went through at the bar because of her, shock that we’ve even found her alive. We’re both standing in silent shock just seeing her there, in the bush.

Dente: “Please?”

No, you certainly don't want to be seen with her, as that would invite more attention from the mob. She's also not entitled to your help, after running off and leaving you to die at the bar. I would say to just walk off and leave her to her own devices.

However, if she's hiding out in the park, then she may end up becoming your problem if you get the park ranger job, and that is literally the last thing you want right now.

Can you call the cops on her, either to arrest her or put her in protective custody? That would wash your hands of her as neatly as possible.

If not, call the rangers and see if they have a place she can wait while you call the producer that helped Lana. They're the one who should be dealing with this.

Under no circumstances do you want to leave the park with Dente. That's just asking to have your car followed.

>>1122635
Nnngh.
She looks hurt, but you guys nearly died.
Ok

Haul off on her. Say all the shit you wanted to day to herbover everything that went rown. The good and the bad, the worry and the anger.

Then, when youre empty of all that, think about her question again.
Think about what itd do to you to help, but also what itd do to you if you didnt.

You are in no way obligated to help her. At most, she can have some bandages for her paws (assuming the bloody footprints were hers), but that's the amount of help you are offering. she can bandage herself up.

>>1122637
this

Why is she here? She was in the cave, we saw her shed fur. Is she with the poachers now?

no no no. if she's here those psychos could be hunting her down as we speak.

But, it would be great if she was far, far away. So lets hear it fox, what's your plan? Where you trying to go?

Also if you're going to be talking to her for more than a minute or two, you need to get her away from the geocache. You're probably not the only ones searching for it, and you *will* be seen with her if you stay where you are.

If you're going to do this, you also want to get her bandaged up first. The trail of fur and blood she's been leaving is very bad in her situation, and also bad for you as long as you're in her vicinity.

I'm going to say have her bandage herself up while you close up the cache, then get somewhere more secluded while you figure out what to do with her.

Like it or not, you're witnesses now. Something happens to her, you could be suspects. Either call the authorities or start hauling assault.

>>1122936
*hauling ass. Stupid auto correct

1/2 Buckwheat 2026/03/06(Fri)03:06 No. 1123048 ID: 9db031
File 177276638481.png - (5.61KB , 800x600 , 77.png )

>Haul off on her. Say all the shit you wanted to say to her over everything that went down. The good and the bad, the worry and the anger.
>She's also not entitled to your help, after running off and leaving you to die at the bar.
Kaari: “You left us to get murdered by those assholes, and now you want our help to bail you out again! At least the others pitched in and helped us escape, you haven’t done shit!”

Dente: “Shh-”

Kaari: “They kept dunking me under water, threatening to drown me if I didn’t tell them where you were!”

Dente: “Keep it-”

>no no no. if she's here those psychos could be hunting her down as we speak.
Kaari: “You’re probably being hunted down by that group still, aren’t you? No, screw you I am not being put into another hostage situation!”

Dente: “D-different group. I-I’ll explain later but we need to move. They might have heard you.”

> if you're going to be talking to her for more than a minute or two, you need to get her away from the geocache. You're probably not the only ones searching for it.
Lana: “Helping her or not, I agree we need to move somewhere else. Someone looking for the geocache might run into us.”

Kaari: “Fine.”

> you also want to get her bandaged up first. The trail of fur and blood she's been leaving is very bad in her situation
Lana: “Take out the first-aid kit Kaari, give her the gauze and some band-aids. That was her blood and fur we probably saw earlier today. Last thing we need is a trail for them to follow.”

I toss her some band-aids and gauzes. She hides back in the bush and patches herself up.

Dente: “This should take care of the worst of it for now…”

Lana: “Take my jacket while you’re at it. Should help you blend in with us better. Not to mention hiding in the bushes just makes a lot noise.”

She tosses her coat at Dente.

Lana: “Now let’s move back towards the mine and make a plan. We can yell for Pickford if things get dicey.”

2/2 Buckwheat 2026/03/06(Fri)03:08 No. 1123049 ID: 9db031
File 177276650225.png - (6.62KB , 800x600 , 78.png )

We make a run for it, stopping outside the mine.

>lets hear it fox, what's your plan? Where you trying to go?
>Under no circumstances do you want to leave the park with Dente. That's just asking to have your car followed.
Kaari: “Where do you expect us to take you anyway? Those freaks will tail us the moment we’re seen driving off with you!”

Lana: “Kaari, keep your voice down. I know we’re pissed off, but yelling is not helping.”

She shoots a concerned look at Dente.
Lana: “I can call up the studio, if that’s what you want. Syvva and the others are worried sick about you.”

Dente: “I-I can’t even think of being in the same room as them. They probably want me dead.”

Kaari: “Then what- what do you want us to do?”

Dente: “I don’t know, take me to the hospital or something? I-I…no I don’t want to think about it.”

Lana: “Think about what?”

There’s a chill in the air as we all stand in silence.

Dente: "Please, just... just get me to the hospital.”

Lana: “Should we call an ambulance?”

Dente: “No! I-it..I-I that’s too much noise.”

Kaari: “Then get someone else--”

Lana: “Keep it down Kaari.”

Kaari: “We are not taking her with us, Lana.”

Lana: “Excuse me, who has a license? Whose car did we drive out here?”

I grumble to myself while I check my cell phone, the reception is bad but a call should go through.

Dente: “Who are you calling? You’re sending the cops after me aren’t you!”

Lana passes me the walkie-talkie,

Lana: “We’re not going to call the cops. Knowing our luck we’d get stuck between them in a shoot out with those poachers.”

Dente “Oh…they-they’re not just…never mind.”

Lana: “Alright, fine. Dente you have three options with us here. Either we call you an ambulance, call up the studio and have someone pick you up, or we can call in the park rangers to help. You got the count of three to pick something.”

Dente: “Why can’t you just-“

Lana: “One.”

I can hear her breathing heavily.

Lana: “Two.”

Her head is turning all over the place.

Lana: “Three. Kaari get someone on the phone or radio in for Judith. I’ll keep an eye on her.”

I-ugh. Great now I have to decide.

Lana: “Kaari, anyone now.”

That doesn’t help! What has her all spooked now?! I-I’m almost tempted to run into the mine but there’s not going to be reception in there.

Phone and radio are in paw, who’s getting called?

It’ll have to be the band members, they are not going to draw attention to poachers, and they might have an idea what is going on. And she needs to talk to them as painful as it is for her, might bring her back to earth

>>1123049
Call the park rangers. It sounded like Dente was trying to say something about the poachers, and if she knows something important, the rangers should hear it. It's their job to keep the park safe.

Call the park rangers. They have enough manpower to help us immediately, and will not draw much extra attention with their movements. Tell them to bring something that can hide someone's appearance. Fur dye would work, and a chance of clothes. The plan is for the rangers to take her into custody and interview her to gather more evidence against the "poachers", escalating the situation to the local police if needed.

The rangers can obscure their actions by pretending to administer first aid to Dente for getting injured in the mines. We know it's dangerous in there.

I wouldn't involve more people than are already involved. Call the studio

(edited)
Also, I think we should ask how her paws got injured before we call anyone, especially the park rangers. the Donkey Pickford said it was sharp rocks from not wearing shoes, but if she says a different reason, Pickford, or Dente could be lying, potentially meaning some if not all the park rangers might not be trustworthy if its Pickford.

Also, don't mention what Pickford said until she answers. That might influence what she answers

>>1123049
Im not sure who to call.
Band would take time.
Rangers are closer but authorities of any kind are going to panic dente.
Theres a small chance, very slim, of rangers being connected to something bad and while i doubt that paranoid little impulse, i cant completely leave it unacknowledged.

One thing we have to remember is dente has already been in the caves and we dont know why.

The other is, this dumbass may panic and flee into the mines the second we make the call so put on you mental running shoes.

I now notice that Lana seems worried about something nearby. We should get moving fast, no time for more questions.

I already suggested the park rangers, but when we call them, we shouldn't say too much over the radio. Tell them that our girlfriend's leg is acting up and we'd like a ride back to their station. That won't give us away to anyone listening; we'll tell them more when we have time.