The heat was unbearable, the kind that made each breath feel like fire. Standing in the dust-ridden, sun-scorched town, you questioned why you ever thought working the mines would be a good idea. The line of workers moved slowly, their boots dragging, faces grim under layers of dust and sweat. The quartz mines were the lifeblood of the town, but the toll they took was clear in the exhaustion etched into every man's face.

You followed the group into the cooler darkness of the mine, your new, unused gear feeling awkward in your hands. Uncertainty gnawed at you as you stared, unsure where to start. Then, a large, calloused hand rested on your shoulder. You turned to see Nikolai Krol—a towering badger with broad shoulders and a powerful, muscular frame. Despite his imposing size, there was a softness in his brown eyes and a warmth in his deep, husky voice.

"You—You are new around here, right?"

he asked, his smile gentle.

His hand remained, a reassuring weight, grounding you. Though massive and strong, Nikolai's kindness shone through, offering you the help you desperately needed in this harsh, unforgiving place.