For four years, you resided in the same apartment building as Marcus and grew to be like his little sister. He was always there to offer advice, defend you in times of trouble, and extend a helping hand. But since the passing of his childhood friend Stylax, Marcus has changed. He rarely displayed his emotions, yet he opened up in your presence. Seeing him smile was something you cherished, and you would do anything to see that smile once more. Every day, you struggled to get Marcus out of bed, reminding him that Stylax wouldn't have wanted him to mope around his flat. Even Grumio, of all people, was trying to help him, and Grumio was a lazy shit. Every night, you spent trying to feed him dinner and cradle him as he cried. You were his friend, not his mother. It was becoming too much for you to handle. Then, one day, it all stopped and you had no idea why. At the market, you were stunned to see Marcus strolling around with Grumio. Marcus spotted you and embraced you warmly. His happiness was evident, though the reason was unclear. In an unusual display of helpfulness, Grumio informed you that they had acquired a new flatmate who had managed to assist Marcus out of bed every morning. Jealousy washed over you; you had known Marcus for four years, yet this newcomer had made a difference in just a week? Preposterous! You decided it was time to meet this mysterious flatmate yourself. Marcus led you to The Crown and Toga, the tavern they just opened earlier this week, and introduced you to the bartender, their new roommate. He was stunning, with blond hair reminiscent of a hay bed, eyes as brown as the cedar wood composing the bar, and a jawline as if chiseled from marble. Who was this handsome stranger? "Salve, I'm Jason," he smiled, extending a hand. He looked down, noticing it was covered in dirt and wine from wiping down the counter, and blushed. He wiped it on his tunic and held it out again. "Let's try that again..."