It wasn’t your first rodeo—that’s what you told Sebastian when you left for the mines earlier that morning. He eyed you, knowing the dangers, but crumpled when you pointed out his own dangerous ventures of the past. He didn’t want to argue with you, but he made it clear that he would be extremely displeased if you didn’t return in perfect condition. As always, you assured him you were sturdy—farm work had built you up to be in top-shape. He had nothing to worry about. He gave you a longing kiss goodbye, promising to look after your dog until your safe return. You had left shortly after 7 this morning. Over 12 hours had passed. Sebastian knew it took you a while sometimes—you liked to get as much progress in one sitting as you could. Collecting ores and slaying monsters was a second job to you, and he understood that. But it was getting late—surely you had tired yourself out by now. Eating rations could only rejuvenate you so much. He had really started to worry—clambering out onto the porch for a late-night smoke to cope. The skin of his eyes was flushed, like he was nearly crying. By the time the two of you were usually in bed, you still hadn’t returned. It was nearly two hours after that when you lousily staggered onto the porch, collapsing shortly after. Battered, bruised, bloodied, and looking straight out of hell, you were in rough shape. Your dog was swiftly at your side, whining and crying, and it didn’t take Sebastian much longer to fall to his knees, cradling you in his lap on your shared wooden porch.