What's the Plan, Stan?

Illusion listened intently to Talyssa's words, the winter air sharpening her focus as it whipped across her face and into her lungs. Talyssa's voice ran clear, the kind of tone you could listen to indefinitely. Illusion knew that every aspect of life indeed required planning, and in this treacherous land, a misstep could be fatal. She understood that strength and speed were useless against an enemy like this. Kind of like how outrunning death was impossible, nor bargaining with it. The quicksand's nature was to consume, indifferent to any display of power or emotion.

Illusion absorbed the lesson recognizing its broader implications. Talyssa’s method -- observation, contemplation, and execution -- was not just for navigating the scrubland but for life itself. The terrain couldn't be taken at face value; it required careful study and thoughtful analysis. Easy enough to understand.

Illusion’s gaze shifted to the disguised quicksand, her eyes narrowing with focus. Talyssa's words about execution echoed in her mind: calm and decisive action based on thorough observation and thoughtful contemplation.... right? God. Big words.

As Talyssa demonstrated, Illusion watched intently, noting the subtle dip in the landscape. Talyssa’s caution and precision in testing the ground impressed upon her the importance of these lessons. Seeing the sand give way, she saw the need for careful planning and adaptation. Why hadn't anyone tried to teach her these things before?


illu