Rua's 18th birthday speech

Notes

• Rua is turning 18. He was 10 when he moved to Stonetop, 12 when his mother disappeared, and 14 when his dad died. He accused Murdoch at the winter festival when he was sixteen. His birthday is in late winter or early spring, so he was seventeen for the entire first year of adventuring.
• Highlight the party members and NPCs.
• Rua should attempt to use big words he doesn't understand and has a hard time saying. Use a thesaurus!

The speech

Everyone, first and foremost, thank you for coming. According to Kiva, the definition of "thankfulness" is "the feeling of being happy or grateful because of something," and the definition of "grateful" is "showing or expressing thanks, especially to another person." This last year has been one of the most exciting and eventful years of my life, and it's all thanks to you.

Soren, you taught me that elders can be wise and kind. Treasa, you showed me that growing up doesn't mean having to change who I am. Esme, if it weren't for you, I'm not sure me and Betta would've made it. I've noticed everything you've done to help us, and I'll never forget it. Kiva, your curiosity and (struggle) inquisitiveness will one day, hopefully, teach me how to deal with a problem without jumping in feet first. (grin) Stella, (goes off script) you're like my age and you're looking after a bunch of kids and making sure the sun rises every day. That's amazing.

(setting up the cut-off)

Betta, you're even more amazing than Stella. You're the kindest, sweetest person I've ever met. When we were wandering through the tunnels of Gordin's Delve, with nothing to save us but our wits and George, you were so incredibly brave. You saved my life after that fight with Shag. PLEASE CUT ME OFF BY HERE.

remainder of speech:

(back on script) I haven't celebrated my birthday since my mom disappeared. Dad wasn't much for celebrating anything anymore, and then he died, and then I thought that if I tried to throw a party no-one would show up, and I might as well disappear. Now I'm learning how to make stuff (raises his drink to Eliam), and I've done my best to help out my fellow Stonetoppers (gestures at Bedwyr), and (looking directly at Betta) I believe that there's a wonderful future waiting for us.

Thank you, everyone. (whispers) Betta, get up here. Cheers! (smooch)