I believe we've reached the middle of our tale, my friends.
My, it took me much longer than I thought it would have. But, as with all tales worth telling, they take time and care to properly convey to an audience. So, my dear listeners, I believe you aren't too non-pleased with the length of the Octopath Travelers' tale thus far.
...
Or... as far as I can tell from the receptive looks I've garnered.
I digress. We can see that the Travelers have moved forward, becoming who they are to become.
They've taken up learning new skills from each other.
A scholar wishing to learn about all things arcane and secret in the physical world.
A merchant wanting to prove herself more useful as a ranged fighter.
A dancer learning how to use her grace and figure for more than the stage.
A huntress mastering the ways of nature as a hunter and scavenger.
An apothecary wielding his blade and axe as a staunch defender of those he loves.
A thief understanding the other side of the economic coin.
And a warrior revitalizing his talent for magic to serve his friends.
Yet I believe that the cleric has not been privy to such knowledge from a certain friend. Don't worry, dear listener, I haven't forgotten her part in this. I haven't gotten that far. For you see, she needed courage and a reason to wish to learn the skills of the dancer.
Her mind has touched on the subject, but her heart isn't ready to take the step.
...
You're wondering why I brought up her heart? Well... you shall see.
And may I address the matters of the heart? Not just romantic endeavors – which are progressing quite fruitfully – but friendly relationships, too. The Travelers, even the introverted thief, have made themselves known to their friends, showing a degree of trust many may not find in their lives. It is quite the thing to see, harder to imagine, and nearly impossible to relay through telling a tale.
Oh, but I do my best, dear listeners.
...
Ah... of course, you're mostly here for romance when adventure had been recounted already.
Fine.
The warrior and the huntress have developed their respect for each other, yes? Her companion may not yet trust the man, but he is slowly earning her trust with each pat and treat.
The dancer and thief continue their duel of tongues. Their defenses, however, are starting to wane. It'll only take one wrong – or right – move to bring them down completely for them to see what awaits on the other side.
The apothecary and the cleric's fates have already become intertwined. Their minds understand their hearts; their bodies understand their feelings. Time is the last obstacle before their love blossoms into something... enchanting.
The merchant has renewed her rivalry with a young man that matches her skills. Funnily enough, they'll be chasing each other for quite a time.
The scholar doesn't understand that a woman loves him unconditionally. It won't be until well after the Travelers' journeys and many sleepless nights with his books that he'll understand and return this unrequited love.
There. I've recounted the romance you wish for me to describe. Yes, they'll move forward, but not without obstacles, as we shall see when I continue this tale.
For now, I believe it is time for a rest, yes? I shall excuse myself to the bar for an ale to wet my parched throat. Telling a tale is hard work, you see. Perhaps next time you will acquiesce to my request for a drink?
...
But of course, that is just wishful thinking. We shall part ways for a few moments, then I'll continue recounting the personal endeavors and relationships of the Octopath Travelers...