How do you feel about Ayesha’s unwavering pursuit of immortality?
- I admire her ambition and desire to transcend human limitations.
- I’m wary of her methods and question the cost of eternal life.
- I sympathize with her fear of death and loss.
- I’m intrigued by the possibilities and dangers of immortality.
What’s your favorite scenario in the book?
- Leo’s vivid dream revealing Ayesha’s reincarnation.
- The heart-stopping avalanche threatening their quest.
- The treacherous descent down the glacier and their rescue.
- The thrilling hunt by the Khan’s death-hounds.
- The barbaric trial of the witch and Leo’s intervention.
- The Khan’s judgment in the ancient Temple of Hesea.
- The unveiling of Ayesha’s true, aged form.
What makes you nervous about the relationship between Leo and Ayesha?
- The power imbalance and the potential for Ayesha to manipulate Leo.
- The vast difference in their lifespans and the inevitability of loss.
- The darkness of Ayesha’s past and its potential influence on Leo.
- The societal disapproval and the challenges they face as a couple.
What makes you most frustrated about Atene’s actions?
- Her consuming jealousy and relentless pursuit of Leo.
- Her betrayal of Ayesha and her willingness to cause harm.
- Her manipulation of others and her lust for power.
- Her refusal to accept her own shortcomings and embrace happiness.
What are you most excited about in the story of Ayesha?
- The exploration of ancient cultures and mystical knowledge.
- The romantic tension and the complexities of love and desire.
- The thrilling adventures and the constant threat of danger.
- The philosophical questions about life, death, and the nature of existence.
What do you dream about when it comes to uncovering ancient mysteries like those surrounding Ayesha?
- Discovering lost cities and hidden temples filled with ancient wisdom.
- Unraveling cryptic texts and deciphering forgotten languages.
- Encountering mystical beings and experiencing supernatural phenomena.
- Sharing my discoveries with the world and inspiring others.
What happened in the past that still haunts you?
- A time I made a mistake with lasting consequences, like Ayesha.
- A lost love I still mourn, similar to Leo’s grief.
- A betrayal that shook my trust in others, like Atene’s treachery.
- A missed opportunity that I wish I could change, like Horace might feel.
What comes to mind when you picture Ayesha?
- Unparalleled beauty and grace.
- Immense power and an aura of danger.
- Wisdom and knowledge beyond human comprehension.
- A tragic figure haunted by her past.
What’s your favorite element of fantasy in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- The concept of immortality and its implications.
- The existence of magical powers and supernatural beings.
- The exploration of ancient civilizations and forgotten lore.
- The epic battles between good and evil.
When you were a kid, how did you imagine exploring lost worlds?
- With a trusty map and a thirst for adventure, like Leo and Horace.
- Through books and stories, immersing myself in fantastical tales.
- By building forts and creating my own imaginary kingdoms.
- By daydreaming and letting my imagination run wild.
You have a choice to explore the ruins of Kor or the fiery mountain of Hesea, which do you choose?
- Kor, seeking clues to Ayesha’s past and the mysteries of her powers.
- Hesea, driven by the allure of the unknown and the possibility of encountering the divine.
The Khania Atene offers you a place by her side in exchange for betraying Leo. How do you react?
- I firmly refuse, remaining loyal to Leo despite the consequences.
- I’m tempted by the offer but ultimately stay true to my conscience.
- I try to negotiate a deal that benefits everyone without betraying Leo.
- I regretfully accept, prioritizing my own survival above all else.
What keeps you up at night about the idea of immortality?
- The potential for loneliness and outliving everyone I love.
- The ethical dilemmas and the burden of endless knowledge.
- The fear of stagnation and the loss of purpose without mortality.
- The possibility of witnessing the world’s destruction and enduring eternal suffering.
Which of these activities would you enjoy the most on an expedition with Leo and Horace?
- Deciphering ancient texts and unraveling historical mysteries.
- Documenting the journey and sketching the breathtaking landscapes.
- Navigating treacherous terrain and facing unexpected dangers.
- Learning local customs and interacting with different cultures.
When you think about the challenges faced by Leo and Horace, what are you most concerned about?
- The threat of physical harm and the constant danger they encounter.
- The psychological toll of their quest and the burden of their secrets.
- The moral dilemmas they face and the potential for corruption.
- The possibility of failure and the crushing weight of disappointment.
What aspect of Ayesha’s character makes you the most happy?
- Her unwavering determination and her refusal to be defined by her past.
- Her capacity for love and her longing for connection despite her immortality.
- Her intelligence and her thirst for knowledge and understanding.
- Her resilience and her ability to overcome adversity.
What is most likely to make you feel down about the ending of Ayesha, the Return of She?
- The tragic loss of Leo and the heartbreak it causes Ayesha.
- The sense of unfulfilled potential and the unresolved questions it leaves.
- The realization that even immortality cannot conquer the power of fate.
- The somber reminder of life’s fragility and the inevitability of death.
In a perfect world, what would Ayesha’s fate be?
- She would find a way to reconcile her immortality with her humanity, finding peace and happiness.
- She would use her vast knowledge and power to guide humanity towards a brighter future.
- She would reunite with Leo in the afterlife, their love transcending the boundaries of life and death.
- She would find redemption for her past sins and finally break free from the cycle of suffering.
If you could waive a magic wand, what would the perfect ending to Ayesha, the Return of She be?
- Ayesha and Leo find a way to share her immortality, living out their days together in love and adventure.
- Ayesha chooses to relinquish her immortality, embracing mortality to experience a full life with Leo.
- Ayesha uses her power to reverse time, preventing the tragedy and creating a new timeline for them both.
- Ayesha and Leo find peace in the afterlife, their souls reunited in a realm beyond human comprehension.
How often do you find yourself drawn to stories about ancient civilizations and forgotten lore?
- All the time, I’m fascinated by history and the mysteries of the past.
- Frequently, I enjoy escaping into worlds of wonder and imagination.
- Occasionally, I appreciate a good adventure with a touch of history.
- Rarely, I prefer stories grounded in reality and contemporary issues.
You are at a party and someone brings up Ayesha, the Return of She. What do you do?
- I excitedly join the conversation, eager to share my thoughts and theories.
- I listen intently, absorbing new perspectives and interpretations.
- I observe from the sidelines, intrigued but hesitant to engage.
- I politely excuse myself, uninterested in discussing the topic.
How comfortable are you with the idea of encountering a being as powerful and unpredictable as Ayesha?
- Very comfortable, I would welcome the opportunity to learn from such a being.
- Somewhat comfortable, I would approach with caution and respect.
- Slightly uncomfortable, I would prefer to observe from a safe distance.
- Very uncomfortable, I would avoid contact at all costs.
You have 24 hours to spend in Ayesha’s hidden mountain kingdom. What do you do?
- I explore the Temple of Hesea, seeking knowledge and understanding.
- I study Ayesha’s library, immersing myself in ancient wisdom.
- I spend time with Ayesha, engaging in conversation and seeking guidance.
- I observe the customs and rituals of her people, learning their ways.
Which of these issues is most likely to be a struggle for you if you were in Leo’s position?
- Balancing my love for Ayesha with my fear of her power and her past.
- Resisting the temptations of Atene and remaining loyal to Ayesha.
- Accepting the potential consequences of Ayesha’s actions and her quest for immortality.
- Reconciling my own beliefs with the extraordinary truths revealed by Ayesha.
Which character in Ayesha, the Return of She do you identify with most?
- Leo, the passionate lover driven by his heart.
- Ayesha, the complex and powerful woman seeking love and redemption.
- Horace, the loyal friend and voice of reason in the face of extraordinary events.
- Atene, the ambitious and determined woman fueled by her desires.
News surfaces of a hidden society that claims to possess the secret to immortality. What is your first response?
- Intrigued, I delve into research, seeking evidence and understanding.
- Skeptical, I approach the information with caution and critical thinking.
- Hopeful, I cling to the possibility of extending life and conquering death.
- Fearful, I worry about the implications and potential consequences of such a discovery.
Someone asks, “How are you doing with all this talk about immortality and the possibility of it?” What’s the actual answer?
- “Honestly, it’s got me thinking about my own mortality and what I want my legacy to be.”
- “I’m trying to keep an open mind, but it’s hard to reconcile with my current understanding of life and death.”
- “I’m both fascinated and terrified by the idea. It raises so many questions about ethics, purpose, and the meaning of existence.”
- “I’m trying not to get too caught up in it. It’s an intriguing concept, but ultimately, I have to focus on the present.”
What’s your go-to fictional escape when reality gets too real, like when facing the idea of immortality?
- Classic literature, finding solace in timeless themes and relatable characters.
- Fantasy novels, immersing myself in worlds of magic and adventure.
- Science fiction, exploring futuristic possibilities and existential questions.
- Historical fiction, grounding myself in the past and finding comfort in shared human experiences.
What aspect of Ayesha, the Return of She do you most want to explore further?
- The ethical dilemmas of immortality and the potential consequences of cheating death.
- The complexities of love and desire, especially in the face of insurmountable odds.
- The nature of power and the corrupting influence it can have on even the most well-intentioned.
- The search for meaning and purpose in a world where death is no longer the ultimate end.
What’s your favorite memory from Ayesha, the Return of She?
- When Leo and Ayesha reunite, their love defying time and circumstance.
- When Ayesha displays her power, showcasing her mastery over nature and the elements.
- When Leo stands up to the Khan, defending his beliefs and fighting for justice.
- When Horace offers his unwavering support to Leo, proving the strength of true friendship.
What themes are you most passionate about in literature and film?
- The exploration of the human condition and the complexities of relationships.
- The battle between good and evil and the struggle for justice.
- The power of love to overcome adversity and transcend boundaries.
- The search for identity and the quest for self-discovery.
What is your absolute favorite element of Rider Haggard’s writing style?
- His vivid descriptions that transport you to exotic locations.
- His ability to create suspense and keep you on the edge of your seat.
- His exploration of complex themes and philosophical questions.
- His flawed and relatable characters that you can’t help but root for.
How would your friends and family describe your approach to the unknown, like the mysteries in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- Fearless and adventurous, always eager to explore the unfamiliar.
- Cautious and observant, preferring to gather information before diving in.
- Open-minded and curious, willing to embrace new possibilities.
- Skeptical and grounded, seeking rational explanations for the unexplained.
Tell us a little about your perspective on the afterlife and whether it aligns with any presented in the book?
- I believe in a peaceful afterlife where souls reunite with loved ones, similar to Leo’s hopes.
- I’m uncertain about the afterlife, but I’m open to exploring different beliefs and possibilities.
- I believe that death is the end, and I find comfort in the idea of leaving a lasting legacy.
- I believe in reincarnation, finding resonance with the cyclical nature of life and death.
If you could choose any superpower from Ayesha, the Return of She, which one would you choose and why?
- Ayesha’s immortality, to experience all that life has to offer and witness history unfold.
- Ayesha’s intelligence, to unlock the secrets of the universe and solve complex problems.
- Atene’s beauty, to captivate and inspire others with my presence.
- Horace’s wisdom, to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and grace.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name “She”?
- Ayesha’s ethereal beauty and captivating presence.
- The allure and danger of seeking forbidden knowledge.
- The power of love to conquer even death itself.
- The importance of embracing both the light and shadow within ourselves.
What affects you the most when reading a book like Ayesha, the Return of She?
- The emotional depth and the characters’ journeys of self-discovery.
- The thought-provoking themes and the exploration of philosophical ideas.
- The escape from reality and the chance to immerse myself in another world.
- The author’s writing style and their ability to paint vivid pictures with words.
What’s your idea of a perfect adventure, inspired by Ayesha, the Return of She?
- Exploring ancient ruins in remote corners of the world, uncovering lost artifacts and forgotten knowledge.
- Embarking on a spiritual quest, seeking enlightenment and a deeper understanding of myself and the universe.
- Challenging myself physically and mentally, pushing my limits and discovering my inner strength.
- Connecting with different cultures and experiencing the beauty and diversity of the human experience.
What is your strongest personality trait, like one of the characters in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- My unwavering loyalty, like Horace’s steadfast friendship.
- My thirst for knowledge, like Ayesha’s pursuit of understanding.
- My compassion for others, like Leo’s empathy and kindness.
- My determination to overcome obstacles, like Atene’s ambition and drive.
How prepared are you for the challenges of a long-term relationship, considering Ayesha and Leo’s story?
- Very prepared, I understand the importance of communication, compromise, and commitment.
- Fairly prepared, I’m willing to put in the effort and navigate the inevitable ups and downs.
- Somewhat prepared, I have a lot to learn about myself and what I need in a partner.
- Not prepared at all, I’m still figuring out my own path and what I want out of life.
What happens if you were to discover the secret to immortality?
- I would embrace it cautiously, carefully considering the implications and responsibilities.
- I would share it with the world, believing that everyone deserves the chance to live forever.
- I would keep it a secret, protecting myself and those closest to me from the potential dangers.
- I would reject it outright, believing that mortality is an essential part of the human experience.
What do you think you need in your life right now to feel more fulfilled, drawing inspiration from the characters in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- A deeper connection with someone special, like the love shared between Ayesha and Leo.
- A sense of purpose and meaning, like Ayesha’s quest for knowledge and her desire to leave a legacy.
- A greater appreciation for the present moment, embracing life’s experiences with open arms.
- The courage to face my fears and pursue my dreams, no matter how challenging they may seem.
How often do you reflect on your own mortality and the legacy you want to leave behind?
- Often, I’m constantly evaluating my choices and striving to make a positive impact.
- Occasionally, certain events or experiences trigger these reflections.
- Rarely, I prefer to focus on the present and not dwell on the inevitability of death.
- Never, I find it uncomfortable and prefer to avoid thinking about it altogether.
How confident are you in your ability to stay true to yourself, even when faced with difficult choices, like those faced by the characters in the book?
- Very confident, I have a strong sense of self and I trust my instincts.
- Somewhat confident, I try to make choices aligned with my values, but I know I’m not immune to mistakes.
- Not very confident, I often struggle with peer pressure and making decisions that disappoint others.
- Not confident at all, I easily succumb to external influences and struggle to assert my own needs.
How do you handle betrayal, considering Atene’s actions in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- I confront the situation head-on, demanding an explanation and seeking closure.
- I distance myself from the person, cutting ties to protect myself from further hurt.
- I try to understand their motivations, even though it doesn’t excuse their actions.
- I struggle to forgive and forget, carrying the pain of betrayal with me.
Do you have a thirst for adventure and a desire to explore the unknown, inspired by the expedition in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- Yes, I crave adventure and embrace new experiences with open arms.
- Sometimes, I enjoy stepping outside my comfort zone, but I also appreciate my routines.
- Not really, I prefer familiarity and find comfort in the known.
- Absolutely not, I’m content with my current life and have no desire to upend it.
How well do you stick to your convictions, even when challenged, like Leo in the face of Ayesha’s power?
- Very well, I have strong beliefs and I’m not easily swayed.
- Fairly well, I try to stand my ground, but I’m open to hearing different perspectives.
- Not very well, I tend to avoid conflict and often compromise my own beliefs to please others.
- Not well at all, I’m easily influenced by others and struggle to assert my own opinions.
Which of the following is most accurate when it comes to your perspective on love, considering the complexities depicted in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- Love is a powerful force that can overcome any obstacle.
- Love is a complex emotion that can be both beautiful and destructive.
- Love is an illusion, and I prefer to focus on more practical matters.
- Love is an essential part of the human experience, even though it can bring pain.
To what degree do you experience wanderlust, that yearning for adventure and exploration depicted in the book?
- Extremely, I constantly crave new experiences and far-off destinations.
- Moderately, I enjoy traveling and exploring new places, but I also value my home life.
- Minimally, I’m content with my current surroundings and don’t feel the need to travel far and wide.
- Not at all, I prefer the comfort and familiarity of my own environment.
Which of these best describes your current approach to personal growth and self-discovery, considering the journeys of the characters in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- I’m actively seeking new experiences and challenging myself to grow.
- I’m open to learning and evolving, but I’m also comfortable with who I am.
- I’m content with my current state and don’t feel a strong need for change.
- I’m resistant to change and find it uncomfortable to step outside my comfort zone.
What is your current biggest challenge, drawing parallels to the obstacles faced by the characters in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- Overcoming a personal fear or insecurity that’s holding me back.
- Navigating a difficult relationship or resolving a conflict with someone close to me.
- Achieving a personal or professional goal that seems daunting.
- Finding a sense of purpose and meaning in a world that often feels chaotic.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you encounter a seemingly insurmountable obstacle, like those faced by Leo and Horace?
- “I can overcome this,” I embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
- “I need to assess the situation,” I gather information and devise a plan.
- “I need help,” I reach out to others for support and guidance.
- “I can’t do this,” I feel overwhelmed and discouraged, doubting my ability to succeed.
How do you handle setbacks and failures, considering the characters’ experiences in the face of adversity?
- I view them as opportunities to learn and grow, coming back stronger and wiser.
- I allow myself to feel the disappointment, but I don’t let it define me.
- I struggle to cope, often dwelling on my mistakes and feeling like a failure.
- I avoid taking risks to prevent the possibility of failure, hindering my own growth.
How would you describe your relationship to spirituality, religion, or personal beliefs, reflecting on the themes explored in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- I’m deeply spiritual and find comfort and guidance in my beliefs.
- I’m curious about spirituality and open to exploring different faiths and practices.
- I’m not religious, but I have a strong moral compass and a sense of ethics.
- I’m skeptical of organized religion and prefer to find my own truth.
Are you stuck in a rut, a repetitive cycle, or a limiting belief system that’s preventing you from reaching your full potential, like some characters in the book?
- Yes, I’m aware of patterns in my life that are holding me back, and I’m actively working to change them.
- Perhaps, I’m open to exploring whether my beliefs and behaviors are serving me or limiting me.
- I don’t think so, I feel relatively content with my current path and don’t feel stuck.
- I’m not sure, I haven’t given it much thought, but I’m open to reflecting on it.
What would you say are your top struggles right now, relating them to the themes of ambition, love, loss, and the human experience explored in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- Balancing my ambitions with my personal life, striving for success without sacrificing my relationships.
- Finding and nurturing a deep and meaningful connection, navigating the complexities of love and intimacy.
- Coping with loss and grief, learning to move forward while honoring the past.
- Defining my purpose and making choices that align with my values, embracing the fullness of the human experience.
What is your ultimate goal in life, drawing inspiration from the characters’ pursuits in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- To leave a lasting legacy and make a positive impact on the world.
- To experience profound love and connection, building meaningful relationships.
- To live a life filled with adventure and discovery, embracing the unknown.
- To achieve personal fulfillment and happiness, living in alignment with my values.
What do you think is missing in your quest for personal fulfillment and happiness, drawing parallels to the characters’ journeys in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- A clearer sense of purpose and direction, a guiding light to illuminate my path.
- The courage to step outside my comfort zone and pursue my passions.
- Deeper connections with others, fostering a supportive network of love and understanding.
- A greater sense of self-acceptance and compassion, embracing my flaws and celebrating my strengths.
What is your current level of expertise in a particular area of interest or passion, reflecting on Ayesha’s mastery of ancient knowledge?
- I’m a novice, eager to learn and explore the fundamentals.
- I’m an apprentice, gaining experience and developing my skills.
- I’m a practitioner, confidently applying my knowledge and sharing it with others.
- I’m an expert, continuously expanding my understanding and pushing the boundaries of my field.
You discover a hidden talent or ability that could bring you fame and fortune, but it comes with a moral dilemma. How do you respond, considering Ayesha’s choices in the book?
- I embrace my talent fully, believing that the ends justify the means.
- I grapple with the ethical implications, seeking guidance and trying to find a balance.
- I use my talent selectively, only for good and never for personal gain.
- I suppress my talent entirely, fearing the potential consequences and choosing integrity over power.
What descriptive word best encapsulates your current emotional state, considering the range of emotions experienced by the characters in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- Hopeful, embracing the possibilities and believing in a brighter future.
- Uncertain, navigating the unknown with a mix of excitement and trepidation.
- Content, finding peace and fulfillment in the present moment.
- Lost, searching for meaning and direction in a world that feels overwhelming.
Which of the following do you notice yourself worrying about on a day-to-day basis, drawing parallels to the characters’ concerns in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- The future and the uncertainty it holds, fearing the unknown and potential setbacks.
- My relationships and the well-being of loved ones, prioritizing their happiness and safety.
- My purpose and whether I’m living a meaningful life, seeking fulfillment and leaving a positive impact.
- My own mortality and the legacy I’ll leave behind, striving to make the most of my time.
How confident and courageous do you feel in your own skin and in your ability to pursue your dreams, inspired by the characters’ journeys of self-discovery?
- Confident and courageous, I embrace my authentic self and pursue my goals with passion.
- Growing in confidence, I’m learning to trust myself and take risks.
- Somewhat insecure, I often doubt myself and hesitate to step outside my comfort zone.
- Lacking confidence, I struggle to believe in myself and often let fear dictate my choices.
How well do you balance your desire for personal freedom with your responsibilities to others, considering the choices made by the characters in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- I strike a healthy balance, honoring my own needs while fulfilling my commitments.
- I lean towards prioritizing others, often putting their needs before my own.
- I prioritize my own freedom, sometimes neglecting my responsibilities to others.
- I struggle to find a balance, feeling torn between my own desires and the expectations of others.
How connected do you feel to nature and the natural world, reflecting on the evocative descriptions of landscapes in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- Deeply connected, I find solace and inspiration in nature.
- Appreciative, I enjoy spending time outdoors and find beauty in the natural world.
- Somewhat disconnected, I live in an urban environment and don’t often connect with nature.
- Not connected at all, I prefer the comforts of modern life and don’t feel a strong pull towards nature.
Which of the following is most likely to frustrate you in a relationship, considering the complexities portrayed in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- Lack of communication, leading to misunderstandings and resentment.
- Jealousy and possessiveness, creating unnecessary drama and conflict.
- Betrayal and broken trust, shattering the foundation of the relationship.
- Complacency and a lack of effort, extinguishing the spark and leading to boredom.
What is the trickiest part about navigating the complexities of love and relationships, considering the dynamics between Ayesha, Leo, and Atene?
- Balancing personal needs with the needs of your partner, finding a compromise that works for both.
- Communicating effectively and expressing your feelings openly and honestly.
- Maintaining trust and loyalty, navigating temptations and staying committed to your partner.
- Accepting your partner’s flaws and embracing their imperfections.
Do you tend to hold onto the past and let it define you, or do you embrace the present and look towards the future with hope, considering Ayesha’s struggle with her past?
- I hold onto the past, letting past experiences shape my present and future.
- I find it difficult to let go, but I’m working on living more fully in the present.
- I embrace the present, learning from the past but not letting it define me.
- I focus solely on the future, leaving the past behind and striving for something better.
Do you have a strong support system in place, such as close friends or family, to help you navigate life’s challenges, like Horace supporting Leo?
- Yes, I have a close-knit circle of loved ones I can always rely on.
- I have a few trusted individuals I can confide in and seek support from.
- I’m working on building stronger relationships and cultivating a support system.
- I prefer to handle challenges independently, relying on my own strength and resilience.
How do you determine your personal goals and aspirations each year, drawing inspiration from the characters’ pursuits in Ayesha, the Return of She?
- I reflect on my values and passions, setting goals that align with my desire for growth and fulfillment.
- I consider my current circumstances and set realistic goals that I believe I can achieve.
- I seek inspiration from others, admiring their accomplishments and striving for similar successes.
- I don’t set specific goals, preferring to go with the flow and embrace whatever opportunities arise.
Are your personal endeavors consistently achieving the desired outcomes, or do you find yourself facing unexpected obstacles and setbacks?
- Yes, I’m consistently achieving my goals through hard work and determination.
- I experience both successes and setbacks, learning from my mistakes and adapting my approach.
- I often face obstacles that hinder my progress, leading to frustration and self-doubt.
- I struggle to achieve my goals, often feeling discouraged and unsure of how to move forward.
How do you manage the emotional ups and downs of life, considering the characters’ experiences with love, loss, and the pursuit of their dreams?
- I practice self-care, engaging in activities that nourish my mind, body, and spirit.
- I rely on my support system, seeking comfort and guidance from loved ones.
- I allow myself to feel my emotions fully, embracing both the highs and lows.
- I suppress my emotions, preferring to maintain a stoic exterior and avoid vulnerability.