With their newest traveling companion accompanying them, the group set out deeper into the forest. They were compelled by a sense of adventure, lost comrades, duty, and a need to belong. No one was sure of what lay ahead, but they could all feel
something in the air. The Glittering Wood felt like it was breathing on them as they walked, deeper, deeper, deeper still.
The tracks of a large group continued down their path. Lorenzo led them slowly gaining his confidence back. As the wind rustled through the trees he felt a sense of vigor that had not been with him for some time. Even Martydom playfully ran around the leaves, excited for something.
Bastian's hands began to feel very warm as the wind touched his flesh. It was something he had not felt since he had held his sweet, kind mother in his arms. Oh how he missed her! He knew he would return one day to free her.
Marque felt like dancing down the path himself, the air kindled his performing passions like wind on a flame. Even finding his teacher did not seem like such an arduous task at this point. He was as light as a feather.
Speaking of, Favian felt his hand move towards his precious lute. A song was rising in his soul and he was compelled to sing aloud. Of hope, of a new start. Confidence hit him and he felt ready to get to know his new companions.
Despite the trials that Col went through, the breeze washed over his scars and gave him a profound sense of peace. In his soul he received the profound impression that Rolfe was still alive. He could not point to what gave him it, but it felt like it originated from the wood itself. Merlin held his head higher then usual as well.
Time moved at a brisk pace for them. None felt weary. Hours passed them by and the sun began to dip below the horizon. The outdoorsmen of the group knew now was the time to set up camp and have a meal. Perhaps they could all discover the group they travelled with in the leafy Autumn clearing. It had gotten more chilly. Fortunately they had flint and steal with all the wood they could need.
The fire burned bright in the leafy dark wood illuminating the faces of the adventurers. They each took out some rations for sustenance and heated them up on the fire. The Hermit also enjoyed a portion with the others. Once they were filled they began to do all that was on their hearts.
Marque took it upon himself to inquire The Hermit about crafting a short play. Accompanied by his fanciful lute of course. The Hermit readily agreed, delighted to be included. For a couple of hours Marque improvised scenes using his masks to convey multiple characters. The Hermit played beautiful melodies synchronized to Marque's performances. It was a powerful sight to behold. Here they were, two newly met companions performing stirring scenes without prior knowledge of one another. Martyrdom managed to get in the way of Marque a few times, but being the improviser he was, Marque brought the clumsy dog into the scene.
Bastian tended to his patient's legs and did what he could with his limited understanding. His hands still felt warm so he made sure to press them against Lorenzo's legs to see if anything would come of it. Bastian did hear the music and spoken word of the performing duo, but most of his attention was on his patient. A fine physician's assistant indeed.
Lorenzo sat on a log, took out his art supplies and began to paint the wood around him. The trees were illuminated by the campfire which made for some beautiful inspiration. He even incorporated Marque's performance into the painting by having his shadow appear in it while leaping about. Lorenzo couldn't remember the last time he painted with such
feeling. He wished for this moment to stay forever. Bastian's hands were busy with Lorenzo's paralyzed lower half. For a brief moment he thought he perceived a jolt from one of his legs..but that must have been his imagination. Martyrdom tried to follow Marque's movements and unintentionally got in the performer's way multiple times. To Lorenzo, he appeared to be having a grand time.
Col took out his short sword and began to clean it with some cloth. He also looked over his leather armor for any wear and tear. Finding none, he listened to the performances of his two companions. Had they met before? They worked so well together he could scarcely believe they had not practiced beforehand. Seeing that Lorenzo was well looked after, Col began to read one of the survival books Rolfe had given to him. It helped to reinforce his knowledge about living in the wood.
One by one they fell asleep. It was a peaceful slumber. Lorenzo was the first to fall, then Bastian soon after. Marque was next followed by Favian. Col knew they needed to have a first watch and took the role. A few more hours passed as the fire dwindled into mere embers. The trials of the day swirled through Col's mind as he struggled to stay awake. He nearly sank into slumber when suddenly he heard a far off howl. He immediately went for his sword and stood upright. Some of the others began to stir as more howls echoed through the night. The
Wolfborn were on the prowl.
Those who were awake heard movement in the distance. The crunch of leaves and rustling of brush. It was hard to discern which direction or how many of them there were, but they sounded large, and
fast. Time was of the essence.. their campfire barely held a flame as a howl erupted a mere 15 yards away.
