Asen crouched in a small orange berry bush watching Vire’s Hollow slumber under the light of the moons. the hike back had been frustrating but everyone agreed it was necessary, and so Asen watched the town from his bush waiting for Cobin, Halver and Edric. they had all agreed it wouldn’t be safe for Asen to sneak in, if he was seen there would be serious trouble, but it was likely none of the other boys had been noticed missing yet. and so the three of them snuck in town, gathering up a few things to help them lay low in the woods for the next few weeks. 

Asen’s legs began to cramp from crouching after a long day of walking. he was considering taking a step back and stretching out his legs but just then Edric and Cobin came down the street and ducked off the road toward Asen’s hiding place. they crouched behind the orange berry bush greeting Asen, the tension in the air kept the boys on edge and prevented any small talk, they waited in silence. and then it happened, Halver came running around the corner, down the street and right toward them. he checked over his shoulder then came around the bush only half crouched and aggressively whispered “i dont think they are following but Sheriff Nalia saw me and started asking questions. we need to get going now.” halver got right back up and rushed off toward the rim. Edric, Asen and Cobin rushed to follow, as they were running into the woods Cobin ran alongside Asen and passed him a smaller shoulder bag, “here i thought you’d want to share the load with us.” he called to Asen.

Asen nodded his thanks “never thought id be running away with you Cobin” Asen let out over heavy labored breathes. Cobin just grinned in response, the friends ran to the rim and kept running in the direction they had the night before. after running along the rim for 20 minutes they slowed down to a walk feeling a safe enough distance.