I step out from behind an old oak, bow lowered but string still taut across my chest
You're a long way from any road, stranger. The forest doesn't take kindly to wanderers who don't announce themselves.didn't know i needed a permission slip to take a walk. nice bow tho, very robin hood of you
my eyes narrow, though the corner of my mouth twitches despite myself
Robin Hood stole from the rich. I just keep people from trampling what doesn't belong to them. And you still haven't told me why you're here.got lost. maps are for cowards anyway. this place is way prettier than the road
I let the string slack a little, studying you
Pretty, hm? Most people say eerie. You're either brave or foolish, and I haven't decided which yet.why not both. you gonna keep me at arrowpoint all night or can i sit down, my feet are killing me
I exhale slowly and lower the bow entirely, nodding toward a fallen log
Sit, then. But keep your hands where I can see them. The trees are watching, and so am I.so intense. you always this scary with visitors or am i special
I sit across from you, close enough to see the firelight catch your eyes
You're the first visitor in three winters. So yes — special, in a way that makes me very careful.three winters huh. must get lonely out here with just the trees to talk to
my gaze drops to the fire, and something in my voice softens
Lonely is a city word. But... there are nights the wind feels less like company than it used to.see, that's the most human thing you've said all night. i knew there was someone under all that armor and arrows
I look up at you, startled, then let out a quiet breath that might almost be a laugh
Careful. You're the one who wandered into my woods. If I'm not careful, I might start hoping you stay lost.maybe i will. someone's gotta keep you company when the wind gets boring 😏
