Lost and Found

Overflow

Having no information about their curious structures, we are left to speculate on the craftsmanship and skills used. Living branches and roots have been carefully woven together, some parts must have taken decades to become so intricately sturdy. What cut wood we could see has been carved and smoothed by time. The carvings simple and flowing, accentuating the grain and knotwork in the wood.

Feeling that we have pushed our guides patience to its limits, we had back to our companions and make ready for our evening meal by the fire.

There were few people interacting with us. The only ones willing to converse and possibly trade were the same beastmen from the workshops. White furs, martens and polecats, wild boars, Iris and lotus flowers and leaves, wild rice, and many varieties of nuts were offered.

It was not all doom and gloom. Mateo and Marsh were also talking to a couple of males about syrup and sap collecting.

I zone out as I relax into Felix's embrace. Choosing a comfy area within sight of the fire, the twins with me and talk quietly about the recent findings and expectations on the next leg of the journey.

As the sun sets, the fire is the focal point. Several females emerge but keep to themselves.

The smell of food starts to fill the air. Mateo working his magic with the assistance of Marsh and Ash, and soon there is a large spread of food for us to tuck into. It is spread out buffet style. We are just about to tuck in when a group approaches us.

A stunning auburn-haired woman is flanked by several men. We all stand to greet them as they halt just in front of us.

Finally, someone brave enough to talk to us.

"Welcome to the village of Woodside. This is my mate Mirren –" one of the males starts.

"Yes, yes. You have done your part." Mirren cuts her mate of mid-sentence, looking down her nose at him.

Stepping closer, she takes her time looking at my males. Looks at me briefly then talks to Rowan.

"It is a pleasure to meet you again Rowan." She flutters her eye lashes "Just let one of these males know if you need me for anything." She waves a dismissive hand at the males behind her.

Rowan steps away from the flirt grabbing my hand. I feel the slight tremor in his hand and turn to look at my Adonis.

"I have everything I need, thank you." Rowan says whilst looking at me. I see and feel the love pouring out, mine melting in response.

I hear a harrumph, followed by a small hum from that female.

"You must be the handsome healer the females have been talking about." She purrs.

I look towards the tramp, to find her latched onto Marsh's arm, stoking his chest.

Oh hell no. Get your hands off my men. He looks at her with a straight face removing her hand from his chest.

"I am in much need of a full medical, in private." I see her raise her eyebrow at him suggestively.

I try to get to her, but I am held back by Rowans arms. I can feel my blood boiling.

"You are very much alive and well. Although perhaps a good haranguing could be of benefit to your discourtesy." He sternly says to the shocked female.

"Mirren, Mire ren, Mire. Now would be a good time to leave, before you upset my guests further." A very old man dressed in a myriad of different furs admonishes the female.

Turning on her feet with a swish of hair, she moves away. The man makes a shooing movement with his hands to her retreating form. She glances over her shoulder with a snarl, tripping over her own feet. Her mate gives me an apologetic look as he rushes after her.