The Last Light Chapter 3

     The next day they had arrived at the forest where they would leave the cart and trek through the forest. As the group marched on, Landan slowly concocted his schemes, for he loved nothing more than a good prank. During their short time together he observed many things that peaked his interest.

Melody the thief was quite aware of her hair, in fact she took great pains to keep it tidy, regardless of where and when they went. Areena was quite the opposite. She deliberately avoided the spotlight, and preferred practicality above luxury.

Among the guys he perceived that Marcillious was obsessed with maintaining order among all his belongings and his clothes were always impeccable, solid, and neutrally colored. Even the brave and calm Killion took great lengths to keep 2 meters between him and frogs.

One hour before sunset the group found their campground, a small open spot between all the tall, whispering trees. Killion quickly instructed Areena to catch something for their dinner with her bow, and then to help Melody to search for kindle while he and Marcillius gathered small logs.

Landan was left to take care of their packs. He hurriedly snuck blue berry powder and pixie dust (a very strong blue hair dye) into Melody”s hairbrush, and pixie dust and chalk, (The strongest white dye he had) into Areena's. He also snuck a giant frog into Killion's bed roll and kindly 'reorganized' Marcillius's pack. Then he swiftly covered his tracks by leaning against a close tree.

“Look at him Areena,” exclaimed Melody,” Barely ten minutes have passed and he is nearly fast asleep without a care in the world. I knew he would not be suited for this trip.”

Areena merely gave as small nod and began to assemble the kindle. Shortly after, their other companions arrived and they began to arrange wood for a fire to dissuade any wild beasts.

After a hunk of bread and cheese each they decided that the guys and girls would take turns in the river nearby for an overdue bath. After the guys came back from their turn, Areena and Melody went over to the river which they could see shining between the trees.

Soon after, the ladies came back to camp and were greeted by the sight of Areena's two rabbits slowly roasting over a fire on a stick. This was done by Killion who was sitting on his pack contentedly. Beside him, Marcillious nursed a pot on the fire, gently stirring ever so often.

Landan sat sulking off to the side as earlier he had been scolded as his attempt to assist nearly caused Killion's eyebrows to disintegrate. How? Marcillious had small bags of black powder reserved for making paths through walls and lighting damp firewood- preferably used by pinch, not by double handfuls as Landan had done. When hearing this Melody snorted, and even Areena grinned, but quieted down at Killion's indignant look which he followed with: “It is only funny once it happens to you,” which brought forth more laughter from everyone.

Recovering their senses, the party went closer to the fire and Killion passed around pieces of meat wrapped in leaves which were a welcome change from dry, cold rations. The meat was tender, juicy, and beautifully seasoned. Every bite was savored by the weary companions, soon the rabbits were naught but skeletons. Marcillious now filled the empty hands with bowls of soup from the pot.

The first few bites warmed the travelers, but they were not cooling down and soon beads of perspiration were beading on all foreheads but Killion's.

Finally, Areena queried Marcillious, “Does this soup have any chilies or curry in it? Even in my years as a ranger I have never tasted anything with as big a kick!”

To their surprise the unfazed Killion spoke up, “He always puts his signature spice blend in. Do not fear, you will soon grow used to it as I have.”

Landan interjected, “It burns my throat worse drinking tar, there is no way I will ever get 'used to it!'” Marcillious sighed and sat back. “Be glad it only needs to be ingested once every two weeks, and it is not optional. The council sent it with me to give us immunity to the dark's effect.”

His statement silenced all protest, and a grim silence settled among them. “Trust me, I hate it as well, who spoils a good stew?”

Melody broke the silence by asking “Then why is Killon unaffected?”

“Oh, I have always been this way, Dad says it is a miracle I haven't poisoned myself,” replied Killion.

With a look of long suffering Marcillious piped up, “Never trust his food suggestions, it has landed me in bed many times.”

Curious, Melody prodded them, “Then who flavored the meat?”

Once again, Marcillious said, “I usually season the meat and cook the stew while he skins the meat and cuts the vegetables. He does have a knack for roasting though.” He finished with a slight smile as Killion glared at Landan.

Thus they endured their first hardship stew, only one of many on their journey. They lay in the darkness, one by one dropping into the land of sleep.