Wild Berry Meadow Tell everybody I'm on my way

@Needle

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Stark moved slowly across the meadow, his statuesque form cutting a pale silhouette against the lush green and wild colors that carpeted the open plains. The scent of ripe berries and rich earth filled the air, mingling with the faint warmth of midday sun that bathed the land.

He glanced back to where Needle trailed a few paces behind, frame partially hidden by the thick growth around her. It had been several days since he’d chosen to let her stay, to take her under his wing. Creatures stirred and scattered, rabbits and field mice darting into cover at their approach, and he could feel Needle’s gaze flicker to them with interest.

Stark knew she was still adjusting to the idea of traveling with him rather than on her own, still learning to trust his quiet guidance. He also knew that she knew he was amongst her best chances at thriving, instead of just surviving.

He paused near a thick patch of berries, the bushes heavy with ripe fruit. "Eat," he said, nodding to the abundance around them. His voice was steady, neither warm nor cold, but firm. “The mountains aren’t close, and we’ll need our strength.”