The Son of Artemis and Fenrir

Chapter 24 - The Meddling of Gods

When I was risen from my blissful sleep, my head was still screaming at me. It felt like all the thoughts and feelings of everything around me were all trying to be heard. I almost cried from the strain it was placing on my ears.

I went to stand up and was surprised that my legs were able to support me properly. Sure one of them was shaking a tad but I was able to bear weight on it. I was surprised that Luna and Rennie weren't near me when I looked around.

Come to think of it, I could not see nor hear anyone. I could see that what was a small fire was now a smoking pile of ash. I could also see that Robyn's tent was still up. As I looked at it closer, I could see a small thing of parchment on one of the supports.

I hastily walked over to her tent. On the way I melted back onto two feet and already had a hand raised to grab the note. When I was actually close enough I snatched the note from the post before eagerly reading it.

Stephen if you wake up before we return than stay in camp. If you are still feeling tired than continue to rest. If you are hungry I stored some berries in my tent along with some venison. Whatever you do, don't panic. Stay in camp until we return, we will all be back shortly.

P.S. Just to put your mind at ease both Rennie and your Sister are with me.

- Robyn

I sighed in relief. I knew I could trust Robyn and Sparks. I also knew that Luna would probably protect Rennie especially. For some reason I keep on sensing that Luna almost wants Rennie to be her little sister of sorts. If I am right about this, I don't blame her. Whenever I look into her eyes when she is watching Rennie, I can see the same protective instinct behind her eyes that she had when we were growing up.

My stomach growled at me as the inviting smell of food penetrated my nose. Sometimes having enhanced senses can be irritating. I almost ripped open the tent door in eagerness as I went for the food. I practically inhaled the large amount of berries. I ate them all the blackberries, the strawberries and the blueberries. All gone in a matter of seconds.

I almost went to take the venison but I realised that I should probably leave that be, for now at least.

It felt nice to not be sneezing different types of ice every couple of minutes. I decided that I would wait for them beside the log near the fire. By the looks of it it seemed that I have been out for a day or so because before I went to sleep, there wasn't a log near the fire and the remains of my tent have disappeared.

As I looked up at the clear blue sky, I heard the cracking of twigs and the sound of familiar hushed voices. I could see them getting closer without even turning my head. As I was watching the sky, I saw two peregrine falcons flying together. Their movements mimicking and shadowing each other. They were mates. Life mates.

I felt a stab at my tender heart.

"Stephen, good to see that you are awake. We thought you would still be out for a day or so more." Robyn exclaimed as she spotted me.
"Wait what do you mean, you expected me to be asleep for another day. How long have I been out.?" I asked as Luna and Rennie ran up to me and started rubbing themselves against my legs affectionately.

"A day and a half" Rennie responded as she climbed up onto my lap. I gently stroked down her fur.
"A day and a half! How is Sparks holding up?" I asked as my mind suddenly remembered his injuries.
"I am doing fine Stephen. Yeah my wings are still a bit sore but apart from that I am alright." He rumbled as he emerged from the tree line.

I just sat there. Thankful that they were all alright. I continued to rest on the log as my mind began to drift. My senses began to fade. I could just about feel my surroundings. Suddenly there was a bright flash, I squinted as it burnt my eyes.