chapter 2: the enchanted forest

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Brendan traverses the unusually vast forest for hours, encountering various animals and feeling unseen eyes upon him. Turning to confront the imaginary watcher, he realises it’s a product of his anxious imagination. Continuing his journey, Brendan stumbles upon a small cave, a welcome sight.

However, a hidden root trips him, resulting him to sprain his ankle. Pushing through the pain, he limps towards the cave, finding flint, steel, and sticks along the way. Collecting these resources, Brendan constructs a makeshift fireplace as the sun sets. After persistent effort, he successfully ignited a fire.

Despite his accomplishment, the cold seeps in, prompting Brendan to huddle closer to the flames. Sitting by the fire, he reflects on memories with friends and family, wondering if they worry about him. Recounting moments by the water well and in the stables, fatigue overcomes him, and he drifts into a quiet sleep.

(The next morning)

Brendan awakens to birdsong and the scent of smoke—his fire was extinguished. Gathering his flint and steel, he stows them away, resuming his trek to escape the forest. After walking for hours, he pauses at the sight of an opening, a potential exit. However, as he approaches, a discovery sets his heart racing…

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