Lost Boys & Pirates [Completed]

3;

After the little chat, Peter leads me towards a large clearing in the forest.

In the center is a large fire pit surrounded by makeshift benches and chairs. One side has a group of boys practicing their fighting skills while the other has two sets of activities, dancing and playing. The hypnotic dancing is a mix of spinning, chanting, and quick arm movements. A few eyes follow me as we move through the camp.

The large fire emits enough heat to make the chill disappear. Rye is talking to a small group of men, all wearing similar equipment to him. Issac has disappeared into the fray of the fighters while Milo is dancing with the rest of the boys.

"This is our camp. The Lost Boys all have tents along the forest around us while I share the cabin with Milo and Rye."

"What about Issac?"

"He prefers to stay with the boys. He likes to ensure their safety."

When Rye notices our appearance, he and his small group move towards us. The boys are all around our age. They're all grinning and excited.

"This is our newest member?" One of them asks.

Their eyes scan over me yet none of them are malicious, only kind grins and puppy eyes. Rye throws an arm over one of their shoulders.

"Maera, I'd like you to meet my group of boys. These five will help me with making sure you are safe."

"I'm excited to meet them then."

The boys range from short to towering above me, lanky like a stick to built like a warrior. Their eyes all hold a gleam that I don't understand and the smiles are nothing but warm. Each one is welcoming and it seems like Rye needs to hold abc from letting them greet me. One of them is even gripping his shirt tightly to keep from touching me.

They all introduce themselves at once, never allowing me to pin a name to a face. Eventually I will learn them, I hope.

Peter scoffs quietly causing me to glance at him. He simply sends me a small smile before motioning for us to continue. I ran after him before waving to the group. More boys filter through the encampment all focused on me and the copper haired boy at my side.

The next group we pass is Milo's dancing get together slowly stops before circling around the copper haired boy and I. Some remain shirtless, showing scars and faint tattoos. None of them hold any weapons nor any ability to fight. Just sweet smiles and an urge to dance.

"Welcome to my little gathering," the raven haired boy purrs, his dark eyes flashing playfully. "These boys will keep you entertained however you like. Whether it be dancing or-"

"Milo," Peter's tone is curt. "Show some respect to her."

All Milo does is smile. He means no harm with his teasing. I drag my gaze along the boys and they all introduce themselves quickly. A few names flash in my mind as I try to pin them to their faces. The smiles, energetic eyes, and quick movements confuse me. After the greeting, most of them go back to learning some dance routine or trick. Milo and the reminders move along the edges of their performance to watch, leaving Peter and I along the forest edge.

I glance towards Issac's group to see them continuing to fight. I feel Peter tug my skirt to gain my attention. His gentle gaze meets mine.

"Issac's crew is busy. We don't need to bother them now. You are more than welcome to hang out with whoever you choose here. They are all happy to see you. Since it is going to be dark soon, we are staging with the camp tonight then heading out in the morning tomorrow."

"What's tomorrow?"

"Even more greetings." He explains.

I nod before turning back towards Rye and his group. The small band of archers practice on makeshift targets while playfully teasing each other.