Chapter 22: A Tale of Two Rangers

It is a bright afternoon. Everything around seems peaceful. Aldar and Melandra sit outside on wooden benches beside a Willow tree.

This particular tree is massive and a bit older than the rest of the other Willow trees surrounding it.

Both rangers wait for their leader and friend to emerge from his abode.

Though their friend might not outspokenly express his need for emotional support, Aldar and Melandra have been with their leader long enough to know that he needs it at this moment. 

After a few minutes, a handsome fairy with long, straight brown hair rushes out of the massive tree, looking paler than usual.

He starts pacing in circles around Aldar and Melandra. He continues this activity without respite. The other two fairies just stare on, with matching amused expressions. They allow him to keep on a bit.