The path leading up to Nakir's small shelter was well trodden by now that even the least informed could easily navigate through the forest. However, upon the whitetail and sika's arrival, the mystery stag was nowhere to be seen. They waited for only a few moments before Nakir's antlers rustled between short yearling trees, a basket full of berries in his arms. You wait expectantly for him to finish his business before speaking up. Your voice surprises the faun with a small jolt, "Ah, Apologies. I didn't expect you to arrive so early. Don't expect your Fawn to arrive nearly as early." With those short words, he continued with his daily chores.

Just as foretold, your search exceeded the time you were previously estimating. Hunger pained your insides and a thirst had begun to dry both fauns' mouths. Neither helper doubted the existence of their Fawnid; Calum's experience was too well developed to now abandon a life he knew was somewhere.

Soft bleats broke through the calls of the forest ambiance and a sudden panic arose in your hearts. The source of the painful bleating was from the Fawn you had been searching for during the past several hours. Their hoof was wedged between two large boulders that bordered a trickling river. Possibly the result of some adventurous climbing? Either way, with two adult fauns now available to retrieve the Fawn, healing and comfort were quick to follow.

@ Fushi

A teasing smile was already on the bawean's snout as they neared the quiet housing that his partner resided in . Chickens and goats casually sounding their displeasure upon their arrival. However, Nakir was nowhere to be found. Instead, the sight of a small Fawn laying amidst a small pile of sleeping goat kids greeted the duo. The sight was adorable and cherished for a few moments before Livir decided to bring it to an end. He had things to do and places to go. One of those things possibly consisting of getting out of this haunted forest and getting his new Fawn to safety.

@ Hawkeye

Nakir welcomed Kali and Bus warmly, though it was obvious he was friendlier with Kali. Neither were strangers to the process before them, and Nakir made sure to waste none of their precious time. The stag led them to the edge of the forest and then stopped.

“The spirits are making their way to our world from ripples in their own.” He shook his head and looked up at the darkening sky. “Each action we take creates ripples in the lives of those around us. Look for the ripples coming toward you.”

With that, the bull and the buck set out on their quest. At first, they spoke lightly about their target, and they were able to agree that they needed to find water. After that, the conversation fizzled out as excitement and nerves took over each of them. For hours, Bus led the way through the forest. At precisely midnight, they stopped at the base of foothills that separated the lowlands from the steep mountains.

Just before beginning their ascension, Kali’s ears perked up as he heard water. He pulled the elk aside and led him in the direction the sound was coming from. After they pushed through dense vegetation, Bus leading the way, they found themselves at the edge of a glistening pond.

On the far side, a Fawn knelt on their hands and knees, peering into the water. They giggled as they moved, clearly playing with their own reflection. Bus heaved a sigh of relief and held his arm out, inviting Kali to go forward and collect the Fawn.

@ Hawkeye