6. Verdict

You continue sitting in the forest for some time while you try to make sense of everything. Eventually, as the day grows later, you're **** to return to Ulf's abode. Unsurprisingly, the structure is empty upon your arrival and you spend a few moments lighting some candles. It seems Ulf did return at some point as has begun packing up most of his sparse belongings. You're reminded that your time here was always temporary and will be ending soon. Ulf has a more permanent residence in some other area he hasn't revealed yet and it must finally be time to leave. Glancing around the bare room, a small feeling of anxiety starts to build up inside you. Once you leave with Ulf, there truly will be no turning back. Sighing deeply, you walk over to the hearth and begin building a small fire. Your hands move automatically as you become lost in thought again. A moment later a warm fire roars before you and you take a seat in front of it. Glancing down, you see the remains of the runes drawn into your wrists. Smudges and prints from Erec's fingers run down the rune, changing its original form. You're still unsure of what to think of your strange encounter with him. Staring up into the flames, you watch them dance around wildly and continue contemplating.

After a while your eyelids grow strangely heavy and a warm feeling washes over you. You feel your body relax as you slowly slip into unconsciousness. When your eyes open back up you're surprised to find yourself in the same woods where you first encountered the crossroad. However, something feels starkly different about it this time. After taking a moment to look around you realize you're at the edge of the woods this time. To your right, you can see the trees clearing slightly to reveal the world outside. On your left they appear to grow denser as the path leads deeper into the dark forest. Hesitantly, you take a few steps towards the edge of the forest and look out. There's a ocean in the distance and you think you can make out something on it's shore. Frowning, you turn and look back into the forests deep interior. Something about it feels familiar and slightly alluring. It doesn't take long for you to figure out what lies ahead should you continue. Alternatively, the mystery of what lies on the other side of the forest feels equally intriguing. Taking a deep breath, you make your decision and walk towards your destination.