Found:
Where does one turn when there's no one to turn to? Where does one go when there's nowhere to run? Where does one hide when there's nothing to hide from? Or is there? I don't know.
It's been... weeks.. I think. I'm not sure. The weather has turned, the leaves fallen now where they weren't before, the chill of the air pronounced enough that I can see my own breath come morning or night, but perhaps a sudden shift is normal in these parts? I can't tell.
I'm not entirely sure where I am or how long I've been here. I don't recall much after my last conversation with Toddir. I wonder if he, or anyone else, has noticed that I've been gone? Probably not. The nature of my life has had me come and go without word or warning so many times that anyone who knows or cares probably thinks this was just another one of my jaunts. Maybe it was?
Or maybe not. I've been reckless when necessary, certainly, but I know better than to take on a dig in my present or prior condition. I'd retired. I had to. I wouldn't have taken up a new hunt knowing that I can't swing my pickaxe or outrun, out climb or outwit the perils of that path. Reckless, yes when needs be, but never stupid.
So, how did I come to be here? What led me to this place? Where exactly am I? And what happened to my ear?
Too many questions. Too few answers.
Let's start with what I do know.
Steel is not with me. My bag is not with me. I have neither treasure hunting tools or any real supplies. North is that way. I'm hungry. I'm cold. I'm a little shaky. I still have my hood, my clothes, my kukri and I know how to forage even in colder weather. There is water somewhere.... I can hear it. I need to find it. I need to find water, food and some warmth and then I need to pick a direction.
I can figure the rest out later,
