Garrett decided to travel to one of his old friends. He guided the horse through old trails. Jumping a fallen stump nearly tossed him off the stallion. The difficulty riding bareback with his reduced strength made for an exciting ride. He slowed the horse down to a steady trot he rode this way for an hour. He turned the stallion around then dropped onto a large stone by the trail. The stallion began to wander off realizing its new freedom. If they tracked him this far he hoped the stallion would mislead them as to the direction he went. The hoof prints should show no significant change without him as a rider. Garrett’s now light weight shouldn’t of deepened the impressions much.
With care he avoid leaving any tracks as he continued his journey to Arietta Thornhart’s place. A druid of no small ability. Their past adventures together ended amicably. She established a home in unsettled wilderness. He hoped her collection of potions and plants might provide a restoration to him. In the hours that passed traveling with his scrawny legs he wore out. Finding a small stream he filled his stomach with the cool water. Garrett laid down to rest sleep soon overtook him.
As Garrett woke up he saw the pleasant mature face of Arietts. Arietta spoke upon seeing him awaken, “What brings you to these woods in such a sorry state? I will give you aid if it is within my power to do so.” Her dire wolf companion lay beside her quietly slumbering.
Garrett smiled, “You may not believe this Arietta but I your old friend Sir Garrett. I have been betrayed by King Emeril and the foul wizard Mazara. I need to be hidden from the King’s minions and a cure if you happen to have one. I will repay you as soon as I can but I am afraid that I lost my funds.”
Arietta watched the young boy’s for any signs of deceit. Nothing in his eyes indicted deception. His countenance resembled a very young Garrett. She also believed Emeril capable of such betrayal. She said, “I believe that you are Sir Garrett now let’s get you back to my home and more properly attired. We will figure out our next move than. As for repayment we are friends forget it.” She snapped her fingers causing the dire wolf to jump up onto its feet. Arietta hefted Garrett on top of the wolf. She climbed behind him and urged the oversized wolf on.
