Ferrin woke and looked around her. She had fully recovered from her exhaustion but her scar still hurt from where Shadow had pulled her back. She glanced at the burnt out fire and saw him still sleeping by it. She wondered if her magic worked again and muttered the incantation for a fireball. With relief she saw one blossom in her hand, the blue flames wavering in the breeze. With a contented sigh she let it melt back into her palm. Shadow suddenly spoke to her. Thats a pretty decoration.
Ferrin glanced up, she still wasnt used to his interruptions.
Not a decoration.
Oh, well its still pretty. What do you do with it?
Um. You can light fires with it. Shadow yawned. Haha. Well you can also throw it. She conjured another fireball and hurled it at a nearby rock. It struck with complete accuracy and blasted it a few feet back.
Impressive. For a little one. Commented Shadow. They chatted amiably for a bit and then decided to set off. It was still far to go through the forest, which continued on the other side of the river.
Each day passed like the next, there was twice as much food now with Shadow and Ferrin hunting and they both went to bed with their bellies full. On occasion Ferrin thought about her grandfather and the other villagers. This often made her cry, a feat which Shadow found fascinating. She began to regard Shadow as a friend and guide, and enjoyed her company with him. On the third day Shadow sniffed the air. How far have we gone?
Not sure. Maybe eight or nine leagues. We should be reaching the edge of Sanchon forest either today or tomorrow.
Mmmmm.
Why?
I smell people. There are huts and fires.
Oh. Well, isnt that a good thing?
Were you intending to cross their village?
Yes I guess.
Well it is good then.
They stopped talking and carried on through the forest. The sky started to turn black, and the grey clouds lay heavy in the sky. It looked as if it was going to rain. Shadow suddenly ran ahead and then returned a few minutes later. Nearly there. Was his comment. Ferrin frowned. She knew that she would have to only go in for supplies, and then leave as soon as possible. Shadow would have to come with her, as the shortest way to the plains was through the village. They suddenly stopped at the edge of the forest. In front of them was the village. It was almost three times as large as Ferrins. She took a deep breath and turned to Shadow. Please  if I get into trouble, do not reveal yourself. I dont want us to get into an even bigger mess.
Whatever I must do to protect you. Ferrin was touched by his remark. She looked at him and nodded. Hang on, was that an ok or not? She remarked. Shadow did not answer. Ferrin chose to ignore him. As the sweet smell of wood smoke filtered through the still air, the girl and wolf walked slowly into the village.