It was a sad looking thing, that path. It looked as if it had taken heavy use in the past. But I’d never seen anyone leave the town, so I found it surprising such a path had ever been used. Nevertheless it was my road alone to take.

He had told me not to stray, and for awhile I held true to his advice and stayed on the beaten path. I found, though, that the draining sun never ceased to shine and weariness took hold. I sought shelter and shade in which to rest.

Then I saw it In the distance, a dark tree-line began to form on the horizon..