Tark had hidden away Taura, Venia, and the children in a secluded cave in the woods, telling one of the elders of what he had done so that they could check on the families frequently. While he was doing this, Galena had packed bags for the two of them. She tried to keep their burden light, so she packed a change of clothes, some food provisions, and what little money they had. She packed Tark’s sword and intended on getting hers when they met at the clearing. They had changed into clothes that were more suitable for long traveling as well. By the time the families were hidden and Galena had finished packing, it was already early morning. Galena felt the wear of two sleepless nights and wondered secretly if they were doing the right thing. She somehow felt that leaving with so little sleep was a bad omen, but seeing no way around it, they headed toward the practicing field. Tark sat on the grass, tossing his dagger into the air and catching it by the hilt. Galena sat down beside him, pulled her legs up, and laid her head on her knees.
