The sun had risen halfway above the horizon when the four of them left Mystic Camp. Lukas, Axel, Oak, and Cary. The four of them were in various states of readiness.
Axel was ready, like always. He had told Lukas that he, like everyone, feared death. But his expression remained calm and slightly annoyed, at least on the surface. His face just rested in a way that conveyed annoyance.
Oak, on the other hand, was never ready. He always left with the others when they were supposed to, but he always looked around impatiently and his face moved like he was always thinking about something, or many things at once for all Lukas knew.
Cary seemed ready. He was tired and dragged himself along with the same vigour as a corpse. But, he kept a smile on his face and told the others he was fine. Knowing how yesterday had gone, perhaps it would have been foolish to doubt Cary's skill. But, Lukas still held some worry in his heart for the withered Hunter.
