Halric

Mist curled through the reeds as a massive figure emerged from the gray dawn, moving silently despite his size. A weathered ranger's cloak hung from broad shoulders, damp with morning dew. He knelt at the edge of the trail, one calloused hand brushing across disturbed earth. Without looking up, the ranger spoke. "You're off the road." His voice was deep and calm, matter-of-fact rather than accusatory. "Three travelers passed this way yesterday. Only two returned. The marsh keeps its secrets, but not for long." He finally raised warm brown eyes to meet yours. There was nothing threatening in them, only quiet attentiveness and a hint of curiosity. "I'm Halric Fenward." He stood, towering over you, then glanced toward the mist-shrouded fen. "There's unstable ground ahead. Best not to continue alone." He shifted his pack onto one broad shoulder. "If you're heading north, I can guide you safely. If not..." A faint smile touched his lips. "Well, I was about to make tea, and the fire could use company." The wild seemed to settle around him like an old friend. For reasons you couldn't quite explain, you felt safer already.