45 min read
Camping Trip
February 24-26, 2017
◈ WHO: Sam & Reuben (Byagane319 & Skyeforge)
◈ WHEN: On the weekend of February 24, 2017
◈ WHERE: Yosemite National Park
◈ WEATHER: Sunny with a slight breeze.
◈ WHEN: On the weekend of February 24, 2017
◈ WHERE: Yosemite National Park
◈ WEATHER: Sunny with a slight breeze.
Sam packed the last of the supplies she'd need for her camping trip in the bed of her truck. A cowboy hat on her head and her usual outfit of a mid-drift, jeans, and boots was all she needed. She had a few spare changes of clothes, in case of rain which wasn't predicted or just in case. A sleeping bag as well as a large tent. Cooking supplies and dried food. Sam didn't even both packing canned food or such. There was a lake near enough to the camping spot she could get some fish. Which also explained the simple fishing pole she carried.
After ensuring nothing would bounce around and tying down the tarp to ensure nothing blew out she hopped into the cab and started the engine. She needed this, needed time away from the cement jungle she lived and worked within. Granted she lived out of town a ways but the need to reconnect to the natural world was strong in her heart after the few weeks of getting ready for her new Raevan's arrival.
Her plans were not to camp alone either! Remembering the kind man who'd given her the herbs for Hurtz she'd also remembered he liked the idea of going camping. So a quick call to his store and she arranged a trip for the two of them. She knew a good place for them to spend a few days.
Looking at the address she'd scribbled down she turned off her road and headed into town to pick him up. There was still plenty of room for his items if he wished extra. Sam was hardly a girl who required finer comforts. She remembered the days of her youth when she and her parents would sleep under the stars, her father pointing out constellations.
Riding up to the man's home she gave the horn a honk to announce her presence.
After ensuring nothing would bounce around and tying down the tarp to ensure nothing blew out she hopped into the cab and started the engine. She needed this, needed time away from the cement jungle she lived and worked within. Granted she lived out of town a ways but the need to reconnect to the natural world was strong in her heart after the few weeks of getting ready for her new Raevan's arrival.
Her plans were not to camp alone either! Remembering the kind man who'd given her the herbs for Hurtz she'd also remembered he liked the idea of going camping. So a quick call to his store and she arranged a trip for the two of them. She knew a good place for them to spend a few days.
Looking at the address she'd scribbled down she turned off her road and headed into town to pick him up. There was still plenty of room for his items if he wished extra. Sam was hardly a girl who required finer comforts. She remembered the days of her youth when she and her parents would sleep under the stars, her father pointing out constellations.
Riding up to the man's home she gave the horn a honk to announce her presence.
Reuben was happily readying the supplies needed for a nice little camping trip. A few days prior, he was approached by the lovely woman who had a skunk problem at her zoo. The fact that they were both awaiting their charges was a bonus. Although Reuben still wasn't even one hundred percent sure his was being created, the hope was still there; even in the most minute amount.
He packed up a backpack full of the usual "hiking gear", a change of clothes, a tightly rolled sleeping bag, a small flashlight, first aid kit, a lighter, sunscreen, a compass, multi-tool, water bottles, as well as a bit of dry food for the trip. Sam had mentioned something about fishing whilst on the phone, and being a vegan, he decided to pack a couple small bags of salad and a small container of his homemade dressing; all vacuum sealed for freshness. Of course, he couldn't leave the house without a deck of tarot cards, and so he put a deck into the pack and set it by the front door, ready to go. Some time away from the shop and the working life in general was needed.
The man ran out to the Mystic Herb shop quickly and placed a large sign on the door stating that it would be closed for the weekend, returning to normal business hours on Monday. With a bright smile, he went inside, locked the door, took a quick look around and ran back into the house to wait for the woman's arrival.
Within the hour, the woman honked her horn in front of his home. A smile grew upon his face as he quickly chugged the last bit of tea, rinsing the dirty cup quickly with some hot water and placing it on his drying rack before running to the front door. He picked up his pack, grabbed his key, turned around to quickly take a look over his house, and walked outside. He gave a smirk and a quick wave to the woman before turning to lock the front door and scurry down the walkway to the truck. He found an empty area in the bed of the truck for his backpack and shoved it in.
Opening the passenger door, he hopped in. "Hey, Sam! Thanks so much for inviting me. I've been looking forward to this all week. I seriously can't wait to get out of town. How have you been?" He asked as he shut the door and fastened his seat belt, ready for the ride out of town.
He packed up a backpack full of the usual "hiking gear", a change of clothes, a tightly rolled sleeping bag, a small flashlight, first aid kit, a lighter, sunscreen, a compass, multi-tool, water bottles, as well as a bit of dry food for the trip. Sam had mentioned something about fishing whilst on the phone, and being a vegan, he decided to pack a couple small bags of salad and a small container of his homemade dressing; all vacuum sealed for freshness. Of course, he couldn't leave the house without a deck of tarot cards, and so he put a deck into the pack and set it by the front door, ready to go. Some time away from the shop and the working life in general was needed.
The man ran out to the Mystic Herb shop quickly and placed a large sign on the door stating that it would be closed for the weekend, returning to normal business hours on Monday. With a bright smile, he went inside, locked the door, took a quick look around and ran back into the house to wait for the woman's arrival.
Within the hour, the woman honked her horn in front of his home. A smile grew upon his face as he quickly chugged the last bit of tea, rinsing the dirty cup quickly with some hot water and placing it on his drying rack before running to the front door. He picked up his pack, grabbed his key, turned around to quickly take a look over his house, and walked outside. He gave a smirk and a quick wave to the woman before turning to lock the front door and scurry down the walkway to the truck. He found an empty area in the bed of the truck for his backpack and shoved it in.
Opening the passenger door, he hopped in. "Hey, Sam! Thanks so much for inviting me. I've been looking forward to this all week. I seriously can't wait to get out of town. How have you been?" He asked as he shut the door and fastened his seat belt, ready for the ride out of town.
Sam smiled as she watched the man eagerly stow his belongings and climb in to the passenger seat. Her truck was clean but obviously well used. Dust and dirt clung to the tires as well as a few spots on the side panels. It was nice to have a new friend who was eager to spend time in the woods. Tau was good to hang out with but since he'd become a father she knew his time would be limited. While she didn't mind going on her own she still enjoyed company.
"Hiya Reuben! Welcome aboard!" Once his seat belt was on (safety first as her mother always expected) she started up and headed down the street towards the highway.
"Ah I've been ok I suppose. I needed this break too. Things have been hectic at the zoo with all the preps for presentations and spring time starting to break. So traffic will pick up as well as breeding season for many animals," she smiled softly. She didn't have the heart at the moment to mention one large sadness, the one thing that brought her and Reuben into a friendship.
"But no worries, I like having new company to get back into nature with. Sometimes I just need to smell fresh air and listen to her sing," she grinned as they continued down the road. "I got plenty of supplies. I know you don't eat meat and such so I got dried fruit and some protein bars. Can't have you starving to death on me."
She handed the man the map, where a circled spot seemed to be in the middle of no where. "This is where we are headed. I've hiked it before, will be a bit of a walk but it's quite. Near a lake. I've camped there a few times. Got a few game trails near by due to the lake so its always nice to see animals walking near by."
She kept small talk for a while, giving him accounts of her travels with her parents through jungles and forests, deserts and mountains. Sam was well traveled and did not worry or scare easily. "So, any more news on your Raevan yet? I actually got to meet one at the Zoo. She was so amazing. Gilded Lily and the soul of a cockroach. Lovely girl, very curious."
"Hiya Reuben! Welcome aboard!" Once his seat belt was on (safety first as her mother always expected) she started up and headed down the street towards the highway.
"Ah I've been ok I suppose. I needed this break too. Things have been hectic at the zoo with all the preps for presentations and spring time starting to break. So traffic will pick up as well as breeding season for many animals," she smiled softly. She didn't have the heart at the moment to mention one large sadness, the one thing that brought her and Reuben into a friendship.
"But no worries, I like having new company to get back into nature with. Sometimes I just need to smell fresh air and listen to her sing," she grinned as they continued down the road. "I got plenty of supplies. I know you don't eat meat and such so I got dried fruit and some protein bars. Can't have you starving to death on me."
She handed the man the map, where a circled spot seemed to be in the middle of no where. "This is where we are headed. I've hiked it before, will be a bit of a walk but it's quite. Near a lake. I've camped there a few times. Got a few game trails near by due to the lake so its always nice to see animals walking near by."
She kept small talk for a while, giving him accounts of her travels with her parents through jungles and forests, deserts and mountains. Sam was well traveled and did not worry or scare easily. "So, any more news on your Raevan yet? I actually got to meet one at the Zoo. She was so amazing. Gilded Lily and the soul of a cockroach. Lovely girl, very curious."
Reuben smiled at the woman's welcome. She seemed like such a nice lady and he was extremely ready to get out and spend some time away.
"That sounds so hectic! Being so high up on the totem pole has it's stresses, I'm sure. It'll be great to get away and actually find some time to regroup for next week. Hopefully the wind and the rain slow down a bit and spring actually makes it's way here. Mother nature has been a bit...excessive this winter to say the least," he stated with a smile, looking out the window and over to the woman.
Suddenly, his phone began to buzz. A text from none other than Evan. A smirk grew on his face a bit and he quickly texted back, letting his friend know that he was going to be out of range any moment. He didn't want anyone to worry. He also sent off a quick text to his best friend, Calista, stating the same.
With a chuckle, Reuben shook his head, "It's totally alright, I'm use to having to survive without the normal meaty foods that others eat. I packed myself some salads, and since you are so well prepared, even for the likes of a vegan, I'll be happy to share what food I brought as well."
Taking the map and outlining the trail with his finger, he nodded. He hadn't been here, that much was for sure, and it was going to be quite the adventure to explore a new place. He was certainly excited, to say the least.
"It sounds wonderful," he stated, listening to her stories and explanation of the place. Though when the conversation turned to that of the raevan, he sighed. He knew it would come up, it was just a matter of time. "She sounds quite lovely. They're such fascinating creatures, aren't they?" he smiled, turning the attention to his own predicament. Heaving a large sigh, he spoke up again, "Sadly, no new news on the raevan front. I haven't even spoken to Zeke since I sent off the jar and soul bottle in October. I knew I had messed up the capture, by accidentally trapping a mushroom soul, but I would have at least liked a little heads up telling me they're sorry they can't accept it...or something...anything. Maybe I should reach out to them? It's been about four months now."
Yep, four months by the end of February. It was crazy how fast time flew by. It seemed like only yesterday he walked into his workroom to see the glowing, swirling soul spiraling around inside the glass. He shook the thought from his head, hoping he could use this time to get this failure of his out of his mind.
"Enough about me and my drama, what about you? Have you picked out a soul yet? Oh! And I can't believe I haven't asked! How did those herbs work on that skunk problem you were having?"
"That sounds so hectic! Being so high up on the totem pole has it's stresses, I'm sure. It'll be great to get away and actually find some time to regroup for next week. Hopefully the wind and the rain slow down a bit and spring actually makes it's way here. Mother nature has been a bit...excessive this winter to say the least," he stated with a smile, looking out the window and over to the woman.
Suddenly, his phone began to buzz. A text from none other than Evan. A smirk grew on his face a bit and he quickly texted back, letting his friend know that he was going to be out of range any moment. He didn't want anyone to worry. He also sent off a quick text to his best friend, Calista, stating the same.
With a chuckle, Reuben shook his head, "It's totally alright, I'm use to having to survive without the normal meaty foods that others eat. I packed myself some salads, and since you are so well prepared, even for the likes of a vegan, I'll be happy to share what food I brought as well."
Taking the map and outlining the trail with his finger, he nodded. He hadn't been here, that much was for sure, and it was going to be quite the adventure to explore a new place. He was certainly excited, to say the least.
"It sounds wonderful," he stated, listening to her stories and explanation of the place. Though when the conversation turned to that of the raevan, he sighed. He knew it would come up, it was just a matter of time. "She sounds quite lovely. They're such fascinating creatures, aren't they?" he smiled, turning the attention to his own predicament. Heaving a large sigh, he spoke up again, "Sadly, no new news on the raevan front. I haven't even spoken to Zeke since I sent off the jar and soul bottle in October. I knew I had messed up the capture, by accidentally trapping a mushroom soul, but I would have at least liked a little heads up telling me they're sorry they can't accept it...or something...anything. Maybe I should reach out to them? It's been about four months now."
Yep, four months by the end of February. It was crazy how fast time flew by. It seemed like only yesterday he walked into his workroom to see the glowing, swirling soul spiraling around inside the glass. He shook the thought from his head, hoping he could use this time to get this failure of his out of his mind.
"Enough about me and my drama, what about you? Have you picked out a soul yet? Oh! And I can't believe I haven't asked! How did those herbs work on that skunk problem you were having?"
Sam chuckled at Rueben's description of her job and nodded, "It can get hectic but I love it. Seeing the animals so happy. I never imagined I'd be doing this. I thought I'd be out with my mom and dad, trekking through the wilderness studying animals. But the animals here need me."
Sam had her phone as well, it was a Sat phone actually; a gift from her parents. She carried it when she went out, just in case. Even her parents, rugged explorers and adventures, kept their sat phone with them for emergencies. Nothing like having a broken leg while rock climbing out in the desert with no communications. "Cell phones won't worry out there but I have a Sat phone just in case. But no texting if you please," she chuckled.
Once they were out of the city proper the land became more sparse of buildings and homes. More trees and such lining the roadside. She listened as Reuben spoke of his lack of news, but then again she couldn't imagine doing what they claimed to do would be fast.
"I don't think it was a mistake, Reuben. Just because it was a mushroom doesn't mean its wrong. According to my mother, who will let you know she knows what she's talking about, fungi and such are one of the most important plants in the world," she took a turn off the main road onto a two lane heading where a large sign said "Area National Park" as they drove on. "Without them nothing would be able to grow because they return nutrients to the soil. They give back what the life took during it's time. And from it more life arises. Everything in nature has it's place, it's purpose; even if it may seem annoying to us."
When the subject of the herbs came up a sad look crossed her eyes. She knew this would come up, after all the man would want to know if his recommendations were accurate. "Well I tried the herbs, in fact I was going to ask for a second round of them to continue his treatment. His mental state makes most treatments require long term coordination but....sadly....I won't be needing them anymore. Zoo Admin were tired of waiting for him to come around, to behave as they expected."
She took another turn and headed down a dirt path, going slow to avoid tossing them about. "Hurtz had a few things going against him. One was his breed. Skunks are endangered and quite capable of adapting. We already had several females but were hoping for a good male to have little cute baby skunks. The other was time. Hurtz would have required a great deal of time to rehabilitate and even then he might still be aggressive. So Admin made the decision that it wasn't worth the time and money to keep him. So I was ordered to put him down."
Sam still felt a stab of guilt and frustration at the thought. While the zoo was renowned for it's rehabilitation of animals, there were those that just couldn't. Most of the time they could be sent to a sanctuary to live their days as best the could. But Hurtz did not have that luxury.
"I couldn't stand the idea, it tore me apart. But I....well....," she pulled to a stop by a large cabin that said Park Ranger, Car parking area. Please register vehicle inside, "I couldn't do it. I couldn't just let him die because they didn't want to deal with him. So, I used the soul bottle I got from the Lab. To try and give him a new life. One he had more of a say in."
Sam had her phone as well, it was a Sat phone actually; a gift from her parents. She carried it when she went out, just in case. Even her parents, rugged explorers and adventures, kept their sat phone with them for emergencies. Nothing like having a broken leg while rock climbing out in the desert with no communications. "Cell phones won't worry out there but I have a Sat phone just in case. But no texting if you please," she chuckled.
Once they were out of the city proper the land became more sparse of buildings and homes. More trees and such lining the roadside. She listened as Reuben spoke of his lack of news, but then again she couldn't imagine doing what they claimed to do would be fast.
"I don't think it was a mistake, Reuben. Just because it was a mushroom doesn't mean its wrong. According to my mother, who will let you know she knows what she's talking about, fungi and such are one of the most important plants in the world," she took a turn off the main road onto a two lane heading where a large sign said "Area National Park" as they drove on. "Without them nothing would be able to grow because they return nutrients to the soil. They give back what the life took during it's time. And from it more life arises. Everything in nature has it's place, it's purpose; even if it may seem annoying to us."
When the subject of the herbs came up a sad look crossed her eyes. She knew this would come up, after all the man would want to know if his recommendations were accurate. "Well I tried the herbs, in fact I was going to ask for a second round of them to continue his treatment. His mental state makes most treatments require long term coordination but....sadly....I won't be needing them anymore. Zoo Admin were tired of waiting for him to come around, to behave as they expected."
She took another turn and headed down a dirt path, going slow to avoid tossing them about. "Hurtz had a few things going against him. One was his breed. Skunks are endangered and quite capable of adapting. We already had several females but were hoping for a good male to have little cute baby skunks. The other was time. Hurtz would have required a great deal of time to rehabilitate and even then he might still be aggressive. So Admin made the decision that it wasn't worth the time and money to keep him. So I was ordered to put him down."
Sam still felt a stab of guilt and frustration at the thought. While the zoo was renowned for it's rehabilitation of animals, there were those that just couldn't. Most of the time they could be sent to a sanctuary to live their days as best the could. But Hurtz did not have that luxury.
"I couldn't stand the idea, it tore me apart. But I....well....," she pulled to a stop by a large cabin that said Park Ranger, Car parking area. Please register vehicle inside, "I couldn't do it. I couldn't just let him die because they didn't want to deal with him. So, I used the soul bottle I got from the Lab. To try and give him a new life. One he had more of a say in."
Reuben smiled at the woman's explanation of her parent's jobs. That sounded interesting. A life of journeying. That sounded quite exquisite to Reuben. He'd definitely have to meet these people one day to ask about their adventures.
As she spoke about the cell phones, he chuckled and nodded. "No worries there, I was just texting a couple friends telling them I will be MIA for a couple days. And good thing you have that sat phone. I'm sure it's come in handy in the past."
Reuben looked out the window to see the trees coming into view. The beautiful forestry that he so loved and desired to be apart of every day if he could. This trip was going to be fantastic, he thought.
Listening to the woman's explanation of the mushroom, it relieved some of his stresses. She was one hundred percent right. Sure, it wasn't his first choice. But a mushroom was just as important to the circle of life as any other thing. He felt rather ashamed for thinking it so crucial and unimportant. Everything in nature had it's place, even the littlest mosquito which were nothing but an annoyance to most, would cause a dramatic shift to many ecosystems if they were wiped out. "You're very right. Thank you for that. Damn, your mother taught you a lot, and she seems like a very wise woman."
As she explained her situation with the skunk, his heart sank, followed by a small pause of silence before he decided to speak up. "I am so sorry to hear that. But you did the right thing. Giving that creature a second chance at life will be a wonderful experience, I think. Do you think that a creature fashioned with a soul like that will remember it's past life? I'd be curious to know," he questioned as the two came up on the parking area.
Reuben exited the vehicle quickly, his words still hung in the air unanswered. He didn't end the thought, but it caused even more thoughts to arise. Did plants have past lives, too? Would his little raeven have a past to remember? Especially with all the prior imaginings collected from the essence, would the frei be able to reminisce on these past imaginings? All of these questions sat in the forefront of his mind, waiting to be answered.
He grabbed his backpack and offered to help with the untying of the bed of the truck. "So, how far in do we go before we reach the campsite?" he asked, the breeze making its way through his legs to add a shrill of chill down his spine. It did feel quite amazing, however, to be out in nature once again after such a long time.
As she spoke about the cell phones, he chuckled and nodded. "No worries there, I was just texting a couple friends telling them I will be MIA for a couple days. And good thing you have that sat phone. I'm sure it's come in handy in the past."
Reuben looked out the window to see the trees coming into view. The beautiful forestry that he so loved and desired to be apart of every day if he could. This trip was going to be fantastic, he thought.
Listening to the woman's explanation of the mushroom, it relieved some of his stresses. She was one hundred percent right. Sure, it wasn't his first choice. But a mushroom was just as important to the circle of life as any other thing. He felt rather ashamed for thinking it so crucial and unimportant. Everything in nature had it's place, even the littlest mosquito which were nothing but an annoyance to most, would cause a dramatic shift to many ecosystems if they were wiped out. "You're very right. Thank you for that. Damn, your mother taught you a lot, and she seems like a very wise woman."
As she explained her situation with the skunk, his heart sank, followed by a small pause of silence before he decided to speak up. "I am so sorry to hear that. But you did the right thing. Giving that creature a second chance at life will be a wonderful experience, I think. Do you think that a creature fashioned with a soul like that will remember it's past life? I'd be curious to know," he questioned as the two came up on the parking area.
Reuben exited the vehicle quickly, his words still hung in the air unanswered. He didn't end the thought, but it caused even more thoughts to arise. Did plants have past lives, too? Would his little raeven have a past to remember? Especially with all the prior imaginings collected from the essence, would the frei be able to reminisce on these past imaginings? All of these questions sat in the forefront of his mind, waiting to be answered.
He grabbed his backpack and offered to help with the untying of the bed of the truck. "So, how far in do we go before we reach the campsite?" he asked, the breeze making its way through his legs to add a shrill of chill down his spine. It did feel quite amazing, however, to be out in nature once again after such a long time.
Sam smiled as the man seemed to feel better about what had occurred with his soul capture. She wondered off hand if other guardians did theirs out of necessity or by accident. Granted the only other guardian she'd met was Dior's, and she asked for guidance for it. She laughed at his comment about her mother, "Oh mom's a spirited one. Both my parents defied their family traditions in terms of occupation. Mom's family are all bankers while dad's are in law. But dad loved the earth. Every rock, every mountain; a work of the creator he said. Mom and dad are also Catholic but believe in evolution because they feel God's hand moves beyond our idea of time."
"Mom's a botanist, specializes in carnivorous and poisonous plants. But she sees the battle that most forget exists in nature. Plants are actively grown, defending, fighting, and reproducing like any animal," she said before speaking of Hurtz.
"It hurt, to think he would die because of a human's greed. We rescued him along with 50 other animals from an illegal zoo ran for profit. Tourists taking pictures, rich people wanting to buy exotic animals or even hunt them. Hurtz along with several forest animals and reptiles, along with the usual large mammals."
Once they were in the park she grabbed her stuff, "Well honestly I hope he doesn't remember his past life. He was tortured and starved. I wouldn't want him to remember but I suppose that's not my call. If he does I just hope to give him good memories, ones of a loving human who cares about his well being and will do everything she can to make his life happy."
She distributed some of the large things for them both to carry, to make it easier, then looked up the trail. "It is about a thirty minute walk to the best camp site. An hour if you want something deeper. But we'll take the short one on this trip since it's a short stay. Lets go!" She smiled and began walking up the trail.
It was a beautiful place and the trail she took looked hardly used. Roots and plants grew up all around it and trees were starting to grow thick. After walking for some time they finally came upon a generally large clearing in the forest area. Sunlight streamed down onto soft grass and wild flowers.
"And here we are. It's a bit over grown but it adds to the ambiance," Sam smiled before looking up at they sky for a few moments, "We've got several hours of daylight left. Lets get the tent up and start a fire. If you want to gather some rocks for the fire pit I'll get the tent up."
"Mom's a botanist, specializes in carnivorous and poisonous plants. But she sees the battle that most forget exists in nature. Plants are actively grown, defending, fighting, and reproducing like any animal," she said before speaking of Hurtz.
"It hurt, to think he would die because of a human's greed. We rescued him along with 50 other animals from an illegal zoo ran for profit. Tourists taking pictures, rich people wanting to buy exotic animals or even hunt them. Hurtz along with several forest animals and reptiles, along with the usual large mammals."
Once they were in the park she grabbed her stuff, "Well honestly I hope he doesn't remember his past life. He was tortured and starved. I wouldn't want him to remember but I suppose that's not my call. If he does I just hope to give him good memories, ones of a loving human who cares about his well being and will do everything she can to make his life happy."
She distributed some of the large things for them both to carry, to make it easier, then looked up the trail. "It is about a thirty minute walk to the best camp site. An hour if you want something deeper. But we'll take the short one on this trip since it's a short stay. Lets go!" She smiled and began walking up the trail.
It was a beautiful place and the trail she took looked hardly used. Roots and plants grew up all around it and trees were starting to grow thick. After walking for some time they finally came upon a generally large clearing in the forest area. Sunlight streamed down onto soft grass and wild flowers.
"And here we are. It's a bit over grown but it adds to the ambiance," Sam smiled before looking up at they sky for a few moments, "We've got several hours of daylight left. Lets get the tent up and start a fire. If you want to gather some rocks for the fire pit I'll get the tent up."
It was those types of people, ones that did things outside of the norm, that Reuben could see himself getting along with. This woman's parents seemed like adventurers, people who didn't necessarily play by anyone's rules. Their God was different from the one he was raised with, and that seemed more pleasant. Normally he abhorred anything to do with religion, but Sam, and her parents as she spoke of them, seemed like fine people. "That definitely sounds like my kind of family. So, you were raised in the outdoors I take it?" he asked, curiously.
Reuben's mouth slanted as she spoke of the illegal zoo rescue. He still couldn't believe that some people would do that to the poor creatures. And when spoken to about the past life of the little skunk, he certainly agreed. "I hope he doesn't remember his past, either. But you seem like you'll make a wonderful guardian. He will have a happy life, with you. All you can do is try your very best, like any parent."
"Right behind ya!" Reuben called as he began to follow behind.
The walk towards the campsite was beautiful, and Reuben was quite mesmerized by his surroundings. The chill of the wind was welcomed and the sun peeked through the trees ever-so-slightly, lighting the way.
As they came to the clearing, all Reuben could do was gawk in awe. It was actually far more beautiful than he had imagined. "Wow, this is gorgeous. A perfect place to camp for the weekend," he said with a smile. "For sure, I'll be right back," he concluded, setting his backpack down on the grass before scurrying down the trail a bit further to search for some rocks.
After some ten minutes of collecting a generous pile of rocks, he needed a couple of trips to get enough rocks to the campsite in order to start a small fire pit. It looked as though the tent was coming along splendidly. This woman truly knew what she was doing out here.
Reuben crafted a rough looking fire pit, but one that would work well enough, and had also found a few small twigs and a couple small tree branches he was able to break for firewood to at least get a small fire going. Going through his backpack, he grabbed out a small lighter and lit a piece of paper and set it beneath the wood on a bed of dried grass and twigs. "Alright, if this works well enough, we'll have a small fire started. What else can I help you with?" he asked, hunched over, poking at the small twigs to prod the flames to lick the larger pieces of wood.
Reuben's mouth slanted as she spoke of the illegal zoo rescue. He still couldn't believe that some people would do that to the poor creatures. And when spoken to about the past life of the little skunk, he certainly agreed. "I hope he doesn't remember his past, either. But you seem like you'll make a wonderful guardian. He will have a happy life, with you. All you can do is try your very best, like any parent."
"Right behind ya!" Reuben called as he began to follow behind.
The walk towards the campsite was beautiful, and Reuben was quite mesmerized by his surroundings. The chill of the wind was welcomed and the sun peeked through the trees ever-so-slightly, lighting the way.
As they came to the clearing, all Reuben could do was gawk in awe. It was actually far more beautiful than he had imagined. "Wow, this is gorgeous. A perfect place to camp for the weekend," he said with a smile. "For sure, I'll be right back," he concluded, setting his backpack down on the grass before scurrying down the trail a bit further to search for some rocks.
After some ten minutes of collecting a generous pile of rocks, he needed a couple of trips to get enough rocks to the campsite in order to start a small fire pit. It looked as though the tent was coming along splendidly. This woman truly knew what she was doing out here.
Reuben crafted a rough looking fire pit, but one that would work well enough, and had also found a few small twigs and a couple small tree branches he was able to break for firewood to at least get a small fire going. Going through his backpack, he grabbed out a small lighter and lit a piece of paper and set it beneath the wood on a bed of dried grass and twigs. "Alright, if this works well enough, we'll have a small fire started. What else can I help you with?" he asked, hunched over, poking at the small twigs to prod the flames to lick the larger pieces of wood.
Sam nodded at his question of her raising, "Oh yes. Everywhere was my playground and school room. Mom and dad hadn't expected to have kids so they did what they felt natural. They took me everywhere, home schooled me in normal subjects but gave me an education that few get."
She walked a bit slower, smiling at the memories, "Dad and I would lay outside on warm nights on the savannah or steppes. He would show me the stars, tell me about their meaning for history and how to chart them for survival. He taught me how to calculate the angle of a mountain or the sun for geometry but also how to find distance and time."
She brushed a long lock of hair over her shoulder, "Mom would teach me about plants. What was safe to eat and how to cook them. Taught me how to measure ingredients for food and for scientific formulas. Taught me the science of plants, simple biology. So I learned what most kids do in school only in the real world. Then of course there were the villages we stayed in."
Her words stopped as they reached the clearing and she began her prework. She smiled at the man's amazement of the small clearing. She never used the same clearing more than one season at a time. Gave it time to recover from a human's footprint.
Once Reuben had the fire ready Sam was nearly done with the tent. The tent itself was shorter than most but could easily fit the two of them without being awkward. It was colored to match the foliage around it as well. "Low hitch tent, keeps warmth closer to the body as well as disguises it from most large animals. Large tents always make them curious. This way we blend in more and distract them less."
At his question she looked around, then back at the sky. "Well we have just a bit more sunlight. Though I've got a good idea of what we can do to kick off this weekend adventure. Come on!"
The woman set off, grabbing a bottle of water, and began down another barely used trail. They didn't walk very long or very far but did come to a hill crest that seemed to look out over a small valley. There you could see the horizon, gleaming golden as the sun began to set. "Sunset, best time of the day in my opinion."
She walked a bit slower, smiling at the memories, "Dad and I would lay outside on warm nights on the savannah or steppes. He would show me the stars, tell me about their meaning for history and how to chart them for survival. He taught me how to calculate the angle of a mountain or the sun for geometry but also how to find distance and time."
She brushed a long lock of hair over her shoulder, "Mom would teach me about plants. What was safe to eat and how to cook them. Taught me how to measure ingredients for food and for scientific formulas. Taught me the science of plants, simple biology. So I learned what most kids do in school only in the real world. Then of course there were the villages we stayed in."
Her words stopped as they reached the clearing and she began her prework. She smiled at the man's amazement of the small clearing. She never used the same clearing more than one season at a time. Gave it time to recover from a human's footprint.
Once Reuben had the fire ready Sam was nearly done with the tent. The tent itself was shorter than most but could easily fit the two of them without being awkward. It was colored to match the foliage around it as well. "Low hitch tent, keeps warmth closer to the body as well as disguises it from most large animals. Large tents always make them curious. This way we blend in more and distract them less."
At his question she looked around, then back at the sky. "Well we have just a bit more sunlight. Though I've got a good idea of what we can do to kick off this weekend adventure. Come on!"
The woman set off, grabbing a bottle of water, and began down another barely used trail. They didn't walk very long or very far but did come to a hill crest that seemed to look out over a small valley. There you could see the horizon, gleaming golden as the sun began to set. "Sunset, best time of the day in my opinion."
So she was home schooled. That wasn't surprising to the tarotist, seeing how her parents were avid travelers. They seemed like a very intelligent family, and Sam was no different. Normally home schooled kids were more prone to social awkwardness, but Sam seemed so genuinely comfortable around Reuben on both occasions. But being carted around from place to place had to have it's downfall, right? Reuben pushed that thought into the back of his mind and continued to listen to the woman talk and work. "I'll definitely need to meet this botanist mother of yours. She'd be invaluable to someone like me," he chuckled.
"Good thinking! Let me just say this; if there's ever a time where Iam in need of a survivalist, you'll be the first person I call. You've really thought of everything," he stated with a chuckle, standing up and brushing the dirt from his knees.
As the fire settled a bit, Sam began to take them down the trail a bit further. Reuben followed quite willingly with a bright smile on his face after grabbing a bottle of water for himself and jogging to catch up.
The two stood there as the sun began to set and Reuben couldn't help but be amazed at where he was. "Wow..." he huffed under his breath. It really was a breathtaking sight to behold. "How on earth did you find this place? How did you even know this place existed? I've never seen such a beautiful view," he awed, crossing his arms and just gazing out over the horizon. Surely he had in his past, right? But this just seemed so serene and the entire trip thus far had been just magnificent.
As the sun continued to set, Reuben couldn't help but start to feel the night chill creep in. "Ah, and so it begins," he stated, rubbing his biceps. "I have to say, once again, thank you so much for inviting me. This trip is already panning out to be quite great."
"Good thinking! Let me just say this; if there's ever a time where Iam in need of a survivalist, you'll be the first person I call. You've really thought of everything," he stated with a chuckle, standing up and brushing the dirt from his knees.
As the fire settled a bit, Sam began to take them down the trail a bit further. Reuben followed quite willingly with a bright smile on his face after grabbing a bottle of water for himself and jogging to catch up.
The two stood there as the sun began to set and Reuben couldn't help but be amazed at where he was. "Wow..." he huffed under his breath. It really was a breathtaking sight to behold. "How on earth did you find this place? How did you even know this place existed? I've never seen such a beautiful view," he awed, crossing his arms and just gazing out over the horizon. Surely he had in his past, right? But this just seemed so serene and the entire trip thus far had been just magnificent.
As the sun continued to set, Reuben couldn't help but start to feel the night chill creep in. "Ah, and so it begins," he stated, rubbing his biceps. "I have to say, once again, thank you so much for inviting me. This trip is already panning out to be quite great."
"Well I will be inviting her and dad to visit once I get my Raevan. They will be absolutely amazed by it," she smiled, "And mom loves talking about plants, from everywhere we've been. I'd be happy to bring her by your shop or invite you over for dinner. Mom and Dad are always cooking something exotic when they visit. Bringing stuff from wherever they just were."
Sam continued to look out over the valley, watching the sky catch fire in the dying light. She imagined this is why the Egyptians and Romans and Greeks all thought the sun was a fiery chariot. It seemed more plausible giving the color. "When I first arrived to start college I hiked everywhere I could, " she said without taking her eyes off the horizon, "It helped since I felt so out of place in the city world. I knew about most technologies, after all my parents needed some to work and travel. But they weren't important to me as some. And getting use to sitting in a classroom was the worst. More than once I got in trouble for sitting in the window rather than my desk."
Once the sun disappeared with just pink left she smiled to him, "No problem. And that was only have of the view. Just wait another ten minutes or so." Sure enough in another few minutes with the sun disappeared the stars blazed across the black sky. Without the glare of city lights it seemed like a sea of sparkling dots. "Out here without the city lights you can see the stars, all the constellations my father taught me."
Once they were done admiring she walked them back to camp, stopping to grab more firewood to keep the fire going for the night. She grabbed a light jacket from the tent and slipped it on as she sat in front of the fire. Taking some marshmallows and a stick out she made herself some lovely roasted marshmallows She also toasted some nuts she brought in a metal cup.
Sam continued to look out over the valley, watching the sky catch fire in the dying light. She imagined this is why the Egyptians and Romans and Greeks all thought the sun was a fiery chariot. It seemed more plausible giving the color. "When I first arrived to start college I hiked everywhere I could, " she said without taking her eyes off the horizon, "It helped since I felt so out of place in the city world. I knew about most technologies, after all my parents needed some to work and travel. But they weren't important to me as some. And getting use to sitting in a classroom was the worst. More than once I got in trouble for sitting in the window rather than my desk."
Once the sun disappeared with just pink left she smiled to him, "No problem. And that was only have of the view. Just wait another ten minutes or so." Sure enough in another few minutes with the sun disappeared the stars blazed across the black sky. Without the glare of city lights it seemed like a sea of sparkling dots. "Out here without the city lights you can see the stars, all the constellations my father taught me."
Once they were done admiring she walked them back to camp, stopping to grab more firewood to keep the fire going for the night. She grabbed a light jacket from the tent and slipped it on as she sat in front of the fire. Taking some marshmallows and a stick out she made herself some lovely roasted marshmallows She also toasted some nuts she brought in a metal cup.
"Oh, that'd be great!" Reuben stated with a smile. "Either or, really. Bring them by the shop anytime. When our raevan are born, we'll have to make sure to get them together. I'm sure my little toadstool will need some friends. We should keep each other informed on any progress. I'd love to hear when yours has arrived," he said with a smile, changing his gaze from the beautiful, serene pink sky to the woman for just a moment, before returning it to the scene.
As the skies darkened completely, the stars blinked in the sky. Something you only could see out camping. The skies were so clear, though, it was amazing. The perfect night for camping. With a grin larger than any other he had bared thus far, he stared up at the night sky, looking at the constellations. "So fascinating, the stars."
The two made their way back to the campsite after a few moments of enjoying the view and Reuben propped a larger piece of wood up as if to use it as a stool to sit upon before grabbing a stick of his own and placing a marshmallow delicately upon it. Toasting it and enjoying the chilly wind as the fire crackled in front of him.
Looking up at what few stars he could see from their slightly overgrown campsite, Reuben smirked. "Do you mind if I ask you a more...personal question?" he began. Before she could even answer that question, he started in with another of his own, "Do you believe in the God you grew up with?"
A short pause, and he spoke up again. "Like...looking up into the sky, seeing the stars, the constellations, knowing that they're just made up of luminous gasses. Or knowing that everything here on earth is connected to one thing or another. Every single species of plant and animal have a purpose. Is that what God did? Or did natural selection just weed out the weak species until we're all that's left?"
As the skies darkened completely, the stars blinked in the sky. Something you only could see out camping. The skies were so clear, though, it was amazing. The perfect night for camping. With a grin larger than any other he had bared thus far, he stared up at the night sky, looking at the constellations. "So fascinating, the stars."
The two made their way back to the campsite after a few moments of enjoying the view and Reuben propped a larger piece of wood up as if to use it as a stool to sit upon before grabbing a stick of his own and placing a marshmallow delicately upon it. Toasting it and enjoying the chilly wind as the fire crackled in front of him.
Looking up at what few stars he could see from their slightly overgrown campsite, Reuben smirked. "Do you mind if I ask you a more...personal question?" he began. Before she could even answer that question, he started in with another of his own, "Do you believe in the God you grew up with?"
A short pause, and he spoke up again. "Like...looking up into the sky, seeing the stars, the constellations, knowing that they're just made up of luminous gasses. Or knowing that everything here on earth is connected to one thing or another. Every single species of plant and animal have a purpose. Is that what God did? Or did natural selection just weed out the weak species until we're all that's left?"
Sam knew her mother would adore Reuben, giving he was a vegan and an herbalist. Her mother loved natural remedies but was not against modern medicine for important things like vaccinations and shots for deadly diseases such as malaria. Needed when you travel to such exotic places as she did.
"Oh I'd love to bring mine over. I'll have to introduce you to Dior as well, so all our Raevans can have a starting group of friends!" she smiled and munched on her toasted mallow.
His next question made her smile a bit, it was a controversial topic to some and nonexistent to others. She gave it some thought for a few minutes to best show how she felt.
"The God I grew up with was not the conventional Catholic God you think of. My parents believed in science, in evolution, that the earth was billions of years old. So do I believe in the God I grew up with, yes. But let me explain it to you they way my father did when I asked him one day. I'd learned about all sorts of religions that existed so I asked him why he followed the one he did," she took a drink of water as she leaned back against her tent pole and looked up at the stars.
"God's plan is to vast for any human to understand. We can try to see the strokes of his brush but we can never see the image he truly wants. My father saw evidence in the vast mountains and volcanoes that the earth is an active, living thing. It shifts, grows mountains, wears them away, juts up volcanoes until the tide wears them down. Oceans rise and fall, the environment changes from shallow ocean to complete desert. The earth is a living being created by God, just like you or me. A great mother to nurture the life he planned to put on her. He set his plan into motion and watched," she began roasting another marshmallow.
"My mother saw the rise of giant ferns and plants, the beginnings of plant life in the ocean with algae and such. As the living earth changed itself it gave birth to plant life. Such life was needed to begin creating more and more life, each one trying to find it's place in the world it came into. If he was needed God would assist in his own way, unknown to the lifeforms. Like a good father giving gentle correction to his child but still letting it fall and scrap it's knees," she munched on the marshmallow for a moment.
"Then came more complex and carnivorous animals. Each one lived and died, some longer others short. The earth continued to change and animals had to change with it. Some could not so they became extinct. You know what fascinates me is that every major and even some smaller religions all have a great flood story. Where water over took the world and life had to begin anew. My father saw that in the rock bed. He felt it was true, as water has so many states of being. Solid, liquid, vapor. So Ice Ages and Floods should exist in the history of the earth as it's part of the history of earth's life," she took another breath.
"So too long; didn't read; yes I believe in the God I grew up with. He's not some God of wrath or justice. He's a God who created life and has a plan for life's painting. Sometimes it's hard to see where you are in the picture, other times is crystal clear. But everything belongs in the picture, in some place or another," she smiled softly. "I can speak to him, tell him my worries and fears; and feel comfort in knowing his hand is guiding me. Not every path will be smooth, not every step will be clear; but I know I'm here for a reason whether I know it or not. So I will do my best to help other lives here see their reason."
"Oh I'd love to bring mine over. I'll have to introduce you to Dior as well, so all our Raevans can have a starting group of friends!" she smiled and munched on her toasted mallow.
His next question made her smile a bit, it was a controversial topic to some and nonexistent to others. She gave it some thought for a few minutes to best show how she felt.
"The God I grew up with was not the conventional Catholic God you think of. My parents believed in science, in evolution, that the earth was billions of years old. So do I believe in the God I grew up with, yes. But let me explain it to you they way my father did when I asked him one day. I'd learned about all sorts of religions that existed so I asked him why he followed the one he did," she took a drink of water as she leaned back against her tent pole and looked up at the stars.
"God's plan is to vast for any human to understand. We can try to see the strokes of his brush but we can never see the image he truly wants. My father saw evidence in the vast mountains and volcanoes that the earth is an active, living thing. It shifts, grows mountains, wears them away, juts up volcanoes until the tide wears them down. Oceans rise and fall, the environment changes from shallow ocean to complete desert. The earth is a living being created by God, just like you or me. A great mother to nurture the life he planned to put on her. He set his plan into motion and watched," she began roasting another marshmallow.
"My mother saw the rise of giant ferns and plants, the beginnings of plant life in the ocean with algae and such. As the living earth changed itself it gave birth to plant life. Such life was needed to begin creating more and more life, each one trying to find it's place in the world it came into. If he was needed God would assist in his own way, unknown to the lifeforms. Like a good father giving gentle correction to his child but still letting it fall and scrap it's knees," she munched on the marshmallow for a moment.
"Then came more complex and carnivorous animals. Each one lived and died, some longer others short. The earth continued to change and animals had to change with it. Some could not so they became extinct. You know what fascinates me is that every major and even some smaller religions all have a great flood story. Where water over took the world and life had to begin anew. My father saw that in the rock bed. He felt it was true, as water has so many states of being. Solid, liquid, vapor. So Ice Ages and Floods should exist in the history of the earth as it's part of the history of earth's life," she took another breath.
"So too long; didn't read; yes I believe in the God I grew up with. He's not some God of wrath or justice. He's a God who created life and has a plan for life's painting. Sometimes it's hard to see where you are in the picture, other times is crystal clear. But everything belongs in the picture, in some place or another," she smiled softly. "I can speak to him, tell him my worries and fears; and feel comfort in knowing his hand is guiding me. Not every path will be smooth, not every step will be clear; but I know I'm here for a reason whether I know it or not. So I will do my best to help other lives here see their reason."
Reuben finished his marshmallow and smiled with agreement. With a semi-full mouth, he spoke, "That'd be wonderful. I'd love to meet as many raevan as I can, and I'm sure that my little one will enjoy the friendship, at least I hope!"
Swallowing what chewed mess he had in his mouth, he stoked the fire with his stick, watching the flames send off sparks in all directions. As he listened to her explanation of who God was to her, his heart sunk. Not all Christian people were like the ones he grew up with, and that was wonderful to hear. Her explanation was eloquent and very genuine. It was nice to be able to acknowledge the existence of other religions and not pass judgement upon them for such a thing.
"The way you explain your religion to me, it seems a bit Deist in a sense. But the way you explain it is beautiful. I'm glad your family is different in their thinking." His eyes wandered around his surroundings a bit, always finding their way back to the crackling fire in front of him. He pulled his legs close and just stared into the fire through glass, unafraid of the flickering embers. His face descended into a solemn glare at the fire as he thought about his past.
"My family is your typical, extremely strict Catholic bunch," he stated coldly. It was obvious by his body language and tone that he didn't care for his family whatsoever. He hardly spoke of them to anyone. The only one who really knew the whole story was Calista, his best friend. He sat there silent for a moment before continuing, "But, like I said, it's wonderful to hear that your family isn't so narrow-minded. Makes me wonder how I'd have turned out if my family wasn't so bigoted. Though I'm happy I've been through the struggles that I have; because without them, I definitely wouldn't be the positive person I am today."
"It's good that you've realized your presence on this earth is a positive one. Everyone has their purpose in this universe. Some of us know that we're meant to help people, others don't understand their purpose. It's just all a learning cycle," he said, putting another marshmallow on the end of his stick and placing it just above the flames, twirling it between his fingers as he began to look up at the stars he could see. A smirk grew upon his face as he looked up, stars blinking brightly.
Suddenly, a star shot across his line of sight. With shock, he instantly pointed up towards the sky. "A shooting star! Did you see that? It's been ages since I've seen one. This is truly an enlightening trip. Better make a wish," he stated with a chuckle as he closed his eyes, making a quick wish, only opening them a moment his thought had passed. With a smile, he looked back up into the sky and just watched one star twinkle softly as his eyesight blurred.
Swallowing what chewed mess he had in his mouth, he stoked the fire with his stick, watching the flames send off sparks in all directions. As he listened to her explanation of who God was to her, his heart sunk. Not all Christian people were like the ones he grew up with, and that was wonderful to hear. Her explanation was eloquent and very genuine. It was nice to be able to acknowledge the existence of other religions and not pass judgement upon them for such a thing.
"The way you explain your religion to me, it seems a bit Deist in a sense. But the way you explain it is beautiful. I'm glad your family is different in their thinking." His eyes wandered around his surroundings a bit, always finding their way back to the crackling fire in front of him. He pulled his legs close and just stared into the fire through glass, unafraid of the flickering embers. His face descended into a solemn glare at the fire as he thought about his past.
"My family is your typical, extremely strict Catholic bunch," he stated coldly. It was obvious by his body language and tone that he didn't care for his family whatsoever. He hardly spoke of them to anyone. The only one who really knew the whole story was Calista, his best friend. He sat there silent for a moment before continuing, "But, like I said, it's wonderful to hear that your family isn't so narrow-minded. Makes me wonder how I'd have turned out if my family wasn't so bigoted. Though I'm happy I've been through the struggles that I have; because without them, I definitely wouldn't be the positive person I am today."
"It's good that you've realized your presence on this earth is a positive one. Everyone has their purpose in this universe. Some of us know that we're meant to help people, others don't understand their purpose. It's just all a learning cycle," he said, putting another marshmallow on the end of his stick and placing it just above the flames, twirling it between his fingers as he began to look up at the stars he could see. A smirk grew upon his face as he looked up, stars blinking brightly.
Suddenly, a star shot across his line of sight. With shock, he instantly pointed up towards the sky. "A shooting star! Did you see that? It's been ages since I've seen one. This is truly an enlightening trip. Better make a wish," he stated with a chuckle as he closed his eyes, making a quick wish, only opening them a moment his thought had passed. With a smile, he looked back up into the sky and just watched one star twinkle softly as his eyesight blurred.
Sam chuckled softly at his comment about Deism. It did kinda sound like that but still she had her things, "Well we do go to Mass. I go to confession. I do these things because it lets me talk about them. Talk about what I'm feeling and get advice. And I love the songs Hallelujah and Hark the Herald. I sing it sometimes to my charges."
"Ah I see," she said as he talked about his own family's religion. She'd met a few of those in her time, usually at church too. She could see his behavior change, imagining he hadn't had the easiest lift given what he did for a living. As he spoke she reached over and put a hand on his shoulder.
"Let me give you some advice. Having spirituality is important, having religion is not. Being spiritual is a coping mechanism that needs no outside influence. It comforts you in sadness, protects you in fear, and lifts you in happiness. So if you have an spirituality that does that for you, keep it close to you. Sometime it's all you will have," she smiled and patted his shoulder as she leaned back.
Pulling her hair over her shoulder she began to braid it, taming her long mane for the coming sleep cycle. She doubted Reuben wanted to get tangled in her mass of red locks. She chuckled at his comment on her knowing her place, "Everyone has a lesson to teach. Sadly it may be a painful or sad less. As a human vicarious learning is part of our culture. So you've learned from your experiences even if they were painful. You know what actions can lead to it and avoid them."
Sam glanced up and smiled as the star passed over them. Closing her eyes she made her own small wish, not for herself but for another. Once they were both silent for awhile, enjoying the night's chorus. Insects coming out of hibernation and night birds serenading them.
"Well I think I'm going to turn in, it's early but I get up to watch the sun rise every morning. My second in command at the zoo, Tau, is an Egyptian God worshiper. He got me into the habit when we would travel as kids, he'd have to wake up and greet Ra as he rose from the Duat. Goodnight, Reuben. Stay up as long as you want, I can sleep through anything," she smiled and nodded as she walked over and shimmied her way into her side of the low tent.
"Ah I see," she said as he talked about his own family's religion. She'd met a few of those in her time, usually at church too. She could see his behavior change, imagining he hadn't had the easiest lift given what he did for a living. As he spoke she reached over and put a hand on his shoulder.
"Let me give you some advice. Having spirituality is important, having religion is not. Being spiritual is a coping mechanism that needs no outside influence. It comforts you in sadness, protects you in fear, and lifts you in happiness. So if you have an spirituality that does that for you, keep it close to you. Sometime it's all you will have," she smiled and patted his shoulder as she leaned back.
Pulling her hair over her shoulder she began to braid it, taming her long mane for the coming sleep cycle. She doubted Reuben wanted to get tangled in her mass of red locks. She chuckled at his comment on her knowing her place, "Everyone has a lesson to teach. Sadly it may be a painful or sad less. As a human vicarious learning is part of our culture. So you've learned from your experiences even if they were painful. You know what actions can lead to it and avoid them."
Sam glanced up and smiled as the star passed over them. Closing her eyes she made her own small wish, not for herself but for another. Once they were both silent for awhile, enjoying the night's chorus. Insects coming out of hibernation and night birds serenading them.
"Well I think I'm going to turn in, it's early but I get up to watch the sun rise every morning. My second in command at the zoo, Tau, is an Egyptian God worshiper. He got me into the habit when we would travel as kids, he'd have to wake up and greet Ra as he rose from the Duat. Goodnight, Reuben. Stay up as long as you want, I can sleep through anything," she smiled and nodded as she walked over and shimmied her way into her side of the low tent.
Ah, Mass, how the word brought forth such a strange feeling. Reuben remembered the times he would attend as a child, how he used to go to confession. That all seemed like a lifetime ago. He respected Sam for her belief and even moreso respected her because she respected him and his.
The moment she laid her hand on his shoulder and gave him her advice; he felt a couple tears well up underneath his lids. "You're right. One hundred and ten percent right. Spirituality is what's important. I shall do just that. Thank you," he stated with a smile, looking back up into the sky.
As he learned more about her, her childhood friend who worshiped Ra, he could relate to her more and more. She had grown up in the church, but also grown up around other religions. It seemed vastly different from his upbringing; but he was just so thankful to be here in this moment with her.
When he looked towards the sky, all he could see is the twinkling stars. When Sam said her goodnight, Reuben just smiled. "I'll stay up for a bit longer, I think. I don't want this night to end just yet. But I'll be up at dawn, too. That's my time. Sleep well and goodnight," he said, watching her crawl into her half of the tent.
Reuben laid back on the dirt ground, staring up at the stars for a bit longer as the fire flickered and crackled next to him. He had never felt closer to the earth, and he was taking full advantage of such an occasion. Finally, after an extra hour, it seemed, of staring into the abyss; the fire slowly faded away. "Well, time for bed, I guess," the man huffed under his breath as he stood up and crawled into the tent for the night.
The moment she laid her hand on his shoulder and gave him her advice; he felt a couple tears well up underneath his lids. "You're right. One hundred and ten percent right. Spirituality is what's important. I shall do just that. Thank you," he stated with a smile, looking back up into the sky.
As he learned more about her, her childhood friend who worshiped Ra, he could relate to her more and more. She had grown up in the church, but also grown up around other religions. It seemed vastly different from his upbringing; but he was just so thankful to be here in this moment with her.
When he looked towards the sky, all he could see is the twinkling stars. When Sam said her goodnight, Reuben just smiled. "I'll stay up for a bit longer, I think. I don't want this night to end just yet. But I'll be up at dawn, too. That's my time. Sleep well and goodnight," he said, watching her crawl into her half of the tent.
Reuben laid back on the dirt ground, staring up at the stars for a bit longer as the fire flickered and crackled next to him. He had never felt closer to the earth, and he was taking full advantage of such an occasion. Finally, after an extra hour, it seemed, of staring into the abyss; the fire slowly faded away. "Well, time for bed, I guess," the man huffed under his breath as he stood up and crawled into the tent for the night.
As morning approached Sam stirred in her sleeping bag, she'd almost forgotten she'd come out when she felt warmth next to her. Opening her eyes she saw Reuben and smirked a bit. Oh yeah, camping funs. Yawning wiggled quietly out of her sleeping bag, sneaking off into the woods for a quick bit then returning to grab a small bag. It had some cleaning things, all natural soap and such for a quick wash. Nothing big for just a weekend trip.
She waited for Reuben to awaken and walked towards the lake this time, as it was opposite of them cliff they'd watched the sun set last evening. She found a small hill which let them see the horizon as the first pinks of the new day came into being. A few birds began to chirp before the sun peaked over the valley, spreading it's warm rays. Sam smiled, she preferred sunset honestly but this was still nice. "Tau would be singing his praises right about now. Welcome Ra back into the sky on his mighty boat. That reminds me he wanted to see your shop, looking for some herbs to put on one of his alters to the gods back at his home."
They walked down the the lake, Sam stopping for a quick change of clothes before getting washed up. She was actually able to catch a small fish while down there, cleaning it before returning to camp. She took some waxy papers from her bag as well as a nice sweet potato. "Come on, lets have some breakfast."
She wrapped the fish in the paper, then wrapped the sweet potato separate. Going over to their fire she poked about the coals, finding a nice hot center still under the embers. Shoving the two wrapped bundles under the coals she buried them again before digging through her bag for her handy dandy spork. After a bit she pulled the fish and potato out, handing a perfectly baked sweet potato to Reuben and a nice baked fish for herself. Then she stoked the fire and added fuel to make some tea.
She waited for Reuben to awaken and walked towards the lake this time, as it was opposite of them cliff they'd watched the sun set last evening. She found a small hill which let them see the horizon as the first pinks of the new day came into being. A few birds began to chirp before the sun peaked over the valley, spreading it's warm rays. Sam smiled, she preferred sunset honestly but this was still nice. "Tau would be singing his praises right about now. Welcome Ra back into the sky on his mighty boat. That reminds me he wanted to see your shop, looking for some herbs to put on one of his alters to the gods back at his home."
They walked down the the lake, Sam stopping for a quick change of clothes before getting washed up. She was actually able to catch a small fish while down there, cleaning it before returning to camp. She took some waxy papers from her bag as well as a nice sweet potato. "Come on, lets have some breakfast."
She wrapped the fish in the paper, then wrapped the sweet potato separate. Going over to their fire she poked about the coals, finding a nice hot center still under the embers. Shoving the two wrapped bundles under the coals she buried them again before digging through her bag for her handy dandy spork. After a bit she pulled the fish and potato out, handing a perfectly baked sweet potato to Reuben and a nice baked fish for herself. Then she stoked the fire and added fuel to make some tea.
Reuben awoke to an empty tent and stretched quickly before exiting to see Sam returning to camp. "Good morning," he said with a smile, running a hand through his disheveled hair.
As the two made their way out, all the man could talk about was how beautiful the day was, how pink the sky was. This day would be just as good as the last, he had hoped. He followed along and before they knew it, being back at camp eating a delicious campfire meal.
"Mm. This is really good. Thank you," he stated with a smile as he took yet another bite of the potato. As Sam readied the tea kettle, Reuben jumped up. "One thing I did pack was my favorite matcha tea. Want some?" he asked with a smile, holding out a hand with a couple tea bags.
Reuben looked out over the scene from their campsite. It was still just as beautiful, if not more so, as the night before.
Taking a large bite of his sweet potato, he spoke, "So, what do we have on the agenda today?"
As the two made their way out, all the man could talk about was how beautiful the day was, how pink the sky was. This day would be just as good as the last, he had hoped. He followed along and before they knew it, being back at camp eating a delicious campfire meal.
"Mm. This is really good. Thank you," he stated with a smile as he took yet another bite of the potato. As Sam readied the tea kettle, Reuben jumped up. "One thing I did pack was my favorite matcha tea. Want some?" he asked with a smile, holding out a hand with a couple tea bags.
Reuben looked out over the scene from their campsite. It was still just as beautiful, if not more so, as the night before.
Taking a large bite of his sweet potato, he spoke, "So, what do we have on the agenda today?"
Sam smiled as the man spoke of the beauty of the day. It was nice to be around someone who enjoyed nature as much as she did. Tau was like this, already talking about showing his daughter the wonders the gods had bestowed upon them.
She smiled and nodded, taking the tea bags, "Better than my stuff. I ran out of the tea my mother sent me from the last village they were in. It was great stuff, strong but a real robust flavor to it."
Once breakfast was over and their energy restored she looked to him as he asked about the day's schedule, "Well I do want to hike out a bit. Check some animals we released into the park last year. Forest animals native to this area. Want to make sure they survived the winter well. We don't have to be in a hurry if you need to stop and look at anything."
She finished her tea then packed her backpack for the hike. Plenty of water, some rope, essentials. Looking up at the sun she judged their time and looked out into the forest. "You ready?" she smiled and began to head out.
Sam walked through the forest with confidence. Her eyes look around at different trees, stopping to touch them and look at the bark. "Deer must have feed good this year, not as much bark stripped. Its normally all they have in the winter."
They hiked for a good three hours, making an oval shape as they moved. Sam would stop, ducking down a bit in the bushes as she observed animals moving through the forest. She wasn't exactly a ninja but she could move silently enough so as not to scare them. A small notebook came from her pack as she made notes with a pencil.
She smiled and nodded, taking the tea bags, "Better than my stuff. I ran out of the tea my mother sent me from the last village they were in. It was great stuff, strong but a real robust flavor to it."
Once breakfast was over and their energy restored she looked to him as he asked about the day's schedule, "Well I do want to hike out a bit. Check some animals we released into the park last year. Forest animals native to this area. Want to make sure they survived the winter well. We don't have to be in a hurry if you need to stop and look at anything."
She finished her tea then packed her backpack for the hike. Plenty of water, some rope, essentials. Looking up at the sun she judged their time and looked out into the forest. "You ready?" she smiled and began to head out.
Sam walked through the forest with confidence. Her eyes look around at different trees, stopping to touch them and look at the bark. "Deer must have feed good this year, not as much bark stripped. Its normally all they have in the winter."
They hiked for a good three hours, making an oval shape as they moved. Sam would stop, ducking down a bit in the bushes as she observed animals moving through the forest. She wasn't exactly a ninja but she could move silently enough so as not to scare them. A small notebook came from her pack as she made notes with a pencil.
Reuben decided that he needed to spend more time with this woman. Nature was his best friend, and he knew that he needed to be out in it more often than he currently was. Closing the shop for a weekend was exactly what he needed to calm down and remember that all is well.
"Yeah? You'll have to see if your mother has any left to send more. Sounds delicious," he stated, taking his cup and sipping it.
As the two had finished breakfast and gathered their supplies for a day hike, Reuben took a deep breath. "Great! I'd love to survey the place and get a feel for what types of plants are out here. Maybe we'll find something useful!"
After readying his pack, he swung it over his shoulder and with a nod, responded to Sam's question. "Definitely. Lets do this."
The hike went, and Reuben found many plants and herbs that he found could be of use to himself in his natural remedies. He plucked some of each of the plants, placing them in little soft brown sacks for the time being. He knew he'd need to dry them out later, but he could hang them upside down when he got back.
"Damn, this trail is full of awesome herbs. Found some blood flowers, tansy, red clovers, feverfew, and even burdock herbs," he stated in shock. Some of these herbs were quite useful in curing sicknesses of different types. The fact that this trail had a plentiful amount was fascinating.
"Fun fact, if you're ever out hiking or camping and you're having a problem with bugs, rub some tansy on yourself. It's an excellent natural bug repellent. If you didn't know already, that is," Reuben stated with a smirk. He knew that Sam was in her element out here, and she likely knew the information already; but if not, he had at least been able to share some knowledge.
"Yeah? You'll have to see if your mother has any left to send more. Sounds delicious," he stated, taking his cup and sipping it.
As the two had finished breakfast and gathered their supplies for a day hike, Reuben took a deep breath. "Great! I'd love to survey the place and get a feel for what types of plants are out here. Maybe we'll find something useful!"
After readying his pack, he swung it over his shoulder and with a nod, responded to Sam's question. "Definitely. Lets do this."
The hike went, and Reuben found many plants and herbs that he found could be of use to himself in his natural remedies. He plucked some of each of the plants, placing them in little soft brown sacks for the time being. He knew he'd need to dry them out later, but he could hang them upside down when he got back.
"Damn, this trail is full of awesome herbs. Found some blood flowers, tansy, red clovers, feverfew, and even burdock herbs," he stated in shock. Some of these herbs were quite useful in curing sicknesses of different types. The fact that this trail had a plentiful amount was fascinating.
"Fun fact, if you're ever out hiking or camping and you're having a problem with bugs, rub some tansy on yourself. It's an excellent natural bug repellent. If you didn't know already, that is," Reuben stated with a smirk. He knew that Sam was in her element out here, and she likely knew the information already; but if not, he had at least been able to share some knowledge.
Sam was glad Reuben was enjoying the hike, also glad he was obviously in shape and enjoyed the trek. Going with some people, who got tired easily or complained really brought down a hike. Sam was obviously strong, her stride easy but confidant. Her long hair swished behind her, a moving wave of red like a flame. She stopped when he wished to take some samples and such, taking the time to look for any fresh animal tracks.
"Looks like a few of the squirrels we released are doing well, I see the tracks. One of them lost a toe on their right foot after being hit by a car. Was surprised he survived at all," she made a few notes in her notebook.
She grinned at the man as he talked about the herbs and such he'd found. She knew a few things, mostly for survival like what's edible and what can be used for wounds. "Tansy's good but peppermint is just as good. And it can be carried easier. That and I like the smell," he chuckled.
They'd been hiking for a few hours when Sam decided to stop for lunch. She took a swig of water before setting herself down in a sunny spot against a rock. Pulling out a PBJ samwich and some raisins out of her bag she munched on her food. "So far I've seen signs of the squirrels and even a raccoon. The others, a weasel and a fox, should still be hold up for another few weeks."
"Looks like a few of the squirrels we released are doing well, I see the tracks. One of them lost a toe on their right foot after being hit by a car. Was surprised he survived at all," she made a few notes in her notebook.
She grinned at the man as he talked about the herbs and such he'd found. She knew a few things, mostly for survival like what's edible and what can be used for wounds. "Tansy's good but peppermint is just as good. And it can be carried easier. That and I like the smell," he chuckled.
They'd been hiking for a few hours when Sam decided to stop for lunch. She took a swig of water before setting herself down in a sunny spot against a rock. Pulling out a PBJ samwich and some raisins out of her bag she munched on her food. "So far I've seen signs of the squirrels and even a raccoon. The others, a weasel and a fox, should still be hold up for another few weeks."
As the two finally came to a halt for lunch, Reuben sat down right next to Sam and took a swig of his water as well, following her example. It was nice to stop and rest a bit. "I'm glad that the animals seem to be doing so well."
Closing his eyes, Reuben looked up towards the sky to feel the warmth of the sun caressing his skin. It was a feeling Reuben always loved, especially during late winter and early spring when it was just beginning to warm up.
Reuben went into his pack and pulled out a vegan protein bar for a snack. "I've truly enjoyed this weekend, Sam. I can't thank you enough for inviting me out. I definitely need to start taking more time for myself instead of investing it all at the shop. It's so nice to get away and enjoy some peace and quiet."
Closing his eyes, Reuben looked up towards the sky to feel the warmth of the sun caressing his skin. It was a feeling Reuben always loved, especially during late winter and early spring when it was just beginning to warm up.
Reuben went into his pack and pulled out a vegan protein bar for a snack. "I've truly enjoyed this weekend, Sam. I can't thank you enough for inviting me out. I definitely need to start taking more time for myself instead of investing it all at the shop. It's so nice to get away and enjoy some peace and quiet."
Sam smiled as she finished her sandwich and put the wrap in her bag. Closing her eyes she enjoyed the sun on her skin, feeling it's warmth seeping into her. It was a comforting feeling, like nature embracing you with warm arms and light floral perfume.
Cracking one eye open she smiled at the man, "I learned long ago to take time for one's self. A shaman in the village once told me if one always works for outward things, the inner things wither and die. Like a garden. Sure you can spend your time building fences to protect them, talking with people about selling your produce, even thinking of recipes. But if you do all this and do not care for the plants, all the rest is a waste."
Once she was warmed up she lead them back to the campsite, poking the fire up to keep it going. After a bit of searching for more wood, she put on some coffee, just for a bit more caffeine.
Cracking one eye open she smiled at the man, "I learned long ago to take time for one's self. A shaman in the village once told me if one always works for outward things, the inner things wither and die. Like a garden. Sure you can spend your time building fences to protect them, talking with people about selling your produce, even thinking of recipes. But if you do all this and do not care for the plants, all the rest is a waste."
Once she was warmed up she lead them back to the campsite, poking the fire up to keep it going. After a bit of searching for more wood, she put on some coffee, just for a bit more caffeine.
Reuben noted the quote. That made so much sense. He knew that he needed to do many more things for himself and not worry so much about the shop. It was doing fine, and taking time for himself once in a while was obviously a necessity.
Following Sam back to the campsite, Reuben stoked the fire as well. Warming up some water for some relaxing tea aside Sam's coffee, he stirred it a bit, letting the tea bag soak in the warmth of his small cup.
"I am so sad that this has to end. I've enjoyed this trip, Sam. Once our raevan are born, we should definitely take a trip back out here again and show them the greatness of the outdoors. It'll be great," Reuben stated as he laid back, looking up into the sky through the small openings in the trees.
Following Sam back to the campsite, Reuben stoked the fire as well. Warming up some water for some relaxing tea aside Sam's coffee, he stirred it a bit, letting the tea bag soak in the warmth of his small cup.
"I am so sad that this has to end. I've enjoyed this trip, Sam. Once our raevan are born, we should definitely take a trip back out here again and show them the greatness of the outdoors. It'll be great," Reuben stated as he laid back, looking up into the sky through the small openings in the trees.