"Are we there yet?" asked Will to Halt, for maybe the thousandth time that day. Halt grunted and ignored him. Then, after around 30 more minutes of riding, the duo arrived at the town of Timberhawk as the sun retreated in the sky. "First," Halt said as he undid his saddle, ¨to the mayor's house." As they walked there, their horses following them, the residents of the town stared at the cloaked, hooded figures. When they arrived at the mayor's house, they knocked on the door and she opened it immediately, as if she had been waiting for their arrival. "Come in, come in," the mayor said,"I have made tea." She led the Wardens into her house and invited them to sit down. Then, after she had brought tea, she sat down herself.
As he sipped tea, which he found very good even though he preferred coffee, Will observed the old woman. As said previously she was ancient, but her eyes showed wisdom. Will could also detect a bit of worry, but she seemed good at hiding it. The mayor began,
"Everyone good? By the way, my name is Elder Sarah." Halt and Will nodded. "Anyway," she continued, "Let's get down to business. You see, a couple of days ago, a few of our villagers went up the mountains to chop wood. They never returned." Will gasped, but his mentor sat as still and silent as ever. The old woman continued as if there had been no interruption, saying, "We also have heard many strange sounds in the mountains as well, including roars, stomps, and the falling of trees. Could you please investigate for us?" Halt responded simply, "Of course. However, we will have to do it tomorrow, as it will be night soon. Where shall we stay?" Elder Sarah answered You can stay at the Timberhawk Inn. You will not have to pay of course." Halt nodded and he and his apprentice left.