Chapter 49: Chapter 49: Cruel Summer Part 1

Crickets in a forest dimly lit by lanterns. On the trees, on the ruins, every pale ember cast a small aura to the endless sea of silhouettes. Jessica, Valerie, and Shannon followed the contemptuously silent niece of the leader of The Woodsmen. Danielle guided them with her kerosene lantern, guard Jimmy to the rear, while the girls surveyed their surroundings in curiosity. Jessica decided to prod.

"You see bears out here?"

Silence.

"No bears? Okay."

"What about ghosts?" said Shannon. "Weird shit that goes bump in the night? Azareans ever bother you?"

Silence.

"Your uncle seems cool, at least," said Valerie. "Does he let you drink? That's probably all I would do if I were living out here. If yes, don't say anything."

Danielle stopped in her tracks. "No, I just shoot things."

"Same! High-five..."

Danielle scowled over her shoulder, leaving Valerie to hang as she stepped off.