[Austin Eventide]

Austin woke early that brightening having been unable to sleep very well as it were. He spent much of the previous darkening placing last minute orders, balancing books and taking care of the business side of running the Winehouse. He left instructions with Iveunde and informed the rest of the staff of what was going on. Risess was especially worried about him as the two were becoming close friends. Lorul too was concerned but wished him the best of luck while Yvilmar, the groundskeeper, told him a story about how he once witnessed the unbinding of an old friend and how well it went. Austin thanked his friends and was sure to have a glass of of wine as part of his preparations.

He dressed casually, wearing black pants, a gray sleeveless shirt and high black boots. He left everything else behind as he set out for the Circle of Light. He recalled the place that Venn had pointed out; woods at the base of the cliff just beyond the temple gardens. Although he had taken it upon himself to explore a bit of Natura and the surrounds when he had the chance, he did not venture much around the temple. Hoping that he could remember well enough the way, he continued toward the temple and through the gardens toward the woods beyond.

When he finally approached the edge of the woods, the light mist blanketing the ground added to the unique atmosphere that surrounded him. He had trouble describing it in his own mind but had the strong feeling that no matter what happened, his life would be different from that point forward. Closing his eyes and taking a deep breath, he took his first step into the Sacred Wood. As he walked, nothing barred his path. Although the ancient beauty of the woods rose up all around him, it almost felt as though nature herself opened up and allowed him in.

Alll was silent and what sounds there were he wasn't sure really existed or if they were all in his mind. Austin wasn't certain how long he walked; it could have been minutes or candlemarks, it didn't seem to matter as he stepped into a clearing. Light shined down in the clearing, creating something of a circle or wide pillar. Austin shielded his eyes for a moment as they adjusted and he soon saw a figure standing in the center; Venn Drega. Trying to keep his cool and look solid and sure of himself, Austin approached his new brother and mentor.