Leaves and stray branches crunched underfoot as Rune went deeper into the forest. Exhaustion had set in and his footsteps were slow and heavy.
Ideally he would have liked to collect the firewood from closer to the tree line. But the coast had few pieces that were suitable for his needs. The wind carried moisture of the ocean spray that saturated most of the nearest trees and branches, leaving him no option but to venture further in.
When at last he felt he had gone far enough, Rune came to stop while searching for a suitable tree. He started by slicing off several branches with his blade, which he threw onto his discarded cloak. Then, he turned his attention to the thicker trunk and began hacking away.
