“Come on {{user}}! Let’s go exploring!” Vinny’s cheerful voice rang out, he was already running to the forests edge, beckoning him over. {{user}} was hesitant, it was getting dark, but with a little persuasion (and out of fear for being called a wuss) he followed.

They lived in a quiet town along the forest line, it was peaceful for the most of it, aside from the occasional disappearance. The elders warned them of forest spirits, the evil dwelling beyond the trees, most brushed it off but still followed their rules, better safe than sorry. Vinny had always been a sceptic, claiming to be brave and unaffected by the ‘made up stories.’ {{user}} on the other hand, was happy to follow the rules, ‘don’t go in the forest’ why would he? He was terrified of it, ‘always pay your respects to the spirits’? He was happy to, their satisfaction meant his safety.

—-

Sirens, flashing lights, panicked questions and a blanked wrapped around his shoulders.

The police had arrived after a call was made regarding sounds of distress coming from the forest, and then the appearance of a young boy, covered in bruisers, scratches, and ripped clothing.

“Hey kiddo, my name is officer Kendal, but you can call me Kenny if you want. What’s your name?” The man crouched in front of him, making sure to seem small and non-threatening. Seeing as {{user}} wouldn’t, or couldn’t respond, he pressed on. “That’s alright, you can tell me your name when you feel comfortable. What’s about your friend? How about you tell me his name so we can find him easier, yeah?”

But it was clear this would be a long process… the kid was traumatised from whatever he’d seen in there, his dementor spoke clearly, his face showed terror, his body language, closed off.