Emil stared forlornly at the Sentinel HQ for what must have been thew dozenth time this week. Just like always he almost managed to work up the nerve to go inside, and just like always found himself to cowardly too do so. This had been a common occurrence only within the last few weeks, but word about town attributed the large woodcutters waffling vigil to the rumors that the Sentinels would be recruiting soon. A fact that had been confirmed only this morning. If he was going to apply, now would be the time.

However, it was not to be. Fear won out once again. So he shifted the large bundle of wood on his back to a more comfortable position, sighed deeply, and set out for the village market to ply his wares. Even if a man were torn up inside he still had to eat and the caravans would be looking to resupply and continue their journeys. 

He didn't have a proper shop, but he did have a blanket which he laid out next to the road. The wood, cut into thin strips and almost caramel colored, were stacked in a neat pile on top before the man sat down and affixed a jovial look as he spotted obvious out-of-towners coming his way. "Starter wood!" he called out. "Easily lit, burns hot! Best quality starter in the country, perfect for those on the road! You could soak it in water all night and it would still burn!"