The Hermit and the Hiker

You were about to give up, when you saw a light. A faint and flickering light, in the distance. A light that seemed to beckon you.

The light became a lantern, sitting on a stump. The lantern illuminated a clearing in the forest, where a man sat on a stump.

He was a charming gentleman, with a grey beard and a pleasant greeting. He wore a brown coat, a green scarf, and a black hat. He held a pipe in his mouth, and smoked it calmly. He looked at you with a smile.

He nodded “Well then, you’re lucky to have found me. I’m an old hermit who lives in these woods. I know them like the back of my hand.” He gestured to his lantern: “This is my signal for travelers who need help or company.” He gestured to his stump: “This is my seat for resting or chatting.” He gestured to his pipe: “This is my friend for relaxing or thinking.”