Captivated by the illusion of treasure and intrigued by the creature, I run aimlessly in one direction. I Gary, the spirited young gosling, had followed a graceful swan that caught my eye, mistaking her for Stella. I flew towards the south-eastern part of Featherland, a wild and unfamiliar region.

Being the fastest kid in the village, I showcased my capabilities by matching and even surpassing the swan's speed and agility who has flown with the wind. A surge of pride and exhilaration swept through me. But as I drew closer, I realised my mistake. The swan wasn't Stella, leading to a predicament in my young mind. The swan, curious about her follower, landed on a nearby branch after turning around, fixing me with a stern gaze.

Fear struck me as I recognised that I had left the safety of the village, embarking on this adventure alone. I looked back, hoping to spot my friends or the village, but all I saw were trees and hills. Lost and alone in my enthusiasm, I faced a pang of panic.

"Who are you, and why are you following me?" demanded the swan in a cold and commanding voice.

Attempting to muster courage, I bowed my head slightly in guilt and frustration. I told a white lie in a rushed tone, "I'm Gary, a gosling from Waterfowl Village. I'm sorry for following you; I was just curious and amazed by your beauty and grace."

The swan's expression softened, sensing my sincerity. She introduced herself as Selene, a watcher of the south-eastern lands, on patrol to identify any signs of danger.

"I see," Selene responded, "but you should not have followed me so recklessly. This is a perilous region, with danger lurking at every corner. You are far from home and have no idea how to find your way back."

Panic washed over me as I realised the gravity of my situation. I wondered about my worried friends back home and wished I had started the adventure with them. An idea sparked as I looked back; maybe Selene could help me find the path back to the village. So, I pleaded,

"Please, Selene," bowing my head, "can you help me get back to my friends? They must be searching for me."

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Selene's voice turned cold as she replied, "I can't. I must continue my patrol, far and wide I must go in the southern lands."

Knowing my chance to ask for assistance was slim, I still had to try. With a tear in my eye, I implored, "Please, Selene, could you at least show me the way back? If they follow my path, we'll all be lost!"

A sigh escaped Selene's beak. She decided to help, cautioning that it wouldn't be easy.

"Listen carefully," Selene instructed, "the only route to your village is through the north-western path. Follow the river under the narrow hills until you reach your village."

I nodded eagerly, thankful for Selene's aid.

"Thank you so much, Selene," I expressed. "You're very kind."

Selene managed a faint smile. "Stay safe, Gary. Avoid venturing further south; the region is dangerous. I hope you find your way back."

With that, Selene took off into the sky, resuming her patrol. I watched her disappear into the horizon, a mix of admiration and apprehension swirling within me. Taking a deep breath, I set off on the north-western path, aiming to travel back to my village.

During my journey, I encountered various creatures of the featherland, and their sights amuses my thoughts. A playful frog attempted to hitch a ride, he was constantly ribbiting, a shimmering pebble caught my attention (though I sensed danger), I cautioned myself, though if I were Dyck, I would have jumped on it, and a cloud that resembles my father Lost in my thoughts, I started chasing the cloud, momentarily forgetting my main objective.

I laughed and honked, enjoying the experience, but I soon realised I had strayed from the path again. With no signs of life around, I felt frustrated and bored. I yearned for the companionship of my friends.

Determined to progress, I moved forward, using my wings and feet to clear a path. The weather suddenly shifted dramatically. The sky grew dark and stormy, with ominous clouds looming overhead. The distant rumbling of thunder reached my ears.

Aware of the impending danger that the clouds pose, I started looking around for a solution, and I spotted a large rock that can provide shelter. Using my agility and speed, I zigzagged to avoid lightning bolts, reaching the rock just in time. Huddled behind it and cuddling with the grass, I waited as the storm raged around me. When the thunder finally faded, and the skies cleared, I emerged from my hiding place, exhausted yet relieved.

Continuing my journey, I encountered a majestic oak tree, upon which an old owl named Oliver was perched. Oliver, the wise old owl, was known to many, often mentioned by Hamsa, and adored by baby owls in the village.

Excitedly, I ran towards the oak tree, startling Oliver. After introductions, I explained my situation, how I had followed Selene and faced the ominous cloud. Oliver listened attentively, offering praise for my quick thinking and agility, but also reprimanding my recklessness and impatience.

Oliver advised me to continue forward, look for the mysterious village lying in the direction north of the tree. He mentioned that the mysterious village was full of activity and that I could wait for my friends there. He suggested I leave clues along the way for them to follow. The clues can be some belonging or marking.

With a heavy heart, I asked Oliver to inform my friends about my whereabouts if they crossed paths with him. I emphasised keeping my predicament and the artefact adventure a secret. Oliver cautioned me as I bid farewell, and I thanked him for his guidance.

Feeling more hopeful, I set off towards the mysterious village.