Dizzily, Bastian awoke ashore, spitting sand from his lips and tongue. Sea water, rushing through his trousers as he lay disoriented, on the red pebble beach. The high hanging sun beat down on his aching skull, eyes unable to discern his surroundings as he struggled to lift his head. Where am I? He could only barely fathom the question as he mustered his strength to pull himself up to a seated position.
As he made every attempt to gather his wits he observed his surroundings about him. The forest that hugged the shore was thick and the trees were towering over him and cast a shadow on the red sand. Then for some strange reason he sensed an overwhelming presence of birds and lizard-like creatures. Neither of them really concerned him. The truth of his whereabouts was infinitely more pressing. Then, in an instant he recalled the horrific storm which claimed his vessel.
Frustrated, he pulled off his boots one by one and dumped the pool of water from them. Then returned them to his feet. It was then he stood and cast his glance around him. Alarmed when he spotted a crew member not far down the shore, he sprinted over. It was Barnabas, the old man lying lifeless on his back. Bastian fell at his side and began beating on his chest, and blowing into his mouth.
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“Come on old man!” Bastian continued to pump his chest, “Breathe, damn you!”
And in a moment of sheer brilliance the old man spit out the water from his chest and regained his consciousness.
“Alright, Barnabas. Easy there, ol' man.”
“Bastian? Is that you?”
“It is, my friend. We made it! We survived the storm!”
“Praise be to the gods! We have!” Bastian helped the old man to his feet,
“Where on earth we are is another question.” Said Bastian, “Are you hurt?”
“I don't believe so.”
“So… what now, ol' man? It appears we've been shipwrecked.”
“Well… I don't see that we have much choice about the matter. We must venture forth into these woods in search of food and civilization.”
“I imagine you are correct. But, are you well enough, or should we first rest to regain our strength? I myself am ready, but you are much older than I.”
“I'm as ready as I will ever be, Bastian.”
“Very well, then. We shall proceed with care.”
Steadily, our men ventured onward into the thick forest not knowing the wonders that awaited them. And how could they know… ?