Mathilde patted the donkey absently on the neck, soothing and grooming the small beast to occupy her hands as she focused most of her attention on the paths ahead.  "I agree.  The woods are dangerous, but I think we can handle ourselves.  And every day we save on the trip is another day we have in Everkeep."<br/><br/>Pulling her hand from the donkey, she pushed her arms back and rolled her shoulders and her neck until powerfully toned muscle popped. "We'd best get going then?"  She suggested, cutting dark-chocolate eyes from the road ahead to each of her companions in turn.  "Or we could  luncheon here.  It is a bit early, but I would prefer we not tarry overlong within the wood."