Chapter Text
Jon woke up to pain. It was as good of a sign as any that he probably wasn't dead. Another good sign was the lack of Knowledge that came when he reflexively tried to reach for it. The unknown was a relief as much as it was frustrating.
Jon cracked open his eyes, the stars were the first thing he noticed. Above him was an impressive number of constellations visible through trees. It was beautiful and natural. He hadn't seen the stars since those nights back in the cabin. He stared at it in wonder for a few moments before his brain caught up with him.
Martin. Where was Martin?
If he was Somewhere Else then Martin was here too. He should be. He needed to be.
Jon shifted slightly, muscles protesting painfully at his attempts to sit up. He had forgotten about the stab wound. He gingerly lifted his sweater to reveal his scabbed-over chest.
How long had he been lying here?
A noise sounded in the distance. A voice calling.
“Jon!”
He could not even begin to describe the level of relief. Martin was here. They were both here. They would be safe. Everything would be okay.
“Jon!” came from closer. His voice was hoarse and desperate.
Jon had to try a few times before his own voice was strong enough to call back. But sure enough, Martin came crashing through the foliage.
“Oh god, Jon.” it was dark but Jon could still see the expression on his face. He looked like he wanted to hug him and never let him go. They were both crying.
Jon let Martin fuss over him. Smiling and crying quietly in relief as the larger man lifted his shirt and inspected his wounds. Cleaning it as best he could. It seemed the backpack made the trip along with them.
Once Martin was satisfied he wasted no time in pulling Jon into his arms. Gently but completely covering him. Jon had never felt safer.
Tomorrow they would have time to talk and plan, but tonight all they needed was the safety of each other and the beautiful starry night sky above them.
They fell asleep like that, surrounded by the quiet noise of the forest. Not once questioning the strange noises periodically ringing in the night.