The gig had gone off without a hitch; Adrian’s complex rhythms never faltering, Ryan’s groove laying an excellent base for Mark’s own high-soaring melody. There was only one problem a the Mark could notice, as he climbed off of the stage to let the roadies prepare for the night’s headliner; Eric wasn’t there. It was very much unlike his brother to miss something like this, though Mark had noticed him acting strangely – crazily! – that morning. Perhaps Eric was sick, but he hadn’t seemed to be. It was just his behaviour that was strange.

“Are you going to help me with this?” Adrian called from the van, drawing Mark from his thoughts. He seemed to be having a little trouble with his drums. With a quick push, and a bit of organization, everything was eventually secured inside.

“I’m going to leave my guitar with you guys and take the long way home to clear my head. Are you guys alright with that?”

“Yeah,” said Ryan, “just don’t forget to pick it up like last time.” Mark nodded, and headed off into the forest.