The See'r
(second paste)
Standing directly in front of them now, he saw that his initial impression was accurate. Although looking relatively new, their earth-toned clothing was damp and dirty from exposure to the elements. They both wore week-old beards, and radiated that peculiar pungent smell of the outdoors. Andy thought about offering to take them home and letting them get cleaned up, maybe later.
"Hi. I'm Andy," offering his hand instead.
The man who had returned his wave from the tree line was on his right and a little closer to him. Very slowly he grabbed Andy's hand as if to shake it. As he did this he carefully studied Andy's entire arm, then his wrist, and finally his hand turning it over slightly. The man had an expression of awe, or maybe it was deep concern.
"I'm Dave," the man finally replied in a clear voice.
Dave had shoulder length blond hair and stood about five feet nine inches with a moderate build. The other man was quite a bit bigger with short brown hair, his powerful frame barely hidden under the bulky outdoor wear. The larger man kept his eyes downcast and had yet to look Andy in the eye. Although both men could have both passed for an Earth First, or other eco-organization members that were prevalent in the area, Andy sensed that they both possessed a keen intelligence. These men were definitely not doped out hippies - for some reason he had the definite impression they were highly educated and had a very sober purpose for coming here.
"Were you waiting for me long?"
"Twenty-six minutes," replied Dave dryly. It was no attempt at humor. "Sorry we look and smell so rough. We hiked for two weeks to get here," he continued as they both removed their packs, placing them on the ground where they stood.
"Shouldn't we go somewhere to talk? My house isn't far."
"No! We have to do this right here, right now!" Dave replied right away, a sudden edge of fear in his voice. "Sorry
I'm sorry. Hopefully this will all make a little more sense soon," he added after seeing Andy step back in alarm.
Dave's eyes again communicated that strange look of awe and respect. Andy relaxed a little at the man's sincere look and apology. Dave must have understood Andy's concern though, they were sure to be noticed sitting here completely exposed on the dirt embankment. One man in shirt and tie, the others dressed like eco-terrorists. If Andy's co-workers saw them they might even come over to see what was going on.
"Your right Andy, we have a small camp set up back in the trees. Let's go there," Dave offered with his palms held up in the universal sign of peace.
Both men then shouldered their backpacks and headed back towards the tree line. Andy hesitantly followed them after briefly glancing back towards his office, the direction of any would-be escape route.
(more to follow..)