The threat of snow rode upon the bitter wind, unforgiving in its assault of any who had not yet sought shelter on the moonless night. The sky was clear, a deep brilliant blue nursing the bright stars. Even the dullest was a visible contrast against the velvet blanket. Out here there was little light, little to be found upon the north-western marshland of Therascia. Should a sole traveller journey far enough through the boggy waters, they would find a single settlement, almost forgotten in its isolation. The only thing marking its presence was the small circle of white stones, seemingly luminescent in the darkness.
Blowing in his hands, Blackwood pushed open the door to the tavern. The light was blackened from the outside, obscured by the heavy drapes, but the haunting sounds of laughter o
