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Through the kitchen windows of the inn, the darkness outside seemed to loom with hidden danger. The whole Vine family sat around the kitchen table with Jackson, drinking tea, each of them taking a turn to go through and look after the bar. Initially, they had been dismayed when the situation had been explained to them and were inclined to cast blame on Tarkyn for meddling.
“Maybe he should have left well alone,” said Ivan heavily, “but it’s done now and I think Vera and I should come and meet these woodfolk of yours, Stefan.”
“They’re not my woodfolk,” said Stefan tightly. Unable to sit still, he carried cups to the sink and began to wash them.
Anton walked over and put his arm around Stefan’s shoulder. “Don’t worry. I think we’re safe enough. It doesn’t sound as though the local wo
