Charlaine stared down at her plate. The meal had been delicious, the camaraderie delightful, yet all present knew the new year would likely bring war. This knowledge dampened their spirits, despite the celebratory nature of the Midwinter Feast.
“Well,” said Danica. “It’s been close to half a year since your arrival. How do you think you’ve done?”
“That’s difficult to say,” replied Charlaine. “I had a lot of trouble with Lord Corbin in the early days, but that seems to have subsided.”
“And to what do you attribute that?”
“The increased presence of our patrols helped win over some of the townsfolk, although it’s a bit early to call that a victory. Those in the countryside also seem friendlier, but we have a lot of work left to do to win over the merchants.”
“I’m sure they’ll come around
