The forest had long since become a darkened mass to their left, and the sea a shapeless darkness to their right. Now what little light remained was fading fast. The forest merged into the dark sky, and the sea did the same. She could hardly see the village now, only the occasional c***k of light showing between shutters and the one open window kept her on course.
After what seemed an age they finally reached the village. The door to what might be an inn was flung open and a large, middle-aged woman rushed out.
“For the sake of your souls, and of mine, get yourselves inside right now. You can tie your horse up by the door. If you aren’t inside within a minute I’m locking up and you’ll have to sleep in the stable, may the Almighty have mercy on your souls.”
Sarah was so tired that i
