Justin stared at Zechariah. Days on the road had taught him next to nothing about this puzzling hermit. And now, here, in the span of a few sentences, the old man had revealed his life's pursuit to a group of strangers.

"My companions and I thank you for your hospitality," said Zechariah. "We will not be long in your village. Dawn will see us on our way. We wish you good fortune in the coming winter."

Thid nodded. Zechariah's old bones creaked as he stood. Justin stood and ...