When they arrived back at the cabin, a strange man with white hair and a close-cropped beard, wearing a black hooded cape, was talking to Colin. They looked up as Raine and Bryce approached.

"Raine, this is Herman of Cambria," Colin said, indicating the elder man. "He is a friend."

"'Tis a pleasure to meet you," Raine said as she dipped into a slight curtsy.

Herman returned the sentiment with a bow. "The pleasure is mine."

"To what do we have the honor ...