We barely got back from the border meetings when the season's first snow started to fall.

Winter used to be a time for survival.

We waited for the cold to subside while staying inside and keeping our fireplaces going.

However, the vibe was different this year.

I had never had such a sensation of thrill in my life.

Matilda had made the decision to have a winter festival.

She didn't want it to be a formal, regal ball when nobility gathered in corners and discussed border issues and ...