Late the next morning, Tavin finally awoke. He had once again found himself spending long hours in bed, his mind caught between the dangers looming ahead and the kiss from Valina, unable to get any truly restful sleep. He pushed himself up and peered out the windows; the sky was covered in dark gray clouds. He got dressed, gathered his things, put on the bladed wristband, and left for the heart of Varenwald.

As Tavin entered the square, he once again saw a small gathered group of ...