Nathaniel awoke early the next morning, as was his routine. Careful not to wake his wife, he only gently brushed some tousled black hairs from her cheeks, before dressing, and leaving the tent. He assumed that pregnant women had every right to start the day late.Outside, the sun already warmed the moist morning air, and birds chirped in the crowns of towering beech, oak, and maple trees. When he strained his ears, Nathaniel could also make out the cackle of the campfire that was held alive by the Nightwatch, accompanied by some quiet conversations.Just when his long legs started moving in that direction, he heard something else. Steps, coming from the woods. Warily, he peeked along the row of tents to the patrol team and saw one man raising his arm as a signal. Though it was not yet a sign of distress, Nathaniel's legs brought him in the direction of the newcomers, one hand wandering to the hilt of his sword.Reaching the patrol man's side, he could make out three f
Read more