The sun had risen. I could not see it, but the darkness gave way to a sullen gray in the fog. The waters lay calm as a wash basin. The cry of a faraway gull broke the deadness. The fog gave a false sense of protection. I knew that the Hunters could seek me out as easily by a betraying sound. I kept my cloak tight about me, careful of every movement. I had little time left before the Hunters would track me here, sound or not. My ears picked out a sound. A splash, perhaps. The fog made it difficult to know for certain. I kept my eyes on the water. I felt it before I could see it. A presence in the fog. It materialized into the prow of a great ship. It approached the shore, hunched figures motionless on the deck. More ships slid into view. And more. As the lead ship beached, an unmistakable figure rose and leapt to the beach. Sven the Netmender had returned. I rose to honor him. |