Chapter 46: The Most Unexpected
Higher and higher meant that the world around them became even colder. Yet still further ahead the mountain became barren and there was no more vegetation. However, that also meant that just at the tree line an old hunting cabin was erected and somehow stood the test of time despite having no maintenance in such a barren place.
The moment they saw the structure, the three apprentices and one knight began to walk more quickly.
In a pile on top of rocks along the edge of the building, there was wood stacked and Gunnar directed Irene and Felix to grab a few pieces so they could light a fire right away.
"If one of you could handle the fire, I believe I should walk a short distance back and make sure the others haven't run into trouble," Sir Gunnar explained, deciding not to relax quite yet until his entire traveling party was inside and accounted for.
"I will do it," Irene volunteered.
Sir Gunnar nodded once before he pulled his hood tighter against his head and walked out the door, being sure to shut it tightly behind himself.
Before having to do night watch on the ancient wall, Irene was worthless at starting fires, but she found the trick of using flint with resin and, from that point forward, she would never have to be without warmth if she didn't want to.
Simply being out of the wind was enough for her to at least pull off her scarf. She also removed her gloves just long enough to try and light kindling on fire as the wood was stacked around it methodologically to ensure the best and most long-lasting burn.
"In the meantime, you can set up the beds," Irene uttered. "Since you spend so much time with maids, you must have learned a lot from them."