There was nothing more to be said about their matter back home. A betrayal for a betrayal and a life for a life, the conflict was as resolved as it could be so long as they both still drew breath. Or perhaps the peace of this snowy landscape, echoing the wish Nie Huaisang had harbored in his heart for so long beneath the grief and rage that had consumed him for so long, is soothing his nerves.

Regardless, there'll be plenty of time to ponder what was said later. He doubts this journey will be any shorter or easier than the last one had been.

Huaisang takes a seat near the stove, not so close he'll catch fire but close enough to bask in its warmth. He rubs his hands and lower extremities as he speaks softly over the crackling flames.

"The inn is rather nice. The owner is allowing us to stay free of charge. I overheard that another inn in the village is offering shelter as well. I don't know how long it will last. I doubt it will be forever but it's a place to start."

He hesitates.

"It seems as if we've been given enough supplies to last a month. Perhaps even longer so long as it is carefully rationed."

Another pause. Everything the past two days has passed in a blur.

"I wonder if the villagers could be persuaded to part with some extra supplies..."