The sun was not yet visible in the east when I stepped outside. I was sure it must have risen over the lake, but not yet over the tree-covered hills that stood between us and the shore. Its light was filling the clearing in front of the lodge, if diffusely, but the forest beyond was still in deep shadow.
But it was warmer, finally. I loosened the wraps of my wool scarf and left it draped around my neck in case I needed it later. It was a relief to breathe fresh air without that damp-smelling filter in the way. The air smelled subtly of clean snow and more sharply of pine trees.
"There you are," Thorbjorn said, leaving the other men who had gathered in a rough circle to talk together. He came towards me, but as he approached the warm smile on his face became a frown of worry. "What is it?
