The doors to the main hall of Camp Dragonhead swung open, a chill gust sweeping in before they shut again. Haurchefant looked up from his work and immediately smiled at the sight of a familiar face. He hastily stuffed the papers he had been filling out into a drawer of the desk, not waiting for the ink to dry, and rose to greet his guest with open arms.

“Ah, my friend! Ever a sight to lift the spirits! Our hearths have been stoked to blazing in preparation for your arrival!”

Fearing he may have let himself get carried away, he reined in his enthusiasm, though his broad smile remained. “Be at ease, friend. I am not one to stand on formality. You are doubtless weary from your journey and desirous to rest awhile.”

“But I see you have not come into my hall merely to escape the biting cold. It warms my heart that you should turn to me before all others─and I shall endeavor to deserve your trust. Pray tell me why you have come.”