Reynard ran most of the way to Morgan’s coinnigh. He saw the shimmer of hoodwinks on the wind, nearly invisible but for a trained eye. They would fly ahead to warn Morgan and Hinata that someone was approaching the coinnigh.


    The coinnigh was on a rolling green field by the beach, where dozens of seals were lounged in the sun. The farmhouse was built not near a cliff wall. Wooden fences kept the dense forest on one side of the coinnigh.


    The house Morgan, Hinata, and Gwen lived in was quaint. One floor, built of carved wood and slabs of rock from off the cliffside. There was an artistry in its construction, built of talent and love. A barn for the goats was attached. The goats were out among the fields and on the cliffside, despite the heavy clouds that threatened to fall at any moment. Cracks of thunder frequented Reynard’s climb, but the goats and seals were all unbothered.


    As he neared the farmhouse, Morgan stepped out onto the porch with an ax and ready shoulders. Her black hair, tied back into a ponytail, had streaks of silver. She wore practical clothes. As Reynard came into focus, Morgan dropped the ax and ran to him, giving him a tight hug and saying, “It’s so good to see you! You’ll come in and tell us everything.”You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    Hinata was already inside cooking a fish in a fragrant sauce. Their hair was done up into a knot and they were sweating from the heat.


    The kitchen was rustic and grand, with intricately carved decorations and evidence of life, love, and wear all around. Hinata hugged Reynard and said, “I’m so glad you’re back! There’s so much you can help us with.”


    “I can try, but I don’t know how long I’ll be staying,” said Reynard, sitting at the table. “I need a safe place to dream. The caves were attacked. I don’t know the attackers, but they have Sam. Zeke is stranded on Haven.”


    Morgan and Hinata looked afraid at each other.


    “You know you can rest here,” Morgan answered. “This conversation can hold until tomorrow. If there’s nothing you need, your bed in the farm is as you left it. Gwen isn’t using it these days.”


    “What’s wrong with Gwen?”


    “Oh, she’s… We can talk about it later.”


    Reynard hesitated but nodded. He excused himself to the barn. The bed was elevated, built of feathers and soft sheets, and surrounded by sleeping charms to protect against interference. As soon as his head touched the pillows, he was out.