Free City saw its first snowfall of the year.
That day, Annan opened the Portal to Snow Mountain Fortress as usual.
Tasia was there, as was Brino Jana, along with an unfamiliar knight in dark gold armor.
A helmet concealed his face, leaving only a pair of deep-set, aged eyes visible.
"I am the Champion Knight."
From where Tasia and Brino Jana stood beside him, Annan could tell he was one of the fortress's most powerful figures. He greeted him with respect. "I am the lord of Free City, Champion Sorcerer Annan Reeves."
The Champion Knight's armor was badly battered, covered in dents, scratches, and signs of repair. It was more striking than any suit of polished armor.
"Jana told me about you. She also said you wanted to take us in—"
"This isn't about taking you in."
Annan interrupted the Champion Knight, his expression earnest. "You've given too much to defend the peace of the Northern Frontier. I only want to make up for that in some small way and invite them here to start new lives."
"Make up for it?" A trace of mockery crossed the Champion Knight's face.
Annan stepped aside. "You won't believe me no matter how much I say. Why not come and see for yourself?"
"All right."
The Champion Knight and Brino Jana stepped through into the City Lord's Mansion. When it was Tasia's turn, Annan held out his hand.
Tasia smiled gently and took it in her rough left hand, which was much larger than his.
Then Brino Jana stepped back toward the Portal. "What about mine?"
Annan could hardly say, "Tasia is my best friend, and you aren't," so he took Brino Jana's hand too.
Her hand was as rough as a man's, covered in calluses. Against his, it felt like sandpaper.