A clap of thunder jolts me awake.
The oil lamps mounted on the walls are lit, a tentative flame flickers in each, warding off the surrounding darkness. I lower my arm slowly, then I reach over to place the dagger on its scabbard atop the surface of the bedside table.
I level my gaze to notice the vacant bed across from me.
Full consciousness rouses all my qualms, fears and dread. I lean back, breathing deeply—inhaling the dank, stale air, the atmosphere encumbered by a throat-tightening mustiness. I fling the thick cover off me. I shuffle over to the desk to retrieve my night robe draped on the head of the chair. I pluck it up, fastening it around me as I make my way out of the cabin.
