Thick layers of snow blanket the earth for miles upon miles. Winter is in full swing and I could not love it any more than I already do. I was born for this weather with a supremely thickened coat and pale colors; it comes as a surprise that I continue to keep Iromar as my home.

I have been feeling rather glum for years of my life now and yet the news of Avery’s conception has placed me in a brighter mood. I am going to be a father finally. By no means does that make Avery my woman nor are we in any type of exclusive relationship – we simply happened to get a bit carried away one evening early in the season. It was never something that I had planned, especially when I had once imagined to spend my life with Elara, but it was an acceptable outcome for certain.

I jogged lightly through the myriad of trees, the emerald tones of the evergreens contrasting beautifully against the alabaster backdrop. I leave the moorland territory this day in search for possibly recruits that may meld with what Iromar has become, for we are no longer defined by one particular word. In fact, the word ‘demon’ is rarely ever used anymore since Aithne has taken the crown. Living within the swamps is not as terrible as many loners may believe as well. I am here to make sure that they learn of that.

Through the trees I find a moderate clearing filled with bright red berry bushes and a small stream cutting through the earth. With no one in sight I find that this may be a well enough place to pause for a moment and rest. I am inclined to drink from the brook before turning to witness the sudden arrival of a stranger from behind, their approach indicated by the rustling of branches and crunch of packed snow beneath their paws.