Into the royal grant granting the halflings the land was written the exemption from standard military service in exchange for a heavier tax burden. Though volunteers could still report for the muster if they want. As a parting gift, the halfling leadership gave you four barrels of beer, brewed by the halfling Stolzfuss & Sohne brewing company.

With the winter settling in over the land, life comes to a slower pace. The snow on the fields keeps the farmers at home, the animals in the stables, and the roads empty. Whenever Father does travel, he does so in a horse-drawn sleigh, though he prefers to huddle close to the hearthfire.

You, however, are not to be so discomforted; your palace hosts a warmed bath, the steam of which is used to heat the rest of the building. It had been a favourite thing of yours; while most nobles made do with tubs and slowly heated water over the fireplace, you could bathe in comfort and depth. It was also helpful to practise swimming, which you had been doing with your children. With a river close by, they should at least be able to get themselves out without drowning.

What with it being winter and all, they were also some of the warmest rooms in town. And you had been walking along the gallery with Father for a while, passing by two of your trophies from your time in the Crusades, two marble busts of Isidorian emperors. Their colourless eyes stared blankly out of the windows, where the river Seldau had frozen shut. The city guard had banned people from going to the middle, out of fear the ice was still too thin.

''At any rate, your baths seem to be a little frivolous to me and a waste of firewood.'' The king began.

''The warmed baths are smaller than the cold baths, so you shouldn't worry too much; besides, firewood is cheap around these parts. There are more trees in Greifswald than people, it is said.'' You told him.

''Not for lack of trying; what lives in those forests is beyond the powers of most. Did I ever tell you about…''

You interrupted him.

''Yes, I know about the forest spirit you encountered. I also know about the wild elves you drove deeper into the woodlands; save it for the grandkids.''

''You're no fun; when you were little, you would listen to every little detail.''

''Yes, and now I am an adult, with my own tales to tell.''

The two of you fell silent when you ascended some stairs.

''Speaking of grandchildren, it's nearly Sophia's birthday, isn't it?''

''Her fifth birthday, yes. Have you thought of anything yet?'' You asked.

''Sort of, but not really. Perhaps you could tell me what she is like?''