Keep going toward the smoke

“The smoke suggests civilization,” advises Courtney. “Perhaps it is one of the settlements Tegan referred to. Being this close to a werewolf, maybe they know of some of the magical lore about protection.”

“Agreed,” says Adella, trying to ignore the throbbing sensation on her shoulder where the beast sunk his teeth. “Let us proceed, but be on the ready in case danger presents itself.”

The women urge their tired horse forward. As they top the hill, they see the source of the column of smoke. It is coming from the chimney of a modest farmhouse. It stands near a small barn, surrounded by stacks of hay. They can see some goats, chickens, and a cow. Just behind the barn they see a young man working a field with a horse and plow. There is no other sign of life from this vantage point.

“What do you think?” Adella asks.

“I don’t know, Your Highness. From here, it seems safe enough; certainly not suspicious like when we encountered Tegan. I confess a certain amount of misgivings, though, about any place where there is only a single man, given yesterday’s experience.”

“Yes, as do I. But perhaps he is not alone. He does not appear to have noticed us yet; there is yet time to turn around.”