"Hoo!..."
The candle flame flickered, illuminating the corner of a dream. The campfire crackled, its glow warming the spring tent. Zuwaro, holding a candle, lifted the heavy felt tent flap. The flame transformed into a vast snowfall, covering the entirety of Kutadai Island.
"Howl! Howl! Howl!..."
Samoyed and Kutadai dogs howled within the camp, seemingly startled by some disturbance, accompanied by the neighs of battle horses. The soft voices of women arose from the tent, in three different tones. Zuwaro smiled, turned back to let the women continue sleeping, yet was still assisted by gentle hands as he donned his fur coat and cloak.
"Zhuo, do you want us to accompany you?"...
"No need. I'll just patrol the camp. You continue sleeping."
"Then, shall we make some trout and mountain vegetable soup (Ohaw)? We'll keep it warm by the campfire, waiting for your return."
"Hmm... alright!"
