The fierce wind whipped up snow particles like sharp gavels, pelting Matthias' face. He gripped the nearby soldier's arm so tightly that his knuckles went white.

His black battle robe was already soaked through with melted snow. The frozen fabric clung to his skin, and the cold penetrated through his pores deep into his bones.

He looked up, seeing only vaguely discernible outlines of the men around him amidst the blizzard.

The soldier who had been swept away by the wind earlier hadn't even managed to scream for help. He disappeared completely into the blizzard, leaving only traces that were quickly covered by snow.

"Over here!" Leopold shouted, though his voice was nearly drowned by the howling wind.

He pulled out the animal hide package Barto had given him from his coat and clutched it tightly against his chest. With his free hand, he groped for a protruding rock.

"There's an ice cave here. We can wait out the storm," he said.

A surge of relief washed over Matthias. He quick