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