While three more handspans of snow piled up, word came down from above that they'd come see the ledger themselves. Standing before the line still marked in red, even I don't know yet what I'm going to say.

• GunhildIf a guest is coming, I'll provide the drink. In return, keep our channel's name off that ledger.
  HervaA chief's name was never in my ledger to begin with. Not yet, anyway.
• LeifIf it's an audit, look at mine too. Which line my name falls on.
  HervaYour line is further down. Don't waste your effort dragging it forward.
• SiglinHaving something to prepare means having something to hide.