"Why does the air hurt?" Kristof muttered. That really did not seem at all fair. They were at sea, for Goddesses' sake.
He hadn't expected anyone to reply as he was alonemore or lessstanding at the portside railing, watching the sea and distant clouds. He startled when Håkon's voice came from behind him. "It's been making my skin prickle all day." Håkon moved to stand beside him, delicate-looking hands curving around the railing, showing none of the strength that Kristof knew they contained. "There is hellish magic on the wind, as you've probably surmised. I think we are on the right trail, though I dread what we will find."
"I still do not know of any crumbling castles with inhabitants. Castles are too costly to build to let them fall into neglect. My mother ensures funds are always available for castle maintenance should any lords prove unable to pay for upkeep on their own."