Return to Story Vignettes The Long Winter Winter came early to Dericost, and did not leave. The halls of the palace sparkled with frost. One day, ships appeared from the east, gliding into the harbor. The women aboard these ships were strange… tall, with eyes of marble-green. They came to the palace, telling of their home – an island lost to darkness. The king had a son, Geraine – a sickly boy who coughed blood. The women offered him relief. If his mind was strong, he could have eternal life. Geraine traveled to the witches' island, and there he learned the truth. To give up death, one must forsake life as well. So Geraine became undead… The Firstborn.