Mark of the Hallowed

A wandering hero returns home for the holidays, called by nervous townsfolk to stop the machinations of a witch just outside town. He knows better, however, and greets his old rival with open arms. They're both glad to see each other, of course, but will they be able to admit how glad? Will the townsfolk who despise the witch be able to bury their grudge? If she manages to raise the dead, and introduce herself to her parents as herself... will they accept her as she is?

A holiday-flavored fantasy story about exhaustion, regret, and t4t romance.