It is the year 2024 (anno domini), or the year 1740 (of the era of martyrs), or the year 2777 (by the count of the Caesar), or the year 231 (since the people stormed the Bastille). It is March, or Paremhat, or Einmánuður—the Lone Month—the last month of Winter.  …

  A haze of steam shimmered and shone as it climbed it way from the morning grass toward the  warmth of the sun. It was an excellent way for children to clean their feet; cooling their soles as the as they walked on what felt like the softest and greenest…