Ketcha's eyelids fluttered open to the dimly lit interior of a cozy cabin, deep in the woods. The room was warm, filled with the gentle crackle of firewood burning in a large stove, its ceramic tiles patterned beautifully. She found herself on a comfortable bed, covered with a quilt that carried the earthy scent of pine.
Glancing down, she realized she was dressed in a plain beige Pejite tunic, clean and soft. Beside her bed, a wooden bucket filled with clear water hinted at recent care. A blush tinged her cheeks as she pieced together the events.
Asbel appeared, relief evident on his face. "You're finally up. Tersa helped you," he said, gently addressing her unspoken question.
Tersa, a spirited young girl from the valley, emerged from the kitchen. "You should've told us about your injuries," she chided softly. "We'll consult the elders immediately."
Grateful yet overwhelmed, Ketcha managed a faint smile. "Thank you, but please, my presence here must remain secret," she urged, her eyes a mixture of fear and resolve.
Tersa nodded, her reluctance clear, before stepping outside, casting a backward glance that betrayed her curiosity.
Alone with Asbel, Ketcha absorbed the cabin's details: shelves lined with ancient texts, rolled-up plans, and trinkets that told of a life both scholarly and adventurous. Tools adorned the walls – hammers, wrenches, gears – echoing Asbel's princely heritage from a town known for its industry.
Ketcha's thoughts were a tumult of gratitude, confusion, and fear. The kindness she had received contrasted sharply with the burden of her secret – the enigmatic voices from the rocks. Although the cabin was a haven, offering a brief respite, the reality of her situation loomed large.
As she met Asbel's concerned gaze, she felt a mixture of gratitude and sorrow. "Thank you, Asbel, for everything," she whispered, the warmth of the stove and the comforting aroma of pine juxtaposing the turmoil within her.
Closing her eyes, she allowed the stove's warmth to envelop her in a false sense of security. Though the path ahead was fraught with challenges, for the first time, Ketcha sensed she might not have to face it alone.
