Phoenice had been kneeling in front of her sleeping savior for what felt like half an eternity, gazing at his stunning figure and thinking about his value to her. The sun made rays dance on his black hair, conjuring in blue-black shiny strands on his face, which was adorned by a straight nose, high cheekbones, perfectly curved eyebrows, a pair of wonderfully curved lips and gold tanned skin. He was truly beautiful, but equally conceited. Perhaps he could still be useful to her...The growling of her stomach reminded her that there were more important things at the moment than speculations about his usefulness to her. As if the healer had expected her to look for something to eat. Apples, fresh bread and a jug of water were ready on the table. While she ate, she took a closer look around. The simple mud hut was old, small and certainly a bit messy, but clean and warm. The view out the window showed her that they must be in the middle of a forest. If only she knew if was closer or farther from Mariken. Or how long she had slept...Maybe it was already too late. If only she hadn't been so stupid to go to that village!  

She needed a plan, a good plan, on how to get to her. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw something sparkly standing in the corner of the room. Grinning, she picked up the sword and congratulated herself on her plan.