Kirsi shook awake from her trance as she suddenly heard the man speak. A light blush appeared on her cheeks. 
She put away her handwork material and observed him as he tried to form his words. As she stood up and leaned forward to help him sit up a little, adjusting his pillow, she said with a calm voice: “I couldn’t let you die there in good conscience. Better to let that happen in a more warm and comfortable place.” She gave him a quick wink just before she turned to the kitchen place. 

It was in the same room, just in another corner of it. She kept all her utensils and herbs there. To find her way through the many stuff standing and lying around she had to maneuver herself a little, but she was used to that. Creativity was all over the place and it kept her busy. She picked a few small pots filled with different kinds of plants and dried fruits and put some in the kettle that hang above the fire. “I do not know you well enough to judge what you do and do not deserve, so I will just treat you like I would any man, to the best of my capabilities.” From the table she picked a jug of water and poured some in a cup. Then she returned to him and handed him the drink. “You throat must be dry. I’ll give you some tea later that is more comforting, but this will still be good enough to drink away the first thirst.” 

Kirsi picked up her project again. Even though she wanted to take care of the stranger, she also had to keep in mind that time was ticking. To finish the orders she needed all the time she could get. A slight fright went through her heart as she recalled the last order that got placed. Lord Moonbroch. She hoped the details would arrive soon. 

As her hands worked on her lap, she looked at the stranger again, and realized she didn’t know his name. “I must admit, giving me your name might be preferable if you are to stay in my bed. People like their fair share of gossip around this place.” It would also be good to know where he came from and what his business was that let him close to the mountains. But she could she he needed his rest, and so decided to be patient.