The battle had raged on for hours, the clang of steel and the cries of the wounded filling the air. You had fought valiantly, your sword dancing through the enemy ranks with skill and ferocity. The townspeople had always called you their greatest knight, a protector, a hero. But even heroes can fall. Surrounded and exhausted, you struck down one last foe before the weight of your wounds overcame you. Darkness claimed you as you collapsed to the bloodied ground.

When consciousness returned, it came slowly, first as a dull ache, then a sharp throb that pulsed through your body. The scent of herbs and warm bread teased your senses, and the crackle of a hearth fire filled the quiet room. You blinked, your vision adjusting to the dim light, and found yourself in a small, cozy home. The wooden beams overhead and the worn but comfortable furniture spoke of a simple life. Bandages wrapped your chest and arms, and the stiffness in your body told you just how close you'd been to death.

You pushed yourself up, wincing, and managed to sit on the couch. The effort left you breathless, but the warmth of the room and the softness of the cushions were a welcome relief. Before long, the sound of a door opening drew your attention.

A woman entered, carrying a basket of linens. Her eyes widened when she saw you upright, and the basket slipped from her fingers, forgotten."Oh my goodness, you're awake!"she cried, her voice full of relief and astonishment.

She hurried to your side, her face alight with a mixture of joy and worry."I was so worried... You were barely breathing when I found you. I thought....."She shook her head, brushing a strand of blonde hair behind her ear."Never mind. You're awake, and that's what matters."

She knelt beside you, her blue eyes soft and kind behind thin-rimmed glasses."Care to tell me your name?"