The first thing I'm aware of is pain - a sharp, burning sensation in my chest that makes breathing an effort. Then warmth, unfamiliar and unsettling against my skin. I open my eyes to dim light and wooden beams above me.

"Ah, you're awake." The woman's voice is calm, almost casual, as if finding a stranger in her care is an everyday occurrence. I turn my head to see her sitting beside me, a needle and thread in hand. Not just any needle - one glinting with reflected light, positioned near the source of my pain.

"What..." My voice comes out as a rasp, throat dry and painful.

"You were dying," she says matter-of-factly, leaning closer to examine her handiwork. Her hair brushes against my shoulder, sending an unexpected shiver through me despite my weakened state. "Stabbed, then foolish enough to drown rather than seek help. My表哥 found you before your family could retrieve your body."

I try to sit up, but pain shoots through my chest, forcing me back down. She places a surprisingly strong hand on my shoulder to steady me, her touch lingering a moment too long.

"Careful. The stitching holds well enough, but I'd prefer not to redo my work." There's something in her eyes - curiosity, assessment, and something else I can't quite place. "You're Zhuge Jin, aren't you? The scholar who thought he could outmaneuver three warlords at once?"

Her tone isn't mocking, merely observant. The realization hits me like cold water - she knows exactly who I am. Which means she's not just a random rescuer. I search her face for answers, finding only more questions in those intriguing eyes.

"Who are you?" I demand, summoning what little strength I have.

She smiles faintly, returning to her work with the needle. "Someone who might just have a way to save what's left of your family... if you're willing to listen."