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Dakshana batted their hands away and pushed herself to her feet.

“I’m fine. Don’t worry - I’m fine.” She turned and saw Minka, watching her intently, tears in her eyes, her expression stubbornly unmoved. “Are you all right?”

“Minka’s been home for a week,” Srina said.

“A week?” Dakshana echoed.

Minka wrapped a fur cloak around Dakshana’s shoulders and led her out of the cave. “Come on - let’s get you home.”

The rest of the villagers parted their ranks, watching Dakshana warily. One of them made the sign against evil, and Minka hissed at them.

“I’m glad you’re safe,” Srina said.