The cabin door opened slowly, releasing the aroma of dried leaves, firewood, and calming herbal mixtures. In the doorway stood an elderly woman with silver hair styled in a simple bun. Her face was lined with wrinkles, yet her gaze was warm and wise, as if she could penetrate the deepest layers of anyone’s heart who looked at her.
“Welcome,” she said softly, her smile broad and friendly. “You’ve come a long way, please, come in.”
Ryan nodded respectfully and gestured for Adriana to enter first. Adriana hesitated for a moment, but as she crossed the threshold, the warm air from inside the cabin enveloped her body and heart, soothing the anxiety that had been weighing her down.
“My name is Elna,” the healer said as she invited them to sit near the fireplace. “You must be Adriana. I could
