By some miracle, the kindling bursts into flames, the resultant bonfire consuming the wood you've surrounded it with whole. You've made sure to do this first thing after straying away from the Footpaths. Fire brings light when there's only darkness and brings warmth when there's only the cold. You recall that millennia ago, before the Decimation, something up, up above would provide the world with both of these necessities. Now, there's only the Dot, which is as good as nothing.
In any case, in this world, Fire is Life. The elders back at the village have drilled that into your skull by now, and if you want to live another day, you have no choice but to heed their lesson.
Suddenly, footsteps. Sounds of boots crushing crunchy snow, not too far behind. Going slow. Real slow. Whatever that is, it's some methodical predator.
Slowly, but surely, you reach for your bag.
It's getting close-
"Hello!" A cheery voice! A burst of movement right by your side!
Right by your side... is a... girl?
The girl is squatting beside you, her countenance hidden by the hood of her robes as she looks at the radiant firelight, avoiding your gaze. Just going by her appearance, there's already something odd about her. Those clothes are way too pristine- no, not just that, they are straight-up marvelous. Not only are those robes untattered and freshly ironed but they are also dyed in beautiful hues of blues and whites and richly decorated in all sorts of celestial motifs, lending them a mystical air.
Then, the girl doffs her hood to reveal her youthful heart-shaped face with flawless fair skin, framed by luscious dark blonde locks. She tilts her head as her mesmerizing mismatched eyes peer at you, one molten gold, one dark blue.
This girl is no ordinary survivor. The strange, oversized suitcase she's holding lends further credence to your assumption.
"Any room left for another weary traveler like myself?" The girl continues in her singsong voice, a bright smile tugging at her full pink lips. "My name is Geretrudis! Pleased to make your acquaintance!"
