Chapter 51: Fort Valor

Lena's POV

I awoke shivering violently, my breath coming out in frosty puffs. During the night, the feeble brazier in my drafty tent had sputtered out, leaving me at the mercy of the icy winds howling outside. I wrapped my threadbare cloak tighter, though it provided little warmth.

Teeth chattering, I forced myself out into the dim pre-dawn light. I couldn't afford to languish here feeling sorry for myself. Making my way to the cook tent, I found the morning crew already prepping a hearty porridge.

"Let me help with that," I offered, taking over stirring the pot. The grateful cooks seemed surprised but welcoming, unlike the suspicious glares I often received from the warriors. We worked together congenially as the sun rose, readying breakfast for the camp.

When a batch was ready, I ladled myself a steaming bowl. The hot cereal warmed me from the inside out, chasing away the lingering chill. After eating, I begged some warm water from the cooks to finally clean up properly.

As I stoo