Kabanata 5: Comrade

Katherine froze, staring at the toy that had fallen to the floor. She could feel the coldness in her hands and couldn't explain the sudden anxiety that gripped her chest.

"Katherine?" called Menalipo, walking towards her with a slight concern. "Are you okay?"

Katherine snapped out of her shock and quickly bent down to pick up the toy. She tried to hide the uncertainty on her face, but she knew it wasn't that easy to conceal.

"Ah, sorry! My hands are slippery," she said, forcing a laugh. "Florante, you said?"

"Yes," replied Menalipo, slightly puzzled by Katherine's reaction. "Do you know him?"

Katherine placed a hand over her chest, gripping the necklace around her neck—the only thing that reminded her of her old world. Florante... Albania... too many connections to something that should only be fictional.

"Ah, not really... I was just surprised because his name sounds familiar," she answered, trying to calm herself down.

"Really? Maybe you've heard it from the people here," said Menalipo, no longer doubting her. "My cousin is really talented. Not only is he skilled in the arts and warfare, but he's also a good person. I'm sure you'll like him one day."

Katherine gave a small smile, but inside, she couldn't shake the unease. The story of Florante and Laura was just fiction in her world, but in this world... everything was real.

"Well," she replied. "He sounds like a worthy person."

Before Menalipo could speak again, the door to the shop suddenly opened. They turned around and saw a man in battle armor. He was holding a letter that seemed important, and there was a worried expression on his face.

"Menalipo," he called, ignoring Katherine. "Your uncle wants to see you. A message has arrived from the palace."

Menalipo's expression immediately became serious. "From the palace? What does it say?"

"I don't know. But you must return immediately."

Menalipo and Katherine exchanged glances. She knew something important was happening, and she couldn't stop herself from feeling anxious. In this world, it seemed that she wasn't just accidentally here—there seemed to be a reason for her presence.

"Katherine, I'm sorry, but I must leave," Menalipo said seriously. "Can I escort you back to your aunt?"

Katherine shook her head, forcing a smile. "No, I can manage on my own. Your duty is more important."

Menalipo nodded. "Thank you for understanding. Don't worry, we'll meet again."

With a final glance, Katherine felt an unexplainable sensation wash over her. As Menalipo left and disappeared from her sight, silence enveloped the surroundings again. She looked at Zamir, who was now staring at her, seemingly deep in thought.

"Katherine," he said coldly. "I know you're hiding something."

She gasped, but before she could speak, Zamir approached her and whispered.

"You're not from here, are you?"