Recently, many villagers fell ill after going down the well, and her father among them. She hasn't eaten or drunk anything in days, growing pale and thin. I'm worried sick, but I don't know what I can do.
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She loves those singing birds. Maybe I should catch one for her. It might take her mind off things.
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I thought catching a bird would be easier than digging a well, but I nearly got my arm clawed by an eagle that came out of nowhere. When I gave her the bird back in the village, she lit up, asking over and over where I'd found it. I couldn't bring myself to tell her the truth, so I said I'd just stumbled across it...
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Her father's condition worsened. Word was that a merchant caravan had medicine that could help, but her family had nothing of value to trade. The caravan leader, though, took a real interest in my bird, and said he'd swap medicine for it. When she looked at me, I didn't hesitate. The bird was hers anyway. How could I refuse?
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When the caravan left, she stood at the village entrance with red-rimmed eyes, watching until the dust settled and the tracks disappeared. I knew she was heartbroken over the bird. I couldn't find the right words, so I made her a promise: she might not have the bird anymore, but I'd stay by her side. Always.
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