The rain arrived before sunrise. It began as a gentle tapping against the wooden roofs, then gradually grew into a steady shower that washed the leaves, darkened the paths, and filled the little channels running between the cabins. Water dripped from the edges of the treehouses, and the forest beyond the village disappeared behind a soft curtain of mist.
Jude woke to the sound of rain and remained beneath his blanket for a few moments.
It was one of those mornings when the entire village seemed reluctant to wake up.
Then came a loud knock.
"Jude!"
He closed his eyes.
Another knock followed.
"Jude! Are you awake?"
He recognized Scarlet's voice.
"Unfortunately," he answered.
The door opened slightly.
Scarlet peered inside. Her hair was untidy, and she was holding a wooden bowl.
"Good morning."
"It's raining."
"I noticed."
"Then why are you standing outside?"
"Because I have a problem."
Jude sat up. "What happened?"
Scarlet lifted the bowl.
"Water."
He stared at it.
