The high rows and the drying racks

The racks held fruit being dried, and Maren turned them so drying would proceed evenly. Wenna approached her there again during the afternoon, waiting until she could discuss the bell without anyone else present.

Wenna brought the traveller to the elders among the higher rows. They welcomed the woman with bread, asked questions, and provided somewhere for her pack, then continued the morning with trees still needing attention. Maren continued moving the racks when Wenna first reported the ringing, then paused during their conversation. After dismissing further concern about the incident, she resumed her work among the drying fruit. Afternoon light coloured the scene while laughter from a child came from the upper rows. Wenna did not argue further and helped rotate the racks until the daylight stretched long, telling nobody else about the event.