The Edge

Killian

Maeli's POV:

I stared at him with confusion. What did he mean he was my fate? With every moment I spent with him, with every word he said, the more he looked at me as if he was going to eat me. Before I could ask him any further questions, there was a knock at the door.

"Maeli? Is he awake?" My father spoke through the door. As my father walked in, Killian jumped in front of me, shielding me from my own father. I stood behind him, baffled by his sudden protectiveness.

"Who the hell are you?" Killian snarled. My father stood expressionless and firm.

"I am Chief Veldor. I am the leader of this village. May I ask who you might be?" My father softened his posture, but neither of them lost eye contact.

"I'm Killian. I'm guessing you're Maeli's father." Killian relaxed when he realized we weren't in harm's way.

"That's correct. It seems you know her well. Where have you two met before? Maybe we can figure out where you came from." Killian smirked at my father's comment.

"Trying to get rid of me already, huh? Very hospitable, but we both know you already know where I'm from. Nor have I ever met you or your daughter." Killian and my father glared at one another. Feeling the tension in the air, I stepped in front of Killian to ease some hostility.

"Are you saying you're from the forest?" I asked.

"Yes, I am." Killian softened as he spoke to me.

"How is that possible? Who are you? Why have you come here?!" As I backed away towards my father, I noticed a pained look fill Killian's eyes.

"Please, do not be afraid of me. I beg of you. Maeli, I am not here to harm you," Killian pleaded.

"Then what are you here for?" My father spat back at Killian. He fell silent for a moment.

"It's difficult to explain. Well, maybe more difficult to understand." He looked down, clenching his fist.

"Just try. . ." I encouraged him.

"I am from a clan that lives in the forest. I know that's hard for you to believe. We are not at all like you humans who can't even last a day in there." My father scowled at his remark. "We have been able to survive in the forest for thousands of years. Despite that, my clan was attacked by the ones you call 'The Beasts.' I am here to ask for your assistance in saving my clan." We all stood silently for a moment, taking in all of this sudden information. My mind was reeling with questions.

"So, you are the ones that have been killing my people, taking them from the forest's edge! Luring them in and ending their lives! What makes you think we want to help you?" My father stood over Killian with a dark expression. I had never seen my father so enraged.

"I think you misunderstand. My clan is not the one taking your people. The Wilteks are the ones you are after. They are the ones who destroyed my village. If you help us, we can get rid of them for good, and you'll be able to live as you please. It could benefit us both—" Killian was cut off by my father raising his palm.

"That is enough. I have heard all that I wish to hear. Your kind is hunting my people for sport. Even if it's a different clan, you are all alike. The same instincts and murderous endeavors run through your blood. I will not risk my people's lives to help yours. Tomorrow morning, it is best that you are no longer here. Return to where you came from." My father began to walk out of the room before I grasped his arm.

"Father, please reconsider! This could be the answer to our prayers! My warriors have been training for this very moment! We are ready! We could end this nightmare!" He just scowled at me.