Ethernal Bounds: Love In The Underwater Domain

Chapter 22 What's On Your Back

Samaya and Kusoma slept soundly through the night, wrapped in each other's warmth. Kusoma's muscular arm was draped protectively over Samaya, his hand resting on her waist. She was nestled against his side, her head resting on his broad chest, and her slender arm stretched across his torso. Kusoma’s other hand was gently holding her leg, keeping her close. His peaceful expression contrasted with his imposing physique, while Samaya’s serene face was framed by her flowing hair, cascading over Kusoma's body and the bedding beneath them.

As dawn broke, a small butterfly landed on Samaya’s face, its delicate wings fluttering gently against her skin. The soft tickling sensation roused her from sleep. She blinked her eyes open, taking in the early morning light filtering through the trees. The butterfly crawled over her cheek, its tiny legs leaving a barely perceptible trail on her skin. With a gentle breath, she blew the butterfly away, watching as it fluttered gracefully towards a nearby tree.

As her gaze followed the butterfly’s path, she noticed a male figure leaning against the tree trunk, observing her intently from a distance. His presence was enigmatic, almost ghostly. He had striking features: his eyes were glowing with an intense red color, and his posture exuded a quiet strength. For a brief moment, their eyes met, sending a shiver down her spine. She blinked, and in that instant, he vanished as if he had never been there.

Samaya’s heart quickened, a feeling of unease settling in her chest. She wondered if her eyes had played a trick on her, but the vividness of the moment lingered. Dismissing the thought as a figment of her imagination, she turned her attention back to Kusoma. His steady breathing and the warmth radiating from his body grounded her.

She nestled closer to him, feeling the rhythmic rise and fall of his chest beneath her cheek. The scent of the forest mingled with the comforting smell of Kusoma, creating a cocoon of safety around her. The morning was still, with only the faint rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds breaking the silence.

Samaya’s thoughts wandered back to the mysterious figure she had seen in the dream, but the comfort of Kusoma’s embrace soon lulled her into a sense of peace. She closed her eyes, letting the tranquility of the moment wash over her.

As the morning light grew brighter, the forest around them began to stir with life. Samaya could feel the warmth of the sun slowly rising, casting a golden hue over their surroundings. She took a deep breath, feeling the crisp air fill her lungs, and let herself relax completely against Kusoma, falling into deep slumber once more.

Samaya woke up to the gentle sway of motion. Blinking her eyes open, she found herself being carried in Kusoma's strong arms. She looked up at him, his chiseled features softened by the early morning light. He noticed her waking and couldn't suppress a light smile, his eyes glinting with a mixture of affection and amusement.

"Good morning," he murmured, his voice a comforting rumble. "We're continuing towards my home."

Samaya's curiosity piqued, she asked, "What does it look like? Are there many people around?"

Kusoma's smile widened slightly. "It's a surprise. But don’t worry, there aren't many people. They wouldn’t dare to approach my territory."

As they walked, Samaya noticed a small stream meandering nearby. The sound of trickling water was inviting, and she felt the stickiness of sweat clinging to her skin from the previous day. "Can I wash myself for a moment at the stream?" she asked.

Kusoma nodded and gently placed her down. "Of course."

Samaya walked over to the stream, its clear, cool water beckoning her. She knelt beside it and splashed the refreshing water onto her face and arms, feeling immediate relief. She began to wash herself more thoroughly, the coolness revitalizing her. Ponyo, ever curious, hopped into the stream beside her, splashing around playfully.

As she was washing, Kusoma’s sharp eyes caught something unusual on her back. He stepped closer, his expression shifting to one of displeasure. Gently, he brushed his hand against her back where the new tattoo was. "What do you have on your back?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hint of anger.

Samaya, unaware of the tattoo, turned her head to look at him over her shoulder. "Is it dirt?"

Kusoma's displeased expression didn't waver as he rubbed at the tattoo. He decided it was best not to alarm her. "Yes, it’s just dirt," he said, forcing a reassuring smile. "Nothing to worry about."

Relieved, Samaya continued to wash up, the incident slipping from her mind. She giggled as Ponyo splashed her again, this time more exuberantly. Water droplets flew everywhere, and soon Samaya was drenched. Laughing, she chased after Ponyo, the two of them darting through the shallow stream, their laughter echoing through the forest.

Kusoma watched them, a small smile playing on his lips. Despite the growing unease about the tattoo, seeing Samaya so happy and carefree warmed his heart. As she and Ponyo ran around, their clothes and fur drying in the morning sun, he waited patiently.

Eventually, when Samaya was completely dry, Kusoma made his move. With a swift motion, he caught her mid-run, lifting her effortlessly onto his shoulder. She squealed in surprise, then laughed, her joy infectious.

"We've rested enough," he said, his voice firm yet gentle. "We should continue."

Samaya settled comfortably on his shoulder, her fingers intertwining in his hair for balance. She looked forward to seeing Kusoma’s home, curiosity buzzing in her mind.