A Starlit Promise

Echoes of the Coast

As the early morning sun filtered through the forest canopy, Rylla stirred from her slumber, disappointed that she did not see the man in her dreams. Kaelith was already up and outside the makeshift tent, packing up the minimal things from their small camp. She strode out of the tent and greeted him, "Good morning," she said softly. Kaelith, a bit shocked at her early rising, turned around quickly. That was when he saw her, and really looked at her for the first time. The early morning light revealed her features: a striking blend of strength and softness. Her skin was sun-kissed with a healthy glow, and her wavy chestnut hair cascaded in wild curls around her shoulders. He was starstruck by her expressive facial features, so obviously trademarked by fae beauty. High cheekbones and a full, generous mouth framed her face. One that, quite frankly, he'd give anything to have against his. Her eyes, a deep violet, were sharp yet gentle, and he wondered what wisdom they carried.

She noticed his gaze drift from her face down her body, and while it startled her a bit, she didn't mind. She knew she was beautiful. Her figure was curvy and robust, not the fragile, delicate type one might typically expect from an unbred fae woman. Her frame was strong and well-proportioned, with a rounded bust and hips that spoke of both resilience and grace. As Kaelith's eyes trailed back up to Rylla's face, his expression faltered, and he became beet red. She was watching him watch her, watching him look at her like an animal about to eat for the first time after hibernation, with desire and lust and, somehow, still some inner resolve. Quickly, he turned around and picked up a set of clothes off the ground before handing them to her.

"These might not fit you perfectly, but I'm sure it'll be nice to change from those undergarments," He said, forcing his eyes to stay locked on hers. "Thank you," she replied, her cheeks heating to what she was sure was a rosy color.

Rylla gently took the clothes from him and walked behind a group of nearby trees for a bit of privacy before changing. She carefully pulled on the new layers of clothing Kaelith had provided. The garments seemed practical but a bit ill-fitting, larger than her usual size and draped loosely over her figure. She realized then how large this male really was. She hadn't let herself look at him that way, she couldn't.

The tunic was a deep forest green, somewhat too long and baggy, but it offered comfort and protection against the elements. The trousers were similarly large but secured with a tie that he had fashioned from leather. As she dressed, she glanced behind her at Kaelith, who was still silently preparing their minimal belongings. There was a brief ache in her chest - at everything she had left behind. The people of Elderglen would never forgive her; she was sure of that. She left everything she'd ever known, partially against her will, and ran away with a man she'd never met. She knew it was more complicated than that, but she still struggled with the idea that everything she ever was was left in her home back in the village.

As she rounded the trees and made her way back to the clearing, Kaelith met her with a small pack for her to carry. He helped her situate it on her back and secured the top with a tie. "Do you have any more questions?" Kaelith asked as he moved to be back in front of her. His voice had a hint of dry amusement, as if he was bracing himself for her curiosity.

"Just a few," Rylla replied with a kiddish grin on her face. "I still don't understand why you came to my village and why you are helping me."

Kaelith's expression remained inscrutable. "We can discuss that later. For now, we need to move. The longer we stay here, the more dangerous it becomes. Alaris isn't too far from here, and we need to make good time." Rylla nodded, trying to steady her breathing. "I understand; I'm ready."

With that, the two left their makeshift camp. The forest path was dense but manageable, and as they traveled, Rylla took in the changing scenery. She had never been beyond her bit of the Lunavell Forest, surely not to the other side of it. Their journey was quiet, except for the occasional rustle of leaves and the distant call of birds. During their walk, Rylla tried to piece together the events that took place in Elderglen, her mind racing with questions, "What can you tell me about Alaris?" she asked, her voice tinged with apprehension.

Kaelith glanced at her. "Have you never been?" He queried. Rylla shook her head, and her face shone with a bit of embarrassment. He realized then that the poor girl had probably never left Elderglen, much less made a trip to Alaris. He looked at her as they walked. "Alaris, as I'm sure you know, is a coastal town known for its mercantile activity. But it has its fair share of trouble. It's bustling and lively, but also dangerous. We'll need to be cautious, and I'd like you to always stay within arms' reach of me."

Rylla's curiosity was piqued, "What kind of trouble?"

"Crime, for one," Kaelith said, his tone darkening. "It's not a place for the faint of heart. But it's the best place to find information and resources. And right now, we need both of those."

The conversation lulled as they continued walking, each lost in their own thoughts. The air grew warmer as they neared the edge of the forest, signaling their approach to the coastal town.