When he awoke, the sun was high in the sky, casting its warm glow through the small window of the hut. He blinked groggily, the events of the night before coming back to him in a rush. The battle, the blood, and the promise to Salina were stark reminders of the world that lay outside their temporary refuge. Carefully, he extracted himself from Ely's arms, not wanting to disturb her. She looked so peaceful, her face free of the worries and fears that haunted them both when they were awake.
He pulled on his trousers and shirt, his body still humming with the remnants of their passionate exchange. As he stepped out of the hut, he was greeted by Salina's warm smile. She held out a wooden tray with a steaming cup of tea and a plate of fresh berries. "Oh, master you wake?" she said, her voice lilting with a hint of excitement.
