Night had fallen over the Isle of Claw, and Edmund's makeshift camp was lit only by the crackling campfires. The smell of salt and burning wood lingered in the air, blending with the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs. Most of the men had already retired to rest, but Edmund walked alone to one of the distant tents, where Kieza awaited him.
Edmund had dark brown eyes, almost black, that always seemed alert and evaluative. His black, straight hair fell to his shoulders, giving him an imposing and austere appearance. Standing about 1.85m tall with a robust build, a result of years of training since his youth, he was the embodiment of a warrior ready for any challenge. His teeth were white and aligned, and his face, though handsome, did not have feminine features. His presence conveyed authority and confidence, qualities essential for someone in his position.
The princess was sitting on a smooth rock, gazing at the ocean with a distant look. Her long, golden, silky hair cascaded in gentle waves over her shoulders, reflecting the moonlight like golden threads. Her intense blue eyes seemed to capture every detail of the horizon, holding an inquisitive and determined shine. Her skin was pale and delicate, almost porcelain-like, but without any apparent fragility. Standing about 1.70m tall, she had a graceful build, with fluid and elegant movements, exuding a mixture of nobility and self-sufficiency. Her body was slender but well-proportioned, with moderate bust and hips, subtly and naturally shaped. Her fine, aristocratic features radiated nobility, while her posture and expression revealed unshakable resolve, fitting for a woman who had faced challenges far beyond those expected of a princess.
Kieza was not an ordinary princess. From a young age, she had shown a strong and untamable personality, often defying the expectations placed on her. While other ladies of the court concerned themselves with embroidery and ceremonies, Kieza was interested in stories of war and military strategies. She watched the kingdom's commanders, learning silently, absorbing every detail of her father's discussions. She had a free spirit and an adventurous side, but also a deep sense of responsibility. She was stubborn, but her sharp intelligence and adaptability made her a formidable ally. Her gaze, always attentive, conveyed cunning and insight, and her smile, though delicate, always carried a hint of irony, as if challenging the world to test her.
Upon noticing Edmund's approach, she gave a small smile, but her expression still carried the concern about what lay ahead.
"You seem thoughtful," said Edmund, sitting beside her.
"How could I not be?" replied Kieza, sighing. "We've been exiled, hunted, and now we're trying to build something new in an unknown land. There's a lot to take in."
Edmund nodded, understanding the princess's unease. He himself felt the weight of responsibility on his shoulders. It wasn't just his survival at stake, but that of all who had followed his leadership.
"I know everything seems uncertain right now," he said, gazing at the horizon. "But we have a chance here. A chance to create something bigger than just a hideout. We can build a kingdom, a new homeland for those who have nowhere else to go."
Kieza turned to him, her eyes shining with a mix of hope and skepticism.
"And you believe that's possible? That we can not only survive, but thrive?"
"I believe so," Edmund affirmed with conviction. "It won't be easy. We'll have to fight, conquer, and negotiate. But if we can establish a solid foundation, we'll expand our influence over these waters. And one day, who knows, maybe we can return to Valtheon, not as exiles, but as leaders."
The princess fell silent for a few moments, reflecting on his words. Finally, a small smile appeared on her lips.
"If anyone can do it, it's you, Edmund Oakforest. But know that you don't have to carry this burden alone. I'm here, and I'll do whatever it takes to help."
Edmund grasped her hand firmly, feeling the warmth of her determination. For the first time in a long while, he did not feel alone in his fight. The future was uncertain, but together, they could shape it.
The waves continued to crash against the rocks, as if whispering secrets from ancient sailors who had ventured through these waters. That night, under the starry sky of the archipelago, Edmund and Kieza made a silent pact: to build a new destiny, together.