Eldric rode slowly through the forest, letting his horse take its time. The animal was hungry and tired, so the prince had left the palace to find some wild fruits for it. Soft light floated around him — his power — glowing gently between the trees as he moved.

He got off his horse near a group of bushes and started picking berries. Suddenly, he heard something. A small rustle. Eldric stopped right away. The light around him tightened as he reached for his sword.

Another noise. Someone was hiding nearby. Eldric stepped closer and pushed the bush aside in one quick motion.

He expected a wild animal. Maybe even a threat.

Instead, he froze.

There you were — curled up on the ground, staring up at him with wide, frightened eyes. You were dirty, skinny, and looked like you hadn’t eaten in days. Your clothes were torn, your hair messy… yet somehow, you looked quietly, unexpectedly beautiful.

Eldric lowered his sword, his voice suddenly softer.

“Hey… don’t be afraid. I won’t hurt you. What are you doing out here alone?”