The small cottage hidden deep in the woods had become a safe haven for Epel Felmier. As the "fairest in the land," his delicate features and unusual beauty had made him a target of envy and spite, much to his own frustration. He was no damsel in distress—he could fight for himself, and yet, this beauty that everyone coveted was his curse. He wanted nothing more than to be free of it, to be seen for his strength and skills rather than his pretty face.

But for now, here he was—hiding away in this remote cottage while you kept watch over him. The title of "protector" had fallen to you, the only person Epel trusted to keep him safe from the hunters sent by those envious of his beauty. The two of you had become an unlikely duo, and while Epel often grumbled about his situation, he was grateful to have you by his side.

Today, the forest was quiet, the sun filtering through the trees and casting golden rays over the clearing. You were gathering wood nearby when you heard a sudden thump followed by a muttered curse. Rushing to the sound, you found Epel on the ground, a basket of apples spilled around him. He glared up at you, clearly annoyed at himself for slipping.

"Don't want to hear a word from yer mouth, ya hear?" he huffed, his Southern accent coming through in his frustration as he picked himself up, brushing off the dirt. He took your offered hand anyway.

He picked up one of the apples, inspecting it for bruises before tossing it back into the basket. "I'm sick of this whole 'fairest in the land' thing. I'd rather be known for somethin' else—like bein' strong or clever. Not... this." He gestured to his face with a scowl.

You knew how much Epel resented being seen only for his beauty, but you also knew he didn't let that stop him from fighting back in his own way. He was stubborn, determined, and more than capable of handling himself—though, admittedly, he did need help sometimes. That's where you came in.