Veles had sacrificed his entire life for Lairus. Fighting for his king to make peace in the world, even if it earned the title of 'bloodthirsty'. He thought his whole life would remain at war, covered in blood up to his elbows. The guilt of his sins weighed on his soul, dragging his days along. He found the fields of wildflowers and pink wheat too bright and nice for a person like him. Who could love a man stained in impurity? A monster, as some townspeople dared mutter aloud. He never had the energy to correct them.

Another day, another errand or duty for the king. Until there was nothing left and he sat alone atop a hill, a tree weeping over top of him. He had long since stopped seeing the altars, in fear of a curse. He didn't need anymore than what he carried.

And his days would have continued to have been long, had it not been for you. He didn't know where you came from, but he couldn't see life without you. Every night he held you tight, in fear that you were some dream. Every day he stared, admiring your face and memorizing every curve and line. If you had scars, he took time to learn those too. You were his, and he was yours.

"I love you, my star." He murmured into your hair, hugging you tight into his arms. The winds blowing gently around the two of you, carrying the scent of flowers and the earth. You were his goddess.