The Chronicles of a Fallen Star

The morning sun peeked over the distant mountains, casting a soft glow on the landscape. Ayla had woken earlier and had gone to the nearby river to wash up. When Paola finally stirred and followed, she found herself shuffling behind Ayla, feeling more vulnerable and exposed than ever in her nakedness. The events of the previous night replayed in her mind, leaving her face hot and red with embarrassment and confusion. She barely knew Ayla, yet she had pushed for something so intimate, something she had never experienced before.

Ayla walked ahead, her demeanor curt and reserved, the silence between them heavy and awkward. Paola's mind raced with questions and doubts, the memory of their shared intimacy making her feel both anxious and uncertain. She couldn't stand the silence any longer and decided to break it, her voice tentative and unsure.

"Ayla," Paola started, her voice trembling slightly, "I've never been with a woman before."

Ayla paused and turned to look at Paola, scratching her head awkwardly. "Neither have I," she admitted, her voice soft.

Paola felt a small wave of relief wash over her, the initial ice broken. She kept the conversation flowing, feeling that after last night, she could safely assume they had some mutual interest. "On my planet," Paola began, trying to lighten the mood, "no one would ever dress like that publicly." She gestured to Ayla's metal thong and strapless metal bra. “No offense.” She quickly added.

Ayla frowned and looked down at her armor, then shrugged. "The people from your home must be uncomfortable most of the time," she said, her tone matter-of-fact. Paola opened her mouth to argue but found herself at a loss for words. Ayla had a point, and she couldn't deny it. Ayla giggled, breaking the tension further. "It's not so easy to walk around with a beautiful naked woman at my heels, either, you know," she said, giving Paola a once-over.

Paola blushed, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Right," she murmured, feeling a bit self-conscious. She hadn't even thought about that. How Ayla would see her, instead she was so focused on how she saw Ayla, "Sorry."

Ayla shook her head, her expression softening. "Don't be. We're both out of our element here. This world is strange, and we're just trying to make sense of it." She reached out and took Paola's hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "Last night... it was unexpected, but I don't regret it."

Paola felt a weight lift off her shoulders at Ayla's words. She nodded, squeezing Ayla's hand back. "Neither do I," she admitted, her voice steadier now.

The sun continued to rise, casting a warm light over the two women as they walked together. The silence between them was no longer heavy with awkwardness but still, their thoughts lingered on the previous night. They had both experienced something new and different, but both had no regrets. Maybe, for now, they would let the chips fall where they may, and see where their adventure takes them.

The two women continued to walk along the river, the morning sun warming their backs. Ayla had let go of Paola's hand, but Paola found herself wishing she hadn't. She needed to shake off the lingering feeling of vulnerability, yet it was easier to focus on anything other than the surreal situation she was in. The only thing keeping her grounded were her pink bunny slippers, the smallest piece of home and the briefest glimmer of hope that she might find a way back.

Paola still walked with her arms crossed over her chest, trying to maintain some semblance of modesty. The silence between them was heavy, filled with unspoken thoughts and questions. Finally, Ayla broke the silence, her voice hesitant.

"Paola," she began, glancing sideways at her, "can you tell me more about your home?"

Paola sighed, grateful for the distraction. "I'm from a world called Earth, I think I mentioned," she said, her voice softening as she thought about home. "Specifically, a place called Albuquerque, in New Mexico. It's a city in the desert, with mountains to the east and a big river running through it."

Ayla listened intently, her eyes on the grassy sands beneath them. She seemed to be trying to wrap her head around everything Paola was saying. Paola noticed that Ayla scratched behind her ear when she was deep in thought, her blond wavy locks curling around her hand.

"We don't have magic or giant swords," Paola continued, "and there are no other races like here. Just animals and humans."

Ayla nodded slowly, processing the information. "It sounds... so different. What do you use instead of magic?"

Paola smiled slightly. "Technology. We have machines and devices that can do amazing things. Like cars—machines that can take you from one place to another quickly."

Ayla looked puzzled. "Cars? We only have horse-drawn carriages and airships."

"Airships?" Paola's eyes widened. "Like airplanes?"

Ayla shook her head. "Airplane? What's that?"

"A plane is a... Well, it's like an airship," Paola said, trying to explain something so advanced to a medieval Sword Maiden was challenging, to say the least. And she also didn’t know what she meant by airship either. Were they in medieval times? Or maybe Victorian times? Paola didn't know, but she found herself amused by how out of touch with technology Ayla and the world seemed to be. "Airplanes, are like metal birds that fly through the sky. They have engines and wings."

Ayla stopped walking, her expression one of confusion and fascination. "Metal birds? Engines? Wings?" Ayla's eyes widened. "That sounds terrifying. And exciting. But mostly terrifying."

Paola chuckled. "It does sound strange when you put it like that. But yes, they can carry people and cargo across vast distances in a matter of hours."

Ayla resumed walking, her mind clearly racing with thoughts. "And your world has no magic at all?"

"Nope," Paola replied. "Everything is explained by science. We have scientists who study how the world works, and they invent things to make our lives easier."

Ayla scratched behind her ear again. "It must be a very different way of living. Here, magic is a part of everyday life. It's in everything we do."

Paola nodded, thinking about the stark contrasts between their worlds. "It must be amazing to live in a place where magic is real."

Ayla smiled softly. "It is, but it can also be dangerous. Magic is powerful, and not everyone uses it for good."

Paola felt a pang of homesickness mixed with a strange sense of awe. "I guess every place has its own challenges." She thought about how similar it was to her own home though. “I guess magic and science are two sides of the same coin, just, different worlds.”

They walked in silence for a few more moments, each lost in their own thoughts. The river flowed gently beside them, its surface sparkling in the morning light. Paola couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the beauty of this world, despite its dangers and mysteries. As they walked along the river, the landscape gradually changed from grassy sands to more rocky terrain, though the sands never completely disappeared. The silence between Paola and Ayla had settled into a comfortable rhythm, but Ayla's curiosity soon broke through.

"Paola," Ayla began, her voice thoughtful, "do you have any combat expertise?"

Paola shook her head. "No, not really. Back in my world, I would never need anything like that. I know a little self-defense, but nothing like..." She gestured towards the massive broadsword on Ayla's back.

Ayla sighed, looking at Paola with a mixture of concern and determination. "The closer we get to Valarian, the more likely we'll encounter bandits, especially since we're entering through the slums on the south side of the city. You'll need to work on your combat skills."

Paola's stomach tightened with anxiety. "I wouldn't even know where to start."

Ayla nodded understandingly. "I have limited supplies, but I can lend you something for now." She raised her hand and summoned a black dagger from a ring on her finger. The blade seemed to be made of obsidian, dark and gleaming in the sunlight. Yet, after the summoning, she made a face as she determined something about her ring.

"Here," Ayla said, handing the dagger to Paola. "You can use this until we get to Valarian. Then you can buy your own weapon."

Paola took the dagger, surprised by its weight. The blade felt ancient, as if it were carved from black stone itself, with a serrated edge that looked chipped to sharpness. Holding it, Paola felt a strange connection, as if the weapon was awakening something long forgotten within her, a heat deep in her core coming to life.

Ayla's voice cut through her reverie. "Are you coming?"

Paola realized she had stopped walking and quickly caught up with Ayla. They continued in silence until Ayla pointed out a clearing up ahead. "We can start your training there."

Paola's anxiety spiked. "Training? What do you mean?"

Ayla smiled reassuringly. "Just some basic combat skills. You need to be able to defend yourself. If you’re not of this world, you will quickly fall to dangers that roam, even underfoot.”

They reached the clearing, a patch of ground that was slightly more open, with rocky outcrops scattered around. Ayla turned to face Paola, her expression serious. "First, let's see how you handle the dagger."

Paola held up the dagger, trying to mimic the way she had seen people hold knives in movies. Ayla stepped closer, adjusting Paola's grip. "Like this. You need to hold it firmly but not too tightly. Control is key."

Ayla demonstrated a few basic moves, showing Paola how to block and strike. Paola's movements were clumsy at first, her anxiety making her hands shake, but Ayla was patient, guiding her through each step.

"Remember, the goal is to protect yourself," Ayla said. "Don't focus on attacking. Focus on defense and finding an opening."

Paola nodded, trying to absorb Ayla's instructions. She felt a mixture of fear and determination. This world was dangerous, and she needed to be able to defend herself. As they practiced, Paola began to feel a small sense of confidence growing within her. The dagger felt more natural in her hand, and she started to move with more fluidity.

After a while, Ayla stepped back, nodding approvingly. "You're doing well. Let's take a break."

Paola lowered the dagger, breathing heavily. She felt a rush of pride at Ayla's praise. They sat on a nearby rock, the silence between them now filled with a sense of accomplishment.

"Thank you," Paola said quietly. "For everything."

Ayla smiled. "Ah, it’s nothing, you need to learn anyways. Besides, you have a lot of potential. I can see it." Paola felt a warmth spread through her at Ayla's words. The fear and anxiety were still there, but now they were tempered with a sense of purpose and connection. "Now, though, I think we should spar. Let me show you some ways to block attacks and then disarm an opponent. If we ever get in trouble, it could mean the difference between life and death."

Ayla stood, taking her broadsword from her back, the massive blade looking heavy yet seeming to weigh nothing in her hand. Then she casually held it out to the side with her other hand, giving a twirl, showing Paola her prowess with the large sword. Paola gulped nervously, wondering if she could even handle such a heavy weapon. Glancing down at the dagger in her hand, this seemed unfair. Paola bit her lower lip, suddenly unsure of herself and the whole situation.

"Um... is there... a smaller sword?" Paola asked.

Ayla gave her a sly smirk. Then pushed the tip of the sword into the ground, it easily sliding in like a stick in mud. "I'm not going to fight you with a greatsword. Not unless I have to," she replied, the smile still on her lips, "you'd end up getting sliced in two. I'll only use my hands to attack. You'll use your dagger." Ayla moved back into the center of the clearing. The smile fading to a more neutral expression. "Alright, let's try it."

Paola slowly moved forward, raising her dagger up defensively, the obsidian blade seeming to glisten as she held it, almost humming. It seemed eager for the fight, as if it were a living thing that fed on violence. It whispered darkly to her, promising power. It was the same way it felt when Ayla had first handed her the dagger. It made her skin prickle. Paola hesitated, suddenly not so sure about the whole idea of fighting the sword maiden.

Ayla grinned, "Come on, little rabbit, don't be afraid." Paola looked up, Ayla's voice bringing her back to the present moment, the whisper in the dagger quieting. Paola stood in the clearing, her heart pounding in her chest as she held the obsidian dagger. The blade felt heavy in her hand, and she couldn't shake the sense of vulnerability. Ayla stood across from her, a calm and determined look in her eyes.

"Ayla, are you serious?" Paola protested, gripping the dagger tightly. "I don't think we should do this."

Ayla's expression softened slightly, but her resolve didn't waver. "Paola, you need to be ready for anything. I'm going to hit you. Be prepared." She spoke flatly.

Before Paola could respond, Ayla moved with lightning speed. She closed the distance between them in a heartbeat, her foot connecting just under Paola's hips. The impact was swift and precise, taking Paola's legs out from under her and at the same time sending her sprawling across the sandy, rocky terrain. Paola rolled, the breath knocked out of her. She struggled to her feet, dagger still clutched in her hand, her mind racing. Ayla moved in again, her movements fluid and graceful.

"Keep your guard up," Ayla instructed, her voice calm and authoritative. "Watch my movements and anticipate the attack."

Paola tried to focus, holding the dagger in front of her defensively. Ayla circled her, then feinted to the left before spinning to the right, delivering a sharp kick that Paola barely managed to block with her forearm. The force of the blow sent her stumbling back.

"Don't just react," Ayla said, her eyes locked on Paola. "Think ahead. Move with purpose."

Paola gritted her teeth, frustration and determination mingling. She lunged forward with the dagger, but Ayla sidestepped effortlessly, tapping Paola on the back of the head as she passed.

"Too slow," Ayla commented, her tone almost teasing.

Paola's cheeks burned with embarrassment, but she refused to give up. She adjusted her grip on the dagger and tried to anticipate Ayla's next move. Ayla darted in again, this time aiming a punch at Paola's midsection. Paola managed to sidestep, slashing with the dagger, but Ayla caught her wrist and twisted, forcing her to drop the blade.

"You need to be unpredictable," Ayla said, releasing Paola's wrist and stepping back. "Don't telegraph your moves."

Paola retrieved the dagger, her frustration growing. She had been in this world for only two days, or is three now, and had already been attacked twice by monsters. If it weren't for Ayla finding her and healing her, she was sure she would be dead. She hated to admit it, but Ayla was right—she needed to learn how to defend herself.

Taking a deep breath, Paola tried to clear her mind and focus. Ayla moved in again, this time aiming a kick at her chest. Paola managed to deflect it with the dagger, but the force of the blow sent her staggering back. Ayla didn't let up, following with a series of quick jabs and kicks, each one aimed to test Paola's defenses.

"Don't just block," Ayla advised, her movements never slowing. "Counterattack. Look for openings."

Paola did her best to follow Ayla's advice, but it was clear she was no warrior. Every move she made seemed clumsy and slow compared to Ayla's precise and fluid attacks. Ayla was an Obsidian-tier Sword Maiden, and the gap between their skills was painfully obvious.

Despite her frustration, Paola kept trying. She lunged forward, aiming a strike at Ayla's midsection. Ayla deflected the blow with her forearm and spun, delivering a kick to Paola's side that sent her sprawling again.

"Better," Ayla said, offering Paola a hand to help her up. "But you need to commit to your attacks. Hesitation will get you killed."

Paola took Ayla's hand, pulling herself to her feet. She was panting, her body aching from the repeated falls and blows, but there was a glint of determination in her eyes. "I'll get better," she promised, her voice resolute.

Ayla nodded, a small smile playing at her lips. "I know you will. Just remember, it's not just about strength or speed. It's about control and awareness. Trust your instincts, and you'll improve."

They continued to spar, Ayla offering tips and corrections as they went. Paola's movements became more fluid, her strikes more confident. She still had a long way to go, but with each practice session, she could feel herself getting stronger, more capable.

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, casting long shadows across the rocky landscape, Paola felt a sense of accomplishment. The journey to Valarian would be challenging, but with Ayla's guidance and her own growing determination, she knew she could face whatever lay ahead.

Paola looked at Ayla, sweat glistening on her brow, and nodded. "Thank you, Ayla. For everything."

Ayla's smile was warm and genuine. "I've got your back. Now, let's keep going. We've got a lot of ground to cover."

As they resumed their journey, the silence between them was filled with a sense of camaraderie and purpose. Paola's grip on the dagger was more confident, her steps more sure. The future was uncertain, but she felt ready to face it. That, lasted all but a few moments before Paola glanced to Ayla. The Sword Maiden, her new companion, seemed distracted. Her brows knitted as if something was amiss.

"Paola, there's something we need to discuss," she said, glancing over at her. Ayla's expression grew more serious.

Paola, still adjusting to the weight of the obsidian dagger in her hand, looked up. "What is it?"

"I didn't prepare for a two-week journey," Ayla admitted, her tone heavy with concern. "We're running low on provisions."

Paola's heart sank. "How low?"

Ayla hesitated for a moment before answering. "Low enough that we need to start hunting and gathering if we want to make it."

Paola's eyes widened in shock. "You mean, kill a deer or something?"

Ayla nodded. "Yes, but there’s also a good chance we'll find enough edible plants to sustain us until then."

Paola swallowed hard, the reality of her situation settling in. "I've never hunted or foraged before." Paola took a deep breath, trying to process the information. The idea of hunting and gathering was so foreign to her, but she could see the necessity in Ayla's eyes. "Alright," she said finally, "let's do this."

They spent the rest of the day after their sparring session searching for food. As they walked through the forest, Ayla pointed out various plants and herbs that were safe to eat. Paola tried to remember everything, feeling both overwhelmed and fascinated by the knowledge Ayla shared.

"Look," Ayla said, pointing to a clump of green leaves. "These are wild onions. They’re great for adding flavor to whatever we find."

Paola knelt down and began to carefully pull up the onions. "This is so different from anything I've ever done," she admitted, her voice tinged with awe. She looked at the long green stalks with purple flower clusters in wonder.

Ayla chuckled. "You'll get the hang of it. Just takes practice." As they continued their foraging, Ayla's demeanor softened, and she started to open up more. They shared stories about their lives, laughing and teasing each other. The awkwardness from the morning slowly melted away, replaced by a growing bond.

By mid-afternoon, Ayla spotted a squirrel darting through the trees. With quick, silent movements, she managed to catch it, holding it up triumphantly. "Looks like we have dinner," she said with a grin.

Paola stared at the squirrel, a mix of fascination and apprehension on her face. "Are we really going to eat that?"

Ayla nodded, her smile encouraging. "I'll show you how to dress it properly. It's not as bad as you think."

They found a small clearing and sat down. Ayla expertly dressed the squirrel, explaining each step to Paola. "You want to remove the skin and the organs. The meat on the legs and back is the best part." Ayla laid out her tools, explaining each step as she worked. Paola watched, fascinated and a little grossed out, as Ayla skillfully skinned and gutted the squirrel. Despite the initial discomfort, Paola found herself genuinely interested in the process.

Paola watched closely, trying to absorb everything. Despite the initial discomfort, she found herself intrigued by the process. "I never thought I'd be doing this," she said with a nervous laugh.

Ayla looked up, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Life in Udanara is full of surprises. But you're handling it well."

Paola blushed, feeling a warm flutter in her chest at Ayla's compliment. "Thanks. I'm trying."

Once the squirrel was dressed, Ayla showed Paola how to start a fire. They gathered dry wood and leaves, and Ayla struck a piece of flint against a steel striker, creating sparks that ignited the tinder. Soon, they had a small, crackling fire. She wanted to show Ayla the normalcies without magic first.

As the squirrel meat cooked, Ayla continued to give tips on survival. "Remember, even when you think you've collected enough for a meal, always pick more than you think you'll need. Food runs out quickly. And you never know when a situation might arise and you need to use more than planned."

Paola nodded, absorbing the information. She felt a strange mix of pride and gratitude for Ayla's guidance. "You're really good at this," she said, admiration clear in her voice.

Ayla shrugged modestly. "I've had a lot of practice. But you're doing great for someone who's only been here a couple of days."

Paola smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "I have a good teacher."

Ayla placed the squirrel meat on a makeshift spit and began to cook it. "The key is to cook it slowly, so it stays tender," she explained, turning the meat carefully.

Paola sat beside her, feeling a sense of contentment despite the day's challenges. "This isn't so bad," she admitted. "It's kind of... fun, in a weird way."

Ayla laughed. "Survival can be fun when you have good company."

They sat together, watching the meat cook and sharing stories about their worlds. Paola found herself laughing and smiling more than she had in days, the weight of her situation momentarily lifted by Ayla's presence. Paola had insisted Ayla teach her some magic, yet, Ayla told her it was not time yet. Other things needed to be learned first.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the landscape, Ayla handed Paola a piece of the cooked squirrel. "Here, try this."

Paola took a bite, surprised by how good it tasted. "This is actually really good!"

Ayla grinned. "Told you. Now, let's see if we can find some edible plants to go with it. A little salad would be nice."

They spent the rest of the evening foraging for greens, adding to their meal with a mix of wild herbs and edible flowers. By the time they finished, the stars were beginning to appear in the night sky.

Paola leaned back, looking up at the stars, a sense of peace settling over her. "Thank you, Ayla. For everything. Really. I would have died that first night. If it weren't for you..." She trailed off, unable to put her feelings into words. "But not just that. You're helping me learn things I didn't know existed."

Ayla gave a shrug, brushing a hand through her blonde locks. "It's my duty as a Sword Maiden," she replied, her tone nonchalant. However, the faintest blush hinted at the praise making her feel slightly embarrassed.

"I have a feeling you're doing more than that," Paola countered. Her stomach was pleasantly full, the air was cooling around them, and a soft wind whispered through the trees. She glanced over at Ayla, studying the woman's face. The flames cast flickering shadows across her features, highlighting the high cheekbones, full lips, and piercing red and blue eyes.

Ayla caught Paola staring and raised an eyebrow. "Well, maybe a little," she confessed, the teasing returning to her voice.

"Then, thank you for the little extra," Paola chuckled. "Honestly, though, you have no idea what all of this means to me."

Ayla's expression softened, the playfulness gone. "You're welcome. Besides, the truth is... You're special."

Paola frowned, tilting her head. "Special? What do you mean?"

Ayla hesitated, her shoulders slumping slightly as she took a deep breath. "There's a prophecy. A prophecy about a fallen star. It's a being of great power, and an even greater leader. Well, one of many prophecies but... They'll come to free the world of sin, of burden. The hero we need." Paola listened, her disbelief growing as Ayla continued. "The prophecy speaks of an outworlder coming to free us from the shackles of a destiny towards destruction. Paola, you fit all the descriptions. You're the fallen star."

Paola shook her head, her voice trembling. "No, I can't be. I'm a nobody with rotten luck. I'm not some hero."

Before Paola could say more, Ayla pressed on. "My whole life, I've been given chances—chances that only set me back. I never knew, at the time, that those so-called chances were just opportunities for others to take my place. I know this too will be another moment where someone else takes my place. You are special, Paola. And I... I don't deserve special."

Paola sat there, speechless, unable to process the pedestal Ayla had placed her on. She looked at Ayla, seeing the Sword Maiden's expression of defeat. Ayla's face was illuminated by the dancing flames, her eyes reflecting a mix of resignation and sorrow.

Paola's mind raced with thoughts. She saw Ayla as strong, capable, and kind—everything she admired and aspired to be. Yet, Ayla believed that Paola would eventually leave her, that she was destined for greatness and Ayla was not. The thought of leaving Ayla filled Paola with fear, more than anything else in this strange world.

Paola reached out, her hand trembling as she placed it on Ayla's. "Ayla, you have to know something. I don't feel special. I don't see myself as this hero you think I am. I'm just... trying to survive. And I couldn't have made it this far without you."

Ayla looked at Paola, her eyes searching for sincerity. "But the prophecy—"

"Prophecies are just words," Paola interrupted gently. "What matters is what we do, here and now. And right now, I need you. I need you more than ever." Paola had spoke words she had never, ever said before.

Ayla's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "And I will be here for you, but after we reach Valarian-"

"After we reach Valarian," Paola interrupted again, her resolve growing, "we'll decide what happens next."

The two women gazed into each other's eyes, the flames between them flickering softly. Paola felt her heart swell, and the heat from their connection filled her once more, yet instead of desire, a fierce determination blazed within. This woman, who had saved her, was not going to slip away. Not while Paola had anything to say about it.