The Chronicles of a Fallen Star

Paola sank deeper into the warm water of the bathhouse, her body finally relaxing after weeks of relentless travel. The bathhouse itself was a serene oasis, with steam rising gently from the large, stone tubs set into the floor. The walls were lined with intricate tiles depicting scenes of nature—flowers, trees, and flowing rivers—all in soothing shades of blue and green. Soft light filtered in through small, high windows, casting a peaceful glow over the space. Wooden shelves held stacks of fluffy towels and various bathing supplies, adding to the sense of comfort and cleanliness.

Ayla had decided not to join her, explaining that she needed to clear her name with the city guard. Paola had been okay with that; she needed this time alone. The past days had been a whirlwind of chaos and danger, and now, in the safety of the bathhouse, she could finally let her guard down.

She picked up one of the rough, sponge-like rocks that reminded her of coal but were actually soap bars. They had the perfect blend of exfoliating roughness and soothing softness. She worked methodically, scrubbing at her skin, which she hadn't realized was so dirty. The first hour, her mind was numb, focused solely on the grime accumulated on her body.

Her hair was tied up in a bun, still dry as she had yet to wash it. She moved the soap bar over her shoulders and collarbone, taking note of the large four claw marks running down her shoulder from the mountain stalker. The soap bar felt oddly therapeutic as it scrubbed away the dirt and dead skin.

Paola's hands moved to her breasts, and she glanced down at her chest. She had always been self-conscious about her B-cup size and the puffiness of her nipples. They had always poked out under her shirts, making her even more self-aware. But Ayla... Ayla didn't seem to mind. She quickly shook off those thoughts and moved the soap bar to her stomach.

She scrubbed at the several scars from the mountain stalker, then the small pockmarks from the acid attacks of the slime. The scars ran from her ribcage down through her midsection and hip area to her thigh. They were faint and could likely be removed with healing ointment, but they were still a stark reminder of her recent battles.

Paola's eyes moved to the nasty scar on her thigh. She sighed, then glanced at the dark tuft of hair between her legs, unsure when she'd be able to shave that area again. Pulling her leg to her chest, she took her time scrubbing at her knees, then her feet. She was surprised at how well the soap bar worked, clearing away the calluses and dirt stains. She had been worried that her feet were starting to have permanent dirt stains.

Afterwards, she stretched her leg out, and her toes stuck out of the water. She wiggled them, admiring how clean and smooth they were—better than any pedicure she could remember. She laid her head back on the rock behind her, finally feeling truly clean. She let out a deep, long sigh.

Lost in the tranquility of the bathhouse, Paola's thoughts wandered. She thought about her journey, the battles, and the close calls. She thought about Ayla and their growing bond. For the first time in days, she felt a sense of peace. Yet... something else gnawed at the back of her mind. What she had done...

"You're a monster."

Paola had never killed anyone before. The memory of her actions brought a surge of bile to her throat, and she had to force herself to push the thoughts away. But she knew they wouldn't go away easily. She thought about the people she had ended, people who had spent their whole lives nurturing their Tree of Life, and she had been the one to cut it short. Ayla had explained that this was how Udanara worked when Paola had mentioned that murder was highly condemned on Earth. Here, it could be rewarded.

She wasn't sure what the population of Udanara was, or even how big this world was compared to her own. People could actually be rewarded for lethal action, and mercenaries were real and legitimate. Even within the city, she had seen wanted posters like something out of a fairy tale or an old western. Paola swallowed hard and waded through the water to the gentle waterfall cascading from the stone wall. She grabbed a bottle of shampoo that was sitting there, poured the liquid into her palms, and inhaled deeply. It smelled like rain, or rather, like it had actually rained into a forest. She could almost envision the forest it was raining in.

Slowly, she massaged her scalp, washing away the grime from her hair accumulated over the last couple of weeks under the small waterfall. She was here now and wanted to get to know this place as best she could. She pondered why magic was illegal or, well, monitored. She had seen several other warrior women dressed similarly to Ayla, as well as a few men who wore full outfits, only revealing their forearms, necks, and heads. She wondered about the history of this city, and most of all, about magic. Not just about it being illegal, but about its nature and how it worked. That was what truly fascinated her.

The land itself seemed magical, with trees and grass growing from sandy soil. Things that shouldn't be possible. A squad of slimes... or a group? What would a pack of slimes even be called? And the Cave Hounds? She couldn’t help but shake her head.

All of that was behind her now.

She could be safe within the city, a city that she had so much to learn about.

Finally, the soap was clear from her hair, and she sat for a moment longer under the waterfall, waiting and hoping that maybe Ayla would join her. But at this point, it seemed unlikely. She pulled her hand from the water and looked at her pruning fingers, realizing she had reached her limit.

Slowly, Paola stood up and stepped out of the bath, feeling the cool air against her wet skin. She reached for a large, soft towel and wrapped it around herself, savoring the warmth and comfort it provided. She dried herself methodically, enjoying the sensation of being clean and the softness of the towel against her skin. She took her time, appreciating every moment of peace and calm the bathhouse offered.

Paola dried her hair, rubbing the towel gently through the damp strands before wrapping it around her head. She took another towel and patted herself dry, starting from her shoulders and moving down to her arms, chest, and stomach. She paused for a moment, looking at the large four claw marks running down her shoulder from the mountain stalker. The soap had done a good job of cleaning the wounds, but the scars were still there, a reminder of her survival. She continued down, drying her hips and legs, noting the small pockmarks from the acid attacks of the slimes and the nasty scar on her thigh. She finally reached her feet, scrubbing away the last remnants of dirt and grime.

The bathhouse was serene, with the soft sound of water trickling and the faint scent of herbs and flowers in the air. She felt a sense of tranquility that she hadn't experienced in a long time. As she dried off, she allowed herself to enjoy the moment, to let go of her worries, even if just for a little while.

Once she was completely dry, she pulled on a fresh robe that had been provided by the bathhouse. It was soft and comfortable, fitting her perfectly. She wrapped it around herself and tied the sash, feeling a sense of contentment. She looked around the bathhouse one last time, appreciating its beauty and the sense of peace it offered. Then, with a sigh, she stepped out and headed towards her room.

Paola padded down the hall after leaving the bathhouse, her bare feet making soft sounds against the floor. She felt clean and somewhat at peace as she made her way back to the room she shared with Ayla. However, when she opened the door, her shoulders dropped slightly in disappointment. Ayla had already showered somewhere else.

Ayla was sitting in one of the empty chairs, reading a book that Paola couldn't make out. As Paola stepped inside, Ayla set the book down, and their eyes met. Ayla was wearing a plum-colored nightgown, her blonde hair pulled up in a messy bun. Her red and blue eyes locked onto Paola's soft brown pair, and Paola's heart skipped a beat. She smiled awkwardly before moving to the bed, feeling her heart race faster than it should be. Ayla wore long thigh-high white socks, and Paola's eyes couldn't help but follow the path they led.

"Hey," Ayla said, her voice soft.

"Hey," Paola replied, sitting on the edge of the bed. "I thought you might join me in the bathhouse."

Ayla shrugged. "I didn't want to intrude. Besides, I thought you might want some time to yourself."

Paola's heart sank a little. "Oh, well, it's okay. I just... I thought we could have a little girl time together, you know?"

Ayla smiled, a bit awkwardly. "Yeah, I get it. I guess I could have joined you."

Paola nodded, fidgeting with the edge of her robe. "So, Yas'tavot paid for the room for a few nights, right?"

Ayla nodded. "Yes, he did. Two rooms for three nights or one room for a week, meals included. We could get another room if you want."

Paola's mind raced, searching for excuses to keep Ayla in her room. "Well, I mean, it's been a long journey, and it might be better if we stayed together. For safety, you know?"

Ayla raised an eyebrow. "For safety?"

Paola nodded vigorously. "Yeah, I mean, what if something happens? We should stick together. Besides, I could use the company."

Ayla looked at her for a moment, clearly not used to such a display. She sighed, her resolve weakening. "Alright, I suppose I can stay and keep you company for a bit."

Paola smiled, feeling a mixture of relief and anxiety. "Thanks, Ayla. It means a lot to me."

Ayla rubbed her hands together, looking a bit unsure. "So, what do you want to do?"

Paola shifted nervously. "Well, I was thinking maybe you could show me around the city tomorrow? I'd love to see more of Valarian."

Ayla nodded slowly. "Sure, I can do that. But I have a duty to Lady Marcelline. I need to report to her and take care of some things." She paused before continuing, "And honestly," she gave a skewed smile, "I'm not sure if I'll be free after that. My duty is to Lady Marcelline first."

Paola's heart sunk at Ayla's words, but she forced a smile. "I understand. Maybe another time."

There was an awkward silence, and Paola searched for a way to break the tension. It was Ayla who finally spoke, her voice a little nervous. "This was what I wanted to avoid, Paola. We, I, I can't get close to you. I know how you feel, and I don't want you to think that there could be more."

Paola felt the heat rise to her cheeks and ears. "What are you talking about?" The elephant in the room had finally been addressed.

"I can tell that you're interested in me, Paola, and I'm flattered, but..." Her eyes lowered to the ground. "I can't offer you anything more than friendship. My duty is to my lady, and I'm not to let myself get distracted by romance."

"That's not—" Paola tried to interject, but Ayla continued.

"I'm sorry, Paola. I didn't mean to lead you on, and I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. I hope you can understand where I'm coming from. It's not personal; it's just who I am." She hesitated before speaking again, her voice softer. "If I were able to, maybe things would be different, but... they're not."

Paola stared at her, unsure how to respond. Her mind reeled as she tried to process Ayla's words. Finally, she took a deep breath and shook her head. "I understand. I'm sorry if I made things weird between us." She furrowed her brows, "But, off the record," she shrugged and gave a cute, almost pouty expression, "I mean, you say if you were able to, then..." Paola bit her lip, "Then, hypothetically, would things be different?”

Ayla hesitated for a moment, clearly caught off guard by the question. She rubbed her chin and looked away. "Well, I guess I would have to say yes. But that's a hypothetical question, and I'm not sure we're in a place to talk about this."

Paola's eyes narrowed, and a smile crept onto her lips. "So, if you could, you would?"

Ayla sighed, "Paola, that's not what I meant. I mean, it's not that I'm not interested, but..." She trailed off, her cheeks flushing pink.

Paola couldn't help but giggle. "So, you are interested?"

Ayla looked at her, a mixture of amusement and exasperation on her face. "Yes, Paola, I am. But that doesn't change anything."

Paola smirked and leaned in closer. "Maybe it does."

Ayla rolled her eyes. "Paola, seriously."

"What?" Paola asked, her voice a bit higher.

"I can't be involved with you. It's not personal, it's just... my duty. You have to understand."

"Yeah, but you said if you could, then you would." Paola pushed further, and she saw Ayla's blush grow. "And I do understand, but, you know," she bit her lip and gave Ayla a mischievous look, "you're not on duty right now."

Ayla's mouth opened and closed, but no words came out. Paola couldn't help but giggle at the sight.

"Paola, you're really not making this easy," Ayla finally said, her voice slightly strained.

Paola raised her eyebrows. "And why should I make this easy for you? I'm the one who's been fighting for her life since I got here, and now that we're safe, I just want to have a little fun." She batted her eyelashes innocently.

Ayla shook her head, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Paola," Ayla did her best attempt at turning serious, but the hint of a smile betrayed her, "I'm sorry, but..." She shook her head as she bit her lip, the blush rising further into her face.

"But what?" Paola asked, leaning closer.

"It's just..." Ayla hesitated, clearly flustered. "It won't be easy, Paola. There are a lot of rules and expectations. It would be a lot to handle, and I'm not sure you're ready for it."

Paola shrugged. "Well, I don't know about that. I can be a pretty understanding person. And besides, I've been dealing with a lot of crazy shit the past couple weeks." She moved closer again, the distance between them narrowing. "I think I can handle whatever you throw at me."

Ayla let out a breathless laugh. "Oh, can you?"

"Mhm," Paola nodded, her face only inches away from Ayla's.

"Well, then I guess there's no harm in trying," Ayla said, her voice low and husky. "I can talk to Lady Marcelline and see if she'll grant permission."

Paola raised an eyebrow, a grin on her face. "You'll need her permission to fuck me?”

"That's not—" Ayla started, but Paola interrupted her with a kiss.

Paola pressed her lips to Ayla's, kissing her gently. The Sword Maiden's lips were soft and sweet, and Paola could feel her heart racing. Ayla hesitated for a moment before responding, her own lips parting to let Paola in. Their tongues met, exploring each other's mouths. Ayla's lips were flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, and Paola couldn't help but savor the taste. Her tongue danced with Ayla's, a gentle yet passionate dance.

Their kisses grew deeper, more intense, and Paola could feel the desire building between them. She pulled back slightly, her breathing ragged. She looked into Ayla's eyes, seeing the same desire reflected in them.

"Paola," Ayla whispered, her voice shaky. "Are you sure about this?"

Paola nodded, her voice just as breathless. "Yes, I'm sure."

"Not just, now, Paola," Ayla said, her gaze growing serious. "I'm talking about the long term. If we do this, it won't be easy. I can't promise you anything."

"I know," Paola replied, her voice firm. "And I'm okay with that. I want to be with you, Ayla. I think I've shown I can handle myself in Udanara, and I want to see where this goes. If you're willing."

Ayla's eyes softened, and a smile tugged at the corner of her lips as she shook her head. "Gods, Paola, you're really something." She sucked her lips in, and the red and blue of her eyes shined brighter than normal. "I'm willing but-"

Paola placed her finger over Ayla's lips. "Shhhh, no buts." She grinned, her tone growing playful, "Now, shut up and kiss me."

Paola leaned in and captured Ayla's lips once more. This time, the kiss was deeper, hungrier. Their tongues danced together, and their hands explored each other's bodies. Paola could feel the desire burning within her, and she knew Ayla felt the same.

<3 <3 <3

It was a deep, passionate kiss, their connection desperate and electric. Paola’s hands roamed Ayla’s back, pulling her closer, feeling the warmth of her body against her own. The kiss deepened, their tongues dancing together, exploring, tasting, as if trying to make up for all the time they had spent skirting around their feelings.

Slowly, Paola pulled herself away, her lips trailing kisses down Ayla’s neck, across her collarbone. “It’s my turn to repay you,” she whispered between kisses. “For protecting me,” she said, her lips brushing Ayla’s shoulder. “For finding me,” she continued, kissing lower, across Ayla’s chest. “For taking care of me,” she breathed, her lips hovering above Ayla’s breasts. Her fingers found the straps of Ayla's nightgown, sliding them off her shoulders, exposing the smooth skin of her chest. “For teaching me,” she murmured, before capturing a nipple with her lips, drawing it fully out of the gown and into her mouth.

Ayla gasped, her hands tangling in Paola's hair. Paola swirled her tongue around the hardened bud, teasing, before moving to the other breast. She kissed and licked, savoring the taste, the feel, the smell. Ayla's breast weren't too large, but enough for Paola to take into her mouth, sucking lightly, her teeth grazing the skin.

Ayla's back arched, pushing her chest forward, and Paola responded, her hands cupping the soft flesh, her thumbs rubbing slow circles over the nipples.

Paola released her breast and looked up at Ayla, her gaze hungry. Ayla's perky chest was flushed, her nipples hard and glistening with Paola's saliva. They were the color of ripe raspberries, and Paola couldn't help but admire the contrast of the hard, pink buds against Ayla's creamy skin.

Paola lowered her mouth to Ayla's breasts once more, this time kissing down Ayla’s stomach, her pace slow and deliberate.

Ayla’s breathing grew heavy, her chest rising and falling rapidly. She watched Paola with hooded eyes, her own desire building with each passing second. Paola’s hands reached the hem of Ayla’s nightgown, her fingers trembling slightly as she grasped the fabric. She kissed Ayla’s thighs, her lips brushing the soft skin as she slowly lifted the nightgown, revealing more of Ayla’s body.

Paola’s heart raced as she reached the blonde fur between Ayla’s legs. She had wondered about this without admitting it, curious and eager. She felt a flush of nervousness, knowing she had never done this before, but she was determined not to lose her confidence. Ayla’s breathing was ragged, her eyes filled with lust as she pulled her gown up just above her navel, allowing the light to display her intimate parts.

Paola paused, marveling at the sight before her. The blonde tuft of hair covered Ayla’s mound and extended a little past the outer labia, which glistened with arousal. The pink folds were open and eager, waiting for her touch. Paola’s mouth went dry with anticipation. She leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to the wet opening, her lips meeting the heat of Ayla’s desire.

Her tongue slowly came out, parting the pink folds, the taste salty and intoxicating. Paola moved upwards, her tongue running across the sensitive bud, feeling Ayla shiver beneath her touch. Paola was now on her knees at the edge of the bed, her hands gripping Ayla’s hips as she continued her slow exploration.

Ayla’s hands found their way into Paola’s hair, guiding her closer, encouraging her. Paola’s lips pressed around Ayla's clit, her tongue licking and swirling. The sounds of Ayla's moans filled the air, and Paola knew she was doing something right. Her gentle striking over and over, sending waves of pleasure through Ayla’s body. Paola’s finger found its way into Ayla’s slick folds, sliding in slowly, stroking the velvety insides with a gentle rhythm.

Ayla moaned, her voice filling the room, no longer concerned with being quiet. The sound spurred Paola on, her finger moving faster, deeper. She inserted another finger, the two stroking in unison, drawing more cries of pleasure from Ayla. Yet, she stroked, slow, deep, and deliberate, her tongue continuing its assault on Ayla's clit.

Ayla writhed beneath her, her hips bucking, her breath coming in ragged gasps. Her hands clutched Paola's head, her fingers tangling in Paola's long dark brown hair, pulling her close. She could feel Ayla's feet on her back, the heels digging in, the pain and pleasure mixing together in a delicious way. She could feel inside Ayla, the warm walls pulsating around her fingers, the nub throbbing against her tongue.

Ayla's voice cried out, her words lost in a moan, her body tensing, then shaking, then relaxing, and Paola knew she had found the sweet spot. She stroked it, again and again. Her tongue danced a harmonious circle on the nub, her fingers curling in the wetness, feeling the walls clench around her digits. Ayla's breathing was erratic, her chest rising and falling quickly, her breasts jiggling as her body moved.

Ayla's toes curled, her socked feet digging into Paola's bare back, her voice a wordless cry of ecstasy. Paola didn't relent, her tongue and fingers moving faster, harder. The room was filled with the sounds of Ayla's pleasure, the wetness dripping from her pussy, the bed creaking with each thrust of her hips.

Paola's tongue continued to tease, and her fingers moved at a frenzied pace, coaxing the climax out of Ayla, bringing her to the edge, then pushing her over. Ayla's back arched, her voice a mixture of moans and screams, her hands tugging at Paola's hair, pulling her closer. Paola increased her pace, her fingers working inside Ayla while her tongue licked and flicked at her clit. Ayla's body was rigid, her breathing shallow, her muscles contracting and releasing. Ayla’s moans turned into screams as her body tensed, a small gush of liquid releasing from around Paola’s fingers, flowing into her mouth, down her chin, and onto her chest. Paola eagerly lapped up the juices, her own arousal growing with every taste. Paola didn't stop, her tongue and fingers never faltering, prolonging Ayla's release. She could feel the blonde's juices gush from her pussy, soaking her face and hands, coating her skin.

Ayla's screams of pleasure eventually faded, and her body relaxed, her grip on Paola's hair loosening. Paola pulled back, licking her lips and grinning mischievously. Ayla lay there, trembling and spent, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath. After a few moments, she pulled Paola up to her, their bodies pressing together.

But Ayla wasn’t finished.

She pulled Paola up further, guiding her to sit on her face, her eyes burning with a renewed intensity.

Paola gasped as she felt Ayla’s tongue dart between her wet folds, her own arousal spilling out. Ayla’s hands gripped Paola’s hips, holding her steady as she licked and sucked, driving Paola wild with pleasure. Paola’s hands found the headboard, gripping it for support as she rocked her hips, her moans echoing in the room.

Ayla’s tongue moved with practiced skill, finding all the right spots, her fingers joining in the assault. Paola’s body responded eagerly, her orgasm building rapidly. She cried out, her body shaking as the waves of pleasure crashed over her. Ayla didn’t stop, her tongue and fingers relentless, drawing out every last bit of Paola’s release.

Paola’s juices flowed, coating Ayla’s face, dripping down her chin. Ayla licked her clean, savoring the taste, her own desire still burning hot. She pulled Paola down, their bodies entwined, their breaths mingling as they shared a tender kiss. The taste of herself on Ayla's lips sent a thrill through Paola, and she pressed herself closer, her hands roaming across the Sword Maiden's skin, her fingers tracing patterns in the sweat and moisture.

Their lips parted, and they gazed at each other, their eyes full of desire and passion. They were both breathing heavily, their hearts racing, their bodies flushed. Paola sucked her bottom lip, and she could taste the mix of herself and Ayla. Her tongue darted out, licking her lips, wanting more.

She pressed her forehead against Ayla's, her voice a whisper. "I mean," Paola swallowed hard, her breathing ragged, "I could go for seconds," she grinned, "and thirds, and..."

"By the gods, Paola," Ayla breathed. Her red and blue eyes seemed to sparkle, "You're insatiable."

<3 <3 <3

The morning sunlight filtered through the thin curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. The air was cool but not cold, thanks to the residual heat from Ayla’s body. Paola was the first to wake, her senses gradually returning as she lay in the bed. She glanced around the room, noticing the blankets they had hastily thrown on the floor the previous night, now soaked from their shared passion. The bed, however, was dry and comfortable.

Paola looked down at Ayla, whose head rested on her bare chest. Ayla's knee lay draped over Paola’s midsection, while their legs were tangled together under the sheets. Ayla’s breath was warm against Paola’s skin, and her body heat was enough to keep them both cozy without the need for blankets. Paola’s fingers gently traced idle circles on Ayla’s creamy hip, feeling the smoothness of her skin.

Paola’s mind wandered as she considered her situation. Here she was, in a completely different world, already in a relationship with a beautiful and strong Sword Maiden. It felt surreal, like a dream she never wanted to wake up from. She couldn’t help but smile at the thought of having found someone like Ayla so quickly. Despite the chaos and danger she had faced, the moments of safety and intimacy with Ayla made everything worth it.

As if on cue, Ayla began to stir. She shifted slightly, her blonde hair tickling Paola’s chest and neck. Ayla moved her head, resting her chin on Paola’s chest, her blue and red eyes blinking sleepily as they met Paola’s gaze.

Paola smiled down at her and whispered, “Buenos días, hermosa.”

Ayla tilted her head, her blonde locks spilling into her face. "What does that mean?" she asked groggily.

Paola chuckled softly. “It means good morning, beautiful.”

Ayla’s face flushed a deep red, and she smiled shyly. Paola couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and joy at the reaction. She then made a pouty face and sighed dramatically. “I’m sad that I have to wait around for you to finish your duties.”

Ayla groaned playfully, giving Paola a mock look of disappointment. “Abouuuut that, mayyyybe... maybe we can wait one more day.”

Paola’s eyes widened with delight, and she couldn’t contain the squeal of joy that escaped her lips. It was her first genuine expression of happiness since arriving in Udanara. Ayla laughed softly, her fingers lightly tracing patterns on Paola’s chest.

Paola wrapped her arms around Ayla, pulling her closer. “Really? We can spend the day together?”

Ayla nodded, her face still a bit red. “Yes. One more day won’t hurt. We’ve been through a lot, and I think we both deserve some time to just... be together.”

Paola’s heart soared, and she pressed a kiss to Ayla's forehead. "Thank you," she whispered, feeling a sense of gratitude and relief wash over her. For now, she could forget about the dangers and uncertainties of this new world. She had Ayla, and that was enough.

They lay there for a while longer, wrapped up in each other, savoring the quiet moments of peace and connection. Paola knew there were challenges ahead, but for now, she was content to simply enjoy the warmth and comfort of Ayla’s presence.