Chapter 22: Ailis, Part 2
The day's journey was long, but before the rise of the moon, Ailis and a small party of her clansmen arrived at the designated spot for the meeting between all of the surrounding clans. Walking through a patch of sparse trees, they came to a clearing where the clans gathered together, each encircling their own fire. Each was built to accommodate the large group of people. Under a blanket of stars, Ailis watched as all of the smoke billowed up to meet the twinkling gems above.
A tall man in his prime walked up to Ailis and her clan upon arrival. Even in the fire's mild light, she could see he was a handsome man. His lips widened into a smile when he looked at her. His eyes had a certain shine about them that made her want to smile back, and hidden behind his faci
