Captain Karrus led an alliance of armies, to defeat the Kithian invaders. On the night of his victory, he was arrested and taken in chains. A massive cataclysm destroyed the city he was in, and Karrus barely escaped.
Outside the walls of the city, he was trapped, escaping by digging his way free. A Kithian woman, Akara, saved him. Later that night, Karrus was woken by her cries, as she suffered a nightmare. He held her while she cried, murmuring words of
comfort. The two kissed, which led to their having sex by her fire. It's the next morning.
Note: I haven't responded much, mostly because the WE podcast said that, in writer's groups, the writer shouldn't argue or defend his writing. Listen to the comments, take the advice that seems sound, but don't get defensive.
I've tried to follow that advice. I have read all the comments, though, and thanks to all who've pitched in.
One of the suggestions on Part 2 (from hubay) was that Akara's POV should appear earlier. I agree, and this is the result. It happens before most of Part 2.
Once again, looking forward to comments and thanks in advance.