Stavanger Bay losing feeling's getting old

dalia did not answer; some strange aura surrounded him, and he followed silently as she ushered him away from the black lapping of the sea. falling into step with her, velen preened waterdroplets from his shoulders and chest as they moved, casting a gentle smile in her direction. "see? all dry." 
it was on the tip of his tongue to ask her what was wrong; it had become clear that the young woman had not merely been out for a stroll, but he kept it to himself. as before, dalia would lead their conversation; velen would let himself be guided. a comfortable silence stretched over the pair, and he paused to look heavenward at what stars were visible in the winter-misted skies.