Winter in Rivali

Your browser lacks required capabilities. Please upgrade it or switch to another to continue.

Loading…

<<nobr>><<set $sex to "v">><</nobr>> You have a vagina.

<<nobr>><<set $sex to "p">><</nobr>> You have a penis.

<<nobr>><<set $sex to "na">><</nobr>> You have chosen not to disclose this information.

<<nobr>><<set $gender to "male">><</nobr>> You are a cis male.

<<nobr>><<set $gender to "male"; $trans = true>><</nobr>> You are a transgendered male.

<<nobr>><<set $gender to "female">><</nobr>> You are a cis female.

<<nobr>><<set $gender to "female"; $trans = true>><</nobr>> You are a transgendered female.

<<nobr>><<set $gender to "nonbinary">><</nobr>> You are nonbinary.

© 2021 Bum Studios LLC //Winter in Rivali// is a short story existing in the Throne of Ashes series and Jiwenia universe. It contains sexual content and references to sensitive topics like sexual and physical abuse and thus is rated 18+. Reader discretion is advised.~~

<<link '<i class="fa"> </i>Credits' "Credits">><</link>> <<link '<i class="fa"> </i>Codex' "Glossary">><</link>>

<<set $name to "Unknown"; $surname to "Unknown">> <<set $sex to "na"; $gender to "na"; $trans to false>> <<set $ruben to "na"; $r_nn is "Ruben">> <<set $nosa to false; $notouchy to false; $sometouchy to false; $ns to false>> <<set $leik to false>> /* Music */ <<cacheaudio "opening" "audio/christmas_orchestra.wav">> <<cacheaudio "ambience1" "audio/back_to_nature.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ambience2" "audio/orchestral_atmospheric_soundscape.wav">> <<cacheaudio "ambience3" "audio/sentimental.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ambience4" "audio/hibernation_winter.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "romance" "audio/calming_ombre.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "sleepingdragon" "audio/night_at_the_festival.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "festival1" "audio/handfastening_ceremony.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "festival2" "audio/a_christmas_story.mp3">> <<createplaylist "ambience">> <<track "ambience1" volume 0.40>> <<track "ambience2" volume 0.40>> <<track "ambience3" volume 0.40>> <</createplaylist>> <<createplaylist "festival">> <<track "festival1" volume 0.40>> <<track "festival2" volume 0.40>> <</createplaylist>>

!!!!Jawsīc The Language of the Divine, is the mother of all languages save for Mîmwîck. * biichy kii (biːc ; ki/ n.): true or pure mother. Used for when speaking of one’s birth mother. * d'uun (ɗuːn/ n.): aunt * kě'ěb (kɛːɛb/ n.): the gender term used to describe those without a gender. Directly translates into 'gender none'. * kěamo (kɛumo/ n.): term of endearment used amongst Phoenix’s and Dragon’s. Means “the flame of my heart.” Has also been known to mean “the blaze of my soul.” * kii (kiː/ n.): mother. Should also be noted that in some circumstances this is not used for birth mother. * wot (wot/ n.): father !!!!Mîmwîck Also known as the the First, is a dragon language spoken and understood by all of kin. * bîw (bɨw/ n.): festival or feast * bral lyesu (bral/ n.) (ˈljesu/ v.): honor/glory fight * Byek krot ki bow: translates to 'tonight we feast' * ge khli: translated to 'kiss me' * khliy uw (xlij/ adj.) (uw/ n.): stubborn problem. A popular phrase amongst those who speak the language. Used for someone that refuses to back down or for a problem that refuses to be solved. * kîgyul ('kɨgjul/ n.): nephew * tswâdyu kho trerok, fru bab: translates to 'fuck your traditions, you hag.' * skhab kulomtof bo ob tsîy fkho fru fsîlsât: translates to 'it feels like a dream to hold you near.' [[Return|$return]]

© 2021 Bum Studios LLC. All rights reserved. Hey, you! Yes, you, you amazing person! Thank you for your support. Thank you so much! It is much appreciated. All images, unless otherwise stated, are copyright by Bum Studios Productions LLC. All audio is licensed under Bum Studios Productions LLC and courtesy of AudioBlocks and Envato. Copyright infringement is punishable by law. CG Art done by [[Meira|https://meirasthing.tumblr.com/]]. For access to art you must be of the Sailing Master ($10) or First Mate ($20) tier. Music Attribution Handfastening Ceremony by Tim Kulig Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/8517-handfastening-ceremony License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license A Christmas Story by Frank Schröter Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/8588-a-christmas-story License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license [[Return|$return]] /*Story starts here*/

<img src="images/ornament.png"> <<nobr>>\<<set $room to false>><</nobr>>\ The weather might be against you, but good company, a bountiful feast, and a festival done dragon style await you. Experience your first Winter Solstice with Ruben and House Dragon since your release from the tower. //It's time for the Fest of Dragons, House Dragon's holiday for the Winter Solstice. And after two years of being with Ruben, you're invited to experience the holiday with them. Prepare yourself for the celebrations that end with a mighty feast. How will you choose to spend the fest?// *Tip: For any words in bold see the glossary for a translation. (Phrases are italicized) [[Play the Game]] [[Credits]]

<<audio "opening" volume 0.15 fadeto 0.25 loop>> Before you begin, let's get the important information out of the way first. Please choose or type your name. [[Ryze.|Surname][$name = "Ryze"]] [[Genesis.|Surname][$name = "Genesis"]] [[Solaris.|Surname][$name = "Solaris"]] [[Lumino.|Surname][$name = "Lumino"]] [[Jaresiah.|Surname][$name = "Jaresiah"]] [[Azaliah.|Surname][$name = "Azaliah"]] [[Rei.|Surname][$name = "Rei"]] [[Noranti.|Surname][$name = "Noranti"]] [[Corban.|Surname][$name = "Corban"]] [[Input your own. ->InsertName]]

<<textbox "$name" "" autofocus>><<button "Enter">><<replace "#name">>Nice to meet you, $name.<</replace>><</button>> <span id="name"></span> <a data-passage="Surname"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

And now your surname. Though you may choose whichever surname you see fit, those given all have to do with fire due to your family being ancient and of royal line. It is similar for all head of houses. [[Brand.|Pronouns][$surname = "Brand"]] [[Eld.|Pronouns][$surname = "Eld"]] [[Pyre.|Pronouns][$surname = "Pyre"]] [[Vulcan.|Pronouns][$surname = "Vulcan"]] [[Azar.|Pronouns][$surname = "Azar"]] [[Input your own. ->InsertSurname]]

Please insert a surname. <<textbox "$surname" "" autofocus>><<button "Enter">><<replace "#surname">>Nice to meet you, $surname.<</replace>><</button>> <span id="surname"></span> <a data-passage="Pronouns"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

First is: pronouns, sex, and gender. You can change your pronouns any time you like by viewing the left sidebar and going to ''Settings''.// Also note that if you choose ''No Disclose'' as your sex then sex scenes, regardless of the explicit content being on/off, will be modified. <<link 'Choose your pronouns here.'>> <<pronouns>> <</link>> Choose your sex. <<set _sex = ["Vagina", "Penis", "No Disclose"]>>''Select sex:'' <<listbox "$sex">> <<optionsfrom _sex>> <</listbox>> ''Sex:'' <span id="sex-info">(nothing)</span><<script>> $(document).one(":passagerender", function (event) { /* Initial display of text pulled from the "Sex Info X" passages. */ $(event.content).find("#sex-info").empty().wiki("<<include 'Sex Info " + State.variables.sex + "'>>"); /* Trigger text display upon listbox change. */ $(event.content).find("#listbox-sex").on("change", function (event) { /* Fade out text. */ $("#sex-info").fadeOut(500, function () { /* Update text and then fade it back in. */ $("#sex-info").empty().wiki("<<include 'Sex Info " + State.variables.sex + "'>>").fadeIn(500); }); }); }); <</script>> Choose your gender. <<set _gender = ["Cis Male", "Trans Male", "Cis Female", "Trans Female", "Nonbinary"]>>''Select gender:'' <<listbox "$gender">> <<optionsfrom _gender>> <</listbox>> ''Gender:'' <span id="gender-info">(nothing)</span><<script>> $(document).one(":passagerender", function (event) { /* Initial display of text pulled from the "gender Info X" passages. */ $(event.content).find("#gender-info").empty().wiki("<<include 'Gender Info " + State.variables.gender + "'>>"); /* Trigger text display upon listbox change. */ $(event.content).find("#listbox-gender").on("change", function (event) { /* Fade out text. */ $("#gender-info").fadeOut(500, function () { /* Update text and then fade it back in. */ $("#gender-info").empty().wiki("<<include 'Gender Info " + State.variables.gender + "'>>").fadeIn(500); }); }); }); <</script>> [[Continue on.|Appearance]]

Now it is time for your appearance. In order to stay close to the ethnic appearance of what House Phoenix looks like, not all colors are given. Your name is $name $surname with ?she/?her pronouns. You have $eyes eyes and <<if $length is not "bald">>$length, $type and $hair hair.<<else>>are bald.<</if>> You are also $height for your height. <<if $gender is "male" or $trans>><<if $beard is "none">>You cannot grow a beard.<<elseif $beard is "nb">>You don't have a beard.<<else>>You have a $beard beard.<</if>><</if>> ''Eye Color'' <<if ndef $eyes>><<set $eyes = "gold">><</if>><<listbox "$eyes">> <<option "Gold" "gold" `$eyes == "gold" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Black" "black" `$eyes == "black" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Grey" "grey" `$eyes == "grey" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Red" "red" `$eyes == "red" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Brown" "brown" `$eyes == "brown" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Peach" "peach" `$eyes == "peach" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> ''Length of Hair'' <<if ndef $length>><<set $length = "long">><</if>><<listbox "$length">> <<option "Bald" "bald" `$length == "bald" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Short" "short" `$length == "short" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Medium" "medium" `$length == "medium" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Long" "long" `$length == "long" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> ''Color of Hair'' <<if ndef $hair>><<set $hair = "black">><</if>><<listbox "$hair">> <<option "Black" "black" `$hair == "black" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Brown" "brown" `$hair == "brown" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Red" "red" `$hair == "red" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Ginger" "ginger" `$hair == "ginger" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Blonde" "blonde" `$hair == "blonde" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "White" "white" `$hair == "white" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> ''Type of Hair'' <<if ndef $type>><<set $type = "dreads">><</if>><<listbox "$type">> <<option "Straight" "straight" `$type == "straight" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Curly" "curly" `$type == "curly" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Wavy" "wavy" `$type == "wavy" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Kinky" "kinky" `$type == "kinky" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Braids" "braids" `$type == "braids" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Dreads" "dreads" `$type == "dreads" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> ''Height'' <<if ndef $height>><<set $height = "average">><</if>><<listbox "$height">> <<option "Very Short" "very short" `$height == "very short" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Short" "short" `$height == "short" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Average" "average" `$height == "average" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Tall" "tall" `$height == "tall" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Very Tall" "very tall" `$height == "very tall" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> <<if $gender is "male" or $gender is "nonbinary" or $trans>>\ ''Beard Length'' <<if ndef $beard>><<set $beard = "short">><</if>><<listbox "$beard">> <<option "Cannot grow beard" "none" `$beard == "none" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "No beard" "nb" `$beard == "nb" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Short" "short" `$beard == "short" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Medium" "medium" `$beard == "medium" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Long" "long" `$beard == "long" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> <</if>>\ [[Reload this Page.->Appearance]] [[Move on.->ImportantChecks]]

There is a little bit more that is needed before we can get to the story. Below are a few questions that will look familiar, answer them and then head back up here to [[continue on->BeginGame]] or to [[reload this page->ImportantChecks]] to check that everything is right. You may remember that Phoenix has gone through atrocious ordeals while trapped in the tower. Two years later, they are much better and though this will not come up frequently, it is still needed for flavor reasons. Was your Phoenix a victim of sexual abuse? At the moment your Phoenix <<if $nosa>>is not a victim.<<else>>is a victim.<</if>> [[My Phoenix was NOT a victim of sexual abuse.->ImportantChecks][$nosa = true]] [[My Phoenix was a victim of sexual abuse.->ImportantChecks]] Does your Phoenix not like to be touched? At the moment your Phoenix: <<if $notouchy>>Does not like to be touched.<<elseif $sometouchy>>Is okay with it but only if they are close to them.<<else>>Has no problem with being touched.<</if>> [[My Phoenix does NOT like to be touched.->ImportantChecks][$notouchy = true]] [[My Phoenix is okay with being touched.->ImportantChecks]] [[My Phoenix only likes being touched by those close to them.->ImportantChecks][$sometouchy = true]] Is your Ruben fiery (-50) or mindful (+50)? He is currently: $ruben [[He's fiery.->ImportantChecks][$ruben = "fiery"]] [[He's mindful.->ImportantChecks][$ruben = "mindful"]] Did you give Ruben a nickname? His current nickname is: $r_nn [[Yes, it's Scaley.->ImportantChecks][$r_nn = "Scaley"]] [[Yes, it's Birdie.->ImportantChecks][$r_nn = "Birdie"]] [[No, I didn't give him one.->ImportantChecks][$r_nn = "Ruben"]] Did you earn Leik's respect? Currently <<if $leik>>Yes, you did.<<else>>No, you didn't.<</if>> [[Yes. Phoenix challenged him to a bral lyesu.->ImportantChecks][$leik = true]] [[No. Phoenix did not challenge him to a bral lyesu.->ImportantChecks]]

And now you are ready. Remember this game takes place two years after you have escaped the tower and so it can properly be put into the timeline. Now, I hope you enjoy the game! <a data-passage="WinterRivali"><img src="images/title.png" alt="Continue" style="float:center"/></a>

<<nobr>> <<set $knowledge = false; $honor = false; $flame = false; $future = false; $skate = false>> <<audio "opening" fadeout>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <</nobr>> You watch the numerous trees race by as you’re carted deeper into the Rivali Woodlands. There was something wicked, yet at the same time, sensual and appealing about this forest. Trees that reach towards the heavens and even then seem to keep going. Their branches only begin once you get midway up the trunk, and besides the top, they lay bare with no hint of leaves. It was tree after tree for miles around, and if an individual was to block out the sound, then a sort of maleficent air felt like it would soon set in. As if resting behind one of these trees was a demon or monster waiting to inflict harm on those who were aware yet not prepared. As soon as you embrace the sound, no, the music, it becomes one of enduring wonder. There was once a time where you trekked through these very woods on foot, running from almost everything and constantly looking over your shoulder. You relax in the seat with a solemn smile. Those days were long behind you. The terrors still rear their head every now and then, but the specialist that you had sought out, a very kindhearted witch, assured you that such a thing was normal. That there will always be moments where you wake up, your breath escaping you, sweat cascading down your face, and for a minute, you will believe you’re back in that tower. Or times where you will hear noises or smell scents that will put you back there, facing the horror down once again. <<if $nosa is false>>And the worst of all, moments where intimate touches from someone you trusted with your entire being became toxic and threatening. <</if>>But it was what you did after that mattered, and you took those words to heart. You also didn’t have to face it alone. You had friends and family, great and supportive friends and family that stuck with you through every inch of it. And the one who never dared to leave your side … Well, he wasn’t by your side at the moment. Ruben had left a few weeks earlier to begin preparations for House Dragon’s festivities, and you lingered in phoenix territory to deal with both personal and political matters. You’ve been craving the day where you’re back by your lover’s side. You didn’t think you’d miss him this much … [[You can’t wait to see him.->WRCantWait]] [[Oh, you missed him but there was no way you’ll tell him that.->WRMissedHim]] [[You've learned how to deal with it.->WRLearnedToDeal]]

Your excitement was beginning to bubble out of you, represented by your fidgety actions and your inability to keep still. You run through a list of ways to greet him. Jumping on him, practically tackling him to the ground. Or perhaps it was wiser to keep your poise, the two of you were now leaders, and you’ve learned how fast rumors can start, and they seem to spread even faster. <<include "WR1">>

There was no doubt that you missed him, but the last thing you would ever do is tell him that. His confidence was already flying higher than the dragon ever could, and you weren’t in the mood to deal with the smug grin he’d have waiting for you. No, you’d rather see him sweat a little first. <<include "WR1">>

This wasn’t the first time the two of you had to separate to deal with matters regarding your own house, and you had high doubts that it would be the last. You had to learn to deal with it. You didn’t quite have a choice in that regard. No question, you’d rather not have to go through this, but it was better to learn how to than complain about something that could not be helped. <<include "WR1">>

The carriage jerks to the side, and you’re forced to close your eyes and breathe. You had wanted to fly, but that was off the table, and everyone back home made it perfectly clear that until you were reunited, you wouldn’t spend a minute in the air. It was the logical thing. House Dragon lived in the north, and their winters weren’t kind. The thing was, Ruben’s flame empowered yours and made such a thing a minor inconvenience. You were relishing the moment to feel that warmth again. But there was also a negative to all of this. You had only gotten over your fear of carriages a few months back, a fear you hadn’t thought you had until you first stepped into one since the incident. The entire ride had you on edge and clinging onto Ruben, who teased you at the worst of times but held you close. His actions never did reflect his words. Releasing a sigh, you gaze out the carriage window, hoping to soon reach Chillis, the seat of House Dragon. As soon as you think this, the signs of civilization enter your field of view. It was the outskirts of the capital, but that meant you were getting closer. Excitement once again warms your bones as you fidget in your spot. Soon you’ll be there, and this trip will come to an end as you start another experience. <a data-passage="W1.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“We’ve made it, Your Highness,” the driver calls out, and you sit up. [[You are out of here!->WR1OutOfHere]] [[Wait. You’re royalty, act like it.->WR1RoyalExit]] [[Let the carriage stop first.->WR1PatienceIsKey]]

That was all he needed to say. Before the carriage can even come to a complete stop, you’re opening the door and jumping out. The momentum from the coach causes your jump to be skewed, and you find yourself meeting snow. <<if $leik>>But just before you hit it, you end up in someone’s arms. “You couldn’t have just waited for the damn thing to stop?” Leik questions, brow raised as he helps you get your bearings back. He gives you a genuine smile, “you must have really missed us.” “More like I’d rather take my chances with the snow,” you joke.<<else>>At least it’s soft. “Um, are you okay, Your Highness?” a voice questions, and you look up to see a nervous shifting servant. “Quite,” you answer, getting to your feet and clearing your throat, wiping the snow off your clothing, “you didn’t see anything.” “Of course not,” they answer immediately.<</if>> <<include "WR2">>

You wait patiently for the carriage to come to a complete stop and for the driver to announce you as well as open the door. Once all those formalities are done with, you get up and leave the carriage. <<if $leik>>The first face you see is Leik, offering you a genuine smile. “$name, welcome back home.” “Thanks, Leik. It’s good to see you again.”<<else>>The first face you see is that of a servant. They appear nervous as if he’s heard nothing but rumors about you and was now terrified of proving them true. “Hello,” you greet, and his eyes widen. “I’m so sorry, Your Highness.” He bows, almost tripping over his feet and landing face first into the snow.<</if>> <<include "WR2">>

You wait for the carriage to stop, but just barely. You have no time for the formalities that come with it, and before the driver can even properly stand up from his seat, you’re already out and shaking out your tired legs. <<if $leik>>\ “Well, hello there, $name,” Leik greets as he approaches, doing a lazy curtsy that you both know he cares nothing for. <<else>>\ “He … Hello, Your Highness.” You glance up to see a servant standing before you, looking as nervous as he sounded. For someone of his size, you’d think he’d have more of a backbone, but you suppose looks can always be deceiving. “Hello,” you greet, flashing him a smile in hopes that it will calm his trembling body. <</if>>\ <<include "WR2">>

<<if $leik>>\ “So, you’re my welcoming party?” You question, a bit upset by the lack of familiar faces. There were tons of others around, all pointing and appearing excited about your arrival, but no faces besides Leik that you could put a name to. “What? Am I not enough for you?” he questions but doesn’t allow you to answer, “the others are all helping with setup. The fest starts tomorrow, and Ruben has been on everyone’s ass about making sure it’s the best so far.” “Why?” “Why else?” he snorts, grabbing your bags from the back of the carriage. He passes you, but before continuing on, he leans in towards you and flutters his lashes, “because his love is here.” You push him forward, and he lets out a loud cackle, nodding to those around you. “Do you want to take some time out and say hello or head inside?” <<else>>\ “May I ask where Ruben is?” “Setting up for the bîw … I mean the fest.” He stands there for a second longer before darting forward and heading to the back of the carriage, grabbing your luggage. “Follow me.” You do but almost end up running into him as he abruptly stops. “Would you like to talk to them first?” he nods to those who had come to see your arrival. <</if>>\ [[Say hello to the citizens of House Dragon.->WR2SayHello]] [[Keep going in.->WR2KeepGoing]]

“Yea, I’ll be right back.” You leave his side and approach the citizens, watching as children squeal and jump in excitement while some of the older people gaze at you with wide and unexpected eyes. “Hello,” you greet, performing the customary greeting that Ruben had shown you in the past. Your hand in the shape of a fist and lying on your opposite shoulder and bowing your upper body until your nose was buried in the crook of your elbow. As soon as you do it, they all do it as well. “It’s so good to have you join us for this holiday, Your Highness,” one person points out, and the others hum in agreement. “We hope you enjoy it.” “Hopefully, it’s not too cold for you,” another snickers with genuine hope in their voice. They continue to praise both you and the event, some even remark on how excited they were to see you and Ruben together in such a lax moment. Others even cause your cheeks to warm as they go a little more risque than you expect. Soon though, it’s time for you to rejoin <<if $leik>>Leik<<else>>the servant<</if>> and head inside. <a data-passage="WR3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You don’t even bother looking over your shoulder at them as to not welcome rumors that you had even thought about it. “No,” you tell him, and he nods before continuing inside. <<include "WR3">>

The two of you enter the royal home and continue down a few halls before appearing outside a door you knew all too well. <<if $leik>>\ “So, you want to stay with Ruben or in the room the servants set up for you?” “There’s an option?” you ask, raising a brow. There never was in the past. He gazes around before leaning in, “Spymaster Fuldreis and him haven’t seen eye to eye lately. One of the topics being your visit for a holiday as big as this one.” <<else>>\ But then the servant keeps going. “Um, I’m pretty sure this is the correct room,” you announce, and the servant turns to you. “Spymaster Fuldreis ordered the servants to set up a different room for you. I have been advised to take you there.” <</if>>\ You sigh, hoping to not have to deal with this but knowing deep inside that it was inevitable. Fuldreis, also known as Ruben’s ''d’uun'', despised you along with most of the elders. To them, and especially to her, you were meant to be nothing but a trophy that Ruben brought back to gain an army of phoenixes to retake dragon territory. Once, Ruben thought the same. You like to think your dazzling smile and shockingly stunning personality won him over. It has yet to win her over, though, and perhaps never will. The only reason you believe she hasn’t attempted to kill you is that Ruben would suspect her, and she loved him too much to ever anger him to that extent. <<if $leik>>\ Leik shrugs, “doesn’t really matter if you ask me. Ruben will find out and move you to his room after having some choice words. So, basically, the real question is do you want to skip that part or not.” <<else>>\ The servant seems nervous, “would you like me to take your things to his room?” He speaks such words in a whisper, perhaps not even wanting to make that an option so that he doesn’t face the brunt of Fuldreis’ anger later. <</if>>\ [[Go to the room the servant’s prepared.->W3ServantRoom][$room = true]] [[Go into Ruben’s room.->W3RubenRoom]]

You nod to the room that is further down, “take me to the room the servants prepared.” <<if $leik>>\ “Can’t wait to see the fallout from this,” Leik snorts but does as you ask. <<else>>\ The servant lets out a relieved breath before nodding and taking you to the room in question. <</if>>\ The room is further away from Ruben’s than you expect but remembering how big Ruben’s room is alone, you shouldn’t be that surprised. Plus, Fuldreis probably wanted you as far from him as possible. The room is simple enough and looks like what a guest room in the royal house would. Large enough to fit a full king-sized bed, a wide dresser, a chest, and a table and a bench. “Too bad it’s missing a fireplace,” you pout, remembering all too well the lovely fireplace and elk-skinned rug that sits in Ruben’s room. <<if $leik>>\ “I give it mid-afternoon before Ruben switches you into his room.” “Are you betting with Okti again?” “I will once I find her,” he huffs, “come on, I’ll take you to the others. But then I got to get back to work.” You nod your thanks and follow him out. <<else>>\ “Enjoy your stay,” he tells you and rushes off. If you did wish to ask where the others were, it would seem that it wouldn’t matter. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="W4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You nod at Ruben’s door, “might as well avoid what’s going to happen later and just go ahead in.” <<if $leik>>\ “I was so hoping for drama,” Leik sighs but does as you ask. <<else>>\ The servant looks like he wants to argue but doesn’t dare fall through on the thought. Instead, with his head down, he enters the room. <</if>>\ The room is just how you remember it. It was the largest room in the house, you were pretty sure, and honestly, one of the hardest rooms to leave out of. The main room held a full king-sized bed that was low to the ground and with a canopy made from a beautiful patterned fabric that reminds you of dragons in war. There was a bench at the foot of the bed and then two chests on both sides, both holding candles. An assortment of paintings decorate the wall, one is of a phoenix and dragon intertwined, and you smiled at that one, a gift for Ruben from you. Two large chairs line one wall, and a great elk-skinned rug sits near a quiet fireplace on the far wall opposite the bed. It also had two conjoining rooms. One leading to a study and the other to a bath. <<if $leik>>\ “Come on, I’ll take you to the others. But then I got to get back to work.” You nod your thanks and follow him out. <<else>>\ You turn to ask the servant where you can find the others but notice he’s already gone. Perfect. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="W4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $leik>>The two of you<<else>>You<</if>> walk back outside, and immediately you begin to miss the warmth that those wooden walls manage to emanate. You shouldn’t be this excited for bed, but the thought of being wrapped in wondrous furs is all that keeps you going through the snow. In the Scorching Woods, Celesow would leave you with some snow but then abandon the thought and just huff until Hat’ein was ready to take its place. It hardly got cold, and the snow that did fall was more for those who wished to experience it at least once, never sticking and melting in a matter of hours. Perhaps that is why your house didn’t celebrate the winter solstice, a trait you share with House Basilisk and Pegasus. Griffin and Dragon were the only ones known to actually celebrate it in some grand fashion, and this would be your first year experiencing it with them. “Oh!” a familiar voice calls out, “Your Highness. Let me bow at your feet and kiss your plump, frozen toes.” You roll your eyes as Deshir dramatically bows, popping up with a playful sneer. “It took you forever $name, I thought you chickened out.” “I’m a phoenix. I don’t chicken out of anything.” “Lost your wings, went cold, forgot how to fire correctly, whatever you want to call it.” <<if $leik>>She glances over at Leik, “did ?she choose Ruben’s room or not?” “Nope. Can’t wait to see how this goes,” he laughs, and you ignore both of them.<</if>> <a data-passage="W5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“How’s the setup going? Is there anything I can do?” “Good and no. Mostly because you don’t know anything, so I don’t want you possibly messing something up. It’s fine, $name. We got it. Have you seen anyone yet?” <<if $leik>>\ You nod to Leik, “he’s the first and only one I’ve seen.”<<else>>You shake your head, “I was greeted by a servant. You’re the first one I’ve seen. <</if>>\ “Come on then, I know where Ruben is.” <<if $leik>>\ “Great, because I have to get back to what I was doing before,” Leik comments, waving goodbye to the two of you before going his own way. <</if>>\ You follow Deshir, much too focused on your surroundings at the moment to care exactly where you were headed. The decorations were attractive. Mostly animal skulls or statues of dragon-like figures. Some had odd paintings on them, and others looked like they were marked by blood. You’re about to question Deshir when you finally see Ruben and sigh. He stands a couple feet in front of you, helping with a large wooden beam, doing all of this shirtless. [[“Are you serious!?”->W5Serious]] [[“What, no flexing?”->W5Flexing]] [[“This is quite the show.”->W5Show]] [[“Of course.”->W5OfCourse]]

You take a deep and calming breath in before shouting, “are you serious!? $r_nn, where are your clothes?” He freezes, glancing over his shoulder at you, and you watch as a broad smile appears on his face. One minute the large man is far enough away that you have to shout, and the next, he’s upon you, and you’re in his arms. “$name!” he shouts happily, “I’ve missed you.” “You’re making my clothes damp with your sweat,” you laugh, and he puts you down just to hold your face in his hands. <<if $notouchy>>“Let me kiss you,” he says in a needy voice, and you nod. His lips greet yours with<<else>>“I don’t care,” he whispers, greeting your lips with<</if>> a passionate kiss that practically ignites your inner flame. It roars to life as if this entire time it’s been reduced to a mere flicker, and now it was once again a bonfire. You feel renewed, and even when he separates from you, that flame still grows. <<include "W6">>

“What, no flexing?” you shout, and Ruben turns to look over his shoulder, “I’m kind of disappointed, $r_nn.” You watch as a broad smile appears on his face. One minute the large man is far enough away that you have to shout, and the next, he’s upon you, and you’re in his arms. “$name!” he shouts happily, “I’ve missed you.” “I’m still disappointed in you. I expected more showing off,” you laugh, and he puts you down just to hold your face in his hands. <<if $notouchy>>“Let me kiss you,” he says in a needy voice, and you nod. His lips greet yours with<<else>>“I’ll make up for it later,” he whispers, greeting your lips with<</if>> a passionate kiss that practically ignites your inner flame. It roars to life as if this entire time it’s been reduced to a mere flicker, and now it was once again a bonfire. You feel renewed, and even when he separates from you, that flame still grows. <<include "W6">>

“This is quite the show!” you shout, and Ruben turns to look over his shoulder, “you offer private shows?” You watch as a broad smile appears on his face. One minute the large man is far enough away that you have to shout, and the next, he’s upon you, and you’re in his arms. “$name!” he shouts happily, “I’ve missed you.” “I was serious,” you laugh, “I want my private viewing.” He puts you down just to hold your face in his hands. <<if $notouchy>>“Let me kiss you,” he says in a needy voice, and you nod. His lips greet yours with<<else>>“And I be damned if you don’t get it,” he whispers, greeting your lips with<</if>> a passionate kiss that practically ignites your inner flame. It roars to life as if this entire time it’s been reduced to a mere flicker, and now it was once again a bonfire. You feel renewed, and even when he separates from you, that flame still grows. <<include "W6">>

“Of course,” you sigh and then decide to say it a little louder to gain Ruben’s attention, “of course, you’re out here working with no shirt on.” Ruben turns to look over his shoulder, and you watch as a broad smile appears on his face. One minute the large man is far enough away that you have to shout, and the next, he’s upon you, and you’re in his arms. “$name!” he shouts happily, “I’ve missed you.” “Don’t come crying to me when you catch a cold,” you snort, and he puts you down just to hold your face in his hands. <<if $notouchy>>“Let me kiss you,” he says in a needy voice, and you nod. His lips greet yours with<<else>>“I’m practically invincible when you’re by my side,” he whispers, greeting your lips with<</if>> a passionate kiss that practically ignites your inner flame. It roars to life as if this entire time it’s been reduced to a mere flicker, and now it was once again a bonfire. You feel renewed, and even when he separates from you, that flame still grows. <<include "W6">>

“You guys are disgusting,” Deshir snorts. “Disgustingly cute, right?” he questions, straightening up to face her, and she raises a brow. <a data-passage="W6.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $notouchy>>\ He’s unable to say more as you hear a voice behind you. “I want a hug. Can I get it, yes or no?” [[“Of course, Toz!”->W6TozHug]] [[“No, Toz.”->W6NoTozHug]] <<else>>\ He’s unable to say more as you find yourself in the arms of another. You don’t even have to think twice about who this is. “Toz,” you laugh, grinning as he squeezes you tighter. “I missed the hell out of you, $name.” He finally puts you down, and you turn around to give him a real hug. “How about you stop leaving us, okay?” “You know I can’t make any promises in regards to that,” you sigh. <<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ “Stop touching ?her,” Ruben complains, grabbing your wrist and dragging you to his side protectively. “You didn’t have to drag me over here,” you point out, and he raises a brow as he glances down at you. “You’re known to make bad decisions,” he admits. “Yea, like getting with you,” Deshir laughs, earning laughter from both you and Toz and a glare from Ruben. <<else>>\ “If we’re making suggestions,” Ruben says, hand-raised and looking mildly irritated as he points at Toz, “I suggest you stop hugging ?her, especially like that.” Toz rolls his eyes, leaning in as if to hug you again. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="W7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“Of course, Toz,” you answer, ignoring Ruben’s confused mutterings. “Great, because I fucking missed the hell out of you, $name.” He wraps his arms around you and squeezes as hard as he can before releasing you. “How about you stop leaving us, okay?” “You know I can’t make any promises in regards to that,” you sigh. “If we’re making suggestions,” Ruben says, hand-raised and looking mildly irritated as he points at Toz, “I suggest you stop hugging ?her, especially like that.” Toz rolls his eyes, leaning in as if to hug you again. <<include "W6.2">>

You turn around and give him a look while shaking your head, “not this time, Toz.” “How else am I supposed to show you how happy I am to see you?” he sighs, pouting like a child, “with words?” “Yes, with words,” Ruben frowns.” “I bet Ruben hugged you.” “I’m married to ?her!” he replies in confusion. “That means literally nothing to me.” <<include "W6.2">>

<<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ “Stop trying to touch my ?wife,” Ruben complains, grabbing your wrist and dragging you to his side protectively. “You didn’t have to drag me over here,” you point out, and he raises a brow as he glances down at you. “You’re known to make bad decisions,” he admits. “Yea, like getting with you,” Deshir laughs, earning laughter from both you and Toz and a glare from Ruben. <<else>>\ “How about you stop trying to touch my ?wife. Huh? How about that?” You wave your hands, stopping them before they could get into one of their notorious playful arguments that always had you sitting in the middle. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="W7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“So, how close are you guys to being done with the preparations?” you ask just as Ruben <<if $height is "average">>comes behind you and places his head on top of yours, huffing out childishly.<<elseif $height is "tall" or $height is "very tall">>wraps his arms around your waist and places his chin on your shoulder.<<else>>rests his hands on your shoulder, kissing the top of your head.<</if>> “All the big things are up now. Toz, do you know if the northern and north-eastern side is done?” “I’ll have to do one last check, but last time I did, they were putting up the finishing touches. Just the tents needed to be erected.” Ruben hums, “then that just leaves the initial area of the Cauldron. I should probably go and find the el-” “Chieftain Ruben.” You all turn to see who approaches, and you inwardly groan once you see it's the Elders. Ruben separates himself from you and does a respectful bow, “Elders, I was just saying that I needed to come and see you.” “We heard your call,” the lead one chuckles, mirroring the bow and turning his attention to Deshir and Toz, “Huntress Deshir and Hunter Toz.” He side-eyes you, “Phoenix.” <<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ “My name is $name $surname. Though Your Highness or Arch Flame $name works as well. I’ll give a courtesy that you don’t seem to give me and allow you to choose one of those that I have suggested.” He glares at you but nods, “Your Highness.” <<else>>\ Ruben clears his throat, “?she has a name, Elder Cezarris. $name $surname, and she is yours as much as I am.” He nods his head speedily and murmurs to you an apology. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="W8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Now, what’s your progress on the Cauldron?” “We did not wish to get in the way of the dragons that linger there. Some are feistier than normal.” “Did you ask them where they want you to set up?” “Yes, they gave us the central positioning, quite the spot,” the elder chuckles with a broad smile, “but that’s just one of the reasons we didn’t wish to intrude.” “What’s so special about this spot?” you question, directing the question to the other three since the elders would probably just see your query as ignorant. “The center of the cauldron has the flattest ground and most space for crowds,” Deshir explains, “in the past, we’ve always been put off to the side or at the entrance, so we weren’t disrupting the flow of the dragons. Being given the center section basically says to the dragons that they have to work their way around //us// and not the other way around.” “Exactly,” Ruben agrees, his attention on the elders, “which means you assert that to them. This is probably a test on their part to see how you fare against them. If there are any problems, you tell them I said that they gifted us with the central section and therefore they need to respect the work we’re doing.” Each elder gulps, glancing at one another with fear resting clearly in their eyes. <<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ “Ruben,” Toz murmurs, “I’ll head over and -” “No,” he barks, “they’ll figure this out, or on their shoulders the punishment will lie.” They each bow and utter a farewell to your companions, but of course, leaves you out of that greeting. <<else>>\ “Ruben,” Toz murmurs, “I’ll head over and make sure the work is finished.” He sighs, waving at Toz to do just that and then giving the elders a look that says they may leave. They each bow and utter a farewell to your companions, but of course, leaves you out of that greeting. <</if>>\ <<if $notouchy>>\ “And Elders,” Ruben starts, extending his hand and giving you the option of taking it or not. [[Take it.->W8TakeHand]] [[Shake your head.->W8NoTakeHand]] <<else>>\ “And Elders,” Ruben starts, extending his hand and grabbing onto yours, “<<if $ruben is "fiery">>this will be the last time you disrespect ?her. If I feel you are being impudent then my flame will be far worse than my bite. Understand?”<<else>>don’t you have something you wish to say to $name?”<</if>> <<include "W8.2">> <</if>>\

You place yours in his, and he gives it a light squeeze despite his attention still being focused on the elders. <<include "W8.1">>

Ruben nods in understanding, lowering his hand while continuing to speak to the elders. <<include "W8.1">>

<<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ “This will be the last time you disrespect ?her. If I feel you are being impudent then my flame will be far worse than my bite. Understand?” <<else>>\ “Don’t you have something you wish to say to $name?” <</if>>\ <<include "W8.2">>

<<if $ruben is "fiery">>“Understood,” the lead elder utters and bows to you deeply, “we apologize for any previous actions, Arch Flame $name.”<<else>>The lead elder looks to the others but steps forward and bows to you deeply, “we apologize for any previous actions, Arch Flame $name.”<</if>> And with that uttered, they scurry away. <<if $ruben is "fiery">>Ruben snorts as he watches them go, looking over at you with a toothy grin, “they scatter like a pack of woodrats in a clearing.”<<else>>Ruben sighs as he watches them go, looking over at you with an apologetic grin, “you’d think two years and they’d get the picture.”<</if>> <a data-passage="W9"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Toz laughs, patting Ruben’s shoulder and handing him his shirt before walking away, “I will see you two later. Again, $name, it’s great to have you back. We must catch up later.” You nod and wave to him goodbye as Deshir catches your attention next, and Ruben dresses. <<if $ruben is "fiery">>“My flame will be worse than my bite,” she mimics, rolling her eyes with a good-natured smile, “it is a wonder that anyone is afraid of you, my Chieftain.”<<else>>“Alright, you two. We’ll see you at the festival. Try not to keep everyone up with … noises.”<</if>> If Ruben is even a little bothered by Deshir’s teasing, he doesn’t show it though that could be because his attention is focused on you. A soft rawness in his crimson eyes that you realize you have missed dearly. Deshir waves goodbye, and as soon as you return the greeting, Ruben is pulling you away. The two of you head into the royal house, rushing down familiar halls when Ruben stops short and pushes you up against the wall, capturing your lips in a far more passionate and risque kiss than the one you shared outside. <<if $height is "very short" or $height is "short" or $height is "average">>He grabs the back of your thighs and hoists you up, and you instinctively wrap your arms around his neck and your legs around his waist as he supports your weight. You can feel him smiling through his continued kisses, and you pull back with a frown. “You’re insufferable,” you growl, and he snorts before kissing the corner of your mouth. “And you’re short.” “I’m the perfect height. Ever think that maybe you’re just too tall?” “No, I’m the perfect height,” he mimics, but before you can continue the argument, he takes your breath, his tongue slithering into your mouth as he presses his body closer.<<else>>He places his arms on either side of your head so that there is no way to escape and leans in to kiss you. His tongue slithers into your mouth as he presses his body closer.<</if>> Your fire roars to life, and you can feel his doing the same. Flying around each other as if competing, but it was always as if both sides knew the dance and would never drift from the moves simply to get ahead of the other. His kisses become rougher and a touch desperate as if wishing to devour instead of becoming reacquainted. <a data-passage="W10"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Ruben,” you murmur, moving your head to the side to speak. He continues on, peppering kisses along your jaw and then down to the crook of your neck. “Hmm,” he hums in question. “You do remember that we’re standing in the hallway.” “I do. But this is my house, and if I wish to have you here, then I will.” [[“Let’s just take this to the room.”->W10ToTheRoom]] [[“Then what are you waiting for?”->W10LetsDoIt]] [[“Cuddling is better in the room.” This choice will set your Phoenix up as not interested in sex.->W10Cuddling][$ns = true]]

“Come on, let’s just take this to the room,” you suggest, “then there’s no reason for me to worry about who's watching.” <<include "W10.1">>

“Then what are you waiting for?” you question with a challenging air to your words, raising a brow. He snorts, nipping your skin as he <<if $height is "very short" or $height is "short" or $height is "average">>readjusts you so that he was balancing your weight with one hand instead of two.<<else>>readjusts himself for better access to all of your body.<</if>> <<if settings.showec and $sex is not "na">>\ With his second, he rubs it teasingly against your <<if $sex is "p">>erection<<else>>core<</if>>, causing you to pant in need as he acts as if he doesn’t know what he’s doing. “Stop teasing,” you growl. <<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ “Ask nicely,” he whispers against your cheek, trailing his tongue to your ear as he sucks on your lobe, his hand never ceasing. “Please,” you say through gritted teeth, almost ready to hit him if he asks for anything more. “We gotta work on how you say that word,” he chuckles, <<if $height is "very short" or $height is "short" or $height is "average">>working your pants down until he <<if $sex is "p">>was able to free your member<<else>>has better access to your sex<</if>>.<<else>>slipping his hand down your pants and <<if $sex is "p">>freeing your member.<<else>>rubbing against your lips.<</if>><</if>> “You make me say it again and you’ll be moaning on the ground.” He smirks, appearing as if he’d enjoy whatever you had in mind. <<else>>\ “I wouldn’t dream of it,” he answers affectionately, placing soft kisses along your jaw as he <<if $height is "very short" or $height is "short" or $height is "average">>works your pants down until he <<if $sex is "p">>is able to free your member<<else>>has better access to your sex<</if>>.<<else>>slips his hand down your pants and <<if $sex is "p">>frees your member.<<else>>rubs against your lips.<</if>><</if>> <</if>>\ <<if $sex is "p">>\ Ruben trails his fingers up your length until he gets to the tip, where he uses your pre-cum to lube the rest of your member. He starts slowly, pumping you from tip to base at a leisurely pace, gripping you with just the right amount of pressure. You move your hips back and forth, hoping that he’ll increase the rhythm. He doesn’t immediately, but when he does, you stop bucking, your eyes fluttering closed as pleasure shoots through you. A shallow breath escapes you as you watch his actions until he leans in to capture your lips, exploring your mouth with his tongue. <<else>>\ Ruben trails his fingers along your lips until he finally pushes past them and up against your wetness. He starts slowly, simply rubbing up against your core until he finally inserts a digit. You move your hips against his finger, hoping that he’ll not only increase the rhythm but also add in more. He doesn’t immediately, but when he does, you stop bucking, your eyes fluttering closed as pleasure shoots through you. A shallow breath escapes you as you watch his actions until he leans in to capture your lips, exploring your mouth with his tongue. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ With his second, he rubs it teasingly against you. “Stop teasing,” you growl. <<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ “Ask nicely,” he whispers against your cheek, trailing his tongue to your ear as he sucks on your lobe, his hand never ceasing. “Please,” you growl, almost ready to hit him if he asks for anything more. “We gotta work on how you say that word,” he chuckles, <<if $height is "very short" or $height is "short" or $height is "average">>working your pants down for better access.<<else>>slipping his hand down your pants.<</if>> “You make me say it again and you’ll be moaning on the ground.” He smirks, appearing as if he’d enjoy whatever you had in mind. <<else>>\ “I wouldn’t dream of it,” he answers affectionately, placing soft kisses along your jaw as he <<if $height is "very short" or $height is "short" or $height is "average">>works your pants down for better access.<<else>>slips his hand into your pants.<</if>> <</if>>\ At first, his pace is slow but gradually picks up, and your eyes flutter closed as pleasure shoots through you. A shallow breath escapes you as you watch his actions until he leans in to capture your lips, exploring your mouth with his tongue. <</if>>\ Suddenly you feel him stiffen, and you project your senses to that around you, feeling the arriving presence of another. He sighs but releases you, <<if $height is "very short" or $height is "short" or $height is "average">>setting you down slowly<<else>>taking a step back<</if>> and helping you fix yourself up before gazing down the hall. “Calm down,” you mutter to him, but he doesn’t listen, his eyes still narrowed and murderous. If the person approaching didn’t have a good reason for their presence, then he might just kill them. <a data-passage="W11"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Cuddling works better in the room. You know, surrounded by pillows and warm blankets.” <<include "W10.1">>

“But just imagine a servant’s face when they see us doing it in the open.” <<if $eyes is "peach">>You draw back and pout, a perfected look that only seems to work on Ruben but is highly effective. He attempts to look away but finds such a task impossible, and he groans loudly, placing space between the two of you. “Fine! Curse you and your godforsaken eyes,” he growls and turns to head towards the room when you feel the presence of another.<<elseif $eyes is "black">>You give him a stern glance, and he huffs, poking out his bottom lip in defeat. “Fine! You know I hate it when you look at me like that.” “Like you’re a child who needs to be reprimanded?” you chuckle. “Curse you and those damn eyes,” he snorts, leaning forward to give you one last kiss before backing away. The two of you are about to head towards the room when you feel the presence of another.<<else>> “Ruben, seriously?” “What?” “Can we just go to the room? Please?” “Fine, fine,” he huffs, placing space between the two of you. The two of you turn to head towards the room when you feel the presence of another.<</if>> <a data-passage="W11"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“$name,” Fuldreis greets with a strained smile as she approaches, “I hope your trip here lacked excitement.” You frown, not knowing how to reply to that. The trip could’ve used a bit of excitement, but you also understood that excitement on the road would only be fulfilled by a roaming bandit or a wild animal with nothing left to lose. “It was as it should be.” The words are barely out of your mouth when you hear a loud yip, and Draxmil unfurls itself from around Fuldreis’s neck and flies over to you. It butts your chin with its head and snuggles up close, taking advantage of your warmth. Fuldreis doesn’t even attempt to hide her disdain. “I hope the room meets your standards.” “Room?” Ruben questions, brow raised. “Ah, yes,” Fuldreis smiles warmly, “I had the servants make up a room for our guest. It would be rude of me to confine ?her to the elements. Wouldn’t you agree, ''kîgyul''?” “?She hardly would be at the mercy of the elements if ?she is in //my// room.” “That is hardly decorous. ?She is a guest in the House of Dragon. ?Her_ own space is a must and follows the traditional roles placed by //your// ancestors.” Ruben mutters a few words at barely a whisper before saying loudly, “//tswâdyu kho trerok, fru bab.//” You still struggle with the dragon tongue, but you knew without a doubt that ‘tswâdyu’ meant fuck. Fuldreis rolls her eyes and Draxmil’s head shoots up as it looks between the two. “You may scoff at tradition, but I do not. And so, I have put your beloved in a room of ?her_ own.” <a data-passage="W12"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $room>>\ “Ruben, it’s fine,” you reassure. “Sure it is,” he scoffs, turning around and shouting, “Frur!” “There is no need to call her forward,” Fuldreis sighs but the sounding of steps against the wooden floorboards catch all of your attention. The Kreol woman you believe is Frur rounds the corner, and though she lets out a tired sigh when she sees all of you, she bows. “Chieftain and Arch Flame. Spymaster Fuldreis.” “Frur, you may -,” Fuldreis begins, but Ruben cuts her off. “Frur, can you move $name’s things into my room, please?” “It shall be done,” she answers, and as she passes, she taps Fuldreis on the head in an almost motherly and reprimanding way before continuing on. “And you,” Ruben grumbles, turning his ire to you, “next time, go straight to my room.” “Ruben!” Frur calls from further down the hall. He glances between the two of you in irritation before leaving to see what Frur needed of him. Consequently, leaving you alone with Fuldreis. You turn towards her to see her staring at you with evident dislike, an expression she hardly ever bothered to hide from Ruben. Unlike the Elders, his reprimands towards her were much softer, and even if harsh, she knew she would face no reprimand for not heeding empty threats. “I do hope you enjoy our holiday,” she begins, “and hopefully, our chilly weather doesn’t cause you to freeze to death.” [[“How about we just stay away from each other?”->W12KeepDistance]] [[“I’ll just learn how to live with a cold heart like you.”->W12ColdHeart]] [[“I’ll have Ruben to warm me up.”->W12RubenWarmth]] <<else>>\ “I moved to Ruben’s room,” you shrug. Ruben snorts and then laughs at your answer while Fuldreis narrows her glare on you. You don’t understand her anger. She had to know that such a dilemma could be easily remedied and would be. “It would seem that the two of you scoff at tradition. I wonder who taught who.” Her eyes say that she believes it’s you. “D’uun,” Ruben chides, “any group that doesn’t seek to update or even add in their own traditions and customs is doomed to fail. I know you know that.” “Yes. And that change should come from within, not from a usurper who is best known for causing the suffering of another.” [[“Dragons have also caused their own suffering.”->W12OwnSuffering]] [[“And House Phoenix has apologized for that.”->W12Apologized]] [[“You need to leave the past where it belongs.”->W12LetGoPast]] <</if>>\

“How about we make this holiday easier on both of us, hmm? You stick to your side of the festival, and I’ll stick to mine. I’m sure there’s no reason for us to be within feet of each other.” She laughs, shaking her head and then sighing tiredly, “and here I thought you actually did your research before showing your face. Evidently not. Too much to ask from a phoenix, I’m sure.” She turns her back to you and walks away, leaving you to wonder what she meant. You knew you needed to learn more but did her words mean that you would be stuck with her for the duration of the holiday? Draxmil yips one last time before flying after her. <<include "W13">>

“I’ll just be forced to live with a cold heart, something I’m sure you’re used to, so I’ll just ask you for advice.” “I’d rather watch you curl up and die than give any.” “I’d like to say that’s surprising, but you’re a very predictable woman. It’s amazing that you can actually do your job as a spymaster.” She snorts and turns to leave, “one can claim the same for an inexperienced little phoenix who has been pushed out of ?her nest.” She walks away and before she can get far, Draxmil yips one last time before flying after her. <<include "W13">>

“It’s a good thing that I have Ruben there to warm me up.” You can see the corner of her mouth twitching into a deep grimace, having nothing to say in return. She simply turns around and walks the other way, leaving. Draxmil yips one last time before flying after her. <<include "W13">>

“Dragons have also caused their own suffering, but you refuse to remember that little bit of information. Something the history books don’t forget, though.” “In-clan fighting is not the same as aggression from a foreign power.” “How is it not? It’s just as destructive if not more so.” <<include "W12.1">>

“And House Phoenix has not only apologized for our part in that but have also contributed help and any supplies that are needed for rebuilding. Or did you forget that part as well, Fuldreis?” She huffs loudly, “we don’t need your help, little phoenix.” “Apparently you -” <<include "W12.1">>

“You need to learn to leave the past where it belongs, or you will never see the future. But I doubt such a thing is easy for you with all your talk on tradition and its importance.” “Perhaps if House Phoenix had the same views, your people would be as disciplined and understanding of where they came from.” “Do not talk about my house as if you know anything about it. I’ve gone through great lengths to learn the history of yours, but I’m sure you know hardly anything about mine.” “All I need to know is that you’re a -” <<include "W12.1">>

“Enough!” Ruben frowns, rolling his eyes, “both of you need to drop this line of conversation. It’s tiring to hear it brought up again and again.” He walks away with that said, and you open your mouth to place the blame on Fuldreis’ shoulders but close your mouth a second later. He was right, and though she brings up such an argument, you spur it forward instead of ignoring her. She huffs, turning to walk away and Draxmil yips one last time before flying after her. <a data-passage="W13"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You enter Ruben’s room to see him sitting on the bench at the foot of the bed with his face in his hands, and his body slumped forward. “Are you okay?” “Of course,” he smiles, straightening up, but his eyes convey his genuine emotions and feelings. You sit beside him and cradle his cheek in your hands, watching as he leans into the touch and closes his eyes to breathe deeply. “I’m tired,” he admits and glances over at the bed, “I don’t know when’s the last time I’ve slept.” “You’re overworking yourself.” “That,” he agrees, “but I also don’t like sleeping without you near.” He snorts lightly, “it took me a few months to actually learn how to fall asleep in your presence, and now I can hardly sleep without it. It’s like my body thinks something’s wrong when I try.” “$r_nn …” you sigh, and he gets to his feet. “Yea, yea. Something about how I should sleep. Thank you, Toz number two. I shall try later tonight. Work is still needing to be done.” [[Run a bath for the two of you.->W13Bath]] [[Give him a massage.->W13Massage]] [[Drag him to the bed.->W13Bed]]

“I’ll be back,” you tell him, getting to your feet and walking into the conjoined room that holds the bath. The best thing about phoenixes is that warming the water and keeping it at a high temperature was easy, hardly requiring any energy or focus. You find buckets of slowly melting snow in the corner and fill up the tub before melting it. Once that is done, you go back out and motion for Ruben to follow you. “What are you doing?” he questions, walking into the room and seeing the steaming bath. He frowns, but the expression is hardly there for a couple of seconds before a smile runs it off, and he nods. “For just a while.” [[Undress.->W13Undress]] [[Undress partially.->W13UndressPartially]]

The two of you undress, and as soon as your shirt is off, Ruben is there, placing feather-light kisses upon your shoulder as his hands gently hold onto your waist. “I missed you so much,” he breathes against your skin. You turn around in his grasp and take his hands in yours as you lead him to the bath. Entering, you make yourself comfortable in his arms, watching as the steam of the bath grows even more, and the two of you chuckle. <<include "W13Bath.1">>

While Ruben strips all of his clothes off, you leave your underclothes on, preparing yourself for his annoyance. “$name,” he sighs, “still?” “I just don’t like stripping all the way,” you mumble, deciding not to add ‘in his presence.’ There are times where you could and then times when the thought bothers you. During those times, you believed it wiser to just remain clothed. When you turn, he’s right there, squeezing your shoulder affectionately. “Will you ever be completely comfortable with me?” You don’t answer, deciding to just lead him to the bath. Entering, you make yourself comfortable in his arms, watching as the steam of the bath grows even more, and the two of you chuckle. <<include "W13Bath.1">>

“We’re going to boil each other alive,” he laughs <<if $length is "bald">>as he runs his hands across your scalp and then down to your neck, then shoulders.<<else>><<if $type is "straight" or $type is "wavy">>as he runs his fingers through your hair, gently massaging your scalp.<<elseif $type is "kinky" or $type is "curly">>as he wets your hair and then massages your scalp, making sure to not tangle your hair up in the process.<<else>>as he carefully massages your scalp.<</if>><</if>> “If it does get too hot for you, let me know.” He scoffs, pouting as he looks into the distance. Knowing Ruben, he’d burn alive before telling you that he was hot. He could handle heat better than other crimson dragons, but that still didn’t make him indestructible. <a data-passage="W13Bath.2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Don’t make me push you out in the snow,” he grumbles. Your mouth drops open as you gaze at him teasingly, “you’d do that? To me?” “Yes. Just so I can hear you whine and complain later in my arms.” “Who says I’ll come running back to you?” He shrugs and smirks as he looks off into the distance, “you like my warmth.” “Only part of you that’s actually helpful.” <<if $ns>>\ “Remember that the next time you <<if $height is "very short" or $height is "short" or $height is "average">>need something from the top shelf in the kitchens<<else>>need something carried<</if>>,” he laughs, relaxing into the tub a little more, forcing you to resituate. <<else>>\ “You won’t be saying that when you want kids,” he laughs, relaxing into the tub a little more, forcing you to resituate. <</if>>\ He closes his eyes, and you watch as his entire body seems to destress. It was impossible to describe how much you had missed him. So much that just being here, occupying the same space as him, felt surreal. You nuzzle up against him, and he instinctively wraps his arms around you. Neither of you says anything more as you just exist in the other’s presence. <a data-passage="W14"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Hey, come over here,” you tell him, scooting back on the bed and tapping the space right beside you. “Why?” he questions, brow raised and looking as if he wanted to go and do the exact opposite. “Just trust me.” He frowns but approaches you and sits on the spot that you had motioned to earlier. You remove his shirt and then nudge him in the back until he gets the idea to lay down. Once that is all done, you focus energy to your hands, going beyond warm and hoping that they are actually as hot as you expected them to be. You place them on his back, kneading your fingers into his muscles which was a task of its own. But his moans of pleasure tell you that you were doing something right. He shivers underneath you, his back tensing and then relaxing as you move farther down, forced to use your knuckles once your fingers grow stiff. “You don’t have to continue,” he chuckles, but you wave his words away. “Can you let me do something for you? At least once?” “I always let you do stuff for me,” he frowns, and you raise a brow, prompting with your expression for him to name at least two times, one if that was too much. He frowns and buries his face deeper into the blanket so that all you can really see is his eyes and brows. “I just want to take care of you,” you think he says, the words low and mumbled. [[“And I want to do the same.”->W13DoTheSame]] [[“I can name at least five.”->W13AtLeastFive]] [[“You are.”->W13YouAre]]

“And I want to do the same for you.” You lean forward to catch his eyes, but he glances away. “You’re just going to ignore me?” “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” “You can be so childish sometimes,” you chuckle. “And you a //khliy uw//.” You straighten up, frowning. “You know I’m still learning the language and don’t know what that means.” He smirks, closing his eyes and refusing to say more. You want him to tell you but could think about that later. For now, giving him the ability to relax was still your objective, and you were determined to help him experience it. You reheat your hands and go back to his massage. <<include "W13Massage.1">>

“I can name at least five times that you have taken care of me.” “And I’m sure half of those times don’t count,” he grumbles, moving his head just enough so that he can speak and be heard clearly. “$r_nn,” you start, raising a brow, but it would seem he already knew what you were about to say, and he waves it away with a scowl. “I would do that again, no second thinking. So no, that’s not one of the five.” You roll your eyes, reheating your hands and going back to his massage. <<include "W13Massage.1">>

You lean forward and rest a kiss right below his ear, “you are.” He’s about to question you on how that could possibly be true at the moment, but you rest your finger against his lips, shushing him before reheating your hands and going back to his massage. <<include "W13Massage.1">>

The massage continues for a few more minutes when you notice Ruben’s been uncharacteristically quiet, and his breathing is steady and slow. Backing up, you see him sleeping, and you release a content breath. Maybe later, you’ll cuddle up to him, but for now, you simply let him rest, sleeping on the other side of the bed and watching him for some time. Taking in the man that always seemed on edge, muscles taut and ready for anything. Seeing him like this felt like some unspoken mystery prize that only you knew existed. And you wouldn’t have it any other way. <a data-passage="W14"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You stand, grabbing ahold of his hand and pulling him towards the bed. “No,” he tells you, bringing his hand back, “we can sleep later. I still have things to take care of.” “And that won’t be there for you later?” “Oh, it will, and that’s the problem.” He gazes towards his study, and you can practically see the drowsiness and the weeks of hardly any sleep right there on his face. He did an excellent job of hiding it; you’ll give him that much. You move so that you are standing in front of Ruben and become his primary focus, “do it for me?” “Don’t do that,” he growls, glancing away from you, “I don’t have the energy to fight you.” “Then don’t,” you laugh, once again trying to drag him towards the bed, and this time he obeys. He doesn’t seem happy about it, but you ignore his pouting and wrap your legs around him, running your hands through his hair as he snuggles closer to you and buries his face onto your stomach. You unbraid all of his braids and comb your fingers through his hair. Once it is free of tangles, you start to re-braid portions of it. Focusing on the task and then placing most of his hair into a bun that he usually wears it up in, a few strands remaining free. “Done!” you say happily but receive no reply. “$r_nn?” You wiggle slightly, but he doesn’t move or respond, and upon further investigation, you realize he’s asleep. Moving becomes a crime, and you even try to calm your breathing as you move just a little to make sure you aren’t uncomfortable. You fight your smile for a minute before not caring about it showing. At least you got him to sleep. <a data-passage="W14"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You sit in a room with a few faces you’re unable to put names to, but many that you can. Each listens to Fuldreis or Ruben as they lay out the week of festivities and who is in charge of what and what to look out for. Ruben looks a lot better than before, the dark circles beginning to fade away and no sign of a slouch in his posture. He ended up falling asleep and not waking up until Okti came by to remind him of the meeting, a task she seemed to know he would forget. “Any questions?” You start to raise your hand, but <<if $notouchy>>Toz nudges you and shakes his head<<else>>Toz grabs your wrist and moves it back down<</if>>, making a gesture that tells you to wait. No one else has a question, and so they stand and file out, following after Fuldreis and Ruben, who shout a few more orders for the first day of festivities. “Alright,” Toz sighs once all unfamiliar faces have left, “now ask your question.” “You should probably act like you know everything that’s going on, even if you don’t,” Mauve adds in, “the Elders and Fuldreis are always looking for ways to undermine you, don’t give them an easy one. Do you have any questions?” [[“What is expected of me during all of this?”->WQ1]] [[“Should I be expecting trouble?”->WQ2]] [[“Tell me about …”->WQ3]] [[No more questions.->W15]]

“What is expected of me during all of this? Anything specific I should be doing?” Okti shakes her head, “nothing but showing your face.” Mauve rolls her eyes, “it’s slightly more complicated than that. We’re not an easy bunch to offend, but you’ll be the first outsider to participate in this holiday. This is actually a significant celebration for us, so if the populace sees that you’re not enjoying yourself or that you have an issue with the way we do things, then it will shift the mood.” “Have an issue with the way you do things?” you question, raising a brow and looking between all of them. “There are a few animal sacrifices,” Toz warns, “you don’t have to be there for it. Watching it isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time.” “Will Ruben?” Deshir nods, “he doesn’t have a choice.” You’re about to speak but pause, realization coming over you. “Guys, how much different is this festival from the ones in the past?” Toz raises a brow and shrugs, “a few things are different or at least changed around. Why?” “Is this why Ruben is so tired? He’s been trying to make this traditional plus accommodate me?” The others are quiet, and you can see realization settling on their faces as well. So it was true. You were married to such a loving dumbass. <<if hasVisited("WQ2")>>“Should I be expecting trouble?”<<else>>[[“Should I be expecting trouble?”->WQ2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ3")>>“Tell me about …”<<else>>[[“Tell me about …”->WQ3]]<</if>>

“The Elders and Fuldreis are always looking for ways to undermine me. Should I be worried?” “No,” Mauve answers, appearing surprised by her own words, “before and after, perhaps. But not during. The next few days are too important for them to try and mess that up, even for a chance to strip power from you.” <<if $leik>>“Don’t say that. I’ve already got a couple coins on Fuldreis trying something,” Leik voices. He, Deshir, and Okti all exchange glances earning a sigh from Mauve.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ1")>>“What is expected of me during all of this?”<<else>>[[“What is expected of me during all of this?”->WQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ3")>>“Tell me about …”<<else>>[[“Tell me about …”->WQ3]]<</if>>

[[Fest of Dragons.->W1_Q1]] [[Day of Knowledge.->W1_Q2]] [[Day of Honor.->W1_Q3]] [[Day of Confession.->W1_Q4]] [[Day of Flame.->W1_Q5]] [[Day of the Future.->W1_Q6]] [[Day of the Mighty.->W1_Q7]] [[Day of Sleeping Dragon.->W1_Q8]] [[No more questions.->W15]]

“Ruben told me a bit, and I learned some stuff on my own but to make sure I understand it all, what can you tell me about this celebration?” “It’s very traditional,” Mauve begins, pausing as if thinking of other ways to word it. Realizing that she probably had no better word, she continues on, “it actually began as a symbol of partnership between them and us. Over the years, it has grown, and more things have just been tacked on. Each leader would add something new to the festival.” Okti speaks up, “during the clan wars, though, only a few dragons actually celebrated it. And when there was peace with the few of us that was left, it was seen as another sign of unity.” “A little too late,” Deshir mumbles. “That’s true,” Mauve agrees, “but all you really need to know is that the celebration is about coming together with the dragons and is very important to us.” “Is your Summer and Twilight Solstice as big?” “No,” Toz answers, “especially not how Summer Solstice is for House Phoenix. I don’t think we even do anything for Twilight Solstice.” The others nod. <<if hasVisited("W1_Q2")>>Day of Knowledge<<else>>[[Day of Knowledge->W1_Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q3")>>Day of Honor<<else>>[[Day of Honor->W1_Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q4")>>Day of Confession<<else>>[[Day of Confession->W1_Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q5")>>Day of Flame<<else>>[[Day of Flame->W1_Q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q6")>>Day of the Future<<else>>[[Day of the Future->W1_Q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q7")>>Day of the Mighty<<else>>[[Day of the Mighty->W1_Q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q8")>>Day of Sleeping Dragon<<else>>[[Day of Sleeping Dragon->W1_Q8]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ1")>>“What is expected of me during all of this?”<<else>>[[“What is expected of me during all of this?”->WQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ2")>>“Should I be expecting trouble?”<<else>>[[“Should I be expecting trouble?”->WQ2]]<</if>> [[No more questions.->W15]]

“What is Day of Knowledge about?” “It’s the day celebrating Aliranth,” Okti explains, “we basically celebrate knowledge and intelligence. There’s a historian award and a cute little experiment competition. One for the school kids to show off what they’ve done and then one that’s for the scientists and older population.” <<if hasVisited("W1_Q1")>>Fest of Dragons<<else>>[[Fest of Dragons->W1_Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q3")>>Day of Honor<<else>>[[Day of Honor->W1_Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q4")>>Day of Confession<<else>>[[Day of Confession->W1_Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q5")>>Day of Flame<<else>>[[Day of Flame->W1_Q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q6")>>Day of the Future<<else>>[[Day of the Future->W1_Q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q7")>>Day of the Mighty<<else>>[[Day of the Mighty->W1_Q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q8")>>Day of Sleeping Dragon<<else>>[[Day of Sleeping Dragon->W1_Q8]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ1")>>“What is expected of me during all of this?”<<else>>[[“What is expected of me during all of this?”->WQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ2")>>“Should I be expecting trouble?”<<else>>[[“Should I be expecting trouble?”->WQ2]]<</if>> [[No more questions.->W15]]

“What about the Day of Honor?” “Mauve’s day,” Mauve replies, “a day of giving back. It was a bit odd. I can’t remember exactly how we celebrated it. I want to say there were fighting competitions. But Ruben changed it to involve helping rebuild some of the areas hit by the war and providing clothing and food.” “For that,” Toz adds in, “we’ll be going to one of the border villages this year, Lonland if I remember correctly.” <<if hasVisited("W1_Q1")>>Fest of Dragons<<else>>[[Fest of Dragons->W1_Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q2")>>Day of Knowledge<<else>>[[Day of Knowledge->W1_Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q4")>>Day of Confession<<else>>[[Day of Confession->W1_Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q5")>>Day of Flame<<else>>[[Day of Flame->W1_Q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q6")>>Day of the Future<<else>>[[Day of the Future->W1_Q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q7")>>Day of the Mighty<<else>>[[Day of the Mighty->W1_Q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q8")>>Day of Sleeping Dragon<<else>>[[Day of Sleeping Dragon->W1_Q8]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ1")>>“What is expected of me during all of this?”<<else>>[[“What is expected of me during all of this?”->WQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ2")>>“Should I be expecting trouble?”<<else>>[[“Should I be expecting trouble?”->WQ2]]<</if>> [[No more questions.->W15]]

“Day of Confession, what’s that about?” Deshir chuckles, “a nod to Xitarraz and personally the worst day to me. There are many competitions that make up for it, but the main point of the day is the confession part. There’s a great bonfire erected, and you write down the one thing that plagues you the most and then throw it into the bonfire just as you scream what you will do to fix it or avoid it next time.” “Also,” Mauve adds in, sounding nervous, “Ruben has added an additional part.” “Oh yea,” Deshir nods, “it’s a day to honor runts.” You sigh, already believing the worst, “is this the first year?” “No, the last year was. Most runts didn’t show, and those that did were met with mixed reactions. All the traditionalists tried to run them out, and everyone that was more so on Ruben’s side welcomed them. It was more of a hostile battleground waiting for someone to start it than some fun festival.” Toz nods, “and Ruben hasn’t removed it regardless of his d’uun’s pleas. So we’ll see if this year is any different.” <<if hasVisited("W1_Q1")>>Fest of Dragons<<else>>[[Fest of Dragons->W1_Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q2")>>Day of Knowledge<<else>>[[Day of Knowledge->W1_Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q3")>>Day of Honor<<else>>[[Day of Honor->W1_Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q5")>>Day of Flame<<else>>[[Day of Flame->W1_Q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q6")>>Day of the Future<<else>>[[Day of the Future->W1_Q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q7")>>Day of the Mighty<<else>>[[Day of the Mighty->W1_Q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q8")>>Day of Sleeping Dragon<<else>>[[Day of Sleeping Dragon->W1_Q8]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ1")>>“What is expected of me during all of this?”<<else>>[[“What is expected of me during all of this?”->WQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ2")>>“Should I be expecting trouble?”<<else>>[[“Should I be expecting trouble?”->WQ2]]<</if>> [[No more questions.->W15]]

“I have a feeling I know what Day of Flame is about.” “You’ll be wrong,” Toz answers, “Ruben has all but decimated the day.” “Wait. What?” Okti sighs, “anything we do is pretty much because Fuldreis has enforced it. There’s a great bonfire, and we pay homage to the Draco line. Other than that, there’s not much besides just having some fun.” You frown but have no other questions in regards to that. <<if hasVisited("W1_Q1")>>Fest of Dragons<<else>>[[Fest of Dragons->W1_Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q2")>>Day of Knowledge<<else>>[[Day of Knowledge->W1_Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q3")>>Day of Honor<<else>>[[Day of Honor->W1_Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q4")>>Day of Confession<<else>>[[Day of Confession->W1_Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q6")>>Day of the Future<<else>>[[Day of the Future->W1_Q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q7")>>Day of the Mighty<<else>>[[Day of the Mighty->W1_Q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q8")>>Day of Sleeping Dragon<<else>>[[Day of Sleeping Dragon->W1_Q8]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ1")>>“What is expected of me during all of this?”<<else>>[[“What is expected of me during all of this?”->WQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ2")>>“Should I be expecting trouble?”<<else>>[[“Should I be expecting trouble?”->WQ2]]<</if>> [[No more questions.->W15]]

“Day of the Future?” “Irisinth’s day,” Toz answers, “a day to celebrate the youth and those who will soon take our place. Tons of competitions for children and, if anything, one of those, let out your inner child days.” “You do that anyway,” Deshir snorts, “this year, though, Irisinth’s royal line, Floe, is supposed to show. It’ll be the first time in a very long time that the two remaining royal lines are in the same place at the same time.” <<if hasVisited("W1_Q1")>>Fest of Dragons<<else>>[[Fest of Dragons->W1_Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q2")>>Day of Knowledge<<else>>[[Day of Knowledge->W1_Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q3")>>Day of Honor<<else>>[[Day of Honor->W1_Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q4")>>Day of Confession<<else>>[[Day of Confession->W1_Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q5")>>Day of Flame<<else>>[[Day of Flame->W1_Q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q7")>>Day of the Mighty<<else>>[[Day of the Mighty->W1_Q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q8")>>Day of Sleeping Dragon<<else>>[[Day of Sleeping Dragon->W1_Q8]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ1")>>“What is expected of me during all of this?”<<else>>[[“What is expected of me during all of this?”->WQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ2")>>“Should I be expecting trouble?”<<else>>[[“Should I be expecting trouble?”->WQ2]]<</if>> [[No more questions.->W15]]

“Day of the Mighty, what is it about?” Toz relaxes in his seat as he flexes his muscles, “Vanni day, my parent color.” “And yet you don’t ever participate,” Mauve points out, but Toz waves her words away. “The day is nothing but fighting competitions, really. One ''bral lyesu'' after another. If you have an issue with anyone, then it’s best to save it until this day. The last competition is for the Sleeping Guardian spot, a really prestigious position. It’s done in a series of fights and is the only fight where actual dragons will be in attendance. Each parent color chooses who they want and awards them.” You see Deshir sit up, but there’s doubt in her eyes. When she realizes that you’re looking at her, she turns away. <<if hasVisited("W1_Q1")>>Fest of Dragons<<else>>[[Fest of Dragons->W1_Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q2")>>Day of Knowledge<<else>>[[Day of Knowledge->W1_Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q3")>>Day of Honor<<else>>[[Day of Honor->W1_Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q4")>>Day of Confession<<else>>[[Day of Confession->W1_Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q5")>>Day of Flame<<else>>[[Day of Flame->W1_Q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q6")>>Day of the Future<<else>>[[Day of the Future->W1_Q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q8")>>Day of Sleeping Dragon<<else>>[[Day of Sleeping Dragon->W1_Q8]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ1")>>“What is expected of me during all of this?”<<else>>[[“What is expected of me during all of this?”->WQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ2")>>“Should I be expecting trouble?”<<else>>[[“Should I be expecting trouble?”->WQ2]]<</if>> [[No more questions.->W15]]

“What can you tell me about the Day of Sleeping Dragon?” “That’s the last day, and it’s also called the Feast of Landing Sun,” Toz explains. “That’s the day of the feast, and everyone in attendance brings a dish. A great feast is held in the Cauldron along with the other dragons and lasts until sunrise. As soon as the sun shows itself on the horizon, the dragons enter the world to sleep until Monsuna. Basically, it’s a goodbye for now kind of thing from us to them.” “Do the six divines show themselves?” “No. But they do let out a conjoined roar when it’s time. Almost sounds like a yawn with how much energy they don’t have.” “All dragons go to sleep? Seems kind of dangerous?” Deshir nods, “it is. But that’s why they have us. The dragons select guardians for that year during the Day of the Mighty, six in all. And they protect the caves until the dragons awake. It’s a prestigious position.” She frowns, glancing to the side. “She’s been trying to get chosen since she’s come of age for it, but it hasn’t happened,” Toz whispers to you. “Have you?” “Naw, but that’s because I don’t want the position. I have my hands full with being the Chieftain’s best friend,” he snorts. <<if hasVisited("W1_Q1")>>Fest of Dragons<<else>>[[Fest of Dragons->W1_Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q2")>>Day of Knowledge<<else>>[[Day of Knowledge->W1_Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q3")>>Day of Honor<<else>>[[Day of Honor->W1_Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q4")>>Day of Confession<<else>>[[Day of Confession->W1_Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q5")>>Day of Flame<<else>>[[Day of Flame->W1_Q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q6")>>Day of the Future<<else>>[[Day of the Future->W1_Q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("W1_Q7")>>Day of the Mighty<<else>>[[Day of the Mighty->W1_Q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ1")>>“What is expected of me during all of this?”<<else>>[[“What is expected of me during all of this?”->WQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WQ2")>>“Should I be expecting trouble?”<<else>>[[“Should I be expecting trouble?”->WQ2]]<</if>> [[No more questions.->W15]]

<<nobr>>\ <<playlist "ambience" fadeout>> <<playlist "festival" loop play>> <</nobr>>\ “Alright,” you state, getting to your feet and looking towards the archway that will lead outside, “I think I’m ready.” “Great. Let’s go enjoy the Fest of Dragons then,” Toz grins. //You can complete the events below in any order that you wish. You may also [[skip ahead->W16]] even if you haven’t completed them. It’s your choice.// <table> <tr> <th><a data-passage="WR_Honor"><img src="images/honor.png" alt="Day of Honor" width="60%"/></a></th> <th><a data-passage="WR_Knowledge"><img src="images/knowledge.png" alt="Day of Knowledge" width="60%"/></a></th> <th><a data-passage="WR_Future"><img src="images/future.png" alt="Day of the Future" width="60%"/></a></th> <th><a data-passage="WR_Flame"><img src="images/flame.png" alt="Day of Flame" width="60%"/></a></th> </tr> </table>

//You can complete the events below in any order that you wish. You may also [[skip ahead->W16]] even if you haven’t completed them. It’s your choice.// <table> <tr> <th><<if $honor is false>><a data-passage="WR_Honor"><img src="images/honor.png" alt="Day of Honor" width="60%"/></a><<else>><img src="images/grey_honor.png" alt="Day of Honor" width="60%"/><</if>></th> <th><<if $knowledge is false>><a data-passage="WR_Knowledge"><img src="images/knowledge.png" alt="Day of Knowledge" width="60%"/></a><<else>><img src="images/grey_knowledge.png" alt="Day of Knowledge" width="60%"/><</if>></th> <th><<if $future is false>><a data-passage="WR_Future"><img src="images/future.png" alt="Day of the Future" width="60%"/></a><<else>><img src="images/grey_future.png" alt="Day of the Future" width="60%"/><</if>></th> <th><<if $flame is false>><a data-passage="WR_Flame"><img src="images/flame.png" alt="Day of Flame" width="60%"/></a><<else>><img src="images/grey_flame.png" alt="Day of Flame" width="60%"/><</if>></th> </tr> </table>

<<nobr>><<set $knowledge = true>><</nobr>> As soon as you leave the warmth of the building, you are met by the sharp and bitter breeze that accompanies Celesow. This day was unusually chilly, your skin feeling numb regardless of the multiple layers that you don. It was probably because of what you were that even clothing seemed to do little against the shattering truth of the cold. Walking forward, you pass by other festival-goers, making your way straight to the towering red-head. Ruben is speaking to a few other figures as they stand on the outskirts of a much larger crowd listening to a man lecture about all the things historians have archived that year. Once at his side, you let your head fall onto his shoulder, completely miserable. Without even glancing at you, Ruben searches for your hands and, once he has them, begins to summon his warmth. It doesn’t rid you of the chill, but it does an excellent job of causing your body to hum in satisfaction. At least you were no longer freezing. “If only that could be the case,” Ruben laughs, finally gazing away to plant a kiss on your hands, throwing you a smirk. “You’re late.” “I was busy trying to find a suitable coat.” “If you stop taking all of mine and depositing them wherever you wish, you’d probably have a greater selection.” You ignore that, especially since you were never going to stop stealing his coats. “Why aren’t you freezing?” He shrugs, “I’m not the embodiment of fire, and I’m used to this.” “I feel like that’s less of an answer and more of you rubbing it in my face.” “It can be both,” he laughs. <a data-passage="WRK1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“And so this year, we give the historian award to Mulgrez Osh.” The crowd applauds, and you watch as the man in question goes up to the stage and accepts the trophy given to him. “Have you been paying much attention?” you inquire just as another chill speeds past, and you press yourself into Ruben’s side. “It should not be this cold. This is ridiculous.” “We are in the middle of Celesow, ''kěamo''.” [[“Shh, just warm me up.”->WRK1WarmMeUp]] [[“And I hate every bit of it.”->WRK1HateEveryBit]] [[Take his arms and wrap them around you.->WRK1MyWarmth]]

“Shh, stop talking. Just warm me up.” He does as you ask, but that doesn’t mean he’s quiet about it. “Bringing a phoenix up north during the peak of Celesow, was this really my idea?” You pout, about to confirm this but knowing that he would probably correct you. In fact, he had thought it better that you stay home, and after the solstice, he would return. Having never seen the festival and being curious, you disagreed. So, this was actually your fault, but that didn’t need to be talked about at this very moment. <<include "WRK2">>

“And I hate every bit of it. Why must these days be so long? Where is Hat’ein when you need it?” “You’ll be back in your lava falls next week.” “And you will be there as well?” you question, bringing up a discussion the two of you have yet to have. He glances away. Though he doesn’t verbally answer, his actions are all the confirmation you need. <<include "WRK2">>

You ignore his smart-aleck comment as you grab his hands and push yourself into his chest, making sure that you were adequately wrapped up in his arms. “You’re such a child,” he snorts, a gust of smoke leaving his nose as you feel him focusing his flames. The tip of his arms spring to life, and your body reacts to it immediately. Now it feels like the frost was fighting with the fire, trying to rid you of the warmth that Ruben was providing. <<include "WRK2">>

“I have an idea if you’re interested.” “If it means warmth, then yes.” “It may or may not. More so something to get your mind off of it.” You turn to gaze at him, and he nods into the distance. Though nothing is lying that way, you see groups of people all heading in one direction. “Let’s go ice-skating.” You frown. “I complain about the cold, and you want to go somewhere and do something that contains the word ice?” “Trust me. Getting your mind off of it helps. Plus, you’ll be moving. That’s one of the more important parts.” Part of you wishes to question and disagree but, you were far too cold for that. And so, you allow Ruben to guide you to this place, each step reminding you that it was still as cold as it was before. <a data-passage="WRK3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The frozen lake was occupied by a few others who seemed to have the same idea as Ruben. It looked almost surreal. A snowy white landscape with only the evergreens supplying any form of alternating color. The lake was completely frozen, showing no signs of giving in as the multiple people skating around tested its surface. They each wear a pair of odd-looking boots on their feet with a blade made of scales on the bottom. You knew that it helped with balance and friction, allowing the skaters to glide at ease without the worry of falling. Or at least without falling due to the skates, skill still played a large part in the activity. “So?” Ruben questions, grabbing your attention. You gaze over to see him holding two pairs of boots. [[This was your first time skating.->WRK3FirstTime]] [[You’ve done this a few times before, but not enough.->WRK3FewTimes][$skate = true]] [[All of this was common, you knew how to skate.->WRK3KnowSkate][$skate = true]]

You take them but raise a brow as you walk over to a log to sit. “You do know that I’ve never done this before, correct?” “No, I decided to just forget that glaring detail. Thought it would be more fun that way.” You pause to glare at him, and he raises his hands defensively and apologetically. “I’m here to help you. You know that.” “How well can you skate?” “Are you doubting me when you know how quiet I can be?” You open your mouth to comment but then close it. That much was true. Ruben’s stealth ability was outstanding and meant that he at least was light on his feet and had some sort of balance. However, you weren’t sure if those exact skills were needed for the ice. <<include "WRK4">>

You chew the inside of your cheek as you slowly take the boots from him. You’ve gone skating with Ruben and the others a few times, not enough to say that you were any good at it, though. It was complicated, and you were still attempting to learn. You could go out there without falling, or at least without falling countless times, but that was about it. <<include "WRK4">>

“Fine. We’ll see if this idea of yours will work. Just know that I do have my doubts.” <<include "WRK4">>

You finish sliding the boots on, and the two of you carefully travel to the ice. Once there, Ruben immediately leaves your side, skating across the ice and appearing a bit odd. He had an almost giddy-like behavior to his actions, and for such a large man, it felt like you were simply waiting for the moment the ice would give way, and he would drop through. Finished with watching him, you step forward. <<if $skate>>It took a while to get used to the feeling of the ice below you as well as the way the boots were made, but in no time, you had gotten a rhythm and were skating.<<else>>And fall.<</if>> <a data-passage="WRK5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $skate>>\ You pick up the pace, completing one lap before looking to see where Ruben was. He was casually skating farther back, seeing no need to rush. “What is this elder dragon pace that you have going on?” you question, heading back to his side and matching the lethargic momentum that best described Ruben’s skating. He shrugs, “I was much more interested in watching you.” “That can’t be all that you wish to do.” He glances at you out of the corner of his eye, saying nothing more. You reach out and grab hold of his hand, pulling him behind you. “Come on, skate with me.” He remains silent but also allows you to pull him behind you. It isn’t immediate, but his silence begins to bother you, and you attempt to go through the day to figure out what he could possibly be upset with or what could be on his mind. Nothing comes to yours, and your frown deepens. “Why that face?” he questions, poking the corner of your mouth. “Are you truly content with just skating around casually? Or is there something bugging you?” He snickers at the question, looking up to the sky and shaking his head. “And why do you think something is wrong?” [[“You haven’t talked about yourself in a while.”->WRK5NoTalking]] [[“You’re just too quiet.”->WRK5TooQuiet]] <<else>>\ “This isn’t funny,” Ruben laughs, coming to your side, “this isn’t funny at all.” <<if $ruben is "fiery">>“How about you continue being an ass //after// you help me up?”<<else>>“And yet you still laugh. Can you just help me up, $r_nn?”<</if>> Still trying to fight his chuckles, Ruben bends over and helps you to your feet, releasing you but his hands never stray far from your body. “Next time you think you’re going to fall, try bending your knees or squatting. You can hurt yourself if you fall the wrong way out here.” You nod. “But you’re not going to let me fall, right?” “I think it’ll be good for you,” he shrugs, “it’s just something that happens when you skate.” You say nothing to that as you regain your balance, happy enough to just be able to stand. “Lift one foot and try to glide,” he tells you, showing you how the motion should look. Part of you didn’t want to move. It was a wonder that you got this far; why go farther? “Alright,” you whisper to yourself, inhaling and then exhaling, “I can do this. I got this.” Remembering Ruben’s words and actions, you do as he says, but then you feel the loss of balance, and you prepare for the fall. This time you land on your butt, sighing as you motion for Ruben to stay where he was. You will get the hang of this. You didn’t really care about becoming a decent skater; you just wanted to be able to do one full lap before the two of you chose to retire. <a data-passage="WRK6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“Well, I don’t recall hearing you talk about yourself for at least five minutes, so, yes, I think something is wrong.” He raises a brow but doesn’t smirk like he usually does. “Is that your final thoughts on me?” “Come on, Ruben. You know I’m teasing.” You grab hold of his hands and squeeze them, hoping that if there was something wrong, then he’d just tell you instead of leaving you to ponder. “You’re never this reserved.” <<include "WRK6">>

“You’re just too quiet for me not to think something is wrong.” He snorts, but the sound is light, “I’m quiet at times.” “Yes, when your mind is far away or when something you wish to keep to yourself is bothering you. “Are you going to tell me what’s wrong, or must I guess?” <<include "WRK6">>

<<if $skate>>\ “Or,” he sighs, messing with your shirt and seems to become lost in his own thoughts, “I’m just truly content with watching my amazing ?wife skate around.” If you thought he was lying, the look in his eyes tells you differently. Though you never question his love for you, this look wasn’t a typical one. Even during his most sincere and emotional moments, his eyes would retain the hardness and an ever-prepared edge. But at rare moments, they grew so soft and adoring that the world around you would freeze and wane over time. This was one of those moments. A moment where your heart sounds as if it’s right in your ear, beating steadily, but each thump is like that of a drum. Pulling on his hand again, you bring him closer, and though you don’t prompt him to, he raises his arm and ushers you into a twirl, laughing as you end up in his arms. The two of you do more shifting than actual skating. Performing careful dance moves to make sure neither of you ends up falling. At times, you even forget you’re on the ice, only being reminded when Ruben twirls you or the gap between you widens, and you must glide back to his side. There is no music, but the two of you move as if there were. And when you stop, the sound of soft applause and light cooing greet you from those who had stopped to watch. The two of you give each other awkward glances that end with both of you chuckling and having enough of the ice; you skate back to the side. <<else>>\ “I have faith in you, $name. Just keep going,” Ruben encourages. It takes many more tries, so many that you’re almost ready to give up, but Ruben’s constant praising and words of reassurance remind you of your goal. Finally, you get the hang of it. Enough to actually widen the length of your glides and still be comfortable. You laugh as you near the end of your first lap. “Ruben!” you shout, and when you glance over at him, he’s standing in the middle, clapping and bringing attention to the two of you. Regardless, you feel victorious, realizing only later that though you learned to glide and fall, you never learned to stop. You find yourself sitting in a pile of snow after tripping off the ice, and when Ruben skates over to you, you snort and shrug. “I did it!” He shakes his head but nods, “yes, you did. That was great for your first time.” “Don’t try and patronize me. That was awful.” “No, it actually wasn’t. The first time I couldn’t complete a lap, Toz only learned how to fall, and Deshir almost fell through the ice because of her temper. So, out of all three of us, you’ve done the best.” <</if>>\ <a data-passage="WRK7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Um, $name, is that your boot?” Glancing in the direction that Ruben points, you watch as Draxmil fiddles with it, attempting to bite and fly away with it but then failing. The amp then uses magic to otherwise aid it in lifting. “Drax, don’t you dare,” you say to the amp who pauses mid-flight. It looks from you to the boot and then flies up higher. “There it goes,” Ruben whistles, and you let out a groan. You rush after the amphiptere with Ruben close behind you, chuckling as he keeps up. “This isn’t funny. My foot is freezing,” you tell him, glancing around for the snake-like creature but failing to find it. Ruben begins to nod but fails a moment later and laughs. With a roll of your eyes, you continue your search for Drax, finally seeing him in the distance. You rush after him, your foot on stable ground, and the next, you find yourself slipping down a slope. Releasing a scream of surprise, you go tumbling down, eyes widening at the trees that rest in your path. Before you can breathe and gather your energy to shift, a giant shadow overtakes you. You’re pulled into its grip and then find yourself lying on a soft belly. “Ruben?” you question as the two of you continue sliding down the long slope. Trees are knocked down as Ruben’s dragon form crashes into them, but they help bring the two of you to a stop. You release a breath you didn’t know that you were holding as Ruben turns back into his biped form with you lying against his stomach. He smirks, “it’s okay, no need to thank me. You’re welcome.” [[Shove snow in his face.->WRK7ShoveSnow]] [[Kiss him.->WRK7KissHim]] [[Ignore him and that smug grin of his.->WRK7IgnoreHim]]

With a blank stare, you move forward as if to kiss him but instead grab a fistful of snow and deposit it onto his face. “Hey!” he shouts, shooting upwards and shaking his head. Thankfully, you’ve already moved off of him, and you’re able to easily avoid another kind of incident. “Well, that was rude.” “So are half the things you say, and yet, I don’t point them all out.” “Yea, you do,” he grumbles, barely avoiding a snowball to the face. Hearing a chirp, you look to the side to see Draxmil sitting a short distance away with your boot. You couldn’t be sure, especially since the amp didn’t really have facial expressions, but it seemed as if it was smirking. <a data-passage="WRDayChoice"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You gaze around, your mind slowly working out everything that has happened and where you currently are. When you glance back down at Ruben, you lean in and kiss the tip of his nose before placing one to his lips. He smiles like a child who has just been praised for doing a good job. “You know, I hit a few trees for you too.” “And?” “And,” he draws the word out, “I just feel like maybe I should get a longer kiss for such grand heroics.” You roll your eyes but fulfill his request, finding that he meets you halfway as your lips connect. Warmth spreads through you regardless of your surroundings as Ruben grips your waist and then flips you over. You now lie on the soft snow as Ruben once again seeks out your lips. There’s no urgency to the kiss. In fact, it’s one of the laziest kisses you can think of. But it is also filled with so much warmth as if every touch and kiss has an entire hearth fueling it. His lips lower to your neck, where he rests a trail of hot kisses but immediately following that sensation is a sharp chill. It was an odd feeling, one that you can’t say you’ve ever felt before. But it also wasn’t bad, and you shiver in pleasure as the feeling of warmth once again replaces it, steady and slow like warming one’s hand by a fire. You wrap your arms around his neck, wanting him closer. But all actions cease when you hear a chirp, and both of you glance to the side to see Draxmil gazing at the two of you with your stolen boot. “Oh fuck off,” Ruben growls, throwing some snow the amp’s way. It hisses and slithers inside the boot but climbs back to the top to gaze at the two of you once again. “I’ve been stymied by a damn amphiptere,” Ruben mumbles. He places one last kiss on your lips before drawing back and helping you to your feet. A chuckle makes it past your lips as you gaze over at Drax. You couldn’t be sure, especially since the amp didn’t really have facial expressions, but it seemed as if it was smirking. <a data-passage="WRDayChoice"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You had no time to deal with him and that shit-eating grin he was currently wearing. Gazing around, you search for Draxmil but find it nowhere. Instead, you see behind you an entire trail of fallen trees. Thankfully these weren’t the larger ones. Otherwise, Ruben would probably have a few bruises that you would need to see to. Hearing a chirp, you look to the side to see Draxmil sitting a short distance away with your boot. You couldn’t be sure, especially since the amp didn’t really have facial expressions, but it seemed as if it was smirking. <a data-passage="WRDayChoice"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<nobr>><<set $future = true>><</nobr>> You straighten your clothing out for what could be the tenth time. There’s a doubt that something will go wrong, but you find it wise to make the best first impression that you possibly can. Not only is this the first time you’re meeting this family, but you’re doing it without Ruben, whose presence was needed elsewhere. The door opens, and your eyes widen just as three small children come shooting forward, laughing as they play what you think is tag. They rush by you, one almost managing to shove you and with no regard or care for your presence. “That was extremely rude, Ishro,” a woman chides. The child that had nearly run into you pauses to glance back at the woman, and she nods to you, “you almost hit ?her.” Ishro raises an eyebrow and suddenly turns to you as if sizing not only you but how much he should care about the near incident. With a snort, he makes up his mind and goes to join the other children. “My deepest apologies, Your Highness,” the woman sighs, performing the standard dragon bow. You mirror her. “He has recently been told that he will inherit the crown and since then, has been unbearable.” “Seems a little young for such weight.” “Just met, and we already agree, I see,” she chuckles. “I am Chieftess Palizra Floe.” “Well met, Your Highness. I am Arch Flame $name $surname.” She tilts her head to the side. The same look that her son held now rested in her eyes. Whereas he shrugged you off, she seems to find you worthy. “I must admit. When I heard our cousin color took a phoenix as his ?wife, we were skeptical at best. A political ploy it had to be. So tell me, $name, what do you get out of this arrangement?” [[“I get Ruben.”->WRF1IGetRuben]] [[“Arrangement?”->WRF1Arrangement]] [[“Ah, the treacherous phoenix strikes again.”->WRF1TreacherousPhoenix]]

“I get Ruben,” you answer confidently and without any hesitation or care for what came before the question. You must thank Fuldreis. She’s made it nearly impossible for anyone else’s insults or probing questions to be seen as tactless. But something tells you that Palizra said such things intentionally. “Anything else?” “Not that I can think of. No.” <<include "WRF2">>

“Arrangement?” you question, “I think whoever your source is has informed you wrong.” “I will have to tell Fuldreis to supply me with better spies then.” You bite your tongue, especially since this was all perhaps a test. “Ruben and I are with each other strictly due to our admiration and love for one another. There is no political ploy.<<if $ruben is "fiery">> Trust me, I wouldn’t be freezing my ass off here otherwise.<</if>>” <<include "WRF2">>

“Ah,” you smirk, sarcasm coating your following words, “the treacherous and deceitful phoenixes find a way to strike again. When will they stop?” She smiles, “do remember that my people do not see you as such. We see you simply as dangerous for your natural flame.” “You don’t seem afraid.” She lifts her hand and catches a few falling snowflakes, “I’m surrounded by snow at the peak of Celesow. Just like how you would be confident surrounded by lava in Smoten, I am confident that no harm will come of me. The good thing about the Rivali Woodlands is that the temperature is good all year around. The north is simply better.” “Is that why Ruben doesn’t visit you?” “Indeed. But you still haven’t answered my question. What is in it for you?” “Nothing,” you answer, a bit sick of everyone always thinking there had to be some underlying reason. <<include "WRF2">>

She smiles, “then consider me jealous, Arch Flame $name. I’ve heard nothing but good things and to know that you are with my cousin simply out of love is most heartwarming. It’s something I wish we all could do.” You narrow your eyes, but after failing to detect even an ounce of malice, you smile. “$name will do just fine.” She nods and motions to the festival that takes place around you. This was the first, and perhaps the only time you will ever be able to see another royal-blood dragon. Whereas Draconis gifted the Draco line with his fire and charcoal-colored arms and blazing veins. Irisinth blessed those of her line with dazzling glitter covering the entire body. It indeed looked like someone had just tossed glistening snow across their bodies. You weren’t sure how old she was, but she looked so youthful as if she could be your age instead of much older, which is probably what she actually was. The youth caused her eyes to hold a sort of wisdom that felt misplaced, like gazing into the eyes of a child but realizing that they knew much more than you ever would. “Do you have questions?” Palizra questions, her cheeks warming to a soft pink as she smiles over at you. It takes you a while to look away. She was captivating in such an odd and unique way. Words couldn’t explain it. [[“You said you were jealous, why?”->WRFQ1]] [[“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”->WRFQ2]] [[“How is life up north?”->WRFQ3]] [[“How much of the cold can you handle?”->WRFQ4]] [[“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”->WRFQ5]] [[“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”->WRFQ6]] [[“Are those all your children?”->WRFQ7]]

“Earlier, you said you were jealous? Why?” “It’s no secret that many of those in our positions still marry simply for political reasons. Ruben went against tradition and what was expected of him when your marriage became far more than politics. Many of us either don’t get that option or simply are too afraid to grasp it.” “And which are you?” She smiles, but it’s strained, “the latter. There’s a certain polar bear out there that still holds my heart, whether he knows it or not.” <<if hasVisited("WRFQ2")>>“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”<<else>>[[“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”->WRFQ2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ3")>>“How is life up north?”<<else>>[[“How is life up north?”->WRFQ3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ4")>>“How much of the cold can you handle?”<<else>>[[“How much of the cold can you handle?”->WRFQ4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ5")>>“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”<<else>>[[“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”->WRFQ5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ6")>>“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”<<else>>[[“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”->WRFQ6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ7")>>“Are those all your children?”<<else>>[[“Are those all your children?”->WRFQ7]]<</if>> [[Continue on.->WRF3]]

“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?” “No, but all the royal houses considered themselves linked to the other. Odd, when that link proved to be the destruction of many. To claim another family but then attack them.” She sighs, and just like Ruben, you can see that the loss of the other families weighing heavy on her shoulders. “We are not cousins, but I do view the Draco line as family. A family that I am not prepared to say goodbye to.” She gives you a warm smile, “but I am all too prepared and excited to see expand.” <<if hasVisited("WRFQ1")>>“You said you were jealous, why?”<<else>>[[“You said you were jealous, why?”->WRFQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ3")>>“How is life up north?”<<else>>[[“How is life up north?”->WRFQ3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ4")>>“How much of the cold can you handle?”<<else>>[[“How much of the cold can you handle?”->WRFQ4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ5")>>“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”<<else>>[[“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”->WRFQ5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ6")>>“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”<<else>>[[“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”->WRFQ6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ7")>>“Are those all your children?”<<else>>[[“Are those all your children?”->WRFQ7]]<</if>> [[Continue on.->WRF3]]

“How is life up north?” “Contemplating a visit?” “If it’s any colder than here, then I don’t think it’s up for debate.” The two of you chuckle, and Palizra hums in thought. “Then it will be far better that you don’t. What you’re feeling now is our Smoten. But life is nice. As frost dragons, we are as energized by the cold and snow as you are by fire and warmth. We survive mainly on the seals and fish since any other prey is rare. It’s quiet. Not the place for someone who wants something exciting. But I admire that, especially after all that has happened in the Woodlands.” <<if hasVisited("WRFQ1")>>“You said you were jealous, why?”<<else>>[[“You said you were jealous, why?”->WRFQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ2")>>“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”<<else>>[[“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”->WRFQ2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ4")>>“How much of the cold can you handle?”<<else>>[[“How much of the cold can you handle?”->WRFQ4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ5")>>“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”<<else>>[[“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”->WRFQ5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ6")>>“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”<<else>>[[“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”->WRFQ6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ7")>>“Are those all your children?”<<else>>[[“Are those all your children?”->WRFQ7]]<</if>> [[Continue on.->WRF3]]

“How much of the cold can you handle before it becomes too much?” “It is the same as Ruben,” she informs, “but of course dealing with the cold. Just as he can handle extreme temperatures but will burn in the face of the mightiest of flames, so will we. We can handle temperatures that most beings will find themselves dying to, but we have our limits. Our homes still hold fireplaces during the nights of Celesow that challenge even creatures of the ice.” “Is there any creature like the phoenix but represents ice?” “They’re not Phaizarn, but there are ice spirits and Frost Rekilese that one may find up there.” “Rekilese?” “Sentient creatures made of stone. They are immortal from what I gathered and like to keep to themselves. We don’t bother them, and they don’t bother us. I can’t tell you more.” <<if hasVisited("WRFQ1")>>“You said you were jealous, why?”<<else>>[[“You said you were jealous, why?”->WRFQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ2")>>“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”<<else>>[[“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”->WRFQ2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ3")>>“How is life up north?”<<else>>[[“How is life up north?”->WRFQ3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ5")>>“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”<<else>>[[“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”->WRFQ5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ6")>>“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”<<else>>[[“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”->WRFQ6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ7")>>“Are those all your children?”<<else>>[[“Are those all your children?”->WRFQ7]]<</if>> [[Continue on.->WRF3]]

“Why did you leave the Woodlands?” “Survival,” she answers plainly. “The elk population was depleting, and it was well understood that it would not last with such a high concentration of alpha predators all congregated in one area. Tensions were also growing between dragons, and the last thing I wished was to be known as to why the Draco line went extinct or the Floe that killed off her line. Ruben’s father, Ranorik, agreed with me when I posed the solution to him and all white dragons departed with a few of the other colors as well.” She turns to me with a severe frown, “it was not an easy choice. Even harder was the decision to stay where we were when word of Draco’s destruction reached us. But it also cemented my decision. The Chunae were dangerous but would never travel so far up north. At the end of the day, I had to look out for my own.” Whether you fault her for that decision or not was something you would keep to yourself. Perhaps the frost dragons could have helped shift the war, or perhaps not, and they could have been wiped out just as fast as all the others. <<if hasVisited("WRFQ1")>>“You said you were jealous, why?”<<else>>[[“You said you were jealous, why?”->WRFQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ2")>>“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”<<else>>[[“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”->WRFQ2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ3")>>“How is life up north?”<<else>>[[“How is life up north?”->WRFQ3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ4")>>“How much of the cold can you handle?”<<else>>[[“How much of the cold can you handle?”->WRFQ4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ6")>>“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”<<else>>[[“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”->WRFQ6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ7")>>“Are those all your children?”<<else>>[[“Are those all your children?”->WRFQ7]]<</if>> [[Continue on.->WRF3]]

“Do you have any fond or embarrassing moments of Ruben?” She laughs, such a free-spirited sound that soothes your inner fire and almost feels like it was putting the flame to rest. “Looking to blackmail him?” “Of course not,” you grin. She begins to think, and the more she does, the sadder her expression grows. “Honestly, no. Ruben was so young when I was around, and though he was spirited, he kept to himself. He kept close to his mother, and I would joke with her that she always had a shadow. He liked to observe. And one could easily tell that he liked his station. He liked his life. To see him now, I am overjoyed and proud, but I can’t help but remember that little boy and how much things have changed for him.” She offers you an apologetic smile, “you wished for something funny, and I’ve given you sorrow.” “No, it’s fine,” you insist, “I don’t speak to Fuldreis, and Frur is still trying to figure me out, so there’s no one but Tozraz and Deshir to speak to about Ruben as a child.” She nods in understanding. <<if hasVisited("WRFQ1")>>“You said you were jealous, why?”<<else>>[[“You said you were jealous, why?”->WRFQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ2")>>“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”<<else>>[[“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”->WRFQ2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ3")>>“How is life up north?”<<else>>[[“How is life up north?”->WRFQ3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ4")>>“How much of the cold can you handle?”<<else>>[[“How much of the cold can you handle?”->WRFQ4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ5")>>“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”<<else>>[[“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”->WRFQ5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ7")>>“Are those all your children?”<<else>>[[“Are those all your children?”->WRFQ7]]<</if>> [[Continue on.->WRF3]]

“The children that passed me before. Are they all yours?” “Yes. Those three plus two more that are nowhere to be seen.” “No spouse?” “No spouse. The three youngest are triplets, rare but not unheard of. They share the same father, obviously. The two oldest have different fathers.” “Two oldest? But the boy is getting the crown?” “They both abdicated. One wishes to explore the world, and the other just couldn’t bear the weight of the crown. A shame as well. I was hoping they would as they would make such an amazing leader.” <<if hasVisited("WRFQ1")>>“You said you were jealous, why?”<<else>>[[“You said you were jealous, why?”->WRFQ1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ2")>>“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”<<else>>[[“Are you and Ruben truly cousins?”->WRFQ2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ3")>>“How is life up north?”<<else>>[[“How is life up north?”->WRFQ3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ4")>>“How much of the cold can you handle?”<<else>>[[“How much of the cold can you handle?”->WRFQ4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ5")>>“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”<<else>>[[“Why did you leave the Woodlands?”->WRFQ5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("WRFQ6")>>“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”<<else>>[[“Any fond or embarrassing moments with Ruben?”->WRFQ6]]<</if>> [[Continue on.->WRF3]]

You stop just at the edge of where multiple festivities take place. Those walking about pause as they look on in excitement. You could understand them; it wasn’t every day that the Floe royal line was in attendance and many people probably wished to get to know her. “How long will you be here?” you inquire. “For the rest of the solstice festival,” she nods to you, “I look forward to speaking with you again $name.” She turns to the populace and makes her way deeper within, speaking to those hovering. You take note of this action. No one seemed put off or distant, scared to approach what was royalty in their eyes. It was similar to Ruben; everyone had an air of familiarity with him, no one was afraid to approach. The same could not be said for House Phoenix, a level of respect and understanding between the different classes was always kept. With that conversation now over, you search for a familiar face and end up coming across three of them. “Stop!” Toz shouts tiredly, resituating his youngest sister in his hands, “I said stop, damnit.” “You look like you’re having so much fun,” you laugh, the three children freezing to look at you. [[And they run up to you excitedly.->WRF3KidsPos]] [[And then they go back to messing with Toz.->WRF3KidsNeg]] [[They greet you but don’t do much else.->WRF3KidsNeut]]

As soon as you make your presence known, the three children rush to you, each trying to earn your attention first. “Hey, you guys,” you laugh as they throw their arms around you, Toz letting out a thankful breath. “$name! $name! Look at my loose tooth,” Threz shouts, smiling and pointing to it, “kii says that it’s the last one, and a fang will take its place.” “She’s lying,” Toz sings. “He’s just mad that I’m going to be a more ferocious dragon than he is,” the boy smiles and then points to you, “and then I’ll show you that I’m better than Ruben.” You simply chuckle before glancing over at the two girls that practically look like twins. “Tylla and Tyrisin, you two are quiet. What are you up to?” They look at one another and then motion for you to lean in; you do. “We’re planning to bug Toz all day and then give him a big surprise so he'll never expect it.” “Will he like it?” They both nod while Threz attempts to hide his smile and be stoic. “Well, good luck.” They thank you before darting back to Toz, who seems utterly terrified of the incoming children. <a data-passage="WRF4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

They glance at you for a minute before going right back to messing with Toz. The four of you knew of one another but that was where the acquaintanceship ended. To you, they were Toz’s little siblings. And to them, you were simply Arch Flame $name. <<include "WRF4">>

They each wave and give you a toothy, familiar grin before placing their attention right back on their oldest brother. <<include "WRF4">>

“I’ve just somehow been stuck babysitting these punks,” he growls, pushing <<if hasVisited ("And they run up to you excitedly.")>>Threz away.<<else>>the boy, Threz, away.<</if>> “It’s our day. We’re babysitting you,” Tyrisin<<if hasVisited ("And they run up to you excitedly.")>>.<<else>>, one of his youngest sisters, corrects.<</if>> He opens his mouth but then closes it, simply choosing to murmur, “I’m the best friend of two royals, and this is what I get.” “Hey!” you shout, “I heard that.” “Am I lying?” [[“You’re not my best friend.”->WRF4BestFriend]] [[“I didn’t put you on babysitting duty.”->WRF4Babysitting]] [[“This is a noble undertaking.”->WRF4NobleUndertaking]]

“Yes,” you snort, “you’re not my best friend.” His siblings ‘ooo’ as he rests his free hand over his heart, heartbreak in his actions. “Then who? Because if you say Deshir or Mauve, then I’m rebelling. And I’m calling foul because then I know for sure that you told either of them things that you didn’t tell me.” <<if $leif>>\ “It’s Leif.” “You’re a rotten liar, you know that?” he laughs. <<else>>\ “I don’t have to tell you.” “That’s because it’s me. It’s okay. I’d feel bashful too. You stand in the presence of greatness.” One of the siblings makes a farting noise, causing him to frown while the others laugh. <</if>>\ <<include "WRF5">>

“Whoa, I didn’t put you on babysitting duty, so don’t add me to that equation.” “You’re right. I’m going to murder your husband.” “Ooo,” Tylla sings, “I’m telling Uncle Ruben!” “Go tell him then,” Toz growls, “say your goodbyes while you’re over there.” <<include "WRF5">>

“What are you talking about? This is a noble undertaking. It’s their day today, Toz.” “Don’t remind them,” he mumbles as they dance around him, singing about how they were the stars and he was simply a servant. You try to keep the smile to yourself, but the more they taunt him, the wider it grows. <<include "WRF5">>

“Alright, give your brother a break,” an older woman with soft and kind black eyes says. If Toz was to stand beside her right now, it would be clear who she was. Only Toz’s more profound jawline separated mother and son in appearance. The sentence sends the kids running away, and Toz throws himself into her arms. “Thank you so much, kii. I love you so much.” “Get off me, boy,” she smirks. He straightens and jabs his finger in her direction with a dramatic sigh, “I’m not loved by anyone.” She ignores him and bows to you along with the woman that had walked over. You assume that this is one of Palizra’s older children as it is clear that she is of the Floe bloodline. “Chieftain $name,” Toz’s mother, Erseire greets, “it is a great pleasure to see you again. May I introduce her royal highness, “Nymaz.” “I’ve heard so much. It is nice to finally put a face to the legend.” You nod, “are you enjoying the festival?” “It is lovely,” she admits, “I’ve always been a fan of children, so it’s nice to know that the tradition of honoring them on this day is still in full swing.” <a data-passage="WRF6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Speaking of children,” Erseire snickers. “Kii, don’t,” Toz warns, but she continues on. “$name, when should we be expecting an heir to grace our presence?” You clear your throat, and all but Toz chuckle at your reaction. “I am interested in the answer as well,” Nymaz nods, “not only is this a continuation of the Draco line but also now the $surname. This will not only be the first chimera heir in history but also the first to possibly combine two houses.” You gulp; that was a lot of pressure to put on a child that hadn’t even come into existence yet. You look to Toz for help, but he offers you nothing but a blank stare in return. This was perhaps payback for not saving him from his siblings. “Be honest,” Erseire asks, “do you even want children?” [[“Heck no.”->WRF6HeckNo]] [[“Yes, but later. Much later …”->WRF6Later]] [[“I do.”->WRF6IDo]]

“Heck no. Children are the last thing on my mind. I’m not ready for them or the ‘talk’ that so many people seem to want me to have.” “You might wish to prepare,” Erseire warns. “Either that or just get over the expectation that you saying ‘no more’ or ‘stop’ will do something. It will never end until an heir is announced.” <<include "WRF7">>

“Yes, but later.” You motion with your hands, “much, much later.” “You will be lucky if you get through the rest of this month without being asked the question five more times,” Nymaz snorts, “before I abdicated, I was questioned relentlessly, and I was barely of age.” “You’re also a woman,” Toz’s mother seeks to remind, “they have greater pressure on you than the boys.” “Do not remind me,” she grumbles. <<include "WRF7">>

“I do, truly. But I would rather do without the pressure.” “That will never disappear,” Nymaz tells you. “You have pressure from both your house plus Ruben’s. It has been two years; pressure will only mount.” “<<if $ruben is "fiery">>And rebelling will do you no good,”<<else>>And no excuses will make it go away. It is not easy to pacify those who are expecting an heir,”<</if>> Toz’s mother warns, easily taking your thoughts and breathing life to them. <<include "WRF7">>

“I’m picturing a little Ruben or $name running around, and I personally think you two can wait a couple more years,” Toz chuckles, suddenly bracing, and what follows is that of a snowball hitting the back of his head. “Kii, I will kill your children.” He turns and heads towards his siblings, who squeal at the sight before laughing and darting off. “They will kill him first,” she sighs, her attention focused back on you. “We won’t take up any more of your time, Your Highness. Please enjoy the festivities.” Both of them nod and, with their farewells spoken, walk off. You do the same, hoping to run into Ruben. <a data-passage="WRF8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

It takes a few minutes, but you finally find him surrounded by children. Silently and at a distance, you watch as they cling to him, each vying for his attention with broad smiles and antsy actions. He does all he can to listen and pay each of them the attention they need, but even he couldn’t do that. Yet, the children don't seem to mind. Joy and excitement reside in their eyes, and even without knowing any context, you can feel the love they each have for their Chieftain. It was practically impossible not to think about the previous conversation and consider what kind of parent you would even be. [[An understanding one.->WRF8UnderstandingOne]] [[Probably strict and hovering.->WRF8Strict]] [[The fun one.->WRF8Fun]] [[You’ll wing it.->WRF8WingIt]] [[You’re not going to be a parent.->WRF8NoParent]]

An understanding one. It was a simple trait and one that you would hope all parent’s possessed, but you also believe that it was one of the most important things. To constantly support and understand your child and their wants. <<include "WRF9">>

You weren’t sure if any parent wanted to be known as that, but you couldn’t deny that you could see yourself taking on such a role. You didn’t want to be overbearing, but it was easy to imagine being constantly worried and far more on the strict side. Perhaps that was due to how you believe Ruben would fare as a father. <<include "WRF9">>

You were hoping to be the type of parent that your child wished to hang out with at all times. The one they called on because they knew what to expect with you, and that was a bunch of laughs and smiles. <<include "WRF9">>

You had no idea how to be a good parent but had a feeling it was just trying your hardest at every possible moment. And if not, then you’ll one day figure that much out. <<include "WRF9">>

This was a pointless thought because you would never be a parent. You weren’t ready nor willing, and you were unable to picture that changing anytime soon. <<include "WRF9">>

A whistle blows nearby, and Ruben shoos the kids congregated around him forward. “Go, or none of you will be able to find one of the golden eggs. Go!” They all dart away, screaming about how they would be one of the winners, and you finally approach. “It looked like you had your hands full.” “And you watched from a safe distance?” he questions with a raised brow. “I didn’t want to interrupt. What are you doing?” “I’m one of the watchers for the scavenger hunt that the kids are doing. Tashijir too, but I don’t know where she went.” That was Toz’s oldest sister, that much you remember, well that and that she never typically around due to her spy missions. “A few of the teachers put a bunch of clues everywhere for them to figure out, and I’m just supposed to watch and make sure no one gets lost or hurt.” He offers his arm, “want to join me?” [[“I guess I can spare the time.”->WRF9SpareTime]] [[“To avoid Toz, yes.”->WRF9AvoidToz]] [[“Of course.”->WRF9OfCourse]]

Sighing dramatically, you reach out and grab his arm, “I guess I can spare the time.” He hums, “I do like it when my ?wife finds the time to hang out with me.” “You really like calling me that, don’t you?” “I love it, and it will never get old. The only thing I love calling you more is kěamo.” He presses a kiss to your temple before heading in the direction the kids ran off to. <<include "WRF10">>

“To avoid Toz and his murderous siblings, yes.” “Murderous?” Ruben questions with a knowing smile, “they never tried to murder me.” “Have you ever had a child dislike you?” “As far as I know, no. And I’m very proud of that.” The two of you smile as you move to follow the kids. <<include "WRF10">>

“Of course. Let’s go before they get too far away.” You lead the way, and Ruben eagerly follows behind you. <<include "WRF10">>

It takes hardly any time for you to learn the different groups of children, splitting them into three solid groups. There were the kids who actually wanted to win and were competitive enough to make such a hope become a reality. They take the challenge seriously, and every few minutes, you can hear one of them scream that they were able to get their hands on an egg. The second group was the playful ones. Their attention would sporadically shift from the hunt to playing games with one another in a matter of minutes. They were the ones you had to keep the closest eye on due to how far they would travel away from the main group. The third were those who simply didn’t care. They did what they had to because it was expected of them, but there was no excitement in their actions. They usually hung out around you and Ruben or one of the other watchers. It was evident that they believed you all were more interesting than the actual game and its rewards. <a data-passage="WRF11"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“My turn! My turn!” Pulling yourself out of your thoughts, you glance over to see a small girl in front of Ruben, jumping excitedly and asking to be picked up. He obeys and throws her into the air catching her with ease and tickling her. She wraps her arms around his neck and smooshes her cheek to his, pointing at his arms and saying something you can’t quite make out. You watch him with interest, trying to figure out your feelings and thoughts on how easy this all came to him. “Now go get an egg,” he laughs after answering her previous question. He puts her down and then nudges her forward encouragingly before straightening up. He notices your stare and freezes. “What?” “You’re so good with them.” “Come on, $name. We both know how I am with kids.” “And you want a family?” He frowns, “don’t you?” [[“Of course.”->WRF11OfCourse]] [[“Maybe, I’m not sure.”->WRF11NotSure]] [[“No. Not at all.”->WRF11No]]

“Of course,” you shake your head, “I realized that I said my words as if it was a question and not a statement.” He stops and turns to you, glancing over at the kids but then focusing on you, “are you sure?” “Ruben, yes. I’ve always wanted a family, and knowing that I’ll be able to have one with you makes it even more worthwhile.” You see him twitch before pulling back, smirking, and chuckling softly. “Don’t say stuff like that when we’re out here surrounded by children.” “Thinking naughty thoughts?” “I’m thinking we can get started on that family right now if you keep talking.” You chuckle and grab onto his arm, kissing his cheek and taking in his warmth. “We can talk about it later.” “Talk, ?she says,” Ruben chuckles, “I don’t think we’ll be doing much of that.” But the two of you move forward once again to keep an eye on the children. <a data-passage="WRF12"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Perhaps, I’m not exactly sure.” You say the words with a tinge of fear, not knowing how Ruben would take them. You knew how much he loved children and the idea of having a family. But you also didn’t wish to lie, not about something like this. He’s quiet for a while, his attention on the children before glancing at you. “What makes you unsure?” “It’s not you,” you immediately tell him and see some of the tension in his shoulders relax, “it’s the idea, I guess. I like it, and I think I do want children, but it scares me at the same time. I’m terrified of the idea and -” Ruben’s laughter causes you to stop, and you gaze over at the large man to see that his body has become overcome by the sound. It takes a while for him to finally stop, and he rubs at his eye as he gazes at you with a raised brow. “Do you think I’m not?” “But,” you gaze over towards the kids, but Ruben’s soft hand on your chin guides your attention back to him. “$name, my behavior towards kids I may never see again has little to do with how I will perform as a father. I adore them and the idea of a family, but if you don’t think I’m just as terrified, then you’re wrong.” He lovingly, though roughly, nudges your forehead, “but I have the strongest person I know by my side, so I’m ready to see.” <<if $ruben is "fiery">>“Don’t nudge me like that again,” you murmur, slapping his arm and smiling as he laughs.<<else>>“Ow,” you murmur, smiling when he places a kiss on the area he had nudged.<</if>> Side by side, the two of you focus your attention back on the kids, moving forward as they continue their search. <a data-passage="WRF12"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“No,” you tell him, sighing due to knowing how much that would probably affect him, “not right now at least.” And sure enough, you see a glimmer of pain and sadness within his eyes. He glances away, attempting to make it seem as if he wasn’t bothered by your words. “I guess that’ll be something we’ll have to have a serious conversation about.” “How will that work out? Is it even possible to compromise on something like this?” He waves your question away with clear irritation, “I don’t want to think about it right now, $name. You reach out and stop him, glancing over at the kids quickly to make sure they were still close enough. “Don’t do that, please,” you tell him, touching his cheek. “This is weird for me. My thoughts on parenting and kids is just -” He places a kiss to your forehead and squeezes your hand, “which is why I said later, $name. No one’s asking for you to make up your mind and turn your thoughts around right now. Nor am I saying that you not wanting children isn’t going to affect the two of us. But later.” He kisses you one last time and walks off and though you don’t follow immediately, your legs begin to go after him eventually. This would definitely be something the two of you discussed later but your brain was content with doing it now. Would you ever get over this? You knew it wasn’t weird. You met enough people to know that not all of them wanted a family and children, Toz was a good example of one of them. But you never truly contemplated what that would mean for you and Ruben. Compromise could only come in the form of Ruben having children with someone else but how would you feel about such a thing? How would you feel about the children? Even if you agreed on that, accepting them would still be another obstacle and one that there was no compromise for. You shake the thought from your mind. Like Ruben said, later. Right now, it wasn’t the most pressing thing and who knows, maybe your thoughts would indeed change with time. <a data-passage="WRDayChoice"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You do a decent job multi-tasking, but it’s a good thing that Ruben is there to be your eyes for the children as your mind flees to the future. You had no idea what they would look like. <<if $eyes is "red">>Would they all hold the crimson eyes that both you and Ruben possess? Or would your ancestor’s genes sneak in and shift them?<<else>>Would they take your eyes or Ruben’s slitted crimson ones?<</if>> <<if $hair is "red">>Would they possess red hair like both you and Ruben did?<<else>>Would they possess $hair hair like you?<<if $length is not "bald">> Remembered only due to your eyebrows?<</if>> Or would Ruben’s hair color be the victor?<</if>> There were so many possibilities, not just with their biped appearance but also their animalistic form. So many that you could feel a potential headache setting in if you continued to attempt to picture them all. You gaze over at Ruben, whose broad smile seemed to take over most of his face. There was a lot you didn’t know and even more that you feared with the idea of becoming a parent. But at least you were confident that the man beside you would be there for you and the child every step of the way. <a data-passage="WRDayChoice"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<nobr>><<set $flame = true>><</nobr>> You weave through the crowd, stopping every now and then to make sure you hadn’t missed Ruben by accident. It has just dawned on you that there were a large number of people with red hair, a trait you hadn’t noticed up until now. One would think finding Ruben in a crowd would be easy. There weren’t many who could claim to be a large, towering man with red hair and black arms with orange veins shooting through them, until today. Almost half of those walking past had such arms, paint to celebrate not only Draconis but the Draco line. Ruben has been missing since you awoke, and you haven’t found any kind of note left behind detailing where he would be. You were beginning to become desperate. Desperate enough to ask Fuldreis where he was. The thought causes you to pause for a moment and shiver. You are about to continue on when the words of a storyteller make their way to your ears. “And thus the Draco line became the fifth line that was wiped out, leaving us with only one royal family left.” Your brows furrow, and you scrunch your nose in disgust. <<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ “Don’t say anything,” Toz chuckles as he approaches, glancing towards the man with a tired look in his eye. “I wasn’t … I mean … Did something happen while I was asleep? Did Ruben die?” Toz raises a brow, “no.” “Then why is he acting as if there isn’t one more member of the Draco line still alive.” <<else>>\ “Such great storytelling, right?” Toz chuckles as he approaches, glancing at the man with a tired look in his eye. “Why is he speaking as if the entire Draco line is dead?” <</if>>\ <a data-passage="WF1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“He’s not wrong, but he’s not right,” Toz turns to you, nodding to the side before walking away, and you follow. “Ruben is the last, but everyone already knows that he’s not going to lay with a crimson dragon and produce an heir.” “I’m right here, Toz.” “Let me finish,” he sighs. “Yes, the two of you can produce an heir, but they would be a chimera. And yes, people should get over it, and people will, but you can’t say that’s the same as having a full-blood crimson dragon still leading. Phaizarn dragons have been in decline for a while. Our historians think half of us won’t be around to see the next century. On top of that, House Dragon is about to disband. House Stag might’ve been the first to be wiped out, but Dragon is going to have to bear the weight of saying it was the first to split, and you and I both know how prideful a dragon is. A lot are terrified of change, and you’re the embodiment of it.” “I still can’t believe everything comes down to this royal bloodline for you all.” “Well, yea, because a phoenix is a phoenix. Your house can easily just use one of your cousins as the next heir if they wanted to, and no one will blink. Our monarchy just isn’t the same. Our royal dragons were blessed with divine blood.” [[“You sound a bit prideful yourself, Toz.”->WF1Pride]] [[“I still don’t get it.”->WF1DontGet]] [[“I understand. It’s fine.”->WF1Understand]]

“You sound almost prideful, Toz.” He shrugs and nods, “not to the point that I don’t appreciate you, but enough to understand where others are coming from. I grew up only hearing stories about the Corro line, and only a few drawings and paintings were around to remind anyone of what they looked like. We only have two of these families left. I don’t like the idea of my children and their children only being able to see paintings and drawings.” <<include "WF2">>

“I still don’t get it. I hear you, and I understand, but I don’t agree, nor do I understand why people can’t just accept this and move on.” “Well, we can say the same about your house if we want. Different cultures, $name. And I, for one, would never change what happened. The only thing that could improve this situation is if Ruben’s brother was still alive, then that pressure wouldn’t be on his shoulders. But this is what we’re dealt with, and I’m okay with that.” <<include "WF2">>

“I understand, Toz. I might not like it, but I do understand.” “Good, I didn’t want this to become some kind of negative thing between us. Trust me, a lot of us are interested to see what happens. You’re a phoenix. You might just make the line unstoppable.” <<include "WF2">>

You sigh, glancing around, “do you know where Ruben is?” “You know.” He gives you a telling glance before walking off. There was only one place you could think of, so if Ruben was indeed there, then finding him would be easier than you initially believed. Shifting into your phoenix form, you take to the sky and fly towards the place where Ruben always retreated. And sure enough, you find him. He sits on the edge of a sheer cliff that overlooks multiple waterfalls rushing down into an enclosed lake. You swoop in and transform, slowing down your accelerated pace right as you get to Ruben. <a data-passage="WF3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“You should be back at the festival,” he tells you, “at least one royal needs to be seen.” “Fuldreis is royal enough for both of us,” you chuckle, taking a seat beside him and glancing over. There’s no joy in his eyes as he stares off into the distance, his posture slumped forward and closed off. “What can I do?” “Go back. Unless you mean to bring back some strong mead. Otherwise, just go back.” “Ruben.” You move to touch him, and he hisses, the sound catching in his throat as he looks away. [[“We’ve talked about this.”->WF3TalkedAboutThis]] [[“Do you really want mead?”->WF3Mead]] [[Hug him.->WF3Hug]]

“Come on, Ruben. We’ve talked about this.” “You’re right,” he sighs after a few minutes of silence, nodding his head but still refusing to look at you. <<include "WF4">>

“Do you really want me to go get you some mead?” He glances over at you, brow raised, before sighing, “don’t tempt me. I start drinking now, and I’m not going to want to stop.” <<include "WF4">>

You say nothing. Only moving in to wrap your arms around him and rest your head on his shoulder. He allows it, and before long, he’s wrapping his arms around you and holding you close. Finally releasing you and taking a deep breath in. <<include "WF4">>

“I hate this day. I’ve always hated it.” “Is it the whole ‘your line is dead’ mindset that everyone seems to preach today?” “No. It’s just that everyone mourns them on this day, but I do it every fucking day. At the end of the day, they walk away from this and get ready for another day. I end this day never being able to put ghosts to rest. Having to realize that I get to add another damn tick to all of the days I’ve had to live without them.” He sighs and lays back so that he is now lying down, gazing up at the sky with a blank look. “My d’uun can at least make it seem like she’s not hurting. I always kind of envied that about her. Sometimes I forget that while I’m mourning parents and siblings, she’s mourning the death of her own child and grandchildren. At the end of the day, I’m not only the last dragon of Draconis blood, but also the last family she has ...” He grows quiet, and you begin to feel idle, forced to watch as he goes through this alone. Sitting here in silence wouldn’t be helpful for either of you, and as you rack your brain for solutions, you can only think of one. [[Go hunting.->WFHunt]] [[Cook something together.->WFCook]]

“Let’s hunt,” you announce, getting to your feet. Ruben raises a brow as he gazes over at you. “Hunt? What brought this on?” “We still have to hunt for the feast, do we not?” “No, that is taken care of.” “So, it would be pointless?” “No,” he shrugs, glancing away, “could always give the meat to families who need it.” “Perfect, so come on.” He squints as he gazes out into the distance, “you still didn’t answer where this came from.” “Stop questioning and just do me a favor and agree.” He opens his mouth but then closes it, rolling his eyes as he slowly gets to his feet. He motions for you to lead the way, and with a nod, the two of you shift and head back to the capital. You manage to get in and get out without being detected by anyone. With bows strapped to your back, you head out into the forest. <a data-passage="WFH1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“You remember what I taught you?” Ruben asks, and you hum a reply as you step precisely where he does and attempt to remember all the little tricks he’s taught you about stealth. Frankly, it was a lot. You had to step a certain way, listen to every sound and figure out its origins, be aware of anything that moves, and keep track of the wind. You found it much simpler to just switch into your phoenix form and swoop in and secure whatever you were after. But this wasn’t for you. It was for Ruben. And you knew he enjoyed the patience and focus of the hunt. It doesn’t take long for you to come across a lone elk, pawing at the snow in search of the patches of grass that could sometimes be found underneath. [[“What gender is it?”->WFH1Gender]] [[Admire it.->WFH1Admire]] [[“You or me?”->WFH1YouMe]]

“I can’t tell from here. What gender is it?” you inquire. These types of elks all had racks, their gender not specifying the size. There were other ways to tell, but you couldn’t remember what those ways were. “It’s a buck. A lone one at that. I can’t smell or pick up any others nearby.” “Lost its herd or just never had one?” you question further, and he turns to look at you. “Do I look to be an elk whisperer? Do you wish for me to tell you what type of grass he likes and his favorite sun spot next?” “Ha!” you shout in a cheerful yet sarcastic tone, “you’re so funny.” Forgetting that the two of you were hunting, you wince as the elk looks your way and then sprints off into the distance. <<if $ruben is "mindful">>\“Oh … sorry.”<</if>>\ “Great job,” Ruben huffs, <<if $height is "average">>leaning onto you lazily<<elseif $height is "tall" or $height is "very tall">>propping his arm up on your shoulder<<else>>resting his arm on the top of your head<</if>>, “you scared the poor thing.” <<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ “Next time, don’t be an ass and just tell me you don’t know.” “I will definitely do it again,” he chuckles, walking past you and in the direction that the buck ran off. <<else>>\ “I already said I’m sorry.” He hums, walking past you and in the direction that the buck ran off. <</if>>\ <<include "WFH2">>

You knew what you were here to do, but you see no reason why you can’t admire the great beast first. The winter elk were always a beautiful sight, and fascinating enough, you had learned they were vital to House Dragon. These were the same elk that Ruben’s people relied on so much. And the same elk that were being hunted for sport by the Chunae, causing the rift between the two groups to widen. With a bit of phoenix guidance, House Dragon learned how to conserve and protect the population and then keep it stable. The elk was entirely white but would darken once the warmer climate moved in. At the moment, the only signs of its darker coat rested on its dappled face, hindquarters, and on this particular elk, one of its legs. Its rack was still growing, a clear sign that it was on the younger side. Ruben clears his throat impatiently, “are you going to take a shot, or do you wish to only admire?” “You could have taken a shot as well, you know.” Ruben doesn’t answer, and you soon see why as the elk moves on. It isn’t yet aware of your presence, but it has failed to find any food, and so it continues its search, which means you would continue the hunt. <<include "WFH2">>

“Do you want to take this one, or should I?” Ruben is silent before humming and nodding to you, “let’s see what you got.” Rolling your eyes, you nock an arrow and line up the shot. Deep breath in, but then your arms begin to shake at the last minute, and the shot goes haywire. It lands with a plop far off but close enough to spook the elk and cause it to dart further into the woods. <<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ You pout, making sure to avoid the gaze you felt on your back before finally shrugging. “It’s been a while. I need to get warmed up.” Ruben lets out a soft snort and places a kiss on the top of your head, “of course you do. Come, let’s catch up with it.” <<else>>\ You sigh and turn to Ruben, who you find is already looking at you with an amused glint in his eye. “Sorry.” “Why are you apologizing?” he questions, but it almost sounds like he poses it in the form of a statement. He kisses the top of your head before nodding in the direction it sprinted off to. “Let’s catch up with it.” <</if>>\ <<include "WFH2">>

The two of you continue on until finding it for a second time. It stands beside a small stream, glancing around for a few minutes before finally bowing its head to drink. [[Let Ruben take the shot.->WFH2RubenShot]] [[Ask Ruben for help.->WFH2PhoenixShot]]

“Alright, oh glorious hunter,” you proclaim sarcastically, motioning to the buck, “go for it.” Ruben glances at you with a raised brow before setting his sights on the elk. You watch him prepare the arrow, admiring his taut muscles and how the veins at the tip of his arms and hands seem to come alive. The utter focus in his eyes as he eyes down the creature. But then you see a hint of sadness and doubt. Before you can question it, he releases the arrow, and you watch as it lands firmly in a pile of snow beside the elk. Perhaps someone who didn’t know Ruben would have thought such a miss was genuine. But you had gone hunting with him before. He’s the one who taught you how to hunt. He didn’t miss shots, not unless he meant to. He lowers his bow, and you both watch as the creature darts farther upstream and disappears from view. “Ruben?” “Mind retrieving the arrow?” he asks, far too quickly to have even heard you say his name. He scratches his brow and glares at a lump of snow in front of you. You don’t immediately act upon his request, far too busy trying to learn what he was thinking without asking directly. Finally, you nod and head out, your pace fast as you wish to hurry and get back to him. But on the way, your foot slides against an unseen rock. You let out a shocked gasp and shriek and you find yourself lying on your back, gazing up at a clear and cloudless sky. <a data-passage="WFH3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You turn your gaze to Ruben, and once he looks at you, you nod at the bow in your hands, “can you help me this time?” <<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ He breathes in, holding up a finger, “sorry. I just want to fully capture this moment. The moment you ask for my help.” “I’ll do it myself,” you grumble, but before you can even lift the bow, Ruben is behind you, his breath ghosting across your ears. He whispers as his hand travels across your arms, “I got you.” <<else>>\ “Scared you’ll miss, and I’ll tease you relentlessly?” “Let’s call it a tactical strike.” “You know,” he starts, coming up behind you and resting his hands on your shoulder, “that typically means the other side doesn’t know what you’re planning.” His hands slowly travel down to your elbows and then out to your hands. “I never was the best strategist,” you chuckle as he grabs your wrists. “Good thing you got me.” <</if>>\ Ruben presses up against you as he grabs your wrists and guides them and then your elbows so that you’re holding the bow correctly. He’s silent as he moves and fixes your stance, smirking when he’s in front of you. “What are you smirking about?” <<if $ns>>\ “Nothing,” he chuckles softly, shooting you a childish look that finds you grinning, “I’m just remembering how shitty your stance always was.” Your smile vanishes. You elbow him in his gut, and with a grunt, he lets out another snicker. “I’m serious. It takes me back to those days where I was rescuing what I thought was a phoenix in distress.” “And now?” “Now?” he questions, placing his forehead against yours and exhaling slowly, “now I realized that you were rescuing me.” <<else>>\ “I’m just trying hard not to imagine me pinning you up against that tree over there,” he walks back to his original spot behind you and rests his hands on your waist, “having my way with you.” “$r_nn, if I didn’t know any better, I’d say we were hunting two different things.” “And we both know you know me better than anyone, and so you’d be exactly right.” He buries his nose into your neck, and his hands abandon their placement to travel the rest of your body. “I can’t focus,” you mumble, falling prey to his touch. “Neither can I,” he mutters, moving back so that he could nip at your skin before placing a lengthy kiss. Your breath hitches, and you feel the need to turn around in his grasp. To walk him over to the tree in question and let him do whatever his mind could think of. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="WFH2_PS1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

He gently grabs hold of your chin and moves it so that you are now looking at the elk. “Focus,” he sneers. You open your mouth to complain but let it go. “Deep breath in,” he continues to direct, “draw back and on exhale, release.” You follow his orders and watch as the arrow flies through the air with a soft whistle before planting itself into the neck of the creature. It goes down without much of a fight; lying there, it kicks out but soon grows motionless. “Good job.” You dart towards the creature, wanting to make sure it wasn’t suffering and that it had indeed been a clean shot. But on the way, your foot slides against an unseen rock. You let out a shocked gasp and shriek, and you find yourself lying on your back, gazing up at a clear and cloudless sky. <a data-passage="WFH3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The sound of Ruben laughing seems like it’s all around you, and only when you sit up do you gain the ability to discern which direction it’s coming from. He almost falls as he comes to your side and chooses to collapse, pointing at you as he continues on. “Are you okay?” he questions between breaths, “because it looks like you may have broken your ass.” You’re unable to keep a serious face and soon find yourself joining him. <<include "WF5">>

“How about we go make something to eat?” “I say I want mead, and you bring up food instead?” “We can have mead with the food.” He frowns and grows silent before asking, “promise?” Snorting, you place a kiss on the bridge of his nose, “I promise.” He nods, and the two of you shift into your animalistic forms before flying back. You transform away from the house to get to the kitchens undetected. Luckily, the servants were all enjoying the festivals, and there was no reason for anyone to be inside right now, giving you and Ruben plenty of privacy. <a data-passage="WFC1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You rummage through the pantries and bins to get an idea about what to cook. At best, you knew you wished to do something sweet. “We could make Oliomond Buns,” you suggest, “or I can try my hand at a pavlova.” Your eyes widen in excitement. “No. Do you know if there’s any unused pie crust sitting around?” He raises a brow, “I’m almost scared to ask.” “Don’t be,” you laugh with just as much excitement as before as you continue searching for the crust, “I learned this cool recipe from the cooks back home. A nice fruity dessert that’s practically a fruit salad, but they used nuts and crumbled up pie crust to give it a crunchy element.” “Wouldn’t the nuts and crust just fall off the fruit?” “They used honey and sugar to make it stick.” The look that Ruben gives you is one of doubt, but you ignore it, determined now more than ever to make the dessert that you had learned. You gather all known ingredients and place them in front of him. “Would you like to help?” “You mean you want me to do more than just sit here and eat all of the ingredients?” he asks as he plops a winterberry into his mouth. <a data-passage="WFC2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You gather the fruit into a bowl and move it out of reach of Ruben, “don’t eat anything else. But I do think it would be fun if you helped out.” The entire point of this was to get his mind off of this day and those he has lost. Him sitting there was no better than what he was doing on the edge of the cliff, only now he had something to watch as well. He sighs, his entire body portraying how tired he was. You can already see him wondering if it was too late for him to go back to his cliff and just reside there for the rest of the day. But he glances at you one last time and, with a roll of his eyes, stands up and motions to the bowls. “What do you need me to do?” You direct Ruben to the cutting board, and the two of you fall into a comfortable rhythm after a while. There are a few times where you have to smack him for eating and not cutting, but otherwise, he’s a good partner. “You seem to like this. Why don’t I ever see you do it?” [[“I only know a few dishes.”->WFC2FewDishes]] [[“It’s seen as rude back home.”->WFC2Rude]] [[“I actually don’t like it that much.”->WFC2DontLikeIt]]

“I only know how to cook and bake a few dishes. Nothing extraordinary.” “That’s a few more than me,” he points out with an impressed huff. <<include "WFC3">>

“It’s seen as rude back home. The cooks are there to cook for us, and doing their jobs too often is frowned upon. It’s their job.” “Seriously?” Ruben questions, brow raised, “interesting. Here, the cooks will look me straight in the face when I’m hungry and say that I know where the pantries are. Frur even tells me to roast my own meat.” “They do cook for you, though, right?” “They only really cook when you’re here. Otherwise, they like to see me suffer.” He grins, sighing wistfully before refocusing on his task. <<include "WFC3">>

“I actually don’t like cooking all that much.” Ruben pauses, putting down the knife before turning to me, “then why are we here right now, $name?” “I don’t like it. Doesn’t mean I won’t ever do it, or I don’t know how.” “Keep saying it. I might find that I actually believe you one of these times.” <<include "WFC3">>

You continue on, Ruben finishing the cutting and breaking the nuts while you focus on making the pie crust into crumbs and then the syrup. Once everything is done, you combine it, hoping that it ends up the way you wish. “You want to taste it?” Ruben nods and opens his mouth. With a brow raised, you say, “you’re a big bad dragon, but you can’t feed yourself?” “Is it so wrong to want my beautiful ?wife to feed me?” he sighs, doing an excellent job of looking glum. [[Throw it at his head.->WFC3ThrowIt]] [[Feed it to him.->WFC3FeedIt]]

You throw the berry at his head, and he gasps in mock shock. “You’re wasting perfectly good fruit now.” “You were supposed to eat it,” you smile, plopping a berry in your mouth. The tart taste of the fruit mixes perfectly with the honey and the crush of the pie crust, and you practically melt at the sensations. “This is actually really good.” “Yea, my forehead agrees,” he answers with an annoyed sigh. He grabs a berry and looks at it before flicking it at you. No words are exchanged as one minute you’re glaring at one another, and the next you’re throwing the food. You hide from the assault behind the counter, but you’re done for when he rounds it. Food is everywhere, and though you know you’ll have to clean it up later, you can’t seem to be bothered much by it at the moment. <a data-passage="WF5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Alright, you big child,” you sigh, leaning in and watching as he seems to radiate with joy. You feed him the fruit, fighting the blush that attempts to crawl onto your face as he purposely sucks on your fingers before you can draw them back. You wait for an answer, watching as he chews on the dessert and, before long, nods. “Yea, that’s delicious.” “Told you.” You beam with pride and offer him another, which he happily takes. He dips his finger in some of the honey syrup you created and smears it across your cheek, just barely dodging you as you throw a berry at him. “You’re childish,” you tell him as you look for something to help remove the sticky substance. “I can’t help it when I’m around you,” he laughs, taking your face in his hand and licking the syrup away, placing a kiss against your cheek before rubbing his forehead against yours. “Are we even?” “Sure,” you snort, and just as he pulls back, you smear some of the syrup across his forehead. Laughing at the shock and betrayed look that he sends you. “You’re going to lick this off, right?” “Do you want me to?” “What kind of question is that?” he snorts, bowing his <<if $height is "tall" or $height is "very tall">>head<<else>>upper-half<</if>> so that you had easier access to his forehead, as well as so he could hide the smirk that plays on his face. You carefully take his face in your hands and<<if $height is "short" or $height is "very short">>, balancing on the ball of your feet,<</if>> kiss the area where you had smeared the syrup. You part your lips as you lick the area, pulling back just enough to clean the area. He flicks the tip of your nose and you let out a unique yet startled sound. <a data-passage="WF5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The two of you fall against each other in laughter, and your heart soars at the pleasing sound. Yet, as your mirth begins to taper off, becoming a sigh, Ruben continues. The smile never ebbs from your face until the sound becomes twisted and another check, and you realize that he wasn’t laughing but crying. You go to his side, immediately taking him into your arms just as he reaches for you. He holds you close, crying against your shoulder, and you remain quiet, allowing him to get it all out. “I’m here,” you whisper, your heart aching for him. “I miss them so much,” he says between sobs, but you shush him. You had long since understood that not every day would be one of joy and laughter. That sometimes either of you may wake and want space away from the other, or the pain of the past was back to haunt you. But one thing you did enjoy was that you could always rely upon and seek out the arms of the other when needed. <a data-passage="WRDayChoice"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<nobr>><<set $honor = true>><</nobr>> You hurry towards the waiting carriage, sighing at the thought that you would once again have to sit in one of these things when you could just be flying instead. Entering, you find Ruben already inside, lying on the seat in a very un-royal-like way. “Did you not get enough sleep? “You snore,” he chuckles deeply and then begins to sit up just as the carriage moves forward. “I need to speak with you about where we’re going.” His tone changes from playful to severe, and you raise a brow as you take in his new demeanor as well. “Okay?” “We’re headed to Lonland, a village existing on the outskirts.” “I know.” “Yes, and you should also know that they were one of the hardest hit during the war. So bad that they were only able to go back during late Smoten.” This wasn’t all; that was clear on Ruben’s face. He sighs, “these people watched up close as phoenixes laid waste to their houses and those they loved. Not all of them will be against you, but there is a good chance that a few of them will.” “I’ve handled people like this before, Ruben.” <<if $ruben is "fiery">>“I don’t want you to antagonize them, $name.<<else>>“I don’t need you preaching or trying to show them the error in their ways, $name.<</if>> If they say something to you, then just continue what you’re doing. Ignore them.” [[“But this wasn’t me!”->WRH1WasntMe]] [[“Who decided on this village?”->WRH1WhoDecided]] [[“Consider them ignored.”->WRH1ConsiderIgnored]]

“Does everyone forget that while all of this was happening, I was stuck in a damn tower?” “Actually, you weren’t. You were just a baby.” You stare at Ruben, and he nods in understanding before taking your hands in his, “I know what you mean. And I understand. A lot of us understand. But it’s not about understanding, and frankly, some people don’t want to understand. Our mission here is to help rebuild, not educate and punish.” <<include "WRH2">>

“Let me guess, this was Fuldreis’ idea, wasn’t it? Going to this village?” “No,” he answers, relaxing back in his seat, “it was mine. I’ve wanted to help them as soon as they were able to move back. So far, I have been. But this is a good opportunity to get everyone involved and speed up progress. I didn’t want to switch villages just because of your arrival.” “And I wasn’t asking you too. I just …” you nod your head and abandon the conversation, sighing and hoping that all of this would go off with all sides leaving happy. <<include "WRH2">>

“I understand, Ruben,” you tell him, holding your hands up as if surrendering, “consider them ignored then.” He gives you a doubtful look, “is this your way of saying you’re going to ignore everyone?” <<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ “You really think I'm that petty?” “Yes,” he snorts, “what kind of question is that?” “I’m not,” you correct, but once again, your words earn a doubtful look. <<else>>\ “Thank you,” he sighs, and it looks like a significant load has just fluttered off his shoulders. “Of course,” you tell him, relaxing in your seat and wondering how this would all play out. <</if>>\ <<include "WRH2">>

The carriage takes you to the village, and once there, you realize why Ruben was so eager to help. It looked less like a village and more like ruins. The ground beneath your feet is healing, but some more trodden paths lead to blackened soil. Entire stacks of debris sit in large clumps, and the buildings still standing needed an incredible amount of renovation. This place was unlivable and proving that was the multiple tents that stand erect all over the place. Hundreds of people mill about, each aiding though in different ways. “You can come help me over here,” he points to a cluster of houses and those working on repairing them. “I can’t choose?” you ask, nodding to those on the side that were giving out food, blanket, and clothing. He glances at them for a minute and shakes his head, nodding for you to follow him. <<if $ruben is "fiery">>It takes a bit more willpower than you expect for you to hold your tongue, but you manage. He was stressed and just wanted this to go smoothly. Could you fault him for that? You silence your brain before it can argue and follow after him.<<else>>Your frown persists, and you ponder if the rest of this day would go by directly like this, feeling as if you were walking on broken egg-shells.<</if>> <a data-passage="WRH3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Ruben leads you to the group in question, and you notice Toz, happy that at least you’ll have him by your side and wouldn’t have to suffer alone. Greeting him with a broad smile, your hopes are dashed when he doesn’t readily offer one in return. “Hey, $name,” he sighs, attempting to smile, but his tired expression is far more stubborn and refuses to waive. He turns to Ruben, “Ruben.” “Problems already?” “How did you guess?” “You just have that look about you.” Toz lets out another sigh, this one conveying his annoyance far more. He jabs his finger towards a cluster of people who wear tattered clothing. They stand out from the rest of you, who were all dressed with both the chill and working in mind. “We’ve run into a //minor// building issue with the locals. We want to use snowdrift wood and planks, but they refuse to use anything but the wood they used before.” “That’s the problem?” you question, trying to understand what you were missing. “Snowdrift is far more durable, and the topcoat is actually element proof. Wear it down enough, and it’ll burn like any other wood, but it still is tougher and shields better.” Toz’s eye seems to twitch, “whereas the old wood is just that. Wood. Yet, they’ve been using this wood since they erected their village and symbolize a bunch of stuff that I don’t really care about.” “And you explained that to them?” “Yes!” Toz shouts but then takes a deep breath in and, in a quieter voice, says, “yes, I have. Sorry, they’re starting to aggravate me, and I’ve always thought that was really hard to do.” [[“Let me talk to them.”->WRH3Disagree]] [[“Then just use the normal wood.”->WRH3Agree]]

“Let me talk to them,” you suggest, and they both gaze at you with raised and doubtful brows. “I’m serious.” “Yea, so are these looks,” Toz chuckles derisively, “did you tell ?her some might react?” “Yes,” Ruben sighs. “Well, coming from a phoenix, the argument should be even more persuasive. Let me try.” They glance at one another but then nod. You approach the locals, formulating the argument you would present to them in your mind. Toz knew what he was talking about, and they refused. In addition, they even managed to get him upset, and Toz was one of the most patient people you knew. You needed to come at this intelligently, keeping in mind that some might feel differently towards you. “Can we help you?” one of the men questions, frowning at your approach, but then recognition enters his eye, and he bows. “Arch Flame $name, excuse me for not showing the proper respect.” “It’s fine,” you smile and nod to the building, “are you ready to begin?” “We will. We’re just waiting for the Dragon Tozraz and his group to bring the wood we requested.” You inhale, here goes nothing. [[“Is tradition more important than survival?”->WRH3_DTell]] [[Perhaps a demonstration is more so needed.->WRH3_DShow]]

“You don’t wish to use the snowdrift wood?” The man rolls his eyes. It would seem that he was as over this conversation as Toz was. “We have spoken about this before. We simply wish to rebuild what we lost. Our wood is sacred to our people and even consists of our ancestors, and we would like to keep those traditions alive.” “I understand,” you tell him, “but surely you don’t think the preservation of traditions is more important than saving potential lives.” He narrows his eyes, “the only reason our houses were burned down is that beasts of flame chose to rain horror down upon us.” It suddenly feels like you’re walking a tightrope, and that teetering too far to one side would spell doom. Flying away wasn’t an option. You either made it to the other side, or you fell. “A tragedy that I don’t wish to ever see repeated.” Part of you wants to leave it at that, but if you do, then you have lost this argument. You bite your tongue and continue, “but none of us know what the future holds. What if the past repeats itself? Or if another foe arrives? Yes, if they truly wish to see you dead, then no kind of wood would be able to stop them, but the right kind could grant you valuable time.” The others don’t immediately say anything, and you suspect that they were digesting and thinking over your words. <a data-passage="WRH3_DTell1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

This was beginning to feel a lot less like an argument about which wood should be used and more of a debate about tradition versus change. Your time in the tower was nothing but change. It held no ceremony. And so your thoughts on it were different than those who have grown up in it and have been burdened with the task of continuing it. Glancing over your shoulder, you see Toz and Ruben speaking to a few others, their gazes no longer tracking you. So, this is what Ruben faces on a larger scale every day. What he mulled over and tried to compromise on with those who refused to see the other side of things. “Okay.” You blink, shocked at the words you hear. The man looks from his neighbors and then to you and nods, “we will use the new wood. Not all will be pleased but, you’re right.” You bow to him and, with his permission given, go back to Ruben and Toz’s side. “So?” “Get ready to work,” you smile, “we’ll be using the snowdrift.” Toz looks impressed, but Ruben simply looks unperturbed, as if he had no doubt that you would come back victorious. “Alright,” Toz shouts, “let’s get to work.” He claps and heads forward, Ruben about to follow when you stop him. [[“I won’t ever understand, but I’m trying.”->WRH3Trying]] [[“I’m here if you need to talk.”->WRH3ImHere]]

“You don’t wish to use the snowdrift wood?” The man rolls his eyes. It would seem that he was as over this conversation as Toz was. “We have spoken about this before. We simply wish to rebuild what we lost. Our wood is sacred to our people, and we would like to keep those traditions alive.” “May I ask why you are so adamant about using this type of wood and not the other? Especially since Toz already told you how much better it is.” “Tradition,” he says slowly as if speaking in another language, and he knew you would not understand. Words were not your forte, and understanding didn’t seem to be theirs. But there was a way to get your point across. “Toz, can you bring me the snowdrift wood?” He glances at Ruben in confusion but does as you ask. You take the wood, go towards the old timber pile, and pick one up. You focus your energy on the old timber and watch as fire immediately begins to eat away at it. In fact, it was so combustive that you doubt it would even make decent firewood. Those around you murmur, but you continue your demonstration. Focusing on the snowdrift, you attempt to light it, and like Toz had said, it doesn’t immediately begin to burn. Smoke rises off of it, but the resilience is seen. Only when you turn up the heat does it begin to simmer and finally accept defeat to the flames. “Does that make it obvious enough?” “What was your demonstration supposed to prove?” he questions, but you stop him, tossing both wooden planks to the side. <a data-passage="WRH3_DShow1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“That one is far safer than the other. Make your houses out of the old wood if you wish but then accept the consequences that come with it. No matter how accidental, a stray spark can set your village on fire and destroy everything. If you wish to rebuild or tread carefully, then so be it. But do not act as if there was not a better way.” The man looks like he wishes to curse you, but in the end, those behind him temper him down and mumble their agreement with you. They weren’t happy either, but they could not deny that you had made a point. This was beginning to feel a lot less like an argument about which wood should be used and more of a debate about tradition versus change. Your time in the tower was nothing but change. It held no ceremony. And so your thoughts on it were different than those who have grown up in it and have been burdened with the task of continuing it. Glancing over your shoulder, you see Toz and Ruben speaking to a few others, their gazes no longer tracking you. So, this is what Ruben faces on a larger scale every day. What he mulled over and tried to compromise on with those who refused to see the other side of things. “Fine.” You blink, shocked at the words you hear. All of them look upset, but he continues on, “we will use the new wood.” He doesn’t explain why and frankly, you didn’t need him to; you did it. You turn to Toz, who seems happy enough to finally be able to start. “Great,” he glances at you and nods, but it’s a sad one, and you understand. You had gotten the results, but it didn’t help your image in their eyes. “So?” Ruben asks once you get to his side. “They agreed.” If he notices your slight reluctance, he doesn’t say anything. He only nods and begins to move forward, but you stop him. [[“I won’t ever understand, but I’m trying.”->WRH3Trying]] [[“I’m here if you need to talk.”->WRH3ImHere]]

“You know my past. You know that I will never really understand how this tradition thing works. I get it, it’s important to many people, but I’ll never understand why like they might wish for me too. But I’m trying. I just wanted to say that.” For the first time that day, he smiles and places a long kiss on your forehead. “I know you are. And if anyone has anything to say about that, they can challenge me to a bral lyesu. Come, let’s start working.” With a nod of agreement, the two of you approach the people and get to work. <a data-passage="WRH4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I’m here if you ever need to talk, you know that, right?” “Yes, $name, why are you saying this now?” You shrug and glance over at the villagers, “the more I learn about your people and spend time around them, the more I see how important tradition is. I mean … I know how important it was to them, but I never understood it. I still don’t, not like how they might wish for me too. But I understand that it weighs heavy on you, and I get it. I just want you to know that you don’t have to carry it by yourself.” He chuckles for the first time that day, a sound you didn’t know you wished to hear until now. He leans forward and places a kiss on your forehead. “I know. And I have no doubt that you would probably carry it better than I ever could. Come, let’s start working.” With a nod of agreement, the two of you approach the people and get to work. <a data-passage="WRH4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Then let’s just use the normal wood. It’s not like we’re back in war times.” Ruben gives you a quick glare before looking away, “do you think in the past we were prepared for sneak attacks?” “War doesn’t even matter,” Toz adds in, “an accident could happen. A kid blows fire or lightning or an energy strike, and boom, there goes the village.” “Well, you can’t force them. This is their home. At the end of the day, they have to live here, not you guys.” “We’re using the snowdrift wood,” Ruben states, glancing over at Toz, “tell them that I forbid using the other.” “Wait, Toz,” you tell him and turn to Ruben, nodding to the side. Though he seems ready to argue the action, he complies, and the two of you head farther away to speak in private. “Seriously? This is the way you’re going to go?” “Yes. I’m growing used to telling the older generation no anyway.” “And what’s keeping them from agreeing now and then tearing everything down later?” “Physical labor?” he shrugs, obviously not caring about any counterargument you may offer. “How would you feel if people who claimed they wanted to help came in and helped in their own way? Not caring about your wishes for //your// home?” “If they were obviously showing more care for my safety and that of my families, then I’d get over it.” “Would you? Or are you only saying that because you’re trying to prove your point?” He leans in, “if I built my house of straw and watched it get destroyed and someone came up to me and said that something else stronger could’ve been used. Yes, I would waste no time going with what is stronger. For someone who cares nothing for tradition, you’d think you’d be alright with this.” [[“What is that supposed to mean?”->WRH3WhatIsThatSupposedToMean]] [[“Say what you really want to say.”->WRH3SayWhatYouReallyMean]]

You deflate, glaring at him, “what is that supposed to mean?” He sighs deeply and rubs his temples, “not what it sounded like. I know you care about them, but you also want to avoid further issues. But do you not agree that sometimes it’s best to force someone to do something if it’s clearly better?” “Better because you say? As true as their old wood-burning, it can be just as true that nothing happens, and the only reason they must rebuild is that the wood grows old. None of us know.” <a data-passage="WRH3_A2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You snort and shake your head, “mind telling me what you really want to say?” “No, because that’s not what I meant.” He wipes his face with his hand, “the statement came out wrong, $name.” “Are you sure?” “Yes. I’m not saying you don’t care about tradition or even about them. What I mean is that -” He pauses to formulate his words, but in the end, you can see that he was losing the battle. “You’re making assumptions,” you declare, “and I’m not just talking about me. None of us know what may happen if we build with the wood they want, and if they’re so adamant about it, then why not? It’s clear that you care, but pressing too hard won’t get you anywhere. And you know that.” “Toz,” Ruben shouts, his eyes closed. “Tell them we’ll use the old wood if that’s what they wish. But,” he balls his fist up and glances over his shoulder at the dragon. “Try one last time to compromise. Tell them that we can use a mix of both or something similar.” Toz nods, glancing between the two of you before doing what was asked of him. You’re about to walk off as well when Ruben stops you, grabbing hold of your arm. “You’re mad?” “No.” “That to-the-point statement was answer enough,” he chuckles. “I apologize for how I worded the statement, $name. It came out wrong.” <a data-passage="WRH3_A2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $ruben is "fiery">>\ In hopes of dispersing the tension, you smile, “how hard was it for you to get those words out?” “You’re not funny,” he smiles, “but please say you forgive me.” You lean forward and place a kiss on his forehead. <<else>>\ In hopes of dispersing the tension, you smile, “I appreciate that, Ruben.” He glances away, his cheeks burning just a bit before he calms them, “please say you forgive me.” You lean forward and place a kiss on his forehead. <</if>>\ “Yes, now come on. If you want to talk about it more later, we can. But for now, we should help these people.” He nods in agreement, and the two of you head towards the growing group of people ready to get started. <a data-passage="WRH4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The work is long, and your muscles and hands ache by the end of it. You have a few splinters, and the sweat formulated against your skin feels sticky and disgusting due to the cold. But, good work is done. An entire side of the village is completed, and many will be able to spend the rest of Celesow before a roaring fireplace to warm their bones. And that by itself makes it all worth it. <a data-passage="WRDayChoice"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<nobr>>\ <<playlist "festival" fadeout>> <<audio "romance" volume 0.15 fadeto 0.25 loop>> <</nobr>>\ “//Byek krot ki?//” “Ki,” Ruben corrects, pronouncing the word with a guttural ‘oo’ sound that you highly doubt you can replicate. “//Byek krot ki bîw.//” He hums into the crook of your neck, his hands continuing to trail across your skin in a lazy fashion. The two of you sit on his great elk rug before a lively fire that seems to reach out towards you. You reside in his lap, your head against his chest as you look over the paper that was aiding you in learning more of the dragon’s tongue. You could actually hear words now instead of just growls and other sounds, but pronunciation, if you could call it that, and knowing the different words was still a struggle. “No,” he informs you, “bîw is used when you’re referring to a feast or a celebration or picnic, things like that. The word you’re looking for is bow.” “Doesn’t that mean eat?” “Yes, but in the way you’re using it, that’s what you want.” “Oh, I see. Give me one. I want to test myself.” “//Skhab kulomtof bo ob tsîy fkho fru fsîlsât.//” You slap his leg with a pout. “Is that even a sentence?” “It most definitely is.” “What does it mean?” “If you can’t figure it out, then I’m not telling you.” <a data-passage="W17"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“That is not fair.” He sighs, placing a kiss against your neck, his lips lingering before finally pulling back. “Here’s an easier one.” He lightly takes your chin in his hand to direct it his way, his eyes never wavering as they pin you to your spot, “//ge khli.//” You roll your eyes, easy indeed. That phrase was one of the first that Ruben made sure you knew. Moving in, you press your lips to his before taking a deep breath in and exhaling shakily. The need to resituate yourself comes, and you sit up to straddle his lap, linking your hands behind his neck before rejoining your lips. You deepen the kiss as soon as you find his, breathing in his scent and taste. He allows this dance of tongues and lips to continue for a few more seconds before he pulls back. <<if $ns>>\ You wait patiently for him to speak, but he continues to stare at you in silence as if committing your appearance to memory. “You’re so lucky to have me,” he finally says, and you’re too taken back to actually respond. “Seriously?” you finally question, playfully slapping his chest, but he catches your wrist before your hand can fully make contact. Tenderly he brings your hand to his lips and places a lingering kiss on each knuckle. “Yea, seriously,” he chuckles almost breathlessly, “you won’t find many who would revere you like I do.” [[“I have a fanclub.”->W17FanClub]] [[“You’re right, I am lucky.”->W17IAmLucky]] [[“Yet you ate the last cake slice.”->W17LastCakeSlice]] <<else>>\ “Good ?girl,” he purrs with a shit-eating grin. [[Shut him up.->W17ShutUp]] [[Play into it.->W17PlayIntoIt]] [[Ignore him and continue.->W17IgnoreHim]] <</if>>\

“For your information, I do have a fanclub.” “No, you have a fan //cub//. Nouritis by themself doesn’t really amount for much of a club.” “You will never get over that, will you?” “There are many things I will accept and get over for you. But you should know that the only reason that the cub still draws breath is because you treasure them as a friend. Because otherwise they ask for death each time they look at you.” “I didn’t think you were the jealous type, $r_nn.” His grip on you tightens, and though his overall touch is gentle, you can feel the strength behind it as he grabs your chin. His grasp warns you not to look away. “You’re mine.” You shudder under his blazing and scrutinous gaze. His flame ignites, feeling as if it was coating you and shielding you from anything that may threaten you. <<include "W17NSEnd">>

You move just enough so that the new position is comfortable as you lean in and rest your head on Ruben’s chest, hugging him. You listen to the sound of his heartbeat and lose yourself in the feeling of his arms wrapped around you. It didn’t matter where you were as long as you were in his arms. Releasing a deep breath, you hum in agreement, “you’re right. I am lucky.” “I was just joking,” Ruben murmurs. You can practically hear the blush in his voice. “I’m not,” you reassure, straightening up so that you were looking into a pair of crimson eyes that were lit up by the blazing fire. “Kěamo,” he murmurs, trailing his nose against your cheek but never falling through with the action to kiss you. <<include "W17NSEnd">>

“Huh,” you smirk, “you say that, and yet you ate the last cake slice when you knew I wanted it to.” He narrows his eyes, “are you still upset about that?” “I won’t say upset, but I think it’s something that should be discussed.” “It was my cake!” “Our cake. The cake was for us. Frur said it herself.” “No, she said enjoy to the two of us. What she didn’t say was that the cake was $name’s cake.” “I don’t remember her saying it was your cake either.” “She started the conversation off with the cooks made a cake for Ruben.” “Selfi-,” you start but unable to get the entire word out as Ruben grabs you and carefully rolls over so that you are now on the floor. He kisses the tip of your nose and nods his head. “You’ll get over it.” <<include "W17NSEnd">>

Ruben gets to his feet and helps you to yours before heading to the bed. He beckons you over, and once you’re within his arms, he moves the blanket to cover you. At first, he teases you mercilessly. Nipping at your skin and tickling you whenever you provide even the slightest resistance. His hands roam your body as if trying to grow reaccustomed to all of you. As he grows tired, he cuddles up against your chest and releases a blissful sigh. You run your hands through his hair, the motion softly lulling you to sleep. “I love you, kěamo,” he whispers just as you drift off. <a data-passage="W18"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You chuckle to yourself before letting out a low snort. Gathering your strength, you ground yourself into Ruben’s lap before applying pressure to his upper half. If he had been prepared, then the action wouldn’t have worked, and you’d have to hear him run his mouth more. Luckily, that wasn’t the case. Ruben’s back hits the rug as you lean in, balancing your weight so that it would be difficult for him to rise. “For once,” you whisper, shifting your hips so that it grinds against his member. He lets out a low groan, reaching for your waist, but you slap his hands away, giving him a warning glare. “Be a good dragon and shut up.” “Make,” he starts to say, unable to finish his sentence <<if settings.showec>>as you take his member in your hands and give it just enough of a squeeze for him to moan.<<else>>as you cut him off with your actions.<</if>> “Fuck, $name.” “What did I say?” He bites his lower lip, but you can see just how pleased and excited he was that you rose and accepted his uttered challenge. You lean forward and kiss him, softly biting his bottom lip and pulling it teasingly as you continue to stroke him. Ruben obeys your previous orders of keeping his hands to himself, an action that shocks you since by now, you’d be on your back, and Ruben would be pounding into you as revenge. Frankly, you’d rather that right now. You pull back and cup his face between your hands, using a finger to tug on his beard and whisper against his cheek, “good boy.” He snorts, but there’s a smirk on his lips that tells you he’s more than happy with the praise. “So, do I get a reward?” he growls low, finally touching you and squeezing your waist. “What do you want?” He lifts you up and deposits you on the rug, trailing his finger down your side and then stopping at your undergarments. “All of you.” <a data-passage="WRS1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

You hum in response, rotating your hips to grind hard into his lap. Leaning forward, you whisper into his ear, “and what do I get for it?” He lets out a low laugh as his hands find purchase along your waist, stopping your action and growing tense beneath you. “Depends on what you want.” “And here I was hoping you had something already picked out.” <<if $length is "bald" or $type is "braids" or $type is "dreads">>He grabs the back of your neck<<elseif $type is "straight" or $type is "wavy">>He purposely tangles his hands in your hair<<else>>He grabs a handful of your hair<</if>>, bringing you closer so that he could suck at the skin of your neck. “I have a few things in mind about what that mouth of yours could be doing.” “Sounds like more of a reward for you.” “Then tell me what you want,” he growls in a needy tone. <a data-passage="WRS1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Frankly, you were far too excited at the moment to utter any kind of answer and instead focus on your actions. You situate yourself perfectly over his erection and grind down into his lap, relishing the added pressure that the clothes induce. Ruben firmly holds you near, making sure that there’s hardly any space between the two of you. “Shit,” Ruben murmurs, repeating the word as he abandons your hips in favor of your face. He kisses you roughly, and you pick up your pace as your senses flare up and the heat in your core roars to life. What once was a simple want and an almost innocent longing has become a need. You yearned for him to be buried inside of you, his hot breath on the back of your neck as his carnal desires match yours. “Ruben,” you murmur, suppressing a shiver as you feel your pleasure shoot up, but not enough to eclipse the required need. “Yea,” he growls, already working on rectifying the situation. <a data-passage="WRS1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.showec>>\ <<if $ruben is "fiery">>“Nuh-uh.” You stop his movement and instead move so that you are now on top of him and lowering yourself until eye level with his member.<<else>>“Wait,” you tell him, stopping his movements and instead moving so that you are now on top, “let me pleasure you for once.”<</if>> You pull his pants down past muscular legs and eye his now freed cock, already hard and leaking precum. <<else>>\ <<if $ruben is "fiery">>“Nuh-uh.” You stop his movement and instead move so that you are now on top of him and lowering yourself further down his body.<<else>>“Wait,” you tell him, stopping his movements and instead moving so that you are now on top, “let me pleasure you for once.”<</if>> You pull his pants down past muscular legs, watching his face as you do so. <</if>>\ “Excited?” “You underestimate your mouth,” he sneers, his eyelids low as he watches you. You begin to move your hand up and down his shaft, focusing on Ruben’s reactions and enjoying just how quickly this man falls apart in your hands. Every bit of lecherous desire fills his eyes as he encourages you to continue. His cock twitches in your grip, and you finally run your tongue across his tip and then down his length. He inhales deeply, resting his hands on your shoulder and kneading them with care. Your own fingers dig into his thigh, eager to leave markings all over his body. He shudders as you take him deeper into your mouth, focused on one thing, and that was drawing a moan from Ruben’s lips. Getting him to whimper or even roar would prove to be an even greater reward, but you have yet to be able to accomplish that feat. You ease off of him as you focus on pumping him and then shifting your jaw. There were times where you wanted to tease him on his size and how oral felt more like a jaw workout, but that would surely just boost an ego that didn’t need any more inflation. Making sure you could, you take him back into your mouth, and he curses lowly. “That is one sight I will never get tired of seeing,” he mumbles. The longer you go, the less vocal Ruben grows, his breathing becoming unsteady and strained. He bucks against you, and his patience reaches an end, but he freezes instead of continuing on, waiting to figure out if you were okay with what he wished to do next. [[Let him take control.->WRS1MouthFuck]] [[Finish up.->WRS1FinishUp]]

You nod and prepare just as he changes the pace, driving his cock deeper into your throat. You gag, an action that causes Ruben to only become more primal as his <<if $length is "bald">>hand grips the back of your head<<else>>fingers tighten in your hair<</if>> and his thrusts become wild. He lets out a string of curses, and you moan as the tip of his member continuously jams into the back of your throat. You make a humming sound, which leads to Ruben’s undoing. He pulls out partially, but you take him right back into your mouth, encouraging him to release his load. <<include "WRS2">>

You signal that you’d rather not, and with a slight nod, he allows you to continue what you are doing. Continuing to stroke and suck him off, you feel his member twitch, telling you that he was about to come. He moves to pull out of your mouth, but you take him right back, encouraging him to release his load. <<include "WRS2">>

He does, and you feel his thick, warm cum slide down your throat as you swallow everything he has to offer, smiling internally as you finally get the moan you’ve been working for. You pull away with a satisfying pop and lick your lips. “Don’t do that,” he grumbles, “there’s only so much I can take at one time.” “Thank you, $name,” you tease, “that’s so much easier to say.” <a data-passage="WRS3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Oh, I have my own way of thanking you.” He doesn’t immediately move after his words, trying to steady his voice and get his energy back before he sits up and then grabs you. With ease, he lifts you into his arms and showers you with kisses. Your back hits the wall roughly as he plants a kiss on your chin and then one to your collarbone and then flips you around, so your chest now rests against it. He continues to leave a trail of kisses from your shoulder to your neck and then back while his hands land on your hips and then to your butt, where he squeezes. “We can do it right here,” he whispers in your ear in a needy tone. “You sound like you’d have it no other way.” “I’ll give you the choice, but,” he lets out a soft groan as he presses his body closer, his member rubbing up against you. “I really want to fuck you up against this wall.” “Then what are you waiting for?” Your words strike a match, and your attention focuses on Ruben’s lips now against yours, his tongue roaming the inside of your mouth. His hand wanders to your front and begins to knead into your skin, waking up every sense within you and causing your flame to roar with its own kind of need. You push your hips towards his crotch and earn a hungry growl from the man, who abandons his previous actions. <<if settings.showec>>\ <<if $sex is "p" or $sex is "na">>\ He pulls down your underwear, leaving your side for a moment to go to the end table, where you know all too well is where he keeps his oils. When he returns, you shiver against the chilled feel of his hand against your skin, smoothing the thick liquid across your entrance. He traces a circle against your skin before slipping a finger into your entrance and then a second. A short grumble moves past your lips, and you focus on your breathing as you grow accustomed to him, knowing you’ll have to do this over when he actually switches. “Are you okay?” he asks, his deep voice right against your ear, but all you can do is nod in reply. With your approval given, his fingers slip out and what takes their place has you scratching the walls and biting down on your lower lip. A mix of slight pain and pleasure shoots through your body, both attempting to outdo the other. <<else>>\ He pulls down your underwear, and reaches around to your front and rubs circles along your slit. You let out a quiet moan as he replaces his fingers with his cock, running the tip and spreading the wetness to coat his member. You arch your lower back so that he has better access, resting your head on the wall and biting down on your lower lip. He then slides in and you can’t help but release the whimper, scratching the wall as he travels deeper, your walls clenching around him. A mix of slight pain and pleasure shoots through your body, both attempting to outdo the other. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $sex is "p" or $sex is "na">>\ He pulls down your underwear, leaving your side for a moment to go to the end table, where you know all too well is where he keeps his oils. When he returns, you shiver against the chilled feel of his hand against your skin, smoothing the thick liquid across your entrance. He traces a circle against your skin before slipping in his fingers. A short grumble moves past your lips, and you focus on your breathing as you grow accustomed to him, knowing you’ll have to do this over when he actually switches. “Are you okay?” he asks, his deep voice right against your ear, but all you can do is nod in reply. With your approval given, his fingers slip out and what takes their place has you scratching the walls and biting down on your lower lip. A mix of slight pain and pleasure shoots through your body, both attempting to outdo the other. <<else>>\ He pulls down your underwear, and reaches around to your front. You let out a quiet moan as he works and arch your lower back so that he has better access, resting your head on the wall and biting down on your lower lip. He then slides in and you can’t help but release the whimper, scratching the wall as he travels deeper. A mix of slight pain and pleasure shoots through your body, both attempting to outdo the other. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="WRS4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.showec>>\ “Relax,” Ruben growls in your ear in an authoritative voice, and though you shudder, you do as he says, and the pleasure wins out, washing over your entire body and creating a light tremble. He slips deeper inside of you and curses in your ear as he settles a hand on your lower back, adjusting you. You inhale just as he pushes deeper in and let out a whimper that you couldn’t possibly keep to yourself. You didn’t need to turn around to know that Ruben is smirking, but thankfully he says nothing, only focusing on his actions. He moves his hips back and forth until both of you are used to the pace, then he begins to speed it up. <<if $sex is "v">>\ One of his hands slips around to the front and with just the right amount of pressure, toys with your clit. Your knees start to wobble and it takes every ounce of focus and self-preservation to keep yourself from collapsing. <<else>>\ He fills you up, guiding you down onto his dick as you begin to stand on your toes. <</if>>\ “Ruben,” you moan, letting out a strangled cry as you rotate your hips, and that movement alone almost leads to you coming undone. “Shh,” he mumbles, licking a trail up your neck before sucking at the skin along your jaw. You hear him mumble ‘fuck,’ just as his thrusts grow wilder. One hand slips off your waist and lands on the wall while the other hugs you close, disallowing you to get too far away. Your head falls back at the feeling, feeling yourself getting closer and closer to that glorious peak. He latches onto your neck, sucking and licking at the exposed flesh. <<else>>\ “Relax,” Ruben growls in your ear in an authoritative voice, and though you shudder, you do as he says, and the pleasure wins out, washing over your entire body and creating a light tremble. He curses in your ear as he settles a hand on your lower back, adjusting you. You inhale and let out a whimper that you couldn’t possibly keep to yourself. You didn’t need to turn around to know that Ruben is smirking, but thankfully he says nothing, only focusing on his actions. He fills you up, guiding you as you begin to stand on your toes. “Ruben,” you moan, letting out a strangled cry as you rotate your hips, and that movement alone almost leads to you coming undone. “Shh,” he mumbles, licking a trail up your neck before sucking at the skin along your jaw. One hand slips off your waist and lands on the wall while the other hugs you close, disallowing you to get too far away. Your head falls back at the feeling, feeling yourself getting closer and closer to that glorious peak. He latches onto your neck, sucking and licking at the exposed flesh. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="WRS5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.showec>>\ You’re barely aware of the fire from the fireplace flaring up, blossoming into a flower as it reacts to the commanding auras belonging to you and Ruben. Out of the corner of your eye, you can see its limbs reaching out towards you as if wishing to wrap around and cocoon the both of you. It feeds you, the warmth adding to the pleasure you’re already experiencing and heating up your skin. Ruben lets out what sounds like a whimper but also a growl as he slams into you heatedly, your entire body colliding with the wall. The plunges grow irregular, and you catch sight of the fire under his arms flaring up. The orange has long since fled, leaving a glowing white with blue tinges that wish to intensify. And then, everything happens at once. You tighten around him and finally come, just as he hisses in your ear, and his veins burn a sky blue. Ruben pulls himself away from you as if you had burned him, and you’re just barely able to catch yourself as your legs give way, trembling violently. He pants heavily, thick cum still spurting out of the tip of his cock. But he seems more focused on his torso and chest, which now holds a fresh pink-red burn mark. <<else>>\ You’re barely aware of the fire from the fireplace flaring up, blossoming into a flower as it reacts to the commanding auras belonging to you and Ruben. Out of the corner of your eye, you can see its limbs reaching out towards you as if wishing to wrap around and cocoon the both of you. It feeds you, the warmth adding to the pleasure you’re already experiencing and heating up your skin. Ruben lets out what sounds like a whimper but also a growl and your entire body collides with the wall. The movements grow irregular, and you catch sight of the fire under his arms flaring up. The orange has long since fled, leaving a glowing white with blue tinges that wish to intensify. And then, everything happens at once. You reach your peak just as he hisses in your ear, and his veins burn a sky blue. Ruben pulls himself away from you as if you had burned him, and you’re just barely able to catch yourself as your legs give way, trembling violently. He pants heavily as he focuses on his torso and chest, which now holds a fresh pink-red burn mark. <</if>>\ Pushing through your trembling, you go to him, your eyes widening in horror as you realize what happened. Before you can even voice life to these fears, he takes you into his arms and slams his lips over your swollen ones. You squirm as soon as he hisses in pain, and he relents. “Don’t,” he tells you, “it’s not that bad.” “I burned you.” “Sexy ain’t it,” he snorts, wincing a bit, but you can tell that he tries to hide this from you. “Ruben!” “I just helped you cum, and you’re yelling at me?” he questions, leaving your side and going over to the bed, flopping onto it with a huff. He smirks with his eyes closed, “last time I ever fuck the flame out of you.” Ignoring his comment, you come to his side and glance upon the burn mark with worry. <a data-passage="WRS6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Do you have ointment?” “$name. It’s not bad, and because of what I am, it’s going to clear up. Calm down.” “I burned you, and you tell me to calm down? I don’t even know how to avoid this next time.” “Wanna know a secret?” he asks, reaching forward and taking your hand in his and placing it to his lips, “I like it.” You stare at him in doubt, believing he only speaks this to chase off your worry. “You like it?” He releases your hand and chuckles, “when do I lie to you? If I didn’t, we both know I would point it out, and instead, we’d be discussing how to avoid it next time.” [[“But it was obvious that it hurt.”->WRS6ObviousHurt]] [[“Where’s the ointment?”->WRS6Ointment]] [[“You’re a fan of getting burned, huh?”->WRS6FanOfBurn]] [[“Only if you’re sure.”->WRS6IfSure]]

“But it was obvious that it hurt you. I don’t … I don’t like knowing that I did that to you.” “Even if I say I like it?” You open your mouth to respond, but nothing leaves your tongue, and you sigh as you look away in desperation, not knowing what to do about this. “Hey,” Ruben speaks softly as he directs your attention back to him, “it’s fine. If it makes you uncomfortable, we can talk about avoiding it next time.<<if $nosa is false>> I know some things get fuzzy for you because of the shit that happened in that tower, and the last thing I want is for you to feel like you’re back there.<</if>>” “But,” you start, but he shuts you up with a deep kiss. “There are no buts. Some things we can compromise with, but I refuse to compromise on this. If it makes you uncomfortable, then that’s it. Nothing else to talk about.” He brings you close, and you clutch onto him, burying your face in his chest as you listen to his heartbeat. He moves to lay down, and you make sure to stay close, never releasing him from your hold even as sleep begins to settle onto your shoulders. “I love you, kěamo,” he whispers just as you drift off. <a data-passage="W18"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Where’s the ointment?” “$name!” “I heard you! But tell me where the ointment is.” He directs you to it, and you enter the bathroom to retrieve it, returning and relieved to see the markings already beginning to recede. You carefully apply the salve, sighing. “I understand you like it, and if you really are feeling up to it, then we can keep doing it but at least let me do this afterward.” You place the jar to the side and look him in the eye, “you once said that you don’t like leaving bruises and marks on me because you fear that it meant you were too rough. That you get flashbacks to finding me in the tower when you see them. Well, I don’t like seeing or thinking that I’m hurting you either.” “Shouldn’t I be giving //you// care right now?” “Stop trying to always be the one in charge.” He reaches forward and takes you into his arms. “You’re right,” he murmurs after a while of holding you close, “sometimes I forget how powerful you are and feel the need to take care of everything for you. I’m trying to stop that, but I can’t make promises.” He cups your face and kisses your forehead, “you’re part of my heart, kěamo, so though I’m trying, don’t hate me if I fail.” You nod as he moves to lay down, and you stay close and within his arms. Neither of you say anything more as you lay there, sleep visiting both of you. “I love you, kěamo.” He whispers just as you drift off. <a data-passage="W18"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“You’re a fan of getting burned, huh?” you ask with a teasing edge to your words. You slap his chest, and it’s only once your hand connects that you realize what you’ve done. You gasp as he grunts in pain, his hand hovering over the burn mark. “Fuck! Seriously, $name?” “That was an accident. It’s weird, okay. You’re a fire dragon. You shouldn’t be able to be burned.” “Oh, I’m sorry, phoenix, that not everyone conforms to your laws of fire and flesh.” You pause, raising a brow, “are you jealous?” “No,” he smirks, “because while you wouldn’t feel that, I did, and I happen to like it.” “Masochist.” He snorts, “sadist!” And the two of you continue to stare at one another until you relax into laughter. He takes you into his arms and brings you close as he lays down. “Are you okay, though?” he inquires, and you nod, sleep causing you to feel lazier than you did a minute ago. You believe Ruben feels the same as he only hums to tell you that he had received your answer and the two of you descend into silence. “I love you, kěamo.” He whispers just as you drift off. <a data-passage="W18"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Only if you’re sure,” you trail off, glancing over at the fireplace that was no longer as lively and seems to fade with each passing minute. He sits up, “depends. Why did you do it?” “What do you mean?” “We’ve had sex a good number of times, $name, and that’s never happened. So, what happened?” “I think it was a mix between excitement and the fireplace. Our flames always feel like they react to each other when we’re together, but I noticed the fire being attracted to us. I guess I focused on it, and it just happened.” “So, it didn’t hurt?” “No, it … it felt natural. I didn’t even have to think twice.” “Then great,” he shrugs, “I have no problem with you doing it again.” You’re a bit relieved at his nonchalance, and you repeat his words; he wouldn’t lie to you. Glancing at the burn marks, you lean down and place a soft and almost lingering kiss on it. Shockingly, it starts to fade even more once you back away. Ruben chuckles as he leans back, and you continue to place soft kisses all over his torso, making your way up to his lips. You deposit the last there and rest your head in the crook of his neck, holding onto him and letting that feeling of safety and love wash over you. “I love you, kěamo.” He whispers just as you drift off. <a data-passage="W18"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<nobr>> <<audio "romance" fadeout>> <<audio "sleepingdragon" volume 0.15 fadeto 0.25 loop>> <</nobr>>\ At long last, the day of the feast is upon you. The last day of the winter solstice and the Fest of Dragons. The feast is in full swing, and you watch as servants reveal tray after tray of food. Most are meat dishes, a few fish ones to meet the Floe royal family’s diet, and … [[That was it. (You eat meat and fish.)->W18Meat]] [[A few fruits and vegetable dishes. (You do not eat meat or fish.)->W18NoMeat]]

… and that was it. Being that House Dragon was made up of Phaizarn that were all carnivores, they didn’t have to worry about providing anything more than that. Of course, there were fruits and vegetables scattered about and used to create certain dishes, but the majority were all meat-based dishes or were then desserts. <<include "W19">>

It was a learning curve for the cooks, and a few of them choose to remind you of that every time they deliver you a meal. But they had gotten into the habit of providing a few extra dishes that meet your palette. And seeing that you were the only one who actually did eat such dishes, you didn’t have to worry about doubts for a second plate. <<include "W19">>

“Announcing Chieftain Ruben Draco of House Dragon and Arch Flame $name $surname of House Phoenix.” The feeling of eyes watching your every move is something you had grown used to. But you weren’t used to that of the dragons. As far as you know, they still felt indifferent about you and were less prone to forgiveness for past deeds than the Phaizarn that surrounded you. Regardless, you enter with your head high and shoulders squared. Ruben smirks from beside you, <<if $ruben is "fiery">>“why do you look ready to bring down an entire civilization?” “Especially when I’m here to enjoy a simple feast?” You sigh and try to relax just as Ruben lightly touches the small of your back and leans into your ear. “I didn’t say stop.” He winks at you before leaving your side,<<else>> “calm down. No one is going to say or do anything to you.” “I know,” you sigh, telling yourself to relax. You were meant to enjoy this. “If you need me, you know where to find me. And one of the others will always be close by as well.” He squeezes your hand before leaving your side,<</if>> continuing deeper in as two dragons approach him. <a data-passage="W20"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

After grabbing some food, you socialize with those that you know and even a few that you don’t. Thankfully both Fuldreis and the Elders keep their distance. At one point, you and Fuldreis end up right beside one another, and after giving you a single nod, she leaves your side. It would last only for tonight, but at least the two of you wanted the same thing, a peaceful and prosperous evening. This was the first time you had seen Phaizarn and dragon mingle like this, and it was a truly remarkable sight. You watch as some dragons give the children rides while House Dragon members shift and wrestle with the others. It almost feels like the coming together of one big family. It reminds you of how you interact with the phoenixes that take up roost on the volcanoes of your homeland. Typically, you leave them be, though the two species come together during celebrations as well. Your celebrations held more decorum and less raucous behavior - something you could decide later was better or worse or unimportant. “May I have this dance?” You glance over to see Ruben at your side, hand outstretched in invitation. “What would it say about me if I told my husband no?” you question, resting your hand in his. He pulls you close, “I do love when you call me that.” [[Reminisce.->W20Reminisce]] [[Simply dance.->W20SimplyDance]]

The dance wasn’t complicated and allowed you the ability to reminisce about the first time you danced with Ruben. That dance held much more importance and was hard to forget, if possible at all. “You seem away from here,” he murmurs, and you hum in acknowledgment. “Do you remember our Smîd Fsak?” He chuckles, “I remember how hard it once was for you to say those words.” His smile vanishes, and he nods, bringing you closer, “you were beautiful.” [[“You looked dangerous.”->W20LookedDangerous]] [[“The dance was beautiful.”->W20Beautiful]] [[“I was terrified.”->W20Terrified]]

“You looked dangerous,” you point out, remembering back to the day and how Ruben was dressed. That, added with the intense look in his eye, made you think back to when you had first seen him. That unwavering look that always warned you of what rested beneath. At first, you had sworn to stay away from it, far too scared to uncover what it hid. That was until you wanted to do nothing but unveil it. “It was just the markings,” he grumbles, but you smile. “No. It was you too. And I don’t mean that I was scared of you. You looked exactly as you should.” His frown prevails, “I did say we didn’t have to do it.” You nod and <<if $height is "tall" or $height is "very tall">>place a kiss to his forehead<<elseif $height is "average">>rise to your toes to place a kiss to his forehead<<else>>grab his shirt so that he would bend over, allowing you to place a kiss to his forehead<</if>>. “I wanted to. For you.” He kisses you lovingly before the two of you go back to dancing. <a data-passage="W21"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“The dance was beautiful.” “That’s not what your eyes said as we did it.” “What did they say?” “You were terrified.” “I was fighting a dragon. One with royal blood might I point out.” “We weren’t fighting. It was choreographed.” “That doesn’t take away the meaning. And it was less choreography and far more trust. If I had done something too soon or stepped the wrong way, and that could have been it.” He frowns, raising a brow as he gazes at you, “I did say we didn’t have to do it.” You nod and <<if $height is "tall" or $height is "very tall">>place a kiss to his forehead<<elseif $height is "average">>rise to your toes to place a kiss to his forehead<<else>>grab his shirt so that he would bend over, allowing you to place a kiss to his forehead<</if>>. “I wanted to. For you.” He kisses you lovingly before the two of you go back to dancing. <a data-passage="W21"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I was terrified the entire time.” “For what?” “For what?! Ruben, I was fighting a dragon. One with royal blood might I point out.” “We weren’t fighting. It was choreographed.” “That doesn’t take away the meaning. And it was less choreography and far more trust. If I had done something too soon or stepped the wrong way, and that could have been it.” He frowns, raising a brow as he gazes at you, “I did say we didn’t have to do it.” You nod and <<if $height is "tall" or $height is "very tall">>place a kiss to his forehead<<elseif $height is "average">>rise to your toes to place a kiss to his forehead<<else>>grab his shirt so that he would bend over, allowing you to place a kiss to his forehead<</if>>. “I wanted to. For you.” He kisses you lovingly before the two of you go back to dancing. <a data-passage="W21"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Though the dance was simple enough. In fact, this one did not hold any specific movements and the interpretation was for the individual to find. Some people throw their hands into the air as they sway, reminding you of fire. While others form groups and stomp and clap, the movements of warriors. It would seem that Ruben was content with holding you near, his grip one that was familiar and told you of his unwillingness to release you. He never failed to make you feel wanted and loved. That your presence alone was all that was needed to keep him going. The words would leave his lips from time to time, but mostly it was his actions. The way he would smile when he spotted you or the way he always seemed to want to wrap his arms around you. The way his eyes alight when you were the focus of conversation, a pride in them that even this man of great stealth could not hide. “You still with me?” he questions, and you blink a few times before peering up at him. “Huh?” “You had that admiring look in your eyes,” he snorts and smirks, “you know the same look you get whenever I walk into the room.” [[“You have something stuck in your teeth.”->W20StuckInTeeth]] [[“Well, you are quite handsome.”->W20QuiteHandsome]] [[“Sorry, I saw Toz walk past.”->W20TozWalkPast]] [[“I love you.”->W20LoveYou]]

You stare at him for a few seconds longer before pointing to your own teeth, “you have something in your teeth.” “You lie,” he growls, releasing you and frowning, but you can see the movement of his tongue trying to figure out if your words hold true or not. “Piece of meat that probably got stuck while you were wolfing down food.” “I was doing no such thing.” “You have never seen yourself eat, Ruben. You are probably worse than the wolves. You might as well turn into a dragon to feast.” “Says the one who pecks at their food.” “Bird jokes now?” “You started it,” he laughs. <a data-passage="W21"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Well,” you shrug, “you are quite handsome. It can’t be helped.” “Ha, yea,” he chuckles, rolling his eyes. You don’t quite get what you want, so you continue on. “I’m serious,” you coo, messing with a loose strand of his hair, “I found myself in the arms of such a handsome and loving man.” “Ugh, stop,” he blurts, but the damage is done. A bright blush blossoms upon his cheeks, and each minute it lingers, he grows more agitated. “See what you made me do.” “Blush? One would think a man such as you would have grown used to the numerous compliments he received.” He smirks, and the blush begins to fade. He grabs you and nuzzles into your cheek. “Your compliments are the only ones worth a damn.” <a data-passage="W21"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Oh, sorry,” you start, patting his arms and nodding to the area behind him, “Toz had walked past, and well, you know how I get when that man walks into a room.” “Ah,” he nods, “same way I get when …” His voice trails off as he tries to think of a name, and you raise a brow, waiting for it. “... Okti walks … in.” “You tried, at least. That’s what counts.” “If you think I regard Toz as competition anymore, then you’ll be disappointed.” “I don’t think I will be as your face said it all.” “What?” You cup his cheek in one hand, whispering against his lips, “you hide it well in front of everyone else, but you could never hide from me. That possessive look of yours entered your eyes almost immediately, and you wished to turn around.” “You are nothing but trouble,” he growls, moving away and smirking. <a data-passage="W21"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I love you.” His eyes widen, and he looks around before glancing back at you, “what? What happened?” “Something has to happen for me to remind you of that fact?” “No. But that came out of nowhere. What were you thinking of?” “You.” You grab hold of his hand and squeeze it, “you and how much I love you.” He glances away, but you already caught the emotional look that overtook his eyes. The rawness that resides there and threatens to drown you without care. <a data-passage="W21"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The music begins to fade out, and everyone grows quiet, even the dragons. All eyes rest on the distance. You breathe in the new day. The sun has just shown itself on the horizon, animals, and people alike not knowing of its arrival - but the dragons did. “Listen,” Ruben whispers in your ear, and you do as he suggests, closing your eyes. First, you feel the rumble under your feet, the ground shaking just enough to cause pause but nothing more. And then you hear the humming, almost melancholic in nature, of something deep within the earth. It grows louder and louder, taking on traits of a roar. Those that surround you grow quiet, bowing their heads while the dragons throw their heads back and let out a soft hum. And with that farewell, they all turn their attention to the mouth of the cave and begin to file in. You hear the mournful notes of a flute and horn, more and more instruments joining. You lean on Ruben as he watches them with a small smile, only singing when the lyre begins to play. The first few verses are done by him alone but then others join in, creating the harmonious music you had grown so accustomed to. <a data-passage="W22"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Until you rise again,” you whisper, closing your eyes to try and catch each word. Many were either far from your comprehension or said in such a way that caused you to doubt the translation that you had thought of. “We bid you a long sleep. A safe sleep. For the time will come again where wings will unfurl, and dragons will fly.” “The call of our ancestors will guide us to our final reset,” Ruben murmurs in your ear. His hands delicately trace your cheek as the music grows inspiring and even uplifting. The last dragon to enter turns and bows. Your eyes close as Ruben’s words find their way to your ear, and the music overtakes you. “For now, we say farewell. But we will meet each other in the skies once more.” Your eyes close and you rest your ear against his chest, letting the sound of his heartbeat lead the symphony and as his arms encompass you, take in the warmth from the one you care for. <a data-passage="Start"><img src="images/title.png" alt="Winter in Rivali" style="float:center"/></a>