Frightful Weather
In one of the many caves in Dragon’s Spine, Aether, Amber, Lisa, and Jean set up a temporary camp to survive the blizzard. Aether had just came back with fresh fire wood and can Amber shivering as she tries to warm herself in a blanket, as well as Lisa and Jean already taking a brief nap together. Knowing Lisa, she probably talked Jean into by telling her survival rate would go up. Knowing Jean, she believed it instantly but also knows Lisa loves warmth more than books. He grabs a mug filled with coco he brought and sits down. It’s not long before Amber opens the blanket up and traps him inside.
Aether:Thanks.
Amber:Thank you, Mr. Body Heat. This is why I never travel this far up the mountain.
Aether:Don’t Outriders explore everywhere?
Amber:Within their capacity. A place like this was well beyond my reach. Just staying near the foot of mountain felt like death. To think I’m actually exploring it is a little unbelievable.
Aether:Guess that means you’re stronger than ever!
Amber:Pfft, maybe. I still have a ways to go, but thanks for all of your support. The shields help a lot.
Aether:The real is Xinyan going ahead of us and making all of these warm areas for us. She’s thriving up here. More than anyone else on the other teams. All in all, I think we’re gonna make oth through this by Christmas.
Amber:….What?
Aether:Christmas. You know, the holiday?
Amber:Ummm we don’t have here.
Aether:….
Aether:WHAT!? BUT IT’S CHRISTMAS!!
Amber:*shrugs* Sorry, no idea what that means. It sounds interesting though.
Aether:Because it is! It gets really cold and snows like this in some places. Family visits from around the world to see each other and exchange gifts. There’s delicious ham and other foods, special songs, coco, everyone stays up really late, and sombody is always drinking too much eggnog! That’s what makes a Merry Christmas!
Amber:Woah. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this pumped hehehe.
Aether:Christmas is the best. One time Lumine- huh…….hmmm.
Amber:Aether? What’s wrong.
Aether:Nothing, I just…this will be my first Christmas without my sister. I wonder what she’s thinking? Is it snowing where she is? Is she safe….
The cold wind blew through the cave and flicked the fire, but Amber didn’t seem to notice. Her eyes we fixated on this boy’s sad eyes that held nothing but joy seconds ago. She took hold of his hand, prompting him to lean on her.
Amber:I bet wherever she is, Lumine is wishing you are just as safe. You’re supposed to get gifts, right? Maybe you should buy her one back in town. That way you can give it to her when you meet again. I…I uh do that with my grandpa’s birthday. At this rate, he’s gonna drown in presents when I find him.
Aether:You, don’t get discouraged?
Amber:Well maybe a little, but I haven’t lost hope yet. When you truly want something, you’ll find a way to get it. Anything is possible. I’m on Dragon’s Spine! Last week I challenged a wolf god and won! I think I can find a lovable old geezer. Just like you can find your sister. Aether, tamer of dragons.
Aether:…Hehe, I think I like the title Aether, survivor of Amber’s steak, a little better. It’s more treacherous.
Amber:Hey! I’m trying to cheer you-
Her words were interrupted by Aether’s lips. Darn him! It was the best way to get her to stop talking. Amber blushed lightly and returned the affection in equal force. Several seconds past before finally breaking the kiss. Aether leaned on her again, tired.
Aether:Thank you, for everything. I’m glad we met so soon. You’re just the gift that keeps on giving.
Amber:Y-Yeah. You too. *flustered* I’m happy to have you too.
Aether:Can I rest like this for awhile. I’m…I’m…zzzz
Amber:*smiles* Merry Christmas Aether.
The fire continues to warm them as harsh snow falls outside. Amber dozes off as well, blissfully unaware with Aether that in a not too distant land, a girl watches the snow fall for the millionth time; experiencing another Christmas too lonesome to count and a single dusty gift that has remains unwrapped through the ages.