Next Morning

Two months later...

Midday time skip

Skip to Evening Just Outside the Town

Roxy — 12/09/2021

--Skip to Evening Just Outside the Town--

Tobias

BOT

— 12/09/2021

He rode along with the riderless horse, making sure to guide it properly as he noticed the dragon was taking to the sky and enjoying her time. Not even thinking of those around her and leaving him with guiding her horse. Oh well, at least he didn't have to be near her. He took note that she could fly faster and she didn't complain, but he wouldn't have cared anyway.

When they arrived to the village on the outskirts of town, he hopped off his horse and tied it to a nearby tree. "I need you to stay here... You will be safe, this is off the path. We don't know what we will find in town and I don't want you two getting hurt" he spoke to the horses as he grabbed his bag and threw it on his back. He grabbed the monocle from his pocket and it put it on. Focusing hard on the village below they seemed to be celebrating. There was a large bonfire in the center of town and people dancing around it. People were drinking and eating good food while joyously hanging out with each other but... something didn't feel right.

Whenever the dragon decided to land, he took off the monocle and put it in his pocket. "There isn't any holidays or anything to celebrate... there were no records of any harvest festivals either... something doesn't feel right..." he said softly to her as he crossed his arms and watched the village from above. "Just be careful" he said softly as he made his way to the village on foot.

Zidri

BOT

— 12/09/2021

Zi: Hovering in the air she took in the lay of the land. It was odd that the people would be celebrating right now. However, she wasn’t from this land so maybe it was something she wasn’t aware of? Landing not far from Thumper, she wrapped her wings around her shoulders as he took his turn observing the town. Looking towards her horse it nickered at her and she chuckled. She didn’t understand it’s language, but she knew it’s mannerisms. The horse came up to her and pressed it’s head to her side in a comforting manner. With a soft smile she would stroke it’s mane and nuzzle it’s neck. ”You did well. Thank you.”

Turning her head towards Thumper as he gave his assessment, she chuckled to herself and shrugged. ”Don’t worry about me.” Giving her horse a serious look, she raised an eyebrow. ”Stay here, ok? No idea what they’ll do to you. I’ll make sure to bring you something back.” Unrolling her normal cloak she wrapped it over her shoulders and wings. Effectively hiding them. It made people less scared of her if they couldn’t tell right away that she was a dragon. Not even glancing towards Thumper she headed down to the village. As she neared the gates, she held up her hand in greeting. ”Well, hello there! I’m from the Academy. We heard of a demon problem in these parts and were asked to come and help. What’s the celebration for?” she spoke in a loud happy, engaging, and authoritative voice. The smile on her face would draw people in and the sway to her hips would help keep eyes on her. It was as if her whole personality had changed. She seemed more outgoing and friendly, warm, welcoming. Making her more approachable to those within the gates.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/09/2021

He watched her with her horse. So she had a nice side to everyone and everything but him... Jeeze... How shitty does that feel...

When she said to not worry about her, he just sat and stared at her. That... isn't how any of this works. He just shook his head and followed her down to the village. Subterfuge was a major skill in situations like this, he would remain hooded and wearing glasses to hide his identity. When they got to the gate, she took the lead and acted like she was there to also celebrate. Since she said she was from the Academy, he could play his roll as if he was just an attendant since the woman seemed on the younger side.

The man on the other side of the gate peaked down, instantly getting an eyeful of cleavage. "Sure sure! Come on in! It's a celebration of life and happiness! Don't need a special time of the year to do that!" the man called out as he hopped down and opened the gate, allowing them passage. Tobias shook his head as he followed her inside, he was completely ignored as men surrounded her, trying to give her food and drink. A woman came and offered him something, but he passed on the food since it was meat but took the cup of wine. He swirled it and took a fake sip since the woman was insistent on getting him to drink. He set the empty cup down and watched the woman leave and get out of ear shot before spitting it out into the bushes.

He just hung back and watched as every man in the village doted on her. Seemed like there was a side he'd never see, though, he expected as much. The only people who showed him genuine interest or love was his family... and still even that was questionable to him. He gently clenched his chest as he felt a strong pang... His past life bled and controlled this one too... God this sucks...

Zidri

BOT

— 12/09/2021

Beaming at the man she made a flourish of a bow to him. ”I’d be in your debt if you would allow us entrance and allow us to join in the festivities.” Making sure her pack was tight to her back, she walked into the village and was instantly surrounded by men. Shifting her own body weight though she tilted her body so she could always at least keep Thumper in her peripheral vision. She saw him spit out the wine and wondered if he was just that picky about his food. Well at least until she took a drink of a glass that was given to her and dug into the food offered. They seemed very eager to share their food and drink with complete strangers. The villagers hadn’t even asked for their names yet.

As she swallowed the food and drink, she vaguely wondered if Thumper realized that the food was poisoned. He had spit the wine out. So maybe? That or he was just that picky. It made her laugh inside though that if he did know it was poisoned, he probably thought her a moron. Because here she was eating and drinking her fill. Granted, he didn’t realize she couldn’t be poisoned. They hadn’t exactly discussed abilities and there was only so much one could observe at the academy. Realizing he hadn’t really eaten much that afternoon she picked up a plate and put two of each vegetables on it. Eating one of them, if it was poisoned somehow she would eat the second. If it was fine to eat she left the second on the plate. It wasn’t much, but she could at least figure out a damn snack for him.

Grinning at her admirers she walked back to Thumper and tossed an arm around him, pulling him close. ”Forgive me gentleman. I have to make sure that my friend here eats too. He’s very picky you see.” Looking at Thumper she gave him the plate. ”Come on now Thumper. Don’t be rude. You should eat these wonderful clean vegetables. They taste amazing.” Squeezing his shoulder lightly as she said clean she let go of him immediately after he took the plate. Whatever he did with them was

up to him. She had at least tried.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/09/2021

He sat and watched her as he leaned back against the wall of a home from the village. The pangs always happened after nightmares... and always caused him to feel weaker than normal. He took in a deep breath and exhaled as he tried to catch his ever fleeting breath.

He watched her closely as she gathered a plate of vegetables and approached him. He was not prepared to be forcefully grabbed and pulled into her. He glared, all be it, weakly, at her. He took the plate and stared at her as she emphasized clean... implying that they weren't clean? He laughed nervously as he watched her walk away. Was... that an act or was she trying to be friendly?... Ugh... Why did everything have to come with a duality or a question mark to it? Fuck his brain man...

He tossed the plate off to the side when everyone was no longer paying attention to him. He groaned softly as he felt a little nauseas. His vision began to blur a bit. He approached the group and cleared his throat. "Excuse me sir, do you have an inn we can stay at for the night?" he asked one of the men around Zidri. Though he seemed to be annoyed, he realized that the boy wasn't feeling good. "Oh yes of course, right around that corner and up the hill near the gate. There is an inn and two room available for you two. Just say Greg sent ya. I own the place after all." the man laughed as he turned his attention back to Zidri.

The men continued to shower her with food though some began to move away from her. They figured she would be going unconscious at any moment so there was no need to keep pumping her full of food or drink. Before Tobias left, he gave Zidri an 'I'm fine but I need a breather. Come to the inn when you feel like it' look, then began making his way towards the inn. Something... Didn't feel right as he continued to watch them pump Zi full of food and drink... when the crowd began to disperse... it was almost as if they just went to the shadows to wait for something to happen.

Roxy — 12/09/2021

She was used to his glare by now. It was how he always looked at her. Granted she was sure that it was how most people looked at her. Unless of course they wanted her body. She continued to keep Thumper in her peripheral vision and didn’t miss when he tossed the plate untouched off to the side. She heard the food hit the ground and for a split second her eyes closed. Yet, she had to keep a smile because she was the one distracting everyone from him.

When Thumper came over and asked one of the men near her if there was an inn they could stay at she cocked an eyebrow at him in question. With a smile to the man who offered the place she reached out and traced Greg’s jaw with a fingertip. ”So very kind of you. Perhaps we’ll have to stick around for a bit longer. I’d love to get to know you.” she purred shifting to turn Greg and herself so that she was towards the direction he had mentioned. ”Sadly it is getting rather late and my friend here does not seem to be feeling well. Strangely I’m getting rather tired myself. So if you’ll excuse ….” she had noticed the men moving off, but just caught the look that Thumper sent her. Closing her mouth she blinked and shook her head. It was only Greg who was left with her at this moment. ”Seems like your friend wants to be alone. Must be more interested in men if he can’t see a beauty like you by his side.” the man cooed. Forcing a smile Zi covered her mouth and laugh before it turned into a yawn. ”You’re making me blush. I’m sure your wife wouldn’t approve of this behavior.”

The older man cackled softly before turning and looking at her in the dimming light. ”Don’t worry my precious. All of my wives will accept you.” As the man lumbered towards her his teeth lengthened into fangs. His body starting to morph into something akin to a spider’s body. Skittering sounds could be heard all around them. ”Your friend will make a nice snack back at the inn for my children.” The grotesque creature would chitter and laugh, spewing some kind of webbing at her.

Zi really had no time to do much but step back a few steps and then throw her hands into the air to block the webbing. She could feel the effects immediately. The silk had some kind of paralysis agent on it, but thankfully it wouldn’t work on her. Wanting to bait him closer she held very still. ”So is there anyone from this village left still alive?” She ground out. ”Nope. I made sure to suck all of them clean before using their husks for my friends and family.” Well that made things easier… They didn’t have to hold back or worry about killing innocents.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/09/2021

Before entering the inn he turned around and watched from the top of the hill. He reached in and pulled out his monocle and put it over his eye. He zoomed in and watched closely as from what it seemed to him that things began to escalate. He could hear the chatter from below... Zidri was playing the part well and she was flirting... flirting? acting? He couldn't tell anymore... She was making motions with the inn keeper. Then something happened with the men began cutting off of her exit points. Then... the man began to change and spider sounds could be heard.

He pulled out his dagger and spun it in his hands as he heard 'nice snack at the inn for his children'. The sound of skittering was heard behind him as spider demons began to surround his area as well. These must be the hungry children... Ugh. He inhaled and exhaled again as he felt the bloodlust around him, but... Zidri got him to say the one thing he wanted to know... Was there anyone still alive? And to his chagrin, there wasn't. "Nice one Zidri..." he said softly, not in a condescending tone but one that came from a place of content.

The spider children launched there paralyzing web, attempting to trap the bunny and get a quick and easy meal but When they launched, Tobias easily dashed away and took a high position on the gate. He inhaled and exhaled as a bow of pure fire came from his hand. He stood and drew the bow back, launching a single arrow into the center of the children who attempted to pounce him. "Boom..." he said softly as the arrow sucked them into it then exploded in a massive fireball, igniting and destroying them. He spun the dagger, dissipating the fire bow and changing into a lightning bow. He drew the bow back and launched a bolt, electrifying and burning the webs that constrained her hands. He then paused and waited for her next move, providing aerial support.

Zidri

BOT

— 12/09/2021

Even as Zi saw a bolt of lightening fly at her, she felt a twinge. Would the rabbit even care if she couldn’t survive his shot? Pulling her hands apart easily, she flicked her hands sending the lightening skittering to the ground. With a deep inhale of breath, she let loose a cone of fire breath, shifting her body to burn all of the spiders near her. Growling out she called out to Tobias. ”Thumper. Check for animals. I don’t hear any, but I want to make sure they’re clear. I’m going to burn out this infestation!” Quickly and easily she launched herself forward, rending spiders limb from limb. Their ichor splattering all over her. Sizzling on her skin. Normally it would have burned a normal person, but on her scales, it only left small, scratched patches. There were a lot of them…. How long had they been here?

Tobias

BOT

— 12/09/2021

Watched as she capitalized on her new freedom of movement. She was quick to act and clever about it too… maybe she wasn’t all that awful.

He heard her call to check and talking about her burning the place to the ground. He quickly scanned the area but all he found were corpses and more corpses. We’re clear to light it up” he called back to her as he began to shoot the ones coming for him, the lightning arrows piercing through them with ease and rending them through and through. When one would attempt to strike Zidri’s blind spot he’d launch a shot to block the attack or knock it off balance, providing her ample time to strike back.

Soon, more and more began to awaken and skitter from their housing. He sighed softly as he spun his dagger again, combining fire and lightning together as he took aim. Launching a lobbed shot, the arrow began to split into a large volley, raining down perfectly around Zidri as she fought, the lightning and fire caused them to strike swift and engulf whatever it touched into flames. Sadly the village around them was getting burned to the ground… but it wasn’t really a village anymore… it was a nest.

”Finish it up Puff” he called to her as he continued to provide support.

Zidri

BOT

— 12/09/2021

All she needed to hear was the all clear. As soon as she heard that and saw that he was at least in a position where he could get away if he needed to. She let loose and literally started burning the place down around herself. She had already caught on that he was killing off the ones that were trying to escape. She really didn't care though as the flames licked at her scales. Screams from the spiders could be heard all around and she made sure to hunt all of them down. Heading towards the edge of the village near a forest she paused and changed her breath. Breathing water on the forests edge to soak it through, preventing the fire from spreading. Walking back through the village and fire she knew that Tobias had long since gotten clear of the area but she wanted to make sure that none of the putrid spiders made it. With a huff and small swirl of smoke curling from her lips she made her way back out of the village.

Stepping through the flames her clothes were singed and burned in several places. Her skin had soot and black tar on. There were scratched areas from where the acid blood had hit her, but no where was she bleeding or seemed actually harmed. Silently she turned back to face the village and looked at it sadly. "I'm sorry I was too late." she spoke softly before shaking her head and glancing at Tobias. "You good?" was all she asked as she looked him over.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/10/2021

Soon there was nothing left for him to do and there weren’t a ton of enemies left that Zi couldn’t handle so he hopped down and picked off stragglers or escapees.

He then went back up to where they left their horses to check on them. Both were okay and didn’t seem too worried or scared. He took off his hood and pulled down his scarf, taking a deep breath and sighing. Leaning back, he waited for Puff the Magic Dragon.

When she arrived, he could see that her clothes were burned and singed in multiple places. He took a cloak out of his bag and tossed it to her so she could cover up. ”Im fine, what about you Puff?” he asked.

There were puncture marks and the arms of his jacket were destroyed by fire, he was a little torn up but it wasn’t anything he wasn’t used to. ”no point in leaving yet. We should make camp and rest for the night…” he said softly with a yawn. They travelled all day and had 0 rest, the exhaustion was hitting pretty hard now. He made up his own tent and lit a camp fire for them before laying back and looking at the stars.

Zidri

BOT

— 12/10/2021

She stayed silent. Only slightly surprised when he tossed her a cloak. Her wings were still covering her more... female parts but maybe the sheer thought made him uncomfortable? Shrugging at her own thought she put the cloak around her shoulders. "Thanks. I'll be fine." Watching him set up his own camp she moved a bit closer and sniffed. Blood. Frowning she moved a bit closer to him, reaching out to stop him but her hand paused. She hadn't liked it when he grabbed her to help her. Moving away again she waited until he laid down before retrieving a small crystal can and tossing it onto his stomach. "Salve. It'll numb your burns and disinfect the wounds. I have bandages too if you need them."

Sitting on the other side of the fire she looked up at the sky and seemed almost sad. The smoke from the burning village was making it difficult to see the stars.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/10/2021

He noticed her frown and didn’t think anything of it at first. He noticed her trying to move closer but she stopped herself again.

While he was lying there a small can landed on his stomach followed by a voice. Salve. Huh. Was she caring for him a bit? Maybe… but now was probably not the time. Hopping up to his feet he took the salve and went to his horse. Taking off his jacket and his shirt he looked up to the sky to see the smoke slowly blocking out the moon and stars. He focused and made a bow of wind, aiming it up at the sky, he launched a few shots that acted like a vacuum, sucking away and dissipating the smoke and bringing back their night view.

He wrapped his arms with the salve and bandages before putting on a loose shirt and going back to where he was lying down. ”Thanks” he said to her as he stared at the sky, a sad look sitting on his face now as he wondered where exactly Dia was…

Zidri

BOT

— 12/10/2021

She listened to him get up and go to treat his wounds. He also cleared the smoke from their view of the stars. That was nice. He didn't seem completely terrible or stupid now, but he was definitely rough around the edges. Letting out a large yawn she inclined her head to him once when he thanked her. Taking her pack she laid down on the ground and put it under her head. As much as she wanted to stay up and stare at the sky, the fatigue from the day was beginning to catch up to her. Pulling a journal and pen from her bag it could be seen that there were two journals in there. Quietly she started to write about their day.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/10/2021

Maybe… Maybe Zidri wasn’t so bad. She was a bit of a racist, sure, but she wasn’t all that bad… maybe a little rough around the edges. But… maybe that just comes from a lack of understand. But that’s something for Future Tobias to worry about.

He sat up and looked at her, noticing two journals, he decided not to question anything and slip his pack under his head. He looked at the stars and reached up. Grasping for any glimmer of hope before lower his arm and placing it over his chest. The fatigue dragged him down into the abyss of sleep.

-Next Morning-

Tobias jolted up in a cold sweat. It was another reoccurring nightmare… the one where Dia told him she was leaving. Tears were streaming down his face as he quickly wiped them away and got up. He wandered to a nearby pond and splashed some water on his face. He removed the bandages and cleaned his wounds before salving them and bandaging them back up again.

Staring in the water he gently caressed the surface, not enough to break the tension. ”I really hope you are out somewhere here Dia…” he muttered quietly before getting up and going back to camp.

Zidri

BOT

— 12/10/2021

Having passed out just after pulling her journal away she slept uneasily through the night. She honestly hadn’t thought they would be sleeping outside but here they were. As the morning sun rose a soft mist played over the ground. It was getting colder and colder in the area now. It didn’t particularly bother her, but she knew as she lay there waking up that she would need to check on her horse. Rolling over she pushed herself to a standing position and whistled for her ride. Thumper had already gotten up and made his way out into the forest. ”Wonder where he went off to?” she murmured and ran her hands over her horse. Warming her hands as she did so, for the beast and getting it set up for travel.

Taking the cloak off and grabbing her pack, she headed off towards where she could smell Tobias. Walking up behind him as he said something about a Dia? Emerald eyes blinked and she tilted her head looking him over. Maybe he had lost a lover? Shrugging she waited until he was about to pass her. ”Have you eaten?” Tossing his cloak over a low branch near the pond she bent over to start unlacing her boots. ”If it’s all the same to you. I’d like to rinse off before we set off. The blood from those spiders isn’t exactly pleasant to smell.” not to mention the ash and smoke smell. She knew she reeked, but it would only get worse if she couldn’t clean herself up. ”I can catch breakfast while I’m in there.” she offered jerking her head towards the icy pond and dropping her now removed boots under his cloak.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/15/2021

His ears rotated as he heard the approaching foot steps, he could tell from the weight behind them that it was Zidri. As he walked past her, he paused at her question. "I haven't yet... but I don't eat all too much... I have some ration in my bag that I can munch on the way back" he said softly. His tone wasn't dismissive, it was soft, kind almost. He wasn't dismissing her questions or her offer. "I appreciate the offer... and take as much time as you need... we can head out when your done." he said softly.

He snapped his fingers as he walked back to her and handed her a container. "Here, it's a lavender based soap that will relax you for the ride... also really good at destroying the smell of spider guts and ash" he said softly as he set it down next to her and began back to the horses. On the way, he gathered some twigs and leaves and such to restart the fire while he waited. Lighting it, he laid back on just his bedroll after putting his tent away and relaxed, letting out a soft yawn. He took out his journal and began writing the nightmare he had prior. There was a race of sorts between his past life and some woman, that ended getting hit by the giant beast.

It was always followed by him lying, bleeding and contorted... Crying... Wishing... Wanting... Apologizing... Tears began to run down his face as he continued to write.

Zidri

BOT

— 12/15/2021

She heard his answer and was only vaguely surprised that he didn’t sound snippy with her. His kind tone actually worried her. He hated her. So why in the world would he be nice? Instinctively she tilted her head back to look over her shoulder at him as he snapped his fingers. Turning she looked down at what he was giving her. ”Thanks.” Was all she said watching him leave. Either she smelled that bad or he had some kind of head injury. Taking a whiff of herself she would bet it was her smell. Wrinkling her nose, she undressed the rest of the way and picked up the soap, diving into the water. It was ice cold, but she didn’t seem to care, nor did she waste time. Making a point to scrub every inch of herself and her hair to free herself of the awful stench. Tossing the soap back to the pile next to her clothes she quickly caught two very large fish, killing them by severing their spines. Getting out of the water she used her claw to gut the fish and clean it. Setting them on a clean rock she quickly washed the guts off of her hands and got dressed. Packing up everything she put her pack on her back again and draped her wings around her shoulders. It helped to keep her wet hair from drenching her clothing.

Heading back to camp she paused just inside the trees. She could see the rabbit writing and smell…. Tears? Purposefully making more noise than she needed to, she cleared her throat and let out a loud yawn. She had no idea why he would be crying but she knew she wouldn’t want him to see her like that. Grabbing two suitable sticks she threaded the fish on them like he had for his lunch the day before. ”Breakfast is served.” she called as she entered the clearing holding the fish up for him to see.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/15/2021

He continued to write as he felt the tears roll down his cheeks. He wiped them away as he heard the dragon making additional noise... which only mean she knew he was crying and that he was writing. He didn't particularly care if she saw him crying. She probably had things she would cry over too.

He closed his notebook and put it in his bag as she came back with two rather large fish. He thought for a moment about what he said... think he denied her request to fish for him but he realized he didn't say that and said he appreciated the offer. Which, he did, but he wasn't feeling quite that hungry in the morning and would just snack on the road home... But he wasn't going to deny a good fish. "Nice catches" he called back to her as he grabbed a few sticks and tied them together to make a rotisserie for the fishes using the stick she's brought. When she arrived, he helped her with the fish and added some fuel to the fire to make sure it was roaring enough for the fishes.

"Nothing like good fresh fish for breakfast after a hard fought battle... well.. except maybe a good hearty stew" he said softly as he watched the fishes spin over the fire. "Did you gut them with your claws? Quite dexterous to do something like that" he said softly as he grabbed his canteen and drunk from it.

Zidri

BOT

— 12/16/2021

Nodding her head to him, she watched as he went around and gathered a few sticks and made a rotisserie for the fish. She could have just broiled them with her breath but if this made him happy then she’d let him. Sitting on the ground next to the fire she watched the fish bake and glanced at him when he spoke. He was much more conversational today… and being friendly… it was weird. Not wanting to be an ass though she took her time replying. ”True. I didn’t realize you ate meat aside from fish. I’ve never seen you eat anything but vegetables, fruit, and fish.” she remarked curiously.

Leaning forward she adjusted her sleeve before reaching into the fire and shifting one of the logs to allow for more air flow. Pulling her hand back out she flicked it to the side twice to get the soot off of her. ”I did. Thank you?” She didn’t really understand what was going on at the moment. Was he complimenting her? No one really ever complimented her kind. ”Rather resourceful of you to know how to build this.” she gestured to the rotisserie. How did a prince know how to build one of these? Much less fight or shoot like she had seen him do. ”You fought well yesterday.” Shifting awkwardly she pulled her sleeve down to cover her now cooled arm.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/16/2021

He stretched his arms across his chest and then threw him them up, giving a big stretch before settling and watching the flames today. "I only usually eat fish and some dairy stuffs. Red meat and chicken I try to avoid at all turns... Just as a general diet thing..." he said softly as he reached in and poked the fish with his finger, not caring about the roaring flame underneath. It was cooking nicely, and having this peace after a hard night was really good. "I eat nuts and stuff too... and grains... but usually I try to eat as healthy as possible" he told her.

He watched her adjust the log, allowing the fire to gain more air and roil a bit higher towards the fish. When she awkwardly said thank you, he chuckled. "Gutting a fish, bones and all, even with a knife is incredibly dexterous. Being able to do it at your finger tips is impressive" he said softly as she commented how he was resourceful for knowing how to build something like this. "Oh? Yeah... I tried not to spend to much time trapped inside... so I would go to the woods and spend nights or sometime weeks out there. Practicing with a bow and arrow, hunting, and learning survival skills in general... Sometime you need to do other things while waiting for fish to cook... so I figured out how to make this so I don't have to worry about scorching dinner" he said softly as she gave him a compliment about fighting well.

He blushed and shifted awkwardly as well. This... was far... too casual?... To nice?... They were literally at each others throat for the past two months... she was racist against rabbits even! But... Here they were. Having a casual conversation like two civilized people.... What the Hell is even going on?! She even complimented him not once, but twice. He cleared his throat and looked at her out of the corner of his eye.

"Um... Thanks... It was just a lot of practice... And magic is much easier to aim than a real arrow... But... you fought quite well yourself... you are like a spiked wall when fighting... and the way you can switch your breath attack is quite amazing" he responded to her as he looked back toward the fire, attempting to hide the blush on his face.

Zidri

BOT

— 12/16/2021

Emerald eyes studied him from across the fire as he explained what he preferred to eat. She did quirk an eyebrow as he poked the meat, not caring if he got burned. ”Well that’s generally a good thing to do. Do you not care about being burned?” She pointed at the hand that had poked the meat. As far as she could tell he didn’t have any protective abilities like she did. So wouldn’t he get burned? Thinking back to the way he had fought he hadn’t seemed to be bothered by much then either.

”I find doing it with my fingers easier than trying to do it with a knife. With my fingers I can feel where things are. Can’t with a knife.” She lifted a hand and wiggled her fingers, they were surprisingly elegant looking for what one would think a dragon’s hands would look like. Sitting with one leg tucked against her and the other bent so that she could rest her arm over the knee she listened to why he knew so much about surviving outside. ”Sounds like you’re not as spoiled as I thought. Why did the King and Queen let their son go hunting and training in the woods though? And why did you get so upset with me being a hunter if you’ve hunted yourself!?” Her voice grew slightly indignant but more hurt towards the end as she realized he had said he had also been hunting.

It was interesting to see him blush though and grow embarrassed. Chuckling softly she shook her head at him and looked at the fire, her hand going to her somewhat dry hair and threading through it, trying to get out the knots. She hadn’t bothered bringing a comb with her because she hadn’t thought they would be staying overnight anywhere. When she felt like she had some of the knots out she did the best she could to try and braid her hair and tie it off. Blinking she looked up at him curiously when he thanked her. It was her turn to blush slightly. ”People don’t usually compliment my kind.” her voice was a bit sad but she smiled and nodded. **”Thank you. My skin can harden and become scales. Sav

e for cutting myself, I’ve yet to find anything that can pierce it. So I’m used to being the one taking all of the blows.” She leaned forward looking at him quizzically. ”Your arrows. When you shoot those volleys. Is that separate arrows that you’re firing or one single arrow that splits into multiple?”** When would she ever get the chance to ask questions like this again?

Tobias

BOT

— 12/16/2021

When she asked about not caring if he got burnt, he slightly chuckled. ”A lot of the time I don’t feel too much in my hands anymore… so a little warmth or heat or sheer cold doesn’t bother me too much…” he said softly as he held one out and looked at it. His mind drifting to the sheer number of cuts, burns, gashes…. Everything they have sustained.

When she spoke about being more agile and thorough due to touch rather than fishing around with a blade, he nodded. ”That makes a lot of sense… plus you can do so in the dark without having to worry about giving away your position at night if necessary… plus it allows for a cleaner fish and zero mishaps” he laughed softly. His hands watching her fingers move as she wiggled them. They were quite nice for something so fierce.

When she began talking about his parents and how he got upset with her being a hunter, he chuckled softly. He decided to take things in order. ”I didn’t give them much of a choice in the matter… I hate being trapped and stuck… so I began sneaking out… then eventually they just let me leave because I continued to come back. Dad would just say boys will be boys and my mom and sisters would flip out… made those long trips extra fun when I returned home” he said the last part sarcastically as he shut his eyes.

”I should clarify, for wild game I used a catch and release method… i hunted the over abundance of predators and corrupted creatures around the forests. I got upset with you because you treated me like some rabbit in a forest, save killing me. Instead of as a person. You then also insinuated that we were all the same… plus you came wearing a pelt of rabbits too… so…” he elaborated to her. There was no anger or tone to his voice, just giving an explanation to her question. His words were soft and kind rather than vicious like he was 2 months ago.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/16/2021

He heard her chuckle and assumed it was at his blush. He watched her declump her hair and chuckled softly to himself. The hands were great for another thing.

Now it was her turn to blush. He shit his eyes and listened to her response. ”I don’t see why not… if you are good at something it should be known and praised…” he responded as she began to talk about her scales. ”Well maybe I can give it a shot and see if I can’t… though I think that challenge can wait for a later time” he said softly as he watched her lean forward. Her next question made him chuckle. She was the first person to ask instead of just be stupefied. ”When I release the arrow from my hand I choose the property it has. So there are two different shots… I have a scatter shot which is one arrow that splits into multiples, and then I have a volley which I fire multiple arrows in rapid succession. I can combine them together to get the effect like last night which was basically arrows that multiplied. It was around 4 release of 3 arrows. So 12 arrows total that would explode into multiples on the way down” he explained to her as he put his head on his knees. He reached into the fire and checked both fish again, each one grew more tender but a few more minutes and they would be perfect.

Zidri

BOT

— 12/17/2021

It seemed odd to her that he said he didn’t feel much in his hands anymore. Given the way he looked at his hands she wasn’t going to press it though. Everyone had their scars to bare. ”You’re not wrong. It’s helped quite a bit on night missions or hunts.” She replied to his comments about her hands. Looking down at them she rubbed her thumb and fingers together lightly. How many lives had she snuffed out with these claws? Reaching out she plucked her fish from the rotisserie and checked it before digging in. It was done and tasty. It could have used some seasonings but this wasn’t bad. Hearing him say he didn’t give his parents a choice though made her swallow and stare at him before busting out laughing. A carefree sound that was an echo from her previous life’s childhood. When she actually laughed it was always full heartedly and happily. ”You probably worried them sick!” She could just imagine a little Tobi hopping off into the tree line to face all of the dangers while his parents chewed on their nails with worry.

Coughing lightly she went back to her eating as he clarified his hunting method. Finishing her fish she licked her fingers clean before looking at him pointedly. ”To be fair I only saw a spoiled Prince who thought he could just take someone else’s room on the first day without talking to them first.” her voice was firm but not unkind. ”If you had asked, I wouldn’t have cared to switch rooms.” with a tired sigh she sat criss cross and braced her hands on her ankles. ”Where I’m from. Rabbits are the predator. I come from a mountain area that only allows farming during certain months, and only if the weather provides. It snows almost year-round. The rabbits in our area eat everything they can get their greedy paws on and breed like their lives depend on it. So, for my people, killing the rabbits was a mercy. It kept their population under control, provided food to starving families, and income to my family.” Staring at the fire she sounded tired and generally resigned to her fate. ”I hope everyone is doing alright while I’ve been away…” she muttered softly. A slight frown crossed her features as she thought about her home and the people who had depended on her for so long.

Choosing to not dwell on things she couldn’t control she had chuckled at his blush. She did roll her eyes at him though when he said he didn’t see why people didn’t praise her kind. ”Not many people care to be around Dragonkin. We’re vicious people remember?” Her eyes looked a bit hollow and jaded. A sign of someone who had dealt with enough racism against them for a lifetime. Lifting an eyebrow as he offered to try and pierce her skin she tilted her head. ”I can’t tell if that’s a good or bad thing. If you managed to pierce it, you would be harming me… and you seem oddly ok with that.” What else had she expected? She had started to hope that maybe he was someone who wasn’t out to immediately harm her, but he had just proven her wrong. Turning the tables back on him she listened to the way he described his ability. ”I saw you use different elements. Can you decide that per arrow or is it done by a grouping?” It was getting later in the morning now. Sitting up straighter she listened and looked around. There hadn’t been any movement from the town below. So it would be safe for them to leave soon.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/17/2021

He smiled softly at her comment about helping her on night missions and hunts. He watched her begin to rub her fingers together and stare at them. Maybe she was thinking about the weight of the lives she took? or the things she killed? Nah, probably not. When she reached for her fish, he reached for his at the same time. Plucking it off the fire, he reached into his bag and pulled out a dark liquid. He took a bite of the fish and sighed softly, it was quite good. In the pocket of his bite, he poured the liquid and let it slosh through the fish. He offered it to her. "It's hard to carry seasoning with you, but this stuff my mom makes is great. It adds that perfect amount of salt to every bite if you use a bit" he said softly as he set it down in front of her to take if she wanted it.

When she laughed, his heart skipped a beat and his eyes went wide. He stared at her for a moment before coming back to his senses. That... That felt so familiar. That... was.... it felt... it was hard to process... it felt like a piece of his past life just came and slapped him in the face. When she commented about worrying them sick he chuckled softly. "Dad was fine with it, he always wanted stories when I came back... My mom was a stress baker... and my dad and sisters paid for it" he laughed softly as he shook his head. "I've always worried them with what I've done. But I haven't taken on anything I couldn't handle... But it's their job to worry kinda..." he said softly with a smile as he listened to her. "I understand, everyone has that notion of me. No one asks or gets to know me, they only assume what and who I am and act like they know me when they don't know the half of it... as for taking your room, I didn't want special treatment. I don't want it at all... so I wanted to pretend to be someone else and hide in your room... but that didn't work" he said softly with a sad look on his face as he took another bite of his fish.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/17/2021

"That makes sense... Do you not implore natural deterrents for rabbits to keep them away from your crops? Most rabbits don't like spice so if you cover the leaves with peppers, soap, water, and garlic powder they will leave your crops alone" he responded to her with a more humane option. His response wasn't ridiculing her for killing unnecessarily, it was more just a secondary observation and suggestion. "Though I understand it doesn't help with the whole additional food thing..." he said softly with a soft sigh, upset at the complexity of the issue, not her. "You could always send them a letter... but I imagine they miss you a lot" he said softly, trying to give her some reassurance.

He tilted his head at her response about her kind being 'vicious'. "Everyone is vicious... That doesn't deny someone the right to be complimented or feel good..." he said softly as he shrugged. "I don't understand why people don't see that... everyone is just blood and guts on the inside... so why should the outside matter?" he said softly as he finished his fish and stood up, stretching. "Oh... You're right... I don't know why I was thinking.... you shed like a snake or a large dragon... and I could have tried that... I don't want to hurt you" he responded to her waving one hand out and dismissing her comment about him wanting to hurt her. That wasn't what he wanted, he just wanted to try and penetrate that which said it couldn't. If it meant shooting her, then he would dismiss those thoughts.

"Per an arrow... Each combination has an interesting effect... but my favorite one is wind and fire... It acts as a vortex sucking air and everything around into the arrow then when the vortex end, the fire ignites due to the massive influx of oxygen..." he said softly with a chuckle as he began to pick up his bags.

"I think we are good to head back soon... there hasn't been anything below and we do need to report this as soon as possible..."

Zidri

BOT

— 12/24/2021

Zidri nodded to his offering of the spice, but she didn’t take it. Instead, she continued to eat her fish plain. It wasn’t that she didn’t want spice, but rather she was very particular about flavors. It was nice to laugh again and listen to someone else’s story. The Prince didn’t seem so bad as he spoke of his family. She could tell he cared about his siblings and parents. ”If you don’t want special treatment, just order them to not give it to you. Maybe suggest the larger room be given to the student who is at the top of the class? That way it’s more of a reward than a privilege you are just given? But… They would have known that you weren’t in your room eventually and it would have just caused a lot of confusion and worry. Not to mention if I had taken your room instead, without you telling them first, I could have gotten into a lot of trouble. Remember. People hate my kind.”

Listening to him make his suggestions about the rabbits she stared at him silently. ”I don’t think you understand how bad it is for my people Thumper. The things you speak of… we don’t have much of that. What we do have… we use for ourselves. We don’t have extra to spare to wipe on our plants. Like I said, farming only happens for a few chance months a year. The crops we do grow are more cold weather hardy ones. If our crops run out, we have to have something else as a food supply. Even if we deter the rabbits from eating the little bit of plants we do have… the breed like crazy. Our hunting them is the only thing keeping them from eating us out of house and home.” She frowned as he suggested she send her family a letter. Looking down and going silent she shrugged. ”I suppose I could.”

Standing she moved to put out the fire and whistled for her horse as he spoke. ”You have a very idealistic way of thinking Thumper. You judged me by what I was wearing when we first met.” When he said he thought she shed like a snake or a large dragon she started laughing again. Getting

everything packed up and ready she mounted up waiting for him to do the same. ”I do molt occasionally but not the way that you are thinking.” she was a bit surprised as he admitted he didn’t want to hurt her. Everyone wanted to hurt her kind. As they finally got moving, she paid close attention to how he described his ability it could come in handy in the future. ”So, your combinations are more up to your imagination than anything. That sounds very handy.” The conversation on the way back made the return ride much more pleasant than when they had first set out.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/24/2021

He took the soy sauce back and put it back in his horse's pocket. He laughed at her suggestion and shook his head. "I tried it multiple times... It doesn't work. They think I'm being humble and praise me for being that way... which is frustrating as the 9 Hells..." he let out a soft sigh as he crossed his arms. "I don't understand what people have against your kind, honestly... But you are right. Though I don't particularly care about their confusion or worry... it would have been annoying for you, so sorry." he said softly as he loaded up his horse and brushed his main.

He listened to her tell him again about how hard it was where she came from. Of course, he didn't really have a response to that. She would know her plight better than he did. He could have made suggestions but that would probably only frustrate the both of them anyway. He took note of her frown towards writing a letter. "Do you not want to write them a letter?" he asked.

"I'd like to think it's a mixture of idealistic and realist. I just assumed you knew of me like everyone else and worse the coat as a... flex of sorts" he said softly as she began laughing at his shedding comment. He huffed and shook his head. "Ah... I see.... Well if they are left over plating, maybe you could spare it... if thats how it even works..." he said softly as she summarized his abilities. "Basically... it's handy but the more I add the more draining it gets" he said softly.

The ride back was nice. They actually talked with each other instead of avoiding each other completely.

X Months Later

Tobias was relaxing the night before. It was another freezing night. He was paired with Zidri on another mission. Apparently a fortress had been taken over by the demon army and they were blocking supply routes. It was imperative they went out first thing the next morning to arrive at the forest for a night attack.

He knew they would make it to fight, but he decided to take a nice dip in the springs. He took off his clothing and put it in the basket as his ears folded against his head, dipping into the water and sinking up to his neck. Ah... The steam was dense and thick like fog, but the moon provided a haunting atmosphere.

Zidri

BOT

— 12/27/2021

Again the rabbit pressed her to write her family a letter. He obviously did not understand the depth of people’s hatred for her kind. ”Look into the mail service to my people sometime your highness.”

-Skip 1 month-

Another month had flown by. Of course, when they had arrived back, Thumper had received all of the praise and she had been called the murderer. He had been the one to stop the spread of the demon scourge and she was the one who had been too late to save the townspeople. They had done the same thing, but the positive had gone to golden boy and the negative to herself. She was used to it by now, but it still stung. Even the other students had started making comments to her.

Feeling rather tired after another long, grueling day of training she had been dealt the blow that she would yet again be going out on a mission with Tobias. She didn’t hate this idea. Thumper had actually started proving himself useful and not completely unintelligent. It was only hard because she knew why she was being paired with him. She was the scapegoat for anything bad that was going to happen. When she heard the state of things for their mission her heart sank. There was no way they could do this without casualties to the citizens.

Knowing she had to get some rest and hopefully be ok enough to travel in the morning she grabbed her supplies and headed to the springs. When she arrived, she draped her wings under her arms, but over her breast, after removing her clothing. Letting her hair down she tossed her towel on one of the benches right as you got out. There was someone else in the water already but the steam was dense enough that she couldn’t really see them and she doubted that they could see her. Stepping into the water she let out a groan of appreciation at the heat. Instantly it started working on the soreness of her muscles as she made her way to the perch on one side she often used.

Tobias

BOT

— 12/28/2021

He let out a soft sigh as his body began to loosen up in the water. The warmth surrounded his body was a good distraction from the amount of stupidity he has had to hear throughout the day.

Since he and Zi have returned from the mission, he tried to argue that she did more work but everyone just thought he was being humble and bragging. This was incredibly frustrating to the point that when Zi even tried to speak about it they treated her like shit. First, it was him being too young to understand what/who he was defending or what he was doing... now He is still too young but he's sense of reason that he had was dismissed in favor of some grandiose image everyone seemed to have of him. Why couldn't they just stop and listen to reason or truth.

Now they were ordered on a mission that they were going to be hurt. But not specifically him, they fully expected Zi to sacrifice herself for him. Even when he flat out refused to the Commander and argue about what Zi had done in private, he had the dark truth confirmed to him. Zi's people and her were only to be used as shields. The first thing to be sacrificed when everything went to Hell. That her people were seen as less than everyone around them. Tobias couldn't argue right now... the sheer stupidity of his statement caused him to rethink his want to do all of this. But he couldn't do anything now...

He sunk into the water and blew some bubbles as someone else entered the bath. The figure was very familiar but he still had zero idea who it was. Her groan was one of satisfaction as she entered the water. "Long day?" he asked her as he looked up to the moon. "Days like this can be stressful... so... you deserve to relax while you can" he said softly. There was no threat behind the words, more of care... a care that everyone, including her, needed some rest.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/03/2022

Hearing her bathroom buddy ask her if she had a long day she laughed in a self-deprecating manner. ”You could say that.” She was dreading the mission that she had to go on. There was no way that she wouldn’t garner an even worse reputation. As she got to her seat and sank onto it her hair fanned out around her. Looking up at the sky she felt tired. ”Have you ever felt so tired and beaten that even your soul feels it?” She murmured loud enough for her friend to hear it. She had no idea who it was, but they were easy enough to talk to. The only reason her people had been allowed to join this campaign was to provide an out for all the terrible deeds that needed to be done.

Closing her eyes, it almost made her cry for the injustice of it all. Hearing the person’s comment, she glanced in their general direction. ”I’m not entirely sure how that will work. Every day is stressful. I don’t see it getting easier anytime soon.” Resigned she stared at the stars again. ”Do you have a favorite constellation?” She asked changing the subject.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/03/2022

He listened to the tired and quiet woes of the women in the bath with him. It sounded like she was having a rough time. "Ever since my best friend went far away I was little. I haven't been able to feel a sense of true joy or happiness. I thought fulfilling my life in other ways would provide my soul some restoration... but..." he paused. This is the first time he's talked to someone about his past referring to it as him. The feeling was liberating and refreshing but he knew that it couldn't possibly be true that he had a past life. "I love her greatly. Far more than I even imagined... So... I've always felt empty, tired, and beaten since she has been gone " he responded to her as he let out a soft sigh and shut his eyes.

"If every day is stressful... then you should find something else to do that isn't... but, as much as a luxury as it is... I know it isn't possible... I hope things get easier for you." he responded as he looked at the stars asking for his favorite constellation. "My favorite will always be Orion's Belt... It was the first constellation the girl who I love taught me..." he said softly. He was referring to when he was Lukas and he would spend nights out back under the stars with Diana... He let out a soft sigh as he stood up. "I hope everything gets easier for you... You don't deserve all the hate and stress I am assuming falls on you... But keep your chin up and keep rising... show them how amazing you are" he said softly. Lukas would always tell Diana to show them how amazing she was... the way he could see through his eyes... and never the less, she always performed and succeeded. On those words, he dried off, grabbed his stuff, and left back to his room

Zidri

BOT

— 01/03/2022

Emerald eyes stared at the sky taking it in as she listened to the one who shared the spa with her. He was definitely full of optimism. She did blink though and seemed a bit surprised as he told her that he was in love with some woman from his past. Someone that had obviously left him a long time ago.

Looking towards him she chuckled as he said Orion's belt.. it had been.... Sitting up straight she peered harder at the figure. There was no way though.... Frowning she sighed softly and shook her head mentally laughing at herself. How was she even thinking it was him? Just as she relaxed back against her seat, the figure said something that made a chill run down her spine. There was no way.... Standing as the other figure did, her hand reached out towards it and she saw her clawed hand. It was the jolt she needed not to call out his name... Lukas..

She didn't even see her buddy leave the room before turning her face up towards the sky. Lots of people would wish luck to others. Tears gathered in her eyes and slid down her cheeks to mix with the spa water. "Of course you wouldn't be here. Talking through strangers now though?" laughing at herself for talking to a ghost she splashed her face with water and made her way out.

---The Next Morning---

Zidri

BOT

— 01/03/2022

After not sleeping very much the night before she made her way silently out of the Academy. They had her horse already loaded and ready to go. Seeing that the poor thing was loaded down with supplies that they may need she sighed. Of course, Thumper's prize stead had only the load that he himself would have put on there and a few smaller things.

Shaking her head, she kept her mouth shut. Taking out an empty pack that slung low around her lower back she started moving some of the packed items from the horse to herself.

Random Maid 1: "Well look. The Dragonkin is doing it's job."

Random Maid 2: "As it should! Do you think the Prince will notice the effort I put into his snacks? That Dragon-bitch better not mess with it!"

Zidri kept her eyes on her horse and didn't seem to mind the way the two were speaking. Of course once they thought the Prince was in earshot, they quieted down. After adjusting the horses load to herself she took it's reigns and walked towards Tobias. Stopping to stand near him, she put her forehead against her horses. "Be good." Looking to Tobias she spoke softly, a tired tone to her voice similar to the night before. "Pardon Highness. Would you mind if I tied a lead from my horse to yours? I can fly the distance, and do not wish to burden my horse with my weight." She bowed to him as was due his rank but her eyes never quite met his.

Random Maid 1: Scoffing and whispering to Maid 2. "Do you hear that?! She has the audacity to ask the Prince to do things for her!"

Random Maid 2: Sending Zidri a look of disgust and whispering back to Maid 1. "How Shameless! I always knew the Dragonkin were barbarians."

Tobias

BOT

— 01/03/2022

The next morning, Tobias was up and preparing. As he made his way out, he saw that Zi was already there and preparing. What he caught next, did not make him feel like a good morning. As he approached, he stayed silent listening to the two maids.

The tone in her voice was... familiar. Like he had heard it just yesterday. He squinted at her but then something that really bugged him took place. He grit his teeth as he turned to the maids as they began to whisper. "Enough." he stomped on the ground as he began moving things off of her horse and onto his own. "You have the audacity to speak poorly of a trusted comrade in my presence? You have the audactiy to punish a poor, defenseless animal who you two are burdening with more weight than he could carry? " he yelled at them as he approached them with death in his eyes.

"HOW FUCKING DARE BOTH OF YOU. YOU DON'T GO AND FIGHT WITH ME. YOU DON'T GET TO TALK HIGH AND MIGHTY IF YOU DON'T TRY NOT TO DIE WITH ME. YOU DON'T GET TO SPEAK TO SOMEONE WHO IS FRANKLY IN A HIGHER STATUS TO ME THAN THE BOTH OF YOU" he yelled at them as he reached into the bag and tossed the food out. After he had finished his tirade and moved an acceptable load from her horse to his, he tied up her horse to him. "Do what you want to do Zi" he said softly as he clapped the reigns, the horses taking off.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/03/2022

She honestly was expecting him to glare at the two maids, maybe, chastise her for overburdening her horse before telling her it was her own problem for bringing too much. What she did not expect was Tobias to go off on the maids and other help. Standing up for her and her horse. A dark blush spread over her cheeks and with wide eyes she stared at him slack jawed. Watching him take off with her horse she grunted as a muddy stone connected with the side of her face. Shaking her head she looked in the direction it came to see one of the maids flushed and seething in anger.

Random Maid 1: "How dare you! How dare you make us look bad in front of the Prince! You horrible creature! He even dumped out the special food I made for him! I HOPE YOU DIE ON THIS MISSION!" Pulling a blade from her skirts the Maid lost her mind and rushed Zi.

Zi realized what the maid was about to do and just stood there letting her slash at her until the guards came to their senses and took hold of her, dragging her away. While Zi herself was fine, her clothes were not. Looking down at herself she shook her head. "Poor knife." Zi turned and jumped into the sky easily catching up to Tobias. Flying low enough to be level with him she didn't bother to look over at him. "Thank you for trying." She called. Her tattered shirt whipping over her pale torso.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/04/2022

He heard everything that had happened after he took off with their horse. They weren't exactly quiet about it... The fact they did that to her because of his decisions left a nasty feeling in his stomach.

When he heard her coming up and flying level with him, he saw the tattered shirt and portions of her exposed, he blushed a bit and glanced away. He reached into his bag and tossed her a parka to cover up with that wouldn't provide too much wind resistance for her. Almost like he specifically packed it for her just in case... "I'm sorry how they acted piss poorly to you for no fucking reason... You aren't a horrible creature, and I will do everything in my power to make sure you come back alive" he said softly as he looked at her. There was sheer determination in his eyes behind his statements... maybe a bit of spite too?

He kicked up the horses and got them up to a more travelling pace as they began towards their destination.

--Few Hours of travelling--

They had been going for about half a day, there was a nice river and wide open wilderness around them. Not a lot of shrubbery or trees around but tall grass. He hopped off his horse and removed it's load and Zi's horse's load and let them roam off free in the fields so they can experience being horses again for a while. He went over to the river and cleared out brush to make a nice space to relax at and have lunch. He grabbed some rocks and made a firepit before getting some shrubbery and lighting it on fire. He then peered over the river to see if there were a lot of fish but sadly there didn't seem to be any. He shrugged and grabbed some fish he stored in his bag for the day and stuck it with a spit before placing it over the fire to cook.

He wouldn't have eaten the lunches those stupid maids packed anyway...

Zidri

BOT

— 01/04/2022

Catching the parka mid-air she looked at it before slipping it on. Which was rather tricky to do while flying. Did he hate the sight of her that much? That sad depressed feeling sank further in her stomach and she only spared him a glance when he apologized to her for them. "You didn't say those things, they did. You are not responsible for the actions of others." Her voice was monotone and had a certain resignation to it. She honestly did not hold him accountable for what they did. Nor how it escalated after he tried to help. Zi really didn't have much else to say after that though and just kept flying. Occasionally going higher to scout ahead and keep a look out for dangers around them.

--Later that day--

Flying over the glistening river she kept her eyes peeled for some fresh fish. Sadly though, there didn't seem to be that many. Curious.. why not? A river like this should have plenty of fish in it. With a banking turn she made her way to where Tobias had set up a small fire. Landing near him she seemed a bit more relaxed as she went to kneel by her packs. She removed the bag that she was carrying and it gave a soft thud to the ground as it landed. Going through her pack that had been on her horse a frown crossed her face. Checking it again and then the one she had been carrying she sighed and shook her head. "Stupid maids" she muttered before coming to sit on the opposite side of the fire from Tobias, empty handed.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/04/2022

He laughed at her remark about the maids. Then he noticed that she didn’t have any food… now it made sense…

He went back to his pack and grabbed some more food and put it on the fire to cook, even going over and handing her one of her favorite foods to snack on and hopefully cheer her up. ”Its okay, I made sure to pack extra just in case.” he said with a soft smile at her as he went back and opened up a bag of potato chips and began to munch on them.

”I hope the parka was nice. I didn’t want you to be so exposed while flying… it isn’t polite for a guy to stare at an attractive body like that… Wait…” he paused for a moment as a blush came to his cheeks. He got a bit flustered for a moment before clearing his throat and glancing away towards the river, immediately trying to change the subject.

”The demons must be fishing the top of the stream dry so no fish are coming down here… which means it’s probably going to hit towns harder too if we don’t make quick work…” he said softly as he reached into the fire to check the fish before taking another handful of chips.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/04/2022

Glancing up at him as he got up, she was curious what he was doing. Laughing softly she accepted the food. "Thank you. You don't have to share your food with me, but I do appreciate it." He was one of few at the Academy that didn't treat her like a plague. She was about to answer him about the parka when his words fully sank in. A blush crept over her cheeks and she could only blink at him. It was obvious he hadn't meant to say that. Takin a deep breath she didn't comment. Opening the snack he gave her and taking a small bite. "Thank you." She said softly.

Watching him reach into the fire again she frowned and stopped eating. "Let me see your hand." Did he have an ability like hers? She pointed at the hand that had just been stuck into the fire and got up to kneel in front of him. "You did something like this last time too."

Tobias

BOT

— 01/04/2022

Woo. Good job Tobias, you played that off smoothly. He thought to himself as he only received a thank you and no other response. Phew…

When she frowned and demanded his hand, he blinked and looked at her. He offered her his hand that was stuck in the fire. It was hot to the touch and the skin was red but there was a lot of scarring around each finger and the hand all together. ”like I told you last time… I don’t feel very much there anymore so I don’t mind touching some fire” he told her softly. He took his hand back after she was satisfied and looked at them. She was really worried… there is no way he could tell her that his own powers cause his hands and forearms to end this way…

He took the fish from the fire and bit into it, enjoying the crispy skin as he sighed softly. ”Aint nothin’ better than crispy fish…” he sighed softly as a memory… or a memorable taste came to mind. Fried fish with crispy long potatoes… delicious… he snapped back to reality and smiled at her. ”It isn’t just my food, it’s our food. I packed it for both of us, not just me” he responded to her as he took another bite.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/04/2022

She continued to frown at him and wasn't quite done with looking over his hand, she had seen the extensive scarring, when he pulled it away from her. Looking up at him with her emerald eyes hard set, she almost smacked him upside the head when he reached into the fire again. "Just because you don't feel the sensations doesn't mean you aren't hurting yourself. Stop it. Let me do that." Shaking her head she moved away again and sat back where she was before grabbing her own fish. Silently munching on it she didn't say anything as she thought. He really didn't seem to notice the pain and that bothered her. His hands showed too much scaring to be from occasionally sticking his hand into a fire. It was like he was repeatedly burned, but she had never heard of anything like that happening to Thumper before.

Pulled from her thoughts as he clarified that it was their food, not just his, she smiled. "Again, thank you." she immediately bit off another piece of fish to chew. Her brain had auto generated some pretty nasty quips. One's that she knew weren't true for Tobias and would be unfair for him. They were directed at the others who saw her as only a disposable shield for him. Resting for a bit after finishing their lunch it was soon time to get going again. This time she made sure to load up her horse appropriately, but did not let him put any of the weight on his horse. She adjusted the tackle to carry it herself. "Shouldn't take much longer for us to get to the location now. How did you want to handle it when we get there?" She asked as they started on their way again.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/04/2022

He was surprised that she was so caring about whether he was in pain or not or that he shouldn't do stupid things. "As much as I appreciate the offer Zi, I don't want you to do things for me... Because I feel like it just proves your initial thoughts right with others only taking care of me...." he told her as he shut his eyes and sighed. His response wasn't one of someone who was trying to be spiteful or petty... his response was more genuine like he was trying to really show her he wasn't who she thought he was. Honestly, he didn't know why he cared so much about her opinion but he found himself wanting approval from her rather than anyone else.

After the silent meal, he helped Zi load up the horses and hopped back on. With a yawn and a stretch, they started on their way again. He listened to her as she asked how they wanted to handle it. He pondered for a moment as he took in to account their terrain. "I think we should leave the horses far back... there isn't a lot of coverage going up to the fortress. We should take it slow and wait for cover of night so we can sneak through the brush... when we get close enough or when they notice us, we can unload as much punishment from the position... but I'm hoping to get as close as possible to get you inside so you can rip them up and I can distract and barrage them from the outside" he told her as they continued a leisurely pace.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/04/2022

Pausing as she finished her fish she pointed the stick at him. ”Don’t be an idiot. There’s a difference between me doing things for you, taking care of you, and you abusing the privilege. Honestly in this regard you’d be doing me a favor. Could you imagine what they would say if they saw us travelling together and saw you reaching into the fire, getting yourself burned? Especially when I can reach into it just fine and not be harmed at all. I’d be labeled as the terrible dragonkin that harmed the golden Prince.” She stopped and really took a good look at him. ”You saw how they reacted when I just asked for your help. I shudder to think what would happen if they thought I had intentionally harmed you in some way.” she grimaced and tossed the bones into the fire. ”Even if you’re trying to help… this is one of those ones where it’s actually hurting me.” She knew that it was making it sound like it was self-serving, so she made sure to add in. ”Besides, you really shouldn’t be doing stuff like that. Even though you have the scarring and can’t feel it… if it keeps being harmed you could make it so you couldn’t use your hands one day. What would you do if you couldn’t feel or touch your partner, or even your little bunny children?”

As they started moving again, she flew low and next to him. Sneak through the bush? Maybe he had already forgotten she could fly? ”Well, that’s one version and I’m happy to comply… I only want to ask if there was a reason to stay on the ground? Are you afraid of hights?” on the horizon she could see the ramparts of the city.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/04/2022

The verbal backlash he received was... intense to say the least. Everything she was saying was right. He hated that she was right, because it, again, put him on a pedestal. "I hate that what you are saying is right... I really do... I wish people wouldn't look at you that way..." he responded as he shook his head. Intentionally hurting him? That would be far from the truth... but these people acted like fanatics towards him and he hated it so gods damn much. "Yeah... and after today... I can only imagine what crazy people will try to do to you..." he groaned.

"I can still feel with them... I guess it's just they don't so much register pain anymore..." he responded to her and sighed, but she was right again. "Yeah... Yeah you're right..." he shook his head, admitting defeat.

He looked at her as she mentioned flying through the air. "No, there is a problem with entering from above... Depending on the moon, it'd cast a shadow since we'd need to go high above the watch... Plus it could be a lot of fatigue on you since we have to fly high and above from probably a great distance... but if you think it's the best course, I'm okay with it too" he said softly.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/06/2022

Smiling softly she didn’t say anything when he voiced his displeasure of people treating her poorly. ”They love you and want you to be safe. Sometimes though that desire to protect is smothering and causes more bad than good.” She was glad to hear that he could still feel in his hands, but it did confuse her that he didn’t register pain anymore. Maybe he just had that high of a pain tolerance?

Listening to his reasoning for why flying would be a bad thing she sighed and conceded. ”Alright, we’ll go by ground, but if they spot us, I’m getting you out of there.” She gave him a meaningful glare and lazily flapped her wings to keep pace. ”I bet you just don’t want to be carried by me.” She grinned teasing him. ”I get it though. Can’t go stepping all over your manhood.” Laughing she flew a little higher to catch sight of their target. It was getting dark already and lights were starting to show in the compound.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/06/2022

He stared at her as he shook his head and sighed softly. ”They really have a funny way of showing their desire to protect… “ he said softly.

The more they travelled along the darker it got. The eerie night slowly took over the mountains. ”No no no. If they spot us we charge or stand our ground. If we run, we are just going to get shot in the back…” he said softly, noticing her meaningful glare he gave her a soft, sincere smile. Thought her second response made him laugh a bit. ”Id kill to get princess carried through the air… manhood shmanhood. Being in your lovely arms would be just fine with me” he said shaking his head with a laugh, not really registering what he was saying to her as the fortress slowly came into view.

Hoping off his horse he gently placed his hand on its cheek ”You run, I’ll whistle when we are ready to leave. Listen for it but stay safe and lay low” he told him as he grabbed his bag and changed his clothing, stripping down to his under clothing and putting on a black outfit that blended in. He grabbed his bow and string it across his chest with a bundle of arrows on the other side. Putting the monocle on, he waited for Zi to be ready.

When she was, it was time to make their move. They began their ascent towards the fortress.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/06/2022

Zidri completely agreed with him about those that wanted to protect him. She knew that they could be rather cruel if they wanted to be. "Thumper. Your Zealots would string me up if I didn't get you out of harms way." laughing softly she banked and almost too a nose dive in the dirt when he said he wouldn't mind being in her arms. Thankfully it was dark and he wouldn't be able to see the terrible blush that spread over her cheeks.

Landing a bit farther away she put her back to him so he could have some privacy as he changed. She really didn't need to. Her clothes were always a darker dirtier shade anyway. Only on rare occasions would she wear something white or a vibrant color. Hearing him walking up beside her, she nodded to him and pulled out Feral Ivory. The fan slid open silently, looking harmless as ever.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/06/2022

He hummed softly as they walked slowly, taking a nice leisurely pace up towards the large eyesore. The wind was still tonight but there was something… something more going on. He clenched his fist as they walked, the thumping in his chest due to this unknown anxiety that just washed over him. ”We need to be careful, we don kn-“ his sentence was cut short as 4 large beams of light highlighted them in the darkness.

Loud booms were heard and the smell of gunpowder filled the air. Without thinking, he acted on instinct. He shoved Zi to one side and jumped back from the explosion, still getting caught and hit with shrapnel from the blast. A loud horn was played as the sound of clanging armor and new shots were heard. Standing up, he pulled out his bow and began to shoot regular arrows, piercing the loaders and delaying the next shots but the ones in the air crashed around him, sending him flying back. His body was covered in thick black gunpowder, his clothing was torn in multiple places and he reeked of blood. The spotlights seemed to be focused solely on him now.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/06/2022

Keeping her eyes open she looked around as they made their way to the building. She really should work with Thumper to make a silent communication method. Hearing something strange she was momentarily blinded as the light hit them. Feeling Thumper shove her, she barely rocked on her heels. The impact hitting right next to her, whipping her hair around her face. The shrapnel and debris bouncing off of her harmlessly. Using her wings, she stirred the air and dispersed it.

Emerald eyes scanned frantically for her Thumper. Seeing him go flying backwards after more explosions went off around him, she roared heading right at him. ”Tobias!” Sucking in a deep breath she could taste the tang of blood on the air. Skidding to a stop in front of him, her wings went up and spread as wide as they could, creating a large blockade in front of him. Exhaling a large ball of lightening launched and flew right the closest wall demolishing it. She could easily block the incoming threats from the sky with her wings but the armored warriors that were quickly surrounding them were going to be another problem all together.

She couldn’t just fly away with Tobias. For one he wouldn’t let her, and two, the weapons they had prevented it. Snarling she turned to face Tobias and knelt down, covering him with her wings and body. ”Are you ok? Can you fight?” The only space for anything to get in and out was the space created between her neck, head, and the edges of her wings. With her back now to their enemy she couldn’t see what was coming at them.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/06/2022

The loud clangs and reload of the cannons rang through the still air. His life began to replay in front of his eyes. His new family, his past life's family. Even a made up image of his family gathered around his grave and casket. This was going to be how it ended... Frankly, he deserved it and almost felt relief in the solace of death.

The wind screeched as the cannon balls came towards him. He didn't hear Zi call his name. He didn't register her in front of him and taking care of the cannon balls. He blinked for a moment as he tried to register if he was dead or not. "Are you my angel of death? Come to take me again?" he asked her as he inhaled and exhaled, shutting his eyes. Her question made him snap back. "Zi? Are you okay? Yeah... I can fight still" he responded. He had lost the feeling in his legs and arms, which would make what he needed to do easier.

He took a deep breath and pulled the arrow out of it's sheath behind his back. The cannons reloaded. The sound of the gates dropping and the clanging of armor and battle cries rang through the silent night. "You're probably going to need to carry me back... but please... be my impenetrable shield" he said to her as the cannon balls crashed around them. He knelt down in front of Zi, shielded by her wings. He stood up the bow igniting in his hand as it grew and grew. A closer look to Zi revealed that his gauntlets and arm had burned away and his skin was burning as he wielded the flaming bow. He drew back the fire and launched a barrage of arrows at the approaching troops.

Big fireballs engulfed the walls of the fortress and the entrance. The approaching ground demons were obliterated by the explosive shot. Another round of cannon shots. The bow changed to lightning. lightning like veins shot up his arm, overlapping his new burns. His arm twitched compulsively like it was constantly being electrocuted.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/06/2022

He inhaled as the cannons launched again. With a swift draw, he launched a volley of lightning arrows that began to rain down through the clear night sky on the fortress. The lightning striking the lit walls causing explosions. The cannonballs exploding in mid air as lightning pierced through them. The bow shifted again, this time to that of physical wind. His arm began to bleed as it was sliced by the sharp wind. He inhaled again and launched in rapid succession. The arrows hit the fire, then trailed a line up to the cannons causing the fire to continue to expand across the demon held fortress.

The bow switched to swirling water. The bow slowly combined with the blood becoming red. He exhaled and launched ice arrows to the base of the fortress, freezing each way out and making the base brittle. He switch back to fire fused with wind and lightning and shot 50 arrows into the air. Each arrow split into 10 as the fortress began to explode in a rain of God Smiting Fire. As the barrage continued the Fortress slowly dwindled and was obliterated. Tobias panted as his vision went blurry. A mixture of loss of blood and lack of energy caused him to collapse backwards. His drawing fingers caused the same effect to happen on his other arm as well.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/06/2022

Zirdri was glad when Tobias answered her and used her as his shield. It was the least she could do. Staring at him in horror as she saw what his power did to him. It brought tears to her eyes. She didn’t even notice the splatter damage hitting her back. Her own clothes were scorched and burned away as he fired, leaving shreds behind. Barely able to hear anything above the ringing in her ears, she didn’t hear the complete and utter destruction behind her. He had entirely destroyed the compound and everyone in it.

Quickly moving forward, she caught him as he fell back. Looking pale and terrified she looked him over quickly. He had so many wounds and was losing so much blood. Inhaling and exhaling she blew a cool breeze over him to help soothe the burns on his body. Cradling him to her in a princess carry she leapt into the air and made her way to where their horses were. With a sharp whistle she called for them and was grateful when they came galloping towards them. ”I need you two to make your way back to the academy on your own. He’s too badly hurt for me to travel with you.” Quickly she stuffed Feral Ivory into his horses pack. ”I will constantly call that to me at a low level. So, you’ll always feel a tug in the direction we are. Please be safe. He’ll kill me if something happens to you.” Grimacing she didn’t even spare them another glance before taking to the air once more. She would go back to the compound on her own later on and make sure that there were no survivors, but right now Tobias was her primary concern.

Flying took significantly less time to get back to the Academy, and Zi pushed herself to her limits to get there as fast as she could. As she landed, she called out to the guards to fetch a doctor and to meet her in Tobias’ room. The maids and staff in the house panicked as they saw her carrying their golden prince so badly wounded. Some took notice of the fact she had no wounds at all, and resentment grew.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/07/2022

Black. Darkness. His body lay in a black sea, floating. He didn't know if he was alive or dead. An anonymous body float down the river next to him. A blonde boy with blue eyes. The two stared at each other for a moment before drifting past. Neither of them moved to reach out to the other to stop, almost like two ghosts the other refuses to accept.

Every once in a while he would stir back to life, the only thing he could remember was a sweet scent and the feeling of rushing air. Then, everything returned to darkness.

--Hours Later--

Tobias groaned softly as he stirred in bed. Wait... Bed? He weakly sat up and looked around to see a massive amount of people in his room standing around him crying or talking and watching him. He hated this. "Get out" he choked out as he began to cough blood into his bandaged arm. One of the maids tried to protest to stay and take care of him, but he gave her a stare even the Reaper would be afraid of. He sighed softly as he shifted, looking around the room. He saw Zi in the same clothing before everything went down. She must have flew them back... He must have been in a really shit position if she pushed herself that hard.

He reached over and gently stroked her head as she slept. "Thank you... for pushing yourself for me..." he said softly as he collapsed back into the bed and sighed softly. Pain radiated over his body. There was so much damage that sprawled over him that he felt like he should for sure be dead. But no... it was thanks to her. He was feeling warm due to the bandages, so he weakly picked up his blanket and draped it over her.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/07/2022

It was hard enough on her that Tobias had been harmed while in her care, but the death glares she had received from the staff and other attendees had been brutal. It wasn’t long after they had arrived that their horses had returned as well. They were both worn and panting as if they had run full gallop. Of course, Tobias’ horse was taken care of right away. She had of course, had to leave for a moment to take care of her own steed.

Once the animals had been cared for, she had returned to Tobias’ room only to be met with guards. They claimed that she had put the prince in danger and obviously neglected her duties. Outraged she had been about to show them what it meant to be neglectful when the Commander had intervened and told them to let her pass. Exhausted she had sat on the floor next to his sleeping form and watched over him for quite a while before finally passing out.

-After Tobias Wakes-

Stirring as she heard someone squawking about the indignity of a dragonkin being allowed to stay, but they were being thrown out, Zi lifted her head tiredly. Feeling something shift on her, she blinked as a very luxurious blanket fell to her waist. Staring at it she realized it was Tobias’ blanket. Her gaze quickly snapped to him as she raised up slightly to get a better look at him. She completely ignored the others in the room. Reaching out a clawed hand she barely touched his warm cheek when there was a indignant shriek behind her. Twisting to look at what had made the sound her face connected with a hard crystalline bowl. Water splashed everywhere and a pain erupted in her chest and stomach.

Enraged Maid - ”How dare you touch him you filthy animal! Are you trying to finish the job?! You couldn’t even protect him properly!”

Guards rushed forward and grabbed the woman, restraining her from stabbing Zidri with a shard of the broken bowl again. Zi could only look down at her chest and stomach, blood pooling on her hands. Pure white hot anger coursed through her. Bringing a hand up she focused on her hand, making it red hot and touching her wounds. A sickening sizzling would be heard as she cauterized them. Forcing herself into a standing position she glared at all of them. ”If you value your lives, you’ll leave now. Stay, and I’ll eat you alive.” Waiting just a moment and seeing none of them move she roared at them again lightening crackling around her mouth. ”GET OUT!” The Commander signaled his men and escorted everyone out. Looking back at her he said softly. ”I’ll bring in medical supplies for him, and I’ll keep everyone else out.” Zi grunted at him turning back to Tobias. The room was far too warm. Inhaling deeply, she exhaled slowly, icy breath swirling around the room to cool it down. With another grunt she sat back down on the floor next to Tobias and just stared at him.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/07/2022

The other people in the room didn't exist to him right now. As he sat there, he winced as she reached for his cheek. The gentle hand cupping it caused a blush under the bandages. Though the touch caused pain to radiate through his body. He wasn't expecting the shriek and a bowl to be tossed at her. He got his by the shattering of the bowl, slicing his shirt and bandages across his chest and splashing him with the hot water. He winced and bit his lip in pain as the wound opened and began to ooze out blood down his bandages. He was about to raise his voice but she yelled at them to get out, threatening what everyone thought her kind would do. He let out a soft sigh as he shook his head.

The commander was thankfully not as bias as everyone else and ushered everyone out of the room and blocked them out. Soon soldiers came in with additional medical supplies and immediately walked out of the room. He weakly threw his legs off the bed as he picked up some medical supplies and began to weakly clean his open wound and bandage him up. He then picked up some of the burn cream and bandages and motioned for Zi to show her stomach after cooling down the room. He shook his head at her and rubbed some of the solvent on her stomach and bandaged it up, then weakly placing it in her hand, he let her handle her chest. "You shouldn't hurt yourself... either..." he weakly said as she stared at him.

He smiled softly at her and chuckled. "Whats... with the expectant look...?" he asked her as he sat back on the bed and let out a sigh of exhaustion.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/07/2022

Of course, the idiot would try to get up. Cuz, so would she. Washing her hands off, she got a clean damp cloth and brought it back to him. By that time, he had already tried his best with bandaging himself up. No wonder he had so many scars on his arms. With sad eyes she stared at him for a moment when he motioned for her to come over to him. Huffing at him she moved to stand in front of him, pulling the last of the parka he had given her off. All she had underneath were her bloody chest bindings. Looking around his room as he gently touched her stomach, she tried very hard not to think about his hands on her body.

Eventually she sat back on the floor and watched him as he lay back. ”Says the rabbit who won’t lay still and not bleed to death.” She smeared some of the salve on her chest and wrapped it before shifting and sitting on his bed next to him. Reaching out she gently moved his bandages checking his work. Nudging an uninjured spot, she jerked her chin towards the other side of his bed. ”Move over. I’m tired and this bed is big enough for my entire family.” She would help him if needed and made sure he was comfortable himself before removing her shoes and laying down beside him, close enough that she could feel the heat from his body but not pressed against him. Her eyes were heavy as she stared at the ceiling. ”Don’t ever do that again. You scared the hell out of me.” Turning her head, emerald eyes looked at him, the yellow outline glowing faintly. ”Don’t ever push me out of the way again. I can take those hits. You can’t. Do you hear me, Tobias?”

Tobias

BOT

— 01/07/2022

He chuckled at her remark. "Bleeding to death isn't that bad..." he joked with her as he winced in pain after the laugh. As she got up on his bed, he looked at her and watched her as she checked his work. He huffed a bit, thinking that she was just overworrying about his work even though he's done this a ton of times before. She then nudged a spot and told him to move over. He had her lock the door before lying down with her help to get comfy. Throwing the blanket over them again, he blushed as she plopped down next to him. Sharing a bed with someone was something he wasn't foreign to... but... that was family. He could smell something sweet in the air and feel the warmth her body put off.

He didn't realize he scooted closer to the warmth since her ice breath did it's job a little too well. "Well... thats what happens when you lose a lot of blood and run out of mana...." he sighed softly as he shook his head. His eyes softening as he met her gaze. "I can't make promises... but I'll try..." he said softly as he chuckled and shook his head. "Again, I can't make any promises..." he winked at her as he shut his eyes and let out a yawn. "I responded out of instinct... I... didn't want you to get hurt..." he said softly as his voice began to drift off as he finished his sentence.

He was out like a light, the lights of the room turned off with him as he ended inches away from her. Their warmth mingling under the blanket. His face towards her.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/07/2022

Glaring at him when he said that bleeding to death wasn’t that bad, she huffed at him when he winced in pain. ”Serves you right. Don’t be an ass.” She said sleepily. Humming softly, her body naturally adjusted to the room temperature and having a thicker blanket on it. Radiating heat if it was cold, or cool if it was too warm. A blessing she found she thoroughly enjoyed in this life. She didn’t even see his wink at her, and barely heard his words. The relief that he was ok and the exhaustion from the trip hit her like a truck. Her breathing evened out and the comfort she felt laying next to him. Why was it so familiar?

--Two Week Mini Skip--

Packing her belongings once again, she couldn’t believe that the Commander had summoned them to take on yet another mission. They were still healing from the last one! Not to mention the backlash that she had gotten from everyone here at the academy. Apparently locking yourself in a room with the golden boy was a no no. Rolling her eyes mentally, she sighed and made sure she had everything. This time they weren’t even told details of the mission ahead of time. Just that they were to meet the Commander out front with at least a weeks’ worth of clothes. Travel supplies weren’t needed apparently but she still packed them, not trusting the maids after last time. Finishing her packing she paused and smiled faintly, staring off into space. It was a pleasant memory… Sleeping next to Tobias had been one of the most restful sleeps that she could remember. Granted they had both been exhausted but it was still nice. Shaking her head, she shouldered the pack and headed out to the lobby where the Commander was waiting.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/07/2022

He let out a soft sigh as he lugged a somewhat compact bag over his shoulder. His body was still healing from the event and he had been forced to rest the entire time since the night. He kept thinking about the caramel scent that was so familiar that came off of Zi... and how much comfort he had just being that close to her. The commander told them to meet in the front gate and he would give orders there. He groaned softly as he walked out the front door to the dorms only to be greeted by one of the maids. Before she even had a chance to speak he gave her a death glare. "Don't talk to me. Don't come near me. Fuck off" he growled at her as he walked past her.

Arriving at the front gate, he could see Zi was already there. Walking up slowly. "Hey Zi... I wonder what the mission will be..." he said softly as he waited with her.

Soon the Commander arrived with a happy and satisfied grin on his face. "Hello you two, thank you for meeting me here. Your mission, after the major success of the last one, will be to enjoy a week of rest and relaxation. You have an all expense paid trip to the Volcan Spa. A volcanic spa with natural hot springs and ash baths. A wide variety of other things too. You deserve it." he told the two as he handed them both of their itineraries and tickets. The loud sound of neighing and a carriage pulling up was heard outside pulling up. "And there is your ride! Off you two go! See you in a week" he waved.

Tobias was incredibly confused. He accepted the ticket and was promptly shoved out the door with Zi and on to the carriage where the driver took their bags and stored them ontop. When they were all settled in, they began the journey.

Still in shock, he looked at Zi and blinked. "Did... did we just get shoved out on vacation because he knows we would have denied it?"

Zidri

BOT

— 01/07/2022

Glancing back as she heard someone greet her, she nodded to Tobias. ”Thumper.” Emerald eyes shifted to the Commander as they arrived. Of course, the last mission had been a success. She had gone back to make sure that the place was wiped clean. It had actually been pretty easy. Considering how people fawned over Tobias. They barely paid her any mind at all. Hell, they probably hoped that she never returned. Blinking, she came back to herself as the Commander started talking about hot springs and ash baths. What in the world? Taking the itinerary he gave her, she glanced at it confused. ”I’m sorry Sir, but what? You must have me confused with someone else. I’m just going as Thumper’s bodyguard, right?” She barely had time to get her question out before they were being shoved into a carriage.

Plopping into one of the seats, she stared at the door confused. ”What just happened?” Glancing at Tobias as he asked his question she shrugged. ”More like you’re getting the pampering. You are a little rough around the edges now. The future King can’t be looking so raggedy.” She teased him, still fully believing that this was some kind of misunderstanding.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/07/2022

He blinked at her response and shrugged. He had zero idea either.

When she teased him about the future King not looking raggedy. "Yeah? Maybe since I'm going, I'm sitting with the future Queen then" he laughed, teasing her back. He leaned back in the chair and shut his eyes. His body was radiating pain but not nearly as bad as it was before, which he was thankful for. But the more he played through his mind the relaxing, he couldn't help but feel happy that he was going to get a trip like this. "Honestly... I never partook in these kinds of trips when my mom and sisters went. I usually just snuck out and did my own thing in the woods... So... getting to experience something like this while I'm... kinda really in pain... it'll be nice" he said softly to her with a genuine smile.

It didn't help that he was really excited to not be doing a real mission with Zi and they could just relax together. Hopefully, no one at the Spa treated her like shit...

Zidri

BOT

— 01/07/2022

Finding the nearest thing she grabbed a lounge pillow and chucked it at his head. "Knock it off Thumper. You shouldn't joke about things like that." She frowned at him, blushing hard. Crossing her arms she leaned back against her seat and crossed her arms and legs. Looking up at him, she dipped head agreeing. "My kind generally aren't allowed in these. So this will be a first for me." She kept her face neutral and looked out the window to watch the scenery change.

It didn't take long for them to arrive at their destination. Zidri stepped out first and looked around before letting Thumper out of the carriage. She was worried that it may be a trap of some kind. The hostess of the spa came out to greet them. "Well hello! You must be Prince Tobias. I was told that you were bringing a travel companion, Zidri Sorga? Will they be arriving later on?" The older woman glanced at Zi, an obvious distrust on her face. "I suppose you are his Highness's personal guard? Well, it does play to what your kind are good at."

Zidri took a deep breath and stared the woman down. "Pleasure to meet you Madam. My name is Zidri Sorga. Now, if you please, show us to our rooms? His Highness isn't in a position to stand around gossiping with you all day."

The older woman nearly choked on her tongue as Zi introduced herself. "There must be some mistake. There is only one room booked."

Tobias

BOT

— 01/07/2022

He laughed at her blush, enjoying the look on her face and making a mental note that he'd need to tease her more. When she spoke about her kind not being allowed in these things... he shut his eyes and sighed. "If they give you problems, I won't keep my mouth shut..." he stated as he looked out the window himself.

When they arrived, they were greeted by the hostess of the spa. She stated her name and thought they would be arriving separately. He was about to open his mouth when Zi took the initiative and introduced herself. He chuckled a bit. "She is my companion for this trip. I'd appreciate it if you kept comments like that to yourself. We are here after completing a mission that didn't end the best..." he responded as he made his way down the steps. The man was already taking the bags inside on the dolly and leaving them before coming back. For the quick ride, Tobias tipped him and thanked him before he moved on his way. He nearly didn't hear that there was only one room.

"Y-yes... of course there is only one room booked! Isn't that right Zi?" he responded to the woman. He didn't really know how to say 'What the fuck, what do you mean there is only one room?' to the Hostess. Sounds like the commander was a cheap ass and didn't spare for a two room one. "Can you please show us to our room?" he asked the Hostess, giving Zi a look to play along.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/09/2022

Hearing the older woman say there was only one room booked, Zi stood there shocked. What the hell?! Confused she was glad when Tobias spoke up. He could fix this easily! Shifting to look at him, she blushed slightly again when he called her his companion. It sounded … so much more than just a ‘companion’. Yet her emerald eyes went wide and that blush deepened as he agreed with the hostess and didn’t rectify the situation at all! In fact, he seemed completely ok with sharing a room with her. Feeling like a fish out of water she only gawked at him with an open mouth seeing the look he was giving her. ”What the hell do you mean!” she hissed, embarrassment and fury rode her hard.

Merida

BOT

— 01/09/2022

The hostess looked very apologetic and smiled tightly as she heard the Dragonkin yell at the Prince. ”I really do apologize. There was another room booked originally but it recently received some damage. When we contacted the one who made the reservation, they said that a single room would be fine. The other room is currently being repaired and all others are full.” Pursing her thin lips together she wasn’t sure she liked how this Dragon spoke to her prince but who was she to question the prince’s orders?

Stepping to the side she waved a hand towards the building. ”If you please. Follow me and I’ll take you to your room.” Leading the way the old woman seemed to be rather nimble for her age. Quickly she led them to a room and handed a key over to Tobias. ”I do hope you enjoy your stay. The kitchens are open until 10pm every day and open again at 6am.” with a deep bow she backed away and left them to explore the room.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/09/2022

He laughed nervously as Zi freaked out about his statement. He really didn't want to cause any problems and really just wanted a nice, quiet weekend. If that mean sharing a room with Zi, then... He was okay with that. "You know exactly what I mean!" he responded with a laugh.

When the Hostess explained, he listened carefully. "It's fine Miss. We understand." he stated to her as they followed the woman. As she introduced the room and the rules of the kitchen, he wandered into the room with big eyes. "Wow... Oh, uh, thank you!" he said to the Hostess as she left and closed the door.

Man, this place was massive. The place was gorgeous too and rustic. As he wandered inside more he found the bed and stared at it. One.... One Bed... He gulped and decided to not say anything about it before moving towards the bathroom. Wow! This was gorgeous too. A great view that no one could see into but the shower... The shower was... open... way open. He blushed as his mind drifted to walking in on Zi naked... or vice versa. He sighed and shook his head trying to dismiss it. He wandered back out into the main room and collapsed in one of the chairs. He yawned and stretched. "This place is niceeeeee"

Tobias

BOT

— 01/09/2022

Not wasting any time, he got up and grabbed his bag and pulled out a pair of swim shorts. He went into the bathroom and changed. "I'm gonna get in the personal spa! Come join me if you want~" he called to Zi and went to the personal spa.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/09/2022

Glaring at Tobias the entire way to their room she didn’t even bother looking at the old woman again. She was mortified that he wouldn’t demand separate rooms for them. Did he not understand what this would do to his reputation? Sighing in defeat she stood shell shocked while explored. The initial room was massive and very cozy looking. It could be a room on it’s own! Maybe she could just ask for some extra blankets and curl up in front of that fireplace? Moving to the bedroom she stopped and stared, her face turning scarlet. Of course there was only one bed. Feeling rather warm all over, she covered her mouth. Hearing Thumper call out something about a personal spa, she was brought from her mind and slowly made her way to the attached bathroom. She had never really seen anything so lavish before. The idea of bathing in an area where someone else could easily walk up wasn’t exactly uncommon for her but the idea of that person being Thumper… At this point the blush was taking up a permanent residence on her face.

Swallowing thickly Zi cleared her throat and figured she would do what he was doing. Grabbing her bag she riffled through it to find her bathing suit. It wasn’t much, a variation on her normal chest binding and a pair of trousers that had been cut short. Heading to the bathroom to change, she came back out tossing her clothes on her bag. Grabbing a towel on her way out she let her eyes travel over the area and spotted Thumper already in the tub. "Both of us are supposed to fit in there? Or are you wanting to sit on my lap?"

Image

Tobias

BOT

— 01/09/2022

As he dipped into the water, it magically turned on. The bubbles kicked up and began to spray into his back. He winced in pain then slowly turned into relaxation as he slumped down into the tub. The waterfall kicked on and the sound began to become a serene landscape. He inhaled and exhaled as the scent of a forest surrounded them. These magic spas are really something else. He heard her walking up and shifted around to be greeted by... a lovely site. He blushed as he looked up at her. "I was hoping you'd sit on mine to be honest" he gave her a cheeky grin as he shifted back and sunk into the water a bit, letting his ears fall onto the side.

Image

Zidri

BOT

— 01/09/2022

Giving him a deadpan look she couldn't help the blush that continued to stay on her cheeks. "Yeah, well. I may just crush you if I sat on you. Is it a habit of yours to tease women like this?" she didn't even look at him again as she tossed her towel on the steps beside the tub and stepped in. The water was a lovely temperature and eased some of the soreness in her body. The stab wounds were still visible on her stomach and chest, but seemed to be mostly healed.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/09/2022

He noticed her blush and smiled a bit wider in response. "It isn't a habit... but I find myself enjoying teasing you... which is rare cause usually I don't get a lot of joy out of it" he chuckled as he inhaled then exhaled. Opening his eyes, he looked to her stab wounds. He reached out and gently brushed against them. "I'm sorry..." he told her has he leaned back. "Also, being crushed by you? What a way to go~" he teased her again as he shut his eyes.

Tobias's body was scarred up and down. his left hand and wrist going up his arms was thoroughly thrashed and scarred. His right arm wasn't as bad but there was permanent lightning vein scars crawling up his arm to his neck. He inhaled then exhaled again as he smirked a bit. "So among dragonkin, you must be quite sought after, no?"

Zidri

BOT

— 01/09/2022

Relaxing in the tub she would rest her elbows behind her and lean back closing her eyes. "Yeah well. It's probably not the best idea for you to tease me. What will people think of you? Seeking the attention of a Dragon." Feeling something brush against her stomach her eyes would fly open and she glared at him blushing hard. "There you go. Taking liberties again Thumper. Do you want me to break your limbs?" huffing she moved her arms to be more in line with her body. This way she could feel if he came at her again. "No idea why you're apologizing. You're not the one who stabbed me." Scoffing and sighing hard she rolled her eyes at him. This was going to be a long week if he kept that up.

His next question surprised her though. Thinking about it she looked up at the skylight in thought. "I dunno. Can't say I've ever paid attention. Father teased that he was going to have to arrange something for me to ever take an interest in anyone." She shrugged then frowned looking at him curiously. "Why do you ask?"

Tobias

BOT

— 01/09/2022

He tilted his head and thought honestly about her question. "I don't give two shits about what people think. I do what I'd like to do. " he huffed as he chuckled at her response of her threat. "I'd rather not... but you are right it was a liberty. Sorry" he said softly as he watched her shift to protect against another swipe.

"I'm the cause of it. So I want to take responsibility for it" he told her as he shifted his arms, laying back against the wall and spreading them slowly to get a good stress and work out the muscles that were damaged.

When she pondered his question, her response sounded appropriate. "Mom and Dad teased me too... Hell even my sisters tried to set me up with someone too... Ugh... I don't like the idea of an arranged marriage... It removes the freedom of loving who you want and choice..." he said softly as he looked up to the skylight. "I think you are a wonderful person. So if I think that, I imagine there must be some of your kin who think the same" he responded, a slight blush on his face.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/09/2022

His wording was a tad strange for people in this land but oh well. His point was that he didn't care if he was seen with her. At least he apologized for touching her without asking first. "You've already apologized several times over. You can't be held responsible for the actions of your zealot." It was funny to her that his parents would be saying the same thing to him. "Yeah but you literally have women falling all over themselves just to be near you. I fear for my life sometimes. The looks I get, just because I'm sent on missions with you.... and now there's this." she waved a hand back towards the room and gestured around them. "A bounty may just be taken out for my head if they found out I was in a hot spring, within touching distance no less, with you." Looking at him sideways she gave him a grin. His words made the grin fade and she looked up at the skylight. "Maybe. I'm reminded often that I'm just a part of a grander design, and even if I don't know what that design is... I have to play my part." Snorting a mocking laugh at her own words she would shift and stand, wrapping her wings under her arms and around her body in a familiar fashion. "I'm going to go get changed. I want to see if they have some kind of listing or something of things to do here."

Slipping out of the bath she would swoop down to pick up her towel. Drying off as she left to go back to their room and change into a set of clean clothes. She did eventually find that list and would sit in one of the chairs in the sitting area looking it over.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/09/2022

'Your Zelots' He sighed softly at those words. He felt responsible because they 'belonged' to him. But of course she would just blow it off like it was nothing. When she spoke about women falling all over themselves to be near him... his expression saddened. The people who were throwing themselves at him... wasn't the person he wanted to... She didn't exist in this worlds... or so he thought. "Yeah... None of them are her though..." he muttered under his breath as he shook his head.

"Then we best have a great time and make sure we act like nothing happened~ Our little secret" he winked at her with a sigh. "Fuck the grander design... We shouldn't have to play a part we don't want to play..." he muttered as he watched her get up and wrap her wings around herself. He nodded and watched her walk out.

After a little while longer, he slowly got up from the spa. His body was achy still but was feeling a bit better. He grabbed a towel and dried himself off before moving past the sitting area and into the bedroom. He changed into comfy clothing and collapsed onto the comfy bed and sighed softly. Maybe... just... a nap..." he said softly to himself as he felt himself drift off.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/10/2022

Zi frowned slightly and glanced at him as he muttered that they weren’t that specific person. So, the high and mighty prince had a special lady huh? Shaking her head, she chuckled to herself as she dried off and headed out. Sitting in the chair and looking over the papers, she heard him come out of the spa area. Glancing up she saw he was changing and quickly looked away. He probably had forgotten already that they were sharing the room. Hearing the thump on the bed and him mumbling something, she put the papers down and stood. He sounded very tired and would… yep. He had forgotten to check his bandages. With a soft sigh she grabbed the medical kit that they had brought along and checked his wounds. Cleaning and rebandaging him as needed. Carefully she eased him under the blankets and left him to sleep. Cleaning up her mess, she watched him sleep for a bit and smiled softly, if not a bit sadly, before heading out.

She made her way to the kitchens and placed an order, waiting for it to be finished. While she was there she heard several of the servers gossiping about how the prince was there and was apparently having his servant stay in the same room with him. Chuckling, Zidri was amused to think they had mistaken her as his servant. What they said wasn’t exactly mean, just a misunderstanding. After the order she had put in was completed she picked up the trays easily and headed back to the room. It had been longer than she had thought but it didn’t bother her. She just hoped no one had tried to bother Tobias while he was sleeping.

Opening the door to their room she used her foot to kick the door closed gently and walked further in to set the trays down on the coffee table. Glancing to the bedroom she checked to see if he was awake or if he was still sleeping.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/10/2022

He quickly arrived in dreamland, unaware of anything that Zi was doing like changing his wounds.

He sat across from a blonde boy with glasses. "This is me?" the blonde said as he looked at Tobias up and down. Tobias tilted his head and stared at the blonde. "What do you mean 'this is me?'" Tobias asked the blonde as he stared hard. Soon the face began to clear up. Lukas shook his head at the boy. "A bunny? Really? Of all the things I could be in this world I am a bunny?" Lukas sighed softly. Tobias squinted. "Of all the things I could have been in my last life, I am a blonde nerd? ugh..." Tobias responded. The both stared at each other and then laughed softly. "They aren't nightmares... they are your past life... stop treating them as such you idiot" Lukas said as he whapped his counterpart in the head.

Tobias shifted in his sleep as he was whapped in the head. He stirred up and looked around, rubbing his eyes. He felt the new bandages, figuring Zi must have done them. He looked around and heard the door shut and some trays being set down. He got up and walked into the living room, smelling the food.

"Thanks for changing my bandages..." he said softly as he sat down across from her. "Thank you for also getting food for... you?... us?" he realized he was imposing before he finished that sentence and blushed a little bit. "Sorry I don't... mean to assume... but also... did you look for anything fun we could do?' he asked her.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/11/2022

Seeing Tobias get up and join her, she smiled softly at him. ”You’re welcome.” Silently she opened up each of the containers and cleared the dish coverings. There was an assortment of fish dishes, vegetable dishes, and one or two smaller meat choices for her. Setting up a place for him to eat first, she took her time. ”I wouldn’t go get food for just myself Thumper. Now sit and eat.” shooting him a teasing glance, her tone matched.

After setting up everything for him she poured him a glass of water before serving herself. Sitting on the floor cross legged she sighed and started making her plate. Thinking about his question as she took her first bite she looked at the papers on the chair. ”There looked like there was a massage thing, but I don’t think that would be good with your wounds. I saw meditation, they have an onsen as well. Similar to what the academy has but probably nicer. Mud baths? Again not sure how I feel about that with your wounds, maybe mud masks? Manicures and pedicures.” Reaching over she grabbed the paper again and sat back to read it to him. ”Candle making, a citrus-infused fruit bath… that sounds sticky…” she chuckled at that one and continued. ”Yoga? Third eye therapy, Get in the zone with your significant other by luxuriating in Shirodhara technique-the continuous dripping of oil on your third eye to enhance the body's intuition and improve mental clarity. While the oil drips, you'll also receive an exfoliating polish, made with apricot and kiwi seed, as well as a detoxifying clay body cocoon.” tilting her head she thought about that one for a moment. ”Looks like they have game nights, scavenger hunts; which have some kind of point ranking system that you can follow for like a competition, scalp treatments, and different exfoliant stuff.” Taking another bite she glanced up at him. ”Anything sound interesting?”

Tobias

BOT

— 01/11/2022

He chuckled at her response and noticed her teasing glance. "Thanks then Zi" he responded as he opened up a few containers and began to make a plate. He then got himself some water too and sat down in the chair, eating.

He listened to her rattle off a rather impressive list of stuff they can do. When she continued to mention that it wouldn't be good with his wounds, he huffed. "I'm not going to let my wounds stop us from enjoying a good time... They make water proof bandages. I am more than willing to try even though it might be a little uncomfortable at first..." he responded as he continued to listen.

"All of them sounds interesting and rather relaxing... I would be down for doing all of it... wait... What's Third Eye Therapy and why does it sound sexual?" he asked her as he tilted his head. "I mean, I'd be willing to try it if you are, but I can understand if you don't want to though" he responded. "Mud Baths... Massage... Manicures and Pedicures... Mud masks.... We could try doing a couple competitions to keep it interesting... and ... Fuck it, lets just do it all" he responded.

Zidri

BOT

— 01/11/2022

Starting to eat after reading off everything that they could do she glanced up at Thumper when he spoke. Frowning at his words she pointed at him with her utensil. ”Well then it’s my job to worry about your wounds. If those get infected, it’ll be my ass.” Rolling her eyes at him she huffed and kept eating. She’d have to see what kind of bandages he meant. She had heard of them in her old life, but here, not so much. ”There were other things that we could do.” Blushing at his insinuation of the Third Eye Therapy she nearly choked on her food. ”Do you not know what your third eye is?! It’s not sexual!” Coughing she felt the blush creeping over her face, primarily because he specified if she was willing to try. Groaning she rubbed the bridge of her nose between her eyes. ”Is there one you like more than the others? I’ll talk to the hostess about getting them set up for you.” At that moment Zidri just felt very tired. All of this stuff sounded amazing, but she wasn’t sure if she would be allowed to take part in any of it. Digging back into her food she made sure to eat quickly.

Tobias

BOT

— 01/11/2022

he laughed and shook his head ”I won’t ever let it become your ass… plus everything is closed up now… there will be no infection as long as the surface is taken care of and cleaned out after the activity” he stated as he took another bite of food and yawned. ”I feel like we should do whatever we decide together… I mean, we got sent here together… it’d be fun to bond over… something that isn’t warfare” he told her as he choked on his food as she yelled that it wasn’t sexual.

Coughing a bit and banging on his chest he cleared his throat. ”I don’t know what my third eye is, no” he stated as he watched her get more aggravated. ”The manicure and pedicure sound nice… I wouldn’t mind starting with that tomorrow… for tonight though… I wouldn’t mind just passing out again…” he commented to her as he finished his food and stretched. ”but don’t let me stop you from going and enjoying yourself” he told her with a reassuring smile as he got up and grabbed the dirty trays, piling them up on the cart.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/02/2022

She could only stare at him, blushing and confused. Bonding? Why the hell was he thinking of bonding with her? That paired with the sexual comment just made her want to bury her head in the sand and never come up. Giving him a worried look when he coughed it was obvious, she wasn’t sure if she believed him or not. Looking back to the paper she read the description. ”It’s a facial or forehead massage. Like I said, they drip oil on your third eye to enhance the body’s intuition and improve mental clarity. While the oil drips, you'll also receive an exfoliating polish, made with apricot and kiwi seed, as well as a detoxifying clay body cocoon.” she pointed to the spot between her eyebrows above her nose. ”It… actually kinda sounds nice.” she murmured still blushing and not able to look up at him. ”I’ve never had a manicure or pedicure.” She looked thoughtful for a moment before making a mental list of what he said he wanted to do.

Watching him pile up the dirty dishes she nodded. ”I’ll take this back to the kitchen and let the hostess know what the plan is for tomorrow then. The manicure and pedicure to start.” she had almost said, ‘for you’ but stopped herself know it would probably only make him angry. ”Go ahead and get some rest. I’ll see you in the morning.” Taking the cart she pushed it out into the hallway and did exactly as she said. Telling the hostess the plan and returning the cart to the kitchen. On her way back she paused though and looked towards the onsen. It looked really inviting. Feeling like she needed some time to collect her own thoughts anyway, she headed there and undressed in the locker room area. Thankfully they had baskets with towels and robes for the guests to take. Wrapping her wings around her chest like usual she let her hair down and stepped into the steamy area. It was beautiful. Low visibility of other people but the sky… her favorite part. Wading out into the water she found a rock to relax on and sighed leani

ng back to look up at the stars.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/12/2022

He took in to account her worried look. Did his offer worry her? She seemed like a dear in the headlights to him right now... The confused look and the way her cheeks matched her scales. Was... That was super cute. He couldn't help but stare at her... until he snapped out of his daze. He listneed to her explain the third eye treatment... That sounded nice and relaxing... right? He caught her saying that it sounded nice and smiled wide. "Great! Sign us up for that one then!" he declared. He wanted to make sure she enjoyed the break as much as he did... but there was also a desire to remove this... gap between them. He hated this feeling that there was this societal glass pane between them because of who they were... It was a miserable feeling.

When she left to take the dishes back to the kitchen, he made sure to call out to her. "You better schedule it for you too Zi! If you aren't there with me in the morning I'll be upset!" he yelled before she left. He sat in the room for a while. When she didn't return, he assumed she was out exploring. They had walked passed an onsen on the way in... maybe he'd go and check it out.

He got up and grabbed a robe to wander back to the room in. When he finally arrived, he noticed that there was already robes and a basket in here. He felt the steam hit his body, causing a soft sigh to come from his lips. He wandered into the spa and sunk into the water, letting his ears fall back against his head. He noticed a familiar looking head in the spa... Weird!

"Fancy seeing you out here stranger" he called out as he looked up to the sky. "Has everything been getting better for you?"

Zidri

BOT

— 02/14/2022

She heard him tell her to make sure she scheduled it for both of them or he would be upset with her. Which would be worse, him being upset with her or the hoards of his fans being upset with her? She honestly had no idea. After making the appointments she had headed to the onsen and was currently relaxing and enjoying the soak when she heard someone else come in. Emerald eyes opened and watched the other person walk in but she didn’t say anything to them. Hearing them call out to her though she looked in their direction. Was … was that the person she talked to at the academy? ”Are you stalking me?” Did she need to be worried about Thumper? She didn’t know anyone else who could have been sent here. Strangely though she was glad the person was there, as long as they weren’t there to hurt anyone.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/14/2022

He hummed softly in the bath as he stared at the moonlit sky. When she asked if he was stalking her he couldn’t help but chuckle a bit. ”How can I stalk you if I don’t know who you are?” he responded to her as he stretched, letting out a soft sigh.

”You never answered me if you were doing better… you are at a nice spa so some things have to be looking up?”

Zidri

BOT

— 02/14/2022

Sighing she leaned back and looked up at the sky. Hearing their reply she chuckled. "Well I didn't know that you didn't know who I am. You could be some undercover person trying to get secrets." Water sloshed as she shifted around and splashed some into her face. "Define better? I'm not being shot at right now... but give that a day or so. My traveling companion seems to have it out for me..." she paused thinking about the best way to describe her situation... Honestly she felt the need to get it out, to talk to someone about it. "We were sent on another mission, but apparently it's one to relax. Let's just say that presents a whole unique set of problems to deal with. I'm not very well received by others and my travelling companion.... well... He's very popular and has hoards of fans. Don't get me wrong... Thumper is a great guy, but wow. His fans are fanatical. Which is hilarious because they don't even know the first thing about him." She chuckled and looked back up at the stars. "He seems to have this ... I don't even know what to call it... desire? To include me in everything even if it puts me in awkward or uncomfortable situations. I don't think he ever intentionally does anything to cause harm though."

Tobias

BOT

— 02/14/2022

He chuckled softly as she mentioned him trying to get info from her. ”Wouldnt it be better to know the person you were trying to get into from?” he told her as he listened to woes. But something she said caught him off guard… Thumper… wait… is that Zi? No… but everything she talked about were things that have happened. He sat quietly as he let her finish up before composing himself.

”It sounds to me that he wants you to be his companion… his friend. It seems he doesn’t care what others think all too much. He can simmer down with it though from the sounds of it” he chuckled. He didn’t know this was how Zi felt about him forcing her into things… he just wanted to spend time with her and hang out with her… but people just continued to ruin that.

”I think his hearts in the right place. I just don’t think he understands why the situations affect you so much… Is it really all that bad to be wanted or to want to have someone you care about around them?” he asked her as she felt his cheeks turning red, partially from embarrassment but also from the thought that he could be naked with Zi in a hot spring right now.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/14/2022

Shrugging and sighing as the mysterious male tried to give an outside perspective on how Thumper felt. "I mean I have no clue what's goin on in his head. He's said he doesn't care what others think, but really he should." she let out a soft sad sigh. "Don't get me wrong. I appreciate what he's doing... He means well and I can tell the way people treat me bothers him. He's tried to stand up for me or do things to help me. What he doesn't realize though is that by doing those things... even with the best of intentions, it makes everything else 100x worse when he's not around, and I'm not someone who will come whining to him for protection or help." She stated bluntly and splashed a bit of the water in front of her. Softly she added. "Not to mention, doing things like that is how you get someone to fall for you, and he's not someone I can be with. For multiple reasons." Frowning she tilted her head listening to the rest of what he said.

"Oh you're right. Thumper means well. He has a very kind heart." she blushed brightly when the person blatantly asked her if it was all that bad to be wanted or to want to have her around. Letting out a nervous laugh she scratched her nose. Her voice coming out embarrassed. "I think you misunderstand. I didn't mean to imply that Thumper wants me in any way. A friend sure, but nothing more than t-that." She stuttered softly.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

He took note of what Zi was saying… he didn’t fully understand the gravity of the situation he put her in. He wasn’t trying to protect her but reflecting on his actions that what it certainly seemed like. ”Maybe he is tired of the world telling him how to think or dictating how he should act… that he doesn’t care what you are or who you are, all that matters is you are precious.” It did bother him that her negative thoughts were always there, thought he knew there was nothing he could do to alleviate those. ”Well, to me, it sounds like he cares about you a lot. As a partner from the sound of it. It seems it goes past the wanting or you whining to be protected, he does it because he cares about you.” he responded as she mentioned that is how you get someone to fall for you. He froze, the thought she had caused him to really reflect… why… was he trying to do all these things for Zi?

When she spoke about him being kind hearted he felt his cheeks light up brighter. Her timid tone and the way he could hear her nervousness caused his heart to skip a beat. Why… was she having this kind of effect on him?

”Sweetie, I don’t think I misunderstood anything. How do you know he doesn’t want you as more than a friend?” he asked.Tobi the fuck are you doing?! Why even ask that?!

Zidri

BOT

— 02/15/2022

Looking towards the male she frowned. "You sound almost as if you know who I'm talking about? And you're making a bunch of big assumptions over there. I'm no one precious. I'm a shield and that's all. It's all I've been in this life." Her face flamed red and she huffed when he said he thought Thumper wanted her as a partner. Rolling her eyes she was realizing that this guy was romanticizing them. Sinking into the water up to her eyeballs she blew bubbles and looked towards him when he spoke again.

She came up coughing though when he asked how she knew he didn't want her as more than a friend. "He's the damn prince! He can have his choice of wives that would fall at his feet. Why in the 9 hells would he want a brute like me? We get on each others nerves and I nag him constantly. Especially now that I know his abilities hurt him. It makes no sense that he would want me. As a bodyguard and friend sure, but not as more." she exclaimed before pausing and adjusting her tone to be softer. "Besides. No matter how smart, funny, or attractive he is. I still have my own reasons for avoiding any kind of relationship." Her voice sounded sad as she looked up at the sky.

"What about you mister? You ever find anyone? What about that woman you were telling me about?" Had they talked much about the woman he was interested in? She recalled a few things but had he found her?

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

When she exclaimed that he knew who she was talking about his life flashed before his eyes. Thankfully she didn’t approach him with suspicion. ”an old saying… the ones who have a minimal perception of themselves are the ones who are the purest and most precious in life…” he told her. He was paraphrasing of course but that was something Diana always told him…

”Why do you think he wants any of those wives? Why do you think he wants someone who would bow and give him everything instead of challenging him and making him better? You really care about him.” he responded to her. He tried to play it off like he was just a caring bystander, but he couldn't help but add a bit of his own emotion behind his words. "If he could have anyone, why couldn't he want you?" he gave her one last piece to think about. He was sad that she knew how his power destroyed his own body and he could hear the worry push past her fierce tone… but the next part caught him off guard. ”What would be your own reasons?” he hesitantly asked as she turned the subject back on him.

He paused for a moment and shut his eyes with a sigh as he shifted in the water.”Ive found someone who does these little things that remind me of her… like her laugh and her worry… I… don’t know if it is or isn’t here and I found myself liking this person more and more as time goes on… so maybe it’s just a cruel trick or maybe Diana is much closer than I think she is… but there is no way that could be, she was from… I was from… ah… oh well… I’ll continue to look for her so that when I do find her I can make her happy and she can make me happy and whole again…” he responded to her. ”I hope she thinks about Lukas as much as he thinks about her, that would make his restless heart happy” he said softly as he got out of the bath, grabbing a robe and heading back to the room.

Upon arriving he collapsed on the bed and stared at the ceiling with a sigh. There was so much to process…

Zidri

BOT

— 02/15/2022

Staring at the figure with furrowed brows she couldn’t help the nagging feeling that she was missing something obvious. Listening to him she clenched her fists. What the hell did this guy know?! She should never have said anything to him. When he asked about her reasons, she made a clicking sound and clearly said she wasn’t going to answer. Thankfully, she didn’t have to. He just kept right on going.

Her jaw went slack as she heard her old name and it clicked into place. The thing she thought she had been missing. That was a saying she used to say to… Her eyes misted over as she covered her mouth. Shell shocked when she heard his name her whole body trembled and her mind blanked. Blinking and pulling herself out of the loop she fallen into, she looked up just in time to see him leaving. Letting out a strangled cry, she stood and waded through the water. Not caring one bit that she was splashing everywhere. As she got out and quickly grabbed her robe, she dashed to the hallway… dripping wet, but sadly he was already gone. No! No! NO! She couldn’t have lost him again. Pain washed through her hard and quick. Making her way back to the onsen she properly dried off, braided her hair, and changed into night clothes. Taking a dry robe, she picked up her belongings and headed back to their room slowly. It was hard, knowing she would have to keep a straight face with Tobias now. She couldn’t let him know how upset she was.

As she arrived back at their room, she glanced towards the bed to see Thumper laying there. Shaking her head slightly she grabbed the extra blankets and pillows from the storage cabinet and tossed them on the couch. Laying down and trying to get comfortable.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

He heard the door open and close, sitting up to see Zi lay on the couch. A blush came to his cheeks as he remembered the conversation from just a little while ago. He walked over to her and peaked over, looking down at her. The blush still on his face. He could see something wrong on her face. He wanted to say something but he remembered that he was kind of an annoyance to her when he tried to push his own feelings on her. "You can take the bed, Zi. I think I'm just gonna go for a walk to clear my head..." he said softly with a smile to her. He wanted to ask her what was wrong. It was almost painted on his face, but he covered with a false cheer smile.

He put his hands in his sleeves and made his way to the door. "If I find you didn't take the bed when I get back, I'm moving you myself" he told her with a wink before opening the door and walking out of the room. With a soft sigh he shut his eyes. Anxiety began to rush through him and plague his thoughts but as he finally made it outside to the night of a beautiful moon he just stared at it. "I wish you were here Diana... I miss you so much..." he said softly as he stared for a bit.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/15/2022

Feeling someone coming near her, she kept her eyes closed but hardened her skin just in case. Shifting her face to nuzzle her pillow, she frowned when they just stood there. Twitching when he spoke, she turned her head to watch him leave silently. Blinking at his threat she scowled. Anger hit her hard, making her tremble. Fucking Prince obviously thought he could order people around or manhandle them however he pleased. Rolling from the couch she changed into a tactical outfit. Slinging her pack around her back, she opened one of the windows and launched herself out. Gliding easily in the air, she let the cool breeze calm her rage. After finding Lukas… and losing him again, having Thumper order her around was not what she wanted. Was all of this his manipulation? He had seemed rather ok with sharing a room with her and hadn’t stepped up to get a second one for them. Shaking her head, she would like to believe she knew Tobias a bit better than that, but maybe she didn’t. Finding a tree covered in snow but had decent sized branches, she knocked some of the snow away and made herself comfortable in it’s cradle. It was going to be a long night… and maybe an even longer week… Huffing softly she closed her eyes, doing her best to get some sleep.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

He let out a soft sigh as he wandered through the forest, finding a nice path that was laden with snow. The windy road reminded him of the times it would snow… Lukas and Diana would go out and play along the snowy paths and laugh and have a ton of fun. His heart ached for those times and so did his mind. He slicked his ears back down and shut his eyes as he walked, almost dancing along the forest floor.

The song they used to sing together came to his mind and he couldn’t help but start singing it. ”Remember me

Though I have to say goodbye

Remember me

Don't let it make you cry

For ever if I'm far away

I hold you in my heart

I sing a secret song to you

Each night we are apart

Remember me

Though I have to travel far

Remember me

Each time you hear a sad guitar

Know that I'm with you

The only way that I can be

Until you're in my arms again

Remember me” he sang, not really caring who or what was around until he stopped and sighed, tears streaming down his face.

He shook his head and made his way back to the room to see that Zi was gone. He wanted to go and look for her… but clearly he made matters worse… instead he just laid down on the couch and stared at the ceiling until he passed out.

-Morning-

The bunny sat up with a sigh, not really sleeping much even though he was physically and mentally exhausted. He wandered to the shower, removing his bandages to make sure his wounds got cleaned before he put on some pants and sat down in front of the mirror to put on new dressings for his wounds, an exhausted and sad look on his face.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/15/2022

Nightmares plagued her through the night. She even heard the song that Lukas and she used to sing, but it was in Tobias' voice. Whimpering in her sleep she hugged herself tighter. As morning came, she woke and realized she couldn't leave completely. Her sense of duty wouldn't let her. Heading back to the spa, she went to the kitchen and got them some breakfast.

Heading back to their room, she entered and saw Tobias trying to change his own bandages. Setting the trays down on the coffee table like she had the dinner the night before. Looking up at him she observed silently. "You're doing it wrong." She sighed softly and moved to watch her hands before coming to him and taking the bandages from him. Undoing some and resetting parts. "I brought breakfast for us." She offered softly as she worked, her fingers brushing over his skin as she smoothed out the bandages.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

He didn’t hear Zi come in as he struggled with his bandages. It wasn’t until he felt her clawed hands yank the bandage away that he finally registered she was there. ”I can get my own breakfast Zi, it’s fine… you don’t have to take care of me…” he responded to her as he let her finish the bandaging before standing up.

He walked into the bedroom and put on a regular t-shirt before leaving the room to get his own breakfast. Though he didn’t return to the room, he just sat outside under a tree as the weather began to shift and snow around him.

A sad look sat on his face. He was conflicted about everything right now and last night only made it worse. He didn’t know how to react to her anymore with all of this knowledge he had now… it just changed so much…

Zidri

BOT

— 02/15/2022

Wincing as he told her that he could get his own breakfast and that she didn't have to take care of him. She sighed softly again and didn't bother stopping him as he got dressed and left. Standing she cleaned up the bandages and their room before eating a bit of the breakfast for herself. By that time it was time for the manicure and pedicure he had asked her to schedule for them. Heading that way she paused outside the room before heading in. She had never done something like this and it honestly scared her. Pushing that thought away though, she pressed on and headed in. The staff gave her strange disgruntled look and she could obviously tell they were fighting over who would get to be the one to do Tobi's appt. If he even showed. Her's though, they were also fighting over. None of them wanted to be the one to perform hers. Taking a seat to wait for them she pretended not to hear or see the hurtful whispers and stares.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

After swallowing and wallowing, he forgot that Zi scheduled them an appointment… could he even go now and face her? Knowing her though she would be there being berated by the staff and if he didn’t show up it’d only be worse.

He finally arrived at the appointment, only to be greeted by the frantic staff who ushered him to his seat next to Zi. He heard the whispers and looked in their direction. ”please take good care of my companion. She deserves only the best treatment. She saved my life after all” he told them.

His response got some murmurs from the crowd but ultimately they accepted the Prince at his word. They had no reason to believe she’d do anything to put him in danger and they were told about their mission prior. Two rather elderly ladies came over, one taking Tobias’s hand and the other taking Zi’s they began to work their fingers, massaging them and filing them. They rubbed lotions and moisturizer on their skin as they continued.

The lady taking care of Zi was actually rather soft and kind to her, taking ample care of her claws.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/15/2022

She heard the commotion when Tobias showed up. It wouldn't have been long before the hostess would have been called to chew her out. Breathing a sigh of relief when he sat down next her, her face lit u when he told them to take care of her and that she had saved his life. Staring at him shocked, she almost startled when the older woman came and started her own manicure. Staying silent she watched the woman work. Purposefully making it so her skin wasn't hardened at the moment. Instead it was soft and plush just like anyone else's. Zi had to give it to the woman, she was very good at what she did.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

He relaxed as he shut his eyes, wiggling back into his seat. His mind drifted off to the forced mani-pedis that his sisters would force him to experience with them. Granted, it was nice having someone to take care of them. He just kind of hummed softly as he opened an eye to look at Zi. He wanted to make sure she was enjoying it as well and from the look of it, she was. The woman handling Tobias ran a clear coat of polish over his nails before moving to his feet. His feet were hardened and calloused over and the staff were shocked at the roughness. Even the Princes hand were rough and calloused over. If they weren't beauty technicians and knew better, they would have blamed Zi but it was quite apparent he did this to himself.

A waistress walked in, delivering two glasses of champagne, one for Tobi and one for Zi. She gave a respectful bow and walked out. The woman who was working on Zi couldn't help but admire the softness of her hands and the delicate nature of her claws. She was always under the impression that Dragonkin were hardened and unkempt but she was proving the stereotype wrong. She leaned in close and asked Zi: "So Miss Zi... You saved the prince? You must be quite the warrior. I love how soft your hands and skin are though" she said with a bright smile, focusing a bit more on her hand before moving to her feet. She ran a clear coat over Zi's nails on her hand that would strengthen and make the nails a bit more healthy.

The woman massaged her feet, again, met with Zi's delicate skin and claws. Tobias would open his eye and sip, making sure the woman was taking care of Zi rightly so.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/15/2022

Zidri kept her eyes on the person working on her hands. Noticing the champagne as it was set down next to her, she picked it up and downed the glass easily. Looking at the flute in her hand she turned to the technician when she spoke. Nodding to her question she looked at the woman curiously. Before she moved down to her feet, Zi took the woman's hand and purposefully hardened her skin. "Thank you for the compliment." While hardened her skin texture was different. Like a supple leather from all of the tiny scales covering her hand. Shifting it back to a softer texture she smiled softly at the woman.

As they moved to her feet she tilted her head back and a soft sigh/moan escaped her lips. The muscles in her calves as they worked from there down were tight and full of knots. It felt amazing to have them worked on.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

He sipped the drink again, spinning the glass and watching the liquid cling to the side before finishing it. The waitress came back in and took both of their flutes, replacing them with another. Tobias downed his and motioned for another. He needed something to get out of his mind an actually enjoy what was happening.

He was happy to see Zi smile at the woman... It was refreshing instead of them shit talking her. When his technician pressed on his calf, he winced in pain until she began to massage. He bit the inside of his lip as he heard Zi... moan? Sigh? Either way it was like music to his ears. He caught himself and blushed a dark red as he tried to focus on the work being done.

The woman gave a small laugh as she demonstrated her hardening. "Ooo... Like incredibly nice leather... That is a nice trick." she told her as she began to work her calves. She could feel every single knot and spent much time working all of them out before moving to her foot, massaging that now as well. Another flute was brought for the both of them if they needed it, Tobias downed that one as well. Now he could feel the effects of the alcohol starting to take effect. He slumped into his chair and let out a content moan/sigh as his legs were worked on.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/15/2022

Smiling at the woman Zi decided right there that she liked her. "Aye, thank you." she blushed softly and dipped her head to the older woman. Shivering under the woman's skilled hands she couldn't help but relax and drift. Each time a new flute was brought for them she would drain it. The staff were beginning to look at each other curiously and then back at her. Catching Tobias turning colors she rolled her eyes. He was probably having all sorts of perverted thoughts over there with what the woman was doing. Letting out a healthy laugh when he finally relaxed and sank into his seat she snickered at him. "Am I going to have to carry you back to the room Thumper? You might want to slow down." She teased him obviously not affected by the alcohol at all.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

He looked at her lazily as he took another flute and downed it. With her comment her smirked at her. "Yes, but I would want to cuddle after~" she gave her a cheesy grin as he shut his eyes and sighed.

After many flutes and the finishing of the mani-pedi, he looked at the work. "Wow this is amazing..." he told the worker and smiled, bowing to her from the chair. Knowing that if he were to get up he wouldn't be able to properly thank her. He managed to get up and stand straight for a moment. "Miss Waitress lady, can you please bring 3 bottles back to the room for me please~" he smiled at her, a goofy drunk look on his face. He turned to Zi and held his arms out ready to be carried. "I hope that was a promise earlier and not a joke~" he told her with a grin.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/15/2022

Looking at him a bit worried, her face flushed a bright red as he said he would want to cuddle. Several of the staff gasped and started whispering. Scowling at him she couldn't help but laugh and shake her head. "Such a handful." The old woman working on her giggled and nodded. Turning to her when she finished; Zi reached out and took her hand again. "Thank you." She said sincerely and stood easily, completely sober. This caused the staff to whisper more and giggle at the Prince's antics. Looking to the waitress she made a motion to double the order before looking down at Thumper. "You know I don't make empty threats. Guess I'll have to go hunt down someone to cuddle with you too." Smiling and laughing softly she stepped closer to him, one arm going behind his back, the other under his knees as she picked him up in a princess carry and turned back to the staff. Bowing to them all she spoke up. "Thank you all, and I apologize for his Highness' drunkenness. I'll make sure he gets back to his room safely." Standing straight again she carried him easily back to their room. "Really Thumper? You didn't want me to care for you earlier and now you're tossing yourself into my arms." laughing softly as she walked. "Did you at least have fun? You must be hungry... I don't think you ate this morning and you just drank all of that on an empty stomach. No wonder you're sloshed." Glancing at him worried, she held him a bit tighter.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

When she called him a handful, he grinned and chuckled a bit. As she picked him up into a princess carry, he wrapped his arms around her neck and smiled. "Oh thank you~ Glad to know it was a promise~" he chuckled, disregarding her empty threat statements. When she said she'd have to find someone to cuddle him, he squinted and glared at her. "I didn't say someone. I said you" he huffed as he was carried out of the room. "Thank you~" he called back to them.

"I'm playing hard to get. Is it working,?" he grinned as his hand moved to her hair, gently twirling it around his finger. It was so soft and nice. "of course I had fun! I got to spend time with you and you had good time too! Why wouldn't I have fun!" he said with a smile as he kicked his legs. Feeling her pull tighter he grinned. "Save the cuddling for the room Zi~ We don't want to be toooo indecent in public" he laughed a bit. When they arrived back to the room, he hopped out of her arms and attempted to stand, but soon was in the process of falling. He caught himself as he saw the three bottles were chilled and here.

He scurried over and poured himself a flute and then looked at her. "Wait a minute... why aren't you drunk? You drank just as much as me!" he huffed as he approached her, looking around for any magic item she had that was keeping her not drunk.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/15/2022

To say she was surprised by his words was an understatement. Her face nearly matched her hair as they made their way to their room. Even the tips of her ears were turning red when he clarified that he wanted to cuddle her specifically. Did he have to play with her hair like that? It made her tingle and sent shivers down her spine. It was adorable the way he spoke but at the same time she wondered if people around them that heard him, would take it out of context. "Playing hard to get for what? Why would you even need to play hard to get?" she mused and rolled her eyes at him when he kicked his legs. She nearly dropped him though when he told her they didn't want to get to indecent in public. "I'll show you indecent in public. Maybe I'll make some rabbit stew." she teased.

Watching him hop out of her arms she reached out to try and steady him when he almost fell. Glancing at the wine bottles she sighed and shook her head. Apparently the waitress had ignored her request to double the order. Sighing she shut the door behind them and went to fill a champagne flute as well. Giving him a sideways look when he asked why she wasn't drunk too, she shrugged. "I'm dragonkin. We don't get drunk." That was a boldface lie. It was her circlet preventing her from getting drunk but like hell she would tell him that. He hadn't found out when they had gone on their first mission together and had the poisoned food, and she wasn't going to say anything now.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/15/2022

He grinned at her when her face and ears shifted to be the same color as her hair. Man she was super cute~ "Because I want you to spend time with me and enjoy your time here but last night you seemed really upset with me..." he pouted as he wiggled in her arms. When she teased about making rabbit stew he grinned. "Oh, so you want to eat me~ I see~" he teased back to her as they finally arrived at the room. He didn't care about what anyone else thought, especially now that he was drunk, the only opinion that mattered was Zis.

He glared at her and squinted. Don't get drunk? That doesn't track. Drinking was one of the things Dragonkin loved to do!... or so he thought. He downed the flute and poured himself another. "Weird... I also remembering you not getting sick at the" he paused to hiccup "on the at the first mission" he hiccupped again as he approached her, looking for any similarities. He looked at her outfit up and down and only saw one glaring similarity. The circlet. The waitress came in bringing three more bottles for the room before taking the food order for both of them and exiting the room.

Tobias sprung in to action while she was distracted, stumbling across the room he fell into her arms... as a distraction! He took off the circlet on her head and hid it on his person. "Oooof... Thanks for catching me Zi... The room is all like... Spinny" he laughed a bit as he propped himself up then stumbled back to the couch. Hopefully, he got it right and drunk Zi would come out... if not... he'd just keep trying until she had no accessories on!

Zidri

BOT

— 02/16/2022

Pausing she looked at him with a drink in hand. ”I was upset yes, but not with you. Well not originally. I didn’t want to wake you when I came back, and I had a … not so good experience in the onsen so I wasn’t in the mood to sleep next to someone. When you got up and tried to force me to sleep in the bed… it didn’t sit well with me.” She paused turning to look at him seriously. ”I am not one of your servants Thumper. You keep doing things that you think will be nice but in reality… while with normal people they might be but with us…. Who you are… they’re not.” she sighed softly and downed another flute.

When he mentioned her not getting drunk, she shrugged. ”A gift really.” She evaded the subject not realizing he would remember all the way back to their first mission. Looking at the waitress, she was surprised to see the rest of the wine. Apparently, it had been too much to carry at once. So, the poor lass had gone back for a second trip. Giving her order for food she barely caught Tobias when he stumbled and fell into her arms. Looking at him concerned she felt something strange pass over her, but she ignored it when he said the room was all spinny. ”You need to slow down Thumper. You’re going to have a wicked headache tomorrow.” Concerned she watched him go back to the couch. Shaking her head, she poured herself another drink and downed it. Wrinkling her nose as it bubbled down her throat. Had it always burned like that?

Tobias

BOT

— 02/16/2022

As he sat on the couch and listened to what was wrong he wanted to say something. Yeah, I was there last night… you were talking to me… but something kept him quiet. He took a flute in his hand and downed it with a satisfied sigh. ”im sorry for the misunderstanding. I didn’t want you to sleep next to me I wanted you to take the bed to sleep…” he hiccuped as he poured himself another glass. ”I know you aren’t, Zi… you are far more hic special than that… I just… feel like I need to be stern hic with you or else you will just keep lowering yourself when you… hic are a shiny star” he laughed a bit as he made a star with his hands.

”I can stop trying to be nice if you’d like…” he sounded disappointed and sad as he said it but quickly blew past as he downed another flute. ”Ill be fineeee Zi. I just has to make hic sure I stop and drink a lot of water before the bed~” he chuckled a bit as he leaned back against the couch.

”Jeeze it’s warm in here…” he fanned himself, tossing his shirt off to the side and sighing, feeling some immediate relief. He waited to see if he needed to go in for round two of pulling off an accessory…

Zidri

BOT

— 02/16/2022

Sighing she brought two of the bottles over to the couch and put one in front of him while taking a seat across from him and popping the top off of it. "And what do you think would happen if a servant came in and saw me sleeping in the bed and you on the couch? Again, good intentions, poor execution." she grumbled taking a swig from the bottle straight. Frowning she stared at him when he called her special and compared her to a star. Getting up again she paused and shook herself feeling tingly and warm. Going to an ice chest she pulled out two glasses of water and brought those back over. Handing him one she almost glared at him. "Drink. I don't want you dehydrating."

With a sigh she realized he had drank another flute of champagne while she had gotten the water. Blushing again as he pulled off his shirt complaining it was hot, she eyed him in what she thought was a discrete way. "Would you like me to cool it off in here for you?" Plopping back down in her chair she took another swig from her bottle and shook herself, getting a nice rosey color to her cheeks.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/16/2022

”It doesn’t matter what they think…” he huffed in response to her as she pointed out, again, his poorly executed ideas. This wouldn’t be a problem if he was back on Earth… if he was back to being Lukas…

He sighed and accepted the water, throwing it back with a sigh… then downing another flute before pouring himself another. When she spoke, he tilted his head at her. His head lazily drifting to the side. ”Stop acting like that and just act like a friend… you don’t need to take care of me Zi. “ he sighed again, clearly frustrated with the fact that she was always putting herself in a servant like position when all he wanted was to talk and be with her.

He stumbled up, going to get a second bottle and opening a window allowing the cold breeze to come in. With a satisfied sigh, he stretched and popped the bottle open, taking a rather long swig from it.

”You are always so reserved Zi! Let loose! After the food gets here we can lock the door and barricade it so you can be you instead of having to put on an act!” he declared as he shuffled over to her, moving inches away from her face.

”…Please?…”

Zidri

BOT

— 02/16/2022

Sighing she sat forward putting her elbows on her knees. "We've talked about this Tobias. It does matter. You don't think it does, but you're not the one who has to deal with the fallout when you're not around." her voice rose as she started getting frustrated with him. How many times did she have to explain this to him. When he told her to stop acting like that and to just act like a friend she paused mid drink to look at him. "Fucker I am acting like a friend. Who in their right mind would want their friend to overheat. Unlike me you can't control your body heat. You know you'd make the sssssame offer if the sitttuation was reversed." she slurred her words a bit frowning and shaking her head. Her mouth was starting to feel slightly numb and tingly but not completely in a bad way.

Giving him a side eye when he told her that she was always too reserved, she huffed. "And what would ..." her words stopped in her throat and she stared at him again. "You think I'm putting on an act?" Her tone sounded hurt and indignant

Tobias

BOT

— 02/16/2022

”I hate this world and all of this stupid racist bullshit. I hate being this person I hate being important! I don’t get treated the same way as everyone else and all the people I care for suffer for it” he sighed as he stumbled back and plopped down.

”I just…” he sighed softly as his head fell back. ”Sorry Zi… I like it when you treat me as an equal… and I wish you could more often… and you’re hic right… I’d make the same offer if you were feeling the same way…” he shut his eyes.

”i don’t think you are putting on an act… I think that because I’m spiteful of my position and how it makes others view me… I just want to be a nobody…” he told her as he could feel a tear roll from his eye. He wiped it away before taking another sip from the bottle.

”I care about you a lot Zi… I and I’m conflicted about it…” he told her, the redness from the alcohol mixing with a blush on his cheeks. One of the waitresses wheeled in a couple rather large carts of all the food he drunk ordered, then proceeded to walk out.

”Im sorry…”

Zidri

BOT

— 02/16/2022

Listening to him rant she realized he was just talking more out of his ass and letting out his frustration at the world. She winced though as the waitress came in, at exactly the same time as he said he cared about her a lot. Groaning softly she hung her head, shaking it. Smiling at the woman she stood and followed her to the door. "He's had a lot to drink. Can you repeat this morning's breakfast tomorrow? We can switch out the carts then." Nodding to the woman she closed and locked the door. Resting a hand on it she put her forehead against it to, forcing herself to breathe.

Seeing that they had brough them more champagne she snagged another bottle and a basket of rolls. Putting them on the end table at the other end of the couch from him. she moved the coffee table and rolled the cart in front of him. Joining him at the other end of the couch. Grabbing a roll and taking a bite of it she looked at him and pointed. "You realize she more than likely just heard you confess some kind of feelings for me. And you should be conflicted about them. You're the Prince. I'm a Dragonkin. It would never be allowed." Taking another bite she stared at the locked door a bit sadly.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/16/2022

He sat there and stared at the ceiling. Ignoring what she was saying as she was covering for him again.

He didn’t move all that much besides to take another drink. He listened to her speak and shook his head. ”I don’t care what other people think… I spent too much time and energy on people who didn’t matter… now I have someone who does matter…” he sat up and grabbed a basket of rolls from the cart, munching on it as he washed it down with more drink.

”Im conflicted because of an entirely different reason… as for me being a Prince and you being a Dragonkin… that doesn’t bother me in the slightest…” he told her as he popped another roll in his mouth.

”I don’t understand why it’s bad to confess feelings or attraction to someone you have genuine interest in… Their combat skills, their sweet demeanor, when they worry about you… how their red hair glistens in the sun or matches her face when she blushes…” he shut his eyes and laid back against the couch.

”Im conflicted because you remind me of someone from a long time ago that was literally the world to me…”

Zidri

BOT

— 02/16/2022

Moaning softly as she bit into another roll she sighed happily and stared at it. "Damn these rolls are good." Looking at him as he spoke she tried not to focus on how he said that he had someone who did matter. Blushing she sighed and looked away. Taking another bite she had just swallowed when he described her. Her face flaming red she inhaled and coughed hitting her back. Drawing in ragged breaths she downed half the bottle of champagne and coughed more. "You can't say things like that Tobias!" Standing she flapped her wings in an agitated manner. "You make it so damn diffif-cult. You accept me, challenge me, want me to grow. Do you know how hard that is to resist? There's nothing wrong with confessing feelings if there's actually a chance." She paused and swayed where she stood. Her face scrunching up as tears came to her eyes and she sniffled. "It's painful... loving someone and knowing you'll have to leave them one day. Knowing you'll never see them again. I would rather die than live through that pain again." Closing her eyes, her fists clenched and she drained the rest of her bottle before grabbing another one. Cracking it open she drained a good portion of it too. Even the tips of her ears were red from how drunk she was.

Looking at Tobias her eyes would seem more yellow than emerald. Her expression was one of sorrow and a pain so deep she could only laugh at the irony of it. "It's hell... seeing glimpses to the point you can't tell if you're hallucinating or not." Her head tilted for a moment before she drained her latest bottle completely. Walking towards him slowly she stopped, one leg between his and the other on the outside of his thigh. Bracing herself on the couch with that knee, she leaned over Tobias. "I always have wondered though...." Reaching up she ran her clawed hand gently through his hair to his ears. Rubbing the based of them before stroking over the ear itself. "They are as soft as they look." she mused completely focused on his ears.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/16/2022

Her moan caught him way off guard, but she followed it up about the rolls. He didn’t think they were that good… did she get different rolls? Damn he wants some of her rolls from the way she made them sound. He snapped back as he scolded him again… but then she followed it up with something he wasn’t expecting. He could feel the tips of his ears radiate ear as she began rattling off reasons why he made it difficult.

”I can say whatever I please! You make it just as difficult! With your growing and you caring and your sweetness and how you worry about me not because I’m a Prince but because of im me!” he rattled off the last part as he downed more of the bottle and stared at her. ”How do we know there isn’t a chance…” he responds but was caught off guard as she began to generate tears.

He shifted closer to her, his hand reaching up and gently wiping away the tears from her eyes as she explained how painful it is loving someone that you will eventually have to leave knowing you will never see them again… ”It is painful… it has been the most harrowing experience of my life watching her leave… I wanted her desperately to come back and I always help hope that she would… but I don’t know if she ever returned or not…” he told her as he was caught off guard.

His face turned a bright red as she put on leg over his thigh and the other on the couch. He looked up at her as she mentioned wondering about something. He gulped hard… what… what did she wonder????

He felt the clawed hand rub from his hair to his ears, stroking the base before moving up the ear. Heat radiated off of him. His ears began to spazz out to her touch. They’d twitch and turn and generally function with a mind of their own… he downed his bottle and tossed it off to the side. Liquid courage time!

He shifted under her, bringing his knee up towards her crotch. He shifted one more time and used the momentum to flip the script. Now he was on top and she was under him on the couch.

His hand reaches out and began to gently trace her wing. Running along the cartilage and along the long wing span. His other hand moved up to her cheek and strokes it gently. ”Your wings are so smooth… and your skin is so nice…” he said softly as he moved down bringing his cheek to hers and rubbing against it. ”So soft and so beautiful…” he smiled, content. He then shifted off of her and towards her rolls, quickly grabbing one and popping it in his mouth… they were the same rolls…

He grabbed a bottle and popped it open, taking a rather large swig as he plopped down next to her, leaning on her. ”You remind me so much of her that I… hic find myself just wanting to be around hic you…” he hiccuped again, taking another drink.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/16/2022

Glaring at him as he described her again she huffed looking away not acknowledging his question. He was too drunk to understand. Feeling him try to brush away a tear she moved her face away from his hand. From the way he spoke… it sounded like the had something happen to him that had happened to her in her past life.

She could feel the heat from his body and relished in the way his ears twitched. It was quite adorable and she loved it. It was like normal fur, but similar to hair as well on the ears. So engrossed in his ears she didn’t even notice when he moved his leg, and suddenly she was on her back under him. Her eyes were wide with surprise and for a moment she forgot how to breathe. Shuddering when she felt him touch her wing and her cheek, she blushed when his face got closer to her own. Was this how rabbits courted someone? The air whooshed out of her when he backed away and grabbed a roll. She didn’t even care about the roll. Her heart was hammering in her chest hard. That was definitely not Tobias.

Turning her head to look up at him, her face relaxed and turned curious. ”The woman you lost?” So even Thumper had been in love before? He really had to stop drinking. Even she had lost count of how much she had and it was starting to make her head fuzzy. Frowning at the thought … her head shouldn’t be fuzzy. She shouldn’t be feeling anything from the beer. Reaching up she touched her forehead where her circlet normally was and didn’t feel it. Panic set in as she sat up. Her hands frantically touching her head, hair and even down into her normal hair. When had it …..?! A soft whimper escaped her as she tried to get up. ”My circlet..” she muttered looking around the room swaying in place.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/16/2022

He blinked as he turned his head to look at her, remaining inches away from her face as she forgot to breath. "Zi? Are you okay?" he asked as he noticed her face was a bright red.

There was a lot of warmth coming off of Zi... It... It was comforting. But... he heard the sound of something hammering. But he couldn't really move anymore. He stirred slightly when she mentioned the woman that he lost.

He was about to respond... when he noticed her start to be in a slight panic. He shifted off of her and grabbed her hand before she moved too far away. He placed the circlet in her hand and weakly sat up. Getting to stand up before collapsing on the floor. "I took it off when I fell on you because I wanted you to be drunk with me..." he laid his head there and sighed. He really was the worst today... "I'm sorry... I'm gonna leave you alone for now..." he managed to shift up, setting the bottle on the ground before grabbing another water bottle.

He attempted to bow to her but ended up shuffling forward instead. He caught himself and stood up. He ended up not answering her about the woman he lost and moved to the bedroom. Grabbing a bathing suit and a towel, he stumbled into their personal hot springs. Taking off the bandages, he got into the hot water and melted, slowly moving until his nose was the only thing poking out of the water from his head. I shouldn't drink again... not when I've just gone through so much emotion that its fucking with my brain...

He lifted his head and let out a soft sigh as he sipped the bottle of water. Placing a towel over his face as he leaned back, trying to stop the room from spinning.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/16/2022

Her face was marred with confusion as she felt her circlet being placed in her hand. Looking down at it, she swayed slightly and looked up at Tobias. He had taken it off of her? Watching him collapse to the floor she listened to his words so very confused. Her emerald eyes followed him as he stumbled his way to their hot spring. She was furious that he would take it off of her and make that choice from her. Slowly sitting up she put the circlet back on and waited a few moments. Letting the item do it's job and purge her system.

Getting up from her spot she changed into her own swimsuit and grabbed a towel. Walking into the hot springs silently, she tossed her towel next to his and stepped in causing the water to slosh slightly. Curling her wings against her back she watched the prince floating for a moment. Moving over to him she reached out and grabbed his wrist pulling hard. Shifting her weight down, she slid her other hand along his arm and across his back to lift him up. "You don't get to pull a stunt like that and then run away Thumper." Picking him up easily, she crossed his arms over his chest and held them with one clawed hand. The other wrapped around his mid section, pulling his back against her chest. Sitting in the water she put him in her lap, holding him. Releasing his mid-section she reached up and took off her circlet, placing it on him. Knowing full well he probably wasn't feeling the greatest. "You need to be sober for this." Leaving the item on his head, she wrapped her arm back around his stomach, holding his hips still against hers.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/16/2022

His head was in the clouds... His body felt like he was on the open sea. He was not okay. The worst part about everything was the constant replay going through his mind of how much of an ass he was to Zi today. He felt the water slosh and braced himself... After the water settled down, the extreme nausea finally calmed down. He wasn't prepared for what happened next...

He felt the clawed hand grab his wrist and yank him, falling in to whatever direction he was being pulled. He felt her other hand across his arm and back, lifting him up and into her. She scolded him... which, he totally deserved, but the nausea came back immediately. His arms were put across his chest and held there by one of her soft, but extremely strong, hands. Her other hand wrapped around his mid section and pulled him back against her. His tail was violently wiggling against her bare skin as his ears flailed around as well. He attempted to struggle to get away from her but soon resigned to his fate. Before the circlet was put on him, he leaned back against her, his ears draping on her shoulders as he gazed up at her. "Diana..." he whispered in his drunken haze as he felt something being placed on his head.

This was a fucking trip. He could feel the circlet cleansing his body. Soon the world stopped spinning and everything began to be clearer. He stopped being so tense in her arms. and just went limp for a moment. He shut his eyes and moved his head to the crook of her neck, letting the circlet work it's magic. When it was finally done, he sighed softly. "I don't get to pull a stunt like that and run... I shouldn't have said or been the way I was at all... I shouldn't have drank anything either... I'm sorry Zi..." he sighed softly as he left his body limp in her arms.

"I'm ready for whatever punishment you want to give me... I was an absolute bastard and I deserve it" he told her as he shut his eyes again.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/16/2022

His tail against her stomach was a distraction and enticement. Pulling him to her, she nuzzled his neck. Her eyes went wide, and she stilled when she heard her old name. Waiting for his drunkenness to wear off gave her time to think. Blinking away tears her heart hurt. How she wished she could have heard him say her name like that.

Feeling him lay his head on her shoulder she leaned her head forward. Her nose brushing against his shoulder. ”Mmm You are, and you do. I’m very mad at you for pulling a stunt like this.” Her voice was low and gravelly but not really angry. Instead she pulled him to her tighter, a low rumbling growl coming from her throat and chest. Her lips brushed over his neck, jugular, and shoulder in feather light kisses. ”If you had wanted to spend more quality time with me… You could have just asked me to take off the circlet. I wouldn’t if others are around, but when it’s just us…”

Letting her teeth graze over his skin she turned her head and nuzzled the side of his head. ”Seems we’ve both lost a love in our past life. We’re here now though. How should I make you pay for what you’ve done to me?” Nuzzling the base of his ear she breathed warm air over his ear and neck.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/16/2022

He was quite comfy in this position... but more started happening. She reciprocated... Her nose brushed against his shoulder causing a shiver down his spine. She wasn't exactly scolding him... but he could tell she was hurt. "You have every right to be Zi... I..." he paused as he felt her hold him tighter. Her lips brushing against his neck, jugular, and shoulder felt like little electric sparks on his skin. He inhaled then exhaled as she began to talk again. "I did want to spend more quality time with you... When I brought it up that you weren't getting drunk... I think you lied to me? I just wanted you to not have inhibitions and... enjoy yourself" he responded to her as he moved his hand from hers, one laced his fingers with the claw and the other gently caressed her leg and her side.

He could feel her teeth graze his skin but it was followed by a nuzzle. Her words caused goosebumps against the warm hot springs. "You too?... I'm sorry... We are here now...Whatever you want... how ever you want me to pay for what I've done... I will" he responded to her, his head leaning back as he gently kissed her neck, giving the same feather-like kisses she gave him. His ears stood up and then gently flopped back, landing and brushing against her cheeks. He gently rested his head back on her shoulder. His head moving to nuzzle hers gently... This was warmth he hasn't experienced in ages... in lives even... he didn't want it to end.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/17/2022

The rumbling in her chest lowered to become almost like a purr. She blinked softly thinking about what he said. ”You asked me in front of others Tobias. I am your shield. Why would I admit to a weakness in front of people who could potentially want to hurt you?” Nipping his neck she jerked slightly in surprise when one of his hands laced it’s fingers through hers and then his other hand started caressing her leg and side. Grinning against the side of his head, she chuckled.

Feeling him kiss her neck, her claws flexed and her hold on him tightened again. ”You shouldn’t tempt a hunter like that little usagi.” Shifting her free hand down she captured his and interlocked her fingers with his before bringing both of his hands up to cross over his chest. Dipping her head down she caught his ear between her teeth and nibbled on it gently before moving back to his neck, right at the crook of it towards the back. She bit down firmly but didn’t break the skin. Growling softly, she held him still, sucking where she bit. Her tongue laving against the skin there to sooth the bite and taste him. ”You make it sound like you want me to gobble you up Tobias.” She whispered next to the base of his ear.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/17/2022

He huffed at her response. He didn’t ask her in front of others, he asked her when they were back and alone in the room… ”I didn’t… but whatever… it’s done with now” he sighed softly. The nip at his neck made him squirm in her arms. When he kissed her neck, he grip tightened. Her words sent chills down his spine… but with the chill there was intrigue.

”What if this rabbit wants to be hunted by a beautiful Ryu…” he responded to her. His hands now pinned across his chest again. She nibbled on his ear, a soft moan escaping his lips as his tail began to rub against her skin again. When she moved back to the crook of his neck, he squirmed again. When she bit down, he gasped… why was this also so pleasurable?… the feeling of her tongue licking where she bit was… was electrifying. Her words… was she actually going to eat him?

”If I die in stomach if you after being shredded and torn apart… I’d be fine with that… so eat away… it’s the least I can do to atone” he sighed softly as he wiggled in her lap. He began to pant, feeling overwhelmed by every sensation she was making him feel.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/17/2022

Grinning against his neck, she sucked hard enough to leave a mark; and it wasn't just a small mark that would fade easily. She purposefully moved to the skin just around it, making the bruise bigger. Once it was bigger than a half dollar she finally moved on to nibble just his shoulder. Splaying her hands flat against his chest she ran them over his upper body. A soft huff and please hum echoing around them as she heard his gasp and moan.

Feeling his tail and hearing his words she couldn't help it. She threw her head back and laughed loudly. Her grip on him loosened but she still kept a hold of him around his waist. "What is this? Does my Thumper like the idea of being hunted?" She asked while still laughing. Bringing one hand around to his backside she stroked his soaked tail; massaging at it's base. Looking up at him the color of her eyes had changed completely to yellow now and glowed faintly.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/17/2022

He felt her suck on his neck, each time she released a soft moan escaped his lips. She did it a few times… was she giving him a hickey? Was she claiming him?! When her hands moved across his chest and upper body, he shivered in her arms again.

He turned a dark red as she began to laugh, the feeling of her loosening grip cause his hands to wiggle slightly. Her words caused him to blush even more… unable to actually rebuttal again her. He gasped and bit his lip as he felt her hand messed with his tail, moving down to his base. He whimpered softly as she continued.

He shifted around in her lap, now straddling her, Unable to take her playing with his tail anymore. He paused for a moment as he stared in her eyes… they… changed colors… they were like stars… just like Diana’s… he gulped softly as he brought his free arms around her neck, threading his hands into her hair as he pulled her down into him, his lips meeting hers as he kissed her deeply. When he pulled away, his eyes were now a deep midnight blue, they had a faint glow that matched hers.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/18/2022

She was loving his reactions. The way he shivered in her arms and made those cute noises. She wanted to see just how many she could get him to make. He seemed to really enjoy it when she messed with his tail. Was that pleasure spot for him? Pouting almost when he shifted around in her lap. Raising an eyebrow, she settled her hands back on his hips to hold him lightly. Blushing with how bold he was being, her eyes closed when he pulled her down to him. Feeling his lips hit hers, she moaned softly. One hand coming up to cup the back of his head and hold him to her, and the other circling around him and pulling him to her tightly.

Feeling him pull away, her eyes were slow to open but when they did… They widened considerably, staring into his eyes. It was like a bucket of cold water had been dumped on her, but she didn’t let go of him. She was torn. She wanted to kiss him again… the things that she felt in those moments were not lies… but those eyes. They were his eyes. The universe really hated her. To make her see such things when she had finally give into her current desires. Coming back to herself, her hand slipped from the back of his head to his face. Her thumb brushing over his cheek. Now she understood why he had so many fangirls. Shifting slightly, she leaned forward and put her forehead to his shoulder unable to keep staring into those eyes or continue what they had been doing. Yet at the same time she really didn’t want to move. She enjoyed the way they were sitting.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/18/2022

The moan she released vibrated against his lips. The hand cupping his head and holding him to felt... loving... The arm that circled around him and pulled him closer... It sent tingles down his spine. When her eyes opened, he took in that they widened. Was... She in shock? Should he not have done that? A blush creeped to his face as he continued to stare into her eyes. She... didn't yeet him off of her lap... but she seemed... torn... He felt torn... Why... did he do that?... He loved Diana right? He needed Diana... Right...? Her eyes were just like Diana's... Those same stars she had in her eyes all those years ago...

When she cupped his face, he gently rested in her hand, enjoying the feeling of her thumb brushing over his cheek. When she put her forehead against his shoulder, he unthreaded his hands from her hair. One hand remained on the back of her head, gently caressing her head. The other pulled her closer. His head gently rested against her as he stared down at her skin. He gulped... He wanted more... just so much more... but he knew she wasn't Diana, right? He understood that? Now he wasn't so sure... Maybe he was moving on finally?

After a bit of sitting, his hand move from the back of her head to her cheek. A gentle caress before bringing her back up. He wanted more... He leaned in, making sure she was alright before attempting to kiss her again, not forcefully.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/22/2022

It felt wrong on one hand to enjoy his touch so much, but on the other hand it felt so good. Similar to falling into bed in the perfect position, after a long grueling day. Nuzzling his shoulder, she kissed his collar bone lightly. He tasted amazing. She had the insane urge to taste every inch of him. Flexing her fingers on his hips, she dared not let them roam like they wanted. She had already gone too far. Guilt gnawed at her insides as if she had committed a terrible sin, but her body warred that it was ok.

Feeling his hand on her cheek she was honestly expecting him to tell her to let him up and to never speak to him again. Dazed as she looked into his eyes, she tried hard not to melt into his touch. To her shock he leaned in and kissed her again. With a soft whimper her lips glued themselves to his. Her hands gasping his hips with almost a painful force as she pulled him as tightly as she could to her. Locking him in place with one arm the other hand slid up his back pressing him to her. At this point passion overrode anything her mind said. If she was only ever going to get this one moment then she would take it.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/22/2022

the little love bites she would make around his neck were amazing. The feeling of her nuzzling him was electrifying. He could feel the grasp on his hips tighten under her strong fingers… he enjoyed this so much… but… was it right? A pit of guilt settled in his stomach as he met her lips for a second kiss.

The sound of her whimper as he kissed her again was music to his ears. He could feel her grip tighten further, causing him to wince into the kiss. He was locked in as one arm locked him in and the other pulled him further into her.

He decided to go all in for it… he was stuck in her grasp anyway. He opened his mouth, letting his tongue move from its prison and look for hers. When it found it, his tongue tied with hers, dancing in their mouths… After 10 or 15 minutes of this heavy make out session, he broke the kiss and looked into her eyes. ”I want you to be with me the rest of this trip… I want to sleep next to you, hold hands with you… kiss you… We don’t have to have it go further… or even when we return…but I just want to be together with you and turn this dream into reality… would you do that for me… Zi? It’s okay to say no…” he stumbled out the last part, a blush on his face. Both of his hands now holding Zi’s cheeks, stroking them gently as he rested his forehead against hers.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/22/2022

The feeling of his tongue dueling with hers was unlike anything she had ever experienced. She didn't want it to stop, yet eventually they had to come up for air. Her eyes looked a bit wild as he stared at her and spoke. It took an extreme amount of focus to listen to what he was saying to her and comprehend it in a manner that would allow a verbal response. She had never really experienced physical attraction before and was stunned by her bodies response to him. Normally she was repulsed by the very idea of touching anyone or being touched by someone else.

Why did it hurt that he clarified, the rest of this trip, rearing it's ugly head, the guilt inside her came surging back helping to clear her mind. Taking a deep breath she forced herself to relax and let go of him a bit. She would have to be mindful to not leave bruises on him. Her heart thrummed in her chest as she closed her eyes and focused on his hands. "I have no idea why you would want such a thing, but I will gladly comply." Her voice was hoarse, if not a bit gravel like. "Only when no one else is around though. I don't want rumors being spread and misunderstandings to happen. We both have enough to deal with, without other people meddling." Tilting her head, her eyes slowly closed as she went back to his neck, lightly kissing, licking, and nibbling his new hickey. Goosebumps rose up on her skin as she loosely held him. "If you'd like, I can get us out and dry us off so we can go to bed?"

Tobias

BOT

— 02/22/2022

His heart sunk at the suggestion he made… how he wished it wasn’t for the rest of this trip… but he knew she would never accept that… and that hurt more than he thought it would. When she said she had no idea why he would want that he forced her gaze to meet his. ”You are an absolutely gorgeous being Zi. You are so special and wonderful and amazing. You make me question so many things… in a good way.” he responded to her as he leaned in, moving down to her neck. He tried to work as quickly as possible, before she could harden her skin. He bit down and sucked on her neck, leaving a rather large hickey like she did to him.

After the hickey was secure, he removed his mouth. Gently, he licked and kissed the wound like she did to him. ”Even when people are around. I don’t care if rumors spread or they have misunderstands…” he paused for a moment, remembering the proceedings of tonight, he shut his eyes and nodded. ”of course, when no one is around… but… do we even need to leave the room?” he asked her as he bit his lip, feeling her tongue dart across his hickey.

Her offer was nice but for now, he shook his head. He cupped her cheek one last time and thread his hands into her hair, pulling her back into another deep kiss, his tongue meeting here. After a bit, he broke it and nodded. ”We can go to bed now…” he said with a soft smile, his cheeks red.

After Zi helped get him out and change his bandages, he laid down in bed. He patted the spot next to him for Zi and opened his arms for her to crawl into if she wanted to. If she did, he’d pull her tight against him and stroke the back of her head, showering her forehead and cheek with feather like kisses.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/23/2022

Her heart skipped and that deep red blush stole up her cheeks again at his words. He really shouldn't be allowed to say things like that. Feeling him move down her neck and bite it, she bucked slightly under him and moaned loudly. Her hands shifting from his hips to his legs, her fingers twitching over his skin in an effort not to sink her claws into him. Her breathing ragged from what he did to her neck, she let her head hang back with her eyes closed. She almost laughed at him for his words. Seriously?! Did he not understand when to leave it alone?

A faint smirk curled the corners of her lips when he stopped himself and agreed. "Thank you, and we should probably leave for a little bit every day. At least for a few of the activities, or it may start a whole other set of rumors. We can always explore the area, and they did have a lot of things you were interested in remember?" Feeling her hair being pulled she growled softly and devoured his kiss. When he broke it and said they could go to bed now, she laughed and slid her hands under his ass, gripping it firmly as she lifted him easily. One hand straying to his tail to massage it lightly as she turned and carried him to a bench to dry off.

Once they were dry, bandaged, and generally ready, she watched him slip into the bed. Swallowing thickly as he patted the spot next to him. Sliding in beside him, she blushed as she snuggled into his arms. This was that feeling... the perfect spot after a long hard day. Turning her face up to him, she wrapped her arm around him and tangled her legs with his. "At this rate... you're going to turn me into one of your crazed fans." she murmured softly with a chuckle.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/23/2022

Her moan was music to his ears. The taste of her on his lips and the feeling of her soft, supple skin was phenomenal. He could feel her change from his hips to his legs. Her hands were twitching over his skin as her ragged breath ran in his ears. He felt her head go limp and couldn't help but smile against her skin.

Her thank you was bitter sweet... "Yeah but all of that stuff takes less priority if I can spend more time with you..." he responded though her idea did make sense. "A few things each day... but we should have a tell when we want to retire for the night" he told her as he deepened their kiss before breaking it and mentioning bed. He felt her hand move under his ass and gripping it, causing his hips to wiggle in her grasp. He winced and let out a soft moan as she played with his tail again. She really liked his cotton tail...

As she finally got into bed with him, he made sure to wrap his arms tight around her and tangle his legs with hers. "I'd rather have you as my one and only than a crazed fan..." he murmured back to her. One hand travelled down her back, gently tracing and stroking it softly. His other hand thread into her hair, gently massaging her head gently. Looking down at her, he gently kissed her lips again, pulling the covers over them as his grip didn't weaken.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/23/2022

laughing softly she nodded. ”Ok. What would you like that tell to be?” It felt amazing to be able to lay snuggled with him like this. Her hand lazily running up and down his lower back. Even straying down to his tail where she lightly stroked it. She didn’t massage the base this time, just played with the fur there. Hearing his words though she pulled back to look up at him. ”You really shouldn’t say things like that Tobias.” she said softly as her hand stilled. ”Thats why you have crazed fans. You say things that could be taken other ways. Don’t say things that make it sound like you’re in love with me, when we both know your not.” pouting softly she turned her face into his chest and yawned.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/23/2022

He looked at her as she asked what their tell should be. He shut his eyes and hummed softly. "How about I collapse into you and say 'I'm feeling weak... can you take me back?'" he asked her approval for said plan as he felt her hand curl around his tail again and stroking it. He looked down at her as she recoiled away from him. He blushed a dark red as he glanced down to the right, now realizing what he said. "I don't talk to my fans... I don't really have a way with words like others in my family because I didn't want to speak I just wanted to act... I more meant that I want you by my side as you are... and who you are" he told her softly as one of his hands drifted to her chin, tilting her face up to look at him, a soft blush and smile on his face.

He leaned down and gave her a peck before slinking down and nuzzling her head. "I don't know if I can honestly say I'm not..." he said after a bit of time has passed, hoping that she didn't connect the two together. With a yawn he shut his eyes and rested his head on hers, slowly drifting off to sleep.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/23/2022

Zi: Laughing softly she agreed. ”That works. Not sure we can use it for me though. I might crush you.” nuzzling his chest she thought about it. ”How about… I just say I’m getting tired? And ask you about a book or something that you were supposed to lend me?” it seemed plausible enough. Looking up at him when he said he didn’t talk to his fans or have a way with words. ”Could have fooled me.” she mocked hiding her face in his chest again to hide her blush. It was going to be so hard to not do this when they got back to the academy. To not want to be close to him. Sighing softly she heard his words and her hear thumped in her chest. What could she do if the prince fell in love with her? She had meant it when she said they couldn’t be together because of who they were… but also, because she loved Lukas and missed him terribly. Closing her eyes she tiled her head back to watch him sleep for a bit.

Although… the thought of losing what she had in that moment… hurt almost as much as the loss of Lukas. Snuggling back into him she slipped into a fitful sleep.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/23/2022

The week went by so quickly... Each day they seemed to spend shorter amounts of time doing things and spent more time in the room together... He felt like he didn't want this to end. His emotions continued to grow more and more conflicted. There was so much guilt about falling for someone other than Diana... But there was also so much guilt for moving on. What if Diana was still waiting for him somewhere out there? He'd always feel awful until he held Zi... then all of that guilt and his internal troubles melted away and he felt whole for some reason... They just got finished for the day doing mud masks and baths, so their skin was even smoother than it was before and hers even more supple.

When they arrived back into the room, he shut the door behind them and immediately approached her, a hand cupping her cheek and an arm wrapping around her. He'd just feel her skin for a moment before resting his forehead on hers. "What do you want to do for our last night in?"

Zidri

BOT

— 02/23/2022

The week had been amazing. Sleeping next to him, holding him, cuddling him, kissing him… it had been hard to hold back on more than one occasion. She still felt the guilt about doing all of this with someone other than Lukas… but it was only for one week. Then she would have to give him up completely. The thought alone had her insides tying in knots. It was the last day before they went back to the academy and while she wanted it to end… rip off the bandaid for the pain… she also didn’t. Why?

Turning her face into his hand, she kissed his palm. The affection he showed scorched her and she loved it. Smiling when he asked what she wanted to do… there was so much but she knew she couldn’t. Bending down to meet his forehead she closed her eyes and inhaled, memorizing his scent. Capturing his lips with her own she kissed him deeply. Leaning down a bit more she picked him up by the back of his legs and wrapped them around her hips. Once he was secure she wrapped her arms around his waist, holding him to her. ”Mmmm maybe… eat a rabbit?” she chuckled softly looking up at him now.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/23/2022

He returned her deep kiss, tangling her tongue with hers as he could feel her hands move down and pick him up. He wrapped his legs around her like she wanted and then pressed into her, wrapping his arms around her neck. Looking up into her eyes, he blushed and grinned. "I wouldn't mind licking a dragon personally... I heard it's soothing" he told her as he leaned up and brought her back into a deep kiss, his tongue dancing with hers as he pulled her even tighter against him. After a few minutes of holding it, he broke it, a soft pant as a string of saliva stretched between them.

"I just want to be near you this last day Zi..." he told her softly as he leaned in, kissing her again. "So if you want to eat a rabbit, that can be arranged" he jested with her.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/23/2022

Her eyes darkened with passion and desire as they kissed. She made a point to keep her eyes open and watch his face. She moaned softly when he pressed himself into her. Nibbling his lip she kissed her way down his jaw, to his neck. Finding her favorite spot she nuzzles it before running her tongue over it and nibbling.

Hearing his words she growled low and easily walked to the nearest wall, pressing him against it tightly. She shivered hard under him and goosebumps rose on her skin. Holding him there she sighed softly resting her head on his shoulder, breathing deep. ”Youre going to be the death of me” she murmured trying hard to keep herself under control.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/23/2022

He enjoyed her moan, her nibbling his lip as she moved down to his neck and nuzzling it before nibbling it and running her tongue over it. When she walked to the wall and pressed him into it he gasped and bit his lip, holding back a moan. When she sighed and rested her head on his shoulder, he wrapped his arms around her head and stroked it gently. "You are going to be the death of me too..." he responded to her with a chuckle as he kissed her head gently.

"Just..." he said softly as he leaned down and nibbled on her neck, biting it a roughly before licking it and sucking it. Giving her another visible hickey before kissing the mark gently. He inhaled and exhaled, calming himself down, gaining some semblance of control back.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/23/2022

she was holding it together right up until he nibbled her neck and bit it roughly. Gasping, she pressed against him and rocked her hips into his against the wall. Her nails dug into his hips and she shuddered, gritting her teeth. Not from pain, but because she enjoyed it so much. Breathing roughly she kept her forehead on his shoulder while calmed himself back down too. ”I won’t lie to you Tobias. This body wants yours.” she paused pulling her head back to look into his eyes, hers had gone yellow again. ”You have no idea how hard it is to not shred your clothing off and kiss every single inch of you. Especially when you are so receptive.” she paused looking faintly sad. ”But even though my body wants you. My heart can’t. I have someone from a long time ago who is still there… and after today…” a flash of pain crossed her face. ”I don’t think it would be wise for us to do this again. So… would it be ok if I just hold you? And…” she smirked a little sadly. ”Maybe light kisses? I don’t want to do something that would be regretted later on.” she spoke softly hope in her eyes.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/24/2022

He enjoyed her nails digging in and her gasps. He couldn't stand it but he felt so guilty. "I won't lie to you either... This one wants yours too..." he pulled back and looked into her eyes. The deep blue eyes catching her gaze. "That sounds wonderful... but..." he noticed her sad look and looked down, shutting his eyes. "I hate it... I feel the same... I... can't give up hope she is out there..." he responded to her, noticing the pain on her face as she mentioned after today.

His heart sunk a little bit as she mentioned not doing this again... He nodded, a sad, pained look sitting on his face. It was for the best... Wasn't it? It was clear that both of them wanted this but circumstances wouldn't allow this... "I don't want to agree... but I respect your wish for this... and I would be more than content just holding each other with light kisses..." he responded to her as he looked up at her, cupping her cheek and stroking it gently. "Shall we get comfortable and go to bed then?" he asked her.

After her response, he gave her one last chaste kiss before moving to get changed. He wore comfy clothing, fleece pants and a t-shirt. He didn't want to emphasize anything and for sure wanted to respect her wants. When he finished, he moved to the bed and waited for her, holding his arms open when he saw her. When she crawled in, he took charge, holding her tight and stroking her head to give her some comfort. He'd lightly shower her head with kisses. "I'm sad to go back... I wish we didn't have to..." he whispered to her.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/28/2022

Blushing bad enough that even the tips of her ears turned red, she had a hard time looking him in the eyes as he said his body wanted hers too. A tense knot she felt inside loosened as he agreed with her. She hated the idea of not being able to feel his touch again, but she knew that if she kept teasing herself like this… she would be unfaithful to Lukas out of sheer loneliness. It wasn’t something she wanted to do to Lukas or Tobias.

Nodding to his question she let him down gently. Returning his kiss, she didn’t want to let go, but did. Getting a change of clothing she went to the bathroom to change. Coming back out in a pair of leggings and a long thin button up shirt, she put away what she didn’t need. Climbing into bed with him, she smiled and snuggled into his chest when she felt his arms pull her close. Wrapping her arms around his torso she sighed and tangled her legs with his, her hip and thigh wedged between his legs. Humming her agreement, she nodded against his chest.

--The next morning--

As the sun streamed into the windows she woke early. Rubbing her cheek against his chest she shifted to look up at him sleeping. It hurt to know that this was probably the last time she would see Thumper like this, but it was for the best. Shifting up, she gave him a soft kiss on the cheek before detangling herself from him and heading for the bathroom to get ready for the day.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/28/2022

Even for something so wrong... Why did it feel so right? The tangling of them together... the feeling of her head resting o the crook of his neck and chest... He shortly passed out with her.

-Next Morning-

He could feel the sun beating down on his face. The feeling of a soft rub against his chest as he stirred slightly but not fully awaking. He could feel the kiss as she detangled herself. He stirred finally, letting out a soft whimper as she left him to get ready. He got up and looked around, there was stirring from the bathroom... He yawned and stretched, throwing his arms back in the air as his body popped.

"No more sleeping like this..." he sighed softly as he finished packing up. He grabbed some clothes and changed before putting them away and sitting on the bed with a heavy sigh. He placed his face in his palms and rubbed it roughly. Why did it need to end? Why did he feel so many conflicting feelings? Why did this have to suck so bad.....

Zidri

BOT

— 02/28/2022

Coming out of the bathroom she brought out her toiletries bag. "Sorry, did you have a rough sleep?" she obviously had heard him when he said no more sleeping like this. Turning to her own bags she made sure everything was packed, along with his belongings, save for what he would still be using. Once he finished getting ready she would take their bags and shoulder them, heading towards the entrance. Of course if Tobias tried to take any she'd give him the lightest one.

As they reached the outside the hostess bowed to them and presented a picnic basket. "A meal for the road your highness." Letting Tobias take that one she stowed everything away and bid the hostess goodbye before they both got into the cart and started the long journey home.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/28/2022

As she came out, he left his hands in his head. She heard him and chuckled softly, a sad sign coming out. "Just sad..." he responded as he went into the bathroom, cleaning himself up and putting his stuff away. He threw his bag over his shoulder and grabbed her before she left. He pressed his lips against her one last time, holding it before breaking it and opening the door. The hostess offered a picnic basket, accepting it and bowing back to her as they both got onto the cart.

Sitting across from her, a sad look on his face as the trip continued. How much he wanted to cuddle with her right now...

-Arriving Home-

Upon arriving home, they were greeted not by the maids of the academy but members of their family. Tobias's Dad held his arms open for his boy, giving him a big hug with no option of denial. "Tobi my boy! I missed you so much! I see you are doing well!" he cheered. Tobias turned a bright red as he was hugged by his father. His mother and sisters were also here but were out exploring... Thank god... he didn't really need the familial assault right now.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/28/2022

It was hard to focus on anything on the ride back... well except the tingle on her lips from his last kiss... Closing her eyes she pressed her fist to them again with her face turned to look out the window. This was going to be difficult.

As they arrived, she let him get out first and watched with amusement as he was greeted with enthusiasm. Bowing to the King she chuckled softly and turned to get their bags when someone clearing their throat caught her attention. Looking in the direction she was surprised to see the man who was her father of this life, as well as her mother. Both stood tall and proud, their wings tucked against their backs. It was obvious they were uncomfortable here, and with the display of affection from the royals. Smiling at them both she bowed. "Mother, Father. What brings you here?"

Her parents smiled at her and glanced at the King before answering her. "We've come to see how you are, and to discuss your future. You can't stay here at the academy forever, and we've been looking into potential marriage candidates for you."

Zidri blinked surprised for a moment... then her face flamed red to match her hair. "You what?!" She nearly yelled before remembering her manners, glancing at the King and Tobias embarrassed. "We had this discussion before I left. I will not be put into any kind of arranged marriage!"

Her father looked at her sternly. "Young lady. Mind your manners and remember your place! We will discuss this inside. Come with us." Turning to the King he bowed and headed inside, fully expecting her to follow him.

Sighing Zidri bowed her head before bowing to the King and Tobias. "I apologize for my actions and beg your forgiveness. Excuse me please." Grabbing her bag she followed after her parents with a blank expression.

Tobias

BOT

— 02/28/2022

Tobias looked down at his dad. The way Zi's parent's looked at them before moving to discuss what they had with Zi was... worrying. What they declared also sent a chill down his spine... But he couldn't respond... it wasn't appropriate for him to respond.

Sorin laughed a bit, waving off her apology like it was no big deal to have her respond that way. Tobias looked to his dad as another chill shot down his spine. 'Attack' was all his brain could register as he was suddenly assaulted by his 3 sisters and mother. Each of them pulling him in a different direction. The mother was happy to see her baby boy and the sisters were trying to rip the rabbit alive because they missed their brother. Sorin waved his hand causing his sisters to stop as Sophia took her place next to her husband. "So... Why are you all here? It's a long way to come here and I know you probably didn't just want to see me..." he told them.

Sorin cleared his throat as he motioned for Tobias to follow him. Of course, Tobias followed. "We've been discussing arranged marriages for you my boy! you are almost 18 now. You are fully capable of taking the throne so that means you need a queen and someone who can birth you an heir!" his father told them as he lead them inside to a secluded room with... Zi and her family?!

Sorin took his place next to her mother and father. "You see my boy, we've been in deep discussions with the dragonkin and their plight. As you know, we are quite loving and accepting of all. I instilled those values in you too. The 'bloodthirsty warriors'" he mentioned, making air quotes around them to show he didn't feel the same. "the dragonkin have gained this reputation during times when a way of life was hard for them. Now that they have settled and are expanding it is much harder to get trade routes to them or even visitors. I've been speaking with the Sorga's about what could we do to change their image... and Mr. Sorga mentioned an arranged marriage!" Sorin announced as he patted Mr. Sorga on the shoulder.

"I thought it was a splendid idea! With my son's stunning reputation and when he knows of the plight dragonkin face outside of our country, he will certainly usher in the change of view in the dragonkin people. So..." he cleared his throat as he motioned for Zi's parents to talk about anything.

Tobias stood there processing whatever his father had just said to him. Finally... all the lines connected and a conflicted pit grew in his chest. "So you... So... Wait... So..." he could barely form a sentence as he was too stunned to speak.

Zidri

BOT

— 02/28/2022

When they finally reached the room where they would be talking, she watched her parents sit and wait. Not understanding, she stayed standing. "So what is all of this about?" She prompted him, just as the door opened and in came Tobias, and his family. Confusion was evident on her face and stayed there as she listened to the King. Mid way through, her eyes and expression turned hard, signaling that she understood.

Mr. Sorga watched his daughter and knew her mind the moment he saw her expression change. He never would understand why she was so against arranged marriages. "To have our people unite, they must be led by example. They must be shown that the sword." He gestured towards Tobias. "Will always have it's shield." Then he gestured at Zi.

Zi felt the stab in her chest as if it had been physical. Even her own father saw her as a shield for Tobias. Her fists clenched and her body started to tremble.

Her father continued. "This is for the greater good of both nations. The Belran family cannot rely on their son alone. So with your union they will have the Dragonkin added to their ranks as well. We will be able to come together and destroy the demons all the easier."

Again, Zi felt another stab. A bargaining chip. A price for soldiers in war. That's all she was and all she ever would be in this life. Finally she heard Tobias speak, and he sounded so conflicted. She was not. Her voice came out loud, strong, and forceful. "NO. I refuse." her fists clenched tight as her skin glittered in the light, going hard. "I will do everything I can to protect our countries but you cannot make us get married." She felt like a child throwing a tantrum in front of a wild storm, but she had to try.

Her Father stared at her with a sour expression. "Unfortunately Zidri. You do not have a choice. Your rooms have already been taken care of, and you will find that the one you were in, is nothing more than storage now. You will be staying with Prince Tobias from now on."

Tobias

BOT

— 02/28/2022

Sorin nodded in agreement with Mr. Sorga. "The greater good and for the better future of everyone." he threw in at the end there.

Tobias was frozen. The conflicted emotion rested on his face until Zi declared that she refused. Her voice rang through his ears, snapping him out of his daze. The pit in his chest had vanished... Her firm rejection was all he needed to see the truth behind the situation... And feel that same love for Diana overpower him again. This past week was the last time. It was all about trying to find Diana now. "With all do respect father and Mr. Sorga. I agree with Zidri. I refuse to get married as well... I have someone else I love and am looking for" he declared as he shut his eyes and sighed. "Zidri also has someone else she is looking for. It's not fair for any of you to decide that" his tone was now more befitting of a prince.

Sorin raised a hand to Mr. Sorga to let him know to calm down. "There is no good to be done here if it's by force. But there is more gravity to this situation than just an arranged marriage" he told them as he let out a soft sigh. "We will let you think on it for the night. It was a lot to drop on you at once. But Mr. Sorga is right, you two will now be staying in the same room together. All of your stuff has been meticulously moved to Tobias's room Zidri. Why don't you two go upstairs and get some rest after a long day of travel." he told everyone, trying to defuse a situation.

Zidri

BOT

— 03/01/2022

Green eyes glowed with an eerie yellow ring as she stared her father down. She knew exactly what he was trying to do and didn't like it at all. Her head naturally inclined towards Tobias as he spoke. A dark red blush covered her cheeks though as he just put it out there that she had someone that she loved. Her eyes darted to her father who was staring daggers and a promise of a beating towards her. The only thing restraining him was keeping up the appearance for the royal family.

Gazing at the King when he reminded them that their belongings were now in one room she bit her lip to keep herself from growling at him. Instead she stood and bowed before leaving. She had nothing to say to either of them. Heading towards her new room she could hear the whispers now, none of them were good. Pausing outside of his door she looked at it before pushing it open. What was the use in waiting for him if she was supposed to be staying in the room too? As she stepped in, she could see that indeed all of her belongings were moved here. She was glad she had taken her journals with her. With a sigh she pulled both of them out, putting the complete one on an end table near a couch she sat on, and began writing in the other.

Tobias

BOT

— 03/01/2022

He sighed softly as he glanced towards Zi, seeing the blush on her face from him declaring she had someone she loved. His eyes moved back to her father who was staring daggers at her. When Zi got up without saying anything, his whole body wanted to move to leave with her... but he had to resist. They weren't together and now they were being forced into a situation where they are political puppets. "Father, I know what you are trying to do here. I get it... But you should honor the thoughts and emotions of the people you are effecting." he told him as he stood up, bowing to him and then Mr. Sorga. He left the room.

Sorin sighed softly. "That could have gone better..." he huffed softly as he ran a hand through his hair.

Tobias made his way back up to the room a bit after Zi had arrived. He was about to just walk in, but he paused for a moment. It was his room as well, he didn't need to knock... He opened the door and sighed softly, shutting it behind him. He walked inside and looked around. Zi's stuff was in here... He then noticed something on the end table, but he decided to check it out later.

"I'm sorry Zi... I didn't mean to blurt out that you had someone you loved..." he told her as his gaze shifted to the ground with a sigh.

Roxy — 03/01/2022

Mr. Sorga snorted at Sorin's words. "They are young and don't understand the position they are in. They will come around, or only make it harder on themselves.'

Sitting on the couch she was still scribbling things into her journal when Tobias spoke. Looking up at him as her hand stilled she spoke softly. "You were the only one who knew that. Father will hunt him down now." Her voice sounded a bit hollow and very sad. Looking him over she shrugged. "It's not like it would matter now anyway. They are dead set on this and there's nothing we can do to stop it." Short of dying again... but she wasn't so sure she wanted to go that far. Her heart hurt and she wished Lukas were here. He always knew how to make things better when they were kids.