Ssarak Dyreackthanose and Meirin Kurenai --- Ssarak's homeland sounded like a harsh place to live, honestly. Djarkel had it's faults, but at least there was land worth fighting over. Lakes of lava, ash fields, the place sounded like a wasteland. But at the same time, Meirin could see that despite all of that, it has created strong people. It had to, because weaker ones were punished or killed. And while Meirin wouldn't say it, she envied Ssarak and that sort of life style. She liked the idea of a strong land making stronger people. She relished testing herself against others and honing herself against powerful opponents. [color=00a651]"No, I mean... I understand. It's... It's like dragons."[/color] Clenching her hands into fists Meirin looked at Ssarak with an eager look. She loved the stories told to her about the dragons of old. It's what inspired her to become the person she was today. [color=00a651]"They fought against adversity and strife, honing their minds and bodies to survive the brutal world they lived in. They said that in the beginning of the world, there was only chaos. Before the gods formed Tiien, there was only an uncontrolable void that created all matter of destruction without purpose or reason. The dragons were one of the only creatures that were able to traverse this realm of chaos, and when the gods created Tiien, taught the humans how to survive the same realm. One god in particular, Urzama, was said to be the proginator of what we call Martial Arts."[/color] Placing her hands into her lap Meirin tried to remember how the story went. She didn't want to bore Ssarak with the entire tale, which was so long she remebered the elders having to refer to a scroll just to tell her about the creation of the world before taking out another scroll detailing Urzara. [color=00a651]"Urzara was a dragon warrior of her tribe. Where others fought with ferocity and fire, she fought with cunning and grace, as she was born a smaller dragon then most, and unable to breath flames like they did. To make up for what she lacks in physical strength, she learned how to defend herself by countering their strength, using technquies independant from one's actual abilities. When she first met mortal men, she taught them her fighting style while they traded with her works of art: statues, paintings, songs. Many came to her to learn from her, and they all gave her works of art in trade. Even many dragons, seasoned and legendary warriors in their own right, came to learn or court her. For that reason she's known as a dragon of art and beauty, and the one that my home revered most all."[/color] Taking a sip from the wine Meirin's face grew a slight shade redder when she realized she went on a tangent again. She really wanted to talk about her home; she had so much she wanted to tell Ssarak and just couldn't keep her thoughts organized. If Ssarak was looking into her mind right now, he'd see that she was trying to find a good moment to actually tell him about her possibly going back to the monestary. But she also wanted to ask Ssarak if he knew any stories about dragons. Another thought that just went through her mind was how she was suppose to link her tale of Urzama with Ssarak's talk about the scortched lands. It embarassed how much of a scatterbrain Meirin was being. [color=00a651]"Ah... But I digress. I think that the Scortched Lands, much like the dragons of old, are dangerous but powerful forces of nature. They are things to be feared, certainly. But at the same time, it's that same power that inspires normal people to become something greater. It's seeing something great and telling yourself "I want to be their equal". It's looking at the sun and wanting to fly amongst the clouds."[/color] Throughout all of Meirin's explanations, Ssarak listened intently. He looked away only to have some of his food or wine. She did have a tendency to go on for a while on some topics, but in that, he certainly did not mind. It seemed that she cared a great deal about her monestary and its beliefs, which did make sense. Unlike himself, Meirin likely intended to return to her home after finishing her education at the college. It was possible he could gleam more information on the topic from her mind, but he disliked reading into the minds of friends, Meirin in particular, without at least implied permission. He only really made exception to this in dangerous situations, in which he would read the minds of all allies without reservation. Ssarak found Meirin's story about the dragon Urzama to be particularly interesting. Ironically, the Esyire had few tales of true dragons in the Scorched Lands, or at least few credible ones. There were some myths that had been passed down from long before the time of the Esyire Clans, but for all intents and purposes, the closest being to dragons in his homeland were wyverns which could feed on the ash, and the Esyire themselves. Indeed, the similarities between them could not be denied, to the point that some believed them to be related. There were myths that the Esyire had traces of dragon blood within them, and the dragons had long ago taught them to form their magic in their breath, but Ssarak did not know how true those tales actually were. [color=f7941d]"By your description, it seems as if you have a good deal of respect and admiration for dragons. "[/color] He began, pausing for a sip of wine and giving a smile. [color=f7941d]"I would say that makes sense, given your taste in men."[/color] He joked. [color=f7941d]"But, regardless, I do understand what you mean."[/color] Ssarak continued more seriously. [color=f7941d]"Strength alone would not allow one to thrive in my homeland. It takes cunning, knowledge, and especially perseverance to survive the Scorched Lands. It breeds strength and self-sufficiency in its people, albeit through the harshest of means. There is a reason that the Esyire are among the least numerous of Tiien's races, after all. Still, I would not be the person I am today without my homeland's influence. I do wish I should show it to you, but the air itself is deadly to anyone who is not Esyire."[/color] Meirin covered her cheeks as she blushed from Ssarak's comments. She didn't want to admit that she was initally intrigued by Ssarak's appearance. She did legitimately fall in love with the person, rather than just the image. Meirin also understood Ssarak's reluctance about showing Meirin the Scortched Lands. She's figured that such a place would be inhospitible to even someone like Meirin. [color=00a651]"Well... Even if you cannot show me your homeland, I can show you mines. Actually, I was given premission to return home. I'm suppose to speak to the elder masters about matters on behalf of the college, but I'd love it if you came along with me!"[/color] Ssarak answered nearly without hesitation. [color=f7941d]"It would be an honor. I certainly would like to be able to see Djarkel as you see it, and the monestary, as you describe it, sounds compelling."[/color] He said with no shortage of enthusiasm. He could not say he had been to a place like her home before, and there was of course appeal in being able to spend time with her on the journey. [color=f7941d]"I suppose I will need to inform Satori of my intention to join as well, though I doubt it will be an issue. What do you think I should do to prepare? I certainly do not wish to accidentally offend any of the monks. Do you think they will...approve of us?"[/color] He asked, his concern showing through his question. Meirin's face grew pale when Ssarak asked about how the monks would take their relationship. She hasn't thought about it before. Romance back at the monestary was never really a problem, but that was because it rarely ever came up. The closest thing Meirin ever encountered was when they escorted merchant couples. Even then everyone kept their noses out of each others businesses. Meirin herself never felt and particular attraction to her fellow artists like she does for Ssarak. She doesn't even remember if any of her teachers were married. [color=00a651]"I'm... Not entirely sure, to be honest. I mean... There are certain codes of conduct I grew up with. Never speak out of turn, always allow the elders to pick first, clean after yourself, that sort of thing. Generally these rules don't apply to guests, but I... I don't know how they'd react to... Us..."[/color] What worries Meirin the most was that she didn't know how they would react. She doesn't know if what she's doing is tabboo or would just be accepted. The monestary never came off as particullarly harsh, but than again she's enjoyed many freedoms here in the college she never had back at home. She's eaten a lot more meat than usual and actually speaks out against others, and isn't diciplined for it. She also took note that she had a lot more belongings now than she did before: She came to the college with only her weapons, but now she had an entire wardrobe, various knicknacks, and more weapons. She's changed so much. [color=00a651]"I think it would be best if we were subtle about our relationship. The monks and my masters are fairly tolerate of outsiders, but because I grew up there they may be more strict with me. And... And I know you love me Ssarak. But the ones at the monestary, they're my family too. Even if they're not perfect... And... Just whatever happens, promise me you won't get angry, okay?"[/color] Ssarak nodded and started to grin in an attempt to lighten the mood, and allay her fears. [color=f7941d]"You know me, Meirin. I can be as diplomatic as is needed for whatever situation. I did manage to convince two warring factions that supported their cause an hour or so ago."[/color] He said, though his tone did become more serious as he reached out and lightly grabbed her hand. [color=f7941d]"I will behave however you think is appropriate, I promise. I would refrain from mentioning it at all if you wanted me to. Although, I will say that I would prefer not to lie to them. Even if it will be uncomfortable to inform them about us, I believe it would be worthwhile to be open about that fact. Besides, it may be that we get along well. From what you have described, we may share similar philosophies on some matters. Certainly, I expect some rather intriguing conversations."[/color] Pausing a moment, Ssarak took a drink of his wine and a few more bites of his meal. Neither of them had actually eaten much of their dinner, given how focused they were on their conversation. Although, Ssarak was certainly in no rush. Even after just a few minutes of talking, they had made some rather exciting plans. [color=f7941d]"I would not worry too greatly. You are a mature woman, both in age and in mind, and you have already acted with great valor while at the college. There are students here who would not have survived the demon attack without you; I am sure your family will be proud of you, and the decisions you have made."[/color] [color=00a651]"Proud of me?"[/color] For once, Meirin wondered just how her teachers and students back at home felt about her. She always saw them as her family. Did they think of her the same way? They all felt angry when she boasted and fought... But they shared her grief when the demons attacked. They sent her here to the college to help her. And soon she'd come back, better than before. They would be proud, wouldn't they? When Ssarak touched Meirin's hand she looked up at him. She returned his smile with a smile of her own. She didn't have much else to say, so she pulled Ssarak close so she could rest against his body. [color=00a651]"Yeah. Even if they're not perfect... You're the next best thing. I shouldn't have anything to worry about."[/color] [color=f7941d]"I could not agree more."[/color] Ssarak commented. As she pulled him close, he wrapped his wing around her, quite enjoying her embrace. He had to admit that he would be somewhat nervous in meeting what was essentially Meirin's family, but he was certain they would be able to find common ground. Meirin was a result of their teachings, after all. After a moment, he grabbed his wine glass once more and raised it to her. [color=f7941d]"How about a toast? To your family, to us, and...to being perfectly imperfect."[/color] [color=00a651]"Heh... To us."[/color] Meirin raised her wine glass and tapped it against Ssarak's. She took a large sip, feeling the smooth taste slither over her tongue. Going home would be great... But she couldn't help but worry. Everything was so sudden that she felt unprepared. But that's why she was here in the first place, wasn't it? To learn and be ready. Now wasn't the time for that sort of thing though. Today was suppose to be a day of celebration. So Meirin put those thoughts aside and just looked at the night sky in Ssarak's embrace, enjoying the little moments like this.