sranks | we are the cursed we came from fire and ice

That...is true, yes. They really do like it. I know Dorte does, certainly--I don't know if you have met him, but...he's a very good friend of mine.

[...Marianne is glad for the lack of judgement, seeming to ease a little more around him. But hearing about his lack of friends...well, even Marianne can't help but be concerned about that.]

You too... [Mmm.] ...I understand. I was kind of the same way, but...it's more that I had to keep my distance. From, um, everyone. But the animals were always nice company.

I'm...sorry that you had to experience that, too. [...] Would you...tell me about some of them? The horses.

You'll have to introduce me at some point.

[He's familiar with most of the horses here, but he doesn't recall one named Dorte, so it's possible he hasn't seen that one or spent much time with him. Either way, it would be nice to meet one of Marianne's friends.

There's something in her words that makes him pause (had to keep her distance?) but he nods and answers her question instead of focusing on it.]

My father isn't particularly fond of riding, but we kept numerous horses anyway, should we need to travel. My mother's favorite was a beautiful mare named Dahlia; she was the one I first learned to ride, and I spent much of my time learning to groom and care for her. She was black, with white markings up her legs and over her nose. She was well-behaved and gentle, never once reacting poorly even when I was still learning.

Jasmine is her sister, almost identical in appearance but certainly not in temperament. She was a bit wild when I was a child, and mother had difficulty reigning her in. She wouldn't let me anywhere near her for years... But she eventually settled down. I'm very fond of her.

I-I'll gladly, if you'd like. [Marianne does actually take a quick look at the stables, before shaking her head.] He must be with someone else, but...I'd be happy to.

[Marianne listens, though, when Xander starts to talk. She doesn't know a thing about him, really, but hearing all of this...it's at least good that the horses had someone to take care of them. Xander's mother must be a kind woman, but Dahlia and Jasmine both sound like delightful characters.]

That's wonderful. Dahlia and Jasmine sound...like very wonderful friends. [Marianne giggles, very slightly.] They...they certainly sound like sisters. Complete opposites of one another. It's sweet, but...I'm glad that they both warmed up to you so much, and that you were able to befriend them.

Yes, they... really did help me get through some of the tougher times back home. I'm very fond of them.

[His smile is soft as he reminisces, but he's quick to settle into something a little more poised.]

I would like to meet Dorte sometime, and perhaps hear more about you as well. Would it be alright if we meet here again at some point?

[He doesn't want to pressure her, of course, but Marianne seems like a nice person and he really would like to get to know her better.]

[Marianne smiles a bit, seeing that soft smile for only a moment. She doesn't deserve to see it, but...it is nice on him.]

I'm...I'm glad to hear it.

[...]

I-I'm not very interesting, but...I wouldn't mind. Maybe Dorte will be here, and I can introduce you two. It...it would be nice.

[Marianne bows a little.]

I'm...going to go take care of the horses, now. Um...take care, Xander.

[He returns the bow easily.]

Of course. Thank you again for checking up on me. I'll see you later, Marianne.

[He's content to leave her for now, but the thought of meeting with her again to learn more about her is really nice. Xander heads out, but even as he goes that soft smile returns to his face.]

we are the cursed we came from fire and ice

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