💎💎💎When you and Sia have time! your choice :3
Larksharius and Rimerock. How can I talk about one without the other? They’re Alrakis, the twin stars.
He orders another glass of that mediocre Andoren wine he loves so much before he gets started. From his eager smile you can tell there's a story.
When I made my pilgrimage to meet the ancient silver dragon Rimerock I was anxious, if you can believe it. I’m not shy, I’m sure you’ve noticed, but my specialty is people. Dragons are very different creatures. I humbly confess I know little about them except when it comes to baby havoc dragons, and I’m out of my depth even with the noble metallic sort who don’t usually roast people on sight. I left Aivu behind because—well, Hal is still trying to teach her dragon manners. And Jharsy’s just too young and controversial to act as an ambassador, so I went by myself.
When I approached him I wasn’t sure if Rimerock would try to kill me, but after I explained why I was there he agreed to talk, and he even invited me into his home. He was dignified, reserved, but cordial. He seemed not to know what to make of me at first either.
And then into the study where he received me suddenly appeared the archlich. Larksharius. Nothing like you’d expect—soft-spoken, graceful and welcoming, bringing us hot tea.
Once Lark joined us, Rimerock thawed toward me. Haha, I only figured it out later. Ri is just shy!
They’ve both lived through so much. Hearing them talk is like learning the vast history of an empire. It’s not what I was there to ask Rimerock but I learned a great deal from both of them about immortality… and its dangers. Especially loneliness.
Rimerock has had to fight his way to peace, against outside forces and against himself. It’s never-ending, and yet he perseveres. I think because he shoulders a lot of blame and self-doubt and feels he owes it to the world to keep fighting. He holds himself to an impossible standard. He’s so much better than he thinks.
And Lark—in undeath they’ve often drifted toward the River of Souls and tested its waters for the respite they offer, but they’ve also hung on even when it felt like there was nothing to hang on for. Such a gentle soul to have been hurt so much. Ultimately, they were right not to let go, because they found Ri.
The two of them are ancient and wise, but to my surprise and delight there’s something youthful about how they look at the world—fresh and full of wonder.
That comes from their love. Since they found each other it’s spring again.
I have the deepest respect for them, but now that I know them better, affection too. Ah, they’re so in love! You can’t help filling up with it when you’re around them. You go away feeling refreshed and full of hope. Ri wasn’t able to help me with all my questions, but I found something I hadn’t even known I needed. And I have a couple new friends. And possibly babysitters for Aivu when Hal can’t take any more.