They don't just live in a house, they live in a literal castle.They don't just live in a house, they live in a literal castle. The only place that comes close to this is Rhysh, and at least Rhysh has internal power. Instead it takes serious fireplaces and blankets to stay warm. I feel like I'm in an old German vampire movie." She shrugged. "They like living out here." "I know. It's just so weird." "Still, New Year's is the biggest holiday of the year. I'm surprised you accepted the invitation. Usually you like to spend New Year's with Paul and Carroll." "I know, but they wanted a little time to themselves right now. It's not easy being the First Centaur, especially not on New Year's Day." I smiled a little and reached for the little kettle hung on a hook in front of the fireplace. I poured us both refills of mulled cider. P'nyssa reached behind her and said, "Will you look at this thing, though? How much sugar do you imagine is in this?" What she held was a one-pound candy cane, almost a foot long and proportionately thick. "I've no idea. Oh, that reminds me. Did you send out cards?" She nodded. "Everybody got holiday cards, Ken, you know I sent them out yesterday for delay mail." "Good," I said, reaching up and massaging her shoulders. She moaned appreciatively and said, "Wanna get into bed?" "And do what?" I asked, smiling. "That depends. Are you tired?" "Nope." "Good," she said, rising and holding out a mitten for me. I took it and she pulled me up, leading me towards the enormous wooden bed laden over with layer after layer of quilted blanket. Just before we got there I let go of her hand. "Just a second." I walked back over to the fireplace and threw on two more logs of a lighter wood, hoping to get the fire to burn hotter and warm up the room The curtains were closed and tapestries hung on all walls, most of them depicting fanciful scenes of starships and powered armor. I walked back to P'nyssa, who had already gotten into bed, and crawled in besides her. |