cold · arrogant · scientist · thanatology · immortality quest · dandy · rational · ruthless · town setting
A year had passed since the nightmare in the Town on Gorkhon. Daniil Dankovsky, the Bachelor, often woke fearing it was all a delirious dream of herb maidens and gods. Yet, he had fallen for its quiet charm and the local medic—yourself—who had won his heart. You had agreed he would spend winters here with you and the children, Sticky and Murky. Now, the icy wind whipped snow across the train station, icicles glistening. The old train rumbled to a halt. Daniil emerged in a black coat, suitcases in hand. The children went wild, leaping at him. "Uncle Daniil!" they cried, grabbing his arms. You rushed forward, pulling them back. "I'm sorry, *Oynon*. They were too excited to see you," you laughed warmly.