12:33 PM
Golden Fields Region, Verdant Haven
Réel Residence
In the living room, Aubert cradled a book in his hands while Rubis perched beside him, their eyes fixed on the colorful illustrations with a sense of wonder.
"Look at this, Rubis, this is the Sylvan Spire!"
Aubert's voice echoed with enthusiasm as he pointed to a vivid depiction of Verdant Haven City's iconic landmark.
The book unveiled a breathtaking view of the heart of the city, where the Sylvan Spire soared majestically. Its ancient trunk, adorned with elven runes, spiraled skyward, a testament to the city's connection to nature and magic.
"Squee!"
Rubis chirped, his tail wagging with excitement. It relished these moments of exploration with Aubert, eager to learn about the world beyond their cozy cabin.
Aubert's smile widened as he turned the page, revealing another captivating scene.
"Here's the Place de la Fontaine, Rubis!"
Aubert exclaimed, his finger tracing the image of the central square adorned with a magnificent fountain.
The book portrayed the lively square, where the crystalline waters of the fountain danced amidst sculpted nymphs. Around it, a tapestry of diverse beings congregated, drawn together by the fountain's allure and the spirit of camaraderie it fostered.
"Squee!"
Rubis chirped in delight, his eyes reflecting the longing to experience such wonders firsthand.
Aubert's heart swelled with affection as he embraced Rubis, the gentle warmth of their bond filling the room.
"Someday, Rubis, someday we'll go there together. I promise," Aubert whispered, his words infused with hope and determination.
Deep down, however, Aubert harbored a bittersweet realization. Despite his fervent wishes, he knew that their dream might remain just that—a dream. Maurice cautioned him about the illegality of keeping dragons like Rubis, a truth that weighed heavily on his heart.
"Squee?"
Rubis nudged Aubert's arm, sensing his companion's inner turmoil.
Aubert's smile softened, his worries momentarily forgotten as he basked in Rubis's affectionate gesture.
"Aubert, it's time for lunch!"
Maurice's voice echoed through the cozy cabin, beckoning Aubert from the dining room.
Aubert grinned, his excitement evident as he turned to Rubis. "Let's go, Rubis!"
"Squee!"
With a cheerful chirp, Rubis bounded after Aubert, his tiny wings fluttering with excitement as they made their way to join Maurice for a delightful meal together.
***
Aubert and Rubis arrived at the dining room, where Maurice was waiting for them.
"Bonjour, you two. Please, take your seats," Maurice said, gesturing to the chairs around the table.
With enthusiasm, Aubert climbed up onto one of the chairs, while Rubis flapped its tiny wings to settle onto another.
As they settled in, Aubert and Rubis's eyes widened with delight as they took in the spread laid out before them.
The table was adorned with dishes of Beef Bourguignon, a hearty beef stew cooked with red sauce, mushrooms, and onions; Quiche Lorraine, a savory pastry filled with eggs, cheese, and bacon; and Salade Niçoise, a refreshing salad featuring tuna, green beans, tomatoes, olives, and boiled eggs.
The tantalizing aroma of the food filled the air, tempting their taste buds and stirring their appetites.
Maurice observed their reactions with a warm smile, knowing that their time together was drawing to a close. He had prepared this meal with care, hoping to make their parting at least a happy one.
"I hope you both will enjoy our lunch. Bon appétit!"
"Bon appétit!"
"Squee!"
***
As they dug into their lunch, the dining room was filled with the sounds of contentment.
Aubert savored the flavors of the dishes, while Rubis happily indulged in the feast laid out before him.
However, as Rubis delved into his meal, his enthusiastic eating echoed loudly in the room.
Maurice expected this, considering Rubis was a dragon, and teaching him table manners might be a challenge.
Aubert noticed Rubis's loud munching.
"Rubis, keep it down. It's considered rude if you eat loudly."
He gently reminded his dragon friend.
"Squee! Squee!"
In response to Aubert's instruction, Rubis began to eat more quietly, his manners improving with each bite.
Maurice watched the interaction between Aubert and Rubis with amusement and pride.
He was glad to see that Aubert remembered his lessons about table manners and even more surprised that Aubert had successfully imparted them to Rubis.
While Maurice could have gently requested Rubis to eat on the floor and have his food served in a pet bowl, he wanted their parting to be a memorable one, filled with warmth and companionship.
***
1:23 PM
In the quiet ambiance of the living room, an hour slipped away unnoticed, leaving behind the gentle hum of midday tranquility.
Aubert and Rubis, content and full after their delightful lunch, found themselves in a peaceful slumber on the plush couch.
Rubis nestled in the warmth of Aubert's arms, the bond between them radiating in their serene expressions.
The coziness of the afternoon, combined with the satisfying meal, had lulled them into a tranquil nap.
Maurice, observing the heartwarming scene, couldn't help but smile.
The sight of Aubert and Rubis peacefully asleep brought a sense of warmth to his heart, a moment to cherish amidst the imminent parting.
As the quietude persisted, Maurice's gaze shifted to his wristwatch. The slender hands marked the passage of time, and with a glance, he noted it was 1:23 PM – seven minutes before the arrival of the veterinarian and their colleagues.
Knock! Knock!
Maurice heard a knock on their front door and raised one of his brows.
He then walked toward the door.
"Who is it?" He asked in a hushed but audible voice.
"It's the veterinarian and our team from Jean's Dragon Sanctuary," came the response from behind the door.
Maurice's brow furrowed slightly in confusion.
'Already? It's a bit early.'
Nevertheless, he opened the door to reveal a group of professionals from the sanctuary, led by a kind-faced veterinarian named Dr. Leclerc.
"Bonjour, Monsieur Maurice. We are here to collect Rubis," Dr. Leclerc greeted warmly, his tone gentle and reassuring.
Maurice nodded in acknowledgment.
"Bonjour, Dr. Leclerc. Please, come in," he invited, stepping aside to allow the team entry.
As they entered, Dr. Leclerc glanced around the living room, his gaze landing on Aubert and Rubis sleeping peacefully on the couch.
"Aubert and Rubis are just taking a little nap," Maurice explained, gesturing towards the sleeping duo with a fond smile.
Dr. Leclerc nodded understandingly. "Of course, Monsieur Maurice. We will be quick and gentle with Rubis".
Maurice stepped back, allowing the team to approach Aubert and Rubis. As they carefully lifted Rubis from Aubert's embrace, the young boy stirred slightly, his sleepy eyes blinking open.
Rubis, sensing the change, woke up too, blinking his sleepy eyes.
"It's time to go, Rubis," Aubert whispered, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness.
"Squee…"
Rubis let out a soft whine, his eyes reflecting the same sadness.
In a final embrace, Aubert enveloped Rubis in a heartfelt hug, his arms a sanctuary of warmth and affection amidst the impending farewell.
Maurice watched the tender moment between Aubert and Rubis, his heart swelled with pride and gratitude for the bond they shared.
With gentle hands, the team prepared Rubis for his journey to the sanctuary, ensuring his comfort and safety every step of the way.
As they bid farewell to Aubert and Maurice, Rubis cast one last glance back at his friends, his eyes shimmering with a promise of reunion.
And with that, Rubis embarked on his new adventure, leaving behind memories of laughter, friendship, and the warmth of a home he had briefly called his own.