Sarilda’s Winter Warmth
~24 December~

Despite the overall loss of time and location that Daws suffered, Sarilda still knew what day it was, and how long the two of them had been staying together. It was precisely a year and six months, plus five days - Not that it would interest her husband to know such details, as he only knew the necessary details he required. It was up to her to protect him from any external influence that could bring him any ill or whatever unpleasant thing that could occur towards him. And thus, it was her inherent duty to keep him safe, especially if he had strange ideas.
	With the winter and the worst of the cold having just begun, Sarilda was happy to have finished the construction of their home by the autumn. It had taken seven months, and the first snows had begun to fall by the time the house was finally done, thankfully shielding the two of them and giving them the perfect opportunity to use it at its fullest. Sarilda couldn’t have done it alone, and she had summoned spirits to help her to build the house. They had done their part, and she had offered sacrifices to thank them swiftly for it. While she worked, Daws rested at home, in inertia for the most part. He did the least work possible, as Sarilda had advised him only to do the basics - rest, get cleaned, drink, eat, and do some exercises, while she did the sheer volume of things. It was all for his good.
	Once things had finally gotten in order, they moved in and refurbished the entire house, all decorated in the essence of the style they were located in. Lights, walls, decorations, and much more. It was like a dream home, decorated in the most careful elements and pretty things that she could imagine. In the interior, it had a bedroom, a guest bedroom, a living room, a dinner room, two bathrooms with bath, and a working plumbing and electricity. There was even space for a few recreation rooms, where Sarilda built them especially so Daws could enjoy the days where there was too much snow outside, like the last few days. On the exterior, it had an incredible area with some plants and fruits being cultivated as well as a wide pool and a sauna, and a big greenhouse to cultivate animals and plants during the winter. All the electrical appliances made use of magic and sunlight electricity, so they could be powered up without any further complication. All in all, both the house, the exterior pool, the sauna and especially the greenhouse had an internal heating or cooling, so they would feel warm in the winter, and cool during the summer.
	All this impressive home encompassed an area of 5000 square metres, something Sarilda could easily maintain with her own superhuman effort. All of this had taken time, but the house was built on a solid foundation and spiritual magic in order to keep it steady, and would not fall for any reason: be it excessive snowfalls, be it rainstorms, an earthquake, or whatever reason one could come up with. It was a meadow on a mountain which was secluded, but had a few pathways which could lead to small communities, and even farther had urban centres. There was more magic to get any people who could have come around snooping.
	Sarilda had been working on the cultivation of flowers and meat from their greenhouse, in order to stock up on their storage. She then had moved on to the next set of tasks at home, the first being the washing of their clothes, followed by feeding and then cleaning Daws, and then taking a bath herself. It was a task she did very gladly, and one she wouldn’t trade for anything. Her husband was hers to be groomed by, and she would do it every day of her life. Right now there weren’t many clothes to be washed, but a considerable amount of warm blankets and sheets. –“Never a problem, this all can be solved without any hassle.” – She commented to herself, enjoying the chilly breeze of the winter around her body, which made her feel some pleasant sensation, even if it was very cold. –“It’s almost as if there is a renewal in the air, coming for all of us. Even if winter is raging on.” – She commented to herself, as she washed the fluffy sheets.
	The early winter meant there were celebrations to come, and she would be sure to be prepared for everything and put decorations for the upcoming celebrations. While her own culture had peculiar celebrations for festivals pertaining to all seasons, she knew the same could be said to her husband. And The only difference was that he had a celebration in the upcoming days, while her own celebrations were farther down the month, when winter was on its zenith. Regardless, she had in mind to go out and get a tree to place inside their living room, with the goal of placing a few lights and decorations around it, but she would like to do that with her husband instead!
	–“Hello Sari.” – A voice called from across the house, and it belonged, of course, to Daws. He had been asleep until now, and it was almost as if he took himself to sleep quite often. –“Are you up already? I noticed the sun took a while to appear. Thought I’d stay in bed.” – He continued, yawning again afterwards. He had noticed it was already 11:32 in the morning, and he had overslept. He went over to embrace his wife.
	–“Good morning, Daws. I always begin my days late, and it’s important to be prepared for the day. Your meal is ready and on the table, just waiting for you. I am almost done here with washing our clothes and mattress, I will be over with you soon.” – Sarilda answered, standing over to kiss and embrace her husband. She then went back to work because she wanted to be with him.
	–“You are working fast! Are you already done with most of the things for the day, is that it?” – Daws asked, sitting down beside her instead, as he watched her work.
	–“You could say so, my beloved.” – Sarilda mentioned, with a hint of a smile over her face. –“Ever since I learned that during the early days after the winter solstice are the new years of your culture, I decided to dedicate myself to something the two of us are able to enjoy greatly. You may remember that my winter celebrations are focused later on right around the middle of the period. In short - I believe we’ll have plenty of celebrations ahead of us.” – Sarilda said, with some level of excitement to her voice, piquing Daws’ interest.
	–“Well, to be honest - you never struck me as a person who gets excited for a lot of things. I mean, you seem more calm and reserved than anything Sari. So I guess it is interesting to see you excited for that!” – Daws commented, smiling at his wife.
	Sarilda understood what he meant, and continued working on the clothes. By the time she was done and put them to dry properly, she decided to come by and sit beside him so she could be of company. Daws’ food wasn’t necessarily hot, so the weather had no effect on it. She had made a dish of fruits and a sweet flavoured dish to go along with it, plus milk for drinking - which she observed how he ate it as she sat down with him. It meant everything to do company for her husband, and she would make sure to never leave him when needing her the most.
	As Daws ate, Sarilda spoke once more. –“Once you are prepared to go outside, it is fundamental that we bring the fir tree that is most adequate to place it in our residence, so that we may decorate it fittingly for the celebrations. We need our decorations for the tree as well, so it is necessary we go to a city nearby for it.” – Sarilda commented, as she looked at Daws with her usual demeanour.
	–“Oh yes, indeed. I am aware, Sari.” – Daws said, eating his food somewhat quickly, knowing well that the days were extremely short, and he had woken up later than he had wanted to. Sarilda had done most of the work for the morning, and it was clear she wanted to be alongside him, celebrating the traditions that were known to him more than it was to her. –“I feel much more energetic now, resting after a few activities I’ve been forcing myself to do lately around home in our recreation rooms, and I feel like I can do more things now. Really.” – He went on, feeling confident, going back to finishing his meal.
	Sarilda nodded, believing him. –“Of course my love. I’ll wait for you.” – She said, running her fingers over Daws’ hair, appreciating it. He had a haircut a few days ago, and she had learned how to keep his hair in style so that it looked great on him, and making sure to keep his pubes and beard trimmed at all times. He simply looked good like this.
	Daws finished eating his breakfast, and Sarilda did what she usually did - brushed his teeth, groomed his hair and got him properly clothed. It felt good for him to have someone take care of his own things, especially considering that Sarilda did stuff so carefully.
	Sarilda didn’t speak much, focusing instead on getting her husband to look the best as possible. They were merely going for a walk and getting some lights and the tree. The problem was that Daws had forgotten to get them, and had been stalling on that front, but since the celebration was a few days away, he would do so. And get a present for Sarilda too.
	–“Dear husband, you must look absolutely handsome. This is why I take time to do this.” – Sarilda said, in her usual observant way. She wasn’t upset or angry, she just thought he had stalled for too long to get things, and would hope they’d be able to find it. There was alway likelihood for that to happen, and she was confident in so. –“I have marked some trees that we may choose from, and I have an idea on a few stories in this relatively dense city for us to get lights.” – She commented, now dressing Daws up.
	Daws’ eyebrows went up in positive surprise of her doing so. –“That’s a good idea, Sari! I think we should get the lights first and then the tree.” – He replied, noticing she was dressing him up with a lot of clothes. –“Are… all of these necessary?” – He asked, noticing she put on two layers - shirt and sweats, two pants with socks and boots, gloves, and a parka with scarf, leaving just his face in sight.
	–“Yes it is, my husband. We cannot risk you catching a cold or getting any form of diseases on such a special occasion.” – Sarilda said simply, sometimes taking care of him almost as if he were a child more than a man. –“You are looking great. I believe we are ready to go, yes? For a voyage in snow this deep, I believe it will be most useful for me to turn into my feral form. That way we may travel quickly.” – She commented.
	Daws agreed and he hopped into her, and they went out into the city, which were a considerable distance away. It was a relatively acceptable voyage, with some of the calories from Sarilda’s energy reserve. She was fine for now, but a good meal and relaxation would help. Once in the outskirts, she turned back to her usual self and they walked around the streets. Daws wondered how she wasn’t cold at all? –“I’m always going to be impressed how you’re never cold or hot, and how quickly we get to places. It’s amazing!” – He commented, impressed. She was dressed modestly, but felt no cold at all - a parka over a sweater shirt that was over a shirt, a long skirt over warm pants and socks under her boots.
	Sarilda merely smirked and placed a kiss over Daws’ face, and held him by his hand, as she blended in quite nicely with the rest of the crowd, thinking she was there in fantasy for the Christmas celebration, somehow popular in the country they were in. –“Your western celebrations are very exquisite and fun in their own way, I like it.” – Sarilda said, as they walked around the streets, with her blending in quite nicely. They soon found a multistory mall, and got inside. Inside the mall it was a big rush to get things on sale and some even seemed to adhere to the western tradition of celebrating Christmas, so it could be seen some families with small children going around the stores willing to buy gifts and other presents overall.
	–“Wow, it’s kind of nice seeing people taking in the spirit of Christmas!” – Daws said, impressed.
	–“I share your impressions, it is certainly a delight seeing so many willing to have fun after an entire year of working hard.” – Sarilda said, understanding how things worked and the specific details of time schedules and the like.
	The voyage to find apt stores for their needs wasn’t going too badly, the clients were certainly busy with all the shopping and the like, but there wasn’t a huge line. He left the talking mostly to Sarilda, but decided to add in information to whatever things he found fitting. They bargained with prices, and in the end found a nice discount in decorations and lights that would be put all around the tree, all courtesy of a retail store and Sarilda’s affinity and conversation with the man, who thought she was dressed for the occasion as most people did.
	Daws then decided to separate for a few moments, in order to give her a gift. There was a store nearby that sold everything related to lights - be it lightbulbs, electricity works and whatnot. In the store, they were selling pretty stars for Christmas occasions - pretty trinkets that seemed to represent a well meaning gift as well as something simple. There was a beautiful multicoloured star that changed lights, and Daws decided to buy it. It almost seemed like it was sensitive to the touch, and he thought this would be the perfect gadget for a present to her. Perfect!
	–“I liked this one the best. Could you make it as a present please?” – Daws said in the local idiom, having practised and getting the gist of the idiom much better thanks to the lessons Sarilda gave him in the more lazy days they had together.
	The attendant did so, and in the end he got a nice, concealed present that he was able to store inside of a few bags he was carrying, and then both bid farewell to one another. Daws found Sarilda still inside the shop she was previously, aware that he had gone somewhere else - but not too mindful of that. –“Sorry, I had to do a few things, but I’m back. Bathroom and the like.” – Daws lied, hoping she would accept it.
	Sarilda merely nodded, content to be alongside him and back to their activities. –“I am thinking we could very well eat something extra while we are out here in the big city.” – She commented, while waiting in the line to pay for the purchase, after being satisfied with a perfect set of lights for both the house and the tree, which would stay for an extended period of time. –“I can use my energy reserves, but I feel like I may take a quick nap once I get home. You are free to join me in my nap if you wish - I would like us to place the lights together, however.”.
	Daws knew that sort of conversation. She was inviting him to have intercourse before a small nap, which she took rather sporadically. Sarilda seemed to sleep more for pleasure than necessity - as she slept only 6 hours at best, even if she didn’t take any naps. Her source of energy and disposition surely had something going on, perhaps the meals and the sun, or whatever it was. She usually did eat, but never gained weight. Whichever it was, he appreciated that. –“I think that would be a wonderful idea, Sari. I don’t see why not!” – He replied, following her to a nearby café.
	Sarilda asked for half a cake and hot chocolate, which both Daws and her were able to enjoy. She was hungry for sure, and the sugary treats will help with her necessity of energy. Plus, it was a pleasant activity taking Daws near this city in the upper islands of Japan, where there were a lot of unknown things to be discovered. –“How do you like our visits to these urban centres around the island of Hokkaido?” – She asked, to pinpoint more exact where they are located.
	–“Well, I thought we travelled pretty far and wide. 18 months ago I was in southern Honshu, and now we are all the way up in Hokkaido. I do like it here! It’s pretty humid, and populated. And! There are things to do. Do you originally come from here?” – Daws asked, eating his slice of cake.
	–“Not quite, I am not as old as many seem to think. I hail from Yamato, from around the year of your calendar that would be around year 700 or so. In the past it was easier to be in non populated areas, but as of late this changed considerably. I have taken a liking to be here, as I had great memories. Especially now that you and I have built a home for ourselves.” – Sarilda answered, telling him of his age, and explaining things to him.
	–“Awww, Sari, that’s so adorable! I love how special I am to you and what I mean to you. Thank you for that!” – Daws said, noticing her voice gave warmth despite her tone. She could almost seem like she was blushing, because Daws did know she loved him. This had been improving ever since they got used to one another’s presence, and their relationship was getting more amorous and lovely by the day. Sarilda blushed and smiled more brightly. She didn’t answer what Daws had to tell her, but she continued with her meal.
	It was a rather romantic company the two had together, and after a short time after their digestion, Sarilda took them back to their house, with enough energy for it. They placed their purchase around the house, and then went after to look which trees were suitable to get in their house, fir trees that were mostly shielded from the powdery snow and which were blackened by the chill.
	Daws took some time deciding which one they would get, and after considerable walking around the deep snow - finally found a perfectly fitting tree. It was a douglas fir that wasn’t too common in the area, but that had been planted there in the past. –“This one looks good! Just need to take some of the snow from it, but it is fitting. What do you think?” – He asked.
	Sarilda analysed it carefully, and liked it too. –“It was my first choice, glad to see we agree on this as well.” – She said, cutting it down, and then bringing it back home with the help of Daws. When they got inside, she made sure to place it inside the greenhouse so the leaves would become green once more, and the tree would have all its snow melt. The greenhouse made short work of the snow, which melted quite quickly, and they then brought it back home, made sure to dry it, and it would soon be ready for placing lights on.
	–“Alright! Where shall we start? Placing the lights I mean.” – Daws said, with more comfortable clothes now he was inside home, just as Sarilda.
	–“Let us place lights in separate rooms, and lastly, we will get the tree decorated.” – Sarilda replied, pondering where they could begin. With her efficiency and dedication, she began with the outside parts of their home. She made sure to get all in parts where the snow wouldn’t touch or cause issues with the wiring, while finding a suitable energy source to light them up. –“Do not worry, my husband - even if I brought the two of us here, I am able to install these things without much worry.” – She assured Daws, taking care of the lights outside.
	Sarilda was done clocking in approximately one hour, and now they had the entire interior of their home to decorate. The lights added a wonderful touch, and their home would look further perfect by the time this was done! –“Well, I will start by our bedroom, then the training room, then the foyer, then the kitchen. Lastly we can do our living room. Shall we?” – She asked, and Daws followed her.
	The light insertion activity was a good way to get the two lovers to spend time together. Sarilda was curious to know more about the Christmas tradition, and Daws explained to her as they put things in place. –“Well, there was this important figure in Western religion called Jesus Christ, who came to save humanity from its sins. His birthday was on 25 December, and he preached a good message to all people. Naturally, not everyone agreed with him, and they conspired to kill him. He and other apostles spread the good message, and three years later he was killed by the religious class in a place in dominion of the Roman Empire, Judea. Not everyone accepts him to this day, but he is an important figure.” – Daws said, as they placed the lights together. Slowly, the room was getting more and more complete.
	Sarilda was most interested in hearing about this holy man. She had heard tales about it, but never had any close account like Daws’ –“That sounds like a sad story. But he did live after his death, hasn’t he? And do you follow his teachings?” – She asked, curious.
	–“Erm… not necessarily. I do believe his teachings about loving another person as much as you love yourself, treating others with kindness. I think it’s a message I can agree with. I wouldn’t call myself Christian, but I believe in good works.” – Daws replied, a bit embarrassed, but not knowing if that was too bad.
	Sarilda nodded, interested. –“Well, you follow him because you believe in him. I think that is an admirable man - who was the son of your God too? He even came back from the dead, and that’s something I find incredible how someone who is a son of a deity can do it!” – She replied, very excited talking about Christ.
	Daws was impressed with how much admiration she had. To him, this was a basic thing he learned, but she seemed extra interested in it. He supposed this was all thanks to the culture clash, which was understandable. –“Yeah, it is something only he was able to do. He was crucified, but three days later came back from the dead. His apostles took some time to believe that, but they met him in the flesh, like he had been fully healed! Not too hard to believe, he was able to make blind people see and those who couldn’t walk to walk.” – Daws explained, being a bit clumsy in his explanation, but getting the basics for her.
	Sarilda squee’d excitedly like Daws had never seen before. To her, hearing these tales from such a long time ago took her into a memory lane, and it was always a pleasure to hear about such fantastic stories, which even made her spirit flare with positivity, especially with such admirable men. –“That’s an incredible power. I do believe your God has granted him that power. And those apostles too, yes?” – She asked, while they continued putting on the lights, into another room now.
	–“Yes! After the resurrection, all the apostles with the exception of the one that betrayed him then began a bunch of acts, which spread all over the world for people to hear the good message and salvation. In hindsight, I do think it’s a beautiful story, to be honest.” – Daws said, happy to see that Sarilda was getting excited about that.
	–“You know, my dear husband. I do believe in the powers that this great Galilean man had, and I do believe him to be alive still to this day. We may not see him, but whenever we do good and we keep good spirits safe from evil spirits, I do think he is happy. I think I may be mistaking the concept of spirits between the religions, but I do know his magical acts did involve spirits, and keeping people of flesh and bone to be well in the process. I heard many tales from so long ago from travellers and the like that this son of your God can grant a peace of mind that I never saw a power to be like that. An incredible marvel, indeed. Here’s an interesting folklore from Japan for you! I heard many locals from our islands believe that Jesus Christ did not die, and instead traded places with a man by the name Isukiri. His fabled lost years were spent learning the mysticism and magic here, but I don’t know if this is true - possibly unlikely. But it goes to show you how far the tale of his greatness has echoed all over the world. Oh how I wish I were alive to meet such an incredible man!” – Sarilda said, as she was now smiling brightly, unlike anything that Daws had seen before.
	The sight of her smiling was incredible. Sarilda was smiling and giggling like a little girl while they spoke of the traits about Christmas day and what it represented. He couldn’t believe she had studied about that before, and showed a keen interest in it. –“You look amazing, Sari. Didn’t think you’d be so happy to talk about it!” – Daws commented, impressed.
	–“Well, it’s hard to explain. How I make sure to keep good spirits keep roaming through my own prayer and through the skills I acquired in my many travels. And to hear about tales of many other special men and women around the world that have similar skills as I do through their folklore makes me happy. To know I am not alone in my mission - to be alongside a husband and keep the good spirits at peace and drive away evil ones. And especially because I heard much of this important figure to Western countries, and of his miracles.” – Sarilda replied, still keeping her excitement. She was quickly acquiring further Christmas spirit than Daws believed, which was awesome. –“Thank you for that.” – She added, placing a kiss over him.
	Now it had been Daws’ turn to blush. It meant a lot to him now that the two of them were getting on somewhat equal footing. He didn’t feel like a prisoner anymore, and was suddenly getting more liberties, and learning how to live alongside her. –“Well, whenever you want any lessons on our mythology and folklore, you can always ask!” – He said.
	–“I certainly will be sure to do that. The same in case you want to know about our own traditions. It is clear to me that the reasons to celebrate this wonderful party is a great idea. It means a lot to you, and I have my sympathies for it.” – Sarilda commented, as they continued working in the lights, finishing up in the rooms and then going to the living room. –“What do these lights and the tree represent?” – 
	Daws thought well about it, but he couldn’t be sure. –“I think it is a German and English tradition? I don’t know for sure. A lot of places outside America do have it, and I think it’s a thing that was known in Europe for the most part. It’s one of those peculiar things you just add to part of your celebration, to make it more magical and complimentary to everything. There’s a lot of creatures in European folklore and everything, but I never figured what exactly it is.” – He admitted, unsure.
	Sarilda accepted that, even if he didn’t know exactly. –“Well, I see no ill in that. I think there is a lot of information that can be gathered. I must say it does make things look more dazzling and beautiful - dare I say it may even bring good spirits to dwell in our home. Inviting and warm, if we are to be precise?” – She said, coming to a relatively interesting conclusion, which the two of them seemed to agree upon.
	–“Yeah, to be honest that looks like it could be.” – Daws offered, helping her continue into putting things in place, as they drew closer and closer to decorating the foyer next, and then moving on into the tree.
	–“The present thing seems to be a good gift exchange of kindness between loved ones. I don’t think it’s much, but I really like how everything fits together into a nice, beautiful package!” – Sarilda commented, getting the last parts in their living room, the brightest area so far, and then moving into the foyer, which would be relatively quick.
	Once they were done, Sarilda fetched the tree and placed it on a corner, and the two of them began to decorate it. There were various, beautiful handcrafted ornaments that the two of them had chosen - ranging from snowmen, to candy canes, to presents, bells and festive balls all the way to angels and other apparent religious figures. The light went on afterwards - much like the rest of the house, it was a bunch of lights that ranged from yellow, red, blue, green colours. The last part was a star on top of it all, and Daws didn’t forget to keep the star he bought as a secret for her to open once the presents were exchanged.
	–“Incredible. Our home looks much more inviting and beautiful with these additions to it.” – Sarilda noticed, still smiling brightly like a child. She really was getting the festive spirit going.
	–“Especially in the cold we are having, right? It looks beautiful indeed.” – Daws said, the two of them embracing together as they stared in delight at the beauty of it all. This was becoming magical, and he loved it.
	The day had been advancing quite quickly, and the sun outside was almost setting. All in great time for the two of them to enjoy the evening together. –“Well, according to the calendar it is day 24 of the month of December, one day before the date properly. I will prepare the feast later on tomorrow, just let me make sure I will get everything separated.” – Sarilda said, ready to move on into another thing that she had to do, before it was finally time for her to rest. There would be two delicious turkeys, potatoes, ham, cheese, vegetables and especially a hearty supper to go afterwards. Most things were ready, and she would only need to cook things so they would be ready by the evening. Daws decided to help her at least separate things and place them properly in the kitchen sink, for easy access afterwards.
	–“Alright. Seems like we are done for the day.” – Sarilda said, looking at the clock. There would be time for a great bath, and then they would be spending time together, doing whichever activity it looked good.
	–“Awesome!” – Daws said, prepared to follow her wherever she would do something.
	The couple undressed, with Sarilda taking off Daws’ clothes, placed them properly in for usage on the next day, and separated their evening clothes as well as the elements for their bath. Soap, shampoo, and everything else. They then got together in the bathtub, where water would both fill the tub as well as splash on top of them, where they would be able to feet the delicious warm deluge acting upon their skin, where they could relax after a hard day of work - especially to Sarilda.
	Sarilda washed herself, showing her nude body to Daws as she usually did. At this point, the two of them had gotten so used to their respective nudity that there was no shame whenever such a thing occurred. Her breasts were full as always, much akin to her hips being wide and getting her body in a shape closer to an hourglass figure, but still much akin to how others had their bodies. She washed herself first, and made sure to stay properly clean. There was a proper drain connecting to the tub, as well as a place to have showers while standing up, and this was where they usually went for quick showers during the summer. The tub had a drain so all the dirty water could be plumbed into some treatment station, one of the first things done while building their new house.
	Daws observed how she looked excited while they showered together. The story of Christmas having made her get in an incredible mood, one which made her shower and sing a lovely lullaby while at it. He longed for times where she would be more often like that, only because he admired the more excited way she was going at it. –“What a lovely song, Sari!” – He said, waiting for her to wash him.
	–“That’s one of many lullabies I sing to calm spirits, one of my favourites - certainly.” – Sarilda answered, feeling in such a great mood. She then used the shampoo to wash her complex hair that was way too big when she didn’t comb it in place as she usually did, but keeping it clean was a priority, especially for the day afterwards. Her shampoo did the trick, but she had to wait for it to get infused properly in her hair, and then she could wash it. She knew Daws was still waiting for her to wash him, something she would do and not keep him waiting. The only thing left was to clean her teeth, which did not take long, and do a mouthwash.
	After Sarilda was done and cleaned, she went to treat Daws. She continued to sing while working, knowing he liked that. First, he began by first treating his teeth and mouth hygiene. Just like when she treated herself, she made sure to carefully scrub each of his teeth, and extra care was used to not hurt Daws’ mouth while doing so. She even made sure to clean his tongue, which was also essential to keep clean. Once the effect passed, she used mouthwash to add an extra layer of protection to his teeth, which Daws then had his cavities properly treated.
	–“Ah, refreshing as always, Sari!” – Daws said, happy to feel his mouth properly treated. He was so used to having someone take care of him that it was hard to do it on his own.
	Sarilda continued to sing, and then went over to wash Daws. First she began by shampoo and hair treatment, which was much easier compared to how she had to wash her hair. Much quicker too, because in a matter of a few minutes, his hair was then properly treated. Then, she moved into washing his body, being careful to not let any part be left unwashed. From head, neck, chest, arms, fingers, private parts, legs, feet and toes - she made sure to carefully wash every part of him carefully and with proper attention, continuing to sing as she did so. The song was actively having its effect on Daws too, because he was feeling some form of relaxation as she sang, almost as if it would be active drowsiness.
	When Daws washed himself to remove the soap, they were fully done. Now it was just the matter of washing one another, and making sure to not have cold air affect their naked bodies. Sarilda was careful in her wiping and making sure to not leave any spot humid, while Daws tried his best to wash her, even if she ended up drying herself afterwards. With that out of the way, they got their sleeping robes and headed to their bed, which looked fantastic and magical with all the lights in the room. This certainly wouldn’t be something which they’d keep forever, but it was beautiful.
	–“You did a good job, Sari.” – Daws said, feeling drowsy even if it was clocking around 7 pm in the evening. He had eaten enough too, and the hard trek and the work on the snow had made him very tired. He had been in need to exercise himself more often, just so he would have more balanced energy spending.
	–“We did a wonderful job together, my dear husband.” – Sarilda replied, having lowered her voice to a whisper, as the two of them laid in bed. She continued to sing, now a proper song to put her husband to sleep, one of the many hundreds and hundreds of songs she had at her disposal. She also did a nice cuddling to his head while the two of them exchanged heat together while in bed. Soon enough, she saw Daws fall asleep, while she decided to lay in bed and wait for a proper time to actively sleep. She would be sure to sleep a while longer for today, even if her usual six hours were enough. The celebrations of the following days were to be properly enjoyed, and plus they would get to be up for quite some time.
~25 December~

The following day was Christmas Day proper, and Sarilda was already on treating the meals that they would have later, making sure to follow recipes that were traditional to feasts that one would have in Western countries. Things were looking simple, so far, and she would make sure to make an excellent dish for the two of them, that would be worthwhile to the two of them. Daws was awake too, and making sure everything was perfect for the two of them.
	–“Tell me, my husband.” – Sarilda said, excitedly. –“I still have a few questions pertaining to this holiday. You said there is a celebration today, yes? But I heard some countries celebrate it on 24 December. Why is that? And what is this figure of ‘Santa Claus’ that some seem to mention? Of an elderly man that gives presents to children.” – She added, making sure to invite him to be beside her.
	–“Oh, good questions!” – Daws said, coming over to make a proper company of her. –“Well - about the dates between 24 or 25 December, there are some countries that seem to prefer having the celebration - what we are going to do - on 24 because that is a day before and in anticipation of Christmas. Plus, I think 25 was seen as a ‘holy day’ where people would rest and pray, if that makes sense. So the celebrations would be held before. I don’t know, I think it is fine either way.” – He commented.
	–“Very interesting! A day dedicated to important figures and the importance of keeping it properly, just in case there would not be any exaggeration of things - like sloth and gluttony, if I am not mistaken!” – Sarilda said, being rather on point, as she continued to prepare their meal. –“What about this Santa Claus? I do not recall hearing anything that he had done miracles. Was he an apostle of Jesus Christ?” – She asked, wondering.
	–“Hah, not quite. Apparently, this man was called Saint Nicholas… but I don’t know much else. I think he lived in the 5th century? But the tradition of giving presents must have been a bunch of other things that just went to this man in particular. I think he was an important man in a church somewhere.” – Daws said, knowing the sheer basics of it.
	–“Oh. That’s definitely a big difference! That’s certainly very interesting indeed.” – Sarilda said, impressed. –“You said that man was a member of a church, yes? If that is so, he must have been an important person, and that’s special.” – She commented, thinking positively about it.
	Daws was tempted to ask her about her liking to European religion and general folklore. –“Have you been interested in European folklore for a while, Sari?”.
	–“Oh yes! I have learned that mythology, folklore and religion seem to be separate things. Well, not separate precisely, but each has its own thing that got contributed in time. The mythology and folklore has many things which have fascinated me for quite a while - like the elves, the fairies, the gnomes and so many fascinating creatures. That is the old religion of the continent, but it is all fantastic on its own. Even better is how I have learned through my ages many different things, but there is something fascinating about both Europe and parts of the place that was called the Near East.” – Sarilda commented, as she prepared the meal while discussing her tales.
	–“Have you ever travelled outside these islands, Sari?” – Daws tempted, unsure about the answer, but very curious himself now.
	–“I have! But never wandered far. I did go very few times to Goryeo, where it is called Korea today. And parts of today’s eastern China, but never wandered too far. It is my duty to keep the evil spirits at bay, but I would have loved to go somewhere else. Perhaps sometime in this lifetime!” – Sarilda said, sad that she had never been able to do so, but still hoping she would have her chance.
	–“Wow, that’s pretty cool still. It’s been a long time!” – Daws commented, as they continued to speak while preparing their meal.
	The two of them then got all things in order, and decided to do a few things while waiting for the night feast. There was a television they used only in particular instances, as well as side activities which helped to stimulate the brain - like chess, and the like. Time flies by when people have a lot of fun, and soon enough they find themselves ready to eat. Sarilda had tried to ask for thanks for the meal, and Daws was clumsy because he had no idea how to ask for thanks, much less pray. So it was more of a general thank you that he offered.
	–“Well, I think we can eat now.” – Sarilda said, being careful to appreciate the meal.
	Daws nodded, and the two of them were eating all the delicious dishes that she had looked after. –“Wow, this is great! It reminds me of when I was back in my home, and we had these types of things. Meat like that seems to be a rare thing here, as we mostly eat fish. Where did you get these recipes?” – He asked, finding a lovely taste with everything that was served to him,
	–“Well, during a few voyages we did a few days ago, around the middle of the month, I figured I would ask a few people who had interactions with western countries, in particular a cook of a famous restaurant that had agreed to meet with me and teach me how to make recipes. He was very helpful, and I owe the skill to him.” – Sarilda explained, chuckling.
	–“Oh! So that was why you took a long time to come back home that day!” – Daws said, now aware why Sarilda had gone twice to the city, and spent such a long time there. She had refined her skills cooking these excellent meals, and it had surely paid off.
	–“Precisely. I needed two days to learn better, and I guess it came out excellent.” – Sarilda said, eating their meal some more.
	–“Mnnn~ lovely!” – Daws said enjoying the lovely taste of the meal.
	It had been a great dining, where they ate plentifully - followed by an excellent supper which mostly consisted of ice cream and a few fruits. Daws felt stuffed afterwards, while Sarilda felt reinvigorated and with energy. She then washed their dishes, and lastly, it was the time for them to spend some moment near the tree, embracing one another.
	–“Here is your present.” – Sarilda said, kissing him and handing over an interesting device that he had no idea what it was. –“when you place this over your head and your eyes, you can follow my prayers and see spirits like me. So we can do things together, whenever we want. I will train you in the art of doing what I do, and that way we may spend time together.” – She explained.
	Daws felt it looked awesome. They were surrounded by inviting and comfortable spirits all over their home, and he felt good at seeing them. –“Wow! We have many spirits living here!! Do you see them often?” – Daws asked, taking it off, so he could speak to Sarilda.
	–“Precisely, I have trained in the art to focus on my duties. If there were evil spirits, however, I would find a way to get them away from here.” – Sarilda answered. –“I will find a way to treat your infertility, so do not give up.” – She added, remembering his situation.
	Daws was really happy with this. The couple was finally getting more accustomed to one another and they were soon becoming a proper couple. –“Thanks Sari! I mean, it’s okay. As long as you are happy.” – He said, happy to hear she wanted to treat his case too.
	–“I want you fertile again.” – She answered, smiling at him.
	Daws blushed, and then handed over Sarilda’s present. It was the special star that he bought, and she unwrapped it carefully. –“I hope you like it!”.
	–“How adorable! It is a multicoloured star, and… it seems like there is a spirit here! That was made to be inside this container. That’s why it shines brightly!” – Sarilda answered.
	–“Wait, really?” – Daws asked, putting on the helmet goggles and seeing it were like a spirit couple inside it, not minding if they were stuck.
	–“Yes, as you can see. They were made for this purpose - to inhabit an object so they may live and give life to said object. That is such a sweet gift, Daws  - thank you.” – Sarilda said, mentioning his name for the first time in quite a while.
	She embraced him, and the two of them had been able to spend a wonderful time together. Things were surely looking up for them, especially in this wonderful Christmas!
Thank you, and Happy New Year.