Our Story
Once upon a time, in a realm not far from home, their story began on a magical courting scroll called Hinge, where the adept mage Lionel and the headstrong warrior Marcela first met. It began with small exchanges about their favorites among delicacies and bards, until eventually they had their very first in-person encounter: a screening of the enchanted moving picture, Weathering With You. Their chemistry as a party had been proven definite throughout the night, though nerves led to an awkward farewell. Little did they know, the Author had far greater plans in store, for soon He would pen their next quest through the old town of Sacrament. From shop to shop they wandered the cobblestone streets, humoring one another with tales from childhood, neither wanting to part ways.
nce upon a time, in a realm not far from home, their story began on a magical courting scroll called Hinge, where the adept mage Lionel and the headstrong warrior Marcela first met. It began with small exchanges about their favorites among delicacies and bards, until eventually they had their very first in-person encounter: a screening of the enchanted moving picture, Weathering With You. Their chemistry as a party had been proven definite throughout the night, though nerves led to an awkward farewell. Little did they know, the Author had far greater plans in store, for soon He would pen their next quest through the old town of Sacrament. From shop to shop they wandered the cobblestone streets, humoring one another with tales from childhood, neither wanting to part ways. Of course, no tale is without its trials. Mere months into their courtship, a great plague swept across the realm. Though the miles were plenty, so too was their yearning to be together. They bonded over sampling new dishes, moving pictures, games of every kind, and an adventurous tale of pirates. Days turned to months, then months became years until the couple grew sweetly and insufferably inseparable. What might have been a lonely period instead allowed these two to build a firm foundation.
As the realm slowly recovered, their companionship continued to thrive. Marcela resonated with Lionel's adventurous spirit as they immersed themselves in virtual quests, tabletop campaigns, and daring escapes from riddle-bound chambers. She also admired his dedication to his spellcraft, as he often spent late nights in his study working on endeavors he would later share. She frequently had to remind him that rest is key for a sharp mind. Still, she cherished his dreams and aspirations for their family, which he shared with her on many an exploration. Likewise, Lionel was enamored with her creativity and thoughtfulness. Though she was forged on the battlefield, she had the imagination of a paintress, granting her the talent to craft a gift tailored to any individual. At times, he found himself enchanted by the worlds she discovered within her beloved novels. Despite her gentle wonder, she carried a warrior's spirit, one that stood as a shield for those she loved, always placing their needs before her own. But just as she'd often remind him, he would gently caution her that armor worn too long grows heavy. And so, it was with him that she would find her resting place. Ultimately, it was their shared love of family that sealed their bond, as each house embraced the other with open arms.
In time, they were graced with an opportunity: a cottage to finally call their own, weathered and in need of restoration. The task required more than optimistic hearts, as the toil seemed never-ending and the coffers grew lighter by the day. Though they held fast to their hopes that it would all be worth it, they certainly had their doubts. Fortunately, key allies rallied to their side, lending their strength when it was needed most. While Lionel replenished the coffers, Marcela stretched each coin wisely across the furnishings that mattered most, and slowly, their house began to feel like home. Soon, its halls would be a gathering place for family and friends alike. With each passing season, their party grew. Their adventures often carried them to neighboring towns, where they would quest alongside familiar faces time and time again. In the end, it had all been worth it; what began as a weathered old house had become a keep full of stories.
Then, in their sixth autumn together, they would find themselves at the Great Sur Lake of Tahoe. At noontide atop Eagle Falls, the ever-eloquent mage Lionel stumbled over every word and, nervous as the day they met, proposed a soul-binding covenant to the radiant maiden before him. Worried that her beloved had short-circuited, but delightfully surprised at how flustered he became, she gladly accepted the token of his proposal. It was a silver band crowned with a crimson gemstone, reminiscent of the old legend that a dragon weeps but once, and only for love.
