Welcome to Gaia! ::

Richard didn't trust himself to speak. He nodded.

Nestled within the box’s satin lining was a perfectly crafted ring. The finely shaped gold was divided in two parts by a shimmering blue material, which rose to meet the sparkling stone Richard had chosen himself. The gold of the ring also met the stone in a vine like manner, the overall effect being an impressive and beautiful setting. It was the only one of it’s kind, made with hours of work with the help of a clever woman with a talent for materials, and days of work on Richard’s part in finding the stone and giving the ring it’s magical properties. The inside of the ring had carefully scripted lettering, spelling ‘Nayera.” The trigger word would form an energy shield five by three feet and weightless. It would protect the wearer against almost anything, magical or mundane. It was the only one of it’s kind, as unique as the woman holding it.

Richard hesitated only a moment more, his face serious and unembarrassed. He took the ring from the box in a graceful movement, still watching her. Slowly, he went down on one knee. “Corinne…you are the loveliest thing that has ever graced my life. You are clever and beautiful, and I love you more than I could ever express. I know I am not worthy...I know I am no where close to worthy…and I swear I would never take you for granted as long as I live. And...and I know how hard it is...and will be for a little while...seeking your identity. But I'll help you, I won't leave you to do it alone...Corinne…” Richard paused then, frost eyes watching hers as he carefully slipped the ring on her left ring finger. “Would you marry me?”

((*Dramatic music*))

Richard thought he'd have heart attack. He held her, shaking. She'd said yes...he couldn't think of time he'd been more happy. He gave a short, nervous laugh. "Thank God-I'll take all of them." He said, kissing her forehead. "I love you. I promise you it forever Corinne." He said, eyes misty himself as he gently wiped her tears away.

(*Cheers and throws confetti*))

And Richard returned her kiss, his tense-ness from a few moments ago fading entirely away, mind filled with her, and nothing but her. He ran his fingers through her hair, just hugging her again. "Well." He said with a chuckle, "I guess I can be sure you mean it mi'dear." He stood, holding out his hand to help her up. "Saves us the trouble of choosing a last name too." He said lightly, hoping she'd take it. "Doesn't it?"

Richard was quiet for a moment. Did she expect to meet his parents? "Yes...sometime. My parents died when I was younger, but I have a sister, and two nieces." He said softly. He thought of Rachel, and smiled. "Oh yes, they'll like you. My parents would have too, Corinne, had they met you." He said confidently. He had a brother in law, but he would not allow him to be in Corinne's presence. No, he could do nothing about the marriage between his sister and the man, but he could certainly keep him away from Corinne.

Frost eyes watch her softly. "I suppose. If you wanted people there that is." He said. He didn't care how or when or how much, he loved her, and anything she wanted he'd give and do. "I only care that you're there." He said with a faint grin.

"People watch televison shows that are fake, and learn from them." He said softly. "Then lots of people will be there, Corinne." He said, kissing her too. He had friends all over Gaia, in corners of the world that were considered myths, in the cities, everywhere. Should he need to, he'd invite them. "And flowers...a wedding must have flowers..."

"Sure." Richard said, nodding. He seemed to sense and understand the fear. "We're engaged now. And I'm sure I can trust you with me after all." He grinned again, tired and happy. "What needs moved?" He asked her, in case of anything heavy. "I'll help you." He nodded.