<.Two decades ago.>
The white snow of the late winter fell from the overcast sky, softly and silently cloaking the northeast outskirts of Avaloria City. A few vans moved slowly on the icy road, heading to the same destination.
A young Ruediger sat by the frosted window of the van, his breath fogging the glass as he watched the winter landscape outside. His emerald eyes occasionally widened, flickering with delight.
"The snow here is prettier, Mom," said Ruediger, unable to tear his eyes from the windows, "It's a pity Vinnie didn't come with us. He can always play with his friends some other day."
Ruediger's words elicited chuckles from the lady sitting beside her. His mother, Luna, gazed at his back affectionately. Her auburn air tied in a low bun beneath a warm wool beret.
"Vinnie has promised his friends. You can tell him stories later, en, Eddy?"
