Ah, Cinder..... also known to some as  myrmidon... there's so much I could say here, truly.

What makes Cinder truly special to me, a place deep in my heart.... he's opened the way for me to explore myself, in a way. Pretty much all of you know I'm a voreaphile / endosomatophile (butchered spelling) but I have a lot of trust issues when it comes to finding someone I can share that side of myself with. Equus doesn't have an interest whatsoever, and so it created a rift, and that rift is one that Cinder mended by coming into my life.

My trust of Cinder is inherent; moreso than most anyone I know, just like Equus. He is the person that it is ok to give myself completely to, and to release control of myself 100% knowing it will be alright. This is a hugely powerful catharsis for me, and I will remember proudly the comments Cinder and I got when people mistook us for mates at Anthrocon. We treat each other that way- we have built a world together, bringing ourselves closer in the process.

Wildfire Labs, and by extension Zeryx (since he was born of the series about Cinder and I, which was set in Wildfire Labs...) would not exist without my big firey canine with a gloriously comfy stomach. I even have a tone in my head that I immediately associate with the warmth he brings to the physical side of my life.

Even at thousands of miles away, the simple act of talking to my firedoggie grounds and centers me instantly. It's been literally impossible for me to stay in a bad mood once Cinder pops on with a kind nuzzle and a strengthening word.

So, this ones for you, dear arcy. May it bring you the same warmth that you bring into my life every time we meet, online or off. Love you always.