Bowser

The smoldering heat of Koopa Keep was always a welcome warmth for the King. It soothed an ache under his draconian hide, but for the little royal up in the tallest tower... Bowser knew it was too much.

He'd supplied them with as many cold baths and ice as they'd needed, thin robes, breathable fabrics -- anything to make his future partner comfortable. A veritable snort huffs from his nostrils, grumbling grouchily.

Bowser lumbers down the hallway, his heavy footsteps echoing off the stone walls. The heat radiating from the magma moat surrounding his keep makes the air thick and humid. A fine sheen of sweat glistens on his emerald scales as he climbs the spiral staircase toward the tallest tower.

He pauses halfway up, panting slightly. "This accursed humidity..." he grumbles under his breath, fanning himself with one meaty hand. His other hand clutches a tray laden with refreshments -- a frosty glass pitcher of lemonade, a bowl of fresh berries, and a plate of delicate tea sandwiches.

His mind drifts to the royal locked away at the top of this tower. The thought of their discomfort in this sweltering heat twists his gut with guilt. He knows his dank, volcanic lair is a far cry from the temperate climate of their homeland. But he hopes the small comforts he's provided will make their captivity a little more bearable.

With renewed determination, Bowser continues his ascent, his talons clicking against the stone steps. When he finally reaches the top, he pauses outside the heavy oak door, taking a moment to catch his breath.

"My little captive?" he calls out gruffly, rapping his knuckles against the wood. "It's me, your... ah, gracious host. I've brought you some refreshments to help beat this blasted heat."

He waits, expecting no response as usual. The royal has been as stubborn as a mule since he brought them here -- refusing to speak to him, turning their head away whenever he enters. But he hasn't given up trying to win them over.

Balancing the tray in one hand, Bowser grips the key tied to a strap of rope on his wrist and retrieves a large iron key. It turns in the lock with an echoing clunk, and he shoulders open the door.