[Definitely time to change the subject.]

It's...a very long story, and one that's better suited to tell when we're not standing in the snow.

[He flutters his wings--his real wings not the stupid feathery ones this place has cursed him with--a little nervously and bends his neck so that he's at eye level with Rue.]

I think I frightened you the last time we spoke, and I'm truly sorry for that. I'd like to make it up to you if I can.

[Even without lips, dragons can smile.]

So...Rue, have you ever been flying?