Shur'tugalar | Dragon Riders

[Epyon]

Tanthanion nodded, "D'naye, Usstan inbal tlus zuelyi l'wh'lien d'Jjunle wun Gilead. Usstan treemma gaer zhah folbol ulu mina, Usstan xunus naut kyorl l'seke'olath, jhal ol zhah gaer. D'nindel Usstan tlun khruste. Vel'drav Usstan yutsu', l'toha tejmook'cinkjuu Usstan inbalus wun Gilead zotrethus uns'aa h'uena 'sohna. Usstan z'reninth gaer zhah natha seke'olath pholor Doru Araeba," He replied solemnly. Though he still could hear the voices around them, he chose to keep his face expressionless as he and Ratha converse in their code. "Vel'bol orn'la dos inbal uns'aa xun? Zhal Usstan elendar xuil ussta fuu'ux? Xor zhal Usstan remos pholor l'thac'mon lu'lor wund nindol?"

 

He would rather stay on the island to deal with the much closer threat, if he can track it down. But if he must, he will go to Gilead and confront the other threat. Although, he should also mention them. "Byr taga nindel, Usstan inbal muth lotha d'l'calussai d'nesst siltrin, jhal z'lonzic ulu zhaun d'nind ulorithol." He looks at Ratha with an expression that to her asks what she would have him do, but for others it just looks like the look of an old and valued friend. Zencoria remains silent but her hum of agreement shows that Tanthanion is correct in all he's reported.

[Gildraug]

At the grave news which Tanthanion heralded to her, Ratha closed her eyes and put her right hand on her sword, pressing it down and feeling the comforting weight on her hip. For months she had felt something disturbing during her meditations, but could not touch upon it and inspect it, which had frustrated her to no end. Now here, here was a possible explanation for what was happening. Ratha was about to contact Aatris and hear his opinion on the situation, but then remembered her wards stopped it. The briefest pang of sadness flushed over Ratha as she couldn't talk to Aatris, but she quickly subdued the feeling. Turning her attention back to Tanthanion and Zencoria, she looked at them sharply with her icy-blue eyes.

"Nindolen ph'phalar de'lu'mir, ke," she said quietly. Shades and Ra'zacs. The shadows were darkening and clawing at those who dared to venture too close. "Usstan orn'la mzilt y'sik inbal dos draa ghil - Usstan talinth Varro lu'Rhaegos zhal olister natha sel fuu'ux 'ileka taga nind ssiggrin. Usstan zhal kus mina ulu Gil'ead, jhal naut maglust - Elan lu'Faradis zhal doer xuil mina." With a quick wave of a hand and a short spur of words, Ratha dismissed the wards and immediately connected with Aatris, who was extremely curious to hear what happened. Passing the information to him through their link, the orange dragon snorted mentally, careful to keep his outward appearance normal as not to make the others worry.

 

'Mortal-spirits and man-eaters? They should not exist at all,' Aatris growled, his worry obvious to Ratha. She, too, was extremely uncomfortable.

'Barzûl, as Reignon-vodhr would say. Bad luck in all forms. Do you think Varro, Rhaegos, Elan, and Faradis will be enough?'

'Varro and Rhaegos are eager to prove themselves. I am sure they will do their best. What for the other pair... They dislike fighting, but they dislike Shades and Ra'zac even more,' Aatris remarked. Ratha agreed with him.

'Then we shall proceed as thus,' she said. Nodding as a farewell to Tanthanion and Zencoria, she walked to Varro and Rhaegos, who had patiently waited for the Head Dragon Rider to finish her business with the Councilman. They were a fine pair, Ratha thought to herself as she looked at the half-elf and his dragon.

"Varro, Rhaegos, I have a mission for you. Elan, Faradis," she added, contacting them both verbally and mentally. "Please come here."

At the summon Faradis politely bid farewell with her chime-like voice before clacking her way to Ratha. Elan also bid farewell, but before she did so, she put a hand on Serbir's shoulder and smiled warmly.

"Whatever you do, you will be fine," she reminded the Urgal before jogging after her dragon. Serbir lowered his eyes after the Shur'tugal had left, feeling utterly alone and miserable. Probably the most lonely and miserable Urgal in the entirety of Alagaesia. Jorundr noticed the Urgal's discomfort and took a step or two closer, coming not too close, but not too far. He didn't say anything, he didn't even look directly at Serbir, but Jorundr's presence had a weirdly calming affect on the boy.

 

After the four stood before her, two Shur'tugalar pairs, Ratha began to spoke to them mentally, first asking them to lower their defenses and explaining that the mission was of delicate matter which should not be told to anyone.

'Tanthanion and Zencoria have informed me of a chance there's a Shade in Gil'ead. As you might now, I take his word very seriously, not to even mention these news are grave. I have felt, as well as few other Riders, a strange energy during our meditations but none of us have been able to confirm what it is, or where it is, most of us dismissing it as a energy disturbance caused by all of us here on this one island. Nevertheless, I shall send you four to Gil'ead to inspect this case. You shall appear as a regular patrol party, but be sure to keep your ears and eyes open, and ask questions. If you happen to learn anything of the whereabouts of the Ra'zac or Shade, contact me immediately,' Ratha explained the situation. She did not dare to tell anything about the possible Shade which resided in Vroengard. One shadow at a time.

'We shall expect a scrying report every evening before sunset. If we do not hear of you, we will expect the worse and send another team after you,' Aatris added, his booming voice filling the minds of the younger Shur'tugalar. 'Be safe, hatchlings. May the stars watch over you all.'

 

Closing the mental connection and withdrawing back to her own mind, Ratha turned her gaze back to where there was still a good number of Riders even though Elan and Faradis had left their company; Reignon and Ninarth, Serbir, Daena with Malven and Aurdis, and... a small smile crept on her lips and her chest felt warmer than a moment ago when she saw the ruby-red dragon and his Rider. Jorundr and Amontien. She carefully touched her husband's mind, who replied in kind, their thoughts, emotions, and memories briefly flitting between each other as they talked without words. She could feel Jorundr's worry, even though he hid it quickly. Giving her full attention to those before her, she squared her shoulders and gave a small smile.

"Ah, what a hassle. Come now, I think it is finally time for us to depart to the Vault of Souls to get you tested," she said, and watched at the emotions of the newcomers: Serbir's face was a mask of horror whilst Daena's scornful face could've soured a bucket of fresh milk to cheese. What a bunch, hopefully they'll get along. Right then, the doors of the Hall of Echoes swung inwards once more - or to be correct, one of the doors opened up the slightest bit. Ratha looked with bewilderment as a girl tiptoed her way down the hall towards her, obviously slightly nervous but her posture confident. She looked around, seemed to recognize Ratha, and then spoke to her.

"Excuseme. Are you Ratha? My name is Mia, and I'm here to become a Rider," she said politely. The Head Dragon Rider was stunned for a moment before she regained her composure. This must be another newcomer. Where was the Rider who brought her, Ratha did not know. They probably gave the girl directions and a description, and then sent her on their way. Clearing her throat, Ratha looked at the girl, Mia, and dared a small smile.

"Yes, I am Ratha. You must be here for the tests. Your timing is quite perfect, I must say, as we were just about to leave," she said and motioned the girl to join Serbir and Daena. "Malven, since you have the rope, I think you have to come with us. Others, you may come if you wish, but-"

'-I am going to stay here, nevertheless. The Vault became too small for me about three hundred years ago,' Aatris chuckled.

'If the old lizard is staying, so am I. I haven't visited that relic place since I hatched from it and have no desire to go back whatsoever,' Amontien huffed and sat down with a mighty crunch. Only the magic which had been embedded into the very stone of the building prevented it from cracking under the weight of the dragon.

"However, I am more than eager to come along," Jorundr said with his steady voice and Ratha nodded with approval. His calming presence would do well.

 

"We are ready, then? Then we shall depart to the Vault of Souls," Ratha announced and began to walk briskly towards the doors, a merry band trailing behind her. Aatris watched them go and suddenly there came an image in his mind of a mother duck leading her ducklings to their grand adventures.

'Shut it,' Ratha snapped playfully as she heard the orange dragon roar with laughter, the rough sound echoing in the hall a thousandfold. Amontien inquired the orange dragon for the source of his merriment, and soon there were two, fearsome dragons, laughing like madmen. Ratha and Jorundr had to stifle their smiles as they continued to walk, trying to ignore the thunderous noise.

 

[Zeditha]

Mia wa startled by the sudden roaring, but gleaned an impression of laughter from the dragons' unguarded minds and chuckled. Good to know that dragons had a sense of humour... Although she would have liked to hear the joke.

 

Mia took a deep breath and relaxed. Ratha was friendly enough, and she was going to get her own dragon! She wondered who named them. She didn't have a name in mind... Hopefully it wouldn't matter. She moved quickly to catch up; she didn't know her way around yet. Hopefully she would be getting to know it soon... No. She was definitely going to be getting to know it. She had to make a difference in the world; there had to be something for her other than paid crime. She needed to become a Rider to spread justice in a land full of deceit and treachery.

 

Conviction renewed, Mia strode forwards with the others towards the Vault. She wondered briefly if anyone else had heard her thoughts; she wasn't guarding them. She shrugged the matter off - it didn't matter if they were because all she was thinking was the truth.

[Dragonhatchling]

Larien had left the older wizard behind as he had made it quite obvious he wished not to follow her any longer once his warning had been set. She had found that odd. None of the older wizards cared for her. She was young by comparison to them, but on par with their long-gained strength. She was a threat to them for that, and an outcast by their standards. The shade played that off as jealously; only she knew the true reason to her power.

 

She walked calmly along one of the main roads, passing a few dragons as they chatted together while their riders held conversations of their own. Even after the ceremony things were busy. Dragons were being prepped. Pampered. Fed. Checked over. All in preparations for their upcoming missions. Or routine checkups sometimes for the younger sports.

 

Some juvenile dragons romped around, happily nearly knocking Larien over as they obliviously chased each other along the roads. Some of the younger hatchlings followed a little behind, unable to keep up with the longer strides of the slightly older dragons. Larien didn't mind, and did her best to stay out of the playful dragons' ways. Sometimes resorting to stopping and standing completely still as they ran past.

 

Older dragons warned a few of the the second time this happened to be watchful. That Larien could feel among the air, though she did not actively open her mind to it. Nobody found that odd really among the wizards. They often had closed minds from their constant busy thoughts even among friends unless they were teaching.

 

Eventually, as Larien walked along, the streets became slightly less crowded. Here she was even more watchful for the revengeful brown dragon she had apparently gravely insulted. She was virtually alone here now, wandering near to where she would eventually hit the building where her own room was located.

 

But she didn't. It was further down the road when a familiar hiss ventured forth from one of the smaller side roads. Well her hunch on avoiding the side roads had been partially right. "You have heard." The sour notes in the mid-level voice brushed her defenses of her mind as she caught smaller movement behind brown scale. "Let's not do this Kavleam. She meant no true insult." That blasted incompetent Rider again.

 

Larien sneered slightly, bowing to this adolescent dragon. "Where are your mentors? Shouldn't they be keeping a watchful eye on you both?" She added with a light note to her slightly mockful question. A low rumbling growl answered, which the shade silently admitted she did not expect from this dragon. He did not speak, but instead took a heavy step forward with his head level to her eyes. He stared her down again. An intimidation attempt which, had she been a younger dragon such as he, it might have worked. The Rider hid fearfully behind a back leg, knowing the situation was lost and out of his own control.

 

"Not going to control your dragon then? You are his Rider after all." Larien responded with venom, catching eyes with the coward Rider. "He should respect and listen to you, if no one else. Yet he shows no signs of knowing his place." She added, directing the two last words very harshly to the dragon not backing down.

 

The brown scaled adolescent with golden flecks along the scales paused for only a second. Eyes narrowed and a hot gust of air pushed forth to the shade. Larien, meanwhile, held the chilling gaze with the unruly creature. She wasn't the least bit afraid of this arrogant and cowardly creature supposedly called a dragon. In response to the staredown, seeing it was not working, the dragon's maw opened to a wide and toothy snarl. Tail lashed behind him, hitting the sides of the building in the rather narrow side street. If she could push him back there, he would not nearly be able to move enough to properly fight.

[TotallyDrow]

The talk of celebration serenaded the morning air, the towns people all going about their morning routine with an extra bounce in their step and a cheerful expression etched across their faces. Several of the vendors that often sold their goods near the market square had already began to prepare for the days work ahead of them, many of them hoping that the gathering of Shurtugular would draw with them a bigger crowd of potential customers. The nearest vendor to were the boy sat had several large wooden sculptures placed to the side of his stall, each depicting a dragon and a rider in a multitude of poses. Azael could tell that a lot of hard work had been put into each and every one of the sculptures before him, the level of intricacy and attention to detail speaking volumes of the effort the aging woodsmith must have put into them, had some magic been imbued into these elaborate works of art then perhaps the sculptures would have come to life on the spot.

 

Further down, a group of women had began to arrange a beautiful display of flowers, their attempts aided by a young boy and his younger sister; both of which bared a resemblence to the oldest lady at the stall. The scene before him drew a small smile across his face, their youthful innocence a sure sign that the world within Vroengard was at peace. The same could not be said about other villages, the shadow of evil still lingering in the darkest of corners.

 

A strong gust of wind from above shook him from idle thoughts, the source of the unwanted burst of air coming from a large sky blue dragon, its appearance hard to distinguish as its scales seemed to melt into the skies above. Dragons where by no means shocking to him, regardless of how easily they dwarfed him regardless of which form he decided to be in. He had seen a fair few dragons in the past and their regality no longer fazed him in the slightest. The villagers however erupted in a chorus of cheers, the youths from before staring skyward in sheer awe at the monstrous creature that flew effortlessly above them. This dragon was soon joined by others as they flew towards the hunting grounds.

 

Azael sighed, the noise now giving him a headache. Hopping off the cobblestone wall on which he sat, he made his way towards a quieter part of town. However finding such a place proved to be far more difficult than he had anticipated. Even in this darkened alley, a young woman stood before a rider and his dragon. Azael stood, hidden behind a building as he glanced around the corner ever so slightly to catch a glimpse. The air here did not feel as light and as peaceful as the towncenter had done.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

Ratha's call entered both Varro and Rhaegos's thoughts, while her voice was drowned out by the chorus of voices in the hall, her mental call was as sharp as ever, easily slicing its way through their minds. Rhaegos, much to the disappointment of the other dragons on the hunt, turned and headed back towards the dining hall; Varro on the other hand walked silently among the other riders before stopping in front of Ratha, Soon Rhaegos was there as well, his chest heaving ever so slightly as he rushed back. They were joined by both Elan and Faradis, their presence here indicating that they too had been summoned by the head rider as well as suggesting that this summoning was not a congratulatory one. In fact, the presense here felt far heavier then elsewhere in the room; both Varro and Rhaegos gulped.

 

"A shade.." muttered Varro, alarmed. "A creature born from darkness.." added Rhaegos. Both Rider and dragon stood before Ratha, their attention focused solely on what was being said, as she outlined the mission before them. They were to join the vastly more experienced rider Elan and her partner Faradis; her size far bigger then Rhaegos's and scout out Gil'ead

 

"We will not fail, Ratha-Elda, Aatris-Elda" they both spoke, as they bowed before the head rider and dragon. As they left towards the Vault of souls, Varro turned towards Elan and Faradis and bowed once again. "It is an honor" he spoke.

[Epyon]

Tanthanion winces at the thought of sending the newest Shur'tugal to face the Shade in Gilead, even though Elan will go with Varro, he does not like the idea of sending the more peaceful of their order into possible danger. Nonetheless he nods to Ratha. He does not have much sway when she makes up her mind. When she departs, he and Zencoria walk out.

 

'Well, that went well. What shall we do now, young one?' Zencoria asks him.

 

'We continue our scouting, however for the moment, we will need to find the shade on Vroengard. I suggest we patrol the entirety of the island, we never know what we could find. Even on our shores.' Her agreeing hum brings a small smile upon his face as they go to marketplace. The small smile soon fades as curiosity comes over him as they encounter a group of people crowding around a confrontation between a gold speckled dragon and a lass. "What in the?!" Tanthanion exclaims as he walks briskly to the confrontation.

 

'It is that young gold-speckled once again! He is attempting to fight that girl we suspect of being a Shade.' Zencoria informs him as she takes to the air and flies over the confrontation. Tanthanion meanwhile pushes through the throng. He bursts to be just beside the dragon and his face is an image of disappointment, outrage and grim determination. "And just what do you think you are doing!?" He demands of the dragon. His hand resting on Hefvulon easily, but a clear threat to the dragon as his hand is in the perfect position to unsheathe it in a split second. He then looks to his Rider. "Nithandros! What is the meaning of this?"

Edited July 22, 2015 by Epyon

[Dragonhatchling]

Larien was very surprised that a more experienced Rider suddenly appeared. Had they been following her? She stood, listening to the scolding going on as she racked her mind for any sighting of this Rider before recently. Only two instances came to mind. He had been talking with the Head Rider, as well as many others just not long ago, and also had been nearby when this gold-flecked brown dragon decided to nearly smack her with his tail.

 

The brown dragon hissed angrily as his fight was rudely interrupted. He dared not outrightly attack this older Rider, but he did not back down at all either. He glared right past Tanthanion to Larien still, holding the gaze they had locked before this Rider showed up. Dishonor is what goes on here. He responded coldly to the other Rider, as his own Rider hushed up completely. The younger Rider never was one for speaking much.

 

The shade wasn't liking where this was going. Had Tanthanion not been here, this fight would have gone swiftly for the stubborn and terribly arrogant dragon. But now a new reinforcement was here, it sure seemed things were going to get muddled. Although, currently it seemed as if she were being protected. A mental smirk never made it through her incredibly strong barriers around her mind. She didn't need to be protected, but Tanthanion didn't need to know that.

 

"I apparently dishonored and insulted this absolutely arrogant hatchling not too long ago when I pointed out that he was certainly not- and I quote: 'the best dragon of the land'." Larien responded with a mocking tone at the end with the quoted part of what this dragon's Rider had stated to her before. The brown dragon with gold flecks growled deeply, stepping every so slightly closer to Larien to push the boundary between him, his prey, and Tanthanion.

 

Larien didnt view this as a terrible idea. Setting the dragon in his place was her goal. He had challenged her to a fight after all. She certainly didn't plan on willingly backing down from such a challenge- even if it did mean the likely hood of her being found out. She would deal with that later while be extremely careful to not have that happen. Despite being a shade, she was not foolish and did not have a complete death wish. Disembodiment was bad enough punishment for a shade. Death was absolutely unthinkable to her at the moment.

 

But instead of responding again to the dragon's step forward, the shade waited to see what Tanthanion would do. He seemed ready to draw his weapon, and Larien herself had so far refrained from making such movements. Her hands weren't anywhere near being primed to draw her sword, which would give credence that she did not actually intend to fight such a dragon if they wished to claim she had started this all.

[Gildraug]

Walking down the streets of Doru Araeba, a younger Rider came hurriedly towards them, panting alongside her emerald green dragon. They seemed to be in a hurry, although what the matter was Ratha could not tell until they halted before her. After exchanging quick pleasantries, Ratha inquired the girl for her hurry.

"It is a fight, Ratha-elda! A fight! Between one dragon and a magician, I assume. Some say that the magician insulted the dragon, but others claim it was the dragon who insulted the magician. I cannot say for sure, for there are rumors spreading like wildfire! People are even betting who will win," she explained, taking a deep breath every now and then while trying to calm herself. Ratha frowned at the girl's news. A fight?

"Please take me there. Jorundr, wait here with the others, will you?" Ratha said as she motioned the girl to lead her. Jorundr nodded in response, although not glad at the thought that she left alone.

 

As they approached the scene, it became harder and harder for Ratha and the girl with her dragon to get closer. There was basically a wall of people. Glancing upwards, she saw a dragon, whom she recognized to be Zencoria. Good. They were probably already taking care of the situation. Ratha was almost about to turn around and return to her group, when someone in the crowd recognized her. Poking the people around him, he whispered of the presence of the Head Dragon Rider. Soon a path was before her as people moved aside. Nodding a thanks for the people, she walked swiftly through the wall of people and entered the scene.

 

Ratha had to blink her eyes a couple of times to understand what she saw. There was the young magician she had heard of, especially of her powers despite her age, and a brown-golden dragon who had lifted their upper lip into a silent snarl. Beside the dragon was a horrified Rider, and in front of him was Tanthanion, who had been lecturing to the Rider. Ratha frowned slightly, for she did not recall what their names were, but Tanthanion apparently did. Looking at the Councilman, she noticed how his sword was ever so slightly pulled out from its beautiful sheathe.

 

"I apparently dishonored and insulted this absolutely arrogant hatchling not too long ago when I pointed out that he was certainly not- and I quote: 'the best dragon of the land'," the young magician said, her tone ever so slightly mocking. In response, the dragon took a step forwards, as if about to land a blow on her. Ratha had seen enough. Taking a few graceful leaps only an elf could do, Ratha soon found herself standing between the magician and the dragon, facing the dragon's wrath on her own. The crowd gasped when they noticed what had come to pass and Ratha could hear hurried whispers of people re-betting on the situation. The dragon recoiled when they noticed the newcomer, their face in a mask of utter confusion. Their Rider, Nithandros, Ratha recalled, looked horrified as he started hitting their dragon on their side, obviously trying to get their attention.

 

"Apparently," Ratha said coldly as she looked at the dragon and the magician, "There has been an overreaction of some sort?" At her words, the brown dragon touched her mind mentally, respectfully, if not politely, asking to share his thoughts and memories on the event to show his case why this fight was justified. Lifting an eyebrow, Ratha allowed just such, and a flow of emotions, thoughts, and memories filled her. After the dragon was done, Ratha sighed, deep, turning her gaze to the magician.

 

The moment their eyes locked, Ratha felt something at the back of her mind for the briefest of time. But it was gone so quickly, that she was sure she must've imagined it.

"I'd like to hear your case, too," she said, tilting her head in inquiry.

[Zeditha]

Mia listened intently to the discussion. Not that it was hard; the newcomer was practically shouting. She was mildly curious about a fight; she would have liked to see one. She wanted to know just how a dragon fought, to better train her own. Nevertheless, she wasn't overly interested, and was quite content to remain among the group, imagining what her dragon could look like, both as a hatchling and when fully grown.

 

Suddenly curious, she turned to the closest person - another recruit heading to the Vault - and was about to ask them what a hatchling looked like when one bounded past, accompanied by a playful Rider. She smiled as the young boy tossed a ball for his blue-scaled companion. Soon that would be her.

Edited July 22, 2015 by Zeditha

[Dragonhatchling]

The streets had been completely empty when this fight had first started. Now, probably thanks to Tanthanion and his dragon, there was a solid crowd of people clammering. This was going sour very very fast. It didn't take long either for the shade to pick up "Head Rider" being tossed around. Really? They'd attracted that much attention?

 

She guessed she should have expected this. It was very rare for a fight on this island from what she could tell. Especially one between dragon and magician. No record of that crossed her mind so far, and Larien now had been wondering about it. It didn't last long however when the crowd started to split. Ah yes, there she was. The Head Rider strode her way for a few moments before leaping and landing between her and the arrogant dragon.

 

The recoil from the brown gold-flecked beast was priceless to Larien. Finally some actual justice. This dragon might be terribly stubborn, but he at least knew his place for the Head of their Order. That was a good start at least, though in the shade's opinion he should have also reacted the same way with Tanthanion and hadn't. She'd spoken, and the dragon seemed to calm down ever so slightly before the female elf turned to her.

 

Great. But Larien kept appearances, not wishing to chance this. It was one thing for an arrogant hatchling dragon to be fighting. Another that one of the Council had come to help. But attracting this much attention was not in her plans. She had hoped the Head Rider had worse things to attend to than trivial matters such as this. Didn't she need to take care of the prospective Riders?? Where were they?

 

"I'd like to hear your case, too," she said, tilting her head in inquiry. The Head Rider was speaking to her, which the shade would have gladly erased. This wasn't needed. She glanced back past Ratha to the dragon behind her, as his gaze held a sneer of its own. He expected her to be in trouble now. Well, she could fix that.

 

The shade gently and very carefully brushed the memories of the events that had originally started. The young dragons rushing around for the ceremony that was taking place. The sudden roar, and awful arrogant sneer of the dragon behind the Head Rider. She shared how the dragon walked past, what the terrified Rider Nithandros had said to her and how she'd hoped to shed light that the dragon was young. There was no way he could be 'the best' already. She shared that'd she wished only to prevent his arrogance from getting the better of him as it already was. Then she retreated, meaning no disrespect and hoping the female elf would accept those.

 

Verbally Larien also explained all of this. She recounted all the memories being shared privately and carefully to the Head Rider alone. Just in slightly more summarized detail so the crowd wouldn't instantly start trying to shout sides. The last thing any of them needed was crowds clammering for either side on who was right. Delicate, yet intricate and respectful even then, the shade explained her side of the story. Hoping again in her closed mind that nobody was going to catch on about her true identity from the risky chance she took to share the pictures and events that had happened not very long ago.

[ValidEmotions]

Reignon snickered at Elan's response, lightly elbowing the Urgal's hip. "Ah, she sees right through me, kid. I'm only messin' with ya. Relax!" they laughed, clapping the boy's lower back with a thick hand. As festivities progressed and came to an end, the Dwarf snatched up one last glass of Dwarven ale to drain the cup before returning it to a table as it was getting cleared away. Content with his fill, the Dwarf listened in as Ratha began to separate individuals for various discussions.

 

A private conversation ensued between the Head Rider and Tanthanion. Pompous Elf. Likely flirting with the married woman again. Wonder if I should prod Jorundr again? The thought wasn't a serious one, a smirk playing beneath his mustache. No. Tanthanion wasn't flirting, never was. Reignon just enjoyed goading the male too much. But, something in their expressions kept Reignon from pulling any mild annoyances once their bubble of privacy came down.

 

Ratha approached the small group gathered with the trio of Shur'tugalar and the potential apprentices, stating she would lead the newcomers to the Vault of Souls once she gave spoke with Varro and Rhaegos. Elan and Faradis was called away as well, the two pairs given a mission. The details of that mission? The Dwarf didn't know as it was told to them in secret.

 

But, finally, Ratha returned. They were ready to set out for the Vault of Souls. Unexpectedly, one of the grand doors to the Hall eased ajar and a human girl cautiously made her way in, inquiring if the Head Rider was indeed Ratha herself. Reignon eyed the child curiously. She seemed a little out of place, another troublemaker. The Dwarf smirked.

 

Aatris and Amontien chose not to accompany; the former because he was too large and the latter because he was too prideful. That left Ninarth and Aurdis as the only dragons to tag along while Malven, Jorundr, and themself were the only accompanying Riders. Reignon scrambled up to Ninarth's back, sitting comfortably at the base of their serpentine neck.

 

The group started to leave, exiting out to the openness that was Doru Araeba. Well, mostly. The city was large, more from the wide streets than from the number of buildings that filled it. However, not too long after leaving the Hall, shouts approached them and a younger Rider exclaimed about a fight, drawing Ratha away and leaving Jorundr in charge of the group. They were to remain where they were and wait. Kind of unfortunate because Reignon would have liked to possibly see a good fight.

 

'You know better than that, Reignon!' Ninarth scolded them.

 

Amusement washed from Reignon's mind to the tourmaline-colored dragon's. 'Ah, you know I would have finished it before it even started. Do you really think that little of me?' he questioned, feigning hurt.

 

A chuckle hissed from Ninarth's scaled lips. 'Well... You are a Dwarf,' came their witty remark.

 

Reignon looked taken aback, Ninarth's mental roar of laughter filling their head. The Dwarf shook their head, patting their companion on the neck. 'Alright. Well played. I'll get you back for that later. Tell me, what do you see?'

 

They paused for a moment, reptilian, copper gaze assessing what they could make out in the near distance. 'Looks like the prodigy mage is having an encounter with the gold-flecked hatchling. Tanthanion's standing between the pair. Lot of animosity in the hatchling's gaze and his rider is being as uncertain as ever. Ratha-elda's appearance seems to have prodded a sort of laxation though. I don't think a fight will break out with the Head Rider there.'

 

Reignon nodded slowly. Seemed things were handled. Glancing down at Jorundr, the Dwarf opened his mouth. "How much money do you want to bet on your Dorzada beating everyone into a pulp? I'd like to see Tanthanion get his arse handed to him!" he boasted.

 

[[Dorzada translates to love or adoration in the Dwarven glossary so I'm using it in the sort of "pet name" sense. I couldn't find a Dwarven term for wife or spouse.]]

Edited July 23, 2015 by Narvix

[Gildraug]

"It is an honor," Varro said and Elan gave him a bright smile, ignoring the loud noises as the others were leaving towards the Vault of Souls. She would've loved to see the new bondings, but this time was not such.

"No need for formalities with me. We should probably get ready for our journey - pack necessary items for the trip and the like. Meet me on the Eastern side of Vroengard when you are ready and we shall depart to Gil'ead from there. If we keep up a good speed, we might even make it there tonight," Elan thought out loud and then gave a cheery wave. "Off you go now! Take everything you find useful, but we must travel light."

With that, Elan climbed up Faradis' back and settled herself in the saddle. The purple dragon walked briskly out from the Hall of Echoes and immediately when they were outside, she opened her wings and they took to the skies. However, they didn't go very high, as they were only going to Elan's quarters. As they flew, Faradis saw something happening in the town, but they decided that there was no need to go check it out.

A few moments later, Elan was strapping bags to Faradis' saddle, them containing food, clothes, and a collection of other things she thought would be useful. Patting her partner's side, Elan looked into one of Faradis' amethyst eyes.

'Ready?'

'Of course I am ready for new adventures!' Elan chuckled and mounted Faradis again.

'That's kinda what I was afraid to hear,' the dragon replied with a sense of warmth in her words and Elan grinned. They flew steadily over the walls of Doru Araeba and then headed east, where the mountains began to loom. However, there was a spot between two mountains where the land was even somewhat even. They landed there, sure that Faradis' scales would stand out from the landscape and allow Varro and Rhaegos to find them.

 

~~~

 

After the magician's explanation, which had been both verbal and mental, Ratha tapped her chin with her right hand's forefinger and thought for a moment, painfully aware that everyone were looking at her. She had to make a just decision, which neither sided the dragon nor the magician. She herself was of the opinion that the fault was in the dragon, but the young magician's actions had not helped the situation either.

'Be careful not to think too long about it,' Aatris touched her mind, their connection still as clear and strong as it had been in the Hall of Echoes.

'It is not that tricky situation, but unheard of,' Ratha said.

'That it is. But trust your heart and give your judgement lightly - you do not want to anger the dragon even further,' Aatris marked, giving his dragon insight on the situation. Ratha thanked him and then lowered her hand and looked at the dragon and the magician. They had both shared their memories, so she was sure she had a good idea of the situation. Speaking of which... The magician's thoughts had been odd. She couldn't place her finger on how they were odd, but the only thing that she could think of that this oddity was a some sort of resultant of her powers - or the other way around. Nevertheless, while their minds had been in contact, although both had shielded most of their minds with iron shields, Ratha found the magician's thoughts ever so slightly alien, as if someone had moved the furniture of the mind five inches into different spots they were earlier.

 

"After I have been granted the unfiltered view to the events through the eyes of both fighters, I thus declare my judgement," Ratha said clearly, allowing the crowd to hear. Not only was this keeping justice and order on Vroengard, but this also was her chance to strengthen the image of a just leader to the people, which she strives to be. "The first aggressor was the dragon Kavleam and he sought out this battle. The responder to this situation was the magician," Ratha paused for the briefest of moments to quickly examine the memories she had been given and found the magician's name from there. When she said it out loud, the feeling nagged at her mind again, confusing her slightly. What was going on? "The magician Larien. Although both sides are responsible for the escalation of this situation, I call Kavleam faulty for allowing his pride to take the best of him and endangering not only the life of Larien but also those around him. However, due to his young age, I shall not punish him as I would an adult dragon. For punishment, Kavleam has to serve the elder Shur'tugalar for a few weeks. His Rider does not have to accompany them. Although," Ratha lowered her voice so that only Larien, Kavleam, Nithandros, Tanthanion, and Zencoria could hear her. "It is commonly known that dragons are prideful creatures. No need to purposefully aggravate them," she said, not unkindly, directing her words to Larien.

 

"Tanthanion, Zencoria. I thank you both for helping the situation," Ratha said sincerely and tilted her head. "But now I must return to my duties. If it's not a trouble, might you two watch over that the situation will fade away smoothly. And remind Kavleam of his punishment," Ratha said with the slightest of smiles, before she nodded in farewell and begun to make her way back to the group.

 

~~~

 

Jorundr didn't like the fact that there was a fight within Doru Araeba. Not to even mention it was not between Riders or dragons, but a commoner and a dragon! With some unease, he watched as his wife strode purposefully towards the scene and leaving him behind with the group. Sighing, Jorundr rubbed his neck and looked after Ratha, her orange cape flapping behind her like flames.

"How much money do you want to bet on your Dorzada beating everyone into a pulp? I'd like to see Tanthanion get his arse handed to him!" Reignon called from Ninarth's back, his voice cheerful. Jorundr allowed a relieved smile, thankful for the drawf's merry comments. Jorundr decided to play along and took a very thoughtful look to himself, although a gleam in his eyes betrayed something else.

"Well, we must take into calculations there's a crowd. Ratha wouldn't dare to hurt the crowd, so she'd first ward off an area, where she could use her spells freely without interference. Aatris would join her through their connection and give her his massive strength, and together they 'beat into pulp' everyone within the warded area to show them who's the boss. You know, someone has to keep up the hierarchy. And the best way to do so is to fight and show the younglings who's the boss," Jorundr said and laughed softly. Amontien heard his comment and also uttered a low laugh.

 

'Your partner-of-body is a strong hunter. Probably one of the strongest on this island, maybe,' he said and Jorundr agreed.

'She's a fierce sight on a battlefield,' he replied, recalling a fight he had had alongside Ratha when they had quelled an amassing rebellion in the southeast.

Edited July 23, 2015 by Gildraug

[Epyon]

'No trouble at all, Ratha Svit-kona,' Tanthanion replies mentally. 'We will make sure the Hatchling does not forget his place.' Zencoria adds.

 

Tanthanion allows his sword to slide completely into it's sheathe, still eyeing Kavleam as if still waiting on the hatchling to make a rash move. He knows just how a proud dragon can be especially when it's found that it was the cause of things. While he knew Ratha was correct in her assessment, he also could not help but feel that they had just angered Kalveam all the more. He places himself squarely in front of Kalveam, his tone uncompromising. "You heard her, Kavleam. Away with you. Nithandros, if I may have a word?" He says while still retaining his eyes locked on Kavleam.

 

The brown dragon gives him a hiss, 'Were it not for-'

 

"By all means, Kavleam, if you so wish to fight, why not fight a Councilman? Surely you will get more satisfaction by showing a Councilman that you deserve to be called the greatest," interrupts Tanthanion. "I will warn you, you will lose and your pride is causing unnecessary stress to your Rider." His hand is still resting on the pommel of Hefvulon, the sapphire glittering like the ocean in the light of a sunset.

 

The standoff lasts for a while as neither side backs down. Zencoria swoops low and alights gracefully next to Tanthanion, 'I would listen to him if I were you. If you continue down this path, it will result in the death of such a handsome dragon.'

 

Kalveam seems thrown off-balance thanks to Zencoria's unexpected compliment and finally, he backs away and walks off. 'I will follow him to be sure that he will report to an Elder. I will guide him to one that will give him lessons in humility,' says Zencoria as she walks after the hatchling.

 

Tanthanion then waves over Nithandros and he waits until Larien leaves the scene before he takes Nithandros for a walk where they have a discussion about needing to be assertive but also to be able to calm a dragon.

Edited July 24, 2015 by Epyon

[Fyonra]

Ki’lydwn meandered slowly away from the depths of the cave, sharp eyes scanning for the first road she could easily slip onto. The amount of people nearby was unsettling to the introverted elf, and regardless of how much she had told herself that what she was doing was necessary, it still made her nervous. There were too many eyes on her once she stepped onto a rather busy road, being one of the few with cloaks covering many of her features. To her relief, however, she was ignored for the most part. Besides a few odd glances from passersby, there were no instances where she was caught or questioned.

 

Too easy.

‘It won’t be that simple when you get near the Shur’tugalar.’

‘Killjoy.’

 

Ki’lydwn ignored Slytha, continuing down the main road, sometimes stepping off the road to calm herself. Being around so many, with such a large threat of being discovered, wasn’t something she enjoyed doing. She just had to find the Shade, and leave. She tried to reassure herself, but it was clear that she had to return to the main road before someone became more suspicious than they already were.

 

She continued walking, eyes scanning the crowd uneasily. Why did they all have to be so close? So loud? She resisted the urge to cover her ears and prevent the pain that was caused by so much noise. During her travels, she stayed so far away from loud noises that her sharp ears were simply not used to the loudness. Where was the Shade? Why couldn’t she have simply magicked a path directly to the Shade? Why?

 

At last, after walking down the large road for a torturous while more, Ki’lydwn sighed in relief, seeing a crowd gathering what seemed to be a lone magician facing off against a gold-flecked dragon. ‘A typical magician against a dragon? No normal mortal would do such a thing, not even the idiots I’ve met.’ She paused, narrowing her eyes at the maroon-cloaked magician who, despite strong mental walls, was radiating the oddness of something inhuman. ‘I think I’ve got my Shade.’

 

She stood by the edges of the crowd, waiting for the dispute to be settled. It would not do to interrupt something so unusual, especially when the one she was searching for was involved. After the matter was settled, she followed after the magician, a brief smile gracing her features. Her search had finally been rewarded.

 

Ki’lydwn, after they were a safe distance away from the Head Rider and most other Shur’tugalar, walked up to the supposed Shade and tapped her on the shoulder. “E-Excuse me,” she began with a timid voice, internally cringing at the sound, “May I speak with you for a bit? Somewhere private, perhaps?”

 

[Dragonhatchling]

Larien had half expected the Head Rider to turn on her. Half, being only expected because of the pause in motion. She was thinking about something, and naturally that was probably the course of action for the fight, but it also was likely it could be about Larien herself. After all, the shade had chosen to share some of her thoughts, which was extremely risky in itself in the presence of two Riders far more capable than this gold flecked hatchling and timid Rider alone.

 

The announcements of their fates surprised the shade. She wasn't completely at fault, although the warning Ratha gave was given heed with a slight nod. The pause for her name too had set the shade somewhat at unease internally, still somewhat paranoid that she would indeed be confronted. Something was amiss, but neither acted upon the suspicions. Once the announcements were over, and Ratha far enough along back to whatever business she had come from, the shade decided to take her leave. Thank you, Tanthanion, and Zencoria, for offering the help." She had added before turning off and walking a bit further along.

 

It seemed the crowd was dissipating too as Tanthanion and Zencoria led the offending dragon and Rider away. Good. Her home here was not far down the road a little more, and from what she could tell the crowd was slowly going back to their business themselves. It was unlikely she would be followed and questioned right on her doorstep. But as unlikely as that was, the shade did feel a slight sensation of being followed.

 

It wasn't too long after that, when she'd felt someone tap her on the shoulder and speak. Instinct nearly had taken over and Larien almost retaliated for the sudden invasion of privacy, but she kept calm as she turned around. A female elf who held a cloak around almost all of her was speaking softly. Timidly. This one wanted to speak privately. But why?

 

Larien was cautious, wondering if this was some kind of trick of the Riders and that she really was found out. It could be a trap. More might show up. But she doubted that even if this was a trap, that this Rider would take such a risk to send for help outwardly just now while she could make more of a get away if things went sour. Taking this girl into her own home, however, would be more risky, but also would allow Larien the privacy of silent murder if she caught the Rider sending for help. Of course, that wouldn't work if there were more wards around a mental link, but so far Larien hadn't picked up on any aside from the usual barriers.

 

"We'll have to make this quick." The shade answered without a flicker of her thoughts showing through. She motioned for the girl to follow and took a few steps to the nearest building, pulling out a key and opening the door. "You first."

 

Lairen's home was nothing too flashy or extravagant as some of the Rider's homes were. It wasn't terribly large, but it was comfortable for one person and perhaps another guest of the shade ever needed it. Riddled about the place were various books varying in age. The extremely old, treasured ones were shelved neatly near a fire place and a smaller table. A few more tables were off to the side that held potions and a few in the process of brewing still. Shelves above this held many different labeled potions and even deadly poisons she had managed to recreate or come across. There were the standard rooms containing the living area and a kitchen like place not far away. A library like room was next to the living area, while stairs took up their own room-like place to lead to the second floor where two bedrooms were laid out next to each other. She had a small plot of land out behind the house for herbs, as many magicians did if they had enough money, and behind that were similar styled houses. Overall, there were quite a few windows in the place, giving more natural light to the room despite many of them having views of more buildings next door. Makeshift blinds closed most of those that led to other windows of other houses, but somehow the house still kept a naturally well lit demeanor.

 

"Feel free to sit yourself down where you please." The shade added, shutting the door. There were more than enough chairs strewn about the entire house. She made her way over to one of the brewing potions, stirring it slightly before setting it back on the burner. Another day for that one. She repeated this for the other three casually, wondering what this female elf wanted but paying her virtually no mind.

[Fyonra]

Ki’lydwn followed the magician- supposedly a Shade- along the road until they arrived at her home. She let slip a smile, showing her gratitude, real this time, for the magician’s acceptance of the meeting. As they walked inside, she stood awkwardly by the door, watching Larien in her home.

 

“Feel free to sit yourself down wherever you please.” The magician’s words startled Ki’lydwn out of her musing, which had been along the lines of ‘Eep! How do I survive a social situation?!’ ‘Slytha, she’s a.. a… a being!’ ‘How do I talk?’

 

“A-Ah, right. Thank you for your hospitality.” Ki’lydwn dropped the slight tremor in her voice, speaking surely once she was assured that her vocal cords were, in fact, still intact despite disuse. Without the Shade noticing- hopefully- she cast a single spell to ward off most harm that would come to her if the magician reacted badly. Unless a dragon fell on her, or one of the fancy buildings of the Riders, she should survive. But then again, Ki’lydwn was dealing with a Shade, not to mention the Ra’zac; who knows what harm could befall her?

 

She walked over, ever alert, to a nearby chair, scanning it suspiciously before sitting herself down on the rather comfortable chair. She attempted to gather her thoughts, forming a rough introduction, as the magician most likely didn’t know her yet. Although, I suppose she could, and I wouldn’t know. Shades will be Shades.

 

“So… Greetings. My name is Ki’lydwn, Shur’tugal bonded with Slytha… and among the ranks of the Mahlaan.” After a brief pause, she spoke again, hoping to get out what she needed to before her untimely death. “And I do believe you are what I’ve been searching for,” her eyes glinted, hinting at the madness within, “...Shade.”

[Dragonhatchling]

The new guest in her home was being awfully odd even for the very very few guests Lairen ever invited into her home. Those that had come before, merely came for a few potions most times and left just as quickly. Admittedly, this new guest was the only one who had stayed this long before. She didn't seem to really know what to do with herself either, although Larien went about her usual business of checking the other potions as the guest continued to speak. So far she'd managed to sit down. Good.

 

The introduction that came next started off unexpectedly, and rather less fluidly than the shade expected from the suspected Rider playing bait as a trap. Names were introduced, and she was a Rider which crossed Larien's mind as truth that this was a trap for a moment. But only a moment. The mention of Mahlaan intrigued her, and caused her to pause very briefly. Why would this Ki'lydwn freely mention such fact? This was certainly turning more into a failing try at a trap than this Rider probably realized. But the next sentence this supposed now Mahlaan managed to get out turned the shade to her fully. Visibly somewhat shocked even that such a meak elf had the guts to utter those accusations.

 

The brief shock turned to suspicion even further, and slight intrigue mixed with surprise. "Very bold to throw such words in a home you are not familiar with. Or person for that matter..." The shade set down one of the potions she was holding, and moved to a nearby chair. She sat down with a slight smile on her face. "You don't know me, yet you've gone and spilled what could possibly be your most precious secret on an island filled with your former Kin." The smile went away, replaced by an eerie seriousness that did not quite belong. "If, of course, what you say is actually truth."

 

Larien didn't believe this Mahlaan. The trap, if it were really an elaborate trap set up by the other rider- Tanthanion was it? She didn't really care for their names. The Head Rider and the previous rescuer of her almost-fight were showing up too frequently to not be at least slightly tipped off about her true identity. And now this? This was almost a complete slap in the face to the shade. No Shur'tugal, or even Mahlaan, would divulge such information like that. Especially Mahlaan on an island filled with perfectly capable Shur'tugal to murder them if found.

 

But that was the key here. If this Ki'lydwn really was Mahlaan, how had she gone unnoticed so far? How long had she been on the island for that matter to try such bold maneuvers? Lairen's silence probably was worrying the guest, although the shade really didn't care. Maybe silence is what the guest needed for the actual truth. Or, well, at least to collect her thoughts before she dug herself deeper into a hole. If help was called the untimely events that previously happened surely would be more than enough to help make a case for why this guest was in her home.

[Zeditha]

Much pondering ensued in Mia's head, unintentionally shielding her mind with the intensity of her imaginings. She tossed around possible colours; blue or red, gold or silver, black or white... The colours jumbled themselves on and off a background of a majestic creature. But even then, would her dragon be fat or thin? (she supposed that depended on how much she fed it.) Tall or short? Long or stocky? Swift or strong? Graceful or clumsy? There was so much she didn't know, and it excited her to realise she was about to find out.

 

Her musings were interrupted when Ratha returned to the group. Turning her attention to the Head Rider, Mia eagerly drifted towards their guide, small paces bringing her closer to the dragon she had wished for for years.

 

((Bump... I haven't seen Izu around for a few days. It's possible she's on holiday or something, but she didn't tell anyone...

Anyway, nobody is replying to this. Let's keep this alive, eh?))

[Gildraug]

((Apologies for my late inactivity - I have had quite the ruckus back home lately :'D))

 

The incident between the magician Larien and the dragon settled and a trust Tanthanion and Zencoria would take care of the aftermath, Ratha returned with haste to the awaiting group. Giving a brief explanation on what had occurred and assuring all was well, she began to lead them again outside of the city. As they walked, Ratha told the newcomers about the history of Vroengard and Doru Araeba, about the city's architecture and how things worked.

"-and that is how it was decided that the Riders would have to leave their dragons outside the city during the nighttime," she concluded one explanation relating to an unfortunate event when a group of dragons collided within the city at night and broke down an entire block just as they left the city.

 

From there, a road paved with white rocks split into half a dozen directions, winding their way to the different parts of the island. The Riders, of course, had really no need for the roads, but they needed them for transporting larger materials - like building blocks - and the common needed them for daily businesses. Ratha took the right-most road and kept going on with her swift pace. The high towers of Doru Araeba pierced the sky and the city walls were so high that they rose above the scenery and were easily seen miles across. However, soon they left the fields which surrounded the city and entered one of the many forests which grew close to the mountains. First, the trees were young and slim, with bright green leaves and the air fresh. But as they walked, the trees begun to grow in both size and height, lichen clinging to the hanging branches of the evergreen trees, their trunks dark with old bark and moss. The air was cool and moist, unlike to the warm and dry air which had been earlier. The road began to crack from places, moss and ferns sprouting out from the small spaces between the rocks. At places, the rocks had crumbled, making the road hard to walk on. Finally, it ended altogether.

 

Before them stood a jagged piece of stone. It would've looked natural, if not for the absurd place of it - far from the mountains - and for its looming height. The stone seemed ominous, with black moss growing on its surface and swirling images scratched upon it. Ratha stopped and turned around and, with a hushed voice, pointed at the stone.

"This is the Rock of Kuthian, a Rider who found this island and proposed it to be our headquarters so many years ago. The dragons blessed this stone when they came here and the magic is still very, very strong," she said softly before reaching out with her hand and touched the stone. The images on the stone glowed brightly orange for a moment and then faded away.

"Naal dii sos ahrk sahvot, Zu'u laan fah rahnd wah faal Diirz do Sil," Ratha said, her hand still on the stone. With a mighty crack, the stone shifted backwards and revealed a large staircase, big enough for a medium-sized dragon to fit in. A warm draft of air huffed on their faces, and Serbir thought he smelled sulfur.

"Follow me."

 

The tunnel was obviously crafted by dwarves, by the smooth form of the tunnel, but enchanted by the elves, as the walls and ceiling were filled with runes for protection, hiding, and power. The staircase went downwards and angled slightly to the right. After everyone were inside the tunnel, the Rock of Kuthian moved back to its place, sealing the entrance and blocking the sunlight. However, the interior was not dark thanks to the flameless lanterns which hung from both sides of the tunnel on regular interval, their red light preserving their night vision. As they descended, the air grew gradually warmer.

 

It may have been only a few minutes, but it might as well have been an hour, Serbir thought as the stairs finally ended. But his exhaustion was soon forgotten as he inspected what was waiting for them. The tunnel led them to an enormous cave filled with gentle orange light, the sides of the cave glittering with something - gems, maybe? In front of them stood a being, who seemed to be... metallic? The longer Serbir looked at this thing, the more he was confused. The metallic being was alike an elf, but with a dragon head! Ratha bowed her head to the being, for it blocked their way to the cave.

"This is Cuaroc. He is the ancient guardian of the eggs and... other things which reside within the Vault of Souls. He is a being summoned from the earth itself and imbedded with the magic of elves and dragons. You do not want to cross his path," Ratha warned. The being, Cuaroc, nodded its metallic head and then stepped aside, his steps heavy and clanking against the stone. It leaned against the wall and held a hand on a sword, a silver Rider's Sword, and never took off its ruby eyes from the group. Serbir lowered his eyes and walked briskly past Cuaroc, painfully aware of the piercing gaze he felt at the back of his head.

 

However, as soon as he entered the cave, the Vault of Souls, Serbir forgot about Cuaroc. Before them, row after row, stood dragon eggs of all colors and sizes, each sitting on a pillow and reflecting the orange light which shone from somewhere at the back of the Vault. With slow steps Ratha led them to the rows and gently touched the first egg, her voice heavy with emotion.

"And here we see the future of our Order. This is our greatest purpose - to protect the next generation of Riders. You three shall be of the next generation. But before I allow you to start searching for your destined partner, I must ask you a few questions. Whether you answer them now or later, it matters not," Ratha said as she motioned the newcomers to come closer. Serbir swallowed hard and a dread filled his stomach.

"The first question is as such: why are we, the Riders, not watched over? Or in other words, who watches the watchers? The second question is why, then, are we the ones with the greatest authority? And finally, what is our greatest weakness and what is our greatest strength?" Lifting a hand to silence Serbir, who had opened his mouth to ask was this their exam of some sort, Ratha continued. "You may think you know an answer to these questions. But the truth is, you do not before you have bonded with your dragon. Go, now, run your hand across each of these eggs here and search for the one which calls for you."

 

Alongside a gentle push from Jorundr, Serbir was the first one to walk to the eggs. Glancing back, just to see the encouraging nods and smiles, Serbir took a deep breath and touched the first egg, a brilliant blue one - nothing happened. Looking at the many rows, he sighed again and begun to walk down the row slowly, allowing his hand to trail upon each egg for a good five seconds before continuing. None of them felt right. He wasn't worried or afraid, but a sense of certainty and calm he had never felt filled him as he continued to touch the smooth and warm surfaces of the eggs. As he was going down the sixth row, Serbir passed a jade green egg. He was just about to move on, before the egg shivered ever so slightly under his touch. Pausing, he kept his hand on the egg. It shivered again.

 

"Uuh, Miss Ratha? I, um, think I found my d-dragon's egg," Serbir said after coughing a little. The elf came swiftly, moving gracefully as she leaped over some rows to reach Serbir quickly.

"So it would seem. Here, let me help you. They will need some space to hatch. Gelok," Ratha pointed at the egg, and a orange glow enveloped it and it lifted up. Walking away from the eggs to the center of the Vault, Ratha placed the egg ever so gently down and then backed away, motioning Serbir to go closer. With shaking hands, the Urgal did so, crouching down to stand on the balls of his feet and stared intensely at the dragon egg, which had started to sway and make squeaking sounds. Soon, a first crack appeared at the green surface, then another and another. Pieces of the shell fell off and with a small gasp, Serbir saw his dragon emerge from the egg, the thing squeaking all the time while shaking off the last bits of the shells and licking off the membrane which had enveloped it. Serbir simply stared at the hatchling before him, its green scales reflecting the orange light and creating tiny spots of light on the ground surrounding it. The white spikes on its back stood out drastically against the dark cave floor, and their eyes were like emeralds. The hatchling had a fierce look to themselves, with long spikes and a scowling face.

"H-Hello there," Serbir said softly and chuckled nervously as the hatchling looked at him, tilting its head as they listened. It was so beautiful, Serbir realized. With soft, if stammering words, he reached his hand towards the dragon, unsure if it would attack. Instead, the dragon reached out towards his stretched right hand and touched his palm with its snout.

 

Ice. Ice flowed through his veins instead of blood. Ice filled his every cell and every thought as the pure energy roared between him and the dragon. In a heartbeat which lasted an eternity, Serbir's and the dragon's minds were linked. As the energy substituted and Serbir regained some of his consciousness, he noticed a silvery mark appearing on his right hand. But what was more apparent, was the mind which touched his - the dragon's mind. It was unlike to his own, without words to describe its feelings or thoughts, and without images other than of the cave and him to work as memories. But what was apparent was its curiosity and hunger. Serbir blinked a few times.

"She seems to like you," Jorundr said softly as he approached Serbir, careful not to even look at the hatchling. He handed him a piece of dried meat. "You might want to feed her before she starts gnawing at your fingers." Serbir did as so and he watched with awe how the tiny creature, which was barely bigger than a kitten, could be so savage and dangerous already.

"H-How did you, uh, know that it's a she, sir?" Serbir asked while he was feeding.

"Females tend to be of slender build and have longer spikes. You'll learn to see the difference quite quickly," Jorundr replied before he returned to the group, ready to aid the others.

 

After the dragon had eaten the meat and its hunger satisfied, Serbir carefully reached out with his mind to the dragon. She did not flinch, but instead allowed him to come closer, curious to inspect him.

'Hello. I am Serbir,' he said, but he only received confusion from the dragon. Sending an image of himself to the dragon, he also repeated his name as he held the image. He wasn't sure would the dragon understand, so he gave up with it and was about to retreat to his mind before the dragon reached out, touching his mind. A single word echoed in his mind as the dragon spoke, their voice rougher and lower than Faradis', but still very beautiful.

'Serbir,' she said as she stared into his eyes. He gulped at closed his mind slightly, but the green dragon didn't seem to be bothered by it, judging by the wave of amusement which flowed from it.

Edited August 5, 2015 by Gildraug

[Zeditha]

Mia looked around with awe at everything they passed, from the smallest sapling to the greatest tree in the forest. Once they reached the rock, though, Mia stopped in awe. She knew what it was, and whispered the words along with Ratha - "The Rock of Kuthian..." She reached her mind towards the stone, and found strong magic imbued within it that she could not understand. She got the feeling that she never would truly understand it, nor would it ever be broken, but it would remain to the end of time. She moved slowly through the tunnel, catching up to the others with swift steps every so often. She did so again just before a giant, metallic, dragon-headed elf appeared in their way. Seeing Ratha bow, Mia did the same, and moved on with caution and continuing awe once Cuaroc had removed himself from their way. She was aware of the stony gaze the creature held on them all, but put it out of mind. She had no intention of causing harm to these eggs or anything else, and so Cuaroc had no reason to harm her.

 

Reaching her mind out once again, Mia found a semblance of more than just magic to Cuaroc, but it was so fiercely shielded that she withdrew quickly, before she could raise suspicion. However, exploring further, she stumbled across something so vast and knowledgeable it took her a second to realise what it must be. Dragons... The first thing she wondered was how they could fit in such a small cave. The combined size of dragons so old and wise must take up half of Alagaesia! However, her attention was quickly stolen by Ratha's words.

 

Who watches the watchers?

Why do we have the greatest authority?

What is our weakness, and what is our strength?

The questions resounded through Mia's head as she pondered them, turning them over, trying to find their purpose. However, she quickly put them aside and paced slowly after Serbir. The first egg was, again, a brilliant blue - but it stayed cold and still under Mia's touch. After giving the egg a gentle stroke, she moved on. All the colours she could have dreamed of and more... She saw Serbir's egg hatch, smiled, and moved past the now-empty pillow and onto another egg, this one a lighter shade of green. Despite the number of eggs that had not chosen her, Mia wasn't worried. She felt strangely calm. She walked slowly, careful to give each and every egg a loving stroke before moving on towards a strange pull she felt. It came from the other side of the room, but whenever she looked in the direction to seek the egg it might be, it vanished. She wondered briefly if she was imagining it. But it made her want to run over and pull a certain egg into her arms. Again, whenever she tried to identify the egg, the image vanished.

 

Pushing this frustration out of mind, Mia continued through the roomful of eggs. She knew that inside every one was a majestic, beautiful, fearsome creature, and that all of them were destined to be joined with someone like her.

 

It took a long while that felt like an eternity before Mia began to feel the pull strengthen. Despite wanting to run, she slowed herself, not wanting to miss giving a stroke to any single egg. White, gold, brown... Many had more than one colour, and the most she had seen on a single egg was seven. The eggs that sat, cold and unresponsive, beneath her touch now had mostly two or three colours each. Red and black, gold, silver and white... Her eyes felt drawn to an egg three pillows ahead. It was a deep, midnight purple, with veins of blue and black, and spots and speckles of maroon. Slowing herself became an extreme effort, but she forced herself not to run towards the egg. She thought she saw it twitch as her slow steps brought her closer... Finally, she found herself with a hand above it, ready to place on the egg.

 

Suddenly, for the first time, she found herself wondering if she was ready. Years of waiting, training and travelling had led to this moment, and all she could think was... Am I really ready for this? Doubt clouded her mind for a split second, and her hand hovered above the egg. Looking down at the beautiful round stone, she took a breath. I have to be. Her hand fell, gently, and alighted onto the smooth surface. Time seemed to slow as her hand moved across the different veins. Physically, it felt the same as every other egg had, but there was a kind of energy, an acceptance, a sense of happiness, that radiated from the egg through to her.

 

"Ratha?" She spoke calmly, despite the excitement she felt. "I've found my egg."

 

 

((Yes I made a timeskip. It just... didn't feel right to have Mia's egg close to the entrance. There much be a thousand eggs in there, and Zeditha could be in any single one. It was fairly near the last egg, actually - about 870th out of the thousand. Feel free to let the third person find their egg before Mia.))

Edited August 5, 2015 by Zeditha

[hazeh]

Malven had grinned at Ratha and gave the rope a small shake. "That I shall! Someone's gotta keep this one in line!" He gave a hearty laugh, one that did not appear to be reciprocated by the rest of the group. However, the older rider was not disheartened by that, and merrily tugged Daena along after the Head Rider. Aurdis accompanied them, humming softly to herself once they passed through the massive hall.

The commotion gathering in the streets was of faint interest to the thief girl. The moment she had managed to glimpse the two perpetrators-- a young dragon and young woman-- her curiosity vanished. There was a presence of strong magic about, and it made her highly uncomfortable. As Malven yanked her closer to get a better look, Daena twitched and strained against the rope, her muscles becoming rigid and tense the closer they drew to the squabble. It wasn't until Ratha had placated the individuals and the crowd began to dissipate that Daena's discomfort was masked by indifference again.

Her gaze, however, lingered on the young woman with the red hair. There was something about her, something almost familiar, but Daena was not certain how that could have been. The woman almost reminded Daena of her mother. With a clenched jaw, she forcibly twisted away from the scene, nearly toppling Malven by the sudden strength she exhibited.

"Whoa-- hold on there, girl, calm yourself," he said, gripping the rope tighter. After a moment of brief thought, he quickly fastened his end of the rope around his belt. "No need to get all excited. Come on then, let's get going!"

Aurdis prodded Daena gently between the shoulders with her snout and the raven-haired girl continued after the rest of the party, though she made it somewhat difficult for Malven by tarrying as the last in the group. As they journeyed, she restrained herself from marveling at the wondrous scenery by stubbornly keeping her sharp gaze to the ground.

 

As they approached the mysterious stone, the hair on the back of Daena's neck began to rise again, as it did whenever she was in close quarters with magic-- particularly strong magic. She felt her heartbeat quicken at sensation, and as the staircase revealed itself, Daena subconsciously shied away by stepping backwards. The rope that attached her to Malven grew taut, but he ignored her and started after the others as they descended the stairs. Aurdis remained behind, given she was too large to fit through.

 

Daena held her breath as Malven guided her down into the vault. What was she even doing here? Why did she agree to this? She cursed everyone silently the further underground they walked. Upon the reveal of a large metal statue-- which, seconds later moved, revealing that it wasn't as much a statue as it appeared-- Daena stopped. When its ruby gaze landed on her, she returned it without blinking; she held it fast and squarely, almost defyingly so, even as it moved aside to allow them passage. She might have been terrified of magic, but she wasn't about to let anyone else know that...especially to something obviously created to intimidate. As they strode into the next room, she couldn't help but dig her fingernails into the palms of her tightened fists as the urge to flee flooded her veins. The magic in the air was almost suffocating to her, and the longer they dwelled the more memories of her childhood were jogged loose from the recesses of her mind. Crushing, brutal, vicious magic that clawed at the fabric of her being, deigning to sculpt her into something far more dangerous. The edges of her very soul felt frayed and tattered. Sometimes she wondered if there was anything left.

 

The room full of colorful stones-- which she realized were dragon eggs shortly thereafter-- was a good enough distraction from her memories. She gazed, slightly wide-eyed, at the variety of beautiful colors and patterns that filled the room. Unlike the others, Daena remained rooted to the spot; she simply stared, but made no motion to move after the other two potential riders. After all, she was entirely convinced none of these eggs would care for her. Whatever Malven had been thinking when he brought her here, it certainly wasn't very bright. Besides, the questions Ratha had posed to them...however did he think Daena would know those answers? How would an infant dragon know them? All of this was absurd!

 

The old rider cleared his throat pointedly at Daena after a long moment of her standing silently by the entrance. "Well? Go on, now. Time to take the test!" He grabbed the rope, but much to her surprise he didn't force her through the rows of glittering eggs. Instead, he gently unbound her wrists and gestured after the other two as they brushed their hands over the smooth shells. Within moments, the young Urgal appeared to have been chosen; she watched as Ratha moved the egg to the center of the room, where the small dragon broke free with scales of a teal-green that nearly matched Daena's eye color. The other girl slowly moved through the ranks, touching every egg in sight, and Daena watched her to see which one would respond. As she waited, a strange itch fell upon her. A curious, hopeful itch. Although her chest was already tight and her breath shallow from the magic that coursed through the air, a particular energy slowly awakened in her. Excitement? She rubbed at her wrists and glanced around the room, eying the gem-like eggs as they sat motionless on the pillows.

 

Ah, what the hell.

Slowly, Daena stepped forward. She traced Mia's steps through the rows of eggs, though not once did she reach out to touch the sparkling shells. Her hands remained at her sides as she walked. An egg the color of a polished sapphire; another a dazzling orb of silver. Several of them looked like massive jewels that would make any professional thief's mouth water. And there, in the middle of the row, was one that looked like a pearl on the necklace she had lifted from an old woman not two days ago. Daena moved past the egg, but paused and glanced back at it. The shell had a silvery sheen to it, though the color was a soft white. Accents of pastel pinks, golds, and greens danced wherever the light struck it, as if a rainbow lived within. It was quite a beautiful stone, and part of her almost forgot there was a beast lurking just beyond the stoney encasement. Cautiously, and with hesitation, she reached out and brushed her fingertips across the shell. Smooth, and surprisingly warm-- almost hot!-- and suddenly it shivered beneath her. Daena snatched her hand away immediately with a sharp intake of breath, as if it had hurt. Impossible. She stared at it longer, willing for it to move. Had that been her imagination? Her hope was untrustworthy, that much she had learned throughout her life. Perhaps it was playing tricks on her again.

Very carefully, Daena touched the surface of the egg once more, this time allowing her entire hand to cup the curve of the shell. She could feel a bizarre vibration from just beneath the shell; and then movement, as if something inside were shifting. The egg gave a small wobble, and Daena's blue-green eyes opened wide. Somewhere in the room, she heard Mia's voice call out to Ratha-- but Daena was far too stunned about the discovery of the pearlescent egg to say anything at all.

[Fyonra]

((*barfs* Bla-a-a-a, life's been busy. Sorry? I'll try to check on all the topics at PA too, although I don't know how active I'll be able to be once more things decide to intrude upon my life. ;-)

 

Ki'lydwn winced, still uncomfortable in the situation she somehow managed to stuff herself in. "Ah... Well, if you are a Shade, then you may wish to hear me out. Yes, I am indeed on an island filled with my former kin, but it is still just as- if not more- dangerous for one such as you. If you aren't the Shade I speak of, then I'd have to kill you, or wipe all traces of our encounter from your mind. If you weren't a Shade, it wouldn't be too difficult, despite your previous bravado."

 

She sucked in her breath. The game she played was a dangerous one, where she risked all; if she were captured on the island of Shur'tugalar, everyone she ever met (few existed beyond the Riders she met during her stay on Vroengard) would be in danger, as the Riders would search every crevice of her mind for any information.

 

'Slytha?'

'Yes, little one?'

'Remind me why I suddenly became suicidal.'

'Cheesecake.'

'Ah. Right.' Ki'lydwn internally rolled her eyes, sarcasm dripping from her thoughts. 'Very helpful, Slytha.'

'Thank you.'

 

The female Mahlaan returned her thoughts to the situation at hand. "So, what will it be, magician? Hear what I have to say, or attempt to murder me on the spot?"

[Zeditha]

Remembering what had happened with Serbir's egg, Mia gathered the egg into her arms. For such a graceful object - the egg was a small amount thinner than most of the eggs, a little taller, and slightly slanted towards the tip - it was surprisingly heavy. Adjusting quickly, Mia managed to carry the egg over towards the middle of the room, and sat down cross-legged with it on the floor in front of her.

 

Mia tore her eyes away from the stone to look around the room. The other human had her hand on a white, pearlescent egg. Mia remembered touching it - it had felt warmer than the others. Not hot, as hers was, but a gentle warmth radiated from it, as if it had been waking from a long sleep. Mia smiled as she realised a third Rider had been chosen.

 

A small sound snapped Mia's attention straight back to her own egg. It swayed slightly on the uneven floor, and when Mia gently turned it around, she saw a thin lattice of cracks spreading across the surface.

It's hatching.

The sound came again - a tiny tap from the inside of the egg, as if something small and weak was trying to escape. The spiderweb of cracks grew minutely, but a few determined taps later, encompassed a small piece of shell. Feeling an instinctive need to help the hatchling, Mia slid a nail into part of the crack and tried to lever it out. The first attempt failed, as she couldn't get her nail under the shell. The dragon kept tapping, though, and it wasn't long before their combined effort had removed the piece. Almost immediately, a small purple foot appeared, kicking out from the confines of the egg. It grasped weakly at the air, then withdrew. There was some movement, and then a head peeked out from the hole. Slowly, the hatchling forced its way out of the shell, aided carefully by Mia as she removed shattered pieces and laid them to one side.

 

A minute or two later, it was free.

There, in front of her, stood a tiny, weak-looking creature, licking itself clean with a small, pink tongue. Long, sleek and beautiful, Mia couldn't help but reach out to caress the midnight purple scales of the dragon's head.

 

A bolt of energy sprang straight up her arm. Fire ran towards her, leaving a trail of ice that spread throughout her entire body. The last thing she saw was a pair of innocent, slightly concerned green eyes before she blacked out.

 

((Going to leave it there and wait for Ratha. ))

[Dragonhatchling]

Larien seemed slightly amused by this Rider's attempts to take control of the situation. The talk of murdering her, or at least wiping her memory, nearly made her laugh. If it came to that, this poor elf would be in for quite a shock. Although, the slight plea to be heard played to Larien's amusement more. What harm could it do?

 

"I'll hear what you have to say," She stood from her chair, returning back to one of the potions she was tending to before. In her previous shock, she had accidentally tilted the vile and it was brewing unevenly for those few minutes. An easy fix, but only if fixed right away. "However, I would not underestimate the one who has invited you in as a guest to her house. You really don't know who you are dealing with." The vile was fixed, and the shade turned back to the Mahlaan. "Despite how easy you say this should be if I am not a shade as you claim."

 

There was a serious tone in her voice. Far more serious, and far more dangerous than it seemed. Larien was giving a blatant warning, even though she had not yet admitted to anything incriminating. Hearing Ki'lydwn out would not hurt. She might even have something useful for being such an odd one and requesting to talk in the first place. Regardless, it also was giving her time to piece together what else had been happening with the other Riders. There were Newlings about, no doubt soon to possibly be chosen by their own dragons. Maybe she could turn one of them Mahlaan as well. Or at least make a solidified ally in such treacherous waters.

[Zeditha]

((Ooh! Ooh! Pick me! Me! I'm sure Mia would love being a Mahlaan

That was my plan, anyway... she seems a little more honourable than I'd originally thought though, she just wants to be the best Rider she can be. I guess taking teachings from two strong magicians would appeal, though.

 

Oops, entirely OOC post... I'll delete this later and put something to its effect in the beginning of my next IC post.

 

 

Adding a small note. Yes, Zeditha is a runt/weakling. It's due to the unusual shape of the egg. She'll get better with proper feeding and stuff, but... Well, it just felt right to give Zeditha some kind of weakness. Her scales will also be the tiniest bit softer than normal, even as an adult.))

Edited August 8, 2015 by Zeditha