Return of the Dragon Tamers: The Plague of Ogual

[Soulserenity20]

[btn=modc|https://www.iwakuroleplay.com/threads/return-of-the-dragon-tamers-the-plague-of-ogual-ooc.52827/]OOC[/btn][btn=modc|http://www.soulroleplays.com/]Information Site[/btn][btn=modc|https://www.iwakuroleplay.com/threads/micro-return-of-the-dragon-tamers-courting-thread.154410/]Courting Thread[/btn]

Banner Current Events Current Plot Point Characters/Hexes Post001 Combat System

• 
  
  
  
  
  
  Return of the Dragon Tamers
  The time has come for the dragons and the humans to join forces once again...​
  
  
  
  
  
• 
  
  
  Hunting the Blackshire Stags
  
  Narien, Illyria, Avren, Pomona
  
  Reverie, Xylia, Alder, Saira
  
  ​
  ​
• 
  
  Terria has been rescued and returned safely to the meadow. Her retrieval came at the cost of another talented tamer: Goliath, and his dragon Hezekiah. Terria slumbers in sickness of the body and the mind even as Merrik has spent more than a week at her side, healing her thrice daily, doing everything in his power to bring her back to the Order.
  
  The party that ventured to eastern Galidus to sort out the issues in Kibran returned with a new stranger who turned out to be the bondmate of the Valor dragoness, Andraste. Alder Grey has joined the ranks of the Order and now works to find his place.
  
  Shortly after the Order's reuniting in the meadow, a council was called the a vote was ordered for the army's next tactical move. With the votes in, the Order is now set on unlocking the memories of the strange man Bren and travelling to Galidus to meet with the new king, Kylvest Brohn of Trespa while simultaneously meeting with the People of Dragons elders.
  
  Before the Order sets off once more, they are taking time to return to their training at the meadow and heal their hearts and bodies. At current, Merrik has chosen to mix things up and brought the Order out to the north-eastern woods to hunt for Obsidian Nova's favorite game: Blackshire Stags. After a great deal of drama in Kibran regarding Merrik's decisions on leadership, he hopes that the Order will begin to sort itself out within the ranks and grow to trust each other more deeply in a time when trust among comrades is a necessity.
  
  
  
• 
  
  Character Hex Colors
  [spoili]
  Aerarya is #800080
  Saira is #33cccc
  Merrik is Red
  Nova is Black with Shadow and Italic.
  Avren is Green
  Viridian is Yellow Green with Italic.
  Terria is Dark Azure
  Taega is Medium Gray with Glow and Italic.
  Requiem is Maroon
  Aleria is Dark Green.
  Agni color is #999999
  Narien is #0092b3
  
  [/spoili]​
  Soulserenity20 ---- Merrik Tetra ----- Obsidian Nova, Nightmare Dragon
  Soulserenity20 -----Terria Tetra ----- Ataegana Kuu'iah, Lunar Dragon
  Soulserenity20 -----Avren Lebram ----- Viridian, Forest Dragon
  Rainjay -----Saira Rinien ----- Aerarya, Atmosphere Dragon
  Rainjay -----Illyria Rowena Renthir ----- Mirazh, Desert Dragon
  Firejay1 -----Narien Ki'ila ----- Angi, Arcane Dragon
  White -----Rèverie Gray ----- Celeste, Celestial Dragon
  Mowkie ----- Pomona Ayelet Muldell ----- Katla, Vanity Dragon
  Mowkie ----- Alder Balthazar Grey ----- Andraste, Valor Dragon
  Crimson77 ----- Xylia Kalei Iwalani ----- Deventh, Swamp Dragon
  
• 
  Tetra Estate - Coliseum, 8:17am
  
  The morning air was cool and crisp, the last signs of Winter nipping at Spring's hold on the lands. There was a deep fog rolling in over the eastern forest, blanketing the ancient trees with an eerie, chilling veil. A pair of deep green eyes scanned the surrounding landscape from a hundred feet in the air. Their owner felt no fear, no discomfort of the altitude, being as much at home in the skies as he was on the earth. While the height and the crisp morning air did not bother him, a deep concern was festering within the corners of his mind. It was not unusual for worry and concern to waft about in his thoughts, but the intensity of today's concern was unprecedented.
  
  There was a silence that surrounded him, cocooning him in its peaceful tendrils, broken only by the steady whoosh of powerful wings. With each heavy downbeat, the man in the sky would exhale, taking in the pristine air the ancient woods provided and letting it out in a meditative manner. His dark hair swayed gently, not by breeze, but by wing-beat. The man was concentrating on the legend that was about to begin a hundred feet below him. The man was sorting out his thoughts, organizing his concerns, perfecting his plan of action. Worrying. Concerning himself. Stressing.
  
  The mind is of no use when it is tangled and knotted with stress and worry.
  
  Merrik Tetra opened his eyes as a wave of reassurance swept into his mind, settling what had been stirred up, putting his last lingering thoughts in the right place, and shouldering the mental burden that so commonly threatened to crush him.
  
  "Your wisdom could not have been more welcome. But to execute concern would be unwise. Today the stories of the world will shift mid-sentence, a new chapter forcing its way into a tale of growing darkness. Today the legends of old will be reborn, history repeating itself at the hands of peril upon these lands." Though his lips did not move and no sound rang out into the air, his words found their way into the mind that commanded the wings beating powerfully at Merrik's sides.
  
  The man in the sky was not alone.
  
  A hundred feet above the Tetra Estate, a creature of myth lingered in the air, sustained by the grip of its thick wing membranes on the cool morning air. The creature was massive, larger than any common animal of the lands, and it wore a cloak of scales as black as a night sky devoid of any stars. Blood red eyes that made every onlooker feel like prey blinked slowly as they stared at the distant fog bank. It's vast wings, cloaked in the same obsidian scales that coated the beast's muscular body, wore rings, red as the most scalding lava.
  
  The creature was a dragon. A Nightmare Dragon, to be specific; a beast of legends and fairy tales from a time long ago, long before the memories of even the oldest human. For hundreds of years the sound of heavy wing-beats parting the air could not be heard in these lands, or any other for that matter. For hundreds of years, the great draconic race was thought to have been extinct, perished by the hands of elves or man or even time itself.
  
  Few would believe their eyes. But Merrik Tetra would not so much as blink at the site of such a creature, for the dragon of nightmares and terror that claimed the skies was his dragon, and Merrik was its human. They were soulmates, best friends, companions, one.
  
  More than 2 decades ago, when Merrik was just a little boy, he was brought down into a damp, dark cellar in the depths of his family's manor. There, he received an egg. From within that egg came a voice, though not one any other person would hear, unless it so chose to be heard. Within that egg was a hatchling nightmare dragon, the same drake upon which Merrik sat at that very moment. The dragon was given to him by a strange, mysterious old man who called himself The Oracle. This man changed Merrik's life, shifted his path of fate to one of severity and ultimatum. His life for the next two years was leading up to this moment, this cool spring morning.
  
  Today, Merrik was going to form an army, a re-birthed order of old, summoned up again to bring forth a the great protectors of Illos. Today, Merrik was going to change the lives of a group of individuals, the very same individuals that stood a hundred feet below him in the center of a coliseum. Behind the doors that lined the walls of the coliseum were more dragons. More disbelief shattered by flesh and blood. Two years ago, Merrik had once again been summoned into that musky cellar where The Oracle appeared once agian. This time, Merrik didn't receive one egg; he received an entire clutch, each one a different color, texture and size.
  
  From those eggs hatched dragons, one of each of the draconic species, apart from the Nightmares. Those hatchlings had spent the last two years of their lives growing and learning from Merrik and his dragon, Obsidian Nova. They were being trained and prepared for this very day, this moment. Each of the drakes behind those heavy wooden doors lacked a piece of its soul, a part of it that could never have been filled. Not until now.
  
  The group of people standing, uncertain in the middle of the coliseum, were chosen long ago, though they could not have known it. The Oracle had selected them at birth, when their souls entered into their bodies with their first breath. Each soul chosen, was the missing half of one of the dragons below. And today, those two souls would collide and fuse together, changing the fate of Illos forever.
  
  "They know so little of what is to come." Came Merrik's soundless voice from his own mind into the dragon's.
  The less they know, the less they can fear and fight what is to be. Though we know that each of the humans below is the soulmate of one of our yearlings, the yearlings do not know for certain. They believe that these are mere potential candidates for the bond. They will test them just as a wild dragon would have tested the first of the dragonlords so long ago. The humans will pass these tests, of this we have been assured by The Oracle. Everything is set into motion.
  
  Let their oblivion be their guide, for both dragon and human. Let the bond work in its natural ways, it will give them strength in the long run. The humans MUST prove themselves to their drake, not only for tradition's sake, but to unlock the power that hides within their blood. Tamers are not made, they are born at the very moment a dragon's soul awakens. In that moment, the two become connected, separated only by distance and time. The tamers have an ancient magic within their veins, though they do not know it yet.
  
  Today, the bond with unlock that magic and change their lives forever. We should not delay it any longer.
  
  Obsidian Nova had a way about him that commanded submission and trust. There was no one else in the world that could calm and reassure Merrik in such a way as the black dragon. Nova had an ancient wisdom to him that came with being a direct descendant of one of the first bonded dragons of the Order of Old. Though merely 21 by age, the dragon's wisdom went on for centuries. Merrik agreed without a word or thought.
  
  With perfect intent-directed synchrony, the dragon descended, lowing the pair and coming to rest on a great stone perch that sat at the head of the coliseum. As the dragon's talons touched down on the stone and his great wingspan retracted to a resting position, Merrik stood up from his place at the base of Nova's neck and slipped down off the dragon's back without a sliver of difficulty, landing on the thick, stone perch below.
  
  The attention of the visitors in the centre of the round mass of earth focused on him. Some eyes shone with excitement, others with a sly intent, and others with a plain annoyance. There was too much personality within that circle for Merrik to handle all at once. He silently thanked the gods of old that he didn't have to get up close and personal with the entire group just yet. For now, the focus of attention was on dragons, and Merrik was completely at home in the realm of dragons.
  
  "You have all be told of your purpose for standing her today. I can understand if some or many of your minds linger in disbelief, this is an event of dreams and myth. But make no mistake, you are here to become heroes, legends, and leaders. You are here to become one with beasts of old, powerful creatures not seen in these lands for hundreds of years." He walked to the end of the perch, balancing casually on the round, stone hold.
  
  "The doors that surround you are the temporary dens of the dragons of Illos. The doors will open in a few moments. You must all be strong, be fast, and be brave. Today, you become dragon tamers."
  Then, Merrik's deep green eyes became twice as vibrant as any human's and he swirled his right index finger in a curious manner, concentration clear on his expression. The doors slid open, lifting up to reveals cascading plumes of steam as the temperature difference made itself apparent. The cool morning air welcomed the sound of wingbeats, too many to count, as a mass of dragons shot out of the dark spaces and soared up into the air. Flames of every color decorated the skies, scaled beasts of every shape, size and color bolted about before peeling off from the group and honing in on select individuals.
  
  One of the dragons shot a jet of colored flame down at the ground, nearing searing one of the soon-to-be tamers. The tests had begun.
  
  Merrik and Nova watched silently as the young dragons they had raised from hatchlings attacked, questioned, chased, scared, and tested the group of visitors. Each was seeking a human worthy of their soul, of their life, of their bond. Each would find a human, though they did not know it, and until then, they would test their worthiness endlessly. Merrik pitied the men and women below, for they had not been informed of what the bond was, nor were they informed of the fact that the tests the dragons subjected them to would look more like an attack than anything, despite the fact that the drakes would not actually harm them. This pity went away mere moments after it arrived as Nova's presence in his soul shifted with the drake's emotion. Any amount of terror and confusion was worth the bond of dragon and tamer.
  
• 
  
  Combat Event Guide
  +Steps+
  

  1. GM Scenario Introduction.​
  2. Player Response. Combat Begins.​
  3. GM Response to Combat. Required die roll will be presented.​
  4. Player Response. Player Roll. Player may close combat.​
  5. GM Combat Close Response (if necessary)​

  
  +Basics Behind the Rolls+
  
  Three Types of Opponents: Basic, Challenging, and Boss.
  Basic: Just classic battling. It is generally expected that your character can handle this with general ease.
  Challenging: These will require higher rolls and a bit of strength in whatever technique the character uses to attack.
  Boss: These will require the best rolls, the most creativity, and the best weaponry/spells/approaches suited to the character.
  
  Three Types of Character Approaches: Strength, Weakness, Long Shot.
  Strength: The character attacks within their class/strength/ability.
  Weakness: The player attacks in a class/ability that they are not necessarily comfortable or entirely skilled at.
  Long Shot: The player is being an idiot and doing something that would never work unless the die gods are on their sides.
  
  +How Opponent Types and Character Approaches work together+
  BASIC OPPONENT
  Strength Base Roll: 12
  Weakness Base Roll: 14
  Long Shot Base Roll: 16
  
  CHALLENGING OPPONENT
  Strength Base Roll: 14
  Weakness Base Roll: 16
  Long Shot Base Roll: 20
  
  BOSS OPPONENT
  Strength Base Roll: 18
  Weakness Base Roll: 20
  Long Shot Base Roll: 25 (requires stat bonus)
  
  NOTE: In a boss battle, there will be much more discretion for creativity and teamwork between players. Successful rolls will mean successful hits, NOT kills. Furthermore, for boss rolls, because they are much more difficult, the player will get a 'second chance' roll if their first roll is not successful.
  In Step 3, where the GM presents the required roll, it will have the relevant stats already added in and will be presented in a manner to explain the reason the roll is what it is. Stats are applied by level of skill, as portrayed:
  5% = Beginner ----> No Mod
  10% = Applicable ----> No Mod
  20% = Novice ----> +1
  30% = Adept ----> +2
  45% = Advanced ----> +3
  50% = Expert ----> +4
  65% = Sage (Mortal Mastery) ----> + 5
  
  Example:
  Shirin Vs. Challenging Opponent, Strength (Longsword)
  Base Roll: 14
  35% in long sword, +2 Bonus
  14% in valor, +1 Bonus
  14% in strength, +1 Bonus.
  
  14 - 2 - 1 - 1 = 10 Required.
  
  The player will then post a blank post with "Rolling..." posted and then roll a 20 sided dice (D20) on that post. Then the player will post a SECOND post with their response in accordance with how their roll went. They can wrap it up themselves (Step 4), or the GM can add a post in at the end to wrap it up accordingly.
  
  WARNING: If you delete ANY POSTS in these events, I will assume you're trying to cheat and get a better roll. I don't want any explanations, I won't believe a word you say, and I'll roll FOR you with a penalty of 5 added onto the battle. This means, for example, Shirin would need a 15 instead of a 10. If you make a mistake, for example, roll a D6, or roll twice. LEAVE IT. I have eyes. I can see the mistakes.​

[spoili][/spoili]

 

[Shadicmaster]

Tetra Estate - Colesium

Daliath would not allow herself such self satisfying emotions such as pride, and she wouldn't let herself be put down by embarrassment, striving to keep a neutral stand in her dealings. All that was needed of her was to smile back and keep from blushing faintly at Merrik's kind words to her, which wouldn't be that hard of a task to complete. She had been hiding her emotional states for years, and this would likely be no different. Or... At least only with a faint bit of difference. There was now a soul and mind in conjunction with hers that she had to try and keep under control, keeping emotions from slipping between the two and affecting each other. In the very few documents detailing dragons and the close knit relationship with their tamers, the young woman had found that it would be nearly impossible for this young pair to keep their minds and hearts separate. It would likely take many many years before they could attain the control over the pull of each other's minds so as to keep themselves within the bounds of the very thinly distinguished souls. A faint smile did linger on Dalaith's pale pink lips, however, as she looked back up to Merrik whilst he spoke, vaguely detailing that there would be much for her to learn during her stay, though their time for sharing and for learning would come about when appointed. A curt nod and slight bow was all she offered back to the man as she looked back to her dragon, hearing the conversation that had ensued between he and Obsidian Nova, despite having had her own mind occupied. A bit of frustration and a bit of annoyance flared up in her, but she quickly quelled it and lightly set her hand on the side of her dragon, the scales of the mighty beast smooth and yet tough enough to defend the great drake against the teeth and claws of others like himself.

It was a wonder that such creatures of beauty, power, and intelligence had ever vanished from the lands, but she then had to remind herself of the hunting that drove them to near extinction. It had been well documented in many scrolls. They were hunted for their bones, claws, teeth, and scales, especially the regeneration, solar, and gold dragons. The gold and solar dragons were fairly obvious as their beautifully shimmering scales would be used in the finest of jewelry and clothes, demanding a high price, but the regeneration dragon was a little harder to figure out had you no knowledge of the dragon and it's abilities. Sure it's pale pink scales were pretty, but they paled in comparison to the other grand dragon types. No, these dragons were hunted for medical use. It was truly sad that the human race would stoop so low as to sacrifice the life of one being so as to benefit their own, but so as the world they lived in was.

So caught up in her thoughts was the young Dalaith that she only barely noticed the dark haired man leave from before her and climb atop his dragon, but when she did notice, she was provided with a wink from tamer and dragon, as well as a reassuring smile before he shot up into the air, dragon and tamer existing as nothing more than one fluid being, a syncricity to be envied by any. Dalaith stumbled back into her dragon from the gust of the strong wing-beat, A'untyr looking down to her with a slight chuckle before looking up to watch the pair as they made a showy display of their ability. The pair listened intently to their instructions, and, while Nova was giving the dragons themselves their instructions, Dalaith moved off to get her harness, figuring out how to use it while she walked back. A'untyr wasn't the most pleased with the notion of having to hold back for so long, but he knew that should he harm his tamer, his purpose in this order would be naught. For the sake of his pride, and for the life that he wished not to waste, he gave a silent agreeance to the command given to all the dragons and let his tamer struggle in harnessing him, finding the pursuit quite amusing. When she had finally finished, Dalaith couldn't figure out how to get on very well due to her short and weak stature, so, with a slight nudge, A'untyr lifted her onto his back once more, though he stayed laying down until she could tie herself to the harness effectively. She made sure to make the bindings as tight as she could bear before looking back to the other tamers, then up to Merrik and Nova as they soared above. A'untyr needed no confirmation of his tamer being ready, he simply getting up, paying no regard to being gentle or smooth about it in any way, not used to having to care for the extra fragile being on his back, rested just between his shoulder blades. It was comparable to having to set the finest and thinnest china upon the back of a human and have them walk about upon their hands and knees, only having to deal with the extra three limbs of a dragon, the two wings and a tail. Dalaith clung tightly to the back of her dragon as she was jostled in his getting up, she unsure as to whether or not she would be able to handle very much of this sort of treatment, but slowly, A'untyr leveled out and began to slowly walk about the arena. Dalaith could feel ever muscle as it slowly tensed and released, an easy movement that created the noble dragon's graceful gait as it walked about for her to become more used to the movements. It took Dalaith very little time to predict how each movement would affect the dragon's form as she only needed to have him take a few steps, but, in the name of safety, she let him make one full lap around the arena before giving him the go ahead to lift them into the great blue skies. A slight smirk played across his expression as he sped into a sort of trot for the last few steps and then used a strong beat of the wings to lift them high into the skies, using a couple more wing-beats to level out before soaring about the coliseum on the same level as Nova and Merrik. Dalaith was in sheer terror at first, clinging tightly to the harness, before she slowly eased the fear away, hoping not to have burdened her dragon too greatly as she now looked down upon the arena, in awe of the amazing view she now had over the world. She didn't dare let go of the harness, though, still not confidant that she would be able to balance effectively, even though she was strapped into the harness.

 

[AnastiaCrest01]

Diari was snapped out of her unfocused, blissful state when Merrik took to the skies on Obsidian Nova. Both she and the green drake before her, Halazes, turned their heads skyward to watch. The speech the two gave fired Diari up, then came the performance of their flying skills and a preview of their trust. The black haired girl leapt to her feet, eyes shining, she almost seemed as if she was in the clouds herself, though being grounded. Halazes looked disinterested, she already having experienced the flyers' relationship many times before. Well, she was uninterested until she heard the black dragon's threat. The jade mythical beast lowered her head in shame, having already placed her tamer in danger with a sporadic flight. Diari sensed her dragon's embarrassment and rested a gentle hand on the majestic green drake's shoulders. "All is well, Halazes. I am still here and alive and I had the thrill of a lifetime."

"That is true. However, had I not had the speed and you the smarts you had, you wouldn't be alive. Obsidian Nova may scorch my scales because of it, anyway. He has the right to it after all. " Diari looked at her partner before sighing. "Accidents happen. We all make mistakes. The most important thing is to fix the mistake before it gets out of hand. And you did just that by catching me. Now you learn from that mistake. You are no longer alone, Halazes. I am here with you; we are one." A moment of silence passed between the two, filled with understanding, relief, and excitement. Diari dashed off to get the harness, leaving her gorgeous light green dragon behind, though briefly. She knew how to place the harness immediately, surprised at the similarity it held to the harness the young girl carried with her in case of emergencies, mostly on mountains and other high places. She fastened it then hopped on the creature of myth as one would board a horse. She secured the harness around her waist, preforming an Alpine Butterfly Knot, allowing movement in all directions. She then attached the loop created to the rest of the spare rope, creating a flexible harness for herself that wrapped around her waist and went in between her legs. Holding onto one of Halazes' spines, she straightened her back and alerted the dragon that she was ready. Diari took a deep breath, preparing for the soon to come flight. That was the part she was looking forward to, and fearing, the most. " It is as they claimed. We must trust in each other. So trust me, if you fall, I will catch you."

"I trust you. As I said earlier, we are one. One in soul, in spirit, in mind, and in movements. We must be." The dragon nodded, flexing her wings. Her tail swayed from side to side as the fierce yet gentle beast started to painfully slowly walk around the coliseum. Suddenly, the girl on the great drake's back laughed slightly. "You are a dragon not a turtle! I know you can walk faster than this. Walk normally Halazes, do not fear what will be. Focus on me, on the here and now. " The dragon huffed and started walking at her normal pace, going much faster. She held her head high with pride and confidence. Diari knew her comrade was hanging onto every word she spoke, taking all of it to heart. She also knew Halazes would not be kept low; she was a dragon and dragons were meant to take to the skies, metaphorically and literally. She closed her reddish brown eyes, the breeze playing with her hair and chilling her face. She enjoyed being out in the crisp morning, especially now that she had a companion to savor it with. They went round and round the stadium about 10 times. The Diari opened her eyes eagerly. "I am ready. Let's fly."

Halazes took a few more steps, stretching her large emerald wings. Then she took off, her incline nearly vertical, just as a large bird's would be. Her wings tilted downwards, allowing less air friction and more control of the ascend. She soon straightened out, spreading her now shimmering wings, they having been hit with the sunlight, a bit wider and opening the leaf-like tip on her tail, it acting like a rudder. Diari's grip tightened slightly, yet she forced herself to relax, trusting her partner with her life. She watched as Halazes' wings tilted slightly, allowing them to turn. Diari was filled with a calm that she had never felt before, as well as a certain adrenaline-ran focus. She let her eyes turn away from the graceful wing beats, gazing at the earth below. They were one of the first in the air, so she was met with the sight of the others walking or preparing their harnesses. The girl's hands had started twitching subconsciously, in perfect rhythm to the wing beats. Diari was soon relaxed enough to release her partner's spine and place her hands firmly behind her on the jewel-like dragon's back. Halazes was tense, unlike her rider, possibly wanting to go faster and preform some tricks. After a few reminders from Diari, she relaxed, knowing she was right. She knew they couldn't do tricks right now, not with Obsidian Nova's threat hanging over their heads, and with the fact that her partner was still fearful of such, being as she nearly hit the ground with a splat only a little bit ago. The green dragon huffed some smoke, not willing to give up a large portion of her style of flight, but knowing she had to. She was used to diving and barrel rolling and zigzagging! Not to gliding and flying slowly and uneventfully, yet this is how her rider wanted to fly right now, so she will suck it up and do as Diari wishes.

"You know....? I am glad you are my partner, my other half. I wouldn't have wanted any dragon else. Thank you for choosing me, of all people. Thank you for giving me the chance to live this experience; to soar." Halazes didn't respond, yet the feeling appeared to be mutual. She turned once more around the arena before Diari grabbed the spine again and they made their decent. The girl took off the harness, sliding off her drake with difficulty. The pair started wandering around the stadium, looking to see if they can help anyone with the harness.

 

[Kyara]

Tara gave an undignified shriek as she hit the ground, scrambling to her feet moments later with significantly less grace than was normal for her, still somewhat unbalanced by the bond. Which was the only reason she had been caught like that, she thought pointedly and glared at Zarketh. The glare soon faded though under the flow of amusement and affection coming from the dragon. A shadow passing overhead followed quickly by a thud drew her attention to Merrik and Obsidian Nova landing and walking over to one of the dragons. She turned away from Zarketh to watch the other dragons and humans as her mind continued to adjust. She noted several who seemed surprisingly young or obviously not accustomed to physical combat to be part of an army. However she had joined the army herself at 16, she knew competence wasn't necessarily based on age and a variety of skills and backgrounds would be useful in their mission. She just hoped they would all be able to keep up.

Obsidian Nova's mind pushed into her own and she fought the urge to shut him out. Zarketh's hasty reassurances that it was normal and safe and that she could trust the black dragon allowed her to accept the intrusion though she still felt faintly sick at the idea of a stranger in her mind. She listened carefully as both Obsidian Nova and Merrik spoke, and watched their display with mixed feelings. She couldn't stop herself from grinning at the enthusiasm she felt from Zarketh at the idea of flying. She had always found enjoyment and escape in running, and the various acrobatics required of an assassin and her own excitement fed back to the dragon. The warnings of the risks and the fact that Zarketh was singled out for one dampened her enthusiasm slightly though she wondered on the wisdom of showing the dragons and their new riders such a dangerous trick right before warning them not to try any themselves. Don't worry, I will look after you. Tara didn't find the mischievousness behind that thought very comforting.

At the end of the speech Zarketh turned and walked quickly towards the edge of the coliseum, Tara running behind her. They found the halter and Tara had to tell Zarketh to calm down twice before she settled enough that Tara could focus on making sure it was safely attached. Once she had checked and double checked them she climbed easily up the dragon's side, found a spot she could sit comfortably and fixed the straps around herself. Zarketh took off at a run the moment the last one was in place, jerking Tara backwards, the straps digging into her the only thing stopping her from falling off. Now we know the harness works. Hold on. Tara could feel there was no point trying to hold her back so she settled for slamming a fist down on her back and gripping the harness tight. Zarketh had barely run one lap of the arena before she extended her wings and leapt into the air, strong wingbeats driving them higher and faster. The cold air stung her eyes and made them water so she could barely see.

We're supposed to be taking this slowly. Gradually. So I don't fall to my death.

Don't make me think I picked a coward for a rider. Tara wanted to be annoyed but the joy and amusement she could feel from Zarketh made it impossible.

At least slow down enough so that I can see. The dragon grudgingly relented, slowing down enough that Tara could open her eyes. She looked down, they were circling high above the coliseum. She wasn't afraid of heights but she was suddenly struck by how completely her life was in Zarketh's hands up here. Panic started creeping around her mind, trying to break her calm. She was used to being in very dangerous situations but then her survival was always dependant on her own skills, not another's. She had only met Zarketh less than an hour ago, what was she doing?

Focus on me. Feel what I do. Zarketh's concerned thoughts cut through the panic and Tara obeyed. She focused all her attention on her connection to the dragon's mind until she could feel her body as if it were her own. She could feel the air currents on her wings, her body instinctively adjusting to keep her just where she wanted to be. As natural as walking to a human. I would never let you fall. Tara relaxed into it, letting Zarketh's joy at flying overtake her. After awhile she retreated back enough to be aware of her own body again and found she wasn't at all afraid any more. This wasn't like trusting her life to a stranger, Zarketh was a part of herself. She already knew her better after an hour together than she had ever known anyone. Zarketh growled in approval and released a jet of bright yellow flame. She picked up speed again, and Tara only just caught her intention to dive and roll in time to give her a firm reminder of Obsidian Nova's warning. She felt Zarketh's annoyance at the restrictions and respect for her mentors clash for a moment before she levelled out her flight with a growl.

Soon. Tara promised, and the pair continued to fly fast circles above the coliseum. Tara smiled at the competitive edge to Zarketh's thoughts as they watched the others make their ascents.

 

[Erranruin]

Yennefer and Methuzar had drawn themselves out of their moment of quiet, Methuzar pressing down his concern for her wellbeing to focus on the moment at hand. They both in unison looked up to the skies and immediately directed the full force of their attention towards their new Mentor and Master and Leader. Both accepted his words without challenge, Yennefer had made her decision knowing full well the consequences and with a wish to heal this ailing world of theirs. As for the restrictions on their flight, this they accepted as well. Yennefer and Methuzar were far from children, they had no wish for thrills or excitement they were pragmatic to the full. If there were others in the world who knew better than they then those Teachers were to be listened to until they had nothing more to teach. Yennefer had glanced back to her bonded to find his glistening bronze eyes on her, warm and happy with how similarly their minds ran. She had smiled with the same feeling before taking a look about her.

The variety of people was astounding, no two people looked alike and they ranged from knights to rogueish ladies to knightly ladies. The dragons too were of every different hue and shape that could possibly be conceived. She noted that Methuzar's size seemed greater than the rest and that his general bulk and muscle density was superior to the others. It seemed strange to her that the most physical seeming of all the dragons would not be paired with a warrior but with a Doctor. But she did not question it long, it was as right as anything could be. But still the sight of all of these variations of Dragon immediately got Yennefer thinking of their various physiological differences, how would one dragon react to a remedy compared to another? How did their circulation work at such high altitudes? What consistency did their blood take? So many questions pounded through her mind at once and she heard Methuzar rumble with amusement and interest as the concepts and diagrams and theories also piled into his own thoughts. She was embarrassed at her inconsiderate actions and pulled her thoughts back under control so that he might have space and peace. He blinked in thanks even though he hadn't truly been bothered by it, enjoying her passionate emotions. She turned to him once more at the end of Merrick and Nova's speech and breathed in a calming breath to stabilize her nervous energy. Methuzar actually did the same, although his breath was more akin to a hurricane.

I believe it is our time to fly My Lady, would you do me the honour? Methuzar dipped his head again, his left front leg extending out to her like a bridge, like a Gentleman offering a lady his arm to dance. Yennefer gave an amused smile and curtsied elegantly.

"The honour is all mine, gentle Sir." And with that she carefully picked her way up his enormous leg, finding footholds in the corded grooves of his muscles and being grateful for the coarse and gripping nature of his scales, finally making it up the the hollow between the base of his neck and the muscles of his wings. It was like a little alcove where she could curl into and remain steady and protected from the cold winds of the upper atmosphere. A small spine protruded some way in front of her which she found was an excellent handhold in case she might need to steady herself. Methuzar rolled his shoulders experimentally and gave his wings a few trial beats in order to ensure the comfort of Yennefer's position. Once they were both exceedingly happy with their situation, Methuzar began pacing about the Colosseum. It took very few steps for him to circle the area completely, his stride being so grand even though he took his time. Yennefer enjoyed feeling the pull and relax of the colossal body underneath her and tried to memorise every detail of the experience, understand all the forces at work underneath her. They took their time, neither of them had a mind to rush so quite a few Dragons had left the ground before Methuzar took them both up to his Alcove. He eased his left shoulder down as low as possible so that she could hop down onto his left foreleg and then down from there onto the ground. They both found that their hearts dropped a little when they lost tactile contact, Methuzar feeling some instinctual worry that when Yennefer was not seated atop him was when she was most in danger. She noted this in the ebb and flow of his thoughts and tried to wrap more of herself around his mind to comfort him to the obvious fact that she could not be astride him all the time.

The Leather halters were easy to find although there was so much of them and they were so large that Yennefer had quite considerable trouble carrying them and strapping them around Methuzar's neck. They didn't take any shortcuts, Yennefer dutifully checking all the buckles and lengths of leather to ensure their durability and security before again climbing up his front leg and settling herself back into her niche and carefully tightening the harness around herself. She could tell that Methuzar was not completely enthused with the idea of flight, he seemed to prefer the ground even though he had no difficulty in the air. Yennefer was somewhat intrigued by the prospect for flying but it did not grip her excitement all that much, her enthusiasm was directed elsewhere. Still, when Methuzar's powerful wing muscles rolled either side of her and the enormous wing fingers stretched out towards the sun, Yennefer did feel a shudder of anticipation run through her. She did want to see him fly and this simple emotion encouraged him as well.

With one powerful downward thrust of his wings, they were launched into the sky. The rush of air stole the breath from Yennefer and she felt like she had left most of her internal organs on the ground. Curled in her Alcove on his back she was relatively shielded from the cold air but she couldn't quite stop herself from kneeling up to peer over the crest of Methuzar's neck to see the ground drop away from them. She shivered with a mix of thrill and fear to which Methuzar gave a growl of unease and she dropped back into a more stable position. They gently circled under Nova and Merrick's watchful eyes, trying out their new wings and weights. Methuzar assured his little rider that she was barely a feather weight upon his back while she commented warmly upon his methodical and steady flight pattern and altitude, both gradually acclimatising to this new way of being. Eventually they both felt steady enough and confident enough to soar further to the limits of Merrick's commands, though never out of them, awaiting the signal for them to begin the journey towards their new home.

 

[Mowkie]

Time to Trust

That emotion...that is real. Shirin can feel it course through her as he goes on with his angry sarcasm, her body trembling with the rage that storms in her head. Her eyes close, her brows furrowing as a tear falls down her cheek. She wants to say, "Don't go..." or pull him back and apologize. But the memories of him breaking her attachment are too fierce, so instead she gives a scream and throws her sword on the ground at her feet, leaving her hands free to clench and unclench. She knows what more anger will do to her...that's why she doesn't let it flow...that's why she fights it. If it flows, she goes berserk...but she hasn't had an episode since her brother lost his leg. She takes a few deep breaths, glad that she had made it to a spot far enough away from the others, calming herself. Slowly, the trembling begins to subside, even as a few more tears fall, making streaks on her dirt-dusted face.

Byriarti had nodded to Wither in agreement before watching her leave. She is a good hatchmate...a good dragon. She thinks, calculates, determines. He skips most of that. A small smile rises on one corner of his face before frigid eyes look to his bondmate. He shakes his head at her, leaning down and huffing a hot breath into her hair. ~Get it together...you and I are stuck together, and I don't really want to be angry all the time. I'm sure you do not, either.~ She looks up at him, turning slowly, eyes sharp, and nods. "Yes, I guess it would figure I'm stuck with the least emotional dragon possible...wouldn't want to make the Son of Fire angy, lest he tear off our limbs!"

~Actually, it would be more of a burn you to a crisp, which I am extremely tempted to do right now....get it together, or I cause you a different feeling.~ His words are sharp now, his eyes cold as his crest begins to glow with inner fire. Shirin grumbles before sighing and picking up her blade, sending a glare his way and walking back towards the center to hear Merrick and Nova. With a huff of smoke, Byriarti follows, glad his threat had worked.

And this is about the time that the announcement is made, and Shirin's anger falls away to fear. Fly...she forgot that part. Her body grows rigid, her eyes widening. "I'm so dead...so terribly dead."

~What? Do you not trust me?~

There is sarcasm there, and the sarcasm is met with a whirl of his bondmate and daggers for eyes. "No, I don't trust you! Sure, you may be able to see every part of my brain, and sure I might be able to see part of yours, but trust is earned! You attacked me, nearly killed me, and then threatened me again when you felt for the first time what emotion feels like! How the hell am I supposed to trust you?!" At this, the Solar Dragon lets out a roaring laugh, nearly to the point that he falls on his side. In fact, his amusement at her reaction begins to filter her anger and fear, forcing her to relax a little. Her head fills with his laughter as the walls of the colliseum make it echo in the ears of the others. ~Oh, Shirin, you are too funny. Now...go get a harness so I can start to show you how much trust can be earned.~

Were his amusement not so potent, Shirin would shriek with anger...but instead only a bubble of laughter falls from her lips. She feels alien in her body for a moment. But she must regain her head. She shoves him out of her head, pushing away the euphoria, and blasts his head with her own emotion, instantly halting his laughter. "No! If I go get that saddle, you're coming with me. Better yet, you lead...and I'll watch you so you don't do something stupid."

~Why would I agree to such terms, human?~

"Because you bonded with me, and if we're to get anywhere, you're going to have to do some of the things I ask you to do. Since you don't respond well to asking, here's my ordering! Now either lead me to your den, or we're not going anywhere?"

~I could always carry you....though the teeth might puncture your precious armor.~

"Carry me against my will, and I'll find just the right moment to shave off some of that hair of yours." Her eyes narrow as his face twitches with a slight tic of anger. He hesitates only briefly, but does as she wishes. Sure, this is not off to a good start, but at some point someone has to give in. Shirin wouldn't do so this time.

Making their way to Byriarti's sandy, sunny den, the bondmates remain silent and reserved. No words are spoken, even as they begin to probe and explore each other's minds, trying to find a weak point. It is the dragon more than the human, but even so. When they make it there, Byriarti motions towards the straps Merrick had mentioned, sized for his bulky stature, hanging on points against the wall. With a sigh, she plants her sword in the sand before grabbing the straps from the wall and walking over to him. "Soooo....how is this going to work, exactly?"

~Think of it as doing your armor...you're suiting up a dragon.~

"And your hair...stuff? Won't that hurt?"

Byriarti looks to Shirin, his frigid eyes now showing a hint of fear. ~That is something I must work through...but be warned...you will feel the pain, too.~ Shirin gulps, her body shaking slightly. This ride won't be a fun one...but it is needed. She takes a step forward, then another, slowly getting closer to the dragon, uneasiness flooding her thoughts.

He stands tall so that she can wrap the harness around his crest, crouches so she can toss two straps over his back, crying out as the first amount of pain washes over her back, burning and stabbing at the same time, as though every tiny hair along her spine become white-hot daggers and dig into her skin. "Gods, is this how it is all of the time?" All Byriarti can manage is a slight nod. Most of the strapping itself is much like that of a horse, and within a few moments, the straps are in place, but for one.

~Are you ready?~

"No."

~Get on.~

Slowly, Shirin obliges, stepping onto the dragon's outstretched leg and swinging herself onto his back, giving another cry as she sits on more of the fine hairs along his spine. By now, the tears are once more flowing, only this time from pain rather than anger. With shaking hands, she straps herself to Byriarti, tightening her legs as best she can along his sides. "Okay...let's get this over with."

Every step is agony. Every breath brings more air into the burning pain. There is no stopping it...but it quells the dangerous side of the dragon, keeping the temptations of doing something dangerous at a minimum, even though the thoughts of throwing his rider off do pass his mind. It's his knowing that she's experiencing the same pain that keeps him from doing so. This is a must, and Byriarti understands that. Just being a dragon, he signed up for having a rider...and yet he didn't sign up for something that makes him so vulnerable. After about twenty minutes of walking as lightly as possible along the ground, a little of the pain subsides into numbness, and Shirin's tears have stopped, becoming cold determination. Byriarti pauses, looking back at Shirin as she pants in pain. ~Flying might be easier...shall we try?~ Slowly, he is granted a nod.

Without another second to waste, he leaps into the air, roaring at the burning rush along his spine that make his wings twice as hard to push out. Nonetheless, he snaps them out and beats down hard. The surge of pain is only followed by a brief second of relief as Shirin rises slightly into the air at his upstroke. But with every downstroke, the relief falls away to harsher pain and more desire to go to his den and cry like a hatchling. By the time he gets to the air above the colliseum, he feels drained...but now the sun is all around him and his rider...they pull on it as he levels himself out just above the walls and begins to glide, giving a downstroke only when absolutely necessary. The currents are a good mix today, and he can easily flide from warm to cool, keeping his altitude roughly the same. Finally, the numbness returns, and both dragon and rider feel like they can take on the world. Shirin shoots Byriarti a smile.

"I think as long as we have this, I can trust you." Byriarti looks back at her...contemplating...his thoughts a whirlpool of agony and slow processing. But finally, he gives a mental sigh, nodding and looking back out.

~Thank you.~

 

[Erranruin]

Well this was a weak position. Standing in the centre of an open Colosseum with no cover, no way of escape and no conceivable means of defending yourself if surrounded. This was definitely not the place Hakeem would have chosen to meet a dragon for the first time, not that that was something he could control anymore. This was his ground and he was going to stand it, he hadn't come all this way and climbed that gods be damned mountain to just be eaten. So he simply stood, relaxed and calm and thoughtfully inspecting the various gathered individuals around him. So many pale faces... he had never been so outnumbered. Was that a teenager? How old could half of these people be? And so many women! Concern lodged deep in his gut and he felt a slight prickle of disquiet taint his opinion of this Merrick. To allow so many precious ladies into this ugliness was uncalled for, surely he had had a choice in the matter? He quietly ground his teeth and rolled his thoughts around is head before finally the gates opened and the madness ensued.

Now Hakeem was used to the suddenness and harshness of war and when the wall of fire and the roar of seemingly a thousand angry beasts struck him he braced against the turmoil, took one step back to steady himself, and focused on dodging any oncoming creatures that threatened him. He saw many shapes and hues and claws, some forms seemed to stop and inspect him but they all quickly moved on. Eventually the fire died down and the Colosseum was once again visible, individuals all around coupling with huge, monstrous and deadly looking beasts of all manners and shapes. It was truly a glorious sight to see, though somehow Hakeem felt almost guilty for looking. The expressions of understanding, shock, adulation, pleasure, pain and distress that settled on the faces of all his fellows astonished him, this was far too private a thing for someone to be looking at. He averted his eyes from most of them before long, instead looking around himself and noting a definite absence of dragon. While everyone around him seemed to have almost immediately caught their destined mate, the dragon having been draw to them like a rock to the ground, but Hakeem was alone.

He spun where he stood, wondering if he simply was not acceptable Dragon Taming material, maybe he lacked something that these children, women and civilians possessed? The thought made him chuckle to himself very quietly, well that would be an interesting thing indeed. But just then his trained and cunning eye caught a glinting flash from the shadows of the barrier around the arena. Curious, he walked towards it at a gentle pace, the shape of some creature appearing to him the closer he came. Eventually he stopped a few metres away, sensing a great tension and anxiety from the posture and manner of the beast. Certainly when it turned to look at him, the shadow flinched away and seemed to try and look everywhere but at him, its head very low to the ground though the creature itself was still many heads larger than any horse. Its strange behaviour quirked a smile from Hakeem's lips and he squatted down to the ground to try and gain some eye-contact, its obvious caution making him instinctively want to protect.

"Althminah, why do you hide? Come out into the light for I know that you shine." He knew that, having been raised by a man of the common tongue, his own language would likely not be understood so he thought hard back to his lessons in languages long ago and tried to bring back the fluid tongue, though he couldnt quite express himself properly without some of his mother tongue. In seeming reaction to his words, a snuffling nose poked through the shadows and was illuminated in the light of day. It took some deep breaths, inhaling Hakeem's scent before finally the rest of a dainty pink head emerged. It was about the size of Hakeem's torso but light and thin and somewhat fragile looking.

I apologise, I was... I suppose I was shy. You seemed so.. powerful. Do you think I shine? Her large grey eyes, for it was definately a she, blinked curiously, her previous anxiety giving way to tentative interest. Her manner tugged a slow building but wide smile into Hakeem's lips, she was so ladylike and so careful and dainty. Was this really a dragon? A fierce and terrible dragon from the fables of old? It did not matter, Hakeem thought she was glorious.

"Althminah, all the jems of a crown do not shine such as you do." She blinked again, a little rapid fluttering of embarassment and pleasure as his words coaxed even more of her into the light. Her body was encrusted with tiny pinkish scales that gleamed like crystal and gave her a shimmering quality. Her wings as they appeared, showed a soft and smooth membrane that seemed silky to the touch and while her body was obviously powerful and strong and fit for the needs of a predator, her frame was also dainty and streamlined and light. Delicate like the body of a deer or an antelope.

Althminah? What does that mean? She asked, the tone of her voice becoming bolder and clearer in his mind.

"It translates to ah.. 'Precious' in the common tongue, I think." He murmured his words gently, like speaking to a little bird that had just alighted onto your hand. Again a series of fluttered blinking and a flick of the tip of her tail as it wrapped about her hind-leg.

If I am precious... will you protect me? Leader Obsidian Nova says we must fight and, and I will! If I have to but... I dont want to.. She seemed ashamed of her admission, curling in on herself and shuffling her wings anxiously but Hakeem could only smile a knowing and delighted smile, lifting his hand to gently cup her muzzle.

"I would defend you in battle for a thousand years or more, if you wished it of me." It seemed stange to him to be so dedicated to a creature but it was nothing he could help and his words were the honest truth. His answer appeared to kindle something inside her, she wriggled her hide and stepped out fully to encircle him, her muzzle never leaving the contact it had with his hand as she paced around his kneeling form in delight.

Then! I will have you! And suddenly his mind was blown to pieces. Fragments of himself flew everywhere and melded with another foreign consciousness. Suddenly there were a thousand memories and a thousand sensations and a million emotions thundering through his head and all he could feel was him and her and another creature born that was just them. He tried to pick through the mess, sort through the shear mountain of consciousness but he new it would take a lifetime or more before he could truly understand everything that he could see at that moment. Like a soft ribbon of silk, her thoughts brushed and entwined with his own and then he knew her. He knew her.​

 

[Esmeray]

Tetra Coliseum- Asa and Verebera
Enter the Dragons

Asa felt the chill of the cool morning hair as it flittered gently through her hair, only slightly brushing her bangs to the side. Her platinum blonde hair glistened slightly with the break of dawn as she and the others made way for the coliseum. It was about time for them to see the dragons, and for Asa to begin her path of redemption. How desperately she earned for this second chance. She enters the coliseum, and a rush of escaping air causes her twin tails to sway behind her as she stepped forward. She looked onward, to the doors that led to the center of the open coliseum, where she would soon bond with her very own dragon. She did not falter, keeping her composure as to ensure that she remained calm. The sound of heavy footing, and treading, echoed in the corridor as she and the small group of soon to be dragon tamers approached the doors. Asa, being in the front, gripped the handles before pushing the doors open. One by one they all filled the center of the room. Although, Merrick wasn't there waiting for them. Ava looked left and right before noticing the distinct sound of the beat of wings and looked up. There they were, Merrick and Obsidian Nova, circling above them gracefully in the air. A small smile creeps unto Asa's face as she watches them fly, oh how she wished she could fly with out a care in the world. Returning her attention to her fellow dragon tamers, Asa briefly looks over each one with a stern gaze, and a stoic expression. Though she made it a goal to keep away from the others she noticed them all, the stoutly woman with the burning hair. She looked homely, and fair. Asa couldn't help but be reminded how the woman looked like her mother, before her sister had died. Then shook the thought away not wishing to compare anyone to that dreadful woman. She looked at another woman, whose raven black hair was tied back neatly into a pony tail. She seemed to look almost oriental, and Asa wondered where exactly she had come from. Ava's eyes then flitted over to the next figure. It was the old man, she couldn't really remember his name, which was probably her own fault. The man did stand out from the rest due to his age but he seemed to not have much of a character. Then again, neither did Asa, so she looked him over none the less. He looked pretty handsome for a man his age, though she would never openly admit that aloud. When Asa looked up to inspect his face a bit more intently, she noticed he had been looking at her too, and immediately looked away with flushed cheeks. That was embarrassing, how did she not notice? Asa feels a presence step beside her, and she looks to her right to see that another had appeared before her. Who was this one? He seemed to be another man with shaggy long brown hair, but he didn't seem to show much interest in the others, so Asa decided to follow his example and pay attention to Merrick. Though, she had missed what he had said before he stepped back and the gates upon. Another small smile spreads upon her stoic face as she holds her hands out, and crack them. "Lets do this." she thought with a look of up most confidence and courageousness.

They all came out in a fury, and just about all the confidence Asa had immediately left her body as she the dragons glided through the air above them all. Asa looked around at her teammates in a panic, and realized that they all had fled due to the breath of the dragons raining down on them. Asa quickly dodged the flame of a pinkish looking dragon and barrel rolled to the side. From there she dashed over to the wall, and slammed her back up against it. She watched the scene and chaos ensue around her, and she hated it. "I thought this would more peaceful! What the heck Merrick!" Asa thought to herself as she looked in his direction, and clearly shoot the man a glare. Oh, she wanted to slug him. Though, her anger was quickly subsided as something wafted into her nose, the smell of the sea. She reeled, swaying a bit, but kept her posture by holding herself up by pressing a hand on the wall. There just had to be a sea dragon. Why couldn't Merrick had said something about that before she signed up for this? Or did he simply forget that she had a fear of it? Never the less, the smell made her move, she moved as far away from as she could, looking back to see the ugly beast waddle past her in the direction of another tamer. "What an ugly rat with wings." she shuddered, before finally bending over and vomiting against the wall.

"What a horrible thing to say about the Deep Sea Dragon, they could be really nice for all you know."

A voice, not of her own, speaks with in her mind. This caused Asa to jump backwards, then sway due to the weakness from before, and ultimately fall backwards onto her buttox. Asa wiped away at her mouth and leaned back against the wooden wall as she looked up to see the sight of a great white dragon. Immediately Asa was left speechless as she watched the dragons scales, lined with golden veins, glistened with the fire light from the flames behind them. The Celestial Dragon. It was obvious that what this dragon was, her grandmother had told her about these noble creatures. Asa couldn't imagine that such a beast would ever grace her with their presence. The dragon sat right in front of her, and Asa came back from the clouds. The two stared at each other intently.

"Wow, she has such pretty eyes..." Asa thought to herself, then gasped realizing that the dragon could hear it. "N-not like I'm impressed or anything, they're the same color as my own anyways." she quickly retaliated. Asa's heart stopped for a moment. That was incredibly rude. She was just rude to the Celestial Dragon. How could she screw that up? Asa begin to fret, as she hung her head.

"Thank you. I'm sure they definitely didn't impress you at all young one." The dragon answered with slight sarcasm, knowing full well just exactly Asa was trying to do, in Asa's mind. Through sheer hearing, Asa could make out a low guttural noise emitting from the dragon. Was she actually chuckling?
"Besides, I can tell you didn't mean to be rude. You seem to have developed an odd way of communicating with others, which you cannot help, so I forgive you." The dragon's voice was so mature and soothing, much like a mothers. Ava relaxed a bit, and merely glanced up at the dragon. The Celestial Dragon let out a disgruntled growl as she inched a bit closer to Asa. Asa did not move, for she didn't really notice that the creature had moved closer to her. "You should look others in the eye when they speak to you, and show off those pretty eyes you have."

Asa looked up at the dragon again, she was weary of the creature, not entirely sure what she was planning. "Are you not going to attack me?" Asa asked the dragon through their telepathy.

"Now why would I do that? Clearly that would only frighten you further...plus I can already see that you are not feeling well enough as it is to dodge my flame." The dragon points out what had occurred before their meeting and Asa shuddered again feeling a chill run up her spine as she recalled the beast.

"Then how are you going to test me?" Asa asks curiously, as she looks around the dragon at the others who were still scrambling about and dodging attacks. She noticed that her co-tamer with the beautiful flaxen hair was in a quarrel with one of the dragons, for she had actually raised her sword to it in a fit of defense. Misunderstanding the situation, seeing that the dragon had lifted his head and about to brazen the woman. A rush of Adrenaline pumps through Ava's body as she pushes herself from the wall and sprints towards them. What was that girl doing? Did she not see that the dragon was about to attack her with it's flame? Why was she not moving?
"DON'T!" Asa screamed in her head as she began to close in on the girl, as an attempt to save her, but she was brought to a halt when a blur of white slams in front of her path. Asa took a step back realizing that the Celestial Dragon had prevented her from moving forward with it's own tail. Asa immediately turned her eyes unto the dragon, a look of anger plaguing her face. "Move at once! I have to ensure her safety!" Asa demanded, side-stepping in order to pass the tail.

"It is unwise to interfere with the bonding of a dragon and its potential tamer I will not move." The great celestial dragon's voice echos in side Asa's mind once again, it was stern at first, but softened as the dragon continued. The tail coiled around Ava's ankle and lifted her up with ease.
"Why do you think that you have to ensure her safety? Watch. She is perfectly capable of defending herself."

Asa, struggled at first to get free, flailing about desperately. She heard the loud tumble, as if one of the large beasts had collapsed and Asa immediately returned her vision towards the woman and the solar drake. She had perfectly defended herself, and defeated the dragon. "I was so sure...., I just didn't want her getting hurt. I'm glad she's fine." Asa let out a sigh of relief as the tail lowered her back to the floor of the coliseum.

"Hmmn....you passed. For someone to set aside their own life for the sake of another, especially in a weak state such as yourself is truly something admirable that one wouldn't often find in a human. A true act of selflessness. That was my test, and you passed. You may call me Verebera Vuborma." The White dragon cooed with in Asa's mind as she twisted and turned her long body around to face Asa. She let out another low guttural sound, another chuckle, with the sheer look of surprise on Asa's face. Did choosing her send the poor girl into shock? Was something the matter? Never the less the dragon approached Asa, but was shocked to see Asa take a step away from her.
"What is the matter young one? Do you not wish to by my partner?" Verebera asked concerned as she sits on her hind legs once again. When Asa shook her head, Verebera could easily tell that she was keeping something from her. What ever it was, she could easily see the fear take hold of the young woman. Verebera lowered her head and eyed Asa curiously.
"You are holding back due to something that you fear. What is it? Why?"

Asa looked into the dragons crystal blue eyes and realized she had been wrong before, the creatures eyes were vivid much unlike her own which were pale and dull. Also was Verbera right? Did Ava truly wish to save the life of another out of selflessness, or was there only selfish reasons behind the action? Perhaps it was just a spur of the moment, generally Asa wouldn't risk her life for another....would she? For a brief moment she had forgotten why she had refused the bonding, because her mind wandered back and forth between these questions. Asa wasn't particularly sure herself just why she did such an action, but Verebera's question quickly and eventually brought her back to earth. The reality of the situation take hold of her again, feeling the anxiousness, nervousness, and fear weld up in her heart Asa's digits curled into her skirt as her eyes darted around, looking anywhere but Verebera's eyes.
"I'm afraid...of becoming close with anyone. That includes you. What if you regret your decision and dislike me?" Asa thought, not really wanting to think of her past experiences, but they haunted her and always shaped her choices, thoughts, ideas, and choices. Judging from that, this did not seem to be a good idea to Asa. There had to be someone better fit to be the trainer of such a great dragon. She couldn't help but feel unfit. "For all you know I could be a horrible, and bad person instead of this selfless human you so desire." Asa told the dragon, hinting that there was more behind Asa than what Verebera had just witnessed, and the sad part was that it was true.

"Young human, do I seem to be the type to dislike others? There are no bad, horrible people. Simply good people misguided unto a bad path. Misunderstood beings, who just need a shepard to guide them back unto the right path. I'm sure there is more to you than what I had seen, but that does not change the fact that you indeed tried to risk your own life for another. Be it for a selfish reason or not, it is still an act of selflessness. Today you made a step to the right path, you do not wish to be misguided anymore yes? I will help you no matter what happens and we will move forward together. Nothing in the past, and nothing in the future will change that. There is nothing to fear, for I will never regret my decision and leave you. That I can promise you." Verebera's voice was so soft and welcoming, nothing but the up most sincerity in her words. Verebera watched Asa closely, waiting to see if her words of encouragement and promise were enough to coax the young woman to accept the bond. When the negative aura surrounding Asa vanished, and she ultimately looked more relaxed, the dragon smiled and slowly moved closer to her. To comfort the woman further, Verebera nudge her head under Asa's left arm.

Asa tensed as Verebera nuzzled her snout under her arm, but she lifted her arm atop the dragons scalp, and gently rubbed the palm of her hand against the dragons beautiful white scales. Ava could hear Verebera pur in content, happy Ava had accepted, and Asa relaxed with the dragon at her side. She rested her cheek against Verebera's snout and now they were both smiling softly. Their bonding began in that instant and the happiness fled as the overwhelming sadness engrossed them both. It hurt Ava so much to have to witness a past she so dearly wishes to forget, and not only that but to share it with another being as well. The emotions were so surreal that it suffocated her both body and soul, causing Asa's legs to grow weak. One by one her memories flowed between them as Verebera dwelled with in her mind, and Ava with in Verebera's. The dragon could see it all. She could see the stories of her grandmother and know them all, the near death experience by the sea, her sister, her parents, their deaths, Asa's madness, Her new life, her lost love, her suicide attempt, meeting Merrick, her hardships, and everything else in between. While Asa could see Verebera's life with Merrick, and it was unlike any other. She could see Merrick raising the dragons for the past two years, and finding it quite endearing. While Verebera's life was certainly more relaxed it just wouldn't be enough to shroud the darkness within Asa's memories, and the sadness and pain greatly outnumbered any amount of good that had happened between them as a whole. It filled them both to the brim until Asa could no longer handle it anymore and her legs gave out from under her. Collapsing unto the hard, cold floor Asa sat there on her knees breathing heavily, before the most horrid and distorted scream, probably due to the fact that she was indeed mute and couldn't form any sort of clear noise, escaped from her Diaphragm. All the pent up pain, anger, and sadness was in that one scream, before she fell silent and began sobbing profusely. Big tears rolled down and stained her cheeks as she cried out like that of a lost child.

"Shhh, it's alright my Asa. I understand everything." Verebera's soothing tone entered Asa's mind as she shifted her wing behind Asa to hide her from the others. She knew from their bond that Asa was not the type of woman to openly cry in front of a group of others. She was to prideful for that. Keeping Ava close Verebera comforted Asa as Asa clung to her dragon's side. Though Verebera hadn't realized it herself at the time, due to her concern over calming Asa down, the dragon herself had let a few tears slip. "What an overwhelming sadness you had to endure all alone. Shhh...dry your eye's. I see now the pains of your past, and the reason for your reluctance. I swear to you, I will stop at nothing to ensure that your future brings nothing but good tidings and happiness. I will be the light to guide you, and the...how do you humans put it?" Verebera paused as Asa's sobbing quickly reduced to light sniffles as the young platinum haired woman wiped her eyes and cheeks with her gloves. When she looks up to Verebera, making full eye contact they continued together.

"A shoulder to cry on." Both Asa and Verebera said in unison, which followed by the both chuckling from it. That was something Asa certainly had to get used to, but she couldn't be more content. The burdens she had to carry alone, she could finally share with someone, and the relief was something Asa had been searching for in her past years. She finally had someone who understood everything there was about her. The thought sent an unusual feeling with in Asa that couldn't be described as anything else but...happiness and joy. When Asa began crying again Verebera gave her new partner a concerned growl but Asa held up her hands as a large, beautiful, and rare smile blessed Asa's face. Seeing this, Verebera lifted her wings to reveal a now smiling Asa to the others, which caused Asa to snap out of it and turn away from them quickly.

"Ek! My cheeks are still all wet from crying Verebera! Wait wait!" Asa panicked as she brought her hands to her eyes and furiously wiped off her face once again.

"I just thought it would be nice for your soon to be friends to see that beautiful smile you have." Verebera chuckled once again at Asa, watching her become flustered over such a little thing. "Are you blushing?" Verebera teased only a little, finding it to be a bit cute.

"What! N-no!" Asa hissed back crossing her arms and turning to face the others once again. "I just didn't want anyone to see me in such a distressed state. I have to set a good example is all," Asa scoffed looking away briefly. As Verebera looked away to watch her brothers and sisters bond with the other humans Ava glanced back up at her dragon. "T...t-thank you." Asa's telepathic thanks was soft and subtle, but it made Verebera smile none the less. The dragon let out a small muse once again, and the both of them returned their attention to the other dragons and tamers. While it would be unclear to anyone else what exactly Asa was being thankful for, Verebera knew, and that's all that mattered.

 

[Wanderfool]

Tetra Coliseum

The morning was filled with winter's bite as assorted travelers, warriors, filed into the expansive space that was the Tetra Coliseum. It was an interesting thing the coliseum, it was completely made of smooth black and weathered grey stone. A feat in itself, Isolde thought to herself, though shaking her head she refocused on what unfolded before her. Today wasn't the day to admire the architecture around her. Isolde had been one of the last to trample in, still unable to make a decision even at the threshold. It wasn't a matter of fear, or even thrill. Isolde was one to weigh the options set before her, and give notice to all choices she had before making a decision. Others however, couldn't get into the Coliseum quick enough, and if anything pushed her over the edge, it was the anticipation.

Now she stood, the metal of Hadvar's handiwork digging into the sawdust below her feet, as she waited with all the patience of the world. Now Isolde wasn't exactly known for her patience, but at times like then when the air's tense with anxiety was she able to stay calm. Resting a hand on the hilt of a sword Reven had borrowed her before the two of them left Galidus, she waited.

- - -

Isolde had been able to digest seeing the Tetra boy upon the back of a dragon with ease, but as soon as the humidity suddenly increased she slowly became uneasy. So fairy tales were unfolding before her very eyes, it remained to be seen if it was a threat. Then the beasts were released upon the few anxious humans, short to say Isolde's own anxiety was slowly increasing. Dodging a frightened girl with a burning sleeve, Isolde dashed to the far side of the coliseum. To her left a woman was dancing with a dragon whom she seemed to be speaking back to. The dragon was a beautiful gold, scales glinting in the slight sunlight. A head of red caught her eye as Isolde scanned her environment, a woman stood before a dragon with scales the color of earth. They also seemed to have a connection, as she spoke the drake made a series of hummings that made no sense to Isolde from such a distance.

Isolde couldn't help but feel she had been tossed into a place of bloodshed, but as she looked onto the drama she saw not one person severely injured. Not a single soul was dead, but Isolde still felt mildly uncomfortable with her new "mentor's" way of handling things. Just then a song as beautiful as the sea was blue, entered into her mind. Frowning, Isolde looked for the source and found it. A beautiful blue dragon slowly dropped down to the ground before her, its wings stirring the sawdust on the ground. The song was not one that was heard by ear. Rather it was heard by the heart. As though she was being gently pulled into the dragon, like the gentle waves of the ocean, she walked forth. The dragon's blue tail flicked side to side as she dreamily was enticed by the sea drake. Too soon, the song was shattered as a fiery ball of scales dropped down onto the dragon's back. The metallic ringing of scales and talons accompanying screeches between the two dragons.

Eyes fluttering, Isolde stumbled back and tripped on someone's lost shield. She watched on in a mixture of intrigue and terror as the two tumbled with each other, blue and red flames engulfing their bodies as the fight amongst themselves wore on. Finally the flames and smoke ceased, the blue dragon shooting from the red dragon like a bat from hell. The red dragon sending a ball of flames after it, before it turned its attention to Isolde. Its brilliant orange eyes boring into hers, making her flush with a phantom heat.

Puny boy.
The voice made Isolde's forehead begin to sweat as though she stood too close to a fire. Still dizzy from the song that beckoned her to sleep, she slowly began to stand. The drake, however, swept her weakened knees from under her with his charred tail. Grunting from the impact, she looked at the dragon who stared back at her. Its eyes filled with disdain. Sighing and shaking her head, she stood up a bit quicker this time but once more it knocked her legs out from beneath her. This time, the force was much harder and the impact was enough to shake her bones. Gritting her teeth she sat there for a moment, her eyes never wavering from his. Without speaking, she rolled backwards and vaulted to a standing position. The drake's whiplike tail missing her legs by mere inches.

The small victory made her swell with pride as she eyed the dragon, who in turn looked much angrier than he had a moment ago. Bouncing on the balls of her feet, Isolde evened her beating heart as the dragon roared in anger. Thrashing at a terrified human with its jaws.

Puny boy! You will become my breakfast!
Then, as its nostrils started to smoke Isolde stood her ground as a massive stream of fire cascaded around her. The flames licked at both her arms, causing but a slight grimace from Isolde. Suddenly the flames stopped, Isolde's eyes temporarily blinded by the smoke that cloaked both trainer and dragon. Tears streamed down her soot covered cheeks allowing her to finally be able to see. Hot breath brushed over her face, as the dragon stood before her. His eyes blinking curiously as he snorted in her face again, a cloud of charcoal and ash covering her. Wrinkling her nose she narrowed her eyes, and returned the favor. The dragon shied back and rose up to his full height peering down at her. The two were silent for a long time, then Isolde felt a sudden fire fill her soul. It was almost unbearably hot as she was knocked to her knees. Plaor'z watched curiously when he felt all the ice of winter bite at his heart, roaring he bucked and darted into the sky with anger. Then all at once, the two finally felt normal again. The climax of the bond breaking, and fixing itself in a single stroke.

Finally the red dragon landed and approached Isolde, puffs of smoke rising from his nostrils. Puny boy, it seems as though you will be my mine. Though I had hoped for something much more than you as my trainer. I only deserve the best after all, I am the best. Isolde glared up at her new companion, he was much more annoying than she thought dragons could be. "Same to you bonfire." The dragon looked incredulous, and Isolde felt his animosity to her. Bonfire? Then to prove a point, the dragon breathed fire directly into the air. The flames raining down ash and ambers, it was quite the sight. Isolde looked back down to her dragon, and began to laugh. The red dragon just snorted more ash onto her with an indignant snort. Finally when Isolde caught her breath, she met the dragon's eyes once more and stood. Without fear in her heart, she put a hand to the dragon's fire hot snout and only felt cool scales. Placing her lips to the the nose of the dragon, she felt his anger waver. "I am Isolde." He leaned into the human named "Isolde's" touch, as his voice flickered inside her.

Plaor'z.
- - -

Watching as the other trainers gathered an interesting form of almost a horse's bridle, albeit they were longer and much hardier. Isolde glanced at Plaor'z who just glared at her as if she was dense. Running her fingers through her short blonde hair which earned her the nickname "Puny Boy" as she jogged into the gates. The inside of the coliseum was just impressive as the arena, there were massive stalls that could have fit a score of horses comfortably. And their riders. Easing from one foot to the other as Plaor'z stayed outside growling and snapping at the other dragons near the entrance, she began to look for his den.

Standing before the den, completely blackened by char and soot which still smoked ever slightly, she looked to the side where the leather straps hung heavily on the hook. Quickly grabbing them she hurried outside to Plaor'z who had burned a neat circle of fire to lay upon as he... "Now is not the time for a nap." Isolde said as she let the straps fall to the ground, her voice rising with her temper. Plaor'z looked up at his tamer who thought she could just hop onto his back and ride off into the merry sunset. Simply blowing a ring of smoke around the woman, he turned in his ash pile and flicked his tail under her legs. Isolde hitting the ground once more, groaned at the aching that was starting in her tailbone.

Sawdust was lifted from the ground in a cloud, as a couple of the dragons shot up into the air. Isolde looked on with awe, finally standing up as she whistled long and low appreciating the grace of the drakes and their trainers in the air. As a girl, Isolde always wondered what it would be like to fly-- I wish you would shut up, your thoughts are noisy and they crowd my thinking. Isolde jumped from the sudden intrusion of her thoughts and the happy vision of being a girl in a strange place. Hands on her hips she looked at Plaor'z, "Well I am most apologetic..." She sneered, bowing deep and low. "Your majesty." This sarcasm caught Plaor'z's attention. His tail stirred up more sawdust as he spun around, glaring down at his trainer. "You will not call me such names, and treat me so patronizingly so! I am a dragon!" he grumbled and sputtered sparks into her face like an unhappy child. Isolde cooly glared back at him. "Yes, a lazy uncooperative disrespectful dragon!" She wringed her hands, her posture still perfectly straight, endlessly dignified even in mild fristration.

"We are like fire and ice, but understand this Plaor'z, we are bonded through the soul. There is nothing either of us can do about it. That man," here she pointed to Merrick "Told me something I could not believe, but there has always been a part of me missing. Not just my memories, but something deeper and more profound. I can not and will not disagree with that." Stepping closer to the drake her voice rising louder. "I am glad to have found you though you want nothing of me, I ask that you only see that we were both lost. Time, distance, lives have separated dragons from their trainers. Just find the blessing that you found yours!"

Isolde was filled with such a fiery passion that even Plaor'z was stunned by it. The way her icy blue eyes flamed when she spoke, it was endearing and something the dragon want to possess. AS she stomped away leaving the straps that would steady her upon his back, he looked at her. It was true, Plaor'z had dreaded the day when he thought his freedom would be stripped away. Freedom to do as he pleased was all he ever wanted, he hadn't wanted a puny human girl snatching it away from him. He had no need for a trainer, but something in the girl struck something in him. There was a fire in her spirit, a strength in her voice. She had the blood of a leader and her could smell it on her.

Isolde stood watching as some trainers paced the circumference of the coliseum, their dragons learning gaining a feel for the extra weight, and the riders feeling the movements of the drakes just as Merrick instructed. Everything in her heart yearned to share the same with Plaor'z, but he was as stubborn as a mule. There was a gentle prod, more like a gingerly shove forward, onto her shoulder. Turning around she saw Plaor'z brushing the straps toward her. Smiling brilliantly, she picked up the straps and dipped her head with gratitude. Plaor'z responded a simple turning of his back to her.

After gently tightening the straps around his broad chest and scaly back, each with her well practiced stable knot. Taking a step back she admired her work, a hand around the lee way leather. "Well, that does it." Isolde nodded and reached to Plaor'z who stayed still. Treading carefully, she carefully stepped up onto his unoffered leg and vaulted onto his back. Sliding onto him as if it was the easiest thing in the world. The most natural even. This effortless mounting came from being around horses her entire life, even when she was back in Otamur she trained in the equestrian studies.

But being on the back of Plaor'z was a completely new experience, the heat from his body and the way he drew breath. It was absolutely incredible, however the dragon had a different idea. After his tamer got settled onto his back, who was surprisingly light, he began to walk around the ring. Snapping at the Sea Drake who had attempted to bond with Isolde. Was that... envy? With the thought he felt a surge of anger through his body and before Isolde could also recognize the feeling of adrenaline, the dragon took to the skies. Against the words of Nova, the warning and threat completely useless in warding off Plaor'z from misbehaving.

Isolde never screamed in fear, she only acted. Quickly sliding down the back of the hotheaded dragon from earth's pull and the momentum of Plaor'z speed, she wrapped her leg in the extra leather and pulled herself upright. Just then Plaor'z decided it would be a good idea to barrel to the right, throwing her balance off once more. She would not back down so easily, no longer treading lightly Isolde dug her metal boot into the beast's scales she growled. "Plaor'z. Stop this nonsense. I have proved myself to you have I not?" The dragon faltered at the tone and force put behind her words, but he wasn't backing down either. The two flew higher as Plaor'z wings were folded to his back, him speeding into the sky. Fear began to creep into Isolde's spirit, and she welcomed the feeling. Fear sharpened the senses, and kept her alive. In return, the dragon that antagonized her felt unsteady and a bit scared himself.

"As your tamer and soul mate, I command you to land." Isolde whispered into the wind, but the power of her words went deeper. Plaor'z found himself unable to ignore her words as he slowly spread his wings, lowering their altitude. Finally, the two landed back to the coliseum and Isolde caught the breath she had held since her dragon first took to the skies. Laughing darkly she spoke between rasps, "You know Orz... I wasn't ready." Touching her forehead to her dragon's neck she sighed softly, a mix of frustration and thrill. "Now please, let's just take it slow." Plaor'z snorted and pawed at the ground as he did as he was told. Finally.

 

[haybalebarn]

Rita
&
Wither

Rita didn't get very much peace and quiet after his little spat with Shirin. Luckily for him, Wither had done a surprisingly good job of calming him down, sharing some of her memories and giving him some more insight into herself. That was, until Merrik and Nova decided to play leader again. It wasn't the fact that Merrik was above him that annoyed Rita; it was the pompous manner in which everything had to be done. Each step of the way he was reminding those gathered here about what a great and important day it was. Yeah, yeah, Rita had gotten it after the first time. But no, the man just couldn't shut up about it. The same with their shadowy opponent. Yes, he existed. But that didn't mean Merrik and Nova had to remind them about it every time they spoke! The whole world knew of the existence of the taint in the north, there was no denying it, yet the whole world didn't waste it's time mentioning his name every few seconds in conversation. Merrik was a man who had made his whole identity revolve around his leadership, and Rita couldn't help but think Merrik was paper thin, not to mention boring.

Rita could feel tinges of amusement coming through his bond directed at his thoughts and he was about to make a remark to Wither about it when he received a strong reprimand from her to pay attention. Begrudgingly he did so, and when he did his face lit up in a moment. Flight. He'd been hoping they'd get to that. After all, one of the biggest perks of being a dragon was to fly right? They weren't just scaly fire-breathing beasts; they were flying scaly fire-breathing beasts. Wither was a tad insulted by this thought and she let him know, but she wasn't truly angry. She had a feeling he was going to be excited about flight by digging through his memories. As Rita watched Nova and Merrik perform their midair acrobatics, he couldn't help but feel slightly impressed despite his dislike for Merrik's showboat nature.

After Wither had received her reprimand along with all of the other dragons, she and Rita began walking back to her den to gather the harness there. After a few steps Rita closed his eyes and put a hand against one of Wither's shoulders, allowing her to lead him as he tried to familiarize himself with her gait. It was surprisingly easy for him to walk with his eyes closed, and even he was surprised that he trusted Wither enough to lead him. Trust wasn't a thing for him. But feeling her stride felt so… natural. He could feel the corded muscles move back and forth as she stepped, the power hiding right underneath her cool scales. He barely noticed when they reached the den, and Wither had to nudge him both physically and mentally to grab the harness.

The pair walked outside and while Rita began to put on the harness Wither observed some of the other pairs as they followed their own steps towards flight. Most of the partners were ahead of them, seeing as how the pair had taken their time to walk to the den. It seemed A'untyr and his partner were quick to acclimate to each other, being some of the first ones off the ground. Halazes and her partner were taking things a bit slower, walking circles around the arena. Methuzar and his partner had taken their time and were around the same stage in the process as Rita and Wither. She would have looked around at the other pairs, but Rita had finished with the harness, and so she turned her attention back to him. She could feel his excitement rising as he addressed her. "Ready?"

Always. She lowered herself slightly to allow Rita an easier climb onto her back and he quickly completed the final steps to secure himself tightly. When Wither was satisfied with the harness she began to plod around the arena, carefully monitoring her partner as she went. Rita forced himself to take slow breaths, once again closing his eyes as he focused on his dragon and his dragon alone. Even though he saw nothing, he found that he knew exactly how long her stride was, when each footfall touched the ground, her speed, acceleration and deceleration, he saw none of it, yet he knew it. Within what he could sense was one lap around the coliseum, the footsteps beneath him didn't feel separate at all. They felt like they were his, because they were. He opened his eyes and simply nodded. With a blast of air throwing his hair in every direction, they were off the ground and heading towards the skies.

As they climbed, up and up, Rita let out a laugh of excitement, a grin on his face. He couldn't help it. There was nothing like this experience in the whole world, and he was one of the few to feel it. He took a glance towards the ground and couldn't help but feel like its master as he rose above it. Soon they reached a cruising altitude and circled the arena close, but not too close, to the other flying dragons. The grin was still on Rita's face as he closed his eyes, enjoying the feeling of the wind pushing his body ever so slightly, to and fro. Wither was content to simply fly in gentle circles as Rita enjoyed his new found world. This was the better part of him, the one she hoped to draw out into the light all of the time. She couldn't be happier with her partner though. Even though their personalities may be vastly different, when it came down to doing things, they were simply one.

Her thoughts were slightly interrupted by a rush of wings overhead; she glanced up to see Zarketh flying her fast circles around the arena. Wither let out a slight growl of annoyance, and Rita opened one eye to look at her before closing it again to enjoy the wind. Wither wasn't certain if Zarketh would even be able to keep her partner alive with how reckless she was. The next time Zarketh flew near to Wither she sent out a thought that the two dragons and their riders could hear. I'm surprised you haven't killed your partner with your antics yet, Zarketh.

 

[Kyara]

​

I'm surprised you haven't killed your partner with your antics yet, Zarketh.

Zarketh gave a thunderous roar, loud enough to make the ears of everyone around ring painfully but just short of doing any permanent damage. Her anger rolled through the bond, taking Tara by surprise as she dove steeply towards the swamp dragon, only swerving away to avoid a collision at the last moment. Tara clung tight to the harness as she was pushed around by the dragon's quick changes in direction, too distracted by trying to stay upright and the stream of furious thoughts from Zarketh to think about holding her back.

Don't take it out on me if your human can't keep up with you. I am perfectly capable of looking after her, as she is herself. Zarketh sent the thought to Wither then continued just to Tara, That stuck up dragon always sticking her ugly nose in everyone else's business.

Tara collected her thoughts enough to respond, No matter how judgemental she is we have to fight alongside them, we can't afford to fight with our allies! Her words were somewhat undermined by the irritation she also felt towards the other dragon and Zarketh snorted, unimpressed.

Dragons fight, that's what we do. I will not ignore an insult to both of our abilities. Wither may be an idiot sometimes but even she wouldn't turn on us to the benefit of our enemies. If you want to worry about that you should look at Plaor'z.

 

[Erranruin]

~First Flight~​

Veshna was so soft. Her warmth was suffusing and glowing and purely theraputic and though Hakeem knew she could breath fire he couldn't quite believe that it would burn anyone. He had risen from his kneeling position and now the new pair were taking curious steps around each other, Veshna twittering and fluttering about him with unboundable eagerness and enthusiasm. She was trying very hard to contain her girlish dazzlement as she looked deeper and deeper into her new bondmate's mind, her emotions flying high at his accomplishments and diving low everytime he got hurt. Sometimes she realised herself and drew back in a hurry, almost completely removing herself from the bond, utterly mortified that she had so breached his privacy without his permission. But each time, Hakeem was patient and coaxed her back, reassuring her he was not angry and did not mind her curiousity, welcomed it even. He wanted her to know his life. He also wanted to pry but he was a patient and slow old man and he wanted to let her expend her excitement before pushing his own interest on her. She was so utterly fascinated by him and his life, delighted and overwhelmed by his accomplishments, and then suddenly... Why was such a man hers?

It must be a mistake... She murmured suddenly, her brightness dimming to a forlorn colour and her tail and head drooping a little. You cannot be mine.. I'm not big or brave or... I'm not fit! Are you sure you shouldn't choose Verebera? Or Methuzar? Or Byriarti? They are mighty and pure and perfect and strong and brave and..

Her anxious tide of ramblings was cut short as Hakeem gently grasped her muzzle and lifted it to look at him, pressing his other hand against her cheek and gently drawing soothing circles under her eyes. She blinked at him nervously before cautiously and haltingly leaning into his touch, a trilling purr erupting from her chest and vibrating through his palm. That made him smile and he bent to kiss her forehead, her scales soft to the touch and warm. Her trembling heart began to slow under his ministrations and he felt her nervous energy and paranoia dissipate as he tried to bathe her in his own feelings of delight and esteem conjured by her existence. She began fluttering again and suddenly seemed to be suffused with a warmth that Hakeem could only equate with a blush. Another thing to make him smile. Really, he was becoming soft, he didn't suppose he'd smiled so much in a day for more than ten years.

"For good or ill, I am yours. There is nothing to question." Veshna flicked the tip of her tail back and forth happily and after a pause to stare into his eyes a little while longer, she was about to return to her raiding of his mind when Obsidian Nova's voice boomed into their thoughts and cut off their meeting. They both sighed, having had less time than the other Dragon Tamers to explore each other, but Hakeem knew duty best and he turned his attention to their young commander and his Dragon. Veshna circled him a few times before controlling herself and following his example, still trying to impress him.

While this time is precious, and today a day to remember for the rest of your chosen eternal lives, we must none of us forget the true reason why this Order has been summoned. Why our great race has returned to these lands.We are the New Order, we are the leaders of Illos, the protectors of these lands, and as we speak, they become tainted by an ancient darkness. Today you become tamers of dragons, today you become legends.

Hakeem had very little time for such grandiose speeches. He did not begrudge their Dragon Mentor for using rousing rhetoric, he had done it himself in the past, but it affected him little and he awaited the moment when their commanders would actually begin to command. He knew why he was here and it was not to become a legend. Veshna on the other hand was thoroughly and deeply moved by the whole speech, her neck stretching up towards her elder and her wings shuffling in excitement. That was until she sensed Hakeem's apathy and endeavoured to hide her enthusiasm, trying to mimic his relaxed and cool manner. But ah, his concern came back as he looked about him and all he could see was seemingly children and women with only one man of a competent appearance above the age of thirty. Were these really to be the leaders, legends and defenders of Illos? Most were young enough to be his children. Yes, it really concerned him.

But before he could properly look at each of his fellows, Merrick continued on with his practiced speech. However now, although he was still taking in every word, Hakeem was focusing on what the man was doing... At the word 'fly' Veshna wriggled and shuffled with a mixture of anticipation and slight fear. Hakeem was about to address where that tendril of concern came from in his dragon but at that moment his attention was completely drawn by their Commanders impressive yet exceedingly reckless display of aerial prowess. Even Hakeem had his heart in his throat as he watch Merrick plummet to the ground, the tension in Hakeem's muscles only releasing once Obsidian Nova had caught him again.

That was not a stunt Hakeem would have advised. In front of an audience of trained and disciplined soldiers, a display like that would certainly impress. But with half the watchers being barely twenty and very few of them seeming to have had proper military training, that show could easily ignite them into recklessness and stupidity. But Hakeem had to pull himself back, he was no longer a General here, it was not his place to question their Commander, no matter his experience or ability. This was going to be an interesting problem to solve. After fifteen years of command, how was he going to cope with dropping back down to the status of recruit? Well, no matter how it felt, he wouldn't be discouraged. Veshna included her own tentative thoughts, explaining that Merrick and Nova were indeed impressive and charismatic leaders and that, although she was sure Hakeem was right, their Commanders were good in her opinion.

Finally it seemed their Mentors were ready to start giving orders. While Obsidian Nova was explaining the limits of their first flight, Hakeem began to stride towards the hold that he instinctively knew was Veshna's. Ah, Hakeem! I can carry you! The Rose Pink Dragon skipped along beside him, her strides small so that she did not leave him behind. Hakeem chuckled and shook his head gently. "What kind of man would I be to let a lady carry me everywhere? You are no beast of burden." That stopped Veshna in her tracks a little, Hakeem sensing the same blushing warmth melting across their bond, before she trilled again to herself and endeavoured to catch up with him. He had lapsed back completely into his own language, their connection now meaning that Veshna could completely understand him even when she had never heard the words until now. She also seemed to prefer it, his words and his meanings matched much more meaningfully in his mother tongue. Entering the stall, he was immediately hit but the soft scent of meadow flowers, a perfume unlike any he had tasted before. He imagined if he closed his eyes, he would be in the plains of Trespa just after the first rains of spring, pink, yellow and red flowers blooming all around him. But he had not the time for such indulgence and he quickly found the mentioned leather straps and lifted them carefully, testing their weight and quality having been around horse leathers and bridles for his whole life. These seemed of good quality and he had faith that they would hold him if they needed to, though he was very sure it would not come to that.

He came back over to his dragon, Veshna having waited for him outside. She tried to be helpful, stretching her wings in the right places to give Hakeem space to work as he tried to position each buckle correctly. However at first her nerves sent innumerable twitches and figettings down her spine and limbs, dislodging the straps from their correct position and making Hakeem's task more difficult. In the end he was forced to halt his efforts.

"zx'rah sidah, I sense something troubling you.." He felt a repressed anxiousness in her heart but one that she tried to hide from him, though she could not completely. A rush of eclectic emotions barraged him in response to his words but he did manage to pick out a few such as guilt and embarassment and after a few moments of silent waiting with Veshna struggling visibly, she finally relented to his calm and measured gaze. I know I should be confident but... I am so afraid I will drop you, what if I fail? A dragon should not be cowardly... Hakeem shook his head and sighed quietly to himself, gently returning to his task before he started speaking.

"The young always doubt themselves, it is healthy, it keeps you cautious and safe. It gladdens me that you have not the recklessness that a few of your brothers and sisters seem to possess. I wish my eldest had such caution when he was young." As he spoke he worked, but this time with more purpose. Before and after he placed and tightened each length of leather he made sure to run his fingers along the scales that would be underneath the strap, testing its tautness for her safety and comfort while also soothing her to its placement. It was a technique he used upon unbroken horses when they were first introduced to saddle and bridal, apparently it worked on dragons too. "I tell my young soldiers, 'you do not have to trust yourselves, that can take its time, you must trust in me', our Commander Tetra had not been born the last time I fell from my Horse."

This time, Veshna barely twitched, so intent upon his words that she kept completely still throughout. He finished his final checks without her even realising he was done and he stepped back to admire his handiwork and settle his gaze into hers. She blinked into his smiling face for a moment, processing what he had said. She understood him and the longer she thought about it and the more she considered his past and how dependable and competent he was, she realised gradually that she could relax around him and not fear her own mistakes, for surely if she ever went wrong Hakeem would know what to do. He could take care of them both. Just as she was hard to kill, so was he. This feeling of Hakeem's durability and strength settled into her and gave her a new sense of courage and freedom. She didn't intend to rely upon him for everything, but knowing he was there as a safety net to catch her inspired her to try.

Now she was excited, she loved flying in truth and worked hard at it, though she never really told anyone, fearful that she was actually embarrassingly bad compared to the others. But she wanted to show him. She crouched for him, stretching her leg out eagerly, her tail swaying from side to side like a cat about to play. Her change in mood kindled Hakeem's own slow-burning excitement and he gave a fierce grin before leaping lightly up her foreleg and swinging himself expertly into position between her shoulders. It felt like a perfect fit and in fact the shape of her neck and back with her wing-muscles either side of him made him feel even more secure than on the back of a horse. She trilled in pleasure, rolling her shoulders and wriggling down her spine to test how Hakeem's weight changed her balance and stance. Hakeem rolled expertly with her movements, instinctively moving his body to give her the greatest freedom. He felt heavy, but more like a supportive, grounding weight than a debilitating burden, she liked to feel him there and hear his heartbeat thud against his chest and send vibrations into her spine. They were solidly together.

Once they were both steady Veshna daintily leaped back down into the arena and began a graceful stroll about the outer rim. Her gait was flowing and soft, her step quiet and light like a deer but her whole body swayed with her motions like a cat. It was an incredibly graceful and fluid movement, one that could easily lull you to sleep if you wished to succumb to it, but Hakeem was too focused on their goal for that. She gave a few practice hops, delicately leaping from her back legs to mimic takeoff to give Hakeem a sense of what to brace for until they were both completely comfortable. And then suddenly, with just a silent agreement from them both, she braced her hindquarters, stretched her wings out to the dwindling sun and arrowed them into the sky.

The immediate lurch completely took Hakeem's breath away but he instinctively gripped on tightly, his thick muscular frame keeping him completely steady against the powerful air currents as they climbed into the sky. Veshna's wingbeats were quiet and sweeping, her soft wing membranes stroking the air in such a way that they barely made a sound and as soon as Hakeem got his breath back he began to truly appreciate what a silent and stalking predator she was. Her pink hued scales had a pearly glint to them which reflected blue and made her a strangely dappled target in the air. He could imagine her soaring completely unnoticed through a small amount of cloud cover. No matter what she told herself, she was an incredibly effective predator. Hakeem's silent evaluation and praise ellicited a brassy roar from her, the first he'd heard, she wanted to feel like the huntress he knew she was.

But looking down through over his thigh, Hakeem suddenly truly felt the gift he had been given. They were soaring, boundless and untethered through the sky, limited only by their body's capabilites and the War General felt suddenly, for the first time in his life, completely and utterly free. He barked a delighted laugh as Veshna took them to the limits of Obsidian Nova's specifications, endeavouring to show Hakeem her prowess, which was in deed considerable. She was as at home in the air as Hakeem felt in battle and the experience was delighting and exalting for them both. It was a beautiful thing for them to share.

But Hakeem was an old man and he was stuck in his ways. Sooner than he would like his mind dragged him out of its indulgent peace and made him focus on the other tamers around him. His eyes flickered anxiously from one tamer to the next, watching for any heroics or ill-advised stunts. He was already forming plans in his mind as to what to do if someone happened to fall. He narrowed into one of the smaller dragons, nearer Veshna's size, careening through the air at rather incredible speeds. It was impressive, but worry tugged at Hakeem's heart. But Veshna pushed into his mind to reassure him.

Zarketh is excitable but she's not that reckless. She would never let her rider fall. She's too accomplished in the skies to make a mistake.

Hakeem saw a few brief memories flicker through their bond of Zarketh protecting and nurturing Veshna in a brash and loud sort of way. Veshna appreciated it, whether she helped or not and she respected her ability in the sky. With this evidence, Hakeem was consoled and returned to his inspection of the rest of the tamers. He was mildly worried about the fire red Dragon and his Tamer for a moment, however the woman seemed to gain control quickly and after that the furious beast quietened slightly. Veshna actually drew his attention to one of the pairs, a dragon of sunlit orange sailing through the air in a stiff and groggy manner. Hakeem's eyes narrowed in concern as Veshna explained.

Byriarti has strange fur, it hurts him, I think it must be the harness. I hope his Tamer learns to ride him without it soon... Hakeem felt her tentatively extend her mind towards Byriarti, gently expressing her genuine and pure concern for him and asking if she could help. Hakeem was thoughtful for a moment before directing his dragon towards the Solar pair. Veshna lit up as she understood his intent and she banked through Byriarti's path, expertly keeping out of his way but also letting her soothing scents and aromas suffuse the air around him and hopefully relax him into a more pain-tolerant mindset.

 

[Esmeray]

Tetra Coliseum- Asa and Verebera
First Flight

Asa was to distracted by watching the others bond to even remotely gather what Merrick had said to their entire group. Her sense of hearing greatly impaired by her sense of sight. She was watching all the trainers bond, becoming much engrossed in the scene. She felt a slight nudge against her side causing her to refocus her attention else where. Turning to face her dragon Asa gave Verebera a questioning look.

"We are supposed to be flying with the others, you should really pay more attention to Merrick. You didn't even notice that he had taken flight with the others did you?"

Verebera's chiding motherly tone rang in Asa's mind, and her reprimand caused Asa's cheeks to flush a shade of pink from embarrassment. Asa nodded to her dragon in agreement. With that the two began to scan the side of the wall in search for her stall. Not wanting to disturb the others that had not bonded yet, they remained close to the wall, and walked along it until they finally reached Verebera's stall.

Halazes didn't respond, yet the feeling appeared to be mutual. She turned once more around the arena before Diari grabbed the spine again and they made their decent. The girl took off the harness, sliding off her drake with difficulty. The pair started wandering around the stadium, looking to see if they can help anyone with the harness.

After Asa yanked off the leather harness from its hook she glanced back at the others who were already landing and removing their saddles. Asa then returned her lost gaze back to her own saddle and was unsure as to how to put it on Verebera. She had seen Merrick do so in Verebera's memories but she was more of a hands-on learner rather than one how learns from viewing. When she looked up again, she saw that the woman, whom Asa was certain went by the name Diari, approached and offered her help. Asa nodded silently, surprised someone had actually approached her. It was something she wasn't normally used to and Ava came to realize by this that the others here knew nothing of her past; thus they had no reason not to approach her. She watched as the girl carefully strap the harness unto Verebera and then step back. Ava nodded again as thanks before turning to face her dragon.
"Tell you're partner that Asa says thanks. She is mute and cannot do so herself." Verebera mentions to her sister Halazes as she lowers her neck for Ava. Once Asa mounts her fairly easily the dragon gives the two one final look of thanks before moving a bit away from the two. Her wings were fairly large, considering she was almost as big as Methuzar, and needed the space for her to out stretch them. With a strong thrust of her wings, the Celestial Dragon began to hover farther and farther from the earth and into the hair. She continued to beat her wings before finally shifting forward out of the open coliseum. She soared into the sky, beating her wings until finally reaching cruising altitude. Tilting her left wing downward, Verebera gracefully turned right and began encircling the Coliseum. Her white scales glistened like diamonds when the sun's rays refracted off her body, and the gold spines leading down her back to her tail created a small blinding glare due to the sun reflecting off of it. Never the less it looked peaceful and serene.

Asa at first was almost terrified, shutting her eyes tight she had clung to Verebera's neck during their take off and did not let go until the ride had become much smoother for them both. Though she had kept her eyes shut.
"Asa open your eyes darling. Trust in me." Verbera coaxes her soothingly, and sure enough Asa's eyes fluttered open. Her usually dull hues became full of life and wonder as she took in the breath taking site. She could see endlessly for miles and she could see it all, the expansion of land, trees, mountains, rivers, and lakes. The tetra estate looked beautiful, and well kept. Asa made note to tell Merrick to personally thank his ground keepers and staff for managing the estate so well. This is what it felt like to fly, and see the horizon. It was not just pure bliss....but freedom. The event brought such a feel of freedom over Asa. She was free of all of her stresses in the clouds like this. Asa straightened her back while hesitantly but surely raisin her arms up over her head as her skin soaked in the sun, and the wind in her hair. With out really realizing it the ties holding Asa's platinum blonde hair became undone and the black ribbons fell to the earth. The longer they encircled the coliseum, the more her wavy hair unraveled and flow in the wind. Although, the feeling of the wind through her hair was great. Asa greatly enjoyed it.

Sadly the bliss doesn't last forever, and a sudden gust of wind cause Verebera to falter a bit, which frightened Asa. Asa yelped quietly and clung unto Verebera's neck once again. She could hear her dragon chuckling slightly in her mind and Asa pouted. She knew due to her bond that Verebera wasn't laughing at the fact that she was frightened but at the sound she had made, so Asa decided to not make a fuss and relax once again. Asa looked up again, this time not to look at the scenery but her fellow dragon trainers. She waved at each one as she circled past them.

 

[Nue]

Falor motioned his hand toward Dakan, and sat down on the arena floor,"Alright you have fun now, go fly." The dragon cocked his head in reply, "And you are not coming?" the man smiled, "No i will not be flying with you anytime soon. Right now I just want to lie down, look at the sky, and reconcile and just unwind for a bit, if you can concede that, I would be much obliged." as he finished, he did just that. Falor lied down looked up at the sky, and saw an Obsidian Nova flying gallantly, Dakan on the other hand, folded up his wings, and sat down. Obsidian Nova then started looking at all of the dragons. Dakan sent Falor a quick message, bluntly stating...
"He is about to give a speech...and show off again."
sure enough he did just that:

The Speech of Flight

As he took a place in the lower skies above the happenings below, he claimed solidity in his place, keeping aloft with the steady, even beat of his dark wings. The drake looked down at the newly bonded pairs that speckled the grounds below. He pushed his thoughts into the minds of every dragon and human below, a respectful urge of entrance preceding his words.

While this time is precious, and today a day to remember for the rest of your chosen eternal lives, we must none of us forget the true reason why this Order has been summoned. As he spoke, he began to circle the coliseum, slowly at first but steadily gaining speed. Why our great race has returned to these lands. His wings shifted slightly now as he flew, his body tilting from side to side in response. We are the New Order, we are the leaders of Illos, the protectors of these lands, and as we speak, they become tainted by an ancient darkness. Today you become tamers of dragons, today you become legends.

Merrik's words then continued the speech the dark drake had initiated as he slowly, but firmly rose to a standing position, his feet planted firmly on either shoulder of the dragon. His legs were bent slightly to allow his to adjust to shifts in Nova's flight. "But how can you lead without the knowledge to do so? How can you protect without the skills to defend? How can you be legends without a story to tell the world? And how, praytell, can you be dragon tamers without knowing how to fly?"

With the last of his words, he leaned forward, grabbing on to one of the spines on Nova's neck with his left hand, solidifying his stance. As he did, the drake shot up into the air at a sharp vertical incline, his speed surreal. When he neared the peak of his incline, Merrik let go.

The dragon shot upward, leaving his tamer in the sky, free-falling, body rigid. A split second later the drake opened up his vast wingspan and his entire mass appeared to contort the normalized concept of movement as he shifted his body and turned, mid flight, shooting off towards the earth below. He caught up with his tamer in a matter of seconds and as he shot past, Merrik shifted his body and clasped on to the dragon's neck spine once more and pulled his body back into his crouched position as the drake spiralled around and around, picking up speed. As they neared the coliseum, the nightmare drake released a spiralling vortex of black fire, two streams twisting and weaving around each other as the duo sped towards the ground. Just before the flames met with the bare earth beneath, Nova brought down the thick membranes of his wings, the power of the gust created snuffed out the flames, leaving a whirling concoction of black sparks and dust to settle to the earth. When his wings opened to extinguish his flame, he shifted his body just so that his path of flight levelled out smoothly, the drake soaring calmly across the low skies of the coliseum.

Merrik stood, knees bent once more, his stance casual as the dragon's pace slowed to a lazy glide. "You will be given the knowledge you need to lead and the skills necessary to defend. You will be rise us as legends like the tamers of old, with your own tale of greatness and victory. And you will fly, difficultly at first, but with time the skies will become your home. To truly be one with a dragon you must enter into their kingdom. You must trust each other, pay mind to each other's limits and capabilities. Do not push your tamers, young drakes, for this will not come naturally to them as it once did for you.

Within the dens that line these walls you'll find leather straps which will work as harnesses to keep you in place on your drake's back and give you something to hold on to. Collect them from your drake's den and secure them around their chest and neck. Tie the extra length to your waist and make sure you don't slack on your knotting, I'd rather not lost any of my soldiers to the earth's pull today."

Nova's words came next, direct more towards the dragons his voice took on a much more stern, strict tone this time as he spoke. You will begin on the ground. Take time to travel the perimeter of the coliseum for the tamers to adjust themselves to your stride and the movement of your bodies. When they feel ready, and only when they feel ready, will you take to the skies. There will be no high speeds, Zartketh, you especially will take it easy. There will be no maneouvers, no tricks, no showing off. You must understand that if you make even a slight mistake, it could cost you the life of your tamer. It is not uncommon in the history of dragons and tamers for a rider to fall and meet the ground before his drake can catch up, for a rider's spine to snap by the intense pull offered by speed when the drake shoots off without notice. It is not unheard of for a dragon to falter in flight and land on his tamer, nor is it an impossibility for a tamer to be knocked out cold after bring struck by the wings of her dragon. Humans, even the strongest, are brittle, breakable, and delicate. If I see any of you putting your tamer's lives in danger, even slightly, I'll scorch your hide.The drake's blood red gaze showed no signs of humour. Merrik, smiling just barely at the lecture the dragons had received from their elder, nodded in agreement. He would not forgive himself if anyone got hurt. Not after he spent his entire life training to be the teacher and leader this army needed.

"When you've all taken to the air and attained a level of reasonable comfort, we'll depart for the Forest Garden, your new home. The sooner we get there the sooner you can all get settled into your new lives. Trust the comfort of your accommodations will make up for the vigorous training you'll soon endure. Some of you were soldiers before you arrived, but now all of you are warriors of fire. Now, get strapped in and find your place, we've no time to stand by idly."

"Like I said, he is a showoff."
"Oh, will you shut your trap about that? Merrik is our leader and you should respect that!"
"So... does this mean I get to fly with you on my back?"
Falor gave a long sigh, "I suppose it does mean that...let me get the saddle an other things first before we fly." as he said that, he looked for the name 'Dakan Surad' located on a wall, sure enough, there it was, with all the stuff in it. Falor managed to tie the straps around Dakan's chest and legs, and he was acting surprisingly patient, and Falor was REALLY proud of him that moment, especially because almost all of the dragons were flying, Byriarti of course, looked the most majestic of them all, but according to Dakan, that's in his nature. He looked up to see that the beautiful, platinum-haired woman was even having some fun with her dragon too! By the time he finished equipping Dakan with everything, they were literally the last dragons in the coliseum. the rest were flapping their wings above him like thunder and roaring. Falor finally gave it the courage to plant his butt upon the saddle of Dakan, who flared his nostrils and gave a loud, blunt snort. "Yes I get it, it took a while, I am sincerely sorry...but on the other side of this, you were very patient and obedient, that was an intelligent move. Now, do you think you can apply the same intelligence in your flying as you are doing." Dakan nodded, and Falor commanded him "okay then, lift your wings." Dakan then gave a huge gust of his wings, he lift himself up, and he lifted them up again, and again, and again, and eventually, he got himself up of the ground and flew, and it made Falor give him a smirk. "Alright then smart one, give me your fastest, but no tricks!" Dakan hovered over the sources of the ground, no more than 30 feet off the ground, but man did he fly. Falor was quite confident in him actually knowing what he was doing, he could fly no doubt about that, but now Dakan was starting to be a showoff. "I can carry the great Falor Hadrian! Yeah!" he then turned upsidedown, frightening Falor, not frightening him because of the actual punishments, but because Dakan is trying to show off, "Dakan, please, you are doing well thus far, no showing off!" Dakan turned right-side up, "But I want to be better than Obsidian Nova!" Falor leaned in closer toward Dakan. "Don't you think that's a bit far-fetched? Sometimes the best thing is to be a follower, even though you have the intelligence to be a leader, it's like me and my father, i was always better in him in both fighting and intelligence, yet he still remained the leader, why? Because he is someone I respect. Dakan, you need to learn no matter who your leader is, you respect that person, be a good fruit, not a spoiled one!"
"I think i understand what you mean, okay, thanks grandpa!" Dakan finished as his tense actions eased, and as he calmed down, so did Falor, as he loosened the grip a bit on the leather and on-looked the view of the coliseum. the others looked like they were having a siesta while only one outlying dragon (other than his own) also surveying the area, he shifted Dakan to the right to get a closer look at ht e group.
The rider was a man, the dragon, pink, possibly female. The man had markings similar to that of almost everybody he met on the caravan, including himself, at a time. he looked definitely younger, although not by much. His skin was definitely tanner than his, and that is all he could pinpoint before one of Dakan's sharp horns poked at Falor. He began speaking,
"You ought to stop surveying people grandpa!"
"And you ought to stop calling me grandpa!" [/solid]

 

[AnastiaCrest01]

As Diari made her rounds, she saw someone who she could finally help. Walking over, she didn't feel intimidated as she had before the bonding process. The dark haired girl only saw someone who needed help, and she knew how to provide it. Diari walked up to the girl with a warm smile. "Hey! Ava, right? Need help with the saddle? I can teach you how it works?" When offered the harness, Diari took it with ease, her years of wielding her large blade coming in handy here. Placing the harness on the white drake, Diari beckoned Ava over, showing her how to do each buckle. "It's a little complicated, but after you do it a few times, it'll be easy!" Once finished with the harness, Diari backed away, prideful at a good turnout. "Do you know how to tie it around yourself as to not fall? It's fairly simple. You just-" She showed the girl before her the Alpine Butterfly Knot Diari herself used for her flight. She then let the girl do it herself for the feel of it and waved a goodbye as Diari headed back on her search.

"Tell your partner Ava says thanks. She is mute and cannot do so herself."

The green dragon nodded at her fellow hatchling. She then turned her attention to Diari. " You do not care, I know, but Ava is thankful. I know you don't care because of your heart of gold, I just felt the need to inform you. Also, she seems like a good person to get to know, although it may be difficult due to Ava being mute."

"I only did what I saw needed, and I can tell she was thankful. I am pro at recognizing a grateful look and attitude. As for the getting to know her, I hope to get to know all my fellow tamers; and their dragons too!" Diari grinned at her dragon in a cheesy and childish way before continuing her route, a bounce in her step and a gleam in her eye.

 

[Soulserenity20]

Tetra Estate-12:33pm

The skies were pristine, the air calm and warming steadily with the rising sun. The dark pair held silence as they the gentle currents of the air and the sheer surface area of Nova's wings carry them across the skies with minimal effort or thought. The silence of the skies was not something that could be found anywhere else. The earth was covered in noise, movement, and distractions, but up here all sound seemed to fade away if one chose to let it. All around him Merrik saw strangers. Strangers that had entered into the threshold of his world and seamlessly melted into it, as if they had always belonged. It could have been ancient magick, who could ever know what lingering spells drift through the Ancient Woods, or maybe it was his mind cherishing what it had been seeking out all these years. All his life he had struggled to keep his head 100% in the game, it was hard when you had to endure decades of training for something that had not yet come to be. But now, as his green eyes scanned the open skies above the estate, as the sight of dragons and riders together in the skies again caressed his mind at last, he felt an energy within him that had long been fading. Before him was progress, before him was purpose once more, purpose beyond rising with the sun each day to train vigorously train in solitude from the rest of his kind. He took in a deep breath of the pure, woodland air and allowed himself a moment of serenity.

They're doing very well. This army might surprise us yet, we've many strong warriors here; intelligence and courage emanate from the lot of them. The man bonded to Veshna, the one that wears his past as naturally as he wears his armor, he is a leader. He will have many wisdoms for you if you should choose to ask and accept them. Several of the tamers have pasts that will offer great insight into the world we are diving in to. Many have experienced the plague first hand, had it affect their lives and their loved ones. You would be wise to learn from them for a first hand experience is worth more than a thousand books and scrolls.

Merrik nodded half consciously, both aware of his dragon's words and yet not needing to hear them to know what he was talking about. Merrik was young. And while he had spent his entire life preparing to take his place as the leader of the New Order, he would never be so foolish or arrogant as to assume he was above these people, these people that have lived and journeyed and learned on their own paths. He knew each of them held knowledge and wisdom that could be offered to him, it was simply a matter of gaining their trust, and offering them whatever he could in return for their thoughts and experiences. His mind wandered to the dragons that soared across the skies all around him. So many times he had watched these young dragons take to the skies and so many times he had flown across the landscape with them, feeling at home and whole in their company. He loved them all, dearly. And as he laid eyes on each drake, tamer atop their scaled backs, he felt a powerful happiness for them, a sense of pride and accomplishment for them. He knew what the bond was, what the significance of it was, and the power of it. He knew the wholeness that the dragons now, at last, got to experience. And through them, for them he was grateful to the strangers, for they had given more today than any other being could have given in a life time to the dragons. They had given them the second halves of their souls.

Strangers. But were they now? Looking around, the faces he saw felt familiar, though he knew little of the minds behind the eyes that returned his gaze.

He looked around him and took time to appreciate each person for what they were. Yennefer, so proud and brave, caring and willing to help those around her at any time while ensuring her own safety at the same time. Methuzar would take over her place in ensuring her own safety, and he had no doubt that she would respond tenfold by taking great care of all those around her. He respected the woman for her heart, and he would have known its size even if they had never met for she seemed to glow with kindness and love.

He then led his gaze to Falor and Dakan, a pair that seemed to have been forged long before this time. Falor was older than almost everyone, and his appearance certainly revealed his age, but not in a way of ill health, rather his eyes told stories of hardship and of perseverance. Everything about the man seemed to give off a feeling of strength and virtue. The man was an example for any of hard work and perseverance.

Verebera's white frame caught Merrik's attention, Nova's response to the dragoness's approach brought a smile to Merrik's lips then, knowing all too well what he thought of the young dragon. Ava sat atop Verebera's back with a bright smile on her face, waving happily to the pair as they passed by. He couldn't help but smile and wave back. The young woman faced hardships each day without her voice to help her communicate. While he spent very little time in verbal communication with anyone else, he couldn't imaging losing such a significant ability. And yet, the woman had made it to this point. Here she sat, perched on the back of a mythical creature, soaring high above the world that opposed her so and with a smile on her face, she looked perfectly in her element. She was a soldier through and through, whether she knew it or not.

Obsidian Nova growled a low, calm response to Merrik's thoughts, approving of his respect for the others around him, shifting his wings as he passed over a warm column of air so that it carried them up higher into the skies. Twist about in the open air, he continued their slow, spiraling descent once more.

Then, seemingly out of nowhere, came a piercing roar from their right flank. Nova's dark eyes trained on Wither and Zarketh, the one who had made the call. He was not surprised at the sudden sound once he had noticed the source and the probably cause. Wither and Zarketh were as close as any of the other drakes, but they had their differences, much like what a sibling would have with another. Nova considered, for a moment, going over there to see what had caused the upset, but instead he decided was minor enough for the two to sort out on their own. They were grown dragons now, they were expected to know how to act and how to carry themselves. He continued to watch the grey and yellow dragon for a short while, convincing himself Tara was, indeed, safe. Though something told his that even if the young dragon did manage to topple her, her dexterity and training would kick in and she'd catch herself before she left his scaly hide. Quick little human, Zarketh couldn't have found a better match.

The sound that had snapped his attention away from Ava effectively drew his thoughts to Rita who rode one of the drakes in the disagreement.

Rita.

It was true Merrik had initially had a very low opinion of the man, after finding him in the middle of being called out on a scam he had been running. While it was true, Merrik was a man of honor, he was now forced to think about Rita's reasons for his actions. No dragon's soul would half with one of a monster. No, Wither had seen something in the man that pulled her in, beckoning her very soul. It was this assurance, the power of the bond, that urged Merrik to want to get to know Rita. The man had a dark past, that much was clear, and from the interactions between he and Shirin Merrik had observed earlier, it seemed his darkness had affected more than just him. But so far, the olive drake tamer had done nothing to give Merrik a reason to dislike him. He made a silent resolve to get to know Rita, and to respect him until the man did something to lose it. His past was his, and was not for Merrik, nor anyone else to judge.

After recalling the disagreement earlier between Rita and Shirin, Merrik found himself seeking out the vision of the Solar dragon and his rider. It was not so difficult to locate them soaring across the open skies, the sun bringing out the true reason for the species' name. As the shimmering dragon flew, rider firmly placed on top, Merrik found himself once again struggling to recall the place in his past that Shirin fit in to. Nova said nothing at this attempt, which bothered but did not surprise Merrik. While Obsidian Nova's memory was a thousand times more powerful and fully capable of recalling the woman, the drake refused to act as a memory bank for Merrik and encouraged more stimulated thinking and recollection with intentions of strengthening the man's weak, human mind.

Alas, Merrik could not remember, but decided he would approach her tonight and figure it out.

When Halazes' green body shimmered in the skies below him, he glanced down, laying eyes on the dark locks of Diari. The woman had surprised him right off the bat with her fearless curiosity and despite her size, she had the fiery ambition and courage of any goliath. A protective side of him urged his brow to furrow as he dwelled on her size. Nova immediately growled a low, slightly annoyed growl and instantly Merrik silenced his concern. He had seen Veshna and Halazes in action; size meant nothing when it came to aggression and strength.

At the thought of aggression, his mind then wandered to inquiring about the location of P'laorz and Isolde. It didn't take him long to locate the large, deep-red drake as he moved across the skies. Isolde had come from a small village in Eastern Galidus. While she would have appeared to be little more than a well travelled woman with a past as deep as the ocean hiding behind her eyes. But there was more to her than that. The woman, though raised a commoner, wore nobility with such great ease that it was difficult for a man, possibly anyone, to ignore her when in her presence. She stood out and she stood her ground- a perfect match for the inferno dragon.

"There is nothing more that we need that we don't already have here. The Oracle lead us to what will become the perfect army, I'm sure of it." He thought, his expression calm, and relaxed. "But an army isn't an army without training, and the garden is nearly 4 hours by the dragon's wing from here. I think it's time we lead these tamers to their new home."

Nova roared, excited to get going. Truthfully, he had not eaten much in the last few weeks and he very much wanted to feed and sleep after everything that had happened today. Merrik's stress had taken its toll on him, and while he was happy to shoulder the man's worries, he needed to care for himself. Two exhausted leaders did an army no good. Beating down hard with his red and black wings, he rose up just a short ways, gaining enough altitude that the pair could speak to all those around them with little shifting to address the scattered pairs.

"Though you might not feel it, you all look as if you were born atop a dragon. It is a proud sight indeed to see these young drakes bonded to such strong people. I've seen enough to trust you all to make the flight to your new home. You'll be living here on the estate from now on. Here you will learn and train, perfecting your skills until the day comes that we face our opponent. But for now, you all look in need of food, drink, and rest. Our destination is a clearing, deep within the eastern woods. It was once the home of the Old Order, and has been revived to suit our needs. The flight will take around 4 hours. Long distance flying is a little more strenuous than gliding about on warm air. You'll be sore, and you'll be tired when we arrive, but you'll certainly dismount with a greater knowledge and understanding of your dragon and how their bodies work and move."


Nova's voice came now, calmly entering into the minds of the tamers and drakes. We'll be flying in a diamond formation, the dragons are accustomed to it, they'll take their places at random for now, but on later dates, this formation will be set according to position and duty. Do not fall behind, we won't be slowing down for anyone. This flight will give you a taste of what is to come, there's not point in prolonging it. You will be sore, you will be uncomfortable, you will deal with it. You young ones will be surprised at the difference in energy you expend while carrying a passenger over a great distance.

Rising up to a calm altitude, above the wind currents of the lower skies, Nova held his place in the air while the rest of the tamers collected behind him in the order chosen by their drakes. When the group had collected, they set off at a brisk pace.

The day was ageing and it was about time the New Order was established on the grounds that was once called home by the ancestors of the dragons the tamers now rode. Merrik and Nova had spent almost half their lives in the Forest Garden, which had been named so by a young Terria who insisted on brightening up the training grounds with flowerbeds and fruit trees.

The flight went well, the new tamers handled the distance with great perseverance and though some of the dragons were caught whining on more than one occassion, the weyr seemed determined to prove themselves to their soulmates, their leaders, and each other. With the day offering glorious weather and the spirits of the group seemed almost as high as the formation. And so on they flew.

Forest Garden-4:17pm

When the distance between the tamers and their destination had all but disappeared, Obsidian Nova initiated a smooth, winding descent, leading the dragons back home, and the tamers to their new home. The meadow's lush grass and flourishing vegetation offered a welcoming aroma. The black dragon soared slowly down to the far north end of the massive clearing, reclaiming the earth before a massive, white oaken structure adorned with detailed, intricate carvings up the structural columns and across the great doorway. The pale wooden structure showed now signs of age or erosion, despite it being thousands of years old.

As the ground rumbled gently in response to Nova's bulk, and then again each time another dragon landed, Merrik slid down from his place atop his companion's scaled back. The pair waited patiently as the rest of the tamers took hold of the earth once more. Only when all had settled did Merrik speak.

"I welcome you all to your new home. This garden was born many, many centuries ago. This stable is as old as the Order itself and was built by the my ancestor Merrikhai Tetra from the wood of an ancient grove of white oak trees. The magic in their strong limbs offered protection from any outsiders. None can hear our words here, none can spy into our activities, and none can harm us with any level of ease. These grounds are sacred. You will respect them will the entirety of your heart and soul and keep deep thanks in your minds for the security they offer us, especially with what lies in the not so distant East. Not even the dark lord can penetrate these ancient magicks, though do not assume he has not, and will not continue to try."

Pausing, he mentally requested Nova open the large doors that enclosed the heart of the meadow. Despite their size, even a hatchling could open them. For the doors were enchanted, protected further by the Old Order; only a dragon with the blood of one of the original bonded drakes and their soulmates could open these doors.
"In the stables before you, each of you will have an assigned stall and a loft above it to call your own. The stall in the far back on your left has been converted into a kitchen, the one on the right into a wash house divided into two sections for the men and women. At all times, you will keep your living quarters in acceptable condition. If I find so much as one plate of rotting food or a pile of laundry letting off its stench, you'll pay for it in your training. I am many things to you, a mentor, a leader, perhaps even a friend, but I am not your caretaker nor am I your mother." Beckoning then to the clearing behind them he drew their attention to the center of the meadow where a ring of trees encased a large stone table.
"In the center of the meadow there, within the ring of white oak trees is a table. From tomorrow, and every day from then on when we are at this meadow, we will meet there for dinner. It will be a time to discuss and strategize as a group. Your training is important, make no mistake, but it is also important for you all to get accustomed to one another, for we won't often go our separate ways. For today you have no obligations as your rest is more important than any discussion tonight. You've all had a big day today and you've all earned a period of rest before being thrown into training.

There is already a feast set out for you to enjoy, you've all done exceptionally well today. Be sure to clean up after yourselves when you're done, this is your home now; treat it as such. Your dragons are of course free to hunt whenever they choose, but for the time being, none of the tamers are to leave the meadow. I'm not sure any of you are aware of what lives in these woods, there are things that entered into fairy tales many centuries ago that still live behind the cover of these ancient trees. While some are as wonderful as you've heard, others are not and I would not soon wish a meeting between any of you and one of the worse beings that roam these lands." His voice trailed off for a moment. He had had a terrible experience with one of the not-so-friendly beings within these woods once. A Timoreave that had ventured near the meadow in boredom, seeking twisted entertainment. Merrik's inner child shuttered in recollection of the event. Quickly he returned his attention to the group, his expression unfaltering.
"Eat, wash up, explore, acquaint yourselves. The evening is yours. I will retire to my quarters now as I have work to tend to. Should any of you have questions or anything you'd like to discuss, mine is the first stall on your left. Pay respect to Obsidian Nova when you pass through his quarters. Tomorrow morning, on the wall beneath your nameplates outside your stalls, you'll find a training schedule. Learn it well for you'll be repeating it every day from tomorrow until this war is over. I suggest you turn in early, the morning comes quickly and the training is no walk in the woods. Now, I would take my leave. Good evening." With a respectful bow, he turned and followed the black dragon who, after his own draconic bow, had begun his retreat to the comfort of his stall.

Merrik climbed the ladder at the back of the large stall surfacing in a room that felt more like home to him than anywhere else in the world. This room had been his refuge as a child when he felt he could never succeed in becoming the leader he was supposedly destined to be. Over the years, the room had shifted into a cluttered workspace as he slowly ran out of storage space for the countless tomes, scrolls and journals he so commonly accessed. Every day was a day of learning for Merrik. He felt as if his mind was going to waste if he did not learn something new every day, be it a new trick for thickening his burn heals, or an explanation of how the pools of crystal water spurred up in the stalls for what would seem to be an eternity.

Lately, his desk had not been covered in books of knowledge, but instead plans of attack, journals from the warrior tamers of old when the faced the first wave of darkness spilled out by Ogual. There was so much information to sift through, and much of it didn't seem to apply to what was happening in modern times. There was no plague when Ogual first came to power, according to the journals he read, the darkness was different, but he had yet to discern what it actually was and what it could offer him today in combating the dark lord.

There was a fear within Merrik, whenever he let himself fester on Ogual. Though he had never come face to face with the man, or his plague, the Oracle had revealed much to Merrik through his gift of sight. While this was an unpleasant experience for Merrik, the visions the Oracle offered him brought flesh to the foe. Merrik knew the face of his opponent, the face that showed no signs of its age. It's unfathomable age.

That was where the fear would set in. How could a man of 26 face an opponent that had been around for thousands of years, surviving, learning, harnessing powers of old and of new? What kind of horrifying power would the New Order face? Could he ever prepare them for it? It was usually at this point that Obsidian Nova would push through into Merrik's thoughts and force him away from them, insisting there was nothing to gain by repeating the same unanswerable questions in his mind over and over again, that nothing good could come of staring at the horizon with a look of distress on his face when he duty was before him, in the form of a group of young dragons and their tamers.

Merrik did not let his mind get to this point tonight. When the group had landed successfully and safely, a thousand pounds of stress seemed to lift from his shoulders. The bonding had gone perfectly. The new tamers were not just managable, but impressive, despite what an onlooker might assume. The variety in their skill sets and natures was so crucial in a war of magicks, will power.

Claiming a place at his cluttered desk, Merrik pulled a bottle of potent rye and pouring himself a glass. Below him, he heard the sound of claws on stone as the black drake took his place in his artificial nest. The soothing tones of rest soon entered Merrik's mind, something he would never get used to and never enjoy any less. Being connected to another's mind brought things to light that would never have been imagined, like what the mind sounds like when the conscious fades and the subconscious submerges in a dreamy tide. The periodic wave of serenity was priceless to Merrik. Smiling, he went about working on the training schedule. He had decided to put it off until he knew what he was dealing with, after which he could organize it accordingly. The evening approached, and despite the days growing longer, the sun began to sink away not long after their arrival, casting the shadows of the most curious collection of beings across the long grasses of the Forest Garden.

D e s c r i p t i o n o f M e a d o w

The Garden
The great meadow is in the shape of an oval. With the thick tree-line standing like proud walls around the exterior. Lush, long stalked grass covers the land, spotted with blood red flowers. In the center there is a large stone table with the sigil of the dragonlords carved into it as a black obsidian cutout. There are 21 stone chairs surrounding the table and a ring of 10 very large, very old white oak trees; the sole remainders of the grove that once flourished here and offered its boughs to the making of the sacred section of land. A grey stone walkway, large enough to accommodate any dragon, leads a ring around the the trees and extends out in several directions, leading to different sections of the meadow. The paths rejoin along the exterior to form a path that follows the tree line. On the north edge of the meadow is the great stables. On the southern end is a large training ground. An obstacle course of intimidating build, as well as a large patch of earth claim this side of the meadow and will work as the training grounds for the new tamers and their dragons.

Throughout the unoccupied areas of the garden there are fruit bearing trees to provide fresh delights for any who wish to partake, as well as a large, crystal clear pond on the western side that never freezes over. The dragons are often seen cooling off in the beautiful body of waters, though it can only accommodate 4 or 5 dragons at a time. Throughout the meadow there are small gardens, fenced off with low stone walls; in these gardens are many unusual plants growing which are used by Merrik to concoct all manner of potions and medicines.

The Stalls
Each stall is large enough to accommodate a thousand year old dragon, so space is no issue for these young drakes. Peering in from the gate at the front of the stall, one would see a large metallic dish in the back, right corner. These dishes are lined with a thick, plush lining and may have blankets or thick pillows scattered about. These are the dragons' resting places. Each dish is personalized to suit their owner. Nova's is larger than the others to accommodate his size and is made of Obsidian, embedded with deep red jewels. The bedding is blood red and well worn. In the left corner right near the entrance is a shallow pool of crystal clear water, bubbling from the center. Merrik still has no concept of how the water flows into these pools, as they have been bubbling fresh water since before he was born. The tamers of old had many tricks. There is a place near the back wall where a slab of slate is set into the floor. Should the dragons wish to bring their kills in, this is where they are to be eaten to prevent the rot of flesh within the stables.

The Lofts
In the back left corner of the stalls there is a beautifully carved ladder leading up to a loft. Each of the dragon stalls are open to the entire room (the whole interior of the stable), but separated by 12 foot tall woven wood fences, providing as much privacy as is needed among dragons. Above each stall are the lofts of the tamers. The back and two side walls are closed in, proving full privacy. But the front pushes out past the walls a few feet and is open to the entire stable, and lined with a 4 foot tall wooden rail. On either side of the rail there are drawstring which, if pulled, will draw a heavy curtain across the rail, providing a fourth wall and extra privacy.

The ladder brings the user to the back left corner of the room. In the back right corner is a queen sized bed with the finest bedding. For each of the lofts for the tamers, the loft's color scheme is slightly altered to match the tones of their drake. ex) For the white dragon, the bedding and accents of the room are gold and white. The beds are the original furniture built by the tamers of old and the backboards are each carved into images of the torso, neck and head of a specific dragon species, depicted with the drake letting out a proud call, wings extended. The two side walls are lined with bookshelves, filled with books specifically chosen for each tamer by Merrik himself. They consists of history books, geography texts, personal journals of tamers of ancient times, draconic anatomy texts written by Merrikhai Tetra, and many basic texts on the use of elemental magics and the bond between dragon and tamer. There is a couch with a social (coffee) table set out before it, a desk equipped with parchment and many ink pens, as well as ink and quills should the newer inventions fail. There is a simple basin and mirror against the back wall which may be filled with water and used for personal vanity. Clothing storage is in the form of drawers beneath the beds and a large chest at the foot of the bed will suffice for personal trinkets and other belongings.

A large old carpet fills each room, and stained glass windows with unique murals enscripted into the glass adorn the back walls of each loft and stall.

The Kitchen And Bathroom
The last two stalls of the stable were converted into group accommodations. The back stall on the right was converted to a bath house. With a male and female side, privacy provided by a large, stained glass wall, about a foot thick. Each section of the bath house's outer wall is lined with mirrors and racks for towels and toiletries, as well as bins for laundry. The kitchen, the back stall on the left, has a large rectangle table, in the center of it which is used in the case of bad weather or casual gatherings. The kitchen itself is high end and filled with foods of all sorts. There is a locked cabinet in the far corner.

The Halls
The flooring of the halls are made of obsidian, to contrast the bleached white oak used to build the structure. Each stall door is adorned with intricate carvings extending from the ground, all the way up and over a magnificent archway above them. The carvings are murals that depict great battles of the old days. There are gold plaques on each door, with the name of each dragon and tamers carved beautifully into it. (Please don't ask how the plaques got here before Merrik knew which dragon was going to bond with who. Okay? lol just let it slide, cut me some slack.)

Let me know if you want anymore detail of the stables.​

 

[Erranruin]

​

Methuzar and Yennefer had focused on gaining confidence in simple take off and landing. Once in the air Methuzar's bulk was steady as stone and he flew with great control and calmness, even though his agility and speed was lesser than the other dragons. Still Yennefer could imagine him supporting one of his smaller injured brethren in flight while Yennefer herself tried to tend to its wounds. That was something to think about later though, for now she just had to get used to the crashing landings and lurching take offs of her giant dragon, feeling as though she was about the be catapulted off his back each time. Suddenly she and Methuzar felt a polite and magnificent force breach their minds. Obsidian Nova's mind demanded respect, his thoughts alike to a grand cathedral, stretching high up above their own with intricate design and both beautiful and ominous patterns. Methuzar was comparitively used to his presence but Yennefer shivered compulsively at the sudden contact and had had to quickly gain control of her impulses to not try and flee or attack her mentor's mind. She managed it and respectfully listened to his and Merrick new commands.

"Though you might not feel it, you all look as if you were born atop a dragon. It is a proud sight indeed to see these young drakes bonded to such strong people. I've seen enough to trust you all to make the flight to your new home. You'll be living here on the estate from now on. Here you will learn and train, perfecting your skills until the day comes that we face our opponent. But for now, you all look in need of food, drink, and rest. Our destination is a clearing, deep within the eastern woods. It was once the home of the Old Order, and has been revived to suit our needs. The flight will take around 4 hours. Long distance flying is a little more strenuous than gliding about on warm air. You'll be sore, and you'll be tired when we arrive, but you'll certainly dismount with a greater knowledge and understanding of your dragon and how their bodies work and move."

We'll be flying in a diamond formation, the dragons are accustomed to it, they'll take their places at random for now, but on later dates, this formation will be set according to position and duty. Do not fall behind, we won't be slowing down for anyone. This flight will give you a taste of what is to come, there's not point in prolonging it. You will be sore, you will be uncomfortable, you will deal with it. You young ones will be surprised at the difference in energy you expend while carrying a passenger over a great distance.

Four hours did sound like a long time but Yennefer was confident in her endurance. Surgeries often lasted a lot longer than that. It was good to know she did not look like a fool atop her monster of a dragon, if there was one thing she wanted to be good at, it was being Methuzar's partner. She noted Methuzar's slightly prideful snort at Obsidian Nova's words though. He barely felt the difference when Yennefer was astride him and he assured her she would be no burden whether they flew for five minutes or five hours. This made her chuckle but she accepted his words, with a pinch of salt, and directed him down to land. She quickly dismounted so that she could retrieve her large medicine pack with her various instruments and herbs along with person effects that she had brought along with her before securing it tightly to her back. She noted Methuzar gazing off toward the White dragon, watching as she soared through the sky and sighing at her beauty. He was obviously quite enamored of her appearance even though she noted he did not seem to be old enough for such thoughts as romance. This interested her, she wondered how he felt about his other siblings and that brought her mind to the other tamers. Looking up, there were many youngsters amongst them but most seemed to be warriors, either grand knightly individuals who could definately hold their own in battle or at least individuals with some fighting skill. This gave her a brief twinge of concern. She was no warrior, what if the training was already too advanced for her? Her brow knitted for a moment before Methuzar's nose came down to meet her and blew warm air over her.

Your mind is your weapon My Lady and I have more than enough strength for the both of us. I chose you because we are two halves of a whole that is equal when together.

She still frowned. "But you have an equal, if not greater, mind than my own Sir.." To this Methuzar shook his head in a slow yet massive and definitive motion. Not so My Lady. And he was right. Upon closer inspection Yennefer saw his meaning. Although his mind was great and cunning and wise in certain ways, in others he was too blunt, too instinctual, a grand tactician in battle for everyone but himself. He could easily be lost in the midst of a fight and it was Yennefer alone who had the strength and concentration necessary to control him and pull him back. She slowly smiled, she was needed as well. Safe in this knowledge, she continued her climb of his foreleg and once she had settled down in the position she had found best, they took to the sky once more. They easily aligned themselves into the diamond formation, taking the back point of the left in order to accommodate Methuzar's enormous bulk and not get in anyone's way. The trip there had been peaceful for the both of them, Methuzar barely experiencing any fatigue at the long flight, his slow and stable flight very sustainable for him. Yennefer was encased in her dragon's warmth, being so low to his body, she barely felt the cold snap of wind when it caught her dress or her hair. It got her thinking about a dragon's homeostatic temperature and metabolism. Methuzar seemed to run hotter than most every other creature she could think of yet she knew from his mind that he had good stamina and one meal could last him a long time. What manner of digestive solutions did his system use for such good energy conservation? Her mind burst with theories and possibilities, scrapping one idea to immediately pick up another one like fitting a puzzle together. This entertained them both throughout the long flight, Methuzar offering his personal experience into her conjectures at certain points and deeply enjoying the intricate tapestry of thought that his Tamer's mind wove.

During the flight there she took note of the Orange Dragon, whom Methuzar identified as Byriarti, and become concerned about his obvious agony. She had been around pain enough to recognise it anywhere. One of the other Dragon pairs, a dark and dramatic looking man atop a dainty pink dragon, seemed to be paying them great attention and Methuzar managed to discover their intentions from the little pearl creature. Veshna has a soothing aroma, it should help, but there is nothing for you to do in the air Milady. Yennefer sighed and nodded, her instinct to relieve pain itching at her mind and making both her and Methuzar restless until she managed to pull back the sensation and confine it to herself.

They eventually arrived at the Forest Garden, Methuzar giving Yennefer a very brief circle over its extent to satisfy her curiousity. They remembered their landing postures and Methuzar came down with an earthy and vibrating thud that shivered through the long grass around them. Yennefer dismounted lightly, like a butterfly hopping from the back of a bear, it must have looked quite an amusing sight but she could not care less. Her eyes were wide as she spun around, trying to take in the beauty and sacred power she felt thrumming all around her. The amount of knowledge stored in this place must be astronomical, it made her shiver with an academic thrill. However her star-struck state was broken when Merrick began speaking, her attention caught and held immediately. She nodded just a little to his words, yes this place was to be respected, although she generally considered the world to be respected equally, she couldn't help but be effected by the aura of generations of history that the ground held.

Obsidian Nova slid away gracefully and once Merrick had given them brief instruction he also left. So, she had the evening to herself? She thought a moment, consulted with Methuzar, before deciding that first she should settle into her quarters. Methuzar slowly paced towards the Halls, Yennefer jogging slightly to keep up with him as he lead her to his own abode. They both bowed very low to Obsidian Nova as they passed, gently murmuring 'Mentor' before quietly leaving, mindful of disturbing him. Methuzar's alcove was at the end of the hall, supposedly to make sure his great bulk didn't cause block ups when going down the Hall, although he was not yet at his full size to cause things like that. His dish seemed harder that the others having been fashioned from granite and nothing else. The centre was dipped and smoother than the outside, worn down by Methuzar's coarse scales. Underneath the dish was a large brazier that Methuzar could light himself to warm the stone above. A few large pillows were strewn throughout it but they seemed more for support and less for softness. His stall was devoid of much comfort in general, everything being very sturdy and unbreakable and usually cemented to the ground, although Yennefer noted Methuzar's own hoard of shining metals and blue and white gems which he quickly checked over, snuffing at it gently before curling into his dish and staring at it with a delighted sigh.

Yennefer had smiled at this small display of dragonish behaviour as she strolled about the wide open stall. She had taken the parchment with the schedule of their days written on it in beautiful caligraphic writing and was studying it. Five thirty rising time? She was very glad of that, never being one for lie ins and normally having to rise early to check on patients. However she did note the large amount of physical practice that was timetabled and then looked down at her dress. It had large pockets and an over dress that was easily washed of blood and other bodily fluids but it wasn't very practical to run or fight in. She would have to fashion herself some manner of trousers and shirt, she had riding leggings, perhaps they could be adjusted? Looking at the sun she realised she had very little time so she got to work. Climbing her way up the ornate ladder she ignored the beauty and luxury of her new home and set about organising the place around her into a proper doctors office, picking out work tables and desks and draws for herbs and cool dry places for remedies. The bookshelves caught her attention for a moment, tempting her with titles like 'Anatomy of a Dragon' and 'The Nature of the Dragon Bond'. But she exercised control and went back to her organisation. She had done this many times before so it took her very little time and soon enough she had out her needle and thread and a few extra clothes she knew she wouldn't need and set at the riding jodhpurs. Within a half hour she had the basic planning and pinning done, now all she had to do was sew it all together. A small press of her dragon's mind made her aware of how hungry she was and after a while she decided she should attend this feast, she could bring her sewing with her. Methuzar seemed tired but still insisted upon accompanying her, having her sit on his nose so that he could lower her to the ground rather than attempt the ladder with only one hand and an armful of cloth and thread. Just before she had left her loft the Books had been too much of a draw and she had quickly picked out one concerning anatomy before lowering herself onto Methuzar's snout.

It took little time for them to walk to the circle of oak trees when Yennefer was carried there by Methuzar, sewing all the way with the book open in front of her on a page about Dragon Cartilage density and composition. She had to be given a little reminding nudge to realise they had arrived. The trip down Methuzar's leg was a little precarious when carrying sewing and a large tome but she was very careful and kept her balance to hop down relatively elegantly from his paw to the ground. Upon walking into the circle of Tamers around the ornately craved stone table she bowed a little and smiled politely to everyone around her. After taking a quick look about her she found a chair and set herself down with the book open on her lap along with the sewing as Methuzar curled himself up behind her on the soft grass.

 

[AnastiaCrest01]

Diari stopped in her tracks as the sun now started to create the pinks, purples, reds, oranges, and yellows accompanied by sunrises. She gazed in wonder as the colors touched the tips of the coliseum and tree tops, forming a beautiful ray affect. The sun was already rising earlier, but now was time for its brilliant show, the colors reflecting off all the various dragon scales making the sun's appearance even more gorgeous. The bottoms of the clouds were dyed a dark hue of pink and a bright orange, creating the perfect contrast to the purple and red sky. The clouds were lightly brushed with yellow on the lumps, much like an outline. Diari was completely amazed. Sure, she had seen sunrises before, plenty in fact, but they always seemed to take her breath away every morning. She wanted to join the skies, and now she could. Halazes figured out what Diari wanted and allowed the harness to be placed on her once more. The young girl got on the jade dragon as she had before.


Her hair was hit with the light, showing its true brown color and her reddish brown eyes shone brightly, being more like the color of a dark rose because of the crimson sky. The drake beneath her shimmered a nearly blinding green and her deep chestnut eyes held wisdom beyond her years as well as many emotions indiscernible to any who knew nothing about the beast. Halazes stretched out her wings, the light colors around them making the dark emerald wings stand out. With one powerful leap, the pair was well on their way into the clouds. The mystical creature under Diari moved faster than their last flight, knowing the human on her back would fully trust her. Once the verdant dragon leveled out, the girl whooped and closed her eyes, enjoying the rush of air and adrenaline. Without thinking, she untied her harness and slowly, cautiously stood up, mimicking Merrik from his earlier display. She had always been one to learn based on sight. It came natural to her. She copied Merrik's form exactly, not one part of her misplaced. It was difficult at first, but her years of balancing in the field had finally come in handy. The girl reached a hand up, wishing she can run it through the clouds, of which were much higher than she. Halazes was nervous. She didn't like what her tamer was doing in the slightest. "What are you doing?! You're not at that level yet! Diari!"


"Halazes….. Don't you trust me…?" Diari's voice was filled with thrill, as well as a calmness that relaxed her drake just a bit. "Diari! I do trust you! I just don't trust gravity!" The girl laughed soulfully, expertly shifting her weight to match the jewel-like dragon's movements. Once she quieted down, she took in a deep breath, letting it out almost instantly in a content sigh. "I am defying gravity, aren't I? Alright, I'll sit down if it will make you stop panicking." And so she did so, sitting back down on the creature's back, though leaving the harness untied. The rush she had felt standing up was still with her, her heart racing and her body lightly shaking. Halazes released a dragonic sigh of relief, smoke coming out as the drake did so. "Thank you…. I really don't feel like loosing my tamer today…."


The girl upon her back was about to reply when Merrik and Obsidian Nova announced the time to leave. Diari nearly stood again as she hollered into the sky. Halazes gave her a warning growl and she sat back down, though still looking forward to her new home. She loved experiencing new places, and to be moving into one, well, her excitement had no bounds. Halazes got into the diamond formation, being on one of the side points. In front of the pair and to the left was the young woman Diari had helped earlier, Asa. She rode on top a creature of such celestial means, Diari couldn't believe it was a dragon. Its scales were a radiant white. It had spines and accents an intensely bright gold color. She wasn't sure these affects were from the sunlight or was the dragon's natural look. The rider of such a beautiful beast had long platinum blonde hair tied back in twin braids, the braids flying behind her. She also bore light armor, very similar to what Diari wore. Looking behind her, Diari saw the man she recalled as Rita flying on a dragon that looked somewhat like an olive. Unlike the other dragons, it's scales seemed to be slightly duller, murky even, like the waters of a swamp. It was also drastically different than the dragon in front of them, being more sturdily built and with what seemed to be a thicker head; the rider having fairly dark brown hair, much like her own, though slightly lighter and much shorter, barely passing his ears. He seemed to be around her age as well, only a few years older at the most. His eyes were a deep chocolate color and he wore what appeared to be a forest green tunic, though she couldn't tell at the moment. Looking to her side, Diari saw the girl by the name of Tara. She looked strong, both in mind and spirit. She had long black hair and, just as most of the tamers, bore armor. She rode skillfully on a beautiful drake with a dark gray, nearly black, body and scintillating yellow stripes. The dragon itself looked to be speedy and aerodynamic and as it flew, the sun made it look like a literal streak of lightning.


"The three dragons you saw are, in order, Verebera. She is the Celestial Dragon. Next is Wither. She is the Swamp Dragon. Finally, the drake you are looking at now is Zarketh. She is the Lightning Dragon."


"They really fit their titles… You fit yours as well, Halazes. Perfectly."

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

The flight over was amazing. Diari watched as the trees flew by far beneath her. She watched the shadows of the dragons distorting and changing heights with each tree they flew over, as well as each hill and valley. Occasionally, they would zoom past a body of water, the dragons' undersides being reflected back. It was so peaceful and exciting that the girl hadn't realized how fast time went by. One hour passed, then two, then three, yet she thought only a few minutes had passed. When they started dropping in altitude, Diari looked disappointed. "…So soon…? Wow… Time flew…. I swear it had only been a couple of minutes!" Halazes chuckled within the young girl's mind. "You must pay attention to time even when enjoying the view. After all, time is priceless." To Diari's dismay, the two of them landed quickly. But her dismal didn't last long as she gazed at the giant gates. She slid off the green dragon and walked towards the gates a little bit. She was completely absorbed into the beauty that she almost missed Merrik speaking. Shaking her head clear, she turned to face her mentor, taking every word he spoke to heart. She didn't want to mess up such a marvelous place.


She was even more flabbergasted by the sight of the clearing when Obsidian Nova pushed open the gates. "I'm going to be…. Living here….? H-Here with all this beauty….? This is truly an honor….." Diari had only ever lived in a rundown, tiny, shack-like home. Never had she lived in a place so elegant. She felt as if she didn't deserve to be here, that it was too sacred for her to even step foot on. Halazes gently pushed her into the gates, Diari stumbling a tad bit. She gazed at the white oak structure, Merrik claiming them to be the stables, and her new home. She was snapped out of her astonishment when her new leader spoke once more. "At all times, you will keep your living quarters in acceptable condition. If I find so much as one plate of rotting food or a pile of laundry letting off its stench, you'll pay for it in your training. I am many things to you, a mentor, a leader, perhaps even a friend, but I am not your caretaker nor am I your mother." Diari flinched and lowered her gaze, painful memories of her own mother flooding into her mind. Halazes nuzzled her tamer's back gently and comfortingly. "Everything will be okay…." The girl looked back to the drake with a strained, sad smile and tears in her eyes. "Yeah…. I know it will be…. And I do have a promise to keep, haven't I..?" The girl didn't know if anyone had seen her reaction to her leader's words, yet she didn't seem to care if they had. She turned back to the man addressing all of the tamers, he now speaking of the stone table a little away from the entrance they had just walked through.


The girl wiped her auburn eyes, they tears slowly rolling down her cheeks. Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and recalled the nicer memories of her mother. Once feeling better, she reopened her eyes, ready to listen. Except, she couldn't listen. Merrik had stopped talking and was leaving. She had missed the instructions and had no idea where to go. Diari went over to someone nearest to her, the older man named Hakeem. He looked rugged and scarred and was darkly tanned. He seemed to have know a thing or two about war. "Hello… I-I just wanted to ask where we go…. I didn't hear that and if we were supposed to go somewhere specific, well, I don't want to go to the wrong place…."

"Fear not, you are free for tonight. Our Commander commands us to do what we wish. But there was mention of a feast prepared in a circle of oak trees! Your Dragon shall surely know the way."

The man bowed, his arm across his chest. He seemed to be in a rush, yet willing to spare a few moments to give Diari the information she needed. She returned the bow, though her's wasn't as long or deep as his.

"I am Hakeem Ibn'Abihi." He said in a confident and amiable manner. "Diari Zega of Deltan, Sylvis. It's a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for providing me what I needed to know." He gave a nod and walked away. Diari headed inside the stables to find her stall, discovering it to be close to the entrance, it being the second one down on the right side. She found the schedule next to the opening for the stall and studied it. "Sounds fun! Can't wait!" She said cheerily. Walking in, she saw a curious pool of water bubbling from the ground, exotic plants lining the walls, and a metallic dish with leaf shaped jade crystals embedded in it. The dish seemed large enough for Halazes, so the girl assumed it to be her bed. Her theory was made true when she saw the large, plush, green pillows and when the verdant dragon herself laid down in it. The room was humid, Diari wondering if it was like this due to magic as the rest of the stable was no where near as moist. She examined the elegant ladder before climbing up to set up her place. Coming to the top of the ladder, Diari was met with lavish color scheme of green, everything in different shades. The walls were a light shade of green, being close to Halazes' color. The large, queen-sized bed had a malachite colored bedspread and emerald pillows. The chest at the foot of the bed was a deep variscite. The bookshelves alternated between a deep mahogany brown and a jadite green. The nightstand and bed bottom were also a rich mahogany shade of brown. It was truly sumptuous.

She didn't have much to unpack. All she had was a few things she used on rescue missions, her sword, a picture of her and her mom, and Dynic, her childhood teddy bear, as well as a few clothes. When Diari felt everything was organized, she started to head towards the ladder so she could join the feast. It was then she noticed the bookshelves, as the melded so well with the room, and picked out a book call The Nature of the Dragon Bond. She climbed down the ladder, Halazes stretching. "Are you ready to eat as you've never ate before?" When the girl nodded, the drake started to lead the way. As dragon and tamer walked side by side, they passed many beautiful plants and areas. Red flowers littered the lush green grasses. Sometimes, they would pass flowers of different colors, like a yellow or a pink one. Small animals weaved through the grasses, animals such as squirrels, rabbits, and field mice. Diari treaded lightly, not wanting to crush such magnificent beauty beneath her feet. Closing her eyes briefly, she took in the flora scent, as well as the scent of oaks and pines, that surrounded her.

Soon, the pair walked into the white oak circle, being met with plenty of festivities. She sat down among the others, piled her plate, opened the book and started to read. She normally was very social, but the book held her attention. She ate slowly, occasionally reading out loud in a whisper. She wouldn't have noticed if anyone had spoken to her, too involved into the book. She suddenly gasped as she felt a sudden pulsation of energy throughout her being. Then the sudden flood of a salty sweet taste, tasting oddly familiar, danced on her taste buds. Looking around, she found Halazes missing. Piecing the puzzle together, she realized her dragon had gone hunting and that the taste was that of blood, a taste she recognized due to sucking on cuts in the past. It took her a moment to stop her pounding heart and quickened breaths. It took her even longer to realize that she was invisible, save her clothes. It was as if it was a small hiccup, because as soon as she realized, Diari was visible again. She looked at the others before sinking lower in her chair and covering her face with her book, going back to her reading, or so it seemed. "Halazes? What was that? Why did I turn invisible?"

"That must be our bonded ability. I have the ability to change my scale colors, much like a chameleon. When we bonded, that skillset must have been split with you. It will be tricky to learn." Halazes flew back into the oak circle, landing next to Diari. Her chops were stained with blood and she looked content. Diari flipped through the pages of the book, searching for the chapter she knew was here about bonded abilities. "Bonded abilities are powers the dragon has that can split into two for both dragon and tamer. This allows the tamer to gain that ability, or one similar, though not to the extent of the dragons. The powers of each dragon are as follows:

Nightmare Dragon (Black Dragon):

Shadow Melt: They can melt into shadows, becoming invisible to all but other dragons. Such time spent in utter darkness has pushed them to evolve finely tuned night vision.

Nightmare: Can cause the enemy to hallucinate, these visions are different to each person to accommodate their worst fears.

Umbrakenisis: They control darkness, the black dragon senses the lack of light and substance around it and can summon the void to create a powerful orb of manipulatable blackness. It can be hurled in attack or used to restrain those who do no understand the antimatter.

Celestial Dragon (White Dragon):

Purify: Can remove negative energies that taint living creatures. This will play a HUGE role in the story as the white dragon can remove the effects of the plague in extreme circumstances. Keep in mind, one round of purification will tire the dragon out immensely so use this wisely.

Soothe: The dragon can send soothing vibes to other living creatures, helping them to relax or remove their fear.

Projection: The dragon can create a stunning ray of light to illuminate even the darkest of areas.

Forest Dragon (Green Dragon):

Chameleon: They can shift the colors of their hide to create a natural camouflage.

Hunter: They have unbeatable senses of smell and can track almost anything, like massive, scaled hounds.

Way of the Wild: They can ALWAYS find true north, they can always find shelter, and they can always find food and fresh water. A green dragon is the ultimate survivalist.

Lightning Dragon (Yellow Dragon):

Bolt: They can collect the static electricity from them and release a shockwave powerful enough to stun their enemies briefly or short out an electrical plant. Though painful, it is not deadly.

Sprint: Because of their intense speed they have developed the ability to sprint a few meters SO quickly that they cannot be seen by humans. This is a tiring process and they cannot do it too many times in a row lest they fall from the skies in exhaustion.

Thunder: Despite their fragile structure the yellow dragon had a roar so powerful it can deafen those who are unlucky enough to be on the receiving end of it.

Deep Sea Dragon (Blue Dragon):

Siren Song: They can lull anyone to sleep or stupor with their ghostly melodies. Though the target is not harmed, they enter into a zombie like state until the dragon chooses to reawaken them.

Merlungs: Though they no longer have gills they can still somehow breathe underwater.

Canteen: They absorb water, storing it in a pouch lining their stomaches. When needed they can spew this out in either a hot steamy jet or a cool shower. They can't hold more than 4 gallons of water though, so it's not exceedingly useful for attacks.

Aurora Dragon (Crystal Dragon):

Ice Breath: They can freeze things with the low tempertature breath that fills their lungs.

Boreali: With wings so magnificent, they have learned to use them well in the area of distractions. Few can avert their gaze when a crystal dragon sets to producing a beautiful display of colored lights.

Bioluminsecence: The scales on these dragons glow a pale, blue light in the dark.

Mountain Dragon (Brown Dragon):

Bulldoze: These massive animals can knock over almost anything including trees, boulders, houses... although generally the tamer is expected to avoid allowing the dragon to level houses.

Earthquake: By flying into the air and dropping themselves to the ground, the earth around them will shake under their massive weight.

Burrow: They are master diggers and can dig tunnels and caves rather quickly.

Intellect Dragon (Gold Dragon):

Taunt: The dragon can urge almost anyone into a livid state simply by choosing the correct words. Intelligence is a powerful thing.

Deception: For the weaker minded, a gold dragon is a devastating opponent for they are so well spoke they can actually weave a story that the listener has no choice but to believe. They will often convince their prey that they WANT to be the dragon's meal. For the less intelligent, this makes sense somehow.

Predict: Through vast stores of knowledge of events of the past and careful consideration of the laws of the universe and potential outcomes combined with a mild sixth sense, the gold dragon can predict quite accurately what will happen in the near future. Near, being the next 5 minutes. However this is a draining process and the dragon must be given time to think, and then after to collect its thoughts.
Inferno Dragon (Red Dragon):

Scald: Their fire is so hot it can turn rock into magma; its heat precedes all other dragons'.

Haze: Red dragons have a strong internal flame, almost to the point of self endangerment. Because of the high core temperature they produce more smoke than other breeds and have learned to use this as a defense. A red dragon can produce a thick, toxic cloud of smoke to deter their foes.

Flame Body: Red dragons can withstand higher levels of heat than any other. Mature red drakes were known to be spotted swimming in lava pits in volcanos. However, natural fire and their own fire are one thing; these dragons are still prone to burns from other drakes.

Vanity Dragon (Amethyst Dragon):

Attract: The dragon's magnificence is hard to resist to most creatures, but when the dragon deliberately tries to impress others the effect is hypnotizing. Those of the opposite gender are mesmerized, luckily humans are only slightly affected by this.

Diamond Skin: These stunning creatures have evolved, over millions of years spent smothering themselves in their beloved diamonds, to have a scales hard enough that their beauty would not be tarnished by the stones' sharp edges. Nothing can penetrate the scales on most of their body.

Sound Hound: After an eternity of dwelling in a cave these dragons' ears have become overly sensitive to the sounds of the world about the ground, they can hear even a mouse scurry across the ground up to a kilometre away.

Atmosphere Dragon (Silver Dragon):

Fog: These snakelike creatures have an instinct from their ancestors to use the temperature fluctuation in their breath to slightly alter weather conditions; they can summon a layer of fog to surround themselves.

Sky Dive: Because of their genetically abnormal lungs they can soar the even the highest of altitudes and come shooting down out of the sky like a falling star. This may seem like a strange ability but there is no other dragon capable of a lightning quick ambush from the skies in the blink of an eye.

Twister: Due to the large area their wings hold silver dragons can soar long distances with fewer wing beats, giving them their long distance abilities. But these large wings have another unique use; they can whip up small twisted on the ground; by combining their hot and cool breath with a current of air from their wing beats they have been know to stir up twisters around 100 ft tall.

Regeneration Dragon (Pink Dragon):

Healing: The pink dragon's scales are unique in the sense that, when ground up, they contain healing properties. When the powder is mixed with water and applied to minor cuts and abbraisions the effects are almost immediate.

Regeneration: It take ALOT to kill a pink dragon. Though they are quaint creatures, in the way of dragons, they heal exceptionally fast and could repair even broken bones in just a week.

Fresh Scent: These dragons somehow managed to weave the scent of flowers into their genetics; be it by magic or miracle. This scent is ideal for attracting the attention of deer and other prey. They rely on it to draw their prey out into an ambush as they do not enjoy fighting.

Swamp Dragon (Olive Dragon):

Hard Head: These animals have the strongest will power of any dragon. They can survive even the toughest blows, by focusing their unpredecessed willpower into preserving their life force. It is extremely difficult to knock out an olive dragon.

Immunity: These dragons have adapted a natural immunity to poisons, sleep spores, and other ailments from years of swimming in mucky swamp waters.

Instinct: The olive dragons have developed a strong sense of when danger is near. They can judge personalities with ease and cannot be deceived easily.

Solar Dragon (Orange Dragon):

Sun Burn: These dragons have learned to use their highly reflective wings to concentrate the sun's rays to a desired area, causing temperatures to rise quickly and can result in 3rd degree burns when used on their prey.

Cold Blood: Oddly enough the orange dragons found a way to convert the sun's rays into a potent energy which they use to maintain their health and personal energy stores. They can heal themselves of exhaustion and fatigue quite quickly, but only once in a while as it takes a long time to store enough sun power to refill such a large "fuel tank".

Ray of Direction: The dragon has a connection with the sun and if it so chooses it may release a unique flame burst that will actually seek out and travel directly to the sun. They use this ability to find they way out of caves, buildings, and underground networks as they do NOT like it when they cannot access the skies.

Desert Dragon (Tan Dragon):

Diamond Mind: These dragons cannot forget. Their memory is so substantial they will often find themselves recalling things that they did not even think they noticed, like the color of the bird that flew by last night or the number of people on a street it flew over last week.

Mirage: These beasts have the strangest abilitiy to create mirages to affect the wearker minded. They project the victim's greatest desire in a ghostly image that only they can see. However, this will not work on more intelligent prey as they understand the "too good to be true" concept.

Sandstorm: These dragons have a strange organ that they can fill with rocks and dirt, originally used to intake excess debris when sifting for buried artifacts. The organ grinds the material into fine sand which they can, at any time, spew out in a viscious sandy attack. They use their winds to send the small storm cascading at its enemies, effectively battering and temporarily blinding them.
Wow.... There's so many breeds of dragon... And I'm not even sure if this is all of them.."

Halazes nodded. "And an equal amount of abilities. I thought you were going to pass out from exertion as you read them all." Diari chuckled slightly before going back to the book, even more fascinated by it than earlier. She was now completely captivated and her drake partner had to pull Diari away when it was time to rest. Diari complied, exhausted, but still wanted to read the book. Halazes told Diari to get on her back so she may have a bit more time reading. The girl smiled and did as told happily. When they were back on the ground, Diari was already asleep. The green dragon looked back at her tamer like a mother would a child before walking into her stall. She didn't want to disturb the sleeping girl, so Halazes curled up in her bed with the young woman still on her back. Soon the majestic creature was sound asleep like her partner.

 

[Esmeray]

Flight- Asa and Verebera

"Though you might not feel it, you all look as if you were born atop a dragon. It is a proud sight indeed to see these young drakes bonded to such strong people. I've seen enough to trust you all to make the flight to your new home. You'll be living here on the estate from now on. Here you will learn and train, perfecting your skills until the day comes that we face our opponent. But for now, you all look in need of food, drink, and rest. Our destination is a clearing, deep within the eastern woods. It was once the home of the Old Order, and has been revived to suit our needs. The flight will take around 4 hours. Long distance flying is a little more strenuous than gliding about on warm air. You'll be sore, and you'll be tired when we arrive, but you'll certainly dismount with a greater knowledge and understanding of your dragon and how their bodies work and move."

We'll be flying in a diamond formation, the dragons are accustomed to it, they'll take their places at random for now, but on later dates, this formation will be set according to position and duty. Do not fall behind, we won't be slowing down for anyone. This flight will give you a taste of what is to come, there's not point in prolonging it. You will be sore, you will be uncomfortable, you will deal with it. You young ones will be surprised at the difference in energy you expend while carrying a passenger over a great distance.

"Oh? Are you sure you'll be okay then Verebera?" Asa asked her dragon when told this news. Verebera seemed to be big enough to support Asa's weight, and wouldn't be an issue since Asa wasn't very heavy. Verebera assured Asa that she would be fine throughout the trip. Verebera and Asa flew in front of Diari and behind Merrick. The flight was peaceful, and Asa took the time to look over each person and which dragons they had bonded with. She wasn't really aware of who was who since she hadn't really approached any of them. It was so difficult get to know the people around you when you couldn't speak. She did notice the old man from before flying on the opposite side of the diamond. She wondered who that was, and his dragon. That is Dakan, a desert drake. He's pretty lively and rambunctious. Recently he seems to have some sort of brotherly rival with Obsidian Nova. He can be quite fun to converse with though.

"Oh? What about the girl and her dragon from the coliseum?"

Not sure of the girl, but her dragon is Halazes the forest dragon. She's playful, and absolutely loves pranks. Sadly she's developed a bit of a temper, and often finds herself in arguements with our brothers and sisters. I try my best to keep them all happy with each other, but they prove to be quite the challenge sometimes. Though, I expect it is like that with all siblings yes? Verebera asked, as the air beneath her wings kept her gliding forward. Only ever having to beat her wings occasionally.

Asa nodded briefly as her mind began to wander with the talk of siblings. She began to day dream of her sister, imagining her flying on a drake with her. Though, Asa probably would have never been recruited by Merrik if her life hadn't turned out the way it did. When Asa's cheerfulness began to falter Verebera gave her a sort of mental push of comfort to cheer her up. She decided to show Asa a little memory of riding with the sun set in the backdrop. Asa's lips curled into a faint smile once again and she gently patted the back of Verebera's neck as thanks.

Forest Garden

Once the oval garden game into view, and the dragons began to spiral downward to land Asa let out a small sigh of relief. She knew Verebera tried to hide it, but due to their bond Asa could tell that she was starting to get tired and hour before they had to land. Asa tried questioning her about it, but Verebera had denied the notion stating she was perfectly fine. Asa knew better though, but decided not to continue to pester her about it. The force of Verebera finally landing caused the grass around them to sway slightly, and then become still save for the occasional gust of wind. The dragon shook it's body only a little before lowering her neck and upper torso closer to the earth so Asa could get off. Asa swung her right leg over her saddle and to the left side of her dragon before sliding off easily. When Merrik began to speak to them about their new home, Asa paid him close attention to ensure she wouldn't miss anything important. When both he and Obsidian Nova finished what they had to say and then promptly take their leave for the evening, Asa went straight to work. She turned to the other tamers, bowed to them, and then returned her attention to finding a stall for Verebera. When they entered the building Asa eyes widened out of sheer awe. Her pale blue hues looked left and right as she inspected every lovely detail of the white oak the building was made of. She approached a column and ran her hand across it's engravings, feeling the grooves at her finger tips. She looked back at Verebera witha giddy smile before running off down the stalls to find Verebera's place of rest. Eventually she reached the very end, and came across Obsidian Nova's room. She peeked inside to take a small little glance at the amazing creature. Then stepped into view at the door frame, lifted her arm a deft to her chest with her left hand in a fist above her heart, then bowed to him. It was almost as if she actually looked the part of a warrior saluting their commanding officer, but of course Asa didn't know that at that time. To her, this was just a normal way to bow. This was how her older sister taught her to bow, though never really told her why. When Verebera stuck her neck around the corner to look she gave a soft snort, and a small white flame emitted from her nostrils as they flared open in her snort. The snort made Asa jump out of a fright and the Celestial Dragon quickly bowed her head in apology.

Sorry my nose had an itch. She says to Asa before turning her attention back to Obsidian Nova. Anyways, hello brother Nova. Asa didn't say anything in particular with her bow. The Celestial dragon spoke only to Obsidian Nova now. Verebera then realized something in doing this constant back and forth. How could Obsidian Nova speak to all of them at once? She couldn't seem to do that with the others. Was that something she could learn at Obsidian Nova's age? Verebera glanced at Nova one more time before returning her gaze back down to Asa. Let's go hun, you need to get settled in and eat. Turning to Nova once more she mentions one last thing. Hope you have a peaceful evening Nova. See you later. With that her and Ava departs from his stall's entrance and move into the stall directly across from his.

 

[Erranruin]

​

Hakeem and Veshna's endeavour to help their peer seemed to be having some effect so they continued with their gentle circling and intercepting of his path, letting Veshna's soothing presence calm him. Thinking closer on Veshna's abilities and seeing in her mind what she could do, Hakeem ponderously stroked a glossy pearl scale in front of him, just on her neck. He was considering the astounding healing properties her scales seemed to possess and of course like any father, his thoughts could not be turned from his children for long. He wondered what Amira could do with such ingredients, could his dragon's scales help save Thamina? As soon as his thoughts turned to his youngest daughter Veshna keened a little as his accumulated fear, guilt and sorrow took its toll on her. She actually faultered in her expert flying, Hakeem having the presence of mind to pull back his emotions and clear her thoughts before they lost altitude.

"A thousand pardons, Althminah, I was unthinking." He felt her tremble beneath him, her mind remaining quiet but threads and ribbons of sympathy and reassurance wrapping around his thoughts as she tried to comfort him. The intense desire to help his little daughter was irrevocably transferred to her and no matter how much he tried to distance his attachments from her, it was impossible for Veshna not to care for them all. It was a somewhat sombre and sobering moment for them both and they flew in silence for a while until suddenly Merrick's voice boomed out across them.

"Though you might not feel it, you all look as if you were born atop a dragon. It is a proud sight indeed to see these young drakes bonded to such strong people. I've seen enough to trust you all to make the flight to your new home. You'll be living here on the estate from now on. Here you will learn and train, perfecting your skills until the day comes that we face our opponent."

At this last sentence, Hakeem sighed heavily. He had known coming there that it was unlikely he would get to see his family for many moons but the reality of his seperation from all he cared about truly hit him hard. He would never let it effect him, his decision was made and it had been a good one, but secretly he ached for home. These lands were cold and these people were strange with accents and languages foreign to him. He had never truly felt homesick, but then perhaps he had just never been far enough away from home. But still, he took the pain and used it to fuel his determination. The faster the army was trained and suited to combat, the sooner he could return to protect his loved ones.

"But for now, you all look in need of food, drink, and rest. Our destination is a clearing, deep within the eastern woods. It was once the home of the Old Order, and has been revived to suit our needs. The flight will take around 4 hours. Long distance flying is a little more strenuous than gliding about on warm air. You'll be sore, and you'll be tired when we arrive, but you'll certainly dismount with a greater knowledge and understanding of your dragon and how their bodies work and move."

Hakeem allowed himself the briefest of smiles. Four hours was long? He had often ridden for days on end across harsh plains and rough stone only to finish the day with a heated battle. Four hours was not a long time. Especially considering Veshna's gait and line in the air was a hundred times smoother than any horse Hakeem had ever ridden, even the Palace's best. She purred at the praise, loving that Hakeem was so delighted with her and wanting to do even better to impress him.

We'll be flying in a diamond formation, the dragons are accustomed to it, they'll take their places at random for now, but on later dates, this formation will be set according to position and duty. Do not fall behind, we won't be slowing down for anyone. This flight will give you a taste of what is to come, there's not point in prolonging it. You will be sore, you will be uncomfortable, you will deal with it. You young ones will be surprised at the difference in energy you expend while carrying a passenger over a great distance.

"Am I a great burden dearest? I can feel you tire." Veshna hummed resonantly beneath him but shook her head in the wind. You are heavy but you move with me. It helps. I will endure. Hakeem nodded, knowing her words were true, his instinctive attitude towards riding anything being to follow the animals movements and roll his weight around accordingly. And so the pair set themselves into the diamond, remaining nearby their orange friend to ensure the efficacy of Veshna's scent. Throughout the flight Veshna made Hakeem aware of all the various dragon species, names and abilities. She explained their temperaments also, watching in fascination as her Tamer's mind began to run with tactical diagrams and conclusions and theories, placing each bonded pair in specific roles and then grouping them to each situation. They passed the time easily, talk between them being both animated and gentle. Hakeem took interest in Veshna's memories of hunting while she continued looking into his past accomplishments with relish.

All in all the Forest Garden arrived faster than they would have liked and Hakeem was slightly surprised when they began a circling descent, Veshna's body twisting gracefully down through the air though Hakeem could feel her muscles trembling at the exertion they had performed. The General soothed her with words of encouragement and praise, truly impressed with her perseverance and strength when she was indeed one of the smaller dragons and he was certainly no dainty lady. Still, Veshna landed beautifully and quietly, stretching her wings tentatively and shuffling them before truly putting them to rest against her side and allowing Hakeem to dismount. He on the other hand, simply swung his leg over and dropped to the ground without so much as a twitch, looking perfectly refreshed and not even really tired.

Really, the Commander was right, the place just bulged with life and energy. Even Hakeem felt it, taking in a deep breath and feeling instantly revitalised. After listening to Merrick's quick speech and returning his bow with one of his own, very unaccustomed to Commanders bowing to their subordinates, he was very torn as to what to do. Normally he would have needed to acquaint himself with the rest of his comrades, camaraderie being an important part of any army and certainly important to him. However the Forest Garden was such an inspiring place and it held so much peace within it that he couldn't help but long to explore it with Veshna for some time.

I am in need of a hunt, perhaps you could accompany me and then we can return in time for the feast?

"A grand plan Althminah, lead the way." She trilled, happy but thick with sleep, and they were both about to leave when a small voice called back to them.

"Hello… I-I just wanted to ask where we go…. I didn't hear that and if we were supposed to go somewhere specific, well, I don't want to go to the wrong place…." Hakeem had spun back, a smile automatically appearing on his features as he looked to where he expected the face to be... and then looked down to where her face actually was. How was someone so small and young going to fight in a war... He had been younger than she when he had entered the Army but never had he had such pressure as this placed upon his shoulders. She was young enough to be one of his youngest children! Still he collected himself, there was nothing to be done about it now.

"Fear not, you are free for tonight. Our Commander commands us to do what we wish. But there was mention of a feast prepared in a circle of oak trees! Your Dragon shall surely know the way."

Always a slave to manners and courtesy, he gave her a small bow, his arm coming across his chest briefly before he rose again. "I am Hakeem Ibn'Abihi." He said in a confident and amiable manner, smiling down at her as gently as he could. The need to protect her was strong in him. What happened in her life and who so failed her that she was forced to take up the sword? He could never imagine. Still, she answered with her name. "Diari Zega of Deltan, Sylvis. It's a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for providing me what I needed to know." At that he decided she was well set and he could leave, turning away from her with a nod and being on his way.

Hakeem's jog was naturally fast and he and Veshna arrived at a suitably forested and thriving area of the Garden. Hakeem was generally mindful of Merrick's words and even though he had his sword and could certainly protect himself, he kept outside its bounds, instead wandering along its edge and taking in the beautiful area around him. He was also half-watching Veshna stalk through the trees, eventually finding a leafy and dense area and settling down to wait. After a few moments of Hakeem wandering at ease suddenly a heady rush of hot and metallic tasting liquid crashed into his senses. He swayed at their intensity and had to take a few moment to understand that he was not a dragon taking down it prey and sucking eagerly at its throat. He grinned eventually after processing the images and sensations. Veshna may seem a gentle and diminutive character but her hunting instinct and ferocity as a predator was not to be questioned.

Eventually they returned, Hakeem's interest satisfied and Veshna's hunger quenched. They made their way back to the stalls, moving past Merrick's loft as quietly as they could before Veshna showed Hakeem to their own lofts, almost in the centre of the line on Merrick's side. Hakeem made a note that Merrick had obviously not decided to come to the feast and an idea formed in his mind. Inside Veshna's abode, again the soothing scent of flowers hit Hakeem like a fresh morning breeze. The whole place seemed soft, her dish fashioned of some kind of soap stone and strewn with soft blankets that she obviously curled herself in. There were also various small creatures running around the bottom floor, mice and rats and a few rabbits seemed to make the place their home. He chuckled at that, it was very like her.

He ran up into his own apartment but he spent no time perusing it. He simply rid himself of the thicker layers of his robes and armour, leaving him with a single robe only loosely tied at his waist and open almost to his stomach muscles, while his lower half remained covered by baggy linen trousers. This made him feel a lot more comfortable and much more amiably orientated, though he still strapped his sword to his side. One would think he would be cold after spending his whole life in a warm savannah but the nights in Trespa were even colder than any many places in the north and Hakeem had spent enough time out in the middle of the plains with nothing but a thin blanket for warmth. Cold was not a problem for him, he ran hot naturally anyway it seemed.

Much more prepared now, he swung himself back down from his loft, Veshna trying not to look too delighted to see him again even after only a few minutes apart. They both immediately set off for the Feast but Hakeem had no intention of staying there for long. Veshna managed to persuade him to let her fly him there, the circle of oak trees being some way away, and they arrived very quickly, just as the large Mountain Dragon Methuzar was laying himself down on the grass. Again, Hakeem swung himself expertly down from his dragon and strode into the circle of Tamers, bowing to all the ladies and dipping his head to all the men he saw, though not disturbing any conversations already begun. Instead he began gathering some food from the table onto two plates, his actions being noticed by the fire-haired woman whom had just arrived with her behemoth of a dragon.

"Not staying to join us sir?" Hakeem gave her a flashing half-grin and shook his head. "Unfortunate for me, given the beautiful company!" Her tone of gentle mischief immediately ellicited a flirtatious response from him. He couldn't quite help it anymore. She raised an eyebrow at him, though not seeming to be angered or repulsed by his words. Hakeem endeavoured to explain. "I feel a need to speak with our ah, `a'mray' alxhrb`.. ah, our-" He was having difficulty remembering the translation but suddenly the woman cut him short. "Commander, our Commander." She finished for him with a bright and clever smile. It tugged a grin into his own features, nodding happily. It was very nice to find someone with knowledge of his language when before he had felt in a sea of strangers.

"Well," she continued, reaching over the table to grasp two sumptuous looking apples from a bowl, "take this too, our Mentor's complexion tells me he is in need of more fruit in his diet." She placed the two apples on Hakeem's already ladened plates before curtseying to him gently, which he returned, before returning to her needlework. The exchange certainly left Hakeem feeling more assured of their company. This fire-head had an obviously inspiring mind.

In any case he quickly re-mounted Veshna and they took off back to the Halls, Veshna keeping their flight steady at Hakeem's request so that the food did not fly everywhere. Arriving back at the halls, the pair approached Merrick and Obsidian Nova's abode, Veshna curling up quietly outside while Hakeem entered. He bowed to the midnight black dragon as he passed before striding lightly up the stairs and knocking on the ornate door, entering when he was allowed to and offering his Commander a wonderful sight of food, a smile and most of his chest.

"A pardon for the intrusion, `almrshd`, but it did not seem you would be joining us and men are just as in need of food as their dragons." He offered Merrick one of the plates with the mild insistence of a man whom has spoon-fed young toddlers seven times in his life and cant remember any other way of offering food.

"I would also speak with you and understand our position better. I am unused to fighting wars against enemies unknown." He gestured to a chair in the room. "May I sit?"

 

[Wanderfool]

Tetra Estate

Taking a measured breath, Isolde smoothed her hand over Plaor'z's hot scaled neck. Closing her eyes, she leaned forward like she was taught as a girl. The ghost of a faceless woman's voice passed through her mind. Plaor'z's confusion ran through her with the warmth of a candle, the dragon finally felt the holes in his tamer's mind. However, he was quickly quieted as she focused on matching her breath with his slow heavy sighs. Isolde frowned as Plaor'z's stubborn nature blocked her from attempting a deeper synchronization. "Work with me here." She whispered as the dragons above them called and beckoned. Blocking out the distractions around her, Isolde listened to the woman's voice that rang in her mind like an echo in the mountains.

Close your eyes, feel the breath beneath your legs. Feel the steadiness of the heartbeat beneath your fingertips, let your heart match with his. Breath deeply, feel yourself falling into the magnificent creature you have mounted. Breathe. Feel. You are one.

The dragon's breath was soothing, and just as steady as the warmth of a freshly stoked hearth. His heartbeat pounded on, vibrations flooding the beast with life and fire. Isolde soon felt her own heart matching the pace of Plaor'z's, keeping her breath steady she leaned forward her hands wrapped tight into the harness. The dragon responded at once, a jolt of excitement sparking eagerness in his step as the two of them moved into a steady "trot". Plaor'z was absolutely enraptured with this new feeling that passed through Isolde and in turn, through him. It was cooling, not sharp like the ice he had felt after bonding, but a slight breeze that cooled his boiling blood. Pleasant, calming, and totally supportive. Without hearing a command, feeling the need, Plaor'z spread his wings and took flight. Isolde giggled to herself as she felt the air's fingers through her hair. She could get used to this, it was as if...

You were born for this.

Smiling even wider, her heart filled with pride for the Plaor'z, whose temper had been dampened but a bit. Isolde would have never thought she would be born for something so magnificent and pure. It was a dream she never wanted to awaken from. Plaor'z was enjoying the sweetness of his tamer's thoughts but uneasiness swept over him. Isolde however, still smiled her hand reassuring on his scales as she picked up the Orz's thoughts. "We are being molded into an army, that I haven't forgotten. But if this is a nightmare, then I never want to wake up." She said, her words stolen by the wind, as Plaor'z wings beat along with Isolde's hummingbird-like heart. Steady and trilling all at the same time. Plaor'z still felt uneasy, though not for the reason this bonding took place. But for his tamer's mind, its holes, and her haunted, jaded spirit.

"Though you might not feel it, you all look as if you were born atop a dragon. It is a proud sight indeed to see these young drakes bonded to such strong people. I've seen enough to trust you all to make the flight to your new home. You'll be living here on the estate from now on. Here you will learn and train, perfecting your skills until the day comes that we face our opponent. But for now, you all look in need of food, drink, and rest. Our destination is a clearing, deep within the eastern woods. It was once the home of the Old Order, and has been revived to suit our needs. The flight will take around 4 hours. Long distance flying is a little more strenuous than gliding about on warm air. You'll be sore, and you'll be tired when we arrive, but you'll certainly dismount with a greater knowledge and understanding of your dragon and how their bodies work and move."

Isolde still held such a strong confidence, that Plaor'z couldn't help but feel the need to continue to fill his Isolde with pride. Such a strange thing for the young drake, but it was a natural feeling that he dared not to deny it. But as his wing continued to beat against the earth's pull, there was a strange heaviness to it. Without really thinking he quipped, You're a heavy human. Isolde's eyebrow quirked up at the dragon's comment, shaking her head she patted his neck. "At least I am not as heavy as that man may be." She gestured to an attractive though weathered man atop a lovely pink dragon. Plaor'z simply snorted a cloud of ash into the sky, which reminded Isolde that she was absolutely covered in it. A washing would be very much obliged for the woman, Plaor'z agreed wholeheartedly which received a playful kneeing from the woman.

We'll be flying in a diamond formation, the dragons are accustomed to it, they'll take their places at random for now, but on later dates, this formation will be set according to position and duty. Do not fall behind, we won't be slowing down for anyone. This flight will give you a taste of what is to come, there's not point in prolonging it. You will be sore, you will be uncomfortable, you will deal with it. You young ones will be surprised at the difference in energy you expend while carrying a passenger over a great distance.

Isolde jumped as a new voice invaded her mind, glaring ahead at the source of the voice her left eye twitched. The woman couldn't help but feel a little perturbed to the constant psyche invasion. You will have to adapt. Plaor'z pushed his wings down forcefully then folded close to his body as he darted to Obsidian's left flank. Isolde felt a wave of dominance rush over her as he snapped at another dragon. Isolde felt a small spark of thrill as her dragon displayed his ferocity. She understood his need to dominate, his need to lash out and to prove himself. He was a dragon. Beasts of tales and nightmares. She would not dare to punish or admonish his behavior, it would be punishing him for eons of his ancestral nature. Though there was very little she understood of dragons, or even heritage, she knew right down to her core that it was to be respected. Plaor'z felt the rush of approval from Isolde as well as the respect, I do not need your respect or approval as you already know that is my nature. Isolde frowned, she would also have to adapt to the constant mixed signals from Plaor'z. Often what he said was complete opposite from the feeling and thoughts that ran through his mind.

What I say is what I feel, my thoughts however are my own. Do not invade human.

Isolde sighed and rolled her eyes as she focused on the skies ahead. Just when they were beginning to bond on a level which would help them get along, he bolted off into a different direction. Finally their minds quieted with the focus needed of flying. Isolde's body close to Plaor'z shifting, moving, and leaning as required. Turns out horse-riding and dragon riding is only different when compared between ground and sky. Isolde was most definitely in her element.


---

"I welcome you all to your new home. This garden was born many, many centuries ago."

The "Garden" was one of the most magnificent of places Isolde had the pleasure of visting. As soon as Plaor'z touched the the ground, a calm swept over her. Easing any left over anxiety that had still squirmed in her heart, in fact Plaor'z behavior was most improved. The red and golden drake calmed down significantly so, he seemed content standing by her side as she herself held to every word that passed Merrick's lips. He himself seemed a bit worn, and deep in the green of his eyes was something restless. As he retired Isolde was finally able to take in her surroundings, the red of the wildflowers and the green of the grass could have moved her to tears. However this overwhelming emotion could only be hinted at in the spark of warmth in her blue eyes.

She wandered near the expansive stone table of which meetings and strategizing would commence, in the words of Lord Tetra. As her fingers brushed over the smooth cool stone laden with a bounty fit for seven kings, she felt a tangible spark of familiarity. Men and women's voices called and spoke in her mind, someone called her name and she felt the warmth of a burning hearth on her skin. Snatching her hand back as if burned she took a step back, and felt the reassuring scales of Plaor'z behind her. Steam rising from his crimson nostrils as he prepared to face whatever had the nerve to disturb her. Frowning at the table she looked at her hand, "I..." Plaor'z only guided her away from the table with his tail. Do not fret over it, you must repair now. Do as the little Lord asks of you. Still wringing her hands she found herself back where the company had landed. Watching as the tamers went about their business, Isolde found herself looking in on the company. A bad habit she had not yet broke, always treating herself as an outsider no matter the circumstance.

Looking out to the stalls, she wondered briefly if she should just get an early catch on her rest. Don't be ridiculous, you must eat. Socialize. Bathe. Isolde turned around and eyed Plaor'z who snorted and shook his wings. "Hush." She said with a glimmer of a smile, the high of the sky wearing off as she had an appearance to keep up around the strangers that somehow shared a strand of fate with her. Taking measured steps, as was a pattern with Isolde. Everything measured out perfectly before being launched into action. The woman gingerly picked up a plate, as she eyed the foods that were laid out to sate the appetites of those in company. Without touching the table, she delicately placed some strawberries alongside some heavy cheeses on her plate. There were meats, breads, wines, and sweets overflowing the table. A regular offering table. Pouring herself a glass of cold water, Isolde sat herself down finally as she bit into a piece of bread smothered in a heavy cream. Meanwhile Plaor'z had launched himself into the sky, a stream of fire lighting up the sky before he darted into the depth of the wood. Through the bond, Isolde could feel the giddy excitement of the anticipated hunt. Smiling as she sipped her water she looked up. A few of the tamers had their nose stuck in a book, sighing softly Isolde continued to eat in silence, her back straight as and arrow and her eating manners more than proper. Elegant almost.

Plaor'z landed once more, a few paces from the tamer's table. Isolde was still nibbling on some other ninny food or another when the dragon pranced up rather happily. Suspicious Isolde turned once she felt the swelling of pride through their bond. As she locked gazes with Plaor'z, she turned just in time to watch the charred carcass of a buck fall to the ground behind her chair. You cannot survive on just berries and wheat alone, you are much too puny. With an even look, she gazed at the body of her dragon's hunt. A smile flickered around the corner of her mouth before she grabbed a knife beside her plate, kneeling she cut a portion of the steaming leg. With a chunk of meat in her hand, she cut away the scorched parts of the meat until finally, pink rare meat was seen. Plaor'z watched on with a curiosity and excitement, Isolde bit into the meat and enjoyed the... interesting flavor. She could smell the scents of the forest the deer had grown in, taste the grass the game had eaten, felt the sun... It was an absolutely enthralling experience. Opening her eyes, she cut the leg of the deer from its body and unceremoniously tossed it to Plaor'z. "I thank you for sharing your bounty Plaor'z, now eat." The dragon's jaws snapped around the leg as he ate. Turning back to the table, she remembered her table manners. "Please excuse me." Isolde did not apologize for the scene that had just occurred, dragons had to eat too. At least Plaor'z shared.

Content to walk, Plaor'z and Isolde made their way to the stables. The building was not grandiose, but it was completely and wholly welcoming. By instinct Isolde found Plaor'z stall, most of the stall was charred but done so in almost a tasteful fashion. The dragon languidly made his way to a large metallic dish that made for his "nest". He was awfully quiet, but through the bond he felt absolutely content albeit a bit hungry. Standing at the base of her ladder, Isolde looked at Plaor'z whose orange irises gazed at her in return. "Why are you not hunting, a single buck could not possibly sate you." Plaor'z growled before answering. Do not question me puny boy, I do as I please, you are my tamer not my mother. Isolde was quick to snap back. "That I know, if I were your mother I would not be dealing you at all." Plaor'z laughed hollowly before spitting fire at her feet, causing her to jump upon the ladder. Shooting a filthy glare at Plaor'z, Isolde sent a dozen oaths to the fire drake.

Her loft was richly designed in the brilliant tones of crimson, orange, and gold. It was lavish compared to the dingy living style Isolde was used to, it was certainly luxurious though the most practical thing of the room was the bookshelves and foot chests. Quickly sifting through a few of her personal clothing items, she picked a pair of cloth grey leggings, a loose white cotton shirt and deep brown leather vest. Placing the items into a rucksack, she tossed it over the balcony edge. The sudden rustling and screech of metal suggested she may have startled the arrogant beast below. With a single hand, Isolde took hold of the railing and vaulted over the edge. Her boots landed with a thud, a cloud of dust being sent into the air as she grabbed her rucksack. Finally dirty, puny human. Isolde shook her head as she walked off into the direction of the bath house finally. One thing she did enjoy... a quiet hot bath.