Tetra Estate - Library - Approximately 3:30 PM
Merrik set down his 5th cup of coffee and rubbed his eyes. It had been a long day and they have found very little information concerning toxic magics. Glaring up at the second floor shelves that had offered him so little information on the subjects he most desired it for, he started to think he should have started from the bottom and worked his way up, instead of the other way around. Nonetheless, it was likely he'd read every book in the library eventually, some more than once, and he had already learned an incredible amount from the vast oceans of knowledge contained within the great hall.
He looked around at the three tamers that had come with him to seek out the knowledge they needed. They had been working tediously along side him since their arrival and he felt his respect for them growing. They had all come from different places in life, but here, in this library, they were as one. They were all working together towards a common goal: to defeat Ogual. And while their differences showed in their locations throughout the library, he looked then from Rita to Shirin and back, their unity was without question. The New Order was formed, and already growing stronger.
"
Well," he closed the book he had been scouring through on infectious voodoo magicks and turned in his chair to face the others. "
Unless one of you has had a breakthrough, I think we've worked our minds enough for the day. Unless anyone has an objection, I think we can call it quits for the day."
He stood up and stretched, looking at the dozens of books piled about on the desks and stair cases and chuckled to himself a bit, shaking his head at how consumed he had let himself get, not even realising that they had worked through 5 1/2 shelves in no more than 5 hours. It would have taken him weeks to do this alone; truly 4 minds were better than one.
"
I can't thank you all enough for the work you've put in today. I know we didn't find much, but I've got some leads now that I can further investigate, and that's something. In thanks for your efforts, I'll be cooking you all the best dinner you've ever had - apart from your parents'cooking, which I'm sure stumps any other's." He smiled warmly at his fellow tamers before collecting his dishes from his desk and then proceeding to gather everyone else's and placing them on the serving tray on which the refreshments had been served.
Each time someone would come up the steps to the second floor, Dalaith would quickly hide her new friend so as not to be caught, and continued reading. Her eyes would strain quite often and she would have to rest and just let her mind root through anything she had learned before returning to reading a few moments later, letting the books consume her, drag her down into their world for her to explore. Each pain and pleasure she attempted to feel and she reeled through any combination of information in her mind to equate what could and couldn't be, before setting one book aside and delving into another, her eyes dancing across each page as if an intricately choreographed ballet. Nothing disturbed her really, not even Merrik's loud pronouncement of they all being done, no, even if she had heard, she would refuse, insisting that she must read through and learn more, a true counterpart to her dragon.
Meanwhile, A'untyr had grown uninterested in the happenings of the outside world, walking into the manor to join his brethren in the sunning room and, of course, pester his mentor Obsidian Nova.
Mentor, please do tell, what is it in humans that compels them to care for beings that need no care, or otherwise are too weak to give anything back to them in return for care? Surely their affections for the animal world are misplaced. In instinctual nature, yes, an animal would attempt to bond to an animal of greater means or strength, but there is always a price for the protection provided, and yet, with humans, they charge nothing.
The gold drake, as always, questioned his supposed 'father' in a manner of both fascination and slight annoyance at the fact that such creatures that were not bound to true logic would coexist so seamlessly with others. He laid down beside the drake in awaiting an answer, shutting his eyes as he laid his head down.
Having read so much in so little time, Shirin's eyes had glazed over by the time Merrik finally spoke out. Looking up, her gaze bloodshot and opaque, she blinked a few times and rubbed at her face. Her bowl had been promptly emptied, and had it not been for the fascinating books, she probably would have gone to finish the other two. But Shirin had scarcely taken a sip of water. Luckily, upon the words of her Mentor, Shirin finished her tenth book from cover to cover. Sure, she had skimmed a great deal of it, but her version of skimming was reading almost every word. Gaining so much knowledge in such little time would be cause for a headache, and soon enough it hit with a vengeance, making her wince. She would have to be in the sun soon or be lost in the catacombs of her mind.
Closing the book, she gathered the things she had let sprawl around her, including the two books she had gotten from Rita and a third from the stack she thought Diari would truly enjoy, titled The Fires of the World. Perhaps it had nothing to do with what she had been searching for, but Shirin knew for a fact that Diari would love it. Or at least she hoped she would. Standing and stretching herself, Shirin rekindled her desire to walk and move around, deciding it best to make her way over to Merrik and help him gather the loose items. "May I help again, Mentor?" His mention of his cooking only being bested by the parents of each tamer made her grimace at the thought of her Papa, but she made sure not to show it. Sticking the three books in a small satchel attached to her belt, she bowed to Merrik and turned to head down the stairs with what dishes she had managed and put them somewhat clumsily onto the serving tray.
In the sunning room, Byriarti had fallen into a snooze, dreaming only of the wild thoughts of his rider, who found herself tongue tied around her comrades. Some day she would learn not to mingle in the hearts of men.
If Merrik hadn't brought to his attention the amount of time that had passed, Rita probably wouldn't even notice. He glanced at the pile of books he personally had gone through in surprise. Had he actually read that much? If he didn't know better, he would have thought himself a scholar instead of the fighter he was. The lingering thoughts analyzing how he could have been like Merrik in this setting tried to return, but Rita quickly squashed them out of his mind. He was finished with that for the day, and that was final. As Merrik made his offer for a grand dinner, Rita began to pick up his own dishes which he had made during the reading spree. As Shirin made her way out of the library after asking Merrik if she could help, Rita addressed Merrik as well. "
My parents were never much for cooking, so I'm certain this meal will be better than anything they prepared. Would you mind if I helped prepare the food as well? I've always wanted to flex my cooking muscles, but I've never been able to."
In the sun room, Wither's eyes blinked open in surprise before closing again. How strange, Rita actually was expressing genuine interest in cooking. She was certain he was just doing it to annoy Shirin, but looking at his thoughts told her otherwise. Made her wonder what the world was coming to. Then, A'untyr entered the room and began to pester Nova. Wither snorted at his question, the Gold drake, for all his intelligence, had a habit of asking the most obvious questions.
Why are you bonded, A'untyr? Is that not the exact same situation as the one you're describing, where we take the weak humans under our wings without expecting to gain anything from it?
As Shirin began helping with the dishes and asked if she might help him in the kitchen once more, he found himself smiling. "
I don't think I've smiled this much since before Terria left." He said to his bondmate in private. The dragon released a calm purring sound in response, pleased by his tamer's chance to at last be surrounded by those of his own kind, ones whom he could truly connect with, not just carry on small talk between drinks at a tavern somewhere in Illos. Merrik was flourishing in his role as leader of the New Order. He had proved to be a thoughtful, caring mentor and a knowledgeable teacher to the newcomers. Their company and morally uplifting presence alone seemed to be payment enough for Merrik and as Obsidian Nova felt the bliss of his tamer, he too felt joy.
"
But of course, Shirin. I'd be happy to have an extra set of hands but, don't been obligated. You're free to visit with Byriarti, rest, or wander at your leisure." As he left the library, dishes in hand and Shirin in town with her own stack, he found himself stopped in his steps at the voice of Rita, of all people, offering his interest in assisting in the preparation of their meal as well. He was surprised, not only because he clearly knew Shirin would be helping, but also because the man seemed to have an unquenchable thirst for experience and knowledge. Strangely, Rita reminded Merrik of himself.
"
You're more than welcome to try your hand at the culinary arts. It can be quite relaxing and fascinating even, when you get comfortable enough to try unusual new recipes. Come along then! We'll make an evening out of it, I'll see if I can find a bottle of wine to help us wind down before dinner." Merrik glanced down the hall at the library doors, noticing Dalaith had not yet come out with her friend. She had been trying to hide the pup from everyone the entire time, but Merrik had spotted a fluffy ear poking out from behind her book.
The woman had such a good heart, and as much as he cringed to think of a Kujo being let loose in the library, he could tell she meant well. What he couldn't' figure out what where on earth she had found the damn thing! He hoped the caretakers weren't harboring a litter of them like they had once before. Figuring she would make her appearance when she was ready, he decided to let the woman have her time with her furry little companion and led the others into the kitchen where he began washing dishes. When he had finished, he went about collecting the necessary ingredients for a roast pheasant feast.
Meanwhile, in the sunning room, a black dragon's scales were reaching a perfect level of warmth as the massive creature shifted himself to warm the opposite side of his body. When he had settled back down, he listened to A'untyr ask a reasonable question and then to Wither offer him a question as a rebuttal. The black drake nodded his head at the olive dragon's response before opening his mind to the others to offer his own thoughts on the subject.
Keep in mind, A'untyr, that not all humans are so maternal as your bondmate. Some would rather slaughter the innocent and powerless than care for them. I suppose it comes down to instinct. Each race has their own, and humans seem to have a much stronger emotion sector of their minds than most other beings do. Everything they do is based off of emotion, just as some creatures act purely out of an instinct to survive or others to expand their territories. It would seem Dalaith's instinct is to protect those around her. She is not such a large creature, and perhaps she finds she can best protect what is weaker than her. If the creature was stronger or more impressive, it wouldn't need protecting now would it?
He stretched out his massive paws, talons extended, as he kneaded at the hard stone floor of the sunning room, working the tendons of his razor sharp digits.
A'untyr sighed heavily at the tell off from his sister, always able to have a good spat with her if he ever was in need of intellectual banter. He had caught up his thoughts so as to reply to her when Obsidian Nova spoke, mellowing the situation, even while adding a bit of a sting to his put down. He shifted, hearing and sensing Merrik as well as company approaching the kitchen, but Dalaith didn't seem to be with them. He didn't really have to ask, knowing without even searching through their bond that she would be in a fortress made of books already examined, playing with the kujo and learning all there was to learn. Truthfully, her mind did fascinate the drake. How a creature so far below him could absorb so much knowledge at once and still crave more was a feat that he had observed in no other being. It brought the faint hintings of a smile to his face as he thought of it, not keeping mindful of the swamp or nightmare dragons beside him who would likely ask about it, but, with a curt dismissal, he began to leave before suddenly stopping in the doorway, lowering his head respectfully to Merrik as he passed as well as the rest of his cooking mates in tow. He then looked back to the dragons basking about the sunning room.
Is anyone here opposed to a bit of a spar in the arena? Events here have had their way with boring me, and, unless someone wants a heated debate as to human nature, physiology, and capacity for acclimation to separate species, then I would just be off on my own. The gold dragon said rather flatly, giving no indication as to whether he would object to one option or the other.
The thought of having to deal with Rita in the kitchen made Shirin shudder, wincing slightly and turning away so as to keep her expressions from everyone else. Taking a deep breath and letting it out in a sigh, the warrior calmed herself and made her face return to its flat state. She would not show her terrible nature around her supreme host, and if that meant she would have to avoid all emotion while around Rita, so be it. It was a good thing magic was not required at this point. Shirin bowed towards Merrik, smiling lightly towards him. "
I know I am not obligated, but your kitchen is wonderful, and I was never one to be allowed to cook as a child. It is a grand experience. Besides," she said, giving a slight giggle, "
Byriarti has found himself a wonderful dream beneath the sunlight, and I would hate to wake him. At most, I might take a small step outside. It seems my dragon's thirst for sunlight has taken over me as well."
Walking back towards the kitchen, Shirin sent a questioning glance towards Rita before turning away. This time, she wasn't sure if he did it because of her or because he truly wanted to cook. His voice had been different than its usual underlying tones, and though it would have taken a master ear to hear it, eight years did not seem to keep Shirin from being able to tell when Rita was trying to play a game. This time, she was beginning to think that the man actually wanted to learn. Then again, his quest for knowledge was always great, which is something sad when one lives in a city like Televar where there is litte to learn. Perhaps if she and Rita had taken more adventures into the plains outside the city, it would have been different. Perhaps that was her fault. She gave a sigh to herself, coming upon the kitchen and placing the dishes in the sink, washing them alongside Merrik. Though she stood so close to the man who had already shown her so much beauty and good in the world, her thoughts were only on Rita and what she could have done better to help him.
Suddenly, Byriarti's voice entered into her thoughts, just barely on the cusp of consciousness. ~
What happened was neither your fault or his, human. You must accept that the past has happened and simply move on. Forgive him and set yourself free. Only then will you be able to move on.~ He seemed completely relaxed and almost euphoric in nature, and the serenity of his thoughts trickled through the bond between them to cause his rider to visibly relax as the last of the dishes were washed. Shirin gave a sad smile to herself as her thoughts turned back to Byriarti, who now only lightly snoozed, tuning out his siblings conversation about the heart of humans. ~
But how can I simply forgive him after holding a grudge for so long?~
Byriarti gave his rider a chuckle, turning onto his side as to better catch the rays of the sun while not blocking the tiny tendrils that wavered down his back. ~Forgiveness is easy, my human. You must simply learn how to do it. It will take time, but once you have mastered forgiveness, you can master your emotions.~ In her heart, Shirin knew that Byriarti was telling the truth. If she could learn to forgive Rita for what happened so long ago, she could take such a weight from her shoulders and even begin to repair the relationship that she had with him, if only he would let her. Her bright hazel eyes glanced up at him as she began to pull clean dishes out and place them on the counter for Merrik, and a small smile touched her lips before she once more looked away. ~
Thank you, Byriarti. I will try to forgive him, and with your help, I think I can do so.~ With that, Byriarti fell back into his dream-filled slumber, and Shirin turned her thoughts to the task at hand.
Looking to Merrik, she smiled and asked, "
So we are to make roast pheasant, correct? What would you like us to do, and where would you like us to do it?" And so the cooking task began.
Merrik enjoyed the next hour spent in the kitchen with Shirin and Rita. There was, of course, a level of awkwardness in the air between the two but they both seemed to have reached an unspoken agreement to be civil and for this, Merrik was eternally grateful. The truth was that Merrik never enjoyed drama and in his time spent travelling, he could never bring himself to put up with it from the people he came across. He was so used to living among dragons where the bickering was minimal and quickly sorted out that it seemed almost bizarre to see a feud of such magnitude. He himself had never really made any personal enemies... well, there was that one centaur- he had never made any human enemies and had never found a reason to hate another person. Ogual was, of course, an exception. He hated Ogual for everything that he was and everything that had be brought about by the dark lord.
Looking at one tamer, then the other, Merrik wondered what could have possibly caused the so obvious indifference, but wouldn't dare pry into their lives, for it was no more his place than was a fox's in a hen house. And so the man took it for what it was and went about his workings, ever working to keep a positive attitude and maintain the peace that had come to rest on the pair's relationship.
Shirin was of great help in the preparations; she knew what she was doing with the side dishes she had offered to prepare and, infact, Merrik was impressed that he hadn't needed to offer her any instructions. The woman was full of surprises. Rita had been recruited by Merrik to work on the main dish, and to little surprise, the man quickly mastered the art of preparing a pheasant. With basic instructions from Merrik, the dark haired tamer took over most of the work and the end result was incredible. His mother's recipe was not forsaken that day, rather liberated from its place in the past at the hands of Shirin and Rita. While he found it a shame that Dalaith had chosen not to make herself present, he couldn't help but smile in knowing she was in her bliss within the shelved walls of the Tetra library. She'd be in for quite the surprise when she came to see the dinner that had been prepared.
The three worked together to set the table in the dining halls with beautiful dishware and expensive cuterly. Merrik was in a great mood after spending the evening laughing and joking with the two of them, and in one or two instances he actually managed to get both of them laughing at once. Something that ended with a sharp lock of their gazes and a bit of an awkward silence only to be broken by Merrik's next instructions or suggestions.
The table before them, now fully set and served, bored a deep red, velvet cloth with silver and black embroidery weaving about in beautiful designs, dappled with porcelain dishes, crystal goblets and fine silver cutlery. The room was filled the savoury aroma of roast pheasant with a kingsberry and lemongrass baste, stuffed with fresh potatoes and dressing, seasoned to perfection. Shirin had prepared a number of sides, including fresh garden salads, seared vegetables with garlic and sage, a rich, creamy soup, and golden, fluffy biscuits. She had even taken the initiative to tackle baking a delicious chocolate and red velvet mousse with Merrik while Rita blended up a curiously delicious mix of juiced fruits as a beverage. The sight was a sight to behold indeed.
After quietly peaking his head into the library door and saying nothing more than "
Dinner is served, and yes, you can bring your friend." He returned to the dining hall and took his place at the head of the table, awaiting the completion of the company before he began to dish up.
Dalaith jumped slightly, rather startled by the sudden words of her mentor. With a mind unable to retain anything more and completely tired, she had just fallen asleep in the silence of the library, still sitting up and holding her books. She blushed a bit at being caught like that and also for Merrik already knowing about the kujo she so tried to hide, but it wasnt her place to question as she yawned slightly and slowly got up, stretching her sore and stiff frame before picking up her little pup and heading down the stairs to follow after their gracious host, laying eyes upon the immaculate and well prepared feast laid upon the dining table. With a mind as tired as hers, it was hard to understand it all, and even still, sluggish as it was, her brain still tried to work out each dish and its placement and other such trivial matters. It was at this point that her stomach growled and she remembered how she hadnt even taken time out to eat any of the snacks during their studying, making the faint pink tinge in her cheeks flush out to a bit more of a rosy red as she made her way to her seat and sat down.
The awkward air in the kitchen settled easily as Shirin began to help Rita set the table, with Merrik setting the finishing touches on the centerpiece of the feast before bringing it out to set it upon the table. Taking her typical corner seat away from the others, Shirin silently prayed to whatever higher power that might have been watching over her and began to dig in. It was about this time that Dalaith finally entered, and before Shirin even touched the food on the table, her bright eyes came to settle on the most adorable, fluffy little creature resting happily in the young woman's arms. "
My gods, what might that adorable creature be?" She couldn't help but speak out, rising from her seat and rushing towards Dalaith in a squee gesture. She could almost feel Byriarti rolling his eyes as he finally spoke aloud to his brothers and his sister. ~
What is it with cute, fluffy things that make female humans so vulnerable?~
Preparing the food went by surprisingly naturally for Rita, which pleased him to no end. Merrik made the atmosphere of the kitchen quite pleasant, despite Rita and Shirin being forced near each other, and for that Rita was grateful. He and Shirin sat at the table while Merrik went to get Dalaith, and Rita made sure to sit as far away from her as he could. The meal began in a cold silence as the two waited for their companions to return, but Rita didn't mind it. When Dalaith awkwardly entered with her new found, Rita couldn't help but smirk a minute at her embarrassment, but it was a good natured smile. He was just about to return to his food when suddenly Shirin made a loud exclamation and rushed towards Dalaith. Rita blinked twice, and then let out a laugh at Shirin's unwarrior-like act. That was something he hadn't quite expected... Still smiling, he returned to his food. They spent so much effort preparing it, he might as well eat it.
Wither snorted at Byriarti's question and responded goodnaturedly.
If you don't understand now, I doubt any explanation will help you.
The meal went considerably well and Merrik couldn't help but praise Shirin and Rita on their wonderful cooking. He continued to keep his silence about Dalaith's companion, despite him knowing better. Kujos travelled in packs and this one looked to be quite young. He had no doubt the rest of the pack had already begun tearing up the back yard in search of their lost young one. What could he do? He wasn't one to deprive those around him of the simple pleasures, knowing all too well what life could be like when stripped of the little things. He wouldn't let his unusually strict upbringing reflect on his place as a leader. If it wasn't related to one of his soldier's safety or training, who was he to get involved? The pup wasn't doing any harm as it sat and after seeing Shirin melt before the small creature he knew it'd be impossible for him to gather the nerve to put the furry visitor out. And so he let the concept fall to the back of his mind.
When at least the evening was winding down and the table had been cleared, the dishes cleaned, and the leftovers packaged to be brought back to the meadow, the group worked together to gather various necessities and when they had gathered everything that needed to be gathered, he turned to the three tamers now standing in the main hall before several crates of goods.
"
Is there anything any of you'd personally like? Comforts that'll make your stay more welcoming? Clothing? Armour? Toiletries? Anything at all. And don't think necessity, rather luxury. If you can think of anything any of the others'd personally like, don't hesitate to speak up." The truth was, the manor was so vast and each room and cupboard was stocked full of beautiful things. He truly had no need for most of it and if he could do anything at all to make the tamers more comfortable before the homesickness could set in, he'd most certainly do it.
Down the hall, in a room filled with brilliant rays of sunlight, the bulk of Obsidian Nova rose from his place on the warm tiles and after stretching out his limbs, looked to the gold dragon.
You know very well I do not spar with you yearlings. My abilities are not ones to be thrown about lightly. I will not meddle with your minds, nor will I risk burning you. Not when you have so much training to do.
The black dragon spoke of the truth. As a dragon ages, its fire grows hotter and more fierce, peaking when the dragon reaches anatomical stability around 50 years old. Obsidian Nova had rarely ever entertained his youngers with open combat, rather he would teach by instruction and allow them to work amongst themselves, lowering the chance of harm. When only a few dozen dragons existed, it would be unwise to risk the safety of even one when they are young and vulnerable.
Beyond his advantage in years and in size, the nightmare dragon's abilities were never to be used on friends. His ability to summon a hallucination of the target's worst fears could easily inflict permanent trauma and in some cases risk the onset of insanity. His umbrakinesis was a powerful ability and drained his energy rather quickly. In the case of a surprise attack, even on protected grounds, the drake knew he needed to keep himself at full power to defend the younger drakes against whatever opponent may face them. Above everything, he was a protector, of his tamer, and of his kind.
Dalaith gasped as she was nearly trampled over by an overly excited Shirin, she having lost all concept of sanity it seemed just to have a look at her new little friend. The silvery haired girl couldn't help but laugh before she let her hold the pup and explained the entire situation to her in a good nature while she ate the food that she, Rita, and Merrik so lovingly provided. The girl actually ended up eating far more than she remembered ever having eaten, but then again, a meager breakfast and no lunch could certainly do that to a person.
After the ending of their fabulous dinner, everyone was to busy themselves with the collecting of supplies to bring back to the meadow for the good of all, and for Dalaith, that meant gathering at least a crate's worth of books. But as she was doing so, she took a moment to think if there would be anything more in the library that she could possibly take that Merrik wouldn't object to. A small pot of ink with a feather in it provided her answer as she thought of sweet little Asa. Perhaps if she brought her some empty notebooks she could write to others to communicate independently, or maybe she would want to write a journal? Well, thinking of just that fact, Dalaith herself even wanted to keep a journal of this amazing experience. Having decided on the thought, she got up and gathered a few bound stacks of paper, wrapping them in leather, knowing that she could attempt to sew them together back in the meadow and make it even better of a gift, though it would have to stay a surprise.
By the time she had come back out to meet the others with the last crate to add to the gathering, she had already gathered all of her own personal desires: plenty of books, a journal, and her little kujo who she had decided to name Lester. But then as she thought about it, she rarely wore any sort of armor, just the occasional bracer. It would probably be best that she go off and get some properly suited to herself. But where would she find something like that in a mansion..? Surely it wouldn't be as easy as just picking a room and finding all the things she would ever need. With a sigh, she turned to the closest person beside her, that being Shirin, and leaned in close to keep her voice from carrying.
"
Had you happened to find any room in particular that had good armor for my size..? I'm a bit at a loss...." she admitted in a hushed whisper.
A'untyr growled slightly and gave a huff at being refuted again, this being the tenth time he had asked, but at least Nova was never harsh in his ways, and was always understanding of the young drakes. But an inactive mind leads to some very regrettable actions, to say the least of the matter. Such was evident in the time A'untyr had actually exhausted Nova with his questions and none of his other hatchmates would have the answers he needed, so he went out to the forest to find the answers he wanted, as if other creatures would know, and that ended with his small frame stuck upside down in a tree. Not the most appealing of memories, and he hoped never to have something so humiliating happen again. But with nothing to do but sit around, the golden drake got himself up to take himself flying for a while, the one activity he felt was safe to let his mind fall into a calm emptiness and just relax.
Being able to hold the little Kujo simply made Shirin melt. His fur was softer than a rabbit's, his eyes bright and playful. She couldn't remember the last time she had smiled so brightly - so affectionately. Well, perhaps she could and just decided she didn't want to. Too long it had been since Shirin truly smiled like that. Too long had it been since she had felt such warmth in her heart...and it was all over a tiny pup. But when the story was spoken of how Dalaith came about the tiny Kujo, Shirin wondered if the little Firill was still outside. So, after eating enough of her fill, she grabbed a morsel of bread, bowed to Merrik in thanks, and sought the light of the setting sun and the yard behind the house in hopes of spotting the tiny fox creature.
Upon finding the Firill, who now sat at the fence, seemingly grumbling and beating the ground with his staff, Shirin walked slowly over and sat down before the creature, handing it a small piece of bread. With thick, fluffy hands, the Firill snatched the piece from her and munched on it. Memories of the little Gardener snatching the chocolate played in her mind, but this creature could be a wonderful addition to her loft. He was smart - that much was obvious - but he was also somewhat hostile. "
Where is your home, little one? Why have you not gone back there?" In response to Shirin's whispered words, the firill beat her booted foot with his staff. She remained beside him for only a few more moments before the little creature seemingly relaxed and slowly walked towards her, eyes curious. Slowly, she gained the creature's trust, and within an hour the young warrior woman was walking back into the manor with the little red fox creature hanging in one of her waist pouches, panting almost happily.
Byriarti looked over at Wither, bowing his head slightly. ~
Please enlighten me, sister. I do wish to understand it at least a little.~
She could feel Byriarti's disliking of her decisions to keep the tiny fox, but Shirin knew that he would not tell her no outright. So, with a thought of his fiery fur, she named the little creature Umilo, and kept his eyes off of Asa's adorable kujo in hopes of re-introducing them later on. Before Merrik had a chance to clean off all of the dishes, Shirin caught a few more morsels and helped him and the others clean up what was left of their supper, apologizing profusely. Once all of the dishes were clean, Shirin listened to Merrik's words and wondered if it might be best to look around first. So, speaking up, she said, "
Do you think it would be alright for us to look about the manor to see if we can find something? I would like to see some of the rooms, too." The last sentence was slightly quieter than the rest of her words, but still loud enough for her to be heard. It was only then that she heard Dalaith speak to her right, glad that Umilo was on her left side. She shook her head slowly. "
Perhaps you should ask Merrik."
Dinner went by rather uneventfully, and after all of the clean up had been finished, Merrik asked if any of them needed anything in particular from the Manor. Rita smiled as he replied. "
Well, I don't particularly need anything physical at the moment, besides a nap... Do you have a place I could take a quick rest? I've been staying up a bit too late reading the past couple of nights, it seems." He tried rather unsuccessfully to stifle a short yawn, and mentally chastised himself for not taking well enough care of himself as of late. He'd have to fix that...
Wither smirked and let out a snort as Byriarti so respectfully asked for her opinion.
You do realize you don't have to be so polite when asking me my opinion, right? I'll give it whether you want me too or not. First of all, think of the role a female human has. While some, like your tamer, go into harsh, competitive roles in society, a large majority of human women devote most of their lives to caring for their families. This factor, along with natural maternal instinct, creates a large protective desire to take care of those around them, especially the weak. Small, fluffy creatures naturally give off the appearance of weakness, and so the protective nature quickly arises. But of course, that's just my personal opinion. Another dragon with a superiority complex and greater intelligence would probably challenge me on that if he were here, so I'll just count my blessings that he isn't around.
Merrik listened to each of the tamers' requests, nodding to each as they spoke as his mind worked out solutions to their needs. He first spoke to Rita, for his desire was most easily accommodated. "
Of course, we've several guest rooms in the manor, any of which you're free to rest in. If you like, I can show you the closest on the second floor? Anything these ladies might need will be on the third so it'll be on the way." It was more of a statement than a request, of course Merrik would show his guest to a comfortable place to rest.
He turned to face Shirin and Dalaith then who's requests were of equal nature and took a moment to glance up and down their figures, trying to estimate their sizing. After he was sure he could accommodate them as well, he smiled and said,
"I think I have just the selection for the two of you, as well as something that might brighten your days." He winked with a knowing smile and motioned for the group to follow as he made his way to the great staircase.
The quartet walked along a deep blue carpet that lined the dark wooden floors all throughout the halls of the second floor. Deep blue was Merrik's mother's favorite color and memories of her brought him to cherish it closely. From the main stairwell, the group headed left down a long hall, stopping briefly for Merrik to open a beautiful, open room with a majestic canopy bed and bright open windows with drapes a deep blue and cream, matching the theme of the room. He informed Rita that there was an en-suite wash room he was free to use to freshen up and that he needed worry about disturbing anything in the room. It was truly a guest room and so everything in the room, during Rita's stay, was considered by Merrik to be his own.
Merrik took his leave from Rita's presence, leaving the man to do as he pleased with the quarters, and returned to the two women waiting in the hall. With a warm smile he beckoned them on down the hall. All while they walked, the eyes of many generations of Tetra's gazed down upon them in a manner quite stereotypical of a manor, the key difference being that almost every one of the images bored a Tetra and a nightmare drake, some bore other breeds, and some lacked dragons at all.
When the hallway came to an end, another wide, open staircase welcomed them on their right and led them up to the third floor where the color scheme changed from blue tones to deep greens and browns, creating a very Sylvian feel. He walked them down the hall, past several rooms and one large set of doors that seemed to mark the middle of the floor, continued on through a series of halls until he reached another set of large doors. These ones, he opened.
What he revealed was beautiful in all aspects. Behind the doors was a great hall, decorated in golden tones, accented with brilliant tones of ruby, emerald, sapphire, and many other gemstone tones. The ceiling was painted with the most extravagant mural of a great land of dragons flying freely, happily, in the wild, soon-to-be tamers approaching wearily. All along the walls were magnificent sets of armour displayed on mannequins, weaponry of every kind mounted on the wall. The back wall was lined with what would have appeared to be mage's clothing and staves. The room was a regular armoury fit for an army as grand as the New Order. This was not surprising, as this room was indeed filled by the dragon tamers of old, a collection of heirloom armour and weaponry and spell books specifically intended for the younger generations. He was certain they would find something here, for some of the greatest tamers were women.
"Well? Take your pick." Said the man, grinning from ear to ear at the expressions the women held.
~~~
While his lifelong friend went about assisting the new tamers in their search for necessities and goods, Obsidian Nova found himself a witness of what could easily progress into what one might describe as a cat fight. When Wither spoke back to Byriarti who, as always, by nature, politely and properly questioned his sister, Obsidian Nova raised a scaled eye brow and turned his gaze to the olive dragoness, somewhat shocked at her bluntly rude response. He shook his head, not having the desire to get involved with the spats of the young ones and decided it might be best if he took his sunning elsewhere before one of them dragged him in for an opinion, after which he'd have to scold them both on bickering and eventually become 'the bad dragon' once again. Two years. Two years had he watched the young ones fight as they were, siblings. And two years had been enough.
He loved all the yearlings deeply, with an unexplainable care and protective fondness, but frankly, they were the equivalent of human teenagers and he an old man by those standards. His mind had grown weary of bickering and petty disagreements a decade ago. And so, without more than a, Pardon me, brother, sister. He took his leave and made his way out to the gardens.
He assumed he would find peace out there. But gods was he wrong. As if by some miserable twist of luck, the shadow of an all too familiar blood eagle skipped across the earth. The nightmare dragon's flare sac heated a few degrees above normal then and he laid down on the cool grass, hoping to his ancestors the shadow would pass along and depart.
Luck was not with him that day.
The mention of a nap hadn't occurred to Shirin until after Rita spoke up. The moment he had spoken, that was all she desired. And yet, her curiosity of the manor kept her sleepy eyes at bay, so while they slipped away to the armory after leaving Rita to his nap, Shirin thought to herself about the joys she might find in the manor. The simple luxuries. The greatest of things a warrior could possess.
Her mind was right to think of such things, for the moment they stepped into the grand room, she was blown away by the sheer beauty and prowess of the room. It was almost intimidating, even for her. Her lips parted slightly as a breath slipped from her in true wonder at the sight of it. Each set of armor - particularly those for women - was individualized and built with a truly good hand. One set in particular held her eyes, for it greatly resembled the armor she and her brother had bought the day they set out to become warriors for hire. The metal was smoother, upgraded from ringmail to platemale, and it had a sharper appearance. Instead of blue along the edges, however, the tips of the metal shimmered with a fiery orange. Looking up from where the armor sat, Shirin suddenly realized why, for the rider who possessed it before also rode a great Solar Drake.
Slowly, Shirin let her fingers graze the engraving of a dragon across the crest. The woman before her was much smaller, and if Shirin were to take this armor, it would have to be changed slightly to fit a much larger person. And yet, the warrior could not fathom not trying it. When she lifted it, realizing that it was much lighter and more flexible than it seemed, she looked to Merrik, stars in her hazel eyes, almost pleadingly. "
Do you truly mean we could use this?" She was breathless with the thought. Her armor was heavy and tough - particularly on her shoulder, which had yet to be mended through the use of her great dragon. This armor would prove much more useful, especially with the added flare of the young warrior.
She gave a deep bow to Merrik, smiling brightly. "
I would very much love to try this armor. I believe it would prove very useful." As she bowed, the little creature in her satchel leapt out, sniffing around curiously before spotting something rather interesting. Dangling from one of the spell books was a strange, wavy thing that flickered brightly in the circulating air of the room. Grabbing for it, Umilo trotted back to Shirin and all but rubbed the cloth in her face. Pulling back, Shirin blinked as her brow furrowed, her eyes coming to focus on a shimmering golden ribbon laced with red and blue. The little firill jumped up and down excitedly as the warrior took the ribbon, rubbing it between her fingers. Across her face played many different emotions. Pain, sorrow, loss...and a small hint of joy. Closing her fingers around the cloth, Shirin once more looked to Merrik, smiling slightly and lifting it to where he can see it. "
Could I also have this? I might have use of it later."
~*~
A slight growl emitted from Byriarti at the sudden rudeness of his sister, and he huffed a few sparks from his nostrils, grumbling to himself incoherently at the first words that slipped into his thoughts from her. However, in his curiosity, he listened, thinking hard about the natural habits of females and their roles in life. His human was odd in her role. She did not - was not - a caretaker of other humans. She was a warrior. A woman who did the exact opposite of what she was meant to do. The faces of the children she had seen fell into his mind, and he grew ever-more curious about her. Many times has her protective instinct risen - perhaps that was what inevitably led her to be so righteous about how she went about the deaths of others. Why she cared so much about how many she killed and who each and every one of them were. Perhaps that was why she had so many scars.
His eyes shined up at his sister from his lazily sunning pose upon the floor in acknowledgement. ~
That is....understandable. Perhaps I might just let her keep what makes her feel so protective. She might then grow to care more about herself in turn.~ A chuckle thrummed along the floor at her comment about the Gold who had already left. ~
Surely he would lecture with the exact words on a book he read about females. Such a scholar our brother is.~
Shirin's reaction to his offer alone was enough to make the trip worth while. Her hazel eyes shone with both awe and inspiration, as if the armour had ignited a whirlwind of thoughts within her mind. Be it by fate or by coincidence, she was referring to the armour once worn by another Solar Dragon tamer. If he remember correctly, her name had been Ismera Vlandres, or perhaps it was Ysera Malimora... his memory of his tedious childhood history studies had long since been pushed away to make room for more current knowledge and facts.
Just as Merrik was about to respond to the woman's words, the most curious thing happened. While he had been aware of Dalaith's furry friend, he had failed to catch on to the fact that both of the women seemed to have collected a magical sidekick. His brow furrowed as he watched the Firill go about its business before returning to Shirin with a ribbon once used to mark a spellbook.
"
That," he said, motioning to the piece of fabric in her hands. "
That you can keep. As for this little fellow," he raised a brow and nodded his head in the direction of the small fox-like creature. "
He needs to be returned to where he came from. And the same goes for your little friend, Dalaith."
He spoke the last words a bit louder, catching the other woman's attention. "
These beings... they are not house pets, they are not property to be claimed and collected at one's leisure. They are magical beings that have a place in these woods. If there is one thing I've learned in my life in these woods, it's that nature is best left untouched by man. See to it that you both return these little ones to where they came from, for that is where they belong." A stern, yet slightly apologetic glance at each of them followed his words before he made his way over to the shimmering armour Shirin had mentioned. Pulling it off the rack, he handed the breastplate to her.
"
Consider it yours, M'lady, let's hope it fits, for I'm not much of a tailor." Offering it to her with a bow, he then made his way over to Dalaith to tend to her needs.
When group had finished they left the room sufficiently more prepared for battle. Shirin and Dalaith had found armour suited to their needs and they had even found something for Rita, who hadn't appeared to own nay suitable armour. Merrik gathered a few select items for a few of the others back at the meadow from a storage room on their way back to where they left Rita, allowing the two women to select a few items for themselves and for the others.
As the evening bore on, the time came that Merrik's visitor would soon be making his arrival. He gathered his fellow tamers and led them down into the depths of the manor, where the light of day could almost be forgotten. Under the light of a candle they came to an ancient, musky, wooden door at the very and of a long winding hallway. Cob webs hung about, despite the rest of the manor being in pristine condition, giving the forgotten door an eerie appearance. Clearing the webs from the entrance, he inserted a key into the old iron lock and twisted it, no resistance being offered in return. When the door swung open a gust of air rushed out before the space reclaimed silence. As he walked in he beckoned for the others to follow.
When Merrik lit the twin torches that were mounted to each side of the doorway, he revealed a room of the most unusual nature. In the center was a round, stone slab that bore unusual runes and markings. All the walls of the room appeared to have had similar inscriptions carved into the ancient stone. Merrik urged the group forward, leaving his candle on a stand next to the door when he closed it behind them. When he returned, they all stood there in silence before the mysterious stone slab before them.
"
Any minute now..." Merrik said quietly to himself, knowing full well what was coming.
Sleep was nary a necessity, nor a concern for Dalaith, she able to easily go for another couple days if all she were doing was reading. Though she would probably have to eat at that rate... Once Merrik had spoken again, however, he had her full attention, and even a little bit of a smile as he addressed the two female tammers, she not quite knowing what to say in response or how to put it, but the dark haired man was already moving off, so all that there was to do was follow after with her fellow tamer.
Her mind would drift from subject to subject, none of such being very relevant, but all keeping her happy as she pet her little kujo. Even as they entered the marvelous room, she seemed distracted, but after hearing the others, she came back to attention, looking about. All of the armors here were beautiful in build and design, clearly worn by others many many years ago and merely cared for since then. One of the things of beauty did catch her eye, however, the silver haired tamer becoming quickly enamored with it, only to be jolted back to reality by a few words from Merrik as to the animals that had been acquired by both tamers. The words provoked nothing more than a nod from Dalaith, she knowing them to be true and having foolishly hoped in the reality not coming to bite at her so soon. The kujo sensed her despair and whimpered slightly, snuggling up close to its new friend, but Dalaith shook her head, setting the pup down to more closely investigate the armor that had caught her eye.
It was of beautiful design, metal scale armor, providing great mobility, each scale being a different shade of silver or gold, it all blending to be a piece to be admired as both art and of armor. The scales were bound to very small ringed chain mail that was bound to leather, bleached white. It was all very thin, however, heavier than Shirin's choice it seemed, but it was something that Dalaith could not deny her logical conclusion of its protective manor, nor her longing for its aesthetically pleasing demeanor.
[Spoili]
this is the basic design for what it looks like[/spoili]
She let Merrik help her to try it on, it being of a much better fit than she thought it would be, and she happy to have found something suitable to wear into battle.
A few more tasks came before the end of the evning, mainly concerning the checking and rechecking of their provisions that they had gathered, but at last, Merrik informed of a new activity. Dalaith thought it rather strange that he would lead off into a staircase going down instead of going up like they had so often done, especially when, after taking just a few steps into it, it had become hard to find any sort of connection between the two
worlds they had just bridged. Very little light from above filtered in, and after that died off, there was only candles to show the way. A sort of dusty, unused, musky smell was all around, accented visually with webbing and dust to be kicked up on occasion. With such things as this for company, besides her fellow tamers, Dalaith was afraid even to breathe, so as not to have something caught in her lungs, though the air even seemed thicker to her down hear, making it just a touch harder to breathe anyway. Clearing her throat slightly, the silver haired tamer tried to make a nonchalant movement of pulling her scarf up over her hair and across the bottom half of her face as a shield as they grew closer to the faint outlining of an old heavy door. As he walked in he beckoned for the others to follow. Candles were lit at the entryway as their head opened the door for the three tamers to follow inside, however willing and eager, or more for Dalaith's case, reluctant and unsure, that they may be. She didn't remember any of this being told of in the outline of their mission, and if there were books down here, then lords forbid what she would do to Merrik for keeping them in such a wretched place. A book would wither and die in a mere matter of years in a place like this! Thankfully, for Merrik's neck sake, Dalaith didn't see a book, but rather, curious inscriptions in a language that even she hadn't studied. A'untyr was strangely quiet about the matter, worrying the silver haired tamer a bit, but the worry was replaced with even more curiosity as she took a step to the wall, running her hand slowly over the inscribed runes.
At Merrik's words over Umilo, Shirin seemed to sigh inwardly. She knew it was wrong to desire keeping the little creature, and yet a part of her wished only to defy her mentor and run away with the tiny fox in hand. Why this was, the warrior could not determine. Could it have been because she lacked children to care for or creatures to love and hold? Perhaps it was only her nature to desire something to protect. After all, the job of a mercenary is more killing than protecting. Despite the thought, however, Shirin nodded somberly towards Merrik as the tiny firill latched itself to her boot. She would return it tonight before gathering the rest of her things.
Stuffing the ribbon in her satchel, the warrior woman watched as her mentor lifted the large breastplate from its rack, gently taking it from his hands as thought it were the most delicate thing she had ever held. The metal was as light as aluminum, though appearing as thick and strong as steel, shining as brightly even as her own blade. The engraving of the dragon mimicked the beauty and grace of all of the dragons, not taking a particular direction as to which type it was. The only thing the armor seemed to lack was the blue that hers had come to know. However, this was easily fixable, as the tiny chains complete with brilliant lapis lazuli could be moved from one place to another.
[spoili]
Here is the original image - all credit goes to the amazing artist, nebezial![/spoili]
Inspecting further, Shirin realized that despite the general size that the plate armor seemed to have, the thin belts beneath the overlapping metal were long and easily re-sizable to meet her standards. So, as Merrik began to help Dalaith into her new set of armor, Shirin began to grab the rest of her own set from the rack and redress herself. Moments later, with her ringmail neatly folded at her feet, Shirin stood a shimmering warrior representing the one thing that now held power in her life - her dragon. The flexibility was unimaginable - better even than hers - and it was possibly half the weight. Her shoulder was no longer as tight, and for once she felt as though she could run a marathon. The finishing touch came at the end of her braid, where the ribbon now came to sit in a near perfect bow to hold her thin, flaxen hair in place. A bright smile came upon her face at the feeling she had so long lost - the feeling of womanhood. She was a woman, and she was proud to be so!
The firill had come to sit upon her ringmail, watching Shirin as she tested her maneuverability in the new plated set. It seemed content sitting there, simply watching her. But all things had to come to an end, so as quickly as the warrior had found the little Umilo, he came to know the outside world again. She set him upon the grass as the night sang and danced gleefully, despite the creature's protests. "
I'll come visit you, Umilo. I promise. But you have to take care, and try not to hurt anyone else, okay?" Her voice was a whispering lullaby for the tiny creature, and as if he understood, Umilo gave a slight whimper. From her satchel - the one not so full of ringmail armor - she pulled out a small packet of chocolate. "
Why don't you share this with that little pup, okay? I'll bring you more some day. Then you and I can share it."
She watched as Umilo took the packet and turned away to run off into the night. Then, to keep herself from running after him, the warrior stood quickly and turned back towards the manor to finishe the night's deeds. Not long after, the group all found themselves in what one might imagine the rift between the world of beauty and that of darkness. Staring at the runes that lay upon the strange stone before her and her companions, she was the first to speak, breaking the odd silence that had befallen the group.
"
What do they mean?"
Merrik looked up and around the room along with the others, marvelling at the runes as he did each time he entered the desolate room. When Shirin spoke, he turned and looked at her, her curiosity showing it's colors once again. He smiled warmly and turned to motion to back to several of the runes as he spoke.
"
Well, I'm not entirely familiar with mana runes any more, though at one time my father made certain I could read them. That was many years ago though. Let's see... ah, these here, the ones along the edge of the stone say 'Keepers of the light are welcome here.' and the ones along the back edge say 'The unwelcome have no power here. The Unwelcome shall not enter.'. The ones along the top of the door say 'This is safety, this is purity, this is peace.'" He scoured several of the others but most of them were too difficult for him to make sense of.
"
Generally the mana runes of old were used to enforce rules through bringing to life the written word. If these runes say we're in a safe, pure, peaceful place and that the unwelcomed cannot enter, the mana within them makes it so. There are hundreds of rules set into place here, covering all the grounds of protection, covering every loop hole a dark force may seek to exploit. This is one of the safest places in all the land."
Suddenly, as if by cue, the runes began glowing a faint green and the candles all went out by some unfelt draft. Merrik smiled as a familiar sense of expectancy came over him. "
He's coming, won't be more than a few minutes now. Come." He motioned for them to draw nearer the stone slab, gently pulling Shirin forward by the hand.
Such depth and meaning conveyed in only a few strokes carved into stone. Such was the way of written language, no matter what that language may be. Dalaith had heard of words that exerted power over others and was rather familiar with using such when needing to use her power of persuasion over others, but such a physical power that didn't involve mental reasoning was nearly beyond her. After a day of learning, though she knew that there was more to learn within the walls of the manor, she wasn't at all prepared to learn something such as this. Now, just touching the runes felt as if it were a sin against the very power that she had been allotted just a small peak into the world of. Just as the silver haired tamer pulled her hand away from the carved stone walls, the runes began to glow in vivid green and every candle was blown out without any one of them leaving their place. Shades of green were cast over the darkness and the tamers that were lead to the stone slab. Dalaith was growing nervous, but her curiosity couldn't be quenched as it burned like fire within her bones, forcing her onwards to find the source of such amazement. Still not a word would leave her mouth, and she could barely think in anything more than questions, questions, and more questions. So many whens, wheres, whys, and hows buzzing about in her brain, and yet so few theories to answer them, it drove her mad.
As Merrik read out the meanings of each set of runes, Shirin seemed to feel the power behind them, knowing and understanding within the depths of her soul that the power brought forth the meaning. Each word was spoken truth, and the warrior knew that no matter what, she and her comrades were safe here. Across her gaze, she could see each run glow faintly, steadily rising with power and brightness. She felt herself being swallowed by the depth of them, and the feeling of safety caccooned her in a blanket of warmth and love. She could stay here forever if her head were to remain wrapped up in the sheltering power of the strange language.
But then the warmth of Merrik's hand tugged along her fingers, and the warrior was dropped from the warm embrace of the mana into the warm, comforting eyes of her mentor. Her cheeks flushed slightly at the feeling of his nearness, and her eyes fell upon the features of his face and shoulders. He was a strong man, and yet he was gentle. How could he be both? For a brief moment, she questioned it, and then the moment fell away as she felt her feet shuffling to move closer to him, by definition moving her closer to the strange stone slab. Slowly, almost unwillingly, Shirin moved her eyes from her mentor to the stone, upon which she felt more than saw the strange, glowing runes. And before her, something was beginning to form. Her breath escaped her upon the unknown draft of air, and she felt her body shift just slightly towards Merrik, as though to call upon his strength to help her remain on the ground. After all, it was easy for her to lose her head in this place.
Rita looked the mysterious room with a sort of childlike awe, any remnants of tiredness from his rest quickly fading away in light of his attraction to the room. The runes that covered the walls drew him closer, and soon a gloved hand was stuck to the wall as if magnetized, tracing the shapes of each an every rune it came across. No indication of recognition at the words of Merrik entered into his expression nor body language, but his mind grasped and stored every thread of information Merrik gave of the magical font. In soon enough time, the glove was ripped from it's attraction to the wall and replaced with a bare hand, skin trying to come into as close of contact with the subtle power etched into every corner of the room. The sheer beauty of the runes made him wish he himself knew what they meant so he could write them himself, but he knew that was mostly his attraction to the unknown instead of true desire. It did nothing to curb his growing want in the moment.
And that was before they began to glow. As the room's power suddenly came to light, Rita couldn't help but take a sharp breath. He looked around for a moment, his face illuminated in the pale green emanating from the wall only a few inches from his face, embarrassed by how much true emotion he was showing in the situation before his curiosity overruled his reservedness and he drew himself back to the runes. His fingers retraced previously examined runes as their true nature was revealed and he crouched down, bring his face close to the wall so as to try and memorized the shapes of some of the runes his wandering felt pulled towards. He traced back and forth in no particular pattern, committing to memory what he could, darting inefficiently as he rushed to collect far more than he would be able to remember.
As Rita pulled away from the wall, it wasn't hard to imagine an audible snap as he separated himself from his attraction. His previously forgotten glove was slipped back over his hand as he moved to join his fellows on the center, and by the time he had reached them, his previously forgotten facade had once again fallen over his countenance. No part of his curiosity remained visible, just how he liked it. A solitary fleeting glance of awe in a moment of weakness was the only hint that it still remained.
It didn't take long for their guest to make his appearance. The runes glowed more brightly suddenly and began to shift from tones of green to blues and purples. They brightened and yet the room itself seemed to darken. A strange cool draft seeped into the room , though there was no apparent place for it to be coming from. Merrik tensed in anticipation. He looked at the other tamers beside him. He saw the perfect wonder that consumed Rita's expression, and he couldn't help but feel a strange sense of protection over the man. Pushing the thought from his mind, he looked over at Dalaith he smiled as he observed an expression so incredibly consumed and yet slightly afraid, she was a strong woman, that wasn't hard to see. Her curiosity would likely always overpower her fears and doubts. She would no doubt become a brilliantly useful addition to the army indeed.
At his side, he felt Shirin's body shift and move closer to his own. A sense of protectiveness pooled once more, but not in the same manner as that of Rita. When he looked at Rita, he wanted to bring the man forward into his world and teach him, fill his mind with all the incredible knowings that he himself had been given the honor of knowing throughout his life. Something told him Rita deserved more than what he had been given, and perhaps it was this deprivation that led him to act out in such unforgivable ways. Looking down at Shirin he felt a different feeling. It was not a feeling of nurturing, but rather a feeling of deep protection, he wanted to keep her safe, for something within him told him that she deserved to be looked after, she seeming to be the type who always had to look after herself.
Merrik stopped suddenly in his thoughts. Were they really his own? Why was he so consumed by such a deep level of pondering at such a time as this?
"
Perhaps you've had a bit of help, young Master Merrik." A knowing smile spread across Merrik's face as the words entered his mind. He was here.
A moment later, a brilliant flash filled the room for a split second and when it faded, a curious old man stood on the center of the stone slab, chuckling to himself.
Before the group stood a man with a grey, yet near white, beard that wound down to his chest in wild curls and twists. His hair, wearing the same shade, was long and worn freely as it cascaded down to his midback. The man wore robes a deep mahogany brown, faded by sunlight and all in all, appearing to be a normal old man.
It wasn't until his eyes were noticed that one could tell that this man was no ordinary man at all, for they were a swirling pool of colors, constantly shifting from purples to golds to greens to blues and yellows. Ever changing, one could easily get lost in these mysterious orbs. And on certain occasions, one most certainly should get lost in them, for in one would peer deeply into the shifting colors, one would see that each sliver of color was an image of a person or a place or an event, and with every shimmering shift the images would change, telling stories of everything that ever was and everything that ever would be.
Merrik held his grin and bowed deeply and with the utmost respect for the elderly man. It had been many years since he had last laid eyes on The Oracle, and he woudln't hesitate to say that he missed the curious old man's face.
Suddenly, as Merrik rose from his bow, the Oracle stepped quickly off the stone and took a place directly in front of Rita. Slightly past normal social boundaries, the Oracle looked Rita up and down, tilting his head and humming and hawing to himself.
"
Yes, yes, no sea is complete without the abyss... but keep in mind the tides, dear boy, the tides. You'll need to be a strong swimmer to stay afloat when the rip tide pulls. No doubt you've dipped your toes in those waters a time or two before though, eh? Yes, it's clearly written on your soul." Merrik couldn't contain his entertainment as he watched the old man go about his curious ways.
And in a flash, their enigmatic guest arrived. Rita looked at the old man with interest, but he had seen plenty an elderly gentleman in his time. As the man stepped forward to examine him, Rita spent his time examining only the man's eyes. Flashes of many colors passed in mere moments, and he found himself seeing flashes of images, perhaps past, present, or future. But Rita quickly reigned himself in as the man spoke, and he listened with curiosity. Many could speak in riddles, but few could speak in useful ones. There was no doubt he was standing in front of one of those few. He smiled with a sardonic knowing as he replied to the sage speaker.
"I have a feeling that we share a common knowledge of swimming in the deep that surpasses that of the others standing here. Although I could be wrong, unlike you, I cannot gain an estimation of a man's soul in a simple glance."
he Oracle looked at Rita, smiling a slightly crooked smile as he raised his finger to tap the side of his nose. "
And so the waves break once more, my boy! And who's to say what a man can and cannot do but the man himself! Pay mind to what you say, Rix." The man's words trailed off as he lost himself in thought for a moment. Within his eyes, a story of Rita's past flashed by and the Oracle passed him a grave look, nodding with reverence. He held the young man's gaze a moment longer before jumping up and quickly stepping over to where Shirin stood beside Merrik.
For a while he simply stared at her, a warm yet slightly unsettling smile upon his face. He didn't blink, he didn't speak, he simply stared. Just as Merrik was about to voice his opinion about the man making Shirin uncomfortable the Oracle lifted a finger and his voice filled the chamber once more.
"
The cockerel crows at dawn each day without another to crow for him!" He shot Merrik a glance, a serious look about his face before breaking into a smile once more and returning his gaze to Shirin. He leaned forward and took the woman's hand in his, cupping it gently with his other. He looked at her with compassionate eyes and quietly said, "
There is light in all things, Kahyna, now truly within your soul by the glint of the eternal sun's children. Draw your strength from the light, surround yourself with it, and the darkness with never have a place to lay down its roots."
Feeling her sense of unease slowly change into that of wonderment, Shirin watched with wide eyes as the runes began to truly glow. A part of her wondered just how a room could brighten and darken all at the same time, even as her body shivered slightly at the sudeen draft of air. Within seconds, the entire room flashed like the sparks of a dragon just before the flame appears from within their maw, and standing before the group was an odd man of almost silver hair, his eyes intruiging in many ways - in other ways, somewhat frightening.
Seeing Merrik bow so deeply to the man left the warrior with a sense of curiosity. What could make this strange man so very respectable? Was it his old age? His strange eyes? His bedraggled appearance? Her mind wandered through the areas that could make him fall above the ranks of all others. And yet, her mind was halted at the man's sudden stepping from the stone slab to stand before Rita and speaking. The riddle that he seemed to speak in was completely understood by the fascinating mind of her childhood friend, but the woman was not one for riddles. So, she stood there, still trying to decipher the words and their meaning before the man spoke again, calling Rita by his original name.
Blinking, Shirin felt her jaw drop open a moment. Her mind wailed at the mention of the old name, and she wondered just how such a strange old man could come to know Rita's name when he did not know who Rita was.
~
And yet this man appeared before you in a flash of magical light. One would think this would be a telltale sign of his power.~ The voice of her dragon spoke with a tone of amusement in his tired mind. ~
Think about it, Shirin.~
But before Shirin could really think about it, she found herself face to face with the bearded man, who stared at her oddly. She felt her body tighten with a sense of unease, and she took a slight step back, eyes widened as her hand came to settle on her blade. Despite the fact that she showed no signs of unsheathing the weapon, her hand rested on the pommel as if to draw strength from it, feeling herself singled out and alone in a crowd.
And as Merrik went to mention the warrior's unease to the strange, bearded man, he was stopped with a powerful voice that once more spoke in a riddle she could not understand. And before she could even say anything, her hand was taken into the old man's and cupped. Though the desire to pull away and make a break for it, a part of Shirin told her to remain standing before him. She found her courage, taking a deep breath and forcing herself to relax. Before she knew it, the strange features of the man showed her compassion instead of curiosity. She could see in his eyes strange images flowing around, telling her story to him. And then he spoke her name. Not Shirin, but Kahyna. Her body shuddered at the mention of it - for that was a name only used by her Papa. Tears pooled in her eyes, and she looked away, not bothering to try and figure out what he was trying to say.
But then, within a mere moment, it sunk in. She had become a child of the sun. She was a woman touched by light and surrounded by darkness. If she could filter out the bad and leave only the good, no longer would she be plagued with such evil.
"
But how?" She heard herself choke out the words, trying to get a hold of herself before the others. Her voice was shaky and very soft, and once the two words were spoken, she couldn't seem to explain. Yet a part of her understood that she didn't have to, for this man knew the questions that dwelt in her thoughts and in her heart.
The old man held her hands for a moment longer, his gaze boring into her own. "
The Light, my dear. Man is blind in the dark, but with the help of the Light, he may see all that needs to be seen. Look into the darkest places for they most often hold the secrets we need to see the most." The reverent expression on the man's worn, weathered face held firm for a short while before he suddenly broke out into a warm smile which quickly escalated into a hearty chuckle. He gave Shirin one last pat on the hand before gently releasing his hold and turned to face Dalaith who stood on the other side of Merrik.
"
My! We do have a glorious collection of flowers in the field of the New Order! What a delight you are!" He stepped up to Dalaith and brought his face right to hers, destroying any personal boundaries that may have been in place. Eyes wide, a slightly unsettling smile up his face, he stared directly into her eyes, unblinking. After a few moments he began to chuckle again and backed up slightly. The man was simply giddy at this point and it was an unusual site to behold indeed.
"
Many a mysterious mind have I wandered but the halls of this manor are ever changing and fester in unpredictable winding and weaving! A map does no good, for some doors simply cannot be opened, at least... not to the ordinary. I know what lies behind those brass knobs and oaken barriers, yes. Treasure, of the highest value, but with it a great beast..." A dire expression seeped onto his face. "
Potential is a demon all its own and possession is as much a killer as a blade to the back..." Once more the man seemed to become lost within his mind as his eyes flickered back and forth, gazing into the infinite futures that lay before them.
For a moment, Merrik saw a flash in the Oracle's eyes that send chills down his spine, but every ounce of his being knew better than to dwell on what seeped out of the ancient's gaze.
Dalaith bowed just as Merrik had when their visitor arrived, her upbringing in the Mystic Lake town and her natural born thirst for knowledge only provided by her elders having bred a deep respect for those advanced in years. She watched with interest as first Rita, then Shirin were given an admitably strange look over, and then granted a conversation with the elderly man, however laden in riddles it may have been. Dalaith was still rubbing the chills and goosebumps from her arms from the strange sensation of tingling and a cooled draft from when their visitor had appeared within the sealed room. She was struck in awe, trying to figure the complexities of such a feat, though soon enough, she came to the conclusion that had been put into her head oh so many times over the past week. Such a conclusion was confirmed by the answering of A'untyr from afar, he having been paying a keen attention to his tamer's thoughts and what she was seeing.
Magic is an art that may only be performed with great knowledge, such that gives understanding of the world around you, the earth below, the sky above, the life around, and the sea that forever threatens to swallow the ground into its relentless waters. The Oracl has knowledge of all and sees all, Dalaith. Pay close attention to whatever secrets he may impart.
Dalaith nodded slightly, understanding the explanation given her, only to find the man having stepped over to her suddenly, he looking close, and all in a small time, looking quite a bit too close for comfort, but still, Dalaith stood firm. She held her breath slightly, her eyes trapped within the steady hold of his.
'So many memories... And yet such a calmness that he can possess while seeing all the calamity that envelops the world...' she thought to herself silently.
Letting the man look for however long he pleased was second nature to the woman, though the slow creaping of a smile upon his face was quite disturbing, especially with how close he was. As he then began to laugh once backing away, Dalaith assumed that surely he had gone mad, but even so, she stayed still in respect, lowering her gaze slightly. The silver haired woman hadn't noticed the faint tremble in her hand as she lightly bit her bottom lip, understanding the man's words, and yet, not understanding at the same time. The halls of this manor, her mind, were ever changing. She was constantly protecting herself from the outside, and her thoughts were always flowing freely. She understood that she had locked her emotions away for a good reason, but there were also some memories that she locked up. Had he meant one or both? And what dangers had he spoken of that could persist with either holding back or letting loose? It was all ammased by his darker expression when he had finished his speaking, and in that moment, the woman who was always so eager to learn more, the one who would delve into the deepest of secret, ancient tellings, could say nothing. She almost felt a little sick at it all, but she just backed up two steps and nodded.
The man nodded in reverence at Dalaith once more, their expressions locked. "
Do not let the labyrinth become your second home." His words hung in the air for what felt like minutes.
"
AND YOU!" The Oracle suddenly skipped over to where Merrik was standing, a bright, ear to ear smile upon his face. "
You've done well, my boy. Quite well indeed! The river of time has yet to run dry and with each new bend the water churns on with renewed power not before found in those waters. Yes... though the darkness at your side could use a bit of light it seems! Time is serious, yet the moment should not always be so." He chuckled to him and Merrik broke into a smile. The man was just as he had always been: seemingly insane and undeniably wise and all knowing. He was right, of course, about Obisidian Nova, and a low humming tone chimed into Merrik's mind as his companion rolled his eyes at the All-knowing One.
"
As I'm sure you're well aware, we've made great progress in both body and mind. Many of the souls now fused have grown steadily stronger. For others the path was not so easy but nonetheless they have endured and the bond strengthened. Your decisions formed a clear path and its guidance has yet to lead us astray. You said you wished to speak with Shirin and Rita. Dalaith and I shall take our leave and wait in the hall. I will return to discuss our more private matters when you summon me." With a deep bow, he gave Shirin a reassuring look, nodded at Rita, and then led Dalaith out into the hall to provide the trio with a bit of privacy.
As the minutes passed by Merrik allowed his thoughts to swirl about in the silence that consumed the pair. He and Dalaith hadn't said a word to each other after exiting the room, each drawn into seclusion by their thoughts. It wasn't until a quiet couple of raps on the wooden door at their side broke the silence that the pair came to life from their statuesque positions and re-entered the room. Merrik's eyes fell upon the Oracle who had a grim look about him. Their gazes locked for a moment and Merrik was forced to see a dark vision within the old man's eyes. He shuttered slightly after what he saw, despite the fact that the entire vision lasted no more than a handful of seconds.
When they received their privacy by the other three tamers Merrik's mind plunged much deeper into the storming sea of worry that so constantly threatened to destroy him. It took Obsidian Nova's strength fortifying the walls of his mind to allow him to maintain his composure when the others were asked to return. After taking a moment to right his thoughts and clear his throat, Merrik spoke to his three companions.
"
Our business here is done, friends. The Oracle wished to bid you each farewell in person before he returns to his realm." Merrik stepped aside with a bow and allowed the Oracle to step forward.
The old man smiled warmly at each of the three tamers, his eyes swirling and contorting through the endless visions of eternity. "
The blood, the labyrinth, the light, and the abyss. Oh, what fate holds for you." With another tap of his finger to his nose, the entire room flashed into a bright green light. When it faded away, the four were alone once more. Merrik stared hard at the spot where the Oracle stood a moment ago, his brow furrowed under the weight of his responsibility once more.
Seconds passed, a minute, two. Merrik looked up and turned to the others. "
We'll sleep at the manor tonight and return to the garden tomorrow. Come, I'll show you to your rooms." His heart was heavy with burden and he had little to say. As much as he truly enjoyed seeing his dear old friend, each time the Oracle found a reason to visit the estate, there was dark news to be told. Tonight was no different. He needed to get back to the meadow.
You feel it as well then. Tomorrow, dear friend. Perhaps it is nothing more than a shift in the mana of the earth. We cannot make assumptions. Merrik nodded, despite the fact that Nova would not see it. The dragon would feel it, he would know Merrik's exact thoughts and emotions, just as he always did.
When the group made it to the body of the manor at last, Merrik led them back to a hallway they had once passed through and one by one opened a door, each aside the next, and motioned for the tamers to enter their evening's abodes.
When each had been shown to their room, he walked to the end of the hallway where two doors faced each other. He turned for a moment and put his hand on the smooth wood of the door on the right before turning to the one on the left and entering his own childhood room. Making his way through the memories, he walked out onto the balcony at the other end of the room and directly to where Obsidian Nova's massive head waited, peering over the stone rails. Merrik leaned forward, bearing his weight on his shoulder which rested against the black dragon's massive snout. His cheek felt the warmth of the dragon's scaly snout and allowed his hands to stroke the small scales of the dragon's face as he had so many times.
Whenever his burden was heavy, Obsidian Nova offered him the strength to carry on. Without the nightmare dragon, surely he would have fallen under the weight of his duty.
Neither spoke in that moment, the emotions were enough. Merrik felt like he could break down at the thought of what had been revealed to him by the Oracle, but no matter how long Merrik needed, no matter how weak he felt or how close to giving up he got, Nova would not let his soulmate fall. He would not let his beloved tamer give in to the burden of his blood.
And so they stood in silence, letting the breeze of the late night whisper stories of the woods.
The words of the Oracle to Rita and Shirin alone left the warrior somewhat shaken, and though she showed no outward signs as the old man addressed the group, giving each a name before disappearing, she found herself trembling as she entered the room that her mentor had led her to. Though she was alone, she couldn't shake Rita's presence. It was as though his very shadow followed behind her, playing its evil games on her mind and tricking her into believing the things he wanted her to believe.
But that was absurd. Rita was no more a victim of this fate than she. Shirin had to remember that much. And yet, as she felt the tears slipping down her cheeks like tremors of forgotten dread, the warrior could not let go of the thoughts the child still held. Within her, she felt the darkness of her heart tremble, threatening to bear its ugly fangs once more. Quickly, as though she couldn't shed it fast enough, she removed her armor and threw down her blade, clenching her hand over her heart, as if to keep it from aching.
Then, the soothing breath of her beast flowed into her mind, pushing away the black that exposed itself from the depths of her sadness. His voice did not echo in her thoughts. His taunting laugh did not vibrate within her breast. His breath simply warmed what had grown to be so very cold. Slowly, the warrior felt herself begin to relax. And as her muscles loosened around her strong bones, so, too, did the tears finally come free. As if on instinct, the woman thrust herself from the room her mentor had so hospitably provided and ran down the stairwell to find the source of her warmth.
She would find Byriarti beside the great fence where she had found the little fox creature. Though he appeared almost exhausted, his stormy blue eyes came to rest warmly on her, and his wing opened in a welcoming embrace. Letting out a sob, Shirin let herself fall into that embrace, feeling the hard scales tighten in a cacoon around her, holding her close. Still the creature did not speak, for he had no need to. His words at this point could not make what she was feeling better. Instead, he held her and let her hold him, running her hands gently along the fine, feathery tendrils along his back to feel the strange, tickling sensation.
As if by accident, the warrior would fall asleep curled up like a babe beside her dragon. Though tired, he would remain awake and watch over her, feeling the light of the sun reflected dimly by the moon that sat humbly in the sky above him. Only when dawn approached did he finally slumber, if only for a meager moment before his ward finally woke and readied herself for a long flight home.
Dalaith could hardly stand the stillness, the silence of the space that hung between her and Merrik as they waited on their fellow tamers to be finished conversing. A'untyr tried to ease Dalaith's mind, if only to find some peace in his own, but found the attempt futile, her mind and emotions a total mess as she tried incessantly to seek solice for her prior actions, actions that were never really her own fault. If she weren't in front of her mentor, she would likely be curled up in a mess of tears for not being able to change her past or her nature to over criticize and analyze until all is resolved. Just knowing Merrik was there was enough to keep her stable, though that also meant locking every door she had in her mind to keep it all in, to keep it from showing on her person and spilling in senseless sobs from her trembling lips. She gripped either side of the bottom of her shirt tightly as they re-entered the room once more for a farewell, Dalaith already in such traumatic shock that she hardly registered the oracle's absence.
Hallways were passed and doors brushed against her fingers as she held out her hand slightly, following at the tail of the group, not comprehending a single thing to go on. If anything, one would describe her as 'broken'. She spoke not a word, thought nothing, and walked almost as if being pulled along on a string to keep pace with the group. Entering her room, she sat on her bed, just staring out at the far wall, not even minding that she still had her bag on with the armor in it, nor remembering that she had someone there to talk to, her dragon. All that was done on her part was to sit. Within her mind, she pictured a mansion. Not the Tetra estate mansion, but one of her own making. One to be her mind palace, a place for her to stay. She had been to this place many times before, all when her emotions became too much, when her mind couldn't keep up with her irrationality. Within this mansion, she found her solace.
Except... It was different now. Every door was shut, locked. All the doors but the one right in front of her. As she slowly approached the door, a steadily increasing pain shot through her chest until it felt as if a blade of fire had run her through, she screaming of pain within her mind, falling to the ground, clutching her chest tightly. She had fell a mere inches from the door. With one last push of determination, she pressed herself up against the door,'only for it to fall open, exposing a room of mirrors, a large dome of them, large enough to permit the size of both Obsidian Nova and Methuzelar at once while fighting in her estimation. A sensation as if being carried came over the girl, though she saw no one. No one but herself.
"You can't lock away pain forever, my dear. At some point, it surfaces. Wouldn't you wish it now, when its mild, than later, when it could be so much to consume you, and corrupt your poor, precious mind?"
The voice of Dalaith's grandfather sounded around the room, just as she remembered him say the words, just after the supposed death of her parents. She refused to take it. She stayed strong for years now...
Was this the pain he meant? Is this.... What he warned me of..?
The thought could barely be made within her weakened, tired mind, though a voice that soothed the pain a bit came in answer.
If you get lost within the reaches of pain, how are you ever to find your way throughout the rest of your abiding place? Get up and push on. This pain is temporary. Life, however, is much shorter than even this. There is wisdom in your grandfather's words, but also danger. Let it out slowly, lest you find yourself void of feeling, numbed to the effects of emotional pain, and thus lacking a motivational drive to avoid it.
The voice of the great gold dragon was strong, warm, comforting. Everything the tamer needed at that one time. With his words as guide, Dalaith came back to focus, trembling, but strong enough to set all of her supplies down and lay upon the bed given her, she falling into a deep, dreamless sleep.
The Oracle spoke his words Shirin and Rita, but Rita found it hard to believe them, even though he knew they must be true. He was not foolish enough to discredit the words of the Oracle. But that certainly didn't mean he had to like them. The Oracle had a few words left, and he called each of the four tamers gathered by what they were, not who they were. It took him a minute to sort them all out in his mind, but as the last piece clicked into place a second after he had received the pieces, he narrowed his eyes at the Oracle. He certainly didn't disagree with his label, he had little doubt he was the darkest member of the new order. Instead, something inside of him reject the dark title that fell on Shirin, the Blood. Some part of his mind still remembered the innocent girl from his childhood... Had she actually turned out so wrong? He growled lightly and shook his head to clear the thoughts. He refused. All the way back to his room, he gritted his teeth as the thoughts in his mind battered him from all around. Control. Control. Calm. Push them away. Be in control. Don't think. Don't think. Control. Con-GO AWAY I DON'T WANT TO THINK!
Outside, Wither let out a little huff. She couldn't say that the Oracle's words had been particularly pleasing to her either, but she was much more worried about Rita. He prided himself with always having a plan, knowing what to do. But he couldn't have that anymore. She'd have to ease him out of it. She started to send him some of her more calm emotions, before thinking better of it. He was too independent at this point. Even though they were one, her bond with Rita certainly reflected their personalities. Both far too independent for their own good. She could feel him now, pacing in the room, tossing a throwing knife, up and down, up and down, without even thinking about it. Well, if he wouldn't come to her for help, she'd just have to make him. But first, she reached out with her mind to contact Byriarti.
I would like to get them to sit down alone and talk tomorrow, before we leave, if she's up for it.
Rita couldn't stop pacing, and yet it still wasn't helping. The thoughts kept barraging him from all sides, as he desperately tried to not think them, to keep things the way they were. It's not working. It isn't working. It normally works, why won't they go away! In his frustration, he grabbed a pillow off of the bed and tossed it into the air. With a quick flick of his wrist and a loud
thunk the pillow found itself pinned to the headboard of the bed. He stalked over and pulled out the knife, and prepared to throw it again, before a calming voice cut into his mind.
Rita, will you please come outside and talk with me? His lip curled in annoyance, but Rita sheathed his knife and stalked out of the room.
He found Wither in a secluded part of the garden, waiting for him. Her expression looked fierce, like always, but he could since her worry seeping through their tether.
"What?"
Wither gave out a little dragon sigh and placed her nose on Rita's forehead, allowing a small portion of her calming influence to help him.
You're upset.
"Oh? Was I? I couldn't tell, thanks for informing, that's certainly helpful." The sarcasm was meant to be cutting, but a rumbling chuckle instead vibrated through both his mind and body, and for some reason he couldn't quite help but want to join.
You're a thorny vine, you know. Creeping, crawling, expanding your influence everywhere as you try and choke out everything around you so that you can spread your misery to the world. But you could change, if you let yourself. Try to give up some of your control, my thorns. Allow yourself to be you again, instead of trying to choke everything out. Because I know, if you allow yourself, you'll grow roses. Black, beautiful roses. So be a rosebush for me, fierce but beautiful. Allow others to see the beauty. That's all I ask. Rita stood rooted to the ground, as new thoughts from his dragon budded and attempted to bloom. He was growing, and so she planted one last thought to grow with the rest.
You're going to have a talk with Shirin tomorrow. I don't expect things to be fixed, but I do expect something. Rita simply sighed, wilting slightly, like a plant which has been trapped in a room without sun. But he didn't resist, and he eventually fell asleep in Wither's protection, under the stars.
By the time Wither spoke to Byriarti, his fierce rider was curled like a babe against his warm belly, fast asleep without a single dream or thought. He mulled over the words a few moments, silently thinking over the outcome of the chat. Would she be able to handle it? Could her bright, loving heart take so much more darkness to swirl around in a dark, scouring cloud?
Yes.
With a deep sigh and more soothing thoughts to keep his bondmate feeling safe and comfortable, Byriarti sent his confirmation to Wither. ~
Yes, I do agree. But I would like to keep a close eye on them. She is in a very terrible state this evening, and I am sure he is as well. The flower has begun to wilt, and I must find a way to give it more sunlight. Until tomorrow, good night, my sister.~
Indeed, the flower had begun to wilt. The flower, which had already endured the great winter, was no longer a beautiful white rose, but red with blood, petals rotting away as the innocence is stripped away for good. She could no longer live in her fantasies, and though his proud heart gave her comfort, the great Solar Dragon feared that his light would not be enough to bring back the brilliant bloom, no matter the color.
But before he knew it, the sun began to rise on the next morning, and his tamer began to stir. It was time for a new day and a long flight home. But first, another meeting between the roses.
When the night's tiring hold took over Merrik's mind, Obsidian Nova had slipped away from where he lay beneath his tamer's balcony, though keeping his mental hold more firmly on his soulmate than usual. Merrik had been through a severe upset after meeting with the Oracle, and while Nova was sure he would be alright, he wasn't about to leave his dearest companion alone, even in his dreams. But there was a score to settle with the king of the sky, and it would be settled tonight. Had Obsidian Nova been any of species of dragon, his flames would have lit up the sky as and the winged leader of the lower skies darted in and out of the clouds, racing and fighting within a rivalry several decades old.
When morning's light broke, the blood eagle was nowhere to be seen, and while Nova had returned to his place beneath the balcony and appeared to have never left his place of rest, several long gouges were slightly apparent along his back and stomach. Of course this was no bother to a dragon, they were merely surface wounds and his scales would quickly regrow, covering the small bit of damage. When Merrik awoke and went to greet his companion, he said nothing at the notice of these wounds, already knowing what had happened and trusting his dragon's nonchalant response to the slices across his hide.
"
You and that damn bird need to put this rivalry behind you. Every time we come here you two fight it out, claiming to have settled the score at last, and every time we return after the feud sparks up again." He shook his head at one of the deeper gouges. Despite the face that the blood eagles were slightly smaller than a dragon of Nova's age, they were completely capable of doing damage, their talons being stronger and sharper than carved diamonds.
Nova responded with nothing more than a chuff of smoke as he shifted his body to face away from his bond mate.
It wasn't long after Merrik had prepared himself for the trip home that the other three tamers entered the kitchens, they themselves readied at last. He had packed each of them a simple breakfast for the flight home. Normally he'd have insisted on a sit down meal but something had had him in an unsettling state all morning, as if trouble was tapping him on the shoulder. No, it'd be best to get back to the meadow as quickly as possible, breakfast en route would have to do.
As the party soared through the cool morning air once more, spirits were lifted. The skies had a way of eroding worry and stress, if only for a short while. While silence met them for the first few miles, they all eventually relaxed and carried about simple conversations about their time at the manor and their wonders of how the others were doing and if anything exciting had happened in their absence. Merrik said nothing about the sinking feeling in his gut, but he was sure the dragons could sense it as well. Spending so much time in these lands, submerged in the native flow of mana, Merrik and the dragons had become intertwined with the natural order of things. They were connected to the mana of the woods and something told Merrik that the natural order was not as it should have been.
Obsidian Nova picked up the pace almost out of instinct as his mind flowed along with Merrik's, pushing his wings down harder to get back to their home to check on the safety of his yearlings and their tamers. His protective instincts never seemed to die down, even after all this time with the new tamers around.
Eventually the treeline on the horizon broke and the meadow beckoned their return with its vibrant tones. When the black dragon's talons at last met the earth, he and his tamer simultaneously let out a silent sigh of relief to see that things were not apparently amiss. Of course the stables were awfully empty, most the drakes were either out on the Eastern border of the woods or no doubt scouring the deep forest for potion ingredients. Still, the feel of the land was not what Merrik had feared.
As he dismounted his drake, his eyes fell on the Eastern skies. Emerald orbs pierced the thick woods. "
That," he thought to himself, "
is where the upset in the mana flow is. But what in the name of the old gods could be causing it?" His brow furrowing, Merrik pulled his gaze away from the treeline and pushed himself to unpack his belongings and get to tending to his weekend's work.
