Setting Fire to Canvas [MAIN PLOT]

[Emma]

This captain was too pretty, I decided.

I strode along the cobblestone roadway, appearing deeply focussed in the scenery while keeping half an eye on the four people in front of me. I was only familiar with one of them. Myaja Kolbjorn had yet again been denied any form of weaponry or heavy armour, and as such had resorted to wearing strictly only her ceremonial military uniform until the Riders released their grip on her. I could see it quite prominently- shiny black boots topping off blue high-waisted riding britches with gold braid down the outside seam, and a square-shouldered jacket- the same dark blue as the britches- tight at the waist and studded with golden buttons and stripes. Finally, a navy cape, lined with gold, flowed down over her shoulders. It was also worth noting that her hands were chained.

She was being watched by three men, all human. Two were tall, heavily built thugs. Arms folded and eyes not darting from the female General, they looked ready to rip her apart if she so much as blinked the wrong way. I was mildly amused by their immovability, and promptly removed my misericorde from my belt and began stropping it noisily just to see if they’d notice. They didn’t. The third man, the captain, was a fop. Long blonde hair, probably so thick and springy from a recent wash, cascaded over his shoulders, and he was dressed very well contrary to the image of a poor ship captain trying to make ends meet that he tried to project. Unlike his guard dogs, he was being overtly friendly to the elven woman, and possibly even flirting.

“… you’re so important and whatnot even if you are arrested, you’ll get the spare cabin below the forecastle all to yourself! Under lock and key, naturally, but when inside, we won’t have you tied up.” He stared at her hard. “And if you need anything at all…”

Kolbjorn ignored him and gazed around herself in mild curiosity. Her first time in Aroughs, she’d told me. Sunset, my favourite time of day, was fast approaching the city. Faint stars gleamed in the orange sky, which had been set ablaze with pink and primrose fireworks of clouds. The sun was dipping in the west, and the distant sea, stacked high with ships, seemed to gleam dark red. Warehouses crowding the dock, gleaming white-golden with their windows mirroring the sun, currently hid most of the harbour from view. But ringed with outcropping rocks and already lit with luminous yellow flame, the tall lighthouse crowning Aroughs’ shore was very apparent. We followed its light down to the harbour, where our ship would be waiting to cast off at twilight.

‘Yuan.’
I freely allowed the presence into my mind. After living among dragons for over a year, it was almost second nature. ‘You called, General?’
‘I hope you know I won’t coddle you just because you’re a child.’
‘I don’t expect you to. I stopped being a child years ago.’
‘Good.’ She eyed the captain warily. ‘You may need to deal with him.’

Captain Socien Saethe was the man in charge on this voyage, and he hadn’t shut up about it once. He would ferry the team to Parlim and back again, and his thugs would also deal with any pirates or unfriendly island inhabitants for us. Something about him, however, was inherently sleazy- and creepy. Every time I looked at him, I was reminded of a time about four years ago when I’d been about to go to bed, and found a viper coiled up in the blankets. I knew a snake when I saw one. He was too nice, too good-looking, too distracted- it was easy to think Azuan Angrenost had hired him off the street. The one saving grace was that he seemed to actually be experienced in sailing a ship.

Ah, yes, the ship.

We left the last of the warehouses behind, and finally came to a halt just as the sun began to disappear into the horizon like a coin into a velvet pocket. The sea was the colour of blood, filled with gently rocking ships. Ours was a cutter, built for speed. Painted an elegant silver and trimmed with black, it was a lean, tall-masted vessel, its sails now tightly reefed. The name The Enterprise was clearly seen above its four gun ports. Figures strutted along its deck, but they were still too far for me to make out what they were doing. Saethe puffed with obvious pride and marched past the bales, barrels, ropes, rolled canvas, and crates neatly arranged along the dock, waiting to be brought onboard. As we watched, the trim silver ship began to unfurl its snowy white sails.

“You first, milady,” said the captain, bowing low to Kolbjorn.
“Stand up!” she sneered at him. “Immaturity doesn’t become an excuse for incapacity.”

---

‘I beg its pardon, fleshling.’
The sailor that had been dourly mopping the deck glanced up, and its face went white.
‘Does it mind not flinging filthy dishwater onto my head? I am not a place to store human waste. If it fails to desist, I insist on showing it firsthand just how long a mortal is capable of surviving underwater.’
“You’re…” its left eye twitched. “You’re a dragon.”
‘Oh, GOOD eye.’

The sailor gawked at me for a few more moments, apparently having not heard my threat at all. Then it dropped its cleaning implement, backed away slowly, and turned and sprinted as fast as its short legs could carry it. I groaned and rolled my neck, feeling my bones pop, and pushed myself away from the boat, disappearing underwater again. It juddered from the sudden movement, rocking crazily. I vanished into the murky gloaming of the ocean, surrounded by silt and wiggling ribbons of seaweed. Sewing through the water, I considered making a meal out of the tiny fish darting around me, but decided it was best not to open my mouth just now. Harbour water was filthy- I was probably inhaling flotsam and sea wrack and I wasn’t sure I wanted to know what else.

My breath bubbled rapidly around me as I weaved underneath The Enterprise, spikes bumping against its freshly scoured hull. Despite how disgusting it was down here, it was a pleasant change from the noise of above. Here, the sounds were clouded and distant, like in a dream. I remained at the bottom for some time, dozing, deep in thought- at least until I realized that Ramsey had been quiet for a very long time. Opening my eyes and reluctantly dragging myself off the silt, I swam upward towards the surface. When I rose from the water in a spray of mist, I clung to the edge of the ship once more, glancing about. Sure enough, I spotted my Rider high above me, sitting at the very top of the central mast, her legs wrapped tightly around it, smiling up at the setting sun.

She was happy. Truly happy. It was the first time she had stepped on a boat in two hundred years. Ramsey had never been made for libraries or walled cities. The sea was her true home- and she had just been reminded of that fact. She completely ignored the sailors that had gathered around the base of the mast, pleading for her to get down, utterly terrified of a Rider falling to her death on their watch. I gazed at Ramsey for a few more moments, letting her have her moment, and then poked at her mind. She scowled down at me, but resolutely clambered down hand over hand from the top cross-spar. Silhouetted in the sinking sunlight, she sprang down like a leopard, heels striking the deck, and put her hands on her hips. Then, glaring at the moaning sailors, she yelled at them.

“Stow it, you pigs!”
It was stowed.
“This ain’t a cock race, chaps! Back to bleedin’ work!”

Ramsey had gotten all dressed up for the special occasion of her reunion with the sea. If she didn’t move with the stocky aggression she always used, I might not have recognized her. Dressed in a verdant green vest with a tall-collared white tunic, high-waisted black riding breeches and a pair of well-polished black stiletto boots threaded with silver, she looked like an upstanding military soldier at first glance. But when she came towards me, she bristled in a way only Ramsey could bristle. Her fox-orange hair was now done in micro-braids decorated with razors that glinted fiercely every time she moved her head. From her left ear swung a huge emerald raindrop, matching her jade-green eyes. The green was bright against her ebony skin, and yet highlighted it at the same time.

“Merry meetings, Ikehr!” she announced. Removing her brightsteel hammer from its strap and setting it down, she leapt onto the deck’s railing, crossing her legs.
‘A glorious day, Ramsey.’
“Innit, though?” She missed my sarcasm entirely and pointed her chin at something behind me. “We’ve already got arrivals!”

I turned to look. Coming up onto the ship were two mortals, a tall, blonde elf and another female, a Valkyrie, with exotic Cathese features and stark white hair. Fourteen years old, hardly out of girlhood. The elf was clad in some kind of military uniform, complete with stars and stripes announcing its high ranking. The other was in a lacy black dress cut low, armed with a whip and several knives. I recognized the both of them- Myaja Kolbjorn, inactive General of Du Weldenvarden, and Wengsi Yuan, Ward of the Riders. The General raised its head to gaze around at the ship, before its icy blue eyes settled on me. Its hands were chained behind its back. The Valkyrie, meanwhile, approached me immediately and put its hand on my snout, which I allowed the child to do.

“General,” said Ramsey politely, tipping her faded black fedora.
“Ebrithil,” the elf responded. “When do we cast off?”
“Soon as the others arrive,” She settled back. “Provided they don’t get lost…”
‘And then I shall kill them all. For sport, it must understand.’

Characters Used;; Wengsi Yuan with Myaja Kolbjorn and Ikehr with Nemo Ramsey
Words;; 1690
Muse;; MEHHHHHH
Thoughts;; You may all mock me for the Star Trek reference. XD I couldn't resist!

[Kite]

*Clarus slips through the city streets of Aroughs and breathes deep the scent of of the southern reaches of the Broddring Coast's sea. Somehow, it is different here from the scent of the sea near Teirm, and what a sweet change that is.

As he walks through the cobblestoned streets that approach the docks he had been directed to, he enjoyed the last few moments of the city as he was sure that he would not see them for a while after this moment. It was truly a rare treat for Clarus to be in Aroughs, and he had been occupied until today with overseeing the operation that was ran by his associates down here. All had been running smoothly, thankfully, and his associates stole only a little. His attire was his normal, he is wearing the clothes of an aristocrat, a fine black tailored jacket with a matching black front-buttoned shirt, tucked into flexible black tailored dress pants, and fine dark leather shoes, but he made sure to take a necklace with a fine diamond around his neck and beneath his clothing as well as a ring with a blood-red ruby on his right ring finger that are both brimming with power on the off chance that he will need it.

He is approaching the dock now, and sees the ship that he is supposed to depart with, the Enterprise, and thinks that the title of the name is a little overused, maybe the Voyager would be more fitting? Clarus doesn't know, but it is food for thought. He ascends to the deck of the ship and sees the three women that are leading the expedition and the most senior dragon on the expedition. Surprisingly, he seemed to recognize everyone here, at least through reputation.

The first one that he takes note of is General Myaja Kolbjorn, who has been in Ilirea ever since the Riders' dramatic entrance. The tallest of the group of women, she is wearing the dress uniform of her country, A square-shouldered, tight jacket of a dark blue color that is studded and striped with gold accompanied by a gold and dark blue Navy cape hanging from her shoulders. She has riding britches that are lined with gold braids along the side seems, and black boots that are absolutely gleaming. Of note, there is also the addition of chains binding her hands and that she is carrying no weapons, which brings questions to Clarus' mind that he is sure will be answered soon enough although he will not ask himself.

The second is Wengsi Yuan, a young Valkyrie with which he had worked before when tracking down an artifact of dark magic for the Riders. She was a Ward of the Riders, and decently trained. She is carrying a misericorde, a long dagger generally meant to finish off mortally wounded adversaries, and is wearing a lacy low-cut dress that reaches the floor and is jet black. He also notices, as he did the other times they have encountered each other, that she seems to have an ethereal, almost angelic, presence or aura around her.

The third is the woman of whom he had only heard of through reputation, Nemo Ramsey. She is wearing a white, tall-collared tunic with an extremely green vest along with high-waisted black riding britches and black stilettos that are accented with silver cords. She has extremely orange hair that, due to being almost two feet shorter than Clarus, are obviously filled with metallic razors as decoration.

The shoulders, feet, and head of her steel-blue dragon, Ikehr, are to be seen. He had no idea what to expect of him, honestly, although he had heard that Ikehr was somewhat different than the fiesty Nemo. He also seems slightly more feminine than most male dragons, although he would keep that observation to himself.

He approaches the three women and the dragon near them, and bows slightly before speaking cheerfully, smiling at each of them in turn.*

Greetings, my dear ladies and most respected dragon. What a delight it is to be working with the Riders of Ilirea once again.

*He faces Nemo and Ikehr specifically, and bows once more before speaking respectfully.*

It is an honor to meet you, Nemo and Ikehr. I am Clarus Maleficarum, I wanted to officially introduce myself although I am sure you recognized who I was. It is hard to hide the signs of who we are.

[Arizae]

Last night had not been pleasant. It seemed that this…city…had no rooms suitable for a proper count. Khael did not mean to complain like some spoiled brat, but it was simply unacceptable for a piece of the Broddring kingdom to be so inhospitable to its nobility. Some may just shrug it off, but this was a port city a great center for trade and brimming with untapped potential. The place slept, that was the best way he could explain it. All the occupants of the city had been lulled into a dream self-pleasure. He had not spotted many beggars, simply put there was not much in the ways of poverty. Still, where did those in charge dump all their money? They must be wasting it if all that was down here was stone and wood for buildings. This could be a bustling prosperous city! Marble-lined streets and high towers from the brightest minds of the newest architects. Broddring was going to waste away if those that were blessed with their coin did nothing but stay asleep. It was infuriating to see, and he wished he could do something about it. But counseling the Count of Aroughs was not his mission now, and he may be laughed at as a fool. Not many respected a man that had no power over his own city.

Khael could feel his head throbbing, knew that he must settle down once again. Lately achieving the four essences had become more difficult for him. His family’s name was broken and their power did not stretch far. They had coin, at least his father had kept the books in order, but the damn false prophets running around his city held it within their clawed fists. Everyone knew that the bitch Malandra had been manipulating whatever she pleased, and was able to work untouched within a Nyx blessed cathedral. It was sacriligeous, blasphemous, and horrid that such a blessed place had been tainted. He did not know if he would be able to fix what he must within his lifetime. Which was why he was so far from a city that needed him now. The king had sent up the call for an obscure artifact, one that was curious to Khael in more ways than one. The Chalice of Nyx. Blessed Nyx that helped guide during the Voyage and was the focal point for what he believed…what had been tarnished by the spawn of that witch Ramakrishna. Why did the king want it? And what exactly was it?

Khael put a hand to his head and rubbed his temples with forefinger and thumb, but the ache would not leave his skull. Closing his eyes he dropped his hand back to the reigns and sighed. The heat was oppressive so far down south, and though the air from the ocean was crisp and cooling their also seemed to be a heaviness to the air. His white under tunic clung to his body, but thankfully the black overcoat with its high collar helped keep a pocket of cool air. Insulation or something like that, it did not matter. Khael would enjoy being able to walk around like some sailor, to live without the burden of upholding a name and manner. Walk barefoot and without a shirt, it seemed ages that even his neck had felt the kiss of wind. His body was not as young as it had once been, and his pained leg ached from the long hours of the day. But he must uphold his city and his name appear professional for the sake of all Broddring’s nobility and people.

How could a common man have pride in his country when the man he swore allegiance to dressed and appeared a pig? So Khael kept his aging body as well as he could, and the black silk tunic had silver embroidery twining up the arms. Silver buttons came up the far left side of his chest and on the front there was the faint outline of a fox. The pants were made to match, all black silk and high polished boots. Today he had even donned a cape; the silver chain was almost for show as it formed the shape of a smile inches below his neck, the black cape actually attached to his shoulders. Emblazoned on the back was the seal of his house, not so bright as the silver embroidery on his tunic. No it was skillfully woven with a slightly lighter shade of black, a near grey so that the seal could only be seen when looked at closely or when the cape caught the light just right. He wore the signet of his house and the city of Tears. Khael did not quite mind the cape but a hat was not something he preferred. The black thing had a wide brim with one side pinned to the crown of the hat, near where it was pinned there was a large white feather. The feather was positioned horizontally, though tilted slightly up. A cavalier’s hat and fashionable, even if Khael did not prefer having it.

The hat did little to fend off the rays of the sun now as it dipped low in the sky. Had he put mind to it Khael might have enjoyed the vivid colors of coming night, but he was preoccupied. The four guardsmen at his back were dressed similar to his style, if less elegant and more armored. All bore the symbol of the fox and the city of Tears. They were all men Khael trusted, men that had served him his entire life and traveled with him. They were not tainted by the wine of his father’s reign and they carried swords as men practiced to their ways. The men were also accomplished and experienced riders, for the procession Khael led was on some of the finer steeds he had been able to find. Black horses, barrel chested and tall. True war horses that were as good a weapon as any sword. Appearance was paramount, but so was the practicality of it. His mind turned from the non-important nuances of his procession and turned towards the present. It was good that he had gathered himself and drawn upon the strength and confidence he must appear to have. For now they approached the docks, and it appeared they were not the first.

Bile built up in the back of his throat and Khael scowled for a brief second. Quickly he wiped his face clean, and dove deep into the four essences. Placid serenity was all that shone from his eyes, an eerie calm that would not show emotion right now. He did not want to work with any of these creatures arrayed before him. Why in nine hells was the damn witch Myaja here? It had been fighting some of her scouts that he had gained the limp in his leg. Pointed ears everywhere, and a weird feeling emanated from the strange white-haired one. The leading general of the elves…and even though she was in chains he felt his skin crawl. Even with his best trained men he did not know if they could defeat her. And for all blazing nine moons why was there a rider? Slimy beast of hers was clinging to the ship like some overgrown barnacle. It looked more a snake than any dragon he had seen before, and he could feel its distaste for him in it’s eyes. A dangerous creature with a short strange looking master. Perhaps there was another ship he could take? By the hair of the man that had just arrived…that was no ordinary human. He could not help the return of the grimace. Everything he hated and despised was arrayed before him. Blasted elves and wicked dragons, to whatever that man might be. The sight of him made Khael’s blood run cold. He was not a young adventurer, he was an aged man set out to restore his city and his name. Oh how he wished he could retch and be rid of their images.

No. He was not Khael. He was Count Settic, the lord of the Tears of Leona. The religious center of the world. This group did not contain Malandra, so it could be tolerated. It must be tolerated for the good of his city. His peace and serenity returned as he went back to his training. His men came closer; he could practically feel their unease in the air. Stopping his horse well away from the group he glanced around, it was obvious the entire group was not here yet, but he might as well introduce himself. Khael made a quick signal to his men with three fingers on his hand and his right hand man immediately dismounted. The guard had a nasty scar that spanned the length of his face, but it was a mark of experience. One of the other guards took the reins of the scarred man’s horse as the man came forward to hold the stirrup for the Count. It was only proper for nobility to act so, even if he could have dismounted easily himself...well, perhaps he should admit to himself it wasn’t so easy with the ache in his joints and the old wound in his leg. Once Khael was firmly on the ground the third guard secured the reigns of the count’s horse. Turning towards the group Khael headed off for introductions as the scarred man flanked him, a little off to his left.

He held his head high and kept his back straight, but there was no disguising the limp in his right leg. It was slight, but any trained eye could spot it. Still, he was able to carry a sword, and he could use it to some manner of effectiveness. Khael was not defenseless, just aged and scarred from years of skirmishes. He stopped slightly off the right of the red-haired man and gave a nod of his head to those gathered. After all, he was nobility and he would not bend knee to an elf. He would have to work with these people, and take direction, but he would not bring disrespect to the City of Tears and the Kingdom of Broddring. Nobility was supposed to be polite to dignitaries, but it was not supposed to bow before enemies. And that was all that was arrayed before him…why in Nine hells would these people wish to help the King?

“Greetings to everyone, I do not believe I know everyone gathered for this mission, but I take it introductions should wait until all are gathered here? Or does time press us to where we should board immediately?”

------------

Such a sleepy and innocent looking little town. He would love to spend some time meddling with events here. It was enticing, but Aroughs would not change while he was away. A short interesting trip. Yes that was what this would be and he would get to see some fun. He already knew it would be tense. Xaen had done his scouting, knew which parties would play in this game. Dragons, riders, and generals, counts and shades, it would be at the very least…slightly amusing. If he was to be honest with himself he could not have organized a better group for chaos and tension. When many used to power gathered things could get messy in the struggle. Perhaps, this time, he would not have to intervene to make things go his way. Smiling slightly the large cat peered around the area.

Xaen had not taken human form within this city; it was simple enough to pose as a normal cat from off the streets. Those hunting for this chalice might take note of him and see him for what he was, but it was of little consequence. It took effort to disguise oneself when among numerous riders and elves, simply wasn’t worth his time right now. Besides, running about in true form was always better than that weak human bit. You received stares when you leapt between buildings and ran along walls as well, people were used to cats doing that bit. Much faster traveling on four legs than two. It was well that he had slept most of this day away, for the boat would be departing soon.

Involuntarily, he shivered. Boats. He would never get used to them. Made his skin crawl whenever he drew near one. Now Xaen could swim, but he did not prefer it. Messed up the fur, made you smell weird…and was just so…well infuriating. Rain could be pleasant, but rivers…lakes…oceans, those were to be avoided when possible. Why did this venture have to be across this bloody ocean? He would not be himself on the little bit of floating wood. Getting up from where he sat Xaen shook himself once, and bounded off into the street. Even now his emerald eyes were flickering with excitement, but also a bit of anxiety. Water truly was his one weakness. His head could take anything else. But he thought it best not to think on it. All his reasons for living always swept from his head when water came into the pictures, webs spinning, daggers gutting, none of that matter when Nyx could dump you in a well. Bloody water.

Before he knew it he had arrived at the correct dock. Xaen hadn’t noticed, but his claws were extended, gripping the thing wood boards that separated him from water. He didn’t notice, but it was highly unlikely they would retract until his feet were once more on solid ground. His excuse for being in true form might be for the same reason. He loved playing with elves and riders and the rest when disguised as a small child, but a small child didn’t have the stability of a cat, even if his abilities didn’t change he didn’t have the same maneuverability. Four legs, claws and tail helped keep you stable on a rocking ship. Better chances of avoiding water. Suddenly his nose was filled with the scent of horse, dragon, elf, human, and…perhaps there was the feel of spirits. Yes the shade had already arrived.

Xaen kept to himself, went off to the side and leapt up onto a barrel. He sat down, tail wrapping around his body, hiding the fact that his claws were clutching that piece of wood. And then he examined all that had arrived so far, green eyes glittering with a hint of his normal mischievousness. But he was on edge, fur slightly raised and pupils a bit larger than normal. Bloody ships. Xaen hated being in such a state when surrounded by all the others. He was a calm manipulative creature, a werecat that would sit at the throne of kings if he pleased, but he could not help but act like a normal feline when he could hear the sound of the ocean and cry of gulls. Bloody ocean, blasted ship, and confound it why didn’t he just stay here in Aroughs where he could have fun with the normal people?

Words : 2513
Characters : Count Settic and Xaen
Muse : eh...not particularly pleased with either bit
Interaction : Both here, Settic spoke to the gathered group, Xaen is holding on to a barrel for dear life (exaggeration, but yes he is)

[Nayeli]

( T A S I A A N N A )
Featuring
Sunglow

[/size]

”For the last time! Slow down you two legged monster!”

[/color] The sound of laughter could be heard through the air as I ran quickly towards the city, followed closely by a small creature that was as tall as a dog, which many of the humans keep as pets, but this was no dog, this was a beautiful, sunkissed dragon that followed me and someone I deeply cared about. Sunglow, my beautiful, young dragon. We had been told to come here, for some reason we had been placed here by Nemo and Ikehr. I did not mind, I liked the two. Nemo was hard to completely understand, but she was laid back and enjoyed a good drink on occasion. Sunglow seemed to enjoy the company of Ikehr and occasionally allowed the word, ’mortal’ to come from her head. It truly pushed my limits sometimes, but as I ran, I found myself at home among the country side of the Broddring kingdom. It was not much, but I was running quickly, towards the western side of the town to get on a ship.

It was funny listening in on Sunglow, her angry towards me was boiling and it was very funny indeed. She hated to be out of control and I was not going to slow down anytime soon. The sun was setting and I could not afford to be late or anything. ”Master Nemo and Master Ikehr know we are coming, they will not leave us.”[/color] I outwardly laughed again. ”They would too, just to see how fast we could swim.”[/color] Sunglow seemed to understand and I heard her slight laughter come forth. She was finally allowing herself to relax and move with me. She was not one for running, but she was seeing that it was nearly the only way I moved. I was honestly not sure who I would see on this voyage, but I knew it would be long and no land fall for at least a day, if not more. ”What of food?”[/color] I smiled and sent a image of a fish. Sunglow was not to fond of that idea at all, infact, the thought enraged her more. ”Calm down you old Lizards.”[/color] I had to jump to keep away from her teeth, which brought death to nearly anything that came around her while she was angry. ”Watch your tongue, Tasia.”[/color] I smiled slightly at her and then kept moving, even faster now.

The city was coming up and the sun was not even touching the horizon yet. I didn’t even stopped as we touched a small hill, but moved even faster towards the city. I noted that the walls were not very high and we moved quickly. My legs pushed me ahead as if I was a deer, but my feet were silent as they landed, like a stealthy wolf. Sunglow, she was a bit louder, almost like a herd of horses, but it was still nice to hear. ”When you can find a dragon who is not quiet, please tell me.”[/color] I smiled. ”You use to be…”[/color] That only gave me a auditable growl and another snap at my feet. I was lucky our minds were intoned, or I would not be able to judge her direction of biting. She growled once more and we kept moving. I knew she was tired of the constant running but I did not care. As we closed in on the city, I noted a few guards standing, but they were truly laid back, not even paying attention to out arrival. Once we were close enough, I slowed quickly, not wanting to surprise them to much. ”I am gonna go around and stay on the roof tops.”[/color] I nodded and she was gone, moving quickly. She had been hidden by the shadows from the setting sun and I was the only one there.

My hair was around my shoulders and down my back, my hair only stayed from my eyes because of the vine crown that set there, the emerald placed perfectly. The crown was green, but it was hard as silver and not easily broken. I wore my normal, a piece of cloth that covered my chest and had one sleeve. It was tight as normal, allowing me the ease of moving, though it did catch the eyes of many. Down my arms were dark green tattoo vines, which went up my shoulders and ended with four vines that went around my neck and made what looked like a necklace and a single leaf. I had once had plans to get it completely done, but I had chosen to keep it how it was. My skirt started just at my waist, fit firmly and allowed my body to be shown. The skirt was full until it came past my butt, where the skirt begans to rip all the way down to my knees. Both Nemo and Ikehr had both tried to get me to dress differently, but after seeing my fighting and how well I was, they had both given up, as many of the other older riders had done. My feet, were bare as normal as well, able to allow me to move silently. On my left shoulder, was a bag and in it was a the brown cloth that looked like what I was wearing, since this one was black and also a pair of black and a pair of brown cloth shoes(Moccasins) that I wore sometimes. On my right shoulder was the quiver of arrows and also my beautiful bow that my father had sung to me.

As I got closer, the guards finally realized that I was there and they stared at me, which was normal for them to do. It did not care, I ignored them as I normally did and started to go past them. My ears stuck slightly out of my black hair and my emerald eyes watched as they stopped me from gaining entrance into the port city of Aroughs. ”Where do you think you are going, elf?” I rolled my eyes slightly and looked at them, watching as the young man looked up and down my body. ”I am going to the docks.”[/color] Through the mind of Sunglow I could see that she was looking down on me and mentally growling at the guards who were preventing me from entering. She glanced towards the docks and I could see that the sun was about to hit the Horizon. ”You should have come with me.”[/color] I smiled slightly and the guards were slightly confused. ”Why are you heading to the docks?” Sunglow, who did not like being out of control of things, stepped in. ”Because she can you worthless mortal! Move aside!”[/color] He jumped at the sudden outrage that filled the minds of all the guards and myself and I found myself walking past them without trouble.

”You had to do it, didn’t you?”[/color] She seemed to enjoy the quickness that it allowed us to gain and we moved through the city. She was on the roof, but that seemed to work fine, in fact, better then it had ever worked before. As I moved, I stopped at a shop, buying a cloak with some coins that Nemo had awarded me for a mission I had been sent on months before, but I did not just buy one, I bought two, one black and one brown. I even bought a larger bag to store them in and put on one as I left. Sunglow seemed to like the idea and as we continued, I pulled the hood over my own head, hiding my ears and my body from the eyes of others. I normally did not care, but I figured it would make for quicker travel through the small, yet slightly large city. I did not know this city, so as I moved down the cobblestone, I found myself checking the eyes of Sunglow to see how far we were. ”Not much further.”[/color]

Soon, we were only a couple of buildings down from the docks and I could see the ships ahead. As I got to where I could see them all, Sunglow got low, allowing me to look at the ship and to see it through my eyes. It was a very nice ship and with ease, I could see Nemo and her red hair. But, My eyes did not stay on her long, instead, they moved quickly to someone I knew far better then Nemo… Myaja Kolbjorn, the military leader of the elven nation and someone I had once served under. I had fought in the war with the humans along side the archers that she had picked, though, not all of them were handpicked, I had seen her on more then one occasion on the battlefield. She wore her military uniform, which was beyond beautiful in my opinion. Black, shiny boots, blue high-waisted riding britches, slightly sight at the waist and had golden buttons and stripes. A navy cape, line with gold that flowed perfectly down her shoulders, but on her wrist were chains to keep her under control. I hated to see the leader of the elven army like this, but it had to be done.

I noted she was being watched by three men, two were tall, and highly built. They seemed ready to kill her and it brought anger into my own chest. ”Calm yourself Tasia.”[/color] I glanced up towards the roof she was on and then looked back at the group that surrounded her. I noted that the third was the captain of the ship I would be on, though, I could not remember his name, nor did I really care, I looked at him to make sure I remembered him. He had blond hair, which I could tell had been recently washed, but I did not care about him. I could tell he was being very friendly with the Elven Military Leader and I felt another twang of anger. I also felt Sunglow trying to calm me.

I looked to the sun, which was now gracing the water with her soft presence, the warmth was slipping from the land. Spring had only recently started, which was a good thing, because I did not have to use my warmth ward any more and it meant I had more energy to place into my gems that I had on my bow and my vine crown. I had heard that one day I would be getting a blade, but I was not sure if it was true or not. I honestly never cared much for blades, though I did have a skinning dagger I used on the animals that passed or were too sick to make to old age. I would help them pass with no pain and take their skin before giving them thanks and leaving their bodies to the many other animals who wanted them. Many elves though I ate the dead animals, but I was like many elves, only eating plants.

Finally, I pushed myself away from my thoughts, allowing myself to look at the ship and get a good idea of what was going on. I looked at the General once again and then noticed someone else was with her. I knew the person, I had recently done a mission that she was in charge of, though it had not been told that she was in charge, I had followed her. I looked carefully at the buildings around me for a moment and then back at the ship once again. I noticed that she was looking at the captain for a moment, who I could tell was babbling about something, but I could not make out words. I did not know the man, but he seemed a bit fishy to me, but I just tried to push the thought out once again. I needed to be better then that, he was still a person and it was not my place to judge. I then looked at Wengsi Yuan, who was wearing a pretty black lace dress, her whip and lots of knives. She was a ward of the dragon and she was a Valkyrie and she was pretty in her own way. I watched as the Captain said something and I could easily hear Kolbjord speak clearly. ”Stand up!” The man did quickly from what I could tell. “Immaturity doesn’t become an excuse for incapacity.” I smiled slightly, could not help it. Though Unarmed, the General was still a fighting woman.

”She is not happy.”[/color] I could not disagree. She had been taken by the riders and I was sure she did not like them, not many elves did like them any more, unless they did secretly and even then, they stayed within Ilirea. I had chosen to like them from the forest, but now I lived in Ilirea and I had my own home, a villa at that, but simple and had a large garden for Sunglow to grow in. I once again pushed my mind away from that and looked at the ship… ”The Enterprise… Could have come up with a better name… Something…”[/color] Sunglow mentally chuckled and I smiled myself. I watched slightly as the boat rocked slightly, after being perfectly still and looked at it slightly confused and curious. As I was about to ask Sunglow, I saw a spray of water and saw the blue dragon that I knew to be Ikehr, Nemo Ramsey’s Dragon. I looked up where I had seen Nemo before, perched on a mast, staring out at the sea. I smiled slightly. ”She is happy… Tasia… Why is she happy?”[/color] I looked up towards where Sunglow was. I was not sure, but it had to do with the ship, I was sure. She talked like a Sailor, so I was sure that was the reason behind it…

She jumped down and I watched as the woman disappeared. I then looked through Sunglow’s eyes to see she was putting a few men in their places. She wore a beautiful green vest over a white tunic, high-waisted black riding pants, and pair of black stiletto boots. I could not see how she could walk in those things and pulled my mind away from Sunglow’s eyes and focused on what was going on around me. I was about to head towards the ship, but stopped, seeing a few others heading towards the ship themselves. I could not tell who it was at first, but I saw Nemo greeting with General and then my eyes focused on what was coming, who was coming.

It was a man and one I did not know very well. I could not remember seeing him ever within’ my life time, which was a good four hundred and twenty five years old. I had seen a lot, but in elven years, I had seen very little. I was a young adult and I needed to act like one. I took in the scent of the land, which to Sunglow was surprising, since I normally did it rather quickly and did not wait. I tried to ignore that fact, but I could not. I had been so busy getting to the docks, I had forgotten to listen to everything, smell everything, and see everything. I could have been killed… ”Quit being so Dramatic.”[/color] I rolled my eyes. It was the truth. The man wore a black, tailored jacket, with a matching black button shirt, tucked into black tailored dress pants, and dark leather boots. I noticed something around his neck was shining, but I could not tell exactly what it was. As he got closer, he looked over everyone that I had, from what I could tell because he slowed slightly and then he went to greet them all, he had a smile on his face and then I heard something else, which sounded like horses coming down the road I was on. I could barely see the white under coat that was hidden by a large black overcoat with a high collar. ”Someone important?”[/color] I was not sure, but I watched him carefully. In human years, he was a much older man, his hair had grey in it and he seemed to be important to the human kingdom known as Broddring. In Between the white under shirt and the black overcoat was a black tunic and I saw silver on it, but I could barely make it out. As I looked closer, I saw a fox and I knew where the man came from.

The Tears, the religious center for the Broddring Kingdom and something I found rather useless. I never understood religion, nor had many others of the elves understood it. But, I respected the humans and their beliefs as best I could and I tolerate them. He worse black silk pants and polished boots and he also had a cape and a silver necklace that just showed he had money, but at the same time, he did not have a lot of flashy things that many of the human nobles had. As he went past me, I saw the back of his cape had a lighter black fox outline and I followed after them. ”Someone from the tears, possible their count. Stay there.”[/color] I did not want Sunglow to come down until I decided to go onto the ship. The man had a hat on as well, with one side pulled up with a feather like button. He had four guards following slightly behind him and once they were all past, I kept to an easy pace.

The horses the rode were black war horses, very strong and all seemed to be able to handle them better then any human I had seen before. As they came closer to the docks, they slowed and soon I stopped beside a large box, watching him and his men. I looked at the others who had been there before and then at the five men who had just arrived. As the horses were stopped, I could tell that there was something bothering him, it was in the air and I allowed it to fill me so I could understand his displeasure, but I could not read his mind, which was fine with me. I looked back at the group and then waited, watching the man before me. My body was covered, since I did not want to draw attention just yet. I saw something, which looked to be a signal and then watched a man dismount and I saw a scar running down the man’s face. It was nasty and could have been healed, but then again, humans did not know how to heal like those of the elves. I watched as another guard dismounted and then the other, helping the man off the horse, who seemed to have a limp as he walked. It was not a huge one, it was minor, but a skilled eye could see it without a problem. After his guards had the horses, I watched as he headed off towards the group and I followed, but from a distance, moving past the groups and looking towards the roof Sunglow was at. ”Come on.”[/b][/color] She moved along the roof tops, I could see it through her own eyes.

The man held himself with pride, I could see that, and he carried a sword with him, which I was sure he could still use without a problem. I noted he did not bow to anyone, which was fine, he was a human and not many did, unless they wanted to impress or be a bit too friendly. I moved past the stuff that was being loaded and got on the ship as he began to speak. ”Greetings to everyone, I do not believe I know everyone gathered for this mission, but I take it introductions should wait until all are gathered here? Or does time press us to where we should board immediately?” I smiled slightly and looked at everyone, removing my hood.

”I am sure you don’t mind repeating yourself.”[/color] I said, though not friendly, it did hold a bit of cold tone to it, along with a bit of amusement. I turned my head in time to see a Sunkissed dragon come to be beside me. Though she was not very big, she had grown to be the size of a small dog and her head was up to my hip, while her back up to my knee. I bowed to Nemo and Ikehr. ”Greetings Master Nemo… Master Ikehr.”[/color] I said, looking at the rider and dragon. I looked at Wengsi and nodded to her before bowing to the General. ”General Kolbjorn.”[/color] If she remembered me at all, I would be surprised. I allowed myself to rise to be at my full height, which was tall. Sunglow looked around the ship before going over to the edge away from the docks. She took in a sniff, but growled at the smell. ”Nasty stuff.”[/color] I smiled slightly at Sunglow’s thoughts, but my eyes twitched to notice the cat and I smiled. I could tell it was much more then a cat, almost all elves could tell the difference. I looked at everyone for a moment then leaned against the edge of the ship railing, looking at the group.

[/size][/blockquote]

( W O R D C O U N T ) three. five. six. one.
( T A G G E D ) Ikehr the Dragon, Myaja Kolbjorn, Nemo Ramsey, Wengsi Yuan, Clarus Maleficarum, Khael Settic, Xaen the Werecat
( P U P P E T S U S E D )[/color] Tasia Anna Georgios & Sunglow the Dragon
( S U M M A R Y )[/color] Running towards the city of Aroughs, both are together until getting closer to the gate where Tasia noticed the guards were not paying attention and Sunglow headed towards the wall to stay on the roof tops. The description of Tasia's outfit is described then. Gets past the guards and buys two cloaks and a larger bag to travel with. Watches from afar as everyone arrives, follows Khael Settic to the ship and then comes on herself, greeting Nemo and Ikehr, along with Kolbjorn. Sees the Werecat, Xaen, but says nothing to it.[/size][/blockquote]

[Elloria]

Niko leapt across the plain that spread out before the city of Aroughs. He was somewhat blurred by the speed with which he ran. Just behind him, Arashi bounded with him. When the hatchling began to lose ground - as he inevitably did - his wings would snap open mid-bound and with a few powerful beats would bring himself back up to his Rider. He wasn't yet strong enough to fly extended distances, but his endurance grew daily. This pleased the hatchling to no end, for his greatest wish was to take to the skies - to act upon his birthright. Of course, he also wanted to keep up with the accursedly fleet elf he called Rider. Who knew a two-legs could run so quickly? And Niko especially! His Rider was always so deliberate and measured in his movements - as if he considered each one before making the motion. He much preferred this Niko, though. This Niko was wild and free.

Niko laughed aloud, deep and resonant, at the impression Arashi emanated. It was nice to simply be fluid and uninhibited. He had not known such freedom since starting his education in Ilirea. Since Arashi's hatching, he had come to long for it. But his speed served two purposes this time. First, admittedly, was for his own gratification. But more importantly, he was supposed to be in the shipyards of Aroughs by sunset. And the sun was already beginning to dip below the horizon. He picked up his pace. Faster, Arashi! If we miss castoff, I’m certain Nemo will have our heads! Arashi rumbled quietly behind him, but immediately leapt into the air to glide upon the air currents. This gave the hatchling a chance to rest somewhat whilst still keeping pace with the elf. Niko took a small hill at a run and upon cresting it saw Aroughs sprawled before them. Without a pause, he took off down the hill at a full sprint. Arashi began to beat his wings in an effort to keep up. Would his Rider never cease to amaze him? Niko laughed again at the thought.

With a beat and a leap, they crossed the low walls in unison. Niko landed silently on the other side. Arashi continued to glide until he, too, landed upon the cobblestones. He was certainly not silent, but the clatter of claws upon stone was not jarringly loud thanks to a well-timed flap. Arashi looked back at Niko with mischief gleaming in his eyes before bounding towards the easily felt presence of Ikehr. Niko grinned as he adjusted the pack on his back and followed the winding path Arashi took through the city. He wasn’t totally sure why Ramsey and Ikehr wanted the two of them on this expedition, but he wasn’t going to question too much either. He was taking Addison’s advice - and Arashi’s insistence - and taking advantage of what was sure to be an intriguing adventure.

Soon enough, they had reached the docks and turned towards where Ikehr’s head appeared above the side of a ship. The Enterprise, apparently. Humans picked the oddest names for their vessels. No matter, though. They were there as dragon and Rider, neutral parties in Alagaesia. Though it would be difficult to believe, were anyone to feel the impressions racing through Arashi’s mind. As the ship came into sight, Arashi leapt into the air once more. Niko sped up once more, taking the gangplank in two leaps when he reached it. Arashi soared over the railing, circled around the mast once before sinking to the deck. With another flap, he brought himself up short and landed gently upon the wooden deck beside a delighted Niko. As one, they surveyed the group arrayed before them. Of course, they immediately recognized Nemo and Ikehr as well as Tasia and Sunglow. Though Arashi was less than pleased at Sunglow’s presences - and Ikehr’s as well - Niko was pleased that he would be traveling with Tasia once more. She was someone he could trust without doubt, as was Nemo. Ikehr he trusted as far as he could evade the dragon, which wasn’t particularly far. Sunglow was, to him, like many hatchlings - energetic to a fault. More talkative than his own, but he could hardly fault her for that.

Their eyes flicked away from these familiar sights to take in the rest of the company. First was Wengsi Yuan, whom Niko knew only as a valkyrie and Ward of the Riders. He knew she was a capable child, one to be respected because of her training. Rider and dragon wrinkled their noses slightly at her attire. Too much lace for either of their tastes. Not far from her was Myaja Kolbjorn, general of the elven army and under the watchful eye of the Riders for her actions during the Renaissance ball. In her traditional military attire, there was simply ambivalence towards her. Next was a well-dressed human male, of somewhat advanced years. Possibly someone important, possibly not. Irrelevant for the moment. Arashi’s nostrils flared as they caught the scent of a Shade and he growled inaudibly. Niko cast his gaze briefly in the direction that Arashi was practically glaring. It was the merchant, Clarus. He’d heard of the man from Melatoth and Salien. Though neither mentor cared for the Shade, it was undeniable that it had done much for Ilirea. Hence why its existence continued. Niko let this impression flow over to Arashi, who huffed irritably but let it go. Niko turned his attention to the man simpering before Myaja. He could only assume the man was captain of the ship, if his attitude was anything to go by. Disgraceful. Last to fall under their gaze was an odd cat clinging to a barrel. Niko raised an eyebrow in amusement at the werecat. Arashi immediately dismissed it from his mind.

Satisfied, Niko approached Nemo and Ikehr and bowed deeply, giving the traditional greeting to each. “Ramsey-ebrithil, Ikehr-ebrithil,” he said as he rose from his bow. “It is good to find you in...decent moods.” He nodded at Tasia with a grin, before turning to Myaja to greet her as well. “Atra esterní ono thelduin, General.” Arashi, meanwhile, settled himself just apart from the group and started licking at his scales - rather like a cat cleaning itself. As Niko finished his greeting, he moved back and sat lotus-style beside Arashi. “I hope we have not missed much in the way of introductions,” he said easily, a lazy grin lighting up his face as his silver eyes danced with excitement and eagerness.

[dantieduurden]

Artemis had only recently come to here of the king’s voyage he had called for experienced adventures to come and claim an artifact she had read about in the book she stole and was more then happy to oblige. “ Stealing is what I do best after all.” She thought the night before as she walked into the city in the form of a might black panther. All her muscled were relaxed. With her she had what appeared to be her owner, but in fact was a slave who she had bought for such an occasion. “ Don’t screw this up now Ava, or the riders shall be the least of your worries.” Artemis said into the slaves mind before retreating into her own, thinking only of hunting in the jungle, and of lush pillows to rest on. The women on the side of her was dressed in a long flowing gown of deep and rich forest green in color. The sleeves reaching to her wrists, and gold leaf designs ending at the tip of each. At her neckline of Ava the gold thread once again formed a design, but this time of two mighty and majestic panthers leaping at one another. Upon her head was a small circlet of gold, with a emerald gem set in the center of it. Gold rings adored her hands, and a necklace depicting a panther was around her neck.

Ava walked on forward, through the streets with Artemis at her side, mistress and slave side by side as they made there way to the meeting place. On their way there they passed many beautiful places and Artemis on multiple occasions had to whack Ava with her tail, keeping the slave on her path. “ You are a noble, such things should not faze you remember this you fool or else.” Artemis was in a sour mood today because of the night before not being pleased as well as she had wished, but knowing that Ava had to have no scars she was not able to beat her properly.

With this in mind the two of them continued on to the port district until they came to the ship they were looking for. “Voyger” Stupid humans. Artemis thought as she looked over those assembled on the ship. Riders, and elves were among the majority of those assembled, but there was also a group of humans as well. “ Well go on and introduce us, and stay away from the pale one.” Artemis said before prancing onto the ship and lying down near the gold dragon.

[Tris]

Valsta walked down the cobble stone streets breathing in deep the smell of spring, it had been a long time since she could enjoy a walk and not have to worry about where her next meal would come from. But that did not mean she did not have things to think or to worry about, no on this fine morning she was thinking about the mission in which she was to embark on, she didn’t know much about it only that the king was going to pay a VERY handsome price to a team of adventurers to go and recover and artifact of some sort but she didn’t much care about that it was the money that made her interested. So here she was again going into the unknown for the sake of money, but the unknown wasn’t what was worrying her it was the fact that she had no idea who was going to be her companions, she guessed there would be cutthroats and thief’s but would there be elves? And would they think themselves better than us humans and make it an awful trip all around?
Valsta gave a long sigh, she didn’t know who she hated more the high and mighty elves or the ones who like humans.
She again sighed,there is nothing you can do about it so stop worrying, and with that thought quickened her step and made sure she was going in the right direction, but before she went much further she stopped at a merchants booth and bought a thick dark green cloak and a long thin dagger, normally she didn't like to carry weapons she thought they where to balky and bothersome but in this case she thought it would be better to be prepared then dead. When she was finished she put the cloak on and the dagger at her waist then made her way to the docks.
Valsta arrived just after two woman boarded the vessel and hope she wasn’t the last one to get there, when she mounted the ship she quickly scanned the team and was dismayed to find that there was far more elves then humans .But she didn’t lose hope for she saw Nemo Ramsey and Ikehr , it almost brought a smile to her face just seeing them again, it hadn’t been long since she had seen them last and there adventure together was still fresh in her mind. And there were two other dragon riders which surprised Valsta a little because she had never seen more than one in one place at a time, there was one more elf,Valsta recognized her immediately, Myaja Kolbjorn general of the Du Weldenvarden and even in chains she was a foreboding person. To Valsta’s utter surprise there was a shade in the group as well, she had heard of them but never seen one before, and because of her magic Valsta could feel the presence of a werecat and again she had never see one before so it was quite the surprise.
So on the whole Valsta guessed it would be a very interesting trip.

[Amur]

[Four Days Ago]
He had gotten careless; so much had happened over the last stretch of time that he had forgotten he had contacts to pay. The only reason he even remembered in the first place was that instead of the usual cache of information stored in the first dead drop was a small note informing Solomon that his payment was due.

Quite the slip-up on his part and not one he intended to repeat, unfortunately he had already stored the money he had at one of his hidden camps and had passed several of them on the way here. And he was not about to go back and spend hours delicately moving his stashes of Zerstechen arrows and compound to find a small amount of money. No, it would be easier for him to take a job and pay off several advanced payments to keep them all quiet for a while.

The only question was what job could he take for that purpose?

So, he headed for the nearest civilised area, collecting his thoughts. He had set his contacts up well, two small families situated in a town; he had taught them some rudimentary mental techniques and several methods to avoid detection from others with more advanced abilities. He had silently hunted and killed two home-owners living in self-isolation and had them move in quietly a short while later, once every so often they would collect all the information they had obtained and make a trip through various towns, placing their information in well hidden dead-drops Solomon himself had created. Eventually their path would end in a secluded area where Solomon stored various animal furs and items of value from his sentient prey for the two families to divide between themselves, add that to the small amount of money Solomon gave them every so often for their services had allowed them to live full and profitable lives.

It was his efforts that had them agree to such a low monetary payment from Solomon and he knew that if he was forced to kill them that he would be unable to find anyone else willing to do their job for the kind of pay they were getting from him.

They were expendable assets, but they were very good at their job and their information was often valuable, he would reap greater rewards by allowing them to live. They trusted him since he had given them everything they now owned, and it was a trust that Solomon would have no hesitation in using to his advantage should he be forced to kill them.

“Of course, they know me by a false name. I would never trust them with my real one.”

He dodged the crowd around the gate; still lost in his thoughts with his skills the most logical place to start would be people looking for assassins, however, Solomon disliked the idea of going anywhere near that kind of market, they tried too hard to stab you in the back at the last possible second which had lead to him walking away from assassinations empty handed.

He was in the middle of considering mercenary work when a large group of people caught his eye, clustered around a notice board making loud exclamations as to how “insane” that reward seemed and how there had to be some kind of “catch” they stood talking about it round in circles.

His curiosity was piqued, but he was not about to let these thugs and amateurs in on the deal, he had no intention of ever working alongside such common people. He would need to take their attention from the notice board first and he already had the perfect plan for that, one that would ensure the death of a moron and some kind of pointless chase soon after.

He silently drew his sword –Tear- from the sheath on his back beneath his coat and discreetly stood behind a large muscular figure, just off to his right. With one quick and precise movement Solomon had stabbed him hard enough in the side to pierce the skin, but had only put enough force behind the stab to make the man feel a slight moment of pain –akin to being stuck with a small pin- and then rapidly returned Tear to its sheath.

The man had felt it and immediately looked at Solomon, whom at this point was acting as though he was trying to look at the notice board over the heads of everyone else gathered around it. He obviously had not taken much notice of it, believing himself to have been jostled by the crowd and turned his attention back to the notice board and then instantly began staggering and swaying.

Solomon feigned shock as the man slammed into the ground, the effects of the wyvern venom obvious to Solomon, but something alien to the rest of the crowd.

“Someone get a healer! I’ll try to keep him alive!”
Solomon said, feigning urgency. There was panicked babble and then the crowd rapidly dispersed, each person running in a different direction, getting back to his feet Solomon turned to face the board and was instantly able to identify the notice everyone had been looking at. For it was new enough to have escaped whatever else had decayed the previous notices stuck to the board, with a small smile he took the notice from the board and stored it in one of his pockets.

The sound of hurried footsteps forced Solomon to once again adopt a look of urgency as he spotting a single guard –or what at least passed for a guard here- came running at him, Solomon continued his act, looking down at the man as he began convulsing and then back to the guard.

“One of those people did something! They were all running when I got here!”
And at once the incompetent moron took off on his own; Solomon allowed a small smile to twist its way across his lips as he knelt down and whispered softly into the man’s ear.

“Don’t worry it only hurts for a little while... Then it becomes excruciating.”
And then he stood up and turned on his heel, walking away from the man and leaving him to die in agony. He continued walking at a measured pace until he was well away from the civilisation he had just been walking among before he finally slowed down and took the folded notice from his pocket.

“Now, let’s see what they were- holy hell!”
He blurted, almost stammering when he saw the reward money, sure enough he could now see why people would think that there was some kind of “catch” and unlike those commoners looking to make some quick cash he guessed that it lie with the name of the object.

“The Chalice of Nyx?”
He muttered to himself, thinking back. The item he had never heard of, but “Nyx” he had heard it before, though where that was and what it was or was supposed to represent eluded him. The money being offered would be more than enough to shut his contacts up for a long while, this was not his kind of work but the reward was far too good to pass up.

Folding the notice back up, he returned it to his pocket and set off in the direction of the base camp where his hunting bow was stored. He knew exactly what he would be taking with him for this job and as much as he hated it he had a feeling that this time around he would need some kind of advantage. There was no way this was going to be a simple “Get the item” task, years of experience had taught Solomon that jobs paying this well were rarely that easy.

[Yesterday]
Solomon had arrived earlier than intended; he often forgot how fast distance could be travelled when he was not hunting. When he had arrived it was well into the final stages of sundown which had drained Solomon of any remaining energy he had, he decided to spend the night on the branch of a nearby tree. He would get whatever information he needed tomorrow, but first thing was first, to observe what was left of the sundown in order to allow himself to collect his thoughts.

His quiver and bow hung off the stump of a nearby branch Solomon had torn from the tree; sitting with it fastened to his back was uncomfortable and holding it while he dozed was out of the question. Not only did he fear dropping his bow and subsequently losing all his arrows, but this time he had brought a case of four Zerstechen arrows with him, and as he always did he had checked them at every available opportunity and although he had found them secure every time he had checked them he knew that with Zerstechen he could never be too careful, the risk involved with carrying them was huge.

Along with the arrows he had also brought two smaller cases each containing three vials of completed Zerstechen compound, much like the case for the arrows he had checked them as often as possible and like his arrows had deemed them to be secure. The cases for the vials were small enough to fit in a single pouch on his belt for ease of use; he knew that he would not always be able to get to the arrows so the smaller, easier to get to vials offered a suitable alternative.

And now he sat on his branch in silence, eyes half closed as he watched the remainder of the sunset in an almost trance-like state, merely enjoying the sense of peace that watching the sunset often made him feel. He had spent the days travelling picking and familiarising himself with his cover, the name, the history and his reasoning for deciding to go on this little trip to find the desired item; time and effort had gone into the ruse and he was at last satisfied with it so all he had left to do now was to rest in preparation for the coming day.
---

The day had been a blur of activity for Solomon after waking, leaving his bow and arrows where they were he spent the day hunting an off duty guard, eventually sneaking up behind him and slashing his jugular on the outskirts of the city by early evening. He then spent a while making sure that he was fully equipped and prepared for what was to come, he checked his Zerstechen supplies, made sure his greaves were secure, checked to make sure that his wyvern-skin coat was clean, made sure Tear was secure and then checked all ten of his concealed hunting knives.

Satisfied, he held his quiver (Which also held his bow) with his left hand by slinging them over his shoulder and then began to walk toward the city at a relaxed pace, enjoying the beginning of the sunset as he walked. Throughout the day he had found all the information he had required, ironically from the prey he had killed moments ago but was in no real rush to get there, judging from the other small flecks of information he had a strange feel had taken hold soon after.

“I get the feeling Humans are going to be a minority on this job.”
Since the same had been true on the hunt he had taken a little while ago he knew when to trust his gut. Not that the absence of his own kind would bother him very much, he was very well trained and often stood head and shoulders above his own kind. If not for the multi-species jobs he sometimes took his confidence would never be held in check, and he had seen what arrogance could do to people, though he could not accurately recall where.

Lost in his thoughts the distance rolled by quickly, and it was not until he absently minded chuckled at the stunned expression on the face of a gate-guard that he got into the mindset of his cover. They lowered their weapons, barring his entry; however, the first thing he heard was not what he had expected.

“Nice scars. Where’d you get them?”
Solomon allowed a small measure of pride to work its way into his posture and voice as he spoke his next line.

“You ever wake up in the morning so depressed with your lot in life that you feel as though you need to inflict self harm?”
And then he smirked as the guards made two unconscious reactions. The first being a flinch in response to his accent while the second was to take a step away from him as he finished speaking, both of which he had expected. Though he probably had another ten stories behind his scars minimum (none of them true) he often liked making up some completely outlandish stories just to see how people reacted to them.

“... W-what is your business here?”
Caution had worked its way into his voice, he managed to keep some form of eye-contact but Solomon could see he had believed his story. That alone was fantastic and already Solomon had several different ways to exploit that in mind, however, he was in a rush so he would not be able to scar this man too much.

He adjusted his grip on his quiver and first smirked in response.

“Exactly that, my business. Now if you would kindly let me through I won’t have to show you just how unpleasant being hung by your own entrails is today.”
He paused, holding the guards wavering glance for a long while before he raised his weapon, gesturing for his compatriot to do the same. With a smug grin he rested his free hand on the shoulder of the guard he had been tormenting and leaned in close, holding him for a brief second he waited for the man to begin shifting around uncomfortably.

“But, I’ll show you another time. Is that acceptable love?”
He whispered, making no effort to hide the mocking tones that had crept into his voice. The guard seemed to let out an involuntary whimper as Solomon pushed himself away and walked down the cobblestone street with a smug stride.

He wore his usual attire, seeing no point in changing it so he had made sure it was all clean some days in advance. Perhaps paying more attention to his long wyvern-skin coat than any of his other garments, that thing was worth more than most people would ever make in a lifetime. Well, at least it was back in Empire Nirvana, given that wyverns were borderline extinct and very difficult to kill anyway, which had driven the price for things like wyvern-skin and ivory through the roof, both of which Solomon happened to have in his possession.

As was his wont Solomon chose the less crowded streets and side-roads to the docks, the city was not as busy as he had expected it to be given the kind of place it was but there were enough people about to make Solomon want to avoid them. They were as he had expected, common people, nothing interesting about them, nothing worth looking out for. Which oddly enough fit his pre-conception of this place in general; this sleepy place was slow and dull, almost as if the residents here had isolated themselves from the rest of the world and were willingly living in blissful ignorance of everything around them.

He considered casually flicking one of his Zerstechen vials at a nearby building just to kick this population in its sleep. But he soon figured that it was a bad idea, he had already openly mocked a guard to the point of fear and now if he blew something up and walked away nonchalantly he would almost certainly be found out.

“But it’s not just that.”
No, it would have been an impractical waste. They may have been risky to carry around, but they were a valuable asset, especially when you were heading out into unknown territory.

He stayed his hand, continuing his silent stride.

He had little trouble finding his destination once he reached the docks; there was a single vessel that actually had a large group of people gathered around and on it, he could not see any of them from the kind of distance he was at, but he did notice something both strange and familiar about the large dragon clinging to the side of it. He thought back to the people and other sentient creatures he had met since he had arrived here and knew that he had seen that particular dragon before but had no idea where from.

“That doesn’t want to be someone I know.”
He muttered darkly to himself, quickly going over the finer points of his cover as he walked, he had put too much effort into it. He neared the group, taking stock of each of them selectively, as he had suspected there were few humans here, but it was somewhat refreshing to see that he was not the only one.

From what he had gathered he had missed some conversation, not that he was particularly bothered by that, he was here for his own reasons and would remain professional enough to keep those gathered here as friendly as possible , but had no plans to really get to know them otherwise. A general assortment of elves lingered, some variety of human noble –Solomon could tell that something was off about him, but could not place exactly what that was.- Several dragons, including the large one he had noticed earlier and-

His gaze snapped back to the dragons and then back to the elves as he recognised several people here, the damned hunting code could sometimes be more of a kick in the balls as opposed to anything else and this was one such time.

“Du muiet se scheiden mich!”
And at once he mentally cursed himself for the mistake, though he had managed to rescue his tone by making it sound like a friendly greeting anyone could have picked out the anger his curse had started with. He stood in silence, keeping his face impassive and expressionless as he decided how to best save grace... Nothing came to mind, he could have played it off as a general mistake and made something else of it, but he had just had four days worth of effort crushed and really could not be bothered to try and explain that one away.

Shaking his head gently he walked past the crowd to somewhere he could sit in silence, his mood dark.

[[The previosu days detailed in this post aren't relevant to character interaction etc. They are there to be read if anyone wants to know more about Solomon. Quite happy overall, not pleased with the last little bit.]]

[toriyuu]

Toriyuu burst back into his tiny room at the Stoney Brook Inn, with a serious look onm his face. He had spent the last several hours of his time exploring the city of Aroughs, and he had lost track of time. It was an interesting city after all, with many goods from other nations all around. Toriyuu couldn't resist the shopping opportunities, and had spent a substantial amount of money. The young man had come across a Dwarf from Tronjheim who was peddling his own creations. As a member of Durgrimst Ingeitum, the dwarf had been very skilled and expensive. He had his own store filled with armor and weapons made to fit humans, including several bows that Toriyuu had felt uncomfortable pulling. After several hours spent in the shop Toriyuu had settled on richly decorated gauntlets, greaves, and a jack of plates. The center of each piece of armor was a dark brown, and the outsides were tan. The gauntlets were his favorite, they were elegant, had easy finger movement, had knuckle spikes, and along his forearms each gauntlet held five nice sized diamonds. The greaves were of the same design with one diamond in the middle of the shin. Toriyuu very quickly put these on over a sky blue shirt and brown trousers. He hurriedly put on brown shoes and tied them up. The young warrior took a good look at his new breastplate, a jack, before he put it on. It would provide excellent protection from all arrows and moderate protection from melee weapons. More important than that it was a symbol of wealth and a warrior’s strength. Part of him was intimidated by the prospects of a mission involving Dragon Rider’s, so he wanted to look like he belonged. After all he was a lieutenant, ambassador, and former student of the Dragon Riders.

Once he had all of the armor on he picked up his two swords and strapped them to his belt. Now that he had such richly ordained armor the swords, which had the Broddring symbol in the hilt with onyx and gold, seemed common. His third weapon was not common at all though. Toriyuu grabbed a richly decorated foot long dagger out of a small chest at the foot of his bed. He turned it over in his hands, marveling at the feel of his only Elven made weapon. The blade itself was sleek, shiny, and much sturdier than Toriyuu had ever anticipated. His intention had been for the dagger to be ceremonial in nature, but the weapon in his hands could easily be used in battle. The base of the hilt was gold, with a symbol that represented Illirea. In the center of the dagger were a large ruby and a large sapphire, separated by a layer of gold that looked like a flaming whip. This marvelous weapon had yet to fulfill its purpose as a home for two powerful spirits, but Toriyuu still cherished it. Inside of the gems were stores of energy that Toriyuu had been supplying for a week, mostly in preparation for the summoning of Kran and Kra. The young diplomat strapped the dagger to his right hip so that it hung above his sword, and looked at himself in the mirror. The smile on his face was large, because with his new armor, the fine material of his bright shirt, and the dagger on his hip he finally looked like both nobility and a warrior.

The sorcerer then directed his attention to packing for the voyage he was setting out on. He quickly snatched up his wolf spirit charms and tied them to his belt so that they hung right below his dagger. He then folded up a navy blue and green shirts, two more pairs of trousers, undergarments, chalk, and grabbed a tome which he had borrowed from Illirea, and stored them in a pack that fit on his back. The young man looked around the room once more for any need materials that he may have left, and found none. Toriyuu hurriedly moved out of the door, down the stairs, and out of the inn. He trusted that the highly respected inn keeper what make sure none of his belongings were tampered with, and most of his valuables remained with him or in Illirea. Once he hit the open air Toriyuu’s nose was filled with the smell of sea salt. He had predicted his own tardiness and chosen an inn close to the port. Looking at the setting son, Toriyuu took off at a sprint for the ship known as the Enterprise. He knew where it was, for he had seen it on his exploration of the city, and he weaved between the crowds excellently. The smell of fresh bread was his only temptation to slow down and even that was overcome. Finally he reached the mighty ship, and hurriedly boarded it.

Once he found himself among his knew crewmates he came to a halt, and looked around. It seemed as if he were the last to arrive. His attention went first to Nemo Ramsey who seemed a bit more happy then usual and wore a green shirt that drew attention. On the side of the ship was her steel colored dragon Ikehr, who’s majesty still made Toriyuu’s heart raise with amazement and envy. Tasia and Niko were also easily noticeable among the members of the crew. They were young riders who Toriyuu had little history with, but he smiled at the sight of their dragons. He was unaware of either of the hatchlings names, but their bright scales and youthful look made them even more amazing than Ikehr. Toriyuu then turned his attention to the elf who stood bound by three human guards that Toriyuu knew she could take on wit ease if she wanted to. It was Myaja Kolbjorn whom he had met in Illirea, and who’s beauty still took his breath away. “Atra esterní ono thelduin. Mor'ranr lífa unin hjarta onr. Un du evarínya ono varda, Nemo-ebrithil, Ikehr-ebrithil, Tasia, Nico, and Myaja svit-kona.” Toriyuu knew immediately after he finished talking that his address to Myaja Kolbjorn had a hint of affection behind it, but it was too late to retract. He looked around at the other people present, and noticed that they were a very diverse bunch.

[Emma]

I stared at the dragon for a few long moments, wondering if he was joking. He stared right back at me with an unreadable expression on his face, but his eyes did not glimmer with mischievousness or jocularity. I wasn’t sure whether to be amused or disturbed. Dragons were difficult creatures to understand in any situation, and Ikehr exceptionally so. He was the most apathetic creature I’d ever met, and he seemed to despise his Rider- which, as it turned out, was a mutual feeling. Nemo Ramsey was a personable woman- albeit one with a hair-trigger temper and barbed tongue. I had woken on several occasions to the sound of the two of them brawling and ferocious bellows on her end. They were total opposites that had somehow survived each other for two centuries.

Wanting to be alone with my thoughts, I excused myself from the two of them and headed to the stern of the ship. Yuan remained behind to stroke and possibly engage in mental conversation with Ikehr. She herself was a strange girl, in appearance and in demeanour. I rarely got to leave Du Weldenvarden, where everyone was generally cream-skinned and dark-haired, and the same went for most of Broddring’s population. Though I had seen ebon-skinned individuals like Ramsey on rare occasion, I’d never seen a Cathese, as she called herself. Her hair was snow-white, but from her black eyebrows, she obviously hadn’t been born with it. She was also generally unsociable and formidably prickly when interacting with others, but highly adept with her chain whip.

I came to halt at the edge of the ship, gazing down into the water. Chalice of Nyx, indeed. As She had once been an elven woman, I had heard countless stories growing up about how Her bones had been scattered to the four corners of the earth, waiting to be found and put together again, or how the shed skin of the snake that killed Her was buried under a particular tree, or that the snake was even still alive in some underground cave. The Chalice was one of those fables. When She was still a mortal, Nyx purposely allowed a viper to bite Her wrist. One of Her servants had, in a desperate attempt to save her mistress, cut open Her wrist, and caught the blood mingled with venom in a chalice. Nyx died nonetheless, but the precious chalice was preserved, and then lost to time.

Though the story was passed down as part of Nyx’s teachings, the possibility of the Chalice existing, let alone still carrying the blood of Nyx Herself and the venom of the serpent that had struck Her mercy blow, was more than a little far-fetched. Every marketplace in Alagaësia had at least one vendor that claimed to have a finger-bone of Nyx, or the bracelet that was broken by the servant’s knife. It made me momentarily doubt nearly beating Anurin senseless into letting me come on this voyage. I reminded myself that Azuan Angrenost, coward that he was, had invested a great deal of money and people in this venture- meaning that there had to be something to it, even if it wasn’t actually the Chalice. I intended to find out what he wanted so desperately.

“General?”
It was Saethe. I didn’t bother turning around to face him.
“You know, they say the blood of Nyx can do anything- turn war into victory, death into life, even grant immortality. You’d want that, wouldn’t you?”
“What I want,” I spat under my breath, “is to kill you!”
“Er…” he blinked at me. “What?”
“It is intriguing, Captain.”
“Oh. So it is.”

As we spoke, I heard a great deal of footsteps and voices from just behind me, suggesting that some of the rest of the group had arrived. However, I didn’t turn around to see who it was. Instead, I glanced at Saethe sideways. What did he want from me? On the entire trip to the docks, he hadn’t shut up once about immortality and eternal youth, thinking I was interested. I certainly classed among the older members of my race, and though elves never aged, the trauma I’d experienced during the Blue Divide, both personal and due to the war, had put years on me. Most elven woman, compared to a human, appeared to be in their late twenties- I was much more comparable to one in her late thirties. On top of that, men always found me intimidating rather than attractive. So what was it?

I felt a tug at my arm, and turned to see Yuan gesturing behind me. I looked up to see that quite a number of people had arrived- no less than eight, as well as two dragon hatchlings and two felines. One was a black panther that had stolen up on deck, and had several sailors attempting to shoo it off, and another was a large black cat, with oddly intelligent green eyes, clinging grumpily to a barrel. I wasn’t sure if I recognized the dragon hatchlings or not. There were so many dragons in Ilirea that I never bothered to keep track of them. One was indigo, and the other golden. Standing next to the indigo one was a relatively young male elf that I did not recognize. Nor did I know the young human girl with silver hair, or the one in a green dress that appeared to be a slave.

I did know the tall, crimson-haired man by reputation, the Rider of the golden dragon, and the weathered, well-built youth that had just scrambled aboard, however. The pale one was a Shade. I didn’t feel his black aura due to my low magical Talent, but Clarus Maleficarum was very famous for being an upstanding nobleman at such a young age- or, the age he appeared. The golden dragon’s Rider’s name escaped me, but her face was very familiar- as well as the way of dress that struck me as very vulgar, and reminded me a little too much of Malandra Ramakrishna’s outfits. The human was Toriyuu Doubleblade, who I’d met a few days ago in Ilirea, shortly after my incarceration there. Despite my adamant refusals, he was, unfortunately, very taken with me.

“Your little friend there’s got the right idea, General,” said Saethe excitedly, and he gestured grandly at the rest of the team. “Go and introduce yourself.”
‘Yuan.’
‘Yes, General.’
‘The moment no one’s around, I wish to stomp the bastard’s guts out.’
‘I’ll mop up the mess, sir.’

---

‘Ramsey.’
‘Ikehr.’
‘Is it sensible to allow the insane woman General to wander about freely on deck?’
‘Pfft, Ikehr. She is on a boat. And tied up.’
‘I will say ‘I told you so’ if it breaks free and kills you in your sleep.’

I reached into his mouth, and, with careful precision, yanked one of his teeth as hard as I could, and then just barely got my hand out of the way as he snapped his jaw shut and leapt off the side of the boat, falling back into the water with a colossal splash. I watched with a grin as he vanished into its murky depths and staunchly refused to reappear. I didn’t know what Ikehr was so concerned about. Myaja Kolbjorn was the fearsome Ice General of Du Weldenvarden, but even she deferred to authority. Settling back, I watched as she gazed out to sea, apparently in a very sour mood. I hadn’t seen anything of her except a sour mood and fearsome disposition that she liked to whip out on fools. Otherwise, she was surprisingly quiet and nearly serene, preferring to keep to herself.

“Greetings, my dear ladies and most respected dragon. What a delight it is to be working with the Riders of Ilirea once again.”
‘Ikehr! Haul your blue arse up here and come greet our blooming team-mates!’
‘How I quiver with anticipation.’

I was used to looking up at people, but this Shade was a very tall man. Dressed in fancy clothing befitting an aristocrat- tailored trousers and jacket over a front-buttoned shirt and leather shoes, all in black- my attention was drawn to the jewellery on his finger and around his neck, and the very notable presence he had- magic and spirits and energy made it almost overwhelming just to be standing next to him, even with my little magical gifts. With his pale skin, towering height, crimson hair and those piercing green eyes, I knew better than to trust a Shade at first glance- especially one that was a merchant to boot- but I was glad to have such a powerful person on the voyage. Behind him, I saw a girl in green and a panther scurry onto the deck.

“It is an honour to meet you, Nemo and Ikehr,” he said once Ikehr had rejoined us, dripping wet. “I am Clarus Maleficarum. I wanted to officially introduce myself although I am sure you recognized who I was. It is hard to hide the signs of who we are.”
“Oof. Don’t I bloody know it… pleased ta meetcha, Mister Maleficarum!” I gave his hand a hearty shake.
“Greetings to everyone, I do not believe I know everyone gathered for this mission, but I take it introductions should wait until all are gathered here? Or does time press us to where we should board immediately?”
“I am sure you don’t mind repeating yourself.”

The first voice belonged to a middle-aged human with a limp in his leg that was flanked by guards. I guessed that this was Khael Settic, Count of The Tears. His tone was acidic, and his grey eyes positively icy. I was used to being treated with distrust as a Rider by now, but on this sort of mission, the Count’s prejudices could be dangerous. The second voice, however, belonged to a woman that despite being from Du Weldenvarden, despite her revealing clothing, despite her whinging dragon- I had come to like. Tasia Anne Georgios had saved my arse on more than one occasion. First from a bunch of pompous noble thugs in the streets of Ilirea, and then by dealing with a crime lord that had been a thorn in my foot for years- she and three other people, anyway.

“Greetings Master Nemo… Master Ikehr.”
“How dee do, Sunglow, Tasia,” I chirped. Ikehr remained silent, but he did stretch out his impossibly long neck and puff a plume of smoke at the golden dragon by Tasia’s feet.
“General Kolbjorn,” the elf added hurriedly, and I turned to see that the General had rejoined us, as had Yuan. Tasia also nodded respectfully at the Cathese girl, and she responded in turn with a slight bow, but otherwise said nothing.
“Tasia…” said Kolbjorn slowly, apparently trying to remember something. Then her blue eyes widened with realization. “Georgios. You served under me in the war, did you not?”
“Ramsey-ebrithil, Ikehr-ebrithil. It is good to find you in... decent moods.”

I raised a copper eyebrow at Niko Danta as he sauntered over to us, greeting Tasia with a grin. Ikehr, though he continued to stay silent, gave a cough that I had come to known as a snicker when the scholar mentioned our ‘decent’ moods. The dark-haired, silver-eyed man was not my favourite person in the world, but I had- or, rather, Ikehr had forcibly made me- admit to begrudgingly respecting him. Irritating, know-it-all, mischievous little egghead that he was, he knew how to handle himself in a bar fight and a random mugging in a seedy alleyway- which certainly said a lot about him. His indigo dragon, Arashi, was enormously hot-headed and impatient, and eager for battle like a proper dragon, not the bookworm pastimes that Ikehr insisted on pursuing.

“Atra esterní ono thelduin, General,” he added respectfully to Kolbjorn.
“There’s no need for procedures, Rider. I no longer have that luxury.”
Danta sat next to his dragon, eyes shining with excitement. “I hope we have not missed much in the way of introductions?”
‘Not quite, although it did miss my nearly crushing Ramsey.’
“Muzzle it!” I barked.
‘Shame, truly. I often dream of watching her headless corpse fountain blood.’
“Want me to thump you, then?”

I reached for my hammer, and in doing so noticed two more arrivals- one being a black cat with glowing emerald eyes that had firmly attached itself to one of the barrels. Ikehr noticed him, too, and lowered his head to meet his gaze. Clearly, it was more than just a housecat. However, I was more interested in the human woman that had just boarded the ship. Valsta was young, but had hair that was completely grey, perhaps due to her magic. I beamed at her as she approached. Her face was just as icily composed as always, but her gaze noticeably softened when she saw Ikehr and me. Slipping my hammer back into its strap, I bounded forward and punched my fellow Ra’zac slayer on the arm. I was pleased to see so many humans on this voyage. My fellow elves drove me insane.

“Long time no see, mate,” I announced amicably. “Been alright?”
“Du muiet se scheiden mich!”

Besides the completely unrecognizable stream of foreign words, they were said in the strangest way- starting off completely furious, and then dissipating into what was almost a friendly greeting. I turned to see a lone man standing on the deck, gazing up at the people assembled before shaking his head and storming off. Icy blue eyes, grey-black hair, a very noticeable scar down the side of his head- I realized that I recognized him. Solomon- Solomon Latro, one of the five I’d sent to rid the world of that slimy bastard Lazare Salenim. In fact, four out of five of those operatives were here on this very boat. However, Latro made no attempt to greet any of his fellows- he only found a shady spot where he promptly sat down, gloomily gazing across the deck.

“Atra esterní ono thelduin. Mor’ranr lífa unin hjarta onr. Un du evarínya ono varda, Nemo-ebrithil, Ikehr-ebrithil, Tasia, Niko, and Myaja svit-kona.”
Kolbjorn sighed in genuine annoyance. “Did I not tell you, Doubleblade, that I have no patience for idle formalities?”

The final member of our team was another human- that made five of them, evenly paired with the five elves present. I even knew this one- Toriyuu Doubleblade, former Ward of the Riders, now a diplomat and ambassador between Broddring and Ilirea. A personable man from the brief few times I’d met him, he was a sorcerer and a decent swordsman. He was dressed in ornately decorated armour and clothing of fine make, and armed with two swords. He was also positively drooling over Myaja Kolbjorn, from how he stared at her and how warmly he’d said her name, which she had picked up on- and didn’t seem to care for in the least. She responded to this by tossing her ash-blonde locks and evenly staring him down. Obviously, this wasn’t their first time meeting.

‘Well, Ramsey?’
‘Eh?’
‘All of the fleshy mortals have assembled. Are you not going to order them around?’
‘Er…’ I looked around. ‘The hell do I do? Have them introduce themselves?’
‘Why? I refuse to refer to them as anything other than the fleshlings they are.’
‘But they don’t refer to themselves as fleshlings! Bleeding hell, Ikehr, d’you never think of anyone but yourself?’
‘No.’
‘Well, at least you’re honest.’

All of a sudden, I was filled with the most wondrous sensation as a gust of wind swept through, and caught itself in the unfurled sails. The ship flew across the water, and I began to feel a familiar sense of elation in my belly. I immediately bounded back to the bow of the ship, clambering onto the mast- which was of a well-endowed mermaid reaching into the distance- and latched on, eyes only for the view. I crouched there as freezing wind buffeted the ship even faster, and I felt the rush of movement. Something that had been dormant for countless years stirred within me, like the roar of a lion. There was nothing but the lash of wind and water, the colossal sky and ocean, and the glittering ivory and gold of the coast. This was true paradise.

Ikehr swam up beside me like a steely bullet, matching The Enterprise’s speed, occasionally breaching the crests of the waves. ‘Yes, Ramsey, let us soak in the enchanting vista before the massacre of elves versus humans occurs.’
‘What?’ I turned to look, and saw that, indeed, there was a hotbed of tension behind me. Cursing, I crawled off the mast and swaggered back to my team.
“Right, pack it in, you lot!” I snapped.
‘Apparently all you mortals think a hunt is the perfect time for slaughtering each other. Marvellous, really. Is the deck already soaked in blood?’
“Ahem.” A hand was placed heavily on my shoulder, and I looked up to see one of the thuggish sailors peering down at me with a critical eye. I easily matched the sneer on his face. However, the one who’d spoken was none other than the foppish captain. “If I may speak, I’d like to introduce myself.” He took off his hat and bowed. “Socien Saethe, humbly at your service. Could I hear the names of those assembled?”
“Myaja Kolbjorn.” The General never spoke unnecessarily. “Inactive General of Du Weldenvarden. This is my escort, Wengsi Yuan, Ward of the Riders.”
‘I am called Ikehr,’ came my dragon’s flat, emotionless voice. ‘And the vertically challenged one is Mnemosyne…’ - I winced- ‘Megara…’ - instinctively reached for my hammer- ‘Ramsey- my Rider. She is the very soul of politeness.’
“I’LL RIP YOUR SNAKE BODY LIMB FROM LIMB! Come here, you bastard!”

Characters Used;; Myaja Kolbjorn with Wengsi Yuan and Nemo Ramsey with Ikehr
Words;; 2960
Muse;; Uhhhhhh... stretched thin... like butter spread over too much bread... <--- cookie for anyone who gets this reference.
Thoughts;; The thingy that Nemo gets all upset about is... I dunno, a brawl or argument between two or more characters? I'm thinking Khael vs... anyone. XD But it can be anything, as long as it makes a tense moment!

[Kite]

*Clarus smiles as Nemo shakes his hand heartily and speaks fairly pleasantly to him. It was slightly surprising, but not a bad thing. Not by a long shot. Good relations with Riders are a good thing, especially ones leading missions. He responds quietly as more of the team members embark onto the ship.*

The pleasure is mine, madame.

*Clarus moves asides as the other members of the team come to greet Nemo, ones more familiar to her than he, and he looks over the group, looking for interesting faces. The first one he notices is the Count of Tears, Khael Settic. His presence was slightly interesting, as he is a count and this was not the safest of missions necessarily. More Riders slipped onto the decks and he noted each, first the female Rider with the golden dragon and secondly the male Rider and his indigo companion. He then noticed his former apprentice and a female that accompanies her in jewels and dresses, although most would probably not realize that as she was in her panther form. He smirks slightly at her arrival and shakes his head, turning back in time to see the last few arrivals. The female was a young one, but with curiously gray hair. He wasn’t quite sure what to make of her, though. He chalked her up as a magic-user… But left judgment of the rest of her for later. There was a man who spoke a guttural-sounding language as he embarked before finding a shady spot to sit and watch, and was wearing a coat made of an odd leather. Something not normal, but not unattractive to Clarus. There were also a cat that found its way onto the ship, but Clarus suspects that it is a werecat. They are rare, sure, but he has every reason to believe that. Shades and Riders are rare as well, and they were here, why couldn’t a werecat be present as well?

The last human embarked and made greetings to the core women that arrived first, and was definitely… Over-zealous in addressing General Kolbjorn. Clarus caught feeling of puppy love and tuned the man out, his nobility shining… Which didn’t help his case, as he looked something of the pretentious fop. Then again, he had to be competent or he would not be here, so Clarus just sort of tuned him out for the moment as Nemo feels the breeze and rushes to the figurehead and basks in the wind and the count of Tears decides to do something stupid and cause a disruption, targeting the Elven General. Before much could occur, Wengsi moved between the two of them, snapping her signature whip threateningly. The tension was mounting among the crew and assorted personnel, and Clarus backs up slightly, bracing himself and gathering power to himself in preparation of protecting himself in any case. The tension was rising to the breaking point and Clarus began to form the words he would require in the ancient language, but begins to relax as Nemo comes flying back into the mix and calling all to order, her stature not detracting from the intimidating presence that she controlled. Clarus smiles softly and complies with her orders and moves closer to those gathered. She cut the tension down immensely through sheer force of will, and that was an impressive feat. Ikehr projects his thoughts, sarcastically commenting how everyone is deciding to turn on each other, and Clarus chuckles slightly to himself. Before much more could be said on the matter, however, the Captain of the ship introduces himself and asks for introductions from all of the members of the team. Myaja starts it off, introducing herself and Ms. Yuan, and Ikehr continues the chain by introducing himself and introducing Nemo to the crew by her full name, to which Nemo reacts entertainingly to, yelling and jumping all over him. Clarus steps forward as the next to introduce himself, and speaks clearly.*

I am Clarus Maleficarum, Merchant Lord and occasionally consultant to the Riders of Ilirea in the area of magical artifacts. Please, do not be distracted by my nature, I cannot control who I really am and have no intention of harming any of you… Yet.

*He smiles at each of them, before turning to his old apprentice Artemis in her panther form and winking.*

Why don’t you introduce yourself next, my dear little Werepanther? Might help to assume your humanoid form first, though. And who is this young lady who accompanies you? My, you have fallen in with a different crowd.

--- Note: I wasn't sure what Khael was up to, although what I said about the conflict was as instructed. If I made a mistake with any of your characters other than order they were introduced, PM me and I will fix. Its late, so its always possible I messed up a little. ---

[dantieduurden]

Artemis was well aware of the fight brewing and soon departed the golden dragon who she was about to speak with for her " Mistress". And just on cue the women called to her, calling her to her side to protect her. Sure enough Artemis leapt through the air to the slave girls side and stood ready to pounce in front of her. All the while her eyes where on Clarus though, watching as he called his energy to him. But before she had an excuse to attack and join in the fight Nemo stopped not one of those in it but all of them. " She is a danger slave. Stay close to that one. If we are to carry out our mission we must eliminate her. She will be this groups leader I can see it now." Artemis said into the slaves mind as she heard the captain of the ship begin to speak. Slowly she watched as most of those who seemed important enough to her spoke before watching her old master step up. Anger filled her mind as he spoke, espically when he called her out. " What should I do?" I thought to myself as I ran threw the few choices I had. Finally coming to one. With the mighty muscles of my back legs i propelled myself at the shade, seeming to attack him, but at the last moment i let my transformation hit me, turning into an elf once more.

Long purple hair was the first thing to be seen in the flash of light that I had become. And next were my indigo eyes. Soon a dress much like my slaves appeared on me as well though it was black, contrasting against my pale white skin. " O Clarus, you should know better then anyone to keep your secrets close. I'm sure the riders would not like to hear of all your doings." Artemis said playfully as she took his hand, into her own. Then turing to those assembled she spoke as if a queen. " I am Artemis Von Cleft. Daughter of Jessica Von Cleft and sister to Darek Von Cleft. My brother I'm sure you all know very well riders for he trains some of your young ones." Artemis said with a bow. " My grandfather is one of your fellow riders and I myself have had personal lessons from Lilith Vaer in the use of the art." Then she turned back to Clarus and with a smile let go of his hand and said, " Not everyone needs to repeat who they are. Some are recognized by merely who they are related to, while others who they were trained by." And with that she called over to the girl that was with her.

" This everyone is someone I saved from those god awful slave trades that happen in your city Clarus. You know the one you yourself got your slave from. If you can call her a slave, I would more call her your personal toy." Artemis said cheerfully. " Come now, speak up Bridget. You are safe here. No one shall harm you." Artemis coaxed the young girl who had come with her, steping a few feet away from Clarus. " I'm....I'm...I'm...Bridget, my lords and ladys." Bridget said not able to look into there eyes. " See what rudeness dose to her Clarus, you of all people should know how hard it is to get them back on there feet, yet you do not try to close the dreadful slave markets. Do not go around trying to feign innocent for I am more innocent then you." And with that she went back to where the gold dragon was and her rider, with her slave. She had done her part for now.

[Elloria]

(OOC: I can has cookie for catching the Bilbo reference, Emmz? Also, all dialogue is in Broddring Common unless bold and italicized.)

Niko and Arashi shared a mental chuckle at the exchange between Ikehr and Nemo. It was always refreshing to hear these two at each other’s throats. It meant all was well with the world.

Arashi throws Niko a sideways glance. He can feel the suspicion rolling off of Niko in waves when the large panther saunters up the gangplank with a young woman. The woman is dressed quite extravagantly, but he can tell from Niko’s impressions that she does not bear under the weight of the finery well. She es nothing of the sort she pretends to be. And the panther...well, it strongly reminds Niko of Darek, whoever that is. He’s never met this Darek individual. He knows only that it is a friend of his Rider’s and is a werepanther - a two-legs that can transform into a predator. And apparently one doesn't just see panthers running around hither and thither like this. Both refrain from commenting at the moment, unsure of whether they should attempt to call her out. Arashi eyes her closely, ready for whatever this creature that does and does not feel like a hunter can throw out.

Just behind those two was another human. Niko could feel some talent for magic within her, but nothing else seemed particularly remarkable about her - save for her height and her grey hair. Both were remarkable for a human. Human females, Niko had gathered, did not usually stand at six feet. And a human clearly young in years rarely had the hair of an aged one. As a human male ascended the gangplank, he arrived with what sounded like an explosive curse. It caused Niko to raise a delicate eyebrow - especially when Ramsey seemed to recognize the human. “That hardly sounded polite,” he remarked mildly as the man passed him to sit silently away from the group. His attention was then drawn to a human that greeted him, Tasia, Nemo, and Myaja. There was a certain affection in his greeting towards Myaja that immediately piqued his interest - and by extension, Arashi's. He did not recognize the human, but he seemed to have the air of one who’s spent much time in Ilirea. He was not a scholar - Niko knew them all, young and old. So he probably worked with the Riders in some function or other. He was certain he’d find out soon enough. In the meantime, Myaja's annoyed reply made him chuckle quietly. The former general was a prickly character under the best of circumstances - Niko had learned that all too well at the Renaissance ball, what with her rough treatment of her own brother. But he knew, also, that she was a decent person. When he stopped to think about it, he was convinced she hadn't deserved the sentence that Anurin and Almalexia had laid upon her. But what could he say concerning it? His elders would most likely dismiss him, chalking his stance up to his untried youth.

Things settle down for a moment as the ship finally sets sail. Nemo is instantly distracted by the sensations of the ship, if her sudden shimmy up the mast is anything to go by. Arashi, on the other hand, is less than pleased. His talons bite into the wood as he tries to steady himself in the fluid motion of the rocking ship. He's thoroughly distracted by this until a flaring of anger slams into him from Niko. He forgets everything in the face of his Rider's outrage. His gaze instantly flicks up to glare at the human male that fills Niko's vision - some seemingly important figure, based on Niko’s initial impressions. A count of some human city or other, as the being continues heaping abuse of some sort upon the two-legs-that-is-like-Niko. A loud growl emanates from him as Niko stands. “You have no business speaking to Kolbjorn-svit-kona in such a manner.” Niko's deep voice rumbled like distant thunder, his eyes now dark and threatening to unleash the storm that swirled in their depths. The anger Arashi feels bothers him a little. He accepts that his Rider is truly an adventurer at heart and capable of violence. But violence and rage are two different things. And he has never felt Niko so infuriated before. He can feel Niko about to say more, but is cut off by the crack of the whip belonging to the two-legs-that-is-winged. The crack is triggered by the human's lunging towards the two-legs-that-is-like-Niko. The air grows thick with menace as the altercation continues and Arashi stays close to Niko. He can feel his Rider working himself up to serious action and wishes to be prepared for it.

But the moment passed as Nemo returned from the mast's top to call them all to order. Niko cast his stormy gaze at Ikehr before forcing his body to relax. It had been coiling tighter and tighter as the human - Count Khael Settic, he had gathered - ignored all sense of propriety and continued targeting Myaja. He had not approved of the Blue Divide and he understood the resentments that simmered on both sides. But such behavior was outrageous. To attack an unarmed being when there was no provocation was disgusting. He didn't care if he appeared to be showing favoritism. No one deserved that sort of treatment, regardless of their crimes. His eyes remained fixed on Khael Settic as Myaja and Ikehr began introductions. He noted Clarus' introduction, flicking his eyes toward the Shade briefly as he confronted the panther that had roused suspicion in him earlier. It appeared to leap at and attack him before transforming into an elf woman. His eyes widened and he could feel the surprise in Arashi as they were confronted by violet hair and indigo eyes on a pale body. Arashi's surprise quickly turned to displeasure. No one could wear the color half as well as he and Niko couldn't have agreed more. But more importantly, she fit Darek's description of his sister. Her words of introduction only confirmed his conclusion. So this was the being responsible for Darek's unfortunate circumstances. “Yes, I know your brother,” Niko said calmly. “He and I are quite close friends. I don’t recall him speaking of you with great fondness, Artemis Von Cleft.” He glared at her, letting all his contempt and disgust for her shine darkly in his grey eyes. “But I have not introduced myself to my friend’s close relation or to this illustrious group. Please forgive my impertinence. I am Niko Danta, son of the noblemen Tios Danta and his wife Miala, younger brother of their heir Josk Danta.” He gestured down towards Arashi. “This is Arashi, my dragon.” The hatchling cast an appraising glance over the group once more before turning his gaze back to Khael. He wasn't ready to let go of whatever possible kill might be forthcoming if the two-legs continued to provoke his Rider.

[Amur]

He had slunk off to the nearest corner he could find and sat in silence in an almost trance-like state, looking but not watching. His mood had definitely been soured by the presence of those whom knew him by name since having an abundance of people that knew his name was something Solomon had hoped to avoid.

“As much as I love mein clan the code can be testing.”
He concluded bitterly, completely ignoring the goings-on around him as he sat fuming in silence, however, he was skilled enough to keep his face impassive and more-or-less expressionless despite his fury. Lost in his own temper as he was he still managed to give his Zerstechen stock one final check, and, as was the norm found that they were secure. He finally allowed himself to sit back and relax a little bit; sighing heavily as he adjusted his awkward sitting position, taking in the scenes, the sights and the sounds around him it was then something struck him.

And for a moment his fury was forgotten as he laughed.
Louder than he had intended to, however, he did not care, he had adopted his more friendly and outgoing persona from this point onwards even if there were people here that knew his name.

“Does showing respect have to be so stiff and formal?”
He asked out loud to no-one in particular, he was not going to make the effort to acknowledge the obvious difference in culture this time, since he saw no need to.

“I mean come on, it’s only showing respect, not like you’re signing your life away.”
He finished off out loud, as before not to any one in particular as the vessel lurched, a motion Solomon recognised as the beginning of the journey across the water as the vessel took to the sea.

Even with his limited knowledge of sea travel he knew that even the shortest voyages could become unbearably dull and with no will to really socialise with anyone just yet he took his gold hunting knife from its concealed sheath in his coat and began performing some small tricks with it in his palm. Losing himself to the memories of the last time he had actually crossed the water like this as he span the knife in his palm and then moved it to his index finger by catching the small groove crafted into the base of the blade, just above the hilt.

Yes, it had been a small boat of refugees from Empire Nirvana, seeking to flee to any location possible.

A dull throb made him stop his current knife trick and raise his free hand to his head as the unusual vagueness of the memory began to give him a headache.

“No, they were pilgrims weren’t they? I offered to protect their boat from potential pirates didn’t I?”
A sense of fear gripped him as he further tried to recall exactly what the boat had been carrying and at once he used the techniques he had been taught to clear his mind, he knew that there was a reason for the feeling of fear, but could not remember what that reason was.

He slowed his breathing and relaxed himself and at once was able to hear the sound of the waterfall he normally sat beneath when he honed his mentality. Seconds passed and then he was back to performing small tricks with his knife nonchalantly if only to give himself something to do.

There was a noise as some kind of fight, or what Solomon had thought seemed like a fight broke out on deck –not that he paid much attention to it- and merely smirked to himself.

“Weak willed, undisciplined morons.”
He mocked mentally, giving the scene a kind of a half a glance before turning his attention back to his knife.

“I really hope there is some kind of civilisation there, I’m quite looking forward to gutting something.”
He thought with some amusement, the case of black humour brought about from his earlier –and probably still present- bad mood.

[[Eh, not my best, but not too bad considering it’s something I just bashed out there.]]

[Emma]

In a relatively short time, the ship was swarming with new arrivals. Approximately half were strangers to me- the Rider with his indigo dragon, the silver-haired, young-faced human, the middle-aged human who sneered at anyone who met his eye, the slave girl accompanied by a very large cat, and the foppish human who had immediately attached himself to Kolbjorn. I gave them only passing glances. None were proper warriors, and not in the least worthy of my time. However, there were others who were known to me- Tasia Georgios and her dragon Sunglow, and the Shade, Clarus Maleficarum, all three of whom had assisted me on expeditions in the Silent Plains. The only one I truly respected as a warrior, though, was Latro. He had banished himself to the shadows of the forecastle, playing idly with his knife.

I was more interested, as usual, in the mission rather than the people. They flocked around Nemo Ramsey, prattling incessantly, and so I turned my head to gaze at the water instead, stained red by dying sunlight. I had seen innumerable paintings that attempted to capture the beauty of this time a day, but none were comparable to the real thing. I sunk into the view while contemplating the mission ahead of us. I was amused that a band of what had to be pirates were going to serve as bodyguards to a group that included a Shade, three Riders, and the General of Du Weldenvarden no less. They claimed to only be sailors, but they were too hard, too suspicious, with those hangdog looks that kept me with one hand on my chain whip. Even as the sails billowed and the ship was blown across the water, I kept my guard up.

And then, not two minutes later, I heard the General being attacked.

I missed whatever was actually done to her, but I did hear the sound of a physical altercation, only turning in time to see Kolbjorn grunt and stumble backwards, nearly losing her balance. The middle-aged human, the one surrounded by bodyguards, was standing over her with eyes gleaming like silver bullets. I only took a moment to calculate the danger- and decided he wasn’t worth the chain whip. Instead, my hand moved over to the blacksnake, and I slid in front of Kolbjorn as she fell against the railing, cracking it violently in front of him. The sound was like a cannon shot, echoing against the water, and he backed away to where his guards waited. For a moment, there was tense silence. This was interrupted by Ramsey’s pounding in, shouting obscenities with Ikehr making charming comments on the foolishness of ‘mortals’.

I was more concerned with the possibility of a battle breaking out, however. I waited for the bodyguards to put hands to blades and run straight at me, or for one of the humans to be inspired by this one and launch their own attacks. Rather, most everyone present immediately turned on the human, defending Kolbjorn. As she was my concern, not him, I lowered my whip once I was certain my ward was no longer endangered, coiled it, and turned back to her as she forced herself up in a standing position. I glanced over the General quickly, looking for any wounds. The only one was an angry red mark prominent on her right cheek- hardly a serious injury. She gave the human a chilling glare as she sauntered back to the assembled crowd, ignoring or brushing off any spoken concerns regarding if she was alright.

“It is no trouble. Simply a human over-compensating, as always.”

Any further conflicts were put at rest by the foppish captain making an appearance, requesting everyone to introduce themselves. Kolbjorn introduced herself as well as me, which was not unwelcome- she had picked up on my distaste of speaking, it seemed. As each subsequent person pronounced their names and titles, I filed them away in my mind, but otherwise paid little to no attention. I did, however, raise an eyebrow at the amusing spectacle of Ramsey announcing that she was going to tear off her own dragon’s limbs, and then jump off the boat and dive underwater to do just that. Another was the black panther, who, at the goading of Maleficarum, and not to my surprise, transformed into an elven woman dressed entirely in purple. But after a while I groaned irritably, and turned back to look out at the sea.

These people had an unnatural preoccupation with one-upmanship, after all.

---

As expected, Ramsey had a tendency to take things a little too personally- and go unspeakably ballistic doing so. At the pronouncement of her full name, Mnemosyne Megara Ramsey- the use of which was condemned under pain of death by the woman herself- tiny mortal mind filled with boiling rage, valiantly flung herself off the edge of the ship, warhammer in hand and roaring enough profanity to shock a sailor. I observed the water closing in a white scar above her as she dove before submerging to join her. The water was not nearly as murky as it had been at the wharf, but it was far from crystal clear. Nonetheless, Ramsey’s frantic paddling allowed me to pinpoint her location, and I casually raised my talon to rip her tiny body in half.

She swerved, swam upwards, and used the rear spike of her hammer to cut a relatively small but nonetheless painful swathe through my belly. I rolled and kicked, cursing my inability to use fire. For every blow she managed to land, I responded with a slap on the hand. Normally, these brawls of ours involved far much more blood and pain on both sides, but Ramsey, though a more-than-decent swimmer, was entirely out of her element. She was weighed down with her hammer, and had to resurface for air every minute or so. I made a little game out of toying with her, feeling her fury and amusing myself with it. It quickly became boring, however, and after she managed to pierce my belly yet again, I decided to snap her up into my mouth.

Ramsey punched, bit, and thwacked at my teeth, gums, and tongue, making me briefly ponder if it was more lucrative to just chew and swallow her. However, the punishment for a dragon killing his own Rider was probably nothing less than death. With a dejected inner sigh, I swam back to the surface, raising my head and long neck towards the boat. Then, with careful precision, I spat Ramsey and her precious hammer out of my mouth and onto the ship, where she landed heavily on the deck. Completely ignoring the bemused stares and raised eyebrows she received, Ramsey immediately got up- much like a cockroach- and flung herself at the railing, shaking her hammer and bellowing in her harsh sailor accent.

“Oi, you slimy smart-arsed amphibian piece o’ shit!” she raged down at me. “Call me that name again and I will gouge your bleedin’ eyeballs out! Your arse belongs to me, reptile filth! Bloody feckin’ hell, I’ll-”

Her next insults, peppered with a wide variety of swear words, not all in common tongue, mostly revolved around hideous ways of killing me, maiming me, or some other form of torture- such as personally castrating me, cutting me up in various ways, and decapitation, all delivered in a cutting roar that would cause most people to back away a step or two. I, however, had dealt with such a hair-trigger temper and rampant insults for two entire centuries, and was well-practiced at tuning it out- she was nothing but a silly elf, after all. Instead, I gazed at the mortals to see if they had caused any more pointless trouble. I was rather hoping I could squish a few of them- watch as the flesh creatures exploded all over the deck in a display of gore- but alas, all that was happening were verbal insults such as two little gems delivered by the huntsman and the Shade.

“No merchant wants others to know all of their secrets, that hardly makes me unique, Artemis. However, I am happy to reveal something that I do believe will aid our common practice and clue everyone in to you. They know your name, not you.” Maleficarum turned to the Riders present. “I would like to warn you of something, comrades. About a month before the Gala in Carvala, this one…” here, it pointed at the purple-furred thing, “… found me in Teirm and proceeded to give me a book filled with the world’s treasures that she stole in an effort to impress me enough to teach her the art of sorcery and to become a Shade herself. She departed for a wooded area and told me to meet her there.
“I was then faced with a problem. With her brashness and boldness and serious lack of subtlety, she was clearly not the kind of person that lays low when they become powerful, she would become corrupt. So I decided to take her on as my ‘apprentice’ with the intent of wasting her time. In training, I taught her nothing under the guise that I was attempting to teach her subtlety and discipline. In reality, I was purposely wasting her time, delaying her and ultimately waiting for the moment to throw the anvil into the forge and that time is now, when you need to know about the danger on the boat.
“I may be an abomination, but at least I don't kill or take over. I’m even happy to help you out, but she would be only bad things. I admit, I was erroneous not to tell you before, but I believe you ought to know, in case everything goes to hell on the mission and you find yourselves between the exit and this woman… She may be here, but it isn't for any of us, and it isn’t for the mission, at least not for the king. She would feel nothing if she tried to kill you to get out. Don’t doubt it.”
“Does showing respect have to be so stiff and formal?” sneered the huntsman, Latro, after a harsh cackle. “I mean come on, it’s only showing respect, not like you’re signing your life away.”
I saw Kolbjorn smirk at this, almost in agreement. Yuan was eyeing its comrades, not particularly paying attention, and Ramsey was catching her breath after the slew of insults she’d bombarded me with. It seemed up to me to reply, then.
‘The scarred flesh creature did not give its title as all mortals were required to, did it not? Allow me to supplement. It is called Solomon Latro.’
I watched in great amusement as the huntsman stared me down, and then proceeded to hiss in a foreign language- probably saying worse oaths than Ramsey had.
‘Now, it is past sunfall. I expect the mortals are in need of rest and recuperation.’
The captain, Saethe, raised an eyebrow. “And what about you? You can’t quite fit on the boat.”
‘I will be watching the fleshlings as they sleep. Very… closely.’
It blinked. “All night? For hours and hours?”
‘I count the breaths, and watch as they paw their noses and mumble in dreams. It helps to deter the overwhelming urge to crush their faces as they sleep. Especially her.’ I eyed Ramsey.
“Sleep. Well…” it coughed. “Won’t be doing much of that now. Honoured guests, my sailors will escort you to your rooms. As promised, General Kolbjorn, you’ll get a room to yourself. If you’ll follow them…”
I eyed the peddler of the little boat warily before turning to Ramsey as she slid her hammer back into its strap and dumped water out of her hat. ‘Mind you sleep with a sharp object tonight, Ramsey.’
‘For killing you, you dullard? Naturally.’ However, she understood my gist, and patted my nose as she headed off.
The captain looked at me again. “I notice you don’t refer to Miss Ramsey as ‘it’.”
‘I know.’ I rammed my snout up against it, hard. ‘I’m just funny that way.’

Characters Used;; Wengsi Yuan with Myaja Kolbjorn and Ikehr with Nemo Ramsey
Words;; 2020
Muse;; Pretty awful.
Thoughts;; Really, guys... only half of you responded? This post was EXTREMELY difficult to write due to me not knowing characters' reactions. PLEASE do not skip again, or at least tell me if you're going to miss a turn. If this continues, I will start booting people out.

[Amur]

He had not deluded himself into thinking that his real name would remain secret on this little trip, given that there were a minimum for four people here that he had told already it would have only taken one of them to greet him or otherwise talk to him. So he was unsurprised when his name did suddenly become public knowledge, what enraged him, however, was the manner in which it was told. While the dragon had saved Solomon the effort of introducing himself he recognised it as an effort to provoke some kind of reaction and that was enough to win a few seconds worth of a death glare from Solomon.

And for a moment he did speak in his native tongue, not so much insulting the dragon, no, he would do that in a language it could understand. He was merely complaining that it had introduced him in such a bland, distasteful way; however, if it wanted a reaction Solomon was going to give it a reaction. Spinning his knife in his palm he sat upright and pointed the tip of the blade at the dragon, feigning a look of rage as he did so.

“Fuck you lizard!”
He half yelled, allowing himself to fall silent for a brief moment before sitting back and smiling slightly.

“If you’re going to introduce me by my appearance first, never forget the eye.”
He said calmly, making no effort to hide the mocking and –somewhat- patronising tone in his voice as he spoke while making a gesture at his bloodstained right eye.

“There is as much history behind that as there is behind the scars.”
He continued, this time making sure that the mocking tone was more obvious than his last sentence, this was something Solomon was going to shut-up and he had even found what he had deemed to be a fitting method of doing so. Sighing heavily he returned his knife to the concealed sheath he had drawn it from and allowed his smile to return, this one more of a mocking smirk than the relaxed smile he had given moments ago.

“Though I have to admit that I am shocked at this particular development, something like you actually remembering my name? Well, now I feel guilty.”
He continued, making sure that his admitting to the feeling of guilt was clearly sarcastic.

“I mean, here I’ve made enough of an impact in your life for you to actually remember my name. An... ‘Honour’ I’m sure most would kill for.”
He paused again, getting to his feet and slinging his quiver back over his shoulder, being careful not to shake his Zerstechen Arrows around too much.

“And there you are, too far below me for me to extend the same courtesy to you.”
He finished off, following the one that had been pointed out earlier.

“Guten Nacht, I trust your waking hours will be more productive than mine.”
And he left, entering the interior of the vessel determined to have the last word. Solomon had slept the previous night and was fully capable of last another three days without it, and while he intended to rest while he had the opportunity he was not going to sleep on this trip, not when there was a crowd as large as this he did not trust lingering around.

Not that it would have mattered too much anyway; Solomon slept lightly and had no fewer than ten concealed knives on him at any one time. All of which he could have drawn and ready within seconds, he just deemed waking defence to be a weakness he did not need right now. He walked in silence, not paying any real attention to where they were going until he found himself in a huge open “room” filled with hammocks. And at once Solomon made an audible sound of disgust and took an immediate dislike to the arrangement; this was a factor he had not considered. However, there was nothing he could do about it, especially not at this time. He would have to grin and bear it for the moment; he silenced himself and walked to a hammock positioned as close as possible to the furthest corner, a spot he could be able to securely store his quiver.

Lying down on the hammock he hung his right leg down so that his foot could touch the floor and then intentionally drove the spike on the back of his left heel through the fabric in frustration.

“I should have just killed them”
He thought to himself bitterly.

[[Managed to beat my way through the writers block so I'm quite torn about this post=/]]

[Elloria]

Niko turned his attention briefly to Ramsey as she landed on the deck with a loud thud. Completely unfazed by it - Ikehr did things like this ridiculously often - she promptly rose and vaulted towards the railing to shower her dragon with a colorful array of curses. Her repertoire never ceased to amaze him. He turned back as the Shade Clarus addressed the Riders directly, decrying Artemis as a thief and a threat to the stability most beings sought these days.

Arashi, meanwhile, casts a disparaging glance at the scarred human as it says, “Does showing respect have to be so stiff and formal? I mean come on, it’s only showing respect, not like you’re signing your life away.” He feels Niko stiffen beside him and growls almost inaudibly. He knows without thinking that they are feeding off one another's tempers. It is one of the reasons Niko strives to teach Arashi self-control. The hatchling, on the other hand, feels its perfectly reasonable to smack around one who provokes his anger. They want to mess with a dragon? They play a dangerous game indeed. But Niko wishes to be diplomatic about this. So with great effort, Arashi keeps his anger in check as his Rider quietly replies, “Consider it a difference of cultures.”

The scarred flesh creature did not give its title as all mortals were required to, did it not? Allow me to supplement. It is called Solomon Latro. It seemed Soloman was less than pleased about being named as he was. Niko and Arashi could feel amusement filling Ikehr’s mind. However, Solomon’s response was hardly what either felt Ikehr was looking for. He complained about Ikehr’s lack of imagination when introducing before saying he felt a bit guilty for not remembering Ikehr’s name. The dragon had apparently not made much of an impression on the human. I hardly think Ikehr-ebrithil cares whether a two-legs such as yourself can remember his name. Such a trifling matter is beneath his attention, Arashi’s velvety voice broadcast to the entire group. Niko looked down at his hatchling to find a rather odd look in his eyes. As if he would have liked nothing better than to dash across the deck and claw Solomon to pieces, but was waiting for something first. Niko couldn’t remember a time when Arashi looked like he wanted to wait for some signal.

Now, it is past sunfall. I expect the mortals are in need of rest and recuperation. Arashi sighs with dissatisfaction. Ikehr is ignoring the scarred two-legs for the moment. So frustrating. It would be allowed to walk away unscathed. He huffs quietly as he follows Niko and, indeed, the entire group down into the belly of the ship. They soon reach an open area filled with swinging plant-made things. Hammocks, Niko tells him. These hammock things allow many two-legs to slumber in one area without taking up much space. Why would one want to cram so many two-legs into one place? There would be no room to fight and defend oneself in such quarters. Tch. Two-legs could be so idiotic. Arashi follows Niko to a hammock near a far corner - one situated just beside the Solomon-Latro-two-legs. What is his Rider thinking? He prods at Niko's mind, but Niko tells him to be patient and keep a sharp eye out as they rest. A sharp eye out? What threat did the two-legs honestly pose? He grumbles quietly as he leaps up and settles in Niko's lap. He feels Niko's mind drift into that strange state that elf-two-legs call sleep - different from the sleep of the human-two-legs - and lets his mind drift out as well to keep sense of all the living things moving about the ship and in the hammocks.

[dantieduurden]

Artemis was not surprised when Clarus threw down his hand and went running to the riders like he did for everything else. The man was a coward. And like all cowards they died a thousand times before they meet their true deaths. Sadly for him it was true. As a shade there were very few chances to kill him, he did not need to sleep, only wearing him down magically could someone have a shot at killing him, and even then they risked becoming the shades new host. " Did I now Clarus." Artemis stated not asking any questions. " Do you happen to have this so called book I stole. After all many people say things to impress others. And when you do bring the book I'm sure the rider's will be able to tell you it's not stolen. Though the information in it I'm almost positive is." Artemis said with a smile as she turned to the riders. " After all what better way to get a shades attention then with ancient knowledge. Funny though, all the power he had and yet only now he tells you of this book? Could it not be that while I have been away he was making a copy of it perhaps so that he would know all the information in the book, thus framing me and gaining your trust at the same time? Once a killer always a killer. Its in his blood after all." Artemis said with a small bow before turning to the captain of the ship who was speaking to the crowd as a whole. " Elizabeth go and get comfortable, I shall be sleeping underneath the open sky like always. After all I would not wish to share the same bed as a shade." Artemis replied as she shifted back into a panther and walked over to where the mighty general Myaja was, looking the elf general over and the bonds that held her. " Do they treat you well my general?" Artemis asked General Myaja opening her mind up to the general as she did so.

Elizabeth did as was instructed and went inside the cabins. But once inside she knew that she would not like this place it reminded her to much of being a slave and soon she was curled up in the opposite Conner of Niko and solom crying, shaking back and forth.

[toriyuu]

Toriyuu realized that the camaraderie he shared with his fellow soldiers in Broddring would be sorely missed while on this ship. In his mind he saw this trip as one lead by riders with elves and loyal students attending. Apparently he had been wrong. These elves and humans could only be described as motley, and to be honest Toriyuu knew they could not be trusted. The majority of them acted as if they had other motives.The fighting and bickering that broke out was off putting, especially because it all happened so quickly. He watched as Myaja Kolbjorn and one of the crew got into a scuffle, in which she ended up on the ground. Instantly some of the others ere there to "protect her, and even he grasped his swords, but the tension diffused. Instead attention turned to an argument between Nemo and Ikehr, then between the shade and Artemis, and Ikehr and Solomon. Everything quickly became to confusing for Toriyuu and he decided that no one on this trip was to be trusted except for the riders and dragons. Even General Kolbjorn had to be looked upon with suspicion, even if she was beautiful and powerful.

Toriyuu absorbed all the information that bounced around him, including the names and titles. He had originally been excited to introduce himself, but now he didn't really want to converse. He spoke quickly and without expression. "I am Toriyuu Doubleblade, Lieutenant of the first Vanyali Brigade of Broddring and ambassador to Illirea." He looked around at the faces of his new shipmates, expecting the non-humans to be indifferent to his position. "As a servant to the King I am here to see that this mission goes as smoothly as possible, no matter what." The end of his sort introduction was meant to inform everyone of his sole purpose and to let them know that anyone who was not focused on the mission would be his enemy. He had no clue why his master wanted this Chalice of Nyx, but he planned on finding it. The favor it would give him would be politically beneficial, hopefully gaining the brigade more recognition.

After looking over the bunch again, he just resigned himself to not making friends while on this trip. He had every intention on at least speaking with Myaja, but the rest of them he probably wouldn't speak to. Quietly Toriyuu allowed himself to be shepherded into the quarters below, and picked a hammock closes to the door they had entered. He pulled off the pieces of armor he had on ad well as his weapons, and set them underneath his hammock. Although the bastards on this trip were untrustworthy, he felt as if his possessions would be safe. Toriyuu climbed unto his hammock resting his head on his palms. He was not in the least bit tired, but his only source of entertainment here would be dramatic conversation. That did not appeal to him at all, so he closed his eyes and slowed his breathing, knowing that he would not doze of anytime soon.

[Nayeli]

( S U N G L O W )
Featuring
Tasia Anna Georgios

[/size]

Now that we were here, I could relax. After following my crazied rider all the way to this ship, I was more then happy just to look around for a moment. I saw many faces that Tasia seemed to know, but mostly the only ones I saw was Nemo and Ikehr, along with possible Wengsi, but other then that, I was lost in a sea of people, elves and humans I did not know, nor did I care about. I looked over the edge once more, seeing waves crash against the ship that was waiting to take off into the sea. I had never seen the sea, it was massive, huge, and far greater then I had imagined. The sun was just halfway down the horizon now and I knew we would be leaving the land soon. I turned my head enough to see a black cat coming on board, but I took note that it was not a normal cat, but a werecat. I could tell, it was something elves and dragons could see, while humans could not really tell. I looked at Ikehr who was in the water and though he was too big for the ship, why was he in the dirty water?

”How dee do, Sunglow, Tasia,” I looked over at Nemo who had spoken to Tasia. She seemed happy, and though, I wondered why Ihekr was in the nasty water I did not ask, did not want to disturb him. He was not teaching me today unless he wanted to and I would not ask question. He blew a puff of smoke on me and I snorted back slightly, but it was not in a disrespectful way, mostly to keep the smoke from my lungs. I then looked at the general who had come up towards us.

”Tasia…” She looked at my rider and I glanced between them for a moment. ”Georgios. You served under me in the war, did you not?” Before she had time to reply, I looked up, and I saw a purple blur coming towards the ship. Arashi, a Hatchling that I knew did not like me and his Rider, Niko. Niko and Tasia were good friends, but Arashi and I did not get along that well. He did not like my talkative behavior and my lack of care for hunting. Sure, I enjoyed it, but I wanted to learn something too so I would be smart and be up-to-date on things. I knew Arashi was, he was a quick learner, but as I said, he did not like me. I watched Tasia smile at Niko as he came onto the ship. Her mind, I could feel her touching Niko and then her words went out to him. ”Hello Niko. How are you this evening?” Her own excitement was interlaced with my own, but it did not matter much. She then looked back to the General and spoke out. ”I did… I was part of the archer team during the war.”

[/color] Though as she spoke, I knew she had hated it. She had told me herself. Soon, Niko and Arashi came towards us slightly.

After they looked around the ship, Niko came towards Nemo and Ikehr, which was not far from me, but I had taken to laying down beside the wall, which if you looked over, he would see the sea. ”Ramsey-ebrithil, Ikehr-ebrithil,” I looked at him as he started speaking to them. I glanced at Tasia who put her bag next to me. ”Watch this, please.”[/color] I smiled a dragon smile at her and put my front foot on it, my small talons grabbing it. There was not much in there. It was just a larger bag and it carried her smaller back with extra clothes like the one she wore and a extra clock like the one she wore. I then went back to Niko. ”It is good to find you in...decent moods.” He then glanced to my Tasia, who was smiling at him as he grinned to her, before he greeted the General of the elves. I had heard she was captured, but I never saw her. I could not hold off on asking any longer and I sent my thoughts towards Nemo and Ikehr. ”Why are we here? Why is the General here?”[/color][/b] I normally left my thoughts to myself unless it could not be helped, but this time, I could not help it.

Niko himself got his own rude reply from the General. ”There’s no need for procedures, Rider. I no longer have that luxury.” I watched as Niko took a seat next to his own dragon. ”I hope we have not missed much in the way of introductions,” I looked at Niko again, who was not standing beside Tasia. She was in her cloak, which was pulled over her body to hid her normal clothing. I knew it was mostly to be nice to the humans, but I could tell she was going to be removing said cloak once we were out of the docks, to reveal her black clothing. She glanced around some herself and I just set there, looking at the crew, watching them work. As I watched, I could feel something else, not only the shade and the werecat that was here, but something or someone else was coming onto the ship. Sure enough, a panther made it’s way onto the ship, followed by a young woman, who wore a beautiful green grown, with golden leaves on the sleeves, with the neckline also having gold and two panthers on it. She also had a necklace that had the same thing. Tasia saw the two come on as well and I felt her mind being troubled. ”I think we are the presence of two intelligent beings… That panther is no animal.”[/color] I watched as the panther came and laid beside him, my golden eyes looked at her for a moment. During this time, Nemo and Ikehr bickered, which was pretty much normal to happen between them.

I let my mind reach out towards the panther, wanting to know who it was. ”Who are you.”[/color] I did not voice it to everyone, only Tasia and the Panther, that was it. As I tried to learn about the panther beside me, Tasia pushed at my mind, causing me to turn my head to see another coming onto the ship. This time, it was a woman, wearing a green cloak. I did not know her, did not care to know her, but Master Nemo seemed to know her and that was good for her. She seemed very interested and happy to be here. I was not surprised, the King was giving money if I had heard correctly. Tasia and I were here for the adventure, but then again, Tasia knew the Money would help us as well. The money from our first adventure had been place in a secret place at the villa she had gotten and I was sure the other would be placed there as well. As I thought about it, I could smell someone else I knew, this time, someone I knew from the mission before hand. I looked and there he was…

”Solomon Latro.”[/color] I voiced to Tasia, who turned her head to see him. She nodded in greeting to him, glancing over at me who did the same. She was not speaking, which was odd, but at the same time, I figured it had something to do with the fact that we were on a mission and we had to wait for the information. I let my tell curl around me slightly, glancing around at everyone once again. I had a feeling we had one more person to join us, or a few, since we would have started already. It was nearing complete sunset and that meant leaving. ”Du muiet se scheiden mich!” Tasia and I both looked at him oddly, but I did not move, nor did she. I thought about asking him what he had said, but I just kept quiet. He was weird, but I had not expected words I did not know. As I looked at Tasia, I heard someone else coming, their feet racing up the plank that lead to the ship.

It was a human, though I could tell that Tasia was slightly interest, I allowed my tail to stretch out and pop her slightly. Though the sharp point was there, it had not grown strong enough to inflict more then a bruise and Taisa glanced back at me, baring her own teeth slightly as it stung her. ”Quit your gawking.”[/color] As I felt her mind realize that, she did. I looked at the young man, who was handsome, but I did not find him at all appealing. Tasia noted to me that the human wore things made of dwarves, however, I had never come across a dwarf, but I figured since she was over four hundred years old, she would have. He wore a sky blue shirt under all the stuff and brown pants, which I still was slightly confused as to why humans, elves, and other creatures wore things like that. I would have found it restricting and Tasia walked around out villa in nothing half the time. She smiled mentally at me and I looked at her for a moment. She had explained it to me before. He looked like a important man. ”Boy… He is not a man.”[/color] I looked at Tasia. She seemed to know him slightly. ”He trains some of the humans, but he is barely old enough to be called a man in human standards.”[/color] I nodded slightly and then watched as he started to speak.

”Atra esterní ono thelduin. Mor'ranr lífa unin hjarta onr. Un du evarínya ono varda, Nemo-ebrithil, Ikehr-ebrithil, Tasia, Nico, and Myaja svit-kona.” I had heard the words before, from Tasia sometimes, but even she had stopped saying the formal greeting unless she had to. For a human, he knew the ancient language rather well and I glanced at Tasia who nodded in acknowledgement. She was not talking much to anyone, but it did not surprise me. ”Did I not tell you, Doubleblade, that I have no patience for idle formalities?” I looked to the General. She was showing her dislike of behind her, but I figured I could push into her mind, so I probed it cautiously, but it was no use, Tasia stopped me before I could even start honestly. ”Stop it! She does not need to be bothered.”[/color] I looked at her for a moment, snorting again in frustration.

As the last of the crew came aboard, the feeling of wind gusting caught my own wings, which were not folded out, but they were not held to my body either. I looked at Tasia and then at Nemo who had running to the bow of the ship and soon Tasia was up some stairs to watch the water go by. I did not go into the water like Ikehr, but I knew I probably would later on. I knew I could keep up with the ship and fish and if I did not, I was sure Ikehr could come and grab me. Tasia would probably dive in after me herself if I started to get left behind. Ikehr looked liked a arrow flying through the water. He was beautiful and I watched him cautiously before staying where I was, the bag that belonged to Tasia was at my feet.

I turned my head to everything else and Tasia had even joined me again, but she set down beside me, looking at everything, watching as Tension began to build between the elves and humans who had come. ”Right, pack it in, you lot!” I looked at Nemo who was coming down, however, a sailor was behind her. ”Ahem.” I looked at him for a moment and felt Tasia prepping herself for helping Nemo. Though we all knew she could take care of herself, Nemo and Tasia got along pretty well. They had even gone to a bar together, joked about the elves of the forest and seemed to get along pretty well. Ikehr and I got along alright, I was interest in the past and I wanted to learn a whole lot.

”If I may speak, I’d like to introduce myself.” I looked to see the captain, taking off his hat. I didn’t like the man, there was just something about him. ”Socien Saethe, humbly at your service. Could I hear the names of those assembled?” I looked around, about to get my voice, but others spoke first. ”Myaja Kolbjorn. Inactive General of Du Weldenvarden. This is my escort, Wengsi Yuan, Ward of the Riders.” I looked to the General and to her escort, the woman who had been with us on our last mission. It was then I felt a presence that was easy to know. Ikehr… ”I am called Ikehr,” His voice was flat, which was normal. ”And the vertically challenged one is Mnemosyne… Megara… Ramsey- my Rider. She is the very soul of politeness.” I chuckled slightly at the two bickering. ”I’LL RIP YOUR SNAKE BODY LIMB FROM LIMB! Come here, you bastard!” Tasia smiled slightly as she watched the rider dive into the water after the steel blue dragon. ”Inside… You know she loves him.”[/color] She said to me slightly. ”Yea… Right.”[/color] Tasia mentally chuckled at me and then looked as the other introductions continued on. "I am Clarus Maleficarum, Merchant Lord and occasionally consultant to the Riders of Ilirea in the area of magical artifacts. Please, do not be distracted by my nature, I cannot control who I really am and have no intention of harming any of you… Yet." I growled slightly, however, I was calmed quickly with a single touch on my muzzled by Tasia, who knew me better then anything one else. I was about to introduce myself, however, it ended up being a bit different. "Why don’t you introduce yourself next, my dear little Werepanther? Might help to assume your humanoid form first, though. And who is this young lady who accompanies you? My, you have fallen in with a different crowd." I knew there was something different about the two felines, one being a werecat and the other a panther? I had never really seen such a beast, but here it was before me.

The Panther was about to attack the shade, however, I did nothing to harm her, mostly because, I did not like shades. However, she changed into her elf form, with long purple hair, indigo eyes and a black dress, looking slightly like the woman she had come on board with. Before she started to speak, everyone's attention went back to the older rider and dragon slightly, since Nemo had literally gone to the water to kill her beast. Ikehr had come to the service and spat Nemo out, causing her to hit the deck with a loud thump and then she went after him yet again. "Oi, you slimy smart-arsed amphibian piece o’ shit! Call me that name again and I will gouge your bleedin’ eyeballs out! Your arse belongs to me, reptile filth! Bloody feckin’ hell, I’ll-” Tasia mentally laughed slightly, knowing that this was slightly common, but I went back to listening to the introductions.

"O Clarus, you should know better then anyone to keep your secrets close. I'm sure the riders would not like to hear of all your doings." I perked up slightly, but Tasia seemed to scold me slightly. I was out of control of the matter and it was prodding at me. "It is none of our concern, we are following Master Nemo... If she wishes to do something, then we back her up, until then, we stay put!"[/color] Her words were sharp, but very true. "I am Artemis Von Cleft. Daughter of Jessica Von Cleft and sister to Darek Von Cleft. My brother I'm sure you all know very well riders for he trains some of your young ones." I looked at Tasia who nodded slightly. She knew of the man. "My grandfather is one of your fellow riders and I myself have had personal lessons from Lilith Vaer in the use of the art." That I did not know, but I was sure that Tasia knew from her lessons and she would fill me in. It was then she faced the shade and I narrowed my eyes. They spoke and I did not care to really listen to her.

"This everyone is someone I saved from those god awful slave trades that happen in your city Clarus. You know the one you yourself got your slave from. If you can call her a slave, I would more call her your personal toy." This time, Tasia did say something. "I would not call a slave and a personal toy much of a difference."[/color] Her voice was rueful and not at all very happy about it at all. "Come now, speak up Bridget. You are safe here. No one shall harm you." My eyes went to the slave ir well, young girl and listened to her. "I'm....I'm...I'm...Bridget, my lords and ladys." I felt Tasia's pity flowing into my heart slightly. She felt sorry for the girl, she knew nothing more then being a slave. "See what rudeness dose to her Clarus, you of all people should know how hard it is to get them back on there feet, yet you do not try to close the dreadful slave markets. Do not go around trying to feign innocent for I am more innocent then you." I rolled my eyes at the woman need for a fight it seemed. Elves and Humans were just alike more then half the time.

"Yes, I know your brother... He and I are quite close friends. I don’t recall him speaking of you with great fondness, Artemis Von Cleft.” I did not know the man, nor did Tasia very well, but Niko seemed to, but I did not say anything, which was a good thing for me since I normally talked a lot. "More then a lot, Sunglow."[/color] I growled at her slightly and curled my tail around my body slightly, my taloned foot still on her belongs to keep them safe. "But I have not introduced myself to my friend’s close relation or to this illustrious group. Please forgive my impertinence. I am Niko Danta, son of the noblemen Tios Danta and his wife Miala, younger brother of their heir Josk Danta.” Tasia smiled at him slightly, before he continued. "This is Arashi, my dragon.”

The last before Solomon and Tasia was a human. He spoke quickly. "I am Toriyuu Doubleblade, Lieutenant of the first Vanyali Brigade of Broddring and ambassador to Illirea... As a servant to the King I am here to see that this mission goes as smoothly as possible, no matter what." I slightly rolled my eyes at the thought of the Human King and then looked at Solomon.

Solomon had gone off to his own corner and stayed to himself, but I did not say anything to him, though we had worked together in the tunnels and plains. I huffed slightly, laying my head on the deck beside my shoulder as I waited. Tasia stood as everyone seemed to be looking at us now. "I am Tasia Anna Georgios, Daughter of the Leader of a farming Village East of the Ellesméra."[/color] Her voice was sweet and kind, showing that she was gentle at heart. Her cloak still hid the normal closes she wore, but since the boat was moving, something told me it would be removed shortly. Her vine crown glimmered in the last of the sunset and I smiled up at the emerald gem. It was beautiful... "And this Sunkissed Dragon beside me is Sunglow."[/color] I lifted my head slightly and nodded to everyone before returning it to the deck.

It was then back to the Werepanther and the Shade, who was speaking yet again. "No merchant wants others to know all of their secrets, that hardly makes me unique, Artemis. However, I am happy to reveal something that I do believe will aid our common practice and clue everyone in to you. They know your name, not you.” Tasia and I were focused on the conversation, mostly to see what was going to happen next. "I would like to warn you of something, comrades. About a month before the Gala in Carvala, this one… found me in Teirm and proceeded to give me a book filled with the world’s treasures that she stole in an effort to impress me enough to teach her the art of sorcery and to become a Shade herself. She departed for a wooded area and told me to meet her there." I felt the shudder from Tasia. She hated slaves, found that they were nothing more then lifeless zombies honestly... They had no heart and were controlled by other things. "I was then faced with a problem. With her brashness and boldness and serious lack of subtlety, she was clearly not the kind of person that lays low when they become powerful, she would become corrupt. So I decided to take her on as my ‘apprentice’ with the intent of wasting her time. In training, I taught her nothing under the guise that I was attempting to teach her subtlety and discipline. In reality, I was purposely wasting her time, delaying her and ultimately waiting for the moment to throw the anvil into the forge and that time is now, when you need to know about the danger on the boat." I growled this time. I did not like it when something like this happen. I stood now, my eyes on the Werepanther and shade. I did not like what was being said, how he was basically going to help her in a way, however, he was only going to delay her chance of becoming what she wanted to become.

“I may be an abomination, but at least I don't kill or take over. I’m even happy to help you out, but she would be only bad things. I admit, I was erroneous not to tell you before, but I believe you ought to know, in case everything goes to hell on the mission and you find yourselves between the exit and this woman… She may be here, but it isn't for any of us, and it isn’t for the mission, at least not for the king. She would feel nothing if she tried to kill you to get out. Don’t doubt it.” I looked at the Werepanther. She had put us in danger and she was not here to help us at all. Tasia knew I was worried and worried meant I could not control something and meant that it was out of my control. I wanted to kill it, at least then, I would have some control in this situation, but Tasia just grabbed my shoulder and I settled back down. She did not want a fight and neither did I.

“Does showing respect have to be so stiff and formal?” I looked to hear Latro's own voice coming into the air. "I mean come on, it’s only showing respect, not like you’re signing your life away.” He did not introduce, which was not something that surprised me. He had not talked much on our mission and he did not seem like the sort to trust people with his name. However, Ikehr took that into his hands. "The scarred flesh creature did not give its title as all mortals were required to, did it not? Allow me to supplement. It is called Solomon Latro." I chuckled. For some reason, Latro was not to please, which Tasia was not surprised about at all. "Now, it is past sunfall. I expect the mortals are in need of rest and recuperation." I grumbled slightly. "Do I have to sleep?"[/color] I let my voice go around the whole ship really, but Tasia smiled and scratched the back of my head slightly. She knew I hated to sleep when something like this was going on.

"And what about you? You can’t quite fit on the boat.” I looked to the Captain slightly and just rolled my eyes. "I will be watching the fleshlings as they sleep. Very… closely." I smiled, at least someone would be able to protect everyone. Ikehr was possible the best at the job here at least. I would not be able to sleep, but at least I could protect my rider, who would need some rest after our run to get here. "All night? For hours and hours?” Really? The captain thought dragons could go to sleep easily? "I count the breaths, and watch as they paw their noses and mumble in dreams. It helps to deter the overwhelming urge to crush their faces as they sleep. Especially her." I chuckled again, this time, even Tasia laughed a bit out loud. "Sleep. Well… Won’t be doing much of that now. Honoured guests, my sailors will escort you to your rooms. As promised, General Kolbjorn, you’ll get a room to yourself. If you’ll follow them…” I looked as others came towards me to escort Tasia, but I stood and growled at them. They backed away... Tasia smiled. "I will be sleeping on deck."[/color] They were surprised and then she grabbed her bag. We were well connected, because I moved my taloned foot before she grabbed the bag and without her telling me to move it.

Latro had had half yelled at Ikehr, but it was ignored mostly. I looked over at him for a moment, chuckling. He was no in a good mood at all. After conversation with Ikehr, which was mostly talking about the honor of being known to the dragon, he left, going to his own room. I knew Tasia had not liked sleeping in our villa, much less sleeping inside the ship. She would be more comfortable on the deck. She had picked the spot when she had come on board and there was nothing around that people would have to grab for. As things Began to settle down, I found myself watching Tasia prepare herself to sleep. She pulled the second cloak from her bag out and made a pallet with it, however, she still wore the other one, she would be using it as a blanket tonight. She left enough room for me at her head and she left right next to the rail. I moved to where her pillow would be, my head looking out over the sea and my back against a wall. She put her back on my stomach and then rolled over to look between the wood bars of the railing. "It is beautiful.[/color] She said to me. She had pulled the hood over her head and soon, I felt her body go limp with sleep and her mind mostly blank. I looked out over the sea, resting my head on the top of the railing, looking out over the sea. It was amazing.

[/size][/blockquote]

( W O R D C O U N T ) four. five. six. four.
( T A G G E D ) Ikehr the Dragon, Myaja Kolbjorn, Nemo Ramsey, Wengsi Yuan, Clarus Maleficarum, Khael Settic, Xaen the Werecat, Niko Dante & Arashi the Dragon, Artemis Von Cleft, Valsta, Solomon Latro, Toriyuu Doubleblade
( P U P P E T S U S E D )[/color] Tasia Anna Georgios & Sunglow the Dragon
( S U M M A R Y )[/color] Sunglow is relaxing, taking in the sites. She sees Niko and Arashi coming on the ship, along with the panther and the slave, unknown to her as a slave. She sees the panther come over and ask “Who are you” to Artemis. Then, Valsta comes onto the ship, followed by Solomon Latro, which Sunglow and Tasia acknowledge. Not long after that, a human comes names Toriyuu Doubleblade, who both Tasia and Sunglow see and acknowledge. Soon, everyone begins to bring forth introductions and then Tasia introduces them. Some trouble has come from a fight and now a slight argument. Sunglow shows her distaste in Artemis and Clarus. They are all sent to bed basically, Tasia falls asleep while Sunglow looks out over the ocean.[/size][/blockquote]