Mutual Distrust -[Rrah]-

[Amur]

We listened to what Taured had to tell us after we had explained our Union to him. Of course, we would only explain it at face value, everything else was personal history to us, and we still held Nirvanian values on that. However, what he said following our explanation confused us more than in interested us –it did interest us- So, the dragon chose and the potential Rider had no say in the matter? Well, we figured that the potential Rider’s probably wanted the position in the first place, but even so, the prospect left a bad taste in our mouth.

“The same, but different, it would seem.”
We said at first, taking into consideration everything that Taured had told us. There were indeed a number of differences, and the end result was almost certainly different, but everything else was similar... At least to a degree.

“However, we were correct that your bonding process was easier on the two of you than ours was on us. There is one thing that you say, which causes us confusion.”
We confessed.

“Presumably, the potential Rider in question has opted for the potential position. But we can’t help but consider, what if they hadn’t, what if they were chosen but did not want the position in the first place? Would they have no say in the matter concerning their life?”
We questioned cautiously, not allowing our own distaste at the potential situation to work its way into our tone. We were better than that, we desired the understanding. And were furthermore representative of an entire way of life, it would ill befit us to allow bias to fleck our tone. He waited for a moment before deciding to pre-emptively explain our question.

“We merely wish to understand this process, first. Before we were even allowed to make physical contact we both had to agree to the bonding process. The idea that one could potentially be chosen and have no say in the subsequent matter seems somewhat... Reprehensible to us.”
We confessed calmly. Keeping our tone as neutral as possible, an easy task for us, as we were well practised at it.
---

Kaime had to remain silent for a long while in order to consult whatever memory he had left on the subject, however, his efforts failed repeatedly. Even Alexia, whom had most of his intact memories couldn’t give him anything to work with, all she was able to give him was that he had been unconscious during the process in its entirety... And then there was a, certain... Other matter, that he had yet to address and he was almost positive that it was down to the venom still running through his veins.

“I can understand why you would ask such a question, but, this is the point in which I will have to let you down. I was unconscious during the procedure, and then under powerful, pain dulling spells for several days to follow as the vision in my left eye slowly left me. So, even on a good day, I have no memory of what happened around that time.”
He admitted, very slowly working his way toward his next point.

“Besides, there are certain... Undesirable effects, that I’m sure are down to the presence of the venom still running through my veins.”
He said slowly, already feeling his embarrassment start to grow. He was ashamed of this side of himself, but, it would only be fair to warn people of the potential side effects of having Wyvern venom ever-present in their bodies.

“The first is that I have absolutely no feeling in my left arm whatsoever. It has taken me almost since I was stung to adapt to that... Other people may not be able to cope with what I have.”
And to demonstrate that point Kaime calmly raised his arm and placed the tips of his gauntleted fingers on the nearest flat surface he could find –that surface happening to be the floor- and slowly began bending his fingers in the wrong direction.

Within moments the sound of breaking bones filled the air, Kaime keeping a straight face all the while. He returned to his feet in silence and then allowed the broken fingers to dangle uselessly before he allowed Alexia to see to them.

“The second...”
He took a longer pause this time. He hated having to acknowledge this side of himself, but, if it helped.

“Is that if I see so much as a single drop of my own blood, something inside me snaps and I become almost completely animalistic in behaviour... I have no memory of the times that it has happened, but I have heard very detailed descriptions of such events from others.”
He said calmly, closing his eye gently as he allowed Alexia her mental embrace. Even returning it in kind to show his appreciation of her efforts, nevertheless, he would have time to talk to Alexia about it in greater length, later.

He opened his eye.

“I feel it only fair to warn of the potential side-effects before you try to make progress on it yourselves.”

[Mali]

Taured listened as Morona asked his question, pausing before wording it in a way that even Taured had to question. He’d never thought about that predicament. To an extent, he hadn’t wanted to be a dragon rider when Varden had hatched for him. When Varden had hatched, he’d just accepted that it was supposed to happen since it had. However, he’d never thought about what ifs such as Morona had proposed. He’d never thought about what would happen if a person was dead set against becoming a dragon rider even though a dragon hatched for them. He was sure that there were a few out there that weren’t as close to their dragons as Taured was, he could even think of one particular pair on the rider’s council who just tolerated each other and that was Nemo and Ikehr.

“Well, I have to admit that when Varden first hatched, I had no intentions of becoming a rider, but I accepted my fate. There is another pair who just tolerate each other, but I’m not sure what would happen if the rider was completely opposed to the idea,” He paused, having to think things over a bit more first.

“The dragon not only examines everything about the individual, they also can see if they would be a benefit to the potential individual’s life. In that sense, I am referring to would hatching help or hinder their development as a living being. I’m sure a dragon never chooses carelessly. They have a valid reason for choosing their riders,” at that point, Taured was reminded by Varden why he was chosen. It was his great sense of justice and desire to spread peace. That was why Varden, with a true-name meaning protector, chose Taured to be his rider. He had even waited so long before hatching for anyone since he hadn’t found the right person to come along.

---

Varden was disappointed that Kaime wasn’t able to help him with an answer. It was disappointing to know that Kaime had endured such a great misfortune and couldn’t even remember what happened to allow him to live. As Kaime spoke slowly, Varden sensed that there was a much bigger point he was building up to that was very important.

Listening, Varden watched as he demonstrated some of the side effects of his body being forced to adapt to the venom. Flinching at the sound of the broken fingers, he noted how Kaime’s features remained the same throughout the entire thing. However, he had to think that they wouldn’t force people to adapt to the venom. That they were try to neutralise it instead. Kaime had been unfortunate and couldn’t have the venom neutralised and had to adapt to it, so if they neutralised it, it wouldn’t be that bad, correct?

“Wyvern’s are wild creatures after all. The animalistic reaction to your own blood is probably instinct from the adaption to the venom. Since the entire sac was placed in your shoulder, it makes sense that some of the wyvern instinct also be placed inside you,” It made sense to him that if the entire sac was placed in his shoulder, then some other aspects of wyvern behaviour could be included mentally with the sac of venom.

“However, we would never wish anyone to adapt to the venom such as you were forced to do. The amount would hopefully be much smaller and thus could be neutralised instead. Main reason for asking, however, thank you, even if you couldn’t help me.”

[/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Amur]

What we heard in response to our question was interesting and offered some valuable insight into some of the inner-workings of this land. A small piece, but still valuable nevertheless, the more information we possessed the easier we could adapt to the differences that this land held for us. And if we could adapt, our people could... It was simply a matter of knowing what to adapt to, this would certainly be easier on them than it had been on the human survivors of The Preclusion War. Though, we could see them having many disagreements with the natives here if only down to the differences in the way the native humans of this land had adapted to it.

“Interesting, what you say offers valuable insight. Thank you.”
We replied at first. Of course, we were going to need some other details, but those were less important than some of the other things we felt required to ask. We knew of the racial tensions of the land, even now had some knowledge behind its cause.

“We feel that this next question is somewhat difficult to ask. Since we are aware of the existence of racial tension among the different species here, we feel required to ask just how isolated each species is from one-another.”
We asked, not leaving enough time for our question to be interpreted in a way we had not intended it to be. After all, despite the racial tensions that did exist within Empire Nirvana, humans and their non-human neighbours did not live in isolation at all. In fact, many of them worked side-by-side. This was a question we needed to ask.

“Understand, that we ask this simply because everyone here comes from a land where they live side-by-side with often racially superior non-humans. And have been doing so since before the creation of Empire Nirvana. To say that human adaptation to such conditions has been hard would be a gross understatement on our part.”
We explained, wondering briefly if they had been told something similar by Master Hunter Latro. Or at least seen some of the signs pointing to our explanation, human Hunter’s often showed their distaste for racial superiority.

“We would also ask just what the overall status of magic is here. In Empire Nirvana it differs between Humans and Non-Humans, sometimes greatly, or sometimes only slightly. Human magic usually revolves around spoken language, which in Empire Nirvana is known as The Forgotten Language. However, we understand that here you know it as The Ancient Language?”
We questioned cautiously, drawing our information from one of the reports that had been sent to us by Kaime.

“Human’s with the ability to use magic aren’t unheard of, but they’re nowhere near as common as their non-human counterparts.”
We concluded, giving further information into the living conditions in Empire Nirvana. We saw no reason to withhold such information, not when Taured had been so open to us. With luck our information would make our prior questions a little bit easier to answer.
---

Kaime had noted with some distant amusement that Varden had flinched when he had demonstrated the lack of feeling in his left arm by breaking his own fingers. Not that he allowed it to show, everyone reacted similarly to this demonstration, many of them also making audible sounds of disgust as he did it. However, it was still somewhat amusing to Kaime that he was able to make a creature larger than him flinch.

“Hmph, I’ve never thought about it that way.”
He said calmly in response to what Varden had said in response to Kaime’s confession regarding his blood. Not that looking at it that way made him feel any better about the condition, after all, what kind of sentient being would actively want to be compared to a Wyvern?

“It doesn’t make it any less shameful, however.”
He said flatly.

“After all, being compared to a Wyvern is hardly a desirable comparison, even for a human. The only time acquiring a title with ‘Wyvern’ in it is a compliment is when it’s followed by the word ‘Slayer’. They haven’t exactly made life in Empire Nirvana easy, especially if you grew up on the Isle that is now known as The Isle of Flies.”
He said calmly, trying to explain at least some of the hatred that all Nirvanians held for Wyverns in general. However, he wouldn’t go into any further detail on that front, The Isle of Flies was what it had become known as after The Incident, the single event that nearly annihilated The Hunter’s completely, which was still a tender subject for them.

“And the way I see it, my ability to put an end to another life and generally create havoc on a field of battle is my choice. Not a sickness.”

[Mali]

Taured nodded his head at the thanks for explaining the dragon hatching process. He had explained to the best of his ability but Morona had stirred some important questions up inside him. What would happen if a dragon chose someone completely unwilling to become a rider? What would happen to the person chosen? Obviously, they shouldn’t have been in the font in the first place that way it couldn’t possibly happen. On the other hand, Taured had gone in there because it was the quietest place to think. If he had known that by entering the font, Varden would have hatched for him, would he change his past?

Morona’s next question was difficult to answer. What did he mean by isolated? Was it so different in Empire Nirvana that the species that were racially tense avoided each other? “Here, it depends on which city you enter. Up in the north, the elven cities are formed up of elves and humans are frowned upon. However, in other cities there isn’t much isolation between the races. I hope that answers your question?” As Morona explained himself further, even explaining the situation in Empire Nirvana, Taured considered this a little longer.

“Some cities are run by human rule or elven rule. However, in the cities where the two do live with each other, there isn’t much tension between the races. Although considered to be superior to humans, the elves and humans live side by side without issue.” it was true. In Ilirea, the city was filled with a large amount of elves since it was the rider’s headquarters. However, humans and elves both lived in Ilirea peacefully. It just depended on which city they entered.

“Although, I don’t consider myself racially superior to anyone. The fact that elves live longer isn’t fair judgement to place against humans. It isn’t their fault their lifespan is much shorter.” Taured felt it right to explain that he wasn’t one of the many to view humans as below them. Even when he met Solomon, he never once referred to him as human. He referred to him as he, male, and hunter. It wasn’t fair to judge Solomon, a man he’d never met before, just because he was human. It was ignorant to do so. As well, although rare, humans could possess magic. Why would those humans be considered equal—to an extent—to the elves while others weren’t. He shook his head, he felt too deeply about this subject.

Taured listened to how magic was performed in Empire Nirvana and he had a question. If the humans in Empire Nirvana used what they referred to as the Forgotten Language, then how did non-humans use magic? Although, that question could wait until he answered Morona’s question about the general use of magic in Alagaesia.

“Yes, people who are capable of magic, elven or human, first start out using the ancient language. It is also rare here for humans to possess the ability to use magic. Everyone who uses magic must use the ancient language to control their abilities and spells. However, once enough knowledge and ability is built up, the use of the ancient language isn’t always required for some spells,” It was a lot of knowledge and heavy wording on his part but he was sure that Morona wouldn’t mind.

“I do have to ask though, you’d stated that humans use your Forgotten Language, however I’m curious as to how non-humans use magic. Since everyone in Alagaesia uses the ancient language, another form of magic would be of great interest to the rider’s council.” he hadn’t meant for it to sound as if the rider’s council would only be interested in the magical portion of his report, not that he’d even mentioned to Morona that he would be reporting this back. He had meant that it would intrigue them to look into it more, maybe another meeting sometime in the future to discuss further findings as well as to check in on their progress within Alagaesia.

---

Kaime was right. No one would want to willingly be referred to as a wyvern. The fact that his revelation wouldn’t help calm his feelings towards the instinctive reaction, Varden felt it right to offer a possible explanation as to why it happened. “No, I guess not,” It was still shameful, but with an explanation maybe he wouldn’t view it as his fault from now on.

By the isle of flies, the flies was referring to wyverns. Varden nodded his head as he stated that it was a choice and not a sickness to be able to end someone’s life. He was right about that. He had the choice to use his blood in that manner. “I am glad that you have reached enlightenment toward your condition. I am sorry if my explanation offended you in any way.” Kaime was right about how it would be considered an insult even for a human.

[/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Amur]

We spent several long moments running everything that Taured had just told us through our mind. Things here seemed... Almost easy when compared to Empire Nirvana, however, we would have to reserve judgement.

“Hmph, interesting, what you say regarding racial superiority rings true within Empire Nirvana, also. Many of the Non-Humans know never to underestimate a human, those that do tend to die very quickly.”
We said calmly, we much assumed the same could be said of this land, we allowed the silence to stand for a long while as we continued running Taured’s information through our mind.

“Yes, we are capable of magic without the use of The Language. We have had more than enough time to become aware of some of the less-well-known pieces of information regarding magic.”
We said calmly.

“Your question regarding use of magic within Empire Nirvana actually intrigues us, Taured. For our explanation, we are going to assume that you only magic as it’s used through means of your Ancient Language. So, forgive anything we may state in ignorance. Your statement regarding the life-span of Humans tells us that Augmentation and Alteration Magic here isn’t quite as ‘far-along’ –if you wish to say it as such- as it is in Empire Nirvana.”
We began, planning on using our Right Hand, Kaime as an example of what we were about to say.

“Our Right Hand living with toxic blood running through his veins should be some indication of what some Non-Humans are capable of in that field. There are actually Non-Humans in Empire Nirvana with the know-how to enable a Human to live a longer life than he-or-she normally would live, it is not uncommon to meet human’s in Empire Nirvana over two-hundred years of age. We know several that are still alive today at five-hundred.”
We stated factually.

“That however, requires that internal-organs and a large amount of their blood are replaced magically by that of a former, immortal or long-lived being... Which has a higher survival-rate than you may think... So, it’s not as bad as it sounds.”
We finished off; the survival rate of such procedures was definitely higher than that of a pair undergoing the bonding process to becoming a Union, but, we had already previously stated how low the odds of surviving such a process were, so we had little need to vocalise that to Taured, he was likely intelligent enough to realise that himself.

“We do have two among our people capable of demonstrating two other forms of magic that are relatively common throughout Empire Nirvana. The art of Pyromancy and Self-Sustaining Curses, however, both Baldur and Ace are presently exploring and are out of our reach.”
We ended that explanation there, our knowledge on Pyromancy was extremely limited and we didn’t know nearly enough about Self-Sustaining Curses to even attempt to explain those. Any being actively offering tutelage in those were fiercely protective of their knowledge.

“There is also a method of utilising the energy required to cast spells in its rawest form. Think of that as closer to a more ‘blunt-object’ among blades. It takes more practice than you may think to truly get the hang of, however, we do not recommend trying it for yourself so quickly.”
We said calmly. Pausing for a moment we decided it may be necessary to at least demonstrate the technique to Taured, however, we were not in the habit of showing-off.

“If you wish for a demonstration, we will oblige. The drop in energy when using such spells is somewhat more noticeable than it would normally be.”
We said, we knew how to channel the energy and manipulate very well –we had, had more than enough practice- and knew how to perform such spells multiple times in succession with only a minimal drop in energy, that didn’t make it any less taxing overall, however, it could become somewhat bothersome when used if not needed.

“As for general magic among Non-Humans, it runs similarly with the use of magic and language; however, many of them have their own language. We know several of these tongues, and are capable of some magic using them, but, there is very little noticeable difference visually. Most of the spells require more energy and simultaneously require the energy to be manipulated in a different method. Highly impractical, even to us; it’s better to stick to what you know. The only real difference would be you may have trouble understanding the nature of a spell we were to cast because you didn’t understand the language we used to cast it.”
We paused for a moment.

“And, well. Considering we are capable of spell weaving without the use of your Ancient Language, it would be highly redundant anyway.”
We concluded.

“Was there anything else?”
---

Kaime shrugged lightly as Varden said his piece. Why would he have been offended? When he looked back at his near-death experience involving the wyvern he spent more time cursing his own stupidity than he spent feeling sorry for himself. The end result had been his own fault and he could freely admit that, he wondered for a brief moment if he hadn’t made that clear in the first place. He dismissed the thought moments later, clearly not.

“None taken, the fact I got stung was my own fault so I’ve long since come to accept the consequences.”
He shrugged absently.

“The Hunter’s have a mantra for similar situations; ‘adapt or die’. I found it fitting and ended up using it myself.”
He stated flatly, not much of a motivational story, by any means, but that mantra had kept him going... Alexia also has played a big part of that, but she wasn’t going to add anything to this conversation, Kaime already knew that and saw no need to mention it. So, he saved the breath that would have otherwise been spent on that explanation.

“Besides, I cannot deny the use an arm with no feeling has. Always nice to stun Non-Human’s to silence when I cave the chest of a Non-Human twice my size with one punch.”
He said calmly.

“No matter how bad things are, they could be worse.”

[Mali]

Taured was glad to hear that things in Empire Nirvana were similar to those in Alagaesia. It would make things easier for the people who came with Morona to adjust to life in Alagaesia better.

Morona seemed to think for a while, probably running what he’d said through his mind before speaking again. He was shocked to hear that they could command magic so easily without the use of a language. However, he didn’t allow the shock to show on his features, he simply nodded his head and thought about what he’d said. That was an amazing feat to have accomplished. Morona was obviously much older than Taured and had had many years to perfect the technique, however, Taured seemed to get the idea that everyone in Empire Nirvana who wasn’t human started with this ability. It fascinated him.

Taured didn’t say anything as Morona continued on. He intrigued Morona because of a simple question? He continued to listen, about to question what he meant by augmentation and alteration magic. They didn’t have different types of magic, it just depended on what the spell was intending to do and how it was worded. The idea that they had different types of magic intrigues Taured.

Thinking about what Morona said, humans living well above their standard age, having internal organs altered to allow the process to happen, Taured had to judge whether it would be a benefit to Alagaesians to have such knowledge. Often at times, there was information that Taured received that he had to judge whether it was for the good of Alagaesia to know that information. He would have to ask about the process a bit more first before he could make any decisions.

“Sorry to interrupt your explanation, however I am confused. Here, we do not have different forms of magic, the spell operates based on intent and wording. So my question is, how do these different forms vary? Are they performed in a different way that just using your mind?” Taured had to use the ancient language still to cast spells. He knew that Morona was able to use his mind to cast his spells and had to wonder what made the other forms of magic different in Empire Nirvana.

At the mention of his knowledgeable persons not being in the area, Taured was disappointed. He would have liked to find out more about this self-sustaining curses business. If it were anything similar to creating a shade or even just curses in general, then it would be interesting information that the council would like to know of.

“Please, a demonstration would be much appreciated,” Taured would enjoy a demonstration, it may explain to him in a better fashion what Morona was talking about. The idea that you could use the rawest form of magic struck something. Dragons were magical beings that contained and made their own magic. However, they weren’t capable of using that magic and instead enhanced their rider’s magical abilities. But what if using this form allowed the dragons to use the magic that they created and were born of?

So their form of magic would confuse Taured in battle. Is that what Morona was trying to get across? Taured knew that if you didn’t know the ancient language, it was very difficult to use the magic that a person possess. It would make sense that if he didn’t know the languages that they were speaking, that the spells would confuse him as to their intent.

At the next question, Taured looked up and thought about whether there was anything else that he wanted to know. “Not at the moment, is there anything else that you would like to know about Alagaesia?”

---

Varden nodded his head as Kaime spoke. He didn’t know what else to say on the matter. They had discussed what happened, how it could be cured, among other things. Of course, their meeting hadn’t gotten off to good footing, however, no one was standing around the pair glaring with their weapons ready anymore. It was as if the threat of his blood had told the people it wasn’t worth it.

“You are right, things could be worse.”

[/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Amur]

We had allowed what Taured had said to roll through our mind, perhaps he was correct, magic involving The Forgotten Language –or, The Ancient Language here- didn’t really have different branches, it mostly depended on whether or not the mage in question desired specialisation, in which case they would often focus on the versatility of what they could do with their desired specialisation.

The Non-Human magic’s, however.

“Yes, we did not explain that one very well. Magic involving The Forgotten –or Ancient- Language functions much as you stated. The decision to study the effects of magic in specific ways depends on the mage in question. This normally ends up with them creating a branch, if you like.”
We said.

“Magic used by the Non-Humans of Empire Nirvana differs in that respect. Certain languages are better at certain things than others, while other languages can only do certain things. We would, at this point refer you to Baldur under normal circumstances. Since he owns over one-hundred books teaching some of these languages. However, as it stands, he is not presently among our people, and we won’t so blatantly violate his privacy.”
We paused for a moment.

“Do not let the number deceive you, Taured. His collection barely scratches the surface of the many languages the Non-Humans in Empire Nirvana speak. Some of them only Baldur will actively be able to speak, since he has the additional vocal organs required to speak them.”
He said calmly, pausing for another brief moment as we allowed that explanation it’s time to sink in. We weren’t about to go off topic enough to start discussing the multitude of anatomical differences between Non-Humans and Humans. That could wait for another day, well, if such a day were to ever come about. We knew that Baldur had several books regarding the subject, but most of that knowledge existed with The Hunter’s, and they were highly unlikely to give such information away... ever.

“Very well, we must warn you to keep a minimum distance from us as we provide your requested demonstration, however.”
We stated, taking a moment the look for some kind of target. Eventually we picked out a lone tree and strode toward it, still too small to provide our people with the timber it would be an adequate demonstrational target. We stopped just short of it and raised our right hand as an open palm, gathering the required energy we directed it into our open palm and then made it more compact. Our facial expression remaining as it always did throughout the entire process.

We merely impressed our will upon the orb of unseen energy to get it to do as we wished. Rapidly the compact orb of energy expanded, maintaining its spherical shape, causing the air around us to distort as it was soundlessly released. A loud cracking sound followed before the impact of our spell hit true. At the point the tree was tilted backwards, a large majority of its branches snapping from the trunk and then flying backwards several meters.

We had left the tree partially uprooted, causing it to lean back slightly.

We drew in a small breath, knowing how to manipulate energy in this way well enough to make the drop in energy negligible to us. We turned back to Taured, allowing him a moment to process what we had shown him before we spoke again.

“The more energy used in this process, the more violent the result. Just keep in mind that this is more taxing than magic normally would be to the caster. The caster also needs to be able to perform magic reliably beforehand; otherwise, nothing will happen... We personally recommend against trying it, it is taxing, and has very limited use.”
We stated calmly. Falling silent to consider whether or not we had any further questions regarding this land, we still had questions, but many of them were largely trivial, we had discussed all the matters we presently deemed to be of importance... So, for the time being, we had nothing else to ask.

Almost nothing.

“Not so much a question, more a request. The two we originally sent exploring, Baldur and Ace, we sent because we did not know of your existence, we ask if it would be possible to acquire a map of the land. Right now, we think it to be the one piece of knowledge that we need most in order to allow our people to thrive here.”
---

Kaime had nothing more to say on what had already been discussed with Varden so far, there was just one thing, gnawing at him, however. Varden wasn’t like the others of his kind that Kaime had already met, he had noted to himself earlier that he had only had limited contact with these “Lizards” and had thusly been unable to judge them, but those he had met. They had left Kaime with such a bad impression that he had secretly been holding something of a bias towards them... Being representative of Lord Morona had forced him to keep his thoughts on this matter to himself, as much as Alexia disapproved of-

“You’re not like the others of your kind we’ve already met, Varden.”
Alexia had said suddenly, Kaime almost positive that she had now made mental contact with the dragon... That had been unexpected, that she had opted to talk to anyone else voluntarily was shocking in its own right, and more to the fact that she was actually being civil about it, well, that just caused Kaime further shock. But, he didn’t allow it to show, not even if Alexia hadn’t given Kaime any reason to think that she would talk.

“That’s Alexia.”
He said simply.

[Mali]

Taured took note of how their magic worked. The languages worked basically the same except that some languages could only do certain things and others were limited. The Ancient Language was an overall standard language that would allow a person to be capable to doing almost anything. In that respect, Taured was simply stating that the Ancient Language wasn’t limited to only certain things.

Taured also made note of the name Baldur. He would have liked to speak with this man about the knowledge of such languages and felt it disappointing that he wasn’t in their group at the moment. Simply tilting his head, he agreed not to ask about his possible whereabouts. It was rude to request such information without the other’s permission to interrupt privacy. But he would keep the name in the back of his mind. Should he ever run in this Baldur, he may ask his questions then.

“I shall keep the name in mind, in case I ever run into this Baldur.” he stated simply.

He was curious, however, as Morona stated that Baldur had the vocal organs to speak certain languages. This implied that Morona, who looked normal to Taured, was different. He wasn’t human and obviously, neither was Baldur. So did this mean that their genetic structures were different as well? He wouldn’t question it though as Morona seemed to move on to the demonstration that he had requested.

Standing back a bit from Morona, giving him the distance that he had warned him about, Taured watched with interest, relaying the scene as it happened back to Varden. Taured knew that Varden would find this very interesting, the idea of harnessing raw power. Taured was able to do it in the form of the Ancient Language, taking raw power and processing it through the written word. However, he didn’t know anyone who could take the raw power and use the raw power as the end result.

Even though there was nothing visible as he watched Morona at the tree, Taured was able to feel the energy being pulled and shaped in Morona’s palm. The right way to describe the feeling would be static electricity or humidity. The area had suddenly become humid and sharp to the feel. Watching closer, the air around him distorted as the power source did something and there was a loud cracking sound. At first, it sounded like lightning, but Taured knew better. The sheer force of the raw energy had been so strong that the cracking sound had come from the tree in front of him. The power had been so much that the cracking only sounded louder.

He watched in almost slow motion as the tree visibly cracked and tilted before moments later it flew meters away from Morona. He was quite impressed, and Varden was highly interested. Something about the act had piqued his interest greatly. He would discuss the idea that was nagging his mind with Taured later, he was still thinking.

As Morona said that you needed to be able to wield and use magic before you could possibly attempt it, Varden pushed at Taured’s mind eagerly with a question. Chuckling lightly, Taured looked over to Morona.

“Varden would like to ask, do you need to be able to use magic before attempting such an act? What if your body is filled with unprocessed magic already although, you cannot process it. Would this technique be possible?” it was then that Taured understood why Varden was so interested in the idea and technique. Varden was a dragon and not able to process his magic into anything for unknown reasons. If he were able to use this technique, he would be able to thus, use his magic.

Taured listened as Morona asked for a map of Alagaesia. That shouldn’t be too hard to answer. He had a map on his right now that he could give to Morona. He didn’t really need it, it was just for reference and he could always pick up another when he got back to Ilirea with his report.

“That shouldn’t be a problem. I have a map in top condition back in Varden’s saddle if we would like to head back?”

---

Varden was shocked to feel another touch his mind. He didn’t throw up defenses to the voice, giving it the benefit of the doubt. He had been right, the voice hadn’t meant to inflict harm upon the dragon, but merely place a compliment to him. They were right, he wasn’t like many of his kind. He couldn’t say that all dragons were the same, there were a few he knew personally who were as calm and level headed as he was, but not many. Many dragons were rash and prideful when insulted.

He took the compliment and tilted his head down toward where the voice had come from. Alexia, a pretty name for an intelligent and observant woman.

“I thank you. Yes, many of my kind are rash and abrasive; however, I represent the rider’s council. I should never act such a way.”

[/b] it wasn’t that he was forced to behave around them and other people. He was naturally calm and reserved for a dragon.

“Although, how I act is my true nature,”[/b] he didn’t want to make it seem as if he was forced to behave this way either. He touched Alexia’s mind gently, allowing the reply to carry over if she so desired.[/size][/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Amur]

“You will know Baldur when you see him, he is a very... Distinctive person.”
We stated calmly in response to Taureds assurance that he would keep Baldurs name in mind, the statement was not meant as an insult. Far from it, The Half-Breed was distinctive, even to other half-breeds if only for the colour of his eyes. He had told us of his theory surrounding the subject but had said that he had been unable to confirm it, and it definitely did give us cause to raise an eyebrow. The subject matter of Non-humans somehow mating with Wyverns was not new to us –though we shared the desire not to know how they managed this- but the idea of beings as proud as The Warlords being ashamed enough of something in their past to censor their family tree... It spoke volumes to us.

We cast a glance back at our village as Taured asked us a question on Varden’s behalf. It was a good question; we had already been well-versed in the practise of magic when we had learned the technique behind unleashing energy in its rawest form. However, no matter how much we thought about it we found ourselves unable to find a definitive answer to the question, all others capable of the same feat had at least been capable of using magic beforehand.

“It is a good question; however, it is one that we are unable to answer. All others we know of taught of this technique had been capable of magic in some manner beforehand, so we would assume that the knowledge of spell weaving is required in the very least. But, as of now we are unable to give a more substantial answer... However, we will spend some time looking into it, we cannot promise results, though.”
We finally answered, not a satisfying answer, even to our ears. But, it is not something that we had ever had the idea to try; the idea seemed impractical for many Non-humans and all humans after all. So the idea would have been either dismissed long ago, or, quite simply never come to mind because there had simply been no point in thinking upon it. Whatever the answer, we would spend some time looking into it.

In fact, we had unintentionally lost ourselves to thought when we once more heard Taured speak. Varden’s question had actually sparked an idea that we now wished to try, however, we had no reason to voice our idea, not until we could be sure that it worked. No need in giving voice to an idea born of uncertainty.

“Hm. Yes, we have no further questions for the time being, though, we are sure that more will arise in the future.”
We began leading the way back to our village –we had no need to, but as host it was the polite thing to do- running all we had learned so far through our mind, there was a good chance that we would have to look further into the history surrounding much of what Taured had already told us in order to gain a better understanding of it. An interesting development, to learn the history of another land, but not one we were going to complain about.

“Thank you, for not allowing Master Hunter Latro to sour your perception of us or of our people.”
---

“Indeed, why act in a way other than one you find befitting?”
Alexia had replied to Varden. Kaime had no idea what to make of this, at all. Alexia didn’t normally speak to anyone... Well, unless she was hurling unprecedented amounts of verbal abuse at someone –which was incredibly common during their interactions with The Hunter’s- ... In fact, the only person he had heard Alexia talk to with this much... Respect was Lord Morona, and even then, she did so begrudgingly.

He felt Alexia impress upon his mind that Varden had –so far- treated Kaime with a measure of respect that he had otherwise not received from the natives of this land. –Kaime knew without being told that she had kept that impression between both herself and Kaime- At the thought Kaime allowed himself another –very slight- smile. But soon had himself back under control.

“You’ve got to be the first person she’s ever spoken to willingly... Without her throwing verbal abuse around at least.”
Kaime said flatly.

[Mali]

A distinctive person, eh? Taured wondered what that meant exactly. He hadn’t met many Nirvanians yet and had no idea what distinctive would be like for someone from Empire Nirvana. He assumed that once and if he ever came across this Baldur, that he would know instantly that he was the same Baldur that Morona spoke of.

Varden waited somewhat impatiently for Morona to answer his question. He was excited at the thought of being able to use his magic, even if only for a somewhat destructive purpose. He still felt a little jealous of Taured being able to use magic so easily while he was filled with the substance and couldn’t use any of it. So the thought that he might be able to use his magic made him very eager for a response.

What he received, however, made him disheartened at the thought of using magic. Of course, he knew the basics of how magic worked and when using the Ancient Language, it was all about proper wording, pronunciation and intent. He knew how to work magic, just not able to do it. That counted, right? He left the question to hang though, feeling as though it may waste some of Morona’s time to continue on with a question he’d already stated he didn’t know the answer to.

“Of course, I would expect more questions to come the longer you are here in Alagaesia.” Taured nudged Varden’s mental space gently, telling him that it was alright to be let down by the answer. He reminded his dragon that there was still a chance that it was possible since Morona hadn’t said no to the question.

Following Morona back through the village, Taured summed up everything that he had learned about Empire Nirvana. There was a lot to take in, but the most important piece that he needed to get back to the rider’s council was their form of magic. How easy it was for someone to use magic without the use of a language, to use their mind instead. He would need to send this information to the council quickly so they may be able to start researching these methods of magic and whether Alagaesians may be able to learn it as well.

“It was nothing, we do not judge people based on past actions. We believe in giving everyone the benefit of the doubt before we make any assumptions,” it was true. They wouldn’t let Solomon to sour their view of Empire Nirvana. They understood that Empire Nirvana had set customs that he had been raised by that were different to their own. As most people had different traditions and rules to follow in their households, it was the same for countries. There was no reason to judge these people solely on what Solomon had done while in this land.

---

Varden nodded his head, smiling at the response he received from Alexia. She was very polite indeed. He was glad that so many people of this land had proven his beliefs to be true. Taured and Varden always gave people the benefit of a doubt before making assumptions on their behalf, and these people had used their benefit for good. From now on, Varden would have a good view of the few individuals he had spoken with since arriving at their camp.

Shocked to hear what Kaime had said, Varden looked around trying to see if he could spot Alexia. He had thought her to be polite and reserved. What he heard about her usual behaviour towards others confused him. He would still believe her to be a polite young lady. “Well, not to be conceited, but I must have made a wonderful impression on her.” he chuckled, the sound rumbling throughout his stomach.

“I am glad to have met you Kaime, and Alexia, it was a pleasure I hope to make again,”

[/b][/size][/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Amur]

We had little else to say, for the time being we had plenty of information to run through our mind. Much of it we would have Nel send to Baldur, and have him investigate some of it in further depth, we already knew the value of forming our own opinions. After all, we were already rapidly approaching our eight-and-a-half century of life; we had witnessed the construction of the four Hunting Clans and knew the full truth behind that event.

Now, if only our people were as easy to convince, there might not be so much tension between them and our allied Hunter’s.

We allowed ourselves a small chuckle at Taured’s words. If only everyone was aware of such values.

“If only more people were aware of the value behind forming their own opinion... We expect to face some prejudice once people start learning of our connection to Master Hunter Latro, regardless of how indirect it is. We fully expect our people to be thoroughly insulted, but we will adapt.”
We stated calmly.

“You need not worry about our allied Hunter’s following the example that Master Hunter Latro has set, there are terms to our alliance.”
We said, our thoughts once more falling back to Alma... yes, that problem would most definitely need to be resolved, there would only be so long that our allied Hunter’s would be able to keep her in check.

“We do have one favour to ask of you, Taured.”
This time we lowered our voice slightly.

“Inform Master Hunter Latro, that we suspect he has left past ‘prey’ alive, and then tell him the name High-Huntress Alma D’alene. He should be able to piece together what that means. And should, with luck keep him away from some of your populated areas, we recommend asking Master Hunter Latro for further details... If, of course, he is willing to share them...”
We said calmly, knowing The Hunters fierce paranoia of their Clan secrets.
---

Kaime made a quiet sound in amusement at Varden’s comment, indeed, he must have made a wonderful impression, Alexia didn’t even speak to Lord Morona as civilly as she had just spoken to Varden. Though, Kaime knew that to be down to her disdain of Kaime’s “slavery” to him, he had never bothered to argue with that view, she already knew that Kaime had sworn himself to Lord Morona willingly.

“You must have done. She doesn’t even talk to Lord Morona that civilly.”
He stated –though, with a somewhat lighter tone than was usual- which got Alexia to make her disapproval of that revelation apparent to Kaime. He gave a very small smile at the feeling and assured Alexia that it was all in good humour, though, he doubted that she would take the remark as such... That was likely to get him the silent treatment for several hours. To which he gently chuckled at, sometimes Alexia could be a little bit too serious.

“It’s all in good humour Princess. All in good humour...”
He muttered gently, feeling her displeasure toward his earlier comment subside slightly Kaime drew in a small breath and returned to his usual stoic-like demeanour. Before finally giving Varden a small nod and the same salute-like gesture he had given taured and Varden, both when their meeting had started.

[Mali]

Taured knew that it was important to form your own opinions about things and people. He also knew that many didn’t. It was something that took an effort that people were biased not to make. They would rather follow the crowd and believe in gossip instead of forming their own opinions. As representatives for the rider’s council, Taured wasn’t allowed to do such a thing. It was a good thing that he believed in forming his own opinions or else this job might actually turn out to be harder than it is.

“Too true, people tend not to think for themselves and decide to follow the crowd. However, the bounty on Solomon Latro’s head is about the only thing people will know of, in places he has yet to make a name for himself. So I am certain that you may have fruitful success in these parts,” he smiled to Morona reassuringly. Solomon had yet to come near these parts of Alagaesia. Morona and his people would have an easier time adjusting in these parts than if they had entered somewhere in the Spine or elsewhere. Solomon had made a name for himself in many places, but these people should be able to successfully establish themselves here.

Nodding his head, he need not worry about the hunters with Morona. They had listened to his word so far, there was little chance that they would go against what Morona said after they left. Taured and Varden would just never introduce themselves using Solomon Latro again.

Listening to what Morona asked of him, Taured thought it over. He had no knowledge of the meaning behind the name or the message Morona was trying to send to Solomon, should they meet up again, but he would deliver it nonetheless. “I shall deliver the message should we meet again,” He had no guarantee that he would meet up with Solomon again, so that was the best answer that he could give to Morona.

They reached the front of the village rather quickly as Varden appeared in view again and coming up close.

---

At the response and quiet sound of what Varden believed to be amusement, Varden could tell that Kaime would receive some of this verbal abuse that he had told Varden of. He would still view Alexia as a polite young lady since that was how she had spoken and treated Varden. Just because she may treat other people with a different manner, wasn’t reason for him to change his opinion since, she hadn’t spoken to him that way.

Varden turned his head to see that Taured and Morona were approaching quickly.

Their visit to this group had been short lived, although hopefully, it wasn’t in vain and both parties had sought information that would be of value to both parties. Taured walked over to Varden, patting his side before reaching into the back of the saddle where he kept the map that Morona had requested.

Taking the finely printed parchment over to Morona, Taured held it out for him to take. Some of the villagers had gathered around again, watching the interaction between them. Hopefully, they wouldn’t react as hostile as they had when the rider pair first arrived.

“The map you requested. And a messenger hawk should arrive within a few days. Whenever you need to contact us, for whatever reason, just send the hawk out and it will find us,”

That was something that Taured would need to set up as soon as they got back to Ilirea and he could acquire a new hawk. This hawk would have to have some kind of marking, since Ilirea had many hawks that they sent out and Taured would need to know if the hawk was now coming from Ilirea or from Morona.

Taured hoisted himself up onto Varden’s back, waiting for any closing remarks or farewells before he would take off. Still on the ground, Taured nodded to Morona.

“It was a pleasure to meet you, I hope we may have many well intent conversations in the future, Lord Morona.” It was a conversation that Taured had enjoyed having since he didn’t have many conversations with people often. Although, conversation with Varden was always interesting since they were bonded and could share thoughts, etc with each other, it had been nice to have an intriguing conversation with someone new.

“I hope we may meet again in the future, and may your success in this land be fruitful,”

[/b] Varden addressed the general population that had come to see them off, or to see if they would do anything before leaving.[/size][/blockquote][/blockquote]

[Amur]

Wisdom, and at such a young age. Yes, looking at the way this encounter had started we considered ourselves lucky that it had been one as level-headed and Taured. Things could have very easily gone in the opposite direction, and we could state that with confidence, knowing that Kaime felt the same way. We nodded in response to what Taured had to say, we understood his words, Hunter’s could be very difficult people to find.

“Yes, we harbour no disillusions regarding your ability to find Master Hunter Latro again, Hunter’s tend to be difficult to find.”
We answered in understanding. We had to admire the way the abilities of the Hunter’s had grown over the last four-hundred years. It was little wonder that the Nameless Emperor feared them; for that was the reason behind their disposable Necromancer making his attack on The Hunter’s in the first place.

As far as we were aware even The Warlords were cautious of The Hunters –or at least they had been- when we had served as the witness to the creation of The Hunters over four-hundred years ago, they had been little more than four large groups of warriors, and civilians each following their leader-figure.

But now, even we had reason to respect their abilities.

We returned our attention to Taured as he handed us the map we had requested earlier and informed us that a messenger hawk would be sent our way shortly. We merely nodded our understanding, such a system seemed terribly slow, then again, we would likely require Nel to deliver messages to Baldur for us at only a moment’s notice, best to keep her around for that... well, and there was always the reasoning that Nel didn’t know Taured herself.

“If we require your assistance for any reason, we shall not hesitate to notify you.”
We said informatively.

We couldn’t help but arch an eyebrow as Taured called us “Lord”; it had been unexpected, that much we could admit to. Was it showing due respect on his part? Or did he feel as though he had to call us by such a formal title? Whatever his reasons, we merely allowed ourselves a small smile and inclined our head ever so slightly.

“We hope to be better settled when we next meet.”
We noted, taking a moment to gage the expressions that many of our people had about them. Many of them returning after Our Right Hand had sent them away; we fully expected them to start bombarding us with questions once Taured and Varden had left... They would never trust these two, and would likely never trust these other Riders that Taured had mentioned, however, we would be able to convince them to stay their hands.

We were the only reason they had managed to escape from Empire Nirvana in the first place. They looked-up to and respected us enough to willingly call us “Lord”; they wouldn’t go against what we requested of them.

We kept our gaze at our people as Varden seemingly addressed them as well as us and Kaime judging by the expressions ranging from discomfort all the way to disgust... We would likely have to conduct all further talks with Taured and Varden at a distance from our people, if only to avoid creating unnecessary tension for our people. Kaime, however, judging by the almost unnoticeable smirk that quirked the corners of his mouth seemed to find the discomfort and disgust of everyone else somewhat amusing.

“It’s been... Nice, to speak to a native whom is willing to talk without delusion flecking their words, until we meet again, Varden and Taured...”
Kaime stated flatly, giving the pair a small salute as he turned and walked back to the building that we owned... Undoubtedly still intending to give us his full report on his time spent alone on this land, and report to us likewise what he had discussed with Varden. We expected as much, we had much to discuss with him regarding our conversation with Taured, and now that we had a map. We could ensure that Baldur would be able to find his way around.

“Until we meet again, Rider Taured...”
We stated calmly with another small nod. Backing into our village and standing among our people, we would have to go to some lengths to explain this to them... But we were confident that we could manage it.