Scarlett glanced around the clearing, she pressed her hand to the earth, closing her eyes, she could feel the vibes in the air, the dragons had been here. She thought back to their escape, it had been troublin her why they had spared her life. She glared, it didn't matter anymore, it was simply something they would live to regret.

---

A giant tree grew out of the forest, it's trunk large enough to house several human houses and with room to spare. It's branches reaching so high that they appeared to peirce the clouds from below. Nestled in it's roots was a large doorway opened wide to show a fair sized room with tables and chairs seemingly growing up out of the floor. At the back of the room was a long counter with glasses and bowls piled high and ready to grab. The tree was known as the Flora Inn a living inn ready to welcome any and all travelors.

Shuruikan was flying back to his families cave. He spots a dragon laying in the field looking like it's dead. He goes and lands next to it to find it was his wife Shaquia. He roars in anger. He then looks around to find that his hatchling is nowhere in sight. He starts to smell the air smelling the scent of elves. "Damn those elves! I will kill everyone of them if they hurt my hatchling." Suddenly Shaquia opens her eyes for a brief second. "Angelus is her name. Your hatchling is named Angelus." She said in a mournful tone as she closes her eyes again. The last bit of breath she had, escapes her then. He takes flight to find where Angelus has gone. He spots a wierd looking tree and goes to see what it is. He lands next to it in a steep dive.

As if sensing the presence of a rather larger sized guest, the doorway of the inn seems to sigh and grow larger until the dragon can enter without even brushing his scales against the frame. Even within the tables seem to spread out allowing more room for passage.

Shuruikan looks at the doorway wondering what magic this is. But he goes in. He sniffs around for a moment not even noticing if there was some sort of creature inside.

Behind the long counter at the very back of the room a strange sort of creature looks up at the dragon with a smile. Her skin was as green as the stem of a flower and just as long and thin. Instead of hair she had rather fuzzy looking white and yellow petals and leaves grew from her shoulders and ankles. A small white apron was the only clothing she wore, or needed to wear since her body was as sexless as the stem of a flower as well. Lasah Flora was a flower elemental and only made herself generally human shaped to make her guests feel more comfortable. She greeted the dragon as she would any other guest. "Good day m'dear. It's so good to see you here! Look how big you are! Well? Sit down, sit down. What would you like to eat? Some soup, or maybe you're thirsty?" 

He raises an eye at her but otherwise asks "Don't you know what I am?"

"Of course I know what you are, dear. It's not like you're hiding. Dragon's are rather obvious creatures to distinguish." The innkeeper's smile didn't fade in the slightest, in fact she seemed rather pleased that her newest guest had decided to speak to her at all.

"Yes I can tell you know I'm a dragon. But what kind of dragon?" He says with a little tiny rumble in his chest.

"Hrmm..." The little green woman set a plain wooden bowl aside after scrubbing it and picked up another. Her smile vanished for a moment and a look of age and wisdom appeared on her face, before she smiled again. "Ah, you're worried that I may be upset since you're a black dragon, one of the lawless? It doesn't matter to me what you may be. I'm only a humble innkeeper and I serve anyone who wishes to come within these walls. I would prefer no fighting with other guests, but such things happen."

He had a look of shock on his face. "Forgive me I'm just looking for my daughter. And yes I would like something to drink, please."

The little innkeeper nodded and set down the bowl she was scrubbing. "Anything in particular dear? I serve anything plant based, I'm afraid I don't do meat dishes. But tea, water, juice even wines and ales are available." She looked up at the dragon again and her expression turned a little impish. "Although I'll have to make my drinking vessels a bit larger to serve you." She reached to an ordinary looking wooden goblet which she set on the floor and as soon as the goblet touched down it began to grow larger as if blowing up like a balloon. The grain of the wood swirled and stretched along with the goblet, until the goblet was of a size that would easily be held by the claws of the monstrous sized dragon. "You may call me Lasah if you would like, and if you'll tell me a bit about you're daughter I will send out shoots to do some listening."

"Tea actually sounds good at the moment. And as for my daughter, I never knew her. I had to leave before she hatched. All I know is her name. It's Angelus." He says somberly.

"Angelus... it's quite a pretty name." Lasah nodded and lifting the large goblet without seeming to notice it's wait she vanished into a doorway that appeared in the back wall. A window opened next to it showing a rather green and woody looking kitchen where the innkeeper moved around making the tea for her guest. The kitchen also helped her as did tiny little insectlike and even a rather chubby dragonlike creature by carrying different things the innkeeper needed. Soon the goblet was filled with a steaming drink that smelled like fresh berries and herbs. She lifted this and came back out to offer the drink to the dragon. Both the door and the window vanishing again as she did so. "I'll remember that." She said as if only a couple seconds had passed instead of nearly 9 minutes while she made the tea.

He slowly takes the drink and sets it down infront of him. He sniffs it. "Smells good," He then sticks his tounge in it and tries a little "And tastes good."

"Why thank you my dear! I'm glad that you like it." The little innkeeper grinned, happy to have pleased such an odd sort of guest.

He gulps most of it down. He hears some voices outside. "There a spot I can hide? Dragons aren't well liked around here." He asks calmly. "I would hate to tear this place up. It's nice and cozy."

The innkeeper's smile turns a trifle sly and she nods. "Flora Inn is whatever it needs to be. All you need do is say so." She gestured to a wall that was previously blank and another doorway began to open leading to a comfy looking dragon sized room. "As soon as you go in the wall will close behind you and no one will even know there's anything there. Of course it will also be sounds proof as well so even if you hurt your little toe and shout no one will hear. If you need anything just tap on a wall and I will be with you as soon as I have a moment."

"Thank you." He walks into the room. As he does the wall closes behind him. In a couple seconds there were two elves in the Inn. One elf was a trapper another was a hunter.

Trapper: "We caught another dragon the other day."
Hunter: "Well how was it?"
Trapper: "Not much of a fight. It was a young one."
Hunter: "Well normally those are feisty. What it look like?"
They stopped talking as they sat down at a table. The waited for the Inn keeper.

The little innkeeper greeted them as warmly as she had her dragon guest giving no apparent sign she'd heard what they'd been talking about. "Welcome my dears! You seem hungry, what can I get for you?" She smiled warmly.

Trapper/Hunter: "What you got?" they both said in unison.

Lasah gestured at the table before them and the table sprouted two leaves in front of each of them with a menu printed in a darker green color on the two pale green leaves. "Pretty much anything plant based. I'm afraid I don't do meat."

Trapper: "That's ok we don't do meat, much. Hmmm... How bout you surprise us with something."
Hunter: "Good idea man."

Lasah smiled warmly and vanished into her kitchen only to reappear with some freshly baked vegetable pasties still warm from the oven with what appeared to be some sort of tomato based sauce on the side to dip the pasties into. The pasties smelled of several different vegetables that somehow blended together in rather an interesting whole. The outside was golden brown and flakey. She set the platter on the table between the two, and stepped back with a sort of "tada!" expression. Neither would notice that some of the herbs that she'd seasoned the pasties with encouraged a bit of talkativeness.

Trapper: Tries a bite. "This is good. Oh this dragon It looked odd. Not like a normal white dragon but it had red and black scales. It was like it was concieved from a Law-abing and a criminal one."
Hunter: "Never put up that much of a fight either. You speak of a chaos dragon man. Rare to find. That will sell for a pretty good amount."
Trapper: "Yeah but it got away with the help of a Crystal dragon. That dragons name was Tomias. The little one I think was named Angelus. We have someone looking for them now."
They finnished eating and said thank you and left some gold coins and exited the tree.

A cloaked figure came in to the inn, taking a sit at a corner table. He pulled down his hood, letting his long blonde-brown hair out. He looked around the room through glasses. He had a wrap around his neck, and had with with him a case that seemed to contain instruments.

Lasah made note of what the trapper and hunter had said about the chaos dragon as she watched them leave. The chubby dragonlike creature and the large insects swarmed over the table gathering everything and carrying it all back into the kitchen. Lasah wiped the top with a green cloth and turned to her newest guest with another bright smile. "Welcome to Flora Inn, my dear. It's so very good to see you here! Are you hungry? Thirsty maybe? Or perhaps you'd like to just sit and rest a while?"

Sage looked at her. "Thank you, ma'am... I would like something to drink and to eat...though may I ask if you have need or want of a bard?"

The innkeeper's grin widened and she clapped her extremely long fingered hands delightedly. "Of course! I don't have any entertainers helping out tonight, and Flora Inn is always more happy when she has music. Music is very good for plants, I know my own complextion(sp?) always gets a boost." Lasah gestured at the table and this one also grew a leaf with the menu written down on it. "Please order anything you like my dear. You're stage will be fully grown in just a few minutes." She glanced down at the other end of the room where a large spottet and flat-topped mushroom was slowly growing out of the floor. Then the innkeeper left the room and walked back to knock on the wall to her other guest's room. Since the hunter and trapper had left the soundproofing had faded and her knock could be heard on the inside.

Shuruikan walked to the spot where he heard knocking wondering how to get the spot open or if it would open on it's own.

The wall opened just enough to reveal the face of the innkeeper on the other side. She grinned then carefully looked away before stating. "I've heard a story just now. The story of a young chaos dragon with the name of Angelus. She was caught, but apparently escaped with the help of an older crystal dragon named Tomias. Those that captured them are now in search of the pair. Oh! And it seems we may have the services of a bard tonight if you happen to like music." She looked back at him. "Just touch the wall wherever you'd like to go. The wall to the common room you've already come through, the other side leads out and this wall leads to the kitchen."

"Thank you. I think I'll stay and listen to alittle bit of music. It's alright for me to come out?" Shuruikan asked in a gentle tone. Although being a lawless dragon he sure has manners.

"Bards become acclimated to the comings and goings of unusual customers in inns I beleive as do innkeepers such as myself. Besides I have a feeling there's something unusual about this particular bard, of course I could be wrong. It should be more than safe for you to reappear my dear. I shall go and check to see that our bardic friend is comfortable." Lasah Flora dipped her head and the hole in the wall slowly closed itself, before she turned and headed back into the common room. The mushroom had formed itself into a low flat stage and was just finishing a set of stairs and a seat and instrument stand and a small table for the use of the bard.

Sage looked over at her. "Shall I set up, ma'am?"

Lasah looked back over her shoulder at him and smiled, "You should eat and drink first, dear. Have you decided what you would like?"

"Water, bread and cheese... That's all I normally eat...I am use to it not.... I haven't stopped traveling..." Sage said.

Shuruikan Gets up and taps on the wall and it opens. He starts to head out into the Commons room.

Lasah nodded her greeting to her dragon guest and turned with a gentle expression back to the bard. "I understand. Still I think some light soup wouldn't bother your stomach much and I make very tasty breads. Cheese isn't really a specialty but we do carry some as well as milk though they're not plant based. Well I'll see what I can find that won't bother you're poor stomach too much dear. Just relax for a bit until I get back." Lasah smiled gently and left to go into the kitchen and rustle up some food.

Shuruikan glances at the bard and notices a strange but familiar type of aura around him. "Who are you?" He asks calmly.

Sage looks at Shuruikan. "My name is Sage, sir..."

"You have a familiar yet strange aura aound you. Are you a dragon?" He asks without hesitation.

"Half...Why do you ask, sir?" Sage asked back, his eyes holding the look of past hurt, as if being a dragon was a terrible existence.

"I was just wondering. Because we dragons get hunted. Never change into dragon form near elves they hunt us. Some humans do too." Shuruikan says with alittle hint of anger behind it, but it was not dirrected at Sage.

"I know... which is why I left my home... I don't know much of being a dragon anyways... my mother couldn't really teach me..."

"What kind are you? Because most dark dragons are evil and most light dragons are good. But i married a White dragon but she died and i Don't know what happend to our daughter." There was a look of a tear running down Shuruikan's face.

Sage shrugged. "Don't really know... I can manipulate ice and water.... My mother was human so she couldn't help me, and I never knew my father..."

"What's the main one you can manipulate? Ice or water? What I mean is which on can you do more with." Shuru asked.

"Ice..." Sage said. "Why?"

"Well then your an ice dragon. The element you can control is mostly the type you are." Shuru said without a second to spare.

"Oh... and would you know what would make someone just leave?"

"Hey I'm trying to be friendly here. You trying to fight?" Shuru said without thinking about it.

Sage just stared at Shuru. "I... I was just asking if you'd know...." he said softly.

"Sorry I thought wrong. And no I don't." Shuru said apologeticaly.

Sage nodded. "At least you are looking your daughter..."

Shuru nodded in return.

A man all in armor and with a big great sword on his back walks in. He sits down at the closest table to the door. He looks at the dragon and leans back in the chair.

Lasah returned from the kitchen with a tray of food for her bard. It contained a couple of small loaves of freshly baked bread each with a unique flavor, as well as a bowl of vegetable soup and some cheese. There was also a cup of steaming herb tea as well as a glass and a pitcher of water. She placed the tray on the table in front of Sage, with a smile at both of her guests before turning and walking over to her newest guest. She welcomed him with another smile. "Good day, dearest. Welcome and well met. What would you like today?"

"I'll have what he's having." The man said slowly.

Sage thanked Lasah, and looked at Shuru. "I can do more than just manipulate ice and water," he said softly.

"I figured, your a bard. Excellent with music." Shuru said hoping he would play some.

Lasah smiled again and bowed at the waist. "Of course, it will be out in just a moment." She turned and exited the common room again only to reappear in just a couple of seconds with a tray nearly identical to the one she had given Sage, only this one had a sad looking pink flower drooping off one side. She placed the tray on the table in front of the man and with one long finger lifted the flower up to lay across the table out of her guest's way.

Sage nodded. He ate his meal, then took out a small flute and a lap harp. Sage moved to the stage, setting the harp on the instrument stand, then positioned himself on the stool. He began to play a joyful tune on the flute. Everyone in the room began to feel cheerful, even those with somber things on their minds.

The man who came in looked over at the bard. He smiled and started to eat his food.

Lasah smiled wide and twined her fingers together for a moment as she watched Sage playing on his stage. It was immediately obvious to anyone that looked that she didn't really have any bones in her body or if she did they were more like a snakes bones than a human's.

Sage finished the lively tune, and then picked up his lap harp, and began playing. He played a ballad about love lost and love found, and all the people in the inn felt the hope, joy, sadness, and heartache in the song.

The man at the table thought about taking his helmet off so he could eat better.

Shuru spoke to Sage. "Where did you learn to play like that?"

Sage took a break and sat down with Shuru. "My mother taught me about music... but I learned everything else myself... music was...is my only friend... especially as I grew up.... did you... feel anything?"

"Yes you reminded me of my wife, Shaquia. I need to move on but...." Shuru looked like he would cry.

The man suddenly came over to them and said "Shaquia will be fine trust me."

Shuru just stared at him.

Sage looked at Shuru. "I... I'm sorry.... I didn't mean to upset you....I..."

"Sage, I'm not angry at you it's this guy who knows nothing!" Shuru Snaps his jaws near the new guys face.

Sage looked at the new comer. "Why did you say what you said....?"

"I said it because she is with the gods at this very moment. I am one of the gods Avatars. My name is Voronwë."

Lasah watched her customers talk and decided to remain silent for the moment. Instead she returned to the kitchen where she started cooking various things that smelled delicious.

"I don't know if I should trust you." Shuruikan had said with a hint of anger.

"It's up to you to trust me. I won't make you." Voronwë Said in almost a low whisper.

Sage just stared at Voronwë. "What proof do you have....?" Sage felt bad for Shuruikan.

"I don't need proof." Voronwë said slowly.

Hearing that Shuruikan jabs his head at Voronwë, mouth wide open.

Voronwë just side steps and grabs Shuruikan's neck and starts to hold it tightly where Shuruikan can't breath. "Calm down. I am not here to hurt you."
Saying that he lets go.

Sage growled softly.

Voronwë simply states a fact, "You see how big his neck is yet I cut him off from breathing? There is your proof."

Shuruikan stops his abnormal breathing. "He's right very few can do that. Mostly only the gods and their avatars can."

Sage just stared at them. "I have no idea what you both are talking about involving avatars..."

"Avatars," Voronwë started. "Are people who are used by the gods to do their bidding on this world."

Shuruikan just nodded his head.

"Oh..." Sage said.

Delshandra came upon the tavern, Mielikki hidden within her cloak where none would see her. She had been traveling a lot that day and was in need of a good cooked meal and a place other than the ground to sleep. Slipping her bow over her shoulder she entered the tavern looking around for a table out of the way, where no one would notice her.

As if someone had told her that there was a new guest, Lasah appeared from the kitchen carrying another tray of goodies that she set by the dragon, the avatar, and the bard. She left it there without a word for them to help themselves, then walked over to her newest guest. "Greetings my dear. Do you require anything? Anything at all that I can do to make you comfortable?"

Delshandra smiled, "food please mi lady." She replied softly finnaly spotting a spot on the back wall where she could face the door but what still simi covered.

Lasah grinned and bowed her head before going back into the kitchen and returning with a variety of hot and cold foods to present to her newest guest. She found the guest in a secluded corner and placed, the food on the table. "Please just tap on the wall if there is anything else you would like, my dear. I'll come to answer just as soon as I can."

"Thank you mi lady." Delshandra replied lowering her hood and situating herself to where Mielikki could eat the food she would hand to her but still not be seen. Feeling safe enough, she broke off a piece of bread bringing it down for Mielikki to take while she started on a hot soup and surveyed the tavern.

Shuruikan suddenly sniffed the air smelling the scent of a small dragon. He gets up to go find it.

Voronwë looks at Shuruikan knowing what he's going to do. "I would not do it, if I were you. Don't want any more trouble. Do we?"

Sage looked at Shuruikan and Voronwë. "What's.....wrong....?" he asked softly.

"I sense another dragon in here." Shuruikan stated. "Voronwë, I think she has a small dragon with her." He looks at the newcomer.

"She might..." Voronwë says slowly then adding "I don't wish to find out at the moment."

Sage nodded slowly. "I don't want to find out....not now....I..."

Delshandra shifted uncomfortably, she could feel eyes on her. Maybe this was a really bad idea. "Mielikki, maybe we won't stay the night." She whispered almost inaudible to her hidden companion. The response wasn't a nice one; Mielikki bit her left index finger drawing a drop of blood. Trying to keep the shock from registering on her face Delshandra immediately dropped her head over her bowl.

Sage stood up. In a low voice to Voronwë and Shuruikan, he said, "I'm not going to just stare..." He walked over to her table slowly. "Hello miss.... may I ask you something?"

Delshandra dropped her left hand immediately to the hilt of her sword as Mielikki took up a ready to pounce posture under the cloak. "Yes?"

"I was wondering if you had a request for tonight's bard...." Sage asked kindly and softly, his eyes staying with her's, acting as if he didn't know what her hand had done.

Mielikki didn't relax but took a small step forward where a nail of her left front claw could just barely been seen at the seam of Delshandra’s cloak, but only by someone who was looking very closely. "Well um, a tale of the old days, of the flying dragon's." She replied just as softly being careful to keep it friendly as she looked at Sage studiously.

She could sense that Sage was at least part dragon. "As you wish, my lady....would you like to hear one that I wrote....?" Sage asked softly.

"That would be lovely." She replied removing her hand from her hilt and carefully sitting back. This person meant no harm she could tell, even if Mielikki wouldn't stand down from beneath her cloak she would.

Sage nodded. He moved back to the stage, and begun to sing a ballad about dragons, their great strength, and the love that can be found in their great hearts. Everyone in the room felt a wave of joy, love, and sadness all wrapped in one.

Delshandra drew her cloak around her so that Mielikki could come up in her arms without being seen so she could be hugged as they listened to the song. They couldn't quite communicate exactly between the two of them, but Delshandra could read her friends emotions through the way she breathed, and the song evoked strong emotions in them both.

Sage finished with a part that filled all with hope for the future. Sage climbed down from the stage, and walked slowly back to Delshandra's table. "What did you think?" he asked very softly. "That was...the first time for me singing that for anyone...."

Delshandra lifted her arms slowly to give Mielikki time to move back to her waist as Sage walked over. "It was lovely my lord. Very lovely. Time will come again I hope where we may make our past our present and future once more. May I get you something to drink?" She asked as she felt her dragon settle back on her hip and reached out for her own her glass.

"I would like that.... though allow me to pay for both of ours....and...I have never had the past dragons in my ballad had....and my present and future are undescided....."

She nodded as she sat down her cup and reached over tapping the wall. "Why so my lord?" She asked quizzically.

"I was raised by my human mother...I never knew my father...my mom...was the only one that had shown me love...I knew none from others...." he said softly, sitting down with her.

Delshandra nodded, she knew what it was like not to be shown love, other than by one other. "A cruel world we live in today. Even those who have the right to walk with their head held high cannot do so lightly. It-" She felt a sharp claw poke her rib that stunned her into silence, Mielikki wanted more food.

"Are you alright miss...?" Sage asked worry in his voice.

She nodded her head once more. "Yes. Sorry. Would you like something to eat? All that singing must have you worn out." She replied smiling tearing off another piece of bread before taking a bit of her soup with her other hand as she once more lowered the bread down to Mielikki who snatched it out of her fingers.

"I would love something, thank you miss....and again...let me pay for this too...." Sage said softly.

"That is not needed. I don't come around areas of civilization much. My treat." Delshandra repeated smiling as they waited for the lady to arrive. "So what is it you do my lord?" She asked trying to keep the conversation going.

Lasah returned the room and walked to where Delshandra and Sage were talking. She didn't seem to notice the odd slightly dragonish creature that was hanging upside down from the bow of her apron that she had tied behind her. The little creature was pale blue with big green eyes and a chubby slightly dragon shaped face, but it had long thing legs and toes that resembled a frog's with little suction cupped tips. It had wings that were shaped rather like a butterfly's but was made of numerous irridescant feathers. The little creature released it's hold on Lasah's bow as she passed a table. It glided a short distance to land on the table amidst a few empty wooden bowls and immediately started gnawing on one of them.

Lasah came over to Delshandra and Sage with a smile having not noticed her passenger. "Can I help you with anything my dears?"

"I'm a bard....a traveler....that...is what I do...I...don't have a home anymore....and...." Sage looked over at Lasah. "Soup, please ma'am...." Sage looked from her to the other table. "Ah....it looks like we have....another guest...." he said softly.

Lasah turned to look where the bard had looked and saw the little creature gnawing happily on the bowls. Her usual smile grew a trifle sarcastic and she went to try to detach the creature from the bowls he was eating. "Come on now little one, you have proper food in the kitchen these are for guests." The little creature squeaked a protest and flew up to land upside down on the roof, where it proceeded to clean itself. Lasah threw her hands in the air and shook her head, but left to make soup in the kitchen.

Mielikki finally poked her black head out of Delshandra’s cloak. She figured if another dragon creature could roam free without fear of getting hurt then so could she. She cocked her head to the side as she watched it. Delshandra looked down utterly shocked at her companion. Never did she come out in public. "Mi-"

Sage looked from the creature above them to Delshandra. "So...hello there..." Sage said kindly. "Aren't you beautiful...."

Mielikki looked at Sage and bared her teeth as a hello before turning her attention back to the ceiling. "I am so sorry. She never comes out in public like this. It isn't safe." Delshandra rushed to say as she tried to snatch Mielikki back and place her back in her cloak only to find that she moved to the middle of the table out of reach.

"It's alright....I have an eye on her and our little friend above us...." Sage said softly. He started to humm softly, a friendly tone towards the creature above and towards Delshandra's little friend.

Delshandra nodded. "My name is Delshandra, and this is Mie." She said smiling as she watched her companion.

"I am Sage...traveling bard..." he said with a small smile.

"I am a ranger. Very well met Sage." She replied as Mielikki made her way around the bowls on the table to stand infront of Sage looking at him.

Sage looked at Mielikki. "Hello Mie..." he greeted softly, laying out a hand to Mielikki. "What a beautiful creature you are...."

Mielikki lifited her right claw and placed it on top of his hand as she raised herself on her hinde legs cocking her head at him. "She likes you." Delshandra said watching the two of them.

"I...like her too...I hope they we will be good....friends..." Sage said softly. With his other hand, he adjusted a bandage that was wrapped around his neck, his long hair falling more over his shoulders.

Delshandra nodded as she finished of her soup. Mielikki however watched Sage intently and leaned forward closer to him looking at the bandage on his neck then up at his face with a questioning look her eyes.

Sage tilted his head. "What is it little one?" he asked softly.

Mielikki went down on all fours and closed in the remaining space between her and Sage before going back on her hind legs and placeing her right paw on his neck, giving him the same questioning look.

Sage looked down at Mielikki, looked up at Delshandra, before looking back at Mielikki. "I..." he started to whisper. "It's....nothing little one...."

Delshandra looked up. "Mie stop being rude come on. Come eat." She said giving her companion the stink eye getting a tounge stuck out at her in return. "I am sorry, I really don't know what has gotten into her."

"It's....alright Delshandra...no harm done...." Sage said with a soft smile to her.

Mielikki moved her claw up to Sage's cheek carefuly pushing against it as to not nick him with her sharp claws but still being playful. "She never takes to other people so fast.... She wants to play." Delshandra replied giggling.

Sage moved his hand to pet Mielikki. "Do you want to play?" he asked softly.

Mielikki batter his hand with her claw.

Sage laughed softly. "I... haven't laughed in some time, little Mie...but you have given me that back....thank you...."

Mielikki batted his hand again before quckily moving our from his hand and leaping onto his shoulder rubbing the side of her head against his cheek.

Sage moved to pet her as Mielikkia settled on his shoulder. "Delshandra...does Mie do this often?"

Delshandra had been watching the two intently. "Not since my teacher no." Mielikki relaxed her legs underneath her closing her eyes as she seemed to kind of hum.

Sage closed his eyes. "She's humming...she must be....happy..." He looked at Delshandra. "You really do have a wonderful companion here..."

"That or she is just trying to sweet talk you." Delshandra replied laughing again. "She is wonderful, she showed me the meaning of life. I don't mean to pry Sage, but why did you come over to my table?"

"I...felt this little one...felt another dragon... but I didn't want to pry into your business.....so I did as I did..." he said softly.

She nodded. "Can anyone just feel a dragon?" She asked concern seeping into her voice. It was the exact thing she feared. There were those who hunted down dragons to kill them, she had to protect Mielikki.

"I don't know...I..." Sage looked at Mielikki. "Dragons...know dragons...." he whispered.

"But no one else other than other dragons can detect her right?" She pressed.

"I don't know, Delshandra...." Sage said softly looking over at her. "I don't know...I just don't know....I wasn't trained....and I never knew my father...."

Delshandra looked around the tavern viewing almost everyone as a threat. "How can I keep her safe, if there are those who can detect Mie and bring her harm?" She whispered more to herself than to Sage.

"Dragons won't want to... they would want to protect her..."

Delshandra shook her head. "Not all. With good come the bad. We both know that Sage. When I was a child I remember my father telling me stories of how the dragons used to fly the skies and how us elves could live in their mists. I wish, I hope one day that can be true again." She replied looking at Sage a bit teary eyed as she remembered the stories she was once told.

"We both don't know....I don't know....I grew up surrounded by hate...by the hate of humans....all except my mother...." Sage whispered, stroking Mie.

"There is always love." Delshandra responded shaking her head. "Life is love. Your music is love." She said sitting back. Mielikki seemed to hum louder as Sage stroked her.

"I had thought I was in love.... my mother had said it was love....but.... her being near me, cause near fatal harm befall her...." Sage whispered looking down at the table. Sage looked up at Mielikki. "I'm glad you know love....and are able to show it to Mie here...."

"Love comes in many forms and within those forms it is tested." Delshandra responded as Mielikki stood up and got down off of Sage's sholder and sat down infront of him looking into his eyes. "Like your love of music, I am sure you have been tested to the end of your wits but you have never stoped. Love is all around you. It is how you embrace it and never let it go that counts." She finished as her companion nugged at Sage's hand with her nose.

Sage stroked Mielikki's head. "But...what do you say to someone that had given up on life....but was denied death?" he whispered.

"Your time here is not yet over. We all have a mission in life, set forth by the gods, you may have said you gave up, but you aren't aloud to, not untill your mission is done." Delshandra replied drinking from her cup.

"It didn't stop my attempt..." he whispered, stopping his stroking of Mielikki.

"Well of course not. You don't think the god's are going to step in and stop you from making your own choices do you? They will just change the outcome and try to show their intent." She replied watching him intently. Mielikki pawed his hand when he stoped stroking her.

Sage looked at her. "Thank you...I am...I've just been alone...and yes...music has been my only friend for many years...." He looked back at Mielikki. "She had been....pointing at my...shame...in more than one way..."

"You should never feel shame. It gets you know where but in a deep evil place. I know how you feel Sage. My parents died and my brother took me in, then he died and I lost myself for a while, it wasn't till I found Mielikki that I found life again. I think that is why she let loose around you. When we found eachother she was dieing. It wasn't her time yet. We all have a mission." Delshandra said smiling at Mielikki who placed both her front paws on Sage's hand.

"Thank you Delshandra...and you Mie..." Sage said softly, looking between them. He moved a hand to his bandage. "I..." He closed his eyes, before loosening the bandage. The bandage fell to reveal a long gash across his throat, deep enough to bleed greatly, but not so to kill. She could also see a birthmark that appeared to be untouched. ((Birthmark is in his character profile))

Delshandra looked at both gash and birthmark and smiled. "Thank you Sage. I am sure I can say we; Mielikki and I have made a great friend today." Mielikki rose on her hine legs once more rubbing the side of her head against Sage's cheek before placing her left paw on his sholder.

"I...haven't had that uncovered in years..." he whispered. "Friends...I have....friends... may I...travel with you two?"

"Your company would be most welcome. Besides I don't think I would get a nights rest if I turned you away." She replied getting a head nod from Mielliki.

Sage smiled a warm smile. "Thank you..." he said softly, and kissed the top of Mielikki's head, and then Delshandra's hand.

Mielikki rubbed his cheek again in response as Deshandra blushed. "No need to thank me. The company will be great."

"Thank you...still..." he said smiling softly. He began to stroke Mielikki more.

Mielikki stretched out infront of Sage laying belly down on the table. "If you can get her to stay quite like this all the time, it will be I thanking you." Delshandra said shaking her head smiling.

Sage smiled. "Mie here is just a beauty...and I guess....me being part dragon helps..." He laughed lightly. He started to scratch behind Mielikki's ear area as his other hand continued to stroke and rub her.

"I don't think being part dragon has anything to do with it." She said sticking her tounge out at Mielikki as she oppened her right eye to look at her friend. Mielikki leaned into Sage's scratch as her right back leg twitched a bit.

"You think so?" Sage asked, looking up at Delshandra, his hands resting at their locations on Mielikki's body.

"She likes the attention. Being part dragon may help you relate to her easier, but I have no dragon blood in me and she is relatively the same with me if not more a pain in the tush. I think she has seen into your heart and trusts you, I know I trust you and I have barely met you." Delshandra replied smiling.

Sage looked down, flushed. "Really? I...feel...know I can trust both of you...that's why...with my bandage..."

Delshandra reached across the table and placed a hand on his. "Sometimes you don't have to use words to explain." She said softly smiling.

Sage truly blushed then, looking between Delshandra and Mielikki. "Thank you....both of you..."

Delshandra nodded as Mielikki yawned and curled up into a ball.

Sage scooped up the balled small dragon. "She's woren out...if you wish...I was playing for room and board, if you wish you and her may have my room....I could see about staying by the fire...."

Shuruikan excused himself from Voronwë. He headed over to Sage. He turns to the newcomer who he hasn't met. "My name is Shuruikan. Might I inqure as to your name?"

Sage looked up at Shuruikan, the scar of the gasp on his neck seeming to strech. "Shuruikan..." he said softly, holding the little dragon close.

Shuruikan looks at sage. "Yeah?" He says politely.

Sage raised a hand to his throat, then looked down. "Did...you enjoy...the ballad? I....had written it...years ago....you all were the first to hear it...." he asked softly.

Shuruikan lays down. "Yes, it was a great song."

Mielikki nuzzled into Sage as she began to slightly snore. "That-" Delshandra began to respond as Shuruikan walked up. "Merry met, I am Delshandra." She replied a bit guarded.

Sage looked from Delshandra, down to Mielikki, blushing.

Delshandra smiled at Sage before looking at Shuruikan. "You risk a lot outwardly walking as a dragon do you not?"

"Yes I do. But in order to find my daughter I have to be like this." Shuruikan stated the truth.

Delshandra raised an eyebrow. "Not all the time?"

"I'm not sure what you mean. Would you mind telling me what you mean?" Shuruikan asks nicely.

Delshandra let out a sigh. "I only know what I was told from stories, but just because you would change into another form for a short period of time doesn't mean you will loose your "trail"." She replied.

"Yeah your right." Shuruikan starts to shift forms. He changes into a handsome man with silver hair, blue eyes and a clothes set that signaled royalty. "I just don't like looking like this though."

Delshandra looked Shuruikan over. "Why would that be?"

"Well, everyone who sees me thinks I'm royalty. I'm not, but I look like it. So I decide to say in dragon form." Shuruikan says simply.

"Clothes can be changed." Delshandra replied as Mielikki stired.

"Yes but every time I change clothes and turn back to dragon they rip. But theses change with me. So even if I change, when I change back to human I still have these on. It gets annoying." Shuruikan says with a hint of sadness in his voice.

Delshandra shook her head smiling. "You travel alone don't you? I don't mean to come off as rude, but clothes can be mended if you know someone with a good hand."

"Well, Criminal dragons rarely are seen with anyone else." Shuruikan states then adds "Though no one has stuck around after I change."

The little creature up in the rafters watched the goings on, but at that point he dropped down onto the table in the middle of everyone and after staring around him with a curious expression, he began to clean himself. He rather resembled a house cat in his attitude.

At that point Lasah came back out of the kitchen with two trays balanced precariously on her long fingers. One tray with at least three bowls of soup (each a different type) and several drinks. The other tray held a bewildering array of snacks. She came up to the table where the little creature was sitting and set them down next to him. The creature ignored the snacks in favor of chewing on the end of one of the trays.

"Well that’s just bad manners." Delshandra said to Shuruikan as Mielikki jumped out of Sage's arms immediately and onto the table looking at the new comer invading her protective area. She cocked her head at the creature sniffing. “Thank you ma’am.” Delshandra said to Lasha. “Do you know where or who that creature is?” She asked the woman watching her companion.

The little creature looked up curiously at the sniffing Mielikki and added his own couple of sniffs. The he pushed the tray a little in her direction as if offering some to her as well.

Lasah glanced at the little creature and winced before turning to answer Delshandra's question. "I discovered this little fellow before I moved my inn here. He's a creature called a Drakvyr I believe. Possibly a distant relation to dragons and possibly not. He likes to eat things that most people like to throw away... although most of the wood in this inn is a part of the inn itself and still alive. He doesn't have a name and no one has come to look for him, so I'm afraid I don't know much more, my dear. Still, it would have been a shame to leave the little dear on his own."

Sage watched Mielikki, then looked at Shuruikan. "I...have to say...I don't know...what I look like in dragon form...I...I assume through fear..." he said softly.

Mielikki sniffed the tray before picking up a bread and dropping it infront of him. "He is adorable." Delshandra replied giggling at the two creatures.

Sage nodded at what Delshandra said.

The little drakvyr half glared at Mielikki as if affronted that she'd offer him bread. He snorted and a tiny blue spark hovered above his nose for a second before popping. He shook his little head and then shoved the bread back at Mielikki before pulling the end of the tray back toward himself. 

Lasah smiled faintly at Delshandra's comment and Sage's agreement. "He is a sweet creature, if sometimes a bit mischeivous."

Mielikki shook her head and turned around catching Delshandra's empty bowl with her tail. With a flick of her tail using all her strength she moved the bowl in front of her so she could then push it to the drakvyr with her nose.

"He looks sweet." Delshandra replied nodding.

The drakvyr cocked his head sideways and looked at Mielikki for a moment as if debating. Then bent down and took a tiny bite of the bowl that she had pushed in front of him. He lifted his head back up chewing, with only a couple of splinters sticking out of his muzzle.

Sage shook his head.

Mielikki took a step forward and licked his muzzle where the splinters were sticking out.

Surprized the drakvyr took a step backward and tripped on his tail and fell backward. He landed flat on his back and looked stunned.

Mielikki cocked her head and walked forward to his left side and dropped her head to his side nuddging it trying to help to get him back on his feet.

Sage reached out to help Mielikki.

The drakvyr manages to get to his feet with the help of Mielikki and Sage, but continues to stare at Mielikki with utter astonishment.

Lasah watches the goings on with an amused smile on her green face.

Sage reached out to stroke Mielikki, and the drakvyr.

Mielikki softly head butted the drakvyr playfuly.

"So, why are you looking for your daughter?"Delshandra asked turning and looking at Shuruikan.

Shuruikan looks at her. "I have not seen her before. Her mother died from elves. She was sick, so she could hardly defend herself. It seems she had gotten captured, but was freed by another dragon. So now I'm on the hunt for her to see my daughter and tell her I love her." He starts to cry silently.

"Shuruikan...." Sage said standing up, placing a hand on the older dragon's shoulder. "You will find her..."

"I-I am sorry I didn't mean to... We, me and Mielikki could help you find her. I am a ranger and what my people did was wrong." Delshandra replied softly.

Sage moved around the table, silently, one of his hands coming to rest on her shoulder. "Delshandra....I'm sure he does not blame you....." he whispered, kneeling beside her. With his other hand, he reached to stroke Mielikki.

The drakvyr nuzzled Mielikki in response but then spread his wings and flew up to look Shuruikan in the eyes and make comforting squeaking sounds.

Mielikki's eyes seemed to gleam with the nuzzle she got. Turning around she looked at everyone around the table before standing up and leaping onto Delshandra's sholder where stood alert.

Delshandra placed a hand over Sage's. "Yes, but I brought about painful memories." She replied very softly.

Sage nodded, keeping his hand on her shoulder.

Lasah watched everything for a while with a motherly smile, but then left them and went back into the kitchen to make more food for her guests.

Delshandra smiled weekly. "This hunt on dragon's is wrong. I have dreamed to be able to put a stop to such disgusting hunts, but within itself it is very hard when you don't know who to trust."

---

Tomias and the others had neared the Valley of Flames when they decided to camp for the night, he looked at the others "we will be within Tagen's domain by noon tomorrow, he's sure to be aware of us by then...if he hasn't already" he added the last part in a near whisper as he have his wings a quick flap before folding them against his body, he knew much had happened but thanks to the aid of his companions he had given Angelus basic training on how to use her claws, fangs, and wings effectivly in battle, but he hoped she would not need to fight, especially against Tagen, he looked around and used began to carve dragon runes around their campsite, it was a simple spell that kept those with malicious or dark intents from nearing the campsite, this would ensure that Tagen wouldn't be able to ambush them while they slept.

Kailiza set out, unrolling her bedmat. Sitting down on it, she started working on restringing her bow.

Angelus had folded her wings and walked next to Tomias and settled down next to him. She yawned. "Goodnight Tomias." she said softly before falling asleep.

Tomias glanced at Angelus and smiled as he finished his work "sweet dreams young one" he whispered to her as he laid down next to her to share his body heat with her, but he remained awake to watch the others.

Ronin Walked around the camp making sure all her warriors were getting ready for bed.

Kailiza watched, on guard.

Ronin walked up to Tomias and looked at Angelus. "How is she doing?"

"she seems to be more at ease with all of you then she was when we all first met" Tomias replied "thank you again for hrlping in her training, she should be able to defend herself should the need arise" he said as he bowed his head slightly to the human "Jaren has done well to trust in you" he smiled as he spoke.

"It's my pleasure to help. And you really think so?" Ronin said with awe at that fact. "Um, I noticed Kailiza looking like she was on gurad when i passed her. Is she still a bit afraid?

Tomias glanced at Kailiza and then turned to Ronin "I'm afraid, she still doesn't trust humans that much, the only reason she hasn't attempted to kill any of you is because she trusts me and I trust you" he explained without going into detail about her past, he doubted she'd want him talking about it to just anyone.

Kailiza just sighed and pulled out a rock, and started sharpening the points of her arrows.

Ronin bid tomias a farewell. She walked up to Kailiza and asked "May I speak with you?"

Kailiza looked at Ronin, and nodded. "Alright...."

Ronin sits down. "I don't know about you all that much. I would like to get to know you better. What I mean is could we be friends?"

"I don't talk about my past...Tomias only knows because of what he is.... but he was able to tell me who... well what I am...." Kailiza said softly. "Friends? I..." She nodded.

"Well if you don't want to talk about your past, I won't make you. But what I do want to know is... What's your favorite things to do?" Ronin also spoke softly.

"Archary... I... can I trust you?"

"Yes you can trust me. With me being a Celestial Knight, I am bound to the law."

"The law has never helped me.... that is why I asked..." Kailiza took a deep breath. "I never knew my family...I was raised by a family I believe cared about me.... I was made to clean and do all the chores as a child....then it started... both the parents and then their son.... sexually...I..." She stopped talking. "I don't trust easily if I all now..."

Ronin puts a hand on Kailiza's shoulder. "Don't worry, I will not tell a soul." Ronin said in an almost sisterly type voice.

Kailiza nodded. "Thank... you...."

Ronin took her hand away and nodded. "Now archery... I wasn't all that good. But what other things you like to do?"

"Tracking... I am a ranger...."

"Okay lets see... You never had a sister?" Ronin asked politely.

"Just an adoptive brother that..."

"I... I didn't mean it like that. If you want I could be like a sister to you?" Ronin said it like a question.

"Really?" Kailiza asked looking at her with an attempted look of hope. "When this is over....will you help me find my family?"

"Yes. And I will find your family." Ronin nodded.

"Thank you...Ronin..."

"Not a problem. Well get some rest now. I'm a little beat." Ronin gets up and starts to head towards her tent.

Kailiza laid down on her bedroll, closing her eyes.

Ronin reaches her tent. She looks at Kailiza. "Sweet dreams, sis." She goes in her tent and gets ready for bed.

"You too..." Kailiza said softly.

Sebastian was content in his human form, it drew the least attention and yet allowed him to be noticed when he needed to be. Calmly he walked to t Tomias and spoke in the old tongue, “Tagen was toying with mind control magic when I left, as to whether or not he’s perfected that trick, I don’t know, just thought I should warn you,” Sebastian explained carefully. “Oh and Tomias, if I may be so bold, I would like to volunteer for the first watch around the camp, though I have full confidence in your magic, one can never be to safe,” Sebastian said with a slight grin.

Tomias nodded "I agree, I was planning on taking the first watch myself but if you'd prefer, I'll relieve you in a few hours or so" he said calmly as he watched the others settle in for the night, he didn't show any signs that this news of Tagen learning mind control magic troubled him, it was something he suspected the dark dragon might dabble in sooner or later, it would take those with strong mental barriers to resist such a tactic.

“Excellent,” Sebastian said as he walked away casually, “I do enjoy an uninterrupted sleep,” he muttered as he made his way to an area away from the others. There was an odd glow that came over him, as he closed his eyes and then suddenly disappeared. “Don’t worry,” came Sebastian’s voice, “I’ll keep an eye out for the boogie man.”

A group of deer walk into the camp seeming not to notice anything out of the ordinary and started to graze on the grass. One of the deer did not look right. It was a different shade than the others. It started to wander around the camp.

Sebastian paused when he saw the deer. Casually he walked over to Tomias and knelt down beside the Dragon's head, "There's a deer in the camp that doesn't look quite right, like it's been touched by magic," Sebastian reported, "might I recommend that we deal with the potential threat before things have a chance to escalate?" Sebastian inquired.

The strange deer heads towards where Kailiza was sleeping and started to graze on the grass next to her.

Kailiza rolled over slowly, a hand on her bow, eyes on the deer.

The deer that was next to Kailiza continues to graze on the grass. Either it is unaware of her or is ignoreing her.

Kailiza reached back, taking hold of an arrow, and bringing it slowing towards her bow.

The deer senses the arrow and bounds away to Ronin's tent. it starts to graze again.

Kailiza watched the deer, cocking her arrow in the bow, aiming for the deer.

Tomias raised his head and looked at the Deer "be careful" he cautioned to Kailiza "if it can dodge your arrows like that, you might accidentally hit one of us" he glared at the Deer and examined every detail he could see from his perspective, if this was a puppet of Tagen's it may have been sent to weaken them, in one way or another, for now he simply planned to watch and hope when he acts it won't be too late.

Kailiza nodded, but kept her arrow aimed at the deer.

The deer just kept grazing on the grass. Suddenly it looks up and looks at Tomias as it falls over. Once it fell over it started to squirm. After a couple of moments it stopped and fell silent.

Tomias picked up the deer in his clawed hand "it would be wise to remove the carcass from the camp area" he said simply as he spread his wings and lifted off, planning to deposit it a good distance away from the campsite and the barrier, soon he was out of sight.

As soon as Tomias got up and picked up the deer, the other deers went into hysteria. They started to run towards Kailiza because her bow was ready.

Sebastion moved impossibly fast even in a human form. Within the space of a heartbeat, he grabbed a deer by the muzzle and neck. There was a sudden and sickening snap as the deer's neck broke, and it went flying through the upper section of the trees.

All the soldiers are still asleep. It's like they hear nothing. The deer whose neck that Sebastion broke lands next to Angelus startleing her awake.

"I was having a good dream.." Angelus complains.

All the other deer suddenly stop in their tracks. They start to change form into full blooded elves. They stare Sebastion down, as if trying to see through his soul. They speak in unison "You have invaded the dark elf realm. If you wish to live, leave tomorrow, or face the penalty."

Angelus looks a little scared at this point. She just wants to go back to sleep.

"Damn..." Kailiza muttered.

Sebastian suddenly dropped to one knee and bowed his head respectfully, “Forgive us, we were unaware that this was your territory, and I assure you we are merely passing through,” Sebastian said, attempting to stop whatever the dark elves might do in retaliation for their comrade Sebastian had easily dealt with.

The dark elves start talking amongst eachother. Then one of them steps foward. "We were following the one deer that looked different. As for the one you killed... That was her brother." He points to a female elf.

Angelus slowly walks over. "We are going to fight someone. That's why we are passing through."

The dark elves look at Angelus. "What is your name youngling?"

"Angelus." she replies.

The dark elves look shocked for a second, then drop to one knee. "Oh wonderful dragon. We have heard of stories about a chaos dragon named Angelus who will return dragons and all other creatures to their rightful places.

Angelus is now speechless.

Kailiza stood up, lowering her bow and arrow, but keeping them ready.

Sebastian rose from his knee and walked over to Angelus. Resting a hand on her shoulder he spoke softly, "Maybe they will offer assistance in the comming battles?" Sebastian offered. Sebastian knew full well that this was dark elf territory, however had to see why Tomias had led them here. It could be that tomias didn't know, or was hoping the dark elves wouldn't care, but so far things seemed okay, if not for the first meeting being a bit rocky.

As Tomias continued to fly over the blackened hills of the Valley of Flames, he felt a nagging feeling in the back of his mind something doesn't feel right he set down and released the deer from his grasp, he turned his head slightly to glance in the direction of the camp, but it was too dark and far away for him to see it.

Kailiza looked around the area, not liking the feeling of the area.

That's when Tomais saw it, a massive wave of black flame sweeping through the valley towards the campsite "Damn!" he growled as he left the deer and flew as fast as his wings could carry him "I need to get back to the camp in time" he roared ahead to th others hoping they would hear him and gather beneath his barrier before the flames reached them.

Kailiza looked up. "Sebastian! Angelus! All over here now!"

Tomias' wings were beating so hard that massive blasts of wind were kicking up huge clouds of dust, he was trying to beat the blaze to the camp, he saw that the flames were moving faster now, almost as if something, or someone, was driving the flames towards the others with the desire to get there before Tomias could arrive to strengthen the barrier.

Sebastian felt an odd tingle at the back of his head, and as he looked toward the horizon he saw the dark wave heading for the camp, "Well now, that's an old trick!" he muttered with a grin. Sebastian casually drew a line in the dirt and then stood behind It. he clasped his hands and began muttering in an ancient tongue. A shimmering wall appeard where the line was and and extended the width of the camp. Then Sebastian turned and walked away. He transformed into his dragon form and looked to the others, "anyone want a lift?"

"your flight's been cancelled" came a dark growling voice from above them, it was Tagen "I can't let you leave before my 'present' arrives" he said as a sinister grin crept across his face.

Kailiza lifted her bow and arrow at the figure.

Tagen chuckled "go ahead halfling" he said with an air of cruelty "fire your arrow, I'll just burn it to ashes before it ever reaches me"

---

 
Anya had been captured as she had wished. The elves who had captured her had found her to be amiable and so only put a simple tracking collar on her with a large ring so she could be chained at night. They felt no danger from her as she seemed to be complacent, almost as if sick. They didnt fully know about her abilities, nor were they going to know.  She would only use them as she had to. The elves suddenly heard a short ways ahead shouting from the camp they were heading for. Arria peeked above the trees then roared out, seeing a large black dragon ahead of her and the elves in front of her broke into a run, weapons ready as they charged in. Anya sensing that she could further make sure she had more freedom than was reccomended, took wing and flew just above the camp, seeing the flame coming. Cursing under her breath, Arrianya started to mutter an anchient incantation under her breath. As if it had hit the end of its run, the dark wall of flames was suddenly brought to a halt and extinguished. Anya snorted in satisfaction as her claws hit the ground in the outside edge of the camp, where her capturing group had been. They had skidded to a halt next to several others, dragon, elf and one that looked to be half elf though she was sure this strange one seemed more like a tall halfling. She glared up at the strange reddish tinted black that was above her.
"I know not who you are but leave now braskaar before you lose more than you wish to this day!" Arrianya flexed her claws, feeling the presence of this malisious dragon. She knew that this drake could challenge her fairly well but would ultimately lose as most did before her, makind the deadly mistake of thinking that she was just another younger dragon that could be taken easily.

Tagen looked at the newcomer "you have chosen the wrong side youngling" he growled as he looke behind him, Tomias was closing fast time to regroup he thought to himself as he looked at those on the ground again "there is still time to turn back, still time to forget this fools quest" his form began to ripple and fade, soon Tagen vanished completely.

Tomias swooped down and landed in the camp "is everyone alright?" he asked as he looked around, quickly noting the elves and the strange new dragon in their midst.


Anya looked about, noticing that the others also seemed to have broken collars and that the elves she had been captured by suddenly turned to her, nodded then vanished, one mindspeaking with her be safe and help these ones to restore the natural order. Go with our hearts, we mean no harm to you.  Arrianya looked very confused for a while then looked back to the one who had asked if they were alright. "I am fine thank you. Well met." Arria shook her head for a moment then settled back on her haunches, knowing she had been lead here for a particular reason and now knowing that the elves who had brought her here had done so to help. She sat there in stunned silence, for once feeling completely out of place.

"Tomias..." Kailiza said looking up at Tomias. "I do not like this one bit.... we have to plan..."

Tomias nodded "I agree, mearly training has been a mistake, Tagen knows we are coming and has already tried to halt us" his eyes moved over the campsite and stopped on the newcomer "my apologies" he said as he walked over to her "circomstances aside, it's is rude for me to not introduce myself, I'm Tomias of the Crystal Range, and who might I ask are you?"

" I am Arrianya, though you can call me just Arri. Once more well met Tomias. I call no particular place my home for I have no one home." Anya smiled slightly to herself at her last remark, having called so many places home before now that it really helped her to just state it this way.

Tomias nodded "I see" he replied "I thank you for your aid in thwarting Tagens ambush, but it seems that was not the true Tagen, only a phantom created through his magic"

Arri nodded.  "I have seen the likes before. This is not my first rodeo. And it was my pleasure.  I enjoy helping any and all since that is the purpose I have given myself currently."

Kailiza watched Arrianya guardedly. "Kailiza..." she said softly.

Anya nodded in greeting, feeling as if Kailiza might not like her and most definately did not trust her at all

Kailiza looked at the way Arrianya was looking at her. "Yes?"

Arri looked back at Kailiza with open curiosity and then gently, softly mindspoke to her.  I mean no harm, nor do I wish to cause problems. If you can, my mind is fully open for you to look at whatever you wish though I warn you there are many disturbing things that I have seen and experienced. I have the feeling that you are defensive from once being used in a way no woman should be. I was once used in that way myself and thus know what it is like, so I am sorry to intrude here.

Were you used as a child? Were you used by men and women? Were you used by those that you had grown up seeing as one's family because you never knew you true family?

I was used by family at one time, yes. I was forced by a sister to be entertained by her since she was one who liked to go both ways. I was also used by a son at one point..and a father. I did not know my mother at that time, nor have I been allowed to know her at all until just recently. I was also used by lovers as nothing more than a mating machine. And was taken advantage of by others whom were unknown by me or my mate. That was a different life though Arri hung her head. She felt sorrow well for this young woman. She also knew that she would be more understanding than some if Arri was willing to sit down and take the time to explain everything to her. I am alot older than you would believe. At least my spirit is. This body is basically fairly new to me and I have seen more than even I care to let on about. Part of me is over a million years old. These instances have happened to me in different lives, so to speak. Arri searched the young elven face to make sure that she understood or was willing to ask for clarification. She knew that Kailiza would not reveal what passed between them, and she would ask for clarification if she needed it.

I have been around for a century...and I killed my adoptive family that used me as a slave and a whore... made me think that it was right...that nothing was wrong with that....until my abilities came to the surface....

I know that you want no pity and you have not the pity from me, only the sorrow from having been put through that. I am sorry. But remember this always, that experience has made you stronger in ways that you may not even know until you come to a point where that strength is needed. I think no better or worse of you from your past. You did what you had to do and for that you are strong. As I said before, you have my full permission to look through anything in my mind for I hold no ill intent to either you or your family.  Arri was not that surprised at Kailiza's age, nor at the fact that she had done what she had in her situation. Arri,in fact, was starting to like this young woman some, though she did not want to admit that either to herself or the others.

"Oh well," Sebastian muttered as Tagen left, "that barrier would only have served to slow him down a little anyway," Sebastian then turned his attention to the new girl. He was about to inroduce himself, but noticed that there waws a magical exchange happening between her and Kailiza, and so waited until the two were finished their private moment.

My true family died before I knew them.... and once I have helped Tomias, he is going to help me in finding my elven grandfather who didn't wish to send me away... Kailiza's mental voice was soft.

If you wish it, I will help you as well

Kailiza nodded. Thank you...and no I do not wish to read into your mind...thank you anyways...

Understood. Arri stared at the ground in front of her for a while, wondering what she should do now, not sure of what was going on with this small group but knowing she was ready to find out fully.

Kailiza nodded to Arri and then looked at Tomias. "What now, Tomias?"

“Excuse me,” Sebastian said as he reverted back into a human form, “my name is Sebastian, at your service,” he said with an elegant bow, “To what do we owe the pleasure of your assistance?” he asked with a pleasant smile gracing his face.

Arri moved back a step, her head jerking back as she did, thoroughly taken aback by this wily young man. "Arrianya is my name and I was brought here for an unknkown reason."

Tomias had been deep in thought when he heard Kailiza speak to him, he turned to look at her "we need to get moving again, and soon" he replied "also we must be ready for another attack, I doubt he will attempt the same tricks again, next time he may use something stronger to stop or eliminate us"

Kailiza nodded. "By ground or by air?"

Arri looked back to Kailiza We should expect both but my guess will be he is going to be unsettled by my dealing so well with his last attack and my jibe. I have dealt with his kind before and they dont take lightly to someone new jumping in on something and waving their feeble attempts away without a second thought. "It is hard to tell though since this one was technically by air, I imagine you can expect the next attack to be something of deciet. If you will have my company, I feel that I have a purpose here with you, and wish to help you in any way possible."  Arrianya retreated a few steps, letting the others make their choices and settling down to link with a loved one who was almost half a continent away. She found that they were distraught over something that had happened during their day but other than that, everything seemed to be fine. Arrianya let her eyes close and drifted into a meditative state, troubled herself by this turn of events.

Tomias looked towards the star-filled sky "things happen for a reason" he said mostly to himself, remembering something his father often told him whenhe was young, he then looked to Arri "I will appreciate any assistance you can offer us" he said simply before looking a Kailiza "we can cover most of the distance by air, but take the final approach on foot, once we arrive we will need to split into two groups, one will lure Tagen out into the open, this will allow the other group to sneak into Tagen's lair and retrieve Jaren safely, what do you think?" he asked her.

Kailiza nodded. "You know Jaren, I do not....you should be one to go in..."

Tomias shook his head "no" he replied "I will be among those who will face Tagen, he will be more likely to come out to face us if I am there" hisface was serious but also grim, but almost sad at the same time "unfortunatly it also means he will not hold back his fury"

"Then I will fight with you...." Kailiza said determined.

Tomias looked at her with a small smile on his face "I thank you" he said in a quieted tone, his eyes had a look of great age in them, eyes that had seen so much, now looked almost as if he was looking towards the end of his long life.

You are my friend, Tomias...and I said that I would have your back... Kailiza said, looking directly at Tomias.

Tomias said nothing, he simlpy smiled and nodded his appreciation for her words, he lowered his body down onto the ground and looked up at the stars once again, the crystal on his forehead flickering faintly.

Kailiza moved over to him, placing a hand on the side of his head. "Tomias...." she whispered. "I trust you... but I don't want to lose you....you told me what I am... you have been kind to me...." I will not lose a friend...a father-like figure that you have become to me...

Tomias looked at Kailiza with soft eyes and smiled "every end is a beginning, and every beginning an end" he replied quietly "these words were uttered to me by my father many years ago, they are among the wisest teachings a dragon can learn, as well as pass on"

"You grew and learn the teachings of dragons...I did not...and probably never will...." she whispered.

Arrianya looked at the others. "I am a element unknown to Tagen. He will be wary of me to start....will wish to test me. I wish to be another who faces him. My suggestion is that you send only two in to get your friend. I can help cloak them and thus be able to provide some safety. I can do this easily without a problem. Also, I wish to face this Tagen, and show him that there is no way he will be able to deal with me. I am betting that he will enjoy testing himself against me, feeling that he is the superior. I wish to see you succeed and this is the best I can help with." Arri snorted, being now caught up with the all too familiar need for justice and desire to see it done.

“If I may interject,” Sebastian said as he stepped forward slightly, “As I mentioned to you before, I have been inside Tagen’s lair, and I have seen Jaren and know where he is located, however I would ask that I be allowed to rescue him alone, as my talents will allow for me to go undetected by Tagen, or any of his forces, thus allowing everyone else to commit their full attention to the dark dragon himself,” Sebastian suggested. Since he was of such a rare species of dragon, it was highly unlikely that Tagen would anticipate Sebastian’s presence within his lair.

Tomias smiled at his comrades "both are very good suggestions" he replied "Tagen is no fool, and such tatics might work as long as there are no unforseen Obstacles" he concidered the plan for a moment "my appearance alone will be more than enough temptation for to draw him out, but one may succeed where many would fail" he nodded to them "very well, Arri once your spell has been cast on Sabastion, you will join the rest of us at the main battle" he smiled again "if all goes well, no lives will be lost"

Arrianya smiled. "Tomais, just let me know when we should make Mr. Sebatsian here disappear and he will. I can hold that particular spell all day and night if need be."

Kailiza nodded to what Tomias had said.

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