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Post by Max452 on Feb 17, 2009 16:42:20 GMT -5
Einar followed Elaine with some reluctance - he didn't want to cause unnecessary fights. He made no emotion on his face when the soldier spat on him. His face was hard, but his insides were debating on whether or not to slash the man down for his insolence. If not for his oath, he probably would have considered it. I made an oath to Lady Nasuada that I would serve the Varden. He reminded himself as the soldier continued in his sarcastic manner.
"You are right to hate me, soldier, and I have no ill will towards your attitude. To be honest, I don't care if you trust me or not, my only concern is whether or not you trust Lady Nasuada. I serve her and the Varden now, and will not let any pass for insulting her or any other who follow her." He replied simply after Elaine marched off. He twirled the half melon in his hand and gave it back to the soldier. "I can see the people here are already short on food, I suggest you stop wasting it on me." He walked off and followed Elaine.
Once he met up with her at her own pace, he addressed her. "I thank you for you aiding me, although I do not deserve it. The soldier is right. I have killed many of his comrades - I don't deserve their trust."
***
Stigandr felt the incident that Einar was undergoing with some irritation. If you want, I can fry them for you. He replied sarcastically to Einar. Einar gave his dragon a small smile, indiscernible to the public. Thanks, but I think I'm all right. Stigandr hummed. Fine. He huffed and turned his attention back to Eridor. Your protectiveness is understandable. I have done the same in the past, but have learned my Rider's limits as he knows mine. He replied as Eridor swooped down to eat.
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Post by Trinn on Feb 17, 2009 20:04:43 GMT -5
The soldier watched Einar walk away, then turned to stare at the melon half the rider had thrust into his hands. With a shrug, he brought the fruit to his lips and ate.
Glancing at Einar, Elaine shrugged and said, "Perhaps, but regardless of your past deeds, you are now part of the varden. That decision alone should gain you some level of respect." She fell silent, unsure what to say next. Walking next to a former enemy was still rather unnerving, and she half expected to hear the sound of metal sliding from sheath, the blade going towards her throat. Shaking her head, Elaine chased away such undesirable thoughts. He had taken oaths in the ancient language. An attack would not happen. The sound of shouts and clinking weapons announced their arrival to the training fields. Varden soldiers rushed each other with swords, wrestled each other to the ground, a few even practiced magic. Gathered at the very edge of the field perched several dragons, watching the training with lazy eyes. If not for being a rider, Elaine would have been intimidated by the sight. Out of curiosity, she cast her gaze skyward. A host of dragons circled high above, some accompanied by riders, others flying solo. They all kept watchful eyes on the horizon. The varden has come far. she thought, a small feeling of victory rising within. Did the empire boast this number of riders? Elaine returned her gaze to Einar. "Here we are." She moved her arm in an arc before her, taking in the whole field.
****
Satisfied with his meal, Eridor glided lazily on a warm updraft of air, drifting slowly back towards the castle. So, Stigandr, how many riders does Galbatorix have under his possession?
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Post by Max452 on Feb 17, 2009 20:34:56 GMT -5
OOC: how many riders indeed. lol
Einar just nodded. Even though Elaine's words were meant to comfort, he still felt undeserving. He had done things that he had regretted over his lifetime. His eyes took in the Varden training ground. "They are formidable. There are indeed more dragons here than that of the Empire. However, are they as strong? Just based on the size, the Empire rules in dragon power 3 to 1. Not to mention, most of them are experts in magic...Murtagh, Kalri, and Vana holding the top spots. There are also some that the King places in hiding...not many know of them or where they are..."
***
Stigandr thought about it for a moment. That I have seen, about 10...but there are about 5 for sure that must be watched. Murtagh and Thorn are a force to be reckoned with....Vana is ruthless and Viel is even more so....Kalri....dark magic surrounds her and her dragon....Marola and Rauthr...quick and deadly...there are several others too...all skilled in specialized areas....like Einar and I...they were trained for specific purposes. It will be a hard battle to face one of them.
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Post by Trinn on Feb 19, 2009 11:11:21 GMT -5
A chill crept down Elaine's spine. Of course, with Galbatorix being a rider himself, the empire riders would be better trained. Who did the varden have? The ancients, Tismri and her partner Ismrolde, could teach them, but often busy. Oromis and Glaedr were dead now, along with Brom. Eragon could teach some of them, passing down his lessons from Oromis. "Well, power isn't the only factor in a fight between dragons. Many of them are agile and quick." She glanced at Einar, "which I'm sure you know. This information you provide is valuable. I will be sure to inform Nasuada once we are through." In an effort to lighten her demeanor, she smiled and gestured towards the field again. "So, what do you think?"
*****
Flying back towards the castle, Eridor listened to Stigandr with growing apprehension. The fact that Galbatorix was hiding riders was his major cause for worry. Of those you named, I've encountered Viel before. Indeed, she is a merciless fighter. She seems to enter a blood rage when in battle. A very dangerous situation. And then I have seen you in battle. Let me just say that it is a relief to have you on our side now. As they drew closer to the castle, other dragons flew past, some going on the hunt, others on patrol. They growled greetings to Eridor, while others cast snarls at Stigandr.
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Post by Max452 on Feb 19, 2009 22:31:42 GMT -5
Einar watched the dragons fly about, noting how they flew and how fast. He glanced back at the Varden soldiers as the sparred. "Its hard to tell at this point....but I would still have to say that the Empire has the advantage." He frowned. "True, strength is not everything....but experience says a lot. How many riders have fought in a battle before?" He asked, trying to calculate the Varden skill level. "And what kind of battles have they encountered?" He also asked. Thinking on the matter more he knew that the Varden needed more men. His thoughts went back to the slave rebels. "Perhaps those freedom fighters would be interested in joining the Varden? Have you sought them out before?" He asked, trying to hide his pained emotions of Gianna and anything that reminded him of her.
***
Stigandr couldn't help but give Eridor a smile. His teeth gleamed in the light as they flew. I do try my best. He laughed. You are fiercesome as well. I recall our last battle. You were a formidable opponent. His silver eyes flashed over at the other dragons who snarled. He rolled his eyes at them. They should be more cautious on who they wish to pick a fight with... He eyed them with little interest as they returned to the castle. Aye, Viel is merciless...I have yet to fight against her for real...even in practice, she seems to want nothing but her opponent's demise. But than again, she does what she must, as do we all. He flapped his wings, sensing Einar not far off.
***
Arya entered Nasuada's chamber. She gave her usual warm greeting. "I have heard that we have required a new Rider?" She asked. She heard rumors rustling along the Varden squads as she was inspecting the ranks. Not wanting to give into gossip, she went to Nasuada to find out the truth.
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Post by Trinn on Feb 20, 2009 16:19:46 GMT -5
Placing hands on hips, Elaine shook her head sadly. "Only a few of our riders have ever encountered a real battle. Most have fought, but never killed. Based on what you say, another battle with the empire could be a slaughter for many of our riders." We need more training. Intense training. We cannot aford to lose a rider to poor training. she thought to herself. "Einar, you must help us train. As you said earlier, you know the empires tactics. You know how they fight. We need you now more then ever." Her words were filled with passion. Her life after Eridor hatched revolved around the destruction of Galbatorix's rule. Now, with Einar here, telling her the varden's weaknesses, she was starting to realize how close the varden were to doom. "As for this enigmatic slave freer. I believe Nasuada may send some riders out to the borders to try and spot this person. Hopefully he or she will be willing to speak with us." Noticing the strain in his voice, Elaine said, "Perhaps you would like to be part of that mission." Maybe, she thought, it would give him some closure.
****
Sooty smoke trailed from Eridor's nostrils as he exhaled. True enough. he said simply to Einar. He could see the training feild now, and Elaine's head, brown hair fluttering in the wind. As always, he felt relief upon seeing her. Elaine is right. he said, circling slowly above the field. As we begin our march upon the empire, the varden needs the likes of you and Einar.
***
Looking up from a report on a skirmish just outside the border, Nasuada let a smile grace her lips. "Welcome, Arya. What you hear is true. We have gained another rider. And this is perhaps the best part. He was an empire rider. Due to personal events, he could no longer serve under Galbatorix, and so joined us in the hopes to have his vengeance against the cursed king." Folding the report, she set it upon the desk and folded her hands on her lap. "Perhaps you've heard of him. Einar, rider of Stigandr?"
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Post by Max452 on Feb 20, 2009 16:43:36 GMT -5
Einar gave a small smile, a first in awhile. "Aye, I will do what I can." He said upon her passionate words. "But remember: to be a Dragon Rider is to leave the innocence of life behind....be weary, for a Dragon Rider must to what he or she must in order to defeat a harsh foe. I say this warning, because it is the truth. We are blessed and cursed to fight for the things we believe in, and therefore we are more vulnerable towards the hardships that come with it. The Varden Riders must know this, for that is what keeps most of the Empire Riders going...they do what they must for the King...whether it is to kill, torture, or murder people. Are the Varden ready to make a sacrifice of their own souls to destroy one that knows no conscience?" Einar didn't mean to sound pessimistic or heartless, but these were the truths that he knew. The Empire knew no limits to their powers, because they didn't care...perhaps that would be their downfall?
After a moment, Einar's jaws clenched. "Aye. I would be happy to be an ambassador for the Varden." He replied simply.
***
The Varden needs to be better than us, Eridor. We have been train to kill without mercy and to make others suffer to get what we need. No...the Varden needs one who will not lose their humanity in the midst of this intolerable war.... He swooped down towards the training field. The key to the King's destruction lies within the warrior's heart...not his power. Stigandr stated as he landed in front of Elaine and Einar.
***
Arya's eyebrows slated slightly. "An Empire Rider?" She gazed out of the window. "This may be true, but a man who is fueled by hate and vengeance can only lead to ill will. Aye, I have heard of such Rider and Dragon. They are one of the strongest of Galbatorix's Riders. What worries me is if a man who was pushed so far to leave his high ranks, what is stopping him from pushing further against the Varden? He may be unstable...but then again, I may know nothing about this rider. I only state my concerns so that you may be aware of the possibility." Arya shrugged. "On another matter, I encountered some refugees outside of the main gate. Celesti Gladia is indeed growing larger and more powerful. Perhaps we may send someone to negotiate an alliance?" Arya asked.
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Post by Trinn on Feb 21, 2009 18:33:11 GMT -5
To sacrifice her own moral conditions, her own personal feelings, to abondon mercy. Could Ealine do any of those things? The question was one she could not answer yet. A sudden gust of wind pushed into Elaine, and she was forced to move a step forward to keep on her feet. When Stigandr landed, she could feel the earth shudder. The silver dragon was magnificent, his scales glinting like bright jewels. "Well met, Stigandr." Elaine said, inclining herh head to the dragon. A moment later, another blast of wind swept across her, followed by the impact of Eridor's landing. Glad your back in one peice. Eridor huffed.
What were you expecting? That I would attack our new ally? Elaine shook her head and smiled. The gray dragon shuffled his wings and looked to Stigandr. I have always tried to uphold a lifestyle of honor and truth. I hope what you say is true. That we can win this battle with such tools.
"Hail, riders." A cheerful voice shouted from behind Elaine. Turning, she watched the General Kell striding towards them, a amiable grin on his lips. At the sight of him, Elaine smiled. He was something like a father to her, but she assumed he was like that with many of the young soldiers and riders. He was just a likable man, a strong fatherly type. He was respected by many, and duely deserved. Closing the distance, Kell halted a foot before Einar and made a show of looking him up and down. "Hmmm." he said, narrowing his eyes. "I see. I see." He then turned and regarded Stigandr, showing no fear. "Excellent." He returned his gaze to Einar. "Welcome to Surda and the varden, Argetlam Einar, dragon Sitgandr. I am the general Kell. Nasuada usually sticks me with all the new riders. But you aren't exactly new to the rider business, so I suppose we might not see much of each other. At any rate..." Reaching into a hidden pocket on the shoulder of his uniform, he removed a shiny brass key. "Here is the key to your room." He nodded his head towards Elaine. "I trust rider Elaine is being a good host." Elaine rolled her eyes.
"Of course, General." Elaine interjected. "I am." The general nodded.
"Good, good. So, Einar, have you tried you hand against any of my men? I'm sure one of our riders would love to have a spar." He swept his gray eyes around the training field, looking at the assorted dragons, searching for the other riders. Raising his voice, he called, "Well, any of your riders brave enough to have a friendly spar with our new ally?" Some of the soldiers looked up, among them riders did as well. To Einar, General Kell said in a low voice, "strange thing about the varden. If you fight them and win in a friendly match, you get more respect. Its a quick way to gain trust."
"General Kell," Elaine interrupted, abashed, "perhaps the rider Einar is not up for a spar? He has only just arrived." Kell waved his hand dissmissively.
"Einar is no weakling. Besides, we don't have time for him to dilly dally around making friends. Fighting is the surest way!" Elaine closed her eyes and shook her head, unable to deny the general's logic. She only hoped Einar would not find the general a crazy old man.
******
Nasuada bowed her head, accepting Arya's words of caution. "Yes, I see your concern. But Einar has sworn his legiance to the varden with the ancient language. I'm most confident he cannot betray us." Rising from her chair, Nasuada glanced out a small arrow slit in her room. "I was actually just thinking about Gladia Celesti. I am going to send a forray of riders out to the border. Perhaps with them on the lookout, we can apprehend the leader of this slave rebellion." She turned back around to face Arya. "I think it will be a good first task for our new rider."
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Post by Max452 on Feb 21, 2009 19:08:48 GMT -5
Stigandr's landing never ceased to amaze Einar. The creature was elegant as much as he was vicious.
Hello, Elaine Argetlam. Stigandr puffed out a stream of smoke from his nostrils as he created Elaine. Hmm, I remembered you to be a lot bigger the last time we met. A silver eye bent down and inspected the Rider. Or perhaps it was just the close combat we had before... He tilted his head, trying to remember. Oh well, you still look strong as before. He shrugged and turned a head when General Kell approached them.
Einar blinked when the General came over and started to inspect him.
Greetings, General. Stigandr flicked a tongue out.
"I thank you for the welcome and for the keys. Elaine is an exceptional host." Einar replied, taking the key with gratitude; he still didn't know if he would actually stay in the room though... His eyes sizing up the man. He may seem old...but he has some good years left... He thought to Stigandr.
Indeed. Stigandr looked Kell over too.
Einar mustered up a cunning smile on the idea of sparring. "I would happily have a friendly spar, especially if the Varden will trust me more.[/i] He told Elaine and Kell.
I like him. He gets right to the point. Stigandr mused.
Yes. A little odd - he's enthusiasm, but perhaps I'm the odd one...its been awhile since we've encountered so many people.
***
"As long as you know of the possible situations concerning Einar, then I am at ease." Arya blinked. "Your plan seems sound and I do believe this will give the Varden a chance to trust the new Rider as well. However, I do suggest Elaine accompanies him, just to ease some doubts among the troops." Arya suggested.
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Post by Tismri on Feb 21, 2009 20:48:44 GMT -5
Tismri had been sitting in Ismrolde's saddle, writing for a while. Her stack of papers had grown increasingly larger over the years, and she planned to go through them someday and organize them. She looked up when she felt a familiar presence coming in her direction. At first a look of astonishment, then of joy crossed her face when she recognized Tenel Ka, the princess of the country farther north. And she was riding atop a fair-sized turquoise dragon. Tismri skipped out of her own saddle to the ground as Tenel Ka's dragon landed.
"Tenel Ka Drottingu," she said, adding the ancient name for princess, "what brings you so far from your homeland, dear friend?"
"Caedus," Tenel Ka said, indicating the dragon she was now standing beside. The two friends embraced. Tismri shook her head.
"I had never imagined when we gave you Ismrolde's egg that he would hatch for you. We gave him to you for safekeeping." She laughed, a lovely sound that few people ever heard those days. Then she noticed Tenel Ka looked troubled.
"Tismri," the warrior princess asked, "This is the country you have told me about, isn't it? Alagaesia?" Tismri looked solemnly at Tenel Ka.
"It is, but all is not well. Many changes took place while I was your family's guest, and I have returned to a home at war." Her green eyes looked sadly at Tenel Ka's cool grey ones. They stood in silence for a few moments.
"I met the king's Riders," Tenel Ka said, "I take it these are the people you have set yourself against?"
"Yes, though I am sorry for it." Tismri shook her head. "But enough sad talk. I wish you to meet my allies in this war. They call themselves the Varden." Tenel Ka nodded, but looked a little aprehensive.
"Will they expect me to join sides?" she asked, "I would be willing, with all my heart, if they needed me, but if I am not needed, all I wish is to learn from you and other experienced Riders what it means to be one." Tismri regarded her for a moment, then nodded.
"They will not force you to join," she said, "though I am certain they would love to accept you as an ally." Tismri took Tenel Ka by her single hand and led the warrior princess to meet the leader of the Varden.
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Post by Trinn on Feb 22, 2009 12:46:10 GMT -5
Elaine smirked, amused that Stigandr had found her big before. Like he said, it was probably because of the fighting. Things always seem more intense in those situations. Crossing her arms, Elaine asked, and what of Einar? Is he as you remember?
Mostly. But he is scruffier. I think A good shave would help. Riders should keep up a respecatable appearance. Settling on his haunches, he finished, But I would never tell him that. It would be rude.
Indeed. Patting Eridor's scaly foreleg, Elaine addressed Einar. "Hmm. I would take up the challenge. But we've fought before." She trailed off, searching out the riders in the crowd. Beside her, General Kell huffed.
"Well, anyone?"
*****
"Lady Nasuada, Lady Arya, Rider Tismri and another... guest." the guard said, his expression humored.
"Allright, send them in please." The guard bowed, and a moment later returned with the ancient rider and her second guest of the day. Nasuada stood straighter upon seeing the unusual girl. There was something foreign about her, enigmatic. There was a regal air she possessed that spoke of nobility. However, Nasuada dissmissed the idea when she noticed only one arm. How would a nobel come across such an injury?
"Wlecome argetlam. So, who have you brought to us now?" Nasuada asked, not unpleasantly.
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Post by Tismri on Feb 22, 2009 14:12:54 GMT -5
Tismri smiled pleasantly at Nasuada and Arya.
"My lady, Arya, I would like to present Tenel Ka, a young friend of mine from lands far north of here, beyond the reaches of the elves' great forest. Tenel Ka, this is Lady Nasuada, leader of the Varden, who daily resist the rule of the traitor. And this is Arya, the ambassador of the elves." A strange light came into Tismri's eyes as she compared Tenel Ka to the elven princess. Tenel Ka had asked along the way to not make mention of her royal heratige as she did not wish that to become common knowledge. Tismri knew that Arya was much the same. Both women were warriors and had had much practice fighting. Arya more so than Tenel Ka, perhaps, but they were both, nonetheless.
Tenel Ka inclined her head at the two women present. She was as surprised as anyone ever was at the Varden leader's youth and the color of her skin, but she quickly hid her surprise behind a diplomatic face, a hint of a smile on her lips but little more. She noticed how Nasuada took in her missing arm, as many people did. It seemed people even here thought that noble people were not susceptable to accidents.
All the better for me, Tenel Ka thought, The less people assume, the better. I wish to not be pampered because of my heritage, and if people do not realize that I am a princess, they will more likely treat me as an equal.
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Post by Max452 on Feb 22, 2009 18:27:18 GMT -5
Einar folded his arms as he awaited a rider to spar with. Hmm, I would have thought someone would want to fight me...perhaps even see if they could best me.
I think they find you intimidating. Stigandr posed a reason.
Maybe, or they don't want anything to do with me.
Addressing Elaine, Einar gave her a playful eye. "Aye. We had fought before. You were one of the best swordsmen I had ever encountered then. I am slightly intrigued to see how much you improved."
***
Arya watched with some interest as the guest walked in. She noted her missing arm, but her face made no expression for the matter. What actually surprised her was to know that she was further north of the land, beyond Du Weldenvarden. Upon her introduction, Arya gave a simple nod and awaited to know more about this intriguing individual.
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Post by Trinn on Feb 25, 2009 16:51:42 GMT -5
A small smile lighted Elaine's features. Ever since the last big empire/varden battle, she and Eridor had not participated in any fighting. They had made due with scouting expiditions into the empire and guard duty for the Surdans. The chance to stretch her fighting muscles would be a welcome relief. Her mind made up, Elaine nodded and strode to a clear spot on the field. "Allright, Einar, a spar it is. This will be fun." Behind her, Eridor chuckled, the sound a rough rasping.
It will be fun watching you attempt not to kill him. Trust me, once the spar begins, you see nothing but an enemy before you. It is only natural. Elaine scowled, looking at the packed earth under her feet.
You wrong me in that, Eridor. I will do no such thing.
We will see. Unsheathing her slim sword, her fathers rapier, Elaine spoke the appropriate words in the ancient language, dulling the blade. Already gray, Elaine's gray magic made the blade the color of a storm front. Being the winter, Elaine was dressed in heavy clothing. Reaching up, she unclasped the brooch that held her fur-lined cloak around her shoulders, then threw the garment at Eridor, who reached up deftly and caught it with a talon. The cloak was the only thing that would hamper her movement. A shiver cut through her as a chill wind swept by.
"Excellent." Said the general Kell. "This will indeed be interesting. I did, after all, help train Elaine." He said, mostly to Einar, but she could hear the general fine.
******
Further than DuWeldenvarden? That must have been an extrodinary distance to travel, wrought with peril. Nasuada felt a flicker of admiration for the one armed girl, as well as a strong curiosity. What was this girls' native land like? Would there be any possibility of gaining their allliance against Galbatorix? She then wondered for what purpose Tenal Ka had come. "Welcome to Surda and the Varden, Tenel Ka. To travel such a distance by foot, you must be some sort of warrior?" she asked, still unsure of the girl. "For what purpose, may I ask, did you come to the Varden? I assume you didn't make such a treck for the sole purpose of seeing our friend Tismri?"
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Post by Tismri on Feb 25, 2009 17:15:36 GMT -5
Tenel Ka gave a slight smile.
"I did not make the entire journey on foot. Before they left my land to return to their home, Tismri and Ismrolde entrusted me with a dragon egg, one of Ismrolde's. A few days after they left, the egg hatched." She raised her hand to show the gedwey ignasia, her smile growing.
"By now, Caedus is large enough to ride, though he is still very young. There are no Riders in my country," she added solemnly, "so I have come in the hopes to learn they ways of the Riders. I did not realize when I set out, however, that this country was at war." She glanced at Tismri, who nodded sadly.
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