Through Heaven's Eyes

[Max452]

OOC: This thread takes place after "Have A Little Faith In Me"

Silence. It was a soothing sound, Roland thought, as he sat in the field next to his makeshift tannery. It was the dead of night, no one was around, and so, Roland thought it was best now to sing his saddles into their final stages. He inhaled the air around him, relishing the smell of light forming dew upon the blades of grass mixed in with the sticky smell of worn out soldiers and horses. He was thankful that he was in the outskirts of the Varden camp where the musky smell was less poignant to his sensitive nose. He exhaled, releasing the air that was in his lungs and the stress of almost being discovered by Trinn the other day. His carelessness and negligence had no excuse. He only hoped that Trinn would not discover his true identity. He had come to rely on the persona of Erik Deschain to hide the true misery and sorrow of Roland Erikson. No one was to know his pain and shame. No one.

Roland sighed as he gazed up to the dark night. The stars always seemed so dim to him, as if Heaven itself knew his misery. He shook off his foreboding thoughts. There wasn't time to be distracted by thoughts of the past. Slowly channeling the magic within him, as he did not want to alert anyone of his magical capabilities (especially Trinn and Tismri), Roland placed a spell around him and his little work station. A perfectly crafted spell was placed, and to the outside world, the area he was in, was still a calm field of grass. Satisfied with this illusion, Roland began to sing.

In the Ancient Language, Roland sang a soft lullaby to his saddles. A song of strength, courage, wisdom, protection, integrity, hope, and faith, especially Faith. These characteristics were essential for a saddle, as it was meant to support and protect the Riders of this generation. Roland continued to sing for the next few hours in this manner. Two hours before the coming sun, Roland's song had ended. Gathering himself and his saddles (which he lifted with ease), Roland returned to his shop after releasing his magical spell, and content that the saddles would be the exceptional support that their Riders needed.

***
The dawning light shone through the fluffy clouds and down toward Sidhion's face. The Ancient had not slept this night, but rather, sat cross-legged in his imprisonment, contemplating upon Tismri's words. Did he have the faith and trust to allow this generation to take over? To allow them to make mistakes? He didn't know. For the first time in 200 years, Sidhion was unsure of what to do. Locien, sat beside his Rider, silent, but deep in thought. It was soothing for Sidhion to know that he was there beside him. Throughout all the years of his quest, Locien had supported him like none other. He knew his thoughts, dreams, and secrets, and still accepted him for all his faults.

The dawn approaches. Locien's deep, but soothing voice broke Sidhion's thoughts.
Aye.
Have you decided? Locien asked.
You already know the answer to that question: I have not. There...are new complications to consider now.
Locien sent a quiet nod to his Rider. Complications...Sidion's buried affection for Tismri had emerged in full force and was causing Sidhion to doubt so much of himself and his actions. Normally, the icicle dragon would hate anyone who would make his Rider doubt, but this time, Locien knew, it could be for the betterment of his Rider, and for this, Locien would be eternally grateful for Tismri's meddling.
That was a lovely lulluby. Locien commented as his massive, scaly head turned to the east, where he had heard an elven lullaby being sung.
Aye. I do not recognize the song nor music. The elf must have created it himself. Sidhion added.
The lyrics ring true, I think. Locien yawned and stretched from his spot. I think you need to ponder on it...it may help your decision. The great dragon advised as he unfolded his wings to stretch them out.
Sidhion did not reply, but continued to sit in contemplating silence.

***
Hours passed and the Varden camp was bustling with preparations and movements of soldiers, horses, magicians, and civilians. Roland was polishing the saddles he had finished last night when he heard the sounds of approaching footsteps....

[Tismri]

Ealvale was having trouble sleeping. In truth, she was starting to feel homesick. She loved her uncle and firmly believed in the Varden's cause, but she missed her parents. She often wondered what they thought when she had left. Did they even know what had happened to make her go? She touched her cheek, feeling the scar on there from the attack from Empire soldiers who had come to arrest her uncle. She could very well have died that day. Did her mother and father know? Did they care? She knew they were loyal to Galbatorix. She suspected that they disowned her after they left and even now refused to speak of her.
She rolled over on her cot and stared at her lute, propped up against the side of the tent. She felt the urge to play something, just to calm and reassure herself. Just as she reached out for it, she heard a song starting to play. She recognized it; it was the song she sometimes heard at night, from the direction of Erik's tannery. She listened, not understanding the elven words, but somehow grasping its meaning to some small extent. She found herself playing the tune on her lute, creating an accompaniment to the otherwise a capella song. Somehow, she found it comforting in that darkened hour, and felt herself relaxing as the night went on.
~~~~~
Tismri had long ago settled hersef atop Ismrolde's great head, and she sat there writing out her thoughts. Consistently, they would return to Sidhion; despite her acknowledgment that, for the moment, she could be nothing beyond friends with him, she found it difficult to tell him that. He had seemed so hopeful, she was afraid of crushing them and returning to the dark place they had been. In fact, she had not returned to see him, unable to face telling him.
You cannot avoid it forever, Ismrolde told her. Tismri continued writing, ignoring it. If you don't go to see him, he may take a turn for the worse.
Then either way he will return to his dark past, Tismri replied. The thought revealed the extent of her agitation, and the quill suddenly snapped under her fingers.
You don't know that. But hiding the truth from him will surely mislead him.
~~~~~
Ealvale stretched as she left her tent. She had finally managed to fall asleep last night and now felt refreshed and ready for the new day. She wandered for a short while until she spotted Erik polishing the Riders' saddles he had made.
"They look beautiful," she complimented him. She didn't know much about saddles, but the leather was shiny and seemed sturdy.

[Max452]

Roland glanced up from his work. He smiled. "Oh, thank you Ealvale! Coming from the great bard, I take that to heart!" He donned his eccentric persona. "Well, well! How are you this lovely morning, my dear?! Not getting into too much trouble, eh?" Erik asked Ealvale. He tilted his head with some curiosity as he polished the saddle before him. "How is that new melody coming along?" He asked, hiding his knowing look.

***
What do you think I should do, Locien? Sidhion asked through his link, feeling Locien dive into some fresh meat from an early kill.
Whatever you're heart tells you to do. Locien snapped up his meager kill easily.
What if my heart is telling me to do what my head doesn't want me to do?
Locien laughed. You are starting to sound too human, Sidhion. You speak in riddles.
This is not funny. Sidhion replied, flustered.
Locien's mirth died down. Whatever you decide, Sidhion, I will be with you to the end.
Thank you, but that does not answer my question.
You already know what you want to do, so why do you ask me? Locien sighed.
Sidhion was silent for a moment. Aye. I know what I want to do.

[Tismri]

Ealvale's face reddened at Erik's praise. She knew she wasn't really a great bard. Not like some others in the Varden camp, who were always writing their own epics and songs. She was still quite the novice.
"I'm doing well, thank you," she told him. "I was just going for a walk." She thought a few moments when he asked about her composition. "Um, well, I think I have the music perfectly," she told him. "But I still can't decide on lyrics. The elves I think I hear singing it make it so lovely, whatever I make up just seems...inadequate." She sighed, wishing she could measure up to the elves...or even just some human songwriters.
~~~~~
Ismrolde flew to the field where Sidhion and Locien were being kept. In her claws were several plump deer she had killed, which she presented to her icy friend.
Greetings, Locien, she said as she settled. I thought you might appreciate a true meal, rather than whatever you have been able to scrounge up in this sparse area.
Tismri jumped gracefully down from her perch on her bond's head, still hesitant to speak with Sidhion, to tell him what she had decided. Still, Ismrolde was right; it would be for the best, whatever came of it. She joined the elf where he sat.
"How does the day greet you, Sidhion?" she asked him quietly.

[Max452]

"Don't put yourself down, Ealvale. You're an exceptional bard!" Erik glanced up from his work again. "You don't give yourself enough credit, my dear! Now, I may not look it," He looked at her with his good eye, "but I've known a few elves here and there, and even other races, and let me tell you, they got quite a voice, but, you, no, you're voice is wonderful! You play and sing from the heart, you do, and that, by golly, makes the best bard." He squinted at her, "So, no doubting yourself, and listen to your dear friend Erik, eh?" He smiled at her has he grabbed a cloth to wipe his hands. "Now, regarding your lyrics. Perhaps you can sing about the noble Riders, or maybe a love. I'm sure such a fine woman like you has someone chasing after you, eh? Come on, tell, your dear Erik who it is?" He teased her playfully, finding some comfort in having such an innocent friend.

***
Locien perked up at the sight of a more suitable meal. You are too kind, Ismrolde! The dragon took one of his large paws and slid the deer over to him. I thank you. The food here is indeed....lacking. He glanced around the field before digging into the meal. He was famished. I'm glad you came to visit! I haven't been able to speak to another dragon in awhile. How are you? Locien asked as his massive jaws crunched down on some bones. Thora doesn't visit either...I think she's quite angered with us still. He spoke with some understanding.

Sidhion glanced over just as Tismri hopped down. He gave her a tentative smile, still unsure how to respond to her as he was uncertain on their relationship now. "The day treats me well, Tismri. And you? Are the days treating you well? You must be quite busy, I have not seen you here for a few days." Sidhion conversed with her, trying to not sound a bit bitter from the lack of her visitations.

[Tismri]

"Oh, um...thank you," Ealvale stammered out at the continued praise. She was sure Erik was for the most part just being nice, although she knew he was an honest person. Still, she felt he was giving her far too much credit.
She listened to his suggestions for lyrics, and her eyes grew wide when he suggested a love. She shook her head as she felt her face grow warm. "There's nobody," she insisted, but her denial broke because she knew she couldn't lie to Erik. "I mean...maybe there is somebody. But he'd never consider me. Besides...he's not here anymore." Her face grew a little downhearted as she thought of Dastan, remembering how he had left to join Galbatorix's side of the war. But still...she had written a few songs about him. Perhaps someone she admired would be a good topic for the song.
~~~~~
Ismrolde settled comfortably as Locien enjoyed his meal, listening as he chattered on. She could tell he had been rather lonely from the way he spoke.
I have been well, she assured him. For the most part I have been attempting to keep the masses of followers from overrunning my Rider. She referenced all the adoring readers of Tismri's writings, who constantly bothered her day in and day out. At Locien's mention of Thora, Ismrolde agreed sadly. Yes, I am afraid she has not quite forgiven either of you yet. She may be bitter for quite some time.

Tismri gave a hesitant smile. Sidhion seemed in much higher spirits than she had seen him in so long. She hated to think that she might be able to lower them again.
"The days have been treating me as well as they always have," she assured him. "I am just taken a few days to...think. To reflect." She glanced away. She didn't want to hurt him. Why did she allow the two of them to entangle themselves in this mess? Like lovestruck younglings, but they should have known better. She should have known better. But she let her heart lead her rather than her mind, and now she was stuck.

[Max452]

"Ah! I knew it!" Erik chuckled as Ealvale revealed that she had fancied someone. Well, that was good. He hoped that would work out for her; love was indeed a powerful emotion and motivator for people, if directed properly. He paused in his musings as the young woman revealed that the man was no longer around. "Oh, I apologize, Ealvale...I didn't realize that you have lost someone to this accursed war. I am truly sorry for it." Roland grew a bit somber, faulting himself for the allowance of this war, and in essence, the loss of Ealvale's fancy, as he believed him to have died; he had misinterpreted her words. "What was his name?" He asked politely.

***
Locien chuckled at the mention of Tismri's fanatics. I did offer roasting them for her, but she refused. I don't take it personally; it would only increase my time here. He gazed around him, feeling very confined as he could not properly fly the way he wished too. He finished his meal then with a final snap of his deadly jaw. I miss our younger years, Ismrolde. Locien confessed to the copper dragon as he continued to gaze outward. I miss the innocence we all had; the peace. The dragon sighed. It is a shame that time has driven us all apart. Locien's voice was sober.

***
To reflect? Sidhion's mind buzzed on those words, but his face did not hint toward his alarm. Did she regret his confession? "I am glad that you are well." He simply replied, his eyes studying her, hoping that her expressions would hint toward her thoughts. "Has that Varden Queen decided what to do with me, or have you come discuss other matters?" Sidhion asked, trying to figure out the awkward air that seemed to exist between them now.

[Tismri]

Ealvale turned a little downcast as Erik pressed her for information. Although Dastan had not died, as far as she knew, he was still gone, probably forever. She looked away from Erik for a moment, deciding whether or not to tell him. She wasn't sure if he knew who Dastan was, or that he had turned on the Varden. What would he think of her choice if he knew?
"His name is Dastan," she said quietly, her voice shaking as a small tear fell. "He's not dead...at least, I don't believe he is. But...he's out of my reach now."
~~~~~
Ismrolde chuckled as Locien mentioned his offer to roast some of Tismri's devotees. There were times that she would very much like to do that herself, but she restrained, knowing it would only cause more trouble. She grew more serious at Locien's next statements, though.
Aye...back then things seemed so much more simple. She sighed, jets of smoke coming from her nostrils. We may be centuries old now, but we never cease to experience the pain of growing older. I must admit, there are days when I wish I was once again a hatchling, safe and secure in my young Rider's arms.

Tismri stared out across the field, seemingly lost in thought. She was weighing her words carefully in her mind, wondering what would be the best way to phrase what she needed to save. At Sidhion's question, she shook her head lightly.
"When Nasuada decides what to do with you, I am certain she will inform you herself," she said, looking at the elf. She smiled, but it was small and rather unconvincing.
"What have you decided to put your faith in, Sidhion?" she asked. "Are you still convinced that you alone can restore peace to our world? Or have you decided to allow this younger generation a chance?" She stared at him steadily. The answer to his question would make what she had to tell him either easier or much much more difficult.

[Max452]

Erik's eyes widened a bit at the news of whom Ealvale was infatuated with. "Ah, young Dastan...." He spoke somberly. His eyes flickered over to Ealvale. "He is a fine warrior, to be sure. A bit confused, but who knows? He's a good boy; I can see why you fancy him. I knew his parents very well." He watched as a little tear dropped from her face and onto the sandy ground. He sighed. "Who is to say what will become of young Dastan? Fate has a funny way of teaching us what is right and wrong. He'll come to his senses, one day." He smiled at Ealvale, trying to cheer her up. "And then, he will be reachable. I am sure he will enjoy your songs. Music has a funny way of reaching people faster..." He alluded, but said nothing more on the subject. "Would you like to help me place dry leather strips on a new saddle?" He asked her, trying to get her out of her sad emotion.

***
Locien lightly chuckled. I wouldn't say hatchling...I would like to go back to just flying amongst the clouds. But as you say, we have gotten older. The younger generations look to us for guidance, but I must admit, my Rider and I are not very good at that. He swiveled his large icy eye over to Sidhion, wondering if he would let Tismri know his heart. Any news of allowing us a bit of a larger space, Ismrolde? I wouldn't mind a little more space to stretch my wings. The dragon asked, trying to sound nonchalant.

***
"The young Queen must be deliberating constantly about our situation if she has yet to speak to us." Sidhion commented as he drew a bit closer to Tismri. "Aye, I have come to a decision." He stared at her intently for a moment. "May I request something before I answer?" His lips twitched into a coy smile. "A penance, if you may call it that. Just a kiss?" He asked her, his eyes dancing with passion and playfulness.

OOC: Hehe, I think I'm going to torture Tismri just a little bit...hehehe

[Tismri]

Ealvale nodded, trying to trust in Erik's words. She was always glad to talk with him. He somehow seemed to be much wiser than most men his age. She wondered sometimes about his past, which she knew very little about. What had he gone through that often made him seem so sad?
"I hope so," she said about Dastan. He seemed so far gone now; even if he did come back to the Varden, she would never have to courage to speak to him. She moved to help Erik with his saddle-making. "Do you think...if he had heard me sing...would he might have stayed?" she asked. Every day she regretted not speaking to him. She had always been shy around him; he had probably never even noticed her.
~~~~~
Ismrolde agreed with Locien; the younger generations were always looking to them for direction.
I will admit, Tismri has had perhaps more experience leading the young ones than has anyone else. That was most of what she spent her time doing while she was in Ismalia, after she gained their trust. But they always make it challenging for her, and though for the most part she does not show it, they always manage to make her frustrated. She looked at her fellow dragon sympathetically as he mentioned desiring a larger space to fly.
We would have to convince Trinn and Thora to allow it, since they helped create this barrier. I know it is difficult, but try to bear with it. I do not think it will be too long before you and your Rider are released.

Tismri watched Sidhion's every move carefully. There was something different about him; he seemed...playful. There was an expression in his face that he had not held in centuries at least. As a result, his request did not quite throw her off guard. Still, she was momentarily surprised and needed a second to two in order to think of a proper response.
"Very well, if you promise to tell me right afterward," she told him. She leaned in, hovering her lips over his for a second, and then planted a tiny kiss on the tip of his nose. She smiled at him, returning his playful expression. "Well, you didn't specify where you wanted it," she told him, giving a light laugh.
~~~~~
Karliah laced up her boots with practiced ease, making sure that they were tight for the trip she was about to make. Uru'baen was a pretty great distance to make from Dras-Leona, but it wouldn't be too difficult. She had covered greater distances in shorter time.
Since joining the Varden, she had demonstrated her practiced ablity of stealth, which was almost a good, if not better than the average elf's. As a result, she was being sent with an espionage team to Galbatorix's palace, in order to confirm the location of the dragon eggs in the king's possession. Diana knew where they had been when she left, but the king might very well have moved them as a precaution. Also, it seemed likely that the one remaining egg of his original three was being kept in a different place.
"It'll just be in and out, Marek," she tried to convince her recent husband. She knew he was going to be worried sick and demanding to go with her. "And it's not even like we'll be taking anything. We're just looking around and we'll be back before you know it."

[Max452]

Erik pondered on Ealvale's words as his hands carefully showed her where to place the strips on the saddle. "I cannot say what young Dastan would have done; I am not him. I can, however, express to you the importance of not dwelling on what could have been. You cannot change the pass; only learn from the experience." His own mind trying to take those words at into his heart. Centuries have passed, and yet, those very what if's continued to plague him every now and then. If not for Oromis and Glaedr, he knew he would have suffered more greatly than now, perhaps even be dead. For there guidance, he would forever be grateful. Wryda had taken him elsewhere, and now, he would go where he led. He returned his attention to Ealvale, having realized that he was silent for a moment during his reflection, "When he returns, express your love for him and allow him the right to decide how he feels for you." He smoothed out a strip that was bubbling in awkward places. "I am sure though, that your voice will leave a deep impression on him once he hears it." He gave her a smile.

***
I would appreciate the larger space, fricai. Locien sighed, his head gazing over to Tismri and Sidhion's playful nature. They seem to have gotten more comfortable with one another now. He commented, noticing how Tismri only kissed Sidhion's nose, and now, Sidhion demonstrated a slight pout and mock annoyance. He has not been this aloof since we first bonded. He glanced at Tismri. He seems....more at peace since he had made his decision.

***
Sidhion continued to demonstrate his mock annoyance toward Tismri. "You tease me, Tismri. One would think that you were elven born by your loop holes." He gave a slight frown. He watched her with a glint in his eyes, however, not missing the slight hesitation she displayed in kissing him. Now, he only needed to be sure of his suspicions. "A small peck only begets a small answer." He seemingly challenged her. "If you wish to know my mind, then, I kiss I will have." He angled himself quickly toward her and gave her a passionate kiss on the lips, biting her lower lip, a rough action that was able to draw blood.

***
Marek eyes scanned his wife's figure as she laced her boot. He was not too keen on the mission she was being sent on at all. If he had it his way, she would forever remain far from that horrid place and he, instead would be taking on this mission. However, the duty required one of stealthy attributes, attributes he did not possess as skillfully as his spouse. Since coming to the Varden, Marek's skills as a warrior had increased vitally, as he did not want to be a hinderance to anyone. Of course, his background gave him a heavy advantage. Now, he was considered one of the most skilled archers in the Varden army. He continued to display an irritated expression as Kari tried to appease to his logical side. "I don't care if you were just setting a toe across the castle's border; I still don't like this mission." He crossed his arms. "There are deadly warriors in there; and even deadlier Riders. All stationed in one location. You might as well be telling them your their prisoner by the way your waltzing in." He seethed, but his voice did not hold that much anger as it could. "Just promise me that you'll be careful." He asked her, knowing that he couldn't sway her from this. "And that at any sign of foul play that you'll get out of there."

[Tismri]

As she helped place the leather strips on the saddle, Ealvale listened to Erik's words. When he mentioned Dastan coming back, she looked up at him hopefully.
"Do you really think he will?" she asked. "It seems like more than I could hope for, but if you think so, too, then maybe he will." She immediately felt embarrassed at having said so much. It was like she admitted how much she really cared about him. She decided to try to change the subject.
"What about you, Erik?" she ask him. "Has there ever been someone you loved?"
~~~~~
Tismri hardly had time to react to Sidhion's sudden movement, and his lips on hers were fiercer and rougher than they had been before. It was unlike anything she had ever before experienced, and she wasn't ready for it. She struggled with her own will, unthinkingly returning his kiss with a similar level of passion; at the same time she was telling herself that this would only end up hurting him more. Her heart balanced on the edge for a moment, her passion and emotion and selfish desires telling her to give in as she admitted to herself that she truly did want him; her concern for him and her love and care for the Varden and Alagaesia telling her to stop.
Finally, she pulled herself away, not looking at him. Perhaps he didn't realize it, but he just made what she had to say much more difficult. She felt tears of sorrow and frustration welling behind her eyes. Tasting blood, she touched a finger to her lip and it came away red. She stayed quiet for over a minute, composing herself and not looking at him.
"There," she said, her voice tight with various emotions. "You've had your kiss. Will you please answer my question now?"
~~~~~
Karliah rolled her eyes as Marek protested. She was glad she married a man who loved and worried about her so much, but his concerns seemed more than a little exaggerated.
"Honestly, Marek, I think you still don't appreciate my abilities," she told him. "I know how to be invisible, without the elves' fancy magic. Galbatorix's warriors and Riders would have to notice me before they find me, and they'd have to either see or hear me before they notice. I've spent years making sure that they would be unable to do that." She stood and walked over to him, putting her arms around his shoulders. A coy smile played at her lips. "I think you're just jealous that I get to go out on a fun and exciting mission while you're left here."

[Max452]

Erik smiled, amused and happy for Ealvale's enthusium. He hoped that Dastan would come back, if only for Ealvale's happiness. He finished smoothing out the leather. He grabbed another strip, but froze mid step at Ealvale's question. His mind immediately went to Faith. His heart clenching followed soon after. He cleared his throat. "When you get to my age, dear Ealvale, you cannot help but fall in love with some one once or twice." Roland replied quietly, returning to his work. After another small second awkward pause, Roland smiled calmly. "Here, Ealvale, like this." Roland smoothed out the strap he had before helping Ealvale with her's.

***
Sidhion resurfaced from the agressive kiss, non too pleased with the confused emotion he seemed to sense from Tismri. It seemed she was unsure of her emotions toward him or perhaps unsure of the answer he was about to provide her. He stared at her for a moment, watching her carefully. She looked very tense. He slowly moved toward her, to show her that he wasn't going to surprise her with anything else. He revealed a cloth and gently wiped Tismri's bleeding lip.
"I'm sorry, Tismri. I let my emotions get the better of me." He told her apologetically as he proceeded to heal her lip. The playfulness was now gone, replace by concern and something else. "Waise hiel." He whispered, not taking his eyes off of her. Perhaps it was unwise for him to reveal his feelings to her. "I will not give up my quest for peace, Tismri." He whispered as he finished healing her. His hands went back to his side as he tried to make eye contact with her. "I cannot trust this generation; I've lived too long to see trust go to waste." He inhaled slowly, almost regrettably. "However, I will allow them to have Time. Time to prove me wrong. If they defeat Galbatorix, I will watch in the shadows to view their progression. If they prove to me that they can restore peace and purity once again, then I will leave them be. If they do not defeat our fallen comrade, then I will step in, and bring Order." His voice was soft, but strong as he spoke. "Will you fault me for my decision, Tismri?" He asked her as one hand reached up to touch her cheek. "Is that enough for you?"

***
Marek sighed in defeat, especially after Kari placed her arms around him. "I cannot help the jealousy, Kari; I want you near me and it is killing me knowing that I will not be by your side this time." He wrapped his arms around her waist. "And yes, maybe the fact that you'll be having fun and I'll be lugging around sweat and steel does seem quite fair to me." He leaned his forehead down to connect with her's. "Please, promise me you'll be careful." His voice was softer, almost pleading as he understood the situation of her mission. He kissed her gently, and upon their lips parting, he gave her a soft, coy smile as he whispered to her. "And, Kari, you're mistaken if you think I don't appreciate all of your abilities. I am extremely appreciative." He smirked, but it faded after a few seconds. "Be safe, my love."

"Oi! Lovebirds! Enough with the smooching! I don't want to have to pry you off one another!"

Marek grunted with irritation. "Must you go with that brash man?" Marek whispered to his wife.

Aiden! Apologize! That was rude! Lenora voiced with embarrassment and endearing anger.
What they were doing was rude! I just ate lunch! Aiden huffed as he approached Karliah and Marek.
Lenora huffed and clamped her teeth above Aiden's head, causing him to duck down. Oi! What was that for! He yelled at Lenora.
Apologize!
FINE!
"Sorry for interrupting your lovey dovey farewell." He apologized sarcastically.
AIDEN! Lenora huffed out smoldering coils from her nostrils.
"SORRY!" Aiden grunted out, already sensing Lenora's plan to strike out at him with her tongue. "Just don't take too long! I don't have all day!" Aiden strode pass the couple, ignoring Marek's death glare.

"I want to kill him." Marek replied with annoyance, but knew he really wouldn't kill him; he was a gentleman after all - he would challenge him to a duel before killing him. "If he gives you any problems....I'll make him regret it." He assured his wife, but mostly to assure himself. "I loathe the idea that you to go with him." He added with distaste.

"ANY DAY NOW!" Aiden shouted a few feet away, where he was standing next to Lenora, who seemed to want to flick her agitated tail at him.

[Tismri]

Tismri barely moved as Sidhion moved over to heal her. He was being significantly more gentle this time. As he apologized, she allowed herself to look at him again. When he admitted that he was unable to trust in the younger generation, any hope she had in her eyes dimmed, giving way to an expression devoid of all emotion, but for a trace of sorrow.
"No, I suppose I cannot blame you for your decision," she said, her voice low. "But I am unable to support it. Since returning to Alagaesia, I have devoted my life to helping and nurturing these young ones, equipping them to battle Galbatorix and teaching them what I can. So, if this time you give to them runs out, and you seek to harm them in any way, know that I will fight you with every fiber of my being." She lowered her eyes again, unable to look at him. "And until you stop pursuing these selfish ideal of yours, I am unable to justify striving for a union with you. I will put the needs of these children before my own desires." She touched Sidhion's hand gently, and looked at him again, her eyes expressing the pain she felt in saying this. "I cannot weigh you against them. So until such a time as the peace we both desire has been established, I feel I must no longer put us in this position."
~~~~~
Karliah smiled at Marek's admissions, knowing she had been right. She combed her fingers gently through his hair as he kissed her. She was going to miss him while she was gone.
"I will," she told him, promising that she would stay safe. She stared at him for another few seconds when an annoying voice interupted them. She smirked as Marek complained.
"I can't imagine why they would sent him on a spy mission," she told her husband in undertone. "But trust me; I've been around much worse. You never did get to meet my fellow thieves. The only trouble he might cause will be allowing his big mouth to be heard in the middle of the palace, which by then we all plan to be seperated." Her smirk grew into a michievious grin as Aiden continued to complain. This kid needed to learn that, as a married couple, she and Marek had the right to do whatever they wanted. She brought her lips to Marek's in a long, passionate parting kiss, and she lifted her leg slightly against his. When she finally drew away from him, she gave him a wink.
"An investment in what's to come when I get back," she promised Marek.

Tento approached Aiden from behind as he was yelling at the couple in front of him. Her eyes narrowed in annoyance.
"Why are you going on this mission again?" she asked him, crossing her arms. Her eyes widened slightly as she pretended that the reason suddenly dawned on her. "Oh, I get it; you're going to be the distraction, so that everyone in the entire city will be trying to kill you while the rest of us sneak in to get our information. Good tactic."

[Max452]

Sidhion withheld a grimace at Tismri's words. It was a shattering, but expecting, disappointment. He closed his eyes, trying to stabilize his emotions, before opening them once again to face her. His face was an emotional stone once again. "I understand, Tismri." His voice sounded pained as he gently took a step back, his hand retreating from her cheek and hand. "I must say, it is no surprise to me that it ended this way." He glanced over to Locien and Ismrolde. He then turned to face her once more, he spoke then, but in his own elven tongue. "I hope I am proven wrong, Tismri. You may not reciprocate my feelings for you, but know, that they will never fade." His voice was soft and gentle, no longer harboring the hate he once felt for his old comrades. "I place Trust in you that you will guide the younglings well." He continued in the Ancient Language before taking a seat on the grassy floor. He was silent for another moment, before adding one more emotion for her to contemplate: "I am sorry." And with that, he gently closed his eyes as he strived to mediate on everything and what he must now do.

***
Marek ignored Aiden once Karliah kissed him heatedly. He returned it with equal, if not more fervor as his body began to yearn for its mate once again. Lucky for him, the sounds of the Varden camp kept him from doing anything rash at the moment. They parted and he had an eager and sly look on his face. "Mmm, and I will make sure that you hold true to your promise." He told her as he watched her part from him. "Be safe." He reminded her, a flash of worry in his eyes.

***
Aiden tensed at the sound of Tento's voice. He turned around and glared at her irritably. Why of all people was she coming along?
AIDEN! BE POLITE. Lenora warned, knowing fully that Tento was able to draw out a huge amount of temper from Aiden as much as Aiden could from the elf.
A thoughtful silence sensed on Aiden's end, which caused Lenora to wonder what her Rider was thinking and feeling.
"No." He replied to Tento's sarcastic remark with indignation. "I was the only avaliable Rider to help." He muttered loud enough to hear, sounding a bit annoyed at the idea. The truth was, he had begged Lady Nasuada for this mission. When he heard that they were planning a scouting mission, Aiden jumped at that chance...if only to locate the man who killed his family. And with that information, Aiden was determined to make good use of it. He never mentioned the death of his family to anyone, as it was not only personal, but he had a silent vendetta that he was sure that the Varden would not be pleased to be associated with. Aiden glanced over at Lenora, who was privy to his thoughts. She said nothing but readied herself to be boarded; the three seat saddle on her back ready and waiting.
"Let's go..." He muttered again, making way to Lenora as she crouched down for all of them to hop on.