Madness

[Max452]

Kyler shuffled in his seat, switching his position a bit so he was facing his wife a bit when she sat back down next to him. He was still upset with Tismri, or Sidhion to be more precise, but he held a softened expression when he made eye contact with his daughter. He wished he could go, but knew, that they had to train the students more so that further aid could be adequently obtained. He hated to think this way as his parental side desired to protect Maude from danger, but knew in his heart, that more lives were at stake. He glanced away from his daughter, looking askance to his wife, hoping that this mission wasn't going to bode ill for their family.

***
Roland turned from looking out the window of the tower to the opening door. He smiled as Vana appeared with Maude and Ian, but it was a sad smile. He knew what they all agreed upon. This was not going to be an easy mission. Roland closed his eye. He did not wish to send them, but they were amongst the oldest and more experienced riders, and the land was aching for the reassurance of the Riders. He opened his eye, watching as Ian moved to stand next to Maude in the center, his fingers brushing briefly against her hand. He could see Einarson's quick analysis of the other members of the Council and the boy's seemingly protectiveness of Maude. Einarson could probably feel the unease in this room, causing him to be weary of anything. The boy had instinct, to be sure, but time will tell if it could keep him alive.

Roland nodded to Vana, a silent thank you for delivering her daughter and Ian. "Rider Maude Vanadaughter and Rider Ian Einarson, you both have been brought to help aid Alagaesia. Queen Nasuada has sent news to us that Melian and its surrounding towns have been attacked by an army." Roland sighed. "For some time now, we have been aware of a rising threat in the Hadarac Desert, an horrendous army lead by an abomination; a Shade Rider. She has been gathering her forces and terrorizing our homes and families. She desires destruction and is not to be taken lightly or underestimated." Roland paused, gathering his thoughts. "We need you both to aid Melian and the surrounding towns, assess the damage and provide hope for the people. We are unaware if the threat has passed, so please, Argetlams, stay safe and stay sharp. Queen Nasuada will send aid and when another available Rider is able, he or she will come as well. Your training and your skills have brought you to this moment, the choice is now yours: do you accept this mission Argetlams?" Roland asked them, granting them one chance to back away. He secretly hoped they would, for the lack of knowledge of the Shade Rider's presence was unsettling for Roland.

"I will go." Ian spoke up, making Roland's heart ache. "We need to protect the people, Ebrithil." Ian emphasized, sensing that sending them was last on the list, as Ian himself calculated the remainding Riders here. Things must be terrible if they had to send them; where were his parents? were where the other Riders in Alagaesia? And then the sudden realization truly hit him: war had come. The idea was nerve racking, but Ian held a cool face, remembering the faces of those he promised to protect. He would defend this land until his last breath.

[Trinn]

From the looks on her parents faces, it was clear that they did not desire her to accept this mission into the empire. But Maude would not decline it. That would prove cowardly and dishonorable. Lifting her head high, Maude looked Master Roland in the eyes as she accepted the elders request. "I accept this mission as well. It would be my honor to travel to Melian and the outlying villages to aid the people, and gather information on their tormentor. That is my duty, as dragon rider, and I accept it gratefully." Maude gave the elders surrounding her a bow, and when she rose, noticed that her mother seemed very, very sad.

[Max452]

Roland nodded, accepting, with a low heart their decision. "Aye, Riders. We, the Council are grateful for your acceptance. Please, ready yourselves as quickly as you can. You must leave as soon as possible, no later than two hours from now; darkness will greet you in Alagaesia if you do not hurry." Roland cautioned as he inclined his head to the two young Riders. "May the stars watch over you, Argetlams. And may your teeth and swords stay sharp." He gave them his blessing, indicating that they were dismissed.

**
Ian's heart was beating rapidly as he realized that they were going on a full fledged mission! He glanced over to the other members of the Council, noting their expressions. Some looked worried and concerned, while others looked proud and grateful that they had accepted. So this was it. The tension that he had felt the moment he had entered the chambers was slowly receding, but it was still there, causing Einarson to be on his toes. He didn't like this feeling, as if something bad was going to happen. He shook off that sinking feeling and nudged Maude lightly, noticing the stares her parents were giving her. "Go, speak with them. I'll wait for you outside." He smiled at her, ever grateful that they were together. He was about to touch her hand affectionately, but noticed her Father's watchful eyes. He wasn't quite sure if Maude had ever informed her parents about them and Ian wasn't going to do it unless Maude allowed him to; although, he never really did ask since he was slightly afraid of her parents when it came to this certain subject. Blinking away his thoughts, he gave another supportive nudge and smile before turning to exit the tower.

***
Kyler hid his grim mood as best as he could; Sidhion's attempt to contact him and Maude's sudden departure fueled his mood. He silently narrowed his eyes as he watched Ian interact with his daughter. He would have to speak with Einarson before he left. There were some things he wanted to make clear to the boy about his daughter. He turned his eyes to glance at Vana, sensing her mood. His hand instinctively reached over to wrap around her's in a comforting gesture.

[Trinn]

Maude refrained from letting herself smile. She felt victorious and excited. This was the moment she had been waiting for. At last! She would be able to go into Alagesia and stay there. The land of her mother. It wouldn't be the spine, or some other forest. It would be towns and villages. Maude wanted to walk in the streets her mother and father had. She wanted to see the historical places she had heard of. She looked at Ian when he nudged her, and she gave him a silent nod. Both of her parents looked upset, and Maude didn't have to wonder why. For the first time in her life, she would truly be on her own. She would be far from her parents, and they far from her. This thought sank in, and Maude suddenly felt a streak of fear. Her parents had always been around for her, never more than shouting distance, or telepathy distance. Feeling suddenly anxious, and, admittedly, homesick already, Maude went to where her parents sat.

The rest of the council members had left the chamber, leaving Maude and her parents alone. Acting on emotion, Maude knelt down before them and bowed her head. "I want both of your blessings." She told them in a strong voice. "I want to know that you will support my decision to go... and I want to have something to take with me for the long journey I am taking."
~~

Vana felt tears well up in her eyes. There were many things that had changed about her since she end of the war. She smiled easily now, and laughed more than she ever had. She shared her feelings with Kyler daily, allowed strangers into her life. But, always, she had always fought against tears. Crying was one thing she had never been comfortable with, not even at the lowest points in her life. Now she was facing the departing of her only child, and it was almost too much to bear. Unable to fight the tears now, Vana placed her hand on Maude's head and spoke in the ancient language. "I give you my blessing, my child. May your journey be safe from strife. May the weather bring you clear skies and calm winds. And may you be ever successful in your journeying.". Vana was happy that her voice, at least, held strong. It didn't give away the tears that were rebelliously rolling down her cheeks.

[Max452]

Leaving Maude with her parents, Ian rushed out of the chambers, excited about his mission, though worried at the same time. His parents' words still floated in his mind about the Shade Rider that was tormenting them as well as Master Vana's words to flee if they encountered her army. Ian sighed. This was going to be challenging. Never once had he really fought or practiced being a Rider. He was nervous and anxious that he wouldn't be what the people wanted.
Don't worry, Ian! You have a great heart and have practiced long and hard. Well both be fine. Castiel's voice rang in, if a bit ragged.
You all right? Ian frowned.
Magda beat me... Castiel grumbled out from his seated position near the woods as he communicated with his Rider across the city.
Oh, well you were tired from before, so, maybe next time you'll win. Ian assured his dragon, who still sent a mental huff.
I will win next time. Castiel's tail flicked behind him in agitation. Anyways, so we have a mission? I'll come over so we can pack. I've never been to Algaeasia before! You have to show me where Celesti is...and Zee. I am eager to meet all your important people! Castiel proclaimed with excitement.
Yes, I would love for you to meet them as well. Maude too. I'm eager for her to meet Zee; I think they would get along. He smiled, eager for Maude to meet his other best friend. Ian waited patiently at the bottom of the tower for Maude.

***
Kyler finally demonstrated his true emotions once their family was all alone. He gripped Vana's hand tighter as she began to cry, knowing that showing this type of emotion was very rare, and very personal. With sad, but knowing eyes, Kyler beheld his daughter. She was growing up into a fine woman and into a fine rider, just like her mother. "Maude, you know we support you." He told his daughter. "We're just worried that is all." He gave her a reassuring smile, and fought tears of his own as Vana gave a Mother's blessing. "Come here, my Maude." Kyler bent down, resting his lips on the crown of his daughter's head. He placed his free hand upon her head as well and spoke his own blessing; a father's blessing, in the ancient tongue. "My dearest Maude, may your mind ever be clear and sharp as you journey to help those around you. I bless you with strength, kindness, and compassion as I know you possess. Peace in times of uncertainty. Hope in times of adversity, and most of all Love in times of darkness. May you and Magda continue to strengthen and grow with one another as your trust continues to grow and mature. May Magda's teeth stay sharp and her talons ready to strike those that mean harm. May you have a safe and wonderous journey as you step into this new chapter in your life. Always know, that your Mother and I love you. Be safe, my Maude and may you come to know, as we know, that you are destined for greatness. This is my Father's blessing to you, my dear daughter. " And with those loving words, Kyler kissed the top of Maude's head. "Go and prepare, Maude. I must speak with your Mother about something that may help you in your journey." Kyler instructed his daughter as he finally realized that his father's sword may be of good use for his family.

[Trinn]

When she had received both of her parents blessings, Maude finally stood and looked at them both. Her own gray eyes were watery, but she was able to fight back full fledged tears. However, at the sight of the tears in both her mother and her fathers eyes, the resolve she felt wavered momentarily. "Thank you." She said, a small quiver in her voice. Quickly, before she could fall victim to her sudden sadness, Maude kissed her father's brow, and then her mother's, in a daughterly fashion. "I will return to you." She promised, speaking in the ancient language. Unable to help herself, Maude turned and ran from the room. She entered the spiral staircase and fled rather recklessly down the steps. Her parents blessing must have worked, she thought wryly, for she reached the bottom with no incident.

By the time she reached Ian, Maude was feeling better. Her determination had returned, and she felt energized and ready to be off. "Ian!" She said, and hugged him tightly. "Come on! We'll meet here again in an hour, ok?" Before parting, Maude gave Ian another, quick kiss on the cheek. Though she was leaving her parents behind, she would not be alone. She would have her best friend, and the man she was falling in love with, at her side.
***

Once Maude had left, Vana bowed her head and let her tears fall free. Her silent sorrow lasted shortly, and in a minute or two she was able to look up at Kyler with fresh, tear-free eyes. "Oh, Kyler. I feel a mess. Our daughter is leaving us, and I feel it is too soon. But I am also proud. She will do well." She frowned again, another wave of sadness washing over her. "But I already miss her." Shaking her head to try and clear her emotions, Vana eyed Kyler curiously. "You have something to speak with me about? What is this thing that could help our Maude?"

[Max452]

Kyler nodded to Maude, trying hard to withhold his teary emotions. He watched, proudly, as his daughter ran off to get herself ready. She was growing up so fast. He would worry until she return to him and then some, but he knew, that Einarson would take care of her. Kyler gazed at his wife with all the affection and love he possessed, sharing her sentiments concerning their daughter. "Shur'tugal, I feel the same." He whispered to her as he embraced her in his arms. "She will be fine though. She is your daughter - she already has a strong strike to match yours." He lightly teased his wife before kissing her cheek. "It will be hard without her around, but all will be well." He tensed then, at the mention of the topic he wished to speak to her about. Kyler sighed. "Whilst you went to retrieve Maude and Ian, Tismri had beckoned me to her home, saying she had something to give me. When we reached their, she revealed Reona, Sidhion's sword." Kyler breathed in deeply, trying to contain his anger for the man, "I told you once, that Sidhion had said when he found peace, he would give Reona to me. Now, it seems that is the case. Tismri said that she wished me to forgive him...because he had changed...but I don't know, I just can't believe that, Vana...he's hurt me...hurt us...I can't believe he's changed, but, Reona is a Rider sword...Maude may have use of it." Kyler expressed to his wife, fighting back his urge to just rid them all of Reona, but concern for his daughter's safety made him consider keeping the sword.

***
Ian's eyes brightened as Maude came down the stairs. He returned her hug with his own, wrapping his arms around her. He noticed some redness in her eyes, indicating that she might have been crying. He was momentarily worried, but knew it was probably because she was leaving her parents. "One hour, I'll be here." Ian assured Maude and went into another happy oblivion state when she kissed him on the cheek. He blinked himself back into reality and gave her a broad smile. "See you soon." He waved her a farewell as she departed and ran off to go pack himself.

**
An hour later, Ian was packed and ready to depart. Castiel was now by his side, feeling refreshed and rejuventaed after a 45 minute nap. Castiel was saddled now, with Ian's side bags of supplies. Ian, now, had his swords strapped to his back, with his bow and quiver placed their as well; he was glad he trained himself more - the weight was nothing. Ian patiently awaited Maude and Magda's arrival.

[Trinn]

OOC: I'll post Maude once we get the sword lol Also, does Maude know she has a grandfather? I'm thinking no.

At the mention of Sidhion, Vana felt a flare of anger. That old, horrid man had made Kyler suffer, had hindered her relationship with Kyler. She found it hard to believe that Sidhion really had any remorse in him. That man was as unforgiving and ruthless as a summer sun in the middle of the desert. Still, if the sword would help protect Maude... "We should give her the blade." She said decisively, nodding. "Maude would be able to wield it well. But... what will we tell her of the blade?" She asked, unable to think of a fitting story for the white blade that was called Reaper.

[Max452]

OOC: I would say that she knows of Sidhion as Kyler would have warned her to stay away from anyone matching Sidhion's description, but I would say that Kyler did not mention the fact that the crazy elf was her grandfather. lol.

Kyler stared at their joined hands as Vana spoke. He nodded to her, knowing she spoke true despite his misgivings of the origins of Reona. Pushing his anger aside, Kyler knew this would increase their daughter's success. He glanced up at Vana as she posed the dreaded question that he knew could not be avoided. He had told Maude of Sidhion, but never that he was her grandfather. Sidhion was portrayed as a ruthless and dangerous elf that was to be avoided at all cost. He thought of just making up a story that he found Reona, but the thought of lying to his Maude put a bitter taste in his mouth. He sighed. "We shall tell her the truth; Maude is ready for it." Kyler then stood and reached out for his wife to follow him. "Come with me to retrieve the sword?" Kyler asked, his eyes hopeful and a bit insecure about anything associated with Sidhion. "I was rather rude to Tismri; I must apologize, but I would feel more at ease with you by my side when we retrieve Reona." He told her, feeling as if a part of him - a small part - was still that beaten, fearful slave of his father and thus, he worried that he would not be able to claim Reona.

[Trinn]

OOC: Ok! Sounds good.

"Of course." Vana said, giving Kyler a tender smile. Taking his hand, and relishing the secure warmth of it, Vana stood and followed her husband out of the room. As they made there way back to where Reona rested with Tismri, Vana's thoughts were a whirlwind of memories. Maude taking her first steps in the heart of the spine. The time Maude had run off in the middle of the night, not yet a teenager. They had found their little girl in a peculiar place, a perfect circular radius of burnt ground. And in the center, the ground dipped low, as if something powerful had hit. Vana remembered the way Maude had stared at the eery ruins. She had been quick to pick the girl up and retreat back to camp. The spine was ever a dangerous place.

And then there were thoughts of Sidhion, who was more of a master than a father to Kyler. A slave keeper. She thought of his disillusioned plans for peace. He was psychotic, and it was difficult indeed for Vana to believe otherwise. Which led her to wonder if giving Maude the blade of a madman was really such a good idea. But swords were only pawns, no matter how they were crafted. Reaper would harvest good deeds in the hands of Maude. Still, there was a lingering doubt. Vana squeezed tighter to Kyler's hands, if only to give him comfort when she found she had none.

[Max452]

OOC: Oooo what did Maude witness?! Or do!? Crop circles!! lol

Finding comfort and security with Vana by his side, Kyler led her back to Tismri's residence, hoping that the Ancient Rider would forgive him for his inappropriate behaviour. He truly hoped that this was the right decision; he did not want anything bad to happen to Maude, and if it did, he would never forgive himself.

The couple finally reached Tismri's door and with a heavy hand, Kyler knocked on it politely, somberly. He stood there, waiting with his beloved wife for the door to open and when it did, Kyler bowed his head in apology. "Master Tismri, I am sorry for my earlier behaviour. Would it be all right for us to come in?" The young half Ismalian asked.

[Tismri]

Tismri sat with a quill and paper once again. She was writing of everything she knew of Kyler, which albeit was not much. She connected what she knew of everything Sidhion told her as well as what she had observed while they were instructing in Bromsland. She expressed her hope that he would be able to release his bitterness and anger toward his father. She was still writing when there was a knock at the door, and she heard Kyler's voice from outside. She was rather surprised he had returned so soon. Placing her quill down, she opened the door with a smile of greeting, noting the additional presence of his wife.
"No need to apologize, Kyler," she told him, gesturing them inside. "I understand your reaction. Please, enter, and welcome to you both." She observed him carefully for several moments. "Have you reconsidered accepting your gift?"

[Max452]

Kyler nodded and graciously accepted Tismri's invitation. He entered the home with Vana. At Tismri's inquiry, Kyler nodded. "Yes...we have. We were hoping to provide a more suitable weapon for Maude on her quest. Though, I am unsure if I will ever forgive Sidhion, I know that his blade is strong and in Maude's hands, much good can become of it." Kyler spoke calmly and constantly thought of his daughter while he spoke of Sidhion. He needed a more positive presence in his mind whenever he spoke of Sidhion. His hand tightened lightly on Vana's as a reassurance that she was there as he spoke with Tismri.

[Tismri]

Tismri listened carefully to Kyler as he spoke. She could sense through his expression, hidden behind his calm exterior, the anger he was still struggling to control. He was much like Sidhion in that regard; his true emotions were clearly evident to her despite all attempts to hide it. The truth brought a tinge of sadness to her. She wished that Kyler would be willing to be reconciled to his father. As Riders, they were both likely to live for many more years. An eternity was a long time to live with such hatred.
"Of course," she replied to him, once again presenting him with the blade. "Reona is yours now, to do with as you please. I am sure it will bring much good in young Maude's capable hands." She met Kyler's gaze steadily for several moments, continuing her study of his expression. "If you are willing to hear the advice of an old woman," she said, "Take care; it is better to release anger than to confine it, else you may one day find yourself becoming the very thing you hate." With that, Tismri felt there was nothing left to say to these two children. She would allow them to make their own choices and accept the consequences.

[Max452]

Tismri's words struck Kyler hard. He did not want to become like Sidhion. He gave a brisk nod at Tismri, a worried look on his face as he accepted Reona. "Thank you, Tismri, for...for everything." Kyler bowed before the wise woman and with Vana exited the household. Kyler glanced at Reona, unable to admire the beauty of the white-blue blade. It was a deadly blade that had killed many. Reaper indeed. Kyler's thoughts turned back to Tismri's words. "Vana...do you think I will become my Father?" He asked his wife, his emotions bare, only for her to see. Sadness, worry, and fear all evident on the man's face as he walked with his beloved.