Trust

[Max452]

OOC: Title inspired by Neon Trees - Trust (Now, can you guess who the song is for? lol) This thread takes place during Misguidance.

Seth screamed his lungs out as he felt Hyperion cry out in pain. His hearing was impaled by the dragon's roar and his other senses were disrupted by his laughing opponent and the electrical current now flowing through his body.

"What's wrong, Rider? It's only a little lightening!" Tyrant laughed out loud at this supposed rider. "Come come, is this what New Doru Arabea has to offer as an enemy?" Tyrant bent down to face the boy, who was lying on the ground, writhing. Tyrant's eyes flickered over to Hyperion, who was pinned down by some magical barriers. The dark blue dragon roared as he eyed Tyrant with malicious eyes.
I will kill you! Hyperion promised as he tried to escape the spell that Tyrant had placed on him. It was torture watching the Shade toy with Seth while he, could do nothing.

Seth gasped out in pain, blood spilling out of his mouth. He couldn't see his opponent - his head rang from the shock and his body continued to seize. How did it come to this? It was only a few days ago that they had set out to find Glory, and instead, Seth and Hyperion found this crazy magician (who Hyperion said was a Shade), who seemed to be guarding some perimeter near the Hadarac Desert. Seth knew that this Shade had some news of Glory! He was going to rip it out of him but the Shade was just too powerful. All his training in Bromsland...did little good for him.

"What? No clever retort this time, blind Rider?" Tyrant tilted his head at the boy. Seth immediately reacted, trying to plunge his sword, but another spasm erupted in his body, halting the boy. Tyrant laughed. "Its a shame really," Tyrant sighed, "there's no challenge here, and if this is really what lies in Bromsland, well, its going to be easy when we attack." Tyrant hot breath whispered into Seth's ear. "Too bad you won't be there to watch...oh wait...haha, you couldn't even if you wanted to." Tryant laughed at his own joke. Hyperion roared, panic fueling him to try harder to escape and save his precious Seth. "Time to die, Rider. Katriana would be wondering what was keeping me." Seth barely heard the cackling sound; he knew what was coming. He closed his eyes. I'm sorry, Glory. I wasn't strong enough. I'm sorry, Hyp...I'm sorry I wasn't good enough. A tear rolled down his blood stained cheek as he awaited his death.

"Bye by---ack!" Tyrant was about to launch his lightening at Seth when a blurred figure sent him flying backwards. Tyrant soared through the air, his lightening discharged permaturely, sending sparks all around him as he landed hard against the sand dunes.

"It has been awhile since I faced a filthy creature like you." Sidhion's eyes flashed dangerously at the crater he created with the Shade's body. Locien. Sidhion's eyes flickered upward as his bond flew over them, a pool of hot lava flowing out of his mouth and at Tyrant. It wouldn't kill him, but it would bind them time to escape with the younglings. Sidhion knelt next to Seth, who was gasping out of pain. "Peace, young one. Peace." Sidhion whispered as he quickly said a spell to ease Seth's pain. Sidhion then glanced at Hyperion, assessing the spell that held the dragon down. He stated another spell, fast and fluid that Hyperion could not make out the words, but found himself free seconds later.
"Quickly now, Locien will keep the Shade distracted for only so long. Can you fly, young dragon?"
Barely. Hyperion replied honestly. Sidhion nodded, lifted Seth, and then commanded Hyperion to follow him. With a racing speed, the elf took off toward the Beor Mountains, with Hyperion flying after them.
Let us go, Locien! Sidhion commanded. We have gained the information we needed for Tismri. The elf said, a sadness in his voice.

Deeming that he had spewed enough flames over the Shade, Locien quickly turned after Sidhion and the blue hatchling. He had given them enough time to escape without the Shade knowing which way they had gone.

***

It was thirty minutes after being dumped on by hot flames that Tyrant managed to escape his cacoon. Lucky for the Shade, Tyrant had seen the massive torrent of flames and quickly casted himself in a protected shell. He grumbled as he dusted himself off, the sands were still burning from the flames that that accursed dragon created. He frowned. Katriana was not going to be pleased to learn that an Ancient was nearby. Turning back toward their main campsite, Tyrant raced across the desert to inform the Rider Shade.

***
Sidhion gently laid Seth down on his bed. The boy had passed out during the run from pain and exhaustion. Sidhion went about quickly to heal the boy, but only time would tell when he would awake. He then went to see to the young dragon, healed him and assured him that Seth was fine. The dragon only muttered a thank you and seemed to curl up in a ball of shame; he could not protect his Rider. He felt useless.

Sidhion immediately went to the scrying mirror to contact his mate. He had ill news to inform her concerning her pupils.

[Tismri]

Katriana sat back against Vanilor as she watched Glory and Sundavar display the full extent of their skills. She'd pit them against several of her best soldiers in an anything-goes battle, the only rule being that they could not kill one another. Maim, yes. Woulds could be healed. But deaths would be bothersome. She would need pawns when she began her attack.
Glory was quite an impressive young girl. Often, she barely even moved during these confrontations. She would use blow darts or magic to quickly and easily incapacitate her opponents. She showed extensive knowledge of the ancient language and incredible dexterity with her use of magic. She would rarely say more than one or two words to perform some rather complicated spells. When she ran out of darts, she used arrows. When they got close enough, she would unleash Theyna upon them. Her parents and the Riders in Bromsland had taught her well. Kat was really quite impressed.
The dragon showed a similar level of promise, showing everything she had been taught by her former mentors. Kat took careful note, studying the methods and styles the Riders were passing on now and calculating ways to combat them. She would prefer to have some of her Riders intact when their battle was over. As powerful as she was, Kat knew she alone would not be enough to govern the entire land. She needed a force to keep the peace and squelch all hints of rebellion.
Finally, when both dragon and Rider looked as if they were about to collapse from exhaustion, Katriana raised a hand. "You may cease now. I have seen enough and am satisfied." Glory fell to her knees, Theyna's blade in the ground to help support her. Kat stood and approached her, brushing the girl's bright hair. "You have impressive talent, young Gloriann. You and Sundavar both. You will be a great help to me as we seek to obtain peace for our world." As a sign of her pleasure, she gave the girl some energy so she would be able to stand on her own again. With that energy, however, Kat sent a piece of her willpower, her thoughts and purpose. She saw the trust and resolution begin to grow in the young girl's eyes. Little by little, she knew the child would be captivated by her. Then she would belong to her.
After dismissing them, Kat returned to her place by Van's side. She glanced toward the edge of the desert to see the familiar form of Tyrant racing toward her. Katriana tapped her fingertips against Vanilor's scales impatiently. The Shade had taken his sweet time in returning to her, it seemed. What could possibly have kept him? She narrowed her eyes.
"Well?" she asked when she knew he was close enough to hear. "What have you to report?"
~~~~~
Tismri sat at her desk, writing again. Although there were still plenty to students to be instructing here, New Doru Araeba felt rather empty in the absence of so many of the children. They all had missions, whether given by the elders or by themselves. Many of them were in reaction to the disappearance of Gloriann and Sundavar.
She looked up when she sensed someone watching. Immediately, she turned to her scrying mirror and felt her heart tighten when she recognized Sidhion. She quickly pushed back her chair and approached the mirror, her expression anxious.
"What news?" she asked. She had been worried, waiting so long to hear from him. She'd hoped nothing had gone wrong.

[Max452]

Tyrant appeared before Katriana, ignoring the rider girl. He had a frown on his face, an unusual sight for the crazy Shade. "Well, I was having fun torturing a blind Rider and blue dragon." Despite his appearance, Tyrant seemed quite enthusiatic about the topic. He neared Katriana, but stopped short when Vanilor let out a rippling snarl, telling the Shade that was close enough. Tyrant let out an exasperated sigh. Fine. He won't try to seduce Katriana. Today at least. Tyrant then seemed interested in flicking off some dirt that was clinging to his shoulder. "Oh, right." Tyrant's eyes seemed to brighten. "As I was killing him, an Ancient got in my way. His dragon was quite huge. I didn't get to see him clearly as I was covered in fire and lava just as they appeared." He told her, an indifferent voice present as he continued to flick dirt off of him. "Why are we in the desert again? The Spine was much better...less...sandy." Tyrant frowned as he dusted himself off one more time.

***
Sidhion did his best to smile at the sight of Tismri, but the news he carried made it look more like a grimace. "I found your pupils, Tismri. They are with the Shade Rider. I managed to hide my presence from the Rider and approached the camp without any major incidents." He paused, feeling Seth awakening, but not thinking anything of it. "They were moving about freely...willingly. Gloriann and Sundavar have joined the Shade Rider's army."

"THAT'S A LIE!" Seth yelled out. Sidhion quickly turned around. He cursed himself for not paying closer to the boy. Seth was heaving and shaking a bit from the electrical attacks he suffered from Tyrant; he leaned against the door frame that he had managed to find. He could hear every word that his rescuer stated and didn't believe a word of it! Glory and Sundavar wouldn't do that! She wouldn't do that! She was captured! She wouldn't betray them! She wouldn't betray him.

Sidhion sighed and glanced back into the mirror, allowing Tismri to see the interrupter, and then glanced back to Seth. "I saw it with my own eyes, young Rider."
"You're lying! Glory wouldn't do that!" Seth shouted, enraged. "She's been captured! I'm going to save her!" He gritted out, trying to pull himself against the wall so he could stand, but he bumped into a dresser that was perched nearby. He cursed. Curse his blindness! For once he hated the fact he couldn't see. "I'm going to save her!" Seth reiterated.
"Boy, you could not even defend yourself against a normal Shade, let alone your dragon. You will not survive long enough to even face a Shade Rider." Sidhion replied calmly, watching the boy movements. He already deduced the boy was blind, but wondered what drove him to continue.
"I don't care! As long as I get Glory and Sundavar out, then it'll be worth it." Seth shouted out defiantly. "I have to do something!" He cried out in anger. "They're doing nothing!" He pointed in the direction where he heard Master Tismri's voice. Sidhion recognized that anger quite well, and it needed to be contained and controlled quickly.
"You don't have the strength to do so by yourself; your Masters are doing all they can." Sidhon replied, perhaps a bit too harshly for Seth's sensitive ears.
"I KNOW THAT!" Seth yelled out, feeling useless. "I know that." He whispered in a croaked voice. He slid down against the wall, burying his head in the crook of his arm as he rested it on his knees. "But I have to try...I have do something..." He muttered.

Sidhion sighed, feeling sympathetic for the boy Rider. He glanced back at Tismri. "I found him and his dragon on the edge of the Hadarac Desert and the Beor Mountains. They encountered a Shade." Sidhion explained Seth's presence. "He has talent, but his anger against something is clouding his thoughts." Sidhion spoke to Tismri as if Seth wasn't listening. "It is obvious that he does not wish to return to Bromsland without Gloriann and Sundavar. May I suggest that he remain here, as my pupil?" Sidhion asked Tismri, trying to read her thoughts through the mirror.

Seth lifted his head up from his arm, a perplexed and disbelief expression on his face. "What?"

"Or what do you suggest, my love?" Sidhion continued on, ignoring Seth for the time being. Tismri was probably was a bit confused at what was going on, but he trusted in her to understand what he was trying to do. The boy would not go back, and it was safer for him to be with Sidhion. It was also clear that Seth and Hyperion needed to be trained and strengthend, if only to cleanse that anger he sense in the boy. If unchecked, the boy may take matters into his own hands, and well, Sidhion experienced the pain of that first hand. He gazed at his mate with affection and determination as he awaited her thoughts on the whole ordeal set before them.

[Tismri]

Katriana listened with care as Tyrant explained the situation. An ancient? Well, that may complicate matters, but only slightly. Old Riders could be slain just as young ones. Experience was nothing to overwhelming power. She was about to reply to her fellow Shade's expressed annoyance and Gloriann suddenly spoke up.
"Is...he...dead?" she asked, stepping before Tyrant. Kat admired the scene for a moment, the child standing so confidantly before a creature must stronger and faster than she was. She was brave...and evidently angry.
Glory gripped Theyna in her hand tightly as she stared up at the Shade. He'd described Seth and Hyperion perfectly. If he'd killed them, she would find a way to rip his heart out in a second. Her dark eyes seemed like smoldering coals with the extent of her almost concealed fury.
"The blind Rider...Is he still alive?"
~~~~~
Tismri's taut expression relaxed into one of sorrow at Sidhion's report. She'd feared that would be the case. Even now, she was unsure which option would have been better. Glory may have made a poor choice, but at least she was free, and perhaps for the moment happy.
Her eyes shifted to the scene behind Sidhion, where she recognized Seth's agonized voice. So that was what had happened to the boy. She waited patiently, grimacing at the boy's screams. He was in absolute denial, and she could understand why perfectly. She considered Sidhion's suggestion for a moment. For the absolute briefest of moments, she was concerned that he might teach the boy his old beliefs of cleansing the world of impurity, but dismissed that thought entirely. Sidhion had very well changed that viewpoint, and she had absolute faith that he would guide young Seth on the correct path.
"I think that is an excellent idea, my love," she said to Sidhion. "I believe there is much he could learn from you, which he is unlikely to learn from any of us here. Take care of him, and see that he does nothing too foolish." She caught her mate's eyes for a long, meaningful moment. "This boy and Gloriann were exceptionally close before she disappeared. He is taking this even harder than most everyone else." She glanced back to Seth and called out.
"Seth, be patient and listen to what Master Sidhion has to tell you. He has lived long and learned much. He and Locien will be teaching you and Hyperion one-on-one. Pay him respect and attention. Worry not; you will sense Glory's presence again in time." She turned her gaze back to her mate, and her eyes softened to an expression of sorrow. She wished she was with him again, rather than talking through a mirror. With the distressing news he'd just given to her, she felt as if she needed any comfort her mate could offer. She placed a hand gently on the glass, stepping closer.
"I miss you, hjarta iet," she whispered softly so Seth wouldn't hear the intimate exchange.

[Max452]

Tyrant raised an eyebrow at Marolasdaughter. Why was she here again? And why wasn't he allowed to kill her and cause that woman grief?! His lip twitched at the thought. Well, Rola is in pain either way. Tyrant flicked another dust particle off his tunic as if he hadn't heard Gloriann. After she specified further, he let out a shrug. "Probably. I made him all crispy, but who knows." Tyrant eyed Gloriann's look; it reminded him of Marola and thus, pushed him to be more of a nuisance. "Does it matter, Gloriann? He's the enemy. I crush enemies; the little insect is probably begging for death - I doubt that Ancient could help him." Tyrant lied, knowing perfectly well that the blind Rider was healable...probably. He didn't care. He actually wasn't sure if the Blind Rider was alive...he was preoccupied with hot lava to care either way. "Now, go...play or something." Tyrant waved Gloriann away.

***
Sidhion nodded. "I will take care of him and his dragon." He assured her when he caught her meaningful stare. His eyebrow twitched upward for a brief moment in understanding. This could complicate things for young Seth. "I understand." He told her as she spoke with Seth, who was a little confused, but hopeful at the same time. The blind rider needed to get stronger to save his best friend.

"Tismri..." Sidhion's voice was soft and a mere whisper as he spotted her sadness. "And I you, my beloved." His voice equally low so that Seth could not hear the intimacy between them. "Do not worry so; all will be well. We will be together once again." He pressed his hand onto the mirror, against Tismri's apparition. He wished, desperately to touch her once more. "No distance can separate us for long. I will be by your side once more." He told her in the ancient tongue. "For now, we have our duties to perform, but I promise you," A mischievous twinkle in his eyes appeared, "when those duties are completed, you will be the first I seek and I will ensure that you all your needs are thoroughly met." He smirked then, but it disappeared after a moment. "Rest my love and do not stress yourself over things that are beyond our control." he told her gently.

[Tismri]

Glory continued to stare down the Shade. She always thought it was odd how this particular one seemed to have some level of recognition for her, even though she knew she'd never met him before she'd come to join Katriana. He seemed to have an added level of distaste toward her as well, as if the sight of her annoyed him.
His uncaring words made her feel even more angry than before. Still, he didn't tell her yes or no as to whether or not Seth had survived. He may yet still be alive. She turned away slowly, walking back to where Sundavar waited.

Kat watched the entire exchange with a bemused smile. At least Gloriann had the sense to keep from attacking Tyrant. It would be bothersome if either one killed the other, though perhaps amusing to watch. She felt as if the young Rider would be able to hold her own against the Shade for a short time. She had a quick wit and sharp senses. Kat turned back to Tyrant with a bored expression.
"We are in the desert, dear Tyrant, because it is a large area of mostly unclaimed territory. We were running out of space to conceal ourselves within the Spine, and we were beginning to infringe upon Urgal territory. I plan to conquer those creatures last, after the dwarves. They should be easy pickings." She gave her fellow Shade a slight smile. "If you don't like it, I could have you sent to someplace cooler and less dirty...like the middle of the sea."

Glory had nearly reached Sundavar, her dark eyes still like a fire nearly ablaze. She wasn't going to kill Tyrant...but she was still going to make him pay for hurting Seth.
"Istlari," she whispered as she sheathed Theyna. She drew upon the intense heat of the surrounding desert and from the merciless sun and focused the fire steadily upon the Shade she despised, hoping he would burst into flames.
~~~~~
Tismri kept her longing expression in check as she spoke to Sidhion. Dwelling on their separation would not help matters any. She gave a small smile at his promise.
"I will await the day with anticipation," she told him. She gave one final glance toward Seth. "I will try to rest, my love," she said. "Take care of him, and I will anxiously await hearing from you again."

[Max452]

Tyrant chuckled. "I believe I shall be thankful for the desert then." He wanted to roll his eyes. If only he could throttled her... His musing stopped when he felt an intense heat upon his back and shoulders. His eyes narrowed and snapped over to Gloriann. His cloak suddenly sprouted into flames. Tyrant growled out in anger as he whipped the cloak off, tossing it away. "Protect me from the heat." He spoke in the ancient language. "That runt has done it now." Tyrant sneered out. "I think a certain red-headed girl needs a time out!" Tyrant glared over to Gloriann and Sundavar. "Lightening, form in the palm of my hand." He instructed the light to surround his fingers, power pulsating into his very being as he formed Tyr's famous spell. "Eager to experience the blind boy's fate? Perchance he was more than an aquaintance, little girl? I should have prolong your lovers fate then!" He spat into the girl. "Love is a fool's notion; its time to teach you that." Tyrant launched his powerful spell, it cackling and chittering across the sandy floor in a massive tidal wave.

***
"May the stars watch over you until we meet once more, my love." Sidhion soaked in her visage for one more moment before ending the scrying spell. The elf then turned toward the boy on the floor. He carefully walked over and knelt beside him.
"Rest now, Seth. You and your dragon have had a trying day. Rest and be ready for the morrow, for that, is when your true training begins." Sidhion told the boy, who glanced over to the elf's voice.
"You'll help me?" Seth asked, his voice a mere pleading whisper.
"If you allow me to." Sidhion calmly replied.
"Why?" The blind rider asked, feeling hopeful, but guarded as well. Would this elf, Sidhion, be able to make him stronger.
Sidhion placed a comforting hand on Seth's shoulder. "Because, young one, you will not be able to bring your dear Gloriann back without my help."
Seth glanced down at his hands...worthless hands.
"You will get stronger, Seth, this I promise you, but you must do what I say. Rest. You will need it for the morrow." Sidhion repeated and in response, received a nod from the boy. Helping him up, Sidhion moved him back to his bed. As the boy went to rest, Sidhion healed the remainding wounds, half surprised that Seth was able to function from the damage he had sustained from the Shade. This boy has a strong will, Locien.
Aye, as his dragon does too. Hyperion and I have gotten acquainted and he has shared their situation with me. It appears this Gloriann is Seth's lover.
I gathered as much from what Tismri informed me. We must be cautious around the boy; he will not accept Gloriann's betrayal very easily. Sidhion conversed with Locien.
We cannot say that for certain. You know, as well as I, that he must accept the truth for himself before he can truly progress and help her.
Sidhion sighed as he walked over to his balcony, overlooking the two dragon down below. I know. Sidhion somberly replied, knowing that it was not going to be an easy task.

***
OOC: Flashback time!! What do you say, Jeriah?

Seth stirred in his sleep, memories of Glory haunting his dreams that night. One particular memory seeped into his dreams, reminding him of the promise he intended to keep.

Flashback

"Are you sure you can't stay a little longer?" Seth asked Glory, holding her close to him as if fearing that she would instantly vanish the moment he released her. "Eva can wait a little longer...I just got back." Seth frowned down at her. "Besides, its just a sword you were sent out to get." He muttered, feeling a bit of annoyance that her mission would take her away.

[Tismri]

Glory seethed, but didn't even turn to face Tyrant. She plainly heard the spell he encanted, and from the phrase he used, instantly thought of a way to block it.
"Skolir," she said quietly, blocking the blast until she sidestepped it. She hardly even batted an eye. Was that all a great Shade had to offer? Sure, he could keep it up longer and harder than she could, and he had more power, but she could easily read much into his spell from his words.
"Deloi risa," she continued, lifting the sand under his feet and dumping it over his head, similar to how she had battled against Jason. His words struck her harder than she would let on. As he taunted her about love, her mind wheeled back to the last time she'd spoken with Seth. Not going back to him was her biggest regret of coming here.
***
Glory frowned a bit at Seth's question, her heart hurting. She had hoped to spend the entire day with him when he came back, but now she had her own mission.
"I told Eva I would try to be ready to go within an hour, or a little longer. I think she would understand if I was late, but I don't want to keep her waiting." She sighed and continued to hug him, leaning her head against his shoulder. "I'll be back before you know it," she promised.

[Max452]

OOC: I'm so lazy to look up the ancient language. lol.

Tyrant growled out as the sand loomed above him, threatening to encase him; he hated sand. "Part." He commanded the sand and used his unnatural speed to zip through the partition in the middle. He appeared to the left of Glory, his eyes menancing. "I'm going to break your bones, little girl." He sneered as he the sand around them to form into a ball of hard rock. "Smash her to pieces! Break her!" He commanded in a terrifying voice whilst he unsheathed his sword for an extra helping. He darted right after the rock, intending to attack her right after the rock smashed her into puny bits.

***
Seth made a whiny noise. "All right, but I still wish we could stay together a little longer." He gently released her, wondering how their hour had gone by so quickly. "You better come back soon, I'm planning a bigger date for you this time! Its our official third one, so I'll have to top the others!" Seth smiled brightly at the prospect.
Hyperion tilted his head at Seth and Glory. You're only thinking about the supposed kiss you're suppose to have on the third date. Hyp yawned out to the two humans. Seth blushed.
Hyperion! He glanced over at Glory, a sheephish smile on his face. "Uh, that...that's not...well, um..." Seth stuttered out.
He overheard one of the older boys say that on the third day you two are suppose to kiss by then...Seth has been daydreaming about it ever since. Hyperion informed Glory, unabashed at embarrassing his rider.
"HYP!" Seth gawked at his dragon.
What? It's true! Hyperion looked at Seth innocently.
"And now, I want to go bury myself in a hole..." Seth muttered to Glory. He sighed. "Glory, that's not all that I was thinking about..." He explained to her, hoping she didn't get any negative thoughts about him. "...I just want our next date to be perfect. But it'll just have to wait until you get back." He chuckled lightly. "At least you have something to look forward to, right?" He asked, hopeful that she still was interested in him after he had come to terms with his own feelings the first night they went out together. "Um, but, anyways, promise me you'll do your best to stay safe and come back? I'll promise to greet you here when you do! And...and...well," His cheeks went slightly crimson, "I'll wait for you!" He gave her a nervous smile, hoping she understood what he meant. He would have no other than Glory and so he would wait for her, no matter what. He also hoped that he didn't sound like an idiot declaring that to her.

[Tismri]

OOC: Haha, I'm mostly using my memory. Partly why I'm using so few words. lol

Glory turned as the Shade was suddenly beside her, and sending a huge rock her way. She immediately released her hold on the sand and called out, "Jierda," feeling for weak points on the rock. Since it was mostly just sand, bits of it quickly crumbled away, although the impact would have still caused pain. Sundavar immediately got in between her Rider and the hurtling object. It left a large, painful bruise, but Glory had managed to lessen its mass enough to keep from seriously injuring her. In another instant, Glory had her sword out and was glaring at Tyrant. He might end up killing her, but she wasn't going without a fight.
"TYRANT!!!" An authoritative voice called out. Katriana hadn't even bothered to stand from her position, and her expression seemed beyond bored. "I need that girl. She and her dragon are more valuable to me then ten of you." The statement was true enough. Shades she had in great supply, but Riders were a limited necessity. Plus, the fact that Gloriann had been so close and well-loved by so many of her enemies made having her so much more appealing. Kat could hardly wait for the day when she would send her well-trained, fully devoted servant to battle all her former friends. But she had to be patient, she knew. The girl needed to be coaxed into that position, and primed for the role.
***
Glory sighed as Seth expressed the sentiments they both felt. She really didn't want to leave him...not yet, anyway. She smiled when he mentioned his plans for their next date, but her eyes grew wide when Hyperion mentioned what Seth had planned to do during their date.
"You...were...going...to kiss me?" she asked. From how red his face had turned, Glory could tell it was true. She couldn't help but giggle, though, as he was so obviously embarrassed.
Such a strange way to express affection, Sundavar noted, particularly to Hyperion, although all of them could hear it. How does putting one's mouth on another's induce feelings on intimacy?
"I, uh...Sun, this really isn't the time to explain stuff like that..." Glory said, now feeling embarrassed herself. She cleared her throat and turned back to Seth. She smiled at him, although she knew he couldn't see it.
"I'll be back as soon as I can," she told him. "I won't keep you waiting too long. Just think of it as, I'm giving you a little extra time to put this grand date together so it'll be perfect."

[Max452]

Tyrant's blade screeched as it was halted against the fine Rider blade. Tyrant's eyes were menacing as he stared down into Gloriann's eyes. Those eyes that reminded him of Marola. He growled when he heard Katriana's command. He glanced over to the Shade Rider, briefly, before glancing back to Gloriann. "Mmm...Mommy saved you for now..." Tyrant mumbled to her and retracted himself from Gloriann's personal space. He sped himself back to Katriana, his sword back in place. He gave her a knowing glance. You still have much to do if she responded angrily at my taunts about that blind Rider. It can present a problem if she harbors love in her heart. Its a poison - love. It was the downfall of her Mother and most of the Riders of Galbatorix. Tyrant cautioned his leader in a, surprisingly, sane voice. I advise you use that anger she has to drive it out. He pretended to place on a bored expression. "This place tires me. I'm going back to the border to pick off some more prey." He announced and sped off without another word. Tyrant maybe crazed, but he knew that his position was to advise Katriana, as that was his damn pact with that woman that created him. He would gain more and more power by playing by this rule...for now.

***
Perhaps its some mating ritual? Hyperion replied to Sundavar, causing Seth to gawk and cry out at his dragon.
"LET'S TALK ABOUT THIS LATER!" He yelled out, utterly embarrassed by the dragons' commentaries. He groaned helplessly at Glory. "I'm sorry about that...Hyp is..well...Hyp..." He muttered to Glory. The last thing he wanted to think about was mating! He hadn't even kissed Glory yet and that...that was something that was considered a HUGE step in Seth's mind and he wasn't ready for that one.
Seth turned his attention back onto Glory, after composing himself. He gave her a nod and a smile. "Okay. It'll be great, Glory. I promise." He gently took her hand. "Um, wait, before you go...I just...wanna see you..." He's blank eyes blinked as his free hand came up to Glory's face. His fingers delicately traced Glory's face, imprinting her face into his mind once more. His fingers began from her forehead, to her eyes, cheeks, jawline, and chin. Finally, his index finger traced over her lips. Seth really wanted to kiss her, but after the whole fiasco with Hyperion and Sundavar's comments, the boy was more embarrassed to do so. He retracted his fingers after finding himself lingering there. He gave her a nervous chuckle as he pulled her into a hug. He took in a long breath, processing the scent that was Glory into his mind too. "I'll miss you." He told her softly. "You better get going. Eva and Eos are probably waiting." He told her with a bittersweet voice.

OOC: flashback almost ending...well...on Seth's side it is...and then the training begins! mwyahaha..

[Tismri]

Gloriann continued to glare intensely at the Shade even as he pulled away from her. Something about him just left her so infuriated. She roughly sheathed her blade and sat down next to Sundavar, fuming. The dragon gave a groan of pain mixed with a whine of distress. This was not like her dear Rider. She was not usually so angry. She tried to reach out to Glory and comfort her, but was blocked by iron barriers. The girl wasn't interested in expressing her feelings at the moment. Sundavar hoped she was just worrying over Seth.

Kat glanced sideways at Tyrant as he gave her his advice. She knew when his voice was level and normal, he was telling her something worthwhile. She would only ever heed his words if they were told in a straight, sane tone.
I shall consider your words, she assured him. I assure you, Gloriann will become so utterly devoted to our cause that she will not even be able to recognize her own mother when next they meet. She waved her hand in dismissal when the other Shade stated his boredom. Her mind wandered absently to Sachiko. The girl seemed to be taking her sweet time in returning with new members. Either she was having difficulty finding someone worthwhile, or she was busy slaughtering an entire village on her own. Either way, Kat was beginning to get impatient.
***
Gloriann felt utterly mortified by the dragons' comments and wanted to bury her face in her hands.
"Next date we go on, we're ditching these two," she declared, indicating Hyperion and Sundavar. She didn't think she could stand any more humiliation from them. She was about to turn away to go meet Eva and Eos when Seth mentioned that he wanted to see her before she went. She smiled and restrained a shiver when his fingers brushed her forehead and traced around her face. Again, the pleasant tickling sensation made her close her eyes and smile. He could do that to her all day if he wanted. When he lingered on her lips, she opened her eyes slightly, rather hoping he would just go ahead and kiss her then. Still, the embarrassing comment from the dragons rang in her ears. She doubted she would ever feel comfortable kissing Seth in front of either of them. Then she hugged him one last time, holding onto him tightly.
"I'll miss you, too," she told him. "It won't be long, you'll see." She let him go and went to mount Sundavar, hurrying or else she would likely never bring herself to leave.
"Bye, Seth!" she called out to him, trying to be cheerful despite missing him already.
Bye, Seth. Bye, Hyp! Sundavar called to them as she lifted into the air, feeling excited to finally be heading out on their first mission as official Riders.

[Max452]

"Do you trust me?" Aramis whispered in Samara's ear as they laid together on the bed. Since the night they confessed to one another, it seemed Aramis would visit more often to Samara's estate than haver her running about for him. He usually would sneak in, spend a few days with her and then got back on the road so none would know his whereabouts. Tonight was one of those nights, but something felt different. Aramis knew his life was ending. How, he wasn't sure, but he knew it. His death was approaching, and he was going to face it; he had lived his life and found redemption in it. The woman in his arms was proof. He needed to let her know, for she was everything to him and hope one day she would understand and forgive him for leaving one more time to never come back.

Aramis propped himself on his elbow, gazing down at the beautiful woman beside him. He had convinced her to just lie with him tonight, although a part of him desired a more intimate activity, so that they could just reflect and enjoy memories together; to remember her presence before he could no more.

***
Seth sat in the middle of the field beside Sidhion's home. He could feel the elf's presence before him and wondered exactly what was going on. His mind was foggy and his heart ached. All he wanted to do was get to Glory. But, all this elf wanted to do was get information on Glory and Sundavar, on his life too. They spent the whole morning talking, and Seth wasn't even sure if this was to be considered training. Didn't the elf say he would get him stronger? How was talking getting stronger? His mind momentarily wandered to Hyperion's lesson with the great dragon Locien. His bond was also talking with the dragon. He wanted to scream! This wasn't getting him to Glory!

"You seem frustrated." Sidhion's voice reached Seth's ears, causing the boy to tense more than he already was.
"I don't see how this helps me rescue Glory." Seth growled out, feeling more and more angry these days.
Sidhion said nothing for a moment, but merely sat opposite of Seth. After he was seated, Sidhion began to speak.
"What is your motivation to rescue Gloriann and Sundavar?" Sidhion asked Seth, making the boy furrow in confusion.
Seth thought for a moment. "She's my best friend and Sundavar is too. They're in danger and I need to save her."
"What makes you believe that she is in danger?" Sidhion asked quietly, referring to Gloriann.
"What? She's with the Shade Army! Of course she's in danger! They're probably torturing her right now!" Seth seethed, finding these questions ridiculous.
Sidhion sighed. "At the moment, I do not think Gloriann or Sundavar are being harmed. From what I see, she is being trained."
"That's a lie! Glory wouldn't betray the Dragon Riders."
"I don't think she see's it as a betrayal, from what you tell me, Gloriann and Sundavar thirst for knowledge. She has gone to the army to learn and to grow, believing that what she is doing will not cause harm to herself or others."
"What?" Seth's perplexed expression increased. He hadn't thought of it that way. The Shade Army was the enemy. Glory should know better...but...she did always want to learn, and sometimes, he thought she was bored with the classes at New Doru Arabea. Seth clenched his jaw. She wouldn't...
"Gloriann's decision is a dangerous one, whether she realizes it or not. The Shade Rider is cunning and manipulative, like any Shade. Gloriann will be trained and manipulated into thinking the ways of the Shade Rider - to perform evil deeds believing them to be good ones."
"What?! We have to save her!"
"Seth." Sidhion's voice was calm, but commanding. "Do you know why I asked you to tell me about yourself and Gloriann? To ask you your motivitation?"
Seth shook his head. "No."
"Seth, when the time comes and you meet Gloriann again. She will not be the same person. She will be manipulated. She is a powerful Rider already, for her age, and with the influence of the Shade, she will become even more powerful...and dangerous. When the time comes for you two to meet, are you willing to do everything it takes to stop her? To save her? Even if it means to kill her?"
Seth's eyes went wide at Sidhion's last statement. "NO! I won't kill her!" He backed away from Sidhion, not believing the elf could think such a thing.
"Until you realize this truth, there is no point in training you, Seth. For if you cannot do what is necessary, Gloriann and Sundavar will be lost forever." Sidhion stood and gazed at the boy who was backing away from him.
"I won't do it! I won't!" He got up and ran back to the tree house, unwilling to face the truth.
Sidhion sighed. This will take time...but time was limited.

[Tismri]

Samara's eyes fluttered open when she heard Aramis' whispered question. She had noticed something different about him when he came tonight. He seemed to be taking in every moment they had together, taking extra care. She knew something was wrong, when all he wanted was to simply lie together tonight. She didn't want to admit it, though.
"Need you even ask?" She met his gaze and brushed back his hair. She trusted him with everything. Whatever happened, she knew he would have his reasons. Still, one look in his eyes brought an overwhelming wave of sorrow to her. She felt she knew what he was going to say, and it was breaking her heart. She did her best to be strong for him, however, not showing the depths of her pain at the anticipated words.
~~~~~
Glory sat beneath Sundavar's wing, silently meditating. She was sore and exhausted, having battled against different various people today yet again. This time it hadn't been a demonstration of her skills. She had been training, learning to better use her sword, as well as other weapons. She was also being taught new spells and being encouraged to test the limits of her abilities. They allowed her to explore new ways to use her magic, advancing her far beyond the level they'd left her at in Bromsland. Here, she felt Katriana understood her potential better. Understood how much farther along she was than most of the other new Riders. And they were teaching her more as well.
Now, she was meditating on an arousing speech Katriana had given to her army earlier that morning. She'd clearly stated the goals and purpose of their war, why they were battling.
The more I think about it, the more it makes sense, Glory commented to Sundavar. Queen Nasuada hasn't put much effort into quelling rebellion in the Empire. This very army is the proof of that. I would rather have the absolute assurance of peace by continual alert policing. Whenever something seems amiss, it needs to be investigated and put to rest before an uprising begins.
...I agree, Sundavar said after a moment's hesitation. We need to work to keep the peace. Fighting will never stop, but as long as we are strict about it, there will never again be war.

[Max452]

A thin smile creased Aramis lips as she brushed her fingers through his hair. Her touch was simply intoxicating. He would miss it. He would miss her. Terribly. He shook his head lightly. "No, but it is sometimes nice to hear it." He whispered to her as he leaned in to kiss her lightly on the lips. His lips lingered on her own as his body registered the warmth of her into his memory. He pulled away after a moment and returned to his previous position; his left hand propped his head up as his right snaked over to her waist, pressing her closer to him. How was he to tell her? He could see it in her eyes, the anticipation, the knowing of his words. It broke his heart. His right hand left her waist for a moment, brushing aside one of her loose bangs, placing it behind her ear. His fingers then lingered on her cheek as they slid down her to her jawline. He would miss doing this. He returned his hand to the back of her waist. She had grown into a fine woman. How she managed to do that with him dragging her from one place to another over her youth had been a mystery to him until now. She was special; an angel. His heart warmed at the thought. She was his salvation. As a young girl, she saved him from a life of death and loneiless, and as a woman, even more so. She was his angel.

Aramis took in her comforting presence in silence for another moment before speaking. She deserved the truth and he had nothing to hide from her. "Samara, thank you for loving me." He began, "but, I fear, this is the last time we shall be together." He sighed and glanced his eyes down to the space between them, trying to formulate his thoughts properly. "I've had this feeling for awhile now. I can feel my end is near. I cannot say how or why I know, but I do." He glanced back up to capture her eyes. "I am afraid, I will not be able to come back to you." He told her truthfully, his jaw tightening at the thought. He was going to miss her. Terribly. "I need you to trust me once more, Samara. I need you to trust me when I say, that you will be all right." His eyes grew red with emotion. He did not want to tell her this. He did not want to say goodbye. He gazed into her eyes, seeing the depth of life in them, the future that she would claim if she so choosed. "You'll mourn for me." He smiled sadly, not in a prideful way, but one of knowing. "But only for a little while. You'll move on. Trust me when I say, that you'll bring honor back to your family name. Instead of seeking out vengence and living in anger, you will find peace - you will help establish it once more in Alagaesia. You will bring back the notion of love, charity, and hope to the land. You will help others feel like they are worth something. Trust me, because I know that is what you have done for me." Aramis' hand pulled Samara closer to him. "Promise me, Samara, that you'll continue to live. Because I can see it now. You'll be angry with me for a time, but you'll find someone who will warm your heart again - you'll find love again." A stray tear escaped his eye. It hurt him to say it, to say that she would find another man to love. "Trust me when I say that you will make a fabulous mother. An even more wonderful grandmother." He gave her a genuine, heartfelt smile. He would have loved to meet her children. "Trust me, Samara. Trust me this one last time, all right?" His smile turned into a somber one. "Trust me that I will think of you always and that you will always have my heart." Another stray tear fell. "Promise me, all right, Samara? That you won't be sad for too long? Promise me that you'll live on, for me, please?" He asked her with all the love he possessed for her.

***
Seth found himself on the balcony of Sidhion's home. The blind boy had his eyes closed as he felt the chilly breeze of autumn caress his face. Hyperion was huddled below the tree house, feeling the same confusion and pain as his Rider.
Why would Glory and Sundavar do that? Seth finally conversed with his dragon, after much contemplation and talk with Hyperion over Sidhion and Locien's words. With Hyperion's help, Seth had calmed down and reflected about Glory and her actions. Sidhion spoke true, he realized. Glory probably felt tied down in Bromsland. She wanted more. She deserved more. He had only wished that she had not sought it with the enemy. He came to, also, realize that she probably lasted and stayed in Bromsland because of him and Hyperion. But what, Seth could not yet fathom, possessed her to leave without telling them? She had promised that she would return. He had waited. Waited every day for her until the time he decided to leave. He had it all set up too. Seth immediately, painstakenly recalled the activity he had produced for their date. She would have liked it, he thought. They would have gone off to the Mountains for lunch, a picnic of sorts, while they searched for flowers that Glory would have liked while their dragons would have hunted or played on their own. He would have taken her to the meadow he and Hyp found, to watch (in his case, listen) to the many different creatures that came by. Hyperion said that at twilight, the meadow looked really beautiful because the sunlight hit it in a way that it lit up gracefully. Glory would have liked that. And when their date was almost over, Seth would have taken her to her special spot - her rose garden, where she would have found that he made a miniture green house for her, where it was just filled with the bittersweet smell of the black roses that he had grown for her. Seth's blank eyes glanced down at his calloused hands, feeling them as he rubbed them together to keep them warm. Glory would have liked the green house.

We have to save them, Seth, even if they don't think they need to be saved. Hyperion's voice interjected Seth's memories.
Master Sidhion said that they're changing. Glory and Sundavar won't think they'll be in the wrong. We have to save them. Seth agreed, finally allowing his logic and reason to hear Sidhion's words.
Are we willing to put everything and do everything to save them, Seth? Hyp asked, feeling sad at the thought.
Seth was silent for a long time. Finally, he spoke again. Yes. It was whispered through his mind link. Glory would want us to...even...even if death is her freedom, she would want us to. Seth said, despair in his voice.
Then for Glory and Sundavar? Hyperion asked, lifting his head to gaze up at the lone rider above him.
For Glory and Sundavar. Seth's voice changed to one filled with conviction. The boy, almost man, stood up from his wooden seat and followed his feet to where Sidhion was.
"I will do what I must, if it means to save Glory and Sundavar. We," He felt Hyperion's voice mingle with his own sentiments, "are willing to do whatever it takes. But we cannot do it alone." Seth bowed before Sidhion. "Please, Master Sidhion and Master Locien. Please make us strong to do what we must."

Sidhion opened his eyes from where he was meditating to study the Rider before him. He stood from his seating position and placed a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Then it is time, Argetlam Seth and Hyperion, for your training to begin."