Do You Hear the People Sing?

[Max452]

The trepidatious clicking of the stallion echoed on the stone highways of Gil'aed. Lord Elias of Belatona rode upon a fine, if impatiant black stallion. The stallion, much like Lord Elias, disliked being idle; it made you comfortable, easy to be attacked and negligant.

The young Colonel glanced toward the massive city as he and his stallion of Riders were marching through to reach the main castle, where, he was told through a messenger that Queen Nasuada desired him and his Riders there. It aggravated Elias that he had to come here; his skills and his men were needed on the front lines, not here to give reports to some beauracrat. Every day the enemy grew bolder and more cities were burning. The Dragon Riders were doing their best to uphold the peace, but Elias knew that the majority of the Riders now, held little experience of war. And those that did know, were too occupied with quelching hot spots of chaos than teaching the younger generation.

The black stallion beneath Elias pawed the ground impatiently as they entered deeper into Gil'aed's terriotory and passed the forestry, striking the Colonel out of his ponderings. Like his horse, Elias felt the unnatural unrest that was rising within the land. Its people were becoming restless with these attacks. What was Queen Nasuada doing to prevent these sufferings? Were one of many questions that echoed throughout the land. Another was questioning the still young Queen's motives: was she going to sit idlely by in her station like the overthrown King? Elias barred those questions from his mind; he could not doubt his Queen now. She had sparred him and his siblings from death and for that, Elias will always give his loyality to her.

"Lord Elias." A voice to the Colonel's side pierced his thoughts, causing the commander to peer to his right.

"Hmm?" Elias asked, tilting his head to his second-in-command, Grayson.

"Look, my Lord, to our left near the rising hill. Is that not General Riker and his men?"

Yes, that was indeed General Riker; his banner was flowing clearly in the wind. What was going on? Then it dawned on him. Something was brewing and now, Lord Elias had a feeling that this was not going to be a regular status report. If Queen Nasuada sent one of her Generals here...that meant she anticipated this city to be attacked...and soon. Colonel Elias reared his horse, halting their match. "RIDERS! TO ME!" Elias yelled out and broke his stallion into a run toward the outpost outside of the city. War was upon them. And by all things divine, Elias refused to allow this people be slaves again...

***
Lord Elias' horse neighed as its Master tugged on the reigns, pulling him to a easy stop. The horse neighed again, pawing at the ground once more. He felt his master's weight shift, signalling his dismount. Another neigh - a pat on the nose to calm him from the eerie feeling he was feeling.

Lord Elias, along with Grayson and his third in command, approached a war tent that seemed to have situated itself a few miles from the city's outer borders.

A rider seemed to be stationed here (a dragon seemed to be nestling beside the tent) and by the sounds of the clamouring about him, was giving commands in a hurried tone. A phrase caught Elias' ears.

"--there is no time, our scouts say that the army is approaching quickly - two days at most ---" were the words that came out of the Rider's mouth.

Lord Elias tensed as he approached, knowing now, that his Riders were called to aid this battle. He stood before the commanding Rider and saluted. "Colonel Elias, reporting for duty."

***
Greenish-blue eyes darted up away from the Captain he was addressing. "I am Prince Tristan of Ismalia. It's about time you got here, Colonel. As much as I appreciate Queen Nasauda, it doesn't suite well with the majority of the army here, that a foreigner managed to arrive before a native." Tristan grunted out, followed by a yelp. "Tatianaaaa" The Prince glanced over to his daughter, who had poked him in the side.

"Father....Mother would disapprove with your welcome." The Princess stated matter-of-factly, before turning to face the Colonel. "Forgive my Father, Colonel; he hasn't slept in a few days. I believe you are the first to arrive to the war post; we expect some other Commanders to be arriving soon. Once all have arrived, Father and the others will clarify the situation."

"Since when did you learn to speak war?" Tristan asked, narrowing his eyes at his daughter.

"If you care to listen to Aunt Tenel Ka, Mother, and the advisors, Father, I think you would learn to speak it as well." Tatiana retorted, still bitter that her father and Mother had found her on her journey to find Tylon. So much for that quest. She forced herself to keep her eyes from rolling.

Lord Elias blinked and then bowed. "Then we shall wait for the others to arrive."

OOC: Yes! A war thread! And yes! I started with the talking first, just to build it up...but that does not mean we cannot fast forward!

[Trinn]

OOC: I suppose I shall bring in Nasuada?

She sat atop her horse with a stiffly straight back, a cloak flowing out behind her and over her mounts rear. On her head rested a crown forged for her by the elves. It still felt uncomfortable there on her skull. After so many years since the last war, she still felt unworthy. The crown was a burden to her, but one she would bear with dignity, grace, and as much truth and justice as she could find. Arrayed around her on horseback rode her nighthawks. The order of guards had not disbanded after the war, but rather, grew stronger. Currently there was an elf, a dwarf, and a kull circling her as she rode. Always she chose to have a varied group of Nighthawks, to show that there would be no prejudice under her rule.

They arrived at the command tent to much bowing and formalities. Nasuada nodded graciously, though she was more preoccupied by the fact that Ismalian troops had arrived before her. That would be no good. Dismounting, and hardly ruffling her clothing, Nasuada marched into the tent and quickly took stock of who was present. "My Lords," she said to them all at large, and turning to Tristan, gave him a curtsy due to his rank. "Prince Tristan. I'm sorry we meet in such ill times. Please, allow me to extend my most humble and copious thanks. With Ismalia at Alagaesia's side again, we must surly stand a chance against the enemies who threaten us now." Casting her dark eyes around the tent, she noted each general and colonel and lieutenant present, as well as the rider. The nighthawks stood stiffly behind her.

[Tismri]

OOC: I see you are still in a Les Mis mood, Max. lol

Zack glanced around the encampment, his expression tight, but excited. In the coming war, he hoped for a chance to prove himself even more to Nasuada, and receive a higher rank. His aspiration was to be a great general like his uncle, but he knew he still had a long way to go. Still, the young captain remained encouraged.
He found himself reflecting on the war stories Uncle Will had shared with him in the past, the great victories, terrible losses, and complete atrocities he had witness. Zack wondered if they would face anything as bizarre as the painless men that had been described to him, or if even worse things may come.
Although he missed his uncle terribly, a small part of Zack was glad the old man had passed away before he even knew war was rising. It would probably have broken his heart to see the peace he had fought for crumble away so quickly.
Zack had been looking over the battalion assigned to him, checking to see that his men were still in fit condition, and ready to fight at a moment's notice, when he saw Queen Nasuada ride by. Immediately, he and all the soldiers around them ceased what they were doing and saluted their sovereign as she passed.

[Max452]

OOC: Yay for Nasuada! I thought she might like some screen time! And yes! This song has been stuck in my head for days...lol

Lord Elias turned toward the tent entrance as another warlord was expected to enter. However, to his surprise, Queen Nasuada swept inside, along with her nighthawks. Lord Elias bowed his head to his Queen. "Your Majesty." He respectfully acknowleged her, along with the other Generals and commanders that had entered; the Ismalians had also greeted Queen Nasuada respectfully...before the Prince opened his mouth.

"Prince Tristan? What is with the formalities, Nasuada? Did we not shed enough blood together to be considered family? And you know how much I hate being called Prince." Tristan exclaimed as he went to greet Nasuada with a firm handshake.

"Father!" Tatiana hissed out with annoyance. Where was Mother when you needed her? Father wouldn't be running around uncivilized.

"Oh yes, Nasuada, meet my daughter, Tatiana. She's the fiery replica of her mother; my son should be around here too...!" Tristan exclaimed proudly before getting another jab in the side by Tatiana.

"A pleasure, Queen Nasuada, to finally meet you." Tatiana curtised. Mother would be proud.

Lord Elias gazed on at the scene, half wondering if the Prince of Ismalia was mad. He certaintly didn't act like a normal Prince, but who was he to judge an ally. It was then General Riker approached the Queen.

"Queen Nasuada, the majority of the troops have arrrived and are waiting for your command." Sam informed his Queen. "Our messengers have also informed us that Queen Arya will be unable to attend due to her own battle in the west with another army." The General updated the Queen.

"Aye, and my scouts have returned with the news that the Shade's army will be here within two days." Tristan added, his behaviour more firm and authortiative. "Queen Tenel Ka would be here as well, but more personal and political matters are detaining her for a few days; she sends her greeting and support." Tristan added, though unsure if his comment was completely true. His cousin had been busy with young Teza Mae...after the..incident...and was unsure if she was ready to leave her daughter's side as she healed. "In the mean time, we have to fight with what we have." Tristan gestured for the Queen to a largescale map that was spread across a table. Little figurines were positioned all over it, indicating the locations of their men and the enemy's. "Knowing your infamous cleverness, Nasuada, what do you think would be the best approach?" Tristan asked as he heard others enter the tent to join them.

[Trinn]

OOC: Methinks this thread shouldn't die.

Despite the situation, Nasuada couldn't stop a small grin from pulling up the corner of her mouth. "Tristan, then. A pleasure as always. And Tatiana. You do have the presence of your mother. I always enjoyed Teodora's manner..." She fell quiet, composing herself. This was a war meeting, after all.

Sweeping around the large table, Nasuada placed her hands down on the old, yellowed map. She traced a line from Gil'lead to the south, where a faction of the shade's army was marching from. That shade rider... she hadn't dared to attack Illirea yet, but they were bold enough now in their strength to threaten one of Alagaesia's major cities. Narrowing her eyes, Nasuada looked up and addressed the gathered crowd.

"This is what I suggest. We need to build on the defenses already available to Gil'lead. The walls... Of course we'll want our best archers placed there, the small catapults, some of the magicians. We can do some things in front of the walls, too. A moat, for one. A trench, at the least. Magical barriers...." Nasuada looked back down at the map. "We'll have a couple more dragon riders coming to our aide before the army's arrival. They should be here tonight. You'll be glad to here that, Rider Maude." The young rider nodded her head respectfully. Nasuada glanced over at the white haired girl, somewhat awed that she was the daughter of what was once one of her most feared enemies. That Vana had appeared after so long was still amazing to her.

"Any other suggestions before I continue?" she asked, sweeping the room with her eyes.

[Max452]

Tatiana beamed at the comparison with her mother; she had always strived to be like her. She continued to listen to the adults converse, trying to process and ascertain the situation. She would have to learn these war tactics, if she was ever going to aid her cousin. She remained silent, though her mind was wondering on a particular question. When the moment presented itself, Tati opened her mouth.

"Should we not confront the enemy out in the open? The city and its citizens would not be harmed with this approach?" She asked hesitantly. Her father gazed over at her, a twinkle of pride in his eyes, but it vanished once he turned toward a new voice.

"It would be an ideal situation to protect Gil'ead from being tarnished, young Princess, but I am afraid that the forest terrain would hinder our soldiers from fighting properly. The best we can do is have them come to us and launch a powerful defensive and offensive attack." General Riker voiced.

"But who will protect the people during the battle?" Tatiana pressed, not liking the idea of innocent civilians being harmed.

"They will be led out of the city, Tatiana. Your uncle, Romulus' estate is north of Gil'aed and ready to take upon the task of aiding the citizens." Tristan assured. Tati nodded, but seemed less than reassured.

"My lady, I might add, that the group, Arucane has accepted your call for aide. They, too, are to be expected to night." Sam added, "From what I understand, they are skilled with blending into their surroundings and are composed of various races and talents. It could be efficient if we have them placed in the nearby forests to flank the enemy when she nears the city." Sam suggested.

[Trinn]

Nasuada watched Tatiana closely as she argued with the elder Generals. The girl had a powerful voice, and a powerful opinion, that was for sure. Much like her mother. They were not women to back down from an idea. It was a trait more people should have, she thought to herself. "Thank you, Tatiana, for those points. I wholeheartedly consent that we should protect our civilians at all costs. Yet it is as General Riker says. The forest will make a full on attack quite impossible. It would only separate our men and make them easier targets. I fully expect Shades and enemy riders to be present. No, a forest would be no good...." She turned her attention again to General Riker.

"Arucane? The name sounds vaguely familiar." She admitted.

"Arucane, they are a group of warriors who have taken it upon themselves to travel throughout Alagaesia lending their fighting power and aid to villages and towns that have been attacked, or about to be attacked. They are doing everything in their power to hinder the Shade Riders' prowess." Ride Maude said, lending her voice to the conversation. It seemed the girl's voice had taken on an excited tone. "Rider Ian leads the men. He is the son of Riders Einar and Gianna." Nasuada perked up at the names of those two Riders.

"I see. Then I look forward to having him and his men with us for the battle. It pleases me to see the riders of this new generation coming forward, united." And it did please her, to know that the children of enemies now worked together. She thought of Eragon, and Murtagh. If only Eragon could be with her now for this fight. He and Saphira would make the enemy quake in their boots. And Murtagh, where was he? Perhaps some miracle would bestow him here to her tonight. But of course, that was just wishful thinking.

"Anything else?" She asked. Often she liked to lead the conversation with questions. Her Generals were seasoned warriors, and any ideas she had on warfare were often put to shame by her Generals' suggestions.

[Max452]

Tatiana gave an elegant nod toward Queen Nasuada's agreement with her. Well, the dark skin Queen was definitely not like the addle men. Pleased that the Queen agreed, Tati decided to return to being silent as she listened in on the war conference.

"Shades are known to be among the enemy, your majesty," Finally, Lord Elias spoke, "Reports have indicated a dramatic rise to these creatures of darkness. As you are aware, they are nearly impossible to kill." The Lord of Belatona shifted his helmet to his other hand as he spoke, allowing his now free hand to point toward the city on the map. "It seems that this might be a battle more suited to welders of magick." Elias disliked this notion, as he was a soldier and preferred to be the one in battle, but, he had to think of the warfare of his men and not his own preference and beliefs. "If that be the case, it is prudent that we eliminate those threats before our men are overwhelmed." He then glanced over to Rider Maude, "How fast can a magician recognize another one of his kind?" Elias asked, trying to formulate a plan that would not butcher the soldiers.

[Trinn]

Nasuada nodded, noting the points that Elias made. He was a smart man, indeed. She was happy to have made the decision to reestablish him as a noble and a Colonel.

"That depends." Maude said in a flat voice. "Magicians can hide their minds extremely well, and often the only time the become known to another magician is when they cast their first spell. After that, it's fairly easy for a skilled magician or rider to find where the energy is being cast from, and therefore, locate the magic user." Maude frowned. "However, with Shades among the army, there may be more tricks that we aren't aware of. In fact, it may be safe to say that a fair majority of the enemy will be able to cast magic in some way or another. A shade leader will draw that sort of crowd."

Nasuada felt her spirits dampened a bit. It was true. Magic was sure to play a bigger role than ever in these battles. She hoped rider Maude was well versed in it. Fortunately, she had brought some of the magicians from Du Vrangr Gata with her. They would put up a fair fight. "If that's the case, we should begin warding ourselves and our defenses tonight. Preparation will keeps us alive a bit longer, I dare say."

[Max452]

Lord Elias nodded, taking in Rider Maude's explanation. "Aye, I agree, my lady; we need to protect ourselves from any possible cunningness from the enemy." He thought for a moment. "Is it possible for us to erect a magical barrier of some sort?" He asked Maude, still trying to formulate a plan to expose the magicians and Shades. "I am thinking if we elope Gil'aed in a barrier then the enemy would have to use magick to break it. Once that first spell is cast, our Riders and magicians, along with our men, can target these them first. If we take out their power, then we shall leave them vulnerable to melee attacks." His eyes glanced over to Queen Nasuada, and then back to Maude. "Is such a feat possible?" He asked the young Rider, silently amazed that such a young woman was a Rider.

***
Tristan listened intently to the conversation that was being held. What other ways could they help defend the city and eliminate the enemy? For once, they are not the ones attacking the citadel, but protecting it from these atrocities. He idly wondered where is cousin was - she was the cunning one out of all of them, while he, the soldier.

[doitean]

Ali Di'lika, and what men came with him, rode to Gil'ead. Word had reached his people that Gil'ead needed support. Riding to the war tent, they dismounted. Ali entered the tent and bowed.

"My lords and lady. Your majesties. I am Ali Di'lika, spellcaster of one of the wandering tribes. I've brought 100 men with me to help."

He knew it wasn't much but every little should help. Ali knew his skills as a spellcaster would come in handy.


Tashnak and Losin were flying to Gil'ead. A rider told them they would be needed there. Landing near the city, Tashnak entered the war tent. He bowed.

"Lady Nasuada, Lady Maude, my lords. I am Tashnak, rider of Losin the Black. Word reached us that the Riders were needed here."

The Kull rider had his axe on his back and towered over them. He had to bend slightly when he entered. Tashnak hoped no urgralgra were with the advancing army. He did not want to kill any of his people if he could help it.

[Trinn]

The idea of a magical barrier reminded Maude of Ian. His family, specifically his mother, had used magical barriers to protect their tribe, Gladia Celesti, during the Empire War. Maude herself was unsure how to construct such a ward, but she was sure that Ian would have an idea. If not, they could always scry Gianna. "It is possible." She said confidently, lifting her head a bit. "But to be able to raise a barrier around the entire city will most likely require several spellcasters or riders." As she said this, two newcomers entered the command tent.
***

The rustle of the tent flap opening caused Nasuada some alarm. She didn't recognize the man or the urgal who introduced themselves. She kept her face smooth, not showing her agitation. Whoever was guarding the tent entrance wasn't doing his job properly. She would have to speak to him at the end of this meeting. As it was, it seemed they were friends, and she would be grateful for whatever extra help there was to be had.

"Well met Ali Di'lika, and Rider Tashank. Your aid will be of great use to us. We were just discussing the defenses of the city." She glanced at Maude, but the white haired rider didn't seem to recognize Tashnak.

[Tismri]

Ruby slipped into the tent behind the two newcomers, not announcing her arrival, but her ears alert for the conversation. She'd already heard a good part of it on her way over here, training her elf-like ears for the specifics. She knew there was concern that this city was about to be attacked, so she was listening as they discussed erecting defenses.
Normally, one as young as she would not be allowed in private war discussions. In the minds of many, she was still a child. But those who knew of her knew she had distinguished herself in battle before. The title "Shadeslayer" was hard-earned by her. Even if they did not believe it when they heard it, observing her fight was solid evidence of her skill.
After several moments of consideration, she stepped forward.
"If I may, Majesty," she said, giving a quick curtsy. "I urge that we send for the strongest spellcasters at all speed to help erect the barrier." Instantly to her mind came her elder sister. She and Weiss had drifted apart a bit since their mother died, but she was one of the most magically gifted people she knew; she was an expert with the sword as well. If she had recovered well enough yet, Ruby was sure she would be a great asset to helping defend Gil'ead.
"More than that, once the battle begins, we cannot afford to concentrate all our efforts on finding their magicians. The barrier is a good plan; it will distract their spellcasters, but also our own." Her hand moved to rest on her weapon concealed by her red cloak. She was itching to slay the evil creatures about to attack the citizens of this city. "At once, we need ground forces outside the walls to fend off their own. A handful of the best should suffice." A smile crossed her face. "I volunteer to lead this charge."

[doitean]

Ali bowed. "My lady, it would take a lot of energy to erect a barrier and maintain one. It would weaken our spellcasters. The wandering tribes were only able to spare one spellcaster to help. Do we have enough casters to do such a feat?", he asked the gathering.

Ali did not think a barrier would do but he would do whatever Lady Nasuada ordered.

***

Tashnak nodded. A barrier might work, if only there were more riders.

"My lady. I'm a younger rider. I've never gone to Bromsland. Rider Ian would know me. A barrier might work. But either way I shall cleave through the enemy with my axe and Losin's claws and black fire."

We shall put the fear of a dragon in them Queen Nasuada. Losin told Nasuada from where she was laying.

[Max452]

Soon after Elias' question was wrought, a handful of individuals entered the tent. Politely, Elias inclined his head in greeting, while he could have sworn that Prince Tristan was grumbling about something.

***
"Late...all late!" Tristan grumbled to his daughter, who, in turn, merely poked her father in the side.
"Pay attention, Father." Tatiana hissed back in a whisper as she tried to process all the information and questions that were flying across the tent.

***
As the newcomers marched in, Maude went and answered the Colonel's question. Also, the other newcomers began to convey their thoughts as well. Taking it all in, Elias contrived his next response. "So, what you are saying, is that a barrier is possible, but it can also be a great hindrance to our plan?" Elias asked in clarification. "This can either prove ill for us, but," he glanced over at Ruby Shadeslayer, "I would not have our men exposed as cannon fodder for those Shades and magicians if I can help it." He turned back to Queen Nasuada, "how many Riders and magicians do we estimate to arrive by nightfall?" He asked.

"I doubt it will be enough to erect a complete barrier for the entire city, but it may give us enough time for us to eliminate as many threats as possible." Tristan spoke, his voice finally sounding serious. "However, I also agreed with Red over there." He pointed at Ruby. "Once the battle begins, it will be very difficult to locate the magicans if our own are so concentrated on stabilizing the barrier."

"Then what do you suggest?" Colonel Elias asked.

"We must trust in our Riders and in our men to succeed in this battle, gentlemen, and ladies." General Riker interrupted. "I agree with Rider Tashnak; let our blades do the talking. The more we rely on magic, the more we are vulnerable to the Shades. All it takes is a blade to slice through their heart; it is no different with the magicians. Harder, yes, but possible, is that not right, Ruby Shadeslayer?" Riker asked, his eyes glancing at Ruby knowingly.