Hanging By A Moment

[Max452]

A sharp twisted pain erupted in Ian's arm, causing him to scream louder than before. The hook that was embedded in his shoulder tightened and tensed within Ian's muscles, causing it to bleed profusely as it wiggled and jerked from his movements. "Gah!" Ian groaned out of pain.

Castiel's anguish and helpless roars were heard in the citadel that they were being imprisioned. The white dragon cried helplessly as his rider was being tortured and abused by the Black Rider.

"Tell me where you're troops are hiding." Selene demanded with an even tone as she stared up at the hanging Ian. She had captured the Rider and Dragon when his band of freedom fighters had attacked one of Katriana's supply caravans. They had not expected her or Slade to be present, which ended in a bone crushing defeat, but unfortunately, she only managed to capture the White Rider and Dragon due to his stupid sacrifice of fighting them; it had allowed the wrenched rebels time to escape.

Ian groaned and tried to hang onto the hook that was in his shoulder, hoping that it would elevate him enough to relieve most of the pain that was coursing through him. Sweat poured down his face as he tried to maintain his senses and consciousness.

Selene glanced over to one of her men that was controlling the rope and levey that held Ian up. The man took the hint and let go of the rope, letting Ian fall a few feet before gripping it, jerking the boy to a painful halt.

"AHHH!" Ian cried out, sheens of tears dripping down his cheeks. He was hoisted upward again, his feet dangling as the hook bore into his flesh.

"Your pesky excuse of men have become an irritable nuisance. Tell me where they are and I will at least spare your dear dragon." Selene narrowed her eyes as Castiel roared again; he too was tied up in shackles, forced to watch his Rider suffer.

Ian shivered as his body swung painfully back and forth. How long had he been here? Hours? Days? He couldn't remember. After he had been defeated by Selene, he was quickly bounded and hooded, along with Castiel. He knew they were somewhere near Sharktooth, given the flight. He hoped Fergus had followed his instructions in getting help. Ian carefully glanced at his right numb, hand - tight around the hook and rope that was stuck in his left shoulder - where, his family ring once was. He had given it to Fergus to contact his family and the Elders....just someone...to protect, Arucane., the freedom fighters he had established; he had seen them being hunted and chased down by some Shades that were with the caravan. He knew that he and Castiel were doomed now and told the man to tell his family and Council NOT to come, for fear of a trap. He closed his eyes, trying to imagine Maude's image in his mind to calm himself.

"You're trying my patience, Einarson." She glanced back at the man at the levee. The rope skidded out of his hands, careening Ian down with another scream to accompany the sounds of rope rubbing against the pulley.

***
Two days ago:

"GATH! Gath!" Fergus shouted at the ring, but nothing happened. Frantic, the burly old man shouted at it again. "Gath!! By the Gods, please work! Gath!" The second in command of Arucane was panicking more by the minute. Ian had said that he just needed to say these words to the stupid ring for it to call help, but nothing was happening. Curse Magic! It was an ill thing! Fergus was no magician! Fed up with the ring, Fergus did the only thing he could think of: Run to Tierm and seek a magician there. It would take him two days to do so and he prayed that Ian and Castiel would be alive still. Hurrying, Fergus tucked Ian's ring in his pocket and fled to seek help.

[Trinn]

A sheen of sweat glistened on Ian's face. In his shoulder, a meat hook protruded, covered in gore. A cry of pain, a female voice. The edges of the room were our of focus, the details blurred. But Ian was clear, and the voice of the woman. Something happened, Ian cried out again, and Eva woke from the dream with a frightened cry. A cold sweat drenched her body and the blankets had been thrown from her bed. Sighing shakily, Eva covered a hand with her face and tried to understand what she had just seen. Something about the dream left her feeling uneasy and sick. She had seen Ian's face so clearly. He even looked different from the last time she had seen him. Somehow more mature, more masculine. If this had been truly a dream, wouldn't Ian have appeared as she had last saw him? Still sporting a bit of baby fat and lacking that strength she had seen in his eyes.

Feeling more uneasy by the moment, Eva got out of bed. She paced for a few minutes, before unconsciously deciding to get dressed. As she was putting the finishing touches on her braided hair, she contacted Eos and deliberated with her bond. They decided to set out immediately. Chances were she would be scolded again for setting off on her own quest, but this time, she would let nobody know. They would tell her it was only a dream and to forget it. Eva knew better than that. Her twin was in trouble.
~~~

Eva was just mounting Eos when a voice from the shadows stopped her. She turned sharply to find Maude staring up at her. "Where are you going?" the white-haired girl asked again. Eva debated on telling her the truth, wondering if Maude would try to stop her.

"I had a premonition." She said, thinking that was surely what it had been. "Ian is in trouble. He's being tortured somewhere. I must find him." Eva was surprised to see the changes that came over Maude. The girl went from frightened, to angry, and finally she looked determined.

"You're certain?"

"As certain as there are stars in the sky." Eva replied confidently. Maude nodded, and a second later a brush of wind announced Magda's presence. Eva regarded the ruby colored dragon with interest. She was smaller than Eos, but somehow she seemed regal. While Eos was beautiful and graceful and kind, there was a hardness to Magda, a nobleness that was only increased by the crown of horns on the red dragon's head. They were four long ivory horns, moving from one side of her skull to the other. Eos herself sported only two horns on her head. It probably meant nothing, but Eva stored that information in the back of her mind.

"Magda and I will come with you," Maude said, and began climbing into the saddle. Eva wondered if it would be wise to take Maude with her. Let her come. The four of us will be better off than only two. Also, Maude loves Ian. It is obvious. Eos interjected.

"Alright, then." Eva said, taking her bonds advice. "But let us make all haste." Eos and Magda leaped up together, quickly gaining the sky and fleeing from New Doru Arabea.

[Max452]

"You really prefer to be mute on the whole matter, don't you, Rider Ian?" Selene asked nonchalantly as she sat in front of the still hanging Ian. Ian did not reply, but seemed to only be concentrating on gripping the hook and rope. Selene sighed. "I rather hoped we would settle this civily." She replied. Castiel roared in defiance, knowing full well that Selene was never civil. She just tortured his rider and friend!
"Shut him up!" Selene ordered and Slade immediately slammed his paw onto Castiel's jaw. A terrible whiny noise erupted from Castiel, causing Ian to scream from the echoed pain and assault on his dragon. "Leave him alone!" Ian yelled out, his eyes seething at Selene.
"Oh, so he can speak." Selene mused as he glanced up at Ian. "Tell me what I need to know and I'll make both your deaths quick, if not, well, we're just going to prolong your death."
"Kill us, for we'll never tell you anything." Ian whimpered out, feeling the hook dig deeper into his shoulder; it felt like it was drilling through his bone.
"Now, now, don't be so eager to die, after all, don't you have loved ones to think about? Surely you must worry about them, after all, once we conclude our business here, I'm going to hunt them down and kill them all."
"NO!" Ian yelled out.
"Shall I harm your sister first? Or the daughter of Vana? You seem quite taken with her...or better yet, your Mother...I hear she's expecting another child?" Selene calmly continued as if Ian never interrupted.
"LAY A HAND ON THEM AND I'LL KILL YOU, YOU BI --- AHHH!" Ian screamed out as he was dropped and jerked to a stop, but at the same time, felt Selene's mind assault. The young Einarson immediately barricaded his mind, but the throbbing pain in his body was making it difficult.
"My, my, such language. Your Mother wouldn't approve. Now...where were we?" Selene pretended to ponder before she attacked Ian's mind with mental daggers, trying to gain access.
Ian continued to focus on an image, blocking Selene out, but he knew, with the physcial pain he was enduring, he would not last long.

***
"Fergus! Over here!" A voice called out to the large muscular man. Fergus' eyes glanced over to the figure in the alleyway. He had come to Teirm searching for a magician to help him contact the Elders or Ian's family so they could send men to help them. After the Black Rider attacked their men and Ian had begun engaged in battle with her, Aurcane was overwhelmed by the enemy, but mostly some Shades. Some had been captured, others remained wounded near the Spine and Teirm. Fergus had found an ally of some sorts, who said that he had found some magicians that could help.

Hiding in the shadows, Fergus met up with his contact and a young magician. "I've been told that you need to activate some sort of object?" The short magician asked Fergus.
"Yes, can you do it?"
"If its a simple spell, than sure, but it'll be a crown for it."
"A crown!? I bloody don't carry a crown, you conniving sorcerer! I need help!" Fergus growled out, tempted to bang the magician's head against the wall.
"No crown, no, aghh!" The magician was cut off by Fergus gripping the man's collar and hoisting him up and slamming him against the wall. "All right! all right!" The magician conceded and was thus promptly put down.
"What do you want me to say?" He asked, rubbing his neck.
"Gath. I was told that this ring will contact someone if you just say Gath." Fergus held out Ian's ring to the man.
"Gath, eh? All right, let's see." He took the ring and uttered the word. The magician instantly felt a pool of energy escape him and course to the ring, activiating it to the point of it humming. "Ah! Wow! It worked it! So uh, I'll be goi---" The magician was about to flee when Fergus gripped him again.
"Who's to say this will continue to work once you leave? No, you stay here until someone comes...or contacts us." Fergus jerked the man toward the tavern, discreetly blending in until some help comes.
"

[Trinn]

Eva maneuvered the streets of Tierm as if she had been there before. Maude followed close behind, easily keeping pace, her white hair seeming to glow in the moonlight. Eva's ring had activated last night. Since then, they had flown with great speed to reach the call of her brother's ring. Eva's heart beat rapidly, not for her racing steps, but for fear of what she might find once she reached the ring. "We're almost there." she said to Maude, who did not bother replying. Soon enough, they reached a Tavern with dimly lit windows. It was rather a dank place, but Eva pushed inside undeterred, Maude like a shadow behind her.

The light came from a couple lamps within the great room, but the full source of the light was due to the large fire that flickered in a wide hearth to the left. The light shone on Eva's red hair, making it shine like an extension of the flames. Eva spotted the two men in the corner of the room. She did not see Ian. Anger contorted her face. Moving silently so as not to draw attention from the other patrons, Eva and Maude approached the two strangers.

The two woman flanked the men, and Eva did not hesitate in drawing out an inch of Aiedale's yellow steel. Maude did the same, but she went so far as to unsheath all of her rider's sword. "Where is Ian!" Eva demanded, speaking in a threatening whisper. She glanced at Maude, and noticed that Vanasdaughter had Rheona pressed against the back of the shorter man at the table. At least the patrons hadn't noticed that, yet.
***

The ring woke Gianna from a shallow sleep. She sat up in a hurry, sleep vanishing faster than normal. Somebody was using their ring to call for help. Images of Ian and Eva sprang to mind, and Gianna felt suddenly sick. She made it outside just in time to retch. When she was finished, she sat down shakily and placed a hand on her bulging stomach. The baby was due to come soon now. Conflicted, Gianna got up and went to the bedroom to dress, just as Gladia landed outside the home, digging the ground restlessly with her talons. Gianna glanced at her bed, at the spot where her husband usually slept.

OOC: Is Einar at home? Or is he out and about?

[Max452]

OOC: Um, good question. I think Einar would remain with Gianna since she's pregnant, but he would find it his duty to go and help with the war efforts with Nasuada, let's say he went to visit Nasuada for a few days for a war submit or something of that nature, which would be the main reason why he can't go after Ian. Oh, and can I kinda "borrow" Maude, Eva, and Gianna for some torture sequences? I was thinking Selene will implement some mental torture on him. It'll be like how Galbatorix tried to trick Nasuada with Murtagh.

***
Einar stared at his ring the moment he felt it vibrate. Instant worry crossed his features. His family was in trouble. Manuevering about the guest room of Queen Nasuada's vast castle, Einar quickly went to locate his scrying mirror to contact his wife.

***
Fergus and the young magician, who was named Lucus, waited patiently at the tavern for some sign of help.
"You sure that thing worked?" Fergus asked Lucus, who had his head on the table in dramatic agony.
"Yes! I already told you! This blasted thing is sapping my energy so you best believe its working!" Lucus snapped with a growl. He did not appreciate be held against his will.
"It's been a full day and we have yet to see something!" Fergus growled out.
They sat in the corner, hoping to be discreet in case the Shade had some spies. Fergus took a deep draw out of his mug, trying to calm his nerves when he heard Lucus give a squeak of surprise. Fergus slammed his mug down and stared in surprise at two young...girls, one of them poking Lucus in the back with a really large, blue like sword. His eyes then turned to the other girl, with fiery hair and eyes that reminded him of Ian. He looked at her carefully, wondering if this was the help that Ian had sought for, if it was, they were doomed! These two people were merely children! Where were the Riders or soldiers that he was hoping for? "You here for Ian?" Fergus asked, cautious in the whole matter. "Who are you?" He asked, before divulging anything further.
"He's in trouble!" Lucus gulped out, not enjoying his back being prodded by a sharp object.
"Shut up you welp! You got no right stating anything!" Fergus growled out defensively.
"I do when he's blasted ring is sucking up my energy!" Lucus shot back and then glanced over at Eva, since Maude was behind him. "He's been captured by some Black Rider or something, or at least thats what this big oaf said."
"Shut it!! You don't know if that accursed Shade sent them!" Fergus hissed out, desiring to slap Lucus silly. He then turned his attention to the two girls. "We ain't saying anymore until you tell us how you know Ian." Fergus declared with finality.

[Trinn]

It became quickly apparent to Eva that the two men were friends of Ian. Or at least, meant him no harm. She bristled a bit at the demands the man made. Was it not clear to him by the sword that she held who she was? Be calm. This is war time, and dragon riders may no longer be friends to the innocent. Eos chimed, trying to sooth Eva. It worked, and Eva felt somewhat ashamed of her hostility. She sheathed her sword completely and adopted a neutral posture, glancing at Maude to do the same. The white haired girl hesitated, then begrudgingly sheathed Rheona.

"My name is Eva Giannasdaughter. I am Ian's sister. My companion is Maude Vanasdaughter. She is Ian's friend..." Eva didn't know how else to put it. Lover sounded too serious, but friend didn't sound adequate either. Maude didn't argue though, so Eva continued. "Whats more, we are both Riders from Bromsland." Doing her best to stay calm, Eva pulled out a chair and sat across from the big man. "Now, tell us what happened to my brother." She was glad to see Maude sit down as well, across from the nervous acting small fellow.
***

The mirror on the bedside table shimmered. Gianna had it in her hands in an instant, relieved to see the forming picture of her husband's face. "Einar! You're safe! Then..." she closed her eyes in grief. "Something has happened to Eva or Ian. I must follow the call of the ring."

[Max452]

Fergus seemed to relax after Eva and Maude had been introduced properly. The Melian citizen looked at Lucus and then back at the girls after they sat down. He quickly removed Ian's ring (the magic ending the pull instantly) and then gruffly slammed some coins on the table. "All right, be gone, Lucus. You did your job. Now, breathe a word of this to anyone, I'll make sure you'll regret it!" He seethed out.

"Bah! Like I want to get involved! You're all gonna get yourselves killed!" And with that, the magician grabbed his coins and raced off with an eager pace.

Once they were properly alone, Fergus turned his attention back at Eva and Maude. "I apologize, but I had to be sure you're Ian's friends." He sighed and gently pushed Ian's ring toward them. "Ian has spoken much about you both." He then glanced over at Maude, "And I recognize Maude from when she helped us in Melian. Forgive me, Rider Maude, I did not know if you were a magician disguising yourself, but I can tell, but the looks in your eyes that you are who you say you are." He sighed again. "A week ago we received information regarding supply caravans entering the desert through the north. We were able to locate the main supplier, here, in Teirm. Ian figured we would just stop the shipment at the outskirts of Teirm to avoid any bloodshed and Shade reinforcements. It was a solid plan. However, the information we received was a trap. The Shade had sent that accursed black Rider again to deal with us when we got there. Ian and Castiel sacrificed themselves to fight her whilst we escaped into the mountains. Before he left, Ian gave me his ring and told me that when aid did come to instruct them to go and help our men, the Aurcane escape the mountains, as we were all separated and hunted by some Shades and magicians. He also said, that he did not want to be saved for fear that it was a trap." Fergus glanced down at his hands, ashamed. "I know that is his last wish, but, Ian and Castiel saved my family, saved my friends...I cannot just stand by and let him be killed..."

***
Einar was visibly relieved when Gianna appeared, but grew tense again at her words. "I know, I felt the call as well." He clenched his jaw then at his wife's insistance to find their children. "No! You're nearly due, Gianna. I will go. I will find them..." He replied, but his voice was a bit hesitant. He had an early summit meeting with all the leaders in the morning. Nasuada had personally asked for his presence since he had personal knowledge of Katriana's past services as well as most of the army. Einar had declined at first, not wanting to leave Gianna when she was so close to delivery, and had recommended Vana for it, but with her own past, it was thought that was not the wisest choice given the sensitivity of the summit. Einar had wanted to argue, as Vana and Kyler were proving themselves now that they were to be trusted, and his own past was not any cleaner than Vana's. But, it had been decided and with great reluctance, Einar and Stigandr had departed.

***
OOC: So, I'm guessing I can't borrow your characters. LOL. Its okay! I can summarize torture! ahaha!

Ian was curled up against the corner of his small cell, his injured arm held to his chest closely to ease most of his pain. He refused to cry or to admit defeat, despite the torture he and Castiel had just underwent. Somehow, Selene was able to cast multiple illusions in both their minds. Ian clenched his good fist. She had tried to trick and torment them with hope of escape, but always, near the end of the supposed escape, he would be stabbed or Castiel would die, making them suffer mentally from it. To make it worst, Selene had thought it quite fun to make them believe that one of his loved ones would save them and again, right when they made it to the light, they would backstab and betray them. The grief and the betrayal had been unbearable, especially one with Maude as she had gutted him with a knife. He had almost believed it when Selene's illusion Maude seemed to shimmer briefly, making him aware that was not his Maude. Ian had instantly slammed up his mental barriers then, forcing Selene out of the surface of his mind, refusing to allow her in any further. Though, they were all illusions, Ian still felt the pain and now, was ever more cautious in trusting whomever seemed to burst through his door, knowing it could be an illusion to decieve and gain access to his mind. What was worse, was that in each torture, Ian had believed he and Castiel was saved...and then, that feeling was stripped from him each time; it was hard on his ever optimistic soul, to the point, that he would just remain silent, no longer believing that he or Castiel would be saved. He would not let the Shade or Selene win. He would rather die then give up the information in his head. And so, he sat, curled up, wondering why he and Castiel were not dead yet.

[Trinn]

Eva picked up the ring that Fergus set on the table, rolling it between her fingers as she listened to the man recount the story. Maude nodded to Fergus when he said he recognized her, but remained silent. At the end, Eva sat back in her chair, feeling despondent. "Ian doesn't want a rescue? He's asking a little too much, I say."

"Me as well." Maude said, finally speaking up. "I remember the rider who took him. Her name is Selene, and her bond is a large black dragon with hateful eyes. It will be difficult to rescue Ian from her, but, the two of us should be able to manage. We have to." Eva nodded. No matter the danger, she would rescue her brother. No doubt to others it seemed foolish, but where family was involved, boundaries did not matter.

"Fergus, do you have any idea where Selene might have taken Ian?" Eva asked, leaning forward again in her seat.
***

Gianna shook her head, stubborn. "You cannot go, Einar. You have duties to attend. I will fly swiftly, and Gladia is a gentle dragon. The baby will not be harmed. I can place a ward around myself and the infant, too. We'll be safe. I just... I cannot let our children remain in harms way." Tears began to fill her eyes. She was not normally very weepy, but her pregnancy was giving her mercurial emotions these days. At least she wasn't full out sobbing. Not yet, anyways. To appease her husband, she added, "Perhaps I can get Marola to go with me, or recruit one of our Ayati friends. Either way, I must answer the call of that ring."

[Max452]

Fergus grunted at the name of the Black Rider. Yes, that seemed to be the name Ian had spoken. He felt so guilty letting his friend face that cruel rider alone. "I'm not sure." Fergus shook his head, placing a hand on it as if trying to recall something, "the attack was so sudden, we were scattered so quickly...I heard Castiel roar in pain during our escape." He blinked, trying to remember the day. "I think...they headed west of here...toward the sea...but I don't know why. There isn't much there." Fergus let out a frustrated grunt and slammed his brawny fist on the table, shaking it. "I shouldn't have allowed him to go." He gruffed out. "He's like a son to me..and yet...I let him go..." He slumped in his chair, defeated. "Please find him riders! And our men too!"

***
Einar rubbed his face, his scar twitching. He was annoyed that Gianna was right; he would not be able to go, even if he begged Nasuada and was allowed to go, the meeting would turn ill if they did not have the proper resources to defeat Katriana. The phrase, To sacrifice the One so the Rest could live, echoed in his mind and Einar hated it. He did not want this. He did not want to sacrifice his children; he would more willingly volunteer himself. He nodded, reluctantly. "Take Marola if you can of Kunin. They are the best." Einar told his wife, unable to refuse her in this state. "And you stay safe, my love. I cannot bear if I lose you." He told her with a worried gaze. "I will join you once this accursed meeting is over."

[Trinn]

Towards the sea... Eva hadn't ventured to the sea yet. She could only imagine the vast, sparkling depths of water. "Then Maude and I shall head towards the sea." She said with a decisive shake of her head. She pushed back her chair, the legs scraping on the hardwood floor, and stood. Ian's ring rested in the palm of her hand, and she looked at it's silver and purple form now, a small crease in her forehead formed as she deliberated. At last, she set the ring down with a clink on the table in front of Fergus. "Find that magician again and have him activate the ring once more. My mother and father will fly here, and they will help find your other lost men. As precious as they are to you and Ian, my brother is my priority. Maude's too. They will protest at first, perhaps rather fiercely, but they will help you." Eva glanced at Maude, and Vanasdaughter nodded that she was ready to depart. "Farewell, Fergus, and may we meet on better terms in the future."
***

"I love you as well, Einar." Gianna whispered, staring at his face almost desperately. He was the better fighter, had always been. She almost wished it were him going to save their children, rather than she. Regretfully, she let go of the magic that held the scrying spell, and watched as Einar's face dimmed, then vanished. The mirror's surface became smooth and reflective once more. Refusing to cry, Gianna stood and prepared herself for the journey. Kunin and Marola were wise choices indeed. But there were was another woman Gianna had in mind, one that may prove more valuable than any of Gianna's accomplished friends. Her mouth set in a firm line, and she set the mirror to scrying once more.
***

Eva and Maude spent the night on the beach. The sand was something of a nuisance, but Eva found that the sea was even more beautiful than she could have imagined. It was not just simply blue, but green and black and purple, shifting with the sun. It was dark with mystery, but vast with hope. Somewhere over those waves, she would find Ian. "Goodnight, Maude." she said, glancing at the girl. Maude was settled on a piece of twisted driftwood, staring out across the sea.

"Goodnight, Eva." Maude had first watch, and Eva was secretly glad. The pull of the ring had tired her out in a strange way. Climbing into her bedrolls next to Eos's warm side, she pulled the blankets up to her chin and rolled on her side. As she fell asleep, Eva focused on Ian. It was her desperate hope that she would dream of him again, that she could discover where exactly he was being held. Eos aided her rider's mind, helping her to meditate. They fell asleep together.

[Max452]

Fergus stared at Ian's ring as Eva returned it to him. He could easily tell that these two riders were indeed going to save Ian. They were young, but if Ian had taught him one thing, it was this: age meant nothing when the heart was the motivator. "Thank you, Riders." Fergus replied as he picked up the ring. He wasn't looking forward to tracking down Lucus again, but anything to help his men and to help Ian. "Best of luck to you both and I hope you kill the woman who has done this." He told them as they parted.

Once the two girls left, Fergus immediately went to look for Lucus. It took him several hours, but he finally tracked the magician in another tavern, drunk and being a nuisance to an uninterested barmaid. Fergus dragged the annoying man out, and forced him into a water barrel to sober him out a bit. Lucus was none to pleased, until Fergus shoved in all the gold coins he had. "Keep this ring going, Lucus; lives depend on it!" He growled out, dragging him back to their usual tavern to wait for Ian and Eva's parents.

***
Einar's eyes held a somber and worried look as the scrying mirror faded his wife's image away. "Be careful, my love." He had whispered to her before the spell had completely ended. He hoped that she would be all right; not only was she almost due, but she was his heart - he could not bear her being injured. Quickly, the former assassin left his chambers, seeking solace in his bond, as he could not do anything until this war summit was concluded. Sometimes he cursed his duty - this was one of those times.

***
Ian was slumped against the stone wall, staring outside his window. It was one grateful thing he had here in his small, cramped cell. He could see the sky. Perhaps it was Selene's tactic of unnerving him of unattainable freedom. He shifted his body, groaning all the while as his left shoulder continued to throb in pain. He had spent another good hour on the hook; Selene had him dragged up there again after he was healed slightly, just so he could feel the hook reenter his weakened body. He held his wound against, breathing heavily. He felt so alone and worried constantly about Castiel. Selene had drugged him with something that inhibited his magical abilities and his communication with his white bond. He would hear Castiel's wounded roars some times and anger would feel him; he would do his best to shout, threaten, and cajole Selene to leave him be, but to no avail.

Ian glanced out of his window, feeling a warm breeze enter. He inhaled the salty smell of the sea and wondered briefly where they were at. He had half the mind to try and escape through it, but it was strategically placed near the roof of the cell, too high for him to climb with his wounded shoulder. The sound of the sea hitting the rocks of the island also reached Ian's ears. He wondered for a moment on his location. They had to be at Sharktooth Island. It was the only reasonable place that accounted for the flight time. He just had to be. "Why am I in Sharktooth?" He whispered aloud, wondering what was going on, why he was here, and why the enemy had taken refuge at this location. What was going on? He hissed in pain as he tried again to adjust his arm in a more less agonizing position. Ian leaned his head back, wishing he could do something to at least save Castiel as he heard another agnoizing roar. Ian reeled his head back, screaming in pain through the echoed pain. Ian clasped his right palm, feeling as if something had stabbed him there. "CASTIEL!!!" Ian screamed out loud, tears streaming down his face as he felt another jolt of pain in his foot.

[Trinn]

A shadowy image of Ian's face appeared in Eva's dreams. There was agony in his eyes, that reminded her so much of their father. It was like watching them both suffer. The room began to become clearer, and she spotted hard stone walls and a straw covered floor. There was one slim window, and Eva imagined she felt a warm breeze drifting through. Hearing Ian's voice, Eva looked back at him. Only he wasn't speaking. His lips did not move. Somehow, she was hearing his thoughts.
~~~

Gasping, Eva bolted out of her bedrolls. Cold sweat clung to her body, and her head ached wretchedly. Groaning and feeling dizzy, Eva sat back down and put her head between her knees.

"You found him." Maude said in a quite voice, surprising Eva. She looked up at the white haired girl, and realized that dawn was filling the horizon with pink. "I didn't want to wake you up." Maude explained. "And a good thing I didn't." Eva nodded, if somewhat begrudgingly. She hated not pulling her own weight by taking a shift through the night.

"Ian's on Sharktooth Island. There's some sort of old fortress their where he's being held captive." Maude nodded and immediately went to saddle Magda. Eva sat for a moment longer, getting a grip of her nerves from the night vision she had had. Eos helped, filling her mind with reassurances and energy to steady her. Feeling better, Eva stood and saddled her bond too.

In short manner they were mounted and flying off over the large waters that separated them from Ian.
***

That night, Gianna strode into the inn that her daughter had stood in two days past. She was accompanied by another woman, who she had at first hesitated to enlist. They had never been on the best of terms with each other. But Gianna had a suspicion that her companion would prove invaluable on this mission. Together they approached the two men, and Gianna sat down at the table, trying to keep her composure. Her companion stood next to her, a heavy blood red cloak shrouding her shoulders and body. The sight of it was still enough to make people look the other way. "Why do you have that ring." Gianna asked, her voice strained. "What have you done with my child?"

[Max452]

Fergus glanced up from the table when he heard a woman's voice interrupt his thoughts. He blinked, registering what she said and her appearance. What was such a pregnant woman doing in these parts?! Was his first intial thought, the next however, was that she looked very much like Rider Eva, or vice versa. His attention then darted over to the other woman, who gave a more intimidating aura. He opted to address the woman with child instead. This must be Eva and Ian's Mother. He glanced over at Lucus, who was nearly passed out from the draining energy that came from using the ring. "Miss, we are friends of your daughter and son. I am Fergus; I serve your son. He was captured by a black rider almost a fortnight ago. Your daughter came, as well as Rider Maude. They have gone to find Ian, but have told me that you can help us with the rest of the men that have been scattered by the Black Rider's attack. They are being hunted by malicious creatures...shades and warriors. She assured us that you can help us! Please, I beg of thee." Fergus implored, while Lucus just groaned, wishing this night was over.

***
The purple, orange, and reddish rays of dawn would usually be appreciated by Ian, but his attention was drawn more toward the pain in his shoulder, the echoing pain from Castiel's wound to his bloody snout, and the sinister smile that was upon Selene that he wished he could slash off. Ian clenched his jaws as he felt an electric current run through him. He was strapped to a raised, vertical, cold slab, facing Castiel who was roaring in agony. Today, it seemed, that Selene had thought of a different torture tactic. She was intent on gaining the information, which, now, seemed quite pointless to Ian; why would a Rider of her caliber care about his men? They were weaker than her...they didn't pose a huge threat. However, as the torture began, Ian realized that it had all been a ruse. Selene was after something else.

The black Rider stared at the white dragon with stoic eyes despite the dangerous grin on her face. They were outside, on the highest tower that served as Castiel's prison. Her back was turned toward Ian, but he was being well guarded by her men. One, who was seemingly playing with Ian's duel swords, flipping them back and forth from hand to hand; he seemed bored. The other had just stabbed Ian with an iron rod to the shoulder while the other had sent an electrical spell into the Rider.

"Come, come, Castiel. Just give it to me and I promise I won't kill Ian. Just give me your Eldurni." Selene asked, having no intention on letting them live once she claimed the dragon's heart of hearts for Lady Katriana.

[Trinn]

OOC: I think the days for the kids and the parents are a little mixed up lol. So don't be surprised if at some point in this thread the parents meet up just in time with the kids.

Gianna sat back in her chair, thinking of what Fergus had told her, and furious that her own child had suggested she stay and search for lost travelers. How could Gianna do anything other than search for Ian, and for Eva who was following after him. And Vana... Gianna spared a glance at her companion, and could see a firm set in the Red Rider's jaw. Vana would go after Maude and Eva, too. And what did this man mean, he followed her son? What had Ian started? Thinking quickly of a solution, Gianna gave Fergus her answer.

"I cannot abandon my children, Fergus, you must understand that," she began, speaking neutrally. "Of course, neither can I leave your men to die. It's our right as Rider's to go to the aid of those who need it. This is what I suggest. I will contact a friend of mine. She will have an interest in hunting down shades and other vagabonds. Her name is Cherilyn, she is one of New Doru Arabea's field Rider's. With any luck, she'll be nearby and able to come to you quickly." Gianna didn't know Cherilyn very will herself, but she had met the girl during visits to New Doru Arabea. She struck Gianna as a clever and resourceful girl. Standing, Gianna asked one last question. "Do you know which direction Eva and Maude went?"
***

After a long day of travel, Eve and Maude reached Sharktooth island. The end of their journey across sea had been rather rough, with the winds rising and buffeting the dragons. The two dragons landed now on the sand, drooping exhaustion from the flight. Eve and Maude acted accordingly, bestowing some of their energy into their dragons. Eva was thankful she had filled the jewel in Aiedail's hilt with energy, to support herself and Eos.

"Ian is on this island somewhere, on an old stronghold. The island isn't large. We should be able to find him within a couple of hours. After a few minutes break, we should begin our search in earnest." Maude nodded.

"Agreed. Here," and Maude reached into a saddlebag and pulled out some a couple hard biscuits and jerky. She tossed some of the food to Eva, who caught it idly. They ate in silence together, neither one feeling much inclined to talk. Maude was pondering her last encounter with Selene, feeling sometimes a flutter of fear and anticipation. Would they really be able to conquer that dread rider? She glanced over at Eva, who was staring into the depths of Shark Tooth Island pensively while she ate. Maude wondered how much of a warrior Ian's sister was. In truth, Eva looked docile and placid, not like a rider who was about to go up against a hard to beat enemy. Maude frowned, returning her eyes to her food. Perhaps I look the same to her. She mused to Magda. Her dragon seemed to huff.

Nonsense. You look a warrior ready for battle. Although, I should think, so too does the twin of Ian. She conceals her emotions rather well, but I can smell her determination. Maude glanced once more at Eva, and thought that, maybe, she too could see it. Eva glanced at her then, catching her stare. Maude quickly averted her eyes, feeling embarrassed at being caught.

"Ready?" Eva asked, and Maude nodded silently. They mounted once more and took to the skies. Today they would find Ian. Today they would live or die.

[Max452]

OOC: Ah, yes, the time conundrum. Well, I figured that Gianna and Vana were only a day or two behind Eva and Maude when they had first met Fergus, but given they have bigger dragons, they could be merely hours away. So nope! Won't be surprised! And this is pretty much the time line I thought: Day 1 - Ian gets captured, Fergus travels to Teirm. Day 3 - Fergus arrives in Terim. Day 4 - Fergus finds Lucus and the ring is activated. Day 6-7 - Eva and Maude arrive in Terim, Gianna recruits Vana. Day 7-8 - Gianna and Vana arrive. That's close enough to a fortnight..and Ian's torture sessions are matching up to Eva and Maude's time. lol. That was pretty much how my brain was thinking...sorry if I made it confusing.

****
Despite his own parental understanding of Rider Gianna's reasoning, Fergus could still not help the disappointed frown that appeared on his face. What of Aurcane? Ian sacrificed himself for them! Yes, he undestood that Ian must be saved, but what would the young Rider think when he learned that everyone searched for him whilst his men were hunted and butchered like sheep? Fergus rubbed his face with a gnarl hand. "If that is what you suggest, Rider, but I fear by the time your friend comes, our men will be gone and Rider Ian's sacrifice would be for naught. He made me promise, ma'am, to make sure the men could come back to their families. Too much time has passed...can you guarantee sufficient aid for us? And if Rider Ian and Castiel are free - will ye be able to face him if his men were left to die?" Fergus asked, refraining to give the worried mothers the information they needed. Fergus was a man of his word and was not one to beat along the bush; he was ever direct and honest in his dealings and demanded that others be the same. He had already lost his family to this Shade Rider and that was why he was soley committed to Ian and Castiel. He wanted to ensure no one else would suffer that loss again. So now, he refused to give Gianna or Vana the information of Ian's whereabouts, for the lives of those men were precious to someone.

***
Castiel's agonizing roar thundered across the castle as Ian was forced to endure another torture session before the white dragon. The weary dragon continued to roar, claw, and bite anything that he could, but all in vain. Battered and weak, Castiel whimpered as Ian's screams echoed over the crackling electricity that was being circuited through the young man's body. Castiel was about to give into Selene's request when his black, beady eyes spotted determined green ones looking back at him. Even though their link was severed, Castiel could read Ian's expression any day.
Don't you dare give up, Cas! Don't you dare! Ian's expression bore into the dragon's before tearing them away into the sky as he screamed louder. The rod in his shoulder burned as the current of searing light coursed through him. Don't give in...don't give in. Was Ian's final thoughts before passing out from the pain.