Strength and Honor

[Trinn]

OOC: Me thinkest you shall! lol

Nethia perked up when the Warden mentioned a lake. "I wouldn't make camp there." She said in a dry voice. "A group of Katriana's men are stationed there. Unless you want me to fall back into their hands, I would suggest moving east, away from the lake." Nethia had briefly considered letting the Warden take them to the lake. The Warden wouldn't be able to last against a fresh group of soldiers, and she would be rid of him and able to return to Katriana. But Katriana was hard to please, and if Nethia returned with only the news that she had failed in the raiding mission there would surely be a terrible punishment.

"I hope this proves you can trust me." She added begrudgingly.

[Max452]

OOC: Yay! Just a small skip, and then maybe a bigger one where they meet Nasuada?

Evander stopped his movements, but only to turn himself around to study Nethia thoughtfully. She had just advised them to not go to the lake. Why? Did she not want to return to her leader? Two possibilities occurred in the Warden's mind for Nethia's words. Either she was planning to be captured in order to kill Queen Nasuada or she truly held no loyalty toward the Shade leader and desired safety from her wrath. Evander allowed the silence to dominant the air between them for a few more minutes before answering her question.

"No, Rider Nethia, it takes more than that to gain my trust, but it does make it apparent that you have no desire to return to the Shade Rider; for of what purpose, I have still yet to deduce." He turned his shielded head toward the east. "Eastward we shall go, then; it'll make our trip a bit longer, but safer, I believe." He stated before gathering what packs he had and leading the way once more. "So Nethia, tell me about yourself..." Evander asked as they begun their journey together.

***
Days had passed and gone since wryda had caused Nethia and Nefrox to cross his path. It was nightfall now and Evander had just finished making a fire before going off into the trees toward a small stream he had scouted out. He had left Nethia and Nefrox to tend after some leftover stew that they had the previous night. This was not unusual for Evander to walk off, as he had done it every night. Of course, he made sure that Nethia promised not to go oft while he was away, but tonight, he had forgotten to ask, as he had come to trust Nethia a bit more than he had from when the first met. They had many discussions, or, mostly Evander poked and prodder her with questions as he too, shared some of his thoughts and history (leaving out his true identity and face). And so, it was their discussions that made Evander neglect to make her promise not to leave camp as he made way to the stream. For every night, he would take an hour to remove his armor and let his body relax without it; for his body could take only so much of the heat.

Evander neared the stream and placed his back toward the campsite as he knelt beside the cool water. Taking off his helmet, Evander took an a long draught of air, grateful to feel its freshness enter his lungs without the taste of metal floating through his helmet. He let out a small sigh before placing his helmet down and dipping a hand into the water for a drink.

[Trinn]

Nefrox lay curled around the campfire, one gleaming silver eye trained on the flames. Using a gnarled stick, Nethia poked at the fire every so often to keep it going. Tossing the stick aside, she began to mindlessly stir the stew.

Your Warden must have more faith in you now. Nefrox commented, blinking slowly. Nethia shrugged and glanced over at the large dragon.

Why do you say that? she asked.

Because, he left without making you promise him to stay.

Nethia stopped stirring as a rush of exhilaration overcame her. A new sense of freedom danced in her mind, and beside that, the thrill of the Warden's trust.

What will you do? Nefrox asked. He was giving her the choice to return to the Shade army, or stay here on the path of redemption. Returning to Katriana was out of the question. Nethia had been absent too long for the Shade Rider to trust her, and it would surely mean death or worse. That didn't mean that she couldn't leave and just be with Nefrox though. They could fly somewhere new, live among the woods and nature, forget humanity altogether. It would be so peaceful...

And yet Nethia felt herself freezing up at the idea. She was known now as Nethia the fox, because she was stealthy and sly, skilled at not being seen. Did she want that name to change into Nethia the coward? Did she want that same fate to befall Nefrox?

Nethia made up her mind with sudden resolution, and without a word set off towards where the Warden had disappeared.
~~

Moonlight shimmered off of armor and the slow moving water of a stream. Nethia crept silently towards the spot where the Warden rested, moving in the nighttime shadows of trees. She was behind the warden ten feet, peeking out from behind a sturdy oak tree. She was a bit taken aback to see the back of his head not armored, but without the helm. She knew he let no one see his face, for he was the Warden and any other identity was forbidden. His unknown face called to her curiosity, and Nethia stole away to his right, moving from tree to tree. At last she knelt in a bed of tall ferns, and peered eagerly at his face.

She was shocked to see a rather youthful, even handsome, face in the moonlight. Soft black hair feathered his head, while a scar bespoke the numerous fights he had suffered through. Nethia had imagined the man she knew as Warden to be old, rough, and even ugly. The man she looked upon seemed a stranger to her, not the Warden she had come to know. Feeling strangely unsettled, Nethia began to rethink her plan.

Don't back down now. Nefrox urged, and she could hear the urgent growl in his voice. Before she had the chance to run away and disappoint Nefrox and herself, Nethia suddenly stood up out of the ferns.

"Warden," She called out, "I want you to train me."

[Max452]

Evander finished his quick drink and resorted to staring at his reflection in the water. It was strange to see it sometimes, as he was so use to seeing a metal helm staring back. The sound of crickets and soft gurgles of toads echoed in Evander's ears as he contemplated his own image. It was in these relaxed moments that Evander was assaulted with harmless doubts about his mission, which mostly centered around the inability to expose his face. Of course, his Father and his Code stated that it was for the protection of his identity, and thus that of his Family. He nearly scoffed. A family he had never known or met. He idly wondered what his mother looked like and if she was alive. He shook his head, ridding himself of fruitless fantasies. He was the Warden. It was an honorable and privileged duty. One that he must fulfill until he found himself ready to take upon his own apprentice; one of his own blood. His father had chosen him to be his successor and he would perform his duty to its fullest.

Evander lowered his hand again to gather a drink when his senses told him something was amidst. He couldn't figure why his senses were on the alert as he scanned the area - one hand on a dagger and the other reaching for his helm. He wondered if something was wrong at the camp and worried immediately about Nethia and Nefrox. However, at the sound of a voice, Evander rolled to his left - slamming his helm on his head - and readied his dagger to be thrown at the intruder.

The Warden stared blankly at Nethia as she exposed herself before him. Immediate thoughts raced in his head as he processed her words, but more importantly, her position. The campsite was behind him. Alarms went off in his head. Evander stood quickly, his posture stiff and tense as he lowered his dagger, but leaving it angled in a way that he could easily throw it for a quick kill. Did she see his face? A panicked voice rang in his head as he continued to stare. If so, his code dictated that she be killed - if only to preserve his identity. No! He could not do that! She was a rider and held possible information for Queen Nasuada; her death was not profitable. But his identity was as stake! But then again, he was unsure on what she saw. He could not jump to conclusions, nor did he desire to truly harm her, much alone kill her. Still tense, Evander quietly spoke, wanting to be sure of his circumstance before making any reckless actions or answering Nethia's request (for that was a surprise as well).

"What...did you see?" Evander's voice graveled over to Nethia. It would do no one good if he danced around the topic; he had to be sure. His shoulders were tense and rigid as he faced her, addressing one of the most sensitive situations he had ever come across.

[Tismri]

Katriana's fiery eyes gazed upon the men who had returned. They came back later than expected, and the news they gave her was not good.
"You mean to tell me that a single man bested you?" she asked them. Her voice was quiet and controlled, but the seething fury was evident behind it. "And after a full day Nethia and Nefrox did not return?" She paced in sullen silence for several moments while the men stood rooted to the spot. Although the street rat Rider and her young dragon were not well trained, she still would not believe a lone man could kill them. And with that, surrender would make little sense...unless they were looking for an escape.
The very idea sent burning fire through her veins as her anger rose. She could not afford to lose a Rider's loyalty, not in this battle. That is why she so tightly bound Gloriann to herself, so that should she decide to turn, the girl would still be unable to escape from her. It was a surprising benefit that through it, she gained another, rather unwilling Rider in her blind lover. Seth refused to leave Gloriann's side, and would protect her, although he obviously hated being here. But even so, the Riders under Katriana's control were few and far between. It would be better for Nethia and Nefrox to be killed than for them to be lost to her enemies.
"Bring Gloriann here," Katriana commanded. As her messenger scurried off, she turned to the pathetic men still cowering before her. She pointed to the commander place in charge beneath Nethia. "The rest of you are dismissed, but I would like a word with you." She turned and walked back toward Vanilor, her fury under control but inside burning her alive.
"How many men did you lose?" she asked him quietly.
"More than I could count, my lady," he told her, his voice impressively steady.
"And how many were your opponents?"
"A single man. I believe he is the one known only as the Warden."
"Have you any idea how pathetic that sounds to my ears?" she asked. "A single man defeated your entire regiment, and you come crawling back with your mission incomplete. This displeases me, my dear. This displeases me very much."
The man remained silent for several moments.
"You do know what happens when I am displeased, correct?" Again, silence.
"If I do not receive an answer, I will become angry," she warned, turning to glare at him.
"My punishment is death," he replied, still steady. Katriana was impressed by how resolute he was, completely resigned to his fate.
"Very good. Vanilor!" she called to her bond, "Have a snack, dear friend." She turned away just as Glory appeared.
"Ah, dear Gloriann," Katriana called. "I have some most distressing news. It seems Nethia and Nefrox have been captured. Do be a dear and rescue them for me, please." Glory's expression was unsure. "Even if they don't want to be rescued, Glory," Katriana added. Glory nodded and turned away.

As she walked back to Sundavar, as well as Seth and Hyperion, Glory could practically feel tears in her eyes. Everything had changed once she opened her eyes and realized how evil Katriana was. There was nothing joyful for her anymore. Now she was a slave to the Shade Rider, under the threat of death should she waver, and through her, those closest to her were trapped here as well.
She had little doubt as to why Katriana had chosen her to retrieve Nethia and Nefrox. It wasn't because they were certain not to fail. Glory was being sent as a warning, an example of what might happen should someone betray the Shade Rider. And it made her miserable, because she was hoping Nethia might be able to escape from here, and find a better life than this enslavement she suffered from.

[Trinn]

OOC: Uh-oh! Nethia used to think Glory was her only friend too! This will be interesting.

As soon as the Warden moved in defense, Nethia found herself taking a step back, preparing to flee. It was evident that she had upset her captor, and punishment was on the horizon. Something made her stop mid-step, to turn back around and face the Warden. The days of running away were done with now. Nethia had promised herself she would be a coward no longer, would not be one of the multitude of scum that so many humans were. She was a Dragon Rider, and she would be a good one.

Noticing how tense and guarded her Warden was, Nethia thought it best to remain still and make no move at all. If he should attack her, for no reason, then she would fight as best she could. And then it would only be a matter of time before Nefrox tore apart the woods to come to her aid. She hoped it did not come to that. In a twisted way, she had come to think of the Warden as her protector, too. Though he was taking her to her judgement under Queen Nasuada, he was also guarding her from a larger evil - Shade Rider Katriana. Anything the Varden Queen passed down on her would be far better than Katriana's sentence. The Warden was her protector, just as he protected others. Feeling no fear, she lifted her head up a bit and told the truth.

"I saw your face, Warden. You are younger than I thought." That was all she said before the silence resumed. Even the animals seemed to still themselves, noticing the tenseness of the moment.

[Max452]

Evander's hand unconsciously held his dagger tighter at the confirmation that Nethia had given him. Who knew such words could be so powerful? He was a fierce warrior; one who did not shirk or cower from a fight, and yet, here, he was completely afraid of the knowledge Nethia now possessed. She knew his face. So now, one question burned itself in his mind: Was Nethia to live?

Evander's breathing became heavy and it was clear that his chest was rising and falling quickly. What was he to do? The Warden lived by a powerful code, a code that was founded on honor and secrecy. Secrecy to protect his identity, else his enemies were bound to harm the Vallen line to extinction. And yet, honor and integrity also dictated that he protected the less fortunate, that he upheld the law at any cost. It was complete conundrum that he now found himself engrossed in.

"I," Evander had not realized that he had even begun to speak, "am not meant to have a face. It would be ill for my family." His voice was a mere whisper, but upon this silent night, it was quite clear. What was he to do? What was his father to say? "My code dictates my face to be a secret and if it be found," A pause as his voice quivered slightly, "the threat must be eliminated." His dagger hand began to shake. This was the first time he had ever faced such a situation. The first time he would have to kill in cold blood. "Where is the honor in that?" He found himself voicing his concern. He dropped his dagger and seemed to back away from Nethia, afraid of his own code and possible action. "I cannot do it. I cannot." He turned his back away from the rider. He was not a mindless killer. All that he believed in would crumble should he take upon such an act. His mind more resolute, the Warden straightened himself and turned back to face Nethia. "Swear to me that you will tell no one of my face, and I shall teach you all that you wish to know." Evander found himself compromising, his voice more steady, but a crease of worry lied beneath it.

***
Vanilor roared in delight at Kat's permission! This nuisance of a soldier had no right to be in his Rider's presence! He opened his giant maw, ready to devour the failure before him. In a swift motion, Lycus moved, blade at the ready as he voided the commander of his armor, knowing that Vanilor disliked the taste of metal mingled with his meal. Within seconds, he had cut off the armor and the man was gone an instant later. Lycus returned to his post and Vanilor was growling in delight.

***
Seth's brow was etched with worry as he awaited Glory's return. He did not like it when she was summoned to that creature's side. It took all his will power to not follow after her. It was best that he did not, for Katriana would no doubt harm Glory for his impudence. He heard her return after some time, his face turning toward her. "What did she want?" Seth asked, trying hard to hide the distaste in his voice.

[Tismri]

Glory heard Seth's question as she sat next to him, but she remained silent for a few moments, trying to find her voice. She was unsure how to explain her orders to him; simple as they were, he would catch on immediately to the fact that there was more behind them than what was on the surface.
"She..." Glory shook her head and restarted. "I met another Rider here soon after I first arrived. Nethia...she and her dragon were probably some of the friendliest people here, although no one here is particularly nice." So many names and faces crossed her mind. Even Daeron seemed to have taken a slightly darker turn after coming here, although he was always loving toward her.
"I taught her how to use magic, and in turn, she more or less taught me how to survive in this place. She's one of the few friends I actually had here." She glanced up at Sundavar, who could sense her pain.
"Apparently she and Nefrox have been captured, and I think Katriana believes she may have gone willingly. I know I would, if I could..." Again, a pause, as she tried to think of how to phrase her next words.
"Katriana wants me to retrieve them by any means necessary...And I get the feeling that failure isn't an option. Which means I either have to convince them to come back, or k-" Her breath hitched for a moment, "kill them." Glory put her face in her hands, sitting there in silent misery for a moment. "The worst part is, I want them to stay captured. Whatever Nasuada will do, it will be far more merciful than whatever Katriana has in mind."

[Trinn]

A phantom wind touched Nethia's skin, raising goose bumps as she felt Nefrox take flight with her mind. He was fast approaching the site, ready to tear the Warden limb to limb if he made a move to "eliminate" his rider. Nethia herself remained perfectly still, anxiously listening to the Warden's foreboding explanation. It seemed to her that he spoke painstakingly slow, dragging out his verdict. Judging by how distraught his voice sounded, Nethia was planning on a fight.

Therefore it was with great relief when the Warden gave her an ultimatum. "I swear that I will not reveal your face to anyone." she promptly complied, speaking in the ancient language to make the oath more binding. Her heart skipped a beat when she remembered that Nefrox new of the Warden's face too. But perhaps her Warden didn't know how dragon rider bonds worked? Would it be better to say nothing of the matter? Remembering that she was attempting to become a better person, Nethia sighed and added, "Nefrox knows your face too. What I see, he sees, and likewise. Please, Warden, do not be angry."

[Max452]

Seth listened quietly to Glory's words with a concern and worry. He knew how much Glory detested this place, let alone killing for Katriana; it was nearly driving her mad. After Glory spoke, Seth's mind move quickly for any possible loop holes. "What were her exact words, Glory?" Seth asked for Katriana's order once more. Perhaps a key lied there? And perhaps, it would give Glory some time to alert her mother of the poison that was in Glory's mind as well as save Nethia and Nefrox.

***
OOC: I like how Nethia keeps referring to Evander as "her Warden". hehe. Do I sense something there??? lol.

The moment Nethia made her promise, Evander visibly relaxed. He was surprised that one with her former allegiance would utter it so quickly. Perhaps her reason for complying with him in the first place was that she truly wished to escape the Shade Rider? He didn't have long to contemplate on her reasons when she spoke of Nefrox's own newfound knowledge. Evander pressed his lips together and his mailed hand went toward his forehead, a slightly comical sight considering he was fully armored as he gestured his frustration. "Nefrox had mentioned before that he is bound to your word, am I right?" Evander lowered his hand back to his side. "If you have promised not to reveal my face then I know that Nefrox will do the same." He paused once more, considering something, before carefully removing his helmet and revealing his face once more. "And it be all the same - I doubt I could do anything against Nefrox." Evander gave Nethia a weary smile. "Perhaps it is better this way; it was getting rather stuffy in this suit." He attempted to lighten their tense situation, though his words were serious. Perhaps it was better to switch to his light leather armor for the remainder of their travel; they were going to travel into areas where it would be easier for him to don his rogue appearance rather than that of the Warden. Once they reached closer to Illeria, Evander would return to his usual appearance as the Warden. "We should return to camp, Nethia; I think it is best to get a good night's rest. We will be entering an area where bandits, mercenaries, and the Shade Rider's forces are more abundant. Tomorrow night, I will teach you all I know." He then gestured toward the camp with his hand, hoping that he would not regret this night's decision in the future.

[Trinn]

OOC: hehe

Nethia nodded, to reassure the Warden that Nefrox would tell no one, that her promise also bound Nefrox to the same. Her bond circled above the forest now, ready to pounce should the need arise.

I think you can return to camp now. she told him, watching the Warden carefully. He seemed at ease now, if a little awkward. In fact he seemed rather relieved to be out of his armor with the night air on his naked face. I think it would be best for us to return with you there, rather than out flying around. If only to reassure him.

Nefrox complied, and only Nethia knew that the slight kicked up breeze was the announcement of his departure back to camp. Her complete focus returned to the warden. He really was just a man, filled with fear, doubts, and hopes. In his armor he had always seemed so surreal, indestructible and sure of himself. His face told her otherwise.

"As you wish, Warden." She said subserviently, bowing her head a bit to him. Spotting his small smile, she attempted to return the gesture with a small one of her own. Nethia let it last only a moment. Smiling seemed rather difficult to her. Feeling stupid, Nethia turned and headed back to camp.

[Max452]

Evander, now donned in light leather armor, carefully surveyed the valley below him. They had traveled all day without any incident until now - Evander had spotted some smoke and went to investigate. With his hood covering his upper features, the Warden laid on his stomach on a small cliff side, overlooking a small encampment of mercenaries. He wasn't quite sure if they were apart of the Shade's army. He turned his head softly to his companion. "I don't see any logos on them. Do they look familiar to you?" He asked Nethia quietly, trying to gain any information about the group below them. Usually, he would simply find an alternate route to Illeria, but these miscreants had found the perfect location that overlooked any if all roads that led toward the great city. And as usual, The Warden could not allow these men to prey on any more travelers and refugees. So, sticking himself in the mercenaries' business, he decided to sort them all out before they harmed anyone else.

[Trinn]

Mimicking the Warden's action, Nethia laid down on her belly and crawled towards the edge of the cliff. There would be grass stain's on her leather now, but no matter. A little water would wash it away fine.

She peered over the edge now too, squinting her eyes to see better. "These are no mere mercenaries." She whispered to her warden. "Look, there are dwarves, urgals, and humans together. Though the Empire war has been over for sixteen years, these races are still at odds with each other. These are sent from Katriana. She wants to control the main roads to Illeria, so that support will be hard pressed to reach Queen Nasuada." She paused as Nefrox spoke to her.

"Ah. Nefrox recognizes a few of the men. That settles it, I suppose." She looked at the Warden. "Nefrox can carry us over them and into the capital. Fighting these men may not be the most wise decision..."

[Max452]

Evander listened quietly to Nethia's explanation of the men below them. As she confirmed their loyalties and identities, Evander quickly began to devise a plan to subdue them. He made a sharp glance at Nethia at her final comment, clearly opposing her idea. "And leave any that wander into their path at their mercy?" He whispered harshly. "No. We have a chance to protect others; I will not squander it." He carefully retrieved his bow and some arrows. "We have the advantage of surprise. How good are you with the bow?" He asked her, finding now the perfect time to assess her skills. He had hoped that she would remain her on the cliff, claiming the more fragile of the races with them whilst he wait down below, taking out the stragglers with his blades and magic. The Urgal...well, he would have to think of something when he encountered the strong creature.

[Trinn]

Nethia looked away from the Warden's scornful gaze, feeling ashamed now for having ever mentioned avoiding the group. Of course he would be opposed to that idea. She felt even more ashamed when he asked her about her archery skills. "Not very good, I'm afraid." she said, biting her lip subconsciously. "But, I can use magic fairly well. I had a good teacher in the shade army. Also, Nefrox is a force to be reckoned with. He said he would ride into battle with you, if you wish."

Why are you so willing to let him ride you? Nethia asked her bond, suspicious.

I simply trust him. His soul is good, and his intentions more so. Nethia left the topic alone after that, and looked back at the Warden.