Dark Wings, Dark Tidings

[Tismri]

Elise gazed up as her mother reprimanded her, telling her of things she already knew. She had done it on purpose, to leave a reminder that she hoped would be taken to heart.

"I know," she replied in a soft voice. "And now you know...it can hurt the ones you love just as easily as those who would hurt us." A tear escaped her eye as she rubbed the sleeve where her blood had stained, and she knew there was some still on the sword, which now lay lopsided in the corner. "And everyone you hurt...they have families, too. People who love them and are waiting for them to come home, just as we will be waiting for you. People who are going to miss them if they never come home."

She continued to gaze at her mother, trembling slightly. She knew her mother's trip wasn't going to be a simple visit to the capital. Whatever she was doing, she was going to hurt people. Probably a lot of people. Maybe she was going to help fight against the Shade's army. But the pain she would cause would affect many more people, just as the cut on her hand had affected her mother.

"Promise me you'll remember that, Mommy," she whispered.

[Trinn]

OOC: That's one insightful little girl!

Elaine held Elise's gaze. If only the girl new what kind of people Elaine would be hunting, perhaps then she would understand the motive, no the need, to eradicate them. And yet Elaine couldn't help but wonder if maybe there were some members of the brotherhood who did have families and lives outside of the order, much like herself. After all, there was Marola. What if the other members were just as scared of their organization as she herself was, but too afraid to make a move against them. Elaine relaxed her features, trying to restore her calm demeanor.

"I promise I will remember that, Elise." she said, and embraced the girl tightly. If she only knew what kind of dreams kept Elaine up at night, perhaps she would have known that Elaine did not need this reminder. Still, it was one of Elise's most endearing features. She was too kind sometimes, and some of the other kids would take advantage of her, but such innocence was rare these days and Elaine would like to keep it alive as long as possible. "But," she said, holding Elise at arm's length, "Celobra would never be used to hurt my family. Unless my family is silly enough to try playing with it without supervision. I'll need to put more wards on it." Feeling slightly shaky but relieved that Elise was ok, Elaine stood and pulled the girl to her feet as well. "Come now, Elise, smile! You're about to set off on an exciting journey, and meet lots of new friends." Elaine wiped away Elise's tear and then looked at her sleeve. "Here, I can fix that for you." She delved back into her magic and muttered a carefully crafted phrase. The blood stain seemed to seep out of the shirt, and then simply evaporated. "Better?"

[Tismri]

Elise put on a smile, having received the promise from her mother. Her concerns about what her mother would be doing lessened now, leaving mainly worry about what would happen to her now. However, these worries were much less prominent; she had more than enough faith that she and Eridor would remain safe in whatever they did. She watched the stain leech out of the fabric of her mother's sleeve, and returned her hug just as a blue dragon swept past the window, landing in the front yard near Eridor. A feeling of both excitement and anxiety passed through her, knowing that their journey was about to begin, and that her time with her mother was coming to an end.
~~~~~
Vanea gazed down at all the activity that was taking place before her. She had never seen so many children in one place before, and they were all running and shouting, giving the whole feeling of general chaos. Their noise grew louder when they noticed Azure's arrival, and a few of them rushed forward. Azure shuddered warily before lowering his head to greet the children. Despite the fact that they lived in Ileria, he was unused to being approached by so many people; most people were cautious and afraid of him, keeping their distance.

Vanea smiled and slipped out of his saddle, her feet meeting downy grass that felt wonderful compared to the hard city streets she was used to. She glanced around, locating a man with oddly colored skin--darker than most, but not the ebony shade of some of the wandering tribes. He appeared rather frazzled from trying to round up the children, but a sense of joy and peace still radiated from him that Vanea could feel.

"Hello," Dublin called, focusing his attention on the new arrival now that most of the children were distracted by the blue dragon. "I must say, you're a bit earlier than we expected."

"We had a shorter flight than the others do," she replied. "Azure and I flew from Ileria. I am Vanea."

"A pleasure, my lady. My name is Dublin. Elaine should be out shortly with our remaining child." He glanced back at the house, hoping Elise was all right. He sensed to pain from her, but both she and Elaine were a bit distressed.

[Trinn]

A rider approaches. Eridor informed, and Elaine could sense him swooping down to land next to the new arrival. As ever he was on alert, just in the rare case that the rider might be from The shade alliance. Elaine took Elise by the hand and led them from the room and out the house. The blue dragon appeared younger than Eridor, and his rider looked cheerful and ambivalent. Dublin had beaten her out she saw, along with the rest of the children. Elaine gestured for Elise to go and join the other kids before continuing on towards the newcomer.

The rider looked well dressed and well kempt, so Elaine didn't understand why she wore no shoes. She couldn't help but stare at the woman's bare feet perplexedly. "Thank you for coming to our aid." she told the rider and gave her a respectful nod. "I am Elaine, rider Or Eridor." Elaine glanced toward the sky, feeling even more perplexed. "I'm sorry, but, I thought the riders would send more than one of you?" If they had sent only the one dragon rider, how would she ever transport all of the children? Elaine didn't have the time to help. The brotherhood was probably already growing suspicious with no word from her in a week. She couldn't afford to linger any longer. Eridor shared her concern. The tip of his tail twitched impatiently.

[Tismri]

Vanea smiled at the elder Rider in greeting, watching as the young girl who had accompanied her skipped off toward the others mobbing Azure. They were climbing over him and patting his talons and looking with wide eyes at his sharp teeth. She turned her attention back to Elaine when she stated her concern.

"I believe the others should be arriving within the hour. As I just told Dublin, Azure and I flew from Ilirea; I was contacted about assisting with moving your children, since a number of Riders at the moment are already abroad dealing with the Shade's threat. I believe they were sending two elders along with a dwarf Rider." Vanea glanced back at the number of children, glad to know that there were others coming. Even Azure and Eridor together would be hard pressed to carry all of them, and she had surmised that Elaine and her bond would not be coming with them.
"I am Vanea, Rider of Azure. It is a pleasure to meet you." She took the edge of her cape and made a dainty bow. "We heard much about you during our studies in New Doru Araeba."

[Trinn]

OOC: oh my gosh you read my mind! I was going to throw Kili in here

Relieved, Elaine relaxed and was able to smile. "Wonderful. I cannot express my gratitude enough." By the curtsy that Vanea had given, Elaine surmised that such easy eloquence came from being high born. That left Elaine even more perplexed as to why a noble lady owned no shoes. She was further surprised to hear that the masters in New Doru Arabea had been talking about her. She was curious to learn more, but a distant thundrous sound made her pause. They are here. Eridor stated.

Elaine watched as three large dragons appeared in the sky. Their colors became more clear the further they came. The largest one, the most massive of the three, was a coppery hue. It scales gleamed brilliantly in the sun. The dragon in the middle, the smallest one but still quite large, shimmered a rich gold. The last dragon was the second largest, and something about it sent a chill down Elaine's spine. The dragon was dark red, like a garnet, and the way it carried itself seemed proud but almost disdainful. Eridor...

Eridor's scales near his neck were standing straight up and shaking. The red rider. he informed, having recognized the dragon as well. Elaine twirled on Vanea and grabbed her by the colar of her cloak. "Rider Vanea, is that red dragon Viel, bond of Vana?" Suddenly Celobra was in her hand. Elaine had called the sword to her with magic, and it had lifted into the air and flown out of the bedroom and into her palm.
~~~

Vana had her red cloak wrapped around her. She peered down at the orphanage and wondered why anyone would want to deal with brats all day. Then again, she had to deal with many impetuous adolescents herself now. Elaine had always seemed a goody goody though, Vana recalled. She recalled having battled Stormrider and Stormwing various times, and they had always muttered on about honor. When Vana had found out that she would be one of the riders going to assist Elaine Stormrider, she had grimaced and nearly refused. It seemed as if she was flying back into her past, and she was trying very hard not to feel as if she were entering a battlefield rather than a house full of children. Viel too was struggling. She had fought the Stormwing on several occasions, had bested him and been bested. Her longing for a rematch was quite evident in Vana's mind.

We are not those people any more. she told her bond calmly. We are on the same side now, remember?

I remember, Viel quipped, and I remember the taste of his blood and what his talons felt like in my skin. Vana could feel those emotions too. She glanced over at her companions. The dwarf rider looked peculiar in the saddle, almost like a lump that was part of Joro. Tismri rode serenly. Nothing seemed to ruffle the ancient too much. Vana did her best to emulate her.

[Tismri]

Vanea was surprised at the sudden aggressive action Elaine took against her, and Azure raised his head and growled a warning at her, causing many of the children to freeze in place like frightened rabbits. Vanea gazed calmly at the Rider before her; it seemed the war wounds remained fresh for some.

"Would that be a problem?" she asked. "I met Vana and Viel while I studied in New Doru Araeba, and though Viel is a bit on the aggressive side, they are both capable and empathetic teachers." She gazed thoughtfully at the children for a moment, trying to decide how best to convince Elaine to accept this peacefully. "She spoke very highly of her daughter Maude, who has also recently become a Rider. You may find she is a different person than you once knew."

"Mommy..." Elise's voice came faintly as the girl gazed at her mother, sword in hand, gripping the other woman by the collar and apparently angry.

"I would suggest you release me before you further upset the children...or worse, upset Azure."

[Trinn]

Vana had a child? The idea seemed somehow preposterous. Could the red rider really have had a child, raised it and loved it? If so, than maybe she had changed after all. ELaine released Vanea's cloak and sheathed Celobra. "I'm sure Azure is a fierce fighter." Elaine said a little skeptically, "But Eridor and I have faced fiercer." she smiled to show she meant no ill will, and turned to Dublin. She was sorry he had to see her so on edge. Her nerves were a frayed mess. Furthermore she had upset Elise again. She caught Elise's gaze and nodded to her reassuringly. "Forgive me Vanea for treating you so rudely. The last time I had seen Vana we were locked in mortal combat. You understand my reaction I hope? I did not know where she had gone after the war, but I suppose I shouldn't be surprised to find out that she has joined with the other riders." Elaine decided it would still be best to keep Celobra close at hand. Eridor had restored his composure at well. He had sidled closer to Azure when the blue dragon had growled, lifting his tail up behind the young blue in preparation to knock him into the dirt if he had decided to pounce.

Elaine took hold of Dublin's hand. She found strength in his touch and a little more like the caretaker she was. She would treat Vana with respect and hope she would get the same in return. Somehow she would find it within herself to trust Vana with the children.
***

The three riders landed around the sprawling orphanage and shook the earth. "Ah, what an interesting establishment, eh?" Kili spoke aloud as he clambered down the side of Joro. Vana eyed his dissent and shrugged.

"It seems as most orphanages." she replied, "full of children." Kili eyed her reproachfully. Vana sighed and muttered a sorry. She dismounted as well, and together with the dwarf strode towards the gathered group of people.

Elaine looked much the same as she remembered. Tall and brunette. There were some small changes too though. Number one that it seemed she had found a mate, secondly that she wore no mail or armor. Vana herself had donned some light chain mail, and Kili wore eloquently crafted dwarven armor.

"Rider Vana," Elaine said, her voice forcefully polite, "Welcome to my home." Vana nodded to Stormrider in response.

"The dragon riders are here to serve and protect the innocents of Alagaesia. You and your children fit that category. Although I must say I'm surprised, Elaine, that you did not accompany the other Varden riders to New Doru Arabea. I was quite surprised to discovere that you had laid down your sword to take up such a modest profession." Elaine seemed not to know how to take her remarks.

"Well, believe it or not, I enjoy the peaceful life compared to one full of battle and blood. I am needed here." Vana nodded. Suddenly Kili spoke up, and Vana was grateful. She was beginning to feel increasingly more awkward.

"Children!" He boomed, spreading his arms wide. "Are you ready for a long exciting flight on dragonback!?" The children cheered and seemed heartened by the dwarfs words. Kili looked at Vana and winked, then bowed to Elaine. "Rider Elaine, your name is well known among us at New Doru Arabea. Please know it is a great honor to meet the Storm rider. And of course, your bond, the marvel that is Storm wing." Vana noticed Elaine visibly relax now that her attention was on Kili. Good.
~~~

Elaine found the dwarf delightful. He was respectful, jovial, and easygoing. "I had no idea." She told him with a smirk. "I haven't been called Stormrider in quiet a while. It's rather embarrassing. Please, may I have your name?"

"My name is Kili, and the golden beasty behind me is Joro." he gestured to the golden dragon, who nodded his head.

"Well met, Kili, Joro." Elaine turned her attention to the sagest member among them. The rider who rode the massive bronze dragon had a peaceful aura about her, and Elaine felt oddly safe in her presence. To this rider Elaine gave a deep bow. Eridor, too, lowered his head respectfully to the old bronze dragon. "Riders from before the fall, I am humbled by your presence."

OOC: I don't know why I forgot about Tismri. I'm taking out Trinn and editing my previous post.

[Tismri]

OOC: It's all right.

Vanea returned Elaine's smile as she released her, straightening her cloak. "I agree. You and Eridor could defeat Azure and myself with relative ease, I am certain. You have many more years' experience than either of us, which is why I am glad you did not force him to strike. I only ask that in the future you remain aware of the ramifications of any actions you may take." She bowed again and returned to Azure, checking over the extra saddlebags she had brought along. She was unsure how much the children owned, or how much they would bring with them.

I could take them, Azure replied, his stance growing passive again. If you were in danger, I could destroy the world to save you.

Now that is the very situation I wish to avoid, Vanea replied. She had no wish to bring about needless suffering, especially with so many children near. Just as she finished re-securing the bags, a flock of ravens blocked the sun for a moment, flying from the backyard of the house, and a moment later, a dark-haired teenaged girl appeared from there and stood near the older children.

Dublin grasped Elaine's hand tightly, trying to provide comfort for her. He knew how difficult this must be for her. This Red Rider was a common sight in her dreams, he felt. He tried to sooth her, but he could tell that Vana's appearance, along with the task she had taken upon herself, was making her lose the last of her nerves.

"You are all welcome at our home," he told their guests. "And we thank you for responding to our need. The children are all anxious about the journey."

While a number of the children appeared fascinated by the presence of the dwarf, Elise was more curious about the Red Rider. She saw the way she and her mother tersely interacted; combined with the anger her mother had shown just a few moments earlier, she was curious as to why they were so uncomfortable with each other.

"Hi," she said, approaching the woman with a wide smile. "I'm Elise. What's your name?"

Tismri couldn't help but smile at the sight of so many children, their young lives burning so brightly. A number of them had known the sting of sorrow already, their parents either killed or having abandoned them. But Elaine and Dublin seemed to have brought the best out of each of them.

"The pleasure is all mine," she assured Elaine. She approached the Rider with a soft tread and raised the woman's head. The formality did not suit her, especially with the memory of the fanatics she had suffered from for a number of years. "I am very pleased with the path you chose for your life. These children could know no better home than the one you have provided for them."

Ismrolde looked between each of the young dragons in her presence. The angry past that Eridor and Viel shared left the air sour with old hatreds. Azure's mix of youthful arrogance and protectiveness of his Rider nearly got him in trouble just now. Clear your thoughts, she told each of them. We do not need anger to color our meeting here, especially not when there are hatchlings near.

[Trinn]

Vana was busy making sure the saddle was properly in place on Viel's back. One of the craftsman in New Doru Arabea had fashioned these saddles to fit each of the four dragons present. The saddle had been constructed with several side seats on either side, in which the children would sit. They would be strapped to the seat and the extra precaution of magic would be used to be sure no accidents happened while in the sky. Viel had been horror struck when she was told she would need to wear the saddle. It is a humiliation and a disgrace. the proud dragon had said. Only the red rider may sit upon my back. Vana had had to argue for a little while before Viel had grudgingly accepted.

Vana was tightening the straps one more time when a small voice spoke up behind her. One of the Stormrider's brats. said Viel, huffing down at Elise. Vana turned and eyed the young girl. "My name is Vana. This is Viel. I trust you and the other children are prepared to leave? We shouldn't linger long."
~~~

Somehow the ancient riders voice soothed Elaine's inner turmoil and restored her resolve. Tismri's praise caused her to feel incredibly better. "Your praise brings me a great happiness, Elder. My husband, Dublin here, he's been beside me all along. We built this place together with a mutual goal in mind." Elaine smiled at Dublin and squeezed his hand tighter. She hoped he was doing all right in the midst of all this excitement. He seemed to be fairing better than she at least. Her gaze swept away from him and she felt her heart skip a beat when she spotted Elise speaking to Vana. The girl was so close to Viel it made Elaine's heart ache from old fears. She had watched that dragon savage men and other dragons alike, had seen it set fire to forests and villages. Elaine had to remind herself that everything Vana and Viel did, they had done under Galbatorix's command. Still, she could not help but wish that Elise was not so trusting.

~~~

Eridor was watching Elise intently when the old dragon's voice slipped into his mind. He stilled and listened closely. Although he felt the desire to bound over to Viel and bring her to the ground, he new the elder dragon had the right of it. He tried to still his battle rage and the peace this home stood for.

~~

Kili meandered about, taking in the large home and the yard around it. Humans had such odd dwellings. The elves were born from the trees and lived among the trees. The dwarves likewise were stone creatres and lived among the stone. But the humans? There was no rhyme or reason to them sometimes. His wandering drew him closer to the dark haired girl who seemed to have a fascination with ravens. "Hail there, lass. What's with the birds? Snacks for the dragons?" he smiled amiably at his joke.

[Tismri]

Elise gave Vana a bright smile at the introduction. She seemed nice enough, although she didn't smile much. Maybe she was just shy, or nervous about meeting everyone. Whatever the reason, she couldn't see why her mother had disliked her so much.

"I think everybody's ready," she said. She saw that everyone's things were piled together outside. It wasn't a terribly large pile, but still big enough that each of the dragons would have to pull their weight with both the items and the passengers. Elise spotted her bags of herbs, satisfied that she had packed as much as she could, and turned back to the red dragon.

"Nice to meet you two. I'm really excited! Except for the part about leaving Mommy behind..." She frowned, worry creasing her brow for a moment before she spoke up again. "You're both really pretty! Viel, you're so sparkly, even more than Eridor! Let me know if you get a tummyache on the way. I've got lots of fireweed that can help you feel better. Oh! I'll be right back!" She skipped off toward her bags of herbs and pulled out a handful of a large white root. Pulling it apart, she gave a piece to each of her siblings before returning to Vana.

"Some of them are scared of the trip, or scared of heights," she explained. "If they start feeling sick, they can chew on this, and it'll make them feel better."
~~~~~

Dublin felt Elaine stiffen when she noticed Elise talking to Vana. Her fears and anger were still very much present, in spite of the years that had passed since the two Riders last crossed paths. He rubbed the back of her hand gently with his thumb and whispered to her, "It'll be all right. The Riders wouldn't have sent them if they weren't trustworthy." He placed his hand on her face and turned her towards him, gazing into her eyes with a mixture of dread and longing.

"You could change your mind," he told her. "We don't have to go." He knew she wouldn't change her mind, though. Not when she was in so deep. She was going to destroy this threat, and she wanted them out of harm's way when she did it.
~~~~~

Raven tried not to glare at the dwarf as he joked about her birds. They faced many dangers out in the wilds, dragons among them, and she knew she would never see a number of the beautiful creatures again. One raven, that had survived several years and always returned to her, flew to her shoulder and cawed ominously at the dwarf.

"These birds are my only true companions," she explained in a quiet voice. She pulled a small handful of cracked corn from a pouch on her belt and fed the bird--his particular favorite, she knew well. He was also much more gentle-natured that the ones who preferred red meat. "I just released them from their coop. It wouldn't do to have them trapped without food for gods know how long." When her companion finished eating, she gave a short low whistle, sending him off to join his friends in the clear blue sky. Her gaze returned to the dwarf below her. Despite her years of peace with Elaine and Dublin, her hard expression betrayed her years on the streets of Dras-Leona, where the cruelty of the guards and the city folk lacking in compassion had taught her to survive by not idly handing out trust. "I named myself Raven, after them. It's a lot nicer than what I was called before."

[Trinn]

Viel straightened herself a little more when the child complimented her. Vana tried not to roll her eyes. We already know how beautiful you are. The rider told the dragon. Are you really going to puff yourself up over the compliment of a little girl? Viel lifted a lip at Vana.

They say children are the harbingers of real truth. This child seems to know what real beauty is. That great grey monster has none of it. Vana acquiesced and smiled despite herself. She turned and gave her full attention to Elise, who was going on about herbs. Most riders learned about many of these different natural remedies. As they were all out in the field at some point or other, it was vital to know what nature had to offer in case of an emergency. Still, Vana was impressed with the little girls botanical knowledge. "That is very thoughtful of you." She told Elise, after the girl had passed out strips of the root. "You would put some of our students to shame with the knowledge you have on these herbs. I'm sure Elaine, or I mean, your mother, is very proud of you." Vana found it strange how Elise so readily called Elaine mother. It made her wonder how long the child had been at the orphanage. Certainly not all of the children considered Elaine their parent, or the man, Dublin, their father. Perhaps only the very young ones. Vana found herself feeling somewhat jealous of what Elaine had accomplished, of all the love she had so readily.

"Don't worry about your mother, Elise," Vana said, her green eyed gaze studying Elaine and Dublin, "She is quite resourceful and an excellent warrior. Whoever dares cross her will meet the sharp edge of her blade."
~~~~

Elaine met Dublin's gaze. A tangled ball of guilt, resolve, longing, anxiety, and foreboding nestled uncomfortably in her stomach. "I wish I could." she told him, looking wistfully into his eyes. "I see no other solution though. I must have my family safe. I must be sure any threat to them is removed." Knowing if she lingered any longer, what little resolve she had might melt away. Elaine forced herself to look away and turn her attention back to Tismri. "The children are ready. Let me say my goodbyes quickly, and then we must all be on our way." She delicately removed her hand from Dublin's and strode to the gathered children to say her goodbyes. Eridor was already standing over them, nuzzling them and blowing thin trails of smoke over their heads. She reached them quickly and began giving out hugs to all of them and telling them the things they would need to hear to feel safe and brave for their trip. The whole time she fought the tears that burned at the corners of her eyes.
~~~

Something in Raven's gaze caused Kili to feel slightly unnerved. Though she was young, it would seem that she had witnessed things no child ever should. Perhaps he could teach her how to laugh again. Children should laugh. "I'm sorry lass. I meant no harm. If your birds are important, then that's that. You know a wisdom not many do. That we 'civilized' beings are more crazy and blood thirsty than the biggest shrrg and mountain bear alive." Kili met her steely gaze with steady eyes. the silence hung in the air for a moment before he broke out in a smile and clapped her on the back. "Ok, enough of this severity. Your birds will be waiting for you when you get back and be so happy to see you they might peck yer eyes out. Now, you'll be riding with Joro and I. Go say goodbye to your mother and the grey dragon. We'll be leaving shortly."

[Tismri]

Vanea stood back and watched as all the children gathered around Elaine, giving her warm hugs, and a few of them giving her small gifts. For a moment, she felt a burning weight in her chest, constricting her breathing. She'd never truly had such a loving relationship, not even with her own parents. Her mother had died when she was young, and all she could really remember of her was how sad she always seemed. And her father had rarely been home, always fighting in the war. A part of her felt her life might have turned out for the better if she had gone to an orphanage like this after his death. But whenever she considered the servants under her pay, she realized she could never have left them. It would have been difficult for them to find another house to take them in, and a number of them would have been turned out into the streets. She loved them all too dearly to do such a thing to them.
~~~~~

Raven listened to the dwarf while she kept her own counsel. His understanding gratified her, as it seemed he, too, knew of the cruelty of man. A cruelty she had learned back when the city guards would pelt rocks at her from where she sat perched in the rooftops, calling her a "flea-bitten ugly crow." The memory of those days caused her to shudder, before she returned to the present and realized that Elaine was saying her goodbyes. She joined with the other children, and when it was her turn, she gave her a warm, if brief hug. Then she handed her a perfect, brilliant black raven feather.

"Thank you for everything you've given me, Elaine," she told her. She moved away back towards Kili, her expression stoic.
~~~~~

Elise beamed at Vana's praise, glad she appreciated the effort she put into studying herbs and plants. Most of the other kids made fun of her for working so hard on her garden when Elaine or Dublin could easily heal whatever the problem was with a simple spell. Of course, they were always glad of her when their parents weren't around and they got a cut or an illness.

She frowned when Vana tried to reassure her, unhappy with the implication that her mother would hurt anyone. Of course, she knew that was what she was planning to do, but it made her feel no better. She joined with the other kids to say goodbye, giving her mother a long, tight hug and never wanting to let go. Eventually, she pulled back a little bit so she could look into her eyes, her own overflowing with tears.

"Remember your promise," she said in a quivering whisper, holding up her hand where she'd cut it earlier. Although Elaine had healed it, the memory was still there for both of them.
~~~~~

Tismri watched the tearful farewells before her, her heart touched by such a display of love and affection. Though there was no blood relation among any of them, they were as close as any family she had ever seen. Elaine and her husband had truly worked a miracle for these children, and Tismri knew that this was the young woman's calling; not the chaos of the battlefield, but the chaos of a loving home. A more honorable charge a Rider could never receive.

When all the goodbyes were said, and all their belongings packed securely in the saddles, Tismri called out to them. "It's time to go, children. Everyone pick a place to ride, and we'll get you strapped in securely."
~~~~~

Dublin gave a small, sad sigh as the last child said his goodbye to Elaine, leaving only him. He gathered her in his arms and briefly forgot about everything else around them as he gazed into her eyes--longing, loving, and desperate.

"Come back to me safely, my love," he told her, his hold on her tightening as he put his lips to hers, dreading the approaching moment when they would have to part. Eventually, he released her, going to help the children into the saddles before taking his own place on Ismrolde's back, gazing down at Elaine while every beat of his heart resounded with a dull ache, missing her already.

[Trinn]

Elaine hugged each of the children tightly, fighting back tears all the while. One child gave her his favorite pebble, another a ladybug found on the ground. Raven's gift warmed her heart, as Elaine knew that there was nothing in the world that mattered to Raven so much as the birds she kept. "Thank you, Raven. Safe travels." And then Elise was before her, hugging her relentlessly. Elaine lingered a little longer with Elise. Elaine and Dublin had chosen not to have any biological children, but somehow Elaine felt that Elise was her own. Of all the children here, this girl felt the closest to her own child. She couldn't say she loved any of them more or less, but Elise just felt more like her own flesh and blood. So it was a little sadder when the girl pulled back and pierced her with a soul-tugging gaze. "I will remember, Elise." Elaine kissed the top of Elise's head, before turning her towards the riders.

Finally, she had a moment alone with Dublin. In all the chaos of getting the children ready for the long trip, they had seldom had a second to themselves. It was a bittersweet moment and lasted not long enough. Dublin's arms wrapped perfectly around her, a safe haven second only to Eridor's scaly embrace. She breathed in deeply his scent, hoping it would last her for the hardships ahead. One of her hands rested on the nape of his neck, the other around his waist. They kissed and Elaine wished they had longer together, for a more private goodbye. "I will, Dublin. You and the children are my world, one I already miss."

Elaine stepped back and stood with Eridor. They watched as the children got settled in the funny little side saddle seats, and the riders made the final adjustments. Then, all of the riders were mounted on their dragons back and were ready to depart. The golden dragon pumped his wings in preparation, while Viel crouched low for the initial jump skyward. Eridor raised his neck and bugled a goodbye. Elaine raised a hand. Viel took off first, lunging into the sky. The golden dragon was quick on her heels. All too soon they were all gone.

She and Eridor stood silently for a long while, taking in the empty home and the deafening silence. A few tears fell from Elaine's eyes before she was able to pull herself together, but not without Eridor's help.

Off to battle we go again. He said as Elaine took her place on his back. Battles don't last forever. We will see our family again. Elaine hunkered down low and Eridor carried them into the sky and toward the hazardous journey ahead of them.
~~~~~

The village of Gladia Celesti was hardly a village. It was more a town now. The population seemed to grow every time Elaine came back, granted she hardly visited lately. Gianna and Einar were busy themselves raising children, and Elaine found it hard to see Marola, knowing they both shared a dark secret. Eridor landed in the middle of the town, near a fountain that sported a delicate sculpture of two dragons entwined. The townsfolk that were out scattered at the sight or Eridor. It was clear they were weary of attack. A door nearby banged open and an aging man rushed out with a blow dart in one hand and a spear in the other.

Elaine stared at the man in disbelief. Could that really be Marcus? He had been full of youth and smiles the last time she had seen him, a man of joy. This poor soul who rushed towards her now was bedraggled, sporting messy hair and purple puffy patches under his eyes from lack of sleep. His mouth turned down in a sour way. A young girl came out after him, an amber colored sword in he hand. A rider's sword? Before the situation could escalate, Elaine dismounted and strode towards her welcome part with hands spread wide.

"Marcus Celesti." she called out, and he stopped in his tracks as sudden recognition struck him. The girl, however, did not recognize her friendly face.

"Friend or foe, rider." The young one called out.

"Friend, of course. Your father and I are friends from before Galbatorix's fall." The resemblance between Marcus and the young girl easily gave away their relation. The young rider looked at her father, noted the look of familiarity in his eyes, and then sheathed her sword. A young brown dragon bounded in towards them from the woods and came skidding to a halt next to Marcus's daughter. Elaine studied the young girl, and sure enough, she saw Marola there too. The legacy of riders continued. "Marcus," she began, when he continued just to stare, "May we go somewhere to speak in private?" Seeming to snap out of a daydream, Marcus nodded and gestured for her to follow him. "My name is Elaine, by the way," she said to the girl, "And my bond's name is Eridor Stormwing."

"Talia Celesti." The girl said in return, "And my partner, Erath." Elaine nodded.

"Your mother and I were friends as well. I am so sorry for the loss you have suffered. Eridor and I are grieving with you." Talia looked at her strangely, almost as if she didn't believe her. "Could you do me a favor? Could you please gather your sibling together? I have something very important for you all after I speak to your father."

"I can gather those siblings that remain here." Elaine frowned in confusion. "I have older siblings, Rider Elaine. They have gone off on their own as people do." There was a sharpness in Talia's voice that Elaine easily picked up on. "I'm sorry," Talia said before Elaine could say something more, "You are a welcome guest. I will get my siblings together. We will wait for you out here by the fountain."

"Thank you, Talia." Elaine turned quickly and hurried to catch up with Marcus.

[Tismri]

Cortell mindlessly watched as Lyta played near the trees. She was following and watching the various animals, more with her mind than her eyes he knew. It was her way of things, and she had been doing it more lately. It probably served her as a distraction. It kept her from thinking too much about their mother.

He was still unused to the silence of his mind. All his life, his thoughts--or at least his general emotions--had been connected to his mother, a feeling he always knew did not belong to him, but always affected him nonetheless. Their moods had always influenced one another. Without her for stability, Cortell felt as if his rampant emotions were beyond his control. One moment he was in the deepest depths of despair, and the next, his anger and hatred overwhelmed all his other feelings to the point that his vision nearly turned red. Whenever he was alone, he would sometimes laugh and cry in hysterical fits until his voice gave out and his eyes held no more tears. He managed to hide it around his family and others, though, instead giving the appearance of dark brooding.

He couldn't help but wonder how Lyta was really coping. She had seen everything. Lying hidden in the grass and flowers, protected by their mother's magic, she had watched as the Shade broke and shattered Mother until she was barely recognizable. The girl had never witnessed that sort of brutality before, and Cortell knew she had to be emotionally scarred, even if she didn't know exactly what it was she had seen. She spoke little and seemed to always want to lose herself in watching the other creatures.

Cortell was pulled from his own brooding thoughts when he saw a great grey dragon land within Celesti. Alarm, curiosity, and anger overwhelmed him, and he mentally prepared himself for a fight. If this was one of Katriana's, they wouldn't survive the mistake of coming here.

"Lyta, come," he called, sparing few words. The girl took a moment to return to herself and met his eyes for a moment before standing and taking his hand, walking with him back to the town. Cortell loosened his sword from its sheath, ready to draw it, and even Lyta pulled out a blow dart, prepared to use it if she had to. Mother's death had greatly changed them both.
~~~~~
On the far side of town, two werecats approached, walking side by side. One was maroon and white, with claws that seemed to large for his paws. The other was smaller, with yellow and white fur that stood on end; if looked at closely, one could see sparks of lightning trailing around her fur. At the edge of Celesti, the Wild Heart and the Many Faced paused and looked around.

There is something different about the air here, Luna said, sniffing. Not a human could be seen from where they stood.

It smells like sorrow, Purfell agreed, tasting the faint hint of salty tears in the air. These were scents they were both familiar with, but had not felt this intensely in a number of years.

The werecats were there for different reasons. Purfell had grown increasingly concerned about his former companion Same. The unstable human had nearly lost his mind to jealousy when the woman he loved chose another to be her mate. A man who already had no qualms about killing, the mercenary had gone on a bloodletting hunt. Purfell had left him when he sensed his own life was in danger. It was fortunately near the end of the war, when battles were being fought all over and no one questioned the piles of dead soldiers from both sides that they found. Since then, Same seemed to have calmed, although Purfell had not yet returned to his side; however, he knew some secrets of his, and he could guess a way to amend the friendship Same had once had with the Rider Elaine; though he felt his plan was risky, some instinct told him the time was right. The same instinct that brought him to Celesti rather than Surda to find her.

Luna, on the other hand, did not rightly know what led her here. She had roamed freely in the years since the war ended. She still felt guilty for the loss of her two human companions, and as a result spend little time with their kind since. But now, tasting the sorrow in the air, she had a guess as to what brought her here. Before she entered the town, she shifted with a small shudder, becoming brown and small, a seemingly innocent kitten.

Together, the two werecats cautiously entered town, where minutes before they had seen the large grey dragon land. In the center, they found a small gathering of humans. Purfell recognized Elaine and Eridor immediately; he decided to wait until the humans were finished talking before he approached her. Together, he and Luna padded silently to the edge of the fountain where they sat and waited unblinking.