Zeke was pacing outside the tent now with agitation and worry. Then, finally, his sister drew the flap aside and stepped out with her pouch. He opened his mouth to ask how Savania was, but Jia put a finger to her lips,"Quietly, Z. She's resting now." she murmured. He relaxed with relief. He stepped forward and wrapped his arms around his sister, pulling her against his chest and burying his face in her golden hair. She embraced him back, then pulled away and motioned for him to go inside. He did, pausing to watch his mate as she slept. He grabbed two more blankets, one to add to the one already covering Savania, and one for him. He laid beside her, close enough to satisfy his desire to protect her and yet far enough away that she wouldn't feel trapped or threatened if she woke during the night. He studied her face carefully, then slipped his eyes closed and let himself fall asleep.

- - - - - - - - - -

When Jia emerged from the tent, the first thing she saw was of course her brother. She urged him inside, then looked around and sighed. She replaced her medicine pouch in her saddlebag, then stood and walked over to the cross-legged sitting form of Eris. She sat beside him, watching the sun disappear below the horizon. She knew and understood how he felt. She glanced at him from the corner of her eye,"It is okay to let yourself feel, Eris. Quite the contrary, it could possibly kill you if you don't release or feel in some way. Some show their loss in anger, as I heard earlier in your shouting. Some in sadness. Others in depression." she murmured. She sat for a few more minutes, then turned her head to look directly at him with her enigmatic teal eyes,"I'd like you to meet my daughter some time. Not now of course; she's somewhere with my Rider at the moment. But I think she'd really like you." she said with a kind smile.

OOC:
Gah, sorry, had to help my mom groom one of our dogs. >.<

IC:
Jia wrapped her arm around Eris's shoulders in a comforting gesture, listening and letting him pour it out. That's what he needed most, more than just venting. He needed someone to listen and actually hear him instead of just try to comfort him and tell him everything would be okay. Because, no matter how many times you said it, it never really would be 'okay'. She pursed her lips when he asked after her daughter,"Because she's a strong empathizer. She understands everyone, even if she hasn't experienced what they have. Her name is Sarai." she looked away, glancing swiftly toward the tent,"I never told Zeke about what happened to me in the Capitol. I knew he'd be angered beyond sane thinking." she murmured, and looked down at the ground. She could feel her ears warming up. She bit her lip,"That might have been a mistake in some ways. But I was afraid he would insist on killing Sarai, because of who her father is." she whispered. She looked up at him then,"You do not fail just for the sake of failing. There is a reason behind every action in our lives. You failed then, in the past, so you would be stronger now, in the present and future. Few Dragon Riders can say they've survived the death of their dragon with as much sanity as you did." she said, attempting to comfort him a bit.

Isabella was quiet when everyone left, she walked quickly back to Nirexi, curling up against his side, feeling his warmth. She moved her hands to the blankets, feeling the large panther curl up against her back and legs. Iz, don't worry, Scout will be fine. I'll stay awake for a while. Just rest if you can. And she did. She closed her eyes and felt the thrum of Nirexi against her, but her dreams were dark, disturbing. She moved in her sleep, tangling her blankets, but at least she was resting.

OOC: Bleh. Short, sorry.

OOC: I'll skip ahead to the day.

Isabella had gotten up before everyone else. She hadnt seen much in the way of food, so just had a light snack of bread.
It was barely dawn when she heard the birds start chirping, thinking that they were awfully late today. She moved quietly among the camp, having seen many Alfin and observing their ways.
She saw the forms of Jia and Eris, and she was glad they were asleep. She knew the rest had helped her, despite how uncomfortable it was. She moved back to the large black lump of her own dragon, moving to sit down back against his stomach.
Nirexi curved his neck to look at his rider, Morning, Iz. Are you okay? She nodded, knowing that she was fine, but not good. She rubbed his stomach quietly and when he leaned over to rub her head with his snout she scratched his chin. He looked at her curiously and shifted his scales slightly to rest his head on her legs, completely curling around her, like a barrier. He felt her hand rest on the ridges of his nose and sighed, waiting for the others to awaken.

Tel lifted his head and yawned, licking his lips uncomfortably with his swollen-thick-barbed-forked-tongue. He hated it when he woke up with cottonmouth in the morning. He got up and stretched, arching his spine luxuriously and fanning his wings briefly. Anir was still asleep on the ground, curled into a tight ball. He yawned again and padded out to stretch his legs, carefully avoiding his aunt, and the tent that held his mother and father in their two-leg-round-ear forms. He'd dozed off early the night before, occasionally coming round to hear a sentence or two, then he'd fade out again. Apparently he'd missed it when Nirexi and Isabella arrived, because he slammed right into them, snout first, without slowing. He whimpered and backed hastily away before crouching on his hindpaws and cradling his nose with his fore, icy-pearl-white eyes clenched tightly shut. Sorry, sorry, sorry! he said in a hushed mental voice so he didn't wake any of the others. His nose was throbbing again. He shook his head and snorted, then irritably sat on his haunches so he wouldn't bump into anything else. Sorry. I didn't see you, and my nose doesn't work right. he muttered to Nirexi again in apology, his tone half angry, half sheepish.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia opened her eyes slowly, for once fully alert and aware as she woke up instead of disoriented. She folded her wing back from Eris and looked down at him, smiling slightly. He looked a bit like her Rider as he slept, peaceful and devoid of any worries or concerns. She sighed longingly. She missed Ka. She glanced up and saw her youngest Nephew, Tel, holding his nose in his forepaws while he balanced on his hindlegs with his tail. A slight shift in her gaze, and she saw the reason why. Tel had bumped into Nirexi. An ache for her Nephew blossomed in her chest. She knew he hated his blindness and that he turned especially bitter when it had him at the disadvantage.

The lavender-silver male grunted, but relaxed at Isabella's soothing touch on his nose. No, I mean...I really can't see. I was hatched blind. he murmured quietly. His tone wasn't bitter like it usually was when he mentioned his disability, only sad. His tail tip twitched as Nirexi pointed out that he was a hatchling. Not in the youngest terms, but yes. Me and my three siblings are just over a year old. he said. He hated it when he was called a hatchling, though in terms to other dragons that were older than himself, he basically was a hatchling to them. He heard the light padding of big cat paws, and swiveled his head around a bit so he was 'looking' at Raill. Hello. I'm Tel'aeír, please call me Tel. he murmured in greeting, tilting his head curiously. He'd never met a house cat with telepathic abilities before, let alone a big cat like this one. He flicked the tip of his tail in Eris's direction. I'm fine. I'm used to early morning 'bumpings'. he said in reply, and grimaced.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia glanced down at Eris, watching with some amusement at how many times the ex-Rider yawned. The feeling dwindled however at his question, and she sighed. I don't plan on fighting them, Eris. They want a dragon. Fine. I'll give them one. Do I have another choice? I love my brother, Savania, and their little ones too much to have them in this kind of danger. she said softly.

- - - - - - - - - -

Zeke had barely slept at all that night. He'd been too worried about his mate to rest peacefully. He'd winked out a few hours before dawn, but at feeling his mate stir beside him, he'd opened his eyes to see her waking up. He smiled softly, his ice blue eyes glittering with tender warmth as she hugged and thanked him,"Anything, little heart." he murmured, and watched her slip out of the tent. He tamped down the urge to rush after her to make sure she was safe, gritting his teeth savagely. He would protect her when necessary, of course, but he wouldn't hover over her like a mother hen. No matter how much he actually wanted to.

Jia grimaced but kept silent for the time being. She'd known it wouldn't be easy to coerce them into letting her go. She sighed and shook her head at Incendia. I've no idea. Ka seems to always be hungry. He curious as to why I can eat so often. she lifted her shoulders and dropped them in a draconic shrug. The only answer I can give him is 'I'm a dragon, your a human'. she said, and chuckled.

- - - - - - - - - -

Zeke finally decided to get up, thinking it was appropriate now. He stood and stepped out of the tent. He paused and leaned over to muss his amethyst-streaked-ice-blue hair; it was in a complete disarray from the night before. Once he had it somewhat combed through with his fingers, he straightened and scanned the area, searching for Savania. He found her by a fire with Eris, and smiled. He padded forward to her and sat down beside his mate taking a few berries. He wasn't very hungry, but he thought it rude to ignore the food made up for them. He glanced at his mate but didn't ask how she was doing. It would have irritated him, and he thought no less of her reaction.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tel grimaced. Lots of practice and a lot of time with a throbbing snout. he said sourly. He heard a playful growl behind him and grinned. And of course my older sister Anir helping me around. he amended. A satisfied snort blew across his flank. The lavender-silver chuckled at Raill and Isabella. I don't mind. he murmured, and smiled when the large cat came forward to rub his head against his leg. He purred and lowered his head to stroke the length of Raill's spine with his jaw. The tip of his tail flicked mildly at Isabella's offer. No, I'm fine. I just wanted to get around and stretch a bit. he said, rustling his wings stiffly for emphasis.

- - - - - - - - - -

Anir got up and stretched, yawning widely before padding forward to her younger brother. She stood on the opposite side as Isabella and kept her tail firmly in place on Tel's flank. Hello. My ears were burning, so someone must have been talking about me. she said with a grin and a mischievous gleam in her vivid silver eyes. She meant her statement almost literally. If anyone had lied about her, which they hadn't, she would have known. I'm Sofranir, but I prefer Anir. I remember you all being introduced last night, but I didn't want to get up and disturb mister sleepy or here. she said and affectionately flicked Tel's ear with her barbed tongue. He grunted and shook his head. Anir, I told you to stop that. he growled playfully. She just laughed. Alright, let me see if I got this right. Your Isabella, she pointed to Iz with a wing thumb claw. your Raill, she motioned to the panther. the black dragon is Nirexi...And wasn't there a bird of some kind? she asked in confusion, tilting her head curiously.

Jia didn't respond right away to Incendia, then she sighed almost inaudibly and looked up. To protect them. I know Zeke would never let me go, so I must go without him knowing. And the same for Savania. But neither of them know that I've pretty much experienced hell itself. Whatever Crimson or Galedrim does to me is nothing, believe me. she said quietly, her tone subdued. She didn't really want to go, if she was honest with herself. She only went to protect her family.

- - - - - - - - - -

Zeke merely nodded with a hasty flit of his eyes and Eris's greeting, then glanced over at his mate, worry and concern for her etched into the icy blue depths of his eyes. He turned his head to fully look at her, flicking his gaze briefly to Eris when the ex-Rider spoke up. He opened his arm when Savania leaned into him and placed her head on his shoulder, wrapping his one arm around her shoulders protectively and placing his chin on her head,"Where would you like to go?" he murmured quietly, pulling back a bit to look into her silver eyes, studying them carefully.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tel purred and leaned into Iz's caress, closing his eyes for a moment in content. He liked this female Rider; she did not fuss over him and try to comfort or soothe him, as his siblings and parents did. That is true, I suppose. My father is blind as well, and he can get around so well its as if he can see. he said, and snorted softly in jealousy. Zeke had always said that it was second nature for him to see around him. But the amethyst had also had the help of his Rider, Ella Whitefang, when he was a young dragon. Tel didn't have such help. He of course had his father himself, his siblings, Jia, and his mother, but they all fussed, they didn't actually teach or help him. He sighed.

- - - - - - - - - -

Anir tilted her head, her silver eyes gleaming. Yes, that's right. she said with a small smile. She glanced down at the panther and her smile widened into a grin. If you like children, then I suspect you like mischief? You've come to the right place. I'm the trouble-maker of my siblings. she announced, ruffling her wings proudly as if she'd just flown to the tips of the Beor's and back.

Jia held her tongue until Incendia was finished. She honestly didn't know why everyone was trying to talk her into not going. She'd made up her mind, and that was that. I am not a weak-minded hatchling like all of Crimson's pets, Incendia. she snapped, a bit harsher than she'd meant. her tone was softer when she continued. In the Capitol, I was tortured for three days continuously. No breaks. No food, or water. And I was doubly tortured because my Rider was treated the same as myself, if not worse in some ways. Galbatorix has hundreds if not possibly thousands of Hearts to give him strength. He used that boundless energy on me and Ka. Anything Crimson can think up is nothing to that much raw power. she said quietly. And also something must be done about the Seal that is now in Galedrim's possession. I know much more about Seals from my Rider than Zeke does; I've seen the destruction it can cause. If Crimson uses it wrong, without any knowledge at all of the power he's holding, he could very easily destroy half of Alagaësia, completely by accident. she looked away. It so happened that she looked toward the newcomers as they arrived in. She was intrigued by Caete and Blanc, though she hissed softly at Caete's mention of Crimson.

- - - - - - - - - -

Zeke held her closer, rubbing her shoulder soothingly with his thumb as he turned his head slightly to bury his face into her dark silver hair and inhaled her sweet, delicate scent. We could go to the nest, if you like. And bring the children with us, of course. he murmured to her mentally, to keep their conversation quiet. He looked up at the newcomers and instantly felt a warning rumble vibrating his chest, subconsciously pulling his mate a bit closer into his side and shifting his body discreetly so he was between them and Savania. He knew it was unlikely they were there to attack, but instinctive protectiveness won out on logic at the moment.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tel and Anir moved at the same time when Zeuk and Quasar started into a light argument. Anir tapped their youngest sister lightly on the shoulder with her tail with a meaningful glance toward their parents, while Tel smacked his older brother on the back of the head with his tail. It was a gentle smack/tap, but enough to get their attention. Not now you two. Mom and Dad are stressed enough without the four of us breaking into a brawl. he snapped sharply, glancing from the oldest sibling to the youngest as if he could see them perfectly. Then he sighed and lifted his head back to Iz. Perhaps depending on what it is. he said a bit warily. Sure. Follow me. Or, more accurately, follow my sister. he said, and grimaced.

- - - - - - - - - -

Anir snorted at her older brother's comment, and shook her head. She purred in her throat, a soft, humming sound, and lowered her head to stroke the length of Raill's spine with her jaw. Yes, perhaps we can. I look forward to that time. she said, and her vivid silver eyes nearly glowed with a promise of mischief in the near future. At Iz's subtle hint at wanting to see the others, and her younger brother's invitation to 'follow him', she pulled away from Raill and took up her position beside Tel, her tail draped across its customary spot at the lavender-silver's flank. Her own pale-blue-almost-white hide fairly glittered in the rising suns rays, sending specs of light blue dancing on the sand and a few of the Alfin. Once she'd let Tel to the fire and the newcomers, both him and herself sat on their haunches. Hello, I'm Sofranir, please call me Anir. This is my younger brother Tel'aeír, you can call him Tel. That is my youngest sister Quasar, and my older brother Zeuk. she chirped happily, grinning at Caete and Blanc.

Isabella was watching the newcomers intensly, but soon looked back at Tel, "Well I wanted to try to have you get around through sound. Like you try and follow my voice. It may come in handy if you can do it. Then eventually you may be able to hear even slight sounds like breathing to help locate beings." She leaned over to scratch a small patch of scales on his side, she glanced at Nirexi who was watching the other hatchlings amusedly. She moved her eyes back to Raill who was carefully approaching the white cat, Blanc.

She heard Raill at first but soon their conversation stayed between the two of them, I dont believe I've seen one of you before. Do you happen to know what species you are? Blanc moved to Raill's side, inspecting the cat, I don't know. I simply know that when I was born, I felt like I needed to find Caete. The large cat sat on his haunches and watched the panther, whom was half his size in the least.

Caete smiled at the little dragons, nodding his head at them and saying, "Hello Anir, Tel, and Zeuk and Quasar. What beautiful little dragons you are." He turned back to Eris, "His General? You said you were out side of your brother's camp... Unless of course, your brother is the General." Understanding dawned on Caete's face and he moved his wings slightly. "Im willing to do whatever to give justice to Crimson. Is there anyway I can help against this brother of yours?" His mind was set. Caete knew he was going to help Eris fight his brother, Crimson's general, he just needed to know how.

Zeke hummed in his chest, wrapping his arm more securely around Savania's shoulders. I'd prefer to get you away from here. Somewhere not so populated. But we can stay, if that is what you'd like. he said quietly. He looked up at Caete, calculating how much he could trust the man. His words sent a shadow across the amethyst's face, the ice blue depths of his eyes into chips of scathing ice,"Can start by killing the beast." he muttered under his breath, holding his mate a bit closer into his side.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia closed her eyes, tears pricking at their corners. Incendia was right. But she still had to go. With a sigh, the gold-amethyst got to her paws and padded toward the other dragoness. She hated quarreling with family. She sat beside Incendia and leaned into her, purring quietly in her throat. I understand, Incendia. Honestly, I do. she murmured. If I can not convince you without divulging my plan...then fine. she hesitated, then sent her older Niece a picture. It was of a meadow...or what was left of it, anyway. In the mental image, the green grass was ripped to shreds and scattered, revealing smoking brown dirt that appeared a bit blackened and charred. The trees surrounding the meadow were bare of leaves and bark, only smoldering black sticks and twigs that resembled a bigger version of a thorn bush in winter. There was a bit of flame still flickering around the trees and mulched ground. That is what a Seal can do if your not careful. I know the Seven Basic Seals, how to make them, and use them. Crimson needs that information. If I bargain it right, he will gain my services, by my choice, and leave you alone. Don't worry about me after that. I'll figure out how to escape. she said.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tel felt the scales of his face turn warm at Caete's compliment to the four of them. At Isabella's suggestion, his head perked up eagerly. Really? You'd do that for me? Me and Anir thought of it, but dragon's are a bit easier to follow than twolegs. he said excitedly, his sightless icy-pearl-white eyes shining. Then he heard his oldest brother say they should sneak into the camp, and he almost fell on his face in shock. Zeuk never made suggestions like that, at least not since they'd been young.

- - - - - - - - - -

Anir prummed at Caete happily, her vivid silver eyes gleaming. Elation shot through her when she saw her younger brother become eager, and she quickly found out why. She grinned and nudged his shoulder. Dad told you that's a big part of getting around. she said playfully. He was too excited to be irritated in his reply. True. But when have we had the chance to actually do it? Never. he said happily. The pale-blue-almost-white dragoness grinned, then glanced at her older brother. Her eyes were wide in pleasant surprise. Has mind-reader been added to your powers, Zeuk? I was thinking that a few minutes ago. she said, and tilted her head curiously. Then a mischievous grin spread across her face and her silver eyes twinkled. You wanting to join the wild side, big bro? she asked with an affectionate nuzzle of Zeuk's light metallic blue shoulder.

Something was different for a minute, and Iz couldnt quite place it. She looked back at Tel, happy that he was excited, "Of course! I'd love to help you." She scratched his side a little more and smiled at Anir, who looked happy for her brother. She too was surprised at the suggestion of sneaking into the camp. She wondered how they could pull it off. Maybe sending someone as an undercover soldier.

Nirexi suddenly moved his head to Eris, Eris, the little ones have a good idea. Sneaking in may work. Maybe not with Iz and I, but what if the newcomer, he motioned his head towards Caete and Blanc, convinced Galedrim that he was interested in working for Crimson. We could stay within mind communication distance and gain the upperhand. Iz was pleased with Nirexi's idea. She thought it was bright, yet still there were other options.

Caete was listening and actually thought the young dragon's, Zeuk's, idea was good. It could use some touching up, and could possibly be worked out to include two undercovers if possible. Suddenly a scent infiltrated his senses and he nearly gagged, "Dear Heaven, do you smell that?" He coughed into his arm and glanced at Eris. Blanc moved his head and glanced at the other dragons, Caete, it is dragons. Burning dragon flesh. He allowed his thoughts to be heard by everyone around the fire, knowing the other dragons would have realized anyway. Caete ran his hand through his hair and watched as Isabella tightened her arm muscles against Tel's side to keep from gagging.

Suddenly he was worried about the way Galedrim played the game of war.

Yes, he did smell it. His ice blue eyes burned with rage, threatening to spill over with light, and his body shook with tremors. But he didn't get up from his mates side. Nothing would remove him from Savania, except for perhaps his children,"Eris, would you mind too much if, when Galedrim finally is caught, I rip his Soul from his body and shred it into tiny little pieces?" he spat through his teeth. Then the plans that his children were making finally registered, and he glared at the four of them. He might be in human form at the moment, but by no means possible could he be mistaken for one. He was a dragon, through and through,"That is out of the question. If any one of you take a single step into that camp, all four of you will be grounded to the nest for two months. I will not allow Galedrim to have the chance to get his hands on you."

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia's frustration grew. She normally didn't get frustrated so fast, if at all, so she must be hungry. She got to all four paws, peeled back her lips to show her fangs, and released a deep-chested snarl that vibrated the ground several yards out. Enough. I'm going into the camp to offer my services and knowledge. No one will stop me, I've made up my mind. The Seal that Crimson has must be taken back. On his own with his possible experimentation, he could destroy half of Alagaësia completely by accident. she said, then turned to Eris, purposefully ignoring her brother at the moment. She lifted her foot with the underside of her paw up. Hovering above the bottom of her paw sat a five ring Seal. Each ring had Runes around each. The Seal was grey orange in color, shifting to a fiery red/orange around the edges. She offered the Seal to Eris. Take this. I can make another if I need to, but Galedrim must not know that. This specific Seal will Change you, like Zeke and Savania's, but nothing more. she said, and waited for him to take it.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tel grinned at Isabella, his icy-pearl-white eyes glittering. He glanced at his father and groaned. Somehow he'd known Zeke would ban them from sneaking in. Aw, come on Dad... he started to complain. He didn't need to have his sight to know the deadly glare that his father sent his way. He felt it piercing his hide sharply, prickling, though he physically wasn't harmed and Zeke was several feet away. He glanced worriedly at Isabella, crooning anxiously, then the scent hit him as well. He swore in the Draconic Tongue, which earned him a sharp smack in the back of the head from Anir's tail. Watch your tongue, Tel'aeír. snapped his older sister. He was going to retort when his aunt spoke up. He simply stared in her direction, eyes wide.

- - - - - - - - - -

Anir bared her teeth in defiance at her father, but a single warning glare made her bite her tongue. Even in human form, Zeke isn't one to cross lightly, and she wasn't the one to test that. She clenched her jaw tightly, then turned to Iz worriedly. In doing so, the smell hit her nostrils hard. She gagged and bowed her neck, hunching her back with the coughs that wracked her entire frame. She heard her younger brother swear in the Draconic Tongue, and smacked him gently in rebuke with the tip of her tail in the back of his head. She swung her own head around once Jia's snarl reverberated in the air and vibrated the ground. She tried to speak, but ragged coughs occupied her attention for a minute.

Zeke stared at his little sister, though by all Draconic standards she was no longer technically 'little'. He didn't even glance at his mate as she sprang up, snarling and snapping like the dragon she was. All he saw was Jia. And he knew that, unlike with his four children, he would not, could not, be able to talk her out of it. Her mind was like iron; unchangeable. He got up and walked to her, extending his hands to touch her nose. He heard her tender purr, and his arms wrapped around her snout in a hug. His forehead pressed to hers. I will not try to change your mind, precious one. Please be careful. he murmured, then stepped back. He turned away and went to the tent, pulling aside the flap just enough that he could peak inside,"Savania? May come in?" he asked quietly.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia jerked back from Savania as if she'd been stung, hurt crossing over her face. She didn't say anything in reply though, only shuffled her wings uncomfortably. She turned to Incendia when her Niece spoke up, and smiled. Thank you. she murmured warmly, her teal eyes affectionate. Her gaze shifted to Eris at his question, her irises twinkling. Almost. First you need to set it into your mind. Here. she said, and lifted a paw. She extended her foreclaw and lightly touched Eris's hand with the very tip, barely even brushing the skin so she didn't accidentally hurt him. The Seal pulsed once before soaking into the ex-Rider's palm. There. Now, to touch, and therefore activate, the Seal, simply reach into your mind like you would to search for your magic. The Seal should actually be set very close to your magic, as Reapric Seals are very similar to the Ancient Language. With it being set, and when you 'touch' it, then yes, you do envision yourself as a dragon. Your eye color will stay the same, and judging on your hair I'd say your scales will be some sort of shade of brown. To Change back, just image yourself in your human form, touch the Seal, and it will turn you back.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tel shifted to allow him to better take Isabella's weight against his neck. His coughing wasn't as deep nor as ragged as his sister's, but it still shook him. He drew a deep breath of relief, sending a feeling of gratitude to Caete at his clearing and purifying of the air. He crooned anxiously for his sister, who was still coughing heavily despite the lack of the smoke and stench. He pulled away from Iz when his older sister continued to cough and gasp for air. Anir, breathe. Come on, slow down and breathe. he soothed worriedly, hovering at her side.

- - - - - - - - - -

Anir hardly heard anything. The smell, and the smoke that accompanied it, burned her throat as well as her lungs savagely, like they'd been lit on fire. She gagged, hunching her shoulders as she coughed hard. It was a dry cough, which only made it hurt more. She hardly noticed when Caete purified the air; she'd already inhaled enough to affect her. She did notice that her younger brother was now hovering at her side, urging her to slow down and breathe. She tried, she honestly did, but the incessant tickling at the back of her throat wouldn't let her take a really deep breath. She shook her head even as another round of coughing shook her shoulders hard.

Zeke entered hesitantly, stopping a couple of feet behind her. He didn't speak up when she tried to apologize, but she definitely got his attention when she said her stomach hurt. His face drained of color and his ice blue eyes turned hollow. He opened his mouth but no sound came out. He closed it, swallowed, and tried again,"Where...where does it hurt?" he asked softly, finally moving. He walked forward so he stood beside her, but he didn't reach out to touch her. He had a dread for her answer, but he had to know...

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia nodded to Eris, smiling wryly. I'd suggest you ask one of the others to teach you how to fly. It's rather easy once you get the hang of it. she said, then anxiously turned and padded to Anir, worry touching the depths of her eyes. She wouldn't leave if her Niece was in trouble.

- - - - - - - - - -

Anir's forelegs folded at Isabella's prodding, letting her sink to the ground and onto her side, still hacking and coughing. She felt gentle claws taking hold of her jaw and tilting her head up, clearing her airways so she could take in a deep breath finally. She let out one last, massive cough that shook her from the tip of her nose to the end of her tail, then settled. She gasped for breath for a moment, eyes closed. Her throat hurt like it had been scrubbed with sandpaper and her lungs stung like they'd been soaked in acid. She opened her silver eyes, then heaved up so she lay half on her belly half on her side. What was that? she asked hoarsely. Even her mental voice sounded ragged. Jia answered her. You inhaled a bit of smoke, that's all. The sting your probably feeling in your lungs right now is from the smell, the burn in your throat is just the usual from breathing in fire smoke. replied her Aunt. Anir looked up just in time to gently bump noses with Jia, then the gold-amethyst turned and sprang nimbly into the air and winged her way to the camp.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tel nudged his older sister worriedly, crooning in his throat. She tried to purr, but the sound was so ragged that it sounded more like a deep-chested growl. I'm fine, little bro. she said tiredly, wearily setting her head on her forepaws. The lavender-silver male hovered over her protectively, sitting firmly on his haunches at her back.

Zeke swallowed hard and fought to keep the despair from reaching his face. He moved in front of her and gently placed a hand on her lower abdomen, closing his eyes. He reached to his Heart Touch, as well as into his mate's energy. She was not alone in either. He opened his eyes and bit his lip, nodding his head once. Pure anguish was in his gaze as he looked at her, wishing he could turn back time and get there faster somehow, to prevent this from happening. He took a step forward and pulled her against him into his arms, tears threatening to overwhelm him,"I'm so sorry, little heart. I should have come faster. I never wanted this; never wanted you to have the same experience as your mother." he said, though it came out sounding more like a sob than actual words.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia apprehensively landed at the edge of the camp and padded forward as if she was the general, not that miserable excuse of a twoleg. Galedrim! she shouted, pausing in a small clearing within the camp that was perhaps five yards in perimeter. Get your cowardly bones over here. I have an offer for you, one that might please Crimson. I don't have all day. I leave in exactly two minutes to return to camp. she said, then settled down on her haunches to wait. He would come.

Zeke shook his head silently, not responding. He tightened his hold around her a bit, though he tried to remember that she was a bit more delicate in this form than in her dragon one, when she attempted to apologize on her end,"No, you did nothing wrong. You were scared, you have no reason to say you did or didn't do something." he pulled back a bit and dipped his head so he could look her in the eye, cupping her face gently but so she could pull away if she wanted,"I'm just glad your safe. That you are here, out of harms way, in my arms, where no one can ever hurt you. I will never let Galedrim and his sick master touch you again. They won't ever get near you. I will rip their souls from their bodies and shred them to pieces before they even get close enough to hurt you." he paused, his ice blue eyes glistening with tears,"You will be fine. I swear it. If you have the smallest fear that I will leave you then banish them from your mind. Leaving you would be like cutting my own heart out. When the babe is born, I will love it as I love my own little ones, and you." he said. He was trying to be honest with her so she could relax in her mind that nothing would change.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia hissed softly, her upper lip quivering at the verge of a snarl. This is an offer of mine, not Eris's. I act on my own with this. she stated firmly. She stood on all fours, ivory talons glinting faintly in the sun, gold-rimmed-with-amethyst scales bristling. She drew herself up straight, her teal eyes almost literally dancing with flames of subdued anger. The Seal. Crimson does not know how to use it, nor do you, correct? That could prove fatal. she started. She paused and sent him the picture that she'd shown Incendia early. This is the destruction a Seal can bring if not used properly. This picture was brought about on purpose. An accidental one could destroy half of Alagaësia and even more of its people. I doubt your master wants that. I have the knowledge he needs to prevent that image from coming true. My offer; I will stay and guide you in Reapric Seals so you don't kill yourselves. In return; I am to be left alone and free to move about the camp, and Eris's company is ignored. And, also, don't think of trying to double-cross me. I know several Seals that kill instantly in the most horrendous of ways. You have five minutes to decide before I rescind and go back to the others. she said, ruffling and half unfurling her pale gold wings as incentive.

Zeke wrapped his arms around Savania protectively, wishing fiercely that he could have moved faster to prevent this. He bit his lip at her question, but he wouldn't withhold information from her if she asked it of him,"Not well, I assume. The Draconian War is still fresh in the minds of many dragons. But to base this childs personality on what could almost be an entirely different race is like saying that if Shruikan is an evil brute, so is the rest of dragonkind. We will have to wait and see, I suppose." he said quietly.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia's lips pulled back to show her teeth. Perhaps he will attack, but you brought that on yourself. That was a stupid move of yours to rape Savania. That seriously pissed off Eris, not to mention her mate, and you've probably scarred her four little ones for life. But a soldier can only attack what they can see. she said, and abruptly a twinkle appeared in her eyes. Then the teal depths hardened. If they do attack, I want Zeuk, Sofranir, Tel'aeir, and Quasar left alone. They are too young for a full battle and I will not have them killed, understand? she snapped. She sat with a huff. Now then, call five of your strongest magicians. If they do attack, I can shield you from sight, sound, smell, even the brush of a mind, but I will have to be completely still without interruption. Once the protection is in place then I can move away, and so long as you remain under the 'bubble', you will be unable to be detected unless someone else comes into the shield. I can probably talk Eris out of attacking with a bit of convincing. she said, and hen her mind went back to what Maragohn had said about what would happen if he came to Galedrim's camp. She shuddered and hoped that either the Alfin was wrong or that she could stop Eris.

Zeke bit his lip again but didn't reply. He grinned at her as she picked up a sword and swung it lightly. His grin widened and he chuckled,"Truly I've no idea." he said, his ice blue eyes twinkling. His chuckle turned into a soft laugh,"I've picked up a few things from watching Ella. Being in her mind as she practices and fights is a great advantage." he said. He walked forward a pace and placed his hand over hers on the hilt,"Relax your grip a bit. Choking the hilt will not only tire out your hand, but also make your attacks stiffer and not as fluid." he said, and glanced up into her eyes,"We can go outside and I can give you a few pointers, if you like. Eris would be a better full mentor, but I can help you cover the basics." he offered.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia hissed but relaxed her wings. Very well. As soon as your lookouts see movement from Eris' camp, call me and five of your strongest magicians. I'll need their combined strength to cast the Seal and hold it in place until it settles over your encampment. she said, and curled into a ball to wait. She closed her eyes and draped the tip of her tail across her snout, as if she were to go to sleep. But she didn't. She reached her mind out, carefully avoiding any magic-users or any person that might recognize her mental touch, and brushed her consciousness against Eris's mind. I have Galedrim's word and his trust. He promised to leave you and the others alone. But if it comes to a fight, he said he will defend his camp. Chose the right thing, Eris. Maragohn told me what will happen if you come here. I'd prefer to avoid it. she said, then retreated from him and put up iron barriers around her mind in case one of Galedrim's magicians became too openly curious about her.

Zeke smiled, his ice blue eyes gleaming. He chuckled and grinned at her, but his expression turned to incredulity, his eyebrows climbing up his forehead. He crossed his arms over his chest,"Do I hear a challenge in your voice, love?" he asked playfully, pursing his lips a bit.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia opened one eye to look at Galedrim. Seals are not a simple kind of magic, Galedrim. Did you ever try, and succeed, in learning the Ancient Language in one day? It's impossible. Seals are difficult to explain. I'm not an expert on them. They are very complex in their make-up; There are are Seven Basic Seals, each of which is proficient in one type of offense, defense, or healing, but can be used for other purposes as well. The seven are Hell Seal, Void Seal, Reapric Seal, Earth Seal, Heaven Seal, Chaos Seal, and Unnamed Seal. Which would you like me to tutor you in first? she said tiredly, closing her eye once more so she seemed to be asleep.

Zeke had just opened his mouth to reply when he heard Incendia's call, and a moment later Eris's. Like a flash he had spun around and pushed aside the flap to the tent, sprinting at full speed toward his eldest son. He rounded an obstacle and almost stumbled to the ground. Pain seared across his face. He swallowed dryly, then walked a few more paces until he stood beside Quasar. He rested his hand on the crown of her head, just in front of her right horn, and scratched soothingly. There was nothing he could do but watch.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tel leapt to his feet with his sister right on his heels. He followed his older brother's scent carefully, slowing when it became stronger. Anir tapped his flank, the first time harder than the second. It meant; stop, obstacle three yards in front of you. He halted and nudged Anir's mind. She knew what he wanted but hesitated. He growled at her, and she relented. The image of Zeuk thrashing around on the ground made fear pulse through him, what could do such a thing? but his leader-ship instincts kicked in before he could panic. Quasar, Anir, pile up! He's going to break a wing or leg if he continues like this! he barked sharply, moving even as he spoke. Pile up was a game they had played as hatchlings. They would all team up against one member of the siblings and pin them down at the neck, hindquarters, and tail. He moved for Zeuk's haunches while his older sister aimed for the tail, leaving the neck open for Quasar. Since she was youngest and the most delicately built of the four, her frame was perfect for pinning down the neck without leaving any damage. Tel pounced onto his older brother's haunches, leaning his weight down so Zeuk's spasms were more controlled and suppressed.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia snorted softly. Very well. Hell Seals are mainly oriented with offense and defense, and use the element of fire. Such as my Hell Fire Cannon. she said. She lifted her head and opened her jaw to release an already built up Fire Cannon ball. It was only six inches across, but it still made an impressive depression in the ground. She lowered her head back onto her paws. Hell Fire Cannon is a Seal that allows the wielder to make a fireball, as I just showed you, into whatever size you want, so long as you have enough energy to fuel the size of fireball you wish to create. Seals, in general, are more powerful with more rings. A five ring Seal, such as my Hell Fire Cannon, is pretty average, but a ten ring Seal...now that can do some serious damage, let alone a fifteen ring Seal. here she paused and opened her eyes to begin cleaning her left foreclaw. Void Seals are of changing and leeching. I honestly don't know much about them since, being a dragon, I'm more interested in Hell Seals. she kept it to herself that she knew everything there was to know about Seals, since she'd gotten the information from her Rider himself. But Galedrim didn't need to know that. The Seal you sent Crimson is, specifically, a Void Seal. It wasn't very powerfully made, my brother knows very little about Seals, so it is only a two ring Seal. The Changing Seal is just powerful enough to Change one person. After each Change, depending on the amount of rings, the Seal must 'recharge' before it is used again, be that for a few days, a couple hours, some minutes, five seconds, or a mere instant. In this case, unless it is fueled with outside energy, after a Change the Seal will need to 'recharge' for perhaps two and a half days. Leeching Void Seals are a bit more dangerous. You must be clear on what kind of Leeching you wish to do, otherwise it could prove disastrous. In simpler words, Hell Seals are used more for fire based destruction and manipulation of Fire Element. Void Seals are more used for reincarnation of spirits or reanimation of dead bodies, like zombies; the Void Seal has many other uses and is like the "other" category. she said, and gazed at him levelly, waiting.

OOC:
Gah, sorry if I made that seem like a lecture. Seals aren't my magic, so it will be a little off than if Rathon were the one explaining it.

Tel let himself be limply blown back, slamming into the ground a few yards away. He staggered to his feet as he listened mutely to his older brother's prophecy, a cold, icy dread spreading through him. Once Zeuk collapsed, he felt Anir rush to their siblings side to make sure he was okay. The lavender-silver male 'looked' at Caete, sympathy touching him. He hastily padded forward, appearing to know exactly where everything was. In a sense, he did. His icy-pearl-white eyes were glowing faintly with power, allowing him to see the metals around him. He saw Caete's weapon, all of its imperfections and flaws, saw how he could tweak it here or there with his talon to make it stronger, or vice versa to disfigure it beyond repair. He walked right to the angel creature, even though he could not actually see him. Tel nudged Caete's left wing gently with his snout. Weren't you listening? 'Ninety years from the day not yet passed'. he quoted solemnly, and then huffed. Your family is still safe. For now. he said quietly. He turned his softly glowing icy-pearl-white eyes onto Isabella, though he couldn't directly 'see' her. As he watched the Rider, the light faded from his irises. Once it was gone and his eyes were normal once again, he swayed on his paws and sat down hard on his haunches, fighting the urge to pass out.

- - - - - - - - - -

Zeke curled into a ball and took the landing into his shoulder, tearing the material of his tunic and gashing deeply in his flesh. He didn't stay down for long. He somersaulted to his feet and whirled toward his oldest son, ice blue eyes wide. The prophecy made him pause, filling him with icy fear and dread, but he shook it away and sprinted to Zeuk's side. Anir was already there, sniffing anxiously at the light metallic blue's cheek. The amethyst kneeled beside his son, anxiously stroking the scales of his snout. Crimson blood ran down his arm from the wound in his shoulder, staining the ground as it dripped from his fingers. He sat on his heels and ripped a strip from his tunic, hastily wrapping it around the injury and tying it off with his teeth. He looked back down at Zeuk.

- - - - - - - - - -

I haven't had much to do with the other Seals. Earth Seals are mostly on defense, building or shielding, or simple manipulation of Earth Elements (metal, rock, dirt, water). Heaven Seals are used mostly for purification, healing, or manipulation of Heavenly Elements (Air, lightning, light). Reapric Seals are used for communication over long distances or summoning one's weapons. Chaos, Unnamed, and Death Seals, however, I refuse to teach you. They are much too dangerous for a novice like yourself or Crimson. she said shortly, with the tone of a person that expected no argument. She opened her eyes and lifted her head to glare at Galedrim, her teal irises lit with vivid, and almost tangibly real green fire. I don't know. Truly I don't. While there are Seals that you can learn, as you can for spells, you can create others, also the same for spells. To create a Seal you must have knowledge of Reapric Runes, of which I don't. I can not help you there, even if I wished to. she said, her tone abruptly wary.

Savana was blasted back and gasped as the wind was knocked out of her and a small rock split a small hole into her back. Ignoring the searing pain and wet blood she quickly went over to her won who seemed unaware of what happened. He shivered slightly with worry. Savania knelt down next to his head and stoked his snout, "You'll be fine Zeuk, don't worry, we're all here."

Zeuk barely had strength to open his eyes, but when he did, he gave a sigh of relief to see his parents and siblings all around him. The prophecy frightened him. He couldn't help but shiver, he wished he could tune them out, make it so he would never have to remember or even do them. That one... had so much evil and darkness in it. Only one good thing, but that seemed over shadowed by the bad. Dipping his head he said, I'm sorry...
"Don't be sorry Zeuk," his mother said kindly, "none of this is your fault, don't blame yourself."
Zeuk smiled and glanced at everyone else for a moment, he felt weak, unable to move. He gave a sigh and closed his eyes, I wish I didn't have to have these. It's a curse, to see all what will happen and be able to do nothing about it. he said, trying to stop a few tears rolling down his cheek.

Maraghon shot a glare at Caete, but his face turned more sympathetic when the angel spoke of his family, "Tel is correct, these events won't happen for ninety years. I'm assuming it meant today because this day has not yet passed. As for what else the prophecy said, I know very little. Most are near impossible to interpret until the da they arrive. One his obvious to us at least, and it is something we Alfin fear, for it had once tried to corrupt and enslave us." The other Alfin glanced at him and hissed, "The darkness. Let me tell you all something that my kind has kept hidden since we were first touched by the Darkness. We were once dragons, proud and majestic like them all, we fought alone side other dragons for ages and died along side them as well. All until we set food in Alagaesia's westernmost island. The Darkness attacked and corrupted us, changing us into what we are now." he paused for a moment and said, "We cannot reproduce so our people are destined for extinction. The corruption is clear, it is the Darkness, and it will seek to corrupt and control the rest of the world. Only a few other area make sense to me. First, the metal bending. She is in our presence, I will not say who, for it should be obvious. Next, the Dragon Mountain, if I am correct, it means the Dragon Fortress."

Eris listened intently as Maraghon spoke. When he said metal bender he had already guessed it was Savania. He glanced over at her, but she was more worried about her son. He jolted back into what the Alfin said when he mentioned the Dragon Fortress, several of his friends were part of it, "It can't though! The dragons have never lost!"
Maraghon glanced at him, "Do not argue with what you do not understand Eris."
Eris nodded, he knew he was right, but he would never let them fall, never. Even so, the rest of the prophecy made little sense, perhaps Maraghon was right. Most wouldn't. At least for now.

Galedrim nodded at what she said. The information was good, but as for making the seals, they'd have a few pawns work until it was perfected, but that wasn't the point, "Jia, I know you no more. Even if I must look into your memories." he said simply. Glancing at his soldiers he said, "But that can wait another time. You may return to your camp if you wish, I've learned what I needed for today."

Zeke glanced at his mate anxiously, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder, then glanced down at his eldest son,"There is nothing to be sorry for, my son. You can't control it. Perhaps, when you are a bit older, I can ask my father or grandfather to tutor you. They know more of the future and visions than I ever will." he murmured quietly, wiping away the tears on Zeuk's cheek. He scratched beneath one of his son's scales to soothe him.

- - - - - - - - - -

If Tel had been able to see properly, his vision would have been flickering alarmingly. He leaned lightly on Nirexi, grateful for the black's support, and he prummed gently at Isabella, pushing his snout into her hand in gratitude. Thank you, but it's nothing serious. Just my powers draining me a bit. he said tiredly, his eyelids drooping. He forced them open and huffed, determined not to pass out. He laid down on his stomach with an exhausted sigh, then looked back at Caete. Ninety years, Caete. That's one decade short of a full century. Immortal or no, that should be plenty of time. he said, his tone turning sluggish with fatigue. He shook his head to clear it, but only succeeded in making himself dizzy.

- - - - - - - - - -

Anir hovered over her older brother anxiously, her wings flared half-way to warn away anyone that got too close that was not family. She hissed at her brother as he apologized. No you don't, Zeuk Bluewing. she snapped at him, her vivid silver eyes furious. Bluewing was what she'd called him as a hatchling before she knew his name, though when she newly hatched it had sounded more like 'Bewwong'. Her tone softened, and she crooned at him affectionately, bumping his shoulder gently with her snout. Not your fault. she said firmly, and her glittering silver irises dared him to say otherwise.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia huffed and stood, shaking out her wings to full length. She lifted her paw underside up. On it was a simple one ring Reapric Seal, dark red and fading to dark black around the edges. This is a Summoning Reapric Seal. If you want me to come back, touch the Seal and say my name with your thoughts. My full name, mind you; Johdzsia Goldenscales. I will feel and come. she handed the Seal to him, hardening it so it could be physically put into a pocket or pouch. She glared at him. Summoning is all it does; try to do anything else with it and I will destroy it. she said, then lifted her wings and jumped into the air. She was back at the camp in roughly three minutes. What she saw made her anxious. Anir, Zeke, Savania, Eris, and Incendia were around a collapsed Zeuk. Tel was close to passing out, surrounded by Isabella and Nirexi. Caete and Blanc were, it seemed, confronting Maragohn for something. Or, the angel was and the huge white cat was acting as a sort of buffer. She landed with barely a single stir of the sand. What happened while I was gone?! she exclaimed, shifting her gaze from one person to the other.

Eris and Maraghon glanced at each other for a moment as others begun to ask them questions. Maraghon gave Eris a firm look, telling him to explain first. To Isabella and the rest Eris begun, "The Dragon Fortress is where the king of the dragons of Alagaesia are. They are led by King Feafnir and his mate Star Gazer. My friend Phalynx is Faefnir's half sister. The Dragon Fortress is where the dragons kingdom is led from. It isn't a kingdom in the sense humans, elves, and dwarves they don't control any land other than the fortress and the area around it, but most free dragons are part of their kingdom."

Maraghon nodded in approval to Eris' words. When questions of the Darkness came up he replied gloomily, "The Darkness is one but different than what you all call the Shadows. The Darkness like the Shadows seeks to corrupt and control, but unlike the Shadows it seeks to corrupt and control the beings of this world and not destroy them. If powerful enough, the Darkness will even swear loyalty and serve one who is not Darkness. As for what they are, there are many forms of them. Their pawns or foot soldiers are imps about twice the size of the tallest human. Their claws can dig through dragon scale. Some say the imps can even steal souls, if that is true as far as I know it has never been done. Next in their ranking are their warriors, huge possessed suits or armor that have a mind of their own. They are massive, about the size of a dragon. When we Alfin were dragons, several of our kind were captured by them. We don't know what did with them, but none ever escaped. They have a liking for dragons it seems, but why it is unclear. There are also corrupt humans, dwarves, and elves but they are no longer alive, just empy crusts meant for war, as far as we know, there are even a few corrupt dragons. Next is what we Alfin call the great serpant, but its true form is unknown. It is the leader of the Darkness, and it is the strongest at corruption, able to break into the minds of their victims and knows exactly how to break them and bring them down. The Serpant can take on many forms, though the snake is its favorite."

Savania listened to what both Eris and Maraghon said. The Dragon Fortress, though she had never been to it she knew quiet well what it was. The Darkness, she couldn't help but shiver at that, it sounded just well, evil. Whatever it really was, she wouldn't let in invade Alagaesia. Thinking of her thoughts she glanced down at Zeuk saying kindly, "Just rest up my son. There is nothing to worry of." When Jia came she glanced at her though didn't ask what happened. Instead she said through mind contact to her, Zeuk had a prophecy. She retold it to Jia.

Watching her older brother Quasar gave a small glare at him. With a sniff she replied, Don't be sorry Zeuk! None of this was your fault. you can't help it. she watched over them all listening to what both Maraghon and Eris told of. She was a young dragon, but she knew that this Darkness would not be good, Had it corrupt any other lands? she asked the Alfin.
"It has," Maraghon replied, "A land far the west of Alageasia."
Though Quasar wanted to know what land it was, she found herself unable to question further, part of her wasn't sure if she really wanted to know.

Incendia stood up and remained quiet for a time, thinking over what she had heard. She knew some of the Dragon Fortress from her father. Even so, she only knew of ffew of those who ruled it. She watched her cousin for a moment who still had a nervous look. Incendia went over towards him and nudged him gently, Your mother is right, go to sleep Zeuk.

Zeuk stared at his siblings, cousin, and parents, unable ot what to say. He shivered partially from the cold and fear. He hated having those visions, they knew he did. To his father he said, Thanks, that would be good. he replied, and closed his eyes, trying to sleep and to forget what had happened. He heard what his sisters, brother, and cousin had said, he smiled at them but remained silent. Why did he have to be cursed with this? He forced the thought away from his head, it would be better not to dwell.

As Jia left, Galedrim bounced the Summoning Seal in his hand. He would send it to Crimson, but he would wait, he may need Jia to give more information later. Instead he ordered it to be kept under lock in key by mind controlled soldiers. They would never even think of stealing it. Perhaps tomorrow he would have a few disposable magic users examine it and try to replicate it.

Zeke barely glanced at his little sister when she landed. He sat beside Zeuk, stroking his eldest son's neck comfortingly. He only vaguely heard Maragohn, but his words nevertheless implanted themselves into his brain. Suddenly he glanced up at his mate, a grim smile touching his lips,"What about that challenge, little heart? Or are you leery to be beaten by your own mate?" he taunted, the smile turning into a grin. He knew Savania couldn't resist his challenge, and he intended to distract her so she wouldn't fret.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia's eyes went wide, and she reread the situation; Zeuk was collapsed from his Prophecy Trance. She went to the light metallic blue and sat at his back, pressing her scales to his comfortingly. 'A being long thought vile and dying will make rise from the metal bender. From her the savior of salvation will come.' she thought, and glanced at Savania. She only knew of two metal benders; Savania and her daughter, Quasar. Quasar was much too young to bear little ones, but Savania...Distress shot through the gold-amethyst savagely. The steel-silver was pregnant. Jia felt tears pricking at the corners of her eyes and swiftly blinked them away. It couldn't be changed now. She settled down beside her Nephew and two Nieces.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tel shook his head sleepily, only making himself more dizzy. His eyelids clenched shut, fighting the nausea and the urge to sleep. No, little one. I'll be fine. he soothed, lowering his head to his paws. Just let me recover for a few minutes. he pleaded quietly.

- - - - - - - - - -

Anir's anxious silver gaze flicked from her older brother to her younger brother. Is she'd been in her human form like her parents, she would have been wringing her hands and biting her lip raw. Iz and Nirexi were tending to Tel, so she stayed beside Zeuk.

Zeke grinned and set his feet. He didn't have a weapon to wield, but he did have his magic, his instincts, and his reflexes. His ice blue eyes glittered at Savania, watching her carefully. He grinned at Eris and chuckled,"I might need a few pointers. I'd watched Ella all my life, but watching and doing are two completely different things." he said dryly. He looked back to his mate,"Alright, set your feet just a bit more than shoulder width apart for balance, hold your blade up diagonally in front of you, and strike. Slowly, mind you, so I'm not reduced to a sliced up piece of meat." he grinned, "And remember to keep your hand relaxed but firm on the hilt." he reminded gently, smiling affectionately at his mate. He glanced sideways at his youngest daughter, frowning at her wish to go with the others,"You know that is not happening, Quasar." he said, his brows angling down into a scowl. He looked back around to Savania so she didn't catch him by surprise.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tel's eyes closed sleepily, and a half-strangled purr vibrated his throat. Thank you, little one. he slurred, and almost instantly was out. He snored softly in his sleep, though not enough to be annoying or to draw attention to him.

At the questions, Maraghon glanced back at the Alfin. Though he was their leader, he would always go to them to make sure they agreed with his actions. A good leader always listened to those he led. They exchanged a few words in their own language and he turned back to Caete and Isabella, "It breads from darkness. Not any type of darkness, pure darkness, made from the Serpent itself. They grow stronger by consuming the pain and suffering of their victims. They can read those they fight, knowing their weaknesses, no their fears. As for the Serpents strength? You'd be a fool to fight it alone. No living being can defeat it one on one. The arrogant break before it, the foolhardy crumble, and the courageous flee at its sight. It can break the most experience mind, hide in plain sight, and corrupt the most pure of hearts. As far as I know, none have ever come close to slaying it. We Alfin are a testament to that. When we were dragons our numbers were devastated by the Darkness. How best to fight it, I do not know. Light may be affective against it, but not even that will guarantee success."

Savania nodded and did as he suggested. She ran at him and did a vertical slash at his chest, then swung low at his knees. For just a joke, she made the metal on his own sword bend away from her own, "That's something even the best swordsmen here can't defend against," she said with a smile.
"Is that a challenge Savania?" Eris said.
"Perhaps, once I'm done fighting Zeke," she replied.

Eris watched both Zeke and Savania sword fight. He watched Savania as she weld Galedrim's old sword. He glanced at her, wondering why she would want to use the blade of the man who betrayed her mother. Still, Galedrim did throw it away before he betrayed them, "Savania, stand a little farther back than you are now, that's sword's longer than many other swords. Also try making more powerful slashes. For some reason Galedrim made that sword heavier so it should be able to cleave weapons out of other's hands more easily." he glanced at Zeke, he'd give him advice too, but he seemed like he knew what he was doing.

Once Eva left with the seals to give to Crimson, Galedrim walked towards the desert. No nomads have been spotted in a few days, but that didn't faze him, he was more focused on his fool brother. He knew he would attack, but he'd likely wait for more of the Resistance to arrive. Still, he had something he wanted to speak to his brother about. Going to a soldier he said, "Go to my brother's camp, tell him I wish to speak to him on no man's land."
"Yes general," the soldier replied and left.

Isabella jumped when she heard Incendia's sudden roar, and she was sure that Tel heard it as well. She moved her hand to rub his snout, however eyed the others intently. "She seems awfully touchy," she murmered to no one in particular. However she glanced at Nirexi who sat up quietly, snorting gently.

Caete stayed back, "Calm down, everyone. We dont need to be fighting amongst ourselves." He nodded towards Incendia and said, "This is none of our faults, so we shouldnt treat eachother like it is." He leant back and watched the others carefully.

After a moment he saw a dark blot in the sky and he flicked his face to see it clearly. He saw that it was a bird, seemingly heading toward them at high speeds. Curiously he watched as the bird flew lower and lower toward the ground, heading for Isabella. "Isabella, do you know that there is a bird headed for your head?" He gave her a small grin and watched her quietly.

Isabella glanced up and saw as Scout approached, "Well, this is quite a surprise." She smiled back at Caete and held her arm out for the young falcon. When he landed she felt his claws slightly sink into her skin and took note of the large scroll tied to his neck. She cooed at him as Raill padded over quickly, rubbing his head against the birds downy coat of feathers.

Quickly Iz untied the letter and opened it. She scanned over the first few paragraphs and happily spoke, "My associate in Surda has sent news that he has contacted the Varden and they will be sending us several hundred foot soldiers. The only problem with this is that they will be coming from Surda, so it will be around three days before they arrive." She tucked the small scroll in a pocket of hers and glanced over toward Eris, "This will definitely help."

OOC: Sorry it took so long but here ya go