Sevena followed silently by her mate, looking down at the trading post as they approached. The female gryphon nodded in agreement at Natagath's warning. She banked around after Violeta, landing silently on the ground a few feet from the violet dragoness.

OOC:
Ew, shortness. >.<

Sevena snorted softly as Natagath seemed to recognize the name of the Fort. Her ears pricked with interest. Do you know if he can be trusted to help us? she asked eagerly, her eyes bright.

OOC:
Ewww, short. >.<

Evan pondered what King Iaras had said. it wasn't often that someone like a king visited.

"It is an honor to have such distinguished guest at my humble trading post, your Majesty." he replied with a bow.

"Now, there is plenty of wild game in this region that you could take advantage of. Do you have a specific list of medicines that you require?"



OCC: Short.

Iaras nodded to Evan in gratitude. Yes. My people will be forever grateful to you. he said. He sat next to Fela while they gathered the supplies and took it where Natagath had said to take it. He nodded shortly to the elf when he said that Violeta would take the supplies back to Tenya.

OOC:
Bleh, short. >.<

Sevena huffed slightly and looked from Fela to Natagath. If she becomes sick, I believe Iaras will do anything to save her. I've only ever seen him gentle when he's with Teak. This is a new side of him that I am unfamiliar with. she murmured.

She leaned her head against Fletcher's shoulder. Iaras is strong enough to carry her...The only question would be, could we reach Zaflen fast enough to save her. she said simply.

Fela coughed again, and this time it was more of a coughing spell. It wracked her body and looked like it hurt her chest. Iaras was nuzzling her neck anxiously and humming, trying to soothe her.

Seva lifted her head, watching them. She hated Iaras. She knew that. But she could see that he did care for Fela. Did she hate him enough to punish him by letting her die? Could she - would she - punish Fela that way? Use her that way? She sighed as she came to the conclusion. No, she wouldn't. However much she hated him, she wouldn't use Fela like that.

The female gryphon got to her feet and walked over to Fela, Verdun, Iaras, and Teak. Get up. Walk around. Moving will help clear your throat and ease your breathing. she said quietly. Iaras whipped around, his eyes blazing, but Seva snapped her beak at him, her plumage ruffling. Do you want her to live, Iaras? Do you care whether she lives or dies? she said sharply.

Iaras stopped and looked at her, really looked at her. She met his gaze, her expression blank. He nodded slowly, his expression confused and unwilling. I....care.... he said softly. Seva studied him. He must not know precisely how to care, or how it felt. He probably thought of caring for another was a weakness, one that he couldn't afford.

Alright. Then let me help her so that if she gets sick, it won't kill her and snuff her out like a wind to a candle flame. she replied. Iaras rustled his wings, then nodded without speaking. Seva looked at Fela. Get up. Do what I said. she ordered firmly. Fela grunted and stood shakily. It took her a moment to find her balance, then she began to slowly walk around.

- - - - - - - - - -

Sam perked her head up when she felt Violeta's mind brush against hers. She snorted and got up, looking to the side at the gryphonlings. All three of them had decided to stay in the throne room. The huge pillow that Iaras kept in there was big enough for all three of them to sleep on comfortably. She sent the violet dragoness a picture of the throne room. We are here. The young ones are safe. Have you done it? Can we leave this place now? she asked, snorting softly with impatience. She disliked being inside. After staying at the Monastery and then returning to the ocean, she knew where she belonged. In the open sea with nothing to hold her in. Free to go where she pleased, when she pleased. Now she felt cooped up in this palace. And dry. Her scales rustled against one another like the wings of a beetle instead of bending and twisting with suppleness when she moved. They had also darkened to a sickening green by now.

Iaras gave Natagath a glance that was almost pained. I know. I know. he said, closing his eyes. He could send Verdun back to Zaflen with Fela...but then he would be alone with Sevena, Mirriana, Fletcher, Natagath, and, once she returned, Violeta. Five against one, two if he counted Teak (who was a decent fighter, to be honest), didn't sound like the greatest odds, unless you were part of the five. He opened his eyes and bristled, glowering at each of them for a moment. Can I trust you to not jump me the second Verdun leaves, if I send him back to Zaflen with Fela? I won't let her die because of my stupidity or High King Tylon's deer-headed stubbornness. he hissed, his eyes blazing. Quite frankly I don't trust any of you. At all. But that is for myself. Seva....Sevena, that is, he corrected himself before the others could. won't. I know she won't. I must be able to see the place that Evan has promised to show me. And to do that I must be healthy and able to fly. Once we have the details hammered out and Fela is more recovered she can move here to rest better. Can I trust each of you to not attack me, not for my sake but for Fela's, and for my people? he asked flatly. He saw Sevena nodding, as he knew she would. But the ones he was looking at - Fletcher and Mirriana - were probably the two that mattered the most.

- - - - - - - - - -

Sam sighed and swished her tail back and forth. Curse him.... she said, grimacing. She looked out the see-through wall at the thick rain drops that splattered against it and slid down its surface. She snorted softly and nodded. Yes, thank you. she said. She glanced at the gryphonlings one last time, then padded out the door and down to the court yard. When she reached it the guards stationed at the entrance gave her suspicious looks but didn't stop her. She walked out into the rain and instantly felt a little better. She raised her head up with her snout pointed toward the sky and closed her eyes, letting the heavenly moisture soak into her scales. If someone were to watch her, they would notice that her scales were lighting up to a more healthy looking translucent green-blueish color. She spread her wings and let the water soak into the membrane as well. After at least ten minutes her entire body was well hydrated, so she turned and padded back inside. She shook the excess water from her body and was pleased that her scales didn't rustle like beetles wings but undulated with her movements. She entered the throne room and sat by Violeta. Thanks for letting me do that. I was afraid to leave them alone for too long but I knew I needed hydration.... she said, snorting softly. So tell me what's going on. I've been too preoccupied with Tas and Vena to ask Fletcher myself through my Heart. she said quietly.

Iaras turned to Natagath, his eyes narrowing. He cursed loudly as the elf told them Violeta's predicament. They needed that medicine now. He turned away and paced, growling under his breath. Think, think, think, there has to be another way here, he thought, his eyes wild. He looked sharply when he heard another voice speak one, one he recognized as the female dragoness, the younger one, that had told him off the very first time they met. I can make it, she said, and it sounded like music to his ears.

- - - - - - - - - -

Sam had been listening, to both Violeta and through her Heart. She could fly through that. Storms were bad near the coast of her home, similar to the one going passed just now. She closed her eyes and spoke through her Heart, so that Natagath, Sevena, Mirriana, Fletcher, Verdun, and Iaras could hear. I can make it to your position. she said again, so they knew what she was talking about. I've flown and swam through storms like this before. As long as it isn't too dry and hot where you are, I can carry the medicine you need. Can Fela make it the day it will take me to get there? she asked. She heard Sevena speak, which made sense because Iaras and Verdun didn't know that Fletcher carried Sam's Heart of Hearts. From what I can see, yes she will. So long as she follows my instructions to keep the sickness at bay. said the female gryphon, and Sam heard the edge of warning in her tone. Very well. I know where you are too; the pull of my connection to Fletcher will lead me directly to you. she didn't specify her connection to Fletcher because she didn't want anyone else knowing about her Eldunari.

Fletcher laid awake watching the others. Get some rest, Mir. You need it more than I do. he said to his sister, worrying about her health. He knew she had not slept well for days.

Mirriana huffed disapprovingly but nevertheless, she laid her head down and closed her eyes, knowing that her brother was right.

OCC: Short.

Sam prummed in her chest without opening her eyes, letting her mind drift toward unconsciousness.

- - - - - - - - - -

Iaras stopped his pacing and looked up, his expression anxious. Good. Please give it to her. She was complaining of extreme fatigue and soreness, as well as a headache, a little while ago. he said, ruffling his feathers. Fela was laying on the ground a few feet away, leaned against Verdun with her eyes half shut, almost like she was sleeping. She was still breathing, but shallowly.

Fletcher hummed and turned his head around, preening Sevena's feathers affectionately. He didn't care who all was watching. After he was done, Fletcher covered her with his wing once more and laid his head down on his front legs. It did not take long for him to drift off to sleep. Despite the sun coming up, the gryphon slept easily.


Natagath traveled to Fort Trenton while the gryphons slept to discuss the current situation with Evan.

"We will have to postpone our expedition until tomorrow, I'm afraid." the elf said. "There was an incident and my traveling companions won't be able to travel today."

The explorer nodded in understanding and asked, "Is everyone alright?"

"They're fine now." Natagath answered. "They just need to rest. We will be ready to travel first thing tomorrow morning."



Meanwhile, back in Zaflen, Tas awoke and was shocked to discover Violeta lying next to him.

Aunt Vi? What are you doing here? Where are Mother and Father? the gryphonling asked.

Your parents are fine, dear. There was an emergency and I had to return early. Samantha will be taking my place with them. Violeta explained.

Tas nodded. He missed his parents terribly. He wanted to be with them more than anything right now.

Sevena purred and closed her eyes as her mate preened her feathers. When he finished she sighed and leaned against him. She fell asleep in moments.

- - - - - - - - - -

Iaras watched as Fletcher preened Sevena's feathers, then as the two of them fell asleep side by side. Her glanced over and saw both Verdun and Fela asleep as well. Sam was passed out cold. Teak was the only one awake beside himself. The Tamen leaned against his shoulder, slowly pulling his clawed fingers through Iaras's feathers. He didn't mind. It soothed him, in a way. He laid his head down, but decided to stay awake for as long as the others were asleep.

- - - - - - - - - -

Vena stirred a minute after her brother did, lifting her head and yawning. She twitched her ears and nuzzled Tas's shoulder to comfort and support him. Mother and Father are still safe, Aunt Vi? she asked, turning to Violeta anxiously.

Sevena stirred and lifted her head, yawning widely. She blinked sleepily at her mate, then noticed that there was some prey nearby, and that Mir's beak was slightly bloody. She smiled at her sister-in-law. Thank you, Mir. she said, getting to her feet.

Her stomach growled hungrily as she approached the deer carcass. She braced a forefoot on it, then tore it in half, leaving the other half for Fletcher. She laid down and ate her meal ravenously. She hadn't realized how hungry she was until she tore into the warm, bloody meat. She noticed that Iaras was gone, presumably to get prey for his own company.

- - - - - - - - - -

Vena nodded at Aunt Vi's suggestion and got to her feet, jumping down from the giant pillow. Come on Tas, let's explore the palace! she exclaimed, stopping at the arched doorway and looking back at her brother.

Sevena prummed as she finished the last of the deer and began preening her own feathers. She smiled to herself as she caught Evan's words, her ears swiveling a bit. She ruffled her wings a bit, then looked up as she heard the sound of wingbeats. Iaras flew by overheard, circling down to land lightly on his hindpaws. He was burdened down with three deer. Silently he pushed one to Verdun, another to Fela, and tore the third in half, which he shared with Teak.

Seva ran a critical eye over Fela, making sure the black female was well. The medicine seemed to have done the trick. She smiled, glad. She rather liked Fela and she would have been saddened if she had been hurt. The female gryphon looked over at Sam, who was still passed out cold where she had landed the day before. Seva laughed quietly and nudged her mate lightly.

I think you should awaken Sam. Sleep is good for recuperating strength, but too much sleep can be just as harmful as too little. she said, her eyes twinkling with slight humor.

- - - - - - - - - -

Vena glanced up at the glass ceiling, watching the rain pound against it in an endless drum. She tilted her head and looked down each way, then stepped off to the left. This way. But slowly. she cautioned, remembering Aunt Vi's words. This was definitely not the monastery. She wanted her parents. But they were helping the big golden gryphon. Iaras. She dismissed him from her mind and padded down the hall, her muscles tensed to run, jump back, and defend if they encountered any trouble.

Sam stirred and opened her eyes, blinking sluggishly to clear the fatigue from her mind. She peered up at Fletcher and snorted sleepily. Alright, alright, I'm up. she griped, lifting her head up. Her ears slicked back against her skull as her jaws parted in a wide yawn. She huffed and shook her head, getting slowly to her feet. She flared her wings, eying Natagath on Fletcher's back. Now there is a sight I will never get used to. she said, grinning at her friends. Sevena chuckled to. Indeed not. agreed the female gryphon. Sam stretched and waved her tail, then opened her wings halfway. And beauty sleep my scales. I was recovering. she retorted playfully to her friend, her eyes sparkling. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Iaras get to his feet, nuzzling Fela's neck with his beak. The big golden gryphon turned and padded toward them, his expression blank but fierce at the same time. So it will be Fletcher, Natagath, Sam, Sevena, Evan, and myself. he said. Sam's eyes narrowed a bit and she tilted her head, but didn't speak. Sevena, would you mind staying with Verdun and Fela? Teak will come with me. he said. But it didn't sound like an order. His ears flattened to his skull. You know more about medicine and healing than me, Teak, and Verdun combined. You can take care of her better. he said softly. Sam raised an eyeridge, watching Sevena. The female gryphon seemed to be weighing something in her mind, then nodded slowly. Very well. she said, and went to stand beside Verdun and Fela. Teak vaulted easily onto Iaras's back and tightened his legs down into the saddle. Sam snorted.

- - - - - - - - - -

Vena glanced at her brother and the scowl on his face. I'm not so sure it's that simple. I think there is more to it. she said softly, tilting her head. She hovered over her brother protectively, though she didn't crowd him. She knew that some of the gryphons here would have no qualms about hurting younglings like themselves. She nudged Tas's shoulder. Let's see if we can find any Tamen. They seem nice and gentle. she said, then padded forward, sniffing for any scents she might be able to catch.

Fletcher nuzzled his mate gently. Be careful, Seva. If they try to pull anything, come and find us as quick as you can. I don't think they will but it never hurts to be on guard.

With that, the gryphon turned to the others. "Let us be off then." he said.

"Alright, this way!" Evan said, urging Helios forward, out toward the open wilderness that lay just beyond the fort.

Fletcher spread his wings and took off into the sky with the others, following Evan from the air. For Natagath, riding a gryphon was somewhat different than riding a dragon. Fletcher had a tendency to dart about and make quick maneuvers as he flew rather than just fly in a straight line like Violeta. he also wasn't as robust as Violeta and his wingbeats were much quieter than hers.


Tas continued following Vena down the long corridor. He began sniffing around when Vena suggested they find a Tamen, looking for Tamen scent. He wasn't sure what they would do if they found one but perhaps having a Tamen with them would keep other gryphons from messing with them.

After a few minutes of not detecting any new scents, they came to the end of the corridor. Here, it split off in two directions again. One way appeared to lead toward the outside so that way was definitely out of the question. Tas gazed down the other corridor and saw that it led up a staircase.

Perhaps we should go that way. he suggested.

Sam saw Sevena nod slightly at something Fletcher said, but she didn't as what. The female gryphon nuzzled her mate, then stepped back when they launched into the air. The Ice/Water dragoness unfurled her wings and sprang into the sky, beating them powerfully to gain height. Natagath was a strange sight indeed on Fletcher, but she quickly became somewhat used to it. She circled over Evan on the ground, keeping an eye on him and changing her position slightly as they moved. Iaras did the same.

OOC:
Short sorry, it's earlier in the morning and my brain is fuzzy. >.<

Sam snorted and flared her wings, glancing at Fletcher and Natagath. Do you believe we should tell Evan the truth about Iaras, so that he knows exactly who and what it is that he is dealing with? she asked, raising an eyeridge.

- - - - - - - - - -

Vena chirped in surprise when her brother charged up the staircase, beating his wings so he flew up them. She snorted and unfurled her wings, flying up the stairs after him. She landed at his heels and nudged his flank gently with her beak to let him know she was there, then padded next to him. Wow... she murmured, her eyes wide as she looked at how high the corridor was.

Sam nodded at Fletcher in agreement and snorted, glancing down at Evan. The beast he was riding on looked strange. She wondered what it would taste like, but she doubted he would let her eat his mount.

- - - - - - - - - -

Vena paused a little before her brother and raised her head to sniff. Yes I do. she said. Her eyes brightened. Let's follow it! she said excitedly, and bounded forward eagerly, barely waiting for her brother.

Vena glanced at her brother, her eyes sparkling with mischief. She trotted forward and then paused just before the door to look over her shoulder at Tas to make sure he was still with her. Then she went ahead. She extended one wing and lightly pushed open the door with it. It opened on smooth hinges and hardly made any noise. Her eyes widened as she saw the layout of sleep rolls and, in some cases, a type of nest. In a few of them she saw sleeping bodies. She looked over at Tas and grinned. They had found one of the sleeping rooms for the Tamen.

- - - - - - - - - -

Sam was attentive for most of the day, but when it came time to land and rest, she was grateful to stop and rest her wings, which were drying out rapidly under the continuous wind streaming past them. She grinned at Fletcher when Natagath ruffled the feathers on his head, and even wider at his squawk and then how he hurriedly went about fixing his appearance. She looked over at Evan as he announced that they would be at the old city. Iaras appeared pleased by this, and he nodded. Teak nodded and stroked his master's neck with one hand,"if this does work out, how many Gryphons do you believe could go to this city? Most of those that will be going are young ones, as young as a few weeks to old enough to fly and hunt, and elderly that are not as strong in the air as they used to be, as well as ones that will be their protectors and providers.

Vena glanced back at her brother and shook her head. Nah. From what I know, they work hard in the palace and deserve the rest. she said, still gazing around with wide, curious green eyes.

- - - - - - - - - -

Sam could see that Iaras was satisfied with that answer, so she now had one of her own. Is there a spring of some sort nearby? my wings and scales are drying out and I need to rehydrate them soon.. she trailed off a bit, uncertain.

OCC: DS4, it's your turn.

Vena chirped in agreement to her brother and followed him back to the stairs, drifting down slowly on her wings because she was tired.

- - - - - - - - - -

Sam yawned and raised her head, her nose twitching as she caught the delicious food that Evan was cooking up. That smells mighty good. You twolegs certainly know how to eat. she said, and grinned, her eyes sparkling.

OCC: It's your turn, Dragonslayer4. It's also your go in Journey Home.

OOC:
Sorry, sorry, so many things happening I honestly forget to pop on and check or reply to things on here. @.@

IC:
Vena watched her brother eye the throne, then had to hide a giggle when he flew up to it and perched at the top, declaring himself king. She snorted and grinned, then gave a mock bow. How shall I serve you, my lordship? she teased, her emerald green eyes sparkling with mischief.

- - - - - - - - - -

Iaras's eyes narrowed at Evan as he thought, then nodded. Very well. Let's go, then. The quicker we finish this the quicker we can maybe move all of the sick and elderly here. he murmured, more to himself than to the others. He knelt down to let Teak mount the saddle, then straightened and spread his wings halfway. Whenever we're ready. he said, snorting softly.

I've got an idea to spice things up a bit.


Tas grinned mischievously, glancing at Violeta and then back at Vena. You must bring me three hairs of the mighty lightning dragon! Should you fail, you shall receive one thousand lashes with a wet noodle!

He then sat up in a tall and kingly manner on the throne.



Natagath took his place on Fletcher's back and the gryphon took off into the sky. Evan apparently decided to quicken the pace because his urged his mount along at a brisk trot. Fletcher could not wait for this to be over so he could go home.

Meanwhile, Natagath was pondering an idea of his own. He knew that this whole thing was only a temporary fix to a growing problem. He also knew that the war would end eventually and the Dragon Riders would return. In the past the Riders had stayed out of the affairs of the gryphons, but Natagath doubted that gryphons would take kindly to dragons or Riders intervening in their affairs now. If the gryphons became desperate enough, they might even go so far as to start a war, which would result in more senseless bloodshed. As radical as the idea seemed, Natagath could see that a new order of Gryphon Riders would be necessary. It was a crazy idea but it was not impossible.

I'll have to ponder the idea further. the elf said to himself.


Evan rode along at a quick pace. The pair of mountains he had indicated on his map were steadily growing closer and closer. The hours seemed to pass quickly. Finally, Evan dismounted, tying Helios up by a tree. He walked toward the path that led between the two mountains and drew his sword, hacking away at the undergrowth that blocked the entrance. Minuted later, Evan stood at the edge of a cliff overlooking the valley. As far as they eye could see were great stone buildings built into the walls of the valley. There was a river running through the heart of the valley that was spanned by an ancient bridge.

Evan looked up at the gryphons and the water dragon and waited for them to land. Fletcher circled around and landed beside Evan, marveling at the site before him.

Natagath nodded in approval, waiting for Iaras to join them. "This place is big enough to house thousands of gryphons!" the elf marveled.

"And with a little fixing up, you'd have a very magnificent city."
Evan remarked.



Meanwhile, back at the fort, a pair of Ra'zac stared hungrily at the fort from a hilltop while a human woman eyed Sevena, Fela, and Verdun were camped out by the river.

"Ahh." Agatha grinned sinisterly. "It seems there has been a change in plans!"

Turning to one of her Ra'zac servants, Agatha ordered, "Get your lethrblaka together and prepare to attack the gryphons."

"Offf coursssseee." the hideous creature hissed.

Agatha turned to one of her human servants and said, "When the lethrblaka and ra'zac attack, I want you and your men to use the distraction to capture the gryphons. Though I am not particularly picky about what condition they're in after you're finished with them, I still need them alive. All of them."

"Understood." the mercenary replied. Moments later, the Ra'zac flew overhead on the backs of their lethrblaka, descending toward the three gryphons by the river bank.

Agatha recognized all three of these gryphons from hr previous encounter with Iaras. She especially remembered the fondness the gryphon king had displayed for dark colored female.

Vena looked from Tas to Violeta, grinning with mischief. She bowed again, flaring her wings dramatically. As the sire wishes, so shall it be! she exclaimed, then turned and scrambled to the lightning dragoness. Once she was closer she slowed and carefully snuck forward, aiming for the female's mane. She could snatch a bit in her beak and cut it with her talons.

- - - - - - - - - -

Iaras liked the look of the place. It was protected this far in the mountains, there was plenty of game to hunt, and herbs for the healers to collect. He nodded, and even smiled at Evan. Yes...Thank you. My people, my kingdom, will be in your debt for helping us. he said, gazing around. Teak looked pleased as well.


- - - - - - - - - -

Sevena laid on a rock outcropping that stretched over the river, sunning her back and the tops of her extended wings. She was drowsing slightly when she saw black dots in the sky. Her head shot up, eyes wide and pupils narrowed. She surged to her feet a moment later, running to where Fela and Verdun sat and groomed each other.

Lethrblaka, Ra'zac, get up and get ready to fight! she called, screeching a physical warning just in case they missed her mental one. Fela sprang to her feet but wobbled, still weak from the sickness although all her symptoms were gone. Verdun hovered over the female, worry written over his face.

Seva hissed and raised her wings. Stay here and defend Fela from any that get past me. That is an order. Do you understand? she snapped, looked over at the dark brown male. He nodded, his eyes gleaming with fierce protectiveness.

The female huffed, then launched herself into the air, screeching a challenge to the Ra'zac and their cursed mounts. Fight me if you dare you cowardly worms! she snarled.

Vena crept closer and closer, her tail lashing from side to side like a stalking cat. She reached up with her beak and clamped it shut around a small clump of fur, then, carefully balancing on her three legs, she reached up with her talons and began to saw back and forth to cut it loose, trying not to tug to hard to awaken the dragoness.

- - - - - - - - - -

Iaras huffed softly and turned to Evan, dipping his head slightly to the twoleg. I thank you. As for transporting it, we can help with that. My warriors that are still well can have them tied to them and flown here. For the rest that is too heavy, we can guard caravans or whatever way of transport you decide on using. he said. His ears twitched and he looked at Natagath. He raised an eyeridge, interested. Oh? I look forward to hearing it. he said, swishing his tail a bit. Perhaps then we should go and collect them, hm? he questioned, raising his eyeridge higher.

- - - - - - - - - -

Sevena screeched and whirled, fighting like a wildcat protecting her cubs. But no matter how much she slashed, how much she battered or snapped, she could not do any severe damage. There was just too many all at once.

She heard a faint cry for help from the ground and glanced back over her shoulder. Her eyes widened as she saw Fela slump to the ground, deep in a sleep. Verdun was taken down shortly after, collapsing over Fela as if he could still protect her even when knocked out cold.

Seva screeched with fury and turned on wing, diving down to the ground with a flurry of wingbeats that battered the human soldiers that weren't expecting it to the ground. She lashed out again and again, until her forelegs were soaked with blood and she heaved for air.

She stood trembling with fatigue, her wings drooped to the ground. She looked up at the sound of footsteps. She saw ten soldiers approaching, but she couldn't wrestle the will to move. They all raised a dartgun to their lips, and blew at the same time.

She was out and collapsed even before the third dart penetrated her system.

OCC: DS4, can you do me a favor? Could you look over the idea I posted in the main RPG discussion thread and tell me if it is alright or not?

IC:
Evan untied Helios from the tree and climbed onto his bison's back. "I will see what I can do then." he said to his companions.

The explorer urged his mount forward as they began to trip back to the fort.

Natagath climbed onto Fletcher's back and held on as the gryphon launched himself into the air. Fletcher was happy that they found this place. It wouldn't be long before they could head for home. Natagath, meanwhile, began writing down ideas in the little journal he always carried with him, planning how this new order of Riders he had thought of would work.

Agatha watched the skirmish come to an end. Once all three gryphons had been captured, she made her way over to them. "That was easier than I expected." she said flatly.

Agatha then plucked out one of Sevena's feathers and followed suit with Verdun and Fela. Turning to one of the ra'zac, she ordered, "Take these and find Iaras. He can't be too far from here. Tell him to meet me here at the trading post, and that we have business to discuss."

"As you wisssssh." the ra'zac said with a hiss, climbing back onto its devilish mount.

Agathe then ordered her remaining men and the other ra'zac, 'Alright, not take these gryphons back to the camp. Keep them sedated."

Fletcher spent the rest of the afternoon talking to Samantha and enjoying the beautiful scenery. They stopped early that evening to get some much needed rest. The next morning, Fletcher opened his eyes to the sound of something landing nearby. The gryphon lifted his head and was surprised to see a lethrblaka and a ra'zac. Fletcher was on his feet in an instant. he let out a warning screech to wake the others. Natagath sat up and grabbed his bow, aiming it diectly at the ra'zac's heart.

"Not sssssso faaasssst!" the hidous creature spat, removing the three feathers from under its cloak and dropping holding them up for everyone to see. Fletcher gasped as he saw the unmistakable salt-and-pepper coloring one one of Sevena's feathers, as well as feathers belonging to Verdun and Fela.

"You!" the ra'zac said, pointing at Iaras. "My masssster has bussssinessss to discuss with you at the fort."

OOC:
Of course.

IC:
Iaras shook his head drowsily at Fletcher's screech, blinking to clear his eyes. His eyes fixed on the black feather that blew toward him in a gentle breeze. Fela. Teak saw it a second later, and reached out a hand to soothe his master, But Iaras was already past hearing any attempts of calming. He screeched with every single breath in his body and surged to his feet, pouncing on the Ra'zac with the speed of a snake. Where. Is. She. he spat venomously, his eyes dancing with fire and a promise of death to whoever had dared take his...his daughter. He shook, shook with rage, for the daughter he had never really accepted as his blood. But the call of instinct was far stronger. And he was filled with a fear, too. What if he never saw her again. Fear made him angrier. He didn't like being afraid. He hissed and snapped his beak shut in the Ra'zac's face. Take me to where they are, where your master is, quickly, before I loose patience and tear your throat out and scatter your remains to rot, along with your vile beast you call a mount. he snarled. He kept the creature pinned for a few moments longer, then stepped back to let it rise. He snapped his beak and his Tamen, who scurried over and hurriedly mounted the saddle. Iaras raised his wings and looked to the others. His eyes burned with anger, and even a little fear. If you come with me be swift. I fly with all speed. he said shortly, and launched into the air, the vicious beating of his wings giving voice to his anger.

OCC: So is my crazy ship idea alright?


IC:
Fletcher was livid with rage and fear. He wanted to find whoever had his mate and rip them to shreds. When Iaras took off, Natagath climbed onto Fletcher's back and held on for dear life.

"Alright, let's go!" the elf shouted.

Evan said to them, "Go on ahead without me. I'll catch up later!" He knew he would never be able to keep up with the gryphons.

Fletcher took off into the sky trying to keep up with Iaras. He was surprised at the ferocity with which Iaras responded to the kidnapping of his daughter. He could see the wild look in the gold gryphon's eyes. Even if Iaras did not want to admit it, deep down inside he loved his daughter.

Fletcher turned to Samantha and could see the anger in her eyes as well. Whoever the kidnapper was, they likely were not expecting a dragon Rider and a dragon to be accompanying the gryphons.

It took them only a couple hours to reach Fort Trenton at the speed they were flying. Iaras landed first and Fletcher followed.

"Show yourself, coward!" Fletcher roared, looking all around.

"There's no call for that, Fletcher." said the calm, smooth voice that Fletcher had come to dead and hate.

Agatha emerged from the fort and stood glaring at the gryphons.

"Agatha!" Fletcher spat, staring at the one thing he hated more than anything else in the world. "What have you done with my mate?" Fletcher roared, trying very hard to resist the urge to spring upon the woman and rip her to pieces.

"I suggest you watch your attitude, gryphon. Your cooperation will determine whether you get your friends back in one piece or several."
Agatha replied in that sickeningly smooth tone.

OOC:
It's sounds fine to me, and very intriguing too.

IC:
Iaras had a single track mind as he flew, giving no thought to Fletcher or Samantha and whether they could keep up with him or not. His blood, his daughter, was in danger, and he would be damned if a simple thing like sluggishness or fatigue got in his way of keeping her safe. it was only a couple hours until they reach the Fort and he landed, but it felt like eternity, agonizing in it's slowness. His plumage bristled all over as he raked his surroundings for the offender. When he saw Agatha, a flicker of hope caught in his chest. Was she here to help? But at the stench of Ra'zac and Lethrblaka on her clothes, and also the even fainter scent of the three missing gryphons, Sevena, Verdun, and Fela, he realized she was not here to help...she was the one that took them. His roar of outrage was thunderous, drowning out anything she might have said in an attempt to explain what she was doing after she spoke to Fletcher. Explain, Agatha. Now. Or you die. It's that simple. he seethed, his plumage bristling so much it almost seemed like it had a life of its own. Samantha and Fletcher seemed just as agitated, and he was actually glad to have them on his side. Although, if he got his talons on the traitor before him, he wasn't sure how much would be left for them to tear at. He lowered his head, his muscles tensing to pounce. You have thirty seconds before I tear you and all of your follower's to pieces.

Agatha smirked at Iaras's question. "Because, from one backstabber to another, I don't trust you. Now, you have two days to bring me my money. Or else..."

With that she turned and began to walk away. "Oh, and don't get any cute ideas about following me. If I even suspect I am being trailed, I'll have the hostages killed."

"You had better be feeding them!" Natagath shouted after her. Agatha just ignored him and kept walking to the west.

Fletcher looked like he was going to be sick. "She can't be trusted..." he whispered. Even if we pay the ransom, there is no guarantee she will keep her word."

"There must be another way..." Natagath mused. "There must be some way we can track her without being noticed."

Suddenly another thought hit the elf. "Say, what happened to Mirriana? She was here with the others but Agatha didn't mention capturing her."



Agatha arrived back at her hideout, a cave in the side of a cliff. Inside, her three hostages were locked in wood cages. Though they were kept sedated, all three were conscious.

"They've awakened." one of Agatha's men informed her.

"Good." the smuggler replied.

She walked over to the cages and surveyed her prisoners once more. She smirked at the angry glares they gave her.

Walking up to Sevena's cage, she said, "It's funny, Sevena, that you gave up royalty for a lowly peasant gryphon like Fletcher. Do you really enjoy bring his whore that much?"

It was an extremely cruel and undignified thing to say to somebody, especially a proud gryphon, but Agatha enjoyed tormenting her prisoners. It was one of her favorite past times.

Sam snorted softly and laid down on her stomach. Worry for Sevena made her scales itch, and even Verdun and Fela had a portion of her worry.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jakin snorted softly between the link. I am willing. he rumbled. Since I am already dead, she will not be able to control my physical body with my Heart. I will only do what I see fit to do. The only way she can control me is if she breaks my mind and discovers my name. It is a wise choice to give me to this woman instead of Samantha. he said. He thought for a while, then added, Would you like me to try and contact Keia? She might have more Eldunari that would be willing to help.

Natagath replied, I was thinking of contacting her anyway. She does owe me a favor after what we did for her.

He reached out with his mind, boosting his power with Violeta's and Jakin's energy. Keia, this is Natagath. Can you hear me? We are in need of your help.


Fletcher paced about nervously, fearful for his mate's safety. The last thing in the world that he wanted was to have to explain to Tas and Vena that their mother wasn't coming home.

"I'' kill that wretched woman for this!" he muttered.

It shocked Natagath and Violeta to see him like this. Fletcher had never been a violent gryphon, aside from when it was necessary to protect his loved ones.

Agatha sat in a chair looking over her documents, awaiting news on the ransom. One of her men approached.

"We've been watching and keeping an eye on the gryphons. Uh, it seems they have a pair of dragons and a Rider helping them though."

Agatha rent ridged. She knew Fletcher would likely enlist the aid of his dragon friend from before, but she was certainly not expecting two dragons and a Rider.

"It does not matter. If they fail to pay the ransom then the prisoners will die. Even dead gryphons have some value." she hissed, glaring over at the cage where her hostages were locked up.

Keia raised her head sharply, startled by the mental contact. She snorted softly and replied. I hear you, Natagath-elda. I am close by, you can expect me in a few minutes. Explain the situation to me please while I travel? she asked politely, rising to her paws. She flared her wings and sprang off the ledge, racing through the air with all possible speed to where she sensed he was located.

- - - - - - - - - -

Sam stepped in front of Fletcher to stop his pacing and looked up at him. He was her best friend. He had been there for her when she needed it. Now it was her turn for him. My friend, my will get her back. I promise you we will. You're overworrying here. she smiled at him. We've been through worse. But when it comes to it, leave me a piece, eh? I don't want you having all the fun now, do I. She stepped forward and nuzzled his shoulder, prumming in her throat. But right now you gotta have a clear head. Alright? For Sevena? she murmured gently.

Keia growled softly as she flew, irritation filtering into her mind. She snorted softly and gazed at a point on the ground that she saw them. It was easy to spot them from this height. She circled once then pulled in her wings and dropped to the break-bone-ground, only flaring them briefly to catch herself before landing and absorbed the shock in her hindlegs. She folded her wings on her back and nodded her head to the group. I am Keia. How can I help? she said, asking the last part to Natagath. Anything I can do to stop that mad woman I'll gladly offer. because she had the freedom to do that now. She wasn't burdened with being attached to Galbatorix anymore. She more regarded herself as a mercenary now than loyal to any specific party. Easier that way, although she took time away to search for her parents.

- - - - - - - - - -

Sam prummed gently and sat beside Fletcher, leaning into him lightly. Her scar burned from his body heat, but she had gotten used to it and could ignore it. She eyed the large dragoness that landed beside their group warily, remembering when Keia had come close to the monastery. She huffed and narrowed her eyes slightly, but otherwise ignored the sienna female.

- - - - - - - - - -

Vena trotted proudly toward her brother and huffed, her eyes glittered. She rolled them at his next command, but she unfurled her was and was beginning to dance around when Violeta's voice touched her mind. She stopped cold and spun toward the violet dragoness. The gryphonling lowered her head sheepishly and glanced at Tas, then padded forward to the female. She sighed and sat down close to Violeta's forepaws. Sorry Aunt Violeta. We didn't mean to cause any trouble. and we didn't, she added to herself. We just want Mom and Dad back and to go home.

Keia went through a list of the Eldunari she possessed and came with three that were most similar to Sam's blue-irridescent scales. She nodded once. Yes in fact I do. Three, but I only have one on me. Her name is Kleav. She's very old, and I know she'd be willing to help. she sat on her haunches and craned her neck around to her back, gently opening the packs at the juncture of her neck and shoulders with her teeth. She snagged a large oval stone that glittered very similarly to Sam's hide and offered it to Natagath. She knows the situation, I had my mind open to all of the Eldunari I have with me. she said. It wasn't too big, about the size of three mens fists, so it could pass as the Heart for a young dragon like Sam. Keia huffed softly and lifted one eyeridge. I have another that is similar to my own scales, if you would like to add another bargaining chip to the pile. she offered, the tip of her tail twitching.

- - - - - - - - - -

Sam huffed softly, still watching the sienna dragoness. When she pulled out a Heart that looked similar to her own scale color, she had to blink a few times and glance at Fletcher to make sure that her Heart was still around his neck. She shook her head a bit and looked back at the other Heart. It was nearly identical in color to her hide, with maybe a little bit more green in it than she did. Kleav...that name sounded familiar. She squinted, trying to remember, but she came up blank. But it bugged her. She nudged the male gryphon next to her lightly with her nose. Fletcher, that Heart's color looks really close to mine...like, really close...no two dragons are exactly the same color, it's impossible. And the name...I know. I remember it from...somewhere. But I can't grasp from where. she scowled angrily. She stared at the Eldunari, bristling with frustration at her inability to rememeber.

- - - - - - - - - -

Vena huffed and padded up to Violeta and laid down beside the dragoness's warm body. It wasn't her Mother, but the heat soothed her. She lowered her head to her forelegs and sighed sadly.