OOC: Open to anyone and everyone. More than one person is welcome, but no more than two - or three, if you must - other people please. When entering the Role play, please post in the order that you join.


IC:
The Hadarac Desert was possibly the worst possible place for a seven-hundred pound furry beast like Siberia. Not only was it summer time, and possibly one of the hottest days they had in the desert yet, Cy Ara and her hadn't seen any villages within the past few days. She'd begun to wonder if maybe they were going in circles. She thought she was loosing her mind. Had she seen that piece of sand before?
Their supplies were running low, especially water. In fact, glancing over, Cy Ara was finishing off the last of the water from her canteen. The much larger one - specially made for her - around Siberia's neck had gone dry a good while ago.
Silently, Siberia was jealous. Cy Ara had a high resistance and tolerance for heat, where as she did for the cold. And at the moment, she was despising her thick white fur. Glancing to Cy Ara again, she noticed her usual caramel skin was darker than normal, having soaked up the suns rays the past few days. Not a bead of sweat was in sight. Siberia didn't think she'd ever seen Cy Ara with a sun burn, either. Even now, despite the heat and strength of the sun.
Cy Ara felt Siberia's gaze and looked her way in a questioning manner, using the large staff she'd obtained some while ago to hull herself up the insanely large sand dune they were headed over. It was way too big to go around.
Why are we here again, crossing the Hadarac Desert?
I told you, Siberia. Cy Ara replied quietly, stuffing the annoyingly empty canteen back in her leather sack that was slung over her shoulder. There was word of Lukia Ursl heading towards The Spine. We have to get as far away as quickly as possible, less he catch wind of our being near there or even remotely close. . Just the mention of Lukia's name sent a fierce, cold chill up Cy Ara's spine. So, I decided that we were going to take a vacation in the Beor Mountains, near Tarnag lake. Remember our last visit? I'm hoping that we can meet up with our Dwarven friend, Crol.
Siberia wasn't too happy to hear that, but she kept quiet. She didn't like the Beor Mountains. She knew Shrrg lived there, and didn't like them. They were nothing like she was. She didn't even originally come from this land. . and not even Cy Ara knew that.
When the two of them finally reached the top of the dune, Cy Ara raised her arm and pointed ahead with the hint of a smile playing at her lips.
Look, Siberia! A small village! We'll stay the night. .

`,-,`,-,`,-,`,-,`,-,`,-,`,-,`,-,`,-,`,-,`,-,`,-,`,-,`

Stepping into the village, Cy Ara instantly began taking in her surroundings, by instinct, and blueprinting the area out in her head. Siberia was too exhausted to think clearly, and seemed more interested in finding shade and water as she trudged along beside Cy Ara, tongue hanging out of her mouth. She was so dried up, she couldn't even drool. . .
But Cy Ara suddenly stopped at a merchant's stand, one of his odd nic-nacs catching her eye. Leaning her head to the side, she stepped under the wooden roof of the stand into the shade - Siberia gladly sitting herself down beside her - and leaned her head to the side.
A small hand carved wolf, made from dark wood to look as if it had black fur, sat howling up to an invisible moon. It was small enough to fit in the palm of her hand. And it reminded her of her father, whose companion was a black wolf, named Storm, much like Siberia.
"Ten crowns." The merchant spoke quietly, spotting Cy Ara's interest in the small figurine as he made his way over. She looked to him, before reaching for her pouch on her side. But when she peaked inside, she noticed she'd barely have enough for water as it was. Solemnly, she looked to the Merchant and shook her head. "Five?"
"Sorry. ." She turned away, eyes narrowing as memories of her father flashed before her eyes. Siberia lazily lifted herself up and followed behind Cy Ara as she made her way down the street.
Not only would they have to sleep outside tonight, they wouldn't be able to restock on food. But for some reason, Cy Ara felt as if she didn't care. Something about not being able to purchase that little figurine left her feeling numb.

OOC: mind if I join this?

OOC: Of course you can.

By the looks of Siberia, she was about to collapse from exhaustion or a heat stroke. Cy Ara could see it in the way she moved and felt a pang of guilt strike through her. Looking around, she found an alley and herded Siberia that way. Thankfully, the alley between two of the run down, sand buildings was shaded. Siberia lied herself down, onto her side, and closed her eyes, panting. Cy Ara ran her hand along the side of her head as she spoke quietly.
"I'll go get water. I'll be right back. ." Standing, she pulled her long, black cloak out of her sack, setting her bag down by Siberia's head, along with her Katana, and slipped the light clothing on. The sleeves traveled down to her wrists, the hem running down to her ankles, half hiding her black boots. It revealed her thin frame with ease, revealing every perfected crevice and muscle with every fluent move. Her midnight blue eyes, seemingly darker than usual, like her skin, darted back and forth before pulling on the hood of the clothing.
After double checking that Siberia was all right, Cy Ara made her way out of the alley and down the street, surprised by the sudden amount of people that seemed to appear from no where. She moved through them with silent ease. She saw her target: a merchant's stand selling water.
But she didn't have time to even think twice before she was suddenly grabbed from behind by what seemed like a thug. Cy Ara froze, surprise written plain across her face for the split second before she became calm, cool, and collected. The man who had come up behind her, had grabbed her arm and twisted it behind her back. It didn't hurt, nor did it scare Cy Ara. It was the fact that she knew who the man was: one of Lukia Ursl's grueling slaves. He'd ambushed Cy Ara not too long ago in the mountains by Kuasta, planning on turning her in to Lukia Ursl for quite to treasure.
"Do you know how big of a bounty is on your head at this very moment? Enough to last a man three life times. I've failed once. I won't fail again." The man was whispering just loud enough for Cy Ara to hear, but with the calm anger that seemed to be growing inside him, he felt as if he was talking louder than he'd wanted. The last time he'd met with Cy Ara, he'd been at least pretty well looking. Now, he had numerous scars covering his face, some long, some short. Scars also ran down his neck, as if something had exploded in his face. One edge of his lip, that had been split badly open before, now was healing gruesomely.
"You'll do as I say, or suffer the consequences. Understand?" As if for emphasis, Cy Ara felt a small jab in the back from a knife and with held a hiss. She tensed her jaw and simply hoped that Siberia wasn't so exhausted that she wouldn't be able to sense this.
Siberia. . . emergency. I need you.
There was no answer before the man murmured under his breath. "Move forward. Head for that separate alley.
Unfortunately for Cy Ara, it was an alley further away from where Siberia was. But she began to move. She didn't want to cause a scene, or hurt innocent people. It would best to be in a solitude place.
Once in the alley, he shoved Cy Ara roughly against the sand-stone wall and raised the hand with his knife in it to her as she turned around to face him. She simply stared at him with a blank face, annoyance and anger hidden underneath.
"Do you have any idea what you did to me? Do you have any clue as to where you left me stranded? What happened after I returned empty handed to Lukia?
The name sent chills up Cy Ara's spine, but she kept on her blank face, lifting her head slightly when the thug raised the knife closer to her neck. She could've easily disarmed him, but she'd underestimated him last time they'd met after disarming him. And she would not do that again. She had to wait it out. . wait for the right opportunity.
"I will not fail him again."

The thug seemed to not care about the red blades. He didn't even take any notice to them. When they came down, they seemed to bounce off him and shatter, as if some invisible bubble seemed to be shielding him from non direct attacks.
Snatching his wrist away, he swung again, throwing the ax like weapon at the stranger before making a run for it down the alley. He could tell he would need a little help. He would have his trophy. .
But just as he took his second step, he let out a strangled yelp, falling to the ground. Cy Ara stood above him, arms crossed over her chest as an annoyed look plastered itself on her face. She narrowed her eyes as the thug lifted his head.
"Yeah? Well, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve, too. Here's a little present from me to him."
She brought her foot back and mustered every single ounce of strength within her Allatik body, cringing with enjoyment when her thick black boot slammed into the thug's face and sent him flying down the alley into the dead end wall. Not only would his face be broken, a few other bones would be as well. At least, that's what Cy Ara figured from the bone shattering cracks that emitted when her foot connected with his face and he connected with the wall.
He lied there, now, groaning. He was unconscious. Cy Ara turned to the stranger, her face serious.
"When they seem invincible, take 'em down with the "Lett'em Loose" tactic. The powerful guys don't always think twice about the small things."
A shuffling was heard as the thug started to move. Cy Ara didn't think he'd be up so quick. Glancing to him, before glancing to the stranger, she began backing out of the alley as she spoke.
"Think we should get outta here before we cause to big of a scene?"
Without waiting for an answer, she shuffled out of the area and into the crowd, pulling her hood back over her head to hide her face. She waited for the other once blended with the crowd.

Cy Ara nodded, dutifully following the strange male to the room. Her midnight gaze traveled around the room, murmuring under her breath quietly as she sat herself down on the bed and slipped off her boot, rubbing her bare foot. Even through the thick leather it was made of, she still felt the impact.
"I had everything under control. . why did you interfere?"
Cy Ara had always had a problem with thanking people. She tended to criticize and become sarcastic before actually doing so. Force of habit.

The man had disappeared out of the alley, no trace of him had been left behind. Cy Ara, on the bed, seemed to put herself in a pout, slipping her boot back on before standing. She placed her hands on her hips, taking a look around the room as she spoke.
"Yeah, well. . he wasn't going to slit my throat. At the moment, I supposedly have a high-"
She stopped speaking, shutting her mouth and tensing her jaw. She was just about to give away the fact that she had an enormous bounty on her head. Was she insane? She spoke quietly, turning away from the other slightly.
"I need to fetch water. . and return to my friend. ."

She stopped midway, her hand almost to the door to open it. But she turned around to face the other, suddenly feeling uncomfortable. She leaned her head slightly to the side before speaking hesitantly and slowly, crossing her arms across her chest. As badly as she hated the fact, she never had been a good liar. Not with things concerning the man Lukia Ursl. And unfortunately, he seemed to follow her everywhere.
"..no. I was going to say. . .a high. .chance of being ambushed by thugs. You know. .this kind of thing happens all the time for me."
She bit the inside of her cheek, eyes narrowing. She silently cursed herself. Could she be any more obvious?

Cy Ara blinked. Wanted Poster? Crap. . She frowned, an annoyed look on her face as she let her arm fall, her hand clamped around her elbow as she looked to the side. She really needed to fix that whole lying thing. .
She lifted her gaze to the other male when he spoke again, releasing a deep breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. She wrinkled her nose, turning towards the door again as she spoke quietly, heading out.
"Thank you. For helping me. And for the offer. I'll be back."
With that, she disappeared. She returned roughly twenty minutes later, moving into the room and standing by the door as she waited for Siberia to make her way slowly inside. Cy Ara had her things with her now. Her sack was slung over her shoulder, her Katana sheathed on her back as well.
They both looked aggravated, as if they'd been bickering. Something they rarely ever do.
"Just go lie down Siberia. . I'll get you water."
Cy Ara pulled the hood of her cloak down, watching Siberia stayed quiet and moved across the room to a corner to lie down. On her way, she paused to gaze at the stranger, nodding her head once in thanks before continuing. She wasn't trying to be rude. But she needed to rest.
Cy Ara shut the door, glancing to her before the man who had helped her earlier. She spoke quietly.
"She doesn't do well in heated weather like this. . that's Siberia. I'm Cy Ara, by the way."

Siberia relished in the cool air, pleasantly shutting her eyes in content as the room became cooler. Cy Ara gazed at Ka, interested in the ability he just revealed. She wondered what others he held. She had no concern for the cold. The fire inside her would keep her warm to the touch, so long as it didn't become close to freezing.
She moved herself over to the table, pouring water from the pitcher into one of the clay bowls and taking it to Siberia who lapped it up in seconds. After refilling it once more, Siberia seemed content enough and saved the rest as she closed her eyes again. Cy Ara stood, speaking quietly as she made her way to stand next to the bed, arms crossing over her chest.
"Kale? That's an odd name. Where are you from?"

"I can relate. . I know, it was somewhere here in Alagaesia. But, I'm not sure where."
Cy Ara let out a deep sigh, gaze falling to the floor as her gaze became hard. She slowly made her way over to the window, leaning against the wall as Ka had done earlier, so she could look out the window into the alley. She watched as a father and a little girl making their way down it. Her eyes narrowed, before looking away. She remembered the little figurine she'd seen earlier. The black wolf, carved from wood. Big enough to fit into the palm of her hand.
Without realizing it, she'd raised her hand, examining her palm. She shook herself and let her hand fall to her side. She couldn't seem to sit still. She had this overbearing urge to move, to do something.
". . there's got to be something to do here in this town. It's getting late. .isn't there a tavern or something?"

"Or I have a better idea." Cy Ara turned away from the window and gazed at Ka momentarily before redirecting it towards the door. "I have somewhere I want to go. . but I don't want to go alone. Just in case Malaktai is still out and about. . would you mind. .?"
She finally puled her gaze back to Ka, willing him to come along with her. She was usually not this open to asking for help. . but she had a plan. .

Cy Ara frowned, collecting her thoughts for a moment before speaking.
"I need to restock our supplies. We need water, at least. If I have enough money, I'll obtain some food, too. It's not like I want to die out in the desert. I don't know about you, but I think that'd be pretty stupid."
Her eyebrow arched as she smiled a little, gazing towards Ka still.
"So. . .?"

Jia lounged about in the sun, letting her gold-amethyst scales soak up the luscious rays of heat. A feeling of rightness settled over her, along with love and protection....She bolted upright onto her feet; the only time she felt those three emotions over her as strongly as she did now...She leapt into the air, following the connection to a small desert town. She extended her mind out until she felt his, just along the edges of her consciousness. She settled down on the opposite side of a dune so she wouldn't be spotted before she gently flowed into his mind. She was just in time to hear his last words. She snorted in amusement, too thrilled at finding Ka to actually be put off by him. Surely you know better than that, little one. she purred to him, caressing his mind tenderly with her own. These people lead a harsh life; they need every copper piece they can get. She was too focused on her Rider to notice that there was another person in the room with him.

- - - - - - - - - -

A young looking man came in through the shabby gate, stumbling slightly from water exhaustion. He was dressed in a plain green tunic and black trousers, his only visible weapon being a long stave that angled across his back. A rather over-sized golden eagle sat on his shoulder, occasionally flaring its wings to stay balanced on its precarious perch. The man staggered to a water stand, quickly paying for a flask of cool water. He lifted it to his lips and took a greedy sip. Though he wanted to down the whole thing, he rationed himself to only a few gulps, one so he didn't waste any, and two so he didn't shock his system. His name was Tyleek. He'd been traveling through the Hadarac by interest. But he almost felt blind here; there wasn't any life around here. Just sand and some scrawny shrubs. He sat in an alleyway, grateful to finally be out of the sun. He shifted uncomfortably, the tunic he'd unwillingly donned making his skin itch. He lifted his head up sharply when he felt something familiar brush against him. His head tilted to the side curiously, then disbelief crossed his expression. He stroked Theldor's wing when the large golden eagle ruffled his feathers.
Go up and look for anyone that appears out of place. I'll follow a little behind you.
he murmured.

- - - - - - - - - -

Theldor crooned in his throat in acknowledgment, then spread his wings and took off. He circled once before veering away, leery to leave Tyleek on his own for too long. The golden eagle soared on silent wings, his sharp green eyes pointed toward the ground. He looked up when his keen ears picked up a familiar voice. Suspicion touched him, partly from the influence of Tyleek, but some of it was his own. He'd felt the connection as clearly as his companion had, but it still seemed unlikely that anyone of that nature would come to this wasteland. Still, overrun with curiosity, the eagle angled toward the voice. He landed on a windowsill and looked in. Pleasant surprise lighted his irises. It was her! Theldor hopped closer and let out a small, gentle squawk of greeting. He shifted his wings primly, thinking that as soon as he knew for certain that it was her, he would tell Tyleek. The large bird glanced at the man quickly, anxious. He didn't seem like a threat, but looks could be deceiving.

Cy Ara frowned, eyebrow still arched.
"Because stealing is wrong." This was, of course, the truth. But Cy Ara didn't care if it was wrong. She stole all the time, but only when the time called for it. Maybe that time was now.
She actually began considering, but then she remembered the other question Ka had asked and tensed her eyes, a small smirk placing on her lips.
"The satisfaction that you've helped. ."
But before she could say anything else, something hit her hard. She froze, smirk melting away and eyes widening ever so slightly. She could feel a familiar presence. .
She turned, looking around the room, but then she heard the of so familiar squawk and a true smile crept it's way onto her face. She turned towards the window, rushing over, and saw him.
"Theldor!" She raised her hand, gently stroking the side of Theldor's head with her finger as she thought quietly to him. Where's Tyleek?

Jia sent her Rider an image of her grin. I'm glad you do know better, otherwise I might box your ears. she growled playfully. I'm just outside the town. I don't know how they would react to me; I've grown a bit since you last saw me, but not much. Who's that with you? She sounds familiar. she murmured, trying to get a good view of what was going on.

- - - - - - - - - -

Theldor pushed his head into Cy Ara's caress, crooning affectionately. When the man asked who or what he was, however, trailing off at the end, the large golden eagle's feathers bristled. His wings lifted from his sides slightly as he screeched softly at the man in rebuke.
Not your next meal, if that's what your thinking.
Retorted the eagle harshly. He snorted once, then turned back to Cy Ara.
Nearby. I'm surprised he isn't already-yikes!
He cried out in mock rage as Tyleek sprang onto the window just behind him, making him lose his balance and fall to the floor. His wings caught him and he rose up, clicking and chattering his beak as he chastised his companion for startling him. With a disgruntled huff, Theldor perched on Cy Ara's shoulder, careful to not pierce her with his sharp talons.
Well, apparently he just arrived.
Grumbled the eagle, still put off. But he relaxed at the look of joy on Tyleek's face. Plastered across the Allatik's mouth was a true smile of happiness.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek saw through Theldor's eyes who he had sensed, and like that he was off in a shot. He quickly found the window and leapt up to it, startling his companion. He merely grinned as the golden eagle chastised him, but he had eyes only for her. For the female Allatik that had opened his eyes to what he was. Or at least had told him what he was. He stepped down from the windowsill, his lavender-blue irises shining with contentment,"What are you doing around here, Cy Ara?" he asked, curious despite himself. His gaze flicked to the huge white wolf in the corner, and his eyes widened in pleasant surprise,"You and Siberia found each other, it seems. I'm glad." he said, and grinned again.

"His name is Theldor. And you aren't to hurt a single feather on him."
She glanced towards Ka, then back to Theldor as he spoke. But just as he hadn't, Cy Ara hadn't expected Tyleek to appear so suddenly. It caused her to jump back with a small yelp. She had been so engulfed in what Theldor had been saying, she hadn't felt his presence come closer.
She laughed a little, watching Theldor as he righted himself and perched himself on her shoulder, she raised her hand, stroking the side of his face again before gazing over towards Tyleek. His ginormous grin made her smile grow. At the mention of Siberia, her ears seemed to perk up. But the over sized canine didn't seem to wake from her deep slumber. Cy Ara nodded slightly, speaking quietly.
"Yes. .we found each other right after you and I parted, actually. We were trying to make our way to the Beor Mountains. . to Tarnag."
She shrugged her shoulders. "Unfortunately, I tend to cause a lot of trouble wherever I go. . you know, with Lukia and his men and all that bull. . ." She narrowed her eyes, glancing to the floor before sighing and speaking once more, taking a step back to motion with her hand. "Tyleek, this is Ka. Ka, this is Tyleek. You've all ready met Theldor."

Jia started, her head shooting up from her paws. Cy Ara?! I know her! I met up with her a month before I found you! she cried joyfully. She extended her mind to touch Cy Ara's, happy that she'd found another friend. Hello little one. she purred to the Allatik female. At Ka's words she growled sharply in rebuke. None of that. Be patient with them, dear one. It is the same with them as it is with us; they haven't seen each other for a long time and wish to talk. she soothed.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek eyed the man suspiciously, a low growl building in his chest. He abruptly cut off the sound, biting is tongue to keep from doing something rash, then looked again at Cy Ara. He was overjoyed to see her.
"An honor, if not a pleasure, Ka." he said respectfully, inclining his head stiffly. He motioned to Theldor, who instantly fluttered his wings and transferred himself from Cy Ara's shoulder to Tyleek's. The Allatik male tilted his head in the direction of the door.
"There's a tavern down the way if you would like to move there." he offered, again looking at Ka warily. He trusted no one, Cy Ara and Theldor being the exception. Now that Siberia was with his friend again, he would extend his trust to the white wolf as well. Anyone who was a friend of Cy Ara could be trusted....he wasn't so sure if Ka was thought of as a friend or ally.

Cy Ara blinked, looking from Ka, to Tyleek, then back again before letting her gaze fall to the floor. She lifted her hand and rubbed the back of her neck, murmuring to quietly to herself.
"Well. . .this should be interesting. ." It was then that she felt the presence of another mind brush against hers, and a voice. It made her shiver with a small smile.
Jia? Jia, is that you? I haven't seen you in what feels like forever..
She heard Tyleek's question, contemplating momentarily.
"That actually sounds like fun.." Hesitantly, she lifted her gaze to Ka and spoke quietly. "Ka, come on..let's go to the Tavern. Surely there's something there that will interest you. Maybe..a fight that you can split up?" She said this jokingly, hope Ka saw it that way. She wanted to go out, but didn't want to leave the male alone, even if he was being stubborn. Siberia was too big to go to the Tavern. Which meant of course she'd stay. "Come on..drinks on me. You come with, and I'll get our supplies your way." She looked calm on the outside, trying to persuade Ka to come aong. But she was grinning to herself, hoping he'd take the deal.

Jia sighed at Ka's flat reply. She'd been with him long enough to know that that was the best response that she would get out of him. Just remember how you and I met. That should soften you up. she said, then grinned. Yes, Cy Ara. Its me. Is that Tyleek I sense as well? she asked her female Allatik friend, joy audible in her voice. Many friends at one time. She laughed at Ka and his evident dislike of taverns. Honestly, she agreed with him. She prummed tenderly, knowing he would feel it through their connection. Come out and visit me when you finish, dear one. I want to see you again with my own eyes. she purred longingly, loneliness creeping into the tone of her mental voice. She settled down at the back of her Rider's mind, watching things through his eyes.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek flashed a look at Cy Ara and Ka, wary all of a sudden.
"If that is what you prefer."
He said, already shifting uncomfortably. It felt like he couldn't breath properly, surrounded by dead wood and some stone. He couldn't see, couldn't hear, like all his senses were being smothered to only a small degree of what they could be. He swallowed hard, though he forced himself to wait for Cy Ara. Speaking of her, he gazed at her questioningly, remembering her answer to why she was here.
"What was that earlier about Lukia?"
He asked, though the skin around his eyes tightened at the name. Lukia Ursl had murdered his parents and their animal companions. It was understandable that he hated the man. Tyleek's eyes sharpened as he riveted them on Cy Ara.
"He isn't here, is he? Is he after you?"
He growled the questions, rage and excitement coursing through him. His hands shook, and he had to clench them into fists to keep from grabbing the stave. He closed his eyes briefly, his nostrils flaring as he attempted to control his violent emotions.

It is Tyleek. Him and I were about to head to a Tavern. Meet you afterwards? We won't be long.
She didn't bother to ask where yet. She figured Jia was on the outside of town, so no one would make a big deal out of her. And when the time came, she'd be able to sense which direction.
"Party pooper. Fine. . but make sure to get plenty of water." Cy Ara murmured out loud after hearing Ka's answer. She turned back to Tyleek, hearing his question, and hesitated before speaking quietly, raising her arms to grip both her elbows. She gazed at him, able to tell how stressed he truly was being here in this environment instantly with the bond they shared. The faint glimpse of the spiritual thread traveling from her to Tyleek - that only trained Allatik's could see - was blurry, frayed slightly, because of him being weakened.
"He's always after me. But Lukia himself isn't after me. He hasn't become that insane yet. He sent one of his best: Malaktai. The man who'd attacked me so long ago, in Kuasta, right before we met. He had me cornered in the alley. And truthfully, I was a bit nervous about fighting him on my own. Anyone with a brain could tell he'd gotten stronger since we last met. That's when Ka cut in and. . drove him off."
She glanced Ka's way out of the corner of her eyes, jaw tensing, before turning towards the door, back to both Ka and Tyleek as she bent her head slightly.
"Let's go, Tyleek. There's someone I want to meet after we get a drink."

Jia prummed happily at Ka's response.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek nodded at both Cy Ara and Ka. He made for the door, pulling it open silently. He forced himself to stay steady until they got outside. As soon as his feet touched the earth, he relaxed immensely. He led the way to the tavern, sitting in a chair so his back was to a wall.

She hadn't expected Ka to just blurt the words out so suddenly, but she was happy when he agreed to go. Oddly enough. She wasn't quite sure why it mattered so much that he did. After double checking that Siberia was still asleep, she nodded at Ka's words and followed Tyleek out, watching him carefully. When she saw he was stable, she relaxed a little and let her gaze travel up to the sky. The sun was lower. It would be nightfall within the next hour. It would be a good cover for when they went to see Jia.
In the tavern, it was loud and noisy. Cy Ara was surprised she hadn't seen it earlier, when walking through the town. She sat with her back to the rest of the place, close to Tyleek, and spoke quietly.
"Now that i'm here. . I wonder if it was a good idea. It's a little crowded. And it's clear plenty of them are all ready drunk, even this early."

"Quiet. You just sat down. Would staying in the room have been anymore fun, since, you know, you didn't want to come in the first place and I forced you into coming?"
Cy Ara teased, smiling a little as she gazed at the wooden table they sat at. She was tracing the lines and circles in front of her, seeming to be entranced by them in a sort of way.
"So how does this place work. . do we get the drinks or does someone come to us? Every place I've been to. ." But before she even finished her sentence, she noticed Tyleek get up so suddenly and leave his seat. She watched the events go down, flinching when the man came up behind Tyleek and he elbowed him in the side of the head. As the other man fell unconscious, Cy Ara glanced over towards Ka, eyebrow arched.
"You wanted the fun. ."
She was going to get up and go to the bar to get some drinks, but when she stood, she noticed three more men were starting to close in on Tyleek. Even if he was strong enough to take on all three, she grew irritatedly angry and narrowed her eyes, tensing. She was ready to spring if he needed her, though she doubted he would.

In the end, after seeing everything had been under control to begin with, Cy Ara had slumped back into her chair, slouched over the table with her chin resting on her palm, her elbow on the table. She heaved a heavy sigh and murmured under her breath.
"Show offs."
She couldn't help but glance nonchalantly over towards Tyleek, nonetheless, even after Ka had whipped the other three guys' butts and came back over to sit down. She felt her annoyance grow as she watched though, and ended up looking back to the table. When Tyleek sat down, she murmured quietly.
"So who votes for getting drinks and ditching this place? Or just all together leaving. ."
She'd said it with more venom than she'd wished and showed more of the irritation on her face than she'd wished as well. It wasn't Ka or Tyleek. It was something else. Something else that was irritating her beyond her being able to bare.

Johdzsia grumbled discontentedly. I hope you are joking about that, dear one. If you are leaving, bring Cy Ara and Tyleek with you. she purred.

- - - - - - - - - -

"I vote leave, too. But count me out of the torching. The owners of this place have a hard enough time without having to rebuild their business." he said in response to Ka. Tyleek looked in surprise to Cy Ara, bewildered by the acid in her tone. Her expression showed irritation and annoyance, two things he'd rarely ever seen her express. He leaned forward slightly and touched his fingertips to the back of her hand, using the connection between them to help her relax.
"What's wrong, Cy Ara?" he murmured, his eyes glittering concern for her.

"Tyleek's right. . no burning it down. I just want to leave."
She murmured quietly, lifting her gaze when Tyleek leaned over to touch her hand. Their connection did calm her down, but only for a split moment before she pulled away and stood, a small smile on her face.
"I'm fine. I'm just tired. Been a long week of travel. ."
The smile seemed force and faded too soon for it to be real. She turned away, glancing around the tavern, before beginning to head for the door.
"Come on. . let's leave here."

Jia laughed. Right next to you! she cried, and her head suddenly burst from within the sand dune. She shook it to dislodge the sand, then the rest of her body followed. She eagerly padded forward until she stood before her Rider. Unlike before, when her head had barely reached his shoulders, now she hovered over him by at least three feet. Her form was more streamlined and muscular from training with her brother, but her gold-amethyst scales still gleamed and shone with health. She purred, a deep, rumbling sound, and lowered her head to push it into his chest, gently so she didn't knock him right over. Her teal-aquamarine eyes were half-slitted with happiness as her purr deepened. Little one.... she murmured, the tone of affection she reserved only for him very audible in her voice.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek watched Cy Ara carefully, concern nagging at him. He decided to let it go for now and merely followed Ka, but was surprised when the man didn't go back to the Inn. He trailed along in silence, curious, when they ended up outside. A felt vibrations under his feet, like breathing, but couldn't find where it was coming from....until a largish gold-amethyst dragoness exploded from a sand dune. He jumped back, startled, but bit his tongue to keep from crying out. From what it looked like, Ka and Jia had some history. He watched the tenderness between them and had to smile. He lifted a hand to stroke Theldor's chest feathers.

Cy Ara followed quietly behind the two, deep in thought. She didn't mean to worry Tyleek, but she couldn't help it. She didn't want to reveal what was bothering her. Not yet. She only hoped it would go away soon.
She as well had thought they'd be heading back to the Inn, having reluctantly forgotten about Jia. But when she finally lifted her head to see they were outside the town, she instantly felt Jia's presence. Though she didn't see her until she came out of the sand dune. A smile grew on her face as she watched, but she was surprised. She didn't know Ka and Jia had known each other. She also noticed how much growth Jia had gone through since they'd last met. She took a step forward, head bent back as she gazed up at Jia. It almost left her speechless.
"Jia. . you've grown. . so much. ."

Jia threw her head back and laughed, her eyes twinkling. Yes, I tend to agree that I could. she purred, then settled onto her stomach. Ka's happiness was affecting her, making her giddy with joy. She grinned at Cy Ara and Tyleek, happy to see them. Hello you two. What mischief have you gotten into lately? she raised a paw and chuckled. Wait, don't answer that. she said. She extended her long, slender neck out to the female Allatik and nuzzled her in the stomach, like she had when they met. Yes indeed, little one. Do you remember when you and I were talking of me having a Rider? she asked, then grinned even wider. She twitched her tail in Ka's direction, nearly smiling ear to ear. Well, your looking at him. she said, and laughed. She pulled her head back so it hovered beside Ka's thigh, a habitual place for her to be.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek smiled warmly at Jia.
"It's good to see you again, Juria Atoc." he murmured. The two words were something Cy Ara had taught him of their shared language, meaning 'Loving Angel'. It was a nickname he took pleasure in calling the radiant dragoness, as it fit her personality perfectly. His smile widened as he heard her purr deepen to an affectionate rumble in her chest.

Cy Ara was happy to see Ka was in a better mood. It even cheered her up a little. Jia's words did as well, and when she nuzzled her head into her stomach. It made her laugh. As she heard Jia speak again, her eyes widened slightly and she looked back to Ka, then to Jia once more before murmuring.
"Wow, I wouldn't have guessed it. You two seem. .like an unusual pair."
She grinned, and it was lopsided. She couldn't see how Ka's dark, depressing attitude fit Jia's loving and caring one. But then again, stranger things have happened. And she supposed they weren't that different. "I'm happy you found your rider, Jia."
When she heard Tyleek speak, she looked at him admiringly with a smile. "You've been practicing, nature boy." She toyed, before sighing lightly and gazing towards the ground.
"Hm. .now wonder how we all managed to find each other. Here, of all places. Maybe it's destiny." She was being sarcastic, but deep down, she wondered if she really meant it.
A sudden chill ran up her spine and she raised her hands to grip her elbows, speaking quietly. "Maybe I should head back to check up on Siberia. It's getting kind of chilly, don't you agree?" She wanted to go back to the Inn, but she didn't want to say anything out loud. Because in doing so might make Tyleek ask what she was afraid he'd ask. Normally, she would just make a small flame and use that to keep her warm.

Jia purred, snorting softly so Ka's tunic ruffled and pulled tighter around his torso. What, can't I make any friends? she teased, her eyes tinkling. She glanced quickly at Cy Ara, but decided to stay silent. She crooned sadly and pushed her head close to Ka. Must you leave so soon, dear one? she murmured.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek looked sharply at Cy Ara. She was acting very unlike her. His eyes narrowed at her claim of a chill, though concern lit his expression as she shuddered. He moved subconsciously to cover her with his extra tunic, but held back. He watched her, knowing she would feel his gaze on her. He growled in his throat, a warning sound that he knew she would hear and know that as soon as they returned to the Inn, questions would be asked.

Cy Ara narrowed her eyes at Ka because he kind of ruined what she was going for. But she knew it wasn't his fault. She watched Jia gaze at her for a moment and felt bad. She really wanted to stay and spend time with the dragoness. . but she couldn't stand being so out in the open, vulnerable to any attack in the dark. She knew if something happened and she couldn't help it, the other's would take care of it. But just the thought sent her nerves tingling. She gazed downwards until she felt Tyleek's gaze and a rumble in his throat. She lifted her gaze to him slightly, out of the corner of her eyes, and tensed her jaw as she let it gaze once more. She rubbed her arms slightly, before speaking quietly.
"Ah. .yeah. .but she might wake up and become worried. . I think after such a long journey across the desert, she may wake up a little disoriented. ."

Jia's croon deepened to a tender rumble when Ka said he would stay.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek caught the key reflexively, though he knew Ka had been aiming for Cy Ara. He nodded once in farewell to Jia, then spun on his heel and ghosted back to the town. He passed by the guards at the gate and nearly ran over a woman on his way up the stairs to the room. He apologized quickly then unlocked the door and stalked in. He whirled, his eyes glittering,"What's wrong, Cy Ara? I haven't seen you act like this ever. Something's bugging you, bad. Spill." he growled, though his voice was tender with concern.

She had been ready to catch the key, but when she went to raise her hand, Tyleek caught the key instead. She pulled both of her arms in again, close to her chest as she glanced to Tyleek. She felt like a little girl who knew she was in trouble.
When Tyleek turned so suddenly to leave, Cy Ara blinked, looking after him. She turned back around to face Ka and Jia and frowned, raising a hand to wave slightly.
"See you later Jia, Ka."
She turned after Tyleek. She had to rush to keep up with him, and was actually a little worried by the way he was acting. Not that he'd hurt her, but just because of the intensity of his emotions. Passing the woman on the stairs, she also murmured a 'sorry' before heading after Tyleek again. Once in the room, she walked in slowly, cautiously, and hesitantly shut the door, leaning against it with her hands behind her. She knew how protective Tyleek was. She was kind of wary about telling him. She spoke quietly.
"I. . am not sure what you are talking about. I'm acting different? I didn't notice." She bit her lower lip, glancing Siberia's way. She was happy to see she was still asleep.

Ka watched them leave, noting the sudden change in Tyleek. "Jia, any idea what had Tyleek so riled?" He wasn't asking because he cared, but because he was curious. He sat down in the sand next to her, remembering how he had done this when she was only to his shoulder. "It is good to see you again Jia...have you anything to tell since we've been apart?" He asked, because unlike with Cy Ara and tyleek, he actually cared about Jia.

OOC: wow...that sounded kinda mean... xD

Jia purred and laid her largish head in Ka's lap. Something was bothering Cy Ara. Tyleek is the same race as her, and Allatik's are very....in tune to each others emotions. He picked up on her feelings and now he's worried about her. She's one of the only people he trusts, because of what happened to him as a child. she murmured, crooning without thinking about it. She shrugged her large shoulders. Other than popping in here and there to help people, not much. Though I met a few friends a month ago. she said, showing him the images from that.

OOC:
@Rathon; Long story short, go look at the thread "Ruins of Time" in Hadarac Desert. That's when Jia is talking about.

IC:
Tyleek growled again.
"That's a load of crap and you know it." he snapped in frustration. He stopped short and turned around so his back was to her. He took a few deep breaths to calm himself, then spoke again.
"I want to help you, but I can't do that if I don't know what's wrong." he murmured, looking over his shoulder toward Cy Ara. The single iris that was visible to the female Allatik was shrouded by tendrils of midnight blue hair. He turned around to face her.
"Please, Natsa (Sister). Tell me what's bothering you." he pleaded, his eyes filled with concern.

She flinched when Tyleek snapped. She felt bad, for making him so emotional, but a part of her grew annoyed. She clenched her hands in fists by her side to restrain herself from yelling, though her voice was still harsh.
"You're overreacting, Tyleek! Completely." Her gaze was hard as she stared at him, jaw set. After a moment, she raised a hand to her temple, letting her eyes fall closed as she wrapped her other arm around her waist and spoke quietly.
"It happens sometimes. It's. . . like a glitch. Remember how I explained to you, further, our people? We are made of two different kinds. Purebloods and Regulars. You're a regular. You can tell because your hair isn't black." She lifted her gaze to him, motioning with the hand next to her temple to his midnight blue hair, then to her ebony hair. "Mine is. Black hair is the first sign of purebloods. The next sign is if your eyes are the opposite of your element. Mine are. I am a pureblood. I told you all that, but what I didn't tell you was that purebloods have a defect. ."
She hesitated, dropping her hand and letting her gaze fall. "Though Purebloods are stronger than Regulars, something happens that makes them almost weaker. It's completely random and there is no warning, at all. But sometimes we loose our abilities to fight. Not only do we grow weaker, but we can't control our element or speak to our companions. We are completely vulnerable. I haven't been able to make fire for days now. And the weakening is finally starting to hit me. I was hoping it would end before it started. . but it didn't. It's the reason why I was so cautious about fighting Malaktai. Why I didn't want to get involved at the Tavern. And why I wanted to get back here, where it's mostly safer than out there in the open. . outside the village. ."
Cy Ara went completely silent, arms wrapped around herself. She hated admitting that she was weak. Even if it was something she couldn't control. She couldn't stand the thought of not being able to stand up and fight for herself, or for someone whom she cared about. She couldn't stand this. . curse.

Jia purred in content. Maybe, maybe not. I think you were too far away for me to contact at the time. When I'm older, I can disgorge my Heart and give it to you. Then it will be bigger and can store more energy for you to use. she murmured. Her purr deepened at his touch, and she couldn't suppress a chuckle. Sounds like you need a mission or two to keep you occupied. she teased, still chortling happily.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek listened with a clenched jaw to Cy Ara. Another growl rumbled in his throat when she accused him of overreacting. He shook his head mutely from side to side, trying to control his temper. When she finally explained, his entire body slowly relaxed with each word, tension draining from his limbs and into the ground beneath him. When she fell quiet, he stood motionless for several seconds, then he deliberately moved forward until he was directly in front of the female Allatik. He put a tender finger under her chin and tilted her head up so he could see her expression. She was scared, yet defiant. He'd never seen her scared. He sighed and gently pulled her into his arms, resting his jaw on her head.
"I understand, Cy Ara. But please try to understand me, as well. You are all the family I have left. When you suddenly clam up and don't talk to me like we usually do, it scares the living hell out of me because then I think I'm going to loose you somehow." he murmured, his eyes clenched shut. He moved back just enough to see her face.
"I apologize for my reaction, but that's just how my mind works, I'm afraid." he said, and tried to smile. He failed miserably.
"When does the 'Weakening' stop, usually? Because I won't leave your side until it does." he promised softly, his eyes showing protection and vulnerability.

Her gaze was hard when Tyleek lifted her head up. It took her a moment to familiarize herself with Tyleek's warmth and hold before she finally raised her arms slightly to hug him back. She let her eyes fall closed at the feeling of Tyleek's chin on her top of her head, resisting the urge to just collapse in his arms and sleep. It was too comfortable. He reminded her of a big teddy bear. .
Listening to him speak though, his words bounced around her noggin for a moment when he pulled back to gaze at her. Revealing her midnight engulfed eyes, she gazed back before speaking quietly. Seeing his fail at a smile made her lips curve into a small grin themselves.
"You did over react. But I didn't handle it much better either. I shouldn't have snapped."
She hesitated a moment, auditing her pasts records of when she came down with this little sickness like 'curse'. After a moment, she spoke quietly.
"It varies. Last time, It last a full day. The time before that, a few days. One time, a while back, it lasted for over a month. It was before you and I had even met." She looked away slightly, gaze hard again as they darted slightly. "I've tried keeping a clear record, to see if there might be a pattern. But there isn't one. It stops when it stops."

If you need me the need is always great. she said firmly. She laughed heartily at his abhorrence of work. Oh come now, dear one. If it was a mission to do with protecting me, I doubt you would object for very long, if at all. If you did get a mission, think of it instead of protecting Alagaësia, your protecting me. In a way, that's actually true. she said, prumming in satisfaction at her twist of words.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek pursed his lips, watching Cy Ara's expression.
"No, you didn't do anything wrong. I just need to learn some control over my anxiety so it doesn't consume me like that." he countered firmly, his brow furrowing. She had some loose strands of hair again, just like when they met. He caught them, placing them behind her ears as he spoke.
"Then I guess I will be with you until it stops. I will not leave you without some form of protection." he murmured, tucking the last piece behind her right ear. He angled his head around so he met her gaze. He purposefully smiled, letting his contentment in her presence show. It was the smile his mother had loved. He tapped her playfully on the nose, making sure he'd caught her attention.
"If Malaktai comes around, he's going to rue the day he decided to mess with you." his grin widened,"He should prove to be a challenge. That should be a fun meeting." he said, a gleam entering his lavender-blue irises.

Cy Ara found herself in a familiar state of mind when Tyleek brushed her lose strands of hair behind her ears. A smile was plastered onto her lips and her eyes fell closed. She found his words comforting and even a little predictable. When he finished, tapping her on the nose, she lifted her eyes and chuckled under her breath, gazing at him with a slightly raised brow. His smile comforted her even more.
"Thank you, Tyleek. But hopefully he won't bother me again. . just so you two won't meet. But if he does, i'm sure it would be. . fun."

OOC:
You skipped Saint_Virtue. >.>

IC:
Jia crooned sadly when her Rider had to leave. She laid down, her eyes watching him as he retreated back to the city. She sighed, contenting herself to wait for morning. She started up right, however, when she felt Ka lose consciousness. She roared angrily and leapt into the air. Her mind extended toward the city, quickly finding Tyleek and Cy Ara. She frantically contacted them both. Ka's in trouble! was all she said before she pulled away, but she knew it would be enough. She searched the desert for her Rider, trying desperately to locate him with their link. She became more and more distressed by the minute the longer she couldn't find him.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek jerked around with alarm, his lavender-blue eyes widening. Theldor squawked once and took to the air, zooming out of the window with impossible speed. The male Allatik stayed where he was, but he spun around to Cy Ara.
"Quickly, wake up Siberia. We might need her in this situation." he said urgently, his gaze darting from the female Allatik to the window every few seconds.

OOC: I noticed that. But it's fine. I wasn't sure exactly how to reply without a reply from 'Tyleek' anyhow. xD

IC:
It was just moments after Cy Ara had spoken that she felt Jia's mind present next to her own. She could tell immediately that something was wrong by the worried sensation that wavered in the back of her mind where Jia's voice radiated from. But just as quickly as she'd appeared, Jia disappeared and Cy Ara's gaze grew concerned as she looked to Tyleek.
She did as she was told and made her way to her guardian, kneeling beside her as she spoke and stroked along her mane. "Siberia. Wake up. I need you to wake up now." She didn't bother to try their telepathy. She knew their connection had been severed the moment the weakening began. She tugged on her wolf's white fur a bit roughly, causing her to dazedly startle awake. "Siberia! Wake up!"
The white wolf slowly lifted her head, becoming suddenly aware. She saw Tyleek, catching his scent, and many others that drifted around the room. She was confused. Cy Ara quickly explained Siberia, out loud, that Jia needed their help and that she couldn't speak telepathically to the other. Siberia nodded, looking to Cy Ara. But when Siberia spoke, she directed it towards Tyleek when she stood and tok a few steps closer, Cy Ara standing behind her.
Tyleek, I take it. It's a shame we couldn't have met under better circumstances.
"We need to go. It's obviously an emergency." With that, Cy Ara quickly made her way out the door. She was afraid of wasting any more time.

Jia felt the link and jerked around, heading straight for it. It vanished quickly, but she had the general direction now. Her keen draconic eyesight caught a horse drawn wagon, and she flapped hastily for it. Anger was making her vision pulse crimson. With a sharp crack! and a loud thud, she landed several yards in front of the wagon. Her head snapped forward, wings coming abruptly off her back, her jaws opening to release a rage filled roar. The horse skittered to a stop, terrified of her appearance. You have someone that belongs to me. she hissed, her voice low and menacing. Return him and maybe I won't kill you. she threatened, her talons massaging the loose sand beneath her paws.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek dipped his head formally to Siberia, also wishing their meeting could have been less dramatic. He blew out the door, dropping to one knee the instant his feet touched earth. His palm pressed flat against the ground, his head tilting back with his eyes closed as he listened. His eyes snapped open abruptly.
"Their not far. Maybe a league or two from the city walls. This way." he said brusquely, straightening to his full height and instantly going into a full speed sprint in the direction of Jia, Ka, and whoever had taken the Reaper in the first place. He grimaced, knowing full well the protective rage that boiled inside the gold-amethyst. The same fire burned in him.

Jia snarled, her teal irises threatening to burst into light. You have my Rider. He may be unconscious, but I can feel him inside your wagon. Give him to me, or so help me I will rip you and your companions to shreds before you can even raise your sword. she snapped, her wings raising off her back as she stepped forward a few paces.

- - - - - - - - - -
Tyleek followed just behind Siberia, occasionally glancing back over his shoulder to Cy Ara.

Jia's lips peeled back further as she took a few more steps forward. Her eyes were glowing brightly now, tails of light floating like wisps at the corner of her eyes. Lies! My powers let me see the truth, and I see a young man laying there, covered in webs of illusion. Release him and give him to me! she roared angrily, her scales bristling with hostility. Her gaze briefly darted to Siberia as the white wolf attacked and was thrust away. She doubted the wolf was injured. She only wanted Ka back at the moment.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek noticed Cy Ara was standing slightly out of the way. It alarmed him when he saw she had no weapons. Without thinking, he whipped his stave out and tossed it to her,"Use this for now. You need it more than I for now." he said, then turned his attention to the man and woman. Siberia was ripping the skin off the female. He raised both arms, fingers pointed sharply downward. He abruptly drew them up into a fist. A sticky, thick substance like mud encased the mans calves, rendering him unable to move. He turned to the driver, piercing him with a hard glare,"I suggest you give her what she wants." he advised, both arms held in a loose circle in front of his chest. He snarled angrily after Siberia was thrown out of the wagon. He listened for a moment, making sure the white wolf was uninjured. Once he had, he turned on the woman. He made the same motion again, but instead of just her legs, her entire body up to her chest was covered in the dark brown goo, pinning her arms to her sides.

OOC: Sorry DS4, but you might want to revise your post a bit as I skipped part of Saint's post about Siberia attacking the wagon x[

OOC:
No problem and done.

Jia roared with rage and sprang straight up into the air, effectively dodging the dagger. The moment she touched down she leapt forward toward the wagon. Her talons easily cut through the horses harness; the four-legged beast reared and took off at a gallop. She slashed at the two drivers, knocking them from the seat. Her vision was pulsing with crimson, her ears ringing, her tongue and nostrils could taste and smell hot metal. She stuck her head inside the wagon, snarling ferociously and snapping her jaws. Her teeth closed on an arm. She ripped her head out of the wagon, dragging the female magician with her.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek summoned a block of earth to take the dagger. He rolled quickly. Once he popped back onto his feet, he noticed the two drivers. His arms shot up, parallel to each other. The earth beneath the drivers turned to a thick substance, drawing them down until only their heads were visible. The earth around them hardened, trapping them. he jerked his head to Theldor.
Help Siberia. he barked to the Guardian. He did not wait for the golden eagle to respond. The Allatik's lavender-blue sought out Cy Ara. He knew she wouldn't appreciate his protection, but he couldn't stand to see her standing alone. He flashed to her side, shielding her flank from a surprise attack. Two balls of earth hovered on either side of his body.

She took know notice to the things going on around her. It took everything in her and every ounce of her focus to not get hit by the third merchants twin blades. She blocked, easily with the stave, but felt herself losing her balance and strength with every impact between the weapons.
She ducked under a swing, lashing out with the stave to pull the merchants legs from beneath him, but missed, quite pitifully, as the merchant simply moved backwards enough for it to miss. It infuriated Cy Ara. She pounced at the man when he charged her, swinging with all her strength when he was in range. The stave connected with the merchant's side, but only phased him as he stumbled. It was then she felt Tyleek beside her. She whipped her gaze his way surprised. Though she was thankful, her words were full of annoyance.
"What're you doing? Get Ka. I've got this!"
Right when she finished speaking, the merchant with the twin blades surprised her. She spun around just in time to knock away his blade with the stave, but his other sword made contact with her upper arm, causing a deep gash to appear. She yelled out, falling on her back to the sand. The merchant was just about to strike again before she'd had time to think when Siberia, snarling with rage unseen within her before, lunged at the merchant from the side. It surprised him, causing him to drop his blades as Siberia pinned him to the sand and began sinking her teeth into him. He was dead within moments.

Jia whipped her head back and forth, her rage consuming her to the brim. She froze when Ka disappeared. She tossed the female magician aside like a rag doll and pushed her head into the wagon, searching for her Rider....All she saw was the male magician. Her rage boiled over and power coalesced within her. She released it with a roar of blind rage. Her magic tore into the wagon, shredding it to splinters of wood, and gashed a terrible wound in the male magician's chest. She roared again and picked up the magician with magic, holding him by the throat and lifting him from the ground. Where is he?! she demanded, though it sounded more like a shriek than an actual sentence. She was beyond simple rage, and the magician better know it, or he was dead meat.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek shook his head.
"He's gone. I can't feel his heartbeat anymore." he said simply, and stayed where he was. He was just beginning to move after Cy Ara was knocked down, but Siberia was many times faster. He watched as the white wolf tore the man to pieces.

Siberia, fur bloody around her snout and neck, retracted off the male after realizing he was gone. She shook herself again, disliking the iron sensation that slivered down the back of her throat. She'd never been one for violence. . unless it involved protection her Allatik. She turned towards Cy Ara, rushing over to make sure she'd been unharmed. She knew she couldn't hear her speak, so she communicated by nuzzling a part of her face that wasn't bloody against her arm as she helped her stand.
Cy Ara used Siberia for support as she stood, looking to Tyleek when he spoke, then whipping her head around to the wagon as she watched Jia tear it to shreds. A sudden burst of sorrowful anger coursed through her. She might not have known Ka for but a day, but she wouldn't stand for something like this to happen.
Siberia also felt a wary sadness etch its way inside her. She knew what it was like to be a toy put up for sale on the black market. She'd recognized that the merchants weren't just regular merchants right away. She was basically running on avenging anger. She hated the black market and anything and anyone that had anything to do with it.
Cy Ara looked to Tyleek, holding his stave out to him while speaking quietly.
"Thank you. ."
Then she looked towards Jia, frowning. She knew what it was like to lose a piece of you. She'd been separated from Siberia plenty of times to know the feeling.

The magician yelled in pain as a gash appeared in his chest, and spit up blood. He struggled against his invisible bonds when Jia picked him up. He looked at her, eyes wide with fear. "I can't tell you, he'll kill me if I do! Please, let me go! I'm just a transporter!" He wailed, begging for Jia's pity

In the room, Ka had been tied down and stripped stark naked, and was being examined by two people in white masks. "He has strange markings on his back..." Said one of the men. "But other than that, he is perfectly healthy." A man hummed from the shadows at this. "Good...what about his internals..." He sounded sinister. "In-internals sir?" Something flew across the room and hit the man in the head with a dull thud. "Ouch...ok, yes sir." The second man walked over and opened a cabinet and took out various medical items and set them down beside Ka and began to cut him open.

OOC: caterpillar Jia has the Force! xD

Jia shrieked her rage, most likely shattering the male magician's eardrums. I'll kill you if you don't tell me! If you won't, I'll take it from you by force! she roared, snapping her teeth together mere inches from his face. Her scales were threatening to burst into brilliant light.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek calmly took the stave, holding it diagonally to the ground. His heart clenched with sympathy for Jia. He'd never been separated from Theldor. The mere idea of it sent shivers down his spine.

- - - - - - - - - -

Jia abruptly gasped, stumbling back in pain. But there was no wound where the pain was coming from. Her mind snapped to the next possible solution; Ka was in pain. Her rage soared above the clouds. her scales erupted into glorious light, a glowing gold aura radiating from her hide with pure power. She snarled viciously and jerked her muzzle within inches of the magician's face. Tell me where he is. she demanded, her voice strangely, dangerously, calm. But the calm was even worse.

Cy Ara was actually starting to get a little worried about Jia. She took a step back, despite being out of her range of fire. You never knew what could happen. But Jia was really worrying her. She spoke quietly, hand resting on top of Siberia's head.
"Siberia. . do you smell anything?"
At the sound of her name, the wolf lifted her head to her Allatik before lifting it further to take a big whiff of the air around her. She could smell Ka's scent. But it seemed to just end, abruptly, from near the village to where what was left of the wagon was now. She whined once, shaking her head.
Cy Ara frowned, thinking hard. She knew there was an old Allatik skill floating around in her head somewhere about a situation just like this. . but she couldn't remember.
Then suddenly, she felt a little tug on her entire body, pulling her towards Siberia, who also must have felt it. They looked at each other momentarily. It had felt as if everything inside her had been hollow and corroding slowly for the past few days. But now, it was as if someone flipped a switch. She felt strong again. Not only that. . she remembered the skill.
Cy Ara's head whipped up, looking to Jia. A sudden spark of something that wasn't there a few moments ago was abruptly consuming Cy Ara and it was clear in her eyes. She yelled out, a largish flame emitting from her mouth and lighting up Tyleek, Siberia, and herself at first before dwindling.
"Jia! I know how we can find Ka! But leave the merchant alive, for now. We might need him."

Jia's tail twitched at Cy Ara's exclamation. Her eyes narrowed to cat-like slits. She snorted, blowing the magician back so he landed on a pile of wood. You'd better hope your right. she threatened, then turned to the two drivers. Her scales flared, and her magic encased them, immobilizing them both. She then padded to her Allatik friend, stopping just in front of her. Though her hide still radiated its own light, it was softer, gentler. The gold-amethyst crooned, her eyes filled with anguish. Please, little one.... she pleaded, moisture glistening in her eyes.

- - - - - - - - - -

Tyleek watched grimly as Jia interrogated the magician. He had never really liked magic users. The advantage they had over him always made him uneasy around them. His head whipped around and he stared at Cy Ara as flame erupted from her mouth. Her powers were back! He sighed in relief, nodding slightly to himself. He looked down at the male magician, then the female. He wondered what to do with them. He shrugged; he'd let Jia or Cy Ara deal with them. He would sooner kill them so they couldn't follow them and cause trouble than help them and then end up with a knife between their ribs.

Her gaze softened when Jia stopped in front of her. She raised her hand, smiling softly, but with a determined edge to it, as she raised her hand to lightly rest against Jia's neck.
"I can find Ka. And so can Tyleek. . He hasn't had practice with this skill, yet, but with the two of us, we can find Ka, no problem. But just in case something happens, and I lose my powers again, I want you to keep the three of them alive. Just for right now. We'll ditch them somewhere before we get to wherever they are keeping him. Ok?" Her expression became slightly devious as she spoke to Jia through her telepathy this time, making sure the three by the debris didn't hear.
Give me ten minutes to get back to the village to get my things. I have some rope in my sack. We'll tie them together and you can let them dangle, as punishment, while we head there. Take Tyleek with you, into the sky. I'll stay down here, with Siberia.
When she finished, she lifted her head to Tyleek and spoke calmly. She was on a role. She felt like commandeering something. .
"Tyleek. . I need my things. Head back with me, so I can explain to you how this skill works. All right? It doesn't take much practice, or focus, to get it right." She looked back and forth between Jia and Tyleek, grinning slightly. "Is that ok with you two?"