Dragon Festival (open to all!)

[Silisia Anja Saffy]

THE TRUTH COMES OUT IN THE BREAKDOWNS
( • M E M O R I E S M Y G O D T H E S E M E M O R I E S • )

Her ears rung with the court’s final decision; acceptance. The queen smiled gracefully at the council, who had looked dubiously at her statement. Was he dangerous they had asked. Does he had the right intentions toward the kingdom and your majesty, they had questioned. The heated debate had rung on for hours. The queen even had to leave them alone to decide amongst themselves. They had finally agreed that it would be for the better protection of the impulsive queen. She was surprised when Aslim had supported her decision. That had been the change in mine the council needed. However, he seemed to have a condition in mind that Gwyndar would perhaps resent. Aslim had insisted that he have some chance to speak to the rider. Internally the queen groaned at that point. However, she took it. She had little other choice. The other condition was something Sil feared would drive the man away.

< “The council agreed,”> she thought, hoping he would hear. < “There will be a great festival tonight, for some stupid tradition about dragon riders. Please, it’s the only way they’ll accept you into their ranks. Come to the entrance of the city at sunset.”>
She flinched at the thought of it being a stupid tradition. It was a story parents used to tell their children. If the dragon riders of the elves returned, there would be a great feast for all in the city to enjoy. Messengers were sent to the outlying villages. For the cynicism, they truly were embracing there chance to celebrate. The queen moved off to her chambers. She had much to do before the ceremony. Relinquishing herself of her courtly dress, she chose a flattering red silk dress to appease ceremonial standards. Satisfied she looked the part; she donned a simple necklace and placed the cold circlet on her head. The queen moved to the windowsill, and looked down upon the city. There was a great excitement in the air as many people bustled to put up colourful lanterns and lay out great tables for all the citizens. It was said that there’d be not a child or beggar hungry at the feast. The idea was magical.

Finalising her dress, the woman found her husband’s former sword and buckled it around her waist. The queen walked out onto the open entrance of her palace. Her guards and her advisors all waited round. The darkening streets played with the light of the coloured lanterns.
“Your horse, Majesty,” the captain of the guard gestured to one of the stable hands holding Oblivion. The young stallion pawed the ground impatiently. A small groan of unhappiness left her lips at the sight of the side saddle. But still she climbed up with no complaints and the party moved forward, along the streets lined with the people.
< “Gwyndar?”>she called out, hoping he would show at the edge of the city.

How would she explain to her advisors and the peoples of Samarid that he changed his mind at such late notice? Nerves rippled through her at the cheers of the crowds. Children ran out in front of the soldiers with brightly coloured kites, while frantic mothers chased after them. A small smile of amusement touched her lips. The party halted outside the city walls, and Silisia moved her horse to the front of the group. People spilled out behind them, eyes cast up to the skies, waiting and watching.

THEY DON'T MEAN ANYTHING OH THOSE MEMORIES
( • A S Y O U S P O K E Y O U R F O R K E D T O N G U E S H O W E D • )

W O R D S • 575
T A G G E D • Gwyndar, Nalean, Aila, Alice, Isolde, Alomir, Aslim, Anyone really. Open to all.
O U T F I T • click!
L Y R I C S • memories by lion if ido
T E M P L A T E • PANIC! ITS LAUZ of CAUTION
N O T E S •all can join, like a sort of site bonding thread

[Alice Rae Lindale]

<sup>Finally, to escape that deeply hated place know to be her home. But Alice had never thought of it as a home. Home was supposed to be somewhere you were safe and cared for, but hers had been no such place. The girl was so exhausted now, trying not to fall asleep on her horse as she crossed the Samarid border. Slowly, she began to lean forward, eye-lids drooping as she tried to steady herself in the saddle, but the effort was far too much. The world grew slowly darker.

A loud thud sounded, and all of Alice's body suddenly ached. A soft mew sounded, and silky smooth fur brushed against Alice's face. Slowly, Alice's eyes flickered open. Chessy was nuzzling her face gently with his muzzle and Rouge stood nearby. The girl sat up in alarm, realizing the stupid thing she'd done. She fallen asleep in the saddle, a rookie mistake when riding. Surprise stuck the girl's stomach with another blow as she realized that the sun had sunken in the sky, and night was beginning to fall.

Fear skimmed across the girl's eyes as she gazed around, at first unsure of where she was. Hopeful that Rouge had kept going straight, and that they had not passed the city, Alice decided to ride in the direction she had been going before. The girl lifted her cat from the ground where he'd leapt down beside her and put him back into a bag that served as a place for him to stay on the saddle. Alice reflected slightly, and realized she was lucky that Chessy had not run off. She quickly checked to make sure that Oz was still with her as well.

Glad that her stupid mistake had not cost her what she cared for most dearly, Alice remounted Rouge who had been surprisingly calm since their departure of Sandimont. The great horse was usually a challenge to ride, but since her departure, he'd been calm and obedient. At least that had been going right. Alice kicked her horse into a trot, hoping to at least find somewhere where she could find out where she was. Rouge shook his head heavily as he started forward, quickly speeding up to a smooth trot.

Much to the girl's surprise, she discovered her location at the top of the next hill. Not far from where she was now, a grand city stretched over the land. Such a place could only be the capitol. After all, from what she could see, a castle rested in the middle of the city. A grin breaking out over her face, Alice signaled Rouge to speed up. The large horse readily leapt into a gallop, tossing his head excitedly. They fast approached the city.

Alice was suddenly very awake and excited. She couldn't wait to see the queen who had said she would be welcome here. The girl had not yet met anyone else from the area, though she suspected most would be oddly suspicious of her since she was from their rival country. The girl desperately hopped she'd be welcome here. She wondered if the queen would notice how long her hair had grown since their last meeting, as her parents had been careful to make sure she did not cut it short again. That would be the first thing the girl did once she found somewhere to stay.

much to Alice's surprise, a great crowd of people were gathered outside the city. At the head of the group, a woman was seated on a beautiful horse. She could only be the queen. Suddenly, nervousness sunk in Alice's stomach. What if the queen had not truly meant her invitation. What if Alice was not allowed to stay and had to keep riding. The girl flinched slightly. She instantly pulled her stallion to a halt, now afraid to approach. Besides, the group clearly looked like they were expecting someone.

But then, what was Alice to do? She could not return home. Never. Where might she run? Alice suddenly felt very alone. There was no other choice. She rode forward, looking as confident as she could, toward the great group. The girl pulled her horse to a halt in front of the group, facing the queen. She dismounted and gave a short bow. "You're majesty," she greeted the queen happily, hoping her accent wouldn't draw too much anger or suspicion. Alice looked up with a grin. "I hope presence isn't a nuisance. If you don't mind me asking, who are you all out here waiting for?"</sup>

[Gwyndar]

IDONTMEANTORUN/BUTEVERYTIMEYOUCOMEAROUND

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IFEELMOREALIVETHANEVER/IGUESSITSJUSTTOMUCH

Somewhere deep in the mountains hidden behind greenery and the shadows that had been his haven for half a decade the rider of Stryklak; the rogue murderer who was devoid of home and social connection sat looking over the top of the Queendom he knew belonged to his little woman. She was his, despite her royal occupation. Though he had pledged his loyalties as both rider and man to her he remained in need of remembering that she was his superior. She was the one by which all laws, all judgments passed. And who was the one in charge of keeping him safe from the claws of the law. Without her vouching for his position as a citizen that was not one to be feared nor shunned then the chances of his being accepted were slim.

After having spent the night with the beautiful woman the rider had to rethink his attire; he could not adorn himself in all his weaponry. Could not be the one who looked more offensive than defensive. If he looked dangerous then he would be treated as such.

Yet with the dragon now begrudgingly complying with the idea of working with a pledge he too needed to abide by, he had taken up residency atop the mountain so that the two could keep an eye out over the castle. To make sure that nothing ran in the way of trouble during a time when Gwyn knew that Silisia needed the space to simply keep her court in check. If there was any interruptions it would make the process of accepting him into their supposed society far less smooth. If anything was to be progressive then he would need to be well presented and unfortunately well behaved to the point where he would look like a totally new person.

The sudden shock of a voice in his head made the rider smirk. At least the connection had not been weakened over the space. He could hear her as clear as if she had been standing next to him. However her words did not make the thought of his introduction into the council any sweeter. if anything the thought of having to be on parade like that made his gut clench and his stomach do flops in very uncomfortable positions. A great feast for a dragon rider? Of course something like that would be strange for him; he was not used to 'feasts' or to celebratory events. Normally he avoided such contact with people. <"Must I? I feel it would be unwise for me to be somewhere so ... open.>" He replied, putting a hand to his head and rubbing his forehead.

Of course he would be sure that he make the attempt to do as she asked. It was a request as a queen, not as his lover. Strange as the idea was that he had a lover. He had gone so long without being in the arms of a woman that the prospect of being a lover was odd; if not mentally implausible.

Soon however the sun had set and and the time to make his appearance was upon him. It was to be one of the most nerve wracking appearances that he would ever make in his life. To be so public again after five years, was he even ready to do something like this? Only when he heard the voice of his tiny woman once more did he wrack up the courage to stand up against the dragon. Patting his side harshly to wake up the beast that had been slumbering. <"Time to wake sleeping beauty."> He chuckled; only getting a rather grumpy response from the notion of being awoken so quickly.

"<We are in the mountains. We shall arrive shortly. Siluth shall call when he can see you."> He notified the little woman, his voice more strained than before he mounted the beast. Dressed in little more than his tattered cloth top and trousers; his bow and arrows across his back and as always the small dagger close by his side. His cloak tight around his body to prevent him from the cold so high in the mount and from what he knew to be a heavy descent from the top of the mountains. With a quick and swift jump the two were finally in the air; diving from their point at its peak and swirling through the clouds.

Once the ant shapes he knew were people came into sight Siluth let out a loud roar. Alerting the queen hopefully that they were in the sky. Soon enough however the large shadow rose high over the heads of the crowd; high above the kites before lowering himself, letting his mighty size be seen by the awe stricken crowd. Some screamed, some cheered ... some simply stood in silence. It was incredible to see so many people in one place. For both rider and dragon. <"Red suits you."> Gwyn said with a shark wink before the two long hidden creatures grounded themselves. With an almighty thud the dragon set itself down on the ground and with a final beat of its wings allowed the rider to slip off its back and approach the Queen, his wandering eyes taking in with a hidden smirk the low cut red dress. She had obviously wanted to make another impression.

"Queen Silisia." He said with a short bow, his shaggy hair falling in front of his face. His hood hiding what remained of his features. It was only when he righted himself and pushed the hood from his head that he allowed himself the pleasure of looking around him. There was alot more people than he anticipated. Noting the tiny girl who had also made herself an audience with his Queen he moved away from her, keeping his eyes on Silisia before quietly speaking with strain. ]<"There are far more people than I would think crowd here.">

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[Silisia Anja Saffy]

THE TRUTH COMES OUT IN THE BREAKDOWNS
( • M E M O R I E S M Y G O D T H E S E M E M O R I E S • )

A sigh of frustration touched her mind at his words. She knew he would not take too kindly to the thought of other people coming to view his arrival. Feeling a massive headache coming in, she rubbed her temples.
< “If there was a better way, I would take that path. This way will secure the people’s trust,”> she replied, trying to keep the frustration within her mind. She had been fighting with her court for most of the day; she truly did not need this as well. Such was the life of a queen she supposed. Her eyes closed for a moment, gathering her patience. The lack of sleep from the previous night did not help matters much. Her temper was known to stem from lack of sleep. However, this was not the time. She truly did not want to snap at him, rather at the courtiers who had seemed to desire making her life a living nightmare. By tomorrow, it would all be over. She could then rest in Gwyndar’s arms without fear. For a day at least. She flinched, knowing that was not true. She’d be sending Alomir to the elves to try cement relations and appeasing any courtiers who objected to today’s decision.

Yet for the mere moment, she could pretend that she was free enough to spend her time as she’d like. In truth, she tried to think little of her duties and attempted to carry them out without worrying about whether it took away her personal life. At this moment, however, she needed to be queen.

Relief ran through her mind at his words. Even the strain in his voice could not stop the surge of happiness. The headache that had been growing lapsed into a dull ache. The evening was far from over so she needed to keep her wits about her. A small victory now would however, keep her happy for the moment.
< “Thank you,”> she replied, her relief evident. A smile touched her lips, which got a few glances from the group of courtiers around her.
“You sure he’s coming, Majesty? I don’t mean to question your judgement...”
“Then don’t. He shall be here,” she snapped slightly, the brave voice of the man quickly quietened. However, before she saw the dragon in the sky, she saw a horse on the horizon. Perhaps someone from one of the outlying villages arriving a bit late? Yet, it was strange for them to some by themselves.

A black horse, with a strange marking on its face rode closer and Silisia smiled in a slight confusion as she recognised the face of the young girl who had been thrown from her horse in Aila’s shop. Speaking of Aila, she wondered if the witch would grace the city. The woman had an uncanny ability to know things before they happened.
“I know your face,” she spoke in surprise, struggling to remember whether she had actually asked her name. Realising that no one had ever asked anyone else their names. It was a protective traveller thing. If it was not for Aila’s big mouth, perhaps she could have remained a stranger in the shop. However, she did remember that she had promised the young girl sanctuary.
“You are welcome here, and have chosen a good time to come,” she smiled warmly at the girl. “We are all waiting for the first dragon rider in over three hundred years to grace the city of Samarid. This is the Festival of the Dragon, once held yearly to celebrate the defence of the Elven Dragon riders of Samarid. I shall tell you the whole story one afternoon; perhaps we could go out riding tomorrow. You are welcome to stay in the palace.”

She glanced up to the sky as the dark shape appeared in the sky, emitting a great roar. Her heart leapt along with the screams and cheers of the people around her. The big black and white stallion she rode placed his ears flat on his head, while a great many of the other horses attempted to bolt. His voice brought a smile to her face.
< “Enjoying the view?”> she teased, without a flicker of anything but a smile crossed her face. As the dragon landed, with her beloved aboard, the brave young horse squealed in challenge at the great beast that had landed only metres away. Displaying his growing training, the stallion executed the Mezair, a movement in battle used to threaten or strike foot soldiers. Silisia, surprised by the stallion’s actions was almost unseated. Growling softly, when both his hooves touched the ground again, Silisia tried to remain composed.

A murmur reached her ears from the court behind her. People shifted and jostled, trying to get a better view.
“Rider Gwyndar,” she replied, trying to keep her voice neutral. < “And here I thought you bowed to no one.”> Her voice was light, and sprinkled with amusement, although she kept the sparkle from her eyes. She slipped from her upset horse, who was still attempting to figure out how to attack the dragon. After all, it threatened his mistress. A small child run up, his kite in hand, and tugged on the queen’s dress. A hasty parent tried to force her way through the crowd to grab the runaway boy.
“Please, ma’am...”
Laughing the queen handed the reins of her anger stallion to the small child, who seemed delighted. As the reins touched the small boy’s hands, the great beast became docile and gently lipped the strands of the child’s golden curls. Silisia curbed back a strain of laughter. The situation was quite comical; first Gwyndar bowing, now this. When she looked up, Gwyndar had lowered his hood from his face. A small smile touched her lips at the familiar yet so unfamiliar sight of his features.

< “Don’t fret,”> she responded lightly. < “Give it an hour or so, and most of the city will be too far gone to notice if you slip away. Until then, I shall not leave your side.”>
A man took a tentative step forward, holding out a velvet cushion with something covered lain onto it. Delicately, she removed the red fabric. A dark amulet, carved from metrorite stone, lay upon it. Gently picking it up, she moved toward him; her heart’s desire. She stood on her toes, to drape it over his head.
“This is the amulet of the last dragon rider to reside within Samarid. May it bring you good fortune,” she smiled to him, before turning away from him to face the crowd.
“My I present to you, Sir Gwyndar, Dragon Rider of the Queen of Samarid,” she announced, < “and also winner of my heart.”>
She glanced back at him, her lips parted in a secretive smile, as the crowds voices arose in a great cheer.
She retrieved the reins of her great horse and gave the beaming child a kiss of his head. Suddenly shy, the child ran off into the crowd to find his mother. Smiling to herself, the queen mounted once more.
< “Keep close to me,”> she asked softly, casting her eyes onto the rider below. The crowd parted enough to let the rider and his dragon through, and Silisia urged Obilvion into a walk. Having none of that, the stallion shook his head and began to piaffe, and then lifted himself into a levade. Trying to keep a serious face, the queen wheeled him around once his moves had decided to touch the ground.
“Stay close to me,” she said, directing her words to the girl on the cheeky looking stallion. There was little other way to describe the dark horse with the single white patch over his eye. Her eyes scanned the crowd for Aslim. He would probably be the best guardian for the girl during her stay. While he was sometimes coarse, she knew he’d look after her. He had ridden out with them to the gates. “I shall find you some company while I am caught up in the formalities.”
She smiled kindly at the girl. With that, the queen proceeded to make her way through the city. Cheers as well as muted calls of distrust echoed through the air. The cheers were louder though.

THEY DON'T MEAN ANYTHING OH THOSE MEMORIES
( • A S Y O U S P O K E Y O U R F O R K E D T O N G U E S H O W E D • )

W O R D S • 1376 sorry :/
T A G G E D • Gwyndar, Nalean, Aila, Alice, Isolde, Alomir, Aslim, Anyone really. Open to all.
O U T F I T • click!
L Y R I C S • memories by lion if ido
T E M P L A T E • PANIC! ITS LAUZ of CAUTION
N O T E S •
Mezair
Levade
Amulet

[Aslim Gath Boud]

What a day, was all Aslim could think. He could hardly believe he had stuck up for a dragon rider... no, not just a dragon rider, but an infamous murderous one. That was sure to go down badly on his record of good deeds in his life time. Sighing, he tacked up Hellic, and the great white stallion stood quietly, noting his rider’s bad mood. The big horse gently touched his nose to his rider’s arm. Running a gently, large hand over the great stallion’s nose, he resigned himself to their fate. The queen’s guard would be disbanded and sent further north to defend the borders, and the queen would be in the hands of a murderous rider. Yet, the man knew the queen well enough to note the strange look that had entered her eyes when she spoke of this Gwyndar. Sighing, he retrieved his sword and buckled it onto his ceremonial armour and went to join the queen’s party which would journey to the end of the city. She better view herself as lucky, he thought grudgingly. Deep down, however, she knew she’d get what she wanted without too much protest from the council. She had a way with them.

Perhaps it was a fantasy that they stood chance to the throne if they gave her, her every wish. However, Aslim was not a fool enough to be that naive. The queen would marry for love, if she married at all. Joining the group, he waited for the queen to appear from the castle doors. Luckily, she did not make him wait long. He watched her carefully as she moved to mount her horse, knowing how much she hated side saddle. A small smile flickered onto his lips. As a child she had blatantly refused. She had refused to do many things, including wearing dresses. His eyes scanned over her stunning red dress. She truly looked beautiful and the part of a queen. The days had changed so much. He trailed the back of the party as it moved off, his eyes dancing around the crowd of jubilant people. Aslim was not foolish enough to believe all of them were pleased with this new development. While the knight only wore ceremonial armour, he was fully kitted out in his weaponry, as were the rest of her guard. It was mainly for crowd control. However, if Gwyndar proved that his name was well deserved, then there would be a different purpose of his weaponry.

Aslim shot a glower at the man who had spoken. While he was not too happy with the developments, he would stand by his queen unquestioningly. However, the words from his queen’s lips reminded him that she did not need to be coddled. The strong woman had fought for everything she had, including her sanity. Grudgingly remaining silent, the knight stared up into the sky, along with the inhabitants of the city. However, that was short lived. A young girl rode out next to the queen. Her face seemed youthful and her hair, although longish, looked like it had been previously hacked off in an act of rebellion. A small humph touched his lips. Where the queen found all these strays was anybody’s guess. He gave the girl a reproachful look.

Well, that was not his business either, until she made it his. His thoughts were interrupted by the screech of what he could only think to be a dragon. Never seeing them in real life, the real thing surpassed the pictures. Hellic squealed in terror and turned on his hind legs. The knight tightened his hold on the stallion that did a few hops away from the beast of legends.
“Shh,” he commanded roughly, attempting to wheel the terrified stallion around. Hell, the stallion had every right to be afraid. If this Gwyndar decided he had changed his mind, they’d all be in grave danger. Catching a glimpse at the queen’s horse, Aslim groaned. The young horse was as foolish as his rider, who luckily stayed mounted. Standing still in terror, the white stallion stood dead still, ears forward and neck arched. Breathing noisily into his nostrils, the horse took in the foreign smell of the dragon. Placing a steady hand on his horse’s neck, the Lion of Samarid regarded the queen’s party who were all struggling to keep hold of their horses. Some had fallen and their horses broken free, running to the safety of the stables.

Aslim attempted to get his horse to move to the queen’s side, but it locked its legs and refused to move. Giving up, Aslim regarded the infamous Gwyndar, who approached the queen hooded. The bow surprised him. Well it would seem he had some manners. What the queen saw in him, the knight did not know. He had to refrain himself from jumping off his horse when the queen got off and gave her stallion to a child to hold. That woman needed some serious help.

He watched the short ceremony ensue with weary interest. No displays of aggression were evident in the rider, but he still refused to trust him. Grudgingly glaring at him, the Samarid knight sighed. However, his thoughts were drowned out by the roar of the city. They obviously felt safe knowing they were guarded against Sanglant from Samarid. He watched the queen mount and turned to lead the way into the city. His horse eager to get out f the snapping dragon jaws, or so he thought they might, almost bolted. However, he got him to walk, rather briskly, back. Slowing the great beast slightly, he caught the last words of the queen.

“Would that company be me?” he asked tiredly. “You know, where you find these people...” he trailed off muttering.
“I am Aslim, the Lion of Samarid. What can I call you young one?” he questioned lightly. His horse, a little calmer, settled into the slower pace the knight desired.

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Tags People
Status Complete
Template By Arro @ Caution 2.0
Picture By Credit pic here!}
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[Alice Rae Lindale]

<sup>Alice grinned in relief as the queen recognized her. She had fretted so much about whether or not she would really be welcomed here. It had seemed to good to be true. "Thank you your highness," she answered happily, brushing a hand through her hair. She was oblivious to the reproachful look thrown at her, and probably wouldn't have cared much anyway. "It will be an honor. A dragon rider is coming?" At the words, Alice's face turned from relief to utter excitement. She quickly scurried back to her horse and grabbed hold of Rouge's reigns so that whenever the dragon might come, he would not run off.

The girl turned as a dragon appeared hight in the sky and in a quick fluid motion dove down to land in front of the crowd. A squeal of delight just escaped Alice's lips and her grin broadened. Rouge let out a whinny and shook his head violently, making Alice tighten her hands on the reigns. She could hear a whild hissing fit from where Chessy cowered in his bag, and would have bet that Oz was quivering like mad.
"I know you!" she cried out happily to the dragon rider. Her eyes grew a little wider as she recalled the scene. Funny, she mused to herself, giggling as the rider bowed. He didn't seem like the type to do this sort of stuff. The girl could see she might be right. Gwyndar looked somewhat shifty.

Alice next gazed at the great dragon with huge eyes. "Oh wow!" she breathed to herself. "What a gorgeous animal!" The girl wished she could approach the dragon, but knew that now would not be the time. Rouge would throw a fit if he had to get any closer, and she knew Chessy and Oz wouldn't be very happy either. But the dragon was so massive and great that Alice was tempted anyway.

Alice mounted Rouge began to move with the crowd toward at the city, constantly glancing back at the great dragon with wide, excited eyes. More than once, she almost fell off when Rouge would try to jerk the reigns from her hands. Alice kept her horse close to the queen, as she was told, grinning. "Thank you very much," she answered happily.

Her head turned to the knight as he spoke to her. He sounded tired, despite the light tone of his voice. Alice smiled happily at him. "It's nice to meet you Aslim, the Lion of Samarid. I am Lady Alice, the Lost. But you can just call me Alice." The girl winked playfully and grinned. He might have thought she was joking about her title, but that was certainly what she was known as. It had been a bit of a joke amoung servants, but the nobles probably ment it as an insult.

"Gwyndar," Alice said, turning her head to gaze at the rider. Her grin did not once falter. "Your dragon partner is far more magnificant that I could have dreamed." Her eyes glazed over with a misty, dreamy gaze for just a moment as she imaged what the life of a dragon rider must be like. "What is his name?" The excitement quickly washed the dream gaze away. "I bet being a rider is so exciting." The last comment was more to herself than to anyone else.</sup>

[Alomir Orsoan]

“What?! Absolutely not!” Roared a fully enraged Alomir as the happenings of the council meeting were relayed to him by a Frederick, his chamberlain. “A rider here in Samarid? And you say that he’s a murderer! What was her Majesty thinking? Inviting a lunatic astride a giant lizard that spews fire into the capitol?” Alomir hissed, pacing back and forth in his chamber.

Alomir refused to believe it initially. The dragon riders were too dangerous, too powerful, therefore they could not be trusted. And then the Queen took it a step further by aligning herself, and by extension all of the Samarid with this rider. Riders owed loyalty to no one, save for their leader, and the fact that this particular rider was a renegade only served to make matters worse.

Alomir prided himself on his loyalty. It was what had set him apart from the other courtiers, who would seek to use the Queen to their own selfish ends to obtain influence and power. There were very few that that Her Majesty could trust, and Alomir was fortunate to be counted among them. He had never openly criticized his sovereign before, and he would not start now.

Although every instinct told him to go straight to the Queen and beg her to reconsider, he knew that it was too late. The Queen’s mind was made up, and he doubted that anyone would be able to change it. Silisia was the Queen, and in his experience, it was never wise to challenge the Queen's decisions.

The Royal Court of Samarid had not been this alive in years. If one were to listen to the courtiers tell it, they would probably swear that the entire world crumbling into chaos in a matter of seconds, and without any warning. Several of the more panicky members of peerage had left the city altogether returning to their ancestral homes. Alomir, however, had not allowed himself to be swept up by the hysteria that shook the court.

Everywhere people whispered nasty, treasonous criticisms of the Queen asking if she was daft. Some reasoned that after the loss of her husband and family, she had never fully recovered from the terrible loss. It was treason to suggest such a thing, but that did not seem to deter some of the aristocracy.

Many sought Alomir’s opinion, and in fact he had spent the better part of his day warding off questions of prying people. The entire court seemed to be drawing on any secret knowledge they had of court’s inner workings. Despite it being common knowledge that he himself was one of those in Her Majesty’s the inner circle he kept his own thoughts very guarded against the cunning and sneaky nobles.

In addition, the council had declared that the Dragon Festival would take place in the Samarid’s capitol, Stratenvale. The festivities would draw thousands of people. For the first time it seemed as everyone from the richly dressed great lord and ladies of court to the lowliest peasants would be invited. The festival was a long forgotten tradition, and Alomir hardly felt cause to celebrate. “Perfect a festival! Let’s get a major portion of the country’s population in one place, we’ll just make it easy for that great lizard to gobble us all up,”He thought bitterly. However, despite his own adamant distrust for this so-called rider, Alomir would swallow his pride and support his Queen as he had always done. For loyalty was not always agreeing, but knowing when to swallow your own feelings and trust in the judgment of your superiors.

The entire kingdom scrambled to make preparations for the massive celebration. Alomir had received a personal invitation from Her Majesty to be part of a special party that would welcome the rider. Without any hesitation, Alomir consented graciously, despite his feelings he still managed to feel grateful for the honor.

As the time for the festival approached, Alomir ordered the servants responsible for caring for his horses to wash, groom, and to trim the hunter’s long mane. As this was a special occasion, Alomir had decided to wear clothing that would allow him to enjoy the festivities but still remain as formal as possible. He added a heavy chain around his neck, and belted his long sword to his hip, trading out its usual scabbard for a more ceremonial one. Once both he and his horse were ready, the aristocrat spurred the mare into a gentle walking pace where they would meet with the Queen and the other members of the reception party. He gave quick greetings to the Queen and to the other members of the company before taking his position.

As the Queen’s company waited for the appearance of the dragon and its rider, Alomir could feel himself growing anxious. In the quiet, one man had spoken up…and very foolishly at that. He had gotten a quick reprimand from Silisia and fell silent. He, along with others in the party, notably Aslim shot the man a disapproving glare.

All of them were staring at the sky, waiting for the dragon to appear. As the dragon grew closer Alomir swallowed nervously. “Gods! I didn’t think it would be so massive,” Alomir thought to himself as Imogen, also sensing danger stirred uncomfortably. “Easy girl, easy” He cooed to the animal, and while she did settle she shifted from time to time with Alomir having to continue his reassurances.

Alomir watched as the Silisia placed the amulet around the dragon rider’s neck...this ‘Sir Gwyndar’, according to the Queen’s introduction. Alomir joined the crowd, smiling slightly knowing that at least the people felt safer around him. However, Alomir was not so easily won over. Bringing a dragon rider was a huge step, and Alomir could not help but be suspicious of the man. For now, he would play the duty that Silisia had asked of him.

After several more reassurances, Alomir managed to get Imogen to follow in the procession led by the Queen. He noticed Sir Aslim, one of a select few who were trustworthy at court. With a snap of the reigns he urged the mare forward to ride next to Sir Aslim and the a young woman who Alomir had never seen before. “Hello Aslim, I have been meaning to talk you all day but things on my end have been a nightmare. I am not sure I even dare to fathom how complicated this has whole situation has made your life as late.” Alomir said in a hushed tone, not even looking at the Knight of Samarid. It was not out of any disrespect, oh no…Alomir had a great deal of respect for the Lion of Samarid. His intention had been to notify that Aslim that he wanted to speak with him, albeit at a more appropriate time without other wondering what was going on.

Because for the first time in a long time, Alomir, who considered himself a personal favorite of Her Majesty. Had a sneaking suspicion that there was something more to this dragon rider business. And although Alomir would support Silisia’s endeavors, he had every intention to find out precisely what they may involve.

[Gwyndar]

IDONTMEANTORUN/BUTEVERYTIMEYOUCOMEAROUND

[/color]
IFEELMOREALIVETHANEVER/IGUESSITSJUSTTOMUCH

Giving the strange girl a very hard look the rider shrugged off her excitable squeal, his wincing at her grating voice looking very unlike how he was trying to portray himself. He thought that if he kept his attention of the Queen ... perhaps like a wasp she would sikmply lose intrest and go away. <"You are not 'no-one' Silisia. And I wonder if I refused if your knight there would attempt to slice me at the waist to bring me to my knees. He does not seem impressed."> Thoughtfully the rider made it very obvious that he was staring at the knight mounted so close to his Queen. The distain on his face amused the long convicted rider and made the thought of putting on a show very tempting. He had not had the chance to fight in such a long time. It would be a welcome change from the monotony of survival. And after all, he could plot his way through a short term future. He believed it a perk of being now aligned with the Queen.

giving a short snort at the knight Gwyndar turned at the small youthful voice of a child. His pretty little outfit ready for being in a festival, but it made little difference to the rider. He was never one to be 'good with children'. He disliked their constant whining and asking to be the centre of attention. In his youth he was taught patience and to kill. His archery came not long after; but it was a process that by the age the young boy seemed to be, he would have to a tee. It was almost shocking at how sweet Silisia was to the young boy. giving him the trust of caring for her horse was one thing; but his disrespecting of her by tugging on her dress ... Gwyndars father would have had him for lunch had he ever done anything so disrespectful to even his mother. The beast that she was.

Her assurance of a clearing crowd did however ease but a small part of his worry over the sheer size of the crowd. Even when he made his way into villages and cities he had never been surrounded by so many at one time. It was far more overwhelming than he had anticipated even from soaring high above their heads. If this crowd intended on attacking him he did not doubt there would be enough to at least make his escape far more difficult. He had faith in his escapology however; having gotten out of far more situations than he dare count he was used to leaping over buildings, under trees, sometimes through the treetops. He had done it all. Siluth never far behind him. <"Don't worry rider. I can take them easy. You wait and see."> Siluth said with a small growl.

The large dragons eyes cast themselves over the crowd. He was a big dragon for his age, being only around a century into life he was to grow far larger in his older years. The immortality of riders and dragons made for a long time to grow. By the time a dragon reached his second millennia it was said it would then stop growing. But at those ages dragons could make mountains look small in comparison.

Those were the dragons of legend.

<"Don't make a fool of yourself Siluth. You know this is for the sake of our existence. We cannot keep running without my falling on worse circumstances. For you, this is simply business. But do not mistake this as a simple deal. This goes far deeper than your mating brain can understand."> The rider growled back to his dragon. His face growing darker as he met eyes with the stubborn beast. He sometimes regretted being bound to such a horrible dragon, but when times needed he was the one that Gwyndar knew would be there to keep him safe. They were the closest of enemies that anyone could find. But that only made their bond stronger. <"You think too much Gwyndar. I told you I did not like this idea of being pledged. You did not consult me."> Snapping his great jaws at his rider the dragon stood up taller. Keeping his eyes steady on the surrounding humans and horses.

Gwyndar however kept his cool. Only glaring at the dragon and keeping himself strong from returning the growl. Knowing that he needed the best of impressions. It was not easy. He kept his gaze steady however as a very timid looking male reached Silisia and began what he feared was a ceremony. He did not do well under the public eye!

Still he remained calm, letting his head down so that his tiny woman could slip the amulet over his head onto his neck. Sitting beside his one he gained from his elder. Two important amulets he now held. Something that he knew would be made a fuss over. He would be respectful. He would keep his calm. He would make a good impression. He would not let Silisia down! <"You really do look beautiful Silisia. It is a wonder you have taken to someone so coarse as myself."> The thought with a low chuckle. Watching as she gave the small boy a kiss before he ran back to what Gwyndar assumed to be his mother.

She should have kept better tabs on her child. Gwyndar knew even that much. <"Siluth will follow."> He said simply, turning to look at the grumpy looking beast who; begrudgingly followed the procession. Gwyndar walking by the Queens side with Siluth a good twenty meters behind. Making sure he did not step on any of the guards or their horses. Glaring at anyone who looked half interesting to him.

Unfortunately for Gwyndar it seemed however that the same grating voice alerted him. Calling out his name to him as they stayed close to Silisia. The rider tried not to look at her with a dealthy hard glare. She may know his name and had previously shrieked that she knew him; but that did not mean he knew of her. She was simply another girl that knew of the famous killer. A dragon killer at that. The annoyingly cheerful grin she posessed made him grimace. She did not seem to be on that would be deterred.

"He is not simply a 'dragon partner'. A rider and dragon are bonded in a way which is far beyond the understanding of a human." He said gruffly, not even giving the girl the grace of looking at her while he spoke. His eyes keeping straight ahead while he was mentally begging for someone to deafen him. there were many things that annoyed the rider, this girl simply seemed to slot herself into that list. Grinning and squealing all the way. At her question however Gwyndar felt the dragon growl in annoyance also. It seemed like he was having trouble keeping his calm as the rider.

<"My name, puny mortal Is Siluth. And never refer to me as an animal as i regarded earlier. I feast on animals. Do not think you are above me."> the dragon growled gruffly through a channel toward the girl. His voice obviously hardened by age and troubles that the pathetically small girl would never experience. It was something dragons had the capability to do. Open a thought channel. It was far preferred to openly speaking. The dragons voice was not pleasant; nor were his teeth. the only other person Gwyndar currently knew of that had heard the ancient dragon speak had been Silisia. 'Though it was mistakenly through Gwyndars own thoughts.

It only made the rider smirk as he listened in to the gruffness of his dragons voice. He was used to the voice, but for any other human ... it would be an odd sensation. "Being a rider is not about excitement. If you know anything of my time as a rider you would know such things. Never insult a rider or a dragon by thinking it is an easy job being bonded to another creature. Or that the training and lifestyle is anything other than compromise. You are far freer being human than a rider." He answered harshly, keeping his eye focused so that out of its corner he could keep his sight on the knight that had been conversing with the gleeful girl. She was obviously far less knowing than Gwyndar had given her credit for. <"I cannot wait until i can get you to myself once more."> The rider thought with a mental smirk as he watched the back of his Queen. Giving himself a very nice view from his position ...

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[Silisia Anja Saffy]

THE TRUTH COMES OUT IN THE BREAKDOWNS
( • M E M O R I E S M Y G O D T H E S E M E M O R I E S • )

Alice’s piercing cry of excitement cut quickly into the queen’s heart. The chances that Gwyndar would appreciate it, was very slim. He was not an icon for people to gawk at. The queen’s headache roared back into place. Gently touching a hand to her temples, she attempted to sooth the pain that was building from the stressful day. She knew her court were not really behind her: well her trusted nobles were not. Aslim was the ever cynic one, and she knew Alomir distrusted the race in entirety. She could only imagine what he thought of a rouge dragon rider.
< “Aslim?”>

[/color] the queen’s mental voice bubbled lightly with laughter. < “He is not impressed with many things; however, he was the one to convince the court that you are to be accepted. He is merely over protective.”>[/color]
A small affectionate smile touched her lips. The knight often had difficulty controlling his over protective nature, just as much as he lacked control over his temper. Yet, it was not the same type of affection that echoed in hers eyes when she looked at Gwyndar; that affection needed to be curbed for tonight although she could reserve it for later.

She flinched as Siluth snapped at the rider. She doubted she would ever be in the dragon’s good books. Perhaps she had been foolish to accept Gwyndar’s pledge. In her heart, she knew it was. Who was she kidding? There was much needed change required before the courtiers would accept him, and she still needed to prove herself to Siluth. The headache remained in place. However, she remained composed and the sweet caring queen she had always portrayed herself to be, while she desperately wanted to run away, with Gwyndar. She knew she awaited being challenged and berated by the court.
< “Let’s run away,”> [/color]she suggested tiredly, half serious, keeping a pleasant smile on her face as she lowered the amulet. She had deliberately kept the ceremony short as not to make the rider uncomfortable. While she had been surrounded by the public eye her whole life, Gwyndar had not and she appreciated that this was probably very hard for him and Siluth.

A small blush crept onto her cheeks as she heard Gwyndar speak.
< “How am I supposed to remain composed with you saying things like that?”> [/color]There was no reprimand in her voice, only an amused enquiry. < “But I should say thank you. You look rather fetching yourself.”>[/color]
She squeezed his hand briefly, hoping no one would take too much notice. The queen had been known to display her affection in simple gestures.
< “It’s not too much of a wonder, if you saw yourself through my eyes,”>[/color]she smiled at him briefly, her eyes locking with his for a mere moment. In the open, she could not be seen to display anything more than kindness. She nodded to his words, hoping the dragon would be fairly cooperative. She could really not deal with a massacre after begging the council to let the dragon and his rider join their ranks.

<”I am very sorry Gwyndar,”>[/color] she cringed as Alice spoke again. While the girl was fun loving and truly an admirable character, she knew Gwyndar would not appreciate her constant questions and her happiness. No, but Aslim would tolerate it to a point. Well, she hoped he would. Perhaps he would talk about fruit again. It was his favourite topic to get people to remain silent in confusion.
“Hush Darling,” [/color]the queen crooned softly. “Gwyndar has had a long day. Perhaps Sir Aslim shall keep you entertained. Ask him about his father’s fruit. It’s a riveting story.”[/color]
She smiled cheekily at the grumpy knight who was not appreciating his high stung stallion’s attitude to the dragon. A small sigh escaped her lips. The sooner the evening was over, the better for all involved. Well, the morning would bring a renewed pain to all those who had indulged in the festivities too much. Silisia herself, would not allow a single drop of the inhibiting substance to touch her lips.

“That company would be you, dearest Aslim. I fear I have no idea where I find any of you creatures,”[/color] she teased, and slowed her horse so that she was closer to Gwyndar and further away from Alice and Aslim. To her surprise, Alomir moved over to Aslim. A frown of suspicion touched her brow and she pursed her lips. Surprisingly, the young noble did not turn his face to Aslim. Why would he deliberately ride out in front to say nothing? Sighing, the queen trued to resist her growing headache. She knew she could truly trust no one, especially when she made such radical and almost impulsive decisions on a great scale. However, she was the law and they would have to comply. All of them. She glanced around at the other nobles, who also seemed slightly disgruntled and fearful of the great beast trailing the party. Luckily, the people gave the dragon a wide berth.

A small smile flickered onto her face as she heard the soothing voice of her dragon rider. She glanced down, back at him, from her horse, her expression almost unreadable.
< “You are fairly cruel, you know. I shall now remain longing for the rest of the evening,”> [/color]she stopped a pout from forming on her face and stifled the laugh which was eager to be set free. She urged Obilvion to the end of the road that they need to walk, to a long table. The queen slipped off her stallion and a stable hand rushed to prise him from her hand. Obligingly, she allowed the stallion to be lead away. She moved to the table, indicating for Gwyndar to follow. Taking a seat in the middle of the table, the queen sat on the chair a servant had bustled to pull out. Most of the crowd began dispersing and moving to their own festivities. Musicians and entertainers milled about.
< “Oh let this be over soon,”>[/color] the queen sighed exasperatedly.


[/blockquote][/blockquote][/size]

THEY DON'T MEAN ANYTHING OH THOSE MEMORIES
( • A S Y O U S P O K E Y O U R F O R K E D T O N G U E S H O W E D • )

W O R D S • 1011
T A G G E D • Gwyndar, Nalean, Aila, Alice, Isolde, Alomir, Aslim, Anyone really. Open to all.
O U T F I T • click!
L Y R I C S • memories by lion if ido
T E M P L A T E • PANIC! ITS LAUZ of CAUTION
N O T E S • Blah sorry. Muse died a bit

[Aslim Gath Boud]

Aslim, being his rather serious self, found the girl’s shrill squeals of delight amusing, especially when he noted the effect it had on the dragon rider. Perhaps he could now see the effect of many years of running from all sorts of persecution. A small, cynical smile touched his lips as he noted that the rider was looking at him. This was, after all, Aslim’s fault that the negotiations went off so smoothly. Yet, it was the queen’s decision, and he had to trust it; to a point of course. He dipped his head at the rider, with a mind of civility. He could not align himself against the rider because they would mean aligning himself against the queen herself. He noted the queen’s touch to the dragon rider’s hand. A small frown of enquiry touched his brow but only for a moment. Perhaps it was just reassurance. After all, he had saved the queen’s life (which was the only reason Aslim had even considered agreeing to the proposition.) Perhaps the rider would take it in great care to do so time and time again. The impulsive queen sometimes did need a bit of watching over.

Slowing his horse slightly, Aslim allowed himself to ride abreast with the trailing Gwyndar. He looked down at the rider, his expression hard and weary. Hellic eyed up the nearby dragon wearily, attempting to hasten away.
“Just look after her,” he said gruffly, unwilling to allow warmth into his voice. “It’s going to be hard convincing the other nobles you are one of us, but if you promise me that one thing, I shall try make the transition easier, for her majesty’s sake. The other balding group is notably stuck in their ways...”
Aslim was not saying this because he liked Gwyndar, or trusted him. Oh no, don’t get him wrong there. This was purely for Silisia’s sake. He grunted in finality and moved his horse back to where the queen and the young excitable girl were riding.

Resigning himself to the kingdom’s fate, Aslim let a bubbled of laughter overflow at the sound of the queen’s voice. His father’s fruit was a mocking joke around the army. Aslim, the Great Lion of Samarid’s father has succumbed to insanity and begun growing fruit. The question always went: when are you going to join him, oh great one?
“Now now, I’m sure she’d rather not be bored by my simple stories of fruit,” the knight laughed, rolling his eyes at the queen’s next words. “I’m afraid you’re stuck with us. Come Alice, the Lost,” he winked. Clucking to his horse he moved forward away from the queen. Aslim was quite happy to be away from the rider and the queen. She had put him in a very tough position. If the Gwyndar thing were not to work out, they would have Gwyndar’s head, as well as Aslim’s head. Such was the price of loyalty, he supposed. Sighing to himself, he looked back at the girl.

“Where are you from, Alice?” he questioned lightly, already knowing the answer. He accent was unmistakably from Sanglant, the enemies of Samarid, but the girl looked hardly a spy. “Or a better question, what are you doing in Samarid? It’s a far way to travel for one so young.”
He looked at her incredulously, hardly hearing Alomir riding up next to him. Quickly noting the rider had not looked at him, it became clear that he did not particularly want to be heard.

“Alomir,” he greeted solemnly. Raising his eyebrow at the young ambassador’s words, the knight stole a quick glance to gage the man’s expression.
“I’m afraid today has been a trying one, although not unbearable. Those balding bastards are very reluctantly to let matters go in a hurry, especially when they can lead to class gossip.”
The knight grinned slyly at the other man as they approached the end of their journey. Quickly sliding off Hellic, the knight turned to Alice.
“Please choose a seat. I shall be with you shortly and a stable hand will come get your creatures settled for the night. Alomir,” he said before moving to the edge of the court yard. It was customary for the women and the guests to be seated first and that the men of Samarid only join them after they’ve settled. He waited in a more secluded area, and looked searchingly at the younger man.
“So you wish to speak to me about something?” he questioned slightly. What was so important that the man had desired to speak with him all day?





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_{Word Count 764
Inspiration The sound of the early morning before class
Tags People
Status Complete
Template By Arro @ Caution 2.0
Picture By}
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[Alice Rae Lindale]

<sup>Gwyndar's reluctant attitude didn't discourage Alice at all. Her smile didn't fade at all as she looked around, taking in the scenery. "Oh, I think it all depends on your outlook," she responded to the man. She's always thought that everything in the world depended on how one chose to look everything. Happiness was a choice. That was probably why she found it was so easy to stay happy.

Alice turned back to look at the dragon as he heard his voice. "Siluth," she repeated. "Yes, that is quite a nice name. Now Siluth, do you really think I think myself above you because I said that you were amazing?" Alice couldn't help but giggle. "Hardly." She wondered if she looked crazy talking out loud to the dragon, but she didn't quite get the concept of speaking in thought. "I think maybe you should give yourself the same advice. After all, wolves feast on animals too. We all obey our nature. I hardly think any life form exists above the other."

Alice grinned at the queen. "Sorry, once I get going you know. I dare say sooner or later I pass out and there will no longer be a problem." Alice had no issue talking about her flaws. Perhaps it was because they had been so often pointed out to her. The girl turned to the knight that rode near her. "I do hope that I'm not too much of a trouble for you Aslim. I don't mean to be a nusance." The girl smiled happily.

Alice gave the queen a happy wave befor following Aslim. "I dare say I'd love to hear that story Aslim," Alice mused, searching through her saddle bag and pulling out a bit of bread. She tossed the food hungrily in her mouth.

"Oh, I doubt it could be more obvious where I'm from," Alice mused lightly. "To be specific I'm from Sandimont. I ran away though. Hello," she greeted another man happily as he approached, though for once she said nothing more. The girl assumed he was a noble, which only made her more eager to drop the subject of her origins.

Aslim told Alice to dismount and find a seat. She did as she was told and dismounted. Suddenly she realized that she couldn't just leave Rouge. And Aslim had already walked away. "Err, excuse me," she called to one of the stable hands. "Would you please leave this horse's tack in his stall with him?" The boy agreed, though he looked fairly confused. Alice hopped Chessy and Oz would stay in their bags Alice had made for them to travel in. Or at least they might keep in the stall. She waited as the boy walked away with her horse before she hurried to sit down.

Alice picked a seat near the front and waited happily for company.</sup>

[Nalean Silverstar]

Nalean glared at her dragon. She couldn’t believe what she had just been told, if it wasn’t for the fact that Safron had really bonded with her, she might have taken the whole situation for a badly pulled prank. <”You expect me to waltz right into Samarid and kill a fully-trained rider and his dragon?”> she stared at Safron, hoping that this was some kind of sick joke. <”Pretty much”> the dragon huffed, seemingly impatiently. Nalean stood in front of the dragon with her mouth gaping open, knowing that the dragon was serious. The whole idea of her going to kill Gwyndar seemed like a suicide mission, surely Safron did not expect her to survive. <”He killed an elder and the elder’s dragon five years ago when he was still considered a young rider, do you honestly believe that his fighting skills haven’t improved?”> she stood up and walked a short distance shaking her head. <”I’ll be signing my death warrant if I attempt to kill him”> she glanced back at Safron, her eyes filled with fear.

<”Not with me at your side, you won’t”> the dragon puffed her chest up, obviously in an attempt to encourage her young rider. <”My family was disgraced by the actions of Siluth and his rider, the only way to regain grace is for the guilty party to be slain”> the dragon strode proudly towards Nalean, determined to get the girl to agree to this. <”I have no choice do I?”> she had a sad smile on her face, suspecting that no matter what she said that she’d be roped into this whole revenge plot. <”Unfortunately not”> the dragon tilted her head. <”Better hurry up, the longer they live, gives them more time to gain power”>.

Nalean sighed and shook her head, knowing that the only way to get to Samarid was to ride on Safron. <”Guess I can’t put off this whole flying thing any longer can I”>, she raised her one eyebrow with a look of amusement on her face. <”Nope”>, the dragon wore an equally amused expression on her face. Nalean sighed, not sure what to expect from the experience. Safron lay down, and Nalean an expecting look. “Fine” she grumbled to herself and climbed on Safron’s back, adjusting her position slightly. She bit her lip, stopping herself from saying anything as Safron took off. She closed her eyes, tucking her head under her arm, she really did not want to see how high up they were. After what seemed to be hours for the young rider, the dragon spoke softly to her. <”Hey look down, we’re almost there”>, Nalean glanced down, seeing the green fields unfold below her.

After about half an hour they landed just outside the capital of Samarid. She frowned, not quite sure of how they were going to get into the city. <”Any bright ideas?”>, she asked glaring at Safron. <”Looks as though you’ll have to go in alone”>, the dragon shook her head, obviously displeased by this turn of events. Brilliant, she thought to herself, feeling frustrated. Nalean lifted her hood making sure it covered her face and walked towards the main road leading into Stratenvale. She blended into the crowd that was entering the city and once she was sure that she was out of the guard’s sight, she slipped out of the crowd into a side road. She paused outside a blacksmith’s shop, knowing that she needed a sword. She grabbed one that seemed to be of the correct length and weight, and paid for it. She then walked back to the main road, certain that it was her best means of finding someone who knew of the location of the dragon rider.

She paused when she heard a group of guards muttering about a murderous dragon rider, being given a feast like some kind of hero. Her heart skipped a beat, certain that they were referring to Gwyndar. She looked up, to see that, fortunately she was walking in the right direction to reach the palace. She smiled as she slipped in the main gates of the palace, unchecked. Obviously the guards weren’t too concerned about the safety of their queen if they allowed people to simply walk into the palace. She frowned, when she noticed that the crowd wasn't gathering inside the palace, but outside.Just what she needed more prying eyes to watch her commit a crime. She observed the festivities taking place as she slipped into the crowd, remaining unnoticed. It was obvious that there were mixed reactions about Gwydar from the people of Samarid. She glanced around looking for where they where, she smiled betterly when she saw Gwyndar and Silisia standing facing each other. No one would probably ever know how unwilling she was to do this.

W O R D S;; 799
T A G;; umm errr basically everyone
N O T E S;; mwahaha
C R E D I T;; hey it's SHMEY! @ caution 2.0

[Gwyndar]

IDONTMEANTORUN/BUTEVERYTIMEYOUCOMEAROUND

[/color]
IFEELMOREALIVETHANEVER/IGUESSITSJUSTTOMUCH

Looking at the knight with anssion mixed between amusement and disregard Gwyndar listened carefully to his words. It was obvious that he cared for the queen, his queen. His woman ... A fierce stab of jealousy ripped through his mind and the open channel between he and Silisia was far at the back of his head and he forced back the throaty growl in his chest. Only feeling it rumble across his broad chest and shoulders while he bared his teeth slowly. "Neither I nor my dragon would be here if that was not my main perogative Knight." He sneered. He really did detest most people of authority. "I never claimed to be one of you, I am a dragon rider. And i will always be a dragon rider. But I have pledged myself to Queen Silisia therefore I am within her inner protective circle. Surly you realise if we had other intentions I would have prevented Siluth from tearing apart the locals who gave him the wrong look." He smirked, holding his head high and feeling the dragon turn his head lazily toward the horseback knight. He had little regard for him either.

In much the same way he had such little regard for little Alice. Her voice was as much of an annoyance to the dragon as it was to the rider and the dragon simply huffed out at her comparrison between him and any other animal. <"I am far surpassed any creature. If the thought took me over I would not hesitate to commit to canibalistic intentions."> He growled at the tiny girl. That was the end of the conversation for Siluth. His rider however ...

Grumbling within his own self and making devilishly long drawn out plots to silence the tiny choppy haired female whose voice was grating harshly against his brain it took ll Gwyndar had not to simply batter his open palm against the side of his head. The intent to draw out the noise through his ear was something he was not overlooking. He just needed to wait a little longer, he was a man of patience. Think hunter. He could do it for days, stay silent, make no movement. Yet it became cramped; but he was used to the familiar burning as he crowched down unmoving for days and nights on end. All that could be made of his thoughts would a be a low humming grumble of inaudible and perhaps words that were not even in any language. Anything that he could use to distract himself from her voice.

<"And now you relish in the struggle I felt for many ngights after bonding with you young one."> The dragon laughed; Giving off a small plume of steam through his nostrils; tail whipping without care as he stomped his way through the corridor left by the crowd. They looked on, mostly in horror as the great untamed beast strutted through their home. A creature of myths and legends; older than they could hope to live and one of the few immortal creatures that could share their immortality. <"Hush yourself you great brute. Be glad I did not make any more promises you will forever berate me for."> <"Just remember Gwyndar; you pledged yourself to the Queen of Samarid ... soley to the queen. You are not bound to these mere humans."> It was obvious that the dragon was far from ready to accept his position as a protector for these people.

<"My cruelty is never short lived. What I say; i intend to finish."> The rider replied to his devilishly desirable queen with a smirk on his face as he wandered aside her and her horse. The slowing of her movements allowed his large strides to make ease of being by her side. It was an odd sensation; his height made him hip level with the Queen, yet he knew her authority at this moment was shown more than just the height difference. <"Be aware; tonight there is more than a simple stone bed to lay upon. Comfort is far easier to ... shall we say ... relax on."> He chuckled mentally, sending a wink up at the Queen before the self assuradness of his stance returned. His face falling into the hardened line as he caught sight of anyone looking his way.

these people had not been deserving of his smile. They had not earned his trust, nor he theirs. he was not unwise as to how many of the people would be thinking. Yes they celebrated a feast, they were glorifing at the idea of being protected. But he doubted any one of the crowd had anything but negativity toward him or what he stood for.

Still, he let the hint of laughter touch his mind as he heard his womans plea for the day to go by faster. So that she may be away from the oublic eye as he assumed she was always engrossed within. It humoured him that she sought the secluded feeling of being away from everyone that Gwyndar had learned to dislike. He did not hate his existance, merely wished for a second coming of a chance. Without this opportunity to show who he really was; a person and not just a label he prayed that it would mean he could have that option to live among others. <"Do not kid yourself. You will always be alone, just deal with the fact I am the only one you can trust. And the one who I will allow only to rip whatever life you call your existance from you."> The growl sent chills down his spine. Knowing that it was a trust the dragon had often repeated. He would let only he kill him. No-one else.

Taking a seat by Silisias side the young rider did not let any emotion cross his face. He knew he should be making himself far more appealing, far easier to integrate himself into their society if he was to smile even a little bit. But he simply could not muster the strength to even smirk. He was simply a stone faced brute at this minute. His bow and arrows securly over his back making sure that he was safe despite most of the crowd probably wanting a public lynching of the convicted murderer.

As oblivious as he was to the approach of another dragon and rider. Siluth was on high alert. He could smell the approach of a bonded dragon ... one he knew well.

Yet he knew to compromise the position he was in; so close to his rider and so many people. The centurian dragon was torn. He knew what he smelled, but his loyalties were tied. <"You stupid fool"> He growld, baring his teeth at the rider who caught his eyes. Confusion on his face as he turned his attention back to the merriment around him.

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[Silisia Anja Saffy]

THE TRUTH COMES OUT IN THE BREAKDOWNS
( • M E M O R I E S M Y G O D T H E S E M E M O R I E S • )

A small glance of concern was thrown at the conversing Aslim and Gwyndar. She hoped that the knight would be fair on him, and that Gwyndar would respond in kind. She had little hope for either happening. The foreign emotion running through her took her by surprise. It did not feel like her emotion. A frown touched her frown as she grappled with it. Glancing back, she noted the threatening display Gwyndar had put on. Was it jealousy? He reyes widened in surprise then amusement moved through her. Could it be possible that Gwyndar was jealous of Aslim? The idea seemed ridiculous. <”Hush,”>

[/color]she whispered, alarmed by his emotion. She merely hoped that Aslim would not take his words too seriously and cause any trouble. She relied on the fact that the man had a reputation to upkeep. < “I am yours and will only ever be yours.”> [/color]She reassured him gently and sincerely. Her unease filtered through and a breath of relief rushed through her as Aslim walked away. She gave the knight a very reproachful look. If he really desired to talk to Gwyndar, he could have done so at a better time.

Concern rippled through her mind. She did not know how she was going to cope through all this. Gwyndar obviously would not be warm to the nobility around him and she doubted the others would be as pleasant to Gwyndar as Aslim had been. She was sure that this evening would get worse. While the people would enjoy themselves, the nobility would insist on voicing their displeasure. The queen’s face softened at Aslim’s attempts to subdue the girl, and rolled her eyes at his words. At least she need not worry about him or Alice for the evening. Aslim knew his duty and she would ensure that not fulfilling it would be unwise. She sighed, allowing the thoughts to vanish from her mind. Tonight, she would try to enjoy herself. The smile on her face waned as the resounding headache grew. Perhaps she could wish away tonight, stay for an hour and then retire to her chambers. She agreed that that would be the best answer.

She brushed a stray hair from her face, noting the action as a very human one. Humanity seemed to be filled with confusing notions of reality and deemed realities. Keeping her head high as they party made their way through the city, Silisia attempted to ignore the disapproving glares of the nobility, the secret utterances between Aslim and Alomir and the drunken stupor that was beginning to rise. A small smile edged back onto her lips at his words. She shook her head in amusement.
< “I shall hold you to that... my Gwyndar,”>[/color] she replied simply, with a small secretive glance back to him. At his next words, however, the queen blushed furiously. Quickly trying to hold onto the remaining threads of her queenly dignity, she looked away from him and dipped her face so that it was covered in shadows. She could hardly afford to be caught in such a state by her subjects. Quickly composing herself, she looked back down at rider, dipping her body forward slightly to give him a better view.
< “Tonight shall most certainly be... very relaxing,”> [/color]she said lightly, playing his game.

She smiled as Alice sat, glancing back to where Aslim and Alomir were. A frown of concern touched her brow. Whatever they were saying would probably not be in favour of the young queen’s latest decision. She would deal with them later. The food began to pour from the palace, going to the lower regions of the city first. Laughter echoed within screams of delight. A shadowy guard’s horse appeared, and the guard dismounted. He bowed before he approached the table, an anxiety playing on his features. Silisia frowned and beckoned him forward. The man nervously moved to the queen’s side.
“Your majesty,” he mumbled respectfully. “Perhaps it would be best to speak outside the table’s earshot.”
The guard bervously shot a glance at Alice then Gwyndar. Appealing to the man, Silisia nodded. Gently she touched Gwyndar’s arm in assurance and moved to follow the guard. By this time, most of the people were too far gone to notive the tension in the guard or the movement of their queen.
< “I shall tell you later,”> [/color]she said, in a kind of finality a queen would muster.

“I did not believe my eyes when I saw it myself, Majesty,” he said in a dangerously soft whisper. “The watchman saw the shape of a dragon land just outside the city. I confirmed what they saw. Perhaps it would be best for Your Majesty to be scarce.”
He bowed again, uncertain of how the queen would react. Another dragon? Surely not. What she could deduce was that it was not an act of peace. No dragon rider in their rightful mind would come attend one of their murderous owns celebration. The queen nodded.
“Mobilise the outer guards, but don’t panic anyone. Inform Sir Aslim,” [/color]she commanded.

Instead of moving back to the table, the queen placed a wary hand on her sword and disappeared into the crowds. Moving past a stall selling cloaks, she tossed a gold coin at the owner and took the darkest, most unassuming one. She tied it around her shoulders and put up the hood. If it was true, Silisia could only guess. She moved into a secluded courtyard, and unsheathed her sword.
< “Gwyndar, there’s trouble coming,”>[/color] she responded shortly, trying not to cut him out of her mind. She hated being defended by someone else, but she also wanted to please him. Torn, she looked back at the festivities, her eyes flickering in fear. This was folly. She sheathed her sword again, waiting for Gwyndar to join her.



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THEY DON'T MEAN ANYTHING OH THOSE MEMORIES
( • A S Y O U S P O K E Y O U R F O R K E D T O N G U E S H O W E D • )

W O R D S • 1011
T A G G E D • Gwyndar, Nalean, Aila, Alice, Isolde, Alomir, Aslim, Anyone really. Open to all.
O U T F I T • click!
L Y R I C S • memories by lion if ido
T E M P L A T E • PANIC! ITS LAUZ of CAUTION
N O T E S • Leaving Aslinm out of this round because Yankee/Alomir has not replied.

[Alomir Orsoan]

Alomir rode with Aslim and the young lady he had been entertaining, and dismounted as she chose a seat. The servants who worked in the stables were familiar with him, and his expectations when it came to the treatment of his animals. Giving a glance back to see that his horse was being led away he followed Aslim into a more secluded part of the garden.

Despite hearing the knight's question, Alomir was reluctant to answer in haste. The man was one of the queen's true allies, and therefore Alomir had always counted him to be trustworthy. However, it was because of that loyalty that the queen entrusted him with so much power, and the last thing that Alomir wanted to do was make an enemy of the man.

After a few moments Alomir spoke, adopting a very cautious tone. "I wanted to speak to you because I am worried about this dragon rider. Deep in my heart, I worry for the queen. I will accept this rider because that is what my sovereign queen wishes of not only myself, but of the entire kingdom." Alomir said looking Aslim directly in the eye.

Perhaps the most stressful matter that the queen was sending him away to negotiate with Queen Isoldé of the Elves. Though the mission was secret Alomir felt as though if anyone were to know of his mission, it would be Aslim. And even if the knight did not know, he could trust Aslim to keep the information guarded.

"I am not sure if you've been informed"Alomir whispered only loud enough for Alsim to hear, "Queen Silisia wants me to go to Queen Isoldé and solidify the treaty between Samarid and Stalaga. I fear that if I tell the elf queen that a rider and his...his... dragon have sworn fealty to the queen, she will become distrustful of us. However, if I do not tell the elf queen and the elves somehow learn of Gwyndar I couldn't even begin to tell you how they might react." Alomir said hoping that the older man might have some advice.

((OOC: Sorry it took me so long, I've been away.))