a rider of old.

[Nepherion]

Nepherion's white blade was tossed back with a flick of Rakaio's wrist. The brown blade slammed into his side, pushing Nepherion along with the blow. The stinging and throbbing sensation soon ensued. He placed a hand on his side as his breathe heaved, still keeping a grip on Brojska. " That barely even stung. " he fibbed, trying to make himself feel better. In actuality, he knew a large chunk of his side would be bruised from the blow. Ignoring the pain, Nepherion brought Brojska back in both hand, ready to continue the spar.

Starlight gazed on at the fight in concern. His Rider was up against a master and though he knew that he stood no chance, he couldn't help but hope he would win. His crimson eyes watch Rakaio's blade land a blow and he was hard-pressed to restrain a growl of protection. Starlight's jowls raised up slightly, showing the ivory fangs inside. Concentrate Nepherion. he growled to himself.

Nepherion ran towards Rakaio with Brojska to his side. I can do this. I can do this. . He pushed through the throbbing on his side and swung vertically towards Rakaio's chest with a fluent, powerful slash. Nepherion let out a breathe as a strong urge hit him in the gut. The feeling was familiar, that much he was sure. It was Starlight warning him of danger. Nepherion stopped the blade in mid-swing and looked up towards the landing visitors. A feel of anxiety and caution grasped his heart. He was ready to do battle if the need came, but he hoped that it wouldn't. " Now I know how you guys were feeling ? " he commented to Rakio. The size of the beast could be easily described as bigger than Starlight, but not nearly as big as Entas. The flapping of its wings brought a powerful gust against him,causing his ragged-cloak to flap. " Those are some wings ! " he uttered. The size of the azure wings were barely believable.

Starlight looked towards the approaching dragon before they landed, his senses and instincts easily hinting at the appearance of another. Unlike Entas, Starlight had went into full war-mode. His tail raised into the air and a deep-reverberating growl echoed at the new arrivals as he crouched. He may not had been as big, but he was just as vicious and skilled. Prepare yourself Nepherion ! Today we do battle. growled Starlight.

Just then, Bid'Daum spoke. No you will not. Nepherion you will continue your bout and Starlight you will cool your blood ! Once again, his thunderous voice demanded nothing less than absolute authority. The feeling that he pressed against their minds allowed for little-less than what he asked for. It was heavy and strangely overwhelming.

Nepherion relaxed himself and stood up as the two landed, trying his best to keep his mind on Rakaio and brush aside Bid'Daum's mighty presence. He gripped Brojska in both hands. " Shall we continue ? " he asked rhetorically, yet cool.

Starlight, likewise eased his mind and body. Laying down only when he saw that Entas had been relaxed enough to. I've never seen these two before. Who are they ? Starlight asked Entas. His regal, yet adolescent voice sounded obedient after Bid'Daum's scolding. The white dragon brought his wind to his side and swished his tail against the rocky ground in anticipation. A type of adrenaline had rusehd through his veins and had yet to fade.

Bid'Daum on the other hand had entered the conversation with little reserve in his approach. His voice had boomed throughout the new minds, along with Entas' and Starlight's. Is that how the mighty Brom died ? Me and Eragon had been keeping a close eye on that one, but somewhere along the line a interference had occurred. he stated plainly. I have been so wrapped up in Nepherion's training that I've had little mind to keep up on recent events...Son and Partner of Brom you have my condolences, he was a wise leader and even stronger Rider. After a moment, Bid'Daum's mind begin to fish for answers as a thought came to him. Saphira, Why had you not sought out your Rider after your demise ? Why not become one of the "Indlvarn" ? The thought was puzzling because after the demise of his body, he could think of nothing more comforting than being with Eragon still.

The night sky had seemed to reach it darkest; as the moon was the only light to expose the features of the valley. A dark-gray cloud partially covered it as it made its passing. The trees surrounding them brimmed with the leafs of the season; bringing a piney smell to the air around them. And soon the clashing of metal would resound around them again.

[Brenton]

A dark cloud of thought came from Saphira as she remembered her death. It wasn't common knowledge, but she had indeed felt a need to find Brom. It wasn't until she had heard about Eragon Shadeslayer that she stopped looking for Brom. So when she heard the question asked, Saphira suddenly grew upset. Ebrithil, I did search for my rider. I may not have searched for him as you would have searched for Eragon, yet it was not a choice of mine to just allow him to stay from my mind. When I realized that Brom was waiting to train the new era of riders, I stopped searching. If it meant for us to be of usefulness later, I was willing to wait. Now that Brom has died, I regret not joining up with him.

Brenton was surprised to hear the other elder dragon and then spoke to the eldunari who had spoke. Elder, what is your name? I heard that you are the dragon of Eragon, yet the only other Eragon I know of is the first dragon rider. Would that make you Bid'Daum, the first dragon? Brenton was in awe to be in the presence of so many other riders and to have ancient figures in his mind with him and Saphira as well as Vaentr.

Vaentr noticed the white dragon tense up and then realized that his earlier assumption had been wrong. Glaeran was the smallest dragon there. So the large blue dragon just brushed aside the threat that was the white dragon. He had no need to fight, yet he would speak to that dragon. Dragon of the white scales, what be thy name? Also, why do you assume that I am a threat if your companions are not on the defensive as well? Vaentr blinked and waited for an answer to his questions.

[Glaeran]

Glaeran was so engrossed in his thoughts that when Vaentr dropped from the sky, he didn't even notice. It was when the voices started to enter his mind and speak to them that Glaeran looked up and saw his old ally Vaentr. Instead of being defensive and ready to attack the dragon that had saved his rider, Glaeran gave a bugle of joy. He hadn't expected to see the great blue near him again. Vaentr, why are you roaming the wild with Uruale and his traitorous dragon looking for you and Brenton? The small green dragon was completely shocked but it wasn't that bad when he heard Saphira speak and then Bid'Daum join in the conversation.

Zander glanced at his dragon and sent a thought of reprimand to the young green dragon. Then he looked toward Brenton and spoke again. Brenton, I have heard rumors of a strange force that is gathering in the corners of the world. It is said that there may still be some Grey Folk or something like that left. We should try to find some help since Uruale will most definitely try to kill us. He did say so himself and I fear Nandon and I are now involved as well.. Zander gripped the hilt of New Leaf in hopes of no problems arising in that statement.

((Edited for major fail in GOD MODDING))
((Also, that part with Grey Folk is just common sense, plus Zander doesn't like to fight fights that he can win. He likes to be in deep so...bring on "the flames that is Uruale"))

[Emiryal ♕]

[sorry for the late reply. When I tried to post my internet dropped. It took me a while to find where I saved the post I was writing.]



"I am sorry to hear that. Brom was a fine Rider," Entas said to Brenton. It certainly wasn't good news but it was not too surprising. As far as Entas knew she and Rakaio were the only rider and dragon of old that had survived. Sure there were Eldunari around from their time and even before their time, but they no longer had a body where as she did.

"Who is Uruale and what is this threat you speak of?" Entas inquired. Her knowledge of current events was limited for now. Part of her wished to offer assistance; however, she was not ready to toss herself into a cause she did not have her heart in. When Rakaio had claimed to be a mercenary some of that was true. Like a mercenary they answered to no one but themselves.


Rakaio smiled when Nepherion said his blow had barely stung. It was fairly obvious to an experienced warrior the blow had not just barely stung. Luckily for Nepherion, Rakaio's blade was shielded and he hadn't used the sharp edge or he'd have done major damage.

When Nepherion swung vertically at him only to stop in mid blow, Rakaio had already moved out of the path of the blade. He was on the verge of attacking in return when Entas alerted him to the new dragon and rider. Was it that easy to spot them? Why were so many Riders showing up all of a sudden? He paused but Entas had already spoken to them on his behalf, his words were not needed.

Entas shot a quick glance at Nepherion as the rider spoke about the other dragon's wings. She growled in mild disgust. She was vain and thought her own wings were much more astounding than this newcomers. "Entas could anyone ever doubt your beauty? Relax, besides you and I both know there is no more brilliant dragon than you," Rakaio said. She seemed pleased by his words and relaxed.

When Nepherion was ready to continue Rakaio shrugged. "If you are up to continuing," he taunted. Rakaio wasn't even slightly worn out by their small fight. He was using very little effort to avoid and attack. He didn't need to use much energy and tire himself out.

Rakaio didn't hesitate to swing Inavard at the other rider's shin only to change direction with lightening speed to strike at Nepherion's shoulder. For the majority of his attacks Rakaio used his inhuman speed to his advantage to feign attacks and throw his enemies off.

When Starlight asked who the new comers were Entas conveyed what she knew of them from their riddled intro. She didn't know much more about them that that. Well except for Saphira, she knew her quite well but those stories could be for another time.

[Brenton]

Ebrithil, Uruale is an Empire servant and a rider. It was a fight to save the elf, Nandon, that freed me of my own oaths. Yet it also endangered Zander and Glaeran in the process. If that is what you mean by a threat then that is your answer. Brenton kept his head bowed and he felt the need to explain. Yet him and Vaentr had to leave or things could change for the worse. Zander you are safe but we are not. I must leave to ensure you stay safe. Good tidings all who are here. With that, the rider and his dragon flew off toward Ellesmera, where they planned to stay. (Everyone this thread leads to the training thread and then to Vaentr's death)

[Emiryal ♕]

(thanks)



Entas acknowledged Brenton's answer. Much was still not clear to her but she had been gone for over 100 years. At least dragons had survived. Brenton was lucky, he seemed to know what he fought for. Entas and Rakaio on the other hand had lost that will to fight on. They saw no need to join any side.

[Nepherion]

Nepherion was being hard pressed by Rakiao's experience and abilities. Sweat poured down his face and his blue eyes were beginning to grow dull with strain. They'res no way I can win this ! he thought to himself, his teeth clenching as he pulled Brojska up with all the strength he could muster. The blade raised just in time and in that process, sparks were produced as the two dragonrider blades clashed. Even during the collision Rakiao's strength was overwhelming, and in that short blink of an eye, Nepherion was tossed several feet. A short cry came from him as he attempted to regain his balance. He dropped his boots onto the ground and skidded to a stop. His breathe became increasing heavy, but his will to fight remained strong. He brought Brojska from his side and back towards Rakiao. " So.. This is the power of a Rider of old... Impressive. " Two billows of dirt raised from underneath the soles of his boots. " Don't think I'm done quite yet ! " he barked, rushing back towards Rakiao with fire in his eyes.

Bid'Daum gauged the sincerity of Saphira's words and though they may have been true, he felt that she had some deception in her heart. The clear diamond became a home to several topaz tendrils as he started to speak. I do not claim to know how you felt when you lost your body. I can only speak of how I felt when I lost mines. And no young one. I was not the first dragon. But me and Eragon were the first Riders. With the questions answered, Bid'daum turned his attention back on the fight that was occurring between Rakiao and Nepherion. He honestly was surprised by how well Nepherion was holding up, he was slightly better than he had first thought. Considering that Rakiao was only using a portion of strength on him, that counter was still impressive.

Starlight snorted at the riddle of names. He hadn't the time to match minds with them, neither did he want too. He would rather measure himself up against Entas, even though he knew against her size he stood no chance. Her body was structured perfectly and the muscles of her throat spoke for the power of her flames; he could only imagine them melting a mountainside in a matter of seconds. He was more than impressed with her, and yet he still couldn't bring himself to admit defeat in the category of majesty. His crimson eyes remained on the combat, the sparks of the blades lighting them up with ever clash. Your Rider is very strong and I have no doubts that you are too. I'm sadden to say that Nepherion may never learn his place. he told her in confidence. Even now he held a strong barrier of blockage between his Rider, as they often did when one was in combat.

Bid'Daum's concentration was soon drawn to the dragons laid beside one another. He wondered of Entas condition and time with Rakia, but he decided to speak later, when he wasn't so busy. He had Nepherion to look after and for now that would be his top priority.

Nepherion swung at Rakiao with a flurry of slashes. His pools of blue boiled with the strain of combat. He tried to keep up with Rakiao the best he could, but knew that sooner or later the elder rider would lose patience and strike back with furious power. It was only a matter of time. He just need to land one hit, and stay focus on the battle at hand. He would have to anticipate movements and effectively use them to counter attack. .. The Way Of Knowing.. With a single handed slash towards the right, Nepherion brought Brojska behind his back and grabbed it with his left hand. He anticipated Rakiao would dodge with the least amount of ease and move to the left. While doing so, he brought Brojska from behind his back and swung it towards Rakiao's left shoulder.

[Emiryal ♕]

Rakaio seemed to be enjoying the duel, almost as though it were some kind of sport. The fact that this was a mock fight seemed to be over looked. It had been quite some time since Rakaio had actually done combat with another person. While in their self-induced exile Rakaio and Entas had kept their skills sharp fighting mock illusions and the few wild beasts that roamed in that land. It wasn't ideal but it was better than nothing. However, to his surprise Rakaio found his skills had not diminished rather just had been somewhat forgotten. This duel with Nepherion was quickly reminding him of what he had almost forgotten.

Nepherion's strength was formidable in comparison to most, but in comparison to him Nepherion's strength was largely ineffective should Rakaio choose to over power him. The old rider was holding back most of his power and strength.

While they fought on Rakaio showed no signs of tiring. He was hardly sweating and he remained as composed as ever. When their swords clashed and sparks resulted Rakaio smiled slightly. That was something he hadn't seen in a long time, just the simple clash of blades resulting in the sparks.

[Nepherion: " So.. This is the power of a Rider of old... Impressive. "
" Don't think I'm done quite yet ! " he barked, rushing back towards Rakiao with fire in his eyes. ]

Rakaio seemed only amused by the young rider's words. "You have not seen my power, young one. Only my experience in fighting. The brown haired rider found himself tempted to unleash what he was holding back and show Nepherion his true power, but he knew that was not wise.

"You fight more with your heart than with your mind," he observed. "Your heart while it's intentions are often good will mislead your blade in battle. The key to true mastery of the blade is the mind."He found himself slipping into wanting to teach Nepherion. As a Rider of the old order he had taught many young riders in swordsmanship and magic. Both took years to truly learn and centuries to master.

Entas meet Starlight's gaze when the other dragon spoke. "Our place in life is something only life can teach us. He will find his place, give him time. Rakaio and I were much like you once. You'd be surprised at what Rakaio used to be like, but that's not my story to tell." Unlike Starlight Entas did not place a barrier between her rider while he fought. She trusted that her strength would be enough to fight off most any mental threat. She was trained in how to guard her mental link even while in battle.

The great brown dragon seemed to be aware of Bid'Daum's attention on her as if he were physically looking at her. She of course didn't know what his thoughts were but could feel his presence directed at her temporarily. When he did not speak with her she made no attempt to contact him.

Rakaio readied himself as Nepherion came at him. Each furious slash was meet with a clang as Inaverard blocked Brojska. As the final blow came the old rider did dodge to the left, then some how as if he had a six sense about the danger he dropped even lower and rolled while managing to place Inaverard between him and Nepherion's blade. The feat was quite impressive to watch, especially at the speed which he performed it. It could easily be deduced that he had used and practiced that move many times. He ended up on his feet just out of range of Brojska.

"Not bad. Had you faced anyone else you probably would've stuck," Rakaio admitted. "You are quite skilled with the blade." The older rider was breathing a little bit harder now after that stunt, it took quite a bit of effort not to mention the adrenaline rush Nepherion had caused.

He sheathed his blade indicating the duel was over. He held his hand up to gesture at Entas. "Entas and I act as one in battle. Through her I was alerted to your tactic so that I could avoid it," he explained. Entas and he were pretty much one and the same as they were merged as close as you could become without loosing oneself. It was a strange sensation but one Rakaio would not relinquish. "In battle you must balance everything that makes you what you are, your strength, heart, soul, magic as well as your dragon," he advised. Had he used his full power his magic would've been used in unison and harmony with his blade. He did not expect Nepherion to do this, yet. It had taken him years of training under the greatest Riders and centuries more to master. The result was one of the most formidable warriors you'd ever face. "If you would like, perhaps we can duel again," he said. "For the moment it is not wise for Entas and I to linger for too long in one place or draw attention."

[Brenton]

((Alright, Emiryal, since Rakaio just said it was unwise to stay in one spot, would you like to send them to Ellesmera, the Crags to be exact? Maybe we could see how they spar against a couple trained elven riders. Of course that is up to Fean as well.))

[Emiryal ♕]

[sure that's fine with me. Do you want to start a thread or shall I?]

[Brenton]

((It is posted...Running Into the Past, in Ellesmera))

[Emiryal ♕]

[thanks]

[Nepherion]

Starlight took in the words of the older dragon. She had been right, even if he had shared a soul with Nepherion, it was not his right to say where Nepherion belonged. Even still, he believed he had some part in it. Because where ever Nepherion would go; he was sure to follow. Starlight knew she was right, but he found it hard to admit it, so instead he would allow the clangs of Nepherion and Rakaio's battle fill the void of silence.

Brojska sliced the air above Rakaio as he rolled out the way. What ! He dodged that too. Nepherion brought Brojska back up in defense after Rakaio's dodge. The fight had been a short one, but just trying to keep up with Rakaio's movements had exhausted him. Soon afterwards Rakaio sheathed the brilliant copper blade and all at once Nepherion felt the burden of battle fall on him.

He dropped to one knee as he tried to regain his breathing. " I understand Rakaio-elda. " he said, now considering the lesson taught. After a moment Nepherion let out a deep sigh than plopped back on his butt. " Where will you go ? " he asked casually, His grasp still around Brojska.

[Emiryal ♕]

Rakaio seemed to not be tired at all from the fight. It would take a lot to defeat and tire the old rider. When Nepherion dropped to one knee regaining his breath, Rakaio realized it had been rather good he had stopped the fight before Nepherion fell from exhaustion.

The old rider glanced at Entas then back to Nepherion. "I don't know. Maybe the elves or the mountains. It's mostly to prevent Galbatorix from finding us. Would you mind if Entas and I spoke to Bid'daum before we go. I will return him to you before we leave," he said. Bid'daum, Glaedr, Galbatorix and Shurikan were the ones who still remained from the old days of the riders. Bid'daum or Glaedr were the only ones he could ask advice from.

[Nepherion]

Nepherion raised a brow at Rakaio's question. He had never been asked such a question as speaking with Bid'Daum before, it wasn't like he could give anyone permission for that. His face scrunched questionably and a hum of thought could be heard as he looked towards Starlight's saddle. Bid'Daum is it safe for you to be left with them ? he asked with a tinge of worry on his tongue. Honestly, Nepherion wanted to trust them but if he had learned anything on his journey it was that not everyone could be trusted. That included Dragon Riders.

I'm more capable than you and Starlight combine Nepherion. I will be okay. He replied bluntly. He had one of the most formidable minds in all of Alagaesia and that was without stretching the truth. His mind was as strong as the Mountains of the Beor range and as wide as the starry sky. He feared no one and only held caution towards Galbatorix. Rakaio and Entas were trustworthy Riders, but their motives from centuries past makes them unpredictable. He had his doubts about them but weren't going to cause unnecessary strife because of them

Nepherion shrugged his shoulders before picking himself off the ground and stabbing Brojska into the fine dirt. He gave Rakaio a thumbs up. " One second... Gotta go get him. " he told the older elf. Nepherion was surprised he had enough energy to jog, he was practically feeling every aching muscle in his legs at the moment. The clenching of his muscles brought dreading that they would possibly cramp up in mid-run. Good thing they hadn't.

Nepherion briefly rubbed the side of Starlight's neck, seemingly forgetting the small argument they had earlier. How did the fight look on your side ? he asked Starlight.

The beast's breathe could be heard flowing up his lungs as his white scales raised and dropped. He plainly gazed at Nepherion. It looked horrible... Nepherion's lips parted in awe of his companion's words. Starlight must have picked up on his rider's growing anger. Let me finish will you. It looked horrible. . . . but you shined brightly in the midst of a powerful foe. I'Am proud. Nepherion let out a sigh of relief before climbing atop of Starlight powerful legs and reaching into the high saddle for Bid'Daum's pouch. Y'know you almost scared me on that one bud. he told him, reaching around amongst his belongings.

Do not keep Rakaio waiting. Bid'Daum's said calmly, allowing his displeasure of waiting to weigh freely on the pair. Nepherion, in haste, brought his chest over the saddle and tossed his bag on the other end and grabbed the large pouch. " Gotcha. Sorry for the wait Ebrithril. " Nepherion could feel the massive dragon's impatience returning to normal. He didn't want to have Rakaio or Entas waiting any longer than he already had too. He jogged passed Starlight's large jowls and towards Rakaio. He noticed that Brojska had been stabbed into the ground where he had been sitting. Did I do that ? he thought, carrying Bid'Daum with both hands

Nepherion held Bid'Daum infront of Rakaio while uncovering the brown cloth that hid the brilliant tendrils of gold and blue; they reached out towards the edges of his beautiful gem-like-body If you wish to tell me Nepherion's evaluation, I already believe I know the results. If that is not the case, than precede Rakaio-elda ? Nepherion wasn't sure how felt about being Bid'Daum's holder, but he knew he was lucky to have such a wise and old dragon by his side. He honestly couldn't help but smile softly at the Eldunari's glass body.

[Emiryal ♕]

Rakaio let a faint smile appear on his lips when Nepherion said he could speak with the old dragon. He knew it was more up to Bid'daum than Nepherion, but it would've been inappropriate to ask Bid'Daum directly. He waited patiently for Nepherion to retrieve the Eldundari. Though inwardly he was anxious and a bit nervous.

No, ebrithil. That is not why we wish to speak with you. But we'd rather speak with you alone, perhaps in the sky you once dominated," he said.

The old rider accepted Bid'Daum's Eldunari from Nepherion. "I will return Bid'Daum to you before the morning sun's rise," he promised in the ancient language. "And thank you Nepherion." Without another word said aloud he turned and sprang from the ground onto Entas. The large height he jumped suggested that he had used magic to do it. He landed lightly on her back and secured himself in her saddle. The Eldunari remained in his hands and he held it as if there were nothing more valuable in the world.

Entas spread her wings and with three powerful stroke of her wings rose into the air. She continued to climb high into the sky until she was out of sight. Rakaio didn't wait long before speaking. Entas joined her mind with his. "Ebrithil, there is much I would like to speak to you about, but time is limited, we have but only one night to speak. I am sorry I fled during the fall I know I should've stayed, it was my duty too but I was scared," he said.

Entas interjected before Rakaio could continue. "My rider is not solely to blame. We act as one and I choose to flee as well, as shameful as that may be. We abandoned Alagasia in a time of need," she said.

The brown dragon banked to the left catching a current of wind. "And now I--- we no longer know where our loyalty lies. I certainly don't want to help Galbatorix but my loyalty isn't with the Varden either. The riders, whom we swore loyalty to no longer exist. I fear I will make the wrong choice again..." Rakaio hesitated. "Ebrithil, if I make the wrong choice I will end up either without Entas or like Galbatorix. There is darkness in my heart, this I know for my true name states it."

[Nepherion]

Bid'Daum chuckled lightly at Rakaio's courteous sentiment. You mean the skies I once dominated. It has been many a moons since I took flight in those skies. A feeling of nostalgia was exerted from the gem as he remember the fond embrace of wind's gentleness.

Nepherion couldn't help but feel a little apprehensive about giving up Bid'Daum. As he left his hands a feeling of almost intense anxiety grasped him. He found himself, holding back the cringing tips of his fingers as the eldunari was lifted from him. Hearing Rakaio's words in the ancient language had soothed his concerns and yet, watching the elder elf spring onto his dragon brought a great sense of loneliness to him and Starlight. Being without Bid'Daum after so long was almost like being without Starlight. Nepherion put on a smile and waved them off. " No problem Rakaio -elda. We'll be here waiting. " he shouted over the sounds of Entas's reverberating wing-beats.

The deep, fading, drums of Entas' wings soon left the pair in a dreary silence. Nepherion let out a sigh, watching Entas fade out of sight before returning to Starlight's side.

Within the grasp of Rakaio's hands, Bid'Daum could finally get a grasp of the elf's immense mind and strength and vice versa would be for Rakaio. It was impressive and worthy of the one of the old ones. But in comparison to his and the other Eldunari's he lacked depth. He took into deep consideration of the pair's words and when Entas interjected Bid'Daum was quick to assure them. " Believe me, I never place blame solely on you Rakaio. Entas was just as guilty for your actions. The both of you were at fault. " he said in a condemning tone. Bid'Daum still felt on edge about Rakaio, even now as he spoke on his worries of becoming like Galbatorix himself, he couldn't help but slightly agree with that logic.

A large sigh of sorts echoed throughout the link before he spoke. " You are right about this Rakaio. Darkness lurks in the corner of your consciousness. Why that is I do not know. But even the elders sensed something special about you. Now I fear this specialty will be more of a curse to the current Riders than a gift... " His words seemed more stern than before and leaked with certain amount of curiosity. " Tell me, do you know where this darkness steams from ? " he asked, feeling the eddies of the wind curve over his surfaces.

[Emiryal ♕]

Bid'Daum's power and strength was breath taking. Rakaio felt tempted to keep Bid'Daum. With him Entas and he would rival even Galbatorix. However, his words in the ancient language bond him to return the Eldunari, and he was suddenly gladdened he had bond himself to do so. Keeping Bid'Daum would be giving into the darkness in his heart and then he'd be no better than Galbatorix, which was his worst fear.

He and Entas accepted Bid'Daum's scolding without complaint. Both of them knew that running had been the wrong choice. Had they stayed at least they would've died with honor. The rider tightened his grip on Entas' saddle then released his grip holding back tears of frustration. His emotions would be an open book to Bid'Daum as their minds were open to each other for the time being.

Rakaio was scared of himself and frustrated. He had always tried so hard to help, to do what he thought was right but in the end everything he did seemed to go wrong. He'd destroyed his home village single handedly in a burst of uncontrolled magic before he had been properly trained. During his time as a rider he only half heartedly done the tasks assigned. Time and time again he had wished to join the council of elder riders but had been denied four times due to the darkness in his heart. Then later he and Entas had fled when they were needed most. The more Rakaio thought about it he realized the greatest enemy of all was within himself. He could not help the new generation of riders without being a curse to them without defeating his greatest enemy.

He felt Entas' eyes on him and looked up. She had turned her head to look back at him. Take heart forsaken one, she said calling him by one of his titles. You have made much progress and if you can see the true enemy and have a will to overcome that you have little to fear and may yet become a gift to the new riders.

Rakaio suddenly seemed to become aware that he had not answered Bid'Daum's question. He'd become self absorbed with his own thoughts. "My apologizes great one," he said. He had not meant to have gone silent. "I do not know why there is darkness in me. I've tried to purge myself of it or find out why it is there but to no avail. The elders were right that there is something special about me...it's something I've kept secret. Angela knows but she's the only one until now. I am not completely human I am partially a grey folk descendent. That fact complicates my rider status and I think it might have something to do with the darkness in me."

A playful growl echoed through the dusk and a gleaming golden dragon landed near Starlight and Nepherion. The golden dragon stumbled forward uncertainly before collapsing. A light hum of joy emanated from her. And she lifted her head to glance at the rider on her back. Sephora was about the 1 1/2 size of a large horse now. For reasons unknown her growth was slow. She was small compared to Starlight despite them having hatched about the same time.
Caspian laughed. "Sephora I can't believe you did that! I nearly fell off, we should've gotten your saddle before you tried that with me on your back!" The boy often spoke aloud to his dragon more than with his mind. He had not grown comfortable doing that yet. Nor had he ever tapped into his magic, he had tried but never succeeded. The only thing he had succeeded at was improving his swordsmanship. Well it was fun, though I'm a bit dizzy now. Landing isn't easy when your dizzy, she said.

"Your dizzy! What about me!" he complained. He jumped off the dragon's back and smiled when he saw Nepherion. "Hi," he said. Sephora walked towards Starlight stumbling once from dizziness. Then she crouched playfully and tried to nip at his tail.

[Nepherion]

Bid'Daum was connected to both Rakaio's and Entas' mind, so he felt Rakaio's greed rise than fall and his inner struggle between his imperfect yet good-willed motives and actions. Bid'Daum was young once; he could sympathize with Rakaio's conflict and fears. But he couldn't bring himself to forgive their cowardice, afterall they were Riders protectors of the lands they roamed.

Bid'Daum was not fazed by Rakaio's silence, for he had been aware of what he was doing. Even one as old himself understood the precious value of a talk between the bond. It was one of great comfort and often brought understanding in times of confusion. It was an excusable leave to him. A feeling of slight interest raised in the dragon at Rakaio's next statement. But only seconds later his shock faded away. A low, soft, growl could be heard from the Eldunari as he thought on how to explain this to Rakaio and Entas. It all makes sense now. You being part Grey-Folk would explain why your magic seemed, in a way more pure. Bid'Daum took a second to gather his thought once more before speaking. If you truly believe your darkness is connected with your heritage as a Grey-Folk than this impurity will be far harder to perish. It will not fade easily. Have you ever tried searching your feelings for this " darkness ? " he asked.


" I can feel him getting further and further away. " Nepherion said solemnly. He stood with his back to Starlight, in his hand held several pebbles that he got from off the ground around him. One by one he tossed them with furious strength out into the forest opposite of him. He flicked another with a lazy underhanded throw and watched it as it zoomed through the clearing and hit a tree with a thud.

Have patience Nepherion. You heard the rider of old vow in the ancient language. He can't possibly break that vow. Starlight said, with his eyes closed and his head tucked under his forepaw. The dragon's even breathe filled the air with the sound of a moderately strong breeze.

Who's to say he can't break it. Just because its never been done doesn't mean its impossible. Nepherion retorted, tossing another pebbled into the dense forest. Than suddenly a growl could be heard it caught Nepherion's attention. Golden scales shined through the clouds over head and Nepherion leaped back and thingyed his hand back. He knew that in his hand's any of those pebbles could easily be turned into deadly ammunition.

Starlight's crimson eye shot open as his Rider's apprehension reached him. Rising to his to full height, Starlight was easily taller than a house. His ivory talons and scales gleamed from his cleaning earlier and his jowls were lifted, showing the rows of fangs that decorated his mouth. His feet had shaken the ground, but no sooner than he had raised had Nepherion called him off. No wait. he order.

Nepherion thingyed his head to the side before slowly approaching the Rider and Dragon. He hadn't seen golden scales in quite a while and honestly their was only one dragon that had them, or atleast in his mind. " Caspian ? " he said unsure. The rider unmounted the dragon and his voice confirmed Nepherion's assumption. " It is you. " he chuckled. He ran up to the friend that he probably had the deepest and yet, least spoken on bond with. He lifted his fist up to the guy and smiled, waiting for him to pound it.

Starlight brought his large head towards Sephora and sniffed her, nudging her playfully in the process wit his snout. You are so tiny Sephora. he said, moving his tail away from her playful nipping.

[Emiryal ♕]

Bid'Daum was not the only one who could not forgive the cowardice Rakaio and Entas had shown. Both the rider and dragon could not forgive themselves of it. With the knowledge they had now Rakaio liked to think he would not have run if given another chance. But then again that same fear could resurface.

Rakaio nodded. "My magic indeed comes very easily to me, it always has," he agreed. His magic seemed to take slightly less energy for him to use than others, probably due to his heritage. It was good to talk to someone other than Entas about this. Sure he trusted Entas but other opinions and views aside from her's were highly valued.

"I have not tried searching my feelings for this darkness. I have been afraid to do that," he said. Rakaio wasn't sure if not knowing was better than knowing it.

"Little one, knowledge is a powerful thing. Not something to fear. We need to understand ourselves first before we will be able to help anyone including these new riders," Entas said. She banked to the right now catching a current of air.

Rakaio nodded. He seemed to be more conflicted than Entas was though she was not entirely without her own problems. "How do I explore my feelings on that? A spell or just search my deepest thoughts?"

Caspian smiled as Nepherion ran over to him. He hadn't spoken to the other rider much but he remembered when both of their dragons were but hatchings and neither of them were sure about joining the Varden. He made a fist with his right hand and pounded it against Nepherion's fist.

"It's been a while," he commented. "Whoa Starlight's gotten big! But anyways what are you doing out here?" Sephora and him had been playing around a bit trying out some dizzying flying moves. Not very practical but Sephora was delighted by it.

Sephora bounced away when Starlight nudged her. She sat down and stopped to look at Starlight now, though she was eager to play more. "And you are so big?" she replied to him. "How is it I grow so slow while you dwarf me in size now?" Truth was Sephora was somewhat of a mystery, aided by magic or not she was much smaller than she should've been. No one knew why and Sephora usually hid her distress at feeling like a runt next to all the other dragons. She hinted at it now though by the tone of her voice.